Shooting Star: Six Points of Light

by Alchemystudent

Chapters

Omens
Vox Machina
Tales of the past
A new journey
Reflections on friends
Seeing the enemy
Riddles and battles
Seperate quests
New Ally

Omens

Six ponies set forth to create a new world

Several stayed behind in devastation

Six gods of dark opposed the light

A war ravaged the lands

Eight Vestiges were crafted

None were found

In the end, two gods made the world peace

While six stars showed brightly.

Twilight soon woke up in her bed, stretching out her hooves to let out all the kinks in her body. She gave a quick hop off the bed before hearing the sounds of a familiar dragon entering her room.

“Oh, you're awake," Spike said, panting, "I'm sorry I was late to wake you up. I just thought you needed your rest."

Twilight frowned,"Well, luckily I didn't have anything scheduled today... I think.” She hummed as she looked around her castle,"Spike, does something feel... strange to you?"

Spike paused and began to think, "Well, the grocery store was out of cherry topping, even though they always have that brand, Fluttershy seemed to be a little happier than usual, Rainbow did seem like her head was in the air, and Applejack looked like she was little angrier than usual. But beyond that... Oh my gosh, did you find out about dinner last night? I am so sorry, I was in a rush to get to my O&O game so I had to microwave the lasagna! I am so sorry, I lied to you!"

"Aw, lasagna!?" Twilight muttered,"Well, it wouldn't be the first time your O&O game led to leftovers." She noticed Starlight leaving the shower. Her mind seemed to blank for a bit,"Starlight, how long have you been there?"

"Just long enough to get a shower and to get Spike's breakfast," Starlight said, walking away, "And totally not long enough for me and Trixie to have a fun time reading together." she then blushed and walked away. From the invisible trail, Twilight could see a hint of a blue tail following.

"Besides that, nothing really weird. What are you thinking, Twilight? Is it about those weird adventures your friends are having back in the other world?" asked Spike

"Yeah, that's probably it." Twilight said with a smile, before heading towards the door to the outside.

Rainbow Dash flew around in the sky and waved down to Twilight, "Hey Twilight, getting that new Adventure Zone book today?”

"Of course!" Twilight said with a grin,"I've been waiting to grab it for so long."

"Already got it, and you are gonna love it!" Dash said, and then she paused and looked at her. Shaking her head, she said" Hey Twi?” Dash’s face fell into a frown,”Glad you're here. Gahhh, why am I so mushy today!?"

"Twilight!" Pinkie cheered, seeming to come out of nowhere to give Twilight a big hug.

"Hey Pinkie!" Twilight said, giving her a hug back.

Pinkie let out giggle, "You know, somedays I just feel like hugging everypony!" she said, skipping away.

Fluttershy walked with Rarity and waved to Twilight.

Applejack sighed as she leaned up against her stall, tipping her hat to Twilight before taking an apple for herself. Looking up at the sky, she thought she saw a peach color mare and her husband looking down at her.

Trixie began to hitch up her wagon, smiling at Starlight before fixing a few more things on her wagon. She then glared a little at Twilight as she walked by. Carrot top happily walked down the road, her carrots bouncing behind her along with some juice.

derpy walked with her mail bag, at her side Dinky let out a giggle as a letter landed on her head. Up above, Raindrops pushed a rain cloud to the left, gathering a few more for the storm. Meanwhile Lyra was playing a ballad for Bon Bon.

In the Crystal Empire, Cadence shook her head and lowered it as she was given another report. Out of the corner of her eye, she watched Shining Armor standing at attention with little Flurry Heart, who was attempting to salute alongside him. In the castle library, a tan mare gasped as she read a page in the book and began to run out.

At Canterlot, Celestia looked at Luna as the day work began and then sighed, wanting nothing more for it all to be over.

A black coated stallion bumped into Twilight, "Oh, excuse me princess."

Twilight let out a yelp,"Oh, sorry, I wasn't looking where I was going..."

"It's all right. A good day, isn't it?" asked the stallion as he walked off.

"Yeah..." Twilight looked back, not seeing the stallion,"... who was that?"

As Twilight returned home, she would hear the rapidly approaching footsteps of Spike, "Twilight! Celestia sent a letter!"

Twilight grabbed the letter,"Hmm, what's it about?" She unfurled it.

"Dear Twilight Sparkle,

The Canterlot Museum of Magical Artifacts and Ice Cream Shop has recently received a few new items and replicas that I believe you would be interested in seeing. While they would normally be available to the public next week, I do believe I can arrange for you to have a 'sneak preview' of said items.

Signed Princess Celestia.

Ps. Tell my infernal sister that it's unfair that you are getting this privilege before me! I want to see the replica f-

Pss. Ignore that Twilight, Luna is a little miffed I am giving you an unique view.

Psss: A LITTLE MIFFED!? Sister, I am this close to going Nightmare Moon II on your royal ar-

PSSSSS: Twilight, if you see a Luna-shaped hole in the ground once you arrive, do not mind that. It seems that my little sister could not see the flame strike coming."

Twilight chuckled a little at that,"Mmm, sneak preview of priceless artifacts!? Today must be my birthday! Spike, if my friends come, tell them I'm at Canterlot Castle!"

"Wait, you mean you are going alone? As in, I don't need to go to a boring museum and listening to the all of the boring lecture?" Spike asked, tears in his eyes as he hugged Twilight's legs, "Thank you. May I call you Lawgiver Mother?"

Twilight let out a sigh,"Just this once."

"Oh thank you, Lawgiver Mother," Spike said, walking away, "This will give me time to work on my Adventure zone campaign!"

Twilight let out a whistle as she headed towards her balcony, before flying off.

Spike looked over his shoulder, "Was the whistle really necessary?"

Applejack sighed as she heard Applebloom giggle, "Hold still, Bloom. I might cut ya."

"But Applejack, I want to see how big I grew," Applebloom said, waiting for Applejack to finish making her mark. Seeing the mark, she thrusted her hoof into the air and shouted, "Yahoo, three whole inches!"

Applejack ruffled her sister's mane and looked at the tree. She smiled warmly and walked with her away from the two twisting trees. Looking over her shoulder, she held back a little tear as she thought about her parents.

Behind her, a small bee watched.

Celestia stood next to an alicorn-shaped hole in the ground, smiling as she awaited for the arrival of Twilight Sparkle. Looking up she waved down the incoming purple alicorn, "Welcome, my faithful student."

"Princess Celestia !" Twilight landed and gave her a hug. She looked down at the alicorn-shaped hole for a second, before looking back at her teacher.

Luna let out a small groan from within, letting her magic heal her as she slowly stepped out. Celestia looked to Twilight and hugged her back.``Are you excited to examine the magical artifacts, Twilight?"

"Yes!" Twilight clopped her hooves together.

"Follow me then," Celestia said, leading Twilight into the museum. As they walked in, she paid a vendor for some chocolate dipped cones and gave one to to Twilight. Through the large museum, there were many magical artifacts on display. Most were replicas of the more dangerous ones, while others were items that were long since dead. One item was an ancient looking sword, "Hello, old friend." Celestia said looking at the sword. "Oh, don't worry, Twilight. The real Zenith is back in the castle. Perhaps one day you will forge your own blade."

"Princesses," a light brown stallion with a white mane came to the two. "How good it is to see you both."

"Professor Honeycut, I believe you have something to show my student," Celestia said.

"Ah yes, come with me," he said, walking past the artifacts and into the lab. "Thanks to Daring Do, we have gained many rare finds. Including some tablets and maps. What was most interesting was what she discovered out west, in some old port towns."

Daring panted as she made it to the train, "I’ve got to get to Canterlot... now."

"Tell me, princess, have you ever heard of the legend of Vecna and why Meadowbrook became so enthused with making her eight items, or vestiges as she called them?" Honeycut said.

"Hmm, I don't think I have," Twilight said.

Honeycut smiled, "Well, it's an interesting story. I can assume you are familiar with litches and the like? Well, Vecna wanted to be more than that, he wanted to... to put it delicately, become a god of death and undeath. To make the world his own personal graveyard of decay and lies. After the fall of the old gods, Vecna had begun to want to take the place of these gods and Meadowbrook? Wanted to make sure it never happened."

He walked to a small tablet and a map, alongside it was a small eye, "She figured by creating the eight items, she can become a being of life as opposed to Vecna's being of death. So she created the eight items as a way to oppose him and to seal him away. This tablet, according to Daring, may be a map or a clue to the eight items! and this eye is said to be his eye that Meadowbrook took away."

"Wow," Twilight said.

"Yes, but the thing is, it's under so many magic runes and codes that we can't really break it," Honeycutt said, "Maybe you could. I heard that you love puzzles, and if we could find the locations of the eight... what a find."

Twilight smiled,"Well, I have broken a lot of magical seals before. Let me give it a shot." She stopped,"This isn't going to summon any evil gods or something, is it? That tends to happen. A lot."

Honeycutt shrugged, "I have no idea. It didn't come with any warnings."

"Well, C'est la Vie." Twilight began working with it.

As Twilight began to work on the tablet, she would not see the eye slowly opening to reveal a glowing pupil. looking around, the pupil looked at the center top of the tablet. As it shone its light, the words on the tablet began to glow a sickly green.

"Those who read these words will find the items true
And will find their powers' hue

But beware, gods of old,
For their stories are told

Powers that began life with a win
As their conscious din

Awaken now gods of old and light
To bind our wills is your right

Go, ye heroes to find the items of vestige
The map behind will guide the siege

Find the items if you can

If the six stars will stay inbound
Then the power will be found

If Honesty stays true
If Loyalty retains its hue
If Generosity contains greed
If Laughter retains its the creed
If Kindness can find its power

Then magic and will never cower.

If you’ve read this far, flip to the back for the map to the vault.

Return this to Meadowbrook for a free Bannaspilt."

"Wow, Meadowbrook must've been really into ice cream," Twilight said.

The back of the tablet slowly glowed bright, showing Equestria as it was a few millennia ago. Slowly, the lights began to glow as if someone was walking until it reached a small part of the Everfree forest, near where the Castle of the Two Sisters was built.

"Well, what do you know!" Twilight said with a smile,"Where it all began, pretty much.”

Honeycutt looked at Twilight, ""Did you discover something?"

"Yes, we may be able to find a clue to the Eight Vestiges back at the Castle of the Two Sisters."

"Does this mean you are going there? Because I would but...I love to research things, not go to places that can get me killed," Honeycutt said.

"Yes, yes, yes, I know." Twilight said with a smile,"You stay here where it's safe, while the pony who's taken down at least three gods goes and investigates with her friends."

"Oh thank you,"he said, watching as Twilight began to leave.

Twilight trotted out of the building,"Now, I just... got to..." She turned to the side,"What. Is. That? I'm feeling something... 14 of them... all immensely powerful..."

"Twilight,"Daring said, running to her, "You shouldn't...you read the tablet didn't you?"

"Yes?" Twilight said,"I shouldn't have read it out loud, should I? To be honest, half the time I don't even know I do it!"

"Is that just? Who does... Never mind," Daring said, narrowing her eyes. "Look, reading that tablet aloud will awaken the eight items, but there is something else that will awaken. The old gods."

"... Great." Twilight frowned,"How many, and when are they coming? I have a schedule to keep, and it shouldn't be interrupted by more old foes!"

"14, all very powerful," Daring said, shaking her head, "I came here to warn you and get you to get the other elements. You are not going to win this one, not without help." she looked to the castle, "I gotta tell the princesses. This a Code: Tirek, you need to get out of here."

In a temple, far away to the lands of the west, 14 statues began to glow.

Then the weave began to break. Light of the five pools began to glow and flow through the statues, forming small rivers along with their stony forms. The cracks made their way along with their still frames, traveling along the sides and up towards their eyes.

A pale mare with a short cut mane walked to Twilight, putting a hoof onto her shoulder, "Hey, just want to say, you have been a great friend. They'll miss you for a bit." When Twilight blinked, she was gone.

After a moment, the stone cracked and shattered, exploding in a rain of stone. At once, all of the alicorns screamed in a mix of pain and agony. The leader stepped forward, looking down at the group and then to her sister. Silently, the two nodded before the equines vanished in a flash of magical light.

Cadence shuddered as she tucked in Flurry Heart, "What was that?" she whispered.

A black stallion watched as the lights flowed from the temple. Closing his eyes, he said, "Welcome home...mother." then he looked to Canterlot, "Please be safe my two little stars."

Daring ran to the castle, panting, "Got to warn them, got to warn them, Code: Tirek, Code..." she paused and looked out the window. She saw fourteen lights flash outside of the city, "Mother of Celestia, no."

As the alicorns appeared, several spellcasters began to shudder and collapse to their knees under the magical might. Pegasi winced as they felt their connection to the weave falter for a moment. All then turned and felt a force telling them to bow, all except Twilight Sparkle.

Twilight turned to the flashes of light,"Crap, have to teleport-" her horn glowed, only for a white hoof to slam into her, sending her flying into a building.

"You will not evade us, False Goddess."

Twilight moved from the rubble and shook herself. She looked up at her attacker in awe. She saw fourteen alicorns bearing down at her,"Celestia..." She looked up, noticing their immense size compared to her.

"That goddess will not save you." The leader said, her rainbow mane flowing from her head.

An orange alicorn stallion turned to her,"We were right, she has eaten from the Fruits of Harmony. We should kill her now."

Twilight looked at all of them, noticing their horns glowing. She closed her eyes,"My friends... Celestia... sorry." She let out a yell as she activated Rainbow Power.

They all blasted magic towards her.

Rarity paused and looked up from her sowing. A tiny wince came to her as she felt a pain in her chest, a tightening in her heart, "Twilight?" she asked.

The fires of hell began to consume her, burning away every part of her magic.

Rainbow Dash stopped flying and looked towards Canterlot. Shaking her head, she said, "What’s wrong?" a tear began to roll down her cheek, "Why am I crying?"

The cold wind of loneliness blew through her, cutting away her bonds.

Fluttershy stopped in front of the sink, and began to collapse to her knees, "No, no, please don't let this feeling be..."

Earth began to collapse around her, suffocating her in darkness.

Applejack stopped in the farm, looking up and around. She began to whisper to herself, "Why? Do I feel so cold? Twilight?"

Water filled her body, turning into ice and slicing into her, cutting her away from life.

Pinkie stopped in her room, collapsing to her belly. Then tears began to flood her eyes as she laid her head down in between her legs. Shaking her head, she was silent as she began to cry her eyes out.

Darkness and Light combined into one as they hit her, destroying her. Somewhere on the tree of Harmony, the element of magic went blank.

Celestia looked up, and whispered, "Twilight?"

Luna teleported to Celestia's side, “Sister, we need to go outside now!"

"Luna, what happened!" asked Celestia as she walked to her sister, preparing her teleportation spell. "Why do I feel like something or someone just wrecked with the weave? And... where's Twilight?"

Luna shook her head as her horn glowed,"I felt her magical signature flare up, and then it was extinguished. I fear the worst, sister."

They appeared in the middle of the city, rubble was strewn everywhere.

Near a large white figure was a purple body on the ground.

Celestia paused as she looked around her, "My mother. What...who could've caused this." then she looked at the white figure in front of her. Slowly, her eyes trailed down to the purple body laying on the ground.

("Princess!" filly Twilight said, running to her)

Celestia took a few tentative steps, shaking her head, "No..." she lightly tapped it with her hoof

("Look at what I can do now princess!" Twilight said cheerfully as she used a powerful spell)

"No...please..." Celestia whispered tears in her eyes.

("I choose to stay with my friends." "Does this mean I won't be your student" "Are you proud of me?")

"Twilight, say something...get up," Celestia whispered, tapping her body a few times before turning to the white figure, "Who... are... you?" there was a low growl coming from her throat, the ground melting beneath her hooves as well as parts of the buildings.

"I am Queen Morning Dawn." The white alicorn said,"We are the Alicorns of Light, the true gods of this world."

Several alicorns landed around them. A grey one with a green mane and tail looked at the sisters in shock, before looking apologetically at Twilight's body.

The orange stallion winced,"If it means anythin' that false goddess put up a damn good fight." He looked at the burn marks all over his body," She must've been real mad at me or somethin'."

Luna snarled, her horn glowing, "You will pay for-" she spun around, producing a blade to block a strike from a dark blue alicorn with a purple mane and tail.

"I...will burn you," Celestia said in bearly restrained fury as she began bringing out three pillars of flame, aimed at a few of the alicorns. Using the rest of her magic, she summoned her blade from under her throne.

Looking over her shoulder, she whispered to Luna, "The moment that I fall? You teleport to Ponyville, get the elements, and run away to the west. I'll send the tablet to you."

The alicorns flew away from the pillars.

Luna looked back at Celestia,"Tia, I... yes, sister." She glared back at the other alicorn in front of her.

Morning Dawn looked at her people,"Spread out. I and my sister will teach these two a lesson." Her horn glowed bright, summoning a bright, rainbow-colored blade.

Celestia walked towards Morning dawn with Luna next to her. Celestia looked at her and said, "My sword is named Zenith. And yours?

"Ilumina." Morning Dawn said.

The other Alicorn held her blade up,"Abyss."

Luna frowned,"Nadir."

"Good," Celestia said walking and bringing it forward, "I won't need your names because I don't care to take down the name of a dead mare!" she said, before taking off with a forward thrust. Her horn began to glow as she collected magic for another spell.

Luna held her blade up beside her.

Morning Dawn deflected the thrust, preparing a spell of her own.

The other alicorn pushed Luna back away from the battlefield, horn bursting with power

Celestia moved to the side, slashing upwards, and then took flight, stabbing downwards three times. Her horn flashing blue and red, she created a cloud around morning dawn. "Incendiary cloud!" the cloud then burst into flames.

Luna went to the side of her opponent,"Cone of Cold!" She released a cone of freezing ice.

Morning Dawn flapped her wings, disappearing the clouds,"You are talented. You remind me of Terra." She caused her horn to glow,"Cloudkill." She whispered, summoning forth a poisonous cloud around Celestia.

Celestia began to cough and then used her wings to blow away the cloud with strong gusts. Looking up, she asked, "How do you know my mother?"

"So, you are Terra and the Traitor's child!?" Morning Dawn frowned,"Then killing you will be extra satisfying!" She flew up and pointed at her,"Disintegrate!" she fired a sickly green beam at her.

Celestia gasped, and then leaped out of the way. Frowning, she fired a beam of pure white-hot fire mixed with a beam of solar energy, "Aganazzar's scorcher!" getting herself to the level of her opponent.

Luna stepped to the side, creating black tendrils to slash at her opponent's hooves before slashing at her chest, "What do you mean our father was a traitor! He would never do anything of the sort."

Her opponent clashed blades with Luna,"Titan never explained it? You never asked about his past?" She raised a hoof as several ice stones struck down at her,"Ice storm."

"Evard's Black tentacles!" Luna shouted, allowing for tentacles to sprout from the ground to block and grab at the ice stones as they began to pelt the ground. "Father said that the past was past. There was never a need for him to discuss the world of old. Only that he felt it was dark until-"

"He met mother," Celestia said, locking her blade with Morning Dawn, "And she said that there was nothing in her world until we were born or that-"

"He needed anything more than her and his two friends: Starswirl and Meadowbrook. The past is not imp0rntant," Luna flew back and then looked down, as memory flooded her mind, "But who we are now." Closing her eyes, a crown of seven stars appeared around her head. Then, eyes glowing white, she sent all of them flying at her opponent, "Crown of Stars!"

Morning Dawn smirked,"Shame, if they had informed you, you'd be better prepared!" she teleported up and struck down.

The other alicorn spund her blade to deflect the stars," Titan was of the Light, Princess Terra was of the Darkness." She glared at Luna before holding out her hoof,"Acid Fog." She conjured a billowing green fog around Luna,"He betrayed us for her!"

Luna began to cough, the acidic cloud hurting and clogging up her lungs. Up above, Celestia received the blow and was knocked down into the ground, making a small crater. Standing back to her sister, Celestia said, "Our mother was no alicorn of darkness. You lie!"

Closing her eyes, Luna began to glow with black mana. Opening her eyes, she summoned a black orb of energy and sent it flying to her opponent, "Dark Star." as the orb flew towards her opponent, it began to suck in debris and destroyed objects, obliterating them.

Celestia looked up at Morning Dawn and began to craft three fireballs to throw towards her.

Dawn sliced the three fireballs, causing them to explode behind her,"She was, and she-" She stopped, and smirks,d"Yes, Your mother was a horrible monster."

The other alicorn glowed her horn,"Dispel." She dispelled the hole, before looking at her sister,"Dawn?"

"Dusk, don't you realize what horrible tyrants Queen Majesty and her daughter were?" Dawn smiled as she flew up with her sister.

Dusk looked at her and nodded,"Yes, horrible..." She glared down at them,"Your mother was no saint."

"Our mother was the kindest, most noble ruler we ever knew. Second only to our father," Celestia said. Frowning.

Luna looked up, and then to the museum. Gasping, she used a shadow clone to run and grab the tablet. Then she began to prepare a spell. Celestia, on the other hand, began to concentrate, "Darkness beyond Twilight, Crimson is the blood that flows..."

The two's eyes widened, before flying up,"So, you wish to use the power gained from The Ruby-Eyed one!? Very well then." Dawn held up her hoof alongside Dusk,"Comet."

Buried in the stream of time is where your power grows
I pledge myself to conquer all the foes who stand
before the mighty gift bestowed in my unworthy hand
Let the fools who stand before me be destroyed
by the power you and I possess...
DRAGON SLAVE!"

The fireball left Celestia’s horn and hit the comet. the two firey balls of magic stuck hard, pushing and straining until they exploded in a sparkle of light. When the light dimmed, Celestia and Luna were gone.

"How dare you!" Celestia said, stomping towards Luna, "We were in the middle of a battle and-"

"You were losing your 'chill' dear sister!" Luna said, the two resting at the foot of the mountain, in a doorway within a mystical mansion. "You were letting your anger control you."

"My daughter just died, I think I am entitled to be a little angry, SISTER!" Celestia said.

"You can be angry at the world and all that when we have room to breathe. They had more advantages than us. Experience, knowledge, strength. If we kept the battle going, then,"

"Then the city would've been destroyed and I would've had the unicorns make-"

"No sister," Luna said, interrupting with a frown, "There would've been two bodies in the city that day. And I couldn't live with myself if I had to rule in your stead like this."

"Are you doubting my skills?" asked Celestia.

"When you have a clear head? No. You are second only to me in swordsmareshipe, but only two mares match you in magical power. You are not in a clear state of mind, and we need Celestia the leader, not the warrior." Luna then shook her head and put a hoof onto Celestia's chest, smiling warmly, "Remember what our mother always taught us? Balance? One fights, one leads. One stands in the light-"

"And one in the shadow. Always equal, and never apart," Celestia said, holding Luna's hoof comfortingly. Looking at her, she sighed, "Thank you."

Luna then stepped out, "They will not detect my magnificent mansion spell. Not unless they know what to look for. I'll find the other five, relay the news, and then bring them here."

Celestia nodded, and then hugged Luna, "I, miss her."

Luna sniffled a little, and blinked away her own tears, "I do too." She walked out of the mansion.

Behind them, a long serpentine figure drummed his talons on the floor,"Took you, sisters, long enough."

"Discord?" asked Celestia, seeing his appearance. Growling, she walked up to him and punched him in the face, leaving a hoofprint, "You BASTARD! Where were you when I needed you when she needed you? You could've done anything to help her, to save her life!? Why did I even think to bring you back, just because I knew it was easier to have you free than just putting my people in a constant battle! BUT WHEN I NEED YOU TO HELP YOU ARE NEVER THERE!" she said, panting, tears streaming down her cheeks.

Discord clapped his cheek, resetting the hoofprint,"Now, Caycay, I'm not omniscient, I didn't even know Twily was even in trouble!"

Celestia frowned, "You could’ve been nearby, felt some chaos being formed because of their attack. Something!" she then wiped her cheek and then shook her head, "No sense in blaming anyone. Why are you here?"

She would've asked how he managed to break into a spacial anomaly like the mansion, but she knew how Discord loved to break the rules.

Discord leaned back,"Why, to give exposition of course! But first," He held up a talon,"We wait for the other Elements to come in. Wouldn't want to repeat meyself."

Celestia sighed and sat down, the spectral guests all began to tend to the godlings.

Applejack began to run towards the train station, Rainbow Dash flying next to her, "Do you feel it too?"

"Yeah, and now Ah'm getting to the train just to make sure Twilight is alive and ok!" Applejack said.

The train came up to the station and stopped. The door slowly opened as a grey earth pony came out, and stared at them.

In the center of Ponyville, the orange alicorn flew threw the sky, before landing,"ATTENTION MORTALS! AH, SIRIUS, COME WITH A MESSAGE FROM YOUR TRUE GODS! WE ARE TAKING BACK WHAT IS OURS!"

"Who are you?" asked Applejack looking at the earth pony

Rainbow Dash looked behind her, seeing the appearance of the alicorn, "Um AJ?"

"What? Oh buck me!" Applejack said, tipping her hat.

The earth pony stepped out, more that looked just like him following. He snarled.

Rainbow Dash turned to look over her shoulder at the sound of a snarl, "What was...WHAT?" she said, seeing the horde coming out of the train. Looking back at Applejack and then back to the horde, she said, "AJ..."

"Ah'll be fine, you check that out," Applejack said.

Rainbow Dash flew to the grey pony and asked, "Ok, what the heck is going on."

The Earth Pony leaped up and punched at Dash with a snarl.

Raindrops flew overhead, looking around. Occasionally, she would look over her shoulder at the alicorn, "You girls better not have left yet." she said, before looking down at the station to see the zombie-golems about to attack Dash. Nodding, she flew down and did a dive kick into the head of the golem. Then she spun around to slam her hoof into the face of the other. "Get moving. I got this."

"What do you mean ours?" Rarity asked, stepping out from the crowd and into the center of the field, looking up with a curious look.

Sirius looked down at Rarity, and grinned,"WE ARE THE ALICORNS OF LIGHT. WE ARE THE TRUE GODS OF THIS WORLD." He chuckled,"And you must have eaten from the Fruit of Generosity."

Rarity nodded, "I...am the Element of Generosity yes."

Sirius smirked,"And the other remainin' four are here as well! Good, that makes things easier fer me and our vassals."

Rainbow Dash nodded and flew after Applejack, catching the last of what Sirius said, "Is that what those monsters are called? Vassals?

"And just what are you? How come you’re an alicorn?" asked Applejack.

Pinkie giggled, "And silly, there are six of us. Twilight is still back at Canterlot."

"Why, Ah was born one. Ah am an old god, freshly freed from mah stone prison." Sirius closed his eyes and shook his head,"And Twilight? Well, we done took care of her first." He winced at some burn marks,"Put up a mighty good fight, but she couldn't handle our numbers."

Pinkie's eyes widened, and then shook her head, bearly able to whisper. Fluttershy broke into tears as she laid her head onto Rarity's shoulder. Applejack and Dash, on the other hand, lowered their heads in rage. Pawing at the ground, snorting up dust, Applejack said, "You LIE!"

Sirius stood up straight,"Do Ah?"

Applejack let out a roar and ran headfirst at him. Rearing back, she double bucked him in the gut, pivoting on her front legs to face him, and began to punch him hard with a three hit combo of two hooks and across. Then she gave him an uppercut.

Sirius looked up into the sky from the uppercut,"Ya done?" He looked down at her,"Mah turn." He punched her in the muzzle, sending her flying.

Pinkie Pie didn't move, still in shock as she just watched. Her body trembled while water came to her eyes, small whimpers leaving her throat. The others watched as Applejack flew through the air and into the side of a building. Running as fast as she could, Fluttershy went to Applejack and looked her over, "She's breathing."

Rainbow Dash's wings spread and she began to fly, only to be stopped by Rarity, "Let me go RARITY! I need to make him pay!"

"We can't!" Rarity said, shaking her head, "We need to retreat. The better part of valor is-"

"I don't give a buck!" Dash shouted, "I need to kill him! I need to kick his ass and make him pay! Twilight is-"

"Twilight would want us to do the same," Rarity said.

Fluttershy said, "Dash, please."

One look at Fluttershy and she stopped her struggling and then looked at Sirius, "Now we're done."

"Oh, you don't know the half of it." Sirius walked towards them, horn glowing,"I specifically came here lookin' to kill ya'll. Together, you and the Elements are invincible. But apart... yer weak." He grinned,"Don't worry none... You'll be together again real soon..." He reared back and fired a large blast of energy at them.

Another blast of energy intercepted it, sending it flying away into a part of a hill. Sirius stared at the still alive group of ponies. He slowly turned his head to the newcomer.

The clanking of yellow armored hooves slowly came to him. A red helm adorned with a greenhorn bared into view. Its upper body covered with red. A green visor glared down at him.

Sirius snarled,"Alicorn Bane! Ya should be dead!" He flew up and fired a shot at the armored figure.

The figure dodged and fired her own shot at him, striking him in the chest.

Applejack slowly got back to her feet, wiping away a bit of blood that ran down her forehead and spat out some blood. Looking at the yellow suited pony as she began to battle the alicorn, she asked, "Who the buck is that?"

"Applejack, you should-"

"I asked, who is fightin’ the alicorn?" Applejack asked.

Rarity shook her head, "I don't know, but this will give us a chance to run."

"Run? You mean right when one of those things is right in front of us?" asked Applejack.

"Discretion. Oh what is with you and Dash," asked Rarity.

"What is with me is that monster just said he killed Twilight and I want his yellow hide," Applejack said.

"Yes, and I am angry too, but we can't," Rarity said, shaking her head.

Pinkie shook and said, "We're not good enough."

"There you are, girls!" Luna said, teleporting in. "Thank goodness I was able to find you. Hearing Sirus make his proclamation, I had feared the worst."

"Princess?" asked Dash, "What-"

"No time, teleporting now!" Luna said, before turning to Sirus, "Sirius? You are going to die..." and then blinked out.

Sirius looked at her,"Wha-" He felt a blast from the mare into one of his burn scars,"Gah!" He flew towards one of the houses,"That visor of hers must be giving her an-"

The mare leaped onto one of the buildings, and then jumped towards him to fire into another burn,"Gah!" Sirius fell to the ground,"Damn it!" His eyes glowed white as he blasted three energy shots into her, sending her flying back,"Gotcha." He panted.

He slowly got up and began walking forward,"Ain't so big and bad when Ah ain't distracted, are ya!"

A little yellow ball rolled towards him, and then hopped right in between his legs.

The high-pitched scream could be heard across the heavens.

Sirius keeled over in pain, and he began to gasp,"You... bitch." He turned his head as the ball turned back into a pony. He fired several shots at her.

The mare bounced back and forth, before firing a few shots of her own. She leaped back and charged her corn cannon.

He snarled,"Ya think ya hot, doncha? Ya thank comin' down here makes ya big and bad!?" He laughed,"The Elements are without their pillar now. The princesses are without a home. The mortals have no choice but to bow to us! This world will perish, and you along with it!"

"You gave me an opening." the mare said.

"Wha-" the mare leaped towards his head, putting her horn into his mouth. She charged it, causing his eyes to widen in shock.

A large blast was heard across town, as a body fell to the ground.

The mare stood over it, her visor glowing,"Spazer Beam acquired." She looked at him,"So, I have another reason to kick your asses."

Discord picked his teeth,"Any minute now."

There was a flash of light outside of the mansion door, followed by a door opening, "-You see, a Magnificent Mansion spell is basically a pocket dimension that allows powerful spellcasters to create a home away from home." Luna said as she walked in, "It keeps the mage safe and gives them a chance to recover and to think. What's more, it's completely un..."

There was a long pause as she saw Discord resting on her couch, her servants giving him a glass of chocolate milk. She looked to him, to her couch, to the mansion, to Discord, to the door, to the elements, to Discord. For a moment, she frowned.

A few minutes later and Discord was battered by meteors, moonbeams, sliced into ribbons, and then packaged in a meatpacking tin, before being teleported to a maze.

"Uh, you know that won’t do anythang, right?" asked Applejack.

"I know, I know. But by my mother, that felt good after today!" Luna said.

Discord appeared from a door, holding a cup of coffee while wearing a bathrobe,"Now that was just rude." He took a sip.

There was a sound of studio applause, followed by cheering and canned laughter. Luna shook her head, "So is appearing in a mage's personal sanctum. This is not meant to be invaded by a miserable mishmash of mangled malformities. Now, why are you here?!"

"He says exposition," Celestia said.

Luna looked to Celestia, and then back to Discord, "Proceed."

Discord let out a squee,"Oh, this is wonderful! I get to be the exposition fairy for once!" He grinned at Celestia,"This must be a new experience for you especially!" He snapped his fingers, causing them all to appear in a classroom.

He had a curly grey wig, a monocle, and a teaching stick,"Ahem," He cleared his throat and began to speak.

"Once, long ago, there was a race of godlike alicorns who ruled ponies of various races and lands." The chalkboard behind him showed a group of alicorns.

"Originally, the ponies didn't have minds of their own." It showed ponies grazing, eating, trotting," But one day, they began to grow smarter... more independent." It showed ponies creating fire, the wheel, and houses.

"The alicorns saw this as an opportunity. They wanted to rule them. However, there were disagreements." It showed the alicorns splitting apart.

"One side wanted to rule with an iron hoof, forcing the little ponies to follow them and only them. These were the Alicorns of Light, for they believed themselves to be righteous. They were kinda boring to me." the alicorns became encased in light.

"The other side were the Alicorns of Shadow, for they were the opposite of the light. They wanted to guide the ponies from afar, only intervening when they were truly needed." It showed the other side encased in darkness.

"Light was order and destiny. Shadow was free will." The two sets separated.

"Many years, many generations passed as the two sides began to war." The two sides began to blast each other with magic,"Until there were very few left."

He looked at the Princess,"Morning Dawn was correct. Titan was born of the Light, and Terra of Darkness." He grinned as the board showed a black alicorn on one side, and a green alicorn on the other,"That's right, your parents had the cliche "opposing sides" romance!" He laughed as the two placed their hooves near each other,"But, Dawn was lying when she claimed that Terra and her parents were tyrannical. In fact, they were quite kind."

Discord laughed,"But I'm getting off track. Tity and Terry fell in love, and eventually, Titan turned on his queen."

"This led to a huge battle." It showed Morning Dawn and Terra fighting,"Where Terra sent 14 Alicorns running with their tails between their legs."

"Morning Dawn, however, had one trump card. She heard of a creature of immense power hiding somewhere..." He began to laugh as it showed the 14 alicorns talking to a caricature of himself,"That's right, me." He grinned,"I admit, me saying I don't turn ponies into stone was... a fib just to get Celly's goat." A bleat was heard,"You see, Dawn wanted me to give her the order she desired. So I did. I turned her and her little entourage into stone... forever. Or so I thought." He tapped his podium,"I don't know how, I don't know when, but my seal on them broke."

Luna looked confused, "How did my mother send fourteen of them away."

"The seal broke..." Celestia looked down, and then gasped, "Meadowbrook’s Tablet." using her spell, she brought out the stone tablet.

"Meadowbrook’s what?" asked Applejack.

"When we called for Twilight, she was sent to investigate a tablet containing the location of the eight items," Luna said, "the eight items of Meadowbrook."

"Or vestiges," Celestia said.

Discord smirked,"Now Lulu, I can't tell you everything, it'll spoil the plot." He laughed. He looked at the tablet,"Ah, so Twilight must've read it, and broke the seal by accident." He frowned,"I admit, I do feel sad about her." He patted Fluttershy on the head.

Fluttershy whimpered, and smiled, "Thank you Discord."

Rarity looked at Pinkie and hugged her, "Pinkie I-"

"She isn't really dead," Pinkie whispered, "She'll come back She'll come back, I know it."

Applejack said nothing, only walking up to the tablet, "But why would reading it awaken the alicorns?"

"A number of reasons," Luna said. "Meadowbrook was also alive when the lich king Vecna made his power play. She probably tried to combine the seal with her items and to seal away any way of him from coming back. This magical resonance could've had an accumulative effect on the items and then fused back. Either that or somepony found the seal and linked it with the tablet to awaken the alicorns by connecting the ley lines. Or were able to-"

"Whoa, English Luna. English?" Dash said, "We don’t' have...' she paused and looked down. Tears welling up in her eyes as she said, "I... it just hit me you. I mean... I was so caught up in the fight and the anger that I didn't-"

"So, we find the items and then we get back at the alicorns?" Applejack said, looking at the map behind the tablet.

"HEY!" Dash said, flying up into Applejack's face. "Our best friend just died, maybe you can join in mourning her for a second?"

"I ain’t got time to mourn. I haven’t cried since my parents died, and I'm not going to cry right now. We have a world to save and I'm thinking carefully here!" Applejack said, pushing her nose to Dash.

"You mean you are being a cold-hearted jerk!" Rainbow Dash said.

"We can be emotional later! Right now we need to plan, get what we can, and then strike back before-"

"All right you two!" Celestia said. "Last I checked I am still a ruler and I think we need time to rest. We'll search for the items after supper when we have time to collect ourselves. Do I make myself clear?!"

"YES MAM!" the girls said, dispersing.

Luna walked to Celestia and patted her on the back, "You can let go now, sister."

Celestia then began to cry onto Luna's shoulders.

Purple hooves beat against the darkness.

Purple eyes looked around the black viscous ichor.

Purple legs struggled to find escape.

A light shone as a lid was burst open before her. Twilight Sparkle leaned forward from the liquid coughing before letting out a gasp,"Wha..."

A blue earth pony stallion wearing spectacles looked back at her, his white mane and tail shining in the light,"Princess?" He asked.

Twilight held her hoof to her chest,"I... I'm breathing, I'm alive... but... I remember dying..." She frowned at the container,"... Unless somepony had my DNA..." She looked at the stallion,"Did you break me out?"

"Well, I heard sounds from inside a mysterious container, I figured I had to open it." The stallion said.

"Thank you... ?"

"Quick Draw Percival Fredrickstein Von Musel Klossowski de Rolo III." The stallion said,"Just call me Percy."

"... Wait, de Rolo!" Twilight leaped out of the container,"My family used to visit yours! I haven't seen you in years! How has it been!?"

"... My family is dead." Percy said with a frown.

"..." Twilight looked behind her at a cage the two were in,"Awkward. Why are we in a cage?"

"Well, I tried shooting my family's killer. Not sure about you." Percy said with a frown.

"Quite simple, she fought her betters, stared them down, and then died. Shows you what an inferior breed she is," a germaine accented stallion said, stepping into the room. His blonde mane and tail matching and brushing against his tan coat. On his side, under his lab coat, was a cutie mark of a tree, "But we all know that, don't we Miss Sparkle? As for how you came back, well, I do believe a fellow scientist like yourself can figure it out."

"Clone spell." Twilight glared at him,"And I know you, Dr. Völkermord. A once-respected scientist."

He pulled back, looking somewhat insulted, "Once respected? My dear, I am still respected. Last I checked, were it not for me, most would not know how much force a unicorn's bone can take before it breaks and shatters." Mord then chuckled, "But tell me, princess. Which of my reports did you read? My studies on pegasus respiratory tracts? How a gryphon's renal system works? Or did you read one of my books? I must say, if you read any then I am pleased to be acknowledged by a fellow scientist of such renown."

"Read? Try thrown out." Twilight snarled,"Your studies were horrifying! You tortured people!" She frowned,"But that's beside the point. Why do you have us here? I know you don't have the magic to clone me."

"Briarwood." Percy glared at Kudos,"He may a horrible racist, but he's not above working with a necromancer for his own gain." He cocked his head,"Where is it, Mord?"

"Brairwood... one of my old professors," Twilight whispered.

"Where is what, Percival?" asked Mord, looking at him in the eyes, "Are you referring to your little toy?"

"It is no toy." Percy glared at him,"Especially not for what you plan to use with it."

"What?" Twilight looked at him.

Mord slipped his head into his breast pocket and then pulled out a steel cylinder with a long nose. At the other end was a wooden handle and in the grip was a trigger meant to be activated by a pony tongue. Holding the weapon in his hoof, Mord said, "This is what he is referring to. What did you call it? A gun? I prefer to call it an equalizer, the grand answer to the question of what makes Earth Ponies so superior, the final answer, and the greatest achievement. And I have you to thank for it, Percival."

He began to admire it some more, "For you Princess, I will say that by using a small sigil within the hammer, it hits some explosive power within to launch what is called a bullet at speeds normally reserved for pegasi. It is a marvelous little toy. And don't worry, Percival... I do use it responsibly."

"Probably on innocent ponies, right?" Twilight glared at him

"Twilight, I am stunned. I thought you as a scientist moved beyond such cliches as innocence and guilt. I prefer to think of them as subjects for my tests," Mord said, putting away his gun, "And to inform you...we now know that a unicorn takes longer to die thanks to a bullet wound as opposed to an Eart pony. Quiet informative no?"

Twilight held her horn towards him,"That's it, blasting you right now!" Her horn glowed. And then fizzled. She blinked a few times.

Percy looked at her,"Performance problems?"

"I swear this has never happened to me before," Twilight said

"I have a theory," Mord said, flicking Twilight's horn, just to watch her wince, "When the gods came, their arrival created a massive disturbance in the weave. Many ponies found themselves magically hurt or unable to do certain tasks. I, myself, was almost burned when I dropped coffee on my foreleg. When you died, I do believe your link with the weave was broken. All of that power, all of that magic, gone. Now you are just a normal pony."

Mord couldn't help but chuckle, " All of that power a unicorn possesses, and then you take away their magic, and you are left with nothing. This is why we earth ponies are superior, Percival. You cannot take away our brains or our strength. Pegasi and unicorns, on the other hoof, are so easily disabled.

Percy glared at him,"I'd rather not be placed in the same sentence as you."

Twilight reached through the bars and tried to hit Mord,"Well I still have hooves! Come here!"

Mord smirked and put his chin to Twilight, "Then hit me. Show me how an alicorn uses earth pony magic."

Twilight punched him. The power of the alicorns flowed through Twilight, millennia of evolution pumping through her hybrid body. Every last bit of mana gave her strength, and it flew through her hoof. The world of pain approached him, delivering with it all of her training and power.

boink

and in the end, all that Twilight accomplished was that her hoof lightly mussed a part of his coat. Mord looked down, and then back to Twilight, "It's ok. It happens."

Twilight stepped away with frown,"Well..." She looked at Percy,"You, on the order of the Princess of Friendship, hit him!"

Percy sighed,"Well, if it's on the order of the princess." he reached through the bars to punch him.

The punch managed to hit his jaw, leaving a bit of a bruise, but nothing noticeable. Mord rubbed his cheek, "Impressive, Percival. Your siblings were the fighters I assume?"

Percy frowned,"Julius and Vesper, yes, but not the rest of us." He took a step back,"And it's taking every bone in my body not to punch you again for mentioning them."

"You’re not above working with a necromancer. What do you want? What does she want!?" Twilight asked.

"Me? All I want, or ever need, is the freedom to do my experiments and prove the superiority of earth pony. To show the world that Earth Ponies are the strongest and greatest of the equine races. Sadly, our princess- hallowed be her name- exiled me for trying such a thing. As for my Lady Briarwood? I do not know. I do not pry. I an just content with doing what she needs of me. Speaking of which, I must take my leave." and with that, he turned away and began to walk away.

Twilight sighed,"Great. I'm powerless, my friends think I'm dead, and I'm pretty sure we've got two big bads to deal with." She began to rummage around her mane,"The only thing to do, is to escape!"

"And how do you plan to go about doing that?" Percy asked.

"The Great and Powerful Trixie taught me a few things." Twilight grinned, pulling out a lockpick.

Rarity stared at her vanity mirror, sniffling once, twice, “Got to hold it together. Twilight wouldn't want you to have a breakdown before trying to save the world, come on..."

Fluttershy stepped in and looked at Rarity, "Rarity... are you all right?"

Rarity sighed,"Would you like an honest answer?"

"Honesty usually helps," Fluttershy said.

"I don't know how we’re supposed to stop those alicorns." Rarity sighed,"I'm this close to having a breakdown. I was worried that this was going to happen one day." She took out a brush and began to brush Fluttershy's mane,"One of our enemies comes in. Our friends aren't anywhere nearby. And then... silence." A shudder came to her breath,"And we don't even have time to mourn. Why didn't she ask us to join her?"

Fluttershy looked down, sniffling a little. She had her eyes closed, trying to blink the tears away, "I don’t know. I don't know why she just wanted to be alone. I thought she knew that we're stronger together, we need each other. And now she's gone, and I'm so scared."

Letting out a little shudder, she whimpered, "Twilight couldn't handle them, how are we supposed to. How are we supposed to do anything without her? I've tried to be brave, but that's only because I knew her and you were with me."

Rarity choked,"I'm about to fall apart myself. I don't know how Applejack does it, but I envy her. She's willing to hold herself together. I only hope she can hold us together."

“She’s trying,” Fluttershy whimpered and sighed, leaning into Rarity’s shoulder, “But she is holding it in. She doesn’t want us to bother, or let us in.”

“I don’t know how she can,” Rarity looked down, tears rolling down her cheeks, “This is what we chose when we became adventures, and I am worried... it’s all catching up with us and we are just seeing how small we are.”

“It’ll be ok Rarity, It’ll be all right.”

"Why!?" Rainbow Dash punched the bag again, Rainbow Power flowing through each punch. Several hoof marks showed on the bag,"Why couldn't I have been there!? I don't care if I would've been bored, I'd have helped you!" She kicked the bag, sending it flying,"Get me another one..." she asked the invisible servants of Luna’s mansion.

Rainbow Dash growled, punching the fourth bag harder and harder with her foreleg. Every punch she gave, she would mutter, "Should've been there. Should've been there, should've been there!"

After a few more strikes, the bag was broken and so was she as she sat down and began to just cry to herself, “I need to be there for everypony, and I can’t...”

Applejack stared at her hat for a long time, seemingly for ages,"Ah don't know if Ah could do this without ya Twi..."

She went to a dresser and found a bandanna to put on around her neck. Looking back up at the mirror, she continued to speak, “Ah always figured that, when things got tough, I could handle things with my strength and you could handle the big bad with your magic. Hay, even during the whole invasion thing, I knew we would be all right. Those storm king knights were magic immune, but they weren’t hoof immune Ah tell ya. But, ah also knew we needed reinforcements so Ah went because I trusted you.”

“And yet, you lost. You had all the power you need, and you still lost,” Applejack sniffled, trying to stop crying, “And Ah was worthless. Ah try to be everything for them, for my family, for you, and just to see me fail...it’s heartbreaking. But I won’t fail again, you can bet on that!”

Pinkie sat alone in her room, sighing. She looked down and whispered to herself, "They're wrong. She's ok. I know. Just you wait, Twilight will be back."

Celestia sighed, waiting in the dining room. Luna stepped out from the shadows, "Problems, sister?"

"If there is one thing I hate about being the ruler, is that I am going to be stuck here while I have the civilians fight for my kingdom," Celestia then sighed, "I just feel like I forced this task upon them."

"You forced nothing, dear sister," Luna said, rubbing Celestia's back. "As much as they loved you, what they did wasn't for queen and queendom, it was for the lady that became their friend. Need I remind you, one thing you have always wished, was for them to have the freedom to choose to fight on their own. Not relying on a queen to lead their hoof all of the time."

Celestia nodded and sighed, "I can only hope they can still find that independence when they get down here."

"You won’t have to wait long, the food is ready and I do believe they are arriving.”

Rarity was the first to arrive, suddenly wearing a long pretty dress,"Always make sure you look good when having an audience with the Princesses!"

Applejack followed, tightening up a neckerchief that was around her neck that had Twilight's symbol on it. Rainbow Dash flew in from the sky, "Really Rarity, a dress?" she said, straightening her bomber jacket.

Luna quirked an eyebrow, "Outfits?"

Rarity brushed her mane, "Something special to mark this grand adventure your highness. I figured something nice for all of us."

Pinkie walked in, none of her usual gait as she fixed a belt and nodded. Fluttershy walked in with a robe that had many fall colors on it.

"I must admit, it does suit an adventuring party as yourselves," Celestia said. "Now, our first order is to head to the Castle of Two Sisters."

"Why there?" asked Applejack, looking at her questioningly.

"Because, that is where the tablet said that the vault of Meadowbrook lies," Celestia said. "Somewhere deep in a cavern that I and my sister never looked at."

"We can only assume that it was hidden in such a way that could only be revealed by the tablet itself. Whatever magic that Meadowbrook sealed it with and connected it to, is a miracle," Luna said.

Celestia nodded, "Indeed. Now if we hurry we can-"

"Whoa, whoa, whoa," Dash said, holding up a hoof, "Who's we? Last I checked, there are five of us ready, not seven."

Celestia paused, "Well, I am the princess and I need to-"

"Look, Princess," Applejack said, "We all understand that you are responsible for the county and all, but that's the point. You are needed back here to be a symbol for the country, something to remind the country that there is hope. We are the ones who need to go out and fight."

Celestia was about to raise another point, but Dash stepped in, "Look, Twilight wouldn't have wanted you to join us, she would've been already there and exploring the caste without us. This is our job, our duty. We traveled with Twilight, we know each other the best, and we proved ourselves worthy of the Elements. We are the ones who are going to be the heroes here."

"Twilight always said," Rarity said nodding, "That we have our own destinies, and we must follow our own path."

"We are adults and we don't you holding our hooves princess," Applejack said. "Now, if you excuse us, we'll be getting the items right now." and with that, she and the other four walked out the door.

Celestia stood in shock for a moment, and she smiled before chuckling and laughing softly, "Finally, they are starting to understand."

Starlight Glimmer was looking down at the map, frowning as the map seemed to be glowing red, “What is going on here? Ever since that god came in, this map has been on the fritz!" She kicked it. And then held her hoof,"Ow!"

Spike looked down from the staircase, "Hey Starlight, I am going to be reading my O&O books before setting up a real play podcast, so don't be too loud down there." he then went into his room.

And then a knock came at her door.

Starlight smiled warmly and walked to the door. Slowly opening it, she said, "The princess's castle is always open to vistors, there's no need to knock. Who is it?" then she began to open the door.

"Well, that makes things easier for me." A large blue earth pony stallion stood in front of her. He had a black goatee, and he was wearing a large blue dress shirt with a single feathery shoulder pad. The moonlight shone behind him, making the red eyes that stare down at her more intimidating.

"It's been too long, Little Star." A green unicorn mare walked next to him. She wore a blue dress with a single black tie. Her mane was done up in a bun,"I can't begin to tell you how long I've waited to see you again." She gave a long smirk.

Starlight's eyes shrunk to pinpricks as she looked at the two ponies, "S-S-Sylas, Delilah! No, what are you two doing here!? I've left that life behind." she said reaching for the door with her magic, ready to slam it.

Sylas held a single hoof to the door,"Now, Little Star. Don't be rude, we taught you to respect your guests."

Delilah walked towards Starlight,"Come on now, we have need of you."

"No, you don't need me! You just want to use me!" Starlight sad, turning around and running away. Using her magic, she grabbed a faucet from the kitchen and fired the water along the ground to create a tiny running stream. Turning around, she made her way to the stairs.

Delilah shook her head, using her magic to turn the faucet off,"Please don't wastewater. What would the Princess say?" She walked out of the room and headed for the stairs. A bat flew over her head and up the stairs.

Starlight gasped and ran down the hallway to her room and closed the door. Panting, she threw a dresser, followed by a bed, followed by another dresser, then a bookcase, followed by Sylas, and then another dresser, "Wait...

Sylas looked down at her,"Hey there."

"Did you tell Twilight about us?" Delilah's voice said,"About the little unicorn filly who wanted to learn magic so she could get into Celestia's school and see her friend once more? How a specialized tutor came to her hometown one day and helped her?"

Starlight shook her head as she backed away slowly, shivering, "No, I didn't tell her any of that. She didn't need to know about that story. I just told her what she needed to know." quickly her eyes began to dart back and forth, seeing the only ext being the window.

"That hurts, Little Star. You'd think that would be the first thing you'd tell her. Then Twilight Sparkle could've come and defeated us with her magical rainbow of light and everypony would be happy over in Whitestone." Delilah said.

Sylas loomed over her, and looked out the window,"Do you wish to risk it? Or do you want to quit while you're ahead?"

"She wouldn't have defeated you. I don't think she had the strength," Starlght said, opening the window, "As for me...you don't know what I wil do." and then she tried to jump.

A strong hoof clamped onto Starlight, holding her,"Now that wasn't very smart." Sylas whispered as he leaned in.

Delilah opened the door,"Don't bite her yet, hon." She walked to Starlight,"She could be of use as a mortal." She walked closer to Starlight,"Now, you are mine once more, Little Star."

Quivering, Starlight shook her head, "No, please...don't...Trixie."

Somewhere on the road, Trixie looked p and around. Twitching her ear, she said, "Starlight? No, she's fine."

"My lord... we did a wonderful job on this bridge!" Rarity said as they went to the bridge leading to the castle,"It's coming along swimmingly!"

Rainbow Dash gave a confident smirk, "Hey when I get a bridge fixed, it stays fixed."

Applejack could only roll her eyes as they walked into the castle. As they walked, she could only frown and sigh at the sights of the ruins, hearing the echoes of their first adventure play through her head. Lowering her head for a quick moment, she felt the weight of the world on her shoulder increase. With a quick shake, she said, "So, Dash, where does that tablet say to go?"

"According to this, the chamber is this way," she said pointing to a staircase leading downwards,"Somehow we missed that the last time we were here."

"We missed a lot of things, journals, trees," Applejack said, walking towards the stairs, "Surprised we didn't miss a complete pony the last time we were here!"

Slowly, the group made their way down the stairs, the silence between the group was nearly deafening. Fluttershy stepped close to Rarity and whispered, "Rarity, can I ask a question?"

"Yes, dear?" Rarity asked.

"Do you-" but before she could speak, she heard Dash shout.

"Whoa!" Dash said, looking at the large pairs of doors in front of them. In the center of the door was a small indentation that matched the tablet. Then Pinkie read the inscription, "After opening the door, take this coupon for a free ice cream sandwich at any participating ice cream stand."

"Why would anyone be willing to honor a deal like that?" asked Rarity.

Applejack shrugged as she placed the tablet into the door. With a mighty lurch, the doors swung open wide, revealing the inside. The dark chamber was quickly lit up by a series of runes that caused the magical lights to turn on, revealing the silhouettes of the vestiges. However, as they stepped into the room, the eight items vanished.

"What?" asked Applejack as she ran to the dais and growled, "What the hay happened?"

Pinkie looked at the sigil and said morosely, "These sigils, I think they cause the items to teleport when a pony comes in. Like an alarm."

"MY word," Rarity said, "So even if the intruder breaks through the first chamber, the second one would make sure they don’t take the items."

"Buck!" Applejack said, punching the dais that looked like four boots, "So we got here for nothing?"

Rarity stood next to a rapier, "No, we are probably missing something. Meadowbrook was a known inventor, but also a trickster. Some would even call her mad."

Pinkie managed a smile, "I know. It's kind of why I like her so much," she said, standing next to a robe.

"Yeah, but how are we-" Dash began, only to get interrupted by Fluttershy.

"Look, another tablet," Fluttershy said, taking the tablet in her hooves, and looked under it, "And a disk."

Rarity stepped to it and looked at the tablet and disk, "Both are enraptured by powerful mana. Maybe it requires that eye to read it?"

Applejack put her hoof onto it, "You mean, the eye that is back in Canterlot? aka, villain central?"

"I thought bad guy central was Detrot?" asked Pinkie, putting her hoof onto the tablet.

"Now's not the time Pinks!" Rainbow Dash said, putting her hoof onto the tablet, and then backed away as the tablet began to glow, and the old squish writing that was etched on the stonework began to become read.

"If you found this room, congratulations, you solved the first step.
Now, for the next.
The eight have gone to the west, to the world of old."

"World of old?" asked Rarity.

"I think where the three tribes used to come from," Applejack said. "But I didn't think that there was anything there."

"Hunt for them, find them.
Hear their voice, hear their cry
Six will hunt for the eight
Six will bear the weight

The boots will give strength
The sword will give elegance
The cloak will give hope
The goggles will give speed
The staff will grant power
The gem will grant t unity
The bow will grant light
The bracelet will grant wisdom

These eight will call for those who seek it. Those who need tem. Battle may erupt, find them.

Turn this in for a free ice cream cake."

"Oh come one, that's just a bunch of riddles," Applejack said, "How is that supposed to help-" before she could say more, she saw the tablet glow and change, turning into a paper map that floated to Rarity. "Ok... how about my parents back and I have some apple pie?" she frowned as the room remained silent.

Pinkie looked at the disk, "For CS and LS, your parents," Pinkie said.

"CS? Celestia Solaris?" Rarity said, touching the disk and gasping at it turned on.

A hologram appeared, showing a large alicorn stallion with a beard,"Hello, my little ponies. You probably don't know who I am, or why this disk was made."

"No you are right, we don't know," Applejack said, before shaking her head, "What am I doing, this is just a latent image spell ain’t it?

"No, Young one, I can answer your questions." The stallion said with a smile,"I am Methuselah, King of the Alicorns of Shadow. Mine and Queen Majesty's essences are in this disk you hold before you."

In the mansion, the mares decided to recontinue the disk in front of Celestia and Luna. Celestia stepped forward and looked at the hologram, "How are you related to the
Alicorns of Light. What is the story of my parents and their connection to them, and what happened so long ago?"

As Celestia talked to the hologram, Applejack and Rarity began to discuss plans, "How the buck are we getting to the west. We need a way over there."

"I don't know as of yet. We can't get anywhere without being seen by the gods," Rarity cais.

"Unfortunately, I cannot give you all the information, my grandchild." Methuselah said with a frown,"You see, my and my wife's memories are trapped in the vaults in the west. I can only give bits and pieces. You need to place this disk into specified areas. Think of it as a book, where you have to find the rest of the pages."

Luna sat down, "What can this chapter tell us about our parents? They... never talked much about those times. They allowed us to learn under Starswirl in the field of magic and Meadowbrook used to entertain us, but beyond that, we don’t know anything about them.

"Oh, will this be a story of how Terra and Titan had met? Please tell me there will be romance!" Rarity said with a smile, her troubles all forgotten.

Applejack stepped up, "I hope for some clever tricks.

"Laughs, plenty of laughs," Pinkie said, sitting down while the servants brought out popcorn.

Dash rolled her eyes, "If there ain’t action, then I ain’t listening."

"Um, I'm fine with whatever, just as long as there are heartwarming friendship moments," Fluttershy said, sitting next to Rainbow Dash

Methuselah nodded,"Oh, there is. The story of Titan and Princess Terra is one wrought with much romance, tricks, Laughs, and oh, there is certainly action. Everything began when Titan and Terra were but teenagers on the cusp of adulthood.

"h, I can't wait to hear the rest," Rarity said with a smile. "But for now, we need to solve our problems of getting to the west, sneaking on a ship, all under the eyes of a bunch of gods that want us dead and are watching our every move. It will most likely to take a miracle-"

"To break out of the cage at her rate," one guard said, laughing as Twilight continued to pick the lock for the 39.9th time.

"Gah, did aliens make this lock or something!?" Twilight shouted.

"If only we had a unicorn with magic..." Percy muttered.

Twilight glared at him,"How about an earth pony with actual strength!?"

"Oh, if only I had thought of that before." Percy rolled his eyes.

"Oh, blow it out your ear!" She shouted before going back to her work.

"... I have an idea," Percy said. He walked over to her.

"Guards, help, she's terribly sick!" Percy shouted, indicating Twilight moaning and groaning on the floor.

The guard gasped, "Oh my gods no! We can't have that, we do have a reputation to maintain after all. Thank goodness I have a doctorate and am a MD, otherwise I would've had to go and get a medic." he opened the door to kneel down with Twilight and pulled out a pen light, "Hmm, her pupils are dilating."

Percy went up and knocked him on the noggin, causing him to fall to the ground next to Twilight.

Twilight looked up and stared at Percy,"I can't believe that worked.”

"Me neither," Percy said, shaking his hoof.

Twilight yanked the keys away from the guard and the two walked out, locking the cage behind him,"Now what..." She looked up, noticing a vent,"Hmmm."

"This was so much easier in the books." Twilight said as she and Percy crawled through the vents.

"Yes, because books never exaggerate for the sake of a good story..." Percy rolled his eyes.

"You know, things were so much easier when I was the only smart flank in my friend group!" Twilight said. She stopped at a vent,"Hey, a lab!"

"Must be Mord's." Percy looked over her shoulder.

Mord sat back in his chair, pulling out a jelly bean and eating it. Running his hoof along his console, he said, "Show me Abbigail," and in a flash, a screen showing Applejack walking with the group outside of the mansion. There was a frown that crossed his lips as he said, "Still hanging out with those inferior ponies my pet? Pathetic, and after all, I did to get you to this point."

He then pressed another button on his console, "Show me the gods, I need to know what they are doing with the country."

One guard stepped into the view, bowing before Morning Dawn, "Milady, the others have reported that many of the cities are currently hoisting your flag instead of those of the usurpers. The problem is, some of the more cloud-based cities are holding out."

"Pegasi were always the most rebellious. Send Commander Pursuit to Cloudsdale. If things get to riled up, I will send one of my own." Morning Dawn said.

"Why's he interested in Applejack?" Twilight whispered,"What's his game here?"

Kudos nodded, pressing another button on his console. There was a small smirk on his lips as he said, "Interesting, oh very interesting. Another player in this game." Then he pressed a button on the console and pulled back, "Meadowbrook's legacy has been released? My, the game has become much, much wider hasn't it?"

Pushing away from the console, he walked towards a pegasus mare cowering in a cell. Playing with a syringe in his teeth, he put it to her throat and smiled, "Now, tell me, what was it like in the west? I have heard stories."

"Please, let me go home," the mare whimpered.

"I am not in the business of granting requests. I am here for research and I plan on making a small sojourn to the west shortly" Mord said, putting the needle into her foreleg, "Especially since you have taught me so much about pony physiology. Tell me, mating with a deer and giving birth to twins? Was it hard?"

"No...it wasn't. It was," she moaned, "Wonderful to be in his legs. To nuzzle him, but we," she gave another moan, "What d-did you do to me?"

"A relaxant," Mord said, putting his syringe into his pocket. "I have been told that the screams are annoying the pirates and I can't have that. And considering that I plan on operating on your reproductive organs, Well, we can't have too much suffer correct?"

"Why?" asked a unicorn pony about the size of a filly"Why are you doing this?"

Mord looked to the pony that was strapped to a rack, the machine pulling on the limbs, "Still alive? My you fjords are resilient, almost as much as Earth Ponies. As for why? I just find it interesting that ponies seem to be able to breed with any race. You breed one with a gyphon and you gain a hippogryph. A dragon and you get a kirin. A diamond dog and you gain a half breed abomination that some can call orcs. There are just so many."

"And you wanna torture one to get the answers," asked the pony.

Mord nodded, "Yes. Now, tell me, do you have family... what was your name?"

"JB Trickfoot," the pony grunted, "Please, I just wanna see my cousin Pike again."

"Oh, and she is another of your race. My my my my, how peculiar. So many unknowns in the west. I look forward to heading there. But for now, tell me...how much more can you stretch?" he asked, turning on the machine, making it pull the fjord pony tighter to elicit a scream.

Then Mord looked over his shoulder to a small vent, "Enjoying the research?"

"Run, now!" Percy whispered quickly.

Twilight was about to speak,"We can't save them now! Not without your magic or my gun!" Percy said, pushing her along.

Twilight struggled,"But, he-" She shook her head, before moving forward.

The next few feet were silent, the screams of those ponies rang into Twilight's mind.

"Wait." Percy said,"I see the armory. I don't see anypony inside right now."

"Okay," Twilight said quietly.

Percy quickly opened up the vent and leaped down to take a look around.

There were many weapons lying around in the armory, some with small handles, while other weapons were lined up for use if need be. On one shelf, it said 'Consificated items." on the shelf was a six cylinder pistol with writing on some of the barrels marked in esquish. Next to it was a long rifle attached to a saddle, and next to that, was a small braclet.

Percy grabbed the six barreled pistol, the rifle, and the bracelet. He turned to Twilight.

Twilight stared at the ground,"I'm useless... "

Percy frowned,"Don't do this now, Your Highness. We need to escape."

"We need to save them... but I'm useless!" Twilight said again.

"We can save them later, but we need to escape now!" Percy said.

"They'll be dead, they'll be dead because we were too late! I'll be responsible for-"

Percy slammed a hoof in front of her,"Twilight Sparkle. I'm fully aware that I am the last pony to try and knock some sense into you, but we cannot lose ourselves now!"

Twilight stared at him, and then shook her head,"Y-your right..." She looked at the bracelet,"What's with the bracelet?"

Percy looked at it,"I'm not sure, I figured it to be some sort of weapon, so I grabbed it." He looked around at some of the guns and began to grab them,"I have an idea."

"What?" Twilight asked, before being tossed a longsword.

"Dragonslayer. I never use it anyway." Percy said, before taking some of the pellets,"Black powder is still in here, I need a container and a trigger..."

"What are you building?" Twilight asked.

"I call it a grenade. It should cause a distraction and an explosion."

Then an explosion was heard, and alarm bells rang.

"..." Percy had just crafted the grenade as he heard that.

Twilight looked up,"Uh, what's going on?"

"Intruder alert, Intruder alert," the voice rang over the intercom. "Intruder found on flight deck,"

BOOM!

"Food deck"

Boom!

"Radar Deck!"

BOOM!

"Announcement room de... that's this floor," he whimpered as he heard the sound of the door being banged.

"Ok, not much time. To Corporal Hicks, I am sorry for sleeping with your wife. It was a drunken affair and we haven’t touched each other since. To Lt. Hudson, I am NOT sorry for sleeping with your brother. Quiet frankly, he was the best lay I ever had, and I was thinking about dating him. Lt. Vasquez, you got it right, I am your real father. I am so sorry we never had a chance to bond and I never found the right time. to the rest of you

"It has been a pleasure serving you all."

He then turned around, and the sound of rapid gunfire could be heard, followed by a slight ping as it bounced off of metal. And then the sound of energy piercing someone, with a loud thud.

"To Vasquez...I am sorry about your dad. I am waiting in the announcement room downloading the map to find the prisoners. If you want to see daddy again, please come for revenge." the mare said.

"... Is she with you?" Twilight asked.

"I was going to ask that of you," Percy said. He leaned his head out the door as a strange-looking creature with pincers ran by,"She seems to be looking for us."

Twilight walked towards him,"I guess she's friendly? I hope?"

Just outside, they could hear the sounds of energy fire, grenades, and explosions. Then they heard one creature say, "I don't want to jinx it for us guys, but I think we killed her. Let's all go out for Frosty Chocolate milkshakes."

Then an energy shot was heard, followed by a body falling. The rest was screams, shouts, pleas, more screams, and then a punch as the pincer creature was then sent flying past Twilight and Percy. Stepping out, a mare in yellow and red armor stepped out, "I'm getting you two out. Now."

Twilight blinked,"Uh, thanks, but they’re two others that need our help!"

The mare looked down at Twilight, and silently nodded. Looking up, she tapped the side of her helmet several times. After a few minutes, her visor flashed while she looked down the way. Then she tapped the side of her visor again, looking for a few moments. After tapping one more time, she said, "Follow me. Not that I don't think you can handle yourselves, but you'll be safer if you stay at my side."

They both looked her up and down,"Yeah, not disagreeing." Twilight said

"Nope." Percy said.

The two ran with her. Twilight looked at Percy,"You look disappointed."

"... I wanted to make power armor," Percy grumbled.

"Sometimes it's not all that it's cracked up to be. The maintenance can be annoying, and if you get an AI inside, it sometimes won't shut up," the mare said, before looking up with her eyes to the corner and growling, "It's true, shut up."

Volkermord pulled out his scalpel, listening to the mare moaning in pain and watching her heart rate slow. Turning his head, he saw the monitor show the armored mare and the two ponies make their way to the room. Lowering his head, he said, "My apologies, milady. But it seems that I need to leave."

"You," panted JB "Are a monster."

"You know, most unicorns break at this point. It's interesting. But please, do not waste titles on me," Mord said, putting on his coat, "I do not believe in such things."

BOOM!

The door exploded. Mord placed his hooves onto the circle, "And I take my leave. Adieu... princess."

BANG BANG BANG

Three bullets flew and hit the wall as Mord vanished. The teleportation circle became inert.

"Who...is that?" asked JB as she looked to the three standing in the doorway.

"Go to the mare, I'll go to JB." Twilight ran to her and began to undo her bindings,"It's okay, little one, I'm Princess Twilight Sparkle, I came to get you out of here."

Percy shot the lock off the cage and ran to the mare.

The mare grabbed his hoof,"Vax'ildan. Vex'ahlia." She coughed out. Her hoof went limp as her eyes fell.

Percy closed his eyes and gave a heavy sigh.

Jb sighed and hugged Twilight close, "Thank you, miss..." she said.

The mare walked over to Percy and placed her hoof onto his shoulder. Silently, she shook her head and walked to the door.

JB looked up, "Is she..."

Twilight turned to Percy, who only shook his head,"No..." She shook her head. She began to tremble,"Alright, we... need to get out of here now..." She began to breathe heavily.

"Percy, JB, help her. Some guards are outside the door," she said, stepping out. A few seconds later, energy shots were heard. After the bodies fell, she poked her head out, "You have two minutes. That's how long it'll take to clear this corridor."

Percy picked the body up,"Did you hear a name, JB?"

As the screams and bodies hitting the floor rang outside, JB nodded, "When I was brought in, I saw her laying that cage. She said her name was Elaina. She was taken from her home in the west when a dragon attacked. She would talk about her twins, those two names she said before she..." she shed a tear, and then sniffed, "Will I be able to get home?"

Twilight looked at JB,"We'll... try to get you out as soon as possible, but Equestria is under siege right now, it may be difficult to get you home."

"Siege?" whispered JB. "But... I always heard Equestria was peaceful. A little too peaceful."

"Well, normally it is, but I made a huge mistake that summoned something terrible here."

"I see," Jb whispered.

The mare stepped to the door, "Hallway's clear, there should be an exit right in front of us," she said, blowing a missile into the hallway wall. "Seems their rockets are compatible with my suit... who knew."

"That's... convenient," Twilight said.

Percy nodded as he carried the body with him.

Exiting the hallway through the hole in the hallway, the group quickly escaped the bunker. Once outside, they ran into the woods and away from where they could be seen. Adjusting her horn cannon, the mare looked at Percy, "Plan on burying the body?"’

"Yes." Percy said,"She needs it."

Twilight collapsed onto the ground, breathing heavily.

The mare turned to Twilight and then knelt down with her. Placing a hoof onto her back, she said, "Take your time, breathreathe. You are just letting the adrenaline and about five hundred other emotions rushing through you right now. Give yourself time and ten think about how to move on." she said, watching as Percy buried the body. Slowly, she lowered her eyes and then took a small breath.

("Take her home, don't let her see what we have t do. The hatchling is still young," the bird-like pony said.

"Can she even be a filly anymore? She lost-"

"We'll let her be the child she needs to be.")

The mare stood up and looked behind her at the bunker, "If you three have a place to be safe? Go there and wait. Think of your next move."

JB looked up, "What about you?"

"I've got work to do," the mare said. "And a job to complete. I'll keep my eye on you."

"But what about the pirates that are left in the bunker? They'll-"

There was a loud sound as the bunker began to explode from a series of eruptions and fireballs. Everyone looked to Percy, who was saying nothing at he finished putting a stone for the fallen mare. Then they looked to the mare, who they couldn't see the grin under her helmet, "Don't worry." she said before turning away.

"Not saying your name or goodbye, lady?" the mare heard the voice in her suit talk.

"It'll be easier for me to finish this mission if I'm alone. You know no one can ever really help me," the mare said, jumping into the trees.

"We should've been faster. We should've been faster." Twilight began to sob.

"... We need to find her children." Percy looked at Twilight,"The two of us have work to do, Twilight."

"Why, why could 't we be faster?" She shook her head in her hooves.

"The only thing we can do now is to find your friends," Percy said simply. He looked at JB,"After we drop her off somewhere safe."

"... I think I know this spot. A few kilometers west of here should be Zecora's hut." Twilight shuddered,"Then... then we leave."

Zecora walked through her hut, grabbing some ginger and Kamaole flowers to throw into her large pot. Taking a large ladle, she began to stir and twirl around in a slow circle while watching the liquid begin to turn a light red. There was a faint smile on her lips before she looked at a photo of her and Twilight, which made her frown. A swift knock on the front door distracted her, "Do not disturb Zecora on this day, I have friends I need to help on their way."

Grabbing her staff, she slowly opened the door to see Percy, JB, and Twilight. As she stood there for a moment, she paused as she looked at the fallen princess. There was a moment of unnerving silence as she closed the door slowly. Then violently, she threw open the door to lob garlic, salt, and a gas bomb at Twilight, "Stay away from me demonic spirit. Whatever offer you have, I wish not to hear it. And if you be, in my fear a zombie. Then get back to the dead, before I go and take your head!" she said, lightly hitting Twilight with her stick.

"Ow, ow, ow! I'm not undead!" Twilight shouted.

Percy held up his hoof," Ms, I can vouch for her, stop hitting her!"

"If she is not of the leaving dead then explain-" Zecora paused and then looked into Percy's blue eyes. A red blush came across her cheeks as she said, "Why my heart is in pain?"

Shaking her head, she fixed up her mohawk and smiled a little at him, "But, I have heard from the gods. Twilight fell to unbeatable odds. And now she is here with you and a filly? Seems quite strange and silly."

"Hey, I know I'm small, but I'm an adult fjord pony!" JB argued.

“Yeah, I did die, and then I got better." Twilight said, only to get hit with the staff," Ow! A clone spell brought me back!"

"A clone spell you say? I suppose you could come back that way," Zecora said, "Please come inside. The stallion, you sit by my side."

Percy blinked,"Okay?"He sat next to her.

Twilight sat near the cauldron,"We can't stay long, we need to find my friends. Can you keep an eye on JB here for us? Until we can find her cousin Pike?"

Zecora took a drink of some tea, giving some other cups to the others before taking her seat next to Percy. Looking to Twilight she began, "Your friends have gone to gain trip across the sea, Towards Baltimare and other ports I see.

They are on a quest to fight impossible odds.
To lay waste against the gods."

"The gods?" JB asked.

"I had problems with them. I died to them!" Twilight said, eyes wide.

Zecora drank a little, "I would only guess
That they are on the quest.

If you wish to know more and help with a smile
You can talk to Celestia for a while.

She and her sister are currently in exile
Hiding within Luna's mansion and others for a while."

"Well, I would need to know where Luna's Mansion was first," Twilight said.

"That was under the mountains shadow
That I know.

Now I believed it has moved to
Castle of the Sisters two"

"Right." Twilight got up,"I know how to get there from here. Thank you."

"I'm going from being a prisoner to having an audience with a princess. I must say that this is not how I expected my escape to go." Percy said.

"And do not worry about the pony the size of a filly
I will look after JB."

"You know Luna, if you ignore the circumstances," Celestia said, resting on the couch, "This is like a little vacation."

"Yes, A vacation where the fate of our kingdom is at stake,” Luna said. "And are you sure the zebra can make enough?"

"I trust Twilight's judgment when she talked of her skills," Celestia said, "And we have no idea what her friends will find in the west."

"And it is her judgment that is allowing you to trust the bounty huntress?" asked Luna.

"Lulu," Celestia sighed, "I don't have many options. It is not like we can just pick anyone to help. We need smugglers and bounty hunters to get the items we need to the west and-" she then paused and looked up.

"Your alarm spell, sister?" asked Luna.

"Yes. Cloak yourself and go outside," Celestia said. "Get ready for a fight."

Luna nodded and disappeared. Moving silently, she stepped outside and waited in the shadows, watching as the intruders walked through the castle.

Twilight looked around the castle,"Man, we really need to refurbish this place a little more."

Several black tentacles wrapped around Twilight, trying her up with the black mass. Percy jumped out of the grip of the tentacles and landed back on the other side on his forelegs, pulling out his gun. Luna stepped forward, "Are you with the light, or the darkness. Choose wisely whoever you are."

"Your Highness." Percy put his gun back,"That depends on your definition of darkness, but I can at least tell you that we are not enemies." He indicated Twilight,"Princess Twilight Sparkle has come back to life, and is seeking her friends."

"... Get me out of these things!" Twilight shouted.

"Twilight," whispered Luna, her eyes wide in shock and amazement. Letting her horn glow for a moment to dismiss her tentacles, she gasped as she gazed upon Twilight, "How... and who is your companion?"

"Luna, I assume that you took out-" Celestia came out and then looked at the reborn Twilight. tears immediately began to fill her eyes as she ran over to hug her surrogate daughter, "Oh, Twilight... welcome home."

Luna sighed and said, "Sister, perhaps we should convene back in the mansion?"

"Just a few more minutes. I want to make sure that this isn't a dream and my Twight has come back." Celestia said, whispering.

Luna nodded and walked into the mansion, followed by Percy. After a few moments, the two sat on chairs within the mansion, "My apologies if this is not the most formal of rooms. But we have to make do. Now, if your new friend would introduce himself?" Luna said/

Percy bowed,"I am Quick Draw Percival Fredrickstein Von Musel Klossowki de Rolo III."

"You can call him Percy." Twilight said immediately. She smiled at Celestia,"Yeah, I kinda got better from dying. Long story." She looked around,"As much as I would love to talk and catch up, Equestria's under siege and I need all the details you gave my friends."

"The port city that they are heading to would be nice," Percy said.

Celestia paused, "De Rolo? Of Whitestone? But... I thought that family had been killed off. At least, that was what a messenger had told me and Luna. He had said that any dealings would be done with the Briarwoods."

Luna looked to Celestia, "I believe we have some investigations to do to add to our current dilemma."

"As for the information you need. Most I what I know, is only second-hoof. I am still waiting for much of the information to come from the girls once they find the disks," Celestia said. "I even had to rely on Discord to gain much of the information I am about to bestow upon you."

"D-Discord!?" Twilight gasped. Her eyes filled with betrayal,"Y-you don't know everything, Celestia!?"

"Sadly, I do not," Celestia said.

Percy frowned,"Well, I can tell you that the Briarwoods are responsible for my family's deaths."

"I am sorry that my sister was unable to investigate into your family’s murder, Percival," Luna said while Celestia comforted Twilight.

Percy let out a heavy sigh,"You're busy princesses, I can't expect you to be everywhere. In a way, it's partially my fault." Percy looked down at the ground,"I was too lost in my own mind to find you... or the Elements to get help. And then I made the decision to stop them myself."

"I just, my world is now ruined!" Twilight shouted. She looked up at Celestia, teary-eyed,"So... what's the..." She gulped,"Second-hoof information you are giving me?"

Confident that her student's breakdown was abated, Celestia sat back down onto the comfy couch, "Well to begin..." she then began to explain all about her mother and father, the discovery of the tablet in the hidden chamber, and the disappearance of the items. She couldn't help but chuckle at Twilight's frustration of the item's disappearance. She also smiled when she told of the poem that was on the tablet about the items' descriptions. As she finished, she said, "And here we are. After we dismissed the mansion we made our plan."

"The girls would head to Baltimare and look for a certain pirate to smuggle them to the west. Meanwhile, we would hire a mercenary to send the girls some supplies from San Palemo to the same coastal city," Luna said. "I also had them write letters to their loved ones to say goodbye."

"A bracelet?" Twilight whispered,"Hey, Percy, you still got that bracelet?"

Percy pulled it out,"Here?"

"Can you use Detect Magic on that, Princess?" Twilight asked.

Celestia nodded and began to concentrate. Her horn glowed a faint blue and white as she tapped into two pools of mana to look it over. She then nodded, "This bracelet is hiding faint magical energy. A latent force of mana that lies within. However, if this is one of the items, I cannot say or can I tell your what it does. Have you tried using a spell with it?"

"Twilight, surely you can identify this item yourself," Luna said. "You have..." she then paused and looked at her. Her eyes widened, "You have lost your magic, haven't you."

Twilight sighed. She then proceeded to explain how she was brought back due to a clone spell by Briarwood,"When I came to, I found my magic gone."

"Hmmm, perhaps the problems with the weave when the gods awoke, plus the unusual way of your resurrection, caused your mana problems," Luna said. "Sadly it could take time and something unique for your power t return."

Celestia sighed, "I should say that this means you will be forced to stay behind, but I know you. Your tendency to want to be a hero to help and save others is inherent in you. So, I can not dissuade you. Instead," she then looked to Percy, "Quick Draw Percival Fredickstien Von Von Musel Klossowsky De Rolo III, you are in charge of protecting Twilight and helping her until her magic returns. You are to be her bodyguard and help her when you can. If you should fail in this..." there was a small shudder in the mansion as her mane combusted, "I will send you to meet your family."

Percy leaned back, eyes widening a tad,"I understand completely, your highness. I was planning on going with her anyway. I have... business in the west."

Twilight nodded,"Right. If we leave now, we'll probably find that mercenary to hitch a ride with." She looked up at Celestia with a smile,"Oh, Princess, I love you, but I'm so glad you know me well enough that I would go even if you did forbid me." She sighed,"I can't waste any time here, then." She gave her one last hug,"I guess this means I'm going. I need to find them, to help them. They would lose without me to help them out." She turned to the door,"See you later!" She ran out.

Percy gave a bow,"Your Majesties." He turned and followed her.

Twilight and Percy stopped at the front of the castle,"It's a long road." She smiled at him,"You know, I'm almost I picked up a new friend on this journey."

"Friendship is your specialty, is it not?" Percy said.

"You're right." She turned to the road,"It's a long road to Baltimare." She then felt a coat on her,"Oof!"

"Cover your wings. The alicorns will be searching the area, and if they find you, I will not be able to fight them." Percy said.

Twilight nodded as she put Percy's coat on,"Thanks. Geez, I'm missing being a normal unicorn now!" She chuckled,"Alright... let's go."

Percy nodded and walked beside her on the road.

Rarity let out a smile as the group entered the city,"Oh, even under siege this city is fantastic!" She looked back at Applejack,"The Princess said that the smuggler is in a bar, right?"

"Yea," Applejack said, tucking her hat down over her eyes, "Though could you be a little more subtle!"

"I just hope we can find it," Fluttershy whispered as they moved around the building city. The ponies walking around, talking, and announcing various items of sale allowed for much confusion as they continued to walking towards the port.

Pinkie looked up and saw a tavern near a port. With a dull tone, she said, "Oh, Pirate Tavern. I bet we might find a smuggler in there." she then walked over to a different cantina to watch as a stallion with his big furry friend sat in front of a green stallion, before blasting him with a crossbow. Somewhere, in that same cantina, was a young stallion in a white robe sitting with an old stallion.

"Naw, probably not the smuggler I'm looking for. I think we should try for the Pirates’ Cove over there," Pinkie said, leaving the plot of the other adventure behind.

Rainbow Dash landed in front of Pinkie, slamming open the door, "I'm looking for a no-good low down smuggler who is willing to die! Where is she!"

A familiar female voice piped up,"Who's asking?"

Rainbow's Magenta eyes looked over the bar until she saw a white bird with light green plumage. Smirking, she said, "Rainbow Awesome Dash." and she looked to the bird and slowly walked to her, "Celaeno, you miserable BITCH!" she said, reaching up with her hoof and slamming it into the bird woman's claw in a powerful hoof shake.

"It's been too long!" Celaeno said. She leaned back against the table,"I've been waiting for you girls." She counted the number of ponies in her mind,"Where's Twilight?"

Each of the girls took a seat at the table, finding a good place to face the pirate captain. Applejack sighed and put her hat down over her eyes, "Twilight's... not here right now. She's busy elsewhere."

Rarity looked to Applejack, "Applejack..." she whispered, looking at her friend comfortingly.

"And she said we'll meet later," she shuddered, hating to tell a small white lie and partial untruth.

Celaeno hid her eyes under her hat,"AJ, I've been a pirate for a long time. I can tell when someone's lying to me." She immediately perked,"But I'm not going to pry. IT's the West to Glidesdale, correct?"

The girls nodded, with Rainbow picking up, "Yeah, Celestia said that the best way to get there without them knowing is to take a smuggler ship I told them you know the best routes that could get us there without them knowing."

Rarity smirked, "I may have also put out some rumors here and there that we were heading to the west ports."

"Ah, I get it." Celaeno walked around the table,"My baby could outrun those jerks easily. I should warn ya, Glidesdale is a bit different than here." She placed a claw on Fluttershy's head,"But I also know a few guys there that'll let us through without any issues."

Fluttershy let out a comforting sigh as got her head patted. Rainbow Dash looked at her, "How different."

"Who are these guys?" asked Applejack.

"The ponies of Glidesdale are kinda..." Celaeno waved her claw,"On the violent side. They're better now, but when they were ruled by The Conclave, they tended to kill everything in sight. Now, their blood rage has more or less been aimed at the monsters of their lands."

"The Conclave?" asked Applejack, while Fluttershy let out a small eep at the sound of violence.

"Hey, at least they are aiming at their own monsters," Dash said. "So, who are your friends that can get us there."

Celaeno smiled,"Oh, I know a couple of guards." She looked at Applejack,"Nasty rulers. Before the Circle, the new rulers overthrew them, they were five of the most bloodthirsty rulers this side of Tirek. Their names were Thordak, Raishan, Vorugal, Umbrasyl, and Brimscythe. I can only tell rumors, the Queen of Emon can tell you more, but I heard that they even changed the very landscape they ruled."

Rarity gasped and shook her head, "What kind of rulers could do that?"

"Have to be another set of gods of something," Applejack said. "Just glad we don't have to face them."

"I guess we'll talk to queenie about it," Pinkie said, lightly playing with her straw.

"Do, when can we get to the ship?" asked Rainbow.

Celaeno got up,"Right now! We need to do this fast, or the gods are going to get wise." She headed towards the back,"Mead, open up the back."

A big burly stallion nodded and pressed a button, opening a bookshelf.

"My ship's through here, come on!"

The girls followed, leaving Applejack to logically ask,"So, does the owner just naturally know that you have a secret entrance behind his bookshelf?"

"Uh, yeah? I mean, I wouldn't be asking him to help me out if he didn't know."

TThe girls nodded and followed her through the winding tunnel in the bar. After several feet through the walkway, they came upon an airship. Around the mighty ship, several avians and a few other species were loading onboard boxes and barrels full of ale (Ginger and the booze kind). A green half pony, half boar with an accent shouted, "Captain Calaneo approaching!"

Rarity watched as some of the boars passed by, toating the material, "My, I didn't think boars were so... airfare-ing. I thought they stuck to the boarder lands in the south."

"We do," One Boar said, "But sometimes we do like the idea of heading back to the homeland in the west." he then pushed the crate full of food and some gold onto the crane.

Galeano smiled as they got up on the ship. She nodded at a younger boar that had a green ting to it before heading towards the wheel,"We're heading off, boys, take care of your things now!"

The boar nodded, "Yes captain."

"Man, Fjord seems to be in high spirits lately. Maybe he's been to the west and found somepony cute," whispered one of the birds.

Applejack tipped er hat, "We don't know how long we're gonna be gone. We got everything?"

"I have the map," Rarity said, "Plus the cash, seeing as I am the only one who can hold our money without wasting it!"

"We don't even know if Gildesdale takes bits Rares," Rainbow Dash said.

"Can't be sure," Rarity said.

Fluttershy flew up, "I got some bandages and some supplies. Tem-um, I mean our contact said she'll make sure we'll get the potions when we get there."

"I got... things," Pinkie said, looking down as she walked to the hold, "I'll be hiding in here for a bit."

Oh, they take bits, don't worry." Galeano said,"I don't know why, but bits are like, the same in both countries." The ship began to take off.

Twilight and Percy entered the bar,"Alright, let's hope the smuggler is someone shady."

Percy looked around at the crooks and thieves,"That... might take a while." He went to the bartender,"Did a quintet of ponies leaves here with an airship no too long ago?"

Mead spat into a tin,"Who wants to know?"

Percy put down some bits,"Very important ponies."

Twilight looked around the bar.

As Twilight looked around, she would see a set of different ponies and other ungulates at the bar. At one table sat what looked like a rouge, a cavalier, a wizard, an acrobat, a thief, a ranger, a barbarian, a unicorn little sibling with a small sheet, and a dm earing an odd outfit as he discussed the latest adventure the ponies were on. At another table at a silver earth pony and his buffalo companion as they kept an eye on the bar. Lastly, at the far corner sat a pony with a dark cloak, wielding a dagger. He was scowling and brooding, looking like he had a dark and sinister backstory.

"Move it, Wilting Flower, this is my seat to brood," a dark purple unicorn with a broken horn said, pushing him out of the way.

"But, this is my spot, I always brood here in this corner," Wilting said, frowning as he looked at her.

"And now it's mine. You should've got here beforehoof," Tempest Shadow said, her horn sparkling with electricity, "Now, do you want to ruin this bar or brood?"

"Brood. I'll look for a new corner," Wilt said, walking away, "I will just glare darkly, looking vicious for a fight and..." he left, muttering emo thoughts out loud.

Tempest sat back, taking a mug and drinking slowly.

"Tempest!" Twilight shouted,"Tempest, over here!"

Percy put a hoof on her shoulder,"Twilight, we're trying not to draw attention, remember!?"

"Oh, right," Twilight winced.

Tempest looked up, her eyes widened in shock. For a moment she smiled and waved Twilight to her, "Thought you were dead," she said. "And don't worry, most of the patrons here are trying to either forget their troubles, are too drunk to notice you, or are busy trying to find out how to get out of Equestria before the queens initiate martial law." narrowing her green eyes at Percy, she asked, "Who's the tight end?

Percy sighed, as if used to ponies hitting on him,"I am Quick Draw Percival Fredricksten von Musel Klossowski de Rolo III."

"Call him Percy." Twilight said,"And I did die, but I got better. Long story. So, what are you doing here?"

"The gods suck at their jobs. When I killed a target, they usually stay six feet under," Tempest said. "Waiting for a ship to receive a special delivery of a crate from the 'Zenith Exhibition Creation Organization Rational of Abolutes' heading to the west via the monarch corporation on the behalf of the princess of Zebrica and Sunny Daze. It seems they want me to protect some magical potions that encourage healing from here to the west. Then I am to make sure that set of potions get into the hooves of five certain mares."

She then brought out a letter, "And it seems that my assignment also requires me to help a stallion with a tight end, and Sunny's youngest girl to that land for some education. And oh look, I see just the two."

Twilight smiled,"Thanks, Princess..." She whispered,"Alright, so when do we go?"

Tempest picked up the glass and began to take another drink. She then slammed the jar down, "Now. Hey Mead! I'm taking my leave and your booze tastes like you took a piss in it."

"Yeah, and you look like something my niece ran over while getting to her bar," Mead said, cleaning the glass.

"Blow it out yer ear ya pony guzzler!" shouted Tempest as she got some armor and walked to the door, "Oh and put the charge onto his tab," she said, pointing to Percy. Then under her breath, she whispered, "He's a damn good stallion."

Mead whispered under his breath,"What a damn good mare..."

Percy blinked,"What!?" He looked at Mead,"Alright..." He muttered before handing him some bits before following Twilight and Tempest out the door.

Twilight looked at Tempest,"Are we going by airship?"

Tempest nodded as she walked towards the shipyards, "Of course we are. If I'm right, your friends are already out on the journey to the west and we need to get there as fast as we can. Luckily," she continued until they reached a small airship, "I just got hired."

A mare with long white hair and a blue coat turned to look towards the approaching trio. Moving so she could show off her cutie mark of a rook, she put away her clipboard with her magic, "You must be Tempest. I'm-"

"Checker Monarch of Monarch Industries," Tempest said, "Sunny Daze told me you had a 'shipment' you needed protecting?"

"Yes, a few casks of 'Equestrian healing mineral water' from the Z.E.C.O.R.A subsidiary and some small trinkets here and there. This is a very valuable shipment and who are these?" she asked, looking at Twilight and Percy.

"This is Taile Spin and Twinkle Puss, they are refugees from the west and need a guide back home," Tempest said, looking at Monarch with a small glare.

Checker looked and nodded, using her unicorn magic to take note, "I see. Now, since this might be contraband, I trust you know what to do if you or this shipment is caught?"

"Make sure it doesn't get traced, I got it. It’s not the first time I protected cargo," Tempest said, walking away from Checker to the plank, "Come on you two."

Percy looked at the airship with a slight smile,"Such a fascinating piece of work here!"

Twilight looked at Tempest,"Twinkle Puss!?"

"It's the best name I could come up with. Belle Amie would've been too wimpy and Shining Spark sounds something a nerd would come up with. At least this sounds about as soft as ponies are expecting," Tempest said.

The captain watched as Tempest got on board. The large boar walked towards her with a low growl, "The name is Klog, the captain of this ship. We are going to go into a dangerous country in the west. You sure ya got what it takes?"

To answer, Tempest pulled her head back and headbutted him in the face. This elicited a moan of pain and a whimper, "Owww, it was just a question. you didn't need to headbutt me." the captain said, before walking away.

Tempest looked to Percy and Twilight, "You'll both need to find some tasks to perform on the ship so no one will think that you two are refugees. I don't know what you are capable of," she said, looking to Percy. "But you, I think you can-" her eyes went wide when she used her magic, wincing a little, "Oh Celestia you did lose your magic didn't you?"

There was a sigh as she shook her head, "Twilight, there is a map room and I think this ship has some books, you should look at those and stay out of the way in case we get into trouble."

"Stay out of the-?" Twilight let out a disappointed sigh,"Right, I'll look at the maps. At least I'll be reading."

Percy walked up to her,"Well, I'm good with mechanics, and I have good aim."

"Goo, you work on the cannons," Tempest said, trying her best not to take a peek at Percy’s toned flanks. Shaking her head, she looked back at Twilight as she walked to the map room.

Sighing, she followed and looked inside, "Hey, look. I wasn't trying to be an ass back there. It's just true you know. If we get into a fight right now...I'll have two ponies to protect, and I don't think your friends are going to forgive me if I let you die again."

Twilight stared at the map,"... You know what my favorite books to read were? The ones where the brave knight always gallops in to save the day. I always imagined myself as that knight." She sighed,"I want to help ponies. I hate it when I'm relegated to staying behind because it's... safer." She looked at Tempest,"I know you were just telling the truth... but it still hurts." She looked at the map,"On another note, what do you know of the west?"

"It's nothing like here in Equestria," Tempest said, leaning against the doorway while crossing her legs in front of her. "Way more tendency to have a fight. You and Fluttershy would tame a cockatrice? I know of a mare who fought a few with her girlfriend and then killed them. She used the feathers as part of her wedding dress." there was a chuckle as she shook her head. "Wonder how Kima's doing."

Twilight looked up, "How do you know so much?"

"I was born there," Tempest said, smirking. "When I invaded before, I said that you mares have so much power, and yet you use it for parties. This is what I'm talking about. Do you know why Equestria practically wiped off the west on the map?"

Twilight looked confused and then looked to the maps. Her mind remembered how there was a time where the map of Equestria just showed the continent, then it had the crystal empire, then the Southlands, and then the dragon lands to the east. Occasionally there was a landbridge that would show up that was marked 'undiscovered lands to the west.' A sigh escaped her lips as she said, "Wish we ponies weren't so skittish about exploration. Note to self, make teams for a proper exploration team."

Stepping forward, Tempest began to point to a map that showed only a faint border, "For years, I don't know how long, ever since I was a filly though, the land was ruled by a powerful and dark king called Thordak. I never saw him myself and I don’t know much, but legends said he was a being of fire who would burn the lands to remind you that he was in control. If it wasn't him? Then it was the power of some of the other dragons you had to worry about."

"Those lands were fierce and untamed, with several cities separated by days of travel. And of course, there are more races of ponies and equines than there are here. There are fjord ponies that look like fillies and colts, half breeds like half-deer, and a few others I never even saw," Tempest sighed, "Kind of miss it sometimes."

"How come you never told us about this?" Twilight asked.

"Look at me," Tempest said, pointing to her with a hoof, "Do I look like a mare that talks about her past and old times? I'm a fighter, not a hugger or a dancer." she walked to a port and looked outside, "I'm not really like an Equestrian, I don't solve my problems with singing and dancing and a warm hug. I usually prefer to fight and wield magic like a boss. And when I left my town after the 'incident'. I ran away, fought on my own or a little, joined Storm King, and decided to just leave anything from my past behind."

"Hey, we don't solve everything through singing, dancing, and warm hugs!... well, maybe Pinkie does," Twilight muttered.

"I rest my point," Tempest said, "Of course I know that now. Now I notice that you hide some real firepower under all of that. But, try telling that to the westerners. They all think that about you."

Twilight pouted,"Of course..." She looked out into the distance,"Hold on everypony, I'm coming."

Morning Dawn sat on a large throne, pieces of Canterlot strewn around her being picked up by her magic. She began to speak to a hidden figure,"Cayrel,"

An orange alicorn with a yellow mane walked forward,"Yes, my queen?"

"The Elements are headed to the west. I can feel their magic heading there." She turned to her,"Gather the other seven knights. Find them, and eliminate them in any way possible."

Cayrel smirked as seven other shadows appeared next to her,"Yes my queen."

A stallion with a purple mane and a light purple coat stood in a mechanical ship overlooking a holographic map with a red dot heading west,"It seems the Huntress is heading to the west sir," A voice said from his left,"She seems to be following the alicorns."

The stallion nodded,"Good, good. Everything is going according to plan. Tell Briarwood to hold on to her plans for now."

"What about the armor we found in the sea, Captain?"

"Activate it as soon as possible." The Captain said, turning off the map,"It'll give the heroes a little taste of what's to come. And then... we wait."

"Wait?"

"The best way to win 3D chess... is through patience."

A green alicorn stallion with a lime mane and tail circled the barrier of the Crystal Empire.

Shining looked up at it and frowned,"How long can that barrier last?"

Cadence paced the room,"Twilight's dead, Celestia and Luna are missing... oh, what am I going to do!?"

"Good morning Equestrians, you're listening to Radio Freedom." Vynl Scratch said,"No, I don't give a dang about the gods, we're still going to give you the news you care about!"

"Here is the status report for today: Almost all of our heroes are missing. Twilight is dead, and the world looks like it's gone kaput."

"But hope is not lost. Two ponies with a lot of charisma are rallying the troops. Sunny Days is keeping the ponies up and training them to fight for themselves, while another pony named Moonlight Shadow is gathering spies. A resistance is forming, allowing us to show those gods that we will not take this sitting down."

"Speaking of, Eight gods have left Equestria for the West. I don't know why, but here's hoping they don't come back. And now, some music from Countess Coloratura."

Rainbow Dash walked outside of the ship, letting the wind blow through her mane while the ship sailed through the air. She let out a sigh as it did, trying to look up, "I could fly faster than this, but no." shaking her head, she walked around, "At least it's a quiet night to just enjoy the air."

Taking a walk to the rafters, she looked down and said, "Wonder if Twilight looking at us now, worried that she couldn't help us. Thinking she needs to be here." then she looked up ,"Don't worry about us Twi...we got this. Even if, you're not here."

That was when she heard a soft voice begin to sing,"Fluttershy."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6si-_hofdbM

Wishing on a dream that seems far off
Hoping it will come today
Into the starlit night
Foolish dreamers turn their gaze
Waiting on a shooting star
But

Twilight sat in the map room, sighing and looking at the window,

What if that star is not to come
Will their dreams fade to nothing?
When the horizon darkens most
We all need to believe there is hope

The Huntress sat in her ship, letting the soft music play while she monitored the radar,

Is an angel watching closely over me?
Can there be a guiding light I've yet to see?
I know my heart should guide me but
There's a hole within my soul

Fluttershy heard the clopping of hoves next to her and smiled at Rainbow as the two began to sing together.

What will fill this emptiness inside of me?
Am I to be satisfied without knowing
I wish then for a chance to see
Now all I need (desperately)
Is my star to come...

"Ok, so what was with the song," asked Rainbow sitting with her on the crow's nest.

Fluttershy sat and played with her mane idly, "I just thought, maybe, with a nice sailing song it would help lighten the mood a little." taking a deep breath she looked up at the moon, "With Twilight here, it usually feels so hopeful. Like we can do this, but now without her here?"

"Yeah, I get it. It feels like we can’t do anything and there's no way to win," Dashs aid, "But hey, you got me and then there's AJ. We both are pretty kick-ass fighters, and AJ keeps her head on straight so there's that."

"I know, I know," Fluttershy said, but then she laid onto her friend's shoulder,"But I can't help but think about what Rarity said, how this is something she was always worried about. One day we wouldn't be there and boom, one of us dies."

"Hey, that won't happen again, I promise," Dash said. "I'm going to make sure that I'm there for everyone this time."

"You really promise?" asked Fluttershy.

"I promise..."

Author's Note

An epic adventure to start Feburary off right.

Yes, that is Percy from Critical Role. Surprised? Don't be, I've been wanting to do a DND adventure for the longest time and well...here we are.

Vordmund? That is German for genocide, fitting for his character.

The Alicorns of light have been named after stars for your convience.

Cameos:

In the bar that Pinkie looks into, there is Luke, Han, Obi Wan, and Chewbacca. No, don't ask for them having a bigger role. The other patrons in the bar are the cast of the DND cartoon, because reasons.

Vox Machina

Sometimes friendships can cross realities

No one knows why, or how, but give it time

And the friend that you made in another world

Can be right outside your door.

-Twilight Sparkle

Celaeno walked out to the deck,"It shouldn't be much longer-"

With that, a couple of armored pegasi landed in front of her,"State your business?" One of them said,"Oh... it's you." He said with a sigh.

Rainbow Dash landed next to Celano, "You have a problem with the captain

The stallion sighed,"Her and her crew caused a lot of trouble over here."

Celaeno smirked,"Oh, but you know you love it."

"Just tell us what you're doing here." The guard said.

"These ponies from the East need to go here."

the guards blinked before looking at each other. The other guard whispered,"I thought all Equestrians were too timid to come here."

"What's that supposed to mean?!" growled Rainbow Dash stepping forward.

Pinkie sighed and waved to the new ponies. Then she said, "He means we win through singing and dancing and warm hugs."

"Wha-I-We do more tha- you know what? Forget it, I'm going down to see if Applejack is done yet," Rainbow Dash said, walking down to the hold. "What has she been doing for two days anyway?"

As she walked down to the hold, and the largest area of the ship, she heard the sounds of grunting and punching. Curious, she opened the door a little to see Applejack surrounded by the pirates. Panting, a little bit of blood running down the edge of her mouth Applejack stood up and looked around, "Again."

One of the bigger pirates shrugged and began to walk into the ring, only to be stopped by Rainbow Dash flying in and spreading her forelegs, "Whoa, hold it. Look, I love a good rumble too, but we got more important things than... than whatever this is."

"Training," Applejack said, looking away as she wiped herself with a towel.

"Yeah that. Now, come on, let's head up." Dash said, taking her friend by the foreleg and walking her out. As they were a distance away, she growled, "Ok, what the buck AJ? Are you just wanting to get yourself beat up or something?"

"No, I just wanted to push myself. You know, push my limits and all that?" Applejack said, "Thought you would understand something like that."

"Yeah," Rainbow Dash said, "When I am trying to train and perfect something. That looked more like you were punishing yourself because-this is because of that alicorn, isn't it?"

Applejack looked away and began to walk, "I couldn't beat him, Dash. I was just a little punk compared to him and I couldn't do nothing. We had to run away and let somepony else do the dirty work. You know how hard that was? You know how painful it was to just lie down and take it?"

She leaned against the side of the wall and shook her head, "Now we are heading into the unknown west. A place, mind, that Celano says is different and practically untamed compared to home and I have to lead everypony and I might not be-"

"Hey, none of that," Dash said, "You are and always be good enough. Besides, you have me as a leader. You can just, relax."

"You, the leader? That ain’t filling me up with confidence," Applejack teased as she left.

Rainbow Dash sutly lifted her foreleg, and smirked, before looking for the others. Walking a little more into the other rooms, she saw Rarity finishing up her makeup and her mane. Then she pulled a rapier and put it to her side along with a bow. Closing her eyes, she made her way to the door. The last room Rainbow dash looked at was Fluttershy, only to be surprised to see her gone.

Stepping outside with a quick flight, she saw Fluttershy flying alongside the airship with a few birds. With a giggle, Fluttershy said, "Aren't they cute Rainbow? They say they are Osprey. You don't see these kind in Equestria."

Rainbow smiled and flew up with Fluttershy sand said, "Come on, we need to get goi-" she then paused and gasped, seeing the port town peak through the clouds, "Wow."

Before her was a large port town, with several airships and normal ships floating in and out of the ports. There was also small schooners leaving for fishing in the ocean, creating small little wakes in the ocean. Dash marveled at the sight od the gleaming small buildings with the towers in the distance.

"Emon ahead captain!" shouted one of the pirates.

"Good, get us into the harbor! I'm certain Jarret will allow us to meet the Queen."

Applejack walked up to Celano, "Who's Jarret?"

"A very high ranking guard. The queen trusts him almost completely. In fact, there he is."

A dark coated unicorn stallion was on a platform near the harbor speaking to a couple of tiny ponies.

"My how adorable," Rarity said, "He is teaching some fillies."

Celaeno laughed,"Those ain't kids, Rarity. Those are fully grown Fjords."

"I didn't know that there were ponies so small out there in the world," Rarity said.

Fluttershy, who overheard Rarity speaking, landed behind her, "Some of the birds said that there are a lot of species in the west that we haven't met. Though we seem to all speak the same language for some reason."

"I know," Pinkie said, looking over the railing, "We both came from here. I remember seeing a history book on it when I was looking about Pudding head. It said that the founders all came from lands in the west before the bridge was destroyed."

Applejack looked to the port as it came closer, "So when do we land?"

"Right about..." Celaeno said.

Jarret finished his talks before turning and seeing Celaeno,"Ah, visitors." He walked up to them,"What brings you here?"

"These are Equestrians, looking for an audience with Silver Wing." Celaeno said.

"Hmm, Silver Wing is a busy pony. I'll see if she has time for you. Until then, these ponies can walk around this district for a bit. I will send a messenger when the Queen is ready to see them." Jarret said.

Rainbow Dash landed and then noticed a distant tower, one that was taller than the rest of the buildings, "So what's up with the tower?"

Celaeno leaped down next to her,"That's where the queen lives. She likes high places. In fact, notice somethin'?" She indicated a lot of flying ponies,"This place is home to a lot of pegasi. Pegasi love this place."

Looking up, Rainbow Dash could see several pegasi flying around in the sky. Letting out a chuckle she said, "Wow, you're right. This is so cool."

"Ok Dash, let’s keep focused," Applejack said, "Celano, how long till your buddy can get us to see the queen?"

"Not sure. The queen's a busy mare, it might take hours, maybe a day." Celaeno said.

"Right," Applejack said, stepping up to look at her friends, "Let's go and explore the town. Rarity, you go and get us some supplies with the money. Clothes, some rations, and get some rumors."

"Right, I do believe I have seen some wonderful sellers out in the city," Rarity said as they began to disembark.

"Celestia said that her contact with the 'medicine' will be arriving in a few hours," Applejack said, and then looked to Pinkie, "Pinks could you-" she paused and looked at the pink mare, her head held down. Closing her eyes, she said, "Flutters, could you take care of Pinkie for a bit? She needs company."

"Sure," Fluttershy said, taking Pinkie by the arm, "We'll meet back when Jarrod says the queen is ready." then she took her friend by the hoof, "Pinkie?"

"Mmmm, I smell a bakery," Pinkie said.

"Hey, AJ?" Dash asked, "What about the map? What does it say?"

"Don't know," Applejack said, pulling out the stone tablet. "After that riddle it gave us, it just gave us the map and the saying that it should be in the west. Then just this map with these weird squiggles."

"Yeah, what is that even supposed to be?" asked Dash.

Applejack shook her head, "I don't know, really. One of these has" she pointed to three dashes, "look like three little dashes. And this is just a line with three lines dripping from it. It looks like Claw marks but..."

Dash looked at the map and then to Applejack, "Look, let's figure that out later. Right now, we need to get something to drink! I'm thirsty and I bet if we try hard enough, we can not only get buzzed but get a lifetime's supply of drinks for the road."

"Dash, you can't get drunk, remember?" Applejack said, looking at her. "No pegasus does."

"Yeah, but new land, new pegasi!" Dash said, "They might have different, metabolism than me. I mean, look at them!" she then pointed to a very short pony with a dirty blonde mane and wearing armor, walking with a taller mare that was wearing a long blue robe. "They have shorter ponies here. They are bound to be lightweights."

"Sounds dishonest and tricky," Applejack said.

"But we need to. Listen, here's the plan," Dash said whispering in her friend’s ear as the two walked away.

"Captain, are those five equestrians going to be ok?" asked a boar.

Celaeno smiled as she leaned against the ship,"They'll be fine. After all, they're heroes." She turned her head as a ship slowly came in. She frowned,"Tempest."

The small schooner slowly landed at the port, docking with a small lurch. The gangplank lowered and allowed for the small passengers to get off, alongside Tempest and her two 'refugees'. A shipwright walked to the captain and began to talk, "Ok, so what are you bringing in. You know that Equestria shipments are off-limits."

"Surely Silver Wing wouldn't object to some health potions, brought fresh from Monarch Industries. Why..."

As the conversation continued, Tempest got a little away from the ship and began to look around the city, "Look, your friends have probably already made it to port by now. I bet if you look hard enough, you can find them. I'm going to go and get some information, secure the cargo, and-" she paused and saw Celano. With a growl, she began to walk towards the parrot.

The pirates, seeing this, began to gather around to protect her. Celano held out a wing, "No, I got this. She is mine." she then brought out a blade, ready to slash.

Only for Tempest to push her aside and began to walk towards a small halfinger pony in silver armor. Smirking, she said, "Hey, BITCH! How’re the wimpy scars!"

"TEMPEST?! YOU BITCH!" The pony said walking right towards her and then pulled her head back, and then gave her a head butt with Tempest following after.

"Still the hardest head out there, huh Kima?" chuckled Tempest.
Kima smirked,"Ain't harder than yours!"

Celaeno stammered,"That no good-" She turned to Twilight,"Can you believe this, Twilight? She ignored me!"

...

"Twilight?" Celaeno blinked a few times.

"Hi," Twilight said.

"Well, I'll be, AJ wasn't lying after all!" Celaeno patted Twilight on the shoulder, before looking at Percy who just stepped down,"And you brought a friend!"

Twilight chuckled nervously,"She lied?"

"Yeah, she said you were on another boat, but she acted like you were dead or something!" Celaeno said.

"I was. I got better though," Twilight said.

"... I'm not going to ask."

"Where are the others, anyway?" Twilight asked.

"In town. I'm certain you'll find them if you look hard enough. I'm pretty sure they separated though."

Percy sighed as he got up to Twilight's side,"Then we may have to split up and look for them."

Twilight nodded and looked out the port to a fountain,"Ask them to meet at that fountain." She looked at Percy,"Do you know what they look like?"

"You are the most famous six ponies in all of Equestria. Yes, I know."

Twilight cocked her head,"But nopony else seems to notice!"

"Twilight, if there is one thing I've learned these past two years, is that ponies can be idiots."

Celaeno walked between them,"You guys do that, I'm going to go after my archnemesis." She ran off,"Don't ignore me, Tempest!"

Twilight would see a house of ill repute. There, a red gazelle smiled and waved, "Ever met a Gazelle before cutie?"

"Um, no." Twilight looked her over,"I'm... not from around here. Speaking of... have you seen an orange earth pony and a cyan pegasus around here?"

"Yes, I have. They were quite beautiful," the red Gazelle said. "They both went into that bar over there."

"Thank you," Twilight said. She headed into the bar, saying, “What a nice hooker.”

The bar was moderately packed with ponies milling about, ordering drinks, and yelling out catcalls to the wenches and swains. Various others were found playing games or talking to friends, bragging about victories. With all of these ponies, Twilight was lost in the confusion of where her friends were when she saw some figure sitting at a table, "Rainbow-Oh I'm sorry."

"Huh?" the female deer said, looking over and showing her guard badge. "Did I remind you of someone?"

"Sorry, you made me think of my friend. One's a Tough rainbow-haired mare and she might have a friend who-"

The deer interrupted, "Is a blonde earth pony?"

"Yeah, how did you know?" Twilight asked.

"The two have been here for an hour, trying to score the free lifetime drink deal by tricking him," the deer continued, playing with one of her weapons. "I'm just here to make sure this doesn't get out of hand."

"Right, I'll take care of it. Thank you miss..." Twilight began.

"No miss about it. It's Mrs, for one, and second, you can call me Gwen," Gwen said, sitting back in the bar.

Twilight nodded to the deer and walked towards the bartender. As she entered, she began to overhear the voices of her friends, "And Ah'm telling you, she took your strongest stuff and she ain’t feeling a thing. You lost now give us the prize. Unlimited drinks and that bag of holdin’." Applejack said.

"And I am telling you. The offer is null and void for yer friend over there," the barkeep said, glaring at Applejack. "She is cheating!"

Dash, with a shawl over her wings, shook her head, "Hey, I'm no liar! I drank your 'babom boom bang special and I lived! You are holding out!"

Twilight let out a sigh,"Really girls?" She walked over to them and then tapped both of them on the shoulder and gave her best annoyed look.

Rainbow was the first to turn around as she looked at her friend, "Twilight, what do you want now? Can't you see we are busy trying to run a convincing argument as to why we need the free drinks?"

"Yeah, Twilight. Look," Applejack placed her hoof onto Twilight's shoulder, "I know it seems risky, but we got this. How about you just go and wait outside for a bit, ok?"

Twilight nodded,"Fine, I'll wait." She walked outside and began counting the seconds.

"Can you believe her?" Rainbow Dash said, shaking her head.

Applejack could only sigh, "You would think ever since she became a princess, she would know to...just..."

"Was that..." Rainbow Dash whispered and ran away, throwing away her cloak and leaving behind the bits for her drink. Applejack followed soon after, slamming open the door and looking out. She stood for a second as she looked at her friend.

"I swear if this is some sort of trick," Applejack said, feeling conflicting emotions of rage and happiness warring within her.

Twilight raised her foreleg to her mouth and bit a little to draw some blood, letting the red fluid slide down, "Not green, so not a changeling. And I’m not healing, so I'm not a revenant either."

"So it's, I mean, you're really," Applejack asked, feeling her eyes start to water as she looked at her friend.

Twilight played a little with her mane as she smiled warmly, "Yeah, it's me. I'm alive."

Applejack said nothing, instead, she began to break into tears as she ran right into Twilight and wrapping her forelegs around her. Holding her tightly, she refused to let Twilight go, "Darn it Twilight if you had a plan to come back, let us in on it next time! Did you know how worried you made us?"

Rainbow Dash stood outside for a moment, seeing the embrace between the two friends and looked down, muttering to herself, "Damn pegasi, don't know how to keep it sunny." she said in spite of the sunny day and ran to Twilight, tears running down her cheeks, "Darn it Twi! Next time you go out to see something like a freaking tablet you take us with you. I promise, losing you is way worse than being bored!" she said, not caring at how many ponies were watching.

"Hey, I didn't know that thing was going to release gods!" Twilight said, feeling a few giggles come out,"She sniffled,"I'll explain everything later when everyone's together."

Applejack nodded, "Right. We have a lot to go over." Then she reached into her bag and pulled out a tablet, "Think you could translate some of this?"

Rarity walked along the shopping district, looking at the many shops and stores with her bag already filled with particular clothes and some small weapons for their journey. She then paused as she saw a sign that read, "Gilmore's Glorious Goods."

"Hmmm, what a fancy sign," she said, noting the sparkles and rubies laden on the sign while the storefront was extravagant. Curious, she walked in, "Hello?"

A purple unicorn stallion appeared in front of her,"Welcome to Gilmore's Glorious Goods! I am Gilmore!" He was dressed in a purple robe with various decorations,"See anything you like?"

"My aren't we the extravagant one," Rarity said, holding out her hoof for the gentleman. "I am Rarity Belle and I am quite curious as to what you have," she said, looking at Gilmore's outfit

"Thank you, miss! I pride myself on extravagance!" He motioned to some items on a shelf,"I usually have a vast array of magic items! From rings of protection to powerful weapons!"

Rarity began to look over the wears, seeing the various rings and diamonds alongside their shinier weapons, "I can see that. My word, these weapons are few and far between back in my country." she said, using her magic to pick up a dagger. "It is a shame that you have not done business there. My clothing would look fantastic in a store such as this."

"Oh, where are you from?" Gilmore asked,"I may try to set up a branch over there. I wouldn't mind going to your store, you have impeccable taste in fashion!"

"As do you, kind sir," Rarity said, taking a bow. "As you can tell from my faint accent, I am from Equestria."

"Equestria!? By Sarenrae, I never thought a pony from over there would ever come over here!" He gave a wide grin,"To tell you the truth, I've always wanted to set up a branch over there, but every time I would try to make a diplomatic trip there, there'd be some new trouble." He laughed a little as he put a hoof on a piece of cloth,"Well, there are rumors about you, that you solve problems with singing, dancing, and warm hugs. I'm certain that's simply just rumors."

Rarity let out a chuckle, "While I must admit that my country does indeed have a tendency to solve problems with song and other frivolities, we also have a tendency to strike back when need to. Although, we do seem to attract the weirdest bit of trouble here and there. Discord, Tirek, Storm King. I assume you have problems yourself."

"Oh, yes!" Gilmore said with a grin,"Beholders, The Chroma Conclave, and the occasional evil necromancer."

"Be...holders? I have never heard of such a thing," Rarity said.

"Oh, they are terrible creatures! Imagine a ball of flesh with many eyes, and a single one that disrupts magic!" Gilmore said.

With that, the door opened and Percy walked in.

Rarity turned to look at the newcomer, "Oh, I am sorry sir, I was just about to ask about these dag---"

She paused as she watched Percy come in, watching him shift back and forth as he walked in. Her eyes focused on his tight rump, his flowing short white mane, and his chiseled features. Behind her, Gilmore put his hoof to his chin and smirked, "I know what you are thinking Rarity, and I agree. I give that stallion a 9/10. Let me know if he swings my way, will you dear?"

"With pleasure, my good sir," Rarity said with a wink as she walked up to Percy, "And you are, sir?" she daintily rubbed Percy's foreleg.

Percy ignored the rubbing,"I am Quick Draw Percival Fredrickstein von Musel Klossowki de Rolo III. But you can call me Percy."

"A pleasure to meet you, my dear Percival. I am Rarity Esmeralda Belle, from Ponyville. But you can call me Rarity," Rarity said, holding her hoof to her chest and looking back at him with dainty eyes. "I do hope I am not interrupting your shopping trip. I'll finish my shopping in a minute. Monsieur Gilmore, tell me about this dagger." she said, levitating a dagger to Gilmore.

"Oh, that? That is Whisper." Gilmore said,"A mysterious stallion gave that to me, said that it can be immensely powerful in the right hooves. It can frighten enemies when used."

"I see," Rarity said, holding the dagger in her magic. She held it aloft and then nodded, "I'll take it."

"That'll be 10000 bits... unless..." Gilmore leaned in,"we do something special for each other."

Rarity put her elbows onto the table and looked into Gilmore's magenta eyes, "I'm listening."

He placed a card on the table,"I promote your business, and you promote mine."

"Hmmm, I find that deal to be adequate," Rarity said, "Some of the places here have given me some grand ideas for clothes." she then turned to Percy, "Now, your turn, good sir."

"Actually, I came here for you," Percy said.

Rarity let out a gasp and then stepped back, "Oh, really?" then she paused and looked into his golden eyes, "Who sent you?"

"Your friend, Twilight Sparkle. She's alive, and should be waiting by the fountain." Percy said.

Rarity frowned and looked at him. She glared daggers into his eyes as she looked at him for a moment and then said, You are lucky I am good at reading ponies, otherwise I would accuse you of being a liar and slap you for such! Now, show me where she is."

"I would not blame you for not believing me." He headed towards the door,"I also need to find your other friends: Fluttershy and... Pinkie." He muttered.

"Well, Fluttershy is currently helping take care of Pinkie," Rarity said, walking out. "I do believe she and Pinkie were near some bakeries and food items."

"Well, then I guess we head there."

Rarity nodded, walking with Percy and standing close by with him.

After a few feet of walking and down a few blocks from the store, they saw Fluttershy sitting with a deer and looking at the passing by cats, "So, you do more than just talk to them?"

"Uh-huh," the deer said, smiling a little, "Sometimes I heal, and sometimes I even turn into them."

"Oh, that sounds wonderful. I always wanted to turn into an animal, but Equestria magic works differently than here. Wonder why that is," Fluttershy said.

"Well, my mom always said that magic is magic. Especially nature magic. Maybe they just haven’t taught druid classes over there," the young deer said.

"Oh Fluttershy," Rarity said, waving her hoof.

"Oh, my friend is here," Fluttershy said, walking away. "It was nice talking to you, Voltaire."

"It was nice talking to you," the deer said, walking away.

"Rarity, are you done with your shopping?" Fluttershy asked.

"Why yes," Rarity said, before looking at the departing deer ass he walked to his mother, "Who was that?"

"Oh, his name was Voltaire, he's a druid. They do magic like unicorns, but they do it with animals. They also can turn into them and work with nature elements like mine. He said that I have a talent for it because of how close I am to nature," Fluttershy said. Then she looked to Percy, "Who's your friend."

"This is Sir Percival," Rarity said. "He said that a mutual friend of ours is waiting."

"Mutual friend?" Fluttershy said.

"Twilight Sparkle," Percy said.

Fluttershy's opened wide, her face frozen in shock, "What..."

"She's waiting at the fountain," Percy said.

"I'll take you there Fluttershy," Rarity said. Then she looked to Percy, "Percival when you talk to Pinkie, try to break the news carefully. She is very fragile at the moment and she needs time to believe you."

"I... admit, I'm dreading this," Percy said, heading towards the bakery.

A silver pegasus was at the bakery, a cloak over her head.

Pinkie looked at the silver pegasus. With a sigh, she said, "He there. Tell me, what is good and delish here. I want to buy stuff for my friends."

The pegasus smiled at her,"Oh, well, there are several kinds of cupcakes, including chocolate, cherry cordial, and even peanut butter." She cocked her head,"I've never seen you around here before."

"I'm new. I just got here with my friends," Pinkie said, lightly touching the cupcake. She looked at some bread and chuckled lightly. Then she turned back to the silver pegasus, "That's a pretty color. I never saw a silver pony, I bet Twilight would-" her shoulders slumped and she let out a tiny sniffle.

The pegasus smiled,"Yes, my coloration is certainly rare." She tapped her shoulder,"Those who are lost may be closer than we think." she said as Percy entered the bakery.

Pinkie looked up and saw Percy. For a brief second, she felt the urge to say hello and hug him to welcome him in. Instead, she just waved and then turned around, "Nice pony, hello there."

The pegasus had seemingly disappeared as Percy walked up to her,"Pinkie Pie?"

"Yea, that's me," Pinkie said glumly, "Why did you want to find me?"

"A friend is waiting for you," Percy said.

"Yeah, I know, 5," Pinkie then gasped and sighed, "I mean four."

"No, you were right, five," Percy said.

Pinkie tapped her hoof to the ground, mouthing out the names. Then she gasped in shock before shaking her head and stepping towards him. As she glared into Percy's eyes, she had a small change in her look. Gone was her doldrum look, and now was replaced with a little spark of happiness. Pulling closer, she sniffed him, "Hmmmmmm, you don't smell like a liar. You don't look like a liar liar pants on fire." she looked at his kiester, "They aren't even on fire."

Then she began to walk along his back, "And you don't feel like a liar, even with these thingies!" then she leaned to his cheek and licked him, "And you don't taste like a liar would." she then jumped off, leaving him to wipe his cheek, "Ok mister, point me in the direction of her. If I find out you are lying, then I'll bring my-"

she then paused.

"Are you all right," Percy asked, looking at her as she paused.

An eye twitch, followed by another eye twitch, then her hoof tapped twice, and then her nose twitched, "Wait, that combo...That's a 'Twilight is about to scream in utter frustration over something she doesn't get and needs a warm hug' sense!"

"Your wha-" Percy asked, before being given a big hug.

"OH THANK YOU! THIS IS THE BESTEST BESTEST GIFT EVER!" she said, before giving him a cupcake from the shelf with a shopping list. Then she let him go and took off in a sonic boom, causing Percy to spin in place, becoming like a little top for a few minutes before stopping.

"TWIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII-" Pinkie shouted, becoming a pink blur as she ran out the store, past a few guards, by a deer and his twin sister, through a vegetable stand

"My Cabbages!"

through a bookstore, "So you see, I think that there may be differences in the way we treat magic here," Rarity said, walking with Fluttershy, "It may be why I find the lack of-move aside Darling," then with a flick of her horn, she moved Fluttershy to the side, "Fountain, Pinkie dear."

"Thankraritybye!" Pinkie shouted.

To at least three fountains until she found a violet ranting equine who was looking at a stone tablet. Seeing her coming, Applejack and Rainbow Dash stepped to the side.

"Gah, I can't rea-" Twilight yelped,"Unexpected hug!"

The force of Pinkie's tackle hug ended up sending the two of them into the fountain. Raising up, Pinkie's mane was down as she began to speak, the river of water mixing with her tears, "Twilight, you are alive! Oh, I am so glad to see you are ok! I thought I had lost a sister but you are here now and I am so glad to see you."

Then she began to giggle a little, "Did you see me back there! I was like, so depressed it wasn't me. I was like, boring and gloomy and mopey and took things wayyyyyy to seriously. I think I was getting close to using an effigy of you to make me sane. But now that you are here I can go back to being insane again! Oh I am just so happy to see you again, and I am wet and happy. I am wet, happy, and I am so cheerful!"

Applejack smiled and shook her head, pulling Pinkie Pie out of the water, "Pinkie, you are making a scene."

"Silly Applejack," Pinkie giggled while Rainbow Dash helped Twilight out of the fountain. "I can't be making a scene if I don't have props and toys and-"

"Pinks that's not what. That's not even close to what she-" Rainbow Dash was about to complain, before running a hoof through her mane, chuckling and saying, "Never mind...welcome back."

"Did I go somewhere?" Pinkie asked, flashing a smile. "Oh, Twilight, have you seen the different kinds of ponies here? I need time to go and make parties for so many of them! I got to go and get-"

"Pinkie, slow down darling," Rarity said, walking to the fountain and straightening her hat, "We have to focus on the bigger picture here." Then she smiled at Twilight and hugged her gently, "Oh it's so good to see you alive my dear."

"Twilight," Fluttershy whispered begore hugging Twilight tightly, "We thought, we heard that we would never see you again." she then began to sniffle a little before pulling away.

"-but let's focus on that later!" Pinkie said stepping to her friends, "Isn't this great? We're all together again! And no one is going to split us up! "

"Pinkie, you know we might not-"

"Well, not forever silly," Pinkie said. "I mean we won't die alone and separate. We'll be right here, for each other, like always. Because we are just not right when it's only a few of us. I'm just happy to be with the greatest friends, ever."

Applejack let out a chuckle and then hugged Rainbow, who followed with hugging Rarity, who hugged Fluttershy, who hugged Twilight. In the group, Applejack smiled and said, "Yeah, our little sisterhood is together again in a place that has danger everywhere on an epic quest to stop a great evil."

"With only our wits and inner light at our side," Rarity said.

"And with no idea what to do," Pinkie giggled.

"It'll be scary,” Fluttershy said.

"But I think we can manage because we will not fall because we have each other," Dash said.

Twilight smiled and chuckled. Then she blinked away tears, "It's so great to have you girls again."

Percy came up to them, carrying a package of goods while munching on a cinnamon roll,"I hate to interrupt, but-" Then he felt himself pulled into the hug by Pinkie"Yipe!"

"Oh, you got my list! Good," Pinkie said. "Ok, so I got some apple spice muffins for AJ, some chocolate chip ones for Dashie, got some jelly filled for me, some lemon cream for Fluttershy. Oh, I got Rarity the really sweet crullers, I know you love those."

"Thank you Pinkie," Rarity remarked.

Applejack raised a hoof, "Wait, you still focused on getting us what we wanted even while depressed?"

"No, that would be silly!" Pinkie said, "I did it in the five seconds I was feeling better and looking at all of the goods. I then wrote it down and gave it to the nice stallion over there! I knew he would have enough to buy all of that and some of that lembas bread. The owner said it would feed you for a month... I had three!"

Percy raised a brow at this.

"Don't, Percy. When she's like this, the only answer is Pinkie Pie." Twilight said.

Pinkie smiled and then looked to Percy, "I knew you were a Percy. Something told me you looked like a Percy and then I was right! YAY!" she then shook his hoof, "Welcome to the group. I'm Pinkie, that is Rarity, that is Fluttershy, That is Rainbow Dash, and That's Applejack!"

AJ sighed and then rested against the fountain, "This looks like a good place as any to recoup, relax, and talk. So let's start. Twilight, spill."

"Spill?" asked Twilight as she sat down.

"Alive, back, and how," Dash said.

"Alright. When the alicorns attacked, I did die. My original body's probably still in the ruins of Canterlot somewhere. However, it seems like a powerful necromancer named Briar Wood had some of my DNA and made a clone with it. My soul, instead of moving to the Elysian Fields, found its way to the clone body instead, giving it life. So, I'm a clone, with all my memories, all my faculties, I'm not degenerating or any cliched clone stuff." Twilight said,"I found myself trapped in a cage with Percy over there, but a mysterious armored pony came to our rescue, then we found Celestia and made our way here."

They all stood there, a mite confused. Pinkie was the first to speak, "So you are still alive then?" when Twilight nodded, she cheered, "Yay!"

Dash then raised an eyebrow, "But why didn't you teleport, or use a spell to find us?"

"That's the other item and reason #1 why Percy is here: My magic's gone," Twilight said with a frown.

"..."

"WHAT?!" they all shouted together.

"That's it, we're dead. Mage is gone, we're bucked!" Rainbow said, facehoofing.

Applejack looked to Twilight, "Your magic is gone, how did that happen?"

"I'm not sure." Twilihgt frowned,"One theory is that the disruption of the weave caused by the gods hindered my resurrection."

"Speaking of your bodyguard," Rarity asked, her eyes directed to the weird devices on his hips, "What are those on your hips, Percival?"

Percy looked at his weapons,"Weapons of my own design. Guns."

Applejack shook her head, "Don't look like any weapons Ah've seen before, but Twilight trusts you and you helped her come back to us."

"Hey, maybe that silver mare might have a way to get Twilight's magic back," Pinkie said.

"Yeah, but first we need to meet her," Dash said, "And that won’t happen until she is ready."

Percy looked away,"I'm not that trustworthy..." he muttered.

"The Queen is ready to see you." A pegasus guard said, landing,"I was told to bring you seven to her tower."

Applejack said nothing to Percy's comment, instead she patted her hoof onto this back. There was a small reassuring smile on her lips as she looked at him. Dash looked back at the guard and said, "About time, let's do this!"

"Come with me then." He flew ahead of them.

They walked up a long staircase, wherein several stained glass windows were shown, depicting various battles. One had a group of six ponies fighting six others of various colors.

They soon came to a large set of doors that opened to reveal a silver pegasus reading a history book while sitting on a throne. She looked up at her guest,"Ah, you're here." She smiled at Pinkie,"Did you find the one who was lost?"

Pinkie gasped, Hey! You are that pony I saw back in the bakery! And yep! I met up with one of my best friends again."

Rarity took a bow, "Lady Silver Wing, I am Rarity Belle, one of Princess Twilight's top diplomats, and I am proud to represent the rest of her entourage."

"Lady Silver Wing, it is a pleasure," Twilight said, bowing.

Silver Wing smiled as she bowed back,"It is a pleasure to meet you, Princess Twilight. What brings you to my kingdom?"

"Our country has been attacked by a group of alicorns calling themselves the gods of light," Twilight said, looking down, "They managed to kill me, and thanks to their servants I was put into a clone body. Right now, they are ruling over my country with an iron hoof and even Celestia and Luna were useless against them."

Twilight looked over her shoulder to Applejack who pulled out a stone tablet and gave it to Silver Wing, "I found a tablet belonging to Meadowbrook that said to come here and look for the vestiges. I believe they can help us defeat the gods. The problem is..." she lowered her ears, "I can't read it. It's in a bunch of squiggles I can't recognize, and I know at least thirty languages and a hundred dialects."

Silver Wing looked it over,"This is in Draconic. I can translate it for you."

"...Draconic?" Twilight monotoned, "You mean, that dragons have an entire language all to themselves and I never studied it?"

"Well, to be fair Twi," Applejack said, "You said it yourself that a lot of ponies don't usually want to study draconic or study dragons, so you most likely didn’t know."

"Excuse me, your majesty. You can tell me what it says when I get back," Twilight said, walking out of the room. Finding a small place, she closed the door and began.

"Why am I the only pony in this whole entire country that seems interested in freaking exploring. I get it, dragons can be big and scary and breathe breath weapons I get it, but have you seen the population of them lately? They are teenagers who are in over their heads. I swear, I could've beaten Garble with little to no problem if I wasn't worried about an international incident. What am I saying, I did hand him his tail! BOOM! One ice storm to the face and he was crying! But NOOOOOOOO! We have ONE pony who is actually exploring everything and ONE pony who likes to research. And I tried to get more books but nope! Just stuck with little to no information on ANYTHING HERE! One day, one day, Celestia will be gone and I will be in charge, and you know what my first three tasks will be? FIRST; hire a crack team of explorers to help with diplomacy and exploration. Second: get a team together who will actually get off their flanks to STUDY. and Third: train more ponies to fight dragons than rely on most of my paternal side of my family!!! And maybe some medicine to calm my nerves down!"

Her rant done, she walked back to the throne room, combed her mane with her hoof, and said, "Proceed."

"Very well then." Silver Wing began to speak.

'To find the eight items
Go first to the four points of a rose
The four pure metals will offer aid
Now that gods arose

Find the fire fallen king
Whose scales are blacken
He will guide you to the fifth
Near a body of a Kracken

The two lay in places sacred
to what ancient races hold sacred
As for the eighth
It lies in plain sight."

"Wait for it," Pinkie giggled.

"Say these sacred words for a free banana split for a lifetime or a lifetime supply of blizzards."

"YAY!"

"Ok, now we are just getting weird," Dash said. "How does a rose have points!!?"

"A compass rose!" Twilight said as the map began to glow brightly, showing four lights on it. One light in the north, one in the south, one in the west, and one in the northeast.

"The fire fallen king." Silver Wing frowned,"It may speak of Thordak." She looked at the group,"Are you sure you do not wish me to summon an army to aid your country? it may be less dangerous."

"Queenie," Dash said, "I don't know about you, but danger is our middle name! We live for that and breathe it!"

"Yes, as the rumors of Equestria have shown," joked Silver.

"Hey, we kicked loads of flank on our homeland! Monsters, chaos gods, you name it. We took it down. Yeah, sometimes there is an ass who gets the advantage, but we still can kick his rump!" Dash said with a cocky grin.

Twilight looked up, (An army would make a lot of sense, with her strength and this nation’s power, they could devastate the gods and handle it. I could then spend the next few years focusing on my magic and getting it back plus the other two quests I got lined up. But then again if I did...there will be death. A lot of death, way too much for me. I don't want to risk lives if I can help it. I never want somepony to die or fight in my stead when I can do this.)

She then shook her head, "As much as I appreciate the offer, I can't ask you to do that. I don't like the idea of death and if I ask you to send your armies, then it will lead to a massive loss of life and I couldn't live with myself if that happened."

Silver closed her eyes,"You certainly have a big heart, Princess. I will not send armies then. However," She opened them again,"You must understand that I have a duty to protect my kingdom. If I feel that these gods threaten us in any way, I will fight back.

"Don't worry, we'll have those vestiges and be back home in six months," Rainbow Dash smirked.

"Rainbow, I don't think-"

"You're right Twilight, two months!"

"Rainbow if you-"

"Ok, I'll be fair, give us three months and two weeks and then you can send your armies to go and kick some god ass!" Rainbow Dash said.

"Fine then, three months and no more," Silver said.

Twilight looked at Rainbow, eyes wide and mouth agape, "Like how I solved that one?" Rainbow Dash asked, "Ya gotta let me negotiate more often."

"The time limit will begin when you leave the city. Is there anything else you need to know?" Silver Wing asked.

Twilight looked down and thought for a moment before asking, "Why are our two countries so different? My friend Tempest said that you have some different approaches to problems but I want to know more."

"Well, when our ponies found out that windigoes were responsible for our plight, we banded together... and burned them alive." Silver Wing said, “How did your country stop them?"

"...with singing, dancing, and warm hugs," Twilight said, a sheepish grin on her face.

Silver Wing smiled at this,"Well, apparently that worked."

“Yeah... it kind of did," Twilight said, her ears drooping a little.

Rainbow Dash whispered lowly to Applejack, "Though theirs was a little cooler. I mean, we did it with an awesome heart, but they burned them!"

"Rainbow!" Applejack commented and nudged her.

Percy raised a hoof, "One more question your majesty. While I have no doubt that lady Rarity is talented, I think our quest would be easier if we had a little more magic on our side. Any help with that?"

"Does Twilight not have her magic?" Silver asked. At their nods, she frowned,"You did say you were resurrected. Resurrection magic is quite common here in the west, but there are drawbacks. first, the pony must not have died from natural causes. Second, there must be a ritual given by the caster. If the soul is willing, then the spell is successful."

"However, sometimes the resurrection is not complete. There will be complications, from something as benign as a stutter, or something terrible, such as losing your magic. The magic will come back in half a year... time you do not have." She brought out a small map,"There is a faster solution: These are fonts of magic for all three tribes. Go to each one, and complete their tasks to restore your magic."

She got up to her throne,"You do need another magic user, there are three talented individuals in the city at this moment. One is more concerned with his shop. Another is my trusted Arcanist Allura, but she is incredibly busy. Finally, there is..." She frowned,"A bard fjord pony, who likes to hang around in bars and houses of lady favors. He is strange, but he is the most likely to help you."

"Thank you, your majesty," Twilight said with a bow as the group walked out the door. Looking down, Twilight said to Percy, "You didn't need to say it."

"It was kind of valuable information to let her know and do need the help. It's not like back in Equestria and you know this," Percy remarked.

"Yeah, don't you remember that whole Storm King thing? We can handle it if we-" Dash then paused and said, "You didn't want to admit it, did you?"

Twilight frowned and then looked out the window, watching the pegasi in flight," If you lost your ability to fly, would you admit it? I just, don't like to admit that my magic is gone, it's like I lost a friend or something special."

"Twilight, I understand," Rarity said, "I remember when I lost my cutie mark and felt...useless."

"My point exactly," Twilight said, "I know I am not like Trixie, but that doesn't mean I didn't take pride in just how much magic I have. And now... now I need a bodyguard of all things. I hate feeling like I am the most useless one here and that you will all have to protect me. And if one of you dies I just....don't know what I'd do."

Pinkie walked over to Twilight and gave her a big hug, "You aren't useless. You are right now the smartest pony I know unless Percy is smarter. Are you?"

Percy shrugged.

"So you are right now, our brains!" Pinkie said.

Twilight sniffed and smiled at Pinkie, "You know, I was trying to have a sad moment."

"Yeah, and?" Pinkie asked with a smile.

Twilight smiled back and then looked out the window some more, "It's a new world we're in, and we need me to be at my best. And right now, we gotta find a spell caster while I...just plan and keep us on track."

"So, let's get looking," Applejack said.

"I think we should split up," Twilight said, "Rarity, you, Fluttershy, and Pinkie go to the bars and lady favor houses to find that bard."

"Twilight," Dash asked, "You are sending them to the house of lady favors?"

"Yes, and?" Twilight asked with a questioning look.

"You do know what those are, right?" asked Dash.

"Nope. Why are you snickering?" asked Twilight.

"Never mind, let's just look for that mage!" dash said.

"Are you looking for Lady Allura? I think I saw her and her wife walking downtown to look for some books. She said she needed some new spell books," a guard said.

"Books? bookbookbookbookbookbookbook!" Twilight said, walking away.

"Well, that's where we are heading, you coming, Perc?" asked Applejack.

"Might as well," Percy said, following AJ.

Twilight looked to the right, seeing a tall light tan unicorn with braided blonde mane walking into a small bookstore, her blue robes flowing behind her. Twilight raised a hoof, ready to call the others, but frowned when she saw Applejack and Rainbow Dash leaving to a bar, "Girls."

"Look, I love adventure books, but normal and nonfiction are OWT! I'm gonna check out this rockin music," Dash said.

Applejack shook her head, "Might as well follow and keep her safe. Percy, you keep her safe!"

"Will do, better there than listening to the rumble that is bound to happen," Percy snarked.

The blonde mare began to levitate a book from one of the shelves, "Is this to your liking, Allura?"

"Not really," Allura said, "I already have a book on the Weave origins and Mythica by Sonambula. I was just making sure that this was not a fake."

Twilight sped in,"Excuse me, miss? Can I see those books?"

"Yes, you may," Allura said, levitating the book to Twilight. "Any particular reason why?"

"Um, I'm kind of not from around here. I'm from Equestria." Twilight said.

Allura's eyes opened wide, "Equestria, oh, I have always wanted to visit there. But, it seems every time I tried, some problem arose over there that stopped us from traveling. Allow me to introduce myself, I am Allura Vysoren, Arcanist for Silver Wing. Let's talk over there about magic shall we?"

Inside the bar, at the same time, Rainbow slowly stepped in, "Ok, so I think it's time to impress these punks."

"Rainbow, I don't think we got anything to prove," Applejack said.

"Don't we? Almost every one of these westerners thinks we are just a bunch of wimps who solve things with warm hugs and singing!" Rainbow Dash said. "I need to save our rep and challenging a tough pony is the best way to do it!"

"Wimps who save things with a warm hug and a song?" a short pony with a large sword cutie mark said, sitting near a table,"You the Equestrian wimps I heard about?"

Rainbow Dash turned around, looked up, and then looked down at the halfinger pony. After holding back the urge to laugh only a little and then let out a louder laugh at the halfling, she said, "Yeah, we are. But I don't know who you are talking to small fry. Maybe if you spoke a little louder, I could hear ya up here. Tell me, can you see my face, or do I have to lean down?"

"Heh, a wise pony eh?" The Halflinger pony smirked,"How's the weather up there, or are you too featherbrained to tell me!?

"Yeah, the weather is pretty awesome up here, a shame you can't feel it under the shade," Dash taunted.

Applejack walked up to a bard and slipped him some bits, "Play a nice beat, my best friend is either gonna live or die tonight."

The purple beret-wearing fjord smiled,"Alrighty then!"

"Tell me, is your brain matching the size or are you just using that sword to compensate for something."

"Sounds to me like you're jealous!" Kima said,"What, intimidated by my sword's girth!?"

Rainbow Dash snorted, "Ha! Me, impressed by that thing? Surprised you ain’t falling over by its weight, or are ya just too stupid to know how physics work?"

"Are you just saying that because you're worried your wings are too small to carry you!?" Kima asked.

"Oh, my wings are perfectly big enough, but I can name two things that must be really tiny on you," Dash said singsong.

Applejack looked to the barkeep, "Hey, just in case things go south, as diplomats, are we responsible for damages?"

The barkeep spat into a spitoon,"Nope, this happens all the time."

"Bigger than yours, you rainbow mane sissy." Kima said,"You gonna sing me to death or something?"

"Oh I don't need to sing ya to death," Rainbow Dash said, "I just need to step on ya, and ya would be beat!"

"That's a laugh. You'd chip a hoof if ya did that!" Kima said.

"Yeah, you're right, your little potsticker could poke my hoof," Dash taunted.

Applejack got in between them, "Ok Dash that's enough. We shouldn't belittle the little ones and you know it."

"But AJ-"

"Look, they got different customs and different outlooks, no reason to taunt them," Applejack sad.

Kima laughed,"What, you her foal sitter or something?"

"No, I'm her friend and I would like to try to keep this peaceful like between ponies of the east and the west," Applejack said.

"Yeah, besides, their booze is probably weak and their apples are second rate," Dash mocked.

"Now, the cider thing maybe true-"

"I thought apple family apples tasted like swill," Kima smirked.

"Ah'm sorry, but what was that?" Applejack asked, tipping her hat.

"Oh, I'm sorry, did I not yell it to the country bumpkin," Kima said, smirking, "YOUR APPLES TASTE LIKE WHAT I SHOT OUT OF MY ANUS EARLIER!"

"OK BITCH! HOOF WRESTLE NOW"! Applejack shouted, steam coming out of her nose.

"You must tell me more about your medical spells. I didn't think that the east had such magic," Allura said. "At least that is what I heard. Though sometimes it's other...unflattering things."

Percy was reading another book while Twilight continued,"Well, our healing magic isn't as good as yours, we mainly just use ours for utility." She frowned,"Yeah, I heard about the rumors said about Equestrians."

"Curious, I wonder if it's because of how peaceful your land is," Allura said, sipping her tea.

"How so?" asked Twilight.

Allura paused and thought, "It's like this. Say that there are two brothers, twins. One is raised in a peaceful land, taught to embrace kindness and ompassion. While the other is raised in a realm where magic is needed to survive, to use it for battle and survival. While both are equal in strength, the peaceful brother finds no need for healing and battle spells because he never had to experience the pain of battle and war."

Percy frowned and looked to his gun, before putting away the book and looking at another. He smiled a little as he pulled out a book labeled 'The Feywild: Peaceful or Deadly'. Then he began to read and listen.

"Which, of course, is why you haven't developed your healing magic. There hasn't been a need to do so. Much like there hasn't been a need to focus on particular battle magic like here." Allura sighed, "Wich leads to the rumors. I am sorry some of us think that way. I do not. You aren't just singing and dancing...you just have a unique approach."

"It's fine really." Twilight sighed,"We never really had a chance to interact until now. Celestia has always told me that this place was too dangerous, so I suppose if you came over there, a lot of ponies would think you were warmongering barbarians."

Allura chuckled, "Yes, I can only imagine the reactions. Although, I hope you can see that we are a lot more sophisticated than some would think."

"Look out! Kima is wrecking another bar!!!" shouted a civilian.

Allura sighed, "My apologies, I need to go and stop my wife."

"And she's fighting with those two wimps from Equestria!"

"And I gotta stop my two friends," Twilight said.

Percy went to the librarian,"How long do I have to check these out?"

"You have three months to return those books," the librarian said.

As Twilight ran outside with Allura, a table broke out of the bar and was thrown across the street. In her mind, Twilight began to run down the offenders, "Ok, Rarity is too noble so unless they really cheesed her off it can't be her. Pinks and Flutters are out, which leaves only-"

"Hey, Bard! How's about a phat beat for me to own the small and delirious over there!" Rainbow Dash said. "She needs to learn about Equestrian manners."

"And barkeep? Put the money for the damages onto the Tab of Princess Luna," Applejack said, tipping her hat over her eyes and glaring at Kima while standing side by side with Dahs.

The bard smirked and then whipped out a flute to play a tune.

"Not sure how to get that, but sure." The bartender said.

Kima creaked her neck,"Well, let's see what you wimps got!" She leaped up at them."

That was when Kima was wrapped in a magic aura

"I am so sorry," Allura said, holding Kima in the air with her magic, "She usually knows when to reign it in. Come along Kima, we mustn't be mean or attacking the diplomats from other countries."

Rainbow Dash and Applejack winced and looked behind themselves to see Twilight and Percy holding their tails down, "Ow, why always the tail!" Dash moan.

"Oh... hey Twilight.

"I'm sorry too." Twilight said with a frown,"I expected this from you, Rainbow, but Applejack!?"

Applejack looked down, "Hey, it was all fine and dandy until she started to make fun of the apple family."

"Yeah, then she had a hoof wrestle match, which she won," Dash said.

"And then she made fun of my family some more and their honor, so I had to start the fighting!" Applejack said.

Twilight facehoofed,"What am I going to do with you!?"

"I can't believe we couldn't find anything!" Rarity said as she and the others entered the bar.

"At least those hookers were nice!" Pinkie said.

"They had a great fashion sense," Fluttershy said.

Rarity looked at Twilight and Percy keeping Applejack and Rainbow held back,"... Not even going to ask. You at least found some info on-"

"Scanlan Shorthalt!" a gazelle came inside the bar, fiddle in his hoof,"I have returned!"

The bard with the beret put his flute down,"Geraldo! Didn't learn your lesson last time, did ya?" The fjord stallion hopped off his stool and walked towards the gazelle.

"I did... never challenge you with a flute! I am best with a fiddle!" He brought his fiddle to his neck,"Behold!"

He began to play his fiddle hard, causing images of fire and other nasty things to show around the bar.

Scanlan laughed,"Nice... for an amatuer." He held his hoof out,"But this is unfair, I don't have a fiddle of my own!"

Pinkie pulled one out of her mane and threw it at him,"Here!"

"Ah, thank you, Fluffy Pony." Scanlan grabbed the fiddle,"Let me show you how it's done! then began to play it hard. All around them were the beautiful images of various fey creatures flying around them. As Scanlan began to play hard, he winked at several mares before leaping up on a table and began playing even harder, causing lightning to burst from his fiddle, before stopping and pointed back to Geraldo.

Geraldo stared wide eyed and agape.

"You come on back if you ever want to try again." Scanlan laughed,"I told you once, you son of a bitch, I'm the best that's ever been!"

Geraldo bowed his head before walking away.

Scanlan hopped back and handed the fiddle back,"So, you looking for someone important? Or just someone special?" He winked at Rarity.

Rarity could only let out a scoff and a pull of her mane at Scanlan's attempt to hit on her. Applejack was the first to step forward, "Yeah, kind of. Ya see we're on a quest to find some items and we are needing a mage. Silver said that there was a really good bard in town who could help us."

Pinkie ran up to Scanlan and gazed into his eyes, "Hmmm, seems to be a pretty great bard!"

"Well, I don't know about the really great bard, but you've found an amazing one!" Scanlan put his hoof to his chest,"Scanlan Shorthalt at your service. I can sing, cast spells, heal, and maybe cut a few guys up once in a while." He leaned in,"I heard that you were Equestrian. They sing and dance their problems over there. Sounds like my kind of place."

"We do not do that! And I swear the next pony who says that is gonna get a punch in the snout!" Rainbow Dash said.

"Oh, you would love it! We sing, dance, and have wild parties!" Pinkie siad. "We also solve by being talkative and loving to each other!" Pinkie said. "So, do we have a teammate!?"

"Wild parties you say!?" Scanlan's smile grew wider.

Twilight frowned,"I don't know..."

Percy frowned,"Allura said she was too busy, and we do need the magic."

"... if he's our only option."

"Yay!" Scanlan and Pinkie said, and then hugged each other.

Rainbow Dash looked on in shock, "Oh Celestia...there are two of them."

"So," Applejack brought out the stone map and put it onto the nearest table, "Where to first Twi?"

"The poem mentioned four points of a rose, so we know that's the compass,' Rarity said, looking at the map, "North, West, South, and East. Are there any major cities over there, Mr. Shorthalt?"

Scanlan looked down at the map,"Well, that four cities would be Vasselheim to the north, Kraghammer to the south, Westruun to the west, and Syngorn to the east."

"Where to then, Twi?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"Hmm," Twilight pulled out the other map, noting each font of magic,"The first font of magic is in the west, near Westruun, so I guess we go there."

"A little to the left. Lower, lower. ahhhhh."

The huntress groaned as she laid under her ship, hidden deep in the woods of whitetail, "Adam! You are making this sound weirder than it has to be!"

The camera from the ship lowered itself to the huntress as it watched her tweak it with a small wrench, oil mixing with her blonde hair and giving it a little green tone, "My apologies lady, but with you working under there, it does give me a very sensual feeling." he was then hit with the wrench, chuckling while the huntress pulled herself away from the ship.

Taking a washcloth, the huntress began to clean herself and looking back at the ship, "She looks ready to get us to the west. Tell me, why do you think we got that message?"

"I do not know," Adam said. "It was peculiar when we got it. It didn't come from the Elk federation, and this planet lacks the technology to send subspace signals. If we go by the prime directive-"

"And I don't. I swear some use that as an advocate for genocide," the huntress said, walking to where her armor rested and began to put it on gradually.

"We shouldn't have a reason to come here. But your suit had a warning and a signal," Adam said.

The huntress nodded, "That's what's worrying me. It doesn't feel like a trap, but there are pirates and my suit is acting funny.."

"Well, you could go home. Forget about this-"

The huntress put on her helmet, "And miss out on kicking pirate ass? Not on your life."

"Yes, lady..." Adam said with a droll.

"Did you prepare that subspace message for me?" the huntress said, "That one I asked to be told to those 'gods' as well."

"Yes, lady. Translated in case they don't speak basic or whatever they call it here," Adam said.

'Hey, Asswipes! (Translation engaged: To the dear pirates and gods of this world)

Just letting you know, I'm here on your world, like you asked me. Sad for you ya pieces of shit. (Thank you for your marvelous invitation. We have accepted with gracious respectability.)

And what's more, I don't have all of my tech. Wich means, open season on me if you had the guts. Wich ya don't, I don't think you even have the spine to face me. But if you do, I'll be in the w4est ready to rip the wings off of ya, tear your horns off, and use the insides of the pirates as decoration.

(Although I am currently without my weapons, I am still skilled enough to welcome all challengers to my home. Please bring a friend)

And if I find that you pirates are hurting these ponies here while I'm in the west, just remember who was it that kicked your asses a few days ago. (Please do not attack while I am gone.)

Up yours, The Huntress.

(Sincerely, The Huntress)

One of the alicorns stopped as they landed in the west, "Hold! Before we continue, we must discuss how we are going to attack. As individuals or together as a united front!?"

One of the others looked back at him,"It's obvious, we must unite."

"No!" Cayrel shouted,"I will not squander this opportunity. The Queen forced us to fight unfairly last time, I refuse to let that happen again. I want to give these mortals a fighting chance."

"But Captain, we need to win, this is no time for your honor." The stallion with a purple mane and tail said.

"My honor is more important than what the Queen forces on me, Antares." Cayrel snarled.

"Who cares about honor? Don't you know how this works? It's called the law of conservation! The fewer soldiers you have the stronger you become! It makes sense that we fight separately!" One of the alicorns said, looking through a book.

The other alicorn rolled her eyes, "Oh there you go again with your pages and tropes. Antares is right. We split up, we are weakened. We need to bolster an united front, or else we shall all fall down!"

One alicorn looked down and lightly kicked the ground, "I just hope they don't hit too hard. I would hate to see them broken before I can..."

The arguments began to get louder until one alicorn stepped forward and spoke with a mighty voice, "Wait! There is but one way to solve this pressing issue! We must embrace-DEMOCRACY!"

Cayrel sighed,"Again, Pollux?"

Pollux nodded, "Indeed! If we are to present to these ponies that we have a divine right to guide them and to rule them by our power we need to present a united front."

"For if we do not present to the mortals that we can stand united and solve things with the beauty that is democracy, how can we immortal gods expect them to follow us. They would believe that they have the freedom to disobey us, to live how they want and when they want. We must show them that we are able to decide for them and that we can tell them how to live. Indeed, by being democratic, we can decide their fate while sticking to the liberties that we hold ourselves so dear! Don't you see, by sticking to our own democratic ways, we can ensure that we take away their freedoms and show that we alone know what is best for them. In this, we show that democracy is the true and best way to rule ourselves by divine right!!

The other alicorns stared at him.

"Well, that does make sense. Let's put it to a vote."Cayrel said.

Pollux happily clapped his hooves together and brought out a small hat with paper, "Ok, so let's all put this down and then write it out. Then we'll Cayrel read out the votes and count them. I am sure she will do this fairly."

Cayrel smirked,"Yes... fairly.

After a few minutes, they all put in their anonymous votes and then put it into the hat. Pollux then gave it to Cayrel.

Cayrel whistled as she changed the votes.

Pollux looked down, read, and nodded, "Hmmm, it seems that all of the votes say we attack one at a time! Granted, I do not remember voting for alone but I guess if this is how the people voted then I guess we have no choice but to follow. Democracy wins!!!"

Persei smirked as he put away his book, "See? This will go smoothly. This is why you should always follow what the good book says!"

"We're all gonna fail you know," Antares said, before putting on a killer smile, "But at least we'll kill them all dead!"

"So how will we," snorted Cephei, growling, "do this?

"I suggest we send our weakest first." Cayrel looked at Antares,"Meaning, Antares, Pollux, Persei, Cephei, Fomalhaut, Altair, Arcturus. and then myself."

Antares frowned, "Are you saying I'm weak?! Well, that's a fair cop."

"I am FAIR WITH THIS! Now that we are decided, NOTHING can stop us!" said Pollux.

"Well, according to my good book, the sorting algorithm of evil works for our team. Granted, we are seen only as evil by those around us!"

"We Can bring the WINTER. Snow forecast, a downer, AGGGGGG!"

Fomalhaut rolled her eyes, "Oi, are we sure that Cephei is right in the head after all this time. But sad to say, you are holding off the best at the worst time.

"Oh, can we be a little gentle with the killing? I mean, we shouldn't hurt them that much. We just need to remind them of the power," Altair said.

Arcturus frowned, and then nodded. A warm smile came across his lips and the group nodded, tears in their eyes.

Scanlan began to sing as the group headed towards the exit of the city.

"Oh, I know this one!" Pinkie said happily as she began to sing.

There's a road calling you to stray
Step by step, pulling you away

Scanlan smiled and continued to play his lute as they walked alongside the field.

Under moon and star
Take the road, no matter how far

Where it leads no one ever knows
Don't look back, follow where it goes
Far beyond the sun
Take the road, wherever it runs

Rainbow Dash smiled as she walked along the path before taking flight. In the air, she watched as her friends walked beneath her. Looking ahead, she let out a gasp as she saw the winding long road ahead. Leading through the farms the path seemed to lead past some of the mountains to the north and some small flatland to the south. With a chuckle, she flew overhead to play with some of the clouds while listening to Pinkie and Scanlan sing.

The road goes on, ever ever on
Hill by hill, mile by mile
Field by field, stile by stile
The road goes on, ever ever on

The road goes on, ever ever on
Moor by moor, glen by glen
Vale by vale , fen by fen
The road goes on, ever ever on

Applejack walked with Twilight, looking at her as she held her head down. Smiling, she placed a hoof onto her shoulder to give a comforting smile. Twilight looked up at her friend and smiled back as she continued to walk. Deciding to join in with the song.

Mountain and valley, and pasture and meadow
Stretching unending, for mile after mile
Fenland and moorland, and shoreline and canyon
Bordered by hurdle and hedgerow and stile

"Come on Percy, join in!" Pinkie said, nudging Percival.

Percy shook his head, "Sorry, but I don't sing."

"Because he sucks at it," Scanlan joked. "I mean, it's ok. We all have problems with singing. Except for me, you know."

Percy frowned and began to sing.

One more mile then it's time to eat
Pick some pears, succulent and sweet

To the farthest shore
Take the Road, a hundred miles more

Rarity gingerly stepped over a puddle, while Fluttershy watched some birds flying overhead as they began to head into the woods.

Sweet pink trout, tickled from a stream
Milk a goat, churn it into cream

Far beyond the sun
Take the road, wherever it runs

The road goes on, ever ever on
Moor by moor, glen by glen
Vale by vale , fen by fen
The road goes on, ever ever on

"Ah, the Bramblewood Forest!" Scanlan said with a smile, “Home of various animals, trees, and the occasional armored... bear..."

In front of them was a lonely-looking armored bear sitting at a tree.

"Why would a bear need armor?" Rainbow Dash asked as Fluttershy flew up to it.

"Oh you poor thing, why are you so sad?" Fluttershy asked, "Are you lonely?"

The bear began to make small guttural noises and frowns, "I miss momma. I found some friends who talked me into an adventure and when I came back, mommy was missing."

"Oh, I am so sorry," Fluttershy said, patting his head. "What's your name, little guy."

"Trinket," the bear said, smiling. "Will you help me nice pony?"

"Yes. You can travel with us until you find her," Fluttershy said, and then walking back to her friends.

"His name is Trinket and he's lost. We're going to help him find his mother," Fluttershy said.

"Well, I guess if it's to help him out." Twilight thought for a moment,"Though a bear in armor is rather strange."

Fluttershy nodded, "He says his mom bought it for him."

"His mom... Okay, I get it now. What's her name?" Twilight asked.

"He says her name is, Vex'ahlia," Fluttershy said. Then she noticed a small look in Twilight's eyes and a look in Percy's, "Is something wrong?"

"... we'll explain later," Twilight said gravely.

Percy looked at her.

"I want to save it for when we meet them. Just know that we need to find her and her brother." Twilight said.

That night, the group made camp for the night. Scanlan was immediately kicked away from Rarity's bedroll while she snuggled herself in. Fluttershy sat on top of Trinket while the others snuggled around him. The only ones who were awake were Applejack and Rainbow Dash. Dash sighed as she kicked up the fire a little, "Something on your mind?" Applejack asked.

"Think we're good enough?" Rainbow Dash asked, looking at the fire and then up to Applejack. "To keep going I mean."

"Ah wasn't expecting you to lack confidence. Ah mean, you challenged that one mare without a second thought," Applejack said with a chuckle.

"That's because she was one mare and I had you. But this place, with these creatures and these new ponies, I just... I don't know," Rainbow Dash let out a sigh. "I just feel like we should've just accepted Silver's offer and moved on."

Applejack nodded, "I get ya. That alicorn's beatdown got to ya. Ah'm the same way."

"It's not just that. It just feels like we haven't had any chance to show what we can do. We practically let the changelings take us in-"

"You know the truth behind that one," Applejack said, frowning. "As much as I hate lying about it."

"Then there was the Storm King invasion! I mean, we could've taken him on you know! You saw it! The guys we brought in didn't help all that much and we had the strength we needed to. But nope, ran away because we needed to find the orb," Rainbow Dash sighed. "Maybe these guys are right and all we can do is just sing and dance and give out warm hugs."

"You know that ain’t true," Applejack said with a smile. "You're right, you and I, we probably could've beaten most of those guys without a second thought and got Twilight to fight Tempest to a standstill."

"But we would've gotten swarmed in the end, and then where Twilight would be. Without us," Applejack said, looking down in the dirt. "Look, sometimes we gotta run from something bigger to conserve our strength and take the high road. Sometimes, we gotta take the best way to make sure we don't lose anypony."

"Is that why Twilight sometimes runs from a timberwolf even though she could burninate the son of a bitch," Dash said. "Still mad at that."

"Yeah, that and she knew Spike and I had it. How else was she gonna get him to realize he was being an idiot." Applejack laughed. "Ah know these ponies seem like they are stronger and braver than us. But that ain’t true. They are just raised differently. They had years to fight monsters and all of that. We, didn't. But that don’t mean we're not strong. Pinkie's got ingenuity, Rarity's got precision, Fluttershy is a healer, and you and are the fastest and the strongest. We just need to find our own way of matching them. Maybe we’ll find it here. After all...we're the same."

Rainbow Dash sighed, "Yeah, I guess you're right. Just don't start killing yourself over trying to be stronger than ever."

"I make no promises. But you know you will most likely stop me if it comes to that." Applejack said, getting up and walking to bed.

"Night," Dash said. "Oh, and watch out for whoever is watching us. Somepony has been since we came in."

"Got ya," Applejack said, going into bed.

There was a minor sound of shuffling from Twilight as she looked up at Dash, and then she let out a sigh.

There was a snarling sound as the group woke up.

Applejack and Rainbow Dash got to their hooves and stood in front of the group, followed by Percy. Fluttershy flew out and landed, listening to see if she could recognize the sound of growling.

Two double-headed dogs appeared from the edges, snarling with poisonous saliva coming from their maws.

"Oh, will you look at that..." Scanlan gulped, his horn glowing.

Rarity's horn began to glow, pulling out a small bow and arrow, "Mr. Shorthalt, what are those things?"

"Those would be Death Dogs. It wouldn't be a good idea to get bit!" He held out his hoof,"Bigby's Hoof, Chamon!" A large purple hoof came forth, smashing into one of the dogs.

Applejack nodded and ran right at one of the dogs and moved to the side. Readying one of her hooves, she delivered a hard right hook into its eye. Then she dodged to the side to kick it in the chest.

Rainbow Dash looked at Fluttershy, "Flutters, wait here. Pinkie, Rarity, get ready to run with Twilight if this goes south." she then flew off to the dog that Scanlan was hitting with his magical hoof. She slammed both hooves into its back before to a cloud and pulling it down before kicking it and throwing out a lighting bolt.

Rarity aimed her bow and fired a shot at one of them, hearing Pinkie comment, "Didn't know you knew how to shoot!"

"Well dear, a lady must have her hobbies," Rarity said, smiling warmly while firing another shot at one of the creature's eyes.

"Ah, got ya," Pinkie said, hiding behind Trinket, "New let's see what we got here. Hmmm...hot sauce, some gum..."

The dog howled before leaping around and then jumping at Applejack's side.

Scanlan let out an,"Ew, as he held up the squished dog.

Applejack grunted in pain as one of his teeth managed to cut her. Then she spun around and gave him a double kick in the face, and as he reeled back twin gunshots rang out and went through the dog's head.

The other head snarled at Percy before a sabertoothed tiger came from a bush to strike at the dog with its claws.

“What the?" Applejack asked, "What on earth is that..." she asked, wavering back and forth as she began to feel woozy.

"Don't know, but if she's on our side," Dash said as the tiger slashed at its side and bit into its leg. Seeing an opening, Rainbow Dash began to spin in a small tornado and turned into a lightning-charged spinning bolt of electricity and slammed both legs into its side.

"Y...yeah..." Applejack said, before falling down to the ground.

"Applejack!" Fluttershy said, flying to her friend’s side and patting her down. Then she looked at the remaining head of the dog with a hard and powerful glare.

The dog let out a laughing bark before Percy shot it dead.

The tiger ran over to Applejack.

Twilight gasped,"Oh no she's-"

The tiger began to glow pitch white, transforming into a deer-like creature that had a pony-like face. She wore leather barding, which still showed her antler cutie mark,"A deer?"

The deer knelt down to Applejack,"Death Dogs have poisonous bites. It shouldn't be too hard to heal it with Lesser Restoration... I hope!" Her small antlers glowed as she put her hooves on Applejack.

"Wait, who are you, how could you do that?" Rainbow Dash asked.

Fluttershy looked up, "Rainbow, such. She's trying to help. I can't fix this, I have never seen this poison before."

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes while she watched the deer began to touch Applejack. After a few moments, Applejack began to glow a soft white and for a while, she did not move. Then she began to breathe evenly and her eyes opened up. Looking at the deer, Applejack said, "Are, you the one who healed me?"

"Ok, now start answering the questions," Rainbow Dash said.

"Oh, um," The deer stammered,"Well, I'm a half-deer, I'm a druid, I was kinda watching you but I didn't know how to approach you," She gasped,"Oh, my name, right, I'm Keyleth of the Air Ashari, nice to meet you!"

"Watching us, why were you wat-"

"How did you turn into a tiger-like that? Can all druids do that? I met this adorable deer who talked about how he could control nature. Oh, could you tell me more about druids if it's not too much trouble? Can you talk to animals?" asked Fluttershy, uncharacteristically fast. Then she looked down, "Oh if that's not too much trouble that is."

"Oh, no it's fine!" She stammered,"I'm sorry, I'm not used to ponies not in my tribe so this is very new to me. I think all druids can turn into animals. I can teach you if you'd like, but I'm not sure if pegasus ponies are capable. I was watching you because I was trying to figure out how to say hi..."

Twilight turned to Rainbow Dash,"This is the most I've ever seen Fluttershy be social."

"Tell me about it. She's not that talkative even with me," Rainbow whispered back.

"Can you talk with animals? We should really talk more about the animals you've met." Fluttershy then turned to the group, "That's Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Twilight Sparkle, Percy, and Scanlan. You shouldn't be so shy, we are actually really friendly."

"Oh, hi!" Keyleth waved to the others.

The rest waved back. Scanlan looked up as if he weren't really paying attention, and then looked to the reader, “Wow, we're getting the group together fast!"

"Well, I think we have to. The fans would get too impatient," Pinkie commented. then she looked up and smiled, "Wow, you can see them too!? HI ME!"

Keyleth looked at this.

"Don't ask, just, don't," Twilight said.

Rainbow Dash nodded, "Let's just call it, Pinkie being Pinkie."

"Oh, okay!" Keyleth said with a smile,"So, uh, what are you doing here?"

"We're heading towards Westruun," Dash said, "We need to find some sort of font to help our friend. And trying to get some items to help kick a god's ass."

"What's an Ashari," asked Applejack.

Keyleth gasped,"Wow, beating up a god!?" She turned to Applejack,"Well, the Ashari are a group of tribes that are tasked with guarding four paths to the elemental planes: Earth, Air, Water, Fire." She indicated herself,"I'm on my Aramente, a journey where a member of these tribes goes to each plane to become a master of each element."

"Wow!" Pinkie gasped, leaping on top of Applejack's head, "How many have you done so far?"

Keyleth turned away,"... one..." She kicked the ground,"I haven't gotten the chance to go to the others because it’s so dangerous here."

"We have noticed," Rarity said, looking back at one of the dead dogs.

Fluttershy stepped forward, "Would you like to come with us, and maybe we can help you? If... you don't mind that is," she added, lightly kicking the ground.

Rainbow Dash muttered, "Wow, meet one druid and she's become a regular Pinkie."

“ ’Member, we don't have anypony like her back home," Applejack said, "She's simply being ecstatic meeting somepony she can talk to on her level."

"Yeah, yeah," Dash said, looking a little down.

Keyleth gasped,"I would love that! It gets pretty lonely out here."

Scanlan walked forward,"Perfect. The first thing you need to learn, I'm the leader, and I make the decisions."

Percy coughed,"I'm pretty sure the princess makes the decisions." he indicated Twilight.

Scanlan looked at Twilight,"You're a princess!? I thought those wings were just a fashion statement!"

"How... could wings be a fashion statement?" asked Dash, shaking her head.

Rarity paused and began to think Fake wings. Make yourself look like a princess... hmmm.

Twilight let out a sheepish chuckle before looking away, "Um, yeah. I don't like to throw my weight around. And I guess I'm kind of the leader at the moment." though I am the weakest one here.

"And besides, we could use another healer. Fluttershy can only do so much," Applejack said.

Keyleth smiled,"Great! I can't wait to be friends!"

"You already are!" Pinkie said, glomping Keyleth tightly.

"Yay!" Keyleth hugged her back.

"Going to be one interesting trip," Applejack said.

As the moon hung high in the sky, Keyleth sat with Fluttershy before the small fire. Pausing for a moment, she lightly tapped her chin, “So, um, druid magic. How do explain it? It’s kind of like normal earth pony magic but different. Like, how they tend to it and manipulated through their hooves, druids connect to all parts of nature.”

“All parts?” asked Fluttershy.

“Yeah!” Keyleth said, eyes brightening. “Earth ponies just tend to things like trees and the ground, druids connect to everything. The wind, the fire, earth, and water, knowing everything is in a delicate balance.”

Fluttershy gasped, “Oh, I get it. Like how animals live in a cycle of predator and prey.”

“Now you are getting it,” Keyleth said, before blushing and saying, “Even if I don’t a little.”

“But pegasi magic works differently. We just feel a connection to an element through our wings, I don’t think I can learn it,” Fluttershy said.

Keylethlooked at her, “But you talk to Trinket. And you seemed to be able to care for him.”

“But, that’s just part of my special talent,” Fluttershy said.

“And it’s exactly the same as druid magic,” Keyleth said, “Your special talent is a link to tapping into druid magic. Just, follow the same feeling that you have when you need to talk to an animal or to help heal them.”

Or a second, Fluttershy closed her eyes and breathed, letting the magic of the weaving flow through. Breathing softly, she began to feel the magic and the world around her, each animal speaking through her. And for a moment, she could feel her body surrounded by green mana until she let go, panting, “I think I almost that.”

“It takes time,” Keyleth said, smiling, “Even I had troubles.”

With the morning coming, the group left their camp with their new party member. For a few miles, the group walked through the woods, listening to the sounds of animals calling or talking. Occasionally, Dash would fly ahead and scout, looking for a new monster. Down below, Twilight walked ahead with Scanlan, looking over her map and notes.

Applejack took a few steps back to stand with Percy, "Tell me, why did you wind up here? Why are you adventuring out here? We haven't had much of a chance to talk yet."

Percy looked at Applejack and sighed,"Why am I here? Well, I wish I could say is something as selfless as just wanting to help my princess, and sorta childhood acquaintance. But the reality is that I'm mainly here to get revenge." He looked at his own hooves as they walked,"There is a stallion here that I need to kill." He brought out his pistol,"Silas, Delilah, Volkermord, Stone Fell, and Anders. A list of ponies I need dead for what they did to my family." He looked at Applejack,"I am not a good stallion, Applejack."

Applejack pulled back when he mentioned the word kill, and then at the list on the pistol. Taking in what he said, she said, "I think you're wrong. A good stallion wouldn't be here right now, trying to help us."

"..." Percy said nothing, only letting out a small sigh. As they continued walking, he said,"Volkermord seemed to have had a strange interest in you."

"Me? Who is this guy? You mentioned him earlier, but Ah never met him before," Applejack said.

"He is an earth pony 'scientist.' However his idea of science is skewed. He only wants to prove that earth ponies are superior to any other race." Percy snarled,"He was respected in some circles until news of his horrible experiments came to light. Then he went to hiding... and found my hometown of Whitestone and began to work with the Briarwoods. The entire reason I was captured was that I had attempted to kill him." He looked at his pistol,"And now he has the designs for my guns."

"He just sounds mad. How could somepony think any one race is better than the others, we're all ponies. We're all equal," Applejack then sighed and looked to the gun. Shaking her head, she muttered to herself, "hate to see that kind of weapon in his hands." after walking a few more feet, she then added, "Let me guess, these Brairwoods killed your parents."

Percy shot Applejack a quick look before she continued, "Kind of figured from the way you were talking. You sound like Ah do when I think of my parents and home. A manticore killed them when they were walking with once. Never forgot it, the blood, the anger, the rage. But being focused on wanting revenge doesn't make you a bad stallion.

"... Vengeance can do a lot of bad to a pony," Percy said.

"But having a strong bond, and someone who cares about you can do more," Applejack said.

"Bonds, huh... pretty much our entire culture in a nutshell..." Percy sighed.

In the middle, Scanlan was playing a song on his little flute.

"That is such a great little tune," Pinkie said with a smile. "Soooooooo, backstory, give!"

Scanlan looked at her, and laughed,"Oh, that backstory is depressing, I don't think you want to hear it. All you need to know is that I am looking for a very important fjord pony."

"Ohhhh, how important?" Pinkie asked

Scanlan smiled,"Important enough to get me to cross the entire country for her." He let out a whistle through his flute,"Of course, I don't know how she's going to react to me, she hardly knows me! Though I hardly know her so..."

"Aw, it'll be fine!" Pinkie said with a smile, "You know what they say about a warm smile and a big hug!"

Scanlan grinned,"They fix everything?"

Pinkie nodded,"That and a tasty cupcake!"

"A tasty cupcake does solve everything, doesn't it!?" Scanlan said with a laugh,"Like keeping that Gibbering Mouther away from us!"

Pinkie laughed with Scanlan.

Fluttershy walked with Keyleth, "Um, Keyleth. Can I ask you to do something, if you are ok with it."

"Sure!" Keyleth said.

“What’s it like, connecting to nature as you do?” Fluttershy asked.

“Well, it’s like you are binding with the world around you. Like you feel connected to everything all at once,” Keyleth said, “My mom said the difference between wizards and druids is that wizards have to learn to bend the weave to their control, we druids ask for a hoof in friendship.”

“I think, I can understand,” Fluttershy said.

“Of course, I think to help,” Keyleth said, “She walked to her side and began touching her wings,"We might need to use these somehow."

Fluttershy let out a small shiver as Keyleth toughed the wings, "Sorry, sensitive."

"Oh, sorry!" Keyleth said,"I forgot that about pegasi, even though I'm Air Ashari..."

"No, no. It's ok," Fluttershy said with a blush, Pegasi don’t talk about it much."

"I see," Keyleth said,"I'll keep that mind, especially if we meet other pegasi."

Meanwhile.

Twilight looked at Rarity and Rainbow Dash,"So... got any stories to tell?"

"Just a little peeved that Fluttershy ats all quiet around all of us, but she meets one druid, and boom, she's Pinkie!" Dash said.

Rarity looked up, "Dash, are you jealous?"

"No! Just a little peeved that my oldest friend barely talks around everyone else. I worked hard to get her out of her shell and one pony fixes it," Dash began to grumble a little to herself as she floated for a bit.

Rarity sighed and looked to Twilight, "Are you holding up, dear? I can't imagine it's been easy."

"Me, oh I've been fine!" Twilight rolled her eyes,"I only have to live without the one thing I'm known for a while!"

Rarity gave a little smirk, "Oh, and here I thought that they took away your sarcasm as well as your magic. But, I am glad that they kept that."

"Rarity, they couldn't take my sarcasm even if they killed me... and they have!" Twilight said.

"And I believe we are all grateful for that," Rarity joked.

"You better be, I'm not planning on dying again!" Twilight smiled,"I'm also not going to let any of you die either!"

"Oh, believe me, dying will always be the furthest thing on my mind," Rarity said, before looking back at her friend, "Were you always scared this would happen?"

Twilight sighed,"Why wouldn't I be? You know me right? I have a billion possibilities running through my mind about how we would die... some monster, some villain out for revenge. Sometimes we'd be together, other times we'd be by ourselves. It comes with the territory, doesn't it?"

“Indeed it does," Rarity said, looking down,a small sigh escaping her lips as she walked.

Twiligt looked at Rarity, "Are, you ok?"

"No, it's nothing. Really," Rarity said, "You know me, I am always understanding and completely aware of our responsibilities as heroes and knights of the realm."

"Ok," Twilight said with a pause, making a note in her head.

The group stopped as a mass of flesh and teeth was groaning in front of them.

"And what...is that?" asked Dash.

That..." Keyleth gulped,"Is a Gibbering Mouther. A highly dangerous creature! We should-"

"YAH!" A large grey stallion, roughly the size of Celestia, appeared in the air and slammed his ax into the gibbering mouther. he had a cask of ale cutie mark and wore a thick black beard

Scanlan blinked,"Oh, a shire pony? Well I suppose..." He trailed off as another pony came up behind the stallion.

The pony was a fjord mare, with a blond mane and tail. Her cutie mark was of a pony-like figure with large wings,"Good job, Grog!"

Meanwhile, in Scanlan's mind...

The mare's mane flowed as she swished her head back and forth. she combed it back with her hoof before looking at him,"Hey..."

Grog got back up and cracked his neck side to side. Looking at the monster, he listened to it roar. Then he let out a loud roar right back, making the monster quiver in fear and leave a little wet pool next to its blood. With a laugh he picked up his ax and went for two more slashes, cutting deep into the vile beast’s body. Then he grabbed its jaw and pulled, tearing it off and then ramming it back into the creature's eyes. Then he walked away, dusting himself off.

Rainbow Dash looked down at the splattered abomination from my deepest nightmares, and then back to Grog, then back to the scariest thing in my life, and then back to Grog, and then back to the child of a shoggoth, and then back to Grog. Growling she began to march up to him and putting her snout to his, "Hey, we called dibs on that thing!"

"Um, excuse me miss, but is he your friend?" asked Fluttershy.

"My, he is..." Rarity blushed as he looked at him, her eyes widening, "Big."

"Twilight, can ponies can grow that big?" Applejack asked.

N-not normally... " Twilight squeaked.

The mare smiled at Fluttershy,"Yep, his name's Grog. Don't worry, he's only like that when he sees something he wants to kill." She looked at Applejack,"You never seen a Shire pony before?"

"Oh, wait," Grog paused, looking at Rainbow dash, "Are you an Equestrian pony? From the," he paused, holding up one hoof, and then the other. After a few moments, he said, "The east?"

"Yeah?" Dash asked, pausing in utter horror as she remembered what she had promised.

"I thought you didn't like battle. I thought you just liked to sing, dance, and give warm hugs.” Grog said.

Rainbow Dash bit her lip, before hanging he head in defeat and whispering Damn it.

Applejack shook her head, "We don't have anypony like that back home. We come from Equestria and the last time Ah saw somepony that big was our princess. And your name-"

BAM!

The girls turned to the loud sound from Grog and Rainbow's position. And they saw Grog standing in front of a deep pit where Rainbow's legs were sticking out, twitching, and feathers landing around the pit. A pained moan could be heard while Rainbow laid, her forelegs sticking up, and a giant hoofprint on her back.

"Grog!" the mare shouted.

"Pike," Grog said,"She hit me first, I thought it was a challenge!"

"We still shouldn't hit them, they are guests to our country!" Pike gave a very disappointed frown.

Grog then moaned, before looking down at Dash,"Sorry..."

"Its, ok. I think I saw my grandma for a few moments..." Dash moaned.

"Aint she dead?" asked Applejack, only for another moan from Dash to confirm how hard he hit.

"Could somepony get my feathers? I think they are over there with my pride..." Dash groaned.

Fluttershy sighed and reached down, helping Rainbow Dash up. After applying some ointment, she healed her friend, "Now Rainbow, why did you go and do such a thing?"

"Well, I did say that the next time a pony said that I would punch them! And I gotta keep my promise!" Dash said as Fluttershy affixed some bandages.

"So, why were you two traveling out here? Do ya two just normally find random monsters to kill?" asked Applejack.

Pike and Grog sat down with the rest of them,"Well, we were just taking a walk... and Grog also wanted to kill some random monsters. It gets pretty dangerous here in the Bramblewood, more so than other places." She smiled,"So, what brings you here? I didn't expect to see any ponies from Equestria here."

Scanlan brushed his mane,"I'm here from your dreams..."

Deciding now was a good time for their rations and meal, the group got out their food and began to share with Grog and Pike. Twilight quickly began to explain their quest and their reasons for coming. Pinkie smiled, "And that is how we got here!"

"Hmm, defeating gods, that's interesting, to say the least." Pike looked at Twilight, who had a grim look on her face,"But there's something you're not telling me."

"... I and Percy found your cousin, JB in Equestria. She's alive, but she was tortured by a stallion named Volkermord," Twilight said.

Pike's eyes widened,"JB!?" She looked down before glaring at Twilight,"What does he look like, and how fast can I put the hurt on him?"

Grog put a hoof on her shoulder,"I can take him on if you'd like." He smirked.

"So, I guess this means you are gonna help us out?" asked Applejack.

"Well, we were probably gonna help you out anyway, so yes!" Pike said with a smile.

Scanlan whispered while holding his hooves in a prayer position,"Thank you, Mercer!”

"Dibs on riding on top of Grog!" Pinkie shouted as she leaped on top of him.

Scanlan raised a hoof, before shaking his head,"Too easy, even for me."

Grog laughed as he walked with the group

Their journey continued for a day and a half, with no real attacks from any monsters. Along the way, Fluttershy listened to Keyleth discuss the various cure and medicines that could be found around the woods. Next to her, Pike walked alongside and would look at her medallion, “Um, excuse me,” Fluttershy asked, looking at the symbol, “But what is that pendant you are wearing?”

“Oh, this? This is a symbol from my goddess, Sarenrae,” Pike said, “I’m a cleric, we tend to gain magic from our gods.”

“You mean like the old gods or Celestia and Luna?” asked Fluttershy.

“Well there are plenty of gods out there for us clerics to gain power from,” Pike said, “Gods of the sun, gods of nature-”

“Nature?” gasped Fluttershy.

Twilight mainly kept to herself, focusing on the map as they managed to make their way out of the woods. Rainbow Dash floated behind Twilight and grumbled, "Twi, if we are not there yet, I swear to Celestia on high I am going to go mad!!!"

"Well, I'm sorry we can't go any faster, Rainbow!" Twilight said, “Unfortunately, cars are an invention from Sunset's world, so we're just going to have to stick to this.

"Look we are on a time limit and I hate being slow!" Dash shouted.

"I could polymorph everyone if you want?" Keyleth suggested.

Pinkie smiled, "Polymorph?"

Keyleth smiled,"Oh, that's where I can turn all of you into animals!"

"Oh, I would love to be an animal," Fluttershy whispered.

Applejack put a hoof to her chin, "It would get us there faster."

Twilight ignored her friends as she glared at Rainbow Dash, “Oh yeah, that time limit. One we wouldn’t even have or have a bigger one if it wasn’t for you!”

"Look, I just happen to have confidence in what we can do! They think we can't do this in three months, I am going to show them we can," Dash shouted to Twilight.

"Then maybe you should stop whining about having a time limit unless you want to fly ahead of us!?" Twilight shouted.

FINE! I WILL!" Dash said, taking off "And then, I'll come back and remind you why I am the fastest there is!"

Applejack walked to Twilight, "I think she is having some emotional issues."

Twilight sighed,"Yeah, she is."

Trinket then looked up with a growl.

"Trinket!" A blue half-deer flew down, wings fluttering as she gave the bear a hug,"There you are!"She began to rub his neck,"Did these ponies find you and take care of you!?" She turned to them,"Hello there!"

Percy looked at her then looked away,"Wow..."

"Howdy," Applejack said tipping her hat.

"Oh, you must be Vex!" Fluttershy said, flying over and petting Trinket, rubbing his fur. "We found him outside the forest all alone and scared. But I took care of him. He is such a good bear and really friendly. He said he missed you a lot."

Trinket happily nuzzled his mommy, letting out a purr.

"Look at that, he's happy," Fluttershy said.

Pinkie smiled, "Aw, such a happy reunion!"

Scanlan walked to Percy and lightly closed his mouth, "Stop drooling, we all can see your uvula."

Rarity stepped up to vex, "Excuse me, while all of this meeting is wonderful and I am very happy to see you reunited with your baby. I must ask you," she looked at Vex and her armor, "Where did you get that wonderful attire. It is simply divine!"

"Oh, I made it myself, part of my training as a Ranger darling." Vex said," But your outfit is even better, did you make that yourself?"

"Why yes, I did. How astute of you to notice," Rarity said with a warm smile and putting her hoof to her chest. "I tend to make all of my clothing, I am a dressmaker by trade. As a matter of fact, I would love to assist you one day. I may not be good at leatherworking but give me time."

"Oh, that would be wonderful darling. I was just saying..."

As they talked, Applejack slinked to Twilight, "Twi...When Rainbow Dash gets back, she is gonna scream that there are two of them."

"But what brings you out here darling?" asked Rarity.

"Well I'm here to look for two things, my bear." she petted Trinket,"... and my brother."

Rarity raised an eyebrow, "Your brother?"

"Vax'ildan, or Vax," Vex put a hoof to her face,"We kinda had a little tiff about our next job, and he ran off to prove himself."

"What kind of tiff?" asked Applejack.

Rarity sighed, "Well, whatever it was, I'm sure we can talk it over with once he calms down. We've recently had a friend of ours go off in a little bit of a tiff."

(A few minutes ago)

Rainbow Dash grumbled as she flew around. This was where she loved the most, and the place for her mind to be cleared. Thoughts of the past few days flowed through her mind, of Twilight's death and how she almost lost another friend. She began to grumble a little to herself about how she was feeling useless in comparison to these ponies of this country and how she was so easily beaten. Shaking her head, she continued to fly until she saw a small little mansion. Smirking, she said, "Hello exploration."

Landing on her hooves, she began to walk through, singing to herself, "give me a smidge of confidence

give me a speak of something that makes sense

give me an idea of dependency

give me a dash of Loyalty (Loyalty)"

"Man I love singing my song!" she chuckled as she continued to sneak through the mansion.

A male voice whispered behind her,"You know, you wouldn't be seen if you weren't singing your theme song, Speedy."

"Hey it's not like anypony is around to hear-" she paused, and then her wings shot out. Turning around, she asked, "Who said that? Where are you punk?"

"I said it." the voice said,"Vax'ildan's the name, but you can shorten to Vax if you wish. As for where I am, well, you'll have to try real hard to see me."

"I don't need to try hard!" Dash said, taking off into the air, "I just need the air advantage and a little lightning," she then began to rub her hooves together, causing lighting to crackle and light the dark room. "And I'll see you!"

A few black feathers fell from behind Rainbow,"I can fly too."

"Oh, big mistake emo boy," Dash said, "Because I can turn around very quickly!" she said, using her speed to move fast to get behind herself, and-

"WHAT?!" see nothing. "How did you, are you teleporting and you are just too wimpy to hide like a real pegasus?"

"No, I just really good reflexes... also I enjoy messing with ponies." Vax let out a small chuckle.

"Oh, ain’t we just a smart ass!" Dash said, growling. Then she flew up into the air and spun around, creating a small tornado that also rearranged the furniture, "HA! Dodge that one, emo!"

"I did," Vax said.

Rainbow Dash held up her hoof and then put her foreleg in the elbow, "Speak Equus buddy? Know what this means where I live?"

"Equus? Oh, are you Equestrian? Are you going to sing me to death?"

Rainbow Dash narrowed her eyes, "Tell me...you ain’t a giant of a stallion are ya?"

"No. Ate you going to try and hit me?" Vax asked.

"Yea, because you are about to see why I am the fastest thing on the planet!" and with a shout, she began to run and strike and attack at every spot in the mansion.

There was a clicking sound, and a black blur flew off.

Rainbow Dash stood dumbfounded, and then her wings spread out. Narrowing her eyes, she growled and got into a racing stance, "OH!" pushing her hindleg back, she crouched, "IT! IS!" and then took off in a blue blur, "ON!"

The blur then stopped, revealing himself to be a black half-deer with wings. He was staring at something.

Rainbow Dash ran in front of him and panted, "HA! Told ya not to mess with me. And" she paused" Oh, a little deer boy huh? Didn't realize you were an emo half brain idiot. But now I cornered you. Did you really think you could outpace me?" she said, walking back and forth. "No pony beats Rainbow Dash, I don't care what kind of pony they are."

Vax stared.

"And that's what Twilight needs to understand. I can be egotistical and big-headed because I have the skills! And she should know it too. I mean, yeah, she's lost her magic and is in a bad place and needs us, but that's why she should rely on me!"

Vax stared some more.

"Because I can do it. We all have our own talents and skills. And my god, we are good at them. Just you wait, we'll make a name here and then we can show off what we can do." she then sighed, "I guess I just needed to cool off. I'm not really mad at her, y’know. Just annoyed. She's getting scared and anxious, and she knows she makes mistakes when she is like that. I guess that's coming from how she was born and raised/"

Vax stared and shuddered, letting out a small gulp.

"I think I'll head back and apologize. I just want to get this done and save everypony, y'know." Dash then frowned, "WILL YOU SAY SOMETHING AND LOOK AT ME!?""

Vax nudged her with his wing and then pointed in front of them.

"Oh no, I'm not stupid enough for that," Dash said, turning to look at the stone golem, "He thinks I'm that stupid to fall for it." she said before turning to face Vax. Then her ears drooped, as well as her wings. With a paler coat than usual, she looked back behind her at the giant stone golem. With a gulp, she took a few steps away and then took off in a blur of rainbows and blue. Vaw quickly followed behind her.

"JENGA JENGAJENGAJENGAJENGAJENGAJENGAJENGAJENGAJENGAJENGAJENGAJENGAJENGAJENGA!!!!!"

Outside and in the field, Vex continued to talk, "And that was when I told that deer that his so-called tacos were deplorable. Granted that made his twin mad. So Vax and I-"

Rainbow Dash ran by her in a blur, "Hey girls! Hey New Pony! A monsterschasingmegottagetgoing!"

Vax ran by,"Hey sis, hey new ponies! A monsterschasingmegottagetgoing!"

"I take it," Rarity said, watching the black blur, not seeing Grog smirking as he got up. Slowly, he began to walk away from the group, wielding his ax with a big grin.

"That's your brother?"

"Yup. That's your friend?"

Grog let out a battle cry as he raced off, much to Applejack's confusion. Rarity nodded to Vex, and sighed, "Seems she met your brother. That's good. It makes things easier."

Applejack stepped up, "Anypony want to ask what they meant by a monster is chasing them?"

That was when Grog flew through the air, shouting "He hits hard!!!!"

Twilight watched as a large stone golem rolled towards them,"Um, I think they were yelling about that!"

Applejack stood in front of Twilight, "Twi, you and Fluttershy hang back now. We got this."

Twilight grumbled,"Sure..."

The golem raised a hand, before lowering it,"Stay out." It said, before walking back to the mansion.

The ponies all just stood there, utter shock and amazement in their eyes as they watched the giant walk away. Rainbow Dash landed next to them with Vax following. Quirking an eyebrow, she said "That's it? He just wanted us to get out? Hey, Bu-"

before she could say another word, Applejack covered Dash's mouth while Pinkie...well...did what Pinkie did best. "She's awfully sorry mister."

"Mrs." the stone giant said. "Mrs. Aronowitz. I'm taking care of the house while the hubby is away."

It was then Pinkie noticed that the stone giant had a large pink apron and stone curlers in her hair. Letting out a silent nod in total understanding, she continued, "Dashie was just letting out some steam and she didn't mean to ransack your home."

"Kids today, no one respects the home and hearth," Aronowitz said, crossing her arms.

"So, here is a cheering-up cupcake and muffin just for you. To make up for it," Pinkie said, pulling the pan of cupcakes from her mane and handing it to the stone giant.

Percy looked at the campfire, and then the ingredients, and then the stove. He paused for a moment, "How did she-"

"The answer is Pinkie," Twilight said.

The giant took a few bites and nodded in approval, "Wow, this is good. Ya have to share with me the recipe."

"Here!" Pinkie said, handing the recipe to the giant.

Smiling, the giant said, "Aw thanks. This is going to make my kids so happy." she then began to walk back to her home.

Pinkie waved goodbye, "Bye, Mrs. Aronowitz!" and then she bounced back t the party, "What a nice lady."

Vex hugged her brother,"I'm sorry brother, but next time, don't ransack some poor stone golem's house!"

"I'm sorry too, but I didn't know it was occupied!" Vax said.

Rainbow Dash sighed, "Twi, look. I'm sorry all right. It's just I really want to show what we can do. I'm getting tired of all of these westerners thinking we just solve problems with singing and dancing and warm hugs." she then looked to Pinkie and shouted, "You don't count. So I figured w can show him up."

Rarity nodded, "I think we can say you are starting to lea..." Rarity paused as she looked at Vax.

"rn...." she looked at his handsome form, the sleekness of his coat, the sad look in his eyes that showed he ha been through. The dark gloss of his wings gave an air of mystery to him as Rarity felt a shiver up her spine.

("Don't come near me, lady Rarity. I'm, broken." Imaginary Vax said, a large gourd of sand on his back and a red tattoo that readout love on it)

"Oh my Celestia," Rarity said, fixing her mane.

(Possible boyfriends: 1. Vax. 2. Percy. 3. Grog. 4 Scanlan.)

"Are you alright, miss?" Vax asked.

Vex giggled at this,"Add another one to the pile, brother..."

Keyleth began tripping over herself,"Oh, uh, hi?"

"Maybe 2..."

"Oh, perfectly fine dear," Rarity said, smiling. Then out of the corner of her eye, she saw Keyleth tripping and then said, "Oh, have you met our druid?"

Vax stared at Keyleth for a minute,"Not yet..."

"This lovely little doe is our druid, and I think we will talk more later," Rarity said, while also introducing the others, "And this is the rest of our little merry band, who I am sure Keyleth would be glad to show you."

As Rarity left the two, Applejacksmirked at this and made a whistling sound, before making an explosion. Rarity narrowed her eyes at this before giving off a whiff and whispering "Still have one more." this caused Applejack to chuckle at this.

Pinkie Pie walked over to Twilight and patted her shoulder, "What's wrong Twily? You got the 'I need to say something but I don't wanna’ look."

Twilight let out a shuddering sigh.

Percy placed a hoof on her shoulder,"You can't delay it forever."

"Vex, Vax?" Twilight said, causing the twins to look her way,"Your mom..."

Vax immediately glared,"What do you know of her?"

"... She was in Equestria... a stallion named Volkermord tortured her to death..."

Vex stomped up towards her,"Our mother died in a dragon attack, how could-"

"Elaina, right? Her name was Elaina." Percy said.

Vex's eyes widened in horror as she stepped back,"No..."

Vax looked away in silence, staring at the ground.

Vex snarled,"Where... is he!?"

"Here, in the country, but all we know." Twilight turned away.

"... We'll find him. And then we'll fucking kill him!" tears fell from her eyes as she turned away.

Rarity walked up to Vex and patted her back comfortingly, "We'll all help if you let us. I do believe that we may end up crossing paths with this stallion if things continue as they are."

"Not one for vengeance, but this stallion needs to answer for something like that," Applejack said, tipping her hat.

Rainbow Dash looked at Vax and smiled, "Yeah, we'll all help. Providing that emo can fight as well as he can smack talk."

Vax let out a hmph in response,"Well, if you can keep up with me, Speedy."

"Oh, I can do more than that, Emo," Dasi snarked, "Just wait for the next rumble and I'll show ya."

"Oh, wow, are you going to sing the problem away?"

Dash growled, "No, I'll tornado the problem away and then I'll-

"Ok you two, stop comparing wing sizes!" Applejack said, stepping up in between them.

Rarity looked at Vex, "Is your twin always like this?"

Vex let out a sigh,"Only when someone as overconfident as him shows up."

"Oh dear," Rarity gasped.

"Yeah, we're going to have to deal with those two for a while."

Rarity sighed and looked down, "Don't suppose you know of a silence spell?"

"I have not prepared that, unfortunately." Vex said.

Scanlan raised a hoof,"I know Silence!"

"Right, considering my options," Rarity said, "Keyleth you are on Vax duty, Fluttershy you get Dash."

"Yes mam," Fluttershy said walking with Dash as the group began to get ready to set off.

Keyleth blinked,"Oh, uh, okay!" She shimmied up to Vax,"Hi! Rarity told me to keep an eye on you!"

Vax smirked a bit,"Well, thank you."

The group set off. The lights of a town not too far off.

"Hey Scanlan," asked Applejack, "Is that the place?"

There was a large city with a wall around it,"Looks like it!" Scanlan said.

Twilight walked ahead, noticing that the front gates were blown open,"What in the?"

"What, did a pegasus overdo it on tornado duty?" asked Rainbow Dash as she flew around the gates

There was nopony in the streets, however, Rainbow would notice some hiding in the houses.

Rainbow Dash looked down, "Hey, there is somepony in here."

Pinkie pie nodded and walked up, wrapping her hoof against the door, "Hello?"

"Help us!" a voice came from beyond the door,"There's a beast in town! He's frightened us!"

"A beast?" squeaked Fluttershy.

"What kind of beast," asked Grog.

"... He sounded way too happy about that." The villager coughed,"He claims to be a god, waiting for those who ate from the Fruit s of Harmony to come to him at the old Temple.

Applejak smiled, "Well that's us. How is he keeping you all inside and why are you coughing?”

"Oh, that was a sarcastic cough. Your friend is very scary." The stallion said,"He slaughtered a lot of the town guard. He's so strong, we're too scared to come out."

Oh, is he really that strong," Grog asked smiling. "Good. Tell me where he is and he'll meet Martha."

"Don't worry, we'll help."

Scanlan looked at him,"Martha?"

Grog nodded, "Yes, Martha. Named after my dear auntie."

"He's waiting at the temple down south =h from here."

"Right, time to kick ass-" Rainbow Dash let out a yelp as her tail was pulled, "Yeow! Why the tail!"

"We need a plan on how to get in and handle this. We are facing a god and we need to figure out who and what we need to do in order to win."

Vax looked at Applejack,"You need someone to scout ahead?"

Scanlan looked at her,"How about someone with a mouth?"

"Right, how about Scanlan and Vax scout ahead. The god will be expecting us, but not two ponies. Then if he gets suspicious, you can lead him a little away out." Applejack said. "This can leave us to head into that temple and see what is there."

"Just try and not to get yourself killed," Dash snaked.

Pike looked back at Twilight as the plan was being discussed and walked to her, "Are you all right?"

"No...not really," Twilight said with a sigh, "Just watching Applejack talk like that, planning. It's just right now reminding me of how useless I really am without magic!"

"Oh," Pike said, nodding.

"You take away Applejack's strength, she's still got a clear head. Each of them still has something that makes them better without their unique strengths. All I am right now is the book nerd that needs protection. And I hate it more and more," Twilight said, running her foot along the ground.

Pike ran a hoof along Twilights, "Sarenae has a saying, one I kind of find solace in. Even when we think we have nothing, if we look deep inside, we find something bright inside that will show how special we are."

"That sounds like something Celestia once said," Twilight said, raising her head. "Pike I think-"

"Yo, Twilight! Scanlan, and Vax are already gone, lets move it!" Dashs aid.

"Right, let's go..."

Scanlan whistled as he walked down the street,"Right, no pressure. I'm going to die if I'm not careful, but no pressure."

Ahead was the purple manned grey coated form of Antares.

Vax clung to the shadows, and then he overheard Scanlan muttering, "Oh, don't be like that. Dying is not too bad, at least you lived a good life."

"Dude, I'm only 69 years old! That's young for a Fjord!" Scanlan hissed.

Vax gave a chuckle as he found a ledge to run up and leap to the rooftop, "I said good, not long. Now, just keep doing what you are the best at and give me an opening." he said, hiding behind a small chimney.

Antares looked around and then saw Scanlan. A smile came to his lips as he looked at the fjord, "Ah, a race I had never seen before until now. And what is your name good sir?

Scanlan pointed to himself. He came in wearing a mustache,"I am Burt Reynolds, Esquire. I came to inquire about your presence in this humble little town!"

Antares bowed and said, "A pleasure to meet you Burt. I am Antares, a god of emotion and control, and the reason why I am here is-" his face then narrowed in rage as he took on a very angry PErsona. "TO lure those annoying bitches here and kill them before hanging their bodies as a warning! Got a problem with that ya piece of shit small fry?"

Vax rolled his eyes as he leaped to another rooftop, almost slipping on the shingle, "Boy does he have issues." across his vision, he could see Vex slinking into a small empty building. "Stubby, be careful."

"Whoa!" Scanlan smirked,"No, I don't have a problem at all. But how do you know those mares are coming anyway? For all you know, they could be taking a detour somewhere else, and you'd be sitting here for no reason whatsoever!"

"Because, you fucking moron," Antares coughed a little, "Sorry, sometimes I get rage moments. But, the reason why I can figure is that this temple has what they need. I can feel old magic here. Ancient. Either a dragon is lying in wait here and protecting it, or there is an item here that can give them an edge."

His eyes narrowed and looked down at Scanlan, growling, "And while they need the help to save their asses, a god-like me doesn't! And I know they are coming! I sent a gibbering mouther out not too long ago and he hasn't been back. Unless that organization killed him, those FUCKTARDS killed it."

"Not exactly the nicest god," Vax whispered.

Grog began to tap his ax against a wall, counting, "1,3,5. 1,3,5. 1,3,5. Pike can I go smash yet?"

“No, Grog, wait for the signal, remember?" Pike said.

"Organization?" Scanlan cocked his head,"What organization are you speaking of?”

"Since we got here, we heard of these fucking hunters called the Slayer’s Take. They hunt monsters and I met one of their own. I told them to fuck off if they knew what was good for them!" Antares said, before softening, "Oh, I do hope you don't mind my cussing and swearing, I cant help it."

"Oh, I understand perfectly." Scanlan shook his head,"I have many mannerisms that I cannot help with!"

"Like fucking talking to much!" Antares said, stomping his hoof to Scanlan, "Now, are you going to leave my presence or will I rip your fucking Dick off and ram it down your through to give yourself a fucking blow job!" then he pulled back and blushed, "Um, if you please."

Vax shook his head and made a motion to tell Scanlan to move to the left and then to the right for his right angle.

"Now, that is one of my fantasies..." Scanlan coughed,"Excuse me," he moved to the left, and then to the right.

"What are you doing? Are you delaying your death you FOAL?!" asked Antares angrily. Then he frowned, "Or do you have another question?"

"Yes, um, have you spent enough time here?" Scanlan asked.

"Why no, I hav-"

Silently, Vax leaped from the top of a roof and jumped down onto Antares. Pulling out a dagger from his belt, he used a hoof to jab it deep into his neck and slash at the gods back. Then he leaped off, taking flight to another roof while throwing a third dagger. The god grabbed this and broke it in his magic. "Damn, that was my favorite dagger," Vax said.

"YOU TRICKED ME YOU FUCKING SHORT STACK!" Antares growled, magic flowing from his horn.

"Yeah, well, I kinda did, and,

It's too late to cast that spell,
It's too late!" HE shouted, horn glowing to disrupt Antares'.

"What?" Antares asked, feeling his magic short circuit for a brief second as two arrows shot into his flesh.

"Now?" asked Grog with a big freaking smile

Pike brandished her mace,"Now!"

Percy looked at the Mane 6,"Go."

"Wait, what about you guys?" asked Rainbow Dash.

Percy got ready to hold his gun,"Your destiny is back there. Ours is here."

Keyleth looked at him,"But aren't you from the same country?"

Percy turned her,"Yes, but I am better suited here."

Rainbow Dash frowned and looked down. Then she narrowed her eyes as she said, "Just don't die!"

"Not planning on it!" Vex said from afar.

The mane six watched for a few moments as the group of new friends made their way to the battlefield. For a brief moment, Rainbow Dash made a move to join, but Applejack stopped her with a foreleg and shook her head. Growling, Rainbow Dash ran with Applejack by her side towards the temple.

Antares frowned as he glared at Scanlan, his magic beginning to glow once more, "You bards are clever. in my time, you LITTLE ASSHOLES WERE NOTHING BUT OVERSEXED, Buttmonkey, wastes of space who think poop humor is hilarious.

"Hey, I'm not a butt monkey or a waste of space," Scanlan said.

"But I am sorry to say," Antares said, taking flight, "Your dreams of glory and that of your ally will be squa-URRRK!" he gasped as yellow streams of light erupted from the ground and grabbed his wings to pull him to the ground with a crash.

"Did you see that? It worked! I never used that spell before!" cheered Keyleth as Antares began to break free. As he did, he found himself face to face with a goliath-sized uppercut and then a slash from Grog.

Angrily, Antares punched Grog in the face, pushing him back a little. His lip cut, Grog wiped the blood away and looked at the alicorn with an almost animal-like sneer.

Percy ran to a set of boxes to the side and shot at Antares.

Antares felt one bullet hit him, before pulling up a shield in defense.

"Figured, an unknown weapon would only catch him off guard once!"Percy said, before running out and looking for another spot of cover.

Vex flew to the god's side, her antlers glowing for a bit,"There." She said. In her eyes, Antares was surrounded by a glowing aura. She took out her bow, a flame erupting around the arrow, and fired.

Antares let out a groan in pain as the arrow struck him in the side. Looking to his left, he slammed hoof into the ground to cause a large stone to lift up and be thrown a Vex. As he did a dagger was thrown from one of the buildings and cut deep into his cheek. Looking around for his attacker, he saw a glimpse of a feather and fired a firebolt at it. Eyes then oped in shock as another dagger was thrown at the side, the metal glowing red hot and into his foreleg.

As Vax landed next to Vex to check up on her, Antares lifted his hoof to try and slam into his back, only to be slashed in the side by Grog. HE growled, "Getting close is not a very smart thing to do, foal!"

"Neither is pissing me off, but you are doing it anyway," Grog said, pulling away his ax. Then he spun around to slash across the chest twice before hitting his chin with the hilt of the ax, breaking some of Antares teeth.

Keyleth looked at the various plants around the area and began to concentrate, her horns and eyes glowing a bright green. While Scanlan shouted, "Hey, you know how you got your name? Because Ants are really tiny and so are your balls!"

"What?"

Pike chuckled a little at that before leaping onto one of the boxes, and causing her horn to glow, before firing a radiant bolt of energy from her mace,"Guiding Bolt!" She smiled,(This'll make things easier for everyone else to hit!)

Vex got up and nodded, before spinning around and shot another flaming arrow before flying off. Quickly finding purchase on the ground, she fired three more shots, each hit finding their mark into the wings of the alicorn

The growl of an angry bear came barreling towards Antares."Oh, how cute a bear," Antares said, before getting cut, "OH GODDESSES DAMNIT!"

"Good boy, Trinket!" Vex said with a smile. Seeing Vax throwing one of his daggers, she fired an arrow into the air, hitting the dagger and ricochetting, flying back to Antares. Before he could make a shield, the arrow split into hundreds of tiny thorns that slashed and cut into his body.

Percy rolled towards a saloon, doing a few more shots with his gun before going behind a pillar.

The shots flew, but only a few of them managed to make their mark before Antares put up a shield to block the shots. Looking to his left, he saw Vex preparing her arrow and began to raise his shield once more. He then let loose a series of screams and yelps as the branches of the trees began to cut and slash into his flesh while rocks pelted his skin.

Looking around he saw Keyleth using her earth magic. Smirking, he said, "You think you are a master of nature? well my dear," he then summoned a few tree branches and turned them into metal, "Eat this Bitch!!"

As the shards of metal flew at Keyleth, Scanlan pulled out his lyre and shouted, "And I strike, like THUNDERWAVE!" and rocked a wicked thread, allowing the wave of energy to knock the shards of metal out of the air. Keyleth smiled as she continued her spell, allowing rocks to slam into his face and roots to pull Antares into the ground.

Letting loose a growl, he looked to the left at Scanlan and snarled, "I can see that you will be the annoying one."

"No, I'm the handsome one," Scanlan bragged. "The annoying one is above you."

"What?" he asked and looked up, not seeing Grog slash twice with his ax.

"Whoops! I lied!" Scanlan said, "I mean in front of you. Ya skinny palooka!"

"Hey," Antares frowned, feeling pain, both from the attack and Grog's punch to the face, "That really hurt."

"So does this!" Vex said, firing three arrows, each one turning into flames as they struck into his chest.

"Vile BITCH!" he said, unleashing a lightning bolt, only to watch it fade away, bearly singing her fur. Turning his head, he saw Pike holding onto her symbol and whispering, allowing a faint blue glow to appear, "A cleric? Oh, ain’t that just a BITCH!

Pike looked up at him,"Flame Strike." She pointed at him, causing a pillar of flame to appear beneath him.

Percy watched this, and then ran into the saloon,"I need a barrel of wine!"

The bartender blinked,"Sir, is this really the-" Then Percy slammed a bag of bits down,"Okay!"

Percy lifted the barrel and then pointed it at the alicorn,"Magic, meet Science!" He bucked it towards him while the flames still kept going.

"NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" Grog shouted as he watched the barrel fly through the air and into the pillar of flames.

As the giant pillar circled him, burning and scarring his flesh, Antares looked up at the incoming barrel and growled, "You think I fear the corruption of wheat? I fear no bo-"

there was a roar of an explosion as the barrel ignited, causing a huge explosion that shook the village. Antares let loose a giant scream of pain and agony as the explosion rocked and incinerated around him.

As it exploded, he got to his knees and whimpered, "Piiiike!"

"Yes Grog?" asked Pike.

"I...would like to..." Grog lowered his head to Pike and began to cry loudly, "Cry!"

"Oh Grog," Pike said with a roll of her eyes and patted him on the neck. "We'll get you a barrel of ale when this is done."

Vax stood on top of the roof, "If this is done. Did it work?" asked Vax.

To answer Vax, there was a mournful scream of pain coming from the crater of the flame strike. Antares stood there, most of his fur was gone, blackened while his skin was blistering. Moaning, he walked towards the group as they began to gather. His horn, broken, sparked, and seemed to be a brother to his now destroyed wings, "You foals...y ou have done the impossible. You... have bested and killed a god without the powers of love or the increase of your mana. Impressive."

Scanlan smirked at this and thumbed his hoof, "What do you expect from our little group."

"Yes, and soon, the world will begin to know of your names. Soon, the other gods will be hunting for your hides like they hunt those who dine on the Tree of Harmony."

"Vex’ahila, Vax’ildan, Grog, Scanlan, Percy, Pike, Keyleth. If you are to be besting gods, you will need a name. One that will be sung in stories..." Antares moaned as his body began to fade.

"Well I got one," Scanlan said, "How about the S.H.I.-"

"There was a name of friends who won glory in their time, a group of people who desired to do the impossible and bring forth revolution. They have since faded with the generations," Antares moaned, "But today, I will bring forth the name once more. From this day forward, you will be known as...

Vox Machina!"

Scanlan shrugged,"I guess that works too."

Author's Note

I know that we sped up the reunion of the girls, but let's face it...you knew it was coming and we didn't want to wait.

Let's play cameos!

That deer that was a chef? That was Taako from The Adventure Zone

That little deer Voltaire? He's my DND character for my campaign. The other one, Gwen? That's my brother's.

I couldn't help but be silly with Samus.

And yes, this is a Vox Machina crossover, and yes everyone is together in this chapter.

Tales of the past

Samus heard a beep on her helmet, and she paused for a moment. Green eyes moving to the left of her hud, she read to herself "Missiles downloaded."

"Lady, your missile-"

"I can read, Adam," Samus said, looking down. Putting a hoof to her chin, she said to herself, "I guess our theory is right. Each time one of them dies, my suit gains one of its powers back. Nice."

"All the more reason why we should move on from this little hunt, Lady," Adam said.

Samus turned o the bipedal creature in front of her, his tentacles moving under his mouth as he snarled. Then she looked at the two unicorns as they sat together in fear. With a smirk, she said, "What, and with a nice bounty in front of me and the additional reward of bringing those mares home?"

"Of course Lady, I was just hoping we would stop after this," Adam said.

The mind flayer growled, "Are you done? I was about to crack open your shell and feed upon your brain."

"I'm not done yet, I just have a request," Samus said with a smirk. Before he could ask, she said, "Say, "I want your braiiiiins, like a zombie."

"No, that's just stupid," the mind flayer said.

"Fine, how about after I calibrate my missiles, then you'll say it," Samus said, her horncannon opening to a small warhead.

"You really think that you can-" the rest of the sentence was blocked out by a volley of missiles to the face and a series of explosions. As he lay on the ground, bleeding out, he looked up at Samus.

"Now, say it," Samus said.

"Braiiiiiiiiiiins," he moaned.

"And who's my bitch?" Samsu asked, lightly smacking his face.

"What-"

"Who's my bitch? Are you my bitch?" asked Samus.

"I'm your bitch!" whimpered the mind flayer.

"Good boy." Samus chuckled.

A stallion's voice bellowed as the Mane Six entered,"Who goes there?"

Fluttershy let out a small eep and hid behind Rainbow Dash. Applejack stepped forward, and then Twilight stepped up. Nodding she said, "We came to this temple to find a font for earth magic and we are looking for help finding one of Meadowbrook’s items. We are on a long quest from home."

"Oh, and there's this god outside attacking? Care to help the ponies outside?" asked Rainbow with a smirk.

"I think the ponies outside have," He coughed a little," It handled. You are looking for the Madmare's items?"

"You mean Meadowbrook," Twilight said. "And yes. I mean, she is a scientist and an item maker. We kind of have to be a little mad."

"That explains so much about you," Dash teased.

A bronze stallion came into view, “I am Bronze Tail." He coughed again, “If you wish to grab one of her items, you must pass a test."

Applejack stepped forward, "Test, what kind of test?

"A test of combat." Bronze Tail said,"There is a creature behind me that will test your strength. If you can survive him for 10 minutes then I will allow you through." He walked through a door behind him.

“A combat test? Oh my," Fluttershy said, looking down.

Rainbow Dash smirked, "Hey, don't worry. Me and Applejack have got this."

"Yeah," Applejack said, "We can keep ya'll safe from whatever big guy is behind that door."

Pinkie looked behind her, hoping to see Scanlan. Instead, she thought she saw a random pony and said, "You see where this is going. I can even feel it."

"Yeah, so let him bring on any big bad ugly piece of-

A large bronze dragon stared them down.

"Bronze Dragon ass," Rainbow Dash said, frowning.

The bronze dragon laughed, “You've got a spine, Little one." He raised a claw up and slammed it down on them.

"Scatter!" Twilight shouted, causing the girls to disperse.

Applejack looked to Fluttershy and shouted,d "Shy, keep an eye on her. Me and Dash got this!"

"Party time!" shouted Rainbow Dash as she flew around the bronze dragon and began to charge with lighting. Then she clapped her front hooves together and launched a lightning bolt at the dragon. She had a small smirk on her face, only to lose it when the dragon didn't even flinch. Dash shook her head, "No way..."

Pinkie pie ran to the side of the dragon and began to look through her bag. then she pulled out a small shoulder-mounted cannon and fired a very hot pie at his face. At the same time, Rarity cocked an arrow.

The dragon ate the pie, before looking at Dash,"Nice shot. Allow me to return the favor." He charged lightning in his mouth.

Rainbow Dash crossed her forelegs in front of her to take the shot, allowing the lightning to flow across her body. Narrowing her eyes, she spun her foreleg in a circle and then flew right back at him, the tornado now covering her entire leg as she slammed her hoof into his snout.

Down below, Applejack thrust her foreleg into his leg, followed by two more blows. Rarity aimed and fired three shots into his neck. Fluttershy watched and kept to Twilight, making sure she could keeper friend safe.

Twilight grumbled in frustration, “Don't kill yourself doing this!"

The dragon waved a claw in the air at Dash, before swinging his tail at Applejack

Applejack let out a grunt as the tail slammed into her stomach and knocked into the wall. Applejack held onto the rail for dear life and began to beat away at it.

The dragon swung it around, attempting to toss her into Dash.

Rainbow Dash caught Applejack in midair and then sat her back down. Looking back up, she growled and flew at him, rapidly hitting him at such a speed, it looked like there were four of her. Rarity began to move to the side to fire another arrow at the dragon's hide.

Pinkie, on the other hand, began to load a small bomb and fired at it from her cannon before throwing another bomb at him with a sparkling ball.

"A sparkling ball?" The dragon asked.

Music began to play

"New invention! I call it my Dancing Ball!" Pinkie giggled

The dragon smiled,"I like this!" He tapped his claw to the music.

Rarity stepped to the side and fired three arrows at him. At the same time, Applejack jumped up and slammed her right hind leg into his gut.

The dragon looked down at Applejack,"Don't you know not to attack a drake while he's dancing!?" He slammed his body down on her.

Applejack let out a groan of pain from the body slam. Slowly getting back up, she said, "Don’t ya know that you shouldn't try putting down an earth pony who's ready for a rumble?!" and then she charged.

Fluttershy laid down, closing her eyes, "You can do this, remember your training."

("It's easy to use druid magic. It's like, um...well, like earth pony magic but just a little bit different," Keyleth said.

"Sarenrae is just one of the gods," Pike said. "Melora is the one of nature, she guides and helps a lot of earth ponies in their magic.)

Green mana began to flow through her hooves as she looked, before launching out wines and roots to wrap around his tail, "I...I did it?"

The dragon looked at his tail,"A pegasus who uses druid magic?"

"Um well, I'm uh, kind of just starting, Mr. dragon sir," Fluttershy said walking to Applejack.

"Aw." The dragon said,” You’ll get better at it.”

"And I have been learning a little bit of cleric magic if I could heal my friend here while Rainbow Dash beats on your back or a few moments,” Fluttershy said. She ran to Applejack and placed her hooves on her body to summon a pure white glow.

"Ah, you mean the backscratcher?"

Rainbow Dash, who had been striking thirty times a second, frowned, "What do ya mean back scratcher?!”

"I mean you, little one.”

Rainbow Dash frowned, "I am not a little back scratcher!" she said, flying back up and spinning into a tornado, slamming her leg into his snout.

Standing up while Rainbow Dash began to swirl around and strike at the dragon, Applejack looked to Fluttershy, "Fluttershy, what was that?"

"H...healing magic, like Pike's,” Fluttershy said, panting a little, "I've been trying to use it for a while but I think I just got-" she then swayed, before being caught by Applejack.

"You just rest. We can still handle this." Applejack said, jumping back onto the dragon’s tail and running along with it.

Rarity saw a few diamonds in the horde behind him and used her magic to grab some. Then she hurled a few to Pinkie. Smiling, Pinkie attached some to her party cannon and then fired a few shots into the air. Aiming, Rarity fired a magic sot into the gems, hoping to create a set of blinding lights.

The Dragon held his claw in front of his eyes, “It seems I have underestimated you. I will stop going at 15%"

"..." Said Rainbow

"..." said Applejack

"..." said Rarity

"..." said Fluttershy with a gulp

"...So was the other 85% just you sleeping? What was going 15%? your pinky?" asked Pinkie.

"How does that work," asked Twilight, looking down, "You can't use only 15% of your body or your mind, it's physically impossible. It's like putting only 10% of your mana into your fire spell and the rest into the water spell at the same time. Sunset can convert her mana but that is her special talent. You can't just say you are only using 15% of something because then where is the other 85%. Energy cannot be created or destroyed, only converted from one form to the next or transferred. This is a fact of science and magic."

The dragon raised his claw over Twilight.

Twilight noticed the shadow on the ground, then looked up and let out a very high-pitched "Eeeep."

Applejack body checked against the claw, "Hey, leave her out of this!"

The dragon looked at her,"She shouldn't be in this battle then. If she dies with you here, then you cannot pass."

"It ain’t gonna happen because she isn't going to die!" Applejack said.

Twilight stepped forward, "It's my duty to be here. I can't just let my friends risk their lives without me while I stayed behind doing nothing! I don't care if I don't have my magic, I don't care if I don't have any spells and I don't even care if I die! If I let them fight without me, and something happened, I would never forgive myself." she looked down and then back up, "I HAVE to be here, and I have to help them to beat you."

The dragon cocked his head,"There's a possibility of all of you dying."

"The possibility of that is actually very marginal," Twilight said.

"Really?"

Twilight smiled and nodded, "Yes, very marginal. Most likely about 5-10% if I calculated right."

"And how did you calculate that?"

"First, the time," Twilight said, "We need to survive for 10 minutes, and if Rainbow Dash is correct six minutes."

Dash looked up and closed her eyes, allowing for the wind to flow through her. After a few minutes, she said, "Yeah, that's right. Plus the thirty seconds we've been talking."

"Which means all we need is another three minutes and 20 seconds in order to win," Twilight said. "And I may be without magic, power, or anything else, but I have one very important thing that no one, not even death is taking away."

The dragon leaned down, his face curious, "And that is?"

"My brain, and three minutes-"

"Rainbow, run distraction with Pinkie. You aren't doing a thing against him!" Twilight said, looking to her left, paying attention to the boulders. Looking back at Applejack, she counted the seconds, "On Rarity's signal, let go."

"Singal, what-" as if on cue, another dazzling blaze of lights showed above the dragon's head while Twilight ran. Moving quickly ], she hid behind the rocks and then began to tap quickly on the rock wall. The echo began to sound throughout the cavern with the rhythmic beat.

Rainbow Dash began to count the beats and smirked. Flying to Pinkie, she waved her hooves to the mare. Pinkie, letting out a gasp, fired one of her sticky bombs to Rainbow Dash who stretched out the taffy. She then threw it to Applejack, who took it in her hooves, did a running jump along the wall to wrap the sticky candy around the drake's neck.

Fluttershy slowly began to get up to her hooves and panted. Putting her hoof to her chest, she began to remember one of the spells she saw Pike demonstrate to her and summoned a small shield around Rarity.

Nodding, Rarity reached into her quiver and fired three more arrows. As they flew, they struck the dragon with a splash of acid. Meanwhile, Rarity could feel and hear the beat of the tapping and closed her eyes. Allowing the weave to flow through her, she concentrated and summoned three small glowing missiles. Narrowing her eyes, she fired them off at the dragon.

Up above, Rainbow Dash started to fly around the Dragon, keeping his eyes on her, "By the way, I'm not the distraction, Pinkie is."

"Pinkie?" The dragon turned to the pink pony.

Pinkie giggled, "No, Applejack is!"

Applejack appeared behind him, wielding a large bat that said 'Pinkie's Coconut smasher MK 1' and slammed his head with it, "No, Rarity is."

"No," Rarity said, firing a shot at him. "Fluttershy is,"

Fluttershy panted, "No...T... Twilight is."

Twilight stood behind him, tapping out a beat, "Three, two, one... we win."

The dragon turned to her in shock. Then he started laughing,"You are a clever one, Twilight Sparkle."

"Well, I, um, don't like to brag," Twilight said sheepishly, "The reason why I stayed behind was just as much because I was lacking in magic as well as observing and thinking. It was what did me in back with the gods. Now that I think of it, if I could do it again I would've done more and-"

"Twilighting," warned Rainbow Dash.

Twilight blushed and chuckled lightly, "Sorry. But, thank you, sir."

The dragon stood up at attention,"I am Revru." He coughed a little,"Did you say you were lacking in magic?"

Twilight looked down, "A side effect of my return from the dead and being put into this clone body. I lost all my magic, I can't even use telekinesis."

"You should see her reading a book!" Pinkie said, "She uses her mouth and starts growling and cussing and asking AJ how she does it without magic."

"Thanks for the reminder Pinkie," Twilight growled lightly.

Pinkie smiled at this. Twilight continued, "That's why we are looking for the fonts and partly why we are looking for the items."

"Ah, the items." A burst of magic and he turned into Bronze Tail,"Come with me."

"DRAGONS CAN DO THAT!?" shouted the group of ponies at once.

Twilight walked with Bronze Tail, "Can all dragons do that? I've never heard of the dragons changing forms before."

Bronze Tail let out a cough,"Plenty of dragons can. Though, mostly the metallics like me." He looked at her,"I assume you are only familiar with chromatics?"

Twilight looked down, "I never even heard of the metallic race until now. All I ever saw were red, green, blue, and the occasional purple. I didn't even know that you existed until now."

"We metallics tend to blend in the background. As you can see, we tend to disguise ourselves as ponies to... not scare them."

"I can understand why," Fluttershy whispered, walking a little slower.

"You ok?" asked Rainbow Dash.

Fluttershy smiled reassuringly, "Yes. It's just a little tiring to use magic like that."

"You never tried a spell-like that dear," Rarity said, petting Fluttershy's back comfortingly. "It's going to be tiring the first time you try something like that."

Twilight looked up to Brass, "Why is there a division? And why haven't you tried flying over to the east."

"Yeah, there are some annoying dragons back home that could use a wake-up call," Dash snarked. "And I bet Ember would love you."

"Well, we don't attack unless it is absolutely necessary, plus I'm kinda ruling this place right now."

"When this is all done, maybe you can visit?" asked Twilight.

"I would love that." Revru grinned.

Rainbow Dash flew up, "So, where does this tunnel lead?"

Revru looked down the tunnel,"This is the temple where the item lays.

"Any traps or something like that?" asked Applejack.

"Nope. I think I qualify as the trap." Revru said with a smirk.

"Right," Applejack said.

And then they stepped through the door to the temple.

Applejack woke up the next morning, yawning as the sunlight beamed through the window. Smacking her lips, she said, "What a good morning. Perfect for doing some bucking and harvesting."

Then she blinked for a moment, "Wait... arent I supposed to be at that temple? Why, why am I home?" she asked, looking around, noticing her room and her bed.

That was when the door opened slowly, and a peach-colored hoof stepped in, "Applejack? Honey? Are you all right?"

Applejack paused, and looked at the mare with a mix of sadness, happiness, and fear, "M-mom?!"

Pear Butter smiled and put her hoof to her chin, "Last I checked. But you know, I have been wrong from time to tim-oooof!" she looked down and smiled as Applejack hugged her close. "Sugarcube? What is all of this, you act like you haven't seen me in ages."

"Just, really really glad to see you," Applejack said, whimpering. "It's just been a weird couple of days. And I just needed to see you again."

"Is this all right?" Pear asked.

"Huh?" Applejack asked.

"I said, is apple butter ok on your waffles?" Pear asked.

"Y-yeah ma." Applejack said with a shudder. Sighing, she walked to her bed and pulled off her hat. Smiling, she looked out the window to the apple farm that she lived on and the town of Ponyvile in the distance. Turning to walk away, she did not see the photos on the stand, the picture of her and her family, her on the farm, and the photo of her, alone in a photo where five other mares should've been.

Happily, Applejack ran down the stairs, much to the annoyance of Granny Smith, "Land's sake child, slow down! Do you wanna break your neck?"

"Sorry Granny," Applejack said, tipping her hat, "I just wanted to get the breakfast before I lose it."

"Applejack? Why are you standing there?"

Applejack perked her ears for a second, "What?"

"I asked, why are you standing over there? I saved ya a seat!" Applebloom said happily. "Pa was thinking of taking your plate but I stopped him."

Applejack rolled her eyes as she saw Bright Mac sitting on his chair, a newspaper on the table, "That's what she gets for sleeping in," he said with a smile, looking at his middle child.

The brought forth a laugh from Applejack as she sat at the table, "Yeah, sure Pop." she then began to eat.

"AJ? we need to get moving. We're almost there"

Applejack turned her head left and right, trying to find the voice. Only to see Big Mac smirking with a piece of vegetarian bacon in his mouth. Growling, she said, "Hey, that's mine!"

"Nope!" Big Mac chuckled.

"Big Mac, stop teasing her," said Pear with a giggle as she finished putting away some of the plates.

Bright Mac sighed and looked at the paper, "Well look at that. Looks like the elements are back from their long journey."

"Yep." Applejack said, "There were some hard fights, but we won."

There was a long pause for a moment, and then Applebloom broke the silence, "My sister is an Element Bearer!? That is so cool! I'm the sister of an Element. Oh, wait until Twist hears that."

"Honey, Applejack is not an Element," Pear Butter said. Looking up, she asked, "Applejack, where did get this idea that you were an Element Bearer?"

"Mom, I have been. You remember, Twilight came here to see us and-"

"You mean Princess Twilight visited us?" asked Applebloom. "Oh, that would've been great!"

"Honey... she visited Manehatten when she found the Elements. She still lives there with your Aunt Orange and-" before she could say anymore, Applejack was running out the door.

Shaking her head, she whispered, "No, can't be true, can't be true!"

"Maybe she's meditating! Or having an out-of-body experience?!"

"Oh, please wake up. The item is glowing, and we can't touch it!"

Applejack shook her head, trying to ignore the voices as she made her way to the library. She paused and looked at the tree, seeing it as it once was all of those years ago. Giving out a soft gasp of surprise, she made her way inside and passed by the librarian, "Excuse me, just needing to read the newspapers for a bit."

"Is this ok? Are you fine with this?' the librarian asked.

Applejack paused and looked, raising an eyebrow. Turning to look at the librarian, she saw that the mare had gone back to reading, ignoring the orange pony completely. Trying to ignore it, she found the newspapers and began to read to herself

"Elements found, Nightmare Moon defeated"

"Trixie puts on spectacular show, Element of Laughter ablaze"

"Princess Twilight coronated"

"Octavia, Element of Honesty, wows with the concert"

"Battle with Tirek interrupts wedding."

Applejack shook her head, "So...it's true. I'm...not really an Element Bearer am I? None of it happened. And, my friends..."

"Is this all right? Are you ok with this?" asked Pear. "You are no longer the hero of this story."

Applejack looked up, "What did you say, Mom?"

"I asked if you are ok," asked Pear."

Applejack nodded a little and moved away from the table, "Y-yeah, but can I just head for a walk for a bit?"

"Sure, honey”, Pear said, watching Applejack walk away.

"Girls...she's turning grey."

"Fix her!"

"What do you mean?"

Applejack sat down in front of her favorite tree, watching the wind blow through the grassy fields. " So that's it then, no more adventures. No friends, no world-altering threats. I can just live the rest of my life as a farmer and relax. Just me, and my family."

"Are you ok with this?" a male voice whispered.

Angrily, she stood to her hooves and shouted, "OF course I'm not ok with this! Who would be!? I'm stuck on this little farm, doing nothing but wake, eat, harvest, and who knows what else while there are brave ponies out there doing something about the world's problems! It's not the life I wanted, and it's not who I am!"

"Are you sure?" the stallion asked, stepping out from behind the tree.

"When I first met Twilight," Applejack said, sighing and looking down, "I saw a mare who looked like she needed someone, a friend who could help keep her straight and narrow. And when Nightmare Moon attacked and she went off? I knew that she needed my help."

Turning her head to the sky, she continued to speak, "I love farming, and I love my home, but when you can do the things I can? When you can do something about the world's problems? I don't believe that I should stand back and not do anything to help."

"But you are just a farmer," the stallion said.

"Yeah! I am just a farmer, so what? I'm strong, agile, and a good fighter! And there are times when that is all that is needed. For a good mare to take a stand and say "No more!". That's all that's needed to be a hero." Applejack looked down, "And that's what Twilight needed a good and honest heart."

"You know," the blue earth pony stallion stepped forward, his mighty beard flowing out, "I thought Meadowbrook was mad when she made this test, but here you are. Someone who embodies honesty and true strength. The ability to stand tall and abide by your truest principles, no matter what. Willing to be someone’s pillar."

"I know you... yer that pony from the legends, Rockhoof," Applejack said.

"Yes, and now it's time for your test to end. Step forward, and claim the item that rightfully belongs to you," Rockhoof said, stepping away.

Applejack found herself walking to the boots, their glowing magic flowing onto her legs and bonding with her, "What?"

"Applejack?" Twilight asked, “You okay?"

"Yeah, fine, just fine," Applejack said, "What happened?"

"We walked into the temple, and then your face went blank," Twilight said.

Pinkie nodded, "You just stood there and went 'ooooooooooo' and then began to sway back and forth and we couldn't talk to you."

"Yeah," Dash said, nodding, "And then you began to cry a little."

"That's because," Applejack said, looking down, "I saw my parents. They were alive and I was with them."

"Oh, Applejack, I'm so sorry," Fluttershy said, walking to Applejack, and hugging her.

Applejack shook her head, "It's fine. It also showed me a life without you girls and without my element, but I couldn't accept a life like that. I need to be here with you all."

Twilight heard this and then looked down. Sighing, she said "a life without responsibility..." shaking her head, "We're just glad that you are ok."

"Hey! Lookie lookie!" Pinkie cheered, pointing to Applejack's legs, now adorned with green boots. Buckles were adorned with little apple blossoms and the tips of the boots were a dull grey.

"Wow!" Twilight looked them over, “They're amazing! I wonder what they can do!?"

Revru put a claw to his chin in thought, before stating, "If I remember right, Meadowbrook gave the items their own names and told us a little of their powers. That one is Truly’s Honesty. It has the power to, well..." he smirked as he flicked a boulder to Applejack.

Applejack let out a gasp and threw out a punch. Rainbow saw this and began to fly out in a rage, only to be held by Rarity. Rarity pointed to Applejack and the boulder. the large stone now had a hoof-shaped indent in it. "Your strength and endurance increase. It was made to make an earth pony and their connection to the earth even stronger."

Rainbow Dash flew around, looking at Applejack and then the boulder, "Ok, I admit, that’s pretty cool."

Rarity began to look around, "Hmmm..."

"What?" Twilight asked.

Rarity looked, "I seem to remember that we were told there would be clues to the past back with Titan and Terra with the items. I was trying to look for it." she then paused, looking at a small disk, "Is this it?"

The disk began to glow, and the image of Methuselah appeared once again,"Hello once again. You found one of the disks, and are ready to hear Chapter One of the saga of Titan and Terra."

Pinkie brought ut the popcorn and drinks, "Yep!

1,200 years ago, when the god war began...

Titan sighed as he looked out the window at the city below, sighing. Turning back to look around his room, he could only feel a sense of sadness and...grey. Nothing but grey and order, which wouldn't be so bad considering his cutie mark, but he hated it none the same. Grabbing a robe from his closet, he walked out of his room and down the stairs, "Mother? I'm heading out into a neighboring city with Starswirl, don't know when I'll be home."

Titan's mother spoke out,"Be back before sundown."

Titan nodded and walked away, his white mane casting down around his black coat. As he stepped out of the city walls he heard a voice. "Are ya really gonna come back at sundown?" asked a blue mare with curly red hair. "Or are ya gonna be brave for once."

"Lady Meadowbrook," Starswirl said, stepping out, his bells ringing with each step.

("He looks so young," Twilight said.)

"If you pay attention, you know that the lord has some responsibilities, dignity, and-" he paused as he watched Meadowbrook clapping her hooves and making faces "Will you stop!?"

"Whatever, Starly," Meadowbrook joked, playing with his mane, "I'm just saying Tighty can deal with a little more effort in being a rebel!"

Titan ignored the convo of his two friends, walking towards the small town. He could only sigh as he looked up at the blue skies, and then down to the ground. His mind just thinking about how privileged his life was, and the war...

"Whetstone! PLEASE BE READY! TERRA IS HERE AND SHE IS READY TO ROCK!" Terra said, stepping out in front of her bodyguard, letting her brown mane swish back and forth. The sun shone down on her green coat as she began to step out, "Whose ready to party and make some wicked bad choices!?"

A green pegasus in orange and red armor sighed, her yellow mane done up in a ponytail,"Please don't go crazy, Terra. I’d rather not get killed by the Queen."

Terra let out a giggle before quirking an eyebrow, "Now, Tori, a friend of friends, lovely bodyguard, annoying busy body, my long-lost sister who probably was conceived thanks to Dad and a drunken bender. List two events when I have gone crazy."

"Let's see, you're responsible for turning the Ghastly Mountains into Ghastly Gorge, and there was that bender you went on where you decided to turn the Queen of Dragons into a toad. I actually have more, but you only asked for two."

"Hey, that dragon had it coming!" Terra said, tapping her hooves together, "Like did you see her, she was totally roaring at me and calling me a vapid party girl who only gets anything done when she is sloshed."

"..." Tori sighed,"Nope, that doesn't describe you at all."

Terra smiled, "Thank you for defending me!" she then gave her best friend a hug and began to skip away, "Now, let’s go and see what we can do to wreck this town!"

"Whetstone, you will never find a bigger town of villainy and deceit," Starswirl said, looking morose.

Meadowbrook sighed, "It's just a small town that has some Go games being played. Nothing else, no need for melodramatic descriptions!"

"I am trying to set up an atmosphere, do you mind!?" asked Starswirl.

Titan let out a small chuckle as he walked ahead, focusing on his journey towards the center of town. As he walked, he could see how happy the townsponies were. The ones that walked and shopped, talking to friends or making meetings over dinner. He let out a deep breath, noting the difference between his home country and his people vs the so-called 'dark towns', the towns that were under the control of the gods of darkness, "And of course, Mom gets the town on the borderlands in-between because she is the most hated. But...i s this really darkness."

Terra, on the other side of town, stepped out and began to twirl, "Oh, do you think I should sing about this? Oh, yes, I feel a musical number-"

"No!" Tori said, frowning.

"Has anyone, like, told you that you have no soul?" asked Terra.

In the center of town, a pony walked to a pretzel vendor, "I would like one twist of fate, meeting of destiny, and a string of fate. Along with a small lemonade?"

Destiny, who ran Destiny's snack bar, nodded and handed the pony the meal.

"Fillies and Gentlecolts, time once again for the Go Tournament!" shouted a stallion dressed in a grey suit.

Titan smiled and walked towards it. However, he felt a hoof on his shoulder and turned around, "What?"

Meadowbrook pulled out a small medallion, "Here, just in case something weird happens and your cloak gets removed."

"Thank you, Meadow. And where are you and Starswirl going to be as I win my thousandth tournament?" asked Titan.

"Where else, I am going to see if there are some decent wizards around her and some smiths to buy materials!" Meadowbrook said.

"And I will make sure she doesn't do anything strange," Starswirl said.

"Oh come on, the Tri-Horn crown would be a great item for surgeons to work together..."

Titan sighed, watching as his friends left. Using the item, he began to concentrate and disguise himself before disappearing into the crowd.

Terra gasped, "Tori! Look, Go! Oh, do you think they would mind if I win?"

Tori looked at her,"Perhaps you should disguise yourself first, so that way they wouldn't hold back?"

“But Tori, if I disguise myself, then no one is gonna know who beat ’em!" Terra whined, "And it's so much fun when they think they can beat the princess!" she then rolled her eyes, "besides, how are you gonna disguise me? Invent that trenchcoat thing you have always talked about and give me a hat to hide me?"

Tori stopped, and then smiled.

Terra was now dressed in a trenchcoat and wearing a hat.

"What is even the point of a trenchcoat?!" asked Terra.

"It's to hide your cutie mark and coat." Tori whispered,"Now go while I mingle with the residents... in the bar.”

"Don't destroy it! I want a place to come back to for my victory dance!"

"Look, the only I would destroy it is if somepony made me mad," Tori said.

"...that is not reassuring,"Terra said.

(Pinkie smiled, "And cue montage."

"Pinkie, this is a magically crafted video from the ancient past," Twilight said, trying not to think of the oxymoron in that sentence, "There's not going to be a "winning" montage in this video-

Pinkie smiled with a wide grin. Twilight looked at her, and frowned, "You make it hard to be mad at that face." )

Terra smiled as she entered and began to play very weakly. Every match she battled, it seemed that she would win only by a hair's breadth. Every match was one with only a point to spare, but no matter what she smiled and laughed at the win she procured from defeat's teeth.

In another bracket, Titan could only sigh as he played. The game he loved so much was getting boring, and each win to come to him was too easy. He frowned as each opponent seemed to fall by the wayside. Each move they pulled out, each strategy they came up with, he had seen before and was known like the back of his hoof. No one could seem to touch him and each move he pulled out was orderly, perfect, like a circle.

Terra gave a wink to Titan at one point, seeing her opponent so far away. Titan looked away, ignoring her. He knew what she was going to be like from her plays and style, just another mare to fall by his game. An orderly girl who will fall to another piece. Just so much black and white. Terra saw a different look, a stallion who might make this exciting and grand, like a new tree being born and growing. She couldn't wait to challenge him in the next match.

The game continued to be played between the several players and opponents, but it became obvious that all ponies were there to just watch these two strangers battle and win. The mare who would win with only a point ahead ad the stallion who seemed unbeatable to the world. And as more ponies watched, some did recognize Titan's unique style and began to talk; however, most could only look at the mare in confusion as none knew who she was.

Soon, the finals arrived and the Go board was set. Titan stepped forward and looked at Terra as she pulled out the black stones, "Black? So you decided to play with a disadvantage? My apologies, but whatever tricks you used to win, will not help here. You will lose, as it is meant to be."

"Like, I'm so sorry but no," Terra said, smiling, "I am going to win this one, and you be on the flat of your back in shock."

"Well then, come little mare," Titan said with a smile, "Best me. Show me where your strength truly lies!

Titan began to play, putting one of his stones in the upper corner and then looking at Terra. Terra looked for a while at the board, confused and bewildered. Then she placed her piece right next to his. A dumbfounded look came across his eyes as he saw this, wondering how a rookie could play a move like this and then put a piece next to hers.

Holding up, Terra let out a gasp, holding her green hooves to her chest in horror. Looking around, she played a piece to the side of the board as if trying to run away. Titan shrugged and countered by playing a piece in the center. Terra looked around, placing another piece randomly onto the board. Panic began to come onto Terra's eyes as she played against this god.

Titan could only shake his head, knowing that this would turn out like everything else in his life. Orderly, circular, and plain. There was no challenge in this mare like he expected. Then he heard, "Tell me, cutie... ever heard of a teaching game?"

"Yes, where you help a new player win by playing as a weaker opponent and give them an advantage," Titan said, "But I have no idea what this-"

"But I have another way of looking at it. I also think it's a good way to play dumb and let the other players, especially the top guy who has been playing the same way, think they know you," Terra said, moving her piece in the upper left-hand corner, "And the reveal who you are."

Titan raised an eyebrow at this, only to watch in horror as Terra placed a piece in the lower left-hand corner of the board, "No...it can't be."

"Thanks for opening up, big boy," Terra said, placing her piece down and then taking away all of his stones in a diagonal pattern. "Awww, and look at all of those points I took from you."

Titan could only shake his head in fear. Quickly trying to play and regain footing, he could only watch as each of his moves was countered by Terra. "Want to know what I love about Go and get bored with Chess? Chess is just too orderly. You study with greats and you can see how to play them, but all you end up doing is copying them. Go? You can have your own style, and that's what makes it fun for me," Terra said placing her last piece and watching as Titan stood frozen, hearing the loss being called out.

Getting up from her seat, Terra walked over and kissed Titan on the nose, "Mwah! Thanks for the game, sweetie pie. We must play again." And with that, she began to saunter away, while Titan stood there in shock.

Tori was waiting outside, “Did you enjoy yourself?"

"Yep! I just beat the loser who was winning all of the time and won without even breathing hard," Terra laughed as she walked into the bar, "Now come on, let's get sloshed and party until way past curfew."

"And you know what?" asked Meadowbrook, "I don’t think he even knew what steel looks like, much less adamantine!"

Starswirl could only shake his head and was about to offer a rebuttal before seeing Titan stand alone in the field, his eyes wide. Scared, Starswirl tapped his friend on the shoulder, "Titan?"

"That... that mare beat me." Titan said, shocked "No pony beat me. Not even my mother was able to beat me in games. No..."

Terra walked into her home, tip-toeing in slowly, "Ok, be silent, hope Mom and Dad don't see me and this will be the best day ever!"

The torches leading to the throne room then lit up, until they reached two ponies on thrones., “Terra." A pink alicorn mare with a glowing galaxy filled mane glared at her

"Oh, fudge, it's the popo," Terra thought. Then she rolled her eyes and said, "What is it, Mom?"

Queen Majesty stomped towards her,"You are late."

"Only an hour late mom!" Terra said, rolling her eyes and walking around, "And I'm perfectly fine, right, Dad?"

Methuselah looked up at her, and then at Majesty who glared back at him,"Listen to your mother, Terra."

("Whipped much?" Dash snickered.

Methuselah's hologram looked away in shame.)

"DAD!" Terra said, before turning to her mother, "And in case you don't remember, I'm a powerful princess. I don't see why I need a curfew!

"You are also a target!"Majesty said, “What if an enemy saw you? What if an alicorn of light attacked you and killed Tori? What if they capture you!?"

"Yeah Mom, what are they gonna do if they catch me? Brainwash me? Turn me into a broodmare? Torture and kill me?" Terra laughed, "I don't think that is possible! I got this! I am like one of the most powerful alicorns on the planet! I made a gorge by accident! I created a freaking mountain because of a bad breakup! I think they need to try harder to beat me."

"Morning Dawn could break the continent in half if she wanted to." Majesty stomped towards her,"Evening Dusk had wiped out an entire race in one night. There are so many other alicorns with more power and experience than you! And the only thing keeping you safe is a mortal pegasus. Even then I do not think she'll survive if you continue to act recklessly!"

Terra stepped forward, putting her nose to her mom. She narrowed her eyes, "It's not acting recklessly if you know how powerful you are! I know how to protect myself and save myself! You survived this long before meeting Dad, right pops?!"

(“My word, the ego on this mare," Rarity said. "How did Celestia ever spring from her!?"

"Age does that ponies," Applejack said.

Rainbow Dash cheered, "Yeah, you tell her!"

"On the other hoof..." Applejack joked)

Methuselah sighed,"Honey, you are very powerful. But no one is perfect."

"Oh sure, take her side! You both are just so...so...parental!" Terra said, stomping up the stairs to her room, "Oh, and I won a go game!" and then she slammed the door

Titan stepped into his home, just five minutes before curfew. His eyes were wide as he walked in a trance, "Mother? I...lost a game."

Titan's mother brushed her green mane aside as she walked towards him,"You did? Who were you up against?"

Titan paused as he looked at her, then he smiled as he noted the room was a little greener, "The most beautiful thing I had ever seen."

She laughed, “Aw, are we in love, Titan?"

"N-no! I'm not!" Titan said, a blush in his cheeks, "I just think it's beautiful that I have a rival who can match me!" he then run over and hugged his mom tightly, "No, I got to get to bed, night motherloveyou!" he then ran upstairs and slammed it.

Meadowbrook smiled and looked towards his mother, "Oh, he got it bad."

Terra laid back and looked to the window, knowing her friend was outside, "Hey Tori... that stallion was cute, wasn't he?"

("OH I do hope Titan and Terra get together! They are so sweet!" Pinkie said, before blushing, "Oh...right. Timey-wimey")

"I guess." Tori said, sitting on the banister of the balcony,"Are you in love, Terra?"

Terra blushed at this, and then chuckled, "No, just...excited."

"Right." Tori chuckled,"Good night, Princess."

"Night Tori," Terra said, before rolling onto her back and looking at her, "Hey, Tori...do you really think that the Alicorns of Light are all that bad? Can't there be a few good ones?"

"..." Tori let out a sigh as she looked out at the city before her, “I'm not sure Terra. I'm not sure."

Terra sighed, "It's just...it's not me right, I'm not the only one who is tired of all of this right? I just... want the world to be like it was before, no wars no blood.. just friends partying on down."

"Believe it or not, so do I." Tori said, before flying off.

Terra smiled at this and watched as her friend left. She then began to look around her room, covered as it was with band posters, some jewelry here and there, a few little plushies at the side of her bed. Just an average teenager room for someone who was about to leave her teenage life behind. Rolling onto her back she smiled, "I may not love him, but," she smiled, "He is a cutie. I hope to see him again."

"End Memory," Methuselah said before the hologram shut off.

"Hey, you can't end it like that!" Rainbow Dash shouted, "Where’re the cool fights and stuff!?"

"Indeed the romance, while a good build-up, needed more oomph!" Rarity commented.

Applejack frowned, "And we didn't get nearly as much as we wanted on Terra's Mom and Dad. What are their actors were too expensive or something?"

"I liked it," Fluttershy whispered.

Twilight rolled her eyes, “This was obviously just the beginning chapter. It’s not going to get to the meat of the story until later!"

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes, "I prefer it when the story gets to the meat quicker!"

"Not every story works like that- why are we reviewing history!?"

Pinkie shouted, "For a gag of course!"

"You confuse me sometimes Pinkie..." Twilight muttered,"Come on, let's go."

"I hope Keyleth and the others are ok," Fluttershy whisper

They came out, only to see nothing. Rarity let out a gasp, and softly whispered, "No."

Applejack stepped out and shouted, "Grog? Vax, Vex?"

Rainbow Dash took the sky and began to look around, her ear twitching for a brief moment. Then she looked ahead, "Hey, I hear music coming from there!" she said pointing to the center of town

There was an increasingly large group of ponies parting, and in the center of it all, was Vox Machina.

Rainbow Dash gasped, "Whoa, what's happening here?"

"A PARTY!" Pinkie said, running into the group and jumping around to the music.

"Excuse me, pardon me," Rarity said, moving through the group and trying to find a table. Finding Vex, she said down with a cup and asked, "I assume all went well?"

Vex nodded as she took a sip,"Oh, yes, we-"

"Are the one and only VOX MACHINA!" Keyleth shouted, her words slurring, “WE have beaten gods... maybe we are gods...”

"Oh the poor thing," Rarity said to Vex, "Cannot hold her liquor can she. How many did she have to drink?"

Someone shouted from the crowd, laughing, "Only one!"

Keyleth draped a hoof over Fluttershy, “You're... a really good friend..."

"Um, thanks," Fluttershy said, hugging her back.

Dash looked at Vax, "So, did ya drink anypony under the table? Or are ya a pansy waist?"

Vax smirked,"Oh, please, I'm part pegasus, I can drink most of these ponies under the table." He shot a glance at Grog,"Well..."

“You don't think he can? I mean, pegasi don't get drunk, it's a scientific fact," Dash remarked.

"It is, but that guy's constitution score is high as fuck."

Dash silently nodded and then took her place to ake a few drinks. Applejack walked over to Grog who was finishing his thirtieth tankard of ale. Smirking, she reached up to offer a hoof bump to him. Smirking, Grog did a little hoof tap. Pinkie giggled as she walked to Twilight," Isn't this great?"

Twilight looked up, "Huh? What?"

"The party!" Pinkie said with a big smile, "We have an item, beat an alicorn, and no one died! We are only a few steps away from winning!" she said, before hopping away to the party.

Twilight gave a smile, “Yeah, today... was a victory." She began to laugh.

A new journey

Pinkie skipped up to Scanlan and began to join him in the song.

Percy stepped to the side and watched them.

Twilight smiled as she sat down and watched the party. Looking back at Percy, she asked, "Is something wrong with me?"

"Hmm?" Percy looked at her, “Not that I'm aware of, why?"

"We have one of the eight items, one of the gods is down, and we are all safe. I should be happy and excited but I'm not!" Twilight said with a small shout. Shaking her head, she said, "My mind is just filled with what we have to do in the future, all of the risks we have, and what we are still missing. What if we fail, what if we mess up? What if we got lucky this time? I went here to look for the item and the font for earth pony magic to help me and I haven't found that yet!"

She let out a small little grunt and slam a hoof onto the table, "We're partying and we only barely completed step one! And I should be happy, but I'm not... I’m not."

Percy groaned inwardly(Of all ponies she could complain to, she complains to me!)"Well, we did make a big leap. Today I did not expect to kill a god, but here we are." He looked at her, “How many days do we have left?"

Twilight looked up at the moon, "About 53."

"Then we'll be fine." Percy looked at her,"The map does show the next area, right?"

Twilight brought out the map, "We are here at Westruun. The next few areas are to the north, east, and south. Then of course we have the other parts of the riddle."

Vex leaned over Twilight's shoulder," South would be..." She noticed Syngorn to the East,"Of course."

"A problem dear?" asked Rarity.

"That's where our... father lives." She hissed a little.

Vax looked at the south,"Well, at least the Earth Pony font and Kraghammer are next, so we won't have to meet him for a while."

"So, do you need me to punch that deer in the antlers when we meet him?" asked Rainbow Dash.

Fluttershy shook her head, "Dashie, let's hold back on the beatdown until later. Let's enjoy the party."

Scanlan then shouted,"Yeah, they're doing Limbo over here!"

"HA! None can defeat the master of the Limbo!" Pinkie shouted.

Twilight looked on as they began to dance and gave a soft smile.

Keyleth giggled and looked at Vax, "Heh, has anyone told you that you look cute with those antlers?"

"Um, occasionally?" said Vax, watching Keyleth's drunken motions, "Maybe we should consider getting you to an inn?"

"Oh, in and out, in and out, I don't care as long as it's you," Keyleth giggled and nuzzled Vax.

Vex sighed and shook her head. Turning to see Percy sitting at a bench, lightly drinking, she sighed and walked over to him, "You know this is a party, right?"

"Yes," Percy said, looking at his glass.

"Which means fun, right?" asked Vex.

"Yes," Percy confirmed.

"Good, this means that you won't complain if I take you to dance!" Vex said, grabbing Percy’s hoof and pulling him into the square.

Rainbow Dash watched as Percy was taken to the dance floor and laughed a little. Looking back to Fluttershy, she smiled as she watched her friend tend to Trinket. Flying over to her, she said, “You, are gonna dance."

"Wha-eeep!" Fluttershy let out a squeak as she was taken to the dance floor, the two hovering above the rest as they began to dance.

"Let us party the night away everypony! So that way we are too drunk to remember our problems tomorrow!" shouted Scanlan.

"And you said, all she wants is a map of Glidesdale?" a mare asked.

"That's all she needed from the Slayers take," the male voice said.

"And she took on the project, all alone?" asked the mare.

"In record time too."

Samus stood over the corpse of the dragon, sighing. She looked down at her hoof and frowned, "An adult white dragon was nowhere near as fun as I thought."

The next morning, Rarity woke, snuggled up to Grog, "Oh dear, please tell me that I passed out drunk where we fell."

"Oh, you got sloshed, So I cuddled you," Grog said.

Keyleth moaned,"Can somepony give me some coffee, and a crossbow to shoot myself?”

"Remember, suicide is not the way," Pike said with a warm smile.

Rainbow Dash couldn't help but laugh, "Being a pegasus is awesome, right Twi...ohhh..right."

Twilight glared at her for a few seconds, then laughed a little.

Applejack groaned, "Can't feel my legs. Just leave me here girls, I don't wanna do anything."

"Hey Twilight, does the sun have to come up?" Pinkie moaned

"Unfortunately, Celestia has a schedule to keep." Twilight moaned.

Vax sighed, "Pike, can your magic help?"

"Give me a few seconds." Pike began to cast Lesser Restoration on them, allowing her horn to shine a bright light on them.

The group slowly got up, the hangover slowly washing over them thanks to the bright light from the symbol. Rainbow looked at them, "Ok, now that we are done with the hangover, where are we heading to Twilight? Font or the next item?"

"Font." Twilight said immediately,"I want my magic back as soon as possible."

"Would the font be at the temple?," Applejack said.

Rainbow Dash let out a small mumble, "Here's hoping that it doesn't have a complicated test."

"Actually, it's a few miles southwest from here." Twilight corrected.

Applejack groaned "Couldn't make it easy."

“What do you mean you are in charge of the money?" shouted Rainbow Dash as she looked at Vex and Rarity.

"Well, we discussed it and figured that the ones most responsible that wouldn't be spending the cash on frivolous things would be me and Lady Vex," Rarity said.

Vex nodded,"Indeed, we talked with one another, and realized that we are the most trustworthy."

"So, we are all giving out 200 gold each," Rarity said. "And in case you are asking, I am getting some from my personal bank and Twilight had some sent over from her private school bank account."

"Also, for some reason, the monsters we killed had some gold in them," Twilight said.

"Why is that?" asked Applejack.

"Oh, every monster gets money for each adventurer and victim they eat from the monsters guild," A random earth pony said.

"There's a monster's guild?"

"Well yeah, a monster has to get paid once in a while," the earth pony said.

"Come on, Gramps, it's time for your meds," a young female pony in a nurse’s outfit said, taking him away. "Sorry, he has some wild theories."

So the group went and bought supplies.

A mare popped up to look at Pike, Keyleth, and Fluttershy they entered the store, "Welcome to Potions and Notions. Where you got the notion, we have the potion!"

Pike walked up to the desk, “Yes, what do you have?"

We have potions of healing, potions of sealing, one potion of giant strength, one potion of fjord pony strenght, one potion of Sam Reigel comedy, some defunct mana potions, some potions of mana, potions of maana, potion of continuity, potion of injuity, potion of lag, potion of itune, potion of google, potion of wedding, potion of divorce, potion of legal, potion of illegal, poton of corn,potion of p0rn, potion of cameo, potion of spoiler, potion of MGS, potion, notion, potion of notion, potion of gay, potion of straight, potion of furry, potion of evil, potion of good, potion of chaotic, potion of lawful, potion of discord, potion overly long gag, potion o running gag, potion of button, potion of jerk, potion of Ramsey, potion of Ferrari, potion of kiss, potion of stealt, potion of loud, potion of figaro, figaro, FIIIIIIGARO!, potion of red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet, potion of dnd, potion of successful fanfic, potion of running gag, potion of puttery, potion of adorable tiefling, potion of Twilight, potion of small, potion of large, potion of kidney stones, potion of how much longer can this gag go on, potion of puppies, potion of kittens, Neighpon poshion, potion of tranlate languages, and potion of end of fic.”

"I think we'll just stick with the potions of healing..." Pike whispered

"Ok, but we do have a sale on the potion of iTune!" the mare said and she went to grab some small and large potions of red vials. She then walked over to bring them out. On her name tag was the word Dare.

"Um, is your name dare?" asked Fluttershy.

"Yep, Dare Mare of Potions and Notions Westruun branch. We are working hard to bring our business all over!" Dare Mare of the red hair said bringing potion to bear.

Grog, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash went to some of the smaller weapon shops, "Rassin fracking, Stupid Rarity. What does she mean that I am an irresponsible shopper?" Dash grumbled.

"I think she knows what she is talking about..."Applejack sighed.

After a few moments of shopping, the group regathered outside of town. "There, I hope nopony bought anything frivolous,” Vex said

Twilight subtly put away her novel, “Yeah, nothing frivolous."

"Wait a sec," Rainbow Dash said, looking at Rarity's bag, "What's that then?!"

"Oh, this? This is a bag-"

"All of this talk about us buying frivolous things and you and go and buy a bag!" Rainbow dash said, "And not even a good-looking one! It's just a little, brown, Bag of-

"Holding!" Twilight said, "I read about it in some of Celestia's books but I didn't think we would find one."

"Yes, cost me a pretty penny, but I think it was worth it," Rarity said with a smile as she pull out some arrows. "And Vex was nice enough to let me have a new bow and some daggers."

She then looked at Vax, "Speaking of which. You seemed to have lost one of yours in the fight. Here," she handed the dagger "you can have Whisper.”

"Whisper?" Vax looked it over, “Looks good." He said with a smile

"Yes, I bought it not too long ago from," as she walked away, she held up a giant hoofmade sign that said,"Gilmore's Glorious Goods."

Vax gave a smile," Gilmore! My old friend!"

"Oh, you know him?" Rarity asked as she walked with Vax through the wood.

"Yes, we've enjoyed each other's company several times."

This gave Rarity pause, and a moment to think. And then after a moment, she nodded and followed him. Applejack, walking just behind them, lightly chuckled and rolled her eyes before joining up with Grog who was busy looking up at the butterfly above. Sighing, "Ok, so how do ya do it?"

"Do what?" asked Grog.

"That thing where you practically seem invincible, stronger, and more...you," Applejack asked.

"I don't know," Grog said, putting a hoof to his chin, "I just get really mad and think about how much I want to kick the big monster in front of me!"

Applejack le out a small chuckle at the big lug. Pinkie, on the other hand, bounced to and fro, looking at pony from pony, listening to everypony talk while they walk.

"So, Pike," Twilight asked,"What... who do you think raises the sun and moon over here in the west?"

"Celestia and Luna, of course," Pike said.

"Oh, that's- what." Twilight looked back at her in shock.

"It's actually surprising to know that they are on this plane as we speak!" Pike smiled,"We do have ponies worshipping them from over here, telling tales of how they keep the world in balance." she frowned,"Though, I wonder why Luna left her Moon Kingdom?"

"That... is a long story," Twilight muttered.

Fluttershy walked with Pike, "You don't know? What...did you think happened to Luna 1000 years ago."

Pike cocked her head,"Well, isn't she living on the moon? Though the Mare in the Moon did disappear 2 years ago..."

"Um, well, you see..." Fluttershy began to fumble, trying her best to talk about the difference in myth. Lightly tapping her hooves she was about to speak.

"She was actually corrupted thanks to a lot of ponies forgetting to appreciate her and tell her how beautiful her night was, so she became really grumpy and was turned into the dark side so Celestia sent her far away to the moon and then she came back and we had to band together to go through a series of tests to stop her and that's how we became the Elements of Harmony!" Pinkie said, explaining at a rapid-fire pace. "Next time I'll talk about how we beat chaos and made him our friend."

"Oh. Okay." Pike said,"That wasn't long at all."

Scanlan muttered,"Enough for a two-parter.

"And for a whole lot of alternate dimensions," Pinkie joked back at Scanlan

Coming up ahead was a large stone temple.

"Oh wow!" Pinkie said, looking up at it, "It's so big."

Scanlan chuckled, "Yeah, almost indescribable, isn't it." he said, looking up at you.

"How do we get in," Applejack asked. "It might have a few secret doors and tricks and-"

"FOUND IT!" Grog said, pushing the door with one hoof.

An Earth Pony stallion dressed in a red robe showed up at the front, panting,"Finally, got to the front entrance..." He coughed,"Welcome to the Font of Earth Pony magic!"

"Were you, waiting for us?" asked Twilight with a raised eyebrow. "How long were you...why did you...?"

"Well, not waiting for you specifically. I'm merely they greeter for all who wish to take the trials and regain their Earth Pony magic." The stallion said.

"..." Twilight paused at this, and asked, "Is losing an earth pony magic such a common thing that there needs to be a test and a trail and a ceremony to regain it?"

"Believe it or not, yes!" The stallion said.

"...I wish I had my magic so I bring out a notepad and write down this as things to ask Celestia later," Twilight said.

"Here you go!" Pinkie said, giving Twilight a list.

Twilight nodded and looked back at him, "Then what are the trials?"

"Well, you'll have to see." The stallion said, before looking at them,"Unfortunately, those without Earth Pony magic within them cannot come."

"What," was the group’s responsive answer.

"Well, I suppose that makes sense. It is an earth pony temple," Applejack said.

Rainbow Dash groaned, "But you'll take forever in there!!!"

"Ah, you'll be fine," Applejack said. "You guys can just have some conversations with each other while me and Pinkie-"

"And me," Grog said stepping forward. "I want to see this place for myself. Besides, I'm not standing around bored!"

Percy also raised a hoof, "I'm going as well. I am actually quite curious as to what I can find in there."

"Perfect!" The stallion beckoned towards them,"Come, come, I will talk you to where you need to go."

He led them down a long stone corridor. Cracks appeared all along their sides. Looking closely, they could see drawings of Earth Ponies doing tasks, creating tools.

Finally, they came to a large chamber, with three doors. One on the north, one to the west, and one to the east, “The magicless one must go through that door and enter a special chamber, the other four must pass the trials, and then complete the ritual." He turned and headed out.

“Wait, what if we need-" Applejack sighed and looked around, "So... how do we split up?"

Twilight stepped to look at the other two doors, trying to read it, "Hmmmm, it's in different languages, but If I'm right...I think it's strength and skill. So-"

She paused looking at the sigils of the points crafting and working hard, for a few moments regarding the words of Volkermord playing her mind. She blinked for a second as she heard Applejack’s voice call out other, "Twi?"

"Um, anyway. I think it should be Pinkie with Percy," she looked at the look of fear and horror that flashed on the normally stoic pony's face, "Sorry. And Grog with Applejack."

"Oh yeah," Grog said, giving a light hoof tap to his blood sister.

"I wish everypony good luck. I mean, after all, they wouldn't put killer tests in here...right?" Twilight said with a chuckle

Percy sighed, “Way to tempt fate, Twilight Sparkle." He walked towards the west door, “Come on..."

Twilight sighed as she went towards the front-facing door to a large pod, "Here's hoping everypony will be ok

Pinkie and Percy would end up upstairs and seeing a floor with several numbers on them

"Oh, my gosh!" Pinkie shouted, "There are more numbers here than I can count!”

Percy looked at the numbers

They were arranged in a 3x3 square. Next to them was a sign,"Find 15"

8 ? 4
1 5 ?
? ? 2

Pinkie looked at the numbers, and then circled the one and five, "Found it!" she giggled at her joke. Then she put a three in between 8 and 4,

"Huh, you figured that out." Percy walked over and put a 9 after the 5
"Well duh, of course, it's easy!" Pinkie said, "I used to do these with Maude all of the time. It was to help her study and for me to 'get that hyper ball of kinetic energy out of my hair' in the words of Limey."

Percy smirked,,"It appears that I have underestimated you, Pinkie." He put a 7 and a 2 on the bottom.

"That's one of the best things about being so peppy!" Pinkie said, "I am totally unpredictable!"

"Indeed," Percy said, as a wall ahead of them shifted down to reveal a hallway.

Pinkie followed, looking up, "Gotta try harder than that to trick me you tricky trick puzzle!

Percy and Pinkie would appear in a circular room. On the other side was a door with a keyhole. In the center was a pedestal, with a small grey orb floating in the air.

Pinkie paused, and began to look at her body, "Mmmm, let's see..."

Percy looked at Pinkie, “What are you doing?"

There didn't seem to be anything scary.

"Want to touch the orb?"Pinkie asked.

"Trying to see if my Pinkie sense is picking up anything scary," Pinkie said.

"That sounds like a plan." Percy went over and touched the orb. The orb began to morph around his hoof before he pulled away.

Pinkie lightly tapped the orb

The orb did the same thing to Pinkie's hoof.

Pinkie pulled away, and then put her nose to the orb.

The orb morphed around her nose.

Percy grabbed the orb with a frown,Ithink we need to turn this into a key."

Pinkie nodded and turned the orb into a keyblade.

"I... suppose that works..." Percy muttered.

Percy indicated the keyhole, “Well, put it in."

Pinkie put in the key and turned it, before walking in while dressed in an outfit with a lot of zippers.

Through the door was a similar wall with two holes. The message was the same.

Pinkie smiled and pulled out a cupcake, "This is tasty magic!" she then put two of them into the holes.

Percy watched as she did so, to no effect, “I think we need to put our hooves in there."

Pinkie whimpered, "Right. Oh, I hope the Dude who Made this didn't put in needles!" she then put her hoof in

Percy did the same.

And then needles struck both of them, causing a bit of magic to drain from them.

"Ow!" Pinkie whimpered.

In front of Applejack and Grog, there were several large blocks.

"Oh please don't tell me it's a slider puzzle," Applejack said s she walked to try and push one of the blocks

The block went forward and then swung back. Applejack would notice that there are three sets of different colored blocks, all set in a column, with two blocks in a row across from one another.

Grog walked o the middle column and punched the middle block. Applejack began to look at the sets and then the two blocks in a row. Stepping over to move one of the blocks in a row.

The two blocks slammed against each other.

Grog knocked one of the bottom blocks.

The block was a little harder to push this time.

Applejack and Grog punched another set of blocks this time together.

The blocks broke.

"Was that supposed to happen?" asked Applejack.

"Who cares! Block smashing time!" Grog said, pushing and smashing a few more blocks.

As all the blocks were smashed, the wall beyond them lowered to reveal a hallway.

Grog and Applejack gave each other a high hoof, which accidentally sent Applejack flying. Grog looked a little sheepish, but she gave a hoof up and smirked at her comrade. The two walked through the hallway.

When they walked through, they would feel their bodies growing heavier.

"Hey, do you feel heavier?" asked Applejack, walking a little slower.

Grog shrugged, "Well, I did eat a lot."

The gravity increased little by little on each step.

Grog shrugged, "Still not feeling anything."

"Really," Applejack said, looking at his knees, "Your knees are saying something else."

"Probably can handle more than you, “Grog smirked,

"Try me ya tall softie."

The gravity got even stronger as they neared the end.

"Still feeling nothing?" asked Applejack.

Grog shrugged, ignoring the sweat on his forehead, "Why? You wanna quit?"

"Nope, just want to make sure you are ok." Applejack said.

The gravity got heavier and heavier as they entered the last stretch.

Grog shrugged, like taking off a jacket. Each step began to create a crater beneath his feet while his thighs trembled. Looking to Applejack, he asked, "Ready to quit?"

"Nah, just needed to let you catch up," Applejack smirked.

They reached the door where the gravity turned to normal

They looked at each other and then hoof bumped.

AJ and Grog would see beyond them a large golden wall, with two holes in it.

A sign above said, “Feed magic into the one who has none."

"Now what the-

“Hey does that mean!" asked Grog and Applejack together.

The holes glowed before them.

Grog and Applejack put their hooves into the holes.

The holes clenched around their hooves, while needles stuck into them. A little bit of magic drained from them.

Applejack and Grog shrugged, "Was that all we needed?"

Twilight headed into the center room. Inside was a small pond surrounded by stone tiles. Beyond those tiles were a ring of flowers.

Twilight let out a sigh, before entering the pod. A few minutes later, she felt a surge of energy flow through her.

Applejack was the first to step into the area, and seeing the pod, ran to it, "Twilight, are you all right?"

Twilight stepped out, steam pouring from the pod. She then wiggled her hoof with a grin, “I've got Earth Pony magic now!" She began to hop around, “I've got Earth Pony magic!" she ran to AJ and bopped her on the nose, “Did you feel that, huh, huh, huh?"

Applejack looked at Twilight, "Um, Twilight, if ya wanted a liar then you should've tried hitting Grog, Percy, or Pinkie." she said, frowning. Then she put her hoof onto Twilight's shoulder, "Even when you were at full power, your punches were um....kind of like-"

"-a butterfly punching a giant pony like Grog?" Pinkie asked.

"Hey, that one butterfly hurt my nose," Grog said. "Oh, I know, you can try punching me

Twilight, smile wide, went over and bopped Grog,"Did ya feel that!?"

"Yeah!" Grog said smiling, "Totally felt that! It hit hard!" he said, looking at Pinkie who did sign language to tell him what to say.

Twilight let out a squee as she began hopping around, “I've got magic!" She then bolted away.

Applejack ran after her, "You don't have your magic, just earth pony strength!"

Pinkie Pie was about to run, but then looked around, "Mr. Earth Pony guardian? Are you going to be stuck here all alone when we leave?"

The guardian appeared behind Pinkie,"Nah, we work in shifts."

"You do?! Oh yay!" Pinkie cheered, "I was worried you worked all alone and had nopony to talk to. Still gonna give you a cake tough!"

"Ah, thanks!" The stallion said. Then he went to a time card, punched it out, as a mare walked past him.

"Do they have a union or something?" asked Applejack.

"Who cares, they give out free drinks in the lobby and free cookies! Plus I used the tablet at one of the ice cream stands and now have a free ice cream!"Pinkie cheered

"Since Twilight's not here to cock her in confusion, I will do it," Percy cocked his head,"How in the blazes is that tablet working as a coupon!?"

"Well," Pinkie said, bringing out the stone tablet/map, "You'll note right here that it says "turn this in for a free sweet or treat for a year? I decided I might as well try it at the temple's concession stand."

"That... just... let's just go..."

Applejack and Percy soon left, with Pinkie following close behind with a small cone and Grog with an even bigger cone and some more cones. Applejack walked up to Twilight after catching up, "So now the excitement is dying down, how do ya feel??"

Twilight turned to her with a smile,"Pretty good! I can't wait to get the rest of my magic back."

"Bladesinger?" Rarity asked herself as she read from the book.

"Ah, one of the lesser-known of the magic schools," Scanlan said, "Always learning how to wield their swords with the strength of a swordsman while losing none of their power. Can be a little bitchy though and sometimes you dare one and right in the middle of the fun stuff will start comparing blade sizes..."

Rarity rolled her eyes at what Scanlan had said, and then went back to look at her book. She could see the picture of a deer wielding his blade and pulling back, looking like a dance. For a moment she a bit of memory hit her, "It looks like the style of bladesinging back home. Granted, no pony but the old knights know it."

"Ain’t that the boring truth!" Rainbow Dash said, resting in the tree and playing with a pinecone. "Your uncle is a cool knight with swords and all of that, but unless it's a normal pony he doesn't get to use it! We know all of these cool tricks but we never get to prove ourselves, and this whole country thinks that we are wimps!"

"Are you saying that you would rather have us be in a battle mode all of the time, be ready for a war or a fight?" asked Rarity, looking up from the book.

"Well, know. I mean," Dash sighed, "Just look. These ponies are still peaceful, with the exception of a monster or two. They are just like us, just better fighters! I just-"

"Want to prove that we are just as tough if we trained like them?" asked Rarity, looking back up at Rainbow Dash. "That's what all we are doing right now. Learning from each other, exchanging cultures and ideas. That's what it means to travel to a distant land. Perhaps, when this adventure is over, we can all begin to learn more and help each other. Perhaps then...never mind. Look at how Fluttershy is taking this."

Dash looked up at Fluttershy as she continued to talk and concentrate around Keyleth and Pike. Magic sparks came from her hooves and wings as she practiced. Rainbow sighed as she looked at her friend and nodded. Shaking her head she laid back and said, "Whatevs. I'm conking out. You are on Vax duty."

"Vax duty?" asked Rarity.

"Make sure he doesn't sneak up and prank me while I sleep wait for the two slowpokes to get over here," Dash complained as she began to sleep.

Vax looked at Rarity, “Where's the trust?"

"Handsome, though you are Vax, you are also a cunning rogue with all of the implications there are," Rarity said, using her magic to create an alarm spell around the tree.

Vax smirked, “Now you're just giving me a challenge."

Samus looked down at Ridley, her horn cannon aimed at his maw. She glared daggers at him as he watched his bleeding body slowly die before her, "Y-you think this means anything? Heh. I'll come back someday, I always do. I'll be able to stand with my brothers and fight again, and all you will be is alone. I don't even know why you care about that infant. It's only suffering the fate we all do. We are born alone, and then we die alone. Forgotten by all but those who are the closest-" Ridley's next words were obliterated by the sound of two super missiles going down his throat and exploding, leaving him a headless corpse.

"If only you didn’t come back so often," Samus said, "I might et some satisfaction from this..."

Samus woke up on the ground of Glidesdale, before sighing and saying, "Alone...always alone."

"He was wrong you know," said Adam, coming on, "No one is truly alone. Perhaps, if you had allowed others to help you could-"

"Just go to sleep Adam, the wyvern won’t be here for a few more hours," Samus said, closing her eyes again.

The group finished resting up at the temple, before continuing onwards towards Kraghammer.

Applejack walked with the group ahead of the others, occasionally she would look overhead at Rainbow Dash. Then she would look back "Anypony from the West know much about this Kraghammer place?"

Pike looked up at her,"Well, I know that it's full of Shetland ponies."

"Shetland ponies?" asked Applejack.

"Um, very short like Fjords, but also very aggressive miners and blacksmiths."

"My kind of ponies!" Grog said, smirking.

Fluttershy walked back with Rarity and looked at her. With a curious eye, she asked, "Are you ok?"

"Hmmm, me darling? Why do you ask?" asked Rarity.

"I was just thinking about what you said before we got here. How you were always afraid that we might die alone? I was wondering if you are still scared," Fluttershy asked.

"I think are all a little scared dying again, my dear," Rarity said. "We are in a new land, surrounded by threats we do not know of, and while Vox Machina's skills are great. I cannot help but worry that at one point, our luck may be up."

"Oh my, and you...are still fine?" asked Fluttershy.

Rarity smiled warmly and placed a hoof onto Fluttershy's shoulder, "Fluttershy, of course, I am. It just wouldn't do to worry when I am seeing you and the others slowly improve. If it isn't Twilight getting her magic slowly day by day, there is you with your cleric training."

Fluttershy watched as Pike walked ahead, talking with Vex, "I...do think I'm getting better. Pike has been showing me so much about healing magic and Keylteht's been letting me practice on plants with my druid magic."

"You see dear? We are all improving, even if we don't know it," Rarity said, looking up to the sky as Rainbow kept her aerial patrol. "Though I will say this, I do wish we bought a carriage!"

Fluttershy let out a giggle and put her head to Rarity's "Maybe we can find one in Kraghammer."

Twilight kept stepping on with a small hop,"Applejack, how does your earth pony magic work?"

"How does...Ah," Applejack paused and looked down, "I don't know really. I always just felt it come naturally. Though...Granny Smith has told me about some sort of skill that some ponies used to do to get in touch with their magic."

Twilight frowned,"Should've asked you back home then..."

Applejack stood, "First you gotta breathe deep, letting the sun flow through you. Letting it warm your coat, like how it would warm a tree."

Twilight let out a deep breath and began to concentrate.

"Put your hooves onto the ground, feel the earth's mana just flowing on through," Applejack said. "Just like if you are a tree and taking in Celestia's good light and it's making you grow big and strong."

"Yes..." Twilight said.

"And voila, you should be feeling a little of the earth pony magic flowing right through your mana," Applejack said.

"Wow... it's not much..." Twilight muttered.

"Well, remember, you are just now getting reused to it," Applejack said patting Twilight's shoulder.

Twilight sighed,"Yeah..." She muttered.

Rainbow Dash grumbled to herself in the sky before shouting down below "How much longer. I swear if I don't see something interesting soon I'll do something drastic!"

Vax then yelled back,"Why don't you fly into another rock golem's mansion then!"

Vex frowned,"You were a part of that."

"Yes, but I'll take any chance to take the piss out of Speedy."

"And why don't ya take one of your daggers and shove it up your nostril, captain emo!" Dash shouted back

"And why don't you take a flying dive off-" Vax began.

Vex bopped him on the head,"No! None of that!"

"Ha! I win-"

"Rainbow Miriam Dash, you cut that out," Fluttershy said.

"Yes ma’am," Dash said, defeated.

Up ahead was a large mountain. Built into the side of it was a large set of red doors with hammers on them. In front was a grumbling pony with a lot of braided hair.

"Hey!!" Rainbow Dash shouted at the grubling pony, "Is this Kraghammer?"

Rarity stepped forward, "Why are you grumbling sir?"

"Yeah." The pony said,"And there's this douchebag alicorn spouting constantly about democracy. He. Won't. Shut. Up!"

"An alicorn!?" Pinkie said, rushing in, "Well, we made it a hobby of stopping them! Why is he talking about democracy?"

Applejack also looked at him, "And why are you out here anyway Mr...

"Hammerstein," The pony said,"And I'm out here to get away from that guy!"

"Well don't worry big guy!" Pinkie said, "We'll take care of that man who is spouting democracy and make him pay."

Applejack looked over her shoulder, "Why does this all sound wrong?"

Twilight was too stunned,"No, that's gotta be an exaggeration, there's no way-"

Then they saw Pollux in the center of the stone-built city, on a pedestal where several moaning ponies were

"MY FELLOW PONIES! WE MUST MAKE A STAND TODAY!" Pollux shouted at the top of his lungs, "WE MUST STAND FOR THE BEAUTIFY OF DEMOCRACY. FOR WE ARE ALL INDIVIDUALS CAPABLE OF NOT ONLY FREE THOUGHT BUT FREE SPEECH! WE HOLD THESE TRUTHS TO BE SELF-EVIDENT, THAT ALL PONIES ARE CREATED EQUAL. SO YOU MUST SHARE THAT EQUALITY WITH OTHERS, WHILE WE ALICORNS SHOW YOU OUR OWN DEMOCRACY!

Twilight stared at him,"Sorry girls, but I'm going to be gone for a minute." she walked away. A few seconds later, there came the sound of something hitting a wall.

"Excuse me miss," Asked a stallion "But could you sign this impression, please? It might help with the Kraghammer tourism."

Twilight rolled her eyes and sighed, signing out her autograph, "There. Probably not going to be big anyway."

Keyleth looked at the impression on the wall, "Oh, that looks just like you!"

Twilight let out an annoyed groan, before walking away.

Pollux stepped forward, "And in order to best represent democracy, we must stare down the threats to Democracy! Threats such as the undemocratic and monarchial Twilight Sparkle and her team!!!"

"You're not democratic either!" Twilight shouted,"Scanlan, tell him!"

Scanlan was looking elsewhere when his name was called,"What?"

"AND HOW AM I NOT DEMOCRATIC!!? I REPRESENT NOTHING BUT DEMOCRACY! I HAVE US ALL VOTE EQUALLY TO DETERMINE THE LAWS OF THE PEOPLE AND WE ALL HAVE ONE VOTE IN OUR LAND AND WE ALL MAKE THE SAME RULES THAT TEN ARE APPLIED TO YU PONIES. BY DOING THIS WE SHOW THAT ALL ALICORNS AND GODS ARE MADE EQUAL AND CAN MAKE DECISIONS AS AN UNIFIED BASE!!!

Scanlan chuckled,"You're equal, but not the rest of us."

"BUT UNDER DEMOCRACY, YOU ARE EQUAL! EQUAL BENEATH US AND BELOW US. IN YOUR UNEQUALNESS YOU ARE ALL EQUAL!"

Scanlan tipped his beret,"I bow to no one but myself."

"AND WHO ARE YOU TO QUESTION MY BELIEFS AND THE POWER OF DEMOCRACY!!!"

"Scanlan Bert Reynolds Shorthalt Esq., the most magnificent bard in all of Glidesdale!" He bowed.

"POLLUX! AND WHAT GIVE YOU THE RIGHT TO COMPLAIN ABOUT MY DEVOTION TO DEMOCRACY!!"

"Oh, I happen to be under the service of another princess that's working against you. Also, I am an amazing bard."

"A BARD YOU SAY. HA, FOOLISH MORTAL, I HAVE WRITTEN THE BOOK ON BARD SPELLS AND ABILITIES! DO YOU THINK THAT BEING ONE IMPRESSES ME!?

"You may have created the Bard spells..." Scanlan pointed to himself,"But I perfected them."

"OH YEAH, THEN PROVE IT! YOU CANNOT MASTER A CREATOR!"

"Alrighty then." Scanlan turned his beret around as Vox Machina, the Mane Six, and several Shetland ponies gathered behind him, all wearing some sort of bling.

Pollux smirked and clapped his hooves, summoning his own men, "Lay a beat."

They began to make a beat.

"You are short, small enough to be run over by an armadillo. Why do you ya think you can match me fellow?"

Scanlan flipped his mane,"I got a lot of wit in this little frame. As opposed to you, whose form is very lame."

"Ya think ya got wit,
You don't know ya twit

See, you are small
Like your momma
When I plastered her against the wall

Yeah, she is so tiny
The mice made her a queen.” Pollux smiiled

"Please, you think that affects me?
I got a million of these, see.

That ain't nothing big,
I did more with your Ma
Almost snapped her like a twig..” Scanlan crossed his hoves

"Look pal, you momma so big
We thought she was an ultra being

Like these silver giants
we smash them as gnat” Pollux grinned

"Yo momma was so fat
She made the earth shake!

When she died, we fed her to my rat!

Pinkie then jumped in and added, "Also, she is so twisted, that we thought she was a pretzel!

The hype machine answered with an ooh!

Pollux looked around, "The hype machine?"

The crowd around you and Scanlan.

"Fool! I am the hype!"

"No, Mr. Pollux, I am." Scanlan said,"You're just a low-end pretend god.

“Bet you're the second weakest of your group,
I'll turn you into soup!"

"Do you really think that you are bad
Don't you realize that you have been had

Weak though I may be
No one handles my beats!"

He glowed his horn and began to unleash some whispers as he went back to his mockery. Pinkie then jumped in front of Scanlan and strummed a random guitar.

"Now I say that you misunderstand
See you walk around and have to
play like this!"

"WALK THIS WAY! I say WALK THIS WAY!"

Pollux winced and was pushed back from Pinkie. Pinkie then pulled out a small bomb and looked at Scanlan, "Music change?"

Scanlan nodded, pulling out his lute,"We got the biggest, Bombs of them all!"

Using a combination of minor and major illusion spells from Pinkie's bomb and Scanlan's music, the world change to a giant stage with Pinkie and Scanlan on one side and Pollux on the other." NOW! I WANNA ROCK!"

"You think you so bad, you so dumb that you thought about concentrating on orange juice. Now watch as I rock out loud! SHOUT IT SHOUT IT OUT LOUD!"

"Oh yeah?!" Pinkie said, twirling her guitar and summoning some lighting, "Thunder!

Scanlan sang back, tuning the lightning into a little ball,"Baaaaallll"

The world began to change again and everyone started to dance, "You, make me feel like dancing. Aw Aw All night long!" Pollux smiled ats his fellow dace began to amp it up.

"You can tell by the way I walk, I'm Ma's Stallion,
No time to talk

Pollux screamed as he was hit by the powerful spell, shaking his head, he glared at the two bards with rage.

Scanlan began to ping a few strings ofhis lute.

Pollux growled and stamped his hoof, summoning some fire, "Burn through the ditches and slam through the bitches and into the back of my Dragula!"

"-Indestructible, Determination that is incorruptible!

"Killing the beast Killing the beast," Pollux panted (WHAT'S GOING ON, MY MAGIC IS FAILING ME?)

Exit light
Enter night
Take my hand
We're off to Never Neverland

Pollux growled, "Help! I need someone HElp!"

Some of the stallions became zombies, only for the magic to break

"I get by with a little help from my friends," Pinkie sang.

"Get back, get back to where you once belonged!"

"Kisten," moaned Pollux, "You think you are bad? You ain’t nothing. You are just a...a..." he began to lose track of thought.

"Doctor, doctor, give us the news..."

Pollux shuddered

"Not gonna give in tonight!" Pinkie shouted

Pollux began to fall to his knees, "This evolution of music, of the soul..."

Scanlan smirked,"The music makes you lose control."

"You need to get with the times. You are so old that you knew Mimic and her friends." Pinkie said.

"N-n-n-

"You're so weak, a squirrel could break your nuts!" Scanlan said.

Pinkie brought out her metal bat and handed it to a squirrel. Pollux shuddered in fear as he was hit. Pinkie twirled her guitar, "Come on everyone smile smile smile."

Pollux let out one final scream as a blast erupted from his body. Before he finally collapsed to the floor, "I...how is this possible. I invented the bardic magic you wielded."

"You may have invented it... but we perfected it!" Scanlan said, bowing with his beret.

"I...see," Pollux gasped, feeling his body fade away. "You know something..."

"Hmm?"

"Maybe, what I was preaching wasn't democracy after all..."

"YOU THINK!?" Twilight shouted.

"Maybe...I was in support of...a republic." he then faded, allowing Twilight to have the appropriate reaction

Twilight let out an annoyed scream.

Pinkie frowned as she watched the dots fade from his corpse, “Aw, I liked him.”

Samus held her gun horn at the dirty and grey dog creature as it stood on its hind legs. In any other world, it would be like a hyena. However, here it was a sub-species of diamond dog known as a gnoll. With a laugh, it cracked its whip lined with spiked unicorn skulls, "Hahahaha! Pathetic armored pony. Trying to help the town. We rule the town, we own the gems. And we own the pony meat. You think you can stop us?" the fiend laughed while the rest of his war pack laughed and howled.

Samus was about to usher a one-liner but then smirked. Her visor scanned the area behind the gnolls and she smirked, "Interesting?"

"Eh?" the fiend asked.

"I just got a new power," she said, before rolling into a ball and rolling behind the war pack. Using the energy in her suit, she formed a series of small little bombs that she planted behind the gnolls. Then she rolled back in front and stood up. "I'm leaving. And those of you who want to surrender might want to do so in 5..."

"Five what?"

"Three," Samus said walking out the path towards the entrance.

"What happened to four.?"

"It took you a second to say all of that and two so now you have one," she said, walking out of the cave.

As the explosion rocked the cave, Adam's voice rang out, "You know, is it possible to leave a place without blowing it up?"

"Hey, there is some planet left standing," Samus said, leaving out the cave. Behind her, she could hear the ponies cheering at their iteration. Turning around, she sighed.

"Ever want to stay for the celebration. Maybe enjoy the day?" asked Adam.

Samus shook her head, "Naw, that's for heroes. I'm not a hero...just a huntress looking for the next hunt. They'll forget me soon enough." and then she turned to walk away.

The shetlands cheered them.

A copper pegasus was giggling,"You guys did great!

Pinkie giggled, "Thank you! We try to make sure every place we leave is a little better than we left it! And you are?"

The curly maned pegasus pointed to herself, “I am Copper Tongue, guardian of the Temple."

"I'm Pinkie Pie! And these are all of my friends!" She said, pointing to them, "Tha's Vax, he's the brood, That's Kiki and she's their Fluttershy, and that’s our Fluttershy. That's Vex, she’s an archer, that's Percy and he says as many big words as Twily, That's Scanlan and he's awesome, and that's Pike and she's the nice one, and that big guy is Grog. And those are my other friends, Twilight the smarty, Dashie the sporty, AJ the toughy, Rarityy the glamour, and that's Pinkie Pie!"

Pinkie Pie ran to the side and waved hi to herself

Copper smiled,"I like you!" She fluttered towards them,"I hear you're looking to enter the temple for some goodies, ain't ya?"

Twilight nodded, "We need to find one of the items, and we need to find a font."

"How did you hear about that?" asked Dash

She winked,"That's my secret." She flew towards a temple,"I'll tell you about the Pegasus Font, after you get your item. First, you must defeat the dragon in this temple.

"Another... dragon?" asked Fluttershy trembling.

"Eh, considering the last one? This will be easy Fltters," Rainbow Dash said, smirking

"Please don't jinx it, Rainbow..." Twilight muttered as she neared the temple.

Pinkie bounces to the copper pony, "Soooo, how did you get such a coat? And what do you know about the dragon?”

"Oh, my coat is all-natural." She smiled,"And, well, you should see for yourself!" She disappeared into the temple.

Pinkie smiled as she bounced ahead, "I like her!"

"Please tell me this test or whatever is gonna be easy," Rainbow Dash said as they walked into the temple.

A loud stomping was heard.

Behind them was the sound of breathing.

"Twilight, tell me that was you," Applejack said.

Twilight shook her head.

Everypony turned around to look at the breath coming from behind them

"Boo!" A large copper dragon was behind them, grinning.

"Boooo yourself!" Pinkie said with a giggle at the copper dragon.

"Yep, it's a dragon," Applejack said calmly.

Rainbow Dash couldn't help but notice her grin, "Awfully cheerful, ain’t ya.

"Yep! I am the most cheerful of the Metallic Circle, Reventh!" The dragon said.

"I see. You must be one of Bronze's friends," Rarity said .

Twilight looked at her, "How did you all end up agreeing to this?"

"Now that's a long, long, long, long story!" Reventh said with a chuckle," That'll have to wait though, wouldn’t want to tell the whole story, that wouldn't be fun!"

Pinkie nodded, "Yes, and besides, we can wait for that for a little bit longer. Let’s have some fun instead!"

"Oh gods it’s a Dragon Pinkie," said Dash

"Oh, yes!" Reventh's grin then turned into a frown," However, if you want to enter, you must pass a test."

"What kind of test?" asked Applejack

Reventh laid on her claws,"You... must... make me laugh."

"Laugh?" the group asked.

"Yep! Make me laugh! I should warn you, I am very old, so I've heard tons of jokes and variations of those jokes!"

Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Twilight looked to Pinkie. Pinkie smiled back, bowed, and walked up to Reventh, "Oh, I will make you laugh, giggle, guffaw, chuckle, chortle, and smile. But first, care to tell me what is the first joke in this book?" she then pulled out the book trying to answer the question of what is the oldest one in the book.

"How do you entertain a bored princess? You sail a boatload of young stallions dressed only in fishing nets down the river and urge the princess to go catch a fish." Reventh said.

"Curses, she does know the oldest one in the book," Pinkie said, snapping her hooves.

"Try something more recent! Like from the east!" Dash shouted.

Rarity nodded, "Indeed. She may only be stuck to this one region."

"Ok, so here!" Pinkie said, handing her a train schedule, "We actually think that these come on time!"

Reventh let out a yawn in response,"I may or may not have taken a few trips over there."

"Oh, so you fell on a banana peel to get over there?" asked Pinkie.

Reventh shrugged,"I can't because I flew there."

"And boy are your wings tired!"

"I made that joke when we were first formed," Reventh smirked.

"Tough crowd," Pinkie said, putting a hoof to her chin. "Oh, I know, psychical comedy! Hey AJ!"

"What?" asked Applejack, before finding herself in a little ball, "What?"

"And fire!" Pinkie said, taking out a pool cue and shooting her down a long tunnel, allowing her to hit the wall several times until Tilt hit the screen.

"Wow, pinball." Reventh still didn't laugh.

Pinkie frowned, and then pulled out a scorecard, "This is gonna be a tough nuttie to crack. Hmmmm..."

Bringing out a copy of Ponies make war, she said, "Time for some funny reviews!"

"Ooh! I love these!"

So Pinkie spent 25 minutes making fun of Astor Coruscare’s book.

Reventh leaned on her arm,"That was pretty good."

"And did it make you laugh?" asked Pinkie.

"It was amusing, but it didn't make me laugh."

“Curses," Pinkie said, sitting in a thinking chair, "Hmmmm..."

"Excuse me, but I'm not a thinking chair," the chair said.

"You're not?" asked Pinkie.

"No, I'm a mimic chair!"

"Ahhhhh!"

"NOM!"

After Pinkie was eaten, the chair smiled. Then he moaned in pain, before screaming, "ARG! DIABETES!!!!!" and then melted away.

Pinkie smiled as she stepped away, "Remember...always get checked for Diabetes."

"So, you're made of sugar, then?" Reventh smiled and licked her lips.

"No, but my Piezooka MK VII is!" Pinkie said, pulling out a large cannon firing a sugar pie and sugar cookie her way.

Reventh dodged it and leaned in,"Hmm, you do seem tastier." She laughed,"I'm only kid-" She stopped,"Oops."

Pinkie smiled, and then booped her on the nose, "I win."

"Yep, you win!" Reventh disappeared in green smoke, leaving Copper Tongue.

Dash looked at Copper shocked and then grumbled, "Does every dragon like to dress in their colors. I swear the next one I see wearing some metal I'm going to start asking questions."

"Yay! I guessed it," Pinkie said, giving Copper a hug.

Copper gave her a hug back,"Yeparooni!"

"I am impressed by the differences of the personalities of the metal dragons we have met so far," Rarity mentioned.

Twilight looked at Copper, "Miss Reventh, where is the item. And why do you guys enjoy mingling with us?"

"The item is just behind me, and personally?" Reventh wrapped a hoof around Twilight,"You ponies are so much fun to be around!"

Twilight let out a small chuckle at this, "Is there anything you can tell me about your friends?"

Reventh put a hoof to her mouth,"Shh, I can't say anything because it's a super-secret."

Twilight frowned, "Of course." she said as they began to walk into the temple room.

"It's over..." a voice whispered.

Pinkie looked up, "Huh?"

Twilight looked at Pinkie,"Again?"

"What?" Pinkie said, turning to look at Twilight, watching the world slowly fade to black

"Pinkie!" Twilight watched as Pinkie gained a blank look.

Pinkie looked around her, watching as her friends began to disappear. Soon, the world around her was replaced with a desolate wasteland full of broken buildings and dark clouds. Turning around, she watched as ponies began to walk behind her. Their colors were grey, cutie marks were gone, and no smiles. Pinkie raised a hoof to try and say something but was interrupted by a whisper.

"It's over. See. You have lost. In what world did you think you could win?"

"This one," Pinkie said, looking around for the voice. "Well, maybe not this one, but the one where my friends are near me and were this a little more light."

"Oh really? You think you can win, even though she lost?"

For a brief moment, Pinkie saw a flashback of Twilight's battle with the gods. She watched as she fell and was obliterated before her eyes, "She only lost because we weren't there. If she had all of us-"

"All of you would've perished as well," the voice echoed. "Don't you get it yet? This is too big for you now. You aren't a hero, you never were. This isn't a battle you can win with singing, dancing, and a warm hug. This is a...are you mocking me?"

"Nope!" Pinkie giggled, holding up a puppet with a name tag that said 'silly voice' and was playing.

"You-you ARE! You are mocking me!" the voice said. "Aren’t you getting it yet? I said this is a world where you don't belong. Volkermord, the gods, and a few other shadows are lying in wait. They are darker than what you know. You are too full of light, too happy. This is not for you. Now, take your," the voice stopped as Pinkie began to walk to the shadows and try to cheer them up, "What are you doing?"

"Trying to cheer them up while you finish with your big ol 'I'm going to break her speech'" Pinkie said, smiling back at the voice.

"You can't cheer them up. You...you don't get this," the voice said, almost begging to laugh, "This world is full of light fighting back against the darkness but the darkness will just grow stronger in the end. You can never win and you can't keep ponies happy forever. Sooner or later, you will fade into legend and the ponies will separate again. You aren't even a real virtue, you are just laughter."

"So, this means I hope aren't I? The hope for the future, the hope for a brighter day, and hope for things to get better," Pinkie said, smiling. "I mean, yeah, I'm gonna die and fade away and things might not always be this way. So, that means I'm going to have to work super duper hard to make everything great now and make people see a better world while I'm here!"

"I..." the voice shook her head as she began to appear, a tan earth pony with a white headdress and a white gown, "Could tell you the world will be black and your friends will die and you will still keep going."

"Nope," Pinkie said, "Because they aren’t going to die. Not again, I'll keep on trying to make sure that they are all ok and we'll get through this together."

The mare smiled, "Good answer. Sonambula," she said, offering her hoof.

"Pinkie Pie!" Pinkie said, hugging the mare. "Hey, weren't you one of Meadowbrook's closest friends?"

"Yep, she helped to arrange these tests. I enjoyed this one because I get to scare ponies and see who is willing to fall to darkness," Sonambula said. "And I am glad to see, you aren't. Take the item, and then kick those gods in the hiney!"

"I will," Pinkie said with a giggle as she skipped away into the light, and into the world. Complete with a brand new cloak. A light blue and yellow one with many pockets.

"Pinkie?" Twilight asked.

Pinkie played with her cloak and then looked to Twilight, "Yessssssss?"

"You spaced out there, you okay?" Twilight asked

"Yepperorni!" Pinkie said, "I just had one of those vision things. You know, where you are forced to face the big challenge of yourself to move forward?"

"Ah, like what happened with AJ." Twilight said.

"Yep," Pinkie said, "And I got a cool item!"

"So where is the disk and what does that cloak do?" asked Rainbow.

Twilight looked around and noticed the disk on a pedestal,"I'm not sure what that cloak does... unless it brings out whatever Pinkie wants."

"The cloak will provide hope and clarity," Rarity said to herself as she read the tablet. "Perhaps it's a-"

"Ooooh, a Groovitron!" Pinkie said with a smile, "I was hoping to get a new one."

"I figured. Whatever Pinkie wants, she can pull it out of that cloak." Twilight said.

"YAY!" Pinkie cheered as she pulled out popcorn. Then she looked back and sat as she waited for Twilight to hit the disk.

Twilight activated it.

King Methusulah appeared once again," This next chapter doesn't exactly star my daughter, but the great wizard himself, Starswirl, and a friend that will soon fall..."

(Aw, thanks for spoiling it!" Pinkie said.

Rainbow Dash shouted "Booo, I hate it when stories look at side characters we don't care about!!)

"War, bloodshed, battles," Starswirl whispered to himself. "Ever since light and shadow declared war on one another, the gods have done their hardest to prove who is right. And sadly, it is the ponies that fall in the crossfire." as he left his home, he turned to look at a photo of a young light green pegasus holding a small colt with a little hat. "Mother... if only you saw what you sacrificed yourself for."

Starswirl looked down as he stepped outside and allowed the dun to beam down upon him. Shaking his head, he began to walk through the small village that lay in the shadow of the castle. Occasionally, he would look up at the towering spires and the looming towers, "The Alicorns of Shadow are rumored to have a powerful goddess on their side. Even if they could teach her to unleash the power within, would it be enough to win the war for their side? What is that element that is missing from their side to win for freedom."

Making his way to a small library, he smiled, "At the very least, they allow for neutral wizards to study across the battlefield. Good morrow Vecna."

A yellow stallion with a grey mane and tail dressed in a black robe looked up from a book and smiled,"Morrow to you as well, Starswirl. How goes your day?"

("V-Vecna!?" Twilight gasped in shock.

"Who?" asked Rainbow Dash.

"HE's the lich king!")

Vecna closed his book,"My studies of the Shadowfell are going swimmingly." He said with a smile,"But what pray tell were you doing with Titan yesterday?"

Starswirl looked at various books and picked one from the shelf, "Encouraging the young soul to partake in games of go in order to bolster his skills. He needs to learn to embrace the world."

"Did you mean to bring the madmare, or did she invite herself?" Vecna asked.

"You should know as well as I do, no one can determine where mares like her go. She is a free spirit who wishes to hang out with her comrades," Starswirl said, pulling out a book on trees and looking through it. He began to walk towards the light from the window and sat down, "A lesson you could learn Vecna. We do miss you from time to time."

Vecna sat in the shadows and laughed,"I'm so dreadfully busy these days, Starswirl. I have so much work to do!" He leaned back,"So much for me to understand about the different planes of existence... about life and death... about the gods." He frowned.

"Understanding? Why the interest in life and death and of planes old friend?" asked Starswirl.

"I... I merely want to aid our people, Starswirl." He frowned,"We're caught in a war of gods. A war where several ponies could die." He glared at the table,"and... my son's disappearance still haunts me.

Starswirl frowned and sighed, "Vecna, about your son. I am sorry, and I promise I will do all I can to find him." He then looked back up at Vecna, trying to see his face within the shadows, "But how will learning the means of life and death help out people? Medical spells have gone as they far as they can without tearing apart the weave."

"It's not enough." Vecna snarled,"Especially when we are at their mercy. Starswirl, look at us. We're nothing more than lapdogs to a higher power. But we are capable of so much more."

"There is only so much that we are capable of, Vecna," Starswirl said, looking up from his book, "We are only mortal. And as mortals we have limits. I am sorry that our people are getting caught in this god war too, but we can only do so much."

"Are we not the most powerful mortals on this plane, Starswirl?" Vecna said,"We can warp the fabric of reality if we wanted to. Imagine what could happen... imagine what would happen if we become like them?"

"You are talking of ascension," Starswirl said, frowning, rubbing his temples with his hoof. "That is not a step to be taken lightly."

"It is a necessary step, Starswirl. One that would need to be taken if we want to be on their level!"

Starswirl sighed and looked down, "Only the worthy should attain that power. One who can show the perfection of that cutie mark. Only one pony has ever actually achieved it. We are too old to push ourselves to that limit. There is no need to break these limits."

"Starswirl, I thought you knew." Vecna glared at the light in the window,"Limits are meant to be broken."

A door opened, and a green unicorn mare popped in,"Uh, Teacher?"

"Yes Clover?" asked Starswirl, looking towards his student with a warm smile.

"I, uh, decided to come early for some lessons." She turned to Vecna,"Oh, Grandpa, I didn't see you there."

Vecna smiled at her,"That's okay. I really should stop sitting in shadows."

(Twilight's eyes widened in horror,"What?"

“Twilight?” Rarity asked

“Clover’s my ancestor, that means-” Twilight stammered

"That means..." Applejack asked, pausing for a second.

"Darn it, why does Twilight get all the cool relations. I mean, you have two liches in your family, how did that happen?" asked Rainbow Dash asked.

"I don't know!" Twilight shouted.)

Vecna got up,"I'll leave you, for now, Starswirl."

"Far well Vecna," Starswirl said, before turning to Clover. "What are you interested in my dear?"

"Well, quite a few things actually..." Clover trailed off before the scene ended.

Reflections on friends

Twilight blinked,"That was short."

Methuselah frowned,"Well not all of them can be long character studies, Miss Sparkle!"

Pinkie Pie looked down,"but so many will be dissappointed!

Methuselah sighed,"I promise the next one will be longer. That one has a special guest!" He then disappeared.
.
"Cheap filmaker," Applejack grumbled.

"-I cannot really belive that nopony has a legitmate timeline of history. It's no wonder we say everything happen 1000 years ago," Rarity exlcaimed to Fluttershy.

Rainbow, on the other hoof, looked at Twilight miffed.

Twilight only stared at Rarity and then nodded in defeat,"Equestria, despite having Celestia, is crappy at timekeeping. Why do you think I thought Ponyville was founded centuries ago when it was only 80."

"I thought you were just overexaggerating like always," Applejack said.

Pinkie raised her hoof, " I thought you were actually an immortal and lost track of time."

Rainbow Dash was still fuming.

"Rainbow, what's wrong?" Twilight asked.

"Why is it that you seem to have an entire family tree of awesome, but the rest of us got nothing! I mean, you have a granddad who is a litch and your grandma is a freaking palidin!"

"Hey, I'm sure you all have great family trees!" Twilight said.

Rarity's eyes darted back and forth,"I don't...".

"Sure, I'll believe you. Besides," Dash said with a shrug, "It's not like we'll see anything that'll prov me wrong."

AS they left, they would see Pike waiting outside for them. She held 6 earrings in her magic,"Oh, you're back!" She handed them the earrings,"These are Sending Earrings.The Shetlands decided to make them for us as thanks!"

"Thank you!" Pinkie said, attaching it.

"We mustthink of something to give them later as thanks," Rarity said.

"Well, I mean we did save them from that god." Pike said.

Rarity nodded, "Indeed, but that is because it is the right thing. I was thinking og something-"

"PARTY CANNON MK II!" Pinkie said, shooitn g her new weapon to craft the party.

Applejack walked to Twilight, "Are you sure we should let her keep it?"

"No, but I don't think we could take it away from her if we tried..." Twilight muttered.

Pike began to think"Hmm, Do you have any suggestions?"

Rarity looked at the caves and smiled as her horn glowed, "Give me a few moments. We need to rest for a day anyway before we head to the next town."

"Do you need some help?" Pike asked,"It could get dangerous in there."

"Oh yes please Darling, I always enjoy the company," Rarity said.

Pike smiled as she walked with her.

Rainbow Dash looked at Grog, and then Vax, and then back to Grog, "Hmmm, best target."

"Oh Percy," Pinkie said, walking up,"Could you help me? I have some fun weapons I want to pull out of the cloak but it really only works once I know about it."

Percy looked at Pinkie, and then sighed," Well, I have nothing better to do, may as well."

Vax appeared next to Dash,"I suggest the barbarian." He whispered.

"Yes, but how?" asked Rainbow Dash.

Vax smirked,"He's really proud of that beard."

"Right," Rainbow Dash said, "I'll go get some cream..."

Vax brought out his dagger.

"Now, we just wait for him to sleep," Dash snickered.

"And hide in the shadows."

Applejack shook her head, "They are dead ponies. well, Pony and Deer." she chuckled before walking over to the large bear and rubbed is fur, "So...fancy a wrestle Trinket?"

Trinket let out an affirmitive growl in response.

"Good, I need to practice and you are the biggest thing here. Then, I wanna play with those shetlands over there. Now, let's dance."

Trinket proceeded to wrestle with AJ.

Twilight began to look over the map, but not before putting up a "Do not disturb even for character development scenes!"

Scanlan looked at the sign, and then frowned,"Well, guess I'll play music elsewhere then!" He flicked his tail in response.

Twilight poked her head out, "Good!"

The map was indicating a pegasus font to the northwest.

Twilight smiled as she began to plan and study.
Rarity allowed her horn to glow as she walked down the small tunnel, impressed with the gems tat she was finding. "A cleric is a priest, why are you focused on adventuring if I may asked.

Pike was wearing leather armor and hloding a club near her,"Well, I'm not exactly the 'Preach to a choir,' kind of cleric, I'm a War Cleric specifically. I just naturally enjoy adventure."

"Maybe I have a similar drive," Rarity said, pulling out a few gems, "I am not always out on some wild advenure for life and death you know. I am mainly a dress maker."

"So I heard. How did you get into this?" Pike asked.

"Oh, that was a marvelous story. See, it all began when Twilight came to check on the decorations and I saw her mane was a disaterous sort. Of course, being the mare of diginity that I am," Rarity stood on top of the rock and held up a hoof, "I had to fix her mane. Little did I realize that she was also on a quest to defeat Nightmare Moon and was attempting to do so alone."

Taking a step off, Rarity finished, "I, just couldn't let her go alone. She looked like she needed help and I always need to help ponies whenever they need it and no matter what trouble they have. Just being a part of my charm I guess." she added this part with a sof sigh.

"So, despite being a normal dressmaker, you went out into danger to help a friend?" Pike smiled,"That's great!"

"Great?" Rarity asked, smiling.

"It shows that you have a good heart." Pike said,"My grandpa always said that we should never judge a book by its cover."

Rarity smiled, "Your grandpa was a smart man. I always think that it's best to look deep into a ponies soul in order to know who they really are."

Pike nodded,"I'm being reminded of how I met Grog."

"Didn't you meet him when he was injured?" asked Rarity

Pike nodded,"He was beaten by his herd for not killing a helpless gnome. That gnome was my grandpa. When he saw Grog wounded, he got me to help heal him, and that's how we became friends!"

"My how kind of you," Rarity said, "You truely embody a cleric and your friend must have a big heart...in spite of his more aggresive tone."

"Yeah, Grog can be a bit of a softy when he wants to be." Pike giggled

""Though I don't think he wants that to get aroound," Rarty joked.

Pike giggled,"I don't think so either."

Rarity continued to look through the diamonds and gems, before asking, "Does it worry you? To not be fast enough to save a pony from death."

Pike sighed,"A lot, actually. One day, there might be that one pony I'm not able to save."

"It sounds like my fears," Rarity looked down. "I'm still worried about one of us diing alone, far away from the others. Or worse, one of us dying in front of us and we are not able to do anything.

Pike nodded,"That seems to be a bigger possibility over here now with your friend lacking magic." She tapped her hoof as a skittering insect ran by,"I do at least have Revivify if that were to ever happen, not that I think it will."

"And once again, you ponies of the west amaze me," Rarity commented.

"That's not even the only revival spell out there, too!" Pike said,"Though the others are far more advanced."

"What?"

"Oh, yes, Resurrection is far more complex of a ritual, and if you fail that, your only hope is True Resurrection..." Pike frowned,"I'm not scaring you, am I? Because I know nopony's going to die."

Rarity shook her head, "Oh no, it's not really scaring me. In a way, it's a little comforting knowing that there is a way to save us. Though I have no plans on watching any of them dieing at any time during this adventure. But, if it happens...I'm glad that there is a way to save them. I like to think that there is always a way or a light. Just being an eastern idealist I suppose."

"I think we could use that eastern idealism." Pike said.

"I think we can all use that once in a while," Rarity said, "Wich is why I admire you clerics. Always bringing light with your special magic

"Thank you, and I kinda admire you."

"You do? Well, certaintly but any particular trait?"assked Rarity

"Your generosity.

"Why thank you my dear," Rarity said with a bow.

"So, found your gems yet?"

"Oh yes, plenty," Rarity said, before looking behind her, "the others are lost in the caves?"

"What?" Pike asked.

"Just something I read here on the wall," Rarity said, pointing to a small scribbling on the wall.

Pike looked closely at it,"What others are they possibly talking about?"

"I don't know..."

Pinkie looked at PErcy and tapped hr hooves together, "Let's get cracking.

"What do you want me to do exactly?" PErcy asked.

Pinkie smiled as she pulled out some blueprints and some grey prints, "I need to talk weaponry and tools. I mean, the cloak gives me a lot of what I wat, but I think there might be some little bitty limits."

"You actually have blueprints." Percy said with a raised brow.

Pinkie nodded rapidlly.

PErcy took a look at them,"My, quite intricate."

"Thank you!" Pinkie said, smiling. "You know,I am so glad for this cloak. It just gives me the stuff to make evertything I always wanted!!"

"That does sound amazing." PErcy said,"Because I'm going to need a lot more than what I have here if you want me to help make these."

"Like what?"asked Pinkei.

"Well, first I'm going to need a proper firing mechanism which is going to need some black powder, then I'm going to need some steel for the barrel, and if I'm going to load it with... pastries, I'm going to need something to keep the cake batter from melting within the barrel.

Pinkie pulled out a notepad and began to write some stuff down. Then she pulled out a design for a small bakll shaped like a disco ball, a small bazzoka, and then one that says the "FINAL party."

Pinkie looked down at the last blueprint and said, "I call this the Pony's Are Ready To Yell."

"The PARTY?" Percy looked at it, and then his eyes widen,"Celestia... this is terrifying... I'm going to make it as fast as possible."

"You will? OH THANK YOU!" Pinkie said, hugging Percy, "You know, you are a really good tinking tinkerer

"I, uh, thank you." Percy said, looking away slightly.

"Bet youmust have a lot of fun tinkering with stuff bac home," Pinkie siad.

Percy stopped for a bit,"Uh," He frowned for a bit,"I used to."

"...used to?" asked Pinkie

"I... " Percy sighed,"I'm not really in the mood to talk much about it."
Pinkie paused, looked at Percy, and then smiled as she brought out a fance looking cupcake, "Ok!"

"Where di- never mind, I'll take the pastry;." HE ate the cupcake.

Pinkie smiled, "Never underestimate the power of a cupcake."

"I admit, it has a calming effect."

"I know, that's why I lik to give them out, to make us all feel really good!"

"I see. It must be nice..."

Pinkie nodded, "IT is. And maybe make you smile even more! And then we can talk to Vex about how cute she is."

Percy's eyes widened,"Excuse me?"

"Oh come on, we saw how you looked at her. Give," Pinkie said.

"I, uh, there's not much I can give...{" A hint of a blush came to his face.

Pinkie smiled and gave a knowing wink, "Oh, I see." Then she pulled out more blueprints, "Back to work.
.
"Yespleasethankyou!" Percy said quickly.

Dash had the shaving cream at the waitng, "Ready?"

"Ready." Vax said.

Dash slowlysmeared the shaving cream onto Grog's face, while she waited for Vax to do his duty

VAx shaved off half his beard,"Now, run,"He whispered.

Dash nodded and followed quickly, aking sure to grab a few of their feathers.

"Right, now there's no way he could know it was us." Vax said.

Rainbow Dash nodded, "Wait, are we sure he's too stupid not to assume anything?

"OF course!" Vax said.

The next day...

"VAx!"

Rainbow Dash's rears perked up, "There is no way he knows!"

"Thye door slammed open,"and Grog stood there, nostrils flaring.

Dash's wings sout out, "Yipe."

"Quickly, we have the flying advantage!" Vax flew up a little with his wings.

"Yeah, unless he remembers that we are in caves and he can throw things at us," Rainbo Dash said..

Grog began to pick up a large rock.

Vax sighed,"Me and my bright ideas. Well, at least we're faster!" He sped off.

Dash nodded and flew after Vax.

Twilight whistled as she walked by, before feeling her mane fly forward,"What is-" Then she saw Grog run by,"Oh, Celestia, why..."

Pinkie giggled, "Just anothe happy day!"

Twilight noticed his half a beard,"I got an idea!"She used a piece of paper to write down something, and then ran to Scanlan who was playing for a group of ponies,"Scanlan!"

Scanlan leaned back, still playing a lute,"Yes?"

"Can you cast this spell on Grog!?" Twilight held the paper in her mouth.

Scanlan took the piece of paper in his magic,"I will oblige!" He read it over, and then looked to the sprinting Grog,"

You gained a beard, and you liked it!
I know our teammates won't mind it!"

His horn shot at Grog, growing his beard back.

"I don't know wether to be relieved or sad that they ruined our prank," Rainbow whispered to Grog.

"Just be relieved that we're not six feet into the ground." Vax whispered back.

"That would be if he caught us," Dash said lowly.

"In an enclosed space, Speedy?"

"Maybe if we got lucky," Dash said.

{}
Before Twilight saved Vax and Dash...

Twilight kept her nose in a book, occasionally looking to the door to make sure her friends wouldn't disturb her. Sighign, she went back to the tablet and the map, "Where to next."

Scanlan leaned his head in, before singing,"Take, those broken wings..."

Twilight turned her head, before picking up a pillow with her hoof and throwing it, "Out!"

Scanlan ducked,"But you look so lonely here! None of your friends will forgive me if I don't make you comeout, and mingle with the locals!"

"I am busymap studying and looking over this tablet. I have research to do and it's very important!" Twilight said, looking back at the tablet. "Everypony else is budy besidess and I don't need to mingle right now."

"Well," Scanlan used Bigby's hoof to levitate himself over Twilight's head to look over the map,"What kind of research?"

"I'm trying to figure out where is the easiest place to go and how to get there without attracting too much trouble," Twilight said, looking at the map, "And trying to figure out if this has any clue to how each item works. We have two and only a clue to how they work."

"I mean, we're adventurers, trouble always follows us. Or at least me." Scanlan said.

Twilight looked over her shoulder at Scanlan and quirked an eyebrow, "You? Really? You seem to be the kind who always has a way to get out of trouble he is in."

"Yeah, but I don't know what I'm doing half the time!

"I am surprised. You have ahandle on a lot of situations from what I have seen," Twilight said. "You are the third most confident pony I know."

"Only third?" Scanlan said.

"Dash and a mare I know named Trixie."

"I gotta meet this Trixie girl, I can't stand that anyone has a bigger ego than I do!"

Tilight smiled, "You hang out with Dash."

"Well, you may think she has a bigger ego than I do, but I certainly don't." Scanlan stuck his tongue out.

Twilight laughed and went back to the tablet, "So...why are you traveling? Why not put your abilities to being a showpony?"

Scanlan blinked for a minute,"Uh," He gulped for a moment,"Well, I'm actually looking for somepony. Specifically a Fjord like myself."

"Oh really, a mare I assume?" Twilight asked.

"I believe she is, but honestly, the jury's still out on her age,." Scanlan said.

Twilight looked at Scanlan weirdly at this.

"I mean, I don't know how old she is! Like I only just recently found out about her..."

Twilight nodded, "I see, and why are you curious about her."

"Because... I've never met her, and she's never met me and-" He groaned,"You're gonna make me say it:It's my daughter..."

"Yor daughter?" Twilight said, turning to look at Scanlan, "The way you hit on mares and the way you look at pike. I'm surprised you havent formed a small herd by now. But I am surprised that you are so intent on finding and making amends with a girl you never met."

Scanlan smirked,"I bet I probably increased the population by a hefty amount," then he frowned,"But this is the first time I actually know about one of them." He looked away,"I know what it's like to not have a dad, and if I had known about her before, I'd have tried to be there..."

Twilight scooted over to Scanlan and placed a hoof onto his shoulder, "You'll have all the time in the world to make it up to her. It'll take time and I bet she will be mad, but...I think she'll understand sooner or later."she then looked at him, "You never had a father?"

Scanlan snickered,"Yeah, she'll probably punch me in the face." He looked her,"Yeah, never knew my dad. Had to be raised by my mom." He muttered,"Can't believe I'm having a heart-to-heart here..."

"Well, I learned something a long time ago," Twilight said, looking down at the tea, "Sometimes thats the best way to learn about a pony. When I met my friends, I only thought about them who they were on the outside, never what was in. But, I spent years by their side now, and learned so much."

She let out a sigh as she looked out the window to where the others were talking and walking with their other friends, "I never knew that they had such strong hearts and personalities. I also believe, sometimes its better to jsut open up and talk.

Scanlan chuckled,"I guess there's always more than meets the eye."

Twilight couldn't help but smile at this and sighed, "That always seems to be a fact. You seem to just be a cocky, marenizing, showman, but I see that there is a genuine heart under there that maybe...just wants ponies to know him a little better and care for him."

Scanlan's eyes widened, before chuckled,"Oh, Your highness... you're more perceptive than I thought."

"I made it a habbit to try and understand ponis more often. It's partof the whole friendship thing," Twilight said with a smile before hearing Grog roar, "What..."

{}

Keyleth looked out to the light shining the way out of Kraghammer and sighed a little.

"Something wrong?" asked Fluttershy.

Keyleth sighed,"It's been about 2 months since I left on my Aramente... and I'm feeling homesick."

Fluttershy opened her eyes and said, "Oh, I'm sorry.."

"It's okay..." Keyleth sighed,"I, uh, I guess I need to get used to this."

"I can only imagine how hard it must be, bieng so far away from home. You must be missing your family a lot," Fluttershy said.

Keyleth nodded,"Aren't you?"

Fluttershy opened her eyes and then turned away, letting out a little sigh, "I do miss them, a lot. All of my little animal friends, angel. I miss all them while I'm away."

"You have a lot animal friends?"

"Oh yes," Fluttershy nodded happily, "For the longest time, with the exception of Dashie, they were my only friends. Then I met the others and they helped me become a little more outgoing." she then gasped and looked behind her mane, "Well, only a little."

Keyleth chuckled,"I think you're really good at being outgoing."

"Y...you really think so?" Fluttershhy asked basfully

Keyleth nodded,"I mean, you were the first outside I ever met!"

"I was?" Fluttershy asked

Keyleth nodded very quickly,"I, uh, I wasn't really sure how to interact with other ponies outside of the Air Ashari, so I couldn't quite figure out how to make friends at first..."

Fluttershy calmly mnodded, and sighed, "I know...its so scary out there with so many thing and strange ponies.

Keyleth nodded,"And the monsters..."

Fluttershy let out a little whimper at the memory of the monsters

Keyleth smiled as she put a hoof on her shoulder,"Don't worry, we can handle the monsters now, now that we have friends!"

"I know," Fluttershy said, smiilg back. Then she lookked at her, "Why did you leave if you had so much problemd with making frineds."

"Um, well, I-I still had to leave for my Aramente... although I'm not sure I'm going to be a good leader at this rate..."

"I think you will be, you just need the right confidence," Flutterdhy sid.

"R-right. I guess I need someone like Rainbow Dash?"

Fluttershy nodded, "Somepony that culd take you out of your sheel. Rainbow Dash was like that for me, because she has always been there and I really admire her."

Keyleth smiled,"Maybe I could find someone like that, someone like," She then noticed a black blur run by,"Vax?"

"It could be Vax or-" Fluttershy paused when she said a blue blur, "Dash?"

"VAx!" Grog ran by.

"Pinkie!" Pinkie giggled as she watched Twiligh and Scanlan walk outside to save the two pranksters from dying. "Hmmm, wonder what Applejack is doing."

"You know, I haven't seen her?" Keyleth said.

Applejack sat outside looking at the trees that lay before the mountain, a low frown on her face.

A light blue set of feathers fluttered in the trees,"Something on your mind?" asked Vex.

"Just thinking about home...and mom," Applejack said, running a hoof through her mane.

"Oh," Vex flew down,"Let me guess..."

"She's dead, a long ago." Applejack said, "Today was her birthday and I was just thinkin-" she paused and looked back up to vex, realization dawning on her. "Oh my, I'm so sorry, I just remembered."

Vex shook her head,"No, no, it's alright." She smiled,"Im actually quite curious about what you have to say."

"I was just hinking of how much I miss her songs, her voice, her warm hugs," Applejack said, "All of the things she meant to me, and if...she was proud of me still."

Vex gave Applejack a hug,"IF she's anything like mine, I'd know she'd be proud."

"Thanks," Applejack said, returning the hugh. After breaking the embrace, she asked, "So what was she like?"

"Warm, nice, always did the best for us despite never making that much." Vex said. She looked down,"She always cared for us no matter what."

Applejack smiled at her, "Sounds like she cared for you a lot."

Vex nodded,"That's the reason me and Vax hate our father so much..." She growled,"HE took us from her... and while we were gone she..."

"Was taken by Vokdemord and tortured

Vex snarled,"YEs." She sighed,"I'm sorry, this was supposed to be remembering the good times."

"Yeah, that what I want to do right now. Let's forget him for now and focus on how great our moms are," Sapplejack said with a warm smile.

"Yeah." Vex sat down next to Applejack and looked up at the sky with her.

Applejack didn't say anything, just chose to spend a few minutes with her friend to look up at the sky and enjoy her company.

Then they could hear sounds of Grog chasing Vax.

Applejack chucked as she looked back at Vex, "Brothers, am I right?"

Vex chuckled,"YEah."

"Want to go save-"

"Hiaj!"

"Them? Or just wait," Applejack asked.

Vex sighed,"Might as well-" Then she watched as Scanlan fixed Grog's beard,"NEver mind.

"I'm gonna get some supplies before we go," Applejack said, getting up and leaving.

Percy walked by Appejack, an item in his pocket. Going to Vex, he smiled, "Vex, I made you a little something. Well, Pinkie gave me the idea," he then gave her a small arrow with a curved tip and a small set of arrows with black tips, "A boomreang arrow and some explosive arrows. In case we might need it later on." He then walked away, not noticing the warm smile on Vex's face.

"That was...the first gift from someone other than vax," Vex smiled, and whispered, "Thank you."

"Enjoying the show?" asked Dash as she flew back, "Yeah, nice flank and all. Enjoy." she said patting Vex on the shulder and flying off.

Vex blushed a little before putting the arrows away.

Everypony soon gathered back in the inn ready to discuss their plans.

"Alright, the next area is the pegasus font of magic,"Twilight said, pointing to the map.

"Sweet!" Rainbow Dash cheered.

Applejack looked at Twi weirdly, "Isn't kind of weird to have the flying pegasi font close to earth ponies?"

"IT's not that close. It only feels that way because we've been moving so fast. We don't have much time you know."

"Oh come on, whats over two months!" Dash said, not noticing the glasres from everypony.

"Anyway, I also want to get my magic back as soon as possible." Twilight said.

They nodded in agreement. Applejack got up with her bag, "Well, I finidshed buying our suppies. So unless there is anything we need to clear up-"

"On the side!" Pinkie said, breaking the fourth wall.

"We can move."

"No, I think we're good here." Twilight said.

"Good, let's move out," Applejack said.

Samus sat back, letting the roaring fire crackle next to her. While her suit could keep her going and finding food was no problem, she did prefer to hunt on her own. She was, and stil is, a huntress after all. As the day continued to shine through, she could only smile as she let the sun shine on her, "Days of going through caves and seedy underbellies. You almost forget what sunlight is like."

Streching a little, she looked back at her fauntlet, tuned to the pirates frequency, "You know...you would think that they would be more active, knowing I;m here."

"zrrt-sir? We are ready..."

"Hmmm?"

"We have the communications set up for the galaxy channels to call them," a pirate said.

Deirva sat in a chair, hoof to his chin as he watched the screens,"Good. Send the message, but make sure that they don't know it's the Space Pirates calling them. I know some of them hate us as much as Samus does."

"Yes sir, and what should we set the bounty to?"

"1 billion credits should be enough. Though the prestige of killing Aran herself would certainly be enough incentive."

The pirtate nodded, "True, but sir rememebr...some of these people had families and this woul d be sent to their next of kin."

"Indeed." The Captain said,"Tell them her head's worth 10 billion." He looked to his side,"And keep a close eye on the movements of the Princess."

"the princess sir? Bit what can she do? HEr power is weak..."

"For now, but she is on a quest to become stronger. And she ever closer to a rendevous with the huntress."

"You think so captian?"

"Of course." The Captain put a chess piece onto a board with three layers,"It's going according to my plan..."

"Yes captain."

"Hmmmm, well this is going to get more interesting," Samus said, standing up and then turning to the gauntlet, "Adam...there was a faint mumbling in the background. Work on isolating that will ya?"

"Yes, lady."

Scanlan began playingg on his flute as the group walked through the fields to their next destination.

Pinkie walked with Scalan, happily adding a drumbeat while Applejack pllayed with her lute. Rainbow Dash looked at Applejack and asked, "You always carry that with ya?"

"Whaat can I say, never a bad time to carry a guitar with you."

Scanlan took his flut off for a second,"Dang straight,"before he continued playing.

Dash shook her ehad and looked to Twilight, "Are we there yet?"

"No" Twilight said.

After a few minutes pass, Das said, "How about now?"

"No!"

"Fine' I'll fly ahead," sje looked at them "And I promise not to do anythign dangerous.

"..." Twilight looked at her.

Dash lookd back at her, "What?"

Before Twilight could snark, Rainbow would then hear a female voice behind her speak,"Oi." Behind her was a blue pegasus in a red robe,"Ya tryin' to get into the font of Pegasus Magic?"

"Yeah, we're trying. This the place?" Dash asked with a smirk.

The pegasus mare looked behind her. There was a long stone ramp heading up to a large building with various pillars surrounding it. Avobe the entrance were images of various pegasi flying,"YEp."

"Um, just how many ponies survied this?" skedFluttershy.

"Plenty. Don't worry, if your pegasus has no magic, the shop at the bottom gives the Cloudwalking spell for free. Also, reminder that only those with pegasus magic are 'llowed. "

VEx and Vax fluttered their wings.

"Half-deer half-pegasus ponies are allowed as well."

"Oh great, working with emo boy," Dash said.

"Oh speedy, we worked so well together earlier!" Vax smirked as he walked up to her.

Fluttershhy gulped, "Oh no. I hope I don't mess up."

"You'll do fine, darling." Vex patted Fluttershy on the head.

Dash stepped forward, trying to not think about her partner, "Ok, let' do this."

"Alright, follow me." The pegasus said as she lead them up the ramp towards the stone doors. She knocked a few time, causing the doors to open.

The group stepped into the door way, allowing for the lights ot magically turn on with a silent flahs of light. Aroond them, faint clouds began to circle aorund them with silent thunger. Above them, statues of pegasi weilding lighting and wind floated around. Dash smirked, "MY kind of place.

The pegasus began to take them down to a circular cloud chamber that had three doors. One in the center, one on the right, and one on the left.

"The center door is the chamber for the pegasus in need, the other two doors are the trials." The pegasus turned to leave..

Twilight took a step and began to read the doors to figure out the trials.

One door had a set of pegasi flying through clouds, while the other door had lightning on it.

"One door seems to be speed, and the other... Dexterity." Twilight muttered.

"So I can handle speed, that means Fluttershy and Vex for Dex and...oh Celestia no," Dash siad.

Vax grinned,"Well, well, well, Speedy, we're together again." He patted her on the shoulder,"Don't slow me down."

"I could say the same to you, don't hold me back emo," Dash said.

Fluttershy shook her head, "What am I going to do with her," she muttered uncder her breath.

Vex sighed and patted her on the shoulder,"They are too alike for their own good..."

As Dash stepped into the portal, she said, "See ya o the other side."

"Be safe," whispered Fluttershy.

Vex gave her brother a hug,"Be careful out there, and try not to kill each other." before going in her door.

The two would come to a room full of storm clouds sparking.

"Oh, and I thought it was a trail," Dash snarked.

"Well, let's see who gets through here first." Vax said, clicking his hooves together.

"All right, ready?" Dash asked.

"Set." Vax said.

"Go~" Dash said, taking off and twirling past the lighting bolts.

Vax began to dodge and weave between the lightning.

There was a bright flash as a pegasus shape struck at Dash.

"OOOF! What the?" asked Dash.

Vax looked at Dash's way,"Got a-" Another lightning pegasus struck at him, then disappeared,"What!?"

"Did something just hit yuo?" asked Rainbow Dash

"Yeah, you?"

"Yea," Dashs aid, flying around the lighting bolts/

"I suppose it wasn't going to be easy!" He dodged another pegasus attack,"Vax said,"I wonder if they are living lightning bolts!"

"I don't know, why don't we ask them after we are done running!" Rainbow said, flying faster.

"Technically flying, but that's splitting hairs." Vax dodged another one,"Wait." He stopped in mid-flight, noticing the lightning bolts stopping as well, and then looking right at him.

Rainbow Dash stopped for a second, "What? Kind of the middle of racing here."

"They're moving as we are." Vax said,"If we keep going without thinking, they're just going to keep attacking."

"...So what is the plan captain emo?" Dash said.

Vax looked around at the clouds,"Living lightning bolts require clouds to keep going... how good are you at cloud busting?"

"Bustin makes me feel good," Dash smirked as she flew up and then kicked threee clouds in three seconds

Vax flew down and did the same, before several lightning bolts began making their way towards him.

As Vax flew by the clouds and distracted the bolts, Dash began bashin could after cloud.

Soon the bolts began to squeal loudly as cloud began to disapate.

Rainbow Flew in a little tornado,kicking more clouds until the sky was cleared. Dash kept on flying, "Hey, we still have a race you know"

Vax flew up and struck a cloud with a dagger,"You're right, you know?"

Up ahead was a cloud door.

Rainbow Dash smirked and flew backwards towards the door.

Vax spun towards it.

Show off" Dash commented as she opened the door.

"You're one to talk." Vax fired back.

In front of them was a wall with two holes.

"Give a little of yourself to restore what is lost."

"Oh, so you need a feather or a little bit of blood?" asked Dash asshe put her hoof into the hole.

"I'm guessing blood." Vax put his hoof in. He winced as a shot of pain went through the both of them.

"In pain pansey?" asked Dash teasingly

"ARe you?"

Dash gav a shrug, "Not at all."

(Oh, I hope Fluttershy can handle this.)

{}

When Vex and Fluttershy entered the room, they would notice several whirlwinds flying about.

Fluttershy stepped back, "Oh gosh. I'm not that good of a flyer, why am I here?

Vex smiled at her,"Don't worry, I'll guide you through it."

Fluttersshy smiled and said, "Thank you," she then took to the air alongside vex.

Vex flew below her,"You know, as a little fawn I used to be pretty terrible at flying.

"You were?" Fluttershy asked, flying close to Vex, "You are so graceful."

"Thank you. I learned it from my mother." Vex smiled,"My brother was the better flyer, but I was the better scout."

"I could tell he was a better flyer, he was just so quick and fast like Dashie," Fluttershy gasped, "Oh, I'm sorry I didn't mean to insult you or make you feel bad."

"No, it's alright." Vex smiled,"I'll take any chance to talk about how great my brother is.

Fluttershy continued to fly with Vex, " Why did your brother decide to be like he is. Being a rouge seems so dangerous."

"That's a bit of a long story." Vex said as she gently followed under Fluttershy,"Simply put, Vax and I were on our own after leaving our father, so we decided to train under different vocations: I became a Ranger, and he became a rogue

"I see, and that's when you met Trinket isn't it?" asked Fluttershy/

"Yes, i found him as a young bear cub, who's mother was killed by a bunch of slavers." Vex snarled.

"Those monsters!" Fluttershy said.

Vex nodded,"They even tried to take me." She subtly let her hooves touch Fluttershy to move past some wind,"But as you can see, I took care of them... and took Trinket with me."

Fluttershy shyly took Vex's hoof into hers and flew with her friend, "And he is very happy to be with you."

Vex smiled,"Thank you for confirming that for me. I know you seem to have a way with animals. I mean, you did take care of him for a while."

"Oh no, it was nothing really," Fluttershy whispered, "Its just something I've been able to do ever since I got my cutie mark. I've always felt a special connection with them, a fesire to calm them and help them when they need it."

"Well, no wonder you get along well with a druid and a ranger." Vex smirked.

"Oh, well I don't try. I mean, it just comes naturally I just," Fluttershy looked down, "Im rambling sorry."

"No, no, no, I like hearing this." Vex said.

"You do?" Fluttershy asked, "I mean, I know I'm not te most interesting pony."

"I think every pony is interesting in their own ways." Vex said, slowly leading her to the door,"Hmm, maybe this was our trial."

"You mean dodging the whirlwinds?" asked Fluttershy.

"Bonding." Vex said with a smile,"That sounds cheesy though."

"Oh no, Cheesy is perfectly fine," Fluttershy said, "Dashie says Twilight is full of cheesy speeches.

Vex landed in the doorway,"Well, here we are."

The same wall with two holes greeted them.

"Doed it want us to cut ourselves for the giving?" eeped Fluttersy.

"Most definitely." Vex said.

Fluttershy gulped ad nodded, "Be breave, be brave," she whispered.

Vex put her hoof in,"Don't worry, I have cure wounds if you lose too much blood."

"Thank you," Fluttershy siad putting her hoof in.

They winced as a slight pain stuck into their hooves.

Twilight sat in the pod, and breathed in as the magic flowed into her.

For a brief moment, the magic flwoed into Twilight's wings making them glow with a celesital light. Her wings shine in the seven colors of the rainbow before rretreating back into her. Dash stepped out for a second and smiled, "So, enjoying being a pegasus again?"

Twilight let out a squeal of delight as she began to fly around the place,"Wheee!"

Dash took off with her, flying by her side, "I know, awesome aint it?"

"Oh, I never want to lose this ever again!" Twilight said.

"I know the feeling!" Dash said. and then flew down to pick Fluttershy up, "I like having my best flying buddies with me."

Vex smiled at them,"They look so happy, brother."

Vax smiled, "Well, they did win a little victory after all."

"Yeah.." Vex sighed,"Syngorn's next, isn't it?"

Vax said nothing, only looking down. A frown creased his lips and he slowly pawed the ground, before looking up at his sister and then gave her a comforting nuzzle.

Vex nuzzled him back.

"Wait, you're going to Syngorn?" The pegasus in red said,"That place isn't on this plane anymore."

"Wait, what?" Dash asked. "What the blue blazes do you mean?"

"Syngorn's in the Feywild, you'll need a planeshift spell to get there.

"Plane shift?" asked Fluttershy.

The pegasus nodded,"If you have a powerful enough mage, you could use the spell to get to the Feywild. The gift shop has a few scrolls for sale if you need them."

"Why did they move an entire town out of this plane?" asked Twilight.

"Nopony knows. They say it's because they wanted to protect something." The pegasus said.

"Protect what?" asled Twilight.

"I don't know, that's what I heard." The pegasus said.

Rainbow Dash let ut a sigh and fly out of the temple with a low growl. Fluttershy smiled, "What she means is that she understands. She can be just a little frustrated."

"YEah, I know a gal like her." The pegasus said.

Outside the rest of the group was playing cards. Rarity was winning.

"Ok, so in this game you set up land card to tap into mana like a spell caster," Pinkie said.

PErcy nodded,"Indeed..."

"Pinkie, when did you get these....why do I bother?" asked Applejack.

Twilight shook her head as she walked in,"Well, I got some good news and bad news."

"What's the bad news?" asked Rarity/.

"OTher than Rarity currently owns land in Whitestone, Grog's mug, Pike's book collection, and Keyleth's little tiger plush," Pinkie asked.

Keyleth poutedd,"Mr. Sniffles..."

"She now owns a public park near the castle..." Percy said.

Pike sighed,"Well, I wasn't reading those anyway..."

Twilight raised an eyebrow,"Well, uh, you know how our next destination was Syngorn? Yeah, that's in a different plane and we need the Planeshift spell."

"WHAT?!" the groupd shouted.

Scanlan looked down, "Where are we going to dfind one of those at this hour?"

Keyleth raised a hoof,"Um, I have planeshift?"

"You do?!" ask the group.

"I-It's not much, I can only do it once per day right now, but I can do it." Keyleth said.

"Are you sure it isn't too draining on you?" asked Vax.

"It... I'll be fine." Keyleth looked at Vax, and placed a hoof near his,"If it's to help my friends, I'll do anything."

"Just as long as it doesn't tire you out," Vax said, not noticing Keyleth's hoof near his.

"I'll just need a few minutes afterwards." Keyleth looked at everybody,"Alright, hold on to each other!"

Everypony held hooves, putting themselves close. Vax blushed a little when his hoof touched hers. Vex smiled a little when she saw how close she was to Percy while Rarity smiled and winked at Grog. As Rainbow's hoof touched Flutters, she smiled warmly at her oldest friend.

Keyleth let out a breath as her antlers glowed. A shimmering white light appeared all around them as they teleported.

As they come to, all around them was a large field of grass. Up ahead was a hill with a single tree.

Applejack stumbled around, a wave of dizzniness coming over her. After taking a moment to stand up, she shuddered and fixed her hat, "Wow, so that was a planeshift."

"Wow, what a ride!" Dash said, flying in a circle and landing back down next to Fluttershy. Leaning close, she offered a shoulder for Fluttershy to lean against her.

Vax looked to Keyleth and asked, "Are you all right?"

Keyleth moaned a litte,"Yeah, I just won't be able to use my highest level spells for a while..."

"Well, I don't think we need to have to use magic for a while anyway," Vax said before looking at her and then running a hoof through her red hair, "Until then, stand close to me. I can't protect you if I can't see you, and I don't want to lose ponies I need to protect."

Rainbow Dash look and shook her head, before noticing Rarity and Fluttershy shighing in cuteness.Then turning her head to look at the tree in the distance, she asked, "Hey, do you think this Singhorn place is near that tree?"

Applejack stepped foward and put her hoof onto the grass, as if to check it.

Vex looked ahead,"No, I just see a satyr over there, drawing something."

The grass turned a light blue.

"Bluegrass?" asked Fluttershhy.

"MY FAVORITE STYLE OF MUSIC!" Applejack said with a smile.

Pinkie happily pronked ahead, looking to the satry, "What ya drawning?"

The satyr gasped before hiding his book,"Uh, nothing!"

"Oh, that just makes me more curious!" Pinkie said with a giggle. Then she held out her hoof, "I'm Pinkie! We're looking for a town and we need someone to tll us how scary, evil, and bad this place is!"

The satyr smiled at Pinkie and shook her hoof,"I am Garmelie, and I would be happy to guide you if you wish."

"Thank you!" Pinkie said, "Want to come over and see my frineds!?

"Well, I'd be happy to!" Garmelie closed his book and subtly hid away to follow Pinkie.

Pinkie skipped over to the small group, "HEy, I found a new friend. He said he can help us!"

Twilight looked at her, and then at the satyr who waved at her,"Oh, great!"

"He saiys his name is Garmelie," Pinkie said.

Applejack looked at him, "Ok, so why is the plants on here so weird?"

Garmelie grinned,"Well, they're alive, of course! Be careful with what you say though."

"Oh come on. There is now way these little plants are alive," Dash said. "I mean, what are these litte punks gonna do, grab me by the tail, bash me like a rag doll, and throw me into a mare's arms?"

Garmelie winced,"Ooh, that's not a good idea."

The grass began to turn bright red, before converging into a hand and then grabbing Dash by the tail. It bashed her on the ground three times, before throwing her to...

Keyleth's hooves.

"Hi!" KEyleth said with a smile.

Twilight gulped,"Uh oh, quick, apologize Dash!"

Dash grumbled, got away from Keyleth's hooves and growled, "No way am I, Rainbow Awesome Grand badass Miriam Dash gonna apologize to plant matter! Especially since that plant mater is someting I would be eating! I am not going tro be made a fool of"

Applejack looked to Fluttershy and Pike, "Um, will the clerics get the healing spells ready?"

Pike and Fluttershy nodded as they heard Rainbow Dash growl, "-by my own motherbucking Dinner. Listen here supper-" Dash pointed at the plants.

The plants did it again, this time throwing her to Pike.

Pike crawled out from under Dash,"Ow..."

"Um, need healing Pike?" Fluttershy asked looking a her friend.

Dash growled as she got up, dusted herself off, and stomped to the plants, "Listen here ya after dinner snack. Do you know how many times I **** in ya? Do ya think you are imtimitating me? Why I aughta punch ya in the-"

Twilight rolled her eyes, "Stamen and Pistols."

"Pistols and rip ya off by the-"

"Roots," Twilight continued, holding up a book.

"Ya year me you piece of-"

"3,2,1," Applejack said, waiting.

The plants then grabbed Dash, banged her on the ground 3 times, and then propped her up on her hooves, slapped her in the face, and then flicked her to Grog's chest.

"Maybe you should quit," Grog said.

"I'm rainbow Dash, I neve quit!" Dash growled and stormed off.

(6 tries later and landing in the arms of each member of Vox Machina.)

"I quit."

Applejack frowned, "This is bad, these plants might hold a grudge. Maybe we should talk them down."

"I'll do it," A voice siad from the distance. Stepping out from the tree was a skinned HUMAN dwarf with a Hiawan shirt over his khaki pants. Taking a look from his extreme teen bible, he walked over to the plants and sat down.

"Hey babes, don't you worry about the mean old ponies. They aren't going to hurt ya at all. You''l be fine cuties. Oh don't worry, I think all of you are the most sexy things on the planet. I'm glad to meet some sexy plants."

The plants all turned pink, blushing adorably, "Yeah, I kow. You are all beautiful. Talk later toots. Call me." ad with that, Merle Highchurch walked off into the sunset fo cameos.

Twilight gaped at this,"That was a- but he shouldn't have-"

Garmelie laughed,"Dear Twilight, that's the nature of the Feywild. Strange things can happen, such as sleeping in one area, and waking up in another."

"Wait, you mean if I were to take one of my power naps, I could wake up somewhere weid?" Dash asked.

"Oh, yes, and we'd have to find you!" Garmelie said.

"Why can't I just find yo?" asked Rainbow.

"I mean you could, but that would take a while." Garmelie said.

"Yeah, but I'm fast."

"Oh, yes you are, but there are also many dangers in this place. Many areas that would give you a fate worse than death." Garmelie bowed,"Which is why I'm here."

"Fine!" Rainbow Dash grumbled as she took to the sky and got ready to follow them to Synhorn.

Garmelie smiled,"Don't worry, I'll take you there. A few things first:Don't make any contracts, be cautious, and don't go the Theater."

"The theater?" Rarity asked. "Oh that sounds glorious!"

"Yeah, let's go there!" Pinkie said.

"NO!" Garmelie shouted,"The Theater is a horrible place, you do not want to go there."

"It is?" Fluttershy squeakedand backed up.

Dash rolled her eyes, "What is so scary about a theater?"

"Just trust me, you don't want to go there!"

"Fine, but just lead away," Dash said.

Garmelie bowed as he beckoned them to follow.

Up ahead, a large flower was discussing things with other flowers.

Rarity stepped forward to listen to the flowers.

"We need to run, the Crabnasties are gaining on us..." The flowers said.

Vex paused at the ame Crabnasties before glaring daggers at Scanlan. Appljeack asked, "Crabnasties?"

Scanlan let out a few innocent whistles.

The flowers gasped and turned to the ponies,"Who are you?"

"I'm lady Rarity, and these are my friends. We tned to be adventureres who help ponies and creatures in need," Rariy said/.

The flowers turned to each other and whispered before saying,"WE're in terrible danger! These creatures known as Crabnasties are attacking us!"

"MY word!" Rarity gasped, "And why are they attacking you?"

"Because," He whispered to the others,"We're different!"

Pinkie gasped, "Different, how?"

The flower blinked,"Well, we are plants, they are crabs!"

"LE Gasp!" Pinkie said, "Those meanies! Hating just because you are different is just plain wrong! Come on girls, we need to show them how racisim is wrong!"

Scanlan coughed a little at the 'girls' comment.

"And stallions. Sorry, used to only having one gender team!"

"Fair enough." Vax said.

They all ran down the hill, coming to a beach where a large crab was talking to his cohorts.

"Stop!" Twilight shouted.

One of the crabs looked at her with confusion,"What do you want?" He asked.

Rarity sighed, puling out the sword, "Must I do the meme?"

Vex looked at her,"Meme, darling?"

"There;s this running gag around town that I don't know where it got started that I fight crabs for additonal money," Rarity said. "And then I donate the dead crustations to local resturants for money.

"Good lord!" The Crabnasties said.

Rarity nodded and rolled her eyes, "I know! It's umbelivable about these weird things that people end up saying about you."

"YEah, like that we're racist against those Florans!"

"Yeah like- what?" asked Dash.

"Come ahain?" asked Rarity.

"Look, we are not enemies." The crabnasty explained,"The Florans are in fact serial killers!"

Percy frowned,"How do we know you're not just trying to save yourselves?"

"Perhaps it's better if we show you."

""Do you think we should trust them?" asked Rarity.

Applejack nodded, "Not like we have any proof the otehr wa.y"

"If we show you the crime scene, you may have an easier time believing us." He indicated an area near by, where a chalk outline revealed a crab with a plant stuck through it,"They eat us alive."

"How did you hold th chalk?" asked Scanlan

"With our claws of course!" The crabnasty said.

Scanlan shruggeed, "Supposed that makes sense."

Rarity began to look over the chalkboard, invesigating it. She looked back at the Crabnasties and then back to the outline. She then put her hoof to her chin, "Do you need me to speak to the body?" asked Pike over Rarity's shoulder.

Rarity paused, and looked to Pike, "You can-"

"Yes, and as long as he seen the killer we can be totally sure if they are telling the truth," Pike said.

One of the Crabnasties sighed, "WE do still have the body in cold storage. If you want we can lead you and your cleric friend to him."

"Oh that would be marvelous. Twilight, you don't mind this side trip," asked Rarity.

Twilight shook her head, "No, because according to the planes for dummies book I bought at one of the bookstores,time moves differently in the other planes. We should be fine."

"Yeah, unless that means that their world moves faster," Garemile said under his breath. This caused Twilight'ss eyes to twitch and her mane to fray a little.

After a few minutes, Rarity and Pike were led to where the murdered Crabnasty laid in the morgue. His body was laid underneath a glass case on a pile of ice, next to a set of different crabs. One crab looked to Rarity, "Aye, you can look at one. He's available for a little while before we have to boil him. It's the traditional way to bury the crabnasty."

"Oh thank you," Rarity said, thankful that the body didn't smell. But she did remember how Fluttershy said she determined the most fresh fish for her animal companions.

Pike nodded and used her magic, her horn glowing a mix of black and white as she tapped into the mana pools. After a few minutes, the crab nasty arose from his glass coffin, "Excuse me. Mind if we ask you a few questions?"

"Yes," the crab nasty whispered.

"That's one, you have four more," Pike said.

Rarity nodded and asked, "The crabnasties said that the Plants were the ones that killed you. Is that true?"

"Indeed," the crab said.

"And are they known to be serial killers, murdering you for fun and profit?" aksed Rarity agains.

"Yes, and sometimes, they use our bodies for cakes. They even use our coffins and put prices on them." the dead body said.

"My word! Well, thank you for your service," Rarity said with a smile and walked away. "IF thee is one thing I cannot stand is being lied to!"

The mares and stallions of the band of heroes watched as Twilight made her twentith lap around the group, "Think we should stop her?" asked Percy.

"ohmygoshwhatifimmistakenandwespendtoolongandaregonefor12yearsanditsallcivilwarandcelestiahiredthreemoronswhohavenoideawhattodowhenitcomestobeingheroesandthenwehavetofixeverythingbutweareframedforbeingevilandwhatifSunsetandTempestarenowteaminguptobecomeaduoofbountyhunterstokillusallandhowcouldIbesofoalishnottoleavesomeponyoutsideofthebarrier."

"Give it till Rarity comes back," Dash said. "Twilight had been getting chubby and she needs the excerise." she then flew to the cloud to watch."

"Girls we are ba-" Rarity paused and saw the speeding Twilight, running in circles. Following her, was Pinkie. "What?"

"Twilighting," Applejack said plainly, sipping her cider.

"And Pinkie?" Rarity asked.

"Bein Pinkie," Applejack said plainly.

"Ah, I see." Rarity said. "Could someone hold Twiight and get some sense into the poor dear?"

"Oh, ok," Keyleth said, holding out her hoof, "Hold pony."

Twilight was stopped for a few moments while Pinkie played alonf and did a silly pose in the air.

PErcy looked to the group,"So, who wants to be the one to try and calm her down?"

I got this," Rainbo Dash said as she walekd to Twilight. "Twilight, look. If worse comes to worse, I'll just use my superspeed to run so far back that I take us to te moment after we left. Deal?"

Twilight let out a muffled,"Really?"

"Really," Rainbow Dash said. "May Scanlan find his daughter wants to kill him if I'm wrong."

Keyleth let go of her hold pony.

Twilight smiled,"Thank goodness."

Percy blinked,"She seems quick to believe that."

Scanlan whistled

Rainbow Dash smirked, "What can I say, I have a good poker face. Besides, who's lying, give me timee and I'll break the speed barrier."

Scanlan then whispered,"May have also modified Twilight's memory."

"You did once!" Twilight said with a smile,"To save my little sister!"

Percy's eyes widened,"Scanlan, she doesn't have one!"

Scanlan gulped,"Oops."

Pinkie paused and looked at her left back hoof wich tapped the ground, "How did Scanlan know?"

Nightlight looked back to the test, back to his wife, back to the test, back to his wife, and then to the test, "How?!"

"Hun, ever since Twilight' cornination, we had been busy." Twilight Velvet siad.

"But I thought we were too old," Night light said.

"Not that old it seems," Velvet said with a smirk.

"Can...we not et this one get invovled in the royal family?" asked Night ight.

"Tell you what, let's let this one be a lich like daddy," said Velvet.

"So, wht do ya want to do with lying sons of tulips? "asked Applejack, looking to Twilight.

Twilight grinned,"We're ponies, Applejack."

"And we are hungry..." Dash said.

And that night, those plants had a recocking as they were attacked by the ponies. Long did they think themselves the superior breed, now knew fear and how small they were in the world of the Fey wiled, they now knew fear. Cooked, baked, and usually served with a nice bit of rice and maybe some spaghetti, the plants were quickly torn asunder by the superior breed. Long was the day as they began to feed like they never did before, eating upon the screaming masses of the plants and making them know who the true gods of the realm were. Soon, there wass nothing left and te ponies laid about on their backs with full bellies.

"You know? I think there was somethingrong here," Pinkie said, burping a little

Twilight looked at her,"You mean the fact that we just ate a sentient species?"

Rarity shook her head as she nommed on one as he screamed, "No,I think she means that one of them tasted like brocoli.

Keyleth looked at the head crabnasty,"We're sorry for assuming that you were evil."

Vex chewed into one,"But your names are Crabnasties..."

"But you're called Crabnasties." Keyleth repeated.

"Yes, we are planning on changing the name." the head Crabnasty said.

"Oh, do you need suggestions," Asked Rarity.

"Oh we would love that!"

"Well, how about the krabs, or the-"

"Kinglers!" Fluttershy said, and then gasped and hid behind her mane, "Sorry, I just had a really good idea. You don't have to use it,I'm sorry.

"Kinglers... I love it." Said the head Kingler,"From now on, we are Kinglers!"

"Do we have time toparty?" Pinkie asked Twilight.

"Pinkie-"

Garmelie smirked,"Don't worry, in the Feywild, time moves differently. You can have a party."

"But we should-" Twilight was about to say.

"Right! PARTY TIME!" Pinkie said, firing off the cannon now bigger and stronger.

And so they partied over the eaten corpses of sentient creatures.

Author's Note

Sorry for the long time...

I really did just forget when it comes to collecting roleplay transcripts.

Seeing the enemy

After the party, the group followed their guide, "So, my dear sir, how have you come to know so much about this area," asked Rarity.

Garmelie smiled,"I live here of course!"

"I see, it must be so interesting," Rarity said, enjoying the scenery.

Up above, Rainbow Dahs began to grumble to herself about her bad luck.

Twilight flew with her,"What's the problem?"

"Grumpy," Dash said. "Got my flank handed by plants and I'm a little miffed."

"Hey, it's okay, you'll have other chances to be cool." Twilight said,"I mean, there's gotta be other things you can handle..."

"Yeah yeah, it's just humilatign!!!" Dash grumbled.

Twilight patted her on the shoulder,"Hey, it's okay. I'm certain it's not going to be a common thing.

"Thanks," Rainbow Dash said.

Applejack walked alongside Vax, "You guys seem tense."

Vax frowned,"We're going to Syngorn, where our father is."

"I'm guess you aren't too fond of him," Applejack asked.

"He, quite frankly, is a salesdeer, who does work in politics." Vax scoffed,"Cared more about his standing than about us. He took us away from our mother and put us into a place that didn't like us because of our blood."

"Why did he even bother having you if he didn't even want to put an effort ot be a good father?" asked Applejack.

"I ask myself that all the time. Though I suspect he took us away because he couldn't bare to have us live in a small village as opposed to his beautiful city." Vax said with a snarl.

Applejack shook her head, "It's still wrong, there was no way you could've felt comfortable there. You can't just translplant from a small town ainto a big city without feeling lost and alone and wondering why you are there to begin with and maybe you belong somewhere else..."

"Hmph, sounds like you have experience yourself." Vax said with a smirk.

"Back when I was a filly, I left my home when ma was pregnant with my little sis. Thought living with my aunt and uncle would help me better myself and help with the farm," Applejack sighed, "but I was wrong. I just felt wrong being there and like...I needed to be somewhere else."

She then tipped her hat as she watched Dash fly overhead, "But then I caught sight of a rainbow that told me, I was better as a farmer and by my family's side. I guess that's why I kind of relate to being a strange in a place that don't want me or needs me."

"Well, nice to have somepony to relate to, Jackie." Vax said.

"I think so, kind of helps to clear the air." Applejack said, "Kind of like you and your sis."

"Yes. To be honest, she's the one I trust the most." Vax said,"No offense meant."

"None taken," Applejack said, "But I ws talking about our mutal rainbow haired gal up there.

"Oh, yes, Speedy." Vax chuckled,"I have noticed a rivalry between you two."

"Rivalry would mean she can match me," Applejack boasted.

"Same." Vax smirked.

Rainbow Dash flew down above thier heads and looked at them, "Ya talkiing smack about me?"

"Nope, not at all," applejack chucnkeld.

"OF course not." Vax said.

Rarity patted Vex on the shoulder, "It will be ok darling."

Percy turned his head to listen in on the coversation briefy.

Vex smiled,"Thank you, darling." She sighed,"It's going to be rough, but me and Vax should be able to handle it."

"Is there anything you think we can do to make this a little less awkward," asked Rarity.

"Hmm, well we could just kill him and hide the body." Vex smirked.

Rarity put a hoof to her chin, "I am against an out and out murder. But being involved in a political assination, one involving the intregue of the courts. Where one false step can lead to the noose or a magical firing suad. Where you must keep your friends close and you could easily fall into the bed of an ally for gold."

With a triwl and a swoon, Rarity fell into Grog's open forelegs as he described killing a bugbear, "It's the things ladies of the court dream about."

Vex chuckled at this,"Well, I was joking really. It seems we'll have to just... talk."

"Don't worry, we'll be there." Rarity siad.

Pinkie bounced next to Garamile, "So, what about the theater later?"

"NO!" Garmelie said,"Trust me, you do not want to go there. Terrible place."

"Have you been there?" Pinkie said."nd your voice sounds familar."

"No, but I know what happenes to people there." Garmelie smirked at Pinkie,"I have been told that I sound similar to the Traveler."

"The Traveler?" asked Pinkie.

"A god that specializes in trickery and pranks." Garmelie said with a smirk.

"ooooh, sounds like my kind of god!" Pinkie giggled.. "How do you know about him?"

"Let's just say he and I... talked." Garmelie said with a wink.

"Ohhhh, you 'talked'," Pinkie saidl

""Yes, we... 'talked.'

Pinkie blinked for a second, "Was that an euphamatissmamtium or somtehing?"

Garmelie didn't answer, only skipped ahead.

Pinkie shrugged as they approached the city.

At the front of the city was a deer in armor,"Halt!"

"Oh hello good sir," Twilight said, giving a little bow, "I hope you don't mind us entering your city.

The deer frowned,"WE don't allow non-deer to enter." He frowned at Keyleth,"Especially half-breeds."

Vex stepped up,"Can it, Rohorn, we're here to see our father, Syldor."

Rohorn narrowed his eyes at Vex,"Ah, I remember you now, twins." He scoffed,"Troublemakers, especially the male. I'll have a word with my CO." He went inside.

"So, what's the back up plan?" asked Rainbow Dash.

"Well, if they don't let us inthen we could wait and figure out-" before Twilight could continue, Das interrupted.

"Ah, the non-boring plan," Dash ased.

"We have you, Vax, and Pinkie stealth them out and we slink by while Scanlan uses his magic to make us all look like deer." Twilight said.

Rohorn came back,"Alright, you can come in, but we're having two guards watch over you."

Scanlan's horn stopped glowing,"Darn..."

Garmelie whispered to Pinkie,"I'll go invisible. The deer like people like me even less than non-deer."

"Ah, got ya. A little hushy hushy and secrets. Got ya, a little discord to keep hidden," Pinkie said with a wink.

As they walked into the town, several of the deer looked down at the small little party. The looks began to put the group at unease and a little suspicious. With a little whimper, Fluttershy made her way to stand close ot Rainbow Dash, "I don't like how these deer look at us."

"Hey," Dash said, patting Fluttershy on the shoulder, "Don't worry. If any of them get too jerky, I'll punch 'em for ya."

Fluttershy smiled at this. Keyleth looked at the various deer and tried to wave at some of them, trying to say hi and welcome conversation with her people. Only to frown when they said nothing. Vax stepped to her side and put a hoof to her shoulder and smiled at her.

Vex kept going forward, her destination already in her head. A hoof was placed on her shoulder, and she looked back to see Percy giving her a nod.

"So, where does your dad live?" asked Dash, grumbling

"Right here." Vex went to a large house with many fancy decorations in front. She knocked on the door.

From the door came a female deer with a long white robe,"Yes? Oh!" She gasped as she saw Vex and Vax,"Vex'ahlia, Vax'ildan, we didn't expect you! Come on in, come on in," She said with a smile.

The rest of the group followed in, "She seems friendly," said Aplejack.

"I know." Twilight muttered.

"I need to introduce myself, don't I?" the deer said,"I'm Devora, Syldor's wife." She began setting up a long table,"Feel free to have a seat, I'll get your father, do all of you want anything?"

"Some apple sandwiches would be nice and maybe a couple of hay-" Applejack found herself being nudged by Rarity.

"Some tea, darling," Rarity said.

"Okay, I'll be right back." Devora said.

At that point, in between Vex and Vax, out popped a small doe's head,"Um, you said you're Vex and Vax right?"

Vax nodded,"And who are you?"

The deer smiled,"I'm Velora, your sister! I've heard so much about you! Is it true you snuck out of here like super cool rebels!?"

Scanlan smiled, "OF course they did. They were the first of several grand rebels that left out of his town."

Dash joined in, "And they were awesome while doing it, hunting for a place to belong and now they are famous in the other plane!"

Velora let out a gasp,"Really!? That's so cool!"

"Well eah, your sibs are pretty awesome," Applejack said, tucking down her hat, "WE wouldn'thave survived if it weren't for them."

Vax smirked,"Yes, we even killed gods!"

Velora's eyes widened,"You're better than I imagined!"

Vex sighed,"We've only just met, and already we're corrupting her." She let out a few chuckles.

"More like obliterated the bastard!" Dash said, and then she leaned in and whispered, "Hey for a fun game, if you are really mad at your parents, tell them 'go fuck yourself.' they will laugh."

Velora gasped and nodded quickly.

The doors then opened to reveal a large buck wearing a heavily adorned blue robe,"... Son, Daughter." He walked towards the table and sat,"It's... a pleasure.
"
Vax nodded, "Sperm Doner."

"Worthless," Vex added.

"... Well, I wasn't expecting a happy greeting." Syldor frowned,"Why are you here? I assume that this isn't just a random visit to see your half-sister."

"Trust me, this is more of a business meeting than a one for pleasure," Vex siad.

Twilight stepped forward, "We're on a quest looking forthe fonts of magic to help restore my magic and to find the eight items of medowbrook." she then pulled out the tablet and laid in front of the deer.

"Eight items of Meadowbrook." Syldor nodded,"I see. That is why we have hidden away in the Feywild. The item you seek is in this city, and we are protecting it from the Goddess."

The room becae silent at the mention of the goddess. Twilight was the first to speak, "Wich goddess."

"I assume it's only one of many. She called herself Persei, and called herself the Goddess of the Written Word and Cliches." Syldor said.

Twilight's eyes sot p, "Goddess of the written word?"

"Oh fudge, we're dealing with an egghead!" Dash ssaid.

Vax sighed, "And Grog's greatest weakness."

Grog let out a moan.

"Unfortunately I cannot just let you have the item." He looked at Vex and Vax,"And no, it's not because of you. It's because it needs to be won in a test of your abilities."

"More red tape," asked Vex with a ffrown.

Twilight looked up, "What kid of test?"

Syldor frowned,"As much as I would hate to say it, you all must go on a quest to find a weapon within a dead tree here in the Feywild.

"What weapon?" asked Vex, "And wh can't you get it?"

"Because, as you can see, I am busy here." He frowned,"And I can't afford to let myself get killed. Plus it must be you who does it, not me."

Vex rolled her at this, and almost raised her hoof to say something, but Twilight stepped in, "We can understand you being busy sir. After all, Vex is quite busy herself, with what her being a lady of the land after all."

Syldor blinked,"Lady?"

Percy nodded,"Of Whitestone, Mistress of the Grey Hunt."

Twilight paused and looked at PErcy as if to ask (That is real?) before nodded and saying, "Yes, we granted her the title recently and Vax is lord of-"

"The Jack of all trades and this," Dash said, "Somethin I saw Twilight give them both before we came here."

"So trust us," Applejack said, "We can get this little weapon."

Syldor hid a small smirk,"Well, I apologize, Lord and Lady. I know you don't believe this, but I really wish you wouldn't have to go out there. It is quite dangerous." He handed them a piece of paper,"Here, if you need lodging there is a place near the exit."

Velora looked at Vex and Vax,"IS there where you say'Go fuck yourself?'"

Devora came in, eyes widened,"Velora!"

Syldor put a hoof over his mouth with a chuckle.

Rainbow Dash was silent as she tried her best to not laugh. All she coult do was smile, nod, and gave a hoof up. Rarity frowned at this and narrowed her eyes at Rainbow Dash. Twilight, chosing to subdude the situation, said, "Thank you, sir. I suppose we do need a redst for a moment. And time to find the tree."

Syldor nodded,"You may go now."

The group nodded and got up, "Gooday, sir." Rarity said.

"Bidet," said Grog, bowing his head a little and following the group out of the house and into the small little inn.

As they began to get ready for bed, Vex asked, "Is the "Mistress of the Grey hunt" a real thing?"

Percy nodded,"The house is still owned, but I'm planning on killing it's owner eventually, so I might as well give it to you. Also, I didn't want to embarrass Twilight if she tried to come up with something that didn't exist."

Vex smiled warmly at Percy, and laid a hoof onto his, "Thank you, darling." and she looked into his eyes.

"I mean, I d have paper for a whole bunch of titles ad deeds in case I need to-" Twilight paused and looekd at the two. "Oh, um, moment, sorry, will be talking with my friends."

Rarirty looked up, frowned,and crossed PErcy's name off te list. Applejack looked at her, "Oh come on Rares. They are just looking at each other and holding hooves."

"Look again," Rarity said.

"You know Percy, you can be quite generous when you need to. I rarely get gifts like this," Vex said, playing with her hair a little.

"I think, when one has a friendship built on trujst, we should support one another," Percy said, smiling back.

"Oh! They are into it!" Applejack siad. "Get a ring on those two, those are in it!"

Rarity smiled, "Shipping is my second talent darling."

"Oh that is just redicilos," Dash comment.

Rarity smirked, "Dash, care to talk to Fluttershy for a moment. She was just outside."

"Sure, don't know why," Dash said flying out.

Applejack watcjed in amazement, "You're good."

Meanwhile, Trinket waited outside, where Rohorn was petting him.

Fluttershy happily joined in, rubbing his back and running her hooves through his coat.

Rohorn stopped and looked away with a whistle.

"It's ok, I like playing with bears too," Fluttershy aid warmly.

Rohorn muttered,"I shouldn't be talking to you."

"OH no, itsok, nopony knows but us and the bear," Fluttershy said. "You don't need to mean to others.

Rohorn looked away, and sighed,"Look, I, I've raised not to trust creatures other than deer, okay? It's hard not to think less of you..."

"Why?"

"I... I don't know, it's like changing your mind about something is really hard..."

Fluttershy sighed and nodded, "I can understand."

Rohorn sighed,"Look, you must need rest. Just go inside already..."

Fluttershy nodded, petting Trinket before walking inside. Scanlan could be heard muttering from inside, "Can't believe she beat me to the room. I was hpoping for Pike." before walking to his bed room.

Fluttershy looked confused, "What happened."

"Oh we werre choosing rooms dear and I just so happened to get the appropiate roomates through the use of toothpicks. I do hope you don't mind sleeping with me der," Rarity said. Then paused, and looked towards Scanlan with a glare.

"She also is doing this for the shipping," Applejack groaned lowly.

Twilight nodded,"PRetty sure they were rigged in her favor..."

"I would never!" Rarity said, "IT was completely by chance, Twilight."

Vex coughed a little.

Vax shook his head.

Twilight nooded,"Well, sleep well everypo- er-"

"You can say pony, dear, we all techinally have a little pony in us." Vex said.

Applejack smirked and nodded, "Some of us more than others."

Percy sat in the room, looking over his gun and the schematics. Behind him, he heard Vex saying, "Thank you. For, you know, before."

"I understand that to some people that titles are important and your father seemed to be a very formal pony," PErcy said, his mind on his schematics.

Vex played with her mane a little as she looked at him, "What I mean is that I don't usually get a gift from someone other than Vax. Or do I usually ask for it. So, getting a gift like that from someone welse is special."

"It wasn't special, it was just something to shut him up," Percy said, before feeling something warm and wet on his cheek.

"Still, thank you darrling," Vex said, kissing PErcy before walking away.

Percy looked over his shoulder, and watched her. Rubbing his cheek, he smiled warmly at her.

{}

Grog and Scanlan sat alone in a room,"So... want me to, I don't know, sing a drinking song? I mean, unless we want to go out on the town and potentially piss off Vex."

"But how do we potitenially piss her off?" asked Grog.

Scanlan shruggedd,"Wanna find out before bedtime!?"

"YEAH!" Grog shouted.

"Oooh, ah. A little more easy."

"It's ok Kiki, just hold still. This is not easy."

"I, oh, thought you were an expert at this."

"I only did it wit Stubby and her bear a few times. Someone like you is a little more difficult."

Keyleth looked over her shoulder, "What do you mean? Is my mane really that difficult?"

"No, it's just that Vex has a pony tail and yours is really long." Vax said.

Keylet sighed, "Well, we don't always take care of our manes like normal ponies and we tend to focus on other things. And-I'm rambling arent' I?"

"No, it's fine. Kind of charming actually," Vax said, tucking Key'et's chin.

Rarity smiled, "I feel the shipping force tell me tat all is going according to plan. HAHAHAH!" she then turned to Twilight, "Sorry for keeping you awake."

Twilight spoke over her shoulder,"Oh no, I was just having a nice dream where my friend wasn't keeping me up with her shenanigans!"

"I would think I offer a reprieve darling," Rarity said with asmile as she picked up a book. "And besides, I predict that if Scanlan and Grog do anythign wrong, Pike will be the voice of reason to them."

"Woo hoo!" Pike shouted, drinking a mug of ale as Grog punched a deer out.

The deer fell back shaking his head, before frowning. Somewhere, in another corner, Scanlan smiled at the three deer, "No, honestly, it was that big. But Nightmare Moon still fainted.Now my lovely-"

" Faethurin" yhe female deer said with a blush as Scanlan tucked her chin.

"Fae, how about you tell your friend over there to join us," Scanlan said.

"Pinkemena Diane Pie, if you don't fall asleep right now, I swear I am gonna have to offer Twilight my condolences!" Applejack said, wathcing Pinking bounce.

Pinkie stopped bouncing for a second,"But Applejack, these beds are bouncy!" She bounced again.

"Look, Pike probably needs somepony to keep an eye on Grog and Scanlan. Why don't you goand play," Applejack said.

Pinkie thought for a moment, then quickly nodded,"Okay!" She then hopped away.

"Well, thet shouldn't lead to problems. Now to get some sleep," Applejack said.

What happened next led to Syngorn's most terrible night.

Winter Wrap, winter wrap up~

A large stallion with a greying beard smiled up at the clouds,"The pegasi are doing a bang up job, if I do say so myself." He let out an "whoop!" as two foals ran by him,"Well, don't let me stop you two!"

Percy, a small colt with a brown mane, laughed as he stopped in the snow,"I just want to enjoy the snow just a little bit longer, before we have to get rid of it."

A black haired red filly nodded alongside him,"I wish we could convince the pegasi to keep snow just a little bit longer... so I could do this!" She took a bit of snow and hit Percy with it.

"OW Cassandra!" Percy picked up some snow and hit her back. With a laugh he reached down-

Blood.

Percy noticed the snow had been slowly covered in blood.

"Percival?" Cassandra asked.

Percy looked around noticing the blood had covered the entire area,"Cass-" He turned to his sister-

She was a young mare, face down in a pool of blood. Percy's eyes widened as he stared at the two large arrows sticking out from her back. He looked up to see the attackers, grinning at him.

Percy awoke with a jump, panting heavily.

"Areyou all right darling?" asked Vex.

Percy looked around for a bit and then nodded,"I'm... doing, well, as well as you'd expect, all things considered."

Vex put a hoof onto Percy's shoulder and smiled, looking at him with her soft brown doe eyes. She then said, "I've always told Vax this. You aren't going to be able to liv long with so much inside of you. If you ever need to say something, please tell us."

Applejack groaned softly, "Rarity, this is spying."

"No it isn't, Applejack," Rarity said from the porthole she made of the door, "This is seeing how my, "Make the two ships happen" plan is working!"

"And why aren't you checking on Flutters and Dash?" Applejack asked.

Rainbow snuggled under Fluttershy's wing, "So warm."

"Oh those two are in the bag," Rarity said before turning to look.

"Question, who do you have me shipped with?" Asked Applejack.

"No more questions darling!"

"Ahem." Said a voice from behind them.

Applejack looks towards the voice andwaves, "Howdy.."

Rohorn stood, with four individuals in his care,"I believe these belong to you."

Scanlan looked at him,"Didn't you join-"

"They were causing all sorts of trouble last night that I did not take part in, no matter what any deer would tell you.

Applejack smirked, "Right. Legally you were never there and specifically, you never saw them."

With a frown, Rariryy looked to the quartet, "What did you do? PIKE, I thought you would've kept an eye on them!"

Pike kicked the floor,"I did... for the first three drinks..."

"And then?" asked Rarity.

"I... joined them..."

Applejack looked to Pinkie, "And you just wanted to join in?"

Pinkie nodded happily.

Twilight stepped out of her room, stared at the group, and then let out a very heavy sigh.

Pinki happiley waved to Twilight, "Enjoy your sleep?"

"Yes." Twilight said simply,"Let's... go before we cause anymore damage.:

"Wait...we're no going to cause anymore damage?"asked Grog, feeling down.

Pike patted him on the leg,"Don't worry, Grog, we'll do some damage outside the town."

"Promise?" asked Grog.

"I promise!" Pike said with a smile.

"Yay!" Grog cheered as he picked Pike up and put her ont his back as they group left.

Once the group left the town, Garmelie appeared,"I know where that stick in the mud wants to take you. I'll lead you there."

Twilight pulled up a map, "He said that there was a sick tree containing a magic weapon he wants up to get beffore we fight a god."

Dash rolled her eyes, "Oh come on, how dangerous can a sick tree be?"

Garmelie began to laugh maniacally,"Oh, RAinbow Dash..."

Dash looked, "Wait, could you laugh again?"

Garmelie laughed once more,"Problems?"

"Something about your lauugh just snt a chill down my spine," Dash said.

Garmelie grinned,"Maybe that's a good thing."

"How is that anyway a good thing?" asked Dash.

Garmelie then walked forward.

"How much further? asked Applejack

Garmelie stopped as they came across a very wide river,"Well, first we must cross this.

"Heh, easy!" Rainbow Dash said with a shrug but was stopped by atail bite. "Ow! Why is always the tail!"

Applejack looked back at him, "What is th catch?"

Garmelie shrugged,"Not sure. You never know what may happen in the feywild."

Dash flew ahead a littele, after pointing her hoof to her eyes and then back to him.

Garmelie stuck his tongue out.

Twilight flew up,"Um, do any of you want to be carried?"

Grog picked up Pike and Scanlan onto his back while Applejack looked at a large tree, "I gotit." Spinning aroud, she bucked the tree in an attempt to fall it to create a bridge.

There was a loud bang as the tree fell, creating a bridge for them...

That was when a large plant gator leaped out of the spot where the tree fell and chomped at them.

Fluttershy lightly patted his snout and said, "No."

The gator cocked his head.

. "You don't bite and attack random people. Now if you are hungry I can go through Grog's bacg of holding and pull out some meat he ad stored." Fluttersy said. "Or do you need me to bring out the big guns?"

The croc pointed at Applejack in frustration.

Keyleth walked up with Fluttershy, "Well, we're kind of sorry. See we were just- you know trying to cross it because a lot of us can't fly."

"And we didn't see you," Fluttershy siad.

The croc nodded, before glaring and then swimming back into the river.

Keyleth smiled and put a hoof ontoFluttershy's shoulder, "Thank you. I can't imagine talking to something like that alone."

"I admi, I was still a little scared," Fluttershy said. "I'm much more used to talking o animals than plants. But I thought since he ws a crocadile..."

"I know, and he looked like he would be hard to talk to," Keyleth said, looking down.

"Not when you get to know them," Fluttershy said, and Keylet smiled back in return.

Twilight, having seen all this, just let out a sigh,"The Feywild is insane..."

"I knoe, sin it great?" asked Pinkie.

They soon came to a large swamp.

"Ok, so wha is here? A killer sharktopus? A killer Skarnado?" asked Dash.

Garmelie patted her on the head,"Don't give this place ideas, Dashie."

Dash grumbled, "I hate this place."

They began walking along the swamp, until a house came into view.

Rainbow Dash frowned, "I swear if Baba Yaga shows up."

Twilight walked over and looked the house over,"Would it be a good idea to knock?"

Pinkie nodded and pulled out a giant glove. Reaching over she...lightly knocked it with a cute tap.

A long spindly hand opened the door,"Come in..." A raspy voice said.

Twilight paused, looked at the group and then asked, "Um, how big is your house?"

The voice chuckled,"Big enough..."

The group slowly walked in

They soon came to a large dining room with a large table filled with all sorts of food. In front of them was a large hunched over creature with a horse's face, long hands, and two goat-like feet.

Garmelie nodded,"Ah, a hag."

The creature looked at them,"What brings you here?"

"We're looking for a decayed tree hat has some weapon in it," Twilight said.

"Ah... I know where that is..." The hag said,"But you are on another quest, aren't you? One involving gods?"

"Yes."Twilight said (Was kind of hoping o leave that ou in case she had a connection.) "We are looking forMEadowbrook's items to combat them.

"I know a lot about those gods... but I require payment." She cocked her head,"Information for information..."

Pinkie bounced up, "Oh, I know a lot of things. For instance..."

The hag held up a finger,"I will ask you five questions, and one of you will answer me. Then I give you answers.

Thye all nodded, before giving Grog a look hat said don't say anything

"Pick somepony, and I will ask them a question."

Twilight stepped forward.

The hag's eyes gloweed,"Oh bookish one... what spells do you wish you never learned?"

Twilight looked down and sighed, "Karvas Avatar, Giga Slave, and Mage's Disjunction." at that last one, she shuddered at te thought.

"Ah, all terrible spells." The hag leaned in,"You will find Fenthras, the bow, wielded by Syldor a mile north." She cocked her head,"Next?"

Scanlan stood up.

"Small bump of a thing with gleaming teeth... you smell of spawn. What is the name of your kin?"

"Whoa, tha is my quesion?" Scanlan stepped back and looked down, turning his head to his friends he whispered lowly, "Kylie."

"Ah..." She noddded,"The gods have designations based on strength.

The 8 you are fighting now are the Royal Knights:

Anteres, Knight of Emotion

Pollux, Knight of Government

Persei, Knight of Knowledge

Cephei, Knight of Competition

Fomalhaut, Knight of Speed

Altair, Knight of Passion

Arcturus, Knight of Faith

And Cayrel, Knight of Battle." She looked at the others,"Next?

Applejack stepped up.

"Dear creature of Honesty... What is the only lie you'll ever tell?"

Applejack ctossed her forelegs, and then tipped her hat, "Only if it meant protecting my family."

"Very vague... interesting." The hag chuckled,

"The ones above the Knights are known as Scions

Cygni is the Empress of Protection

Andromeda is the Empress of Destruction

Vega is the Emperor of Love

Evening Dusk is the Empress of War

Morning Dawn is the Empress of Order." The Hag smiled,"NExt?"

Vax stood next.

"Oh, ye of shadows, what draws your hate more than anything?"

"Feeling useless and without purpose," Vax saod/

"Very interesting..." The hag chuckled,"Syldor the Vibrant was once a kind-hearted soul, whose love betrayed him. He was filled with so much hate, that it consumed him, turning him into a shade of his former self.

"Slydor?"

Rainbow Dash stood up.

"The one who is wielding the bow." She looked at Dash,"One who's Loyalty is unshakable... what would it take to break you?"

"Noth..." Dash paused and thought of an old friend, "When they break my trust."

"Ah," She chuckled,"You are looking for eight items... but you seem to have a weapon from the gods. The Gynosphinx can tell you more."

"You made that word up." Dash said.

Twilight raised a hoof, bu a glare from Dash shut her up.

Keyleth was next.

"That's all I will tell you for now." The hag said.

KEyleth smiled, "Thank so much for the information."

Pinkie put a cupcake on her table as they left

"Aw, thanks... why does the thought of cupcakes make me shudder?"

"Maybe you are afraid of cupcake monsters?" asked Pinkie.

"Hmmm..." She waved them goodbye,"I'll think about that."

"Ok, that woman was creepy.Anyone else creeped out?" aked Dahs.

Twilight nodded,"Very creepy."

Garmelie laughed,"Most hags are kinda creepy. Old, wise, powerful, and tricky too."

"So what does tha make you?" asked Dash.

Garmelie winked,"A puppet master.

"Oh, a fun puppet master or a silly puppe master," Pinkie asked.

"A fun one!" Garmelie laughed.

Pinkie giggled, "Those are the most fun!"

"So, about those three spells," Applejack asked.

Twilight giggled, "Oh, don't worry about them. They were just random spells I found while in the Starswirl wing of the library. I was curious about them and studied them. Now I kind of...regret them."

"Sounds bad," Applejack said.

Twilight nodded, "Karas's Avatar...its a spell that turns one into a god, but not like how I became an alicorn. It's more like, if one were to take all your personality and put it into one point. It would basically destroy you and turn you mad. Giga Slave is a world destroying spell and then there's Mage dijunction."

"What does that do," Applejack asked.

"Its in case of emergancy spell, in case I find something I can't outsmart," Twilight said.

Scanlan laughed,"I don't see that happening anytime soon."

Twilight smiled, "Well, I don't like to brag all hat often."

"And that is where we are different." Scanlan smirked.

As they walked, the trees began to look more and more decayed.

"The poor things," Keyleth whispered.

Vex looked at them,"It seems we're getting closer. But why are they like that?"

Keyleth put her hoof to he tree to try and get a reading on it.

Nothing.

"This tree," Keyleth whispered, "IT's dead, there's no voice."

Vex looked around,"That's a shame, what could've killed these trees?"

"Ah'm thinking it might be that rotting tree up there or it be something with the soil," Applejack said, looking at some of the trees closely.

Percy looked up, noticing a large tree with roots coming from the ground,"Hmm, that tree could be feeding off of the others."

"It must be draining all life from the other trees," Applejack said.

"Of course! Life needs things to live!" Percy said.

Scanlan looked at him,"So poetic." He said with his head on his hoof.

Twilight walked to percy with eyes wide, "Wow. I didn't know you studied Gloomy Bud's treatiste on life."

Percy sighed,"I ended up reading it while I was bored as a child."

"His quotes are a little silly rent they? They seem like he wrote them while drunk." Twilight commented.

"And I haven't had my coffee yet." Percy said.

Twilight sighed, "I know...it's hard to get good coffee."

"Especially around here." Percy mused."

The slowly made their way to the rotted tree.

Fluttershy gave a little shudder as they walked into the tree. Rainbow Dash put a hoof onto her shoulder, "IT's ok. Im here, so its all good."

Keyleth found herself absently walking right into Vax's forelegs.

"Hey Kiki." Vax said.

Twilight looked around,"So, where is this Saundor suppose to show up?

Rainbow Dash looked around and shouted, "HEY DORK!!!"

"Real subtle." Percy muttered.

That was when several branches and vines began to form together into the shape of a green deer with leaves over his body,"Dork?" He asked.

"Thank you. I tr-" Dash paused and looked at the deer with the leaves, "Yeah. I'm calling-"

Applejack held a hoof over Dash's mouth and Rarity pt a silence spell onto the Rainbow pegasus. Turning around, Rairty smiled, "She truely did not mean in an insulting manner, my good sir. Dork is a term of endearment in the west."

"Indeed? Well, then I must be high up there amongst the dorks!" Saundor said.

"Indeed you are, good sir," Rarity said, putting on her charm and winking att him. Dash was trying to laugh through Applejack's hoof.

Vex stepped forward, "Why are you hurting this tree?"

"Hurting, no, I am using this tree to sustain me." Saundor said.

"But you're draining the life from the other trees, can't you do something else?" aksed Vex.

"This is how I must live." Saundor cocked his head,"For I was cursed."

"Cursed?"

"Cursed to remain here forever, betrayed by my love." Saundor said.
.
"I'm so sorry," Flutterhy whispered.

"Is there a way we can remove it?" asked Pike

Saundor walked towards them,"One of you must give yourself to me..."

"I'm sorry, but what?" asked Vex

"I sense many things from you, Vex." Saundor said,"You were wronged by one who should love you as was I. Join your heart with mine, and I can give you what you seek."

Vex backed up, lookeding at him with an arched eyebrow, "Join with you?

"Indeed, we are much alike, Vex'ahlia." Saundor said.

"I am sorry, but I'm not seeing it. Why were you betrayed."

"My one true love betrayed me." Saundor said.

"Then we are differnt. I dont see myself being betrayed anytime soom

"You'd never now, my dear..." Saundor held his hoof to her.

Vex backed up at his touch.

"You... reject me."

"Vex nodded, "I do not like the idea of being compared to you. You are taking everything and not giving back. You are being selfish and are not even trying to figure out another way. And you hurt hose around you."

Saundor frowned,"I can give you what you desire!" He held his hoof out, and a bow appeared.

"And all I would have to do, is to give up my freedom?"

"IF that is how you see it?" Saundor said.

"Its how I feel," Vex said. "And I'm sorry, but my freedom is important to me.

"Fine then." Saundor snarled, and brought his bow to bear.

All around them, four trees began to emerge.

"Oh my, killer trees," Fluttershy said.

"It's the day of the triffids!" Pinkie shouted.

Twilight looked at Applejack,"AJ, can you do something? You talk to trees!"

"Howdy, do y afeel like not attacking us while wekick your boss's can?"

The trees cocked their heads and then shook their leaves in response.

"Right then," Applejack said as she urned around and slammed her feet into the stomach f one og the trees.

Vax ran up the side of the tree before leaping off to thrwo his flame dagger at Slyodor right as Vexaimed with her bow. Grog had a happy smile as he slashed with his ax.

Twilight flew up into the sky,"I wish I had magic," She brought out the dragonslayer sword and slashed down at one of the trees.

Saundor yelled as the flame dagger struck. He spun to Vax and fired three arrows at him

Vax flew down, trying to escape he arrows, only to yelp as one of them pirced his hind leg. Keyleth snuck up behind hem, turning into a tiger and slahsing at his back

Saundor snarled in pain, before sinking into the ground.

Applejack looked around and charged power in her boots before slammig them into the ground to cause a small centered earthquake,

Two of the trees staggered, while two others reached for Applejack.

Applejack tried to roll out of the way, however, one of the trees grabbed her leg and lifted her up to throw her. Rainbow Dash, chrrged with lighting, soulder checked the monster and then flew up into the upper part of the tree to look for more targets.

"Hey, trees. Arent ya just all bark and no bite. Check that, no bark at all!" Scanlan said with a smirk.

Pike ran behind one and slammed her mace into one tree.

One of the trees whimpered a little.

Saundor appeared behind Pike and fired at her with his bow.

Pike winced in pain as she took the shot and tried to slam at him. Twin arrows fired from behind Pike, and hit him in the shoulder.

Saundor snarled in pain before morphing back into the tree.

Scanlan lightly hit the side of the tree, trying to see ho connected he is to the tree. Grog let out another battle cry as he slashed at some of the other summoned trees before slashing at the side of the wall.

Percy spun around and shot one of the trees.

Saundor appeared from the ceiling, and knocked another arrow.

Vax backflipped and threw one dagger before runningup a wall to throw one at his neck

Saundor screamed in pain,"I'll kill you, remove one of her ties to her world!"

Vax chuckled, "Hmph, I plan on dieing that easily. I think I'll live for a long time."

Saundor frowned,"Sassy, aren't we?"

"You forget good looking," Vax mocked.

Saundor snarled, before firing arrows at Vax.

Vax ran back down the wall, smirking Vex shot arrows at Saundor's arrows, knocking them out of the air. Vex then ran over to get a better shot at him as Pike shot magic at Vex, making it glow brightly, "Light him up."

"Thank you dear," Vex said, firign three arrows at once.

Fluttershy conjured some vines and used them to wrap around his neck, before giinv ghtme to grog to pull at them, "Get over here and taste youjr medicing," Grog said.

Saundor screamed in rage,"No!" he began to fire several arrows that burst into several more.

Rainbow Dash began to make a small tornado, catching the arrows.

Twilight landed next to Scanlan,"Hey, can you direct those insults towards the crazy deer? I wanna check something.

Scanlan smiled, "With pleasure princess!" he then turned to look at the tree, "Hey, buddy, is your wood as limp right now as it usually is in the morning?"

Saundor let out a loud yell.

"Ok, what was that proving?" asked Dasj

Twilight smirked,"Psychic damage hurts him the most. His weakness is being insulted!"

Rainbow Dash, Pinkie, and Scanlan smirked. Applejack on te other hand, sighed, "Did you listened to how much ethuasiam you said that?

Twilight sighed,"Yeah..."

Pinkie, Scanlan, and Dash stood at seperate corners, "You know, maybe he lost his girl because he was just too wooden." Dash mocked.

"Actually, he just wanted to make himself like a tree and leaf!" Pinkie giggle.

"Hey, buddy. Maybe you should talk to your girlfriend Cheryl, she might forgive you for the whole cabin incident!"

Saundor let out a scream of pain and rage.

Vex pulled out her bow and fired several showts, all of them glowing bright.

Saundor was sent flying bakc, he then proceeded to cough up black bile.

Percy aimed his gun at Saundor and glared at him, "Maybe this will teach you how to be a better gentleman to a lady."

Saundor snarled,"Silence..."

"Is that all you wish to say?" Percy said silently.

Saundor whispered,"Yeah..."

"Then I hope you die feeling worthless as you were in life," Percy said, blasting his head off.

Saundor's body fell to the ground, Fenthras falling near Vex.

Percy walked to it and picked it up, before kneeling and handing it to Vex, "For you." he then walked away. Rarity began to smile at the sight and let out a shipping squeal.

Vex smiled as she held the bow,"It seems my heart belongs to another."

"E-" before Rarity could squeal like a shipper whos favorite ship has been confirmed.

Applejack put her hoof into Rarity's mouth, "Let's get going shipper."

Garmelie clapped his hands at the entrance,"Well done."

"Let me guess, you would've helped but it wouldn't be fun," Dash sad.

Garmelie nodded,"Now you're getting it."

"God, you are as bad as Discord sometimes," Dash as

Garmelie winked at Dash before turning,"Shouldn't we head somewhere?"

"Um, yeah." Dash flew off...then came back, "Where again"

"Syngorn?" Twilight saidl.

"Right," Dassh said with a light chuckle, "I knew that." before falling back in line to follow the group as they made their way through.

They soon made their way back to Syngorn, where Rohorn waited for them.

"Hey man, how's it hanging?" Scanlan asked

Rohorn sighe,d"Just let me take you home."

Scanlan smiled and said, "Sure, and then maybe later we can have a party, you and me big guy!"

Rohorn looked left and right,"Alright, just once, OK."

"I'll giva an evening you wont forge.

"I haven't forgotten the last one..."

Scanlan smirked at this. As they neared Vex's father home, Percy whisered to Vex, "Do try and not to be too smug."

Vex chuckled,"Oh, Percival, don't expect too much from me."

"I just wanted to see how well you could compose yourself,"

"I will be fine, dear." Vex winked at him.

Percy tried to hid his smile at her confidence, enjoying the walk wth her.

Applejack patted Rarity on the shoulder,"Settle down Rares. Ah know that shippin' look."

The door to Syldor's house opened to reveal Velora staring up at them,"Vex, Vax!" She said with a smile.

Vx couldn't help but smile and kneel down to hug her littel half sister. Vax on the other hand said, "You missed a good fight kid. After we are done bragging to him, perhaps I'll tell you about."

Rainbow Dash then added, "And I'll add all of the censored bits."

Twilight then hissed,"Rainbow!"

Velora's eyes widened,"Yay!"

There was a feminine chuckle from behind her,"Well, come on in then."

"What? She needs to hear the cool parts and the censored bits are the most fun."

"And she's still young!" Twilight said,"What, do you tell Scoots every... thing..." She facehoofed,"You do, don't you?"

"Hey, she now knows more about the facts of life than most of the kids in school," Dash bragged.

"That's not something to brag about..." Twilight frowned.

Rainbow stuck her tounge out at Twilight as the team moved into the next room. Twilight nodded, "As you can see, we have bow."

"Yeah, so how about telling us about the god and where the item is," Dash snarked.

Syldor sat at the dinner table and nodded,"I'm glad you came back safely. The bow is yours." HE got up,"The god is thankfully away from here, but I can show you where the item is. Come with me."

The others followed, although not without Dash and Vax making faces at him.

Velora was on Vax's back, doing what he was doing.

Rainbow Dash whispered in Velora's ear, "Just remember, when he says something you don't want to hear, just say nyah nyah."

Syldor lead them to a large door,"Here is the place you need to go."

"Thank you sire," Rarity said walking away with the other.s

Vex stopped Vax,"Not you, Velora." She took her and put her down on the ground.

Velora looked up at her,"I don't get to go with you?"

Vex nodded,"It's for them, and for us because I don't want to stay out here with him."

Velora looked down,"Aw."

"But," Vex pulled out one of her feathers,"Here." She handed it to her,"Here, so I'll always be with you." She headed inside with the others.

Vax walked to Velora and placed his hooves on her shoulders,"REmember, you're not just our half-sister, you're our sister, and we love you very much." He booped her on the nose

Appljeakc smiled, "Note to swelf hug Applebloom when I get home, Wonder how she's doing."

Vox Machina and the Main Six entered the temple.

"So,Twilight, who do you think is going wiht you here? I mean, we don't excatly have four unicorns," Applejack said.

"No, this is for the item, not the Font." Twilight said.

"These things are getting confusin sometimes," Applejack said as they walked n.

"I'm pretty sure we explained at the beginning that we know where the fonts are, we just need to get to them." Twilight said,"They're literally on the map!

"So where is it thoug, "Dash said.

"Not in the Feywild, but we will get there!"

"How about now!" Dash groaned.

"No, item first." Twilight said.

"How about now?" asked Dash

"No." Twilight said.

Das flew back and forth a few times before asking, "Now."

"Not now!" Twilight said,"Who knows, maybe we even completed the test by now!"

Dash growled, "Oh please, if that happened then Rarity would be in a trance orsomething and then we would see her getting the item. We know there should be a dragon here or something!!!"

Rarity was then put in a trance.

Rainbow Dash looked, and then looked to Twilight, "Excuse me, while she's dealing with getting her item, I am gonna rant about not following patterns.

Pike reached with her hoof, only to be stopped by Twilight,"This is normal."

"Who are you?" a voice asked Rarity.

Rarity paused, "Rarity Belle."

"Name,irrevlant. Who are you?"

"Well, I am the element of generosity. Owner of a few business around Equestria-"

"Job and Occupation, irrelvant. Who are you?"

Rarity paused and looked around, seeing various images of her. One was a noble lady standing before a crowd of lower peasents. One was her helping her friends by giving all of her.Antoher was a girl afraid of dirt while backing away. Another was a mare standing wih her friends facing ddown the darkness of a monster.

Rarity sighed and smiled, "Of course, that was the answer wasnt it. You want to hear how I see myself, even after all of these years. And if I am still sure of who I am."

The voice said nothing.

"Well, I cn assure you, good sir," Rarity said with a warm smile, "I am still sure of who I am. In spite of my fears of leaving one alone o die without any help, I am assured that this will never happen again. And while I am still worried that, as my dreams become bigger and larger, I will be able to make these excurisions less and less. I..." she paused and looked down. She took a deep breath and said, "If I had to choose, I would still choose my duty, and my friends, over my other responsbilities. Iw ill never abandon those who need me, even if I must sacrifice my job to those in need."

"Answer approved."

A lavender unicorn sat in front of Rarity, a neighpon tea set in front of her. She bowed and offerend Rarity a drin. Rarity bowed and walked to it, taking a drink of it and smiled, "Thank you."

Twilight blinked,"Rarity?"

"Yes?"

"That was quick." Twilight said.

Rarity smiled, "Well, a lady doesn't keep her friends waiting you know." she said while a light blue light beamed to her side and formed ino a small sewing needle.

"..." Vex raised an eyebrow.

Pike looked at it,"Are you going to make a dress with it?"

"I hope so," Rarity said, "It would look wonderful." Rarity said, pullinh it out, only to be shocked at it when it became a sword of glowing light. As she held it, she began to see strings connecting all of her friends.

Grog screamed at the strings,"What are these things!?"

Twilight looked at all of them,"What could those strings mean?"

As quickly as they appeared, they dissappeared, "I don' know really." Rarity said.

Twilight sighed,"Well, guess that's why we experiment." She looked at the disc on a pedastal, and walked towards it.

The King appeared once more,"Ah, I see-" He stared at the members of Vox Machina,"Right, more of you. You are going to be so lost."

"Don't worry," Pinkie said. "We'll do what people usually do in theaters and explain the plot in quiet whispers while annoying the rest of the theater."

"Right." Methusulah said, before coughing,"Our story continues with the meeting of two friends."

Terra sat outside of her home, tappping her hoof impatiently, "Where is she?! Ihave a full itererary for the first time in my life and she needs to be here!"

Tori appeared behind her,"I apologize, I'm not used to you actually following a schedule."

"Well, yeah." Terra siad, looking away, "It's just that today's carnival is really important and there is a go game that I don't wanna be late for. You know, you tell me 'Terra, you need to be more organized.' Well, this is me organized."

"Yes, and for that, I am glad. " Tori flew next to her,"but I feel like there's another reason you're so eager for the Go game."

Terra blushed and shook her head as her wings stuck out a little, "Um,no. I just want to play and be as awesome as ever. Also the shopping and showing off my magic. There is a lot of fun to be had!"

She then snuggled up to her friend, "And besides you need to lighten up."

"I do not need to lighten up." Tori said with a frown.

Terra rolled her eyes, "Surrrrre."

"I can have fun!" Tori said.

"Kicking people who look a you funny is not fun," Terra said as she walked ahead.

Tori frowned,"Well, I can... find other ways! You'll see!"

Terra giggled and flew a little ahead, "Sure. Now lets go!"

Tori flew after her.

Titan sighed, trying his best to not to lisen to the lectures from the other gods of light. There was a frown on hi snout as he began to think of anything beter to do. That was when he heard a whisper, "Hookey."

"No, Meadowbrook." Titan said, "I need this class."

"You have a shadow clone spell prepared. Do it," chuckled Meadowbrook.

"Fine, but I will be mad if I fet in troupbed for this," Titan said, using his magic to fade and use his clones to learn while he was gone.

Terra flew with her friend, looking around, "You know what I wish more than anything?"

Tori looked at her,"What's that?"

"That everypony could rnjoy what we're doing. You know, flying together without war, fighitng, or any of that crap."

Tori let out a small smile,"I would like that too."

"I mean, war is so boring. We alicorns are practically gods by now, almost incinviable. So we really can't kill each other that easily," Terra siad, looking up at the sky

"Hmph, makes you wonder why the King hired me in the first place." Tori said, looking up with her.

"Duh, don't you know?" asked Terra.

Tori looked at Terra"Hmm?"

"You mean you don't really know??" Terra asked.

"No." Tori asked,"Is there something I'm missing?"

Terra teleported and gave her a big hug, "Becuase you are my friend, and I needed someone who was a true friend with no ties. You are my friend because...you like me. It's been that way since we were kids."

Tori chuckled a bit as she hugged her back,"Okay..."

"And besides, I think you know you needed a good friend too," Terra asid, finding a place to land before waking to the carniva.

Tori smiled, and closed her eyes,"I think I did."

A grey unicorn stallion with yellow eyes laughed as he stood ontop of a podium. HE wore a mismatched top hat and suit,"Welcome one and all to the Chaos Carnival!"

Terra gasped with a smile and ran to the grey unicorn, "So, Dissy, what's the games tonight?"

Discord leaned in,"Oh, I got a couple of ball games up next, Terri..."

("What!?" Twilight shouted.).

(Wait, back up," Dash said. "Terra dn Discord were...friends!"

Fluttersh nodded, "Discord never said, only. Just I was his first, that could've meant in a long time.")

Terra smiled, "Yay! Hey, um lisen...Dissy, could you let me know if a Black unicorn with white mane is here or wen he gets here?"

Discord scoffed,"You mean that lame black alicorn? He's currently enrolling in the Go tournament as we speak." He leaned in,"Why, you interested?"

"Well yea! He needs to learn another lesson," Terra siad. "If ya know what I mean."

Discord winked,"I got you!"

"Oh and keep Toridistracted, don't want her ruining the plan."

Discord nodded,"Oh, I've got just the thing!"

"I look forward Dissy.

Tori looked to her left, and saw "Joust Tournament." She smirked,"I'll show Terra how I have fun!"

Terra sighed and began to make her way to the go tournament.

Titan waited in line.

Terra gasped, "Oh gods, he's here. Ok. Just be calm and reassured. Don't give away that you were the hot mare who kicked his ass before."

Titan's eyes widened a little as he caught a look at Terra,"Oh it's her. Must keep as low a profile as possible."

Terra walked up, "So, mr. Alicorn. Um, what's your name?"

"... Cosmos." Titan said,"You?"

"Windmane." Terra lied. "I was wondering, are you here to show who is the strongesr Go player, or are you looking for someone."

(He is cute and handsome. Nice bod)

"A little bit of both. I need to prove myself again... and find that pony who bested me as they did so before."

Terra smiled, "So, she impressed you?"

"That... sounds about right." Titan said.

"Wha did impress you?" asked Terra.

"She beat me. I've never been beaten before." Titan said.

"Really, anything else caught your eye?

"Well, she did have a nice green coat." Titan said.

Terra blushed and played with her mane a little.

"ANd her mane was flowing brilliantly." Titan said,"However, her brains were more important."

Terra couldn;t help but wink, "Trust me, she values those well. It's like her second favorite trait.

"Oh, you know her?" Titan said.

"We talked, she's like one of my best friends," Terra lied.

Titan smirked,"I see."

"Yehah, and she said something like, she really enjoys seeing strong players challenge her. She's never met someone who gave her a good challene. They kind os..." Terra looked down, "Underestimate her."

"Well, I can't say I underestimate her." Titan said,"If I did, I would lose even harder."

Terra smiled, "And she likes it when guys compliment on her skills, and is cool about if she is more powerful.

"And is she modest?" Titan said.

"Not really," Terra said, smirking, "She knows she is awesome and likes to show it."

Titan laughedc,"I see."

"And she said,if you are lucky, maybe she might sow you how strong she is. And maybe out on the carnival?" Terra siad.

"I'm not a believer of luck." Titan said.

Terra then tucked his chin, "What do you believe in?"

Titan put his hoof over hers,"Skill."

"Confident aren't we. Well, I'll go and see if that pony is here,and then maybe I can show you my favorite games," she giggled and stole a kiss.

Titan held his cheek,"I can't believe she did that..."

Terraa giggled, "Ican't believe I did that!"

Titan smiled a little,"I'm looking forward to this."

"I am looking forward to this!" Terra said. "Dissy, I need to distract Tori for a bit longer!"

Discord's paw showed up and gave a thumbs up.

Tori sighed and looked at the target, "Are these getting more numerous or is it just me?"

The targets giggled in respons.

"Are you laughing at me?" asked Tori.

The targets just sat there.

"I'm gonna kill all of you."

The Targets let out screams.

"And laugh at it!"

Discord snickered,"This is hilarious."

Titan normally got bored beating everyone at Go. However,this time, he felt his heart beating fast after every match, knowing he would come across the mare again.

(Baby, when I see you I feel peace unkown
I set out to get you with a nice new comb
I feel something inside
There is something going on)

Terra blazed through her matches, making sure that Titan was eiher not watching or was there nearby. In the downtime, she would take him to the various rides and games. Sometimes, she would just lay her head on his shoulder while they enjoyed the board walk.

(You do something to me that I can't explain
Hold me closer and I feel no pain
Every beat of my heart
We got something going on)

Titan smiled warmly as he watched the mare in action, knowing that she and her firend were the same. HE couldn't help but admire her skill, her ability, and her...he couldn't describe what. It was something that he never noticed in a mare before.

(Oh I know this song, it's something my aunt Dollie used to sing to me." Applejack said.

Tender love is blind
It requires a dedication
All this love we feel needs no conversation
We ride it together, ah ha
Making love with each other, ah ha

"Rainbow, I advise you not to make fun of that last lyric."

"Thinking it."

"Me too," Scanlan joked.)

Terra walked to the stage, smiling at Titan, "Hello big boy. Ready to lose?"

"I think even if I lose..."

(Islands in the stream
That is what we are
No one in between
How can we be wrong?
Sail away with me
To another world
And we rely on each other, ah ha
From one lover to another, ah ha)

"I'm gonna win,"

Tori walked around, looking at the barker, "Ok, where is she?"

Discord appeared,"Are we looking for something?

"My best-my charge," Tori said.

(I can't live without you if the love was gone
Everything is nothing if you got no one
And you did walk in the night
Slowly losing sight of the real thing)

"Maybe I should head to the duet." Tori said.

Titan and Terra continued to play, each one watching each others moves as they danced. Each play matched with the other, each move was like a coregraphed dance. And in a way, they were. The world was gone except them and the field. Sneakily, Terra began to move her pieces one way and the other, and Titan began to get curious.

(But that won't happen to us and we got no doubt
Too deep in love and we got no way out
And the message is clear
This could be the year for the real thing)

He watched, and then smiled when he noted the shape that she had played.

(No more will you cry
Baby, I will hurt you never
We start and end as one
In love forever
We can ride it together, ah ha
Making love with each other, ah ha)

A heart.

("Oh tha is so cheesy." Dash riffed.

"SO SWEET!" The most girly of the group said at once as they hugged each other, love hearts in their eyes.

"That is impossible. No one could game like that! Are you manipulaing the footage to make it more dramatic?"

"Nope.")

Terra then looked down at the board, "You lost."

"No...I didn't."

(Islands in the stream
That is what we are
No one in between
How can we be wrong?
Sail away with me
To another world
And we rely on each other, ah ha
From one lover to another, ah ha)"

Terra blushed and took his hoof, "Let's go on the ferris wheel."

Discord laughed as he followed her,"Not much you can do to stop them."

ori sighed and looked at two other ponies walking by, "Wanna get a drink?"

"Of course!"

"Cotton candy flavored?"

"Yes!"

"I like you already,"

He hoofbumped her.

Terra and Titan rested on the ferris wheel, riding it up high into the sky and lookingdown at the world. The two sighed as they looked up at the stars, "So, are you playing hookey, milady?"

"Please, call me Terra," Terra said, sighing, "And no. I just had to leave and have fun once in a while away from he parents."

"Hmph, I can't imagine doing that." Titan said.

"Why, aren'tyou away?"

"I'm allowed to leave, as long as I'm back by bedtime." Titan said.

Terra smiled, "You have a bedtime?"

Titan nodded,"Of course! I have studies!"

"Heh, Prin-I mean, alic-. I mean, I'm the girl who doesn't have a bed time." Terra said.

"Oh, you must be some sort of rebel, huh?" Titan smirked.

Terra flipped her mane, "Oh yeah. The rebelliest!"

Titan let out a hmph,"You might be a bad influence on me."

Terra pull back, and put on an onnocent look, "Me?"

"Let's see, a boy who intends on playing by the rules, and a girl who breaks them."

"Souds like a perfect team to me," she said, as the ride came to a stop. Smiling warmly, she leaned in and gave him a quick kiss on the lips. Then she got off and said, " had a wonderful time."

Starswirl walked up to his stunnded friend, "Titan, itss time to leave. They will notice."

Titan nodded,"Right..." He quickly left.

Terra caught up with Toriand se smiled, "So, um, Tori...sorry for using you to get mm to let me go ad get a date with that cutie."

"So, ow are you going to explain to your mother about your date?" Starswirl asked.

Tori's muzzle was red,"Oh, that's okay."She hiccuped.

Titan frowned,"I'll just tell her the Go game went a little long."

Meadowbrook laughed, "Think they'll accep it?"

"She's pretty lenient."

Meadowbrook smiled, "Well, until then, let me tell out about these new items I have planned!"

"Alright..."

"That is the end of the chapter." The King said.

"WHAT?!" the gils screamed.

Rarity looked at the hologram, "Oh please hre has to be more!"

The King grinned,"Nope."

"please, just alittle bit of them snuggling?"

"One of them is my daughter." The King said with a quick glare.

Rarity nodded, "Yes, I thought they would look cute."

Scanlan snickered a bit, before shutting up.

"Fine, I'll wait. but not for long," Rarity said, walking away asshe grumbled a littl.

Riddles and battles

Syldor watched as they left the temple,"I assume you will be leaving?"

Vex and Vax only nodded, not wanting to say any more to their father. Scanlan nodded, "Heh we got things to do, godsto slay, ponies to save. You know."

"Fine." Syldor said,'You'll have no more trouble here."

Twilight nodded as they left the city.

Rohorn waited for them,"Wait..." He looked away,"I'm... sorry."

The group waited, and before anyoe cold say anything, Pinkie said, "Apology accepted!"

Rohorn waved them off.

Garmelie appeared before them soon after,"Well done."

"Hey was there any doubt ya insane nutcase?" Dash asked confidentally.

Twilight smirked,"Yeah, he didn't doubt us at all... did you Discord?"

Garmelie blinked before laughing maniacally. His body began to morph and shift.

Percy frowned,"Oh... him."

Dash gasped and said ,"Wait what? How did you figure that out!?"

"Oh, I figured it out by his mannerisms and his voice..." Twilight said.

Dash looked at Twilight, "You lie."

"Rainbow, why would I lie about that?" Twilight said.

Discord leaned over Dash,"It's because she doesn't want to admit she never realized it."

Dash grumbled and flew away. Fluttershy looked up, "Why did you help us?"

"Percy, what did you mean him?"

Percy grumbled,"One day while I was on a journey of vengeance, HE." Percy snarled,"Turned my gun into a duck! Had to spend the entire afternoon chasing after it!"

Vax, Scanlan, and Dash tried not to laugh out loud at this.

Discord floated down to them,"I decided to make a trip here after I gave that little exposition dump a few chapters ago, by the way," He lookeed at Twilight,"Welcome back to the land of the living, Twilight."

"Thank you Discor," Twilight said.

Fluttershy smiled, "And you saw us and decided to help us."

"You didn'tdo anyhing too weird while messing around here, dud ya?"

Discord laughed,"Nothing too out there... well, except for the fact that I sort of started my own religion."

"What?!" Applejack asked deadpanned.

"Anyway, I'm certain you want to head back home."

"No, what was your first clue?" Dash asked.

Discord smirked, and swiped the air with his claw, summoning a portal "here ya go!'"

Before Scanlan left, he stopped,"Wait, I gotta know... you're an amalgamation of multiple different creatures..." He looked him up and down,"What's it look like?"

Discord looked to him, and there was a thump, leaving Scanlan to exclaim,"Nice!"

"Thank you!"

"SCANLAN!" Rarity schriekd.

Scanlan walked into the portal,"Oh come on, I can't be the only who was wondering!?"

"You were!" Rarity argued.

Grog shrugged, before smirking, "Bigger, small fry."

Scanlan looked at Grog, before nodding,"Ah, good."

Twilight meekly raised her hoof,"I... was kinda curious..."

Tje group looked at her in shock.

"It was for science purposes!" Twilight shouted.

Tehy just stared at her in shock.

"Please stop staring," Twilight muttered.

Dash smirked, "Yeah, come along perv girl."

"I'm not a pervert!" Twilight said, walking forward.

"Its ok," Fluttershy said, "Scanlan is a perverr and we like him."

Twilight moaned.

Applejack chuckled and pated Twilight on the shoulder, "Let's just focus on where we're going next."

"Yeah..." Twilight sighed,"It looks like the unicorn font of magic is next." She began to run a little faster.

Dash culdn't help but let out a cheer, "And then full puowerTwilight!"

"And then I'll be the strongest mage in the party again!" She looked back at the few mages,"Er, no offense."

Pike smiled,"None taken."

Scanlan smirked,"Oh, I'm more than just a mage."

Keyleth blinked,"Wait, I'm a druid, does that really count, it is magic, but not arcane..."

"I was always curious about how it's different," Fluttershy said.

Keyleth smiled,"Well, druid magic is based around all kinds of nature, and communing with said nature!"

"So doesn't make that arcade or whatever?" Asked Dash.

"No, arcane is tapping into the magical weave of the universe." Twilight said.

"But isn't nature..." Dash began to try and figure it out.

"No, nature is different-" Twilight began.

Scanlan cut in,"Me and her break rules, Pike makes them, and Keyleth obeys them."

Dash groaned, "This is why I like my magic, it's just...flight and lightin. Easy."

Twilight sighed.

Percy patted her on the shoulder,"She just doesn't understand."

"I mean, lighitn and cloud control I can understand but-" Dash continued on, mumbling a litt.e

Vax simply smirked at this as he flew ahead.

Grog smiled as he patted Dashs back, "Its ok, I never understand magic either."

"Geee...thanks," Das said.

Twilight held up the map,"So, the font should be coming up right about..."

Bonk

"OW!" Twilight rubbed ehr head. She looked up and noticed a large temple in front of her, with various white pillars surrounding a large white unicorn statue dressed in purple.

"My, how artistic and beautiful," Rarity said in awe.

The statue then said,"Thank you."

"..."

Pinkie smiled, "Yay! A talking statue! I was wonerdering if we met one of those yet."

"Actually I'm a caretaker of this font." The stallion statue said,"My special talent is that I can stand still like a statue. It's not the most versatile talent, but it's great for parties."

Dash flew to him, followed by Vax and Grog, "So, you can stand still no matter what?"

"Yep!"

She then began to rub her feathers against his snout.

He stood there.

Scanlan began to pain his face, whule Grog played with his tail.

He still stood there.

Vax wrote down on his side "I lick small peguins for fun." Wich led Scanlan to write "And for an erection."

Dash laid on his back, giving a yawn.

Fluttershy stepped in o repremand the group, but Applejack stopped her, "I wanna see where this goes."

The stallion then moved...

to scratch his nose.

"Oh, he's good." Dash commented.

The stallion looked at them,"Are you quite done?"

They paused and looked at each other. Then nodded.

"Now, only those with unicorn magic can come through here." the stallion said.;

Rarity began counting,"Wait, Pike, Twilight, myself... and..."

Scanlan winked.

"Oh no/..."

Keyleth waved,"Um, I'm a 1/3 unicorn, does that count?" She watched him nod,"Yay!" She clapped her hooves together.

"I am sorry sir, but dear Scanlan has a bbroken leg and you know what happens to ponies with broken legs," Rarity thought to herself, but then shook her head as she took a deep breath and walked with him.

He took them along a long hallway with several mural painting of unicorns. They eventually came to a large room with three doors: One on the right, one in the center, and one on the left.

"Wicdoor is ours?" asjed Pike.

Twilight looked at the symbols above the doors,"WEll, usually I'm going in the center door." She looked at the other doors,"One door is intelligence, the other is charisma."

"Well, that definatlally mean that I will go in the charisma door along with-" Rarity then paused and looked at Scanlan as he waggled eyebrows. "Oh lord."

"Sorry Rares." Twilight said.

Keyleth smiled at Pike,"You know, we never interact much!"

"Strange," Pike said.

"Come on!" Keyleth went through the intelligence door;.

Pike smiled, not seeing Rarity signal "Change with me!"

Rarity sighed as she went through the door.

Scanlan cheered at ths.

Scanlan played a tune on a lute as he and Rarity walked down a large staircase leading to a podium.

Rarity sighed, figuring she might as well make small talk, "Marvelous tune Scanlan, what is it"

"Oh, it's a song about the battles we have fought on the way here! With a few embellishments of course."

"Oh of course," Rarity said with a smile as she walked to the podium.

The lights came on, and a stallion in a suit appeared before them,"WElcome to the grand debate!"

"Depate?" Rarity said.

Scanlan smirked, "Well, I am a Master Debater."

"Scanlan dear, you hold off on the innuendos for the res ot this adventure and I will help you get a date with Pike." Rarity dai."Depate?" Rarity said.

Scanlan smirked, "Well, I am a Master Debater."

"Scanlan dear, you hold off on the innuendos for the res ot this adventure and I will help you get a date with Pike." Rarity dai.

Scanlan blinked for a bit,"Damn, that's gonna be really hard for me."

"YEs, you must out-debate me!"

Scanlan adjusted his barret and smirked.Rariy nodded, "Than what do we start with?"

"You must first convince me of why we should not let the gods take over the world." The stallion said.

Rarity steppedd up, "Well first, tehy will do nothing good for this planet."

"Why is that? They would keep order in the planet, and their magic would keep the environment safe!"

"Is it worth it to take away our free will? Security and safety shouldn't come at the cost of free will,"Rarity argued.

"What has free will brought us? Death, war, misery." The debater said.

Scanlan nodded, "And music, art, magic, sex, books, stories, dancing, indiviuality, and fun."

"But with control, there'd be peace."

"But with too much peace, we would be more vunerable." Rarity said.

Scanlan nodded, "Not to mention boring!"

"But with too much peace, we would be more vunerable." Rarity said.

Scanlan nodded, "Not to mention boring!"

"Vulnerable to what?"

Rarity smiled, "To other warring planets. We are not the only species in the universe. What if a warring race to see our pacific society? We would be wasily beaten and taken captured

"Hmm, I didn't think of that. "

Scanlan smirked, "Well yeah. Also, peace is so borning. You never get to appeciate the exciting stuff because nothing happens!"

"Hmm, that's right, nothing would happen. Geez, I'm stumped now..."

Snalan nodded, "Not to mention, nobody wants to dte in a pacifist society. They all want to be normal and just be friends

"Be friends... I like that." the debater smiled as he disappeared.

Scan;an raised a hoof and Rarity returned in kind.

In front of them was a door leading to a small room with two holes.

"Sacrifice a little of yourself to give back what was lost." Said a sign above the holes.

"Well, I think I know what that mean," Rarity siad, putting her hoof out.

Scanlan bit his lip as he put his hoof in. A bit of pain shot through the both of them as their magic drained a bit.

"Well, that was less painful than I expected," Rarity said.

Scanlan nodded, his mouth shut.

Rarity chuckled, "You can scream scanlan dear."

"Thank you." Scanlan screamed.

Pike looked away,"Did you hear that?"

Keyleth nodded, "ITs ounds like screaming."

"Oh, shame we're stuck here." Pike said.

"I hop they're ok," Keyleth said.

"I'm sure they're fine." Pike said,"If not we can both heal them."

"I guessyou['re right," KEylet said. "I still can't helpbut worry."

Pike patted her on the shoulder,"Hey, I worry too."
Kayleth smiled at Pike, "You don't always show it. You sometimes can be as rough as Grog."

Pike laughed,"Well, I try to hide it for the sake of others." She frowned a little,"Though I worry that my partying might get in the way of my worship of Sarenrae."

"Do you really think your goddess would be upset?"

"I mean..." Pike sighed,"I don't know..."

Keyleth took Pike's hand and smiled, "I don't think your goddess would be mad for you being yourself."

Pike smiled up at her,"Yeah, probably."

"Comeon, the test is waiting for us," Keyleth said.

A little sphinx greeted them,"Hello." He said,"Um, this is my first time giving a test, so, um, I'm really kind of nervous. So, uh, you need to figure out my name."

Keyleth let out a little squee, "Aw, how cute! Don't worry little one, you are doing fine!"

"Pike began to look around for clues.

The little sphinx blushed,"Oh, uh, thank you..."

There was a small coloring book in the corner.

Pike walked over and opened h book while Keyleth happily talked to the little Spynx.

It had the words Cameras are really cool.

Pike quickly began to make a mental note of that, before asking, "Did you see anything KEyleth?"

Keylthy looked around.

There was a small teddybear in a corner.

Keyleth walked to the teddy bear.
The bear was very cute.

IT is very cute, and there's a tag with the letters uba on it

KEyleth looked around to see if there other clues

There was a pillar to the side with a ball of yarn.

Keyleth went to look at the ball of yarn.

On the yarn where some letters Subari

Pike quickly looked for anyhting that looked like anouther clue.

Nothing else seemed to be arou nd.

Pike looked up, "Camurbari

the Sphinx nodded,"You got it!"

"Yay!" Keyleth cheered and gave the kitty a little pat.

"Thank you!" Camubari said. A door opened behind him,"The wall where you help your friend is back there. Be careful, it hurts a little.

Pike smiled as she patted her head, "We got it covered.

"Okay, bye!" He said as the door opened to the wall with two holes.

Keyleth gulped as she put her nhand in, while Pike just rammed it in.

There was a brief shot of pain.

Twilight sat in the pod, before feeling several waves of magical energy hit he.

Dash stared at her cards,"How could we lose, it's a freaking bear!"

Trinket sat with all of the girls equipment, items, and money. He happy clapped his paws.

Vex petted him,"Good job, Trinket."

The unicorns left the temple, without Twilight,"Hello, everyone." Rarity said.

Dah growed, "Welcome back." she said, flapping her wings away.

Rarity noddded, before looking behind her.

Scanlan began to play some music as Twilight came through the entrance, levitating with her magic,"I have returned!"

"SWEET! We go our bomb back!" Rainbow Dash cheered.

"That's wonderful!" An yellow alicorn flew down be3hind them,"PErfect for our fight." Her eye twitched,"You... jerks..."

"Oh, I'm sorry, what did we do wrong?" Fluttershy asked

"I went to where Syngorn was supposed to be... only to find that it wasn't there!" The alicorn said,"I wanted to wait until you showed up, but no, they had to hide! So I waited in the area you were supposed to appear from, but you didn't show up!" She began to snarl,"I was following the rules set up by the story, but you weren't!"

Applejack looked at her, "Rules?"

"Look, we don't follow any rules." dash remmarked.

"We tend to fuck shit up," Scanlan said with a confident smirk.

Rarity looked at her, "But we do apologize, we did have other things to do."

The alicorn grabbed a book and frowned,"Why I oughta-" She roaredd,"I am Persei, I will annihilate you in the name of story conventions!"

"Don't do it near the font." The Statue Unicorn from before said, standing near the font.

Persei looked at him,"Don't give me orders!" She punched him in the face.

The Statue frowned, not moving or flinching.

She stared at him for a bit,"... Let's fight somewhere else, he scares me."

"Agreed," group said, leaving.

An emotionless mare walked to the statue. She kissed him, "Honey, time to come home. Your daughters miss you."

And older teen walked to him, "Like, whatevs mom. I'm only here because you dragged me here. I really wanna be with Lemon dreams tonight."

"Wow, daddy is so cool!" said the little filly.

Once they got to a large clearing, Persei flew above them,"Now, feel my wra-"

Twilight blasted her with a lightning bolt, sending her flying back,"Nope." She grinned.

"You're gonna be enjoying thi s a lot, aint ya?

"Yep!" Twilight said, watching as the alicorn got up,"Bigby's Hoof!!" She summoned a hoof to slam into her.

Scanlan smirked,"I taught her that."

"Think we should help?" Rainbow asked.

"I think we need to wait until she is done with her fun. I think she needs this.

Twilight held up her hoof,"Spiritual weapon!" She slammed Persei with a glowing golden book.

"A book really?"

Twilight wasn't paying attention as she flew up,"Lightning Storm!" She shouted, causing several clouds to form. They sent a lighting bolt down upon the alicorn. Twilight landed in front off her,"Do you yield?" She smirked.

Persei's body was smoking as she got up, and smirked,"Anti-Magic Field." Her horn glowed,

"What!?" Twilight noticed a large symbol on the ground beneath them, and then the familiar feeling of weakness hit her,"No..."

"Relax, you're only magicless inside this field..." Persei got up,"As am I."

That was when she met a face full of a battle ax hilt and two daggers. Applejack stood with Twiligh as she frowned, "Now...when ya start to cheat? That's when we kick your ass."

Persei let out a gasp of pain as the attacks hit.

"Wait." Percy said, walking towards her, he looked back at them,"You seem to like stories, right?"

Persei smiled,"OF course! I love following tropes and story conventions."

"Do you like riddles as well?" Percy asked.

"... Yes." Persei smiled,"Are you proposing a battle of wits over a battle of brawn? I can oblige."

Vax looked back at Dash, "Guess that leave you out?"

"... wits?" asked Grog, stumped.

Persei trotted around, circling Twilight and Percy,"Well then, Smart Guys... do you wish to begin with a riddle?"

Twilgith started, "Thirty white horses on a red hill,
First they champ,
Then they stamp,
Then they stand still.

Persei scoffed,"Teeth. An easy one."

I can be crushed to pieces, but only if I am given away first, I can be clogged and attacked, but that’s usually my own doing. No matter how many problems I have, you wouldn’t dare let me go. What am I?

"A heart," Twilight said.

"Good. Next?" Persei said.

Scanlan stepped forward, "I speak without a mouth and hear without ears. I have no body, but I come alive with wind. What am I? "

"An Echo." Persei said.

"Dang, that alicorn's good," Scanlansaid.

" I am something people love or hate. I change peoples appearances and thoughts. If a person takes care of them self I will go up even higher. To some people I will fool them. To others I am a mystery. Some people might want to try and hide me but I will show. No matter how hard people try I will Never go down. What am I? "

"Ego," Twiligh guessed

"Actually it's age." Persei smirked,"Strike one."

"I have cities, but no houses. I have mountains, but no trees. I have water, but no fish. What am I? " Scanlan said.

"A map." Persei said.

Scanlan sat down to think while Twilight got ready for another puzzle

"The more you take, the more you leave behind."

"Footsteps" Twilighr said. "That was simple."

"Correct." Persei said

You see a boat filled with people. It has not sunk, but when you look again you don’t see a single person on the boat. Why?

Persei blinked,"What?"

Scanlan crossed his hooves, " Its a riddle, come on!"

PErsei thought for a moment,"The boat is full of married couples?"

"Are you cheating?" asked Scanlan

"How could I possibly be cheating?" PErsei asked.

Scanlan retored, "I don't know, you jus are!

"I am a Goddess of the Written Word, I do not cheat!"

"Fine fine, just play your next riddle," Scanlan said.

Mr. and Mrs. Mustard have six daughters and each daughter has one brother. How many people are in the Mustard family?

Twilight began to count, and then smirked, "8. Mr and mrs mustard and the six daughters."

"9, actually, you forgot the brother." Percy said immediately.

"Saved by the noble." PErsei smirked.

What word in the English language does the following: the first two letters signify a male, the first three letters signify a female, the first four letters signify a great man, while the entire world signifies a great woman. What is the word?

Persei blinked,"... I'm afraid... I'm actually stumped here!"

"Heroine," Twilight said. "Strike one. You vae two more.

What has six faces, but does not wear makeup, has twenty-one eyes, but cannot see? What is it?

"Dice," Scanlan said.

"... Excellent..."

Twilight narrowed her eyes, "Your turn."

"It;s yours isn't it?"

What English word has three consecutive double letters?

Persei raised a brow,"..."

Scnlan smiled, "Bookkeeper.

"... Well then..." Persei frowned.

There was a man who was born before his father, killed his mother, and married his sister. Yet, there was nothing wrong with what he had done. Why?

Scanlan stepped up, "They lived in the southern part of the contient!!!"

She shook her head,"His father was in front of him when he was born, therefore he was born before him. His mother died while giving birth to him. Finally, he grew up to be a cleric and married his sister and his brother-in-law at their ceremony.

Scanlan frowned and narrowed his eyes, "You sun of a-"

"How can the number four be half of five?"

Persei narrowed her eyes,"I'm not good with math..."

Twilight smiled, "Romane numerals. IV, wich is part of the word five."

Persei sighed as the anti-magic field was removed,"You have beaten me." She said, glowing bits flowing from her,"I must leave now."

"For losing" Twilight asked.

"Yes, I have lost a duel, and now I must ascend... I am not looking forward to it as my sister Ioun is likely to give me an earful..." Persei grumbled.

"Ioun?" asked Dash

"Ioun is the goddess of knowledge, prophecy and skill, and the patron of the study of magic." Persei said.

Twilight's eyes widened,"REALLY!?" She grinned.

Applejack held Twilight back, "Wait a moment Twi, we got other things to look at.

"But... Goddess of Knowledge..." Twilight whined.

"Laer, you can look her up later,"

"Aw..." Twilight said as Persei disappeared.

"You know I kind ofmiss him," Pinkie said.

Grog frowned, "I wanted to kill everything."

Pike patted him on the leg,"IT's okay, we'll kill something later."

"Promise?"

"I promise." Pike smiled.

"OH thank you!" Grog said, hugging Pike closely.

Pike laughed as she hugged him back.

The pirate figure sat back as he watched the videos in front of him. Three images played out thier eseperate scenes in sybch, but he was able to gleam information from each one. On the right, a video played of a report of a meeting of several bounty hunters for a mission in deep space. On the left, was Twilight and friends making their plans for their next leg of thier journey. And in the center was Samus, glaring up at an airship. Smiling, he reached up and traced a talon along the screen, "Samus...you are doing well. I am so proud of how you have become stronger now."

Samus on the screen lowered her hind leg while adjusting her shoulders, "I wonder, do you fear your power? Are you scared of losing that wich made you a pony? Or are you too focused on the mission."

The beholder could only smile as he watched his men working on the ship. He hd planned this well, for a year now. Wait until the day the newly crowned princess died, invade, and eke out his own land. His men even were prepared for a new world of oppertunity. Several elks and giant ponies were all ready for a quick invasion and to bring his wrath. Now if only he could lose the Slayer's take and their new member.

Down below, said new member gowled, her eyes narrowing. Then she heard on her helmet, "Space jump online screw attack online. energy rerouting to legs, energy limiters unlocked. Ionizing armor."

Samus smiled as she breathed slowly, and then pushed herself off the ground. The beholder began to laugh, "Its a shame that she cannot fly. Otherwise she migt-"

"Slackoff! The hunteress, she's-" but the bulky pony could not finish as a glowing spinning buzzsaw broke through the hull of the the ship. The glowing buzzsaw them began to descend back to Equis, cutting out another big hole in the ship. The beholder bearly had time to scream.

As Samus landed, she could ear Adam speak, "You know lady, you like that power of the suit too much."

"Gets the job done quicker," she quipped.

Twilight looked at her map,"The next stop is Vasselheim."

"Vasselhiem?" asked Rarity, taking a step to look at the map.

Pike walked up to them,"Right, it's one of the oldest cities in Glidesdale. If not the oldest."

"Oh really, it must be a fabulouse looking city," Rarity said.

Pike nodded,"I've been there a few times before, it's a nice place, if a bit big..."

"Ah, then do not worry my dear Pike. I shall be your chaparone for when we enter the big city. I'll keep an eye on you and watch over you when you need it," Scanlan said, waving his arms.

"Oh, thanks, but I'm pretty sure I'd be watching over you more likely than not..." Pike mutterec.

"Ah, then we can watch each other really closely!" Scanlan said, "Especially our b-"

"Oh, I could watch Pike's front!" Grog said happily.

Scanlan frowned.

Vax walked with Scanlan,"Nice try, buddy."

"Thank you," Scanlan said, before looking back at Keyleth as she walked with Fluttershy. HE smirked as he playfully asked, "So, hows the other half deer here?"

Vax turned her, and smiled,"She's... fine. Great."

Oh,just fine?" teased Scanla

Vax muttered,"I mean, okay, she's pretty, cute, powerful."

"Oh, you think she's that huh? Don't worry, next bar trall I'm gonna help your game," Scanlan.

"Really?" Vax smirked,"You're going to help me?"

Scanlan smiled, "Of course, you know how many girls I gotten? You see the amount of babes that have kissed me."

"Yeah, and probably added to the population too!" Dash snarked and flew, not seeing the little bit of sadness in his eyes.

shaking his head, Scanlan said, "No, let's talk."

"Yes, please teach me your ways, oh master.": Vax bowed.

Dash flew on ahead, listening to other conversations. She smiled when she heard Applejack and Grog talking, "And that is why any earth pony can be just as strong as you." Applejack said with confidence, enjoying their one pony ship

"Really!?" Grog laughed,"I'd like to test that!"

"When we ge into town and if we find a good fighting ring, we'll test it!"Applejack said.

"Right!" Grog said.

AT that moment, they started coming up to a large glowing city on the road.

"Wow, so pretty, so glad that we can see a bright light up ahead and know so muh," Scanlan mocked the narrator.

The city was fairly crowded, with a whole slew of races talking with one another. Ine thing is notable, however, was a large group of people crowded around a ring, where the sound of cheering could be heard.

Grog, being Grog, raced out, "Well, while he's doing that, I guess we can do some sight seeing for a bit. Just."

Most left, with Rarity following Grog, "Don't cause trouble," Vex finished, before sighing. "We are all going to be killed, in prison, or in prison killed.

KEyleth beamed,"Aw, we'll be fine!"

Vex smiled warmly, "Thank you darling."

Scanlan looked at you the reader,"You can see where this is going..."

Twilight walked away,"I'm going to look for a library.

"Oh, can I come too? I want to look up some herbs," Fluttershy said

"Sure!"

The feelign of dread continued to come over Vex as everypony went off to tier own fun times and town adventures.

Vex frowned,"Why do I have a bad feeling about this?

Vax chuckled, "BEcause you are a worrywart, tiny?"

"Perhaps..." Vex muttered.

"And you need to let your hair down more?" he aasked, "Why not travel with Percy for a bit?"

Vex smirked,"Oh, can I!? You're so kind."

"What are older twins for?"

"Really, could've sworn I was the older one." Vex said.

Vax then motioned over her ehad, to show how short she was compared to him.

Vex walked away before sticking her tongue out at him.

Vax stuck his tounge out too.

{}

Applejack and Grog would go to the front of the arena, where they saw a boar and a yak fighting each other.

Grog laughed and smiled, "AW YEAH! Finally some viloence!"

"Yeah, now we can rumble." Applejack chuckled before looking back ,"How do you think we enter?

A random pony said,"Oh, you sign up over there by the booth!"
Applejack smiled and walked over o it, taking te pen and writing it down. Then she looked up at the sign up, "How brutal do these things go?"

The stallion in the booth brough out a piece of paper,"Deaths don't normally happen, but we do require you to sign a waiver.

Applejack began to sign, "Usually?"

The stallion nodded,"Yeah, we get the occasional overzealous combatant who breaks one neck too many."

"And he isn't here tonight is e?"

"Nope, we banned him." He said,"There is a large... alicorn? waiting to fight though."

Applejacck paused, "What?"

"Yeah, an alicorn. She's big, strong, and talks like a Professional Wrestler."

"...You're serious."

"Why would I lie?"

"To make me nervous."

"If I wanted to make you nervous, I'd have told you that Earthbreaker Groon is watchin." The stallion said.

"O, who is hat?!" Grog asked.

The stallion smirk,ed,"One of the strongest ponies in existence, my friend. The Dawn Marshal of the Braving Grounds District.

GRog let out a small squeal, "IS he here!?"

The stallion laughed,"He usually only shows up when a battle gets intense here. Otherwise, he's within the Trial Forge."

"So what you are saying, is to make the fighitng intense?" asked Grog

"Of course!" The stallion said.

"How wild," Grog asked with a big grin.

"Well, first, it's gotta be a little long. You also have to be newcomers, then you have to face overwhelming odds!

Grog sqiealed.

"Ah, I like an eager combatant!" The stallion grinned.

Grog smiled, "You know it!" he said as he began to sign his name, or try to.It was just a squiggle

The stallion shrugged and took it. He looked at Applejack,"You too?"

"Dang straight." Applejacl said.

"Alright, here ya go! Waiting room's in the back, you'll know it because of the perpetually angry Breezie at the top."

Applejack just stared at this, raised an eyebrow, shook her head, and walked awaay with Grog in tow. Grog smiled as he cracked his head side to side, "Finally, a real scrap. It feels like I've havent had a day to do anything."

"Sure love fighting, huh?" Applejack said.

"Yeah, don't you? Oh wait, aren't you from the east, and one of those...how did Vax say it. "Swingers and Dancers who solve with hugging?" Grog asked.

Applejack laughed at Grogs comment and shook her head, "Don't let Dash hear ya. She's still grouchy about it. Me, I don't mind it. Because I know how we really are. Yeah, we tend to get more invoved with singing and dance and talking, but that don't mean we don't have to fight when we need to. I just don't like it and prefered to step away if I can help it."

"But why? Fighting is fun!" Grog said with a big smile.

"Yeah, it can be, but I only lke to fight the big monsters when my family needs helping, or if it's nessecary. It would be like...if somepony was threatening Pike," Applejack siad.

"Yeah, but Pike usually kills the bastards before hand," Grog said.

Applejack facehoofed, "Wrong pony. Look, it's like if one of your famil-" she then paused when she saw Grog frowned. "Touchy subject?"

"My uncle was a monster who wanted me to kill an innocent pony. It's how I met Pike," Grog said, "That kind of killin I hate."

"See, that's kind of what I'm talking about. I like fighting, but only in fare competitions like this. Monsters, gods, that kind of thing? That's a matter of survival and something I need to do. This? Tis is just something I can enjoy with a big friend," Applejack said, lightly nudging Grog.

"Aww, you are a great friedn too AJ," Grog said, hugging Applejack tightly.

"Man, you are huggy," Applejack said.

"Real Stallions hug!" Grog said happily. As Grog hugged Applejack tight, she noticed a little raven looking at her before flying away.

There was a large building nearby, with three stories, a little steeple in front, and was colored blue with a red roof. It was made with nice bits of stone and shingles.

On the steeple was a little breezie cursing to the wind.

"Hey Breezie, why are you so mad?" Appljeack asked.

The Breezie shrugged,"I get paid to be perpetually angry. It keeps up tourism." he said in a British accent, before making more swears.

"How does that..."

He then looked down at her,"Imagine if there's a dancing bear in your village. Ponies flock to see that." He continued.

"I tried, but Fluttershy said he was a bad dancer and was nervous." Applejack said.

The breezie smiled,"Well, he needs a little bit of confidence, that's all! The amazing thing isn't that he dances well, but that he dances at all!"
Applejack shrugged, "That's what Fluttershy tells him, but he;s too shy."

"Aw, poor guy!"

"Yeah, got any advice for him?"

"Try imagining the audience as fluffy bunnies."

"That could work"

"Worked with me!"

Applejack and Grog walked in.

Several creatures of all shapes and sizes were hanging around the large room. They turned to the newcomers and stared.

In the very back was a very large figure in a cloak. She had the words "Cephei, God of MIGHT" on the back.

Grog walked to the figure and tapped a hoof onto the back, "Hey, tough one. Ready to rumble and lose the title?"

The figure turned, revealing a blue alicorn with an eletric blue mane. He smirked as he looked at Grog,"Oh, I'm unlikely to lose this title, boy!"

"Oh yeah?"

"YEAH! IF YOU THINK YOU CAN BEAT DOWN CEPHEI, THE WARRIOR KING, YOUUURRRR GOONNAAA BEEEE DISSSAPPPPOOIIINTTEEEDD!"

Grog pushed his snout to his, "Listen here buddy. I'm Grong Strongjaw and I am the bbaddest pony on the whole content. I've crushed small bees weaker than you!"

"HAH, WELL I'VE BEATEN TOUGHER BUNNIES THAN YOU, BOY!"

"How dare you harm little bunnies!" shouted Grog.

Cephei spat,"IF THAT MAKES YOU MAD, TAKE IT IN THE RING!"

Grog growled, pushing his nose against Celphi, "Oh, I'll bring it to the ring. I'll crush you between my hooves and throw you out of it!"

"I'LL TURN YOU INTO MINCEMEAT, AND FEED YOU TO THE GRIFFONS!"

"I'll crush you! and your whole family! And then the horse you walked on!"

A horse laid outside, hoofmarks on his back, "All I asked for was the time."

Cephei grinned,"I can't wait to break you!"

Grog laughed, "Ha! I am invinicable! What do you got?

"GODLIKE STRENGTH! WHAT ABOUT YOU!?"

"GROGLIKE SRENGTH!

"Alright, alright, save it for the ring!" A pony in a refreee uniform said as he appeared between them.

Grog pu his hoof o his eyes andten back to the alicorn.

Cephei did the same.

Grog then shouted, "Coming for you!"

"Fillies and Gentlecolts, welcome back to the Braving Grounds!" An announcer said to the cheers of many.

"Today, we have a special match! In this corner, weighing in at 400 pounds, Cephei, the God of Might!"

"In the other corner, weighing in at 800 pounds, our new challenger, Grog Strongjaw!"

Grog stepped out, doing some flexing and posing. Appljecak stayed back, "If ya need me-"

"I'll call." Grog said.
Cephei stepped towards Grog,"I must break you."

"And I like to see you try," Grog said.

"Let's get Ready to Rumble!" The announcer got the heck out of dodge.

Grog ran out, slamming his forehooves onto Cephi's shoulders and narrowing his eyes at him.

Cephei responded with a hoof to Grog's chin.

Grog smiled, his rage clear in his eyes and he head butted te alicorn. Then he rammed his hoof into Cephei chest.

Cephei slid back, before running at Grog with a clothesline.

Grog was flipped over by the clothesline and went for a leg lock.

Cephei leapeed up, and then aimed his legs for Grog's side.

Grog rolled to the side and jumped up to drop his leg aonto the alicorn's back.

Cephei gasped in pain before rolling over and punching him in the nose.

Grog wiped he blood off and laughed in glorious laughter. He then ran at Cephie with his own clothesline, as that connected he leap off the tturnbuckle and dropped the pony's elbow onto the back.

Cephei roared in pain before grabbing at Grog.

Grog twisted and rolled, wrapping his forelega around Cephei with a neck lock.

Cephei began to lift Grog up while being grappled, before slamming down onto the floor, back first.

Grog got back up and ran to the turnbuckle before running back with a clothesline. Then he picked him up to put him into the rope and bash his head into the pavement.

Cephei groaned before laying on the ground...

And then sat up.

Grog waited, wiping his nose a litle from the blood before hitting his head twice to let out a roar.

Cephei roared back before charging at him.

Grog charged back fully intending on ramming his skull into his.

They headbutted each other with a loud bang.

Grog fell back a little, swirling back and forht. Then he looked back at his opponent while blood trickled down the side of his face.

Cephei looked at his broken horn. He took his hooves up and tore it off completely with a roar.

Grog let out a laugh, and a big giggle that was very child-like, "Oh, that is just badass!"

Cephei smiled, before beckoning towards him.

So Grog did, running at him before doing a leg drop into te skull.

Cephei flew back before wobbling.

"Now get ready to get RECKT!" Grog shouted.

Cephei yelled,"DON'T COUNT ME OUT YET!"

"And don't underestimate ME!" Grog walked slowly towards Cephei before back hoofing him, and doing it again. then he grabbed him, picked him up, and then suplexed him into the mat before running to the turnbuckle and then doing a leg drop onto the neck. Then he picked the alicorn up and began to head butt again and again, with the sound of a thunderclap each hit. Then he piledrived him again.

Cephei groaned,"... I yield..."

Grog laughed, "AW yeah, who's the best?!

Cephei looked up at the sky and smiled,"Thank you for a good fight..." He said as light encompassed him and then he disappeared.

The crowd cheered, then silenced. The audience turned to a figure in a cloak that walked to the edge of the ring. The figure took off his hood to reveal a grey stallion with a long white beard. He looked at Grog, and then nodded before walking away.

"..." Grog raised a hoof, but his rage inally gave out and he fainted.

"And Grog is the winner!" The announcer said.

Applejack ran to Grog and helped him up, "Come on big guy!"

{}

Vex whistled as she walked with Percy,"I've never actually had the chance to come here, you know?"

"Never?" Percy asked curiously.

"No, I was mostly focused on hunting and mercenary work." She looked at Percy,"Every had any places you never got to go in Equestria?"

"Hmmm," Percy said, putting a hoof to his chin, "Canterlot for one, Ponyville for the other."

"... Ponyville... a bit on the muzzle, isn't it?" Vex cocked her head.

Percy could only shrug and shake his head, "I was not the one who named it. But there is a part time clock-maker and adventurer who inspired me and I want to thank him."

"Oh, really?" Vex smiled.

"Yes," Percy said, smiling as e looked down, "I remember when I was a little colt, he showed me how a clock worked and moved that it just inpired me to tinker with it. I found myself enthralled with it, loving every movement and every spring of themechanics tat I just ad to continue making mine." he then frowned a little, "Sounds weird, doesn't it.

"Not at all." Vex said,"I think it's great that somepony inspired you. Why would you think it weird?"

"Just the idea tat somone so asscoitated with this," he looked to his gun, "Would be occupied with something so simple as clockmaking. Doens't excatly match does it."

"Well, I suppose not." Vex said, putting a hoof on his shoulder.

Percy took a moment to smile, and ten look into Vex's eyes. He smiled warmly as he looked for a while into her pretty eyes, "Hmmm, such a wonderful color. Your eyes, they are very...interesting."

Vex looked into his eyes as well,"You know... your eyes aren't so bad either..." She looked behind him,"Um, Percival darling?"

"Yes?" Percy asked, shaken out of his reverie.

"I think I see two of our friends in trouble." Vex said.

Behind Percy, near the ring, was Keyleth and Twilight being taken away by guards.

Twilight walked forward, head down "We'll be fine, we'll be fine. No insane things will happen. I mean, I'm with Keyleth and she's the Fluttershy of their team. It should be fine, I mean, what kind of trouble could a druid get into. It's like Fluttershy getting into trouble. Yeah, Twilight, you should be worried about Pinkie and Scanlan!" she looked up and leapt to a lightpost, "YEAH! I'm MORE WORRIED ABOUT PINKIE AND SCANLAN AND DASH CAUSING MICHESFT THAN MYSELF!!"

Keyleth looked up at her,"Uh, you okay? Do... do you need a break?"

"Yeah, I', fine," Twilight siad, "Maybe I do need a little break."

Keyleth smiled,"Well, maybe we can, I don't know, pet furry animals?"

"Sure!" Twilight said, needing to do somehing cute.

"Okay! Maybe there's a petting zoo nearby!" Keyleth began walking ahead.

Twilight smiled, thinking to herself, "Yeah, nothing bad will happen there."

They began walking to a small house, when they walked by the fighting ring.

"Hmm, I wonder whats going on there," Twilight asked

The two would see Grog fighting an alicorn.

"Grog is in a fight?! HE might need some help!" Twilhgt said. "Think. Oh I know. I could use a subtle speel and give him a bost."

Keyleth nodded,"And I'll provide some healing!"

Then a pair of hooves placed themselves onto their shoulders,"What do you two think you're doing!?"

"Um, helping our friend who looks like he needs help?" Twilght said.

"So, ya cheatin'!" The guardpony said.

Twiligh felt her mane beginning to spring out of control. "What did you say?"

"Ya. Cheatin'." the guard said.

"CHEAT!" Twilight screached, "But I never cheat. I'm not a cheat,Idon'tcheatatanything! I just wanted to hep!" she then curled up in a fetal position and petted her tail in sandess.

The guard picked her up in his magic and pulled her and Keyleth away.

"Wait, no, help!" Keyleth shouted.

Vax popped his head out of hte crowd,"Kiki?"

Pinkie began to play with her cloak, looking through it for her various new items and weapons.

Scanlan played on a flute as they walked on.

Pinkie stopped for a moment, and began to tap her foot. Fininding a wall, she began to knock on it to create a beat.

At that moment, a blacksmith began banging his hammer on an anvil nearby.

Pinkie started to tap her feet in time with the hammer.

A tailor began to cut through fabric with rythmic precision.

Scanlan used prestigitation to create a wind to blow through some strings.

Several ponies began stomping in a rythim.

Scanlan added a few more strings, While Pinkie found a set of keys.

Somepony was hacking away at a mannequin with a sword.

Pinkie Pie twirled, and began to play some strings to match with the chopping motion. This caused a few more ponies to dance in a rythmic motion, moving alonf and clap to the beat.

More ponies began to dance around them.

Scanlan started to rock with his flute and his lute. Pinkie added some more drums.

Rarity walked in, seeing all this.

Pinkie rached out, and grabbed Rarity by the hooves to join in.

Rainbow Dash danced while in the air.

At that moment, Twilight and Keyleth could be seen being dragged away.

Pinkie waved to the two, "Hey, where are you going?"

"Oh, you know. Here, there, to the library, then to the jail while I go to Tartarus for cheating!!!!" Twilight said with a whimper.

Scanlan blinked,"Cheating?"

"We kind of-"Keyleth skipped a step, "Tell oyu later if you can help us!"

Scanlan put on a fake mustache,"Bert Reynolds is on the case!"

PInkie looked at his fake mustache and raised her hoof in approval.

Scanlan and Pinkie followed the guard into a small house that held a couple of jail cells.

"Hello guards, we're here!"

The guards scoffed,"What do ya want?"

"Hello, my name is Burt Renyolds and I do believe you have somme of my clients in your custody," Scanlan said.

"Ya mean those two cheaters?"

"Yep, tose the ones," Scanlan said.

"And how are you gonna get me to take them out?"

"Well, first, did you read them their rights? How about states evidence? This sir, is a fabrication of justice!" Scanlan said.

Pinkie stepped in, wearing a purple kimono and a little talisman around her nexk, "And besides. I have it on good authority that you saw changlings!"

The guard blinked,"What!?"

"Excatly, in this world, how can you be so sure what you saw with your eyes? HMMMMMM?!" Pinkie said.

"Oh, god, you're right!"

Scanlan nodded, "Not to mention, you are clearly ignoring their Gods given rights and proper evidence. Why this would be thrown out of cort so fast."

"I am so sorry!" He opened the cage.

Scanlan smiled, "AS you should be. Now, I'll be taking my two clients out of here."

Keyleth poked Twilight,"She's broken,n I don't know how to fix her..."

Pinkie reached into her pocket and brought out a book. Twilight had a happy smile on her face as she grabbed it, curled up with it, and purred like a kitten, "Book!"

"Oh." Keyleth looked at this,"It really is that easy, huh?"

Pinkie nodded.

Rarity sighed as she walked in,"You know, I honestly expected Rainbow Dash to be the first to get into trouble."

Scanlan nodded, "I know. It kind of breaks the pattern, but this is still funnier."

"Dang straight," Pinkie said, hoofbumbpin him.

A purple gazelle came into the room,"Oh, you're talking about that cyan pegasus?" She said.

Raritt nodded."

"Ah, so you are her friends. Her and a half-deer are currently waiting back at the Slayer's Take... for an unauthorized hunt."

"Slayer's take?" asked Scan;an.

"Unathorized hunt?" asked Twilight, getting up and putting away her book.

"Oatmeal?" asked Pinkie.

"Yes, your friends fought off a chimera that we were tracking." Teh Gazelle said, She looked at Scanlan,"The Slayer's Take is a guild with a focus on monster hunting."

"And she interrupted your hunt and kill something she wasn't supposed to. Probably bragged that she knew me, gave a list of friends, and now we are all implicated," Twilight said, eyes wide, her mane a little frazzed.

Vax tapped his hoof to his head as he looked at Rainbow Dash,"'I'm the most awesome pegasus ever,' huh?"

"Dang straight I am! I took down that Chimera before any of your dagger hit him!" Dash bragged, completely forgetting where she was and who was in front of her.

A male halflinger pony sighed,"By Ioun..."

Dash then turned to look at them, "And look, I know I may seem like I'm alone with an emo boy over here. But giess what, he's got frieinds! A cool large pony, a badass musician, his sister, a pony who uses this weird thing that I can't begin to talk about how it works, Fluttersy if she was a deer, and a mare of the cloth. Yeah, and if you think that's something! MY friends: Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie, and Twilight can all back me up to. So send over what ever punichment you got."

"And there goes the other one," Vax said.

"And who says you got any better right to kill than us huh? Why not set us all up for this cool Slayer's cake thing and we'll be even cooler than your best!" Dash bragged.

The stallion smiled,"Well, my wife has something for you."

Pike burst through the door,"I heard something bad happened, are you alright!?"

Fluttershy meekly peeked from behind her,"I'm here too..."

"Everything that ha gone wrong has. We were just flying together when we spotted a chimera. We decided to see who could take it down quicker, and well...we wound up like this." Vax said.

Dash grumbled, "And somehow webroke the law. The only thing more annoying would be if Twilight found out and overreacted.

Pike said nothing. She and Fluttershy then stepped aside.

The world shook, even though there was no spell being cast, "What...was that?" Dash asked

Pike looked outside,"I think Twilight found out."

"No, if Twilight found out, then we would hear her call me by my full name."

"RAINBOW MIRAIM DANGER DASH!!!" Twilight shouted.

"Like that," Rainbow daid, before calmly looking to Pike, "Last rites please?"

Pike began making motions with her hoof,"Sarenrea, please make sure that this poor pegasus gets to the other side safe..."

Twilight walked in, fire in her eyes, mana flowing off her body in all five colors, and her hair done in a reasonably nice style, "You had one job, one JOB! Try not to get into trouble and what did you do, you not only got into trouble but with an organization I never even knew about until today!"

"Twi-"

"If you gave me a few seconds I could figure out the rules, but no! Ypu had to go on your own,cause trouble, and put us into who knows what kind of situation! HOW DO I EVEN WIND UP WITH THIS!"

"Twilight"

"You always decided to do this, go off half cocked! I have half a mind to keep a leash on you or send in ninjas because knowing you the next time I leave you alone with friends you are going to tick off a god or a whole freaking pantheon!!!"

"Twilight, the head cheese is behind you," Dahs said calmly.

Twilight turned around with a smiled, "Dear sir, please do forgive my best friend's idoicy and whatever punishment you have planned, I will gladly stand by het side as reperation."

"Techinically I'm the Co-Head Cheese with my wife, but we do have something for you."

"can it wait until the rest of my friends arrive and hopefully they didn't do anythin-"

Applejack and Grog burst in through the door,"Hi, we just beat up a god."

"...wha?"

Applejack looked around,"What's goin' on around here?"

Twilight could only face hoof as she listened to Applejack describe Grog's wrestling match.

Samus looked down at her hoof and smiled, "Oh look, Grapple is back online."

"You don't sound too enthused lady," Adam said.

"Well, look, I love my grapple and all. It's a nice to have when I'm in trouble but in reality," Samus shruggd, "It wwasn't one of the big ones."

Adam could be heard groaning, "But considering you just fell from an airship."

"Well yeah, now I need it," Samus said, aiming and firing her grapple line to the side, "Now I love it. but on any other day, it's just a fun thing to have."

"Ok, Applejack, next time one of the gods appears, pleasse tell us."

"Hey, everyone was separated, and we didn't know at the time!"

"Fine fine," Twilight said, watcing as the others made their way to their location. she then turned to the stallion, "So, what do you have for us?"

The stallion nodded,"If you want to escape punishment, you'll have to take a trial."

The Gazelle, Vanessa, walked in,"You must separate into two teams, and tackle two different monsters for us."

"Two teams, no problem," Rainbow Dash bragged, "Twilight and Flutters are on my team."

"Hmmm," Twilihgt began, "I could think of a good algorithm that could pick e best ones for each monster. What are we hunting?"

Vanessa frowned,"I'll pick the teams."

"..." Twilight looked down, and then put away a book with the words n the cover

team possibilities for beginners and the alogritihms that love them.

Percy looked at it,"They will make a book out of everything..."

Vanessa nodded,"Now, go to the room on the left. I will send for the first team shortly."

Twilight sighed,"Well, as long as I get Applejack and Rainbow Dash, we'll be fine."

Rainbow Dassh laughed, "HA! As long as I get Twilight or AJ, I have it made."

Seperate quests

Twilight stared at her team, noting Applejack, Fluttershy, Vex, Scanlan, Percy and Grog,"Well... I got AJ at least..."

"Well Twilight, I gotta say you got a nice well rounded team here," Applejack said. "We go strength, skill, cunning, and a healer. All we need now is a few more for a back up and we got it made."

"I just hope Rainbow Dash is ok with who she has. I know she has a competitive streak and would think she has a weak team," Fluttershy said, looking down and tapping her hoof to the ground.

"I'm sure she'll be mature about this." Appljeack said, and then noticed the looks on her friends and Vox machina's faces. "Well, maybe not screaming."

"I'VE BEEN HAD!!!" Dash shouted from the distance.

Flutershy looked down, "She found out."

Vex sighed, "I'm not used to this. Me and Vax have been together for so long..."

Grog laughed and patted his friend on the back, "Don't worry, I'll be you brother for ya!

Twilight sighed,"Yeah, this is a pretty well-rounded team... just not one I was expecting."

Then a red gazelle walked in,"Oh, are you the new recruits?"

"Oh, hello darling," Vex said with a warm smile, "And you are?"

"Hmm," The gazelle walked around them,"Well, darling, I am Zahra. And your name is?"

"Smitten," Grog said.

"I...I'm...I...I'm Fluttershy," Fluttershy said.

"Applejack,"

"Vexhalia.

"Twilight Sparkle.
Scanlan tipped his beret,"Scanlan Shorthalt" He gave a wink.

"Quick Draw Percival Fredrickstein von Musel Klossowki de Rolo III." Percy said.

"But you can call him percy" the group said

"Well, that certainly makes it easier." Zahra said.

At that point, a blue unicorn mare in robes bumped into Twilight,"Oh, excuse me!" She held a book in her hooves.

Applejack paused and looked around, "Ma?"

"I am to assume you must be ourother companion?" asked Percy.

The mare nodded,"Um, yes, I'm actually the team leader for this mission, Lyra!"

The Equestrians couldn'thelp but pause for a few seconds at that name. Twilight and Fluttershy for being friends with said mare, and Applejack for trying to find out why she kept hearing er mom's voice.

"Well, it wouldn't be the first time we've come across ponies with the same name..." Twilight muttered.

Lyra looked at Applejack,"Um, are you okay?"

"This is gonna sound weird, but mind if I hug ya?" asked Applejack

Lyra looked around,"Um, okay..."

Applejack gave her a hug and walked away,"Thank ya."

Lyra held a piece of paper in her magic,"That was odd, but okay!" She looked at all of them,"Um, so here's the mission that we're supposed to go on." She stammared.

Twilight took it,"Hmm, we're supposed to go to Stilben to take down one Marlboro..."

"Oh my god, we got two Twilights," Applejack whispered.

Scanlan gasped, "Marlboro? Why, he gives people lung cancer and yellows teeth! We can't let him live!"

Twilight frowned," Scanlan's right, we can't let that thing do as it pleases!"

Lyra beamed,"I'm so glad you guys are so eager! Come on, I know where Stilben is."

Vex sighed and looked behind her as they began to make their way out of the city, feeling a comforting hoof on her back. She looked at Percy with a warm smile as they walked. Applejack looked at Lyra and walked wih her, "You don't seem the type to be a part of a hunting group."

"Well, I'm here because Vanessa wanted to test my worth as a hunter!" Lyra said,"I'm also here because my wonderful Aldor is part of the Slayer's Take!" She sighed in contentment,"He'll notice me one day..."

"Crush?" asked Applejack

"Yes! My beloved Aldor!" Lyra sighed, holding up a lock of mane,"I remember when I first realized I loved him!"

Lyra happily skipped along the field, where she saw a brown stallion in armor talking with someone. She shouted,"Hey handsome!"

Aldor's eyes widened,"Shit, she found me!" He turned and ran away

Lyra sighed,"He may not remember my name, but he still recognizes me!"

"Sounds like you got an ineresting connection," Applejack said in the best way possible.

"We do!" Lyra smiled,"I'm so glad to have ponies who understand me!"

"Oh yeah, total understanding," Applejack said.
Lyra gave her a hug,"I always wanted a friend like that!"

No porblem," Applejack said.

Vex walked with Zaria, "Why are you here though?"

Zahra thought for a moment,"A large part of it is that it's fun to take down monsters, although, perhaps I'm feeling a bit guilty."

Vex looked a her curiously.

"My family aren't the best kind of people around, you see. They're... well, it'd be too kind to say cultist? My cousin and I are more or less hte only nice ones."

Vex looked at her with compassion, "You shouldn't feel guilty. Family doesn't define you."

"Hm, maybe you're right." Zahra said, smiling back at her.

Twilight stepped with LYra, "So what is a Marlboro?"

Lyra looked at her,"A Marlboro is a large green creature known for it's terrible disease ridden breath."

Scanlan stood on top of a rock, "Ah, so it is, in fact, a cancer!

Percy nodded,"A cancer that must be purged."

Grog frowned, "Marlboro sounds like fun to really crush!"

Zahra then said,"Yes, but it is no less dangerous."

"Just point me at it, and 'll break it," Grog saidwith confidence

Vex nodded,"SMashing it would definitely do a lot of good for many people.

Scanlane nodded, "And it also helps to encourage people to drop that habit!"

Fluttershy spoke,"It'll make the world so much healthier!"
Scanlan took a moment ot look to the camera and joke "This is a nonsmoking PSA folks."

Zahra looked at everyone,"Does he normally talk to the air?"

"Almost as much as another friend of ours," Twilight said.

"So you have two crazy friends." Zahra said.

"Oh, they aren't really that crazy...just," Fluttershy tapped her hoof in thought, "Eccenctric"

"... I will call you Cinnamon Roll." Zahra said, bowing and then walking forward.

Up ahead, a small building with a sign that said," Convenience and you."

"A convience store?" asked Applejack.

Twilight walked in and gasped, "Look a map with a shortcut!"

"That's be 50 bits." The cashier said.

Scanlan gasped, "And look, poison restance potions, enough for all of us."

"Wish we had a book on Marlboro's though," Applejak siad. "Like their attacks and weaknesses."

"I have some Marlboro information, but it'll cost ya a pretty penny." The cashier said.

Vex stepped up to him, "ARe you sure its going to be too expensive? Surely for such lovely mares as us, you can lower the price."

"W-well, I suppose I could lower it..." He took a book out and handed it to them.

"Why thank you dear," Vex said.

PErcy put a hoof to hi s chin, "We might get there faster if we have a better vehichle."

That was when Gwen drove in.

"Need a ride?" Gwen said.

"Sure, while I buy the appropiate spell components and arrows we needd," Zara said.

Twilight blinked,"Wait, we use spell components?"

"Some of us do," Zara said.

"I'm sorry, that's just never been touched upon before." Twilight muttered.

Scanlan smiled as they got onto the car, "Well, let's roll!"

They all got into the car while AD/DC played.

They soon came to Stilben, a village on top of a swamp. All around were sick ponies coughing.

Scanlan could only pause to look at the reader, "Still think smoking is cool?"

Fluttershy flew to some of them,"They need so much help!"

Lyra frownedc,"This is what happens when a Marlboro attacks. Their bad breath is that poisonous!}

Vex began to look around to see if there was anyone she could help while Percy only frowned and clentched his fist. Applejack looked at Twilight, "Anything you think you can do o help?"

Twilight caused her horn to glow,"Hmm, we could cure them, but not only would it take a while, but it'll be temporary until we defeat the Malboro."

"HEY!" Scanlan shouted, "Anybody well enough to give us someinfo?"

That was when a young stallion ran up to them,"I'm well!"

Scanlan smiled, "Thank goodness. I thought we might need to ask everypony here."

"What would you like to know?" the stallion asked.
"Where dd te MArlboro who attacked you went and where can we find it," Vex asked.

"The Marlboro lives in the deep part west of here. IT usually attacks at night.

"It's nocturnal?" asked Fluttershy stepping out, "Why does it attack here so often?"

"We're not sure, maybe it just doesn't like us." The stallion said.

The entire group just stood there dumbfounded at that joke.

"IS that all?" he asked.

"Yes,I think we can hunt for it from here," Vex said.

"Hey, we don't want to get second hand poisoning," Scanlan said. "That's just as bad."

Fluttershy nodded,"2nd hand breath could be just as dangerous or addicting as first-hand.

Vex nodded, "And it can get on your clothes as well, taking forever to clean.

Twilight nodded,"So we must put a stop to it!"

And so, they walked off. While a lion wearing a t-shirt watched on, nodding. On his shirt was the letters D.A.R.E.

They walked until they came across several roots coming form the ground. There was a low hissing sound as they came closer, when a large green shape moved within the trees.

Vex held out her hand to stop them and motioned to th e trees to hide.

A large green creature moved passed them. It had several worm like tentacles surrounding a large maw with several sharp teeth. It was breathing and weezing as it moved by.

"Look at it, it'shorrible," Fluttershy said, hiding in the tree.

"Of course it's breathing hard. A creature like that is bound to have problems breathing with its lungs rotted," Percy said.

"We have to put it out of it's misery." Zahra said.

Scanlan nodded, "Sometimes, murder is the only option, or removing it."

Twilight then said,"OR going cold turkey."

"But unfortunataly, I don't think he's going to go with the program," Scanlan said.

Lyra nodded,"So, let's kill him!"

"So plan Twilight?" askedApplejack. "Or do we do this the Dash way?"

Twilight thought for a moment,"Just burn it, make sure we're not in front of it."

Zara smield as she held up a hoof, crackling with lighting energy. pplejack smirked and nodded, "Dash would be so proud."

"Look, I had no other plan in mind..." Twilight's horn gloweed.

"No no, I gt it," Applejack said, "You knew how some of us wrk best with an sll out atacka and are using it."

Lyra's horn glowed as well,"Well, sometimes violence really is the answer!"

Percy immediatley shot the thing.

Twilight flew up and launched three fireballs around the monster, keeping him surrounded. Meanwhile Percy and VVex began to run to either side of the monster.

They both shot holes into the beast while Lyra shot a disintegrate at it,.

The malboro let ut a roar before unleasshing a mist, making he others jump away. Scanlan did not see a tendril approaching from behind.

Scanlan yelped as the tendril grabbed him,"Whoa, I am not in the right outfit for this kind of play!"

Lyra paused and began to think, "What does he mean by that?"

"I'll tell you when you are older," Applejack said, slamming her hooves onto the ground to make it shake. As she did, Grog ran to to the tentacle snf begn to slash at it.

"No one tentacle touches my friends!"

Trinket roared and bit at the tentacles.

The monster tried to attack at Trinket, only to be hit by Vex's arrows.

Zahra blasted it with some black beams.,

The crature lashed ut with some more tendrils

Scanlan yelped,"Bigby's Hoof!" He slammed a large purple hoof into it.

The creature roared ad blowed on his foot in pain.

Scanlan blinked,"It has feet!?"

One of the tails whipped Zahra in the face.

Zarha stepped back and wiped the wound before stricking back with a bolt of hex.

The creature fell back.

Grog stepped on its stomach before leaping up to do a leg drop into it's neck

The creature let out a horrific bellow of pain.

Scanlan looked inside of Lyra's bag and pulled out a Nicotine patch and slammed it onto the beast.

The beast moaned before eventually dying.

Scanlan smiled as he stood tall, "And that's what happens when you keep smoking and you don't take care of it. You could die."

Applejack stood with Twilight, "Um Twi? I'm a little worried for Dash."

"Why?" Twilight asked

"Because if this fight is easy and straight forward, how bad is it gonna be for her?"

"And who did I get?" Dash said, looking around to look at the ponies before her. "Froofy, Fluttershy 2: the red eaded sequel, Captain Emo the wonderkin, the shortie, and Pinkie Pie. And-"

Pointing her blue hoof at the two newcomers, she said, "Whoever ther heck you two are!"

A tall unicorn stallion dressed in white-gold plate armor looked at the group. Next to him was a Shetland pony with a long greying black beard.

Rainbow Dash looked at them, "And let me guess, you two ae the guys who are teaming up with us?"

The shetland pony nodded,"I am-"

"Hi!" Pinkie sped up to them,"My name's Pinkie Pie! Over there's Rainbow Dash, that's Rarity, the somewhat grumpy one is Vax, the cute half-deer is Keyleth, and the tiny cleric's Pike!"

The stallion in armor looked over Pinkie's shoulder to take a look at the others,"Does she have an off button?"

Dash looked at the stallion and sighed, "Only when one of us dies, otherwise...good luck. I tried once and she ended up talking to a bag of flour, rocks, and a bucket of turnips."

The stallion stared at her,"You're, uh, joking right?"

"Remind me to let you meet Madame Le Flour," Dash said.

"..." The stallion sighed,"I'm Kashaw Vesh."

The shetland stood up,"I am Thorbir, I'm here to make sure you don't die during this mission!"

Pinkie smiled, "Yay! Now we don't have much to worry about! Unless one of us is cursed with bad luck."

As Thorbir walked over to give them a piece of paper, the piece of paper flew out of his mouth and near a candle,"Woops!"

Rarity caught it in her magic,"I got it." She flew it over to her and read it,"Hmm, investigate a wedding due to rumors of a Changeling Queen..." She looked at them,"Um, A Changeling Queen? I was under the impression that there was only one."

Kashaw shook his head,"No, there are multiple hives, with multiple queens."

"Wait, multiple...hives?" Rainbow Dash said.

Rairty gasped, "MY word, that explains why Thorax was ehartborken that one day."

Thorax sighed,"They made fun of me, said I looked horrible."

Twilight shook her head,"No, you look, uh..."

"Distinguished!" Rarity said.

Vax raised a brow,"Thorax?"

"Oh, he is the ruler of the changeling hive back where we are from," Rarity said. "He just looks especially-"

"He looks like if a Gummy bear and a moose dated, made love, had a shotgun wedding, and produced a baby," Dash said.

Rarity looked shocked, "Rainbow!"

"What? He aint here, and you practically made a new line of clothes just to cover him up," Rainbow Dash said.

Rarity rolled her eyes, "I was trying to be tactful."

"Pinkie had her gummy animals whorship him," Dash said.

"That was a weird little cult they started," Pinkie said with a giggle.

Kash sighed,"So we got a rash one, a prissy one, and the one who won't shut up. And your quirks?" He looked at the remaining members of Vox Machina.

"Sneaky and there to back her up when she messes up," Vax said, cocking his head to Dash as she gave him a middle wing in respons.

Keyleth put a hoof o her chin,"I think maybe innocent and whimiscal. But I don't really know, I guess sweet but that is Flutters and Pinke, but oh! I know, I'm a naturist!"

"The monstah," Pike said.

"Monstah?" Kash asked.

Pike nodded, and then lefted up her foreleg. With a flex, she created a big bicept that frowned with teeth. Then she nodded, "A monstah."

Dash looked the two, "And your quirks?"

"Well, I am the compented lead-" Thorbir began to say, only to trip on his own ax, making the ax bounce into the wall and onto a red weasel, killing it instantly.

Kashaw looked at them,"And I'm the grumpy one. Though looking at you all, I'm sure I'm not alone."

"Well, grumpy and emo," Dash said.

Vax smirked, "At least I don't make it obivious when I mess up."

"Ahhh, you aren't grumpy!" Pinkie said, rushing to Kashaw and pulling up his lips into a smile, "You just need a naco cupcake!" she then put a cupcake into his mouth.

Kash scarfed it down,"How... how did you know that I'd like this?" He looked at her with fear,"You're starting to scare me."

Pinkie smiled wide with a happy grin, "I make it my business t know about the ponies I work with. Like I know you used to have an imaginary friend called Rufus."

Dash gently pulled Pinkie away before she could mention something about Kim and the prom and an embarassing kiss, "Just let her talk, you'll be safer."

"Uh, yeah..." Kash took a few steps back.

"Ahem." Rarity chimed in,"If we could get back on track, we still need to find that changeling queen."

Dash nodded, "So where is bug girl hiding?"

Thorbir spoke,"There's a rumor she's hiding in a wedding."

Rarity sighed,"Changelings are attracted to those I suppose."

"Hmmm, why does that sound familar," Pinkie said.

Dash's right eye twiched for a bit before taking off and looking back at the letter. Keyleth looked to Kashaw, "So, Kashaw, that sounds like a nice name? Been a cleric long?"

Kashaw frowned,"Too long. I'm... not proud of my patron." He walked forward toward the exit.

Rarity sighed,"We're going to die." She walked up to them,"We'll need a plan!"

"Ok rares, who put you in charge of all of this? "Dash asked, "I'm in the wonderbolts, I think I'm more classified!"

"Actually, Dash, Twilight put me above you in the group hierarchy." Rarity said.

"Wha? When was this voted on? Where was I?" Dash asked.

Pinkie raised her hoof, "It was when you were being told to get our pizzas from Neighpoly. You said you could make it there and get us real margrita pizzas. Applejack told you, no and you did it just to prove you could. Then while you were gone, we voted."

Vax looked to Rainbow, patted her on the shoulder and said, "You were tricked, feathers."

"No I wasn't. They just played to my ego and my desire to show how fast I could be, and then they..."

"Take your time," Vax said.

"...voted...while..."

"You were gone, so that means they did trick you," Keyleth said. "Actually, thay was a good trick when you think about it. Nice one girls and. now she's broken."

Pike nodded, "I'll carry her while we get to the place where the ceremony is. We can plan then."

Kashaw sighed as they went to a large white building,"So what are we gonna do, barge in?"

"Dang straight," Dash said, cracking her hooves. "We go in, tell the bug we are guunning for her, beat every pony that isn't us, andthen find the beast."

"How about we all hide in a cake, and pop out at the last moment and say "SURPRISE!" Pinkie said.

Pike smiled,"I like the smashing plan!"

Vax chuckled,"OF course..."

Rarity shook her head,"No, we need to do this subtly!"

Dash rolled eyes, "Fine, we subtly punche everypony's face in under the cover of night."

"No." Rarity frowned,"We stealth in, possibly in disguise, and observe before we kill the changeling.

"So easy for me, but impossible for feathers," asked Vax.

Dash grumbled a little and said, "Fine. What do we do?"

Rarity hummed,"Well, obviously I have to take the place of a dressmaker, Pinkie the party planner, Thorbir-"

"I call front door." Thorbir said immediately.

"Right, and-"

Kashaw raised a hoof,"That's a no on the preacher. I... don't do well with weddings."

"Fine, Keyleth plays the music with animals. You are good with birds, right?" She asked.

"Oh of course, I am wonderful with birds. You know being around them as an air ashari," Keyleth said with a giggle. Then she began to try an d think of just how musical she could be in such a short amount oof time.

"Guess I'll handle the preaching," Pike said.

"Great!" Rarity looked at Vax and Rainbow,"You two... hang around the rafters. No. Fighting."

"Don't Tell me not to fight. Tell him/her!" Vax and Dash shouted in unison.

Vax frowned, "Excuse me? I am going to be busy watching over you to make sure you don't mess up."

"Oh no," Dash said, shaking her head, "We don't need an emo goth half-deer moping about in the rafters. I'll be keeping an eye out for you."

"Excuse me? I think one of us is a defitition of stealth whil the other, is well..." Vax shrugged.

"Oh, pluck you ya miserable goth..."

"So, um from levels of chromatic dragons, how doomed are we?" asked Keyleth.

"I think Black, boarding on Red," Pike said.

A preacher walked by Pike. Pike poked him,"Excuse me, are you the officiator of the wedding?"

"YEs?" The stallion said.

"Sorry." She bopped him on the head. She then looked around, and noticed a well...

A little voice from a pony could be heard, "Yay, companionship!"

Pike blinked,"Why was there... never mind."

Rarity used a sending spell to call, "Pike are you in position?"

"YEah..." Pike muttered."Just, um, need to get inside the church..."

Rarity looked to the others

Pinkie walked to the party mare, "Hey, wanna play a fun game!?"

The mare looked at her,"Sure!"

Pinkie smiled, "LEt's play who can hide in the well the longest!"

"Okay!"

Pinkie led the party pony to the well and had her jump in.

"YAY MORE COMPANIONSIOP!"

"Pinkie?" Rarity said over Sending.

"YEP!" Pinkie said with a cheer, "Currently in third position, revelet about to move to a jute!" she said, practicing her ballerina postions.

Keyleth looked at a pony talking to some birds,"Um, misss, I, uh..."

"Um, oh my. I'm sorry. I was distracted, um did you...Oh did I interupt you?" asked the bird pony sweetly.

"No, I wasn't... er..." Keyleth muttered,"I... can I take over!?"

"You want to, oh...I guess. I mean, if its not too much trouble. I wouldn't want to ruin anything.

"Oh, okay, thanks..." Keyleth said.

"I even know of a well I can hide in," she said, walking away softly.

"Okay, bye!" Keyleth said.

Happiy the mare leapt in, waving to the three other ponies inside.

"Well, that was easy." Keyleth smiled.

"KEyleth, dear, are you ready?" asked Rarity.

"Yep!" She went to thee birds and waved,"Hello!"

One of the bidrs wavedand spoke in a deep grermaine accent, "Hello! Are you to be our new conductor frauline?"

"Yes!" Keyleth said.

"Ah, thank you," gh e bird said, "The mare before us, she had no sense of music. I was afraid we were going to have to run and rebel."

"Oh, well, I'll try to be good then!"

"Good, I hope you know some excellent wedding songs." the bird said

Keyleth's eyes widened,"Well, uh..."

Now for my part." Rarity said.

A fanciful dressmaker was walking along.

"Excuse me dear," Rarity said.

"Yes?"

"I am a burdegoning fashion designer and I was really curious about your wares. May I see your latest dress?"

"Sure!" The unicorn took Rarity by the hoof.

Rarity gasped at the sight of th wedding dress. Putting her hoof to her forehea,d she began to faint, "Oh my word, these designs. They are horrible. Tell me, are you basising this on a Rarity design?"

"Uh, who's Rarity?" The mare asked.

"Someone absolutely famous," Rariry said, "And yours is nothig compared to hers. Go, get some new fabric and I will help you keep in line!"

"I, uh, you're rightt!" Tehe mare ran off.

Right into the well. The little pony iwht in shouting, "Now we can make an actual play podcast with O and O!"

"Why did she- nevermind." Rarity muttere.d

"Ok rarity I'm in position with Emo," Dashs aid, "how are you doing?"

"I'm finishing up here... and I think the bride's coming in through the door.

"Good," Dash said, "Anypony feeling something familar about this?"

Vax looked at her,"No?"

"Just getting this feeling of deja view, like something happend before.

At that moment, a large unicorn entered Rarity's room,"HAve you gotten my dress ready!?" She was bright pink.

Rarity stepped back, and then nodded, "Yes my dear I have ti all done and set. As you can see here on this lovely ponequin. Any changesyou might want?"

"Hmm, It's fine I guess." She said with a huff."

"You guess?" asked Rarity.

"It's... okay." The mare said.

"..." Rarity twiched and her hoof pawed at the fground. "Say...that...again."

"It's... okay."

"SIT DOWN YOUNG MARE!" Rarity said, "And I will give you a dress you wont soon forget!"

She rolled her eyes,"Fine."

"Good, because I do not do...OK! I do, FANTISIQUE!"

"I see." She raised an eyebrow.

Rarity paused, looking at her like one looked at an old emeny. A frown creased her lips before puling out fabric, scissors, and needles.

"Where did you-"

Rarity looked at er with a smirk, "NEver underestimate a dressmaker!"

Kash sat near the door, muttering,"Maybe I should go in..." He noticed a purple unicorn mare grumblingl.

"Problems?" Kash asked.

"My brother's about to get married to my former babysitter, but I think she's secretly evil!" The mare said,

"And how did you come to this conculsion?" Kash asked, getting bored as he leaned against his spear.

"Because she ate food, and then threw it away without my friend Pearjack noticing!"

"ooooh, how cruel!"

"I know right! And then she insulted my friend Bluey behind her back! Speaking of which, I haven't seen her in a while..."

"...Bluey?" Kashaw asked, arking an eyebrow as his yellow and green eyes looked with weirdness.

"Yeah, she's the wedding planner. I think we got a new girl all of a sudden..."

Kashaw nodded a little, "Change blindness, it happens. For all you know it could be changlings."

"Chan- what?" Twilbright asked.

"Changling, mimic, could be something worse. You do know what a changling is right

"Uh, no?" Twibright seemed to be getting scared.

"Tends to change into a loved one befroe draining your love enerfy dry," Kashw said, "I'd be lying if I think your friend is alive anymore."

Twibright's eyes widened in horror before she let out a scream of terror,"Ah! I gotta stop this!" She ran off.

Kashaw looked at his scarred arm and thought to himself, "Wonder if I should've said tat. Eh, who cares. Either chaos or the real one will show up.

Pike stood in front of the alter,"Okay, I practiced this a lot in the mirror, don't lose focus, Pike!"

Rarity called Pike, "Pike are you prepared dear?"

Nope! "Yes." Pike said.

"Good, the eremony's starting. Still havent found the changling yet. hough the mare had a weird musical number."

"A weird musical number?" Pike asked.

"Yes," Rarity said, "She would sing a verse, wait for moment as if someone was responding and then would make a call back. IT was interesting, as if she was doing a duet alone."

"That... is weird." Pike said.

"Indded," Rarity said, "Just be prepared. One can only hope thaat Thorbir hadn't been attacked by pidgeons he owed money too."

Thorbir could be heard screaming outside.

"What did he anger for that kind of luck," Rarity asked.

"Some kind of Betrayer God?" Pike said.

"Perhaps."

Keyleth walked over to them,"Okay, I think I'm ready, I'm super nervous though!"

"You'll do fine darling, just remember how to play anf it'll work out," Rarity said.

Keyleth gulped,"But I don't know how to play for a wedding!" She whispered.
"Well, just use a song, any thing!" Rarity said.

"How about one of the songs you heard Scanlan sing?" asked Rainbow.

"Yes one of Scanlan's Songs perfect!" Rarity said. About five seconds after she said it, her eyes open wide in terror.

"Okay!" Keyleth began to play a song.

Rarity just sat in shock and horror, subtlely reminding herself that she asked for this. Instead of ranting, she chose to watch the wedding and try to figure out who was the changeling.

AS the groom stood at the altar, the bride came through the door, singing,

Finally the moment has arrived!
For me, to be one lucky bride!

Keyleth gasped,"W-Was I supposed to be playing that instead!?"

"I don't think so," Rarity shook her head, "Just keep playing what you are. The changling queen might be too embarassed that she is off beat that she will show herself!"

Keyleth nodded and pulled out another Scanlan song

Mine, all mine. The bride laughed evilly.

Pike blinked,"Somepony's eager!"

"Pike take the shot!" Rainbow Dash said.

Pike nodded, holding the mace up.

"Stop!" Twibright appeared with the pink unicorn mare next to her,"That's a changeling."

Pike's eyes widened as she held the mace over the groom,"Oh." She put it away sheepishly.

"I knew it!" Dash said, before fluttering down wih a double kick to the face of the bride.

The Bride let out an,"OW!" Then Pike smashed her with her mace,"Hey, I haven't gotten the chance to-" A javelin hit her, then a dagger,"Oh for pity's sake!"

Rarity brought out her needle blade and aimed it at the mare, "Oh, I am terribly sorry. Are you the kind of villian who prefer to monolouge?"

"YEs!" Said the changeling.

"Oh fine," Dash said, "Everypony clear out."

"Yeah, skinny has gotta monolouge." KAsh said.

Thorbir entered,"Hey, what was all the-" He was then trampled by the ponies,"Ow."

Some ponies remained behind as they and the changeling queen glowed green, changing into their black forms.

The Queen laughed,"IT seems I was found out, but it's too late. I have gathered enough love to take any of you down!"

"Yeah, that's what your sister said too, but if you're anything like her? This si going to be easy," Dash said cockily.

"SO you were the ones who defeated Chrysalis." The Queen narrowed her eyes.

Keyleth raised a hoof,"Um, I wasn't there, so I didn't defeat her... so...

"Yeah, I mean, she was a bit of an idoit so what did you expect?" asked Dahs.

"What?" The Queen snarled.

Dash shook her head, "I...Said...Your...sister...was..an...I.D.O.I.T

The Changeling Queen blasted her with a large green energy beam.

Rainbow Dash moved out of the way, ducking behind a pew, "And slow, did I mention slow?"

"ARgh!" She blasted Rainbow Dash again.

Vax dashed behind hter and jumped to do a slash attack.

"Ow! Minions, kill them all!"

"Minions, what Minons?" askd Dash.

"The changelings behind you!" Several changlings attacked.

Rarity, Rainbow, and Pinkie stood at the ready. A smirk came to Rainbow'sface as she asked, "Readyfor a butt whooping?

The changelings looked at each other, before charging.

"Ok everyone, like we practiced," Keylet said, cuing up the birds.

The Queen flew up, surveying the area.

Keyleth held out a hoof to summon a groupd of vines and branches to entangle the changligs before turning into her tiger form to attack.

The changelings gasped,"Wait, you can change form!?"

Keyleth paused in her tiger form and nodded. In the background, spells began to fly.

A couple of the changelings began to scream in pain as they died out.

"Um, I don't usually like to brag, really," Keyleth said with a blush.

The Changeling in front of her smiled,"Well you're very good for, uh, a non-changeling!"

"Really?"

"Oh yes!"

Keyleth could only smile at this.

The Changeling Queen rolled her eyes,"Don't befriend the enemy!"

Vax ran up behind her and stabbed her in the back, "Now that's rude. Friends could watch your back."

"Ouch!" The Queen turned around in an attempt to catch him.

This earned her a face of mace.

The weapon slammed into her face,"I'm really starting to hate these guys!"

Kashaw smirked, "I don't know, they kind of warm up o you. Except that drawf...who has a bucket on his head.

Thorbir ran around screaming,"I can't see! I can't see!"

"Try running to the right!" Kashaw shouted.

Pinkie jumped to Thorbir and painted eyes on his bucket, "There, now you have eyes."

Thorbir ran to the right.

"No, left!" Pinkie said.

He ran to the left.

This bowled over a bunch of changleings.

Vax looked at this,"Hm, a strike."

Thoribir held up his hand, "Im ok!"

The Changeling Queen snarled,"That's it, I'm gonna-" Pike smashed a mace into her horn, causing her to fall down.

Dash landed on top of her, "Lat words?"

The Queen spat at her.

Rarity sliced her head off, "Ew, rude!"
"Good, she's dead. Can we leave now?" Kash said.

Then there was shouting outside3.

Rainbow Dash sighed, "Yeah and we can...Rares what are you doing?"

"Drama must be observed Rainbow Dash! After such vulgarity as a hunt likethis, a pure lady must engage with the latest gossip!" Rariy said, walking to the doors.

"Ooh, is that really what ladies do? Maybe I should join!" Keyleth followed her.

Outside, Twibright was shouting,"I don't forgive you! You didn't believe me!"

Dash leaned in, "Eh?"

"I said that she was acting weird and none of you believed me! You thought I was crazy! But now look!"

Kash sighed,"This is stupid, I'm gone."

Pike facehoofed,"IS this really important?"

Rainbow Dash frowned and adjusterd her mane as if she was wearing a hat. Then she began to walk towards the arguing mares, "HEY!"

They turned to her.

"Look here ya whiny littlejelous crybaby. Do you know why the heck your friends didn't belive you? Because the first part of your whole trip you acted like a jelous little filly who was scared that someone else was gonna take her brother away!" Dash said, pressing her hoof to the mare's chest. "And then, you spent the rest of the time investigating the mare before rushing right on in to the room and ranting about being evil! And you expected them to take your word on it?!"

"Um yes?"

"NO! THEY WON'T, not without this little thing called, oh I don't know, evidence! You know, substancial proof that can't be easily dismissed by witnesses such as your brother pointing out the flaws in your story! I don't know about you, but I don't care HOW MUCH I trust you, but you came running in and screaming that a mare is evil after you spent a few moments acting like a jelous foal, I am gonna take the word of somepony else than you."

"Bu wha-"

"Oh, here goes. The whole "She was being mean." WEDDINGS ARE TOUGH! My best friend Applejack told me how her cousin sweet blossom was one of the nicest mares on th planet, but the moment her marriage to her marefirend came in? SHe was a freaking monster!What, you think everypony is the same during weddings? THINK YA BLOKE THINK!"

"I-"

"And now you are blaming them for being a little suspicious of a half crazed mare? What was going to happen if the changelings weren't real? You ruined two lives! You GOT LUCKY!"

"You know...I think you're right."

"Yeah, I kind of am. NOW YOU GO APOLOGIZE TO YOUR FRIENDS AND GO AND HAVE FUN OR ELSE!"

"OR else what?"

(A few minutes later)

"Wow Dashie, I didn't think you could stuff the entire group into that well," Pinkie said.

"Hey, Bluey, I thought you were dead?" Twibright said.

"No, just in the well!" Bluey said.

Thorbir began pushing the others,"Come on, let's go before anyone catches us for potential vandalism."

"What vandalism?" asked Dash.

"I'm pretty sure putting random ponies into a well counts as vandalism."

Pinkie gasped,"Now I remember! This entire mission reminds me of the fight with Tirek!"

Rainbow Dash's eyes went wide as she remembered what it really was and made a decsion to hug Twilight when they reunited.

"Oh, I do hope they ad an easy time,:" Fluttershy said

Twilight nodded,"Hey, we did. And there they are!"

Rainbow Dash flew out and gave Twilight a big hug, "Sorry," she said, before walking away.

Twilight blinked,"Uh, okay."

Vanessa walked out,"Ah, so you're all alive, good. Osysa wants to see you."

"All of us?" asked Applejack.

"Oh, I hop she has enough room!" Pinkie said with a squeal.

VaneThey were lead into a large room that was covered in darkness.

A female voice spoke,"So you have arrived at last."

Rarity gasped as she saw the figure walk in, "My word, a sphinx."

"I wasn't expecting one," Applejack siad.

The sphinx walked over to them,"Yes, I am the patron of the Slayer's Take." Osysa said,"I have been waiting for you for a long time."

"You have?" asked Twilight.

"I forsaw your arrival a long time ago." She looked at the members of Vox Machina,"I see you have gathered some Vestiges of Divergence."

"The what?" asked Vex.

"The gods you are fighting right now are nothing more than the last remnant of a far larger group of deities." Osysa said,"The alicorns were the last to leave after many other deities from other races left. These deities were responsible for a war that span ages. During this war several items were created." She indicated Whisper and Fenthras,"Those that you now carry."

Vex looked down at her bow, "I didn't realize..."

"There are others yet to find."Osysa said,"My mate will be more helpful in that way."

Keylth thought for a moment, "Wait, in one of the temples, we met a little sphinx. Is that your little cub?"

"Indeed." Osysa said with a smile.

She looked at the rest,"I'm afraid we have not been entirely honest with you. We didn't ask you to join the Slayer's Take because you broke the rules. We asked you to join because someone wanted to test you."

"Test, for what?" asked Twilight.

Dash smirked, "Who cars, we passed because we rock."

"I'm certain she will explain it when you meet her. She is just outside." Osysa said.

They quickly stepped outside

There was what appeared to be a unicorn mare in a hood smiling at them,"Hello there."

And you are, foxy?" asked Scanlan

"I'm Gold Hoof. Come with me into my home."

They followed, while Rainbow and Scanlan would sing "Gold hoof. the pony with the golden touch."

They soon arrived at a large stone building. Inside were various paintings and other works of art. Gold Hoof turned to them,"I've heard from my companions that you were going to show up."

Rarity looked at some of the painting admiringly, while Vex had a little twitch in her eye. She shook this off as they walked. Twilight was the first ot ask, "Companions?"

Gold Hoof smiled,"Yes. My name isn't Gold Hoof, it's Eldroth." In a torrent of flames, she grew into a very large gold dragon"The Golden Empress."

"My word," Rarirty said, gasping as she watched the dragon appear in front of them all.

"So cool," Dash said, looking up at her.

Percy used his hoof to push up his glasses, "A pleasure. Why did you need to test us."

"Tradition. AFter all, I had to make sure you were worthy of heading into the temple." Eldroth said.

"I try."Eldroth said.

"And it makes it so much easier," Dash add.e

"It does."

"So, where is the temple?" asked Dash.

Eldroth indicated a large stone door with the words,"Enter, please." on the top of it.

"My how polite," Rarity saidd, "You are a gentledrake aren't you?"

"Lady, but yes." Eldroth said.

"Gentlelady, my apologies," she said as they walked into the temple.

Rainbow Dash smirked as she walked around, taking flight. Then she paused before asking, "Hey, are all of you dragons watching over the temples?"

Eldroth then said,"Only five of them. We are only here to ease you in before the real dangerous tests."
"Yeah, one of you is missing," Dash commented. "We went to one and a dragon wasn't there."

"Ah yes, the one in the Feywild. That one threw us for a loop."

"Loop? What kind of loop?" asked Applejack.

"You know, the kind of loop that happens when you get surprised?" Eldroth asked, raising an eyebrow,"Do you not use that terminology anymore?"

"How were you surprised," Applejack asked.

"We weren't expecting those deer to do it." Eldroth said.

They nodded and began to walk into the temple.

Dash sighed, "You know, why do these things even need to test us? I mean, we're right here!"

"Well, you know how these magical artifacts go." Twilight said,"They can't just be given away. Our Elements weren't just handed to us, you know?"

"Yeah, and it annoyed me too. Like, we can see them, we know we are the heroes, there is no need for all of this-"

"What do you want?"

Dash paused in mid-flight, "What do I want? Well, I suppose a good Hay-burger would be nice. I mean,those Flapjacks and hay bacon Grog cooks are nice and all, but I haven't had a nice hay burger in forever!"

"What do you want?"

"Look, mysterious voice, I just said-" before Dash could continue, she watched as the world began to get faster and faster until the world becam a blur. The wind howled around her and the voices became a faded while she stood alone.

"Speed?"

"W-what? No!" Dash said, watching the world move around her, trying to slow herslef down, "I don't want to be tis fast! Look, I love my speed, I love being the fastest thing out there, but if it means I can't see my friends again then I don't want it. They're my lighting rod, they're my way home."

"Prestige?"

Rainbow Dash found herself standing above the other wonderbolts. HEr body clad in a gallant uniform with many medals surrounding her body. Wih a growl, she began to take away her medals, "Wha kind of egotist do ya take me for?! Yeah, I want to be he best, but if it hurts them I don't want it! I know you might not believe it, but I do know that I need the others to be awesome."

"Oh really?"

"Yeah," Dash said, flying up," Because while I may be the best of any team I'm on, I still need back up once in a while. MY friends help me be even better and if I-" she coughed a litle,"have any flaws. The can help me fix them and they can keep me from being too much of an idoit. You know why I'm loyal? Because my friends help me be even better and I help them. Yeah, sometimes I fly half cocked or I don't go with something I know is stupid, but if they every really need me, I be right there!"

"What do you want?"

"Oh back to this question?" Dash asked, "Look, you CAN'T give me what I want. You know why? BEcuase I have it. Friends, family, speed. I have it all! The only reason I would ever need to be faster is...is..." she looked down and sighed as walls began to close in on her.

"What do you want?"

Dash trembled as the walls closed in on her. She could feel the cold feeling surrounding her as her claustrophobia began to kick in, Whimpering, she said, "I..wasn't fast enough to save her. Twilight died because I wasn't fast enough that time. I couldn't move fast enough, I wasn't there for her. I should've been faster, should've been quicker."

"You failed..."

Dash shuddered, before narrowing her eyes, "One time. I failed her one time, but never again. So I'm not fastest right now, but I will be. I won't lose myself! I won' let myslf fade away because I...no, THEY WONT LET ME! I will not fail her or any of my friends again!"

"You have chosen, well," a tan pegasus with old armor said, handinf Dash a pair of goggles,. "And Meadowbrook believed you would be the hard one."

"Yeah, well, she thought wrong," Dash said, taking the goggles.

"Um, you do know who I am, right? Famous pegasus? Legend?" Flash Mahus asked.

"Should I?" Dash said with an eyebrow cocked, "Look, unless you are a sports star, I don't know and really don't care!"

Flash Maguslooked down as Dash faded back into the either.

"Hey, Twilight, are acient spirirts usually annoyed with ponies who don't know thier istory?" Dash asked, playfully adjusting her new goggles.

"I imagine they might be. What did he look like?" Twilight asked.

"Kind of Tan, wore ancint Pegasus Armor, called himself Flash Magus," Dash said

"Oh, him!" Twilight said "He's known for being extremely fast and he ended up saving a lot of ponies from a dragon attack@"

"And already I don't care," Dash said, "Flutters made a dragon cry for his mama."

Vex stared at this, before looking at Fluttershy,"You!?"

"Um, well, I didn't mean. I mean, he was going to hurt my friends and he," Fluttershy's timidness kicked in and she hid behind her mane.

Vex patted her on the head,"Well, I'll say that's pretty good.

"It wasn't," Fluttershy meeped.

"No, it takes a lot to scare a dragon!" Vex said with a smile.

Fluttershy managead a little smile at this. Dash, meanwhile lookd for the next disk, "Can't wait for the next episode!
The hologram showed up again,"And so we continue.

Terra lived her life without care, but it was not without trials. She had an argument with her mother that led her to fly away from home... however this would soon cost her."

Tori flew towards the cloud that Terra sat on,"There you are!"

Terra pulled a tuff of cloud and blew on it. Looking back to her best friend, she said, "Hey Tori. Yeah, I'm here." there was a small bit of grumpiness in her tone. She didn't ask why Tori had come, but she didn't care. She knew her friiend wouldn't take her away so soon. Instead, she moved to the side to let her friend sit with hr.

Tori sat with her,"You know you shouldn't be out alone..."

"Save the speech Tori, I know," Terra said, rolling onto her back, "I just had to get away for a while. I jsut...couldn't stand being there any longer."

Tori stared up at the starry sky,"You're such a rebel. You know, one of these days you have to slow down and look at the stars like we normal pegasi do."

"Why" asked Terra, "They're just a bunch of balls and lights up there. Why do you care about those things?"

"They're not just balls of light." Tori said,"They could mean a lot of things if you pay attention. They could even make shapes."

Terra rolled her eyes at this, "Make two,smartie."

Tori then pointed out with her hoof,"That is a unicorn, Orion. And then there's the Pegasus."

Terra took a tuff of cloud and threw it at her friend, "Ok smartiee! Somepony actually stays awake in class." she then laid back down, "Why so interested in it anyway?"

"Because the stars are so fascinating." Tori said,"They're mysterious and vast. Look at them, we hardly know anything about them! All we can do from this planet is just look at them."
"Yeah, if you are into that thing," Terra said, looking to her friend from her back, "But we still need to focus on here for right now. I kind of prefer to just lay back and watch. And have a blast too."

"If you lay back too much, you'll get weak." Tori frowned,"You're going to be Queen someday. The ponies need someone who can keep their minds going you know. I'm not always going to be here to keep you in check, you know."

"That's a lie and you know it. You'll always be there, because you need to help a friend." Terra said.

Tori laughed a little,"Well, I'm always ready to help a friend. You are right. That being said, you're still immort-" She turned her head to a direction with a frown.

Terra shot up, "What's wrong?"

Three ponies flew up around them. Two were Pegasi and one was an alicorn.

The alicorn laughed,"Look at that, it's the Child. All alone and unprotected."

Tori snarled,"Run Terra."

"And leave you to die? No way, un uh, not happening!" Terra said, looking back at the alicorn, "I can handle the mare with the bad hairdo."

The alicorn scoffed,"Excuse me!?"

"No, Terra, I said I was going to protect you and I meant it! Run!"

"But you'll die without me!" Terra said.

"I'll be fine, now go!" Tori shouted.

terra took a stepforward, and paused. She could see the look in her friend's eye and reluctantly jumped back off into a flight, "Hey, ugly, come and get me!

The alicorn snarled before flying up, only to be pulled back by Tori's mouth.

As Terra flew, she could hear a loud scream.

Terra paused, wanting to fly back, "Tori..."she whispered, tears flooding her eyes.

The alicorn appeared in front of her,"If it makes you feel better... I'm pretty sure she stopped feeling pain after the first one!" she punched Terra in the face.

Terra ook a few steps back, before growling as red mana began to circle her horn, "No, it doesn't. As a matter of fact it just ticks me off!" she said, before exploding a large ball of sunlight that blew the alicorn back.

The alicorn smirked as she flew up,"Nice one... here's mine!" She blasted her with a much higher intensity ray."

Terra moved, using her magic to make a blur and sppear next to the alicorn. Charging her horn, she fired a sickly green beam at one of he mare's wings, "Nice try," she said, wincing a little.

The mare caused her horn to gglow,"Counter..."

"Ph you did not just coun-" she bearly had time to say anything as a cone of cold hit her hard and froze her wings, sending her fallng to the ground. Letting her horn glow green she melded into the stone to hide and prepare her next spell

The alicorn landed on the ground,"Earthquake."

The earth shook and cracked, sending Terra flying out of the ground. Growling, she began to move the eart into giatn hands to grab at the aliconrn's wings to hold them in place. She then charged a bright blue bolt," Chain lighting!" she shouted, unleashing a torrent of electricty

The alicorn's head flew back,"... You know, they call me the Scion of Lightning." she blasted a lightning ball at Terra.

"Yeah," the mirror image of Terra said, fading away while the real her appeared above the alicorn with two gaint boulders on either side of her, " And I am know as the most power mage of the gods for a reason!" turninh the boulders into mud, she threw both at the alicorn before summoning a large row of seeds, turning them into fire, and began shooting hem out rapidlly.

"Most powerful... but not well trained. Anti-magic field." A symbol appeared beneath Terra.

Terra gasped as she felt her magic fade away, "What? That...that...YOU CHEATED!"

The alicorn raised a hoof and punched Terra in the face,"No, just more trained then you." She stopped, her ears perking up,"Wait, what was-" She was hit in the side by a flying armored mare.

Terra shook her head, recovering from the blow, "Wha..."

The alicorn got up, before several missle shots struck at her.

The armored mare turned to Terra.

Terra shook her head, before looking at the green visor. Then she let out a gasp and gave the armored figure a hug, "TORI!"

(Wait, how did she know?" Asked Rainbow Dash. "And Twilight you better-

"BEcause friends don't always need to see each other to know who they are," Twilight siad. "Somethingare best saif with their heart."

"But, my heart doesn't talk around Pike," Grog said.

"Metaphorical buddies," Pike said, patting him on the hoof.)

Tori smiled as she took her helmet off,"Hey."

"How...I thought you were. I mean I thought..." Terra whimpered with tears in her eyes.

("Now kiss, kiss!" Scanlan shouted.

"Scanlan," Pike said, looking at him with a frown.)

Tori smiled back,"I... It's a long story."

"You can tell me while you walk me home," Terra said, with a warm smile, "Best buddy."

("Yes, they're friends," Scanlan mocked.

"Oh come on Scanlan," Dash said, "She's just acting like I would around the others."

"And how many of them do you have acrush on?" Scanlan waggled his eyebrows. thismade Dash blush.)

Methusulah nodded,"And thus was Tori granted a new power."

Twilight frowned,"That armor... we've seen it before..."

"Where?" asked Applejack.

"Well, a mare wearing similar armor to that broke me and Percy out of jail." Twilight said;

"Probably related or something," Applejack said, and then looked to Rarity. "Problm?"

"Wanted more romance darn it!" Rariyy said/

Methusulah laughed,"Next time."

"Promise?" asked Rarity.

"Promise." Methusulah said.

"Ok," Rarity said, following her friends out of the temple.

New Ally

Eldroth was looking into a pool,"So then I said, that's not a watermelon, that's a cucumber!"

"Oh, I love that joke!" Pinkie said with a giggle.

Eldroth let out an eep,"I'll get back to you." She turned to the others,"Ah, you've returned."

"Anything important?" asked Scanlan.

"No I just get extremely bored here." She smiled,"speaking of boredom, Earthbreaker Groon wishes to see one of you."

"Who?" asked Applejack.

"One of Vassleheim's greatest warriors and the Dawn Marshal." Eldroth said,"You must've done something amazing to get his attention."

Grog smirked and flexed his muscles.

"I... see." Eldroth smirked,"You should go look for him in the Trial Forge near by." She handed them a map.

Pinkie gasped, "There's a Heydonalds near here!"
.
"Yes, they have great burgers."

As the team made their way to Earthbreaker Groon, Applejack began to think, "Did wer really impress him hat much?"

Twilight looked at her,"WEll, you apparently killed a god... without us."

"Sorry about that," Applejack said.

"Don'tworry Twilight, next one we'll save the leftovers!" Grog joked.

"IT's fine, I suppose." Twilight said.

A large earth pony stallion with a grey beard sat in the temple, looking at them,"You've arrived."

"My word," Rarity said with a gasp as she noticed the muscles on the stallion.

Applejack nodded, "Yeah, why did ya call us?"

"Is this a challenge?"aksed Grog.

"In a way, yes." Groon got up,"Meet me in the arena." He pointed at both Applejack and Grog,"You two may bring one ally each."

"Applejack looked back at Dash, "Come along speedy."

"Heh easy."

"Well, come along Vax. Payback!" Grog said, pulling vaxc by the tail

Vax yelped,"The tail, really!?"

"Applejack told me this was the best way to keep arrogant ponies in contolr," Grog said.

"That little..."

Groon waited for them at a ring, simply sitting down.

Grog landed with a thud, followed by Applejack. Thowing his weapons away, Applejack put her hat somewhere safe and glared. Rainbow, shrugged, "Eh, this is easy. Watch. I'll just race at him at super speed and take him on-"

"Rainbow wa-" Appljeack said, only to slow down as Rainbow Dash ran at top speed.

Dash smired as she ran at her fastest, pulling back her hoof to deck Groon. Only to look on in horror as he...

Opened his eyes.

The world returned to speed as she flew bacl ."-it."

"Did he just punch out Dash?"
Vax nodded,"Yep." He clicked his hooves together before speeding off. Then he flew back,"He saw me!"

Grog and Applejack high hooved each other before both ran at the stallion with an arm bar.

The stallion leaped up and kicked them both in the head.

Grog tried for a right hook after recovering while Applejack went for a leg sweeo

Groon dodged both before slamming two hooves into them. He grabbed a dagger with his teeth and threw it back.

"Wait, how did he do that without cutting his-"Vax didn't have a chance to ask before the dagger cut into his shoulder.

Rainbow Dash flew into the air and began to speed up to charge a sonic rainboom

Groon stepped under Dash.

"OH, is he begging me to hit him at top speed?" Dash chuckled, "Fine then,let's dance!"

"Rainbow, wait,"Applejack shouted, only to watch as her friend sped at sonic rainboom speeds at Groon.

There was a loud sound as Groon punched Rainbow,"Where do you find your strength?"

"Wha-" Dash asked stunned.

Grog let out a roar as he charged from he side, Letting Applejack come in wiht a flying kick

The kick hit Groon, before he punched Grog.

"HA!" Applejack said with a smirk, before landing on the ground and uppercuttting him into the chin.

Groon looked down at Applejack,"Where do you find your strength?"

"Right here!" Applejack shouted as she spun and bucked Grog in the face.

Groon looked at her, before punching her to the side.

Applejck let out a grunt as Grog came in with three punches to the chest while Dash and Vax jumped onto hie shoulders for a double kick.

Groon grabbed both pegasi and used them to smack their friends,"Where. Do. You find your strength?

"Did, he..." Dash asked struggling to get back up.

"Just use us to beat the other?" asked Vax,shaking his head and running a hoof through his wing to knock out some feathers, "Yeah."

As the others got slowly back up, Applejack whispered, "Not...quitting."

"I'm...with her," Grog said, readjusting his foreleg before walking slowly towards him

Groon smirked,"IS that it?"

"You know, I almost forgot where my strenght comes from," Applejack said, cracking her neck, "AS strong as I am. I'm still weak without them by my side. Im weak without my friends at my back."

"I'm starting to see that too," Grog said, "As long as someone is supporting me, I'm still stronger and we never will quit."

Groon sat down and nodded,"Good."

Grog paused, "Wait, really?"

"Yes." Groon said.

Applejack panted, "Oh, well now I feel a little silly. I should've figured out that in the first place."

Groon nodded,"Come back to me when you're a little stronger.

"Will do," Applejack said tipping her hat and walking away.

Grog remarked, "Aw, and I was gonna use Vax as a bat."

Vax frowned at this.

"Eh, you wre going to be a bat," Dash mocked Vax.

"And mayve dash as the ball," Appljeack remarke

Twilight walked up to them,"Well that was... eventful."

"Oh, that looked painful. Are you all ok?" asked Fluttershy.

Vax walked up to Fluttershy, patted her on the head, before collapsing.

Keyleth walked ove to Vax and helped him to his feet. She smiled a little at him and his sleeping form, "I'll help him to bed."

"YEah, let's get to an inn, I think we all had a long day."

Vax held up his head, "No, we are strong and full of health." he then fainted again.

"Come on, brother." Vex helped Keyleth as they went into the inn.

{}

Twilight looked at her map.

Dash tried to snek up quietylwih Pinkie to gt behind Twiligt.

Das placed a hoof oto Twilight's head and began to fuss with her mane, while Pinkie shouted, "MORNING TWILY!"

"Gah!" Twilight shouted,"Pinkie!"

"Yessss?" Pinkie asked with a cute face.

Twilight frowned,"By Celestia..."

"No, by Pinkie!" Pinkie said, bringing out a pie and some waffles.

"... Thanks." Twilight grabbed the waffles.

"It's hard to be grumpy around her." Percy frowned.

Applejack nodded as she sat down to eat, "Trust me, I know."

"Okay, the prophecy says we need to see the fire fallen king." Twilight said.

Keyleth gasped,"Oh, I know where that is!"

"Oh, that name sounds a little harsh," Fluttershy said.

"You do?" asked Vex.

Keyleth nodded,"They say a fallen king was imprisoned in the plane of fire, which is guarded by the Fire Ashari!" She grinned,"Oh, I need to go there for my Aramente!"

"Isn't that thing you mentioned you needed to go for to prove yourself?" asked Dash.

Keyleth nodded.

Pinkie cheered, "Great, we can do two things at once!"

Keyleth gulped,"Yep!" She shuddered,"I'm not nervous, I'm not nervous..."

"IT's ok to be nervous Keyleth," Fluttershy said, smiling, "We'll be here."

Vax put a wing over Keyleth's back and smiled, "Trust me, you have nothing to worry about."

Keyleth looked at him and blushed,"Thanks..."

Rarity quickly began to write in her notepad.

Keyleth walked to the exit,"I know where it is, I'll lead..." She shuddere.d

Vax walked ahead for a bit, keeping close to her.

Vex decided to walk with Percy.

Rarity began to scribble furiously.

Scanlan grinned as he walked next to Pike.

Rainbow Dash flew next to Flutters, while Rarity scribbled faster

Twilight looked at Rarity,"That paper's going to burn at this rate."

"It's ok, we'll just buy some more at the next town," Rarity said. "Shipping must be fufilled.

Twilight let out a sigh."

They walked down the road when they heard several large hoofsteps in front of them.

A giant pony with two heads stomped slowly towards them.

Pike gasped,"It's an ettin!"

At that point the ettin felll over, dead from several burn marks. An armored pony stood ontop of the bodyl.

"Hey, I called dibs!" Grog said to the armored pony.

The pony looked at them.

"Wait, that's the pony who saved us!" Twilight said.

"And the one who fought that god in Ponyville." Rarity said.

Twilight teleported to her,"Okay, who are you!?"

Samus looked at the little group, "Samus Aran. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to get going."

"Hey," Pinkie asked, "Since you helped us, why don't you join us?"

"..what?" Samus asked.

"Look, I've seen images of the past. I saw that armor of yours. It's important somehow, so we need you to join us!" Twilight said.

Scanlan walked up,"I mean, we are a fashionable looking group!"

"You look like a ragtag team of adventurers brought together through circumstance and began to learn to love each other through a trial of fire," Samus said, looking at each one. "I'm sorry, but I do my best work alone."

"Yeah, nopony should work alone." Twilight said,"And I know your armor is connected to this somehow, so you need to come with us!"

Samus paused, and then looked into Twilight's eyes, "Wich one of you is going to keep annoying me until I say yes. You or the pink one?"

Twilight smirked,"The pink one."

Samus took a moment ot look at Pinkie, hearing from her, "And I feel peppy tonight!"

"My services don't come cheap," Samus said.

"What's the payment" Vex asked.

"Catch me," Samus said.

"Catch you?" Twilight asked.

"Yes, Catch me," Samus said, taking a few steps back, "It'll help me test you and it will give you some excersise."

"Alright, but you're at a disadvantage!" Twilight smirked.

"Is that so?"

"Yeah, you're outnumbered!" Twilight said.

Dash blinked and noticed she was gone, "What they..."

Samus appeared behind the group, "You have a minute to get ready, and you wasted 10 seconds talking to me."

"Oh." Twilight said,"Well guys, let's get going!"

The group nodded and befan to split up as the game began. Samus appeared behind Scanlan, "Care to play some hunting music?

"With pleasure!" Scanlan brought out a lute.

"Thank you," Samus said, backflipping away and running into the woods.

Dash took to the air with Vax right behind her, "Ok Emo, you go from he left and I hit her right!"

"When did I take orders from you? I go left and you go right!" He went to the left.

"Because I am the fastest thats why!" Dash yelled.

Samus leaned over her,"Fastest, but not the smartest."

"Is that why you are..." Dash tried to reach up with her fore hooves while saying quickly, "Abovemelikeafool?"
.
Samus rolled into a ball and rolled away.,

Vax frowned, "She can't do that, she isn''t allowed!" he said, speeding off to try and catch the little ball.

The little ball went into a hole.

Vax poked his head down the hole, "HEY!"

There was a small round glowing object inside.

"..."

There was an explosion. Vax pulled his head out, face filled with soot.

Rainbow Dash fell back onto her back laughing at Vax.

There was a similar object next to Dash.

. "Oh for Celestia's sake!" Dash grumbled.

Twilight muttered,"Okay, our two speedsters aren't working."

Vex flew up to a cloud and looked over the forest.

Rarity looked up, "Vex dear," she said with some magic, "See anything?"

"She's crafty. I don't see her anywhere here..." Vex muttered.

"Hey, this sure is a cute bear here," Samus said from below.

"Trinket!" Vex shouted.

"I mean, he is a cutie," Samus teased.

She flew down to Trinket and Samus.

Samus lept up, cutting down a tree branch to strike at Vex.

"Oh darn." The branch hit her.

Samus slammed ahoof against a Tree, seeing if she could knock Rarity out.

Rarity looked up at the tree,"Oh, darling." She used her telekinesis,"That's not going to work on me!"

Samus smirked, "Oh really?"

"Indeed, I'm quite well versed in moving things with my magic! It helps with making dresses."

"I bet you are just a master at being precise."

"Oh yes!" Rarity said

"How precise are you at moving targets?"

"Well, that depends on the size." Rarity said,"Why do you ask, perchance?"

Samus took off into the woods

Rarity scoffed,"Don't ignore me!

"Then shoot me, mule," Samus taunted.

"..." Steam came out of Rarity's nostrils,"Why you little-!" She threw the tree at her,"I am not a mule!""

Samus smirked, using aspeed boost to dodge, relying on Rarity's anger to distract her.

"Stop. Dodging. And Fight!" Rarity shouted.

"I would mule, but you keep missing.

Rarity screamed as she ran at her, only for her hoof to get caught in some rope,"Oh!" She let out a yelp before the rope strung her up.

Twilight and Percy popped their heads out of a bush,"Darn, wrong pony!"

Samus appeared behind the two, "So what's the plan?"

Twilight frowned,"Well, we were going to catch Samus in that trap while she wasn't looking."

"Oh, neat," Samus said, "So what's the next plan?"

Twilight put a hoof to her chin,"Well, we could build a cage above a spot where Samus is unlikely to see it."

"That sounds clever," Samus said.

Percy nodded,"Indeed. We also need a good camouflage."

"Maybe if you covered it with leaves of the trees," Samus said.

"Good idea, she'll never see through all that." Twilight said.

"Oh, maybe an invisabilty spell!" Samus said.

"YEah, that'll work!" Twilight said.

"That can only fail if she has truesight." Percy said.

"She probably has no idea what that is," Samus said.

"That's when a creature can see through illusions with ease."

Twilight frowned,"That sounds bad.

"Yeah, I believe in you," Samus said.

They feel like she doesn't really believe in them, plus there might be something screwy going on here.

"She's right next to us, isn't she?" Twilight asked.

"Yep." PErcy sighed.

"Yeah and I used an ice beam to freeze he ground behind you both," Samus said, backflipping to hit the ground. She then turnd towalk away.

Percy sighed,"Damn it."

"Come on, I'll fly you out." Twilight used her magic to pick Percy up.

As Samus ran off, she began to look up and detect who was coming after her next.

Applejack leaped at her from the bushes.

Samus stepped back, "Wasn't expecting the muscle to be trying stealth."

"Ah'm just the distraction." AJ smirked.

Samus paused, "Distraction?"

Grog appeaered above her.

Samus turned into a ball and rolled back, letting Grog trippping over her.

Grog landed on AJ,"Woops!"

"It's ok," Applejack groaned in pain.

A small butterfly came over and flew towards Samus.

Samus paused and looked at it.

The butterfly then turned into Keyleht as she grabbed at her.

Samus high jumped onto a tree, "Always suspect the butter fly"

"Um..." Fluttershy squeaked next to her.

Samus looked at her, "Your friend Rainbow Dahs is suffering from wounds."

"I'll go..." Fluttershy flew away.

Samus smirked, "And cue Pike right above me."

Pike swung her mace above her.

Samus moved too the side.

Pike fell out of the tree into the ground.

Then came the twang of a violin.

Samus looked towards the sound.

Scanlan was near her, playing a violin,":Hello."

Samus waved a hoof, "Hello." she could hear Pinkie faintly sobbing, "Why is she sad?"

"Because her heart hurts, and I am trying to fix it with a song!" Scanlan said,"I know we can't beat you, so I am focusing on something else."

Samus raised her hoof, but was stopped when Pinkie sniffled, "All of the others have great gifts and outsmart you. What chance do I got."

"Well, there are a few tricks you could do," Samus argued, "Just got to put your mind in the right spot."

"All I can do is offer this tasty cupcake. IT's strawberry," Pinkie said, holding up a cupcake with a cute strawberry slice on it, pink frosting, and a chocolate base.

Samus shrugged, unabe to resist the taste of strawberry. "Eh why not. If it'll make you feel a little better."

"IT does," Pinkie said, givving it to Samus. "And what's more..."

It took Samus about a few seconds to realize thatt Pinkie got her in the hears, and her pink hoof was on her leg.

"Youuuuuuuuuuuu're IT!" Pinkie said, with a giggle as she bounce back and hugged Samus, "I WIN!"

Scanlan responded with a bow.

"You cunning little-"

Twilight smiled,"Figures, who could predicct Pinkie..."

"Maude," Pinkie said, "She says that big sister sense overrules pinkie sense."

Twilight blinked,"That... okay."

"Isn't Maude a laugh riot?" Pinkie giggled.

Percy raised a hoof, but Dash stopped him

Twilight walked up to Samus,"So, we win."

Samus sighed and nodded, "Yeah yeah. You earned my coming along. So, where are we going?"

Keyleth walked up to her,"We're heading to the Fire Ashari!"

"So we are purposely heading to a place near a bunch of flames and fire monsters? Sweet."

Another monster fell down in front of them.

Twilight smiled,"You know, with an armored tank around, things should be easier!"

"I called dibs," Grog shouted at Samus.

Samus lookd back, "I saw him first."

"Help!" a grey coated mare ran to them,"My caravan's in danger!"

"Wha?" asked Keyleth/

"Whats going on?" asked Dash.

"Some monster attacked us, I ran to get help!" The mare said.

The group, sensing side quest, ran off. Samus paused and began to investigate.

Samus began typing on her helmet as the other made their way to the scene.

There were several bodies near a turned over caravan.

The mare gasped,"No! We were too late!"

Pike and Fluttershy immeaditally went to look at some of the ponies, while Samus began to look back at the mare.

The mare looked at her, scared,"Those bandits were animals!"

Vex walked over to some of them, noticing cauterized burn marks on their body. They were lacking in limbs and heads.

"Tehy're monser," Fluttershy whispered to herself.

Samus, on the other hoof, looked at the mare, "Why areyou still here?"

The mare blinked,"Well, I-I might need to bury them, they're my friends after all!"

"No, why are you alive," Samus asked.

"I managed to get away in time. I'm a very fast runner."

Percy looked curious, "Samus, what are you thinking."

"There was a bounty hunter," Samsu said, walking around her.

"What are you doing?" The mare asked.

"History lesson," Samsu said, "There was a bounty hunter who would find a strong hold and disquse themselves as an opertative so well, they would trick them before striking the target. You would know if they had arrived by the trail of bodies they would leave behind without heads or limbs. Right, Oct?"

The mare's disposition switched to a cruel smirk,"I see my reputation proceeds me as much as it does you, Samus Aran." She chuckled,"I was hoping to keep the charade long enough to get rid of your primitive friends, but I can't get anything past you.

Samus walked around her, "What bring you here."

"Did she just insult me?" Gog asked, having no idea what primitive means.

Pike frowned,"She insulted all of us, Grog."

"There's a price on your head, Sammy." Oct said, circling her as well,"I, and a few others, aim to collect it."

"Who made it?" asked Samus.

"That new Space Pirate leader that's been running around. He seems really out to get ya."

"Tell him to join the club," Samus said, "Anyone else par of your little group?"

Oct held up a hoof,"Spoilers."

"You know, I wonder how bad you are when you are cornered. Never heard you fight."

"Because I like to play on the element," OCt's head was covered by a black helmet covered in tentacles,"Of surprise!" A red bladded tentacle came out from the ground.

Vax jumped out of the way and threw two daggers at the tentacle. Twilight began to charg an ice dagger and sent it flying at her.

A suit of armor came over her as the dagger struck,"Ooh, magic." She pulled out a large gun,"I see you people started the Flintlock stage. Shame, you won't get to see how this works!" She fired a grenade at them before moving away.

Rarity and Twilight caught the gernade in thir magic, "Darling, care suggest where to thrwo this?"

"Somewhere in the sky?" Twilight suggestedd.

Dash looked, "I see no pegasi. Do it!"

Twilight tossed in into the air.

Oct disappeared on the road.

Samus looked at the place where Oct stood, "Darn, where did she go?"

A tentacle appeared behind Samus and attacked.

Samus leapt to the side and fired a shot.

The tentacle was shot off as a grenade came her way

"Another one?" Samsu asked as she leapt outof the way.

This time the areea became encased in smoke.

Rainbow Dash and Vax flew to the sky to begin to blow away the smike

A tentacle came up at Pike/.

Pike slapped at it with her mace, while Scanlan screamed, "Scanlan,"she said, running t him as he was tentacled.

"Mmmm, save me in a sec," Scanlan moaned.

Oct winced,"Somehow I knew someone was gonna get turned on by this!"

"My you have such big strong tenctacles. Shame I had better."

"I mean, you are stong, but a little slow to get ip to speed."

"And you are big, but a little thin."

OCt let out a wince,"Gah, damn it, that mockery is vicious!"

Scanan took a bow as Samus fired a few shots at Oct.

Oct screamed before going into the ground to disappear.

"Where are you?"

OCt's voice came out,"Like I'd tell you. Remember, I enjoy the element of surprise."

"ME TOO!" Squeaked Pinkie. "Do you also like cakes?"

"Actually, yes! I'm great with making cakes!"

"Oh, what kind?"

"Chocolate, strawberry, death..."

"Death is a horrible flavor silly," Pinkie said with a giggle.

"You're a strange one." Oct said.

"Not as strange as you are!
Scanlan shouted.

"Gah!" Oct leaped out of the ground.

Samus and Grog jumped back, Grog wrapping his forelegs around her, "Peekabo!"

Oct struggled against Grog's grip.

"How's your timing," Samus asked, aiming a rocket at Oct.

"Eh, I can take i!" Grog said with a big grin

Oct stared at her,"You wouldn't!"

"Oh come on," Grog said, "You havent been hit by a fireball right?"

"No, I haven't!" Oct shouted.

Grog had a smile, "First time for everything."

"The first time's always the hardest." Scanlan said.

Samus let a missile fire from her forehoof cannon, erupting in a giant ball of fire. As the fire began to clear, Grog was still standing, holding onto Oct. With smirk, he pulled back and did a suplex onto the bounty hunter, slamming her head into the ground.

The helmet broke, showing a bald, skinless head. Oct panted as she got up, blood coming from her lip,"You..."

Samus stepped forward, "What?"

She laughed,"There'll be more after me..." She coughed.

As Pike went over to both heal Grog and to repremand him for being reckless, Samus looked at her, "I had a feeling. You don't get to be my level and not have the best after me. So, who is it? The top ten? The 20?"

"I'd hazard a guess and say... top ten." Oct said.

Samus let out a low sigh, "Great, that's not goofd. Just one of them could take out a small armada of pirates, and they all have eyes on me. Perfect."

Oct smiled,"But... I thank you... if I had to go down... I'd rather it by your hoof..." She fell lifeless to the ground.

Samus frowned, and shook her head. Pike walked up behind her and took a crystal but was stopped by Samus, "Trust me, she wanted something like this. She...never really had much of an identity beyond being a huntress. No home planet, no family, no anything. She never even knew her race, wich is why she became a master of diguise."

"That, that's so sad," Fluttershy whispered.

"It's why I think she wanted to go after me, to get an identity," Samus looked away and walked on, "Come on, we got places to go."

Percy walked over to the dropped grenade launcher for a brief second. He frowned.

"What's up?" asked Applejack.

"..." Percy sighed,"I knew what I made would drastically change the course of history." He frowned at the thing at his hooves,"That there were creatures out there that may have made worse than my gun..." He picked the weapon up,"I'll need to dispose of this thing."

Applejack sighed, "You know that won't completely stop somepony from making something like that one day here."

"No, but it'll delay it." Percy muttered.

"You did what yu had to do," Appplejack said, "You can't be too sure of the consequences of your actions you know? The thing is, what will you about it later."

"I never thought about that." Percy mutttered,"My mind's focused on revenge, but I never thought about what came after..."

"You never did. There's always something afterwards," Applejack said, "You can't become too swallowed up by one thing in life you know. You don't get anywhere that way."

"Hmph, maybe you're right." Percy turned and walked away.

Applejack shook her head, "Guy really needs to learn to look away from revenge."

They followed Keyleth to a large mountain with smoke coming from the top. Up ahead several creatures were milling about.

Pinkie, ever the greeter, smiled and stepped out waving hi, "HELLO ALL YOU PONIES>"

The ponies turned to her, and waved back,"My, how friendly!" One of them said.

"We brought friends!" Pinkie said.

A unicorn stallion with long red hair appeared,"I see." He smiled at Keyleth,"Ah, I was wondering when you'd appear, Lady Keyleth!"

Keyleth blushed and tried to act with as much diginity as she could, as in not much.

The stallion laughed,"My name is Cerkonos, the Headmaster of the Fire Ashari."

"And I am Keyleth but you knew that and these are all of my friends," Keyleth said, intorducing her team.

"Ah, greetings." He bowed to them

Tey all bowed back, as Rarity walked forward, "I must say, your entire town is very impeccable and quaint. I was expecting a lot more, fire as it were."

"WEll, we're not going to live in a place that's on fire, that would be impractical." He said with a smirk.

"Of course," Rarity said with a chuckle.

"So, what is she supped to do?" asked dash.

"She must go into the elemental plane of fire, and follow the hoofsteps to a great stone spire." Cerkonos said,"We will wait for you there."

"That doesnt sound too hard." Fluttersht said.

Keyleth gulped,"That's what I said when I went into the Earth Plane..." She shuddered.

"What happened then?" asked Fluttershy.

Keyleth grinned as she entered the plane,"I can do it!"

A few moments later, Keyleth came back with a magic stone, but her entire body was smashed,"I did it..." She moaned.

"Pain." Keyleth said.

Vax patted Keyleth on the shoulder and smiled a comforting look a her.

Keyleth looked at Vax,"... I can do it!"

Rarity muttered something along the lines of "Kiss her on the cheek you emotionally stunted half deer."

Cerkonos led them to an area in the center of the village,"Come through this portal." His horn glowed as a large red portal appeared.

"Twilight, got a cooling spell ready?" asked Applejack.

Twilight nodded,"Always."

The group followed Keylteh in.

The area around them was bright red. Flames erupted around them as a long rock road stood out in front of them.

"My, don't we head to the nicest of places," Rarity said.

Keyleth looked around,"Well, at least we're not in too much danger?"

A large red dragon flew overhead.

"... I'm going to pretend I didn't see that."

Fluttershy stepped closer to Dash, "HE's big."

"As long as he doesn't come down, we're fine," Dash said.

Scanlan looked up. A few moments passed,"Huh, nothing happened."

Pinkie held up a number 4.

"Yeah,pretty much." Scanlan said.

Dash flew up a little higher, "MAn this place is unreal.

"Be careful!" Twilight said,"We don't know what else could be in here!"

Dash flew ahead, "Oh come on, whats the worrst they could be sending out?"

A pillar of flame erupted in front of Dash, turning into a face that chomped at her.

"Hey!" Dash shouted, befre trying to buck it with her legs.

Rainbow's hooves catch fire.

Rainbow Dash flew back and blew on her hooves.

Twilight looked up at Dash,"Rainbow, why did you think that was a good idea?"

"He looked punchable," Dash whimpered.

"He's a lava monster!" Twilight said.

Dash growled, "And I'm a punchy girl/"

"Dash, if there's a lava monster, you don't hit it!" Twilight said,"Only an idiot would do that!"

Grog then began to charge at the monster with his shoulder at the front.

Twilight let out an annoyed sigh.

Grog then attempted to grapplethe fire elemental.

Somehow The lava monster was grabbedc.

He slams the thing into the ground behind him.

Twilight stared blankly at this display of strength,"What..."

Twilight blasted it with ice,"Let's keep going before my mind breaks."

"No big bad fire elemental burns my friends," Grog said, walking by Pike, "Um...Pike, is something burning?"

"Oh my goodness!" Pike ran over and used her hooves to put out the flame on his fur.

"Thank you," Grog said.

Scanlan smiled, "Hey um, Pike, I'm a little on fire too, maybe you could rub your hooves on me?"

Pike lookedc Scanlan over,"You look fine to me."

Vax patted Scanlan on the back, "Nice try, Purve

Scanlan shrugged,"Eh, you're right."

Keyleth led the way down, when a red unicorn stallion appeared in front of them.

Pinkie waved hi.

The stallion smiled,"Hello...

"How are you doing?"

"I'm doing fine, except, well, I've been trapped in here." The stallion said.

Rarity looked at him, "Why were you trapped?"

The stallion frowned,"Because some ponies were very cruel to me."

"Oh, I am so sorry," Fluttershy said.

"Thank you, miss?"

"OH, I'm...fluttershy."

The stallion blinked,"Come again?"

"Fluttershy

"I couldn't catch that."

"Fluttershy," Dash said.

"Oh, I see." The stallion said,"I am... Kadroht."

Vex asked, "Why did they ut you in here?"

Kadroht ffrowned,"I was framed."

Grog began to look around the not obiviously thordak that you have to be an idoit not to see while Samus asked, "Framed?"

"Yes, I was accused of being a monster when I was innocent." The stallion said.

"Anything we can do to help?" asked Vex.

"Where' your frame?"

Well, you can help me out of here." The stallion said.

Pike patted Grog on the leg,"Not like that, Grog."

"How do we do that?"

"I believe that there is a test you must pass? That'll be the way I leave."

"You think so?"

"Yes." The stallion said.

Keyleth frowned a bit.

"Don't worry, helping is whay we do," Dash said as they prepared to conine

Vax aked, "Are you all right?"

"Something doesn't feel right." Keyleth muttered.
.
Keyleth frowned,"I don't trust him."

"Why not?" asked Vax

"IF he was trapped here before... why didn't my mother save him?"

Vex looked down, "Maybe he didn't get to her?"

Percy frowned,"IT's possible he's lying."

"Most likely liying," Vex said.

"Yes, so we should keep our guard up." Percy said.

"Hey, slowpokes, stop planning and move on!" Dash shouted.
.
Percy sighed in frustration as he moved forward.
"Slowpokes the lot of ya," Dash taunted.

Up ahead was a large stone pillar with a small red orb inside of it.

Applejack grabbed Rainbow's Tail, "Just in case."

"Just in case what?" asked Dash.

"Jus in case you want to rush in half cockd to grab it and end things quick," Applejack said.

Dash frowned, "Oh, do I look like...that smirk says it all."

"Rainbow, you tried to punch a lava monster earlier." Twilight said.

"Yeah? AAnd?" Dash asked.

Twilight just sighed.

Keyleth walked overr to the gem and looked it over. At that point, several flames erupted around them.

Pinkie, in turned, pulled otu marshmallows

The fires held out hands, cooking the marshmallows.

"Thanks," Pinkie said.

The pillars of fire then began moving towards them.

Pinkie held up a stop sign.

The elementals stopped.

"Tha worked?" asked Dash.

Twilight stared at this,"That's it, I don't care anymore."

Pinkie then held up a sign that pointed to the rgith and a one way sigh.

The elementals went to the right.

Keyleth looked at this,"IS this the test?"

Applejack, holding a hooof over Dash's snout, said, "Well, at least it's eas.y."

At that point, the stallion began to laugh,"Thank you."

"You are welcome sir," Rarity said.

"Now the gem is mine." His voice got deeper.

"And there goe the betrayl," Scanlan said.

The stallion turned to them, eyes glowing red as his body turned into scales. Wings sprouted from his back as four long talons came from his hooves.

"A dragon?" Samus said, smirking under her helm, "And ere I was hoping for somethign scarier.

The dragon laughed,"I'm certain, creature, that you've fought worse than me."

"Believe me, I have mr..."

"Thordak, The Cinder King." The dragon said.

"Impressive name," Dash snarked.

"Thank you, little worm." Thordak said.

"What do you want with that gem?" Twilight asked.

"I need it's power." Thordak said.

"To escape right? How?" asked Applejack.

"Simply put, it'll make me far above other dragons." Thordak said.

"And what makes you think we'll let you take it?"Dash asked

"Do you have a deathwish?" Thordak frowned,"Actually, I'm not interested in killing worms. How about a contest?"

"A contest, what kind of-"

"What kind of Contest?" Dash asked, her tail swishing happily.

Thordak looked at the area around them,"I will let you leave with this... if you survive the Four Who Are One."

"Bring it," Dash said.

Thordak snapped his claws as four large giant ponies, larger than even Grog came from the lava surrounding them,"You lose, you die." He flew off.

"Well, that's obivous ass!" Dash shouted.

The giant ponies snorted as they looked down upon them.

"So, how do ya wanna do tis Twilight?" Applejack asked.

"Split up?"Twilight said.

"So, wo's taking who?" Dash asked.

"Well, some of us take the stupid one, others the other stupid one..." Twilight said.

"And I get the stupid one," Grog said, chargin with his ax.

One of the giants slammed his hoof near Vex.

Vax moved out of the wayand threw two daggers at the giant's eyes. Twilight stood back, allowign blue mana to cover her body

The giant screamed in pain before stepping back.

Ywilight aimed at two and fired a cone of cold

The giants roared in pain before slamming their hooves at her.

Vax moved Twilight out of the way asApplejack bloccked the slam.

The giant pressed down on Applejack.

Applejack heldo back and smirked, "LEft yurself open." Grog then headbutted the giant in man's greated design flaw.

The Giant let out a squeal of pain.

"Ha! Anymore males among ya?" asked Grog.

One of the giants covered himself.

Scanlan paused and looked to the giant next to him. As he looked closely, he whispered, "Something, Something, nothing. OH!!!!!!!!"

The giant winked at him.

"So, been fighting long?" Scanlan asked.

One of the other giants said something to the female. The female scoffed something else that can be attributed to,"I can date who I want, Dad!"

Vex fired a shot as she looked up at the two giants arguing.

"Hey!" Grog punched the giant in the kneess, "Stop messing with your daughter!"

The giant let out a roar of pain.

Scanlan smiled at the girl giant, "Hey, do you really think you need to be out here fighting. shouldn't young thing like yourself be looking for a hunk of a man?"

The giant looked away.

"How about you go and pretty yourself up and I'll help later.

The giant left.

Applejack looked at the other two, "Who's left."

The other two looked at each other, noddedx, and then pulled out two large burning clubs.

Samus aimed her horn cannon with Twilight, "Cold shoulder?"

"Cold shoulder!" Twilight said firing the shot as Dash shouted,

"LAME!"

Percy muttered,"I liked it..."

This sprouted a histle from everyone.

The giant roared as it fell back.

Samus looked at the last one, "And..."

The giant sighed, before leaping away.

Dash cheered, "And that is tat! HA!"

Thordak flew overhead,"Catch." He threw the gem at them.

Rainbow Dash flew up and grabbed the gem in mid-flight, "TOUCHDOWN!

There was clapping from most of them.

Vax looked at his hoof,"8 out of 10."

Rinbow Dash flipped a wingtip at him

Keyleth let out a relieved sigh,"Let's get out of here..."

"Think he's gonna try and escape?" asked Fluttershy.

Percy frowned,"Most likely."

Pinkie zoomed in, put a cupcake into PErcy's mouth, and looked at him, "Ah, none of that. We won, Keyleth is closer to becoming a leader, so lets go and celebrate."

Percy let out a muffled,"Fine..."

"There, see, no frowns with a cupcake!" Pinkie said with agiggle before bouncing away.

There was a group of ponies welcoming them back.

Cerkonos smiled,"Ah, you're alive!"

"Was there any doubt, the doe is awesome," Dash said

Keyleth let out a squeak,"I-I've never been described as awesome before..."

"Better be prepared for more of that," Applejack said with a smile.

"Come, you can tell me about your adventure during our party!"

Pinkie smiled, "Did you say party?""

"Wait, where's Scan;an.?" asked Vex.

Scanlan walked out of the portal, his hair a little singed as he waved by to the the two ladies, "Talk later."

Twilight blinked,"That, had to take some doing."

"Well, princess if you like to know the details.

"No, I'm good..." Twilight stopped,"Although, I am scientifically curious..."

Rarity shook her head, "I do not tink that would be the best idea."

"But science!"

"No," Applejack said, Pulling Twilight away.

"Aw..."

And so the party commenced!

A green unicorn mare watched from afar,"Hmm, maybe you can leave later..." She put a hood on and left."

Applejack sat next to twilight as the party continued, "So where too?

Twilight thought about the poem,"Well, we're supposed to be shown the body of a kraken..."

"That would be near the coast." Cerkonos said,"My apologies, I couldn't help but overhear."

"I'm surprise you can hear with how loud Scanan and Pinkie are rockin."

"I have two toddlers." Cerkonos said.

Everyone nodded in sympathy.

Cerkonos then handed Twilight a map,"Here, there's a museum dedicated to that kraken."

Pinkie popped up behind Twiilihg to look at the map, "OH MY CELESTIA!"

"What!?" Twilight asked.

"They have a sale on tickets and free consessions!"

"..." Twilight sighed,"Sometimes, you confuse me, Pinkie."

"And that's why you ove me!" Pinkie said with a giggle before booping Twilight to go back to the party.

"All we need to do now is party, and then rest up." Twilight pulled out a small calender and frowned.

"Problems?" Dash asked.

"I just get nervouse whenever I think about how long we've got."

"Hey we're making good time."

"We only have four items. And only four alicorns are down... I... " Twilight rubbed her head,"I need some sleep."

Dash sighed and put down her drink, "Look Twi, you are putting too much thought into this. We're together right?" when she nodded slowly, Dash smiled, "And you know what I always say, when we're together like this, then aint nothuing we can't do. And besides, you know you got the fastest thing here.

"Second!" Vax shouted from afar.

Rainbow Dash stuck out her tounge at Vax, "And besides, we got a whole other group of awesome guys with us. I think if anything, we'll finish this with plenty of time."

"Right... right..."

Pinkie popped on top of Twilight's head, "And besides, the queen didn't say she'll kill us if we fail. The worse that'll happen is we get exiled, but hey/ New home party!" she giggled.

Twilight's eyes widened,"What!?"

"Actually she was going to mobilize her forces on her own. She wasn't going to exile us." Percy said. However, Twilight began to run around the area, screaming,"Blast."

"Pinkie, you didn't need to scare her like that," Applejack said, watching as Pinkie puled out a pillow and some bedding, "And what's more...what are you doing."

"Shhhh," Pinkie saidd, "Wait for it" she said watching Twilight continue to run in circles until she neared the bed.

Twilight collasped onto the bed.

Scanlan appeared and gave her a small lullaby.

"She needs to rest," Pinkie said.