Dragon Road Season 1

Chapters

Royal Pain...
Kai of the Dragons
Eternal Silence
Noir
Licking Wounds as Trouble Brews
Master Kirin
The Might of a Demon
A Super Saiyan's Anguish
Inescapable Nightmare
Three Years
That's the Ticket
Applejack and Kai
The Monster, Exposed
One of Us
Coffee Kai
Gala Drip
Blood Diamond
As Grand and Galloping as it May be
An Adventure... Begins to Begin
The Meaning of a Protector
A Primrose by Any Other Name

Royal Pain...

As Kai sat on the train to Canterlot, he glanced around at his surroundings. Having quickly siezed a seat to wave goodbye, he didn't even noticed he had managed to sit next to somepony. They were seated to his left, so he decided to greet them.

“Hi.” The hatted mare glanced up at him with somewhat condescending blue eyes.

“Hello, there, strange creature.” The unicorn mare greeted back, her tone practically oozing attention.

“Oh, I'm a saiyan. My name's Kai.” It was much easier to go with that, than explaining he was a saiyan-pony hybrid.

The azure unicorn smirked, giving a small flare of her cloak as she extended her hoof to the saiyan.

“I… am the Great and Powerful Trixie!” She exclaimed, before winking and adding on something else in a whisper. “Beginner traveling showpony, but great and powerful, nonetheless.”

Kai was quick to accept her hoof, his eyebrows rising in surprise.

“A traveling showpony? That's awesome!” Trixie was happy to be receiving such a positive response to her choice in career. “So you're headin' for Canterlot to strut your stuff?”

“Ah, uh… You see, the thing is…” Trixie stumbled over her words a bit, trying to phrase this right. “Being a beginner, I was planning to work my way up, and then take everywhere by storm with my talent! So… Canterlot is just a stop before Manehatten, where everypony is supposedly easily impressed.”

“I guess you have to start somewhere…” Kai agreed reluctantly, knowing that Canterlot was a stop before his own adventure. “But you shouldn't reserve your best material 'till you get professional—make every show your best show ever!” He exclaimed with a huge gesture.

“My… best show ever…?” A dreamy look was forming in Trixie's eyes. She imagined a complicated set of tricks she could never pull off at her current level, and the crowd went wild. “Yeah, you're right!”

“'Course I'm right! And don't just stop there!”

“What do you mean?” To that question, Kai grinned.

“I loved your introduction! The Great and Powerful Trixie!” He raised his arms high as he repeated. “But add some flair and really make it your own!”

“Something like… The Great and Powerful… Trixie!!” She rolled the ‘r’ in her name, and exclaimed even louder.

“Yeah! You're so great and powerful, you gotta let everypony know who you are!”

“Yes! Yes! Trixie shall only refer to herself as such!” …Put two easily excited individuals together, and this was the outcome… Trixie was happy, the large smile on her face proving such to be true. “Oh, thank you, Kai! Trixie feels more confident than ever! If only there was something Trixie could do to repay your kindness.”

“Nah, don't worry about—” Kai's eyes widened by a fragment. He saw a very distinct sparkling from Trixie's neck. It had been slightly hidden by the novice showmare's cloak, but the excitement of their interaction moved it into partial sight. “Is that…!?”

“Hm? Oh, this?” Trixie reached for the object around her neck, and pulled it from the string that had kept it on her neck. “Isn't it pretty? About a year ago, this little thing rolled into Trixie's hat. No clue what it is, though…”

“It's a Dragon Ball!” Kai exclaimed, giving no real explaination.

“…I don't even want to know.” Trixie deadpanned, dropping her new self-addressing. “You seem to know what it is, so did you want it?”

“Yes, please!” The unicorn simply turned it over to Kai, who inspected it closely. “Let's see… One… two…” He counted the stars this one held. “Seven stars! Alright!” Grinning happily, Kai looked to Trixie. “Thanks, Great and Powerful Trixie! You've got a fan forever!”

“R-really!?” Recieving a nod, Trixie resisted the overwhelming urge to cheer loudly. Instead, she cheered internally. ‘MY FIRST FAN!! YA-HOO!!’ Outwardly, she tried being calm. “Trixie hopes to see you at her show one day.”

With an assuring nod, Kai replied just as sure.

“Count on it!”

Chapter 2

Royal pain…

“Your telekinesis spell no longer drains you, my student?” Princess Celestia stood in front of her most recent apprentice, Twilight Sparkle, who nodded with slight pride. The princess smiled, and closed the distance that Canterlot Castle's Throne Room had between her and the unicorn to nuzzle her student affectionately. “Excellent work. I had thought you would forget to master such a simple spell, after you went to learn more advanced magic.”

“Of course not, Princess. I listen to every word you say.” Twilight Sparkle spoke with respect.

“That you do.” The princess' expression became a bit more serious. “Which is why… I want to ask you a question.” Twilight tilted her head, curious as to what question would be asked. She had studied very seriously, so she was confident that she would have an answer. “What is your goal in life?”

Panic set in. That certainly was not a question Twilight was mentally prepared for.

“My… goal in life?” The unicorn repeated, getting a nod of affirmation from her mentor. “U-um… I…”

“There is no wrong answer, my student. Please, don't be nervous.” Princess Celestia assured.

Twilight took a breath and nodded decisively.

“Well… I was inspired when I saw you raise the sun a long time ago. That's what made me want to learn about magic in the first place.” Her volume and tone made it seem as though the mare was speaking to herself, as opposed to her mentor. “After you took me on as your student, I've subconciously worked at a goal. I guess I've never noticed until now…” Twilight paused, unsure how to put her next statement properly. As such, she zoned out as she thought.

Twilight Sparkle gasped, a hoof landing on her shoulder softly but meaningfully. She raised her eyes, and met Princess Celestia's comforting stare.

“It's okay.” For a moment, Twilight stared. Those two words had never comforted her so much.

The unicorn blinked twice. Then, a smile fell over her face.

“I want to be your best student, Princess Celestia.” For a very unnoticably quick instant, Princess Celestia's face scrunched up in displeasure. She loved that that was her student's goal, but it brought her memory to the fact that Twilight was not her first student. There was another, who had taken a far worse goal and path.

Though, since this moment was so quick, Twilight only saw Celestia's smile grow larger.

“You are already a fantastic student, Twilight. Just remember, there is always room for improvement.” Always one to heed the advice of the alicorn, Twilight nodded strongly.

“Yes, Princess!” Princess Celestia was happy that her student was so faithful to her. Her goal was one that could be greatly inspiring, enough to one day inspire another. Perhaps Twilight Sparkle may even end up right where Celestia was… A mentor.

Abruptly, the sound of metal striking metal reached the student/mentor pair's ears. Using her millennia-honed hearing, Celestia focussed to hear what was happening.

“…that for!? You coulda killed somepony!” That voice was unfamiliar. An intruder? Or maybe…

“We told you to halt. What happens next, nopony will blame us.” She recognised her royal guards' voice, but why was it so… sinister?

“You didn't tell me anything! I'm starting to to think you wanna fight.”

“That sounded like a threat to me.”

“Definitely.”

“Yeah.”

Celestia could listen to no more. This was a setup if she ever heard one. Why her guards would set someone up, she didn't know. What she did know, was she wouldn't stand by and allow it to happen.

“Twilight Sparkle, stay right here. No matter what you hear.” Confused, Twilight only nodded.

With no explaination given, Princess Celestia walked off to go see what was happening. From the throne room to the castle entrance, she traveled quickly. For a moment, however, she was stunned by the sight of the scene before her.

A quite familiar saiyan was sitting calmly on the floor, surrounded by three unconscious Royal Guards. He was inspecting a sword belonging to the closest guard, and gave it a test swing.

“Mm… Too light. And really weak. Couldn't even scratch me, dude.” Kai noted aloud, glancing at the guard. Standing quickly, the saiyan swiped up the sheath for the broad blade, and sheathed it casually. Then, he gently laid the weapon next to the unconscious guard. “Heck of a welcome. The least they coulda done was given me a warm-up.” Kai complained, stretching his body out, still sore from the long train ride.

“Excuse me.” A voice got his attention, so he turned to face the speaker. It didn't take a genius to realise what the royal garb, the crown, and the stature added up to.

“Princess Celestia.” The princess stepped close to the saiyan, eyeing him up and down. Sure, it may have sounded like a setup. However, one can never be too cautious, especially when an unknown creature defeats one's guards, and isn't even sweating.

The check was relatively quick, and yielded nothing wrong. If there was anything about this individual that was evil, they were either suppressing it extremely well, or it was offset by his good. But she did notice a few holes in his stance, not that he was particularly on guard right now. A great fighter, if inexperienced.

“Yes, you are correct. But who might you be?” Still on guard, Celestia made sure she was in a stance allowing her sufficient mobility, should she need to strike preemptively.

“I'm Kai—half pony, half saiyan.”

“S-saiyan!?” Princess Celestia's eyes widened by a fragment. She tensed slightly. ‘No wonder my guards were no match. If this one is anything like… HIM…’

“What's the matter? Oh! Do you know other saiyans like me?” Excited, Kai smiled innocently.

“…One, but I never knew where he left to.” Before this topic could be expanded on, Celestia brought the focus back onto the issue at hoof. “Why are you here, and what has caused you to harm my Royal Guards?”

With that, Kai seemed to remember the real point of being here, and then became a bit upset.

“Those guys just attacked me out of nowhere. All 'cause I wanted to see you.” He pouted childishly, while Celestia eyed her guards suspiciously.

‘Bigoted guards. Somehow, that possibility slipped my mind…’ Shaking her head, the aged alicorn looked to Kai apologetically. “I apologise on their behalf. And thank you for not harming them further. You would have been in the right, but you showed restraint.”

Kai waved off her apology and thanks.

“S'no biggie. I'm used to these kinds of things.” True. Although most ponies simply avoided him, some braver ponies would try to attack him, simply for being different. Needless to say, those attacks were unsuccessful.

The fact that this had happened before saddened the princess. While she understood caution of the unknown, she had hoped her subjects would be more accepting of others, regardless of looks. It became clear to Celestia that Kai was not to be viewed with caution.

Offering a smile, Princess Celestia spoke up.

“Please, allow me to make this up to you. And worry not, I will be speaking to these guards when they awaken.”

“Thanks! I came to ask a favor of you anyway!” Kai unzipped the satchel around his waist, and pulled out a familiar orange sphere. The sight of it made Celestia gasp, and that made Kai laugh. “I knew you'd know about this!” Discovered through an amateur act of surprise, the alicorn nodded shamefully. “I've made up my mind to find all seven Dragon Balls!”

“Er… please refer to them by any other name…” Celestia requested, shifting her eyes away momentarily. It was like the relics were named somewhere dragons weren't a common thing. Well, to be fair, she supposed one seldom just happened upon a dragon, but they still existed.

Shaking her head, Celestia became more serious.

“And exactly what do you plan to do with them when you gather them all?” After all, if he gathered them to wish for something terrible, she would have to stop him immediately.

“Uh… Oh, yeah…” Kai scratched the back of his head, a sheepish look on his face. “I was kinda just in it for the adventure. I didn't even think about a wish…! Ahaha!”

‘…I'm glad HE can laugh at this lack of foresight…’ Celestia nearly buried her face in her hoof, deadpanned. Sighing, she supposed everything she had seen and heard from this saiyan proved he was innocent. “Well then, what did you need from me?”

Simply asking the question aloud had Celestia confused. Why would somepony specifically reach out to the Princess of Equestria? He couldn't have possibly expected this all to happen, and Celestia offering a favor to make up for any injustice. Either this individual was overwhelmingly brave, or simply uncaring about those with power. Perhaps both…

“Well, I was just thinking…” Kai began, looking to the Dragon Ball musingly. “If this is a magical relic, somepony who's good at sensing magic should be able to find them! So, I was hoping you could whip something up to help me out.”

…Definitely both. Who's first plan is asking the princess for help?

“Creating an object to assist you in finding something, based on my own magic sensing abilities?” Kai nodded, to Celestia mounting confusion. “Do you truly realise what you are asking for?”

“Yup! A Dragon Ball locator!”

“This is something that even I will find trouble with…” The princess admitted.

“Eh? So you won't help me?”

“I never said that.” Suddenly, Kai felt the orb in his hand raise, and looked to see it in a golden telekinetic grip. Seeing Celestia's horn glow the same gold, he smiled. “Give me some time. Perhaps a few days to a week. I assure you, I will have something.”

Celestia offered a gentle smile, while Kai pumped his fist in the air.

“I knew the princess was amazing! Thanks!” He praised excitedly.

“Ah, but in the meantime, do try to figure out what your plans are pertaining to the Wishing Orbs.” Celestia instructed, turning to walk back to the throne room. “Follow me, please.”

“What about these guys?” Still unconscious were the alicorn's guards.

Oddly dismissive, Celestia shrugged.

“Part one of their punishment, I suppose.” There was no place for bigotry in her ranks. Simply caution.

Following her lead, Kai shrugged and walked after her. It wasn't a particularly long walk, but Kai was already getting impatient at the thought of waiting another week before his adventure could begin. Whenever Kai was impatient, he always asked questions to help pass the time.

“So, how's life treatin' ya?” The way he asked threw Celestia off. It was with the casual tone of a friend, or someone very close.

For a moment of being caught off guard, she almost answered honestly. Life was pretty weird. Her newest student was spectacular, but she missed her old one. She dearly missed her sister, but in due time, the bearers of the Elements of Harmony would reveal their true link. The workload of ruling was starting to get to her, but she recalled her self-promise to do anything to keep her subjects happy.

However, she caught herself before she could speak, and went with a simple reply.

“Very well, thank you, Kai.”

“…Can't believe even the princess is so bad at lying…” Kai mumbled to himself, not loud enough to be understood, but loud enough to be heard. Celestia shifted her eyes to him, raising her eyebrow questioningly.

“Pardon?”

“Nothing…” The pout Kai wore told the princess it most certainly was not nothing, but considering she just lied to him, she chose not to pry.

Soon enough, the two of them made it to the throne room, and Celestia was nearly immediately under a familiar worried gaze.

“Princess Celestia!!” Called out Twilight Sparkle. She almost ran to the alicorn, who was more than ready to receive her ‘Worried-for-nothing’ hug, but the sight of an unknown bipedal stopped her in her tracks. The filly took a fearful step back. At this point of her life, she wasn't courageous enough to face what scared her, even for knowledge. Looming over the most powerful being in Equestria, Kai was more than terrifying enough to have Twilight whimpering.

Kai glanced to Celestia, a look of waning patience on his face. Twice in one day was pushing it, even for his usually cheery attitude; something the princess noticed plainly. Clearing her throat, Princess Celestia addressed her student.

“Do not be afraid, Twilight Sparkle. Kai will not hurt you.” Although she was being as gentle and honest as possible, it seemed Twilight Sparkle simply didn't want to accept that as the truth.

Impatient and finally fed up with mistrust, Kai groaned and focussed on the princess.

“Could you just make the locator?” A bit surprised at hearing the formerly casual and dismissive saiyan sound irritated, Celestia paused to stare.

“…Of… of course.” The look Celestia cast to her student before walking towards her throne was one of disappointment, but it only lasted a moment. “I will be busy for the next few days, Twilight Sparkle. Please practice your spells on your own.” Twilight nodded meekly, having noticed the disappointment of her mentor. “In the meantime, Kai, you're welcome to remain here at the castle for the duration. I'll inform the guards and castle staff of your stay.”

“Thanks, Celestia!” Back to casual. It made Celestia let out an unnoticable sigh of relief. However, the relief left when she realised the lack of a title that Kai had addressed her with. Personally, she couldn't care less who calls her what, but she knew full well that her student was quite vocal when somepony didn't show proper respect for her.

As such, her next words were anticipated.

“Princess Celestia!” Now, it was a sigh of exhaustion that left Celestia's lips.

Kai gave Twilight Sparkle a look, raising his eyebrow.

“What, were you just pretending to be scared of me?” Twilight flinched at being called out, but held strong.

“Th-the princess is to be respected! Sc-scared or not, I'll remind you to be respectful!” Kai smirked, putting his hands on his hips.

“Oh yeah? So you'll face your fears just to remind me, huh?”

“Th-that's right!”

Princess Celestia didn't quite like the way Kai's smirk grew…

“Well, it looks like you'll have to face your fears a bunch, 'cause the only thing I'm callin' Celestia is a loser!!” Even the princess was surprised. What did she do to get insulted?

Twilight, however, was left gaping in shock. Eyes wide, she just couldn't fathom anypony could call her idol a loser.

Her shocked expression faded, and she was suddenly angry.

“Don't you dare call Princess Celestia a loser!”

“Ehh? But she is! She's a loser, and a weird-o! You'd have to be a real dummy to look up to her~”

“Stop it! Stop saying such mean things about Princess Celestia!!” Unconsciously, Twilight channeled a small bit of magic to her horn, causing it to glow purple.

“What's a scaredy-cat like you gonna do about it?”

“I'm not scared of a cruel monster like you!”

And just like that, the condescending smirk on Kai's face faded for a genuine grin.

“Great! Since you're not afraid anymore, let's be friends!” Silence greeted that sudden request, and the subsequent air of confusion was so thick, it would take a freshly sharpened sword to cut through.

Then it hit Celestia.

‘Ah…! I see!’ She nodded to herself. ‘He realised she only spoke up when he was being disrespectful. That being the case, he pushed her until she was no longer afraid to speak out at him.’ A strange, almost bittersweet smile fell upon the princess' lips. ‘A bit cruel, but it did the trick, it seems.’

Indeed, it seemed to have succeeded, Twilight looking to Kai in surprise. Surprised to note that she was no longer afraid. She hadn't just said it, she had meant it.

“B…but I… and you…” Kai laughed, extending his right hand to the unicorn.

“Sorry about what I said. It was the only way to get you to listen.” Despite this explanation, Twilight continued to stare. It was… somehow annoying to be outsmarted so plainly. A simple lack of proper respect set her off, so much so, she conquered her fear in an instant. It was like a revelation… An even mind means even focus, and both were equally important for proper magic ability.

Vowing to steel her mind in the future, Twilight Sparkle reached for Kai's hand with her hoof, and felt his grip around her.

“My name is Twilight Sparkle.” She introduced calmly. “And you've given me a lot to think about… Kai, was it?”

“Yup.”

“I apologise for being rude, Kai.” The saiyan simply nodded, his smile basically telling her not to worry about it. “I'm going to go study magic, now…” Twilight was going to walk away, but she had a quick thought. Deciding to run along with it, she gave Kai a careful look. “Um… rather, would you… like to join me?”

Kai scratched his chin with a finger.

“Uhh… I'm not much of a studier, and I don't think I even can use magic…”

“That's unfortunate. I guess I just assumed with your… claws, you could maybe…” Twilight trailed off, making her thoughts clear.

The saiyan looked at his hands, clenching them into fists a few times.

“Nah. But I can use something even better.”

“Oh? Better than magic?” That was a bit hard to believe. Magic was useful for everything; lifting objects, teleporting—heck, she could probably make somepony grow a mustache with magic! It was hard to believe—

“Haa!!” Cutting her off was the sight of Kai, who had poised himself in a solid stance, and was suddenly engulphed in a flame-like sapphire aura. Celestia's head snapped to him in an instant, while Twilight stared in awe. “This is my ki! From what I've seen, it's way more destructive than magic, but it can't do all of those cool things magic can.”

“Amazing…!” While Twilight Sparkle was awed, Princess Celestia was all too serious now.

‘Somehow… his strength is already this great… This could prove troublesome… But for now…’ Celestia's eyebrow twitched. “Kai, please stop that. You're likely causing everything within the castle to stir.”

Sheepishly, Kai dropped his aura, standing normally.

“Sorry 'bout that, Celestia.” A small throat-clearing reminded Kai about being respectful, so he sent a smile to Twilight before trying again. “I mean, Princess.”

Princess Celestia let out yet another weary sigh, feeling her age for the first time in a little while. Already, Kai was too much.

“It is of no consequence.” She shook off. “Well, I will be researching the Dra—WISHING ORB! Wishing orb…” She caught herself, a slight shade of red reaching her features. “Sleeping arrangements shall be set accordingly, so worry not.”

“Then for now, I'll pass some time with a book.” Kai smoothly slid his traveling bag from his arm to the floor, and sat down to root around the bag. Twilight looked closely, curious to see what book the saiyan would bring out. She was surprised when she saw him pull out a book pertaining to coffee. “While I'm at it, I'll train, too!”

Book in his right hand, Kai moved onto his left hand, assuming a push-up position. Twilight was about to ask how he planned to exercise and read simultaneously, but was cut off by seeing it done. Kai flipped the book open, and began scanning through the pages, moving his arm up and down to perform push-ups. Before she realised it, Kai had already done ten push-ups with one arm, and was still going, not strained in the least bit.

‘There truly are some amazing ponies out there…’ Seeing this only made Twilight Sparkle want to take her magic even more seriously. Nodding to herself, the unicorn turned and walked off, planning to study while training her magic.

Seeing such a fast change in disposition made Princess Celestia feel even more proud of her student. But, knowing she had alot of work ahead of her, she shook off her pride and got down to analyzing the magic of the Wishing Orbs. Several tests would be in order after she managed to pin down the signature, then…

A lot of work, basically. The alicorn stretched in her seat, and mentally prepared herself for this task.

The days passing were filled with silence and focus. Despite seeing each other each day, Kai, Twilight Sparkle and Princess Celestia had barely spoken to one another.

Kai was strict with eating breakfast, training, reading, eating lunch, training and reading, eating dinner, sleeping, and repeating.

Twilight Sparkle was dutiful with arriving at the castle, eating breakfast, reading, practicing magic, forgetting to eat lunch, practicing and studying magic, recalling to eat dinner, giving a final session of late studying, heading back home to sleep for however long she managed, and repeating.

Princess Celestia was stern in raising the sun, eating breakfast as she studied the Dragon Ball, continuing to study and advance in ideas and familiarity, telling herself she'll eat lunch after this next try until it became late, lowering the sun to raise the moon, promising dinner if she just got this part solved, nearly passing out to get an hour's rest, and repeating.

Yes, little time for pleasantries was allowed between them. Although, slowly, they were all getting frustrated. Kai was getting impatient, having already been at his limit since he left his home, so another week was too much. Twilight Sparkle yearned for some hooves-on magic teaching from Princess Celestia, and was starting to get tired of brushing up on the same topics a thousand times. Princess Celestia was at her witts end, getting failure after failure with the locator.

One day, Kai and Twilight Sparkle broke from their norm to go outside to get some fresh air. Both of them laid on the soft grass surrounding the castle, each with a book. Twilight studied her magic, while Kai was on another volume about coffee. All was silent, until…

“…So what's the princess like?” Twilight shifted her eyes to Kai, before returning her gaze to her book.

“Princess Celestia is very kind and understanding.”

“No, not that. I mean…” Now, Twilight shifted her eyes to Kai for however long he planned to question her. The saiyan's brow furrowed. “…How do I put it…? What I mean is…” He looked to Twilight. “…Who is she, really?”

Twilight Sparkle turned her head to him, giving the saiyan her full, confused attention.

“I… don't understand the question…”

“I dunno… I guess I'm just overthinking things, but…” Kai looked to the sky, watching the clouds flow by with the help of pegasi. “Princess Celestia… no, Celestia as a pony… Seems really sad.”

That was where their conversation ended. Nopony came in to stop them, nothing interfered. But the chill that went down Twilight Sparkle's spine was maddening, to the point she could not respond. Kai had spoken with a tone… one that made it seem that he, a mortal who was still young and naive, saw through Princess Celestia. Not only that, but it seemed that he expected Twilight to notice. Was it obvious? Was she just oblivious? Was there truly something wrong with her beloved mentor?

Before she realised it, Twilight was crying; sobbing quietly as her tears soaked her book. She didn't even know why she was crying. It was just an overwhelming amount of sadness. Shame. Guilt. Why did she feel this? Surely, her mentor did not make her emotions so apparent. Then again, with how easily Twilight could detect pride, disappointment, happiness, even surprise sometimes, on her mentor's face… perhaps she lived in some dream where a powerful princess was never sad. Subconsciously, that had been it.

Painfully naive, but Twilight soon was able to shake it off. Glancing to Kai again, she eyed him with suspicion upon seeing him calm, staring up at the sky, seemingly lost in thought. She would keep an eye on him… Something about Kai just didn't sit right with her…

‘…Maybe I'll wish for her to be happy.’

Finally, on the sixth morning of the same routines, there was a breakthrough, and success. Kai walked to the throne room, knowing his breakfast was always waiting for him there. He knew Twilight would arrive to join him and Celestia momentarily, but he forgot all of that upon seeing Celestia herself. Her eyes were focussed on a somewhat large object, maybe able to fit in his hand. It was greyish, but he couldn't see anything else from it.

“…Kai?” The princess called out to him, raising her eyes from the object. “Are you currently under the possession of ANOTHER Wishing Orb?”

“Huh?” Kai thought for a moment, and then recalled his short encounter with the Great and Powerful Trixie. “Oh, yeah! I've got the seven-star Dragon Ball, too!” He patted his left pocket, feeling the orb where he put it last.

“Then, the locator is a success!” ‘Finally…!’ Celestia almost wanted to scream. Kai's eyes widened, and he grinned from ear to ear.

“Awesome!” He wasted no time dashing to the princess, looking to the device in her hooves. From this close, he could see the front of it was green, and covered by lines.

Princess Celestia held the locator up, showing him the screen and pointing to it.

“I realised throughout several trials, I never made it clear how much distance was between the user and the Wishing Orb, so I remedied the issue with this grid style of view.” She explained, pointing to the grid, and then the two small orange dots at the center. “As you can see, this is where the ones WE have are. Very small, right?” Kai nodded, prompting Celestia to tap the top of the device, making a ‘Ping’ sound. The size of the dots increased, and they could actually be differentiated, considering Kai had one and Celestia the other. “By clicking this part, you can zoom into your own location, allowing increased precision when searching for a Wishing Orb.”

“Woah…!” Kai was completely flabbergasted! In just a few days, Celestia created a device from scratch that could accurately detect the Dragon Balls.

Celestia pressed the button again to zoom back out.

“Each small grid line, from when a horizontal point crosses to a vertical point and to the next, or vice-versa, is about three-hundred kilometers. You can easily gauge whether the one you seek is within walking distance.” The princess held the locator out to Kai, and the saiyan accepted it with both hands. “The only fault in this device so far is the size. I apologise, but this was the smallest I could make the locator while keeping it as accurate to my sensing abilities as possible.”

“Hey, don't apologise. I should be thanking you!” Kai exclaimed. “Thank you so much! I'll definitely be able to find all seven with this!” Even now, Kai could see the other five orange dots on the device, each very far from each other.

“I trust you will.” Princess Celestia believed if anypony could find all seven, it would be Kai. A somewhat sad expression fell onto the alicorn's face, but it was mixed with a smile. “This will be a long journey for you, so you may need to pack more than what you have. Or at the very least, more food.” Kai's stomach growled in response to that, drawing a chuckle from him. “May I help you pack?”

“You actually want to help?”

“Is that a surprise?” Kai shook his head.

“It's just that… You've been working non-stop. You should rest.” That made Celestia smile more.

“I appreciate your concern. Despite this last week being a bit… strenuous, I am just fine. In fact, it would make me feel better if I could help you pack.” She wasn't just saying that, either. Celestia took a strange liking to Kai. He spoke to her as an equal, not a superior. For some reason, she felt a bond with him form quickly, and she felt almost as if helping him pack and seeing him off was, well, kind of like a parent sending their kid to school, or a field trip.

Kai nodded, his face lighting up at the mare's words.

“In that case, I'd love your help!” He was about to take off to pack with the princess, but his stomach growled yet again. “Um… Can we eat first, though?”

Celestia only laughed in response, soon joined by Kai.

By the early afternoon, everything was set and packed, the supplies inside of the black traveling back on Kai's left shoulder. The Dragon Balls he possessed were inside of the satchel on his waist, the locator in his left coat pocket for quick access.

Princess Celestia and Twilight Sparkle stood in the throne room with Kai, ready to see him off for the trip. The princess didn't dare tell her student what the adventure entailed, lest she overanalyze the potential and origins of the Dragon Balls.

“You are very strong, Kai. This journey will only make you stronger, so give it your all.” The princess told him softly.

“Don't have to tell me twice.” Kai responded, more than ready to give it everything he had.

“Please be careful, Kai. I would still like to analyze a ‘Saiyan’, and you're the only one.” Twilight Sparkle's comment gained a deadpanned look from Kai, her mentor raising an eyebrow.

“Yeah, I'll miss you, too.” He acted as if she had just said something normal. Twilight was really weird sometimes. Considering he had only known her for a week, he was pretty sure he knew what he was talking about.

Kai shook his head, eyeing the pair with appreciation.

“Thanks again, for everything Celestia.” Twilight would have corrected him, but this was goodbye, so she didn't want to ruin it. The princess simply nodded in response. “Well then…” Kai turned, and began walking away while waving. “I'm off!”

“Ah! Wait!” Princess Celestia nearly screamed, holding out her hoof to stop him. Kai glanced back, lifting an eyebrow. Both eyebrows rose upon seeing the borderline frantic expression on the princess' face, and the look didn't fade. “…Please… come back safe.” He could see moisture forming in her eye. “And never fall to corruption… Okay?”

For a moment, Kai stared. Rulers were supposed to be strong, but… seeing Celestia so worried for him… He didn't know what to think. Maybe she was just worried all along, not sad.

Kai couldn't be sure, but he knew one thing. Celestia cared for him deeply, and that meant alot to him.

“You've got it.” The saiyan adjusted his bag, and turned back around to leave. “Don't work too hard—both of you!” Were his parting words.

“Goodbye!”

“Safe travels, Kai.” The unicorn and alicorn waved, watching as Kai walked through the door, vanishing from sight a mere moment later. A sigh left the princess' lips, gaining her student's attention.

“Princess?”

“…It is nothing, Twilight Sparkle.” Skeptical, Twilight nodded hesitantly. She was worried about the princess, but pushing the issue would gain her ire. Or upset her further.

…That made her think about Kai's words. Was Princess Celestia… sad? Perhaps right now, she was just sad to say goodbye to Kai. Twilight didn't like to see her mentor upset, that much, she knew.

“Um… P-Princess Celestia?” Celestia looked to Twilight curiously.

“Yes, my student?” Seeing Twilight nervously kick at the tiled floors made it clear that this was about to be something she was unused to saying. True to that, the unicorn spoke after a few seconds.

“Would you… like to spend time together? Not quite studying, if you don't want to, but… I suppose for a lack of a better term, slacking off?” Twilight's request had Celestia shocked. When had Twilight ever even considered not doing her work? Did Kai change her somehow?

Regardless of why, Celestia felt happy that her student would offer such a thing. With a soft smile, the princess draped a wing over her student.

“I could go for some vanilla cake, myself. What about you, my student?” Seeing her offer was accepted, Twilight grinned back at her mentor.

“I'd like some ice-cream.”

“Why not have both?” Twilight had to resist the urge to salivate.

“What kind of ice-cream should I get with my cake?”

“Well, ice-cream and cake is much like a relationship. You have to think carefully about which ones you introduce to each other.” Although her tone seemed jovial, the princess was making a point that seemed to resonate with Twilight Sparkle.

“It would depend on the tastes of the eater, too. But somepony open to all flavors could bring any combination together, and love it all the same.” Celestia let out a small laugh, bringing Twilight closer.

“Don't think too hard about ice-cream and friendship just yet, my student. Just enjoy your favorite flavors for now.” Twilight looked up at her, before nodding decisively. The pair began to make their way to the door, ready to go get some cake and ice-cream. ‘…Yes, Twilight Sparkle. No need to think deeply of friendship yet. But in just a few years… you will be the one…’

Celestia shook her head.

‘I should practice what I preach. For right now… Sweets await us!’

“Aw, what!? I totally woulda stayed if I'd known we were gonna get ice-cream!”

Kai of the Dragons

‘Regardless of how close one is to something, once they go to it, they are farther than they were to the OTHERS than when they first started.’ This principle was known as the ‘Adventurer's Curse’, coined by those who knew adventurers long ago. It held true to any adventure. Even if one is searching for only one thing, they need to return home. They are already home, so whatever they left for is far from their home, so when they leave to aquire said thing, they still have to return home, which has grown farther.

Young half-saiyan Kai had already considered the Adventurer's Curse, and decided that no matter where he went, he'd still travel the same distance. So, he opted to psyche himself out by starting with the furthest Dragon Ball, and then going to the furthest from there, all until his quest was complete.

But WOW, was this one far! The grid system of the Dragon Radar—as he chose to name it—showed the furthest ball being quite a long distance away. A few thousand kilometers East, in fact. Well, East-ish…

Kai walked on and on, past Canterlot already, and trecking through forests, deserts, and even a tundra. Honestly, with Equestria's maintained weather, he didn't know such a climate as a tundra even existed. The weather seemed to just take a dive-bomb at points, being sunny one day, and the next, it was snowing hard. The next day, it was raining, but an hour later, it was desert-levels of hot.

The ray of light shining was that, with each passing hour, Kai was getting closer and closer. Though, his supplies were already running a bit thin. Having a super-appetite made long-term food storing a nightmare. Luckily, his thirst was still average-ish.

Finally, as the scarce grass ended and gave way completely to sand and water, he saw a path. A path onto a very rocky ground, the terrain unlike anything Kai had ever seen. Dull rocky ground, but the sand looked a bit strange, now that he looked it over. More like… ash.

Kai hit the ground, a shadow looming over and passing him. Glancing up from the ground, he found himself awed at the sight. A medium-sized, white dragon flew overhead, and landed a distance away from him. Kai stood again, seeing clearly where he must have been—if the scores of dragons up ahead was any indication.

“A dragon's nest…!”

Chapter 3

Kai of the Dragons

Today was another very, very dull day for the Dragon Lord, Torch. Being bigger and stronger than any other dragon had its advantages, but truth be told, it was so boring. Unlike rulers of soft places like Canterlot, there was no paperwork. No, it was an unwritten rule that whatever the Dragon Lord says, goes. Or else. And, a tip for newcomers? Do NOT ask ‘or else what?’ The last visitor who asked ended up well-done.

Dragon Lord Torch digressed, he was bored. It wasn't as if dragons required teaching. Everything came instinctually, so there was no need for teaching the younger generation, not even if his own daughter counted as the younger generation.

Which brought him to his daughter—

“Woah…!” Or, would have, if some ya-hoo didn't act impressed where he was thinking. Looking down from the makeshift throne, made to seat a dragon of his extraordinary size, he locked eyes with a small, bipedal creature. He could tell by the lack of scales and the odd clothes, this was no dragon. Another visitor, maybe. Did he mention the ‘or else’ thing?

Quite awed, Kai stared up at the huge dragon before him. Sure, he had never seen a dragon outside of the one time he saw dragons migrating, but still, he had never seen a dragon THIS big! He was excited to see a dragon this close for the first time in his life.

“Who dares to stand before I, the Dragon Lord, without bowing!?” A few dragons that were just lingering around looked over, feeling vague sympathy for the dragon who was going to get destroyed.

“My name's Kai!” Simple answer, something the Dragon Lord could live with. Complications were annoying. “Who're you?”

Kai's casual inquiry gained the shocked eyes of any dragon that could see him, and the irritation of the Dragon Lord.

“I AM DRAGON LORD TORCH!! YOU DARE COME TO ME WITHOUT KNOWING OF ME!!?” More irritation from the large dragon when he saw Kai's response: Awe. Again.

“Dragon Lord!? Are you Shenron?”

Everything froze at that point. Now, the dragons surrounding stared with wide eyes, all of them backing up slightly. Dragon Lord Torch stared at Kai, completely serious.

“What do you know about Lord Shenron, young fool?” Kai didn't even react to the insult, instead deciding to answer by pulling out a single Dragon Ball from his satchel.

“I know that he's supposed to grant a wish if I summon him. He's gotta be super strong, huh?” He held up the ball. “I'm gatherin' these to summon him!”

“Fool! Of course Lord Shenron is strong! Immensely so!” The Dragon Lord glared at the saiyan. “What exactly are you? You know of Lord Shenron, but know nothing else.”

“I'm a saiyan!” Kai had the decency to look sheepish. “But, yeah… I really don't know much. I just read a bit about it in a book.”

The atmosphere was unreadable, as always when it came to the Dragon Lord. He could be laughing at a brutal memory one moment, and then yelling angrily the next. Finally, however, Torch spoke.

“Hmph. Well then, saiyan. You will listen to the History of the Dragons, and you will not complain! Understand!?”

“Yes! I'm so excited!” Kai pumped a fist, genuinely happy to learn of a species that was never really written about in books.

Dragon Lord Torch could respect his enthusiasm, if nothing else.

“Long ago, before the time of my long, prosperous rule, and before dragon-kind was thought to exist, there was an ancient dragon. As you can guess, that dragon was Lord Shenron. It was said that he gave way for the first dragons to exist, with only a small fragment of his oh-so-great power! But! His power was monstrous, he could level the whole world! AHAHAHAHAA!” Torch glared down at Kai, seeing him blank faced, along with the other dragons. “LAUGH!!”

“Ahahahaha! The whole world! That's hilarious!!” Kai sweated, as did the other dragons.

“Good. Now, knowing his power would just cause fighting within the race, Lord Shenron divided his power into seven mighty spheres, and left the face of the world! Those who gather them all, summon our lord for a single request, and of course, Lord Shenron grants it to the brave soul. Those who gather them are considered so brave, that they have the biggest pair of anyone! So, we call them Dragon Balls!!” The look the Dragon Lord gave Kai now was one of inquiry. Silently asking if there were any questions.

“Huh… So Shenron created all of you dragons, huh?” Kai rested his arms behind his head, using his leg as a kickstand and thinking about this story. “Can all dragons grant wishes, or is only Shenron that strong?”

“Isn't THAT the big question.” Kai's confusion was obvious. “Dragons believe two things, normally: Greed and Power. Some become so clouded by greed, they become rash and would do ANYTHING for more stuff. Others think they need power, but for what? No dragon knows. The best guess is an instinct to grow into the next Lord Shenron, to take our lord's place. Thus, the order of Dragon Lords exists to find the next suitable TRUE Lord.”

“Woah…!” Kai took in all of this information, and nodded when he was sure he understood. “Ah! You said ‘normally’…?”

“Yes, I did. There are acceptions to this rule, for instance, a dragon raised around soft ponies would focus on… whatever ponies do.” The Dragon Lord's uncertainty made Kai recall Ponyville, and thusly, their disposition towards him.

“Tch. Probably ostracise the poor dragon.” He spat bitterly. Shaking his head the next moment, he added to his comment. “But they'll come around some time.”

“Well then, saiyan. If you are here, asking about Lord Shenron, that must mean you're after the Dragon Ball in my possession.” Torch's words gained Kai's attention immediately.

“You have the Dragon Ball!?”

“Yes, but know this! I will not give it to just anyone! As someone who is not a dragon, you will first need to prove yourself to be worthy of dragon blood!! Then, you must prove yourself worthy of the Dragon Ball!!”

“Dragon blood?” Kai repeated, obviously unknowing of the term.

“One who's worthy of bearing the blood of a dragon, but isn't actually a dragon. But to prove yourself worthy, you'll be put through tests and trial unlike any before!!”

Kai clenched his fists, grinning widely.

“Throw whatever you've got at me! I'll take it and dish it out a hundred times harder!” Dragon Lord Torch let out a large laugh, confusing everyone around.

“You're the first to ever even THINK to dare to say something like that to me! I should let you become dragon blood on that alone!”

“Will you?”

“NO!!” The yell actually had wind to go along with it, blowing Kai's hair back. The saiyan sighed, knowing it would never be that easy. “Now then, what to do…? Maybe you can retrieve the—”

“MY LORD!!” A voice suddenly interripted the Dragon Lord. He flicked an annoyed glare at whomever chose to interrupt him, and locked onto the white dragon Kai had seen before.

“Your reason for interrupting had BETTER BE GOOD!!” The white dragon faltered, but managed to speak the reason through stutters.

“M-my lord! Y-your d-daughter!”

“SPIT IT OUT! WHAT ABOUT MY DAUGHTER!?”

“S-she's been t-taken!” It was a shock to see anything other than anger on the Dragon Lord's face. Seeing genuine concern was baffling, and even that was eclipsed by the look of absolute fury on his face afterwards.

“By whom? Where!? WHEN!?”

“I-I don't know, my lord. They flew off that direction a few minutes ago.” He pointed off in the distance, nothing but water able to be seen. “I gave chase, but…! They were too much… Forgive me, lord…”

“RRRGGH!! I'LL DEAL WITH YOU SOME OTHER TIME!” Dragon Lord Torch looked to Kai, restraining his anger for these brief moments. “FORGET THE TESTS AND TRADITION! RESCUE MY DAUGHTER AND I'LL GIVE YOU ANYTHING YOU WANT!!”

“I'll save her. Don't worry!” Without even needing to be told anything else, Kai dropped his bag, sprinted to the edge of the rocky platforms, and leapt off into the warm water. Nothing but a torrent of water followed him, as he thrusted his arms to propell himself faster than any boat.

With someone competent on the job, Dragon Lord Torch could express his rage properly now. And oh, did he let go.

“GGGRRRAAAAAAAAA!!!!” A torrent of flames spewed from his mouth, reaching as high as the clouds.

All of the other dragons watched in dismay. For the Dragon Lord's daughter to be captured? That surely meant if the saiyan brought them back, it would be made quite sure that they could never do it again. And that certainly didn't mean they would be placed in some kind of jail…

Kai swam as fast as his body would let him, looking up as he did. However, the only thing flying off he could see was a bird.

‘Lucky you. You actually can fly…’ Now, with ki, Kai had the ability to fly, and actually possessed the knowledge. However, he simply could not remain flying, and doing so took a great portion of his energy. He somehow knew that flying shouldn't be so strenuous, but he was bad with control. Unfortunately, he knew not of any ways to refine said control.

Swimming onward, Kai thought about how he never anticipated being thrown into action so soon. He guessed maybe he would be attacked on the way, but not when the Dragon Ball was nearly his. But these thoughts were insignificant right now. He had to save the Dragon Lord's daughter.

He wasn't even sure what she looked like, but he hoped he'd know when he found her.

Today was a bad day for Ember. First, her dad had a yelling fit after being reminded of the tradition of Dragon Lords and replacement, then he takes it out on her. How was she supposed to know about some ancient dragon? The other dragon seemed to know, but this must have been one of those ‘Didn't tell you because you're weak and small! Hahaha!!’ things that her dad did.

She understood that, although unneccesarilly harsh, it seemed that her father kept her from these kinds of things to protect her, but she didn't need protecting! Besides, when a growing dragon girl is… well, growing, the last thing she needs is to be treated like this, and by her only parent, at that. It was just asking for her to be rebellious and run away.

Add to all of that being dragon-napped, and you have a very, VERY perturbed dragon on your claws. Ember glared at her capturers. A larger dark red dragon with slitted blue eyes held her under his arm. Flying close was a black dragon of the same size, his eyes red. Oh, how Ember wanted to slash at the dragons, but she was bound pretty good with rope. Even her wings were pinned down, and her mouth blocked with a cloth as a makeshift gag. No shooting fire for her…

“Now that we've got the Dragon Lord's daughter, we can get a ransom and we'll be set for life!” The first, red dragon spoke optimistically, seeming a bit too twitchy.

“Er… Riot?” The red dragon raised an eyebrow, obviously being adressed by name. “I don't mean to be a downer, but…”

“What, is there a flaw to my master plan? Let the pros think of everything, Anarchy. You lesser, grunt types'll have your day.” Riot seemed confident, but the black dragon, Anarchy, seemed unsure.

“…It's not like towns accept dragons normally. What the heck do we need with money?” And at that, Riot froze in his flight, realising the words to be true. “And it's not like we'll be able to demand it from the Dragon Lord himself. He'll kill us, with a capital ‘KILL’!!”

Riot groaned, slumping over in frustration.

“But my perfect plan…”

“Heh. Looks like you guys are actually idiots, huh?” By this time, Ember had struggled enough to loosen at least the cloth in her mouth, and managed to get it around her neck instead. As she gained glares from both dragons, she continued to insult them. “Your ‘perfect plan’ was terrible, and I actually pity you. Let me go this instant, and I'll forget you even captured me. I won't even tell my dad.”

The two male dragons glanced to each other, nodding silently, before Riot gave Ember a look over.

“Well, ransom ain't the only thing we can use the daughter of the Dragon Lord for.” Ember's eyebrow rose, confused as to what was being implied. “I can think of one or two things… What about you, Anarchy?”

“I've got lots of things I'd love to see.” Their tone and expressions were piecing this together for her, hence her raised eyebrows and widened eyes.

Then, it truly hit Ember. Her eyes shot open wide, her mouth agape as a gasp left her lips.

“N…no… L-let me down…! Let me down, now!!” Ember struggled harder than ever.

“Sorry, but you're not getting out of my iron grip. Just relax. We'll be there in no time.”

“NOOOOOO!! LET ME GOOOOOO!!”

Kai was starting to think that white dragon was lying to him. How long had he been swimming? This was starting to get outrageous. All of this, and no sign of the daughter. Not a sight, not a scale.

“…ooo…” Kai stopped moving, remembering to tread the water to stay afloat. He glanced around, trying to pinpoint the direction of the echo. “…ooooo…”

‘THERE!’ Like a rocket, Kai blasted off in the direction of the echoed scream. This was his only solid lead. Forget about a Dragon Ball, this was someone's life on the line! If he failed, he might as well have killed the dragon himself.

The screams had to be close, so Kai kept his eyes on the sky as he swam.

“MMPH MM MM MPH MMPH!!” Let's not translate that sentence from the freshly muffled Ember. Surely the ratings would take a dive…

“Jeez, even muffled, she's annoying.” Riot mumbled in complaint. “I'm starting to think we should just drop her in the water. Let her drown, you know?” Ember stiffened, and stopped struggling. She knew full well that, even if she could get her gag off in time, water was sort of the enemy of fire. Burning through the ropes was a no-go, and the ropes were far too tight. She couldn't even bend her arms, and her wings were starting to get cramps with how they were bent against her body. Shortly put, falling into water was a death-sentence.

“That was easy. Guess Dragon Lord's little girl wants to live, knowing what we're gonna do to her.” Anarch noted. “Ooh! Think she's into the whole thing now?”

‘As if.’ Despite the situation, Ember helped herself to an eye-roll. As soon as they gave her the smallest opening, which, let's face it, dumb one and dumb two would give her, she would claw out of her binds and flee. No need to try to take on two larger dragons on her own. She was brave, not stupid.

“Maybe? I dunno. I was just planning to leave the ropes on anyway.” And there went that plan. New plan! Maybe they would leave her alone at some point, and she could hobble away? “An' to be safe, let's watch her to make sure she doesn't go anywhere.”

Ember thought something that was once again, bad for the ratings. Why were these two dummies thwarting her plans? They couldn't have accounted for everything, right?

Glancing back, Ember saw how far she was from home. With a sigh, she realised they probably HAD thought of… every…

‘What the heck is THAT?’ Ember spotted something approaching in the water. Whatever it was, it was going very fast, and was picking up a ton of water as it progressed. ‘Never seen a dragon swim like that… What is that? Or… who?’

“What're YOU lookin' at?” Riot demanded to know, glaring at the suddenly moved girl. Ember gave him a blank stare. “…Well?” If stares could get any more blank, her's would have reached past even that. “…Oh, right. Gag.” Riot reached to remove the gag, and loosened it slightly.

Bad idea.

“WHEN I GET OUTTA THIS, I'M GONNA SHOVE MY CLAW SO FAR UP YOUR—” Ember was not allowed to finish, the gag getting put back into her mouth, tightened much more. She glared, and struggled once again. The commotion she made should make whomever was swimming hear her, and perhaps they could unbind her if she fell.

“What a dirty mouth. We'll clean it out soon enough.” Anarchy commented casually.

All Ember could do was hope this individual swimming wasn't too dense to read the situation, or worse, read it and wanted in. She shivered. She didn't know who to pray to, so she just hoped with all of her might that everything could go smoothly.

Kai had his sights set, and was swimming faster. However, he thought quickly as to how he would actually get high enough to save this very foul-mouthed girl. Not one to judge, he simply set about looking for anything to jump off of. A good leap could get him far enough, and high enough. Then, he spotted something.

A sharp, angled point protruding from the water's surface. It was a shape of a pyramid, sort of. Perhaps more cone-like. It seemed this was a large rock of some sort. Kai was sure that this had to have been on the ocean floor at some point in time. Meaning, it had progressed from being at the bottom, to piercing to the surface. This small protrusion would one day be the tip to a mighty mountain.

But, for right now, this tip-to-be was a perfect spot for Kai to jump off of. He swam to it and climbed on top of the rock. Although some of it was submerged, he could still get some decent footing, so he was content. Angling himself just right, Kai prepared to jump high and far to catch the dragons. Strenthening his stance, Kai squinted, before finally deciding when.

‘Now!’ As if shot by a catapault, Kai flew forth, barreling head-first towards the dragons. He was glad he jumped when he did. He could tell that he would have had no better chance than that instance.

Meanwhile, Riot sensed something ary. Something was just… not right. Like he was… forgetting something? Or something…

“Did we forget anything, dude?” Riot asked his partner.

“No. We didn't bring anything else. Why?” Anarchy asked back.

“Nothing, I guess…” So strange. He glanced down at his charge, and once again saw Ember staring at something. She looked surprised. “What now?” He glanced back, and found his eyes widening at the sudden charge of a strange bipedal, definitely not a dragon. “UH! Dude, split!”

Anarchy turned, confused. Confusion turned to shock when he finally saw what Riot saw, which turned to action. The two flew separate, splitting as was said.

Kai went sailing past, flailing his arms wildly as he tried to do something.

“Waaaah!!” Riot and Anarchy laughed, flying back together again.

“What a dork. Was he supposed to be your savior?” Ember wanted to cry. This was her last hope, and there he was, flying off uncontrolled, doomed to hit the water harshly.

‘What now…?’

‘What now…?’ Kai also thought, assuming a falling thinking pose. He snapped his fingers, might as well screaming ‘Eureka!’ as he did.

Kai put his hands out behind himself, palms facing the landscape behind him. With a calm grunt of exertion, two orbs of sapphire light radiated from his hands, before propelling him forward with a loud boom. He was launched against his prior momentum at such great speeds, the dragons couldn't even dodge properly.

“Now! Take this!!” Kai clenched his right fist, the left still launching him forward. Decisively, Kai punched Riot straight across the jaw, staggering the dragon, before ending his ki propulsion and jerking his right arm back strongly. With the proximity of the dragons, this action struck Anarchy right in his temple with a powerful elbow. Anarchy went down with that one hit, but Riot was up for more.

“You wanna fight!? Huh!!?” Seeing a chance, Ember struggled harder in Riot's grip, distracting him momentarily. “What the—read the mood, idiot!”

Ember's eyes met Kai's, and he understood what she was doing. Still just barely unregistered by gravity's embrace, Kai swung his right fist, striking Riot in the face again, this time forcing him to join his ally in an unconscious slumber.

Then, gravity registered for everyone. Kai fell, controlled but unmovable by himself. Ember was released, but couldn't move at all, so she panicked as the water got closer and closer. Riot and Anarchy dropped like rocks, unconscious.

Ember was falling faster than Kai, so the saiyan used ki to propell himself towards the dragon, and caught her in his arms. Still falling, he moved her under his left arm, and reached for the other dragons.

Ember gave Kai a look of confusion.

“They'll die if I just leave them!” The saiyan exclaimed, grabbing the two dragons in his right arm, sloppily but effectively.

Now, the girl made loud muffled sounds to remind Kai of their incoming death.

“I've got a plan! Just relax!” Focussing his ki through his body, Kai righted himself, and forced ki through his feet, keeping himself up through ki displacement. He wasn't good at flying, but this was a very temporary alternative. The group of saiyan and dragons stopped abruptly, and remained hovering JUST above the water's surface. “See?”

Ember simply groaned tiredly. Today had seriously done a number on her. She couldn't even scream yet, the gag still on tight.

“Time to get you home, dragon lady. Your dad's worried about you.”

‘Daddy's worried about me?’ Luckily, her thoughts went unheard by any, because she would kill anyone who heard her address her father as such. Still, this came as a shock. Her father just chided her and tried to keep her from things to keep her safe or something. When had he ever worried?

Left with no time to prepare herself, she let out a muffled scream of shock when they suddenly blasted off in a direction. Kai had sent large amounts of ki to his feet to launch himself and his passengers at high speeds.

Ember looked up at Kai, her looks going unnoticed as Kai kept his own gaze forward. Ember was unsure what or who he was… but he seemed nice. After all, she saved her. Heroically, she would add. So brave, and strong, and cool, and cute, and… Ember shook her head feverishly, trying to control the rising heat to her face. As if she would think her savior was cute. Just look at him! With that stupid, silky hair. And those dumb, cool clothes. And his goofy, sexy face!

…Ember had troubles. But right now, more than anything, she wanted her dad and a nap. So she pushed the thoughts of her sexy—not sexy—savior from her mind, and tried to just forget what almost happened today. Before she even realised it, Ember had fallen asleep.

Kai kept ‘flying’, none the wiser to Ember's current condition.

At the Dragon Nest, things were going as one could expect. Dragon Lord Torch was on the verge of destroying anything in sight. His temporary—self-declared—assistant was trying hard to calm him down, reminding him that even if he wanted to go himself, he would never catch up with how much time had passed. Their only hope was a saiyan that arrived less than an hour ago.

“Hm?” The white dragon that tended to the Dragon Lord noticed something in his peripheral vision. Turning fully, his gaze locked onto something approaching fast from the air. He squinted, trying to see just what it was. His eyes widened in relief when he noticed the unmistakable black coat that the saiyan was wearing. “Ah! My lord! Look!”

Dragon Lord Torch glanced over, already having thoughts of crushing his annoying assistant. This was the last time he would entertain his stupidity.

Imagine his surprise when none other than Kai was approaching fast, holding several figures under his arms. One had unmistakable, blue scales. He knew right then.

“My daughter!” In a few short seconds, Kai finally came in for a landing, skidding across the ground. Kai ungracefully dropped the dragons who caused this trouble, but carefully set Ember onto the ground. “Is my daughter well!? ANSWER ME!!”

Kai glanced up, eyebrow twitching.

“Chill out. She's just asleep.” Kai knelt down, and worked at removing the sleeping dragon's bonds. A firm tug undid the ropes, and set the girl free. He also took out her gag, thinking it would mess with her breathing.

“Bring her here.” The Dragon Lord calmly demanded. Kai nodded, and picked up the girl again, jumping up high to land by the huge dragon. He set the girl on the Dragon Lord's lap, and hopped back onto the ground. Torch stared down at his daughter with a sad air. “…Oh, Ember…”

Kai gave him a moment to be sad about this. After all, he was sure if his own kid was just taken, he would be so worried and sad, he would just cry and cry. He put away the thoughts of him having a kid for later, and focussed instead on the two unconscious dragons next to him. It wasn't his place to decide what to do with them, so he cleared his throat to get the Dragon Lord's attention.

“These two here. They're the ones who took your daughter.” A flicker of rage found its way through the Dragon Lord's eyes, but then a sinister look crossed his face.

“Tie them up.” Kai nodded and used the rope previously used to restrain Ember to restrain the dragons Riot and Anarchy. It was a stretch, but he managed to tie them both together, back-to-back, with no hope of escaping without assistance. With a wicked grin, the Dragon Lord issued the next order. “Leave them here or cast them into the ocean. You can choose.”

Kai wasn't too comfortable with killing. If necessary, he would, but it wasn't necessary to kill anyone right no as both dragons were restrained and wouldn't harm anyone.

“I'm not gonna kill them.” His answer seemed to please the Dragon Lord.

“Good. Then they will live out the rest of their days being tortured for what they've done!” And now, Kai was pretty sure he chose wrong. “Saiyan!” Kai was at attention. “You have done a great service to dragon-kind, and most of all, to ME. You have my thanks for rescuing my daughter.” The ruling dragon reached out a large claw, an item between his clawed digits. “Take this.” He dropped the item, and it fell down to Kai, who caught it in his hands. “I deem you not just worthy of dragon blood, but a dragon, through and through. Wear that anywhere on your body, and it will fuse with you. You'll forever bear the mark of the dragon!”

Kai looked at the nearly black circlet in his hands, seeing and feeling for himself how scaly it was.

“Thank you, Dragon Lord Torch!” As Kai rolled up his left sleeve, the Dragon Lord chided him.

“Drop the formalities!! We are equals, from this day forth!” The saiyan looked surprised. “I can have all of the treasure in the world, but no treasure is worth my daughter. And you saved her. As far as I'm concerned, I owe you more than just a Dragon Ball!” The dragon smirked. “As an honorary dragon, you might start to act like one, too! On top of that, if I ever summon you, your mark will begin to glow. It won't stop until you answer my summons—whatever it may be for!”

Kai was nearly jumping up and down in excitement. He could become like a dragon!? Could he shoot fire, or get scales, or something else really cool that dragons could do!? Now that he thought about it, he knew very little about dragons…

“Alright then, Torch! I accept the mark of the dragon!” Kai slid the circlet up his left arm, stopping it at his bicep. The dark grey circlet glowed dimly, before, true to Dragon Lord Torch's words, it began melding with his skin. It was completely painless, feeling more like excessive tingling and buzzing all around his arm. Then, it all ended. The circlet was now on his arm, etched there like a tattoo. “Wow…!”

“Saiyan. Dragon.” Torch's smirk grew. “And pony.”

“How did you…?”

“Please! As if your sentiments went unnoticed! You did what you did to keep my daughter from harm, not for the Dragon Ball! That's a sentiment only a pure-hearted pony has!” Kai looked to his hand, almost as if he could see his own history there. “You know, I have quite an amount of treasure. I know you're on this quest, so how about we make a deal?”

Kai looked back up, eyebrow rising.

“What kind of deal?”

“Untrained dragons let their greed override anything. Hence, they crave more treasure. I'm far stronger than that, so I don't actually NEED all of my treasure.” Dragon Lord Torch reached for something again, before moving to drop it to Kai. The saiyan caught it, and was thrilled to see it was a Dragon Ball. “After you summon Lord Shenron, come back and I'll give you half. I can't use it, but I'm sure you can. You should be set for life. What do you say?”

A grin fell onto Kai's face.

“Yeah! It's a deal” The two shared a short laugh, before Kai went to count the stars on this Dragon Ball. It didn't take long. “Two stars.”

“By the way…” Kai gave the Dragon Lord his attention. “What is your request to Lord Shenron, anyway?”

“Don't have one. At least, not yet.” The saiyan put the ball away into his satchel, and walked over to grab his traveling bag. “I'll figure it out as I go.”

“Leaving so soon? Aren't you going to wait until Ember wakes up? Then, we'll honor you with a feast!!” Despite the Dragon Lord's offer, Kai shook his head.

“Sorry. I've got alot of work ahead of me. I should get going as soon as I can.” Kai adjusted his bag over his left shoulder, remembering to lower his sleeve as well. He turned, and waved as he began walking off. “Tell your daughter I said to be careful! Goodbye for now, Torch!”

“Good luck on your travels, Saiyan Kai!” Dragon Lord Torch glared at the remainder of dragons who either stood around or walked around. “WISH HIM LUCK!!”

“G-GOOD LUCK!!” Kai laughed, and proceeded to speed up.

“Thanks a ton, everyone!!”

And so, Kai had obtained a Dragon Ball, and became an honorary dragon, all in a single hour. He couldn't help but hope that the other Dragon Balls would be simple to find, as well. Dragon Radar in hand, Kai was off, searching for the next ball to be added to his collection.

Extra

Dragon Interest?

Ember awoke with a start, feeling nothing but rocks underneath her. A small tinge of pain in her wings had her reflexively flaring them, her eyes darting around to figure out where she was and what was happening. Upon recalling her sights, she sat up quickly, rubbing her head with a claw.

“I'm… home?” Then, it all came back to her. She glared around for the two degenerates that had captured her, but realised if they were here, her father had to have killed them by no—HER FATHER!

Ember stood up immediately, turning to figure out where her father was. But… now that she noticed it… what was she standing on? It was all rocky, but not quite… Besides, what rocks are black, other than singed ones?

“Awake at last, my daughter?” The structure she stood on rumbled as that familiar voice spoke, meaning she was standing on…

“Father!?” Ember flew from the Dragon Lord's lap, and up to his face. She bowed, keeping her eyes low to the ground. “I apologise for letting myself get captured. It will not happen again.”

“Oh, cut that out, will you? I'm just glad you're not dead!” Always blunt, but Ember didn't know she was cared for so much. She always just assumed her father wanted her to get stronger so this kind of thing wouldn't happen, but hearing him now…

“But… I'm your daughter—the daughter of the powerful Dragon Lord! I thought you'd be livid!”

“Believe me, I'm angry.” Ember flinched. “Angry at the two welps who took you from me!” The girl had to double-take after hearing that. “Your savior helped me make the decision to let them live, so that you can torture them whenever you wanted!”

Ember gasped.

“Really!?” Then, Ember's head flicked up in sudden recollection. “Ah, um… By the way… About my… savior…” The Dragon Lord raised an eyebrow. “Who exactly was he?”

“A saiyan by the name of Kai.” Torch's brows furrowed upon seeing his daughter's normally blue features turn purplish.

“Kai… Where is he?”

“Off on his quest to find all seven Dragon Balls!” Luckily, Ember knew of the Dragon Balls, so there were no misunderstandings. “Why do you ask?”

“No reason! Just, uh… Anyway, where're those dragons I can torture?” The more purple her face got, the more irritated the Dragon Lord became.

‘Kai, you will never be allowed to speak to my daughter.’

Author's Note

Where better than to begin a Dragon Ball quest than in the Dragon Lands, eh? Here we go! All systems, high gear! ...Etcetera.

Anyhow... Remember, any comments, critique, suggestions, feel free to leave anything. In terms of suggestions... I do have alot generally planned, but I could add something I think is good.

Thanks for reading! 'Till next time!

Eternal Silence

‘It is the journey, not the destination.’ Everypony knows that saying. Kai was taking it to the maximum, darting off to the very farthest Dragon Ball on the radar. He could tell this would be a trip longer than his supplies would last. Luckily, there was a stop in town before he continued, as Canterlot intersected his path.

After getting more supplies, Kai checked the Dragon Radar once again. It seemed the farthest Dragon Ball coincided with the train. He wasn't sure how far it went, but he knew he could at least reduce his work by a bit just letting the train do the work.

So, that's exactly what Kai did. He hopped on the train, and was moving fast towards his goal. As he rode the train, Kai couldn't help but take these last two weeks into consideration. Never had he guessed this adventure would be taking this long to get one Dragon Ball. The round trip was what really messed up his time, but he could deal.

Musing of his journey thus far, coupled with finally getting a proper moment of rest added up to Kai falling asleep on the train.

Chapter 4

Eternal Silence

“…final stop. Repeat, this is the final stop.” That warning from the conductor woke Kai from his slumber, and he quickly shot up out of his seat. Wiping away a trail of saliva from his chin, the saiyan took out his Dragon Radar, and gave it a glance. He was much closer. Honestly, he thought he had over slept and passed it, but apparantly not…

Kai rushed off of the train, his supplies in hand. He was shocked to see that where he was, was completely in the middle of nowhere. Had he gone outside of Equestria?

The train chugged off, alerting Kai to the fact that this truly was the last stop of the train. As a child, Kai had always wondered how far the train went. Never had he thought he actually would find out, and that it would be this barren.

“Let's… woah.” The saiyan was about to check the radar again, but a sight stopped him. What looked to be a nobable sized settlement of a sort was in the distance, but more than anything, Kai saw a strange… structure, that continued up farther than his eyes could see. “Is that where the Dragon Ball is?”

“Well, I'll be!” Kai turned immediately, poising for action. Instead, he saw an old stallion with a familiar uniform. It was the pony who took the tickets for the train. “Even if it's a weird creature like yourself, it's rare to see anypony taking the train to… the end of the line.” The ticket pony stated ominously.

It seemed like he was going to continue speaking, but Kai spoke first.

“Isn't there anything out here that makes ponies visit?” Kai was a bit surprised that noone came here at all.

The pony shook his head in negative.

“Nope. Nothing but uncharted terrain and wild beasts out that way.” He pointed to the area Kai had looked to.

The saiyan looked to his radar, and then back to the ‘uncharted terrain’.

“Welp, I guess my target is there. See ya, ticket guy!”

As Kai walked away, the ticket pony walked to his stand, scratching his head.

“Reminds me of that one fella…”

Kai saw the obstacles ahead of him; rocky structures, mud, gaps… He decided not to try to traverse that path as it was, and instead chose to launch himself through with a jump. However, before he could, he felt a tug on his right pant leg.

“Huh?” Turning and looking down, he saw a family of squirrels. “Ah, um… Hello.” Little known fact about Kai. For no good reason, Kai was terrible with animals. Most just did NOT like him. To this day, he didn't know why, but if squirrels were trying to communicate with him, maybe his luck was looking up.

The brown squirrel that had tugged at his clothes tugged again, pointing to its right. It made sounds, as if Kai would be able to understand it. He at least understood gestures, so a glance in that direction was enough to give him the story. Some type of bluish white flower was settled where the squirrel pointed. Then, he noticed a small opening to the right of the flowers.

“Um… Let's see… You want those flowers to keep that opening closed?” Kai smiled when the squirrel nodded quickly. “Here, I'll help.” The saiyan walked to the small patch of flowers, and knelt down to pick them. “I've never seen this kind of flower before… Then again, I don't really know about flowers!” Truthfully, Kai didn't mind talking to animals. In his younger, solitary years, he recalled never being able to converse with anypony. He was feared for being different, and animals didn't like him, either. Luckily, there was very little need to talk to oneself when training, so he never went down that road…

Anyway, Kai picked the flowers, and moved them over to help block off the opening, and the squirrels were doing their part, too. Being larger, it wasn't strenuous nor time-consuming for Kai, so the job was done in a few seconds.

“There you go. Good luck to you and your family!” Before he could leave, the squirrels stopped him with a wave. He raised an eyebrow, to which the squirrels all gestured to a particularly large rock behind a bush. “A rock? What about it?” The leading squirrel ran over to the rock, beckoning Kai to follow. The saiyan did so, stepping over a few bushes before getting to the bush in front of the rock.

Kai looked closely, and the squirrel made sure he was. Then, it ran into a small gap between the rock and the wall. Kai's eyebrows rose, thinking the little squirrel could get stuck. He pushed the rock to the side, but displayed his shock when he saw there was a crevice in the wall, just behind the rock. Moving it completely, he looked down at the squirrel with raised eyebrows. The squirrel looked triumphant.

“Sneaky little things, aren't you?” Kai bowed, smiling gratefully. “Thank you! I'll remember to come back to give you some fruits and nuts!” The squirrel let out an equally grateful chirp, then scampered off to its family. The squirrel family waved, and Kai waved back.

Now with a path to presumably the settlement, Kai squeezed through the crevice, crouching to fit properly, and crawled through the long opening.

Not being pony-sized had its disadvantages, that was for sure. Kai finally scurried out of the crevice, happy to see light. Shaking his head and rubbing his eyes gently, Kai stood from the shortcut, and observed his new surroundings. This time, a simple ‘Woah…’ didn't cut it. This was a full-blown village, with a bussling population, if the water fountains and food stalls were any indication. It was so very peaceful, and it made Kai feel at ease.

As soon as he took a few steps, Kai suddenly sensed several presences around him, surely around the bushes and out of sight. Kai took a stance, one he was working on for mass-battles. Legs poised, knees bent, and arms raised only slightly to react to attacks from any angle.

Then, his ‘ambushers’ showed themselves. Slowly but surely, the bushes rustled and yielded those who were hidden. They were quite unlike any pony he had ever seen. On top of their different manes, their horns were more like tree-branches, and their tails were only furred at the tip. They themselves were more heavily furred than a pony, leading Kai to believe he was no longer dealing with ponies.

Kai dropped his guard and stood normally, assuming them to be the inhabitants of this village. One of them looked similar to Celestia in height and royal stature, so he assumed she was the leader.

“Hello.” Kai greeted, glancing around at the unknown creatures. They didn't say anything back. Probably on guard, just as he was. “I mean you no harm, so, uh… My name is Kai.” Again, no reaction. Kai took a slow step towards the leader, but found it odd when she didn't even step back or tense up. Perhaps they weren't actually on guard. “What's your name?” There was finally a reaction, just not what he was hoping for. Everyone there tilted their heads, but the blank looks on their faces remained. “Um… Oh! Maybe you're wonderin' what I am. I'm a saiyan.” No reaction. “…What are you?” Nothing.

Kai groaned, hunching slightly in defeat. Then, he brainstormed.

“I've totally been in that silent bubble… I know exactly how to deal with it.” Kai crossed his arms, and stared at the leader with blank eyes, just as she did. “…”

“…”

“…” Kai turned his head and growled to himself. “I forgot someone else actually needs to be around to start up a conversation…” He turned back, glad to note the leading creature was patient enough to deal with his stupidity. Which gave him a thought. “…Say… Maybe it's a stretch, but… Can you actually talk?” The most enlightening answer yet: A head shake. That made Kai feel terrible. “Ah! And I've been a jerk, makin' you all feel bad about it!” Kai bowed. “Sorry!”

If there was one thing Kai was not used to, it was one-way conversations, with him as the speaker.

The saiyan rose from his bow, and looked to the leading creature.

“Is it okay if I just ask ‘Yes-or-no’ questions?” The leader nodded, much to Kai's relief. “Great!” A loud rumbling interrupted any further questioning. Kai's eyebrows shot up, and he rubbed his abdomen with his hand. “Actually, think I can take a rest here and eat first?” A nod and a gesture towards the village was the answer to his question. “Ehehe! Thanks!”

Treating the saiyan may just have been the worst mistake this peaceful race had made. Despite seeming emotionless, a look similar to surprise was on the leader's face through the entire course—FIVE courses—of Kai's meal. As he ate inside of the leader's home, the leader herself had been a bit busy with a blank piece of paper and a quill.

By the time Kai finished eating, the leader was finished writing, and so they got back down to business. Kai thanked her for the meal, and proceeded to speak on this village.

“So—” The leader slid the piece of paper to Kai, interrupting him. He glanced down at the paper, focussing on the words. “‘My name… is… Rain Shine.’” He read aloud, looking back up to the leader. “Nice to meet you!” He looked back to the paper, and read the next line. “‘We are… Krillin…?’ No, ‘kirin’!” Kai could read just fine, but the way Rain Shine wrote was different to what he was used to reading. It took him a moment to decipher her writing. “I've never heard of kirin, but it's nice to meet you, anyway!”

Kai stood, and thought about how to ask Rain Shine what he needed to know in a ‘Yes-or-no’ form.

“Let's see… Is this whole ‘silence’ thing a curse?” The kirin leader shook her head. “Were you born like this?” Again, a head shake. “…Did you… choose to be silent?” Now, a nod shocked Kai. “But why!? I know sometime talking is hard, but…!” He calmed himself. “…Guess even if I did ask, you couldn't tell me.” Kai let out a short sigh, giving the kirin a serious look. “I don't suppose any of you can talk?” Now, call him crazy, but Kai could swear there was a bit of hesitation in the kirin's answer, being a nod. Why that would be, he did not know. However, it was clear that there actually was a kirin that could speak somewhere, quite contrary to what Kai had assumed the answer would be. “Really? Um… could you point where?”

Rain Shine stood and walked to the exit. Obviously she wanted Kai to follow, so he did. Outside and getting a few looks from the passing kirin, Kai waved and smiled, getting no reaction. At least they weren't shunning him.

In no time, Rain Shine had led Kai to the start of a path leading into a forest. The kirin gestured to said forest, giving Kai a look.

“The speaking kirin is through the forest?” Rain Shine's nod answered his question. “Thank you, Rain Shine. I'll be back after I find that kirin!” Kai declared, walking off to the forest.

Kai walked along the path through the forest, ignoring most of the russling he heard in the bushes and shrubs. Truthfully, this whole ‘silent kirins’ thing was making him curious. All he knew right now was that these kirins willingly silenced themselves. He knew conversations were difficult, but this was ridiculous.

Abruptly, a sudden sight stopped Kai in his tracks. Through all of the trees, he hadn't noticed it until he was closer to it. In plain sight in a part of the forest that seemed free of trees, was the same structure he had seen from afar. Cutting through the bushes and dodging the nearby trees, Kai made his way to the structure.

Now directly in front of it, he could see everything about it. It was more like a pole, or a tower, decorated with white and red stone, of some sort. Even from this close, looking up yielded nothing in regards to how high it was. Truly, it was farther than any eye could see.

“Woah…! I-it's huge!” Kai was awed, as usual. He took a step towards the pole, and reached his right hand out to touch it. Slowly, his fingers made contact with the cold material of the pole, causing Kai to recoil for a moment. Touching it again, he flattened his hand against the decorated pole, and simply breathed. “…It feels like… there's more to this than it seems, huh?” Kai asked to himself, stepping back and glancing to his left. The kirin there didn't react, so Kai simply turned back to the… Wait, kirin? “Waah!!”

Somehow in his lapse of attention, a kirin had made her way right next to Kai, and was staring blankly at him. The saiyan calmed himself quickly, and addressed the kirin.

“Uh, hey there!” Kai greeted awkwardly. The kirin was blank. “So, random question, probably, but do you know a kirin that can talk?” Unfortunately, the kirin shook her head. Kai sighed disappointedly. “Guess I'm not surprised. Maybe, by chance, you know where I can look for them?” The girl tilted her head, her blank look remaining. That irritated Kai. “C'mon! That was totally a ‘Yes-or-no’ question!” With a groan, Kai turned back to the pole. “Well, nopony ever said it'd be easy…”

A sudden giggle caught Kai's attention, which had him confused. The kirin he just spoke to was silent and emotionless. Who could have giggled—and so cutely, too?

“Gotcha!” Kai glanced left again, only to see the formerly silent kirin laughing and grinning. She looked to Kai with a humored yet apologetic look. “Sorry, sorry, but that was too good. Oh, you don't know how much I missed jokes. Hi-larity! Am I pronouncing that right? Some words I haven't said in a will. While! While.” Kai watched the kirin speak, seeing that for one, it did seem unfamiliar to the girl, and two, she seemed happy.

“So, you're the talking kirin.” Kai noted aloud. “I'm Kai, a saiyan.” Kai extended his hand, only for it to be immediately grabbed by the kirin.

“I'm Autumn Blaze!” She pulled him down to a kneel as she shook his hand vigorously. “You've just arrived, and perhaps you're tired or hungry or reflective and want to sleep and eat and journal? Which you should do, of course! But first—” She hugged him tight. “Oh! Oh, what joy to talk with another creature! It's been so long! You must tell me everything about you! There's so much to say, so much to do!” Every point was being emphasised and enthused by a physical gesture of closeness. Kai enjoyed the contact. Autumn Blaze seemed to realise something though. “Oh, look at me. I'm going on, and you haven't seen—I mean, have you seen?” It was Kai's turn to tilt his head. “W-What am I saying? Of course you haven't. So just—I—yeah—I will j—Follow me!”

The talkative kirin proceeded to pull Kai along for a few steps, before trusting that he would follow without her guiding hoof. Follow, he did, eyeing her with an appreciative look. That was the first time anyone at all had been so ‘touchy-feely’ with him, so friendly, and so inviting, all at the same time. She wasn't even shocked at seeing a creature completely different from her—she didn't even mention it.

Although curious about everything regarding the kirin, Kai simply wanted to enjoy being with Autumn Blaze for now.

What Autumn Blaze had wanted to show Kai was something he never could have imagined. The two stood on a cliff, overlooking a beautiful view of a rainbow, right above the sun. It arced over the perfect sight of a river, flowing as far as the eye could see, in the middle of grassy forests in the distance. The sky collected just the right amount of clouds, adding a perfect backrground for this incredible view.

Genuinely, Kai had never been so awed. Sure, he was awed frequently, but this… this went beyond simple awe. Mouth agape, Kai stared on, barely able to form words.

“This is… so beautiful…!”

“Oh, you think so, too!?” Autumn Blaze smiled a soft, thoughtful smile as she looked between the beautiful sight and Kai. “The way the light shimmers off everything, like… like it all suddenly woke up the moment you saw it. And you realize maybe the water and the mountains and the forest and the... yes, the rainbow and the stars and the sky are all looking back at you thinking the same thing? That we are a part of the everything. That maybe there's just one thing and we are all it.”

Kai looked to Autumn Blaze, eyes wide. That was quite the speech to hear, and it had Kai thinking—truly thinking. The saiyan looked to his hand, and then back to the sky. Reaching out his hand, he responded.

“Yeah… Kinda like… everything's connected.”

“Exactly!” Autumn Blaze was about to continue, but she saw something concerning from Kai. “Kai? Are you…?”

Kai wiped his eyes with his sleeve.

“Thank you for this, Autumn Blaze. It means… more than you could ever imagine.” Although very talkative, it seemed that Autumn Blaze did know when to pull back. The kirin put a hoof to Kai's leg, prompting him to sit down. From there, Autumn Blaze adjusted her hoof over Kai's shoulder and simply sat with him, staring at the sight before them.

Neither saiyan nor kirin knew how long they had been there, but by the time they had finally decided to get up, the sun was already setting. They truly must have been there for hours, simply in one another's presence.

“I've never felt so moved by this before.” Autumn Blaze noted, as she beckoned Kai to her while walking away. “I mean, I knew it was beautiful… but being with someone else to see it is just… undescribable. Which is saying alot, with how much I love to talk.” Neither knew ‘undescribable’ was incorrect, but neither would have cared.

“Yeah. I come from somewhere that doesn't accept me because I'm different, so being here with you today showed me… I don't know, a brand new way to look at life.” Kai agreed, following close behind the kirin.

“Do you want to talk about it?” Autumn Blaze offered with a smile. “It's awfully late, and I've got more than enough room in my home.”

Kai considered this. He never really spoke of his life to anyone—not even Rarity. He disliked worrying her, so he avoided confiding in her. Now, though, a new friend was offering her ear. How could he refuse?

“Okay.” The kirin smiled brightly at his answer.

A modest hut was Autumn Blaze's abode, and Kai enjoyed it greatly. It was nice just to be somewhere warm and well-lit. Kai walked to where Autumn Blaze gestured, and took a seat at a table, the kirin sitting across from him. The saiyan reached for his bag, but recalled it was not with him. He left it at the kirin's village.

“I like your home. It's really… comfy.” Kai complimented.

“Right!?” Agreed Autumn Blaze. She shook her head and gave Kai her attention. She gave him the most caring look she could muster. “Take your time with your story. I'd love to hear everything about you.”

Kai crossed his arms and closed his eyes.

“Where to start… I guess I can start with being younger.” The saiyan took in a breath to begin. “As a kid, my first real memory was being told what I was: A saiyan—an alien. Not even meant to be in this world. I didn't know too much about my dad, but he's who I got my saiyan half from. Mom was an earth pony.”

“An alien? Like, from outer space? Really?” Autumn Blaze had to be sure, because this was too cool.

“Yeah. S'not as cool as you'd think. See, where I'm from—Ponyville—nopony likes what they don't know. Since I was new for the whole world, they avoided me like some disease.” A humorless chuckle left Kai's mouth as he hunched over. “Maybe I WAS a disease. My mom caught somethin' worse than a cold. I don't know what it was, but she just kept getting worse and worse…” His eyes slowly closed. “I'll never forget this… The day before she died, she coughed up blood, and told me… she was glad to be dying. Taking care of me was too much for her. I knew she was upset that my dad left, but I didn't think she hated me.”

The saiyan sighed, looking to back Autumn Blaze.

“I left not long after that. Life on the streets… Not something I want to repeat, really. Just know, I had to do what I had to do.” Kai put vaguely. Knowing what little she already did, Autumn Blaze was glad he didn't go into depth there. “A year or two go by, and I meet some ponies who didn't look scared of me. At that time, I was half-dead from hunger, so I couldn't fight back when they picked me up and dragged me somewhere. Glad I didn't. They took me in, took care of me. I learned things schools wouldn't teach me. I met my first friend, who became a sister, and soon, I had a family. I finally knew what it felt like to be accepted.”

“I don't uddersta—underra… I don't get it.” Autumn Blaze corrected and changed, giving Kai a look of confusion. “I don't get why anyone would treat another being so badly, just because they're different. Kirin were taught to be accepting of anyone, no matter who they were. It's like, part of our culture.”

“Ponies don't have that mindset, sadly.” The saiyan explained. “They just think I'm some monster. I know, one day, they'll come around. But for right now, I'm sure not even you peaceful kirin would be accepted.”

The kirin stared for a moment, shocked at what she was learning. It made no sense, something she immediately started to argue.

“Who's place is it to hate someone because of something they can't help!? It's… It's not fair!!” Autumn Blaze gritted her teeth in frustration. “That just makes me so angry! How could anyone just…!?” Abruptly, she was surrounded by blue and red flames, Kai shielding his face in surprise. The flames lessened to reveal a solid black, white eyed, flame-covered being, before it seemed to show surprise. A flash of light obscured their form, and that faded to show Autumn Blaze, looking upset and shameful. “…Sorry.”

Kai stared, lowering his arms.

“What the heck was that? Some kind of transformation?” Although her power hadn't been too much, transforming had increased it several fold.

Autumn Blaze looked away, shrinking in her seat.

“It's the reason why the kirin took a vow of silence…” She felt far to ashamed of transforming right before her newest friend's eyes, she didn't even feel up to explaining everything through song. Sighing, Autumn Blaze began to tell Kai the story of the kirins. “You see, when kirin get angry, they turn into… THAT. Niriks. You saw the trafo… the change.” She didn't bother trying to pronounce ‘transformation’. Kai nodded. “It can burn. A LOT. The village leader made us all become silent through the Stream of Silence, so we wouldn't burn our home.”

“Wait, why would being silent do anything for you?” Kai wondered.

“Well, everything started with an arguement. If we didn't talk, we couldn't upset each other, and we could live in peace. At least, that's what our leader must have thought.” Autumn Blaze explained solemnly.

“That's no life to live! Staying quiet so you won't get angry? It isn't right!” Kai's fists clenched, his teeth grit.

“That's what I told them—well, after I could speak.” That comment made Kai realise something.

“That reminds me. How DID you start talking again?” Autumn Blaze was happy to note that Kai wasn't upset with her for losing her cool, and even happier to recall how she could speak again.

“I found this flower out in the forest. ‘Foal's-breath’. After I brewed it into a tea, I drank it and suddenly, I could talk again!” She frowned. “That's why I had to come here. I could either keep quiet and live with my village, or leave and be free. It was hard, but I couldn't be silent anymore.”

Kai thought for a moment. He had come here to find the next Dragon Ball. However, there was an entire village that thought being silent was better than working through problems. In a way, they were being cowards. Then again, he could see it from their perspective. Fire was dangerous, and with all of this grass, an angered transformation in the wrong spot could destroy everything they know and love.

Who was he kidding? He didn't care if they could destroy things with their power—they were missing out on life! To be silent and emotionless to avoid a crisis was asking for a new crisis! Kai knew he couldn't just leave them be, no matter what. Even though it felt like an odd kind of… ‘zing’ in his stomach was telling him not to, as if fate itself was trying to warn him, Kai wouldn't listen. He'd overturn fate, and get the kirin to listen to reason!

“Okay. Autumn Blaze, we're getting you back home.” Kai stated with the upmost confidence.

Autumn Blaze looked to him in slight frustration.

“Weren't you listening? I'm not lost—I've been banished.” Kai only smiled.

“I'll make the kirin see that being silent isn't the way. They'll learn, then we can give them some of that foal's-breath to cure them! Simple!” Autumn Blaze shifted her eyes away.

“Yeah, ‘simple’… Except there's no more foal's-breath.” The saiyan's eyebrows rose, his head tilting in expectation of an explaination. “I used the last of it to make the cure. It hasn't bloomed since.”

“…Ugh.” Kai rested his chin on the table, pouting in irritation. “Guess I'll search the forest—”

“Um, sorry… I already searched the entire forest seventy-three and a half times.” Kai groaned again. As he did, Autumn Blaze put a hoof to her chin in thought. “Although I wonder if that second half could make a difference…?”

“What about that huge pole?” The kirin looked up to think again.

“Mm… That tower is like… some kind of relic for us kirin.” She tapped her head, trying hard to recollect anything she knew. “Uh… something about… ‘something something…Kirin of Old…’ Aww, I don't remember!” Autumn Blaze waved her hooves in resignation. “The only one who actually remembers everything about it is Rain Shine, but, well, ‘Vow of Silence’ and all.”

Kai pushed himself from the table, and crossed his arms.

“Then I guess we'll need to find some way to regrow the foal's-breath… But first, we have to convince the kirin.”

“Why don't we find out how to grow it or where to find it first?” Autumn Blaze asked, more as a suggestion. “I would feel so bad if I got their hopes up, only to find out there was no way to help.”

“'Cause that's dishonest.” Retorted the saiyan. “If we go and convince them, and then tell them we always had the cure, then we'd just seem like we were just going to force it onto them. If they really, really want this for themselves, I can't force them. But if we get them to see the reason we want them to, then we can find the cure, and give it to them.”

The kirin nodded, agreeing with that assessment. She supposed she would rather let her village down than lie to them and force them to speak. No matter how much she wanted to talk to her family and friends.

With the serious air leaving them, Autumn Blaze smiled at her friend.

“Well, that'll have to wait until morning. There's not much, but I'll make some food, then we can get some sleep.” Kai's stomach growled.

“Eheheh…! Sounds good!”

Up bright and early, Kai and Autumn Blaze took a short moment to observe the sun rising and giving the beautiful sight over what Kai had learned was called the Peaks of Peril. It was just as beautiful as yesterday.

Kai made sure his satchel was fastened tightly as usual, checking to ensure his Dragon Balls weren't lost. Ready for today, the saiyan and kirin began walking through the forest again.

As they walked, Autumn Blaze cast a curious look to Kai.

“Are you sure they'll say yes? 'Cause I don't wanna brag, but I'm pretty good at convincing, and I was still cast out.” It was natural to be skeptical. After all, it wasn't as if Autumn Blaze had been like this for a few days—years had passed.

“Trust me, Autumn. I've got this.” Kai assured, pointing a thumb to his chest.

“Okay, I trust you. But now, I can't wait to be able to talk to my family and friends again!” Autumn Blaze believed him immediately, and now was excited. “I think I'll sing a song when we can finally talk!”

“Sounds good! I'll sing along with you!” Two excited individuals made for a very good team when it came to convincing emotionless kirin to feel again. Though, Kai's mind went elsewhere as they passed a family landmark. “Ah. Autumn Blaze, let's make a quick stop here.” He pointed to the tower, and the kirin nodded her consent.

The two walked to the tower, and simply stood in front of it. Kai touched it once again, looking up as far as he could see. Truly, it was too far up to see if there even WAS a top. It was farther than the clouds allowed him to see, and even then, it was farther than that.

Autumn Blaze looked at it reminiscingly, smiling and looking to Kai.

“Somehow, it feels like forever since we've met each other. Even though it's barely been a day.” Kai looked to her, meeting the girl's eyes. “Are we great friends already?” Autumn Blaze's question was hopeful, and Kai couldn't help but feel happy.

“Yeah. The greatest friends.” Kai extended his fist to Autumn Blaze, and she bumped his fist with her hoof.

“The greatest friends.” She repeated. After a few moments of silence between the two, her eyebrows rose. She let out a short laugh. “We should go help the other kirin before we start remincing… Rememberencing?”

“…Reminiscing?”

“THAT'S the word!” Done with that bout of word solving, the pair turned from the tower, and walked back on the path through the forest.

It didn't take too long to reach their destination, but it didn't seem any different than either remembered. The village was quiet and peaceful, with kirin walking about emotionlessly. Autumn Blaze hesitated to continue into the village, something Kai could see obviously.

“Want to wait here?” The kirin shook her head, but couldn't will herself to move forward.

“I don't want to wait… but I can't face them again. They just… I just…” She looked down in guilt. “I just can't.”

“It's okay. I'll do it.” Without even waiting for a reply, Kai walked foward to speak to Rain Shine.

“…Good luck.”

Kai and Rain Shine were at an impass. Kai was dedicated to getting them to see reason and cure themselves. Rain Shine was pretty firm about shaking her head. It was annoying the saiyan to no end.

“Look! I know things can go wrong, but you can't be happy if you don't let yourself feel anything!” Rain Shine shook her head for what seemed to be the twentieth time, causing Kai to finally break. “GAAH!! Enough of this!” Kai sprang up from his seat, and snatched his traveling bag. “If you aren't gonna listen, I'll convince everyone else. You can't stop me if everyone else wants the cure!”

Kai stomped out, but Rain Shine was close behind, trying to catch up and get his attention. The saiyan's stride was too fast, however, so the kirin leader was unable to stop him. When she saw where he was headed, her emotionless expression seemed to deepen somehow. Her eyes met with a very familiar kirin's eyes.

“Autumn Blaze, c'mon. This one won't listen, so we're gonna convince everyone else!” It was clear Kai was angry, but Autumn Blaze didn't understand why exactly. He seemed patient enough just a few minutes ago.

“How?”

“I don't know!” Autumn Blaze flinched. “Sorry, I-I didn't mean to yell. I'm just angry.” Kai felt a tap on his leg, and looked over to see Rain Shine, her emotionless face having a bit of a different sight. More of a ‘See?’ kind of expression. “Oh, don't give me that look. You can't even feel happy about being right, so I don't wanna hear—er—see a thing from you.”

“Okay, Kai. Stop it.” Autumn Blaze sighed, getting his attention. “It isn't working. Nothing will. Let's just…” She teared up slightly, before turning away. “Let's just go!” Her exclamation gathered the other kirins' attention, and they watched on emotionlessly. “They just don't care! All of the laughs, the songs, the good times—they don't care!!”

Kai was a bit shocked to see the previously cheery and happy kirin look and act so defeated. But what really upset him was seeing Autumn Blaze start to cry, sobbing softly as tears ran down her cheeks.

“A…Autumn Blaze…” Kai hated this feeling of uselessness. The only cure to Autumn Blaze's tears was the kirins taking the cure to their silence, and that wasn't happening. The saiyan held his head with his right hand, holding his own sadness back. He never really had anything to begin with. Having family and friends only to lose the things that made them that way was something the saiyan couldn't begin to understand.

The kirins of the village seemed to gain some emotion to their features—sympathy. They looked to one another, and seemed to mutually feel a sense of longing, but still were unsure. However, a single kirin walked forward, moving in front of Autumn Blaze. They tapped her shoulder, making her look up.

“H…huh?” The kirin that got her attention gestured to themself, then to Autumn Blaze, but then looked away. “I don't know what you're trying to say. I'll NEVER know what you're trying to say.”

“Ah! Maybe…” Kai began. “Maybe they DO care, but they're still scared.” That kirin nodded to confirm what he speculated. “Seriously… Anger's like everything else. Take Autumn Blaze.” Kai looked to the other kirin, gesturing at his friend. “Her being happy to finally talk made you all banish her. Even happiness can be used wrongly, but it isn't the emotion you should blame. It's how you use it.”

Now, the kirin seemed contemplative yet again, looking to each other and being able to talk through gestures. Finally, it seemed they came to a decision, one that the kirin who stood by Autumn Blaze expressed. Or, tried to express.

“I still don't know what you're trying to say!” Autumn Blaze exclaimed as the other Kirin made gestures. For as much as the Kirin tried to comunicate, Autumn Blaze just didn't understand. She let out an angered groan. “This is so… frustrating! It's making me furious!”

Autumn Blaze's eyes began to glow white, her teeth grit, indicating an imminent nirik transformation. However, Kai put a hand to her head, getting her attention away from her anger momentarily.

“Cool off—it's alright. Take a breath.” He instructed, calming her down.

“Right. Sorry.” Autumn Blaze breathed in deep, her anger vanishing as she followed it with an exhale. “I'm good now.” If the other kirin weren't sold before, seeing another kirin calm themselves and resist turning into a nirik did the trick. Not just the one Kirin gestured, but every kirin. “Okay, are you hungry?” She tried interpretting the gesture they made to their opened mouths. They shook their heads. “Oh, no. Is some kirin trapped in a well?”

The kirin seemed more deadpan than usual, and turned to Kai, repeating their gestures.

“Hm?” Kai tilted his head, taking the task of reading signs and movement. “…Mouth…” They followed the gesture with a point to Autumn Blaze. “…Autumn Blaze's mouth?” Then, while still pointing to Autumn Blaze, the ponted to themselves. “I think they want to kiss you?” Quick head shakes proved that wrong, the lone speaking kirin going red in the face. “Not that.” They moved their lips, nothing coming out of course. Then, it hit Kai. “Ahh! You want to take the cure like Autumn Blaze did!?”

Finally, nods of affirmation. Kai pumped his fist into the air, Autumn Blaze grinning largely.

“You have no idea how happy that makes me!” Her lips fell into a frown, and she looked to Kai worriedly. “But now… we have to find more of the cure. You at least had an idea, right?”

Kai gave a confident grin, and put up his thumb.

“Nope!” So thrown off by the confident posture of the saiyan, Autumn Blaze smiled back and nodded.

…Then her eyes widened.

“Wait, what?”

“I have no idea where to find it, but I'm not worried at all! I'll find some more foal's-breath in no time!” Kai didn't even wait for a response, and simply ran off farther into the village. His idea was that maybe there was some left in the village, since the forest yielded none.

The kirin looked to him as he finally left their sight, and then looked to Autumn Blaze.

“Well… he DID say he would convince every kirin, so…” The others nodded, and went about their day, all hoping the cure would be found.

“Even though I said that…” Kai walked by a tree, hands behind his head. He sighed. “I don't have a clue where I can find foal's-breath. Never even seen it.” Another sigh, realising he really did let an entire village down. Kai's attention was suddenly on a random chittering. His eyes locked onto a squirrel, and then he recognised it. “You're the squirrel from earlier!” The saiyan chuckled sheepishly. “Sorry, I don't have the fruits and nuts I promised.”

The squirrel let out a small sound again, and stood straight up with a salute. It then pointed to itself.

“Eh? Want me to follow you again?” Kai translated, getting a nod. “Lead the way.” He told the squirrel without hesitation. The last time he followed the squirrel, it showed him a shortcut. This time, he could only imagine.

The squirrel ran to a familiar crevice, giving another motion for Kai to follow. Kai did so, giving his leader a curious stare. He followed when the squirrel went through the crevice, putting his bag down to crouch and crawl through the cramped space until it became manageable. Finally exitting, Kai cast another look to the squirrel, who scampered through the bushes and to where they first met.

Kai followed, and finally saw what the squirrel was leading him to. The squirrel family was all cozy, the hole from earlier still patched up with flowers. The squirrel pointed.

“Aww… You and your family are so cute! I'm glad you're doing so well.” Kai smiled, but it was an apologetic one. “But, um, I've gotta look for something called ‘foal's-breath’. Don't suppose you know where I can find some?” To that, the squirrel never stopped pointing, shaking strongly to emphasise the action. “Huh?” Kai followed the point with his eyes, and finally saw what was being pointed at. “Yeah, those are pretty, but I'm looking for—” His eyes widened. “Wait a sec'! THOSE are…!?”

The squirrel nodded, and grabbed one of the flowers, holding it out to the saiyan.

“Ah… But… but what about your home?” The squirrel simply shook its head, and kept holding out the flower. Kai's smile was genuine, as he bowed low. “Thank you, so much! You're helping so many kirins by doing this.” He accepted the flower, but quickly realised something. “Huh… Now that I think about it, there's no way every single kirin there can drink tea with these few flowers. There has to be a better…” The squirrel's chittering interrupted him. It raised its arms into the air, and spread them wide. Then, it made a diving motion. “Their water supply! You're a genius!”

Kai turned and started towards the shortcut to the Peaks of Peril. He waved to the squirrel and its family, and they waved back.

“It's showtime!”

Autumn Blaze sat calmly as she waited, glancing about at the village she used to call home. It was odd, seeing every kirin go about their lives in silence. Truthfully, she hadn't participated in this for too long—her breaking point was always close. So, seeing them now, living normally… it felt weird. They COULD live, but without emotion and communication, were they REALLY living? Not to her, no.

The speaking kirin looked up when she heard steps approaching fast, and smiled hopefully when she saw it was Kai. Autumn Blaze stood and ran to meet him halfway.

“Well? Did you find it?” Kai put his hands behind his back, and gave a solemn expression. It was clear what that meant to Autumn Blaze. “O…oh…”

A grin suddenly split his face.

“Gotcha!” Kai returned the prank from their first encounter, holding the foal's-breath out towards the shocked Autumn Blaze. “We can put this in the water, and everything'll be okay!”

Autumn Blaze was so stunned at what this all meant, she couldn't even respond for a moment. A moment later, she matched Kai's splitting grin.

“I'm so happy, Kai! Let's take care of this, once and for all!”

“Yeah!” The duo ran to the fountain-esque water source that the kirin drank from, and Kai gave the foal's-breath to Autumn Blaze. “You can do the honors.”

“Thanks.” Autumn Blaze carefully dropped the foal's-breath into the water supply, turning it from light blue—nearly clear—to a deep blue. They watched the kirin come to drink the water, and let out relieved sighs. The kirin were shocked to find themselves sighing at all, and tried speaking.

It worked! The kirin could speak again, and they rejoiced in that fact by singing and laughing.

Kai and Autumn Blaze bumped fist-to-hoof, a mission well-done. They glanced to the side, seeing Rain Shine approaching. Kai stepped back and allowed the two to speak.

Rain Shine smiled brightly.

“Autumn Blaze, you have given us a gift. The realization that anger is within us, but it is our choice how we let it out.” Autumn Blaze teared up a bit, tears of joy about to fall from her eyes. “We would very much like it if you came back to live with us. I can't say how much we've missed your beautiful voice.”

With a truly happy smile, Autumn Blaze decided to give her village what they missed. With a short glance to Kai, she winked, and he understood what she planned to do. He gave her a thumbs up, and smiled back.

“'Cause rainbows won't light up the sky/Unless you let it rain/And candles just won't glow until they're burned!” Autumn Blaze splashed the curing water with her fellow kirin, and they all laughed and joined. “No, you can't give up your laughter/'Cause you're scared of a little pain/It's a lesson that my village never learned/Oh, yes, 'cause rainbows won't light up the sky/Unless you let it...” She put her hoof down onto the water spraying fountain, making the waterflow imitate the rain. “Raaaaaaaain!!”

The sun shining on the water formed a dazzling rainbow, awing everyone present.

All was finally right in the village of the kirin.

But, it wasn't over yet. After all, Kai still had a reason for coming here. After spending time with the kirin, Kai had a few questions for Rain Shine. He opened up with his questions by holding up a Dragon Ball.

“Rain Shine, do you happen to have one of these?” Rain Shine's eyebrows rose at the sight of the sphere.

“But of course. It was bestowed upon me by our guardian. The Dragon Balls are a sign of our—” Autumn Blaze snickered, getting a deadpanned stare from Rain Shine. “…Really?”

“Sorry, sorry. But, who names anything after…” Seeing she was only getting looks of annoyance, Autumn Blaze cleared her throat and remained silent. “I'll stop talking now.”

“Please, do.” Rain Shine directed her attention back to Kai. “Why do you seek the… Wishing Orbs?” She shifted an eye to Autumn Blaze, seeing the humor leave her face after changing how they were adressed.

“More for the adventure than the wish, but I'm still thinking about that wish.” Kai answered back, putting the ball back into his satchel. “I've got three, so I'm getting closer. Could I have yours?”

The kirin leader seemed to be uncomfortable with the request.

“Well… the ball means quite a bit to the village…” The kirin smiled. “But… after everything you have done for us, out of the kindness in your heart, I suppose we can part with it.” Rain Shine stood, and turned to walk to a pedestal with a pillow atop it, and grabbed something that was covered with a dark blue sheet. She returned to the table, and set the object down, uncovering it. “Here you are. The ‘One-star’.”

True to her words, Kai could see that this Dragon Ball only had one star. He let out a short cheer, and went to take the ball.

“Thanks a ton!” Putting the ball into his satchel, the saiyan gave Rain Shine a curious look. “Oh, one more thing. Autumn said you were the only kirin who knew about that tower. Could you tell me about it?”

Rain Shine looked to Autumn Blaze, her eyebrow raised.

“Every kirin knows the legend. Autumn Blaze simply does not listen.”

“Hey!”

“The story is as such…” Rain Shine closed her eyes. “Long, long ago, we kirins did not even know about our transformations into niriks. I was very young at the time of finding this out. Once, a very grumpy, bitter old kirin had had enough of us youths, and finally bursted. He alone burned everything we knew and loved to ash. The grass, our homes, everything. It was then that we discovered such a form existed, and that by being in that state for too long, we can actually burn ourselves out—in other words, die.”

A small smile fell over the kirin's face.

“Then, HE appeared. A very strange, tall and green individual. He looked upon our destroyed home with sympathy, and spoke to me. I explained what had occured, and he sighed. ‘So beautiful, yet so volatile.’ He said. With a wave of his… um…”

“Hand?” Kai supplied, holding up his own.

“Yes, ‘hand’. With a wave of his hand, our home was back. The forest, the trees, our houses… Then, he gave my head a pat, and flew up to the top of the tower.” She felt her head with a hoof, feeling the contact to this day. “Every kirin witnessed it, and knew that this being was our guardian. The story often is misconstrued, but we agree that this guardian represents the kirin in some way; whether he created us himself, or is here to keep us safe from harm. Thusly, we named that tower… Kirin Tower.”

Both Kai and Autumn Blaze were beyond awed by that story. Autumn Blaze could swear she actually WAS told the story, but maybe Rain Shine was right about her not listening… Meanwhile, Kai was thinking deep about this tower.

“How tall is it? And… what's at the top?” Kai asked.

“We do not know what exactly greets us at the top, however, we speculate that our guardian rests at the top. As for how tall… I know from experience, the height is unreal.”

“You climbed it?” Rain Shine grimaced.

“Attempted. You see, the legend of climbing Kirin Tower is odd. One must climb with nothing but their own body, so no flight or magic. If they do, then extreme power will be granted to whomever manages to succeed.” The leader sighed. “I wished to thank our guardian, but after four days of climbing, I reached my limit, and fell off. The last thing I recalled seeing was the tower, with no top in sight.”

Kai put a finger to his chin in thought.

“Hm… I think I'll give it a try sometime.” He decided firmly. “But for now, I should probably get going to the next Dragon Ball.”

“Wouldn't you like to spend the night?” Rain Shine offered, smiling gratefully. “You are more than welcomed to stay however long you wish.”

Much like the last offer he was given, Kai simply shook his head.

“Nah, sorry. I'm closer, but I've still got alot of work to do.” Before he could even stand up, Kai was under attack by a tight hug, courtesy of Autumn Blaze. “A-Autumn?”

“Thank you for everything, Kai. I'll never forget you.” Autumn Blaze squeezed tighter as she said that.

Kai froze for a moment, unused to hugs. He quickly returned the hug, chuckling softly.

“You'd BETTER not forget me. I'll visit when I can, so you won't have to worry.”

“Promise?” With a final squeeze between friends, Kai nodded.

“Promise.”

Kai looked out to the village, hoping it the best before he left. Promising to visit reminded him of another promise. Reaching in his bag, he pulled something out, holding it between his cupped hands. The saiyan glanced around.

Familiar chittering brought his attention to the squirrel family that had help him throughout this adventure. Kai knelt down, smiling at the family.

“I'll be leaving now. I'm gonna visit, so don't worry.” He said softly. The squirrel family seemed saddened, but they accepted it. “Here. Just like I promised.” Kai spread his hands, pooling a surplus of nuts and berries in front of the squirrel family. Never had he seen a shocked squirrel.

With a chuckle, Kai stood, and began walking off. He heard the squirrels make more noise, and he looked back to see them waving. Kai waved back, and continued walking off.

Noir

Deep in the shadows stood three figures. None could be seen properly, but they spoke nonetheless.

“Your mission is to find out if this ‘All-powerful sphere’ is what I think it is.” One voice, unmistakenly masculine commanded. “If any stand in your way, don't waste time. Kill them and move on. Understood?”

“Acknowledged.” Also masculine was the voice that responded. “What are my orders after confirming or disproving the rumors?”

“If they're true, take it. If not, the outcome will still be the same. Destroy them all.” A short pause followed. “Dismissed.”

There were suddenly only two figures.

“…What if he runs into trouble, or fails, sir?” A voice, certainly female inquired.

“Then there will be space for a second-in-command. It would benefit you greatly, now wouldn't it?” Responded the other individual, a tone filled with gleeful betrayal.

“Yes. But our plans would be hastened severely, were he to succeed.”

“Perhaps… But I can't have someone like him being by my side all the time. I need someone I can trust. Someone… like you.” A dark chuckle sounded from his shadowed position. “What say you… Tempest Shadow?”

Chapter 5

Noir

With so many Dragon Balls, Kai had to transfer a few into his bag to ensure he could have more room in his satchel. Dragon Radar in hand, the saiyan was off to his next destination. This one was far out of Equestria, if the radar was accurate to his memory map. Sure, the last time he saw a map was when he was younger and being taught, but he still retained the memories.

Kai gave a glance around, seeing his surroundings were close to water, but not quite a waterland or anything. He approached a rather large mountain and found himself marveling before the sight. It was pretty amazing.

According to his radar, the Dragon Ball was right where the mountain was. Meaning, it was either somewhere inside the mountain—fat chance—or it was at the very top. Oh, how he wished he could fly…

No matter. Kai could still do this the old fashioned way, so he began climbing the mountain directly vertically...

…Until he noticed an obvious path to his side. Kai felt dumb, and he quickly went over to the path, walking up the mountain with much less effort.

As he progressed, the saiyan thought about things. It had been over three weeks since he started his journey—almost an entire month. In all of this time, he had found three Dragon Balls, but only two from adventuring. He only counted the week of being in Canterlot because of the one he had received from the Great and Powerful Trixie on the way. Right now, it seemed his rate of finding the balls was one every week. By that time, he had three more weeks, unless he found this one today. If not, then it would mark four weeks, and thusly, a couple days shy of a month.

All in all, Kai felt like his time was good. Without the radar, this quest would have been going on forever, with only two Dragon Balls found. Still, he couldn't help but miss what he had left behind. Rarity had been so sad, and he was still worried about Fluttershy. Sweetie Belle needed some independence, since he always coddled her. Their parents were probably worrying up a storm about him. But he knew that everypony at home was going to be just fine. Rarity and Fluttershy now had each other. He hoped Sweetie Belle could find some friends. And… well, his adoptive parents were never not worried, so he didn't know the bright side of that.

Letting out a huff of humor and relief, Kai gladly noted he only had a short bit of mountain to go. He gave the radar yet another look and saw that he was on the right track. He pocketed it and looked ahead with a smile.

Very soon, Kai was at the top of the mountain. Rather, he was at a town at the top of the mountain. He hadn't expected that.

“Wow… A town on a mountain.” He whispered to himself. He moved on, walking to the entrance of this mountain town and glancing around calmly.

“Stop right there.” Kai glanced to his side, seeing a strange stallion in armor giving him a hard stare. He was different from a normal pony, with claws on his front legs, and hooves on his back legs. A pair of wings adorned his back. “Only hippogriffs are allowed in Hippogriffia. Turn back.”

“Huh… Guess that makes sense…” Kai admitted. The place was named after what they were. “But can ya make an exception, just this once?” Kai pleaded, putting his hands together and bowing. “I'm looking for something that's super important. I promise to leave right after I find it!”

The hippogriff guard searched the saiyan's face for any sort of deception or something indicating he was a threat. There was nothing, but the guard still had to enforce the rules.

“…I'll give you a chance, at least. Wait here.” The guard commanded, and turned to walk into the town.

“Thanks!” Kai dropped himself down onto the ground, crossing his legs to wait patiently. As he watched the guard leave, Kai noticed the town of hippogriffs; so peaceful and happy. It was nice, seeing an entire species so unaffected by the height of this mountain. Not to mention how thin the air was. A castle was in sight in the distance, and Kai guessed that was where the ruler lived.

There wasn't much else to think about, until a few passing hippogriffs noticed him. They seemed hesitant to come any closer to him, but Kai could tell it wasn't from a place of bigotry like back home. It was just because they had never seen him before. So, less bigotry, and more unsure, hesitant curiousity. Kai simply waved with a smile, getting the locals to stare with wide eyes, and speak amongst themselves.

At least they weren't ignoring him or running. In fact, a small, pale-pink hippogriff ended up running towards him, and meeting his eye with her big, green eyes. She seemed to want better eye-contact, considering how small she was, so she put her clawed front legs to Kai's leg, and pushed herself up a bit.

“Uh… um…” She put on a brave face, and hardened her stare. “My name is… F-Fang…” Kai glanced at her opened mouth to see if there was a reason for her name. Indeed, two fangs replaced the normally blunt teeth of a pony. She possessed canines, and sharp ones at that. “And I'm not afraid of you!”

Kai stared in surprise. Were the inhabitants scared of him, or was this a child just trying to be brave in the face of the unknown? Either way, Kai respected her for it, and lifted his left hand. When he lowered it, Fang flinched, but held strong. She showed surprise when Kai started ruffling her light green mane.

“I'm Kai. But you're pretty scary yourself, aren't you?” Kai spoke with his usual smile. Fang looked confused, before reflecting on her actions. Approaching a random creature, only to yell that she wasn't afraid… If he had done that to her, she would be having nightmares for weeks.

“I'm sorry…”

“Don't worry about it.” Kai shrugged off immediately, seeing the hippogriff actually feeling guilty. “Well, I'm glad you're not afraid, Fang. There're alot of ponies I know who I terrify. Not to brag, but I can get pretty scary.” Kai boasted unconvincingly, getting a look from Fang. “Boo!” Instead of showing fear, Fang started to giggle. “Hey…! I'm supposed to be scary, not funny!” That only got more laughter from the girl.

Little known fact about Kai, number two. He was really good with kids. Although... he only interracted with Sweetie Belle before... He was still very good with kids.

“Mister Kai! Can I show you to my friends?” Fang suddenly spoke up, smiling brightly.

“Mister? How old do I look…?” Kai shook his head. “Sorry, but I can't enter your town until the guard comes back to tell me if I can.” He let her down gently.

“Aw…” Fang sighed, but accepted it. She knew that the guard here was so stubborn. He never stopped to play or anything.

Speaking of that guard, Kai noticed him approaching with a strong walk. Fang noticed Kai's gaze shift, and shifted her own gaze to see what he saw.

“Hi, Mister Stratus!” Fang greeted happily.

The guard, Stratus, gave her a look, and then looked to Kai.

“‘Mister’, she says…” The guard shook his head and focussed on Kai. “The Queen wishes to have a word with you. Your intentions are unclear.” Kai nodded and stood up, holding Fang to make sure she didn't lose her balance and hurt herself. His care for the young hippogriff caught Stratus' attention. “And Fang. Shouldn't you be inside? You injured your wing, right?”

“It was just a scratch!” Fang protested, spreading her wings out to show the minimal damage, patched up with a small bandaid. “See?”

“Go home, kiddo.” Stratus told her, before giving Kai a gesture to follow him.

“Fiiine…” Fang walked back inside of the town. “Bye, Mister Kai!” She called out as she left.

“Later, Fang!” Kai called back, and went to follow the guard. The two were silent for a bit, until the saiyan spoke. “So… You have a Queen?”

The guard cast a look back to Kai.

“Doesn't every kingdom?” Stratus asked rhetorically.

“No, actually. Equestria just has a Princess.” The guard seemed surprised, but he hid it greatly.

“You're from Equestria?”

“More-or-less.” Kai didn't quite consider Equestria his home, but he did come from there.

“Well here, there's our Queen, Novo, and her daughter, Princess Skystar.” Kai let out a hum of acknowledgement. “So, care to tell me your real reason for coming here?”

“Huh? Oh, it's to find something. I know it has to be around this area, so I just need to find it.” Kai explained, his reason not changing from the last time he spoke it.

“Hm. You'd better be telling the truth. Queen Novo dislikes outsiders, so you really should just find what you came for and leave. IF she believes your story.” The saiyan put his hands behind his head, sighing exhaustedly.

“Geez, this Queen of yours sounds strict.” Stratus only chuckled.

“You've no idea.” It wasn't long after that the two reached the castle, and Stratus entered first. “Enter.” Kai nodded and complied.

The inside of this castle was nothing like Canterlot's castle. There was a notable amount of guards around, all seeming to focus on Kai. Kai didn't notice, observing the nice decorations around the castle. Stratus gave a signal to the other guards, and they all focussed on the castle doors instead.

Stratus continued leading Kai to the Queen, but Kai was a bit slow to follow. He managed, of course, but taking in the castle was a bit too pressing on his list of importance.

Finally, they seemed to make it to the main room, but Kai had something to say first.

“Dude, this castle is killer. I really need to rule over something.” Stratus would have face-clawed, but they were in a certain hippogriff's presence.

“You idiot…! Bow…!” He whispered sharply and through grit teeth. Kai looked to him, and then to whom he was supposed to bow to.

Kai smiled, and walked towards the center of the room.

“Queen Novo.” Indeed, the Queen of the hippogriffs sat upon her sizely throne. The casual greeting from an outsider had her brow line lowering, though.

“I suppose bowing before a Queen is beyond you?” Queen Novo asked irritably.

“Yup. Nothin' personal, though.”

“This won't take long…” The Queen muttered, rolling her eyes. She gave a small gesture, dismissing any guards from the room. “My guard tells me you intend to find and ‘take’ something from the town I am ruling over. Anything I rule over is mine, you realise.”

“Yeah, I guess. But if you don't know where it is, then finders-keepers.” Queen Novo stared for a few seconds. She stood, and approached Kai with a look akin to murder.

“What did you just say to me?” Obviously rhetorical, since she didn't allow any time to respond. “You come to MY castle, and offer ME an ultimatum of some sort!? You have far overstepped your boundaries.” She glared right at Kai. “I believe I've spent enough time on—”

“Mooom!!” A loud voice rang out, interrupting Queen Novo's dismissal. The Queen rolled her eyes with clear frustration, before turning slowly. Kai also averted his gaze to whomever yelled.

“Not right now, Skystar. I'm bus—”

“Can I skip breakfast to have sweets?” The form of Princess Skystar slowly came into view, seeming clear that she woke up recently.

“Absolutely not.”

“Y'know, sweets in the morning is bad for you.”

“Don't scold my daughter.” Kai only shrugged.

Now, everything Princess Skystar's mother said always went in one ear and out the other, but a creature that had never been seen!? Well, it still went in one ear and out the other, but this was a never before seen creature standing here. What else should she do but talk to it—him, if the voice was anything to go by.

“Wow! What are you!?” The young princess ran up to Kai, poking and prodding at his leg, and hovering up to poke the rest of him.

Kai beamed under the attention he was receiving, and spread his arms to allow a better inspection for the princess.

“I'm a saiyan! My name's Kai. What's yours?”

“I'm Skystar!” There was an obvious throat clearing behind her, surely from her mother. Skystar rolled her eyes. “Princess Skystar.” She smiled. “But you can call me Skystar.” The princess whispered to Kai. When she poked his chest, she let out a short sound of surprise. “What are you made of? You're so sturdy!”

“Oh, I'm made of normal flesh like you. I just train a bunch, so I'm pretty well-built.” Kai gladly explained.

Skystar seemed to want to say something back, but Queen Novo spoke first, clearing her throat to gather attention.

“While I am glad you're excited to meet someone new, Kai must be going.” She gave Kai a hard look. “Isn't that right, Kai?”

Without hesitation, Kai responded.

“Huh? No, no. I still have to find that ball. I won't leave 'till I do.” Queen Novo felt a headache coming on. Either he was an idiot that didn't understand what tones were, or he was extremely disrespectful and uncaring. Either way, the Queen was not pleased.

“You have already overstayed your welcome. You can leave on your own, or my guards can THROW you out.” Kai smirked, and cracked his knuckles.

“Waaaait!” Before Queen Novo could follow through with her threat, or Kai could take her up on the threat, Princess Skystar spoke loudly. They looked to her, her mother with a look of waning patience, the saiyan with curiousity. “What kind of ball do you want? I've got a bunch that I never get to use.”

“You are seriously trying my patience, my daughter…” Queen Novo gritted out through her teeth.

“Sorry! I just don't get why you're being so mean about a ball!” Argued the princess. “I mean, I have that beach ball from a few years back. I don't even know how to swim, and you don't like the beach!”

Kai laughed loudly, gathering looks from the royal figures. Scratching his head, the saiyan adressed Skystar.

“I apreciate it, Skystar, but the ball I'm looking for isn't your ordinary bouncy ball.” Kai unzipped and reached into his waist satchel, pulling out the contents in a hand. He held up the ball he was searching for. “I'm looking for—”

“A Dragon Ball!!” That exclaimation from Princess Skystar shocked Kai, hence his widened eyes.

“You know about these?”

“Do I ever!” She grinned, and made a huge motion with her claws. “I read all about the Dragon Balls in books and scrolls—kinda all I have to do nowadays.” The hippogriff explained, floating closer to Kai to see his Dragon Ball better. “Ooh! Yours has four stars! So cool!”

“Eh? ‘Mine’?” Kai repeated. “Does that mean…!?”

“Mhm! I've got one of my own!” The saiyan pumped his fists enthusiastically, returning the grin Skystar wore with one of his own.

“Bingo!” He put the ball back into his satchel, and crossed his arms with determination. “I wanna gather all seven, and I'm only three short. Can I have yours?”

“Can I come with you with you summon Shenron!?” The princess nearly begged.

“Of course!”

“Then ye—”

“Wait just a minute!” Cutting off their excited conversation again was Queen Novo, looking far less pleased than before. “Neither of you gets to decide who gets ANYTHING. Skystar, you will go to your room. Kai, you will leave Hippogrifia. My orders are absolute!”

“But mom!”

“Enough!” Princess Skystar pouted, glaring at her mother for a moment. Her gaze fell onto Kai again, and she gave him a short nod.

“Stay here for a sec'. I'll be right back.” She assured, before zipping off with a gust of air.

“If you return, you will be grounded for a month!!” Queen Novo threatened loudly.

“Worth it!” Kai couldn't help but chuckle at the young Hippogriff's cheek.

While Queen Novo fumed, the saiyan adjusted his bag and eyed her curiously.

“…Someone must have betrayed your trust before, huh?” The Queen's eye shifted to him in a glare.

“What?”

“It's okay. I've been there before.” Kai continued casually, knowing he was heard.

The ruling hippogriff's glare deepened.

“As if your supposed betrayal could ever hope to compare to my own! Has your entire kingdom ever been in jeopardy!? Oh, what's that? Don't even HAVE a kingdom!?”

“My EXISTENCE has been in jeopardy, lady!” Queen Novo stopped, staring to see Kai's face. No deceit. Her glare lessened, but her frown deepened. “You ever feel loved, only to be told you weren't? It sucks pretty badly.”

“Wh…what?”

“If you love that girl of yours, show it and mean it. It's more than my mom showed me.” To Kai's surprisingly calm reveal of his own betrayal, Queen Novo was wide eyed. No wonder he didn't bow, he probably COULDN'T show respect. Who would after being betrayed by the one individual one would expect to be the most trustworthy…?

That made Queen Novo think. Her treatment of her daughter… She was doing everything to keep her safe, but it probably didn't seem like that. To her daughter, it likely appeared she disliked her. It was awful to think of.

“…I… apologise. For my behavior.” Queen Novo said nothing more, but she really didn't need to. Kai understood.

“I forgive you, Queen.” Hard steps caused Kai's head to flick to his right, and he saw Skystar returning with a shaky yet determined stride.

Princess Skystar looked to her mother, took a breath, and then looked to Kai.

“Here. I-I…” She cleared her throat. “I brought you the Dragon Ball.” Her eye met her mother's. “Even if it means I'll get grounded.” She added, holding out the ball to Kai.

“Skystar… My daughter, I'm not going to ground you.” Queen Novo stated.

“You're not?”

“No. And… I'm sorry for being so harsh before.” Princess Skystar stared, eyes wide.

“Oh…” She smiled. “It's okay!” Queen Novo smiled back, and motioned to Kai. The princess understood the motion and moved closer to the saiyan so he could have the ball.

“Awesome! Thanks, Skystar!” Kai reached for the ball. When he grabbed at it… it wasn't there anymore? “Huh?”

“What the…?”

“Behind you!” Queen Novo exclaimed, getting Kai to whirl around with a start.

“Who…?” His eyebrows rose.

Before the trio was a strange bipedal individual, standing taller than Kai. He looked alien, even less normal than the abnormal saiyan. With purple skin, this individual glared calmly through grey eyes, most of his facial features going unseen due to a black mask from the bridge of his nose to his chin. He wore an all black skin-tight outfit, but had a black armor of a sort on his upper body. The only feature of his outfit that wasn't black was the blue symbol on the right chest of his armor. Also armored, were the gauntlets and boots he wore on his hands and feet respectively.

Kai saw the Dragon Ball in the individual's left hand, and clenched his fists.

“Hey! That was about to be mine!” That got no response from the thief. “Who are you, anyway? You don't look like a saiyan, so…”

“I am whatever I need to be. Thief, distraction, mercenary…” He finally spoke, his voice calm and quiet. “I am not from this planet, but I have a purpose.”

“Not… from this planet?” Kai was an alien, sure. But at least he was born on the planet. Meeting a real alien was conflicting; cool, but considering the situation, not cool.

“I am Noir. And I come looking for a ‘Sphere of grandiose power’. This seems to fit the bill.” The alien held up the Dragon Ball, never taking his eyes off of Kai.

“Well, it isn't yours to take. Give it back.” The saiyan demanded.

“I cannot do that.”

“Then I'll have to make you!” Kai took off his bag and satchel, setting them both on the floor. He gave this supposed Noir a glare, and walked closer to him. “Last chance to give it back.” The only response he earned was that same stare. “Fine. Queen, Princess, stay back.”

The royal figures could somehow feel how bad this seemed. An unknown alien versus a very slightly more known alien, fighting one another. The hippogriffs backed up.

“I would heavily suggest against this course of action.” Noir spoke calmly, never dropping the Dragon Ball.

“Yeah? And I'd suggest giving that back, but you're not gonna.” Kai poised, fists clenching tightly. Noir took no stance. “Hyaah!!”

Kai was quick to dash in, swinging his right leg to strike his opponent's head. The attack was blocked with Noir's right hand, giving the saiyan an idea. The latter flipped behind the former, and attempted to connect an elbow strike to his back, but that too, is a failure. Noir simply side-stepped out of harm's way. His right hook failed, as did his left cross, flying dropkick, roundhouse kick—nothing was working. With a single hand, Noir blocked or dodged every attack.

“Your inexperience shows.” Noir noted after Kai overextended himself with a particular strike. Kai was quick to recover and strike yet again. That return kick and the three that followed had a similar issue of not hitting their mark.

“Dammit, stay still!”

Queen Novo and Princess Skystar watched in great surprise. Kai was very fast, and each blow had the intent to win the fight. Yet this Noir was even faster, and hadn't thrown a single punch.

“Enough.” Redact that, Noir struck quickly and powerfully, just after Kai missed yet another punch. Reeling from the shot to his gut, Kai coughed loudly over Noir's fist. “End this foolish attempt, or I will be forced to—”

“Heh…” Kai huffed, smirking at the alien confidently. Noir's frown depened. “I've gotcha now…” True to that, Kai had Noir's right wrist in his left hand, and was not letting go. “DODGE THIIIS!!” As strongly as he could, Kai punched Noir in the face with his free hand. His smirk dropped when he saw that his attack had no effect whatsoever. “N…no way…!”

Noir took his hand back, and stepped back to form distance.

“Do you see the difference in our power? If so, end this now and surrender. I have no more time to waste on you.” Kai grit his teeth, his body trembling from… something. Fear? Anger? Determination?

All Kai knew was that he wouldn't just quit because a few hits didn't work. He jumped back, taking another stance.

“You stole from this place, so you'll stay as long as I can fight!” The saiyan's declaration was met with a look of annoyance.

“Very well.” Noir lifted his right index finger, and charged a beam of ki in an instant. That beam pierced right through Kai before he could even react. The shot had to have hit his left lung, because he immediately coughed up blood, and staggered for a moment. Kai grit his teeth, trying to work through the worst pain of his life. However, a second shot just below the last stopped his struggling instantly.

“N…nn…oo…” Kai fell back, hitting the floor hard. Blood gushed from his wounds, and spewed from his mouth. The saiyan's eyes rolled into the back of his head… and he ceased breathing.

“KAI!!” Princess Skystar was by his side in an instant, shaking him as if she would awaken him from a nap. Tears formed in her eyes, and she glared at the alien that did this. “You…! You murderer!!”

“I would not recommend getting in my way, unless you intend to join him.” Noir threatened, turning to leave. The princess flinched, settling for glaring.

“You said your name was Noir.” Queen Novo spoke up suddenly. A glare, more serious than anything she had ever mustered before crossed her face. “Know this, Noir. You have killed one welcomed to my kingdom. That will be reciprocated for you and whomever you work for.”

“Your threats do nothing. Though, I am curious to know if you can keep up those threats when you meet the Storm King.” Without another word, Noir simply vanished into thin air.

Neither hipppogriff gave his words a second thought, and instead looked to Kai's body.

“M-m-mom… I-isn't there anything you can do…?” Princess Skystar sobbed out.

“…Perhaps.” Queen Novo lifted her claws up, and moved them over Kai's fatal wounds. “I know a few old spells. Hopefully, this one will work.”

“You're the best, mom!” The Queen grunted, and focused solely on the saiyan's wounds. The horn-like protrusion upon her forehead began to glow dimly, and very soon, so did Kai's wounds.

Princess Skystar gasped, awed at the display. Very soon, the blood stopped flowing from the wounds, leaving two large holes through his ribs and lung. With the power of magic, the very tissue that made up both organ and bone began to reconstruct itself, and was healed fully in the matter of a minute. Queen Novo panted, getting exhausted from using unfamiliar magic, but she persisted. All that was left was healing the skin; a comparatively simple task, but she was drained as it was.

Seconds passed, which felt like hours, but eventually, the wounds were completely gone, leaving only a dark bruise in the place of the injury. Queen Novo sat back, huffing loudly and breathlessly.

“There. Now it will be… up to him.” With that, the two waited for Kai to wake up.

Surprisingly, Princess Skystar didn't even get to become impatient, as the saiyan started coughing loudly. Every cough yielded quite a great deal of blood, worrying the young hippogriff greatly.

“M-mom!? Why's he—”

“Calm down, Skystar. His wounds caused blood to flow into his lung. This is the only way to expell it.” True to that, the bloodflow stopped after a while, and Kai was left gasping for air.

Kai slowly brought himself up, able to barely sit up because of the help of the Queen and Princess.

“Kai! I'm so glad you're okay!” Kai's eyes were unfocussed, and it seemed like a reflex for him to bring his hand to his bruised body.

‘Remarkable… I never expected him to wake up only minutes after essentially dying…’ Queen Novo stared contemplatively.

Kai finally focussed, and looked to Skystar in confusion.

“…Skystar… I… I lost… didn't I…?” At the hippogriff's quiet nod, Kai looked down at the floor between his legs. His scowl deepened, his teeth gritting in frustration. “Dammit!!” He punched the floor, making the princess jump. The floor cracked notably, not that Kai seemed to care. “All of my training, just to be defeated with no effort…! I… I'm so weak!”

As his eyes screwed shut, both Queen an Princess were sympathetic. Queen Novo stepped forward, and put a claw to the saiyan's shoulder. He didn't react, but the hippogriff knew she had his attention.

“Kai, you cannot win every battle. Some battles, you have to lose.” Kai opened his eyes, giving Queen Novo a glance. “If you don't lose, how can you know you need to become stronger?”

“…I guess… But I trained so hard. I thought… I thought I would do way better in a real fight.” Kai looked down again, his attention going to his wounds.

“Go back to Equestria. Rest.”

“Huh?” He looked to Queen Novo in shock. “How'd you know I was from Equestria?”

“Your mannerisms. They simply reek of Celestia's influence. As does any one from Equestria” Queen Novo said irritably. “Even if you are a lot more obvious with it.” She shook her head. “Anyway, you need to go home and rest. Lick your wounds, both physical and mental. Become stronger, and try again one day.” Now, the Queen gave Kai a serious glare. “And no matter what, you are not to return here any time soon. Leave enough time to recover, and forget about this place for the time.”

“B-but—”

“No arguing. I have spoken.” Although she had a royal tone, Queen Novo wore a smile. “I believe in your skills. And I believe in you, Kai.” Kai smiled in response, slowly rising and standing up tall. “Now, get out of here.”

“Right.” Kai took a step, but felt pain in his wound when he moved. He clutched at his ribs with his right hand. “This'll be annoying…”

“Kai!” Skystar got his attention with a call. “You'll be back to visit sometime, right?” She asked hopefully.

“Count on it! I'll even show you the Dragon Ball when I get it back!” Kai's confidence was reassuring, and made Skystar smile happily.

“I can't wait!” Holding his wound, Kai reclaimed his gear, slinging the bag over his shoulder, and refastening the satchel around his waist.

With a final wave, he walked to the doors.

“Don't give each other too much trouble!” To that, the mother and daughter looked to each other, and Skystar smiled sheepishly. Novo gave an amused roll of her eyes. “I'm off!”

“Goodbye, Kai! Oh, that rhymes!”

“Get much stronger, Kai.”

And with that, Kai left the castle, and was soon on his way to leave Hippogrifia.

On the train, Kai rested back in a seat, eyeing the Dragon Radar. He could see the four that he had, the one that Noir had taken, off in the very far distance, and then… wait…

“Huh? Two of them… are together?” Kai muttered aloud, raising an eyebrow in confusion. “I'm positve they were separated a while ago… Who else has been collecting the Dragon Balls?”

Not expecting an answer to fall from the sky, Kai leaned farther back, glancing out of the window with a sigh.

“Well, whatever. I guess for now, I'll head off to Ponyville. I miss Rarity and Sweetie Belle and the others.” And the rest of the trip continued in a dull silence.

Licking Wounds as Trouble Brews

A month had passed since Kai had left, and Rarity was keeping herself quite busy. She had several dress designs in mind, a new outfit in drafting just for Kai when he returns, and a few accessories to make her features just sort of… pop!

The white coated unicorn let out a short exhale, enjoying the little break she had given herself. Sipping tea with her new cat Opalescence was so serene, and she was totally digging her latest dress-in-progress. The mare reached over, giving her pet a small pat of affection, but the cat was a bit… apprehensive of her new owner, so…

Rarity shook off her cat's hiss, unfazed. How could she be? Life was pretty great right now. Opal hissed again, this time at the door. Rarity looked in that direction, and then at her cat.

“What is it, Opal? A customer?” She joked, not quite ready for business just yet. Give it another month or two and she would be ready. Digressing, Rarity received no answer, as expected, so she looked back to the door. She heard a soft series of knocks and stood from her seat. “Coming~!”

With a smile, Rarity strode to the door, absently wondering who it could be. Perhaps Fluttershy. The two had been hitting it off with their friendship and spa sessions. Or maybe a famous fashion critic, here to take her off to a life of fame and fortune!

Shaking off the thoughts, Rarity opened the door.

“Hello!” She chimed out cheerily. The sight she was greeted with was… legs, where a pony's body should be.

“Nice and chipper as always, eh, Rarity?” Rarity's eyes widened, and her head lifted to see the familiar form of…

“K…Kai…?” Kai simply smiled, kneeling down to the unicorn's height. “Kai!!” Rarity hugged the saiyan immediately, squeezing tightly and burying her face in his shoulder.

Kai squeezed back, wincing a bit as the affection agitated his recent battle wound.

“I've missed you so much, Rarity.” The mare sniffled, and gave Kai a teary glare.

“Why didn't you send a letter or anything, Kai!? If you'd told me you would be back so soon, I could have had a proper welcoming party for you!” Kai's expression became troubled, and he shifted his eyes away.

“Ah, well… You see, the thing is…”

Chapter 6

Licking Wounds as Trouble Brews

Kai sat on the couch he had come to know and love through his life, Sweetie Belle sitting on his lap. He made constant leg movements to bump the filly all about, keeping both of them occupied. Rarity hadn't been very happy to hear Kai's story, to say the least. She was in her workshop, making Kai a brand new coat and undershirt, after properly bandaging the saiyan's bruises.

“Kai, Kai!” He glanced down at Sweetie Belle, smiling at her with a look that told her to continue. She gave him an excited grin. “I passed my math test with a ‘B-’ yesterday! Isn't that cool?”

“You passed with a ‘B-’!?” Kai asked with a surprised stare. Sweetie Belle nodded. “Nah, you had to have been cheating.”

“But I wasn't! Honest!”

“That's like, above average! C'mon, admit it.”

“I didn't cheat!”

“Six plus three!”

“Nine!”

“Nine minus one!”

“Eight!”

Kai gave an impressed smirk.

“Well, I guess you showed—eleven plus twelve!”

“Um…” Caught off guard, Sweetie Belle did some quick calculations. “Twenty-three!”

Now, Kai patted Sweetie Belle's head, smiling at her happily.

“Nice! I'm so proud of you, kid!” The filly beamed at the praise she was receiving. “Speaking of school, why aren't you at school?”

“It's Saturday.” A look of realisation crossed the saiyan's face. He hadn't kept track of the particular days since he had left. Also, having never actually attended school, Kai forgot that school was out on weekends.

“That's right… Huh…” Looking at Sweetie Belle made him wonder if he could have been a bright and happy foal like she is. If he was normal, maybe…

“Whatcha looking at? Is there something on my face?” Sweetie Belle tried looking at her nose, going cross-eyed for a moment, but spotting nothing.

“Nah, it's nothing.” Kai dismissed, holding the filly close.

“…Are you sad 'cause you have to leave again?”

“Huh!?” The demi-saiyan's eyes widened. “How did you know?” Rather, his mind was wondering how everypony, every kirin, every dragon, and every hippogriff knew something about him. Never had he noticed how obvious he made things, both with his expressions and mannerisms.

“I dunno… I just feel like you're not here to stay…” Yet somehow, this time, Sweetie Belle felt okay with it. She was sad, sure, but she didn't feel anywhere close to crying. In any case, she smiled at her older brother. “I guess I'm already more independent, huh?”

Kai returned the smile, and nodded decisively.

“Yeah.” His smile shifted into a smirk. “But don't get too independent just yet. Since I'm here for a bit, we should play like we used to.”

For Kai, few things were more heartwarming than seeing Sweetie Belle grin from ear to ear, truly excited.

“Yay!!”

“King. I have returned.” Elsewhere, stood a familiar figure, now uncloaked from darkness. Noir looked to none other than the Storm King, who sat in a throne with a permanent glare.

“I can see that. Now, do you have what I want?” Noir presented the Dragon Ball stolen from Hippogriffia. The Storm King gripped the orange sphere, glaring at it, and then Noir. “What is this supposed to be?”

“The rumored ‘Sphere of grandiose power’.” Was the alien's blunt response.

“…You absolute FOOL!!!!” The room seemed to shake at that yell. “The sphere is supposed to be larger, and opaque! It has a glow to it—it is the most obvious thing to spot!”

Noir hardly even blinked, but his stare shifted to a glare.

“Perhaps if I was told that, I wouldn't have made a mistake.”

“You dare to blame ME!?” Noir's even stare became forced, and he dropped to one knee. He lowered his gaze to the floor.

“My apologies… My lord…” He spat out with forced courtesy.

“…Hmph. It doesn't matter. You're off this mission.” The Storm King's gaze flicked to his side. “Tempest, it's your turn. Retrieve what I want, and I'll give you what you want.” Tempest Shadow gave a short salute, before quickly leaving to complete the mission. “Actually, take Noir with you.”

“But sir, they know his face.” Tempest protested.

“True, but the time for covert tactics has long passed. Demand what we need, and if they don't comply…” The most chilling grin spread across the Storm King's face. “Destroy them all.” His face soured as his gaze shot to Noir. “And ditch that useless ball.”

Noir and Tempest Shadow looked to each other, then nodded shortly. They looked back to the Storm King and bowed.

“As you wish, my lord.”

Kai buttoned up his new coat, tightening the new belt around his waist to keep his long-coat together. He made sure it was easy to move in, bending his arms and taking a mock-jab. Perfect.

The saiyan gave his pseudo sister a grateful smile.

“Thanks, Rarity.” Rarity rolled her eyes, and wandered over to her work-table again.

“You're planning on leaving right away, aren't you?” Kai gave a sheepish nod, having been found out immediately. The unicorn sighed. “You aren't going to at least stay for a meal, or stay the night to recover?”

“I can't.” Kai looked to his hands. “I learned just how outclassed I can be. I need to get much stronger, and I know exactly how.” His gaze flicked to Rarity once again. “I have to go.” He smiled. “But I'll be back in no time!”

Once again, Rarity rolled her eyes.

“I certainly won't hold my breath.” That response made Kai chuckle. The mare smiled. “See you, Kai. Take care.”

With a nod, Kai turned for the door.

“You, too, Rarity.” And with that, he was off once again.

Rarity let out a long sigh. Her brow twitched, and she turned her eye to the corner of the room.

“Oh, Kai left his satchel…” She shrugged. “He'll be back for them soon.”

Regardless of the short stay, Rarity was happy to see Kai. She hoped it wouldn't be long before they met again.

Author's Note

Yo! This one is a lot shorter, but to make up for it, check it out! I drew cover art for the story! Yeah, that's Kai up there, as best as I could draw him. I don't have any tablet or computer, so this is good old fashioned pencil and paper. Hope you enjoy. 'Till next time!

Master Kirin

Kai knew that a saiyan became exponentially stronger when coming back from the brink of death. However, the dumbest plan he could think of was harming himself constantly, then getting healed right after. There were better methods of getting stronger. For instance, there was a legend he recalled hearing very recently. He knew that succeeding would mean he would become much stronger, if the legend was true, that is.

Back to the Peaks of Peril, it seemed.

Chapter 7

Master Kirin

Kai huffed in exhaustion, leaning against one of the rocks leading to the village of kirins. The wound of his was hindering him greatly, leaving him breathless quickly. No time to slow down, he thought. He had to get to the tower.

The young saiyan stumbled toward the shortcut the squirrels had shown him, musing shortly that they would likely be gone by now. It was almost winter, and the weather was starting to reflect that.

Shaking those thoughts off, Kai continued forward, moving the rocks to squeeze through the crevice. Recovering, it was a bit harder to get through, as every movement agitated his healing injuries.

Soon enough, he managed to escape the crevice, and looked out at the familiar entrance to the village. Past being awed, Kai walked to the village, his goal to find one of two kirins: Autumn Blaze or Rain Shine. Either one would be able to help him out.

As Kai ventured through the village, a few passing kirins recognised him and waved, and he waved back. Although he had a goal, that didn't mean he couldn't be nice.

‘Wow, so this is what it's like to be normal…’ He could never just walk around Ponyville. Too many scared or hateful stares. It was… nice. He almost just wanted to live here with the kirins. But… he had to be in Ponyville. The ponies would come around one day, and he still had his family.

Shaking this off, Kai made for Rain Shine's home, hoping she would be in. It was a short walk, and the saiyan pushed the doors to the kirin leader's home.

For once, Kai's luck was actually high. Sitting together and sipping tea, were Rain Shine and Autumn Blaze, the two kirins he needed.

The kirins turned to the door, and were immediately shocked to see Kai. Rain Shine's brows rose, and Autumn Blaze spat her tea out. Autumn was the first to spring out of her seat, and sprinted to the saiyan. She tackled him in a hug, successfully knocking Kai off of his feet.

“Kai!!” The young warrior, of course, returned the hug affectionately. He would properly consider Autumn Blaze his first friend. “I missed you so much! I've been hoping you'd come visit soon—I mean, not that that was all I was thinking about, but—well, actually, it kinda was…”

“I missed you, too, Autumn.” Kai stated, patting her head and saving her any embarrassment from her rambling. The kirin smiled, moving into his hand.

“What brings you back so soon, Kai?” They glanced up at the approaching Rain Shine, who had a questioning eyebrow raised, but a smile on her face. “Have you made your wish already?”

Kai propped himself up with his hand and lightly moved Autumn Blaze off of himself. The two kirins casted curious looks at him, but simply waited for him to reply.

“No, I got into a fight and nearly died.” They gasped in surprise. Sure, they hadn't seen Kai fight, but they knew he had to be strong. Stronger than your average kirin—or pony in his case. To lose, and nearly die? “I'm here 'cause I need to climb Kirin Tower for more power. Thought I'd ask you for everything you know.”

Rain Shine frowned, closing her eyes.

“Unfortunately, there isn't much more to tell. Four days of climbing yielded nothing for me, and that was when I was more energetic.” She grumbled musingly.

“Yeah, guess I was kinda just stalling.” Kai let out a humorless chuckle. “I lost all of my confidence after losing. I'm actually scared to go up there.” Hearing that from the brave saiyan made both kirins feel as though Taurtaurus would freeze over.

“But, Kai!” Autumn Blaze put her hooves to Kai's chest. “If anyone can do it, I know you can!”

“Autumn Blaze is right, Kai.” Agreed Rain Shine. She offered a gentle and reassuring smile. “Was it not you who taught us the error in preemptive fear?”

Kai stared for a moment, thinking on their words. They were right. So very right. The saiyan groaned, and ran a hand along his hair.

“Ugh… What am I doing? I can't waver now. Not when I'm so close to getting all seven Dragon Balls.” Kai slammed his fist into the floor and sprang up to his feet in one fluid motion. “Alright! I'm gonna climb that tower!”

Autumn Blaze and Rain Shine smiled brightly at seeing the confidence return to Kai's face. That was the Kai they knew.

“Come on, Rain Shine! Let's go see him off!” Autumn Blaze exclaimed enthusiastically.

“Ah, you don't have to—”

“I want to!” She interrupted Kai, nearly skipping outside. “Let's go!”

Kai laughed, shaking his head and shrugging as he watched the energetic kirin.

“Wish I'd known you a few years back…” He muttered to himself, an air of humor about him. Shaking that off, he and Rain Shine followed Autumn Blaze outside, and the trio made their way to the tower.

Kirin Tower was just as grand as always. If not, even more grand, considering Kai had to climb it now.

The trio of kirins and saiyan stared up the tower, seeing a point where the remainder of the tower was covered by the clouds. Kai looked to Rain Shine, eyebrow raised.

“Nothing at all?” Rain Shine shook her head. “Geez. Guess this is it then.”

“Remember, no matter what, you may only use your body to climb. No magic, no flying, no teleportation—nothing.” Was her only reminder.

Kai nodded and gave a short stretch. Legs, arms, back, neck… He was ready.

“Alright. See you when I'm stronger!”

“I'm gonna wait for you here, no matter how long you take!” Assured Autumn Blaze. Knowing trying to sway her was futile, Kai simply nodded, and reached his fist out to her.

“Thanks, Autumn.” The young kirin bumped his fist with her hoof, returning his smile.

“Of course!”

Kai looked back to the tower, and bent his legs.

“Here I go!!” The saiyan jumped high, scaling a portion of the tower at once. Even he was surprised. ‘Must be that near-death boost…’ Continuing on, Kai jumped again and again, making it even higher than before. He took care to keep his grip firm, and kept scaling Kirin Tower.

“Remarkable… He is already out of sight…” Rain Shine whispered in awe. In seconds, he made the distance that had taken her several minutes. She looked to Autumn Blaze, who had seated herself on the grass, looking up at the tower calmer than ever. “Autumn Blaze, you weren't serious, were you?”

“Could you bring some food and water every couple hours?” Rain Shine nearly face-faulted. Of course she was serious…

Sighing, Rain Shine walked away, back to the village.

“I'll send someone soon.”

“Thanks.” Autumn Blaze could hear Rain Shine's hoofsteps fade away, so she relaxed, all alone. A smile graced her face, as she stared up the tower. “You can do it, Kai.”

Kai didn't overestimate his abilities by any measure. Sure, he may get a bit overconfident at times, but after this last time, he would never overestimate what he thought he could do. After all, his mind and his body were two different entities. His mind could say he could fight for hours all it wanted, but if his body was past its limits, then he would not be fighting for another minute, let alone an hour.

This was all to preface Kai's shock at how long Kirin Tower was. He hadn't slowed his pace, no matter how much pain he was in. He cleared such a long distance in a few minutes, he was sure he would have made it back to Ponyville, were he traveling horizontally. But this far, and there was no top in sight

Kai glanced down for a moment. He had no fear of of heights, but he was surprised at how high he was. Now, not even the ground was in sight. It made him feel he was somewhere in the middle, but he wasn't dumb enough to believe that.

“Hoo, boy… I'm gonna be here forever…” Kai shook his head, and continued to ascend the tower.

However, despite his efforts, the day seemed to fade away quickly, paving the way for the night. And still, the top was nowhere in sight. No stranger to sleeping oddly, Kai took a moment to sleep vertically, resting as much as he could.

When he awoke, the moon was still out, but it looked to be lowering. Kai let out a short sigh, seeming almost longing.

“The moon always looks… so strange.” He mused shortly, just as the moon lowered fully, replaced by the sun. “Welp, back to it.”

Another day of climbing passed, then another. Three days total, and Kai was beginning to get annoyed. Was there truly even a top? Did it ascend to space?

Hopeless, Kai gave another glance upward, and the sigh leaving his throat hitched.

“Is that…!?” Only with keen saiyan eyes could he make out a very, very small dot. Way at the end of the tower. Meaning… “That's the top!!” Seeing it after so long energised the tiring saiyan, and he leapt up high, again and again to reach the top.

In a few minutes, Kai could finally touch the top with his hands. There were several holes greeting him, each with a ladder leading inside of… wherever it was. Kai gripped onto one of the ladders, and breathlessly climbed into the top.

“I did it…!” He panted, sprawling onto the tiled floor of his new surroundings. Taking a quick glance around, he could see several pots and crates, but there looked to be nothing else. Just a bare, white room.

Kai put some effort into standing up, and wandered over to the farther end of the room. There were stairs in sight, but he wasn't sure if he was supposed to wait here… If only that legend was just a bit more specific…

“Up here!” Kai's head flicked to the stairs. A raspy voice gave him an instruction, so obviously he should follow it.

The young saiyan scaled the stairs, emerging at the top to find a more opened space, revealing his height quite plainly. There were rails, but they seemed not to matter much with how high he truly was.

None of that mattered. Kai redirected his attention to the center of the area, spotting a pedestal with some kind of jeweled flask on it. In front of it was a… creature, with green skin, and brown robes. It was bald, bore wings on its back, but it looked wrinkled. Perhaps it was old…

Kai approached the green individual, tilting his head in wonder. Its eyes were closed, yet he felt an analytical stare upon him.

“Um… Hello.”

“Hello, there.” The green individual greeted back.

“My name is Kai. I came here to get power… like the legend?” He began, unsure.

“But of course. As the hermit watching over this tower, I have known of your intentions for some time now.”

“The… hermit watching over…?”

“Indeed. I am who the kirins down there would call ‘Kirin’. Welcome to my tower.” Kirin gave the area a large wave, formally greeting Kai.

“Woah…” To meet a hermit, who may or may not have created kirins as he knew them, was amazing. But the hermit's clairvoyance had him realising something. “Then that means you can give me the power I want?”

“Hmm… Perhaps.” Kirin reached up and grabbed the previously mentioned flask, allowing Kai to view it in all of its glory. It looked more like a gourd of a blue color, with white jewels decorating the sides. “The means to increasing your power is taking a sip of this magic water.” Kirin shook it at Kai. “Don't just stand there. Didn't you want power?”

Kai hurriedly scrambled over to the hermit, and accepted the gourd from him. He eyed it curiously, before popping the cork out of it and sniffing the contents.

“This stuff'll make me stronger?” Kirin only smiled at him. Kai supposed that was good enough for him, so, decisively, he took a rather large swig of the liquid inside. He exhaled, refreshed but confused. “…It just tastes like ordinary water to me.”

“Does it? Oh, forgetful me!” Kirin seemed distressed, but it was a false kind of distress. “That was where I kept the water from Kirin Cove.”

“Kirin Cove?”

“The village of the kirins, of course.” Kai hummed his acknowlegement. “I've had that water for a few years now, so I really should have thrown it out. But you know, this tower is so large, I haven't been down there for many decades.”

“Just how old are you?” Kai asked in surprise.

“A bit slow on the uptake, aren't you?”

“Huh? Wha—” ‘—t do you mean?’ was what Kai tried saying. However, he found himself unable to speak when he tried. Another attempt yielded nothing.

“This was the water from before you purified it. The water that dooms the drinker to a silent and emotionless life.” Kai glared at the hermit, fists clenching tightly. “Perhaps you shouldn't just drink something a random old hermit gives you, hm?”

“…” Kirin's eyebrows rose. He didn't need to be clairvoyant to know what Kai just mouthed. Ratings would take a hard dive if that was heard…

“I understand your frustration, but then, maybe in a few days time, you won't understand it.” Kirin reached into his robes, and pulled out a small bottle. “Unless, of course, you drink this. Guess what this is.”

“…” Kai tried answering reflexively, but his inability to speak showed immediately. He glared at the hermit again.

“That's right, it's the cure. A full bottle of water infused with foal's breath.” Kirin observed the saiyan's face, and noticed his hand stretched out in an accepting manner. “Hm? Oh, you think I'll just give it to you? If you want the cure, you'll have to take it.”

“…” Kai cracked his knuckles, and stomped towards Kirin.

“Dear me, whatever shall I do?” Kai lunged at Kirin, arms outstretched to grab the bottle. With clear ease, Kirin hopped over the saiyan, letting him fly face-first into the pedestal. Kai held his face in pain. “Perhaps having your emotions taken would be benefitial to you. Your anger makes your moves awfully telegraphed.”

Kai attempted to growl, but the only signs of his anger at those words were his glare and gritted teeth. He was about to jump again, but he had a sudden epiphany. Kirin was right. Him being angry was doing nothing. Besides, despite being underhanded, Kirin WAS offering a way to get stronger.

The saiyan raised an eyebrow upon seeing Kirin smile suddenly, as if he had been privy to his…

‘…Can you… hear my thoughts?’

“It took you long enough to ask.” That answered that. Kai would have groaned if he could. With someone reading his thoughts, he would never be a step ahead. Though, he supposed it didn't matter. One way or another, Kai was going to drink that cure and get stronger.

Kai took a stance, low to the ground. He smirked at Kirin, who simply stood facing him, eyes closed. In an instant, Kai took off toward the hermit, hands a blur as he swayed his arms all around.

“Oho!” Kirin awaited the inevitable attempt on his bottle, subtly tensing his hands. As soon as Kai twitched within range of the bottle, Kirin swiped out with his hand, catching the saiyan's left hand easily. With a quick jerk, he took Kai off balance, causing the young saiyan to stumble and fall to the floor. “Attempting to psyche me out. Did you somehow forget I could read your mind already?”

Unable to sigh at his own stupidity, Kai headbutted the ground… floor… whatever this tower counted as. Recovering quickly, the saiyan continued his attempts at Kirin's bottle. However, it seemed no matter how close he got, it was always just out of reach.

“Nope, not there.” Kirin smacked Kai's hand away at a rather direct attempt to steal the bottle. “Woah! Not there either.” The hermit spun out of the way of a charge. “Nice try, but no.” As if it needed to be said, Kirin avoided another attempt.

The same thing went on for nearly half of an hour, before Kai fell to a knee, exhausted. As he panted, he gave his hand a look, as if he could see the answer to his pressing issue in his palm. Recalling his adversary could read minds, he casted a glance at Kirin and put a question at the front of his mind.

‘Why am I so tired already?’

Kirin offered a smile.

“Rather, why weren't you tired before?” Kai lifted an eyebrow. “Three days of climbing with an injury, only to immediately be put to work like this. On top of that, you're doing this in an environment with very little oxygen. Any ordinary individual would be dead by now.”

“…” Kai realised that he had, in fact, spent three days climbing. And when he thought about it, it was really hard to breathe up here.

“I doubt you want to take a break right now, so…” Kirin rustled in his robes for a moment, before taking something out. “Here. Eat this.” He tossed the item to Kai, who caught it easily.

“…?” Kai gave the item in his hand a confused look. It was a small, green bean. It looked useless, but this was a world of magic and rainbows, so who knew what it could do. Kai was about to do as he was told, but the thoughts of a similar action stopped him. He glared at Kirin.

“Oh, no, this isn't like the water. It's a Senzu Bean. It restores your energy, heals your wounds, and fills your stomach for ten days straight.” If that didn't sound too good to be true…

But, Kai supposed there was no reason to doubt Kirin's words, so he popped the bean into his mouth and chewed. Kai's face screwed up slightly at the taste. It was fishy, but not… good. When he consumed it, he felt his entire body pause for an instant. Then…

“…!” His eyes widened as he felt all of his energy return, his hunger quell itself, and his healing wounds vanish.

“Impressed? Normally, only a being such as myself would be allowed to consume this bean.” Kai didn't listen to a word that was said. He stood up and stretched his body out before looking to Kirin with a smirk. “Oh? Ready to continue? And so confidently, too.”

Kirin found his eyes widening when he suddenly saw twenty Kais surrounding him. They all appeared transparant, but all wore different expressions. A few serious, some taunting, others in motion…

“My word…” Kirin couldn't help but mutter. Like this, he couldn't read Kai's mind, as he couldn't properly lock onto the real one. Well, not with his eyes. However… “Tah!”

A fist suddenly collided with Kai's face, sending him backwards towards the pedestal. Although he hit the pedestal hard, a grin was plastered on Kai's face. Kirin was confused for a moment, but a glance in his mind made it clear. Kai was excited to be up against such a strong opponent, in a time of calm. The hermit couldn't help but smile at his determination and excitement.

Kai stood once again, taking a stance, higher than the last time. Kirin's eyes narrowed. He was not dealing with a normal opponent, that much was clear. Kai masked his true intentions between thoughts, forcing so many to the forefront of his mind, taking one or the other as the truth was pointless. Thwarted, Kirin relied on his natural skill. He wasn't a hermit for nothing, after all.

‘Left, up, right, back, forward, punch, kick, jump, duck, dash, spin, kick, fall.’ Of those, Kai only performed one: dash. He dashed to Kirin quickly, rearing his right fist back, and swiftly bringing it to the hermit's face. Kirin ducked, but an involuntary gasp left his mouth when he realised, once again, he was thwarted.

Kai halted the strike just before it would have hit Kirin, setting him up to kick instead. Kirin weaved, but the same was the case—a feint. Three more feints prompted Kirin to strike back, attempting a simple right jab to create distance. Immediately after throwing the jab, Kirin chided himself on getting hasty, as his adversary seemed to be expecting retaliation. Kai stepped to the side just a bit, letting the jab go right between his body and his left arm. With Kirin's arm there, Kai gripped onto it, and prepared to strike while the hermit couldn't move. Despite the handicap, Kirin was still able to guard against the mighty right punch with his left hand. He preemptively stopped Kai from using his legs by throwing a kick of his own, forcing the saiyan to guard with his knee. At a stalemate, Kai and Kirin jumped back and observed each other closely.

‘Outstanding… He faked me out mentally and physically, bating me into striking. Then, he used that strike against me.’

‘This guy is really good… Even though I threw him off, he could still respond.’

Storing their thoughts for later, the fighters prepared for the next onslaught. Idly, Kirin wondered if Kai even cared about the bottle right now. Truth be told, Kirin was losing interest in it, as well.

In an instant, they were off again.

Five hours straight of Kai attempting to either defeat Kirin or take the bottle led to him on his back, panting in exhaustion. However, the grin on his face made it clear that he was satisfied. Kirin sat against the railings on the side farthest from him, actually winded. Similarly to Kai, a smile was on the hermit's face.

“It's starting to get late. How about we rest and continue tomorrow?” Kirin suggested.

“…” Kai instinctually tried responding, but when he remembered he couldn't, he just gave a thumbs up.

Night came around fast, and with it, brought a thought. Still on the floor, Kai glanced over at the sleeping hermit, spotting the bottle he seeked between loose fingers. He COULD just take it… It would be super easy. Just… snatch! Then he could drink the water, get cured, easy.

But…

‘That would be lame… 'Sides, I'm having too much fun fighting him. Shame it'll all be over by tomorrow.’ With that thought, Kai averted his gaze upward, and closed his eyes. Sleep took him very soon.

At the time, Kai was the only one asleep. Kirin had actually been awake, curious if Kai would try to steal the bottle while he ‘slept’. He was quite pleased to see the outcome.

‘An odd one. Not pure of heart, but pure of intentions.’ Kirin's brow line lowered. ‘Though, this boy is unnaturally strong. The only things limiting him is his lack of experience and his pride. A few years of humbling and training would make this boy a truly fearsome warrior.’

With those musing thoughts, Kirin finally allowed himself to drift off to sleep, eager to see if Kai would make due on his boast.

The session began immediately after the sun rose, Kai storming Kirin with blow after blow, the strikes far more precise and deadly than they were yesterday, much to the hermit's shock. This was the kind of jump in skill and power that took months. Kirin was forced to dodge, choosing not to harm himself with guarding insanely strong strikes. However, the hermit saw his chance, perused Kai's mind, and made a move.

Ducking under a hook, Kirin connected a palm-strike to Kai's lower abdomen, around his waist. The blow sent him away a distance. Kai was going to dash back at him, but Kirin lifted a hand.

“Aren't you missing something?” He asked as he strolled over to the edge of the tower. Kai raised an eyebrow, just as the hermit held his hand over the edge and opened his palm. “Weren't you going to summon the dragon, Shenron?”

With dawning horror, Kai felt his waist to find his satchel was gone. He glared at Kirin, who smiled innocently at him.

“If somebody with evil intentions were to find them…” Strangely, hearing of evil did nothing to affect Kai. It was hearing that someone may find them that made him act.

With a look of irritation, Kai ran to the edge of the tower and hopped over the rail, sure to swing and grab onto the tower itself. Quickly and carefully, Kai went about descending the tower.

Working with gravity, Kai managed to get to the bottom of the tower in a few short minutes. Back at the bottom, Kai glanced around frantically, trying to find his satchel of Dragon Balls.

“Kai!” The saiyan turned, and saw Autumn Blaze grinning at him. “I knew you could do it! You're probably like, a bagillion times stronger, huh?”

Kai opened his mouth to reply, but nothing came out. Autumn Blaze's brow rose as Kai tried to explain this silently.

“…” Kai pointed to his mouth, and then to Autumn Blaze. Maybe she would understand…

“You want to kiss me?” Kai nearly facefaulted. “Payback: check.” The saiyan gave her a serious glare, something the kirin picked up on. “Wait, can you not talk or something?” Kai nodded rapidly. “The stream of silence is cured! How!?” The saiyan pointed up at the tower, and Autumn Blaze understood. Sort of. “That kirin guardian made you drink uncured water?” Again, he nodded. It was basically the case.

Averting the subject, Kai gestured to his lower abdomen, where he usually had his satchel. Autumn Blaze misinterpretted this, and her face flushed.

“I… um… That's awfully inappropriate, Kai… At least take me for dinner, first…” Kai actually did facefault. From the ground, Kai silently groaned, cursing his luck. Autumn Blaze seemed to realise that he wasn't refering to… ahem… and was actually refering to his satchel. Speaking of that… “Oh! You didn't have your satchel on you, huh? Did you leave it at your home?”

“…?” Kai's head flicked up to the kirin, brow raised.

“Yeah, you didn't actually have your satchel. Why?”

Autumn Blaze was not privy to the reason for Kai's sudden rage, but she could nearly smell his anger. Despite that, she was still calm, knowing he wasn't mad at her, nor was he the type to take his anger out on others. The saiyan jumped to his feet, and bent his knees to jump. However, he cast a short glance to Autumn Blaze, and took a moment to pat her head, before jumping up high to scale Kirin Tower once again.

The kirin touched her head with a hoof, smiling up at the saiyan's already faded form.

“Ehehe…” Autumn Blaze let out a goofy laugh. “Totally worth waiting.”

Kirin sat against the railings, patiently waiting for his peculiar opponent to return. With such a monumental boost in power and skill in only a day, Kirin found himself excited at the thought of even just another week of training the saiyan. Perhaps there was far more to him than either of them knew…

Before his thoughts could progress, Kirin blinked at what he was sensing.

“No, there's no way…” Kirin would accept a boost in power like Kai's. Why not? But what he would not accept was sensing the very same saiyan almost to the top already. If this were the case, then that would mean the round trip of going down and then up this grand tower only took an astoundingly brief thirty minutes.

Head snapping to the left, Kirin saw exactly what he refused to believe. Kai stood before him, huffing and puffing, and looking none too happy. The hermit frowned. This was not going according to plan at all.

“Finally back, are we? Did you enjoy my little—” Kirin couldn't even finish, a blast of ki suddenly sent his way. He quickly jumped clear, seeing just how angered Kai was. This must have been the saiyan's way of saying ‘Shut up’, in far less kind words. Seeing his adversary was long over jokes, Kirin chose to take this seriously. Very seriously.

Kai dashed forward, reaching out his right hand. Too obvious, Kirin thought. He hadn't learned a thing. The hermit jumped before Kai could reach him.

It seemed it was Kirin who hadn't learned a thing. Kai followed him up, expecting such an action and knowing one had less control in the air. His rising knee was barely guarded by a hand, and his follow-up strikes were countered, as well. By the time Kai chose to slow down, they had already landed onto the floor again.

Kai pressed Kirin, forcing him back with powerful and quick blows. Kirin tried dodging, but he always seemed to fail and dodge when feints were coming his way. It finally became apparant to him that Kai was observing his minute twitches and tenses, alerting him to what the next counter to an attack would be.

Kirin refused to be outsmarted, and continued to defend against the attacks. Very soon, he was backed against the rails, and the feel of the cool metal caused him to avert his gaze for a split-second.

Kai grinned at his fortune and acted immediately.

The hermit found himself reeling from an elbow in his stomach, his grip on the bottle failing. Kai attempted to swipe it while Kirin recovered, but he didn't quite grab it, only managing to swat at it.

“Ah! No way!” Kirin tried reaching out for the bottle, but it was already on a course off the tower. So much for that one… “Huh?” Kirin's eyes widened when he saw Kai put a foot to the railing. “No! You'll die from a fall like this!” But Kai didn't care.

The saiyan leapt after the bottle, well out of range of the rail or the tower itself. While he managed to catch the bottle, it was clear that gravity had given the Grim Reaper a slip with Kai's name on it.

“No!” Kirin vainly reached out for the saiyan. But… “Oh!” Before his eyes, Kai floated in the air. Kai smirked, arms crossed as he calmly hovered back to the tower's floor. Kirin let out an impressed chuckle, and gave a welcoming gesture. “Well, you did it. Feel free to drink that water.” ‘Remarkable…’ Kirin could help but think. ‘To succeed in two days where none have ever even succeeded in climbing the tower before…’

Kai grinned, and removed the top to the bottle. He wasted no time drinking everything inside, not even caring about the overwhelming taste that the added flower to make the cure gave this small amout of water. In seconds, Kai was finished, and gave a short flex of his body, glancing to his hands.

“…I can talk again!” Was the first thing he noted. Kirin smiled in response, fond of his enthusiasm. “But… I don't feel any stronger from drinking that.”

“Hm? I never said drinking that would increase your power.”

“Huh!? Yes you did!” Kai protested.

“No, I said the means to increasing your power was to drink what you first drank.” Kirin pointed to Kai. “That was the start. After that, you attempted to steal that bottle for hours straight, in conditions you had never experienced before. On top of that, I forced you to climb the tower twice, giving you further strength.” Kai looked shocked to hear that, but realised it was true. Kirin continued. “In this short time, you already seem to be adjusted to this thin oxygen. All in all, you've already received the boost in strength you've seeked.”

Hearing that put a smile on Kai's face, and he did something that shocked Kirin. Kai bowed, not even uttering a word. Perhaps he presumed Kirin would read his thoughts anyway. Rising, Kai cast the bottle aside and ran to the railing. Without a moments hesitation, he jumped right off of the tower, grinning widely as he was in freefall.

Kirin stared after him, able to see quite clearly that the saiyan was flying, not falling. He smiled.

Autumn Blaze leaned against Kirin Tower, her eyelids falling as she stared into space, beyond bored. She had explored this forest several times prior, and on top of that, she couldn't roam around if she wanted to. Now, it had only been a bit over an hour since Kai had dropped down, but still. Four days of blank waiting was too much for her, and she was reaching a point where she was going to scream. With noone to talk to, it felt like she was silenced by the stream of silence again.

The kirin shivered. Good thing Kai was here. She didn't know how much longer she could bear the lack of social activity.

Speaking of…

“Huh?” There was a sound above her—rushing wind. Choosing not to muse on what it could be, she elected to look up, and found her eyes widening at the sight of a falling figure. She recognised the color scheme, even from this distance. Without a doubt, it was… “Kai!” Autumn Blaze jumped up to her hooves, and started jumping up and down excitedly. This time, she knew Kai was finished with his training. The happiness she felt was way different than it had been before.

In a short moment, Kai slowed his fall, and hovered to a landing. Suddenly clairvoyant, he knelt down to accept a passionate hug from his best friend.

“Autumn, I did it!” Kai exclaimed, earning an excited squeal from Autumn Blaze.

“I knew you could do it!” The two parted the hug and gazed at one another. Autumn Blaze could see a notable difference in the saiyan's gaze, looking a bit more sharp and confident. His body seemed a bit more sturdy when she thought about it. Really sturdy. “What're you gonna do now?”

Kai's expression became a bit more serious, his grin dimming but his eyes still full of fire.

“I'm gonna keep collecting the Dragon Balls!” He answered with clear determination. Autumn Blaze giggled. She should have guessed that would be his response. “Now that I can fly, I'm gonna get done way faster!”

“Well, what're you waiting for!?” Autumn Blaze, though sad to see him go so soon, was excited for Kai. Hearing his story, she knew this was what he wanted. And seeing Kai happy made Autumn Blaze happy. “Go, go, GOOO!!”

At her shout, Kai couldn't help but laugh before taking to the air. He reached into his pocket for his Dragon Radar, and gave the kirin below a grin.

“I'll be back soon—promise!” With that, Kai turned midair, and flew off with an aura of sapphire.

Autumn Blaze watched as he flew off. When he was finally out of sight, she let out a laugh.

“For as much as I love to talk, I feel like I'm always at a loss for words with him…” She decided it was an odd show of respect for the individual that saved her village from a life a silence and foolishness. Being more reserved so as to avoid annoying him… But she was just lying to herself. She knew Kai appreciated being talked to, but she really had to forced sentences out of herself with him. Autumn Blaze shook her head. “Can't wait to see you again… Kai.”

Author's Note

So, on the topic of voices... I've noticed that, in every single fanfiction with an OC I have read, there's a point to describe every feature about the character... except for their voices. Well, I'm ending that trend! Kai's voice, I imagine, is in the style of Johnny Yong Bosch, specifically like Ichigo Kurosaki from Bleach, or Nero from Devil May Cry.

Anyway, peace! Until next time!

Ps. ...Ban...Kai.

The Might of a Demon

Now, Kai had decided to follow the lone Dragon Ball on his radar, knowing it had to be the one Noir had stolen. In his mind, now was the perfect time for some payback, and while he was at it, a visit to Hippogriffia would be nice.

…So imagine his absolute shock when the signature of the Dragon Ball led him to Hippogriffia, covered in flames and debris. Landing quickly, Kai sprinted through the main entrance, entering the town frantically.

“Stratus!” He called out, recalling the name coming from the mouth of— “Fang!!” No answer, besides the crackling of burning buildings. Everything was burning…

Kai shook his head, and continued to run to the castle, not quite sure who to pray to that it was okay. With good reason, as prayers wouldn't have mattered. Turning a corner, Kai was horrified to see the castle, barely standing by a few pillars which looked ready to break right then.

Rushing in, the saiyan assessed the inside with quick glances. Destroyed—everything.

“Queen Novo! Princess Skystar!! ANYONE!!” But none would answer. Kai made his way to the throne room, where he saw the entire back of the castle blown out. Oddly, the throne was spared… Maybe… just maybe, could that have been a sign that the Queen was still alive? In hiding, but alive?

Kai's brow twitched, a glow mixing in with the roaring flames. He spotted it in the center of the floor, so he approached it and knelt to pick it up.

“…The three star Dragon Ball…” Kai's body shook in anger. Noir crossed the line, and he would pay…

Kai stood, and looked out of the hole in the castle. Water—an ocean. Where was there to flee? He didn't know. What he did know was that he could only do one thing at the moment, and that was to pursue the last Dragon Balls.

With a solemn stare, Kai pocketed his newly acquired Dragon Ball and pulled out his Dragon Radar. The last two were together. An easy ending to his quest, if all went well.

One could only hope…

Chapter 8

The Might of a Demon

The ability to fly would have been handy at the start of his adventure, but Kai wouldn't complain. He had it now, and that was all that mattered. The young saiyan flew at fast speeds all the way to the next Dragon Balls, far enough that they seemed out of Equestria, but in the complete opposite direction as the Peaks of Peril. This left for a long journey, but Kai's speed was more than sufficient to make up for what would have been a week-long commute, nevermind the troubles he would face finally arriving. Now, if he gauged it correctly, he would be there in a few minutes.

Kai couldn't help but think deeply. After all of this time, he still hadn't figured out his wish. He didn't particularly want anything, but he couldn't just summon the dragon without making a wish. Maybe he could wish for a way to get even stronger…

Before he could muse any further, Kai noticed his targets less than a kilometer away, so he lowered down to the field of grass that awaited. He glanced about for the Dragon Balls, but held back a scoff.

“As if they'll just be right out in the… open…?” Too much shock lately, but this one was well worth the word. In a single patch of the un-grassy grassland, both Dragon Ball he seeked laid. The first thought on Kai's mind was ‘Finally! Something easy!’, but the next was ‘This is probably a trap.’ The second thought prevelant, Kai glanced all around, waiting for any signs of an ambush, or explosives, or even just a comical pie. But, as far as his knowledge of traps went, there was nothing. No tripwires, no pressure plates, no hidden ki signatures…

Kai frowned as he approached the Dragon Balls. He picked them up, knowing they were balls five and six. The nifty thing about this newer coat was that it had deeper pockets, so Kai stuffed the Dragon Balls into his pockets, feeling one clink against the three star from just earlier.

“What is this… foreboding feeling…?” With his quest finished in a lackluster way, it felt almost disappointing. But on top of that, he felt something was off. Who was gathering the Dragon Balls, and left them out like this? Not even an idiot could miss them, but then, this area was really out there. Quite frankly, only somebody with the means to locate a Dragon Ball would…

Kai's eyes widened.

“OH, NO!!” The saiyan blasted off toward Ponyville, as fast as he possibly could.

He was set up. Someone distanced him from his larger stash of Dragon Balls, and likely intended of keeping them and hoping he would leave the new ones. Then, they'd steal those, and make a wish. Not on Kai's watch.

Besides, his main concern wasn't that he left the balls… it was where he left them. At his home. With his family.

Kai only hoped he could arrive in time to stop this unknown threat.

Perhaps a half an hour before that, a plan continued in the outskirts of the Everfree Forest, located in Ponyville. A purple unicorn summoned its magical aura, eyes closed in concentration. After a moment, purple eyes flickered open and shot to the ground.

“He took the bait… but he's going much faster than anticipated. Luckily, he was already far from Ponyville, so things might work out as planned.” She said to herself. Her gaze fell onto a small, blue, jeweled chest. “Time to get to work.”

The unicorn's horn glowed once again, this time the aura covering the chest. A lock began to jingle against it, keeping the chest shut. The unicorn sucked her teeth, precisely attempting to break the lock.

After just a few moments of heart-pounding silence…

Click

Just the sound was enough to bring a dark grin to her face. However, no more than five seconds after the lock was opened, the chest bursted open with a geyser of raw energy. It was everything for the unicorn to not be blown away by the force. She shielded her face with a hoof and used her magic to remain in place, just barely surviving the eventual decline of energy.

Wincing, the unicorn looked to the opened chest, only for her eyes to widen at the sight of someone new. Standing in front of the chest was a very tall, green individual. His glare seemed unfocussed, and his slightly opened mouth displayed sharpened teeth. He wore a dark blue gi, the shirt bearing a white circle in the front with a symbol the unicorn was unfamiliar with. Brown shoes adorned the individual's feet.

The unicorn stared, unsure how to begin her introduction. This individual finally focussed, and did that for her.

“…Where…?” It spoke in a sharp hiss. Its eyes flicked over to the unicorn, boring a hole through her. “Who are you?”

The mare gathered her control and spoke.

“My name is not important. But I just freed you from your prison.” She replied as calmly as she could. “You are the Demon Cargo, correct?”

“Indeed, I am.” The supposed demon replied. An impatient glare fell onto his face. “What do you want from me?”

“Straight to the point. I can respect that.” The mare chuckled. “I know you plan to rule over this world. When you do, I expect you'll remember who freed you, and grant them a generous reward.”

“Oh? Generous to you and generous to me are most likely different things altogether.” Cargo grunted out, a smirk on his face. “To me, generous is killing someone quickly and painlessly.”

The unicorn trembled. She took such an authoritative tone with someone so powerful, he needed to be sealed. She reminded herself to watch her tone, calmed herself, and spoke again.

“I was thinking you could grant me… maybe half of the world after you rule it?” Seeing the look of complete offense on Cargo's face, she backtracked. “O-or, just a third, even a fourth! I'd be content with just a small sliver like a tenth!”

“Tell you what.” Started Cargo. “I'll spare your life, and we can call it even.”

The unicorn's eyes widened, before she glared harshly.

“B-but I freed you! If not for me, you would still be stuck in that chest! You OWE me!” She protested.

Cargo smirked, knelt low, and held his hand to the mare's forehead. Then, with an air of authority, he flicked her head with his finger. The mare was launched back quite some distance, before rolling to a stop, blood already dripping from her forehead.

“I'm in a good mood. I really won't kill you. So sit there and quiet down. I have something to look for.” As Cargo lifted off the ground to fly off, the mare could only sob in agony.

In an instant, he was off towards the closest cluster of energy. In other words, Ponyville.

Twing!

Kai's eyes widened, his senses alarming him to a sudden burst of power. His teeth ground tightly together.

‘That power… It's not Noir, but it's still huge…!’ He narrowed his eyes. ‘I can make it there on the double, but be a bit out of breath for the fight, or take my time and possibly be too late to save Ponyville…’ He clicked his tongue. “I might hate Ponyville, but I'll be damned if I let my family die 'cause of my grudge!”

With that declaration, Kai charged more ki to speed towards Ponyville. He should get there in about five minutes. Too long to him, but compared to the fifteen it would have taken, he supposed it was sufficient. Rather, he hoped it was sufficient.

“Come on… Make it in time!”

Meanwhile, Cargo had made himself known to Ponyville's inhabitants. The green demon casually strolled through town as if he owned the place. In a few minutes, an hour at the most, he would. He pushed passed a pony who was in his way, and gave a short glare back to see if they would say anything.

“O-oh, I'm sorry.” The yellow pegasus was quickly dismissed, Cargo walking off.

This demon knew the location of a particular item he seeked. How, and what? His counterpart created what he needed, and was it not obvious? He was seeking the Dragon Balls. He had but one single wish…

Cargo came upon a rather large and colorful building, unmarked as it was. He knew this was where they were, and he would take every last Dragon Ball, and any lives that stood in his path. Using his large right hand, he shoved the wooden door, forcing it to burst and splinter.

In this building, Rarity immediately shot up from her worktable, eyes widening and breath hitching. She glanced over at her sister Sweetie Belle who was similiarly startled. The older unicorn put a hoof over her mouth, silently shushing the younger. Taking a breath and being as calm as possible, Rarity spoke.

“Who's there!?” As soon as she finished, she gave Sweetie Belle a gesture towards the stairs. The filly understood, and quickly took the way to the stairs that were out of sight of the door.

“Do you plan on making your new ruler walk all the way to you?” Rarity may not have met very many high-class ponies, but she knew the tone, she knew the attitude, and she dearly wanted to be famous enough to use both. Ergo, it was more than clear that this individual's tone was above high-class, and into royalty. Keeping him waiting would be foolish.

Rarity took quick stomps to her doorway, partly to confront the intruder, partly to mask her sister's hoofsteps as she escaped to safety. Greeted with the sight of the tall demon Cargo, Rarity's eyes narrowed, and she knew she was in trouble. The demon grinned darkly at her.

“Who… are you?” She spoke slowly, ensuring none of her fear was on her sleeves.

“The Demon King, Cargo. You may call me ‘Lord’.” Despite the situation, Rarity rolled her eyes.

“No thanks…” Cargo frowned. “I mean, of course, my Lord!” Rarity cleared her throat, and glanced about. Not a fighter by any means, she searched for any means of escape. Unfortunately, the front door was all there was, and Cargo was blocking it off. As cordially as she could, the unicorn made an inquiry. “Can I help you?”

“You can. Show me where the Dragon Balls are, and I may spare you.”

‘Yeah, right.’ Thought Rarity. Her brother spent nearly two months gathering the Dragon Balls, and was nearly done. She wasn't going to help lose his progress to some green demon. Green was such an unappealing color, anyway.

Speaking none of those thoughts, Rarity put her acting skills to use.

“Dragon… My, how vulgar!” Rarity chided, deepening Cargo's frown. “I've no clue what you mean, good sir, but if you wish to see a dragon, you'll have to look elsewhere.”

Before she could even think to try not to crack a smile at Cargo's expression, Rarity suddenly found herself against a wall, held up by her throat. She struggled against the large hand grasping her neck, her reddening eyes meeting Cargo's angered ones.

“I'll put it like this. I KNOW the Dragon Balls are here. When I find them, whether or not you assisted me will determine the outcome of your life. Am I understood?” All Rarity could do was nod rapidly, putting a smirk on Cargo's face. “Good.” He released her, and Rarity coughed and sputtered as she hit the ground. “Come now. I don't have all day.”

“R…right. My apologies, my Lord.” Rarity stood to her hooves, and decided to stall this out by a bit. On the off-chance Kai was on his way, it would give him time to arrive. If not, it would annoy Cargo, and that was a win for Rarity. “Right this way.”

After stating that, Rarity forced a limp, and made her way to her worktable, knowing the longer-legged demon would be following. Cargo glared at her back, but could say nothing. He wagered the limp was from dropping her, so it was his own fault.

After about a minute—that should have been a few seconds—Rarity directed Cargo to the satchel in the corner of the room.

“My Lord.” Cargo barely even heard her, knowing the satchel would contain what he wanted. All he had to do was—

“GET AWAY FROM MY SISTER!!” Get kicked in the face!

…Wait, what? No! Not that! Definitely not that!

Throwing a wrench—and a foot—into his plans was none other than Kai, flying in through the doorway with precision and kicking Cargo off to the side. The force was great enough that it launched him though the walls and all the way outside.

“K-Kai!” The saiyan looked down at Rarity, sparing a moment to show concern.

“Are you hurt?” Rarity shook her head.

“No… I didn't expect you to be back so soon.”

“Me neither. This bastard must have set me up.” Rarity flinched. The only times Kai ever cursed was when he was really angry, but completely serious. Kai reached in his pockets, and took out the final three Dragon Balls. He gave them over to Rarity. “Hold onto these, will ya? I've gotta take out some trash.”

With that, Kai dashed out to follow Cargo.

Cargo, meanwhile, was just ending his launch by controlling his ki to fly. Suspended in the air, he glared down harshly at the house he was forcefully ejected from. All of the time, he was denied getting what was his. He recalled nearly conquering the world, but somepony managed to not only learn to use ki, but also create a technique that would trap him inside of a chest forever, even managing to lock it with a ki-enforced lock before shutting it for good. Cargo was none to happy about getting sealed, and even less so at being attacked before he could collect HIS Dragon Balls.

The demon planned to destroy the house, but the very individual that struck him rushed out to face him. Kai glared back at Cargo, fists clenching.

“Who are…” Kai's brows rose. “What are you, Kirin's brother or something?” Though, a better look made it clear that he was nothing like Kirin. The demon before him appeared youthful, while Kirin had looked more aged. He shook his head. “Doesn't matter. Get lost, green bean. Or I'll blow you to smithereens.”

“You dare to threaten me? The Demon King Cargo?” Cargo cackled, crossing his arms. “You do amuse me. Little boy, I'd suggest you sit still and make this easy on yourself.”

Kai frowned.

“Y'know, when I read books about villains and their ultimatums, it always annoyed me. That hasn't changed, green bean.” The demon glared at those words, uncrossing his arms.

“And now you mock me. Very well, I'll kill you right now!” Obviously a segway into combat, Kai poised himself and watched his foe closely. He forced himself from showing surprise at Cargo's sudden rush. Not because it was fast or strong, but because of how sluggish it was. Kai easily guarded the incoming punch with his hand, causing Cargo's eyes to widen. “What's this…!?”

Having easily guarded, Kai sought to retaliate with an uppercut, going at half speed to match the demon. It struck the surprised demon, adding to his shock and knocking him higher into the air. Cargo regained his balance, and rushed back at Kai. Kai, however, was a step ahead of him, and spun around his obvious blow. With Cargo overextended from his missed punch, Kai slammed a left punch into his gut, forcing him to retch loudly. Capitalising on the brief moment of weakness, Kai lifted his arms over his head, and slammed his fists onto the demon's head, sending him to the ground.

The saiyan watched Cargo crash into the ground, sending dirt and rocks everywhere, but luckily damaging nothing. Kai lowered down to the ground in front of the demon.

“You're slow. Way slower than others I've fought.” As Kai taunted him, Cargo fumed from his small crater.

“Never in my wildest dreams had I guessed there could be a being that could rival…” Cargo looked up with a sadistic smirk, unnerving Kai. “…a fraction of my full power.”

As Cargo stood to his feet, Kai let out a short grunt.

“I thought so. That's why I held back, too.” He admitted, taking another stance.

Cargo laughed.

“You jest in the face of your demise. A fool, through and through.”

“Maybe…” Cargo frowned, and took his own stance.

The air stilled, and the streets were already cleared of any ponies. The only one around to view the battle was Rarity, who watched from the doorway on her home.

“Is that Kai…?”

“Ah!” Rarity turned quickly, only to see Fluttershy standing behind her. “Fluttershy? Where did…?”

“The, um, hole in your wall.” Rarity raised an eyebrow, still not understanding why she was here. “The green one bumped into me, and I guess I was a bit curious, so I followed him a bit.” Fluttershy paused, giving a look that Rarity had come to know the meaning of. It was her silent way of asking the situation, usually applied when seeing each other casually, but it was applicable in this situation too.

“The green one claims to be a Demon King. Cargo, it seems.” Rarity spoke. “He wanted these relics Kai had been gathering, and well… here Kai is to stop him.”

Fluttershy nodded, and looked to the battle with Rarity.

Cargo took the initiative of going first, and dashed in faster than before to connect a devastating right cross to Kai's face. Kai saw through the attack and tapped it to the side with his left hand. More serious than before, Cargo retained his balance, and spun around to kick him instead. No good, as Kai was already ducking out of the way.

It was Kai's turn to strike, and he chose a familiar uppercut to do the deed. Cargo grabbed the fist mid-flight, and instantly retaliated with a left hook. Kai was struck, but he recovered quickly enough to avoid the follow-up punch, the kick following, and the final palm-strike that left Cargo open himself. However, avoiding the palm-strike with a backstep was Kai's undoing, as Cargo fired off a large blast of energy from his extended palm. Kai formed a hasty cross-guard, and managed to escape the exchange with only scratches.

Cargo clicked his tongue in frustration, while Kai stood to his full height.

“I can't believe you weren't bluffing. I commend you for keeping up with me.” Kai lifted a brow. “Here's a little reward.” The demon sneered. “My full power.” Not wanting to seem like a liar, Cargo poised, spreading his legs and arms, and flexing his body. With a loud roar of exertion, Cargo began to draw out his true power. A dark orange aura surrounded him, as the very ground began to quake around everyone present.

Kai gasped, never expecting such power. Rarity winced, recalling long ago when Kai would flash his own power for a show of confidence. This power dwarfed that power by a serious degree. Fluttershy shut her eyes, feeling tears of fear forming in her eyes. She had never felt this kind of power before, and it shook her to her core.

“I understand now…!” Kai expressed with wide eyes. “This is the powerful demon from the legend…!” The saiyan gripped his arm tightly, gritting his teeth. He trembled slightly, trying hard to keep his emotions in check. “S-so this is it… The might of a demon!”

Finally, Cargo finished charging, the entire world seeming to halt in an instant. The aura had mostly dispersed, little wisps of orange flowing from his body from time to time. A sickly grin met the demon's features, causing Kai to flinch and hurriedly take a battle stance.

“Don't try too hard, boy. You may be dead before you can even blink!” It was no longer time to hold back. Kai calmly unleashed his own full power, choosing to unleash it in a way that wouldn't shake the ground. With that done. Kai narrowed his eyes and focussed. This was more serious than Noir. If he lost here, his precious little sisters would be harmed. He could not have that.

The air was still, silent. A pin could be heard dropping in Canterlot. Breaths would hitch in the Peaks of Peril. Teeth would grind in the Dragon Lands. This opponent was stronger than any before. But Kai still faced him; scared, but brave.

Then, Cargo darted forward. Kai's eyes widened, utilizing every bit of perception his eyes could muster in order to track the attack. Truly, the demon wished to end it quickly, for if Kai had not averted this attack with his hand, Cargo's hand would be through his chest.

No room to breathe, Cargo continued the assault with a mach jab, three snap kicks, an overhead punch, and a rising knee. Kai managed to guard the jab and the kicks, but the power behind them left him unable to recover to guard the overhead, which set his face up perfectly for the knee. Kai went flying upwards, gritting his teeth as he tried to regain his balance. He recovered just in time to lower himself under a savage sweeping high kick. Kai spun, deciding it was time to give back what was dished out to him.

Going all-out from the start, Kai assaulted Cargo with rapid punches, sure that at least one would make it to his face. Sure enough, three of the ten punches hit their mark, and on the final one, Kai connected a mean axe kick onto Cargo's skull, sending him down to the ground.

Kai had assumed that the impact would give him some seconds of recovery, but a sudden knee in his gut told him otherwise. Working past the pain of the blow, Kai snatched Cargo's face in his hand and pushed him backwards. Cargo nearly laughed at the futile attempt, before he felt a burning on his face. He only had time to think one incomplete thought.

‘Oh, son of a—’

Hopefully he planned to keep it family friendly, not that it mattered. Kai exploded his ki from his hand, sending the demon back into the ground in a crater. Guessing he wouldn't get a reprieve, Kai bolted forward, arm reared back. His preemptive strike landed true, pushing Cargo further into the crater. Again and again, Kai punched the demon as hard as he possibly could, hoping to end it all now. The saiyan took to the air, and let fly dozens of balls of ki, each surely hitting his target.

A cloud of dust rose, and Kai finally stopped blasting the demon. He huffed, but was sure he had won. Demon King or not, that was an assault that would be nearly impossible to survive.

…Nearly.

Before he could truly register what had happened, Kai found himself consumed by a rather large torrent of orange ki. His cross-guard could never be fast enough, and only ended up slightly delaying his eventual launch to the ground. The blast blew away most of his new coat, making hitting the ground even more painful.

Kai winced, trying to find his opponent from the ground, but he was found instead. A deadly hand nearly pierced Kai's heart, but he just barely managed to catch the limb and hold it just shy of the demon's sharp fingernails piercing through his skin. The saiyan grit his teeth, while the demon grinned wickedly.

“Well, you did well to survive against me for so long. I think it's time to end this!” Cargo lifted his hand free of Kai's grip, and thrusted down to impale the saiyan. “Hm…?” He would have, but a rock suddenly struck his face. The demon glared over, and met the defiant eyes of Rarity, another rock in her magical aura.

Cargo had clear plans to destroy Rarity, but a fist suddenly met his chin, knocking him away. Kai jumped to his feet, sparing a smirk at Rarity, who returned the smirk with her own. Ready to continue with a new plan, Kai focussed on Cargo, who was wiping a trail of purple blood from his chin.

“A new challenger approaches, you bastard.” Kai taunted, confusing the demon momentarily. He shook off the confusion, and rushed the saiyan immediately. However, before he got too close, another rock struck him right in the eye, slowing him to a pained stop.

“Agh!!” The demon screached, only to find his face filled with the ground. Kai and Rarity's team effort did the trick, and Kai wasn't about to let up. He stomped the demon's head several time, raising dust, but not in great enough quantities to lower visibility.

After about fifteen stomps, Cargo finally had enough and grabbed Kai's foot. The saiyan shook his foot free, and jumped back for distance. Cargo stood, glaring with his face stained with scratches, cuts, bruises and dirt. He rushed once again, expecting outside interferance. The demon swatted away Rarity's projectile rock with his left hand, but the action left him too open for Kai to send a right kick to his exposed left side. Cargo was launched, and skidded across the ground several feet.

Cargo growled agressively, punching the ground to assist in standing.

‘These fools… are actually causing ME trouble! How dare they!’ Teeth grinding together, the demon shook his head and struggled to a knee. Kai noticed this and lifted an incredulous brow.

“Oh, get up. The demon king can't be too badly hurt from a kick.” Cargo growled again and stood up. “To think the demon king would resort to trickery. Is this boy and a fashionista too much for you?” Kai taunted, a smirk on his and Rarity's faces. As could be expected, Cargo was none too happy about being insulted.

“ENOUGH!! I'LL DESTROY YOU, YOU FOOL!!” Cargo rushed forward, only to halt momentarily as the nearly perfectly time rock sailed past his face. Rarity clicked her tongue in frustration, as Cargo continued forward. Kai was just fine with this, having dealt significant damage already. He could handle this easily.

True to assumption, Kai was able to repel each punch and kick Cargo tried throwing. The bite behind the demon's strikes was gone, though he was still powerful. He really had weakened him with those few assaults. Kai caught both of Cargo's fists and quickly kicked him in the jaw, knocking him to the air. Before Cargo could recover, Kai was already above him with a double hammerfist. For yet another time, Cargo hit the ground, but this time, it was much more severe.

Cargo laid, unmoving. This time, he truly looked incapacitated, his body limp and and eyes half-lidded. Kai lowered to the ground to look down at the defeated demon.

“…It's over.” He declared, loud enough for the spectating mares to hear him. Fluttershy was understandably hesitant to get anywhere near the battleground, but Rarity had participated briefly, so she was just fine walking to Kai to look at the demon, as well.

“In the end, not even a demon could match the bond we've formed. Right, Kai?” Rarity asked with a smile.

“Right!” Kai agreed.

Cargo breathed heavily from the ground, meeting the gaze of Kai.

“…I lost… because this girl was with you…?” He wheezed out.

Kai nodded.

“Obviously. Not only did she support me in spirit, but she even distracted you so I could land some good hits. You lost 'cause of our teamwork.” Cargo let out a short chuckle, closing his eyes.

“Is that so…?” He sighed. “Well, so be it.” Cargo opened his eyes, and met Rarity's eyes now. “I'll just have to kill you.”

They couldn't even register what was just said. There was no time. It was too fast for Kai to properly react to. By the time they noticed, there was already a large hole in Rarity's chest, the blast of ki finally fading. Eyes wide, all she could do was fall backwards and let out a short squeak of agony. Kai's eyes widened when he finally caught up to what had just happened, and he rushed to Rarity's side immediately.

“RARITY!!” On his knees, all his hands could do was hover over the huge hole in her chest, knowing there was nothing he could do to help.

“K-KAIIIIII!!” Was all Rarity could scream out, trying hard to catch her breath. She could feel it leaving her, and her vision started to fade. Her pain slowly faded, and all she felt was… “…C…cold…”

“No—Rarity, stay with me! Y-you'll be okay! I-I…!” Kai was stopped by Rarity's hoof on his cheek.

Against all logic, Rarity smiled at him.

“…You always… were terrible at lying…” Kai felt her hoof quivering, and knew that it must have been taking tremendous strength to keep it there in the first place. He held her hoof, making it easier on her. “…I can't help… but think of… of everypony that will… miss me…” Rarity glanced to the side, Kai never even noticing that Fluttershy had rushed to her side as well. The pegasus could only sob in disbelief. “But… I think of you… Kai… and I know…” Rarity took a very shaky breath as she looked to Kai with a loving expression. “Everything will be just fine without me…”

Rarity's eyes closed very slowly, her smile falling, and her body becoming limp. The remainder of the breath she had left her lungs. Fluttershy stared. Kai stared. Both wide eyed.

Then, the dam bursted for Fluttershy, and she was instantly in hysterics.

“WAAAAAHHH!! R-R-RARITYYY!!”

But Kai still stared.

All he could think of were the memories of Rarity, and their interactions over the years.

Their first real conversation…

“Huh? Say, wasn't that dress ripped just a bit ago?”

“Oh, um… yes, it was. But I sewed it together.”

“Woah, you can fix that kind of thing!? I never even knew! You're amazing!”

“Th-thank you! If you want… I can show you how…?”

“Yes, please!”

Another conversation he could just recall.

“What's all that stuff?”

“Make-up. It's for when a lady wishes to feel more elegant and beautiful.”

“…Doesn't suit you.”

“Pardon me?”

“It doesn't suit you. You're plenty pretty already, you don't need that stuff.”

“Oh! Well, aren't you just a gentlecolt!”

And more came to mind, in fractured bits and pieces.

“Fashion show? Let's have one here!”

“One day, my dresses will be the hottest thing in Equestria!”

“Oh! I think this is the name brand one, right!?”

“Only THE most renowned photographer EVER!”

“These clothes fit me like a glove!”

“Remember to be careful when you pull the needle—”

“Owwww!”

“…through…”

And then, one final memory.

“Um… Kai?”

“What's up, Rarity?”

“I know I don't say it very often, and… because we aren't blood-related, it feels a bit odd. Know that… I don't mean this in THAT way, or anything—”

“Rarity, it's okay. What is it?”

“…I…I love you, Kai.”

“Heh! I love you, too, Rarity!”

That memory running through his brain, and holding his dead sister's hoof in his hand… Seeing her corpse…

Kai snapped.

“RRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGGGHH!!” An explosion of power radiated from Kai's body and he shot to his feet. Fluttershy, who had been right by him, was taken by surprise, the burst of energy blowing her away. She flapped her wings, a thought in her mind. She knew being blown away meant Rarity's body would be blown away, too, so she quickly caught her deceased friend and flew away to safety. Fluttershy normally felt compassion and mercy for everyone, but right now, she knew what Kai was going to do, and she approved.

While she fled, Kai's energy flooded out like a dam, never stopping for even an instant. His sapphire ki began to take on a yellowish tint. His black hair rose and wavered, flashing between black and blonde. His onyx eyes were flickering to a teal color. His muscles pulsed and expanded by a degree. And of course, his aura grew larger and larger.

Cargo shielded his face from this energy. It was potent, threatening to knock him off of his feet. All he could do was stare.

“What is this… this power!?”

With an almost audible snap, Kai finally ascended and powered up to a newer, more powerful form. His hair was suddenly spiked up and blonde, his deadly eyes teal, and the aura around him a yellow geyser. His gaze locked onto Cargo, and intensified a thousand times.

“…I'm going to kill you.”

A Super Saiyan's Anguish

Kai was always a rather depressing character. His mother would show him just enough love to keep him around, but not quite enough to make him feel wanted. With her passing and message of hatred, he was truly alone. Years of hard life struggles awaited Kai, and he would brave them all by himself.

Indeed, for years, Kai had nopony, nobody. Until he was taken in by Rarity's parents. They sheltered him, but he never really bonded with them. Not immediately. His first real bond ended up being Rarity, and Kai loved her like they were true siblings. Then, he bonded with her parents, and oversaw Sweetie Belle growing up. By all means, this was his family. And he loved them dearly.

However, no matter what, Kai always felt that he could always count on Rarity. Their parents were busy, and Sweetie Belle was too young. Rarity was his partner—his soulmate, in a way. He loved her in a way that went beyond familial bond, but never as a lover. He held her to a higher light than even himself, and she felt the same.

Many times, Kai would think to himself, ‘If I hadn't met Rarity, I'd probably be dead somewhere.’ It wasn't just an exaggeration. He knew that he would have left their parents if not for Rarity, and that would end in Kai being on the streets again, starving, and eventually dying. He would think ‘If Rarity was gone, I'd have no real reason to care about Ponyville.’ Ponyville hated him, and the only reason he didn't treat them with extreme hostility was because he knew Rarity wanted to be famous. She had to start in Ponyville, so he couldn't wipe it out.

Shortly put, Rarity was Kai's reason. His reason to fight. His reason for not destroying. His reason to care.

So, rage can never even come close to the emotion Kai felt when the Demon King Cargo took Rarity's life right in front of his eyes.

Kai stood before the demon, hair spiked up and blonde, eyes teal and in a deathly scowl, and his muscles expanded larger than usual. In a chilling voice, Kai grounded out his obvious intentions.

“I'm going to kill you.”

Chapter 9

A Super Saiyan's Anguish

Fluttershy's jaw clenched tight as she flew from the impending battle. In her hooves was her closest friend for nearly two months. It distressed her, feeling the warmth leaving the unicorn's body, and knowing it would not return. But more than anything, because her worry about the dead would be wasted, she worried about Kai. Rarity had told her their relationship, and it was something she actually envied. Her own brother could take several pages from Kai's book.

But now that she was gone, Fluttershy worried about Kai. She feared to see what the expression on his face would be after the rage left it. It hurt her to think that a punished soul like Kai's would be subjected to even more punishment.

Fluttershy glanced back, able to see a large torrent of energy, even from this distance. A cold glare formed on the normally gentle caretaker's face.

“…Take him out, Kai.”

Demon King Cargo was beginning to feel fear. For the first time since he was sealed, he felt fear. But this time, rather than fear for his freedom, he feared for his life. This power before him was unlike any he had ever felt.

However, despite all of that, the Demon King refused to sit and allow himself to be killed. He grit his teeth and glared at the boy, curbing his fear for the moment.

“You think you can kill m—” He made the mistake of sticking his tongue out a little too far during his yell, so when his teeth were suddenly forced to meet, he lost a good portion of it.

Kai had never looked more serious as he uppercutted the demon's jaw, silencing him. As blood spurted from the detatched bit and his remaining tongue, Kai followed up with a mighty roundhouse kick.

Cargo was launched away, skidding into a slightly more populated section of Ponyville. The townsponies stared in shock as the demon struggled to his feet. He spat out the blood that had accumilated in his mouth, and dedicated a bit of energy to healing it fully.

Kai hovered down in front of him shortly, arms crossed, glare sharp. The look infuriated Cargo.

“Do you expect me to grovel!?”

“No. That would imply I had intentions of sparing you.” Cargo forced himself to be calm after hearing that. He could have tried to blast him away, but such an idea seemed foolish. He would need every advantage he could get.

Cargo glared to his side, and met the eye of a random pony, staring up in shock with her peers. He smirked.

“If you come any closer, these lovely ponies will—” Before he finished, Cargo saw Kai extend his hand towards the ponies he wanted to use as leverage. Never breaking his stare, Kai used his ki to blast every pony to nothingness. Cargo stared in complete bewilderment. “Y…you… You're a real monster!”

Kai scoffed.

“Cute.” Cargo suddenly found himself on the ground from a particularly powerful backhand. “I'm beyond making you suffer. Die.” Decisively, Kai extended his hand to Cargo, and forced him to share a fate with the ponies from earlier.

“F…fool…! As if I haven't… covered my bases…!” Cargo managed to grit out as he was being destroyed. “You will… be killed… one… day…”

With that declaration, Cargo was no more.

The carnage around the area was painful to see, considering how long Ponyville had been around, and how long its founding took. Kai stared at the damage impassively, his eyes becoming emotionless. What reason was there to show emotion anymore? Kai did not know. His only reason was gone now.

Despite trying to keep emotionless, tears began falling down the saiyan's face. His hair fell, turning back to its usual black. His tear-filled eyes returned to onyx. His muscles receeded slightly.

All of this time, his quest was supposed to fill him with purpose. To make him feel alive. But at the very end of it, he felt more dead than even his deceased sister. His quest was for nothing.

…His quest…

His quest?

His quest! Of course!

Kai brainstormed and shot back to his home as fast as he possibly could. Being that he wasn't very far, he made it there in a split-second and quickly searched the inside. When he had given Rarity the Dragon Balls he found, she put them on her worktable. That, plus the balls in his satchel, he finally had all seven in his possession.

The saiyan went outside, emptying the satchel to have all seven Dragon Balls on the ground. Suddenly, he realised there was something wrong: he did not know the incantation to summon Shenron.

“Uh…um… Shenron, grant my wish!” Nothing happened. “A-appear before me, Shenron!” Nothing. “Please, Shenron!” He was begging, all for naught. Suddenly, he hatched one final idea.

Kirin. Kirin had been some kind of god, according to the kirins. Rain Shine told him the Dragon Ball made the kirins feel closer to their god. That meant that if anyone in the world knew about the Dragon Balls, it was Kirin.

Kai stuffed the Dragon Balls into his satchel, barely making them all fit to seal them inside. With the satchel around his waist, he took flight and made his way to the Peaks of Peril once again.

Fatigue finally hit Kai as he lowered to the village of the kirins. He slammed into the ground loudly, getting many surprised looks from the kirins. They all recognised him as Kai, their savior, and moved to assist him.

“My word, Kai! Are you alright?”

“Easy, buddy.”

“Up you go, big guy.”

The kirins helped him up to his feet, and he staggered to remain standing. Kai panted, his body taxed to its limits.

“Thanks…” Already, he could tell that he would never ascend the tower like this. He just needed a small bit of energy. Kai spotted the cured water source for the kirins, and tried to limp over to it. “Agh!” He fell, unable to walk properly.

“Woah, hey! Let us help you!” The eight or so kirins supported Kai's wavering body, helping him crawl to the water source.

“Here you go.” The set him down softly, allowing him to drink at his own pace. Drink, he did. The saiyan gulped substantial amounts of water, feeling his body immediately accepting the liquid to relieve his body slightly.

It was no senzu bean, but it would suffice for now. Kai stood up, getting help once again, but not needing it as much. His breathing was less strained, and he felt he would be able to scale the tower now. He gave the kirins a look.

“Thank you all for your help. Could you tell Rain Shine and Autumn Blaze I came by, but had to go to Kirin Tower?” As if they would deny such a simple request from their savior. They all chimed out their compliance, bringing a small smile to Kai's face. “Thanks. I'm off.”

With a short wave, Kai flew off toward Kirin Tower.

Kirin blinked at seeing Kai crash-land in front of him. Seeing how damaged the boy was, he quickly went through his robes to grab a senzu bean. Finding it, he approached Kai and knelt down.

“Here, Kai. It's a senzu bean.” Half-conscious, Kai slowly chewed the bean, before finally swallowing it. In an instant, his body was rid of any scratches and cuts, and he hopped to his feet.

Instead of giving thanks, he got straight to buisiness.

“Kirin, help me summon Shenron!” Kirin frowned.

“Unfortunately, I don't know how to do such a thing.” Kai's eyes widened.

“Wh-what? But you're connected to them, aren't you!? Rain Shine told me the Dragon Ball was given to her by their god—by you!”

The hermit's frown deepened.

“True, it was bestowed to her by a god… But I am not that god. In truth, watching over this tower was a duty bestowed unto me by my creator.” Kai's hopes finally died, and the look in his eyes darkened.

“Then you are useless to me.” Kirin flinched, the tone completely unfamiliar. Was this the boy's true nature being shown? In any case, Kirin had something else to say.

“Perhaps I am. However, I can direct you to my creator.” The hermit lifted a brow when he saw that dark look in Kai's eyes fade away. Shaking his head, Kirin elaborated. “Up above this tower is where my creator resides. The true god above this world. Kami.”

“Kami?” Repeated the saiyan. “He can show me how to use the Dragon Balls?” The hermit nodded. “Then I'm going up.”

“Wait.” Kai gave him an impatient glare. “After what you did, do you really believe you are worthy to meet God?” Kai spared a confused brow. “Killing those innocent ponies out of rage.”

Kirin had expected many things. A scoff. A shrug. An apology. An admission of guilt. A realisation of unworthyness. However, Kai's next action chilled Kirin to his bones.

Kai laughed. Loud. As if he had just heard the greatest joke in his entire life. Kirin only stared in shock. As Kai calmed himself, he glared at the hermit.

“Don't delude yourself, old fool. I care more for the dirt below Ponyville than its inhabitants. Living with a bunch of fools that would only fear me because I looked different, ostracising me and hating me. My own mother included. How much do you think someone can take?” Put like that, Kirin had a hard time arguing. “Anyway, I only killed them because I didn't remember the legend said ‘ANY one wish’.”

‘Truly, not pure of heart. This boy is the farthest from pure. If not for this chance of reviving his friend, he would be pure EVIL.’ For an instant, Kai's deepened scowl scared Kirin, the hermit thinking his thoughts were heard, and had displeased the saiyan in front of him. He knew it wasn't true, so he calmed himself.

“…Very well. I suppose it isn't my place to judge you, anyway. Kami will do that.” Kai shrugged, and took to the air. Weaving around the ceiling of the structure, he ended up above it, and looked up at the sky. Already far above the clouds, there seemed to be nothing else out there. However, he doubted the hermit would lie.

With a quick breath, Kai took off upwards.

Kirin looked after him, sighing tiredly.

“Unfortunately, it was the predudice of fools that could very well bring about their demise. I only hope the Dragon Balls are as powerful as Kami says they are…”

Eventually, a seemingly magically floating stucture came into view. Kai grunted, noting the size to be larger than the stucture atop Kirin Tower. In no time, he managed to make it to the top, and landed on the white tiles that made up the floor. The place was surprisingly vast, but Kai cared not for any of it.

The saiyan stepped forward, looking for any signs of life.

“Hey! Kami! Get out here!” He demanded, fists clenched. Kai sensed movement, and turned his gaze to the lone structure on this floating island. Out from the structure walked an individual that would have caused Kai great rage, had he been a bit more brash. He took a moment to look over the carbon copy of…

“Cargo.” The exact same. The only difference was his clothing, but even the color scheme was a match. He wore robes much like Kirin's, in a dark blue color, though he was without a cane. His calm stare met Kai's glare.

“Once. However, never again.” Kai recalled the legend, the part about the demons being one. So if this one wasn't Cargo, obviously, he was…

“…Kami.”

“Indeed. Welcome to my Lookout.” The half saiyan wasted no time in approaching Kami. He stared, and waited for him to speak. “I know what you need…and yet… I can't—”

“Cut the crap, god. Can you help me or not?” Kai interrupted impatiently.

“Very well. I can, but I need something in return. Rather, the world needs something in return.” Kami replied bluntly.

“Finally, something I can use.” Kai unzipped his satchel and pooled the Dragon Balls onto the floor. He gave them a hurried gesture. “Make them work and I'll do whatever you want.”

Kami frowned, but didn't protest. He walked towards the balls, and then gave Kai a questioning gaze.

“Just to check… You're having difficulties, even after stating ‘Rise, Shenron’?” Kai blinked.

“Wait, it's that easy?” Kami facefaulted. The saiyan may have a serious streak…but he was still an idiot. Kami slowly stood, giving a deadpanned stare to Kai. Kai ignored it, and threw his hands over the Dragon Balls. With a serious stare, he spoke the words given to him. “Rise, Shenron!”

Immediately, the sky darkened.

In Canterlot, Twilight Sparkle and Princess Celestia laughed without a care in the world. Twilight had never realised that her want for further knowledge had deprived her of a truly proper foalhood. Giving a push here had her realising how motherly Celestia could be. Conversely, Celestia had only known worry for so very long. Letting loose and having fun with her student gave her a feeling she hadn't genuinely felt in too long. Happiness.

Celestia draped a wing over Twilight's form, the duo enjoying their weekly ice-cream treat.

“Huh?” Twilight's sudden confusion was shared by Celestia, both looking up and around. “Princess? Why did you make it night?”

“I… did not.” Celestia tried to ignite her sun through the darkness, but nothing happened. This darkness did not respond to her light. “Wait a moment… could this be…?”

Somehow, the two thought of the same conclusion at the same time.

“Kai…?”

For the most part, the dragons of the Dragon Lands did as dragons do. Practice fire, fight over possessions, sleep… There wasn't much to do around there, hence why most dragons found their own amusement through other means elsewhere.

Far from the norm, however, was the daughter of the all powerful Dragon Lord resting on her father's lap, the most content look on her face. Sure, she hadn't seen her savior since he saved her, but the event ended up making her father more protective and, dare she say, loving. It was about as loving as one could expect from a cold ruler, but it was more than enough for Ember.

The girl smiled an uncharacteristically bright smile, sparing her father a glance. She could swear his gaze flicked forward. Had he been looking at her?

Before she could muse on it, both dragons' brows twitched, and their eyes picked up on the sudden dimming of the sky. The sky fully dimmed, blotting out the sun, and causing every dragon in the area to look around in confusion.

“Daddy—er—father? What's happening?” Ember asked, feeling similar confusion. Her confusion grew when she saw her father grin widely.

“EVERYONE BOW!!” Still confused, the dragons heeded the order, bowing low to the ground. “You as well, my daughter.” Ember blinked, but found her eyes widening when she saw Torch hunch over slightly, eyes closed. Her father…was bowing. Ember hurriedly followed his lead. “The saiyan Kai has succeeded in his quest! Lord Shenron will grace our world with his presence! Be grateful!”

And everyone was. As much as they wished to cheer at the legend being fufilled, they simply remained bowing. The saiyan worthy of dragon blood had summoned the strongest dragon of them all. What more could be said except… ‘Amazing’?

“Is that suppose to happen?” Kai asked Kami, brow raised. Kami simply nodded. “Alright.” The look on the saiyan's face became completely determined. Then, suddenly, a bolt of yellow lightning emitted from the gathered Dragon Balls, rising high into the air. It crackled loudly, before finally reaching its peak. Abruptly, the lightning seemed to fade, and it shifted into the form of a grand dragon, its scales green and its eyes red. It was unlike anything Kai had seen before.

Then, the dragon spoke.

“You who has summoned me… You may ask for any one wish. State it now.” Kai stared in awe for several seconds.

“This is… Shenron…” The dragon gazed down at him with disinterested eyes. Kai's fists clenched. “Alright! Listen and listen good, Shenron! My wish is to revive Ra…” Kai trailed off, feeling an odd ping in his gut. Similar to the one trying to ward him away from helping the kirins. He ignored that one to do a good thing. This one… what was it trying to tell him?

‘If she knew, how would she look at you…?’ That voice… it felt familiar, somehow… yet, he never recalled hearing it. But, instead of paying attention to the voice, he deciphered the words.

Rarity.

Kai closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and looked back to the dragon.

“…is to revive everyone caught in the crossfire of the Demon Lord and my battle.” A few seconds passed as Shenron registered the wish, Kami behind the boy with a proud smile.

“Such is a simple wish.” Shenron glowed, as did the Dragon Balls. “Your wish has been granted. Farewell.” Just as awing as he appeared, the dragon faded into another bolt of lightning, seeming to carry the Dragon Balls into the air. The relics circled the lightning, increasing in speed until they appeared as a single orange circle. Then, they all were launched far away, each in different corners of the world.

Kai let out a breath he didn't know he'd been holding. He looked over to Kami, who was standing with his hands behind his back, smiling at the boy.

“You had me believing you were nearly gone. I'm glad to see you still care.” Kai simply grunted, choosing not to explain his reasons for reviving everypony. Instead, he crossed his arms and gave a challenging look.

“I'm gonna go see my friend. Any protests?”

“As a matter of fact, yes.” Kai lifted an eyebrow. “I have news that may be distressing for you. My other half, Cargo, had made a stop before Ponyville.” Kami sighed, looking up. “He knew that time passing would mean stronger warriors. He acknowledged the fact that someone may defeat him. So, he sacrificed a rather decent portion of his power, and created a child in his image. So long as he persists, the world you know will be in danger.”

Kai's confusion also persisted.

“Let's just destroy him, then. Simple.” It was simple to Kai.

“That simply will not work.” Kami denied. “His ki cannot be sensed in the state he is in. Even when that state has passed, he can surpress his ki. Preemptively striking is out of the question.”

“…Then why can't I leave? Shouldn't I be closer to Ponyville, in case he strikes anytime soon?” The saiyan reasoned.

“Ah, but that's just it. I know exactly when he will strike.” Kai's fists clenched in preparation. “Being linked to Cargo, I could hear his final telepathic communication to his child. He plans to have the child strike on the day of Nightmare Moon's supposed arrival. To instill fear in as many as possible on a grand scale.” Kami held up two fingers, giving Kai a look of complete seriousness. “That will be in two years. Everyday of which, this child of Cargo's will be training hard. You must respond in kind. No distractions, no detours.”

Kai stared at the god for several seconds, registering what was just told to him. He would have to undergo nonstop training to counter another's nonstop training? Technically nothing new, except whenever he trained in the past, he always had his family supporting him.

“…Two years of training, then I'm free to go?”

“Actually, you'll be training for three years.” Kai refused to show confusion here. Clearly Kami had some method to cram another year in, otherwise, he'd be suggesting leaving Ponyville unattended for the year Cargo's child would invade.

“Fine. I accept. You'd better be ready, 'cause I've still got some steam to blow off.”

Kami smiled a calm kind of smile, and turned to walk toward the structure. Without needing to be told, Kai began following.

“These will be your hardest years, Kai. Physically, at least. I guarantee you, everyday will end with you being dead-tired.” Kai snorted. “You'll even learn to properly sense what you cannot see. For instance, you just raised your eyebrow, and put your hands in your pockets.” The boy's eyes widened because what Kami said was true. He had raised his eyebrow when told of sensing, and put his hands in his pants pockets idly.

“H-how…!?” Kami smiled at him.

“You must learn to see with your body. It will be a process. Come now.” Kai couldn't shake his sudden excitement. He almost couldn't wait to learn these kinds of things.

The two walked into the structure, silent and determined.

‘Just wait for me… Rarity.’

Blue eyes flickered open suddenly. The light of the sun blinded them momentarily, but they could shrug the brightness off quickly with a squint.

“…Where…” Her voice croaked out. She tried to say more, but she could not muster up the energy. However, her single word yielded a gasp, but not from her. She shifted her gaze to the one who gasped, and locked onto a familiar form.

“R…Rarity…?” It was Fluttershy, her forehooves in front of her mouth and her eyes wide. Her jaw was quivering ever so slightly.

“Flutter…shy…?” Her mind was still piecing things together. Abruptly, she found herself in a gentle but heartfelt embrace.

“RARITY!!” Rarity winced. Fluttershy was never that loud, so that was rather unexpected. Out of reflex, she hugged the caretaker back, appreciating her warmth. “I-I-I thought you were…! Were…!” The pegasus sobbed, unable to say the word.

It all came back to Rarity, and she took a breath. Her body felt just fine. How? She had been killed by the Demon Lord.

“Collect all seven and you get a wish—any one wish!” Rarity's mind played back Kai's enthusiastic explaination of the Dragon Balls two months ago.

The unicorn found herself smiling, as she sunk into her best friend's hooves.

“It's okay, Fluttershy. It's okay.” She assured, only for the mare to sob harder, hugging even tighter. Something important occured to Rarity. “Where's Kai?”

“…He… He's fighting that monster. I can't feel anymore tremors… so I think he won.”

‘That would make sense. Nopony else would revive me.’ Rarity looked to Fluttershy, who was looking up at her like a filly would their parent. Rarity smiled and nuzzled against the pegasus to ease her worries. Fluttershy calmed notably, her sobs ending as she hugged her friend. The unicorn looked to the sky thoughtfully. ‘Kai… Why do I have the feeling… we won't see each other for a long time…?’

Her intuition never failed her… and that was what saddened her. Still, glad to be alive, Rarity took it in stride. She knew she'd see him one day. So with a smile, she sent out thought to her brother.

‘I'll be waiting for you… Kai.’

Author's Note

Kai appears to have found an end to this journey of his, finding all of the Dragon Balls and bringing his dear sister back with them. However, with danger lurking, two years seems like no time at all. The spawn of Cargo is not the only danger, however...

The next chapter will officially start the story from the canonical first episode. But surely the changes a certain saiyan made won't simply be forgotten over the years, now will they?

Inescapable Nightmare

“You're the Mare in the Moon—Nightmare Moon!”

“Well well well, somepony who remembers me. Then you also know… why I'm here.”

“You're here to… t-to…”

“Hehehe… Remember this day, little ponies, for it was your last. From this moment forth, the night will last forever!”

Chapter 10

Inescapable Nightmare

‘My dear Twilight, there is more to a young pony's life than studying, so I'm sending you to supervise the preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration in this year's location: Ponyville. And, I have an even more essential task for you to complete: make some friends!’

Twilight Sparkle must have read these words over about a hundred times on this pegasus-drawn carriage. Make friends? Even from a normal standpoint, wasting time with friends when there were preparation for the most celebrated event in Equestria seemed utterly foolish. But Twilight had a better reason. Try, the millennium-sealed Mare in the Moon being primed for freedom on the day of the celebration! All Twilight had to go on was a legend and her wits, but then again, two years ago, an old friend of hers had succeeded with the exact same.

The unicorn shook off her thoughts of him and refocussed on the matter at hoof. For the first time, she may have to slightly disobey her mentor's order. After all, if friends superceded Equestria's very safety, then her mentor may have been a bit tired. Yeah, that was it. So it was Twilight's job as a faithful student to rectify that mistake born from tiredness.

Twilight looked to her dragon assistant Spike, feeling eyes on her. The baby dragon met her purple gaze with his green, and blinked passively.

“All I'm saying is that making friends isn't all that bad.” Spike spoke, picking up a previous conversation.

Twilight sighed.

“I'm not saying making friends is bad. It's rewarding, I know. But right now, don't you see what's at stake?” Spike shrugged. “Equestria! If we don't find out about those Elements of Harmony soon, there may not BE a Sun Celebration!”

Still, the dragon shrugged.

“You're just scared of making friends. And jumpy. How many cups of coffee did you drink this morning? Like, six?”

“I'M NOT JUMPY!!” Twilight snapped, her twitchy body betraying her. Spike put his claws up in surrender. He knew Twilight long enough to know a losing argument. “And I keep telling you, I am NOT afraid to make friends.”

“Whatever you say, Twilight.”

In a short while, the Royal Guard pegasi pilotting the carriage lowered to the ground for a landing, softly touching down. Twilight stepped off, and Spike vaulted over to land on the mare's back—his favorite spot ever. The guards stood tall as they stared forward dutifully.

“Thank you, sirs.” Twilight's thanks received silent nods, so she moved on. Now even Twilight could admit, Ponyville was beautiful. Having grown up in Canterlot, she knew of all of the holier-than-thou ponies and entitled brats—she nearly WAS one. It was refreshing to see ponies walking with their nose out of somepony else's flank.

“Maybe the ponies in Ponyville have interesting things to talk about.” Spike's words were the last push she needed to give it a shot. Twilight turned her head towards a staring mare, clearly curious about her royal arrival. With the best ‘Customer-service’ smile she could muster—which ended up looking more like an ‘I've-been-working-here-for-five-years-kill-me’ smile—the unicorn spoke.

“Um… hello?” The pink pony had barely waited for her to finish that final syllable before gasping loudly and dramatically. With haste Twilight had never seen, the mare zipped away without a word.

Twilight gave Spike a deadpanned look.

If Spike knew how to curse, he would have.

“Summer Sun Celebration official overseer's checklist.” Back to business, Twilight and Spike made their way to what seemed to be a farm. The duo looked out at the vast fields as Spike continued, taking out a long list and pointing at a line. “Number one, banquet preparations: Sweet Apple Acres.”

Twilight could only think briefly on the idea of an entire acre made of apples; from the trees to the grass, and obviously the crops. A smile flickered across her face, before a sudden yell wiped it off.

“Yee-haw!” The sight of an orange pony suddenly in front of her reminded Twilight why she was a recluce.

Now, it wasn't that Twilight didn't have friends, but… well, actually, she didn't… But the point was, she was aware of the concept, but she had never put it into practice. As such, her social skills were… lacking, to put lightly.

The unicorn sighed.

“Let's get this over with…” She muttered. “Good afternoon. My name is Twilight Sparkle—”

“Well, howdy-doo, Miss Twilight, a pleasure makin' your acquaintance.” The orange earth pony took her hoof and shook it strongly. Twilight, inept in the physical field, was shaken around like a flimsy piece of plastic. “I'm Applejack. We here at Sweet Apple Acres sure do like makin' new friends!”

Twilight blinked, giving Applejack a confused look. Before she could protest, she felt a knocking on her head. Spike was surely trying to remind her of the secondary mission assigned to them. Still serious about her main goal, she gave a strategic view of this. Make a friend, check the preparations, research the Elements of Harmony. Best plan ever.

“Friends? O-kay.” Applejack's already large grin grew, while a smile formed on Spike's face, as well.

“So, what can I do you for?” The stetson-clad mare asked.

Twilight cleared her throat.

“Well, I am in fact here to supervise preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration. And you're in charge of the food?” Business mode, as usual.

Applejack nodded in return.

“We sure as sugar are! Would you care to sample some?”

“As long as it doesn't take too long…”

Little did she know…

Twilight stumbled, her belly beyond its filling point. Spike rode atop her back, far less harried by the vast amounts of food they had just consumed. The dragon looked to Twilight, then to his list.

“Food's all taken care of, next is weather.” He checked off ‘food’ with a quill, and tapped ‘weather’ softly.

The mare groaned, rubbing her stomach gently.

“Ugh… I ate too much pie…” Spike chuckled at the mare, and read over the details for their next mission.

“Hmm… There's supposed to be a Pegasus pony named Rainbow Dash clearing the clouds.” Hearing this made Twilight look to the sky and scoff.

“Well, she's not doing a very good job, is she?” Was her rhetorical question, seeing the cloudy sky. Twilight's brow twitched when she felt a weight off of her back, and was going to turn to ask why Spike had jumped off. However, not a moment after that, a force struck her hard enough to throw her off of her hooves.

Twilight rolled to a stop, right into a puddle of mud. Now she was dirty, in pain, and on the verge of losing her extremely large lunch.

“Nng…” She groaned out.

Laughter rang out, though the manner of laughter made it clear the ‘laugher’ was apologetic.

“Uh, 'scuse me?” Twilight let out another groan, and stood as best as she could. Her muddy gaze caught a rainbow blur, but barely anything else. “Lemme help you.” Was the only warning, before water fell all over Twilight, washing the mud off, but obviously drenching her. She blinked, and saw the culprit—a pegasus with a blue coat and a rainbow mane. The pegasus laughed sheepishly. “Oops, I guess I overdid it. Um, uh, how about this?” The pegasus flew at fast speeds, zipping around the unicorn. The wind that followed blew away the water, but left her mane standing on end. “My very own patented Rain-Blow Dry! No no. Don't thank me. You're quite welcome.” This mare noticed her work, and how frizzy Twilight's mane was now.

It didn't take long at all for her to fall out laughing. Spike, seeing her mane as well, joined this rainbow mare. Twilight was none too happy, so she cut to the chase.

“Let me guess. You're Rainbow Dash.” Her educated guess made the pegasus' laughter stop, and the most confident smirk to fall over her face.

“The one and only. Why, you heard of me?”

“I HEARD you were supposed to be keeping the sky clear.” Twilight calmed herself, and focussed on her real point. “I'm Twilight Sparkle, and the Princess sent me to check on the weather.”

Rainbow Dash hardly gave her another look.

“Yeah, yeah, that'll be a snap. I'll do it in a jiffy. Just as soon as I'm done practicing.” Twilight kept herself calm, no matter how irritated she was getting. Though, it was getting harder with this mare refusing to do her only job.

‘What would HE have done…?’ She found herself thinking. As limited as their interactions may have been, there was a great change that had come from Twilight's meeting with a certain saiyan. And she considered what someone like him would do.

It hit her.

“Practicing for what?” Rainbow Dash grinned.

“The Wonderbolts! They're gonna perform at the Celebration tomorrow, and I'm gonna show 'em my stuff!” Immediately, Twilight laughed. This made Rainbow Dash frown and look to her. “What's so funny?”

“Sorry, sorry. But if you really think you'll get into the Wonderbolts like… THAT… then you're as dumb as you look.” A similar tactic to what was used on her. Aggravate somepony enough to make them fall into your hooves. It was so easy a foal could do it.

True to assumption, Rainbow Dash flew in Twilight's face, glaring hard.

“What'd you just say!?”

“Sorry, I guess you don't look quite that dumb, but you see my point.”

“What's that supposed to mean?” Twilight made a gesture to the sky.

“The Wonderbolts follow orders promptly, do they not? These clouds were supposed to be cleared ages ago. But you STILL think you deserve a spot as a Wonderbolt?” At this point, Twilight was banking on this working right now, because Rainbow Dash looked about ready to strangle her.

“I'll have you know, if I wanted these clouds cleared, they'd be clear!”

“Mhm. Whatever you say.”

“I could do it in ten seconds flat!” Twilight's faux-doubt turned to actual doubt, now. That was pretty much impossible, she thought. However, she kept even faced and emulated the snobs from Canterlot.

“Oh?”

“That's right!”

“Better hop to it, then.” It seemed clear that Rainbow Dash disliked being bossed around, but she seemed to hate being challenged like this more. As such, she took to the air, and began to zip around at speeds that made any onlooker stare in shock. She knocked out cloud after cloud at a pace Twilight had never seen.

Though she was shocked, Twilight forced herself to keep a calm facade, which came in handy when Rainbow Dash finally finished and stopped in front of her face, a cheeky grin plastered on her face.

“What do you think of THAT?” Twilight gave a genuine smile, the borderline condescending air around her vanishing like it had never been there. Rainbow Dash couldn't even adjust to the sudden change.

“That was amazing, Rainbow Dash.” Part two was instant flipping, leaving no time to adjust to what had happened. She took Rainbow Dash as the brash, cocky, dumb type, so she doubted the pegasus would truly understand what had just occured. Twilight began to walk away, Spike in tow. “Thank you.”

Rainbow Dash simply stared, eyes wide. It was barely registering that she had just been tricked into doing work sooner than she had intended.

“H…hey…” She half-heartedly protested, not sure if she should feel angry or disappointed. She ended off of vague melancholy, and she floated away to think that over.

“Stop laughing, Spike!” Calm facades drop after a few minutes, and Twilight was no exception. Add Spike laughing at her frizzled mane, and Twilight was less than happy.

Spike wiped away a tear as he trailed behind her.

“Okay, okay! It IS kinda pretty once you get used to it!” Twilight rolled her eyes, and sped her stride slightly.

The duo finally made it to their next location, being the area that the celebration would be taking place. They looked all around, taking in the decorations around the room.

“Decorations.” Spike's gaze landed elsewhere, and his eyes widened. “Beautiful…”

Thinking he was talking about the decorations, Twilight responded.

“Yes, the décor is coming along nicely. This ought'a be quick. I'll be at the library in no time. Beautiful indeed.” Spike barely even spared her a glance

“Not the décor…” He pointed with a short claw. “…her!”

Twilight shifted her gaze to follow Spike's claw, and laid eyes upon a certain fashionista. Indeed, Twilight could admit, she was beautiful. But the mission came first, obviously.

Spike panicked, looking himself over.

“How are my spines? Are they straight?” Again, Twilight Sparkle rolled her eyes, before walking closer to the white-coated unicorn.

“Good afternoon—”

“Just a moment, please!” The mare spoke suddenly, holding up a hoof. Twilight blinked. “I'm 'in the zone', as it were.” She loosely explained. She used her magic to assist in decorating the wall she focused on. “Oh, yes! Sparkle always does the trick, does it not? Why, Rarity, you are a talent.” Rarity complimented herself, before turning to face the pony she put on hold. She smiled. “Now, how can I help yo—” She let out a yelp, causing Twilight to jump slightly. “Oh my stars, darling! Whatever happened to your coiffure?!”

Twilight gave the most confused look, but she quickly deduced the only thing on her that would cause alarm.

“Oh, you mean my mane?” She asked rhetorically, shaking her hoof dismissively afterward. “Well, it's a long story. I'm just here to check on the decorations, and then I'll be out of your hair.”

“Out of MY hair? What about YOUR hair?!” Rarity grabbed Twilight's hoof and dragged her along elsewhere.

“Wait! Where are we going?!” Twilight looked to Spike, who seemed too enamored by Rarity's appearance to do anything. “Help!”

As it turned out, she was brought to a changing room, and her ruined mane was quickly taken care of. Twilight would have been impressed at the speed the mare worked at, but this was cutting into her own time. And, well, she was dressing her in all kinds of clothing that was just… uncomfortable. Each outfit change was taking at least three minutes.

“No, no.” A new outfit. “Uh-uh.” Another. “Too green.” Yet another. “Too yellow. Too poofy. Not poofy enough. Too frilly. Too… shiny.” Well…at least her mane was back to normal. Though, she felt it was a bit unnecessary to be forced into a… corset? “Now go on, my dear. You were telling me where you're from.”

At least, she was trying to. Kind of impossible when the fashionista was essentially strangling her by tightening the strings of the corset. Still, she tried.

“I've… been sent… from Canterlot… to—” Rarity suddenly froze, causing the built up tension from fastening a string to release, sending each mare flying comically to either corner of the room.

The fashionista quickly recovered, grinning widely at her fellow unicorn.

“Canterlot!?” She repeated. Twilight nodded. “Oh, I am so envious! The glamour, the sophistication! I have always dreamed of living there! I can't wait to hear all about it!” Rarity wrapped Twilight in a hug that was far too close for the latter's liking. “We are gonna be the best of friends, you and I!” She gave the purple mare's ensemble a look over, over to gasp in shock. “Emeralds?! What was I thinking? Let me get you some rubies!”

Rarity made herself scarce to aquire some rubies for her newest friend. Twilight, however, frowned and tore off the clothes the had on. She looked to Spike, nearly panicked.

“Quick! Before she decides to dye my coat a new color!” Spike didn't seem to want to leave, but with the source of his trance gone for now, he could at least think to respond. Though not in words. He followed the mare outside, casting a final longing look back.

“Think she's taken?” Came Spike's excited question.

“It's an awfully small town, and she IS pretty…” Came Twilight's analytical retort. Spike sighed. “But, heads up, Casanova. You never know.”

Spike blushed.

“N-not for me! For a friend!” Twilight lifted an eyebrow at the dragon atop her back. “Really!”

“Whatever you say.” It was Spike's turn to roll his eyes, albeit embarrassedly. “So, what's next?”

Spike shook his head, and looked to his list.

“Let's see here… Oh! Music! It's the last one!” The duo heard a birdsong in the distance, and glanced around to find it. Eventually their gazes landed on a yellow pony, who stood in front of a choir of birds. She was so quiet, they could not hear her. Somehow, soft bird tweeting was tuning her out.

Seeing this as the final goal of their mission, Twilight walked over to the mare with a smile.

“Hello!”

“Eep…!” The birds were just as startled as the mare, and flew away quickly. The pegasus turned, saddened by her bird friends' departure, shocked at whomever had greeted her so loudly.

Twilight realised her mistake and gave an apologetic look.

“Oh my, I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to frighten your birds. I'm just here to check up on the music and it's sounding beautiful.” The pegasus nodded, glancing away timidly. Twilight cleared her throat, unused to awkward silences. True, when others spoke to her, she was usually the cause of awkward silences, but seldom was she on the receiving end. “…I'm Twilight Sparkle.” The mare nodded yet again, but didn't speak yet. Though, Twilight could see her going through something in her head, and then she turned her head to face the unicorn.

“Um… I-I'm Fluttershy.” It was clear she was straining to be louder, and Twilight was just barely able to catch her name.

“Fluttershy?” The look of accomplishment that was on Fluttershy's face made Twilight feel special. The pegasus nodded. “Well, it's nice to meet you. Keep up the good work, Fluttershy.”

“Thank you.” A delightfully quick exchange, Twilight waved as she walked away, Fluttershy waving back.

“See, Spike? Not everything has to be complicated.” This was one time Spike had no issue agreeing with the mare.

Finally, the duo made it to their home: A library. But not just any library, Golden Oak Library, the only one in Ponyville. To this day, it didn't see much business, so these living arrangements were just fine.

It all seemed perfect.

Well, except for the lights being off. That was odd.

“Come on, Spike! I have to convince the Princess that Nightmare Moon is coming, and we're running out of time!” Twilight rushed her assistant, the pair looking for the light switch.

“I don't think they make switches baby-dragon-friendly!” Spike snapped back at her. Choosing not to acknowledge the dragon's words, Twilight continued feeling around for the lights, until…

“Surprise!” Twilight and Spike jumped, shocked at the lights flicking on, and shocked at the nearly two dozen ponies in her home. Already, Twilight could spot the ponies she had met prior, and let out a short groan of annoyance. Loud music started playing, and a party instantly began.

If Twilight Sparkle was the kind of pony to curse, she would have.

“Hi, I'm Pinkie Pie, and I threw this party just for you!” A familiar pink pony zipped in front of Twilight. This was the same pony that had ran from her when greeted. She grinned widely. “Were you surprised? Were ya? Were ya? Huh huh huh?”

Twilight's patience was as thin as it could get. She managed to keep a calm demeanor, taught to her by her mentor.

“Very surprised. Libraries are supposed to be quiet.”

Pinkie Pie gave a snorting kind of laugh.

“Well, that's silly! What kind of welcome party would this be if it were quiet? I mean, duh, bo-ring!” Scratch that. Somehow, Twilight's patience was getting even thinner. “Y'see, I saw you when you first got here, remember? You were all ‘hello’ and I was all—” She gasped as she had earlier that day. “—remember? Y'see I've never saw you before and if I've never saw you before that means you're new, 'cause I know everypony, and I mean EVERYPONY in Ponyville!” Imagine one's patience was a cinderblock. Twilight's was a strip of tracing paper.

However, the pink pony seemed oblivious to the slowly angering expression on Twilight's face. So, she continued.

“And if you're new, that meant you haven't met anyone yet, and if you haven't met anyone yet, you must not have any friends, and if you don't have any friends then you must be lonely, and that made me so sad, then I had an idea, and that's why I went—” Pinkie Pie gasped again. “I MUST throw a great big ginormous super-duper spectacular welcome party and invite everyone in Ponyville! See? And now you have lots and lots of friends!”

Okay, genuinely, she appreciated the gesture. But right now, Twilight had no time for friends. As if the line needed repeating, Equestria was in danger! Twilight nodded, and thought of a way to study, possibly.

“Well, I'M going to go party upstairs. Alone. Don't bother me.” She turned, only for Pinkie to be in her face. Her brows rose, and she looked back, seeing Pinkie gone, and then forward, seeing Pinkie there. “How did you…!?”

“But the party's right here!” Pinkie Pie protested.

“Look! Just let me…!” Twilight lost her composure, but quickly calmed herself. “Pinkie Pie, please let me up to my room.”

“'Kay!” Pinkie stepped aside, and Twilight hurried passed her to the stairs.

“Where's Twilight goin'?” Pinkie turned to face Applejack.

“She said she's gonna party upstairs all alone!” Applejack's brows rose.

“…Okay. Mare's gotta do what a mare's gotta do, I suppose…” Was how she interpretted it. Shrugging, the mares went to enjoy the party.

Although Twilight wanted to study in preparation of the Mare in the Moon, she supposed meeting friends was… alright. She truly hoped her mentor was correct about her being worried for nothing. But that moon looked awfully close…

“C'mon, Twilight, it's time to watch the sunrise!” Twilight was knocked from her train of thought by Spike, who pointed up at the stand their princess would present herself on. It was nearly time for this celebration to start, everything in place. From the food Applejack was tasked with bringing, to Rarity tasked with opening the curtains, and Fluttershy with her birds to tell them when to start. However, Twilight could only think of Nightmare Moon.

”Isn't this exciting? Are you excited, 'cause I'm excited, I've never been so excited— well, except for the time that I saw you walking into town and I went—” Cue gasp. “—but I mean really, who can top THAT?” Correction—Nightmare Moon, AND ways to shut Pinkie Pie up.

As the Mayor of Ponyville began to speak, Twilight stared up at the moon in worry. It looked like it was getting closer, and closer. The face in the moon seemed to be staring right at her. It wanted blood, and if nothing was done, Ponyville would be forced to provide.

“—the bringer of harmony to all of Equestria…” Twilight tuned back in just in time to hear to reveal of their princess. A calm smile spread across her face. If anypony could protect them, it was their Princess. What was she worried for? “…Princess Celestia!”

There was a reason why Twilight seldom doubted her logical mind.

When the curtains opened, nopony greeted them. The crowd of ponies began to panic, but Twilight knew. She knew what this meant. She had always known.

Then, quite suddenly, a mist of blue swirled around the spot they had been expecting Princess Celestia to be. The mist materialized, and revealed an unfamiliar form. With a pitch black coat, and blue royal garments, it was all too clear who this was.

“Nightmare Moon…!” Twilight whispered in fear. Spike fainted, but nopony else heard her speak, so were quite in the dark.

The evil Mare in the Moon gave a chilling kind of grin at the crowd of ponies.

“Oh, my beloved subjects. It's been so long since I've seen your precious little sun-loving faces.” Every part of her tone was sarcastic and condescending.

“What did you do with our Princess!?” An instantly aggressive reaction from the hot-headed Rainbow Dash. She attempted to rush at the evil mare, but was stopped by Applejack holding her tail in her teeth.

“Whoa there, Nelly…”

Unsurprisingly, Nightmare Moon was unfazed. In fact, she seemed entertained, and laughed calmly to display that fact.

“Why, am I not royal enough for you?” She got right into Fluttershy's face to intimidate one of the closer ponies. Fluttershy trembled, shutting her eyes. The message across, Nightmare Moon turned her gaze to Rarity, and was in her face. “Don't you know who I am? Does my crown no longer count now that I have been imprisoned for a thousand years?” The mare hid her surprise to see Rarity's gaze shift into a deadpanned stare. She moved on, looking to the crowd. “Did you not recall the legend? Did you not see the signs?”

“I did. And I know who you are.” A lone voice cut through the fear of this extended night like a blade through a thread. Twilight Sparkle mustered up all of her bravery to meet Nightmare Moon's gaze.

“Oh?”

“You're the Mare in the Moon—Nightmare Moon!” Hearing the legend was true, the surrounding ponies gasped in shock.

Nightmare Moon's grin only grew.

“Well well well, somepony who remembers me. Then you also know… why I'm here.” The dark way she had spoken caused Twilight's bravery to die.

“You're here to… t-to…” She couldn't bring herself to finish. Honestly, anything could happen. Mass destruction, suffering, torture, anything.

“Hehehe… Remember this day, little ponies, for it was your last. From this moment forth, the night will last forever!”

Six paths had finally intersected, joining into a single large path. However, this path did not go unmonitored. Even as the evil Mare in the Moon terrorized Ponyville and its ponies, a figure watched. They waited. Waited for the perfect moment.

Arms crossed, an individual stared down at the familiar group of six, rushing off from an oversized tree, toward a forest of more regular trees.

“Elements of Harmony…” A gruff yet smooth voice mumbled, able to hear the girls even from so far away. A grin, more malicious than Nightmare Moon's, spread across this individual's face. “Very well. I suppose I'm rooting for you to win… So I can rip your sense of security right from under you.”

Meanwhile, the newly formed group of six successfully traversed the dangerous forest known as the Everfree, conquering trials to end up at an old castle. The Castle of the Two Sisters.

“The Elements of Harmony… We've found them!” Twilight exclaimed, relieved at having their savior nearly in their grasp. The elements were large stones, kept on pedestals. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy flew to carry them from the pedestals to the floor, and Twilight looked to them all carefully.

“One, two, three, four… There's only five!” Pinkie Pie counted off, looking to Twilight in confusion.

“Where's the sixth?” Rainbow Dash asked what everypony was thinking.

Twilight shut her eyes in recollection.

“The book said: When the five are present, a spark will cause the sixth Element to be revealed.”

“What in the hay is THAT supposed to mean?” Applejack's sentiments were shared by all, even Twilight Sparkle herself.

“I'm not sure, but I have an idea.” Twilight's horn glowed, her stare on the Elements of Harmony. “Stand back. I don't know what will happen.”

The girls followed her instruction, and began to leave the room entirely. If anypony could do this, it was Twilight.

However, after only a few seconds of concentration, a familiar mist of blue flowed into the room and around the Elements of Harmony. In an instant, a small tornado of blue haze whisked the relics up into the air, earning a yelp of shock from Twilight.

“Twilight!” Naturally, her friends heard her and ran back to see what the issue was. The tornado spun faster, and Twilight knew that taking a chance was about the only thing that could save Equestria.

She jumped into the vortex, and both vanished without a trace.

Twilight landed hard, but was able to stand quickly. She looked forward, meeting Nightmare Moon's condescending stare with a far less than confident eye. However, now wasn't the time for fear—rather, it wasn't the time to hesitate due to fear. Seeing the Elements by Nightmare Moon's hooves, the mare thought fast, and prepared herself to rush at her foe.

“You're kidding.” Nightmare Moon said incredulously. However, Twilight smirked. “You're kidding, right?”

When Twilight rushed at her, the evil mare could only shrug, before deciding to meet her halfway. A show of power was necessary, it seemed. Before they could collide, Twilight flashed her magic and teleported right behind Nightmare Moon, and right by the Elements. Nightmare Moon turned in a rage, spotting Twilight immediately at work.

“Just one spark. Come on, come on…” Her magic finally reached the Elements of Harmony, but by then, Nightmare Moon had already arrived in front of Twilight, and launched her away with her own magic. “Aah!”

At first, it appeared she was too late, the Elements crackling with power. However, that power died down in a few seconds, and never picked up. Twilight was on the verge of a heart attack from this anxiety.

“You little foal! Thinking you could defeat me?” Nightmare Moon's taunt did nothing to calm Twilight. “Now you will never see your princess, or your sun! The night will last forever!” She emphasised this point…

By crushing the Elements of Harmony.

As they shattered, so too did Twilight Sparkle's hopes. She slouched to the ground, staving off tears. That was the end for Equestria. Peace would be no more.

“Twilight!”

“We'll be there!”

“Just wait!”

Twilight perked up, and her eyes sparkled… Sparkled… Spark…

THE SPARK!

“You think you can destroy the Elements of Harmony just like that?” Nightmare Moon's smirk dropped, but Twilight developped one of her own, her mane shading her eyes. “Well… you're wrong! Because the spirits of the Elements of Harmony…” She knew they were there. She just knew. So, she gave a grand gesture behind herself, at her friends. “…are right here!”

“What?” Nightmare Moon gritted out in shock. The fragments of the Elements of Harmony glowed and rose into the air.

“Applejack, who reassured me when I was in doubt, represents the spirit of… honesty!” Orange fragments flowed towards Applejack. “Fluttershy, who tamed the manticore with her compassion, represents the spirit of… kindness!” Pink fragments flowed to Fluttershy. “Pinkie Pie, who banished fear by giggling in the face of danger, represents the spirit of… laughter!” Blue fragments went to Pinkie Pie. “Rarity, who calmed a sorrowful serpent with a meaningful gift represents the spirit of… generosity!” Purple fragments went to Rarity. “And Rainbow Dash, who could not abandon her friends for her own heart's desire represents the spirit of… loyalty!” Red fragments went to Rainbow Dash. “The spirits of these five ponies got us through every challenge you threw at us.”

Nightmare Moon grasped at whatever she could in this moment of sudden panic. If the Elements actually functioned, she could actually lose this.

“You still don't have the sixth Element! The spark didn't work!”

“But it DID!” Argued Twilight Sparkle. “A different kind of spark.” She looked to her friends, allowing her tears to fall, not out of despair, but out of happiness. “I felt it the very moment I realized how happy I was to hear you, to see you, how much I cared about you. The spark ignited inside me when I realized that you all… are my friends!” The girls smiled brightly, glad to truly be friends. Twilight flicked her gaze back to a panicking Nighmare Moon. “You see, Nightmare Moon, when those Elements are ignited by the spark, that resides in the heart of us all, it creates the sixth element: The element of… magic!”

Indeed, a sixth stone was formed, and descended upon Twilight Sparkle. Abruptly, the stones glowed, and formed into unique gems on golden necklaces for everypony but Twilight. Twilight recieved a golden tiara with a similarly unique gem. With the power to defeat their foe, the mares smiled, rising into the air. A swirl of rainbow energy fired off from the group, and swirled around Nightmare Moon.

“No! Noooo!” Would be Nightmare Moon's last words. The rainbow blast glowed, and shrouded the room in light.

Then…

Silence.

The lights dimmed, and silence was all that remained.

It didn't last, as soon, the girls' heavy breathing could be heard through the room.

“Ugh, my head…”

“Everypony okay?” Applejack's question of concern was answered with short nods.

The mares stood and assessed their conditions. Everything checked out. A few aches and pains, but they were alive. More than acceptable.

“Oh, thank goodness.” The group looked to Rarity, and followed her gaze. Leave it to Rarity to be preoccupied with her newly grown tail, rather than…well, anything else.

“Why Rarity, it's so lovely.” Fluttershy complimented.

“I know! I'll never part with it again.”

“No, your necklace. It looks just like your cutie mark.” Indeed, it did. The gem was a purple diamond.

“Ooh! So does yours.” Rarity pointed out. Also true, Fluttershy had a gem in the shape of a butterfly.

Each girl had a gem in the shape of their respective cutie mark. This caused them to laugh.

“Gee, Twilight! I thought you were just spoutin' a lot of hooey, but I reckon we really do represent the elements of friendship.” Applejack noted with a smile.

“Indeed you do.” That sudden voice had the group looking at the window, spotting the sun finally rising. That could only mean one thing…

“Princess Celestia.” As Princess Celestia's form came into view from the rising sun, the mares bowed in respect of their ruler. Celestia smiled at her student.

“Twilight Sparkle, my faithful student. I knew you could do it.” She spoke calmly, approaching the girls.

Twilight Sparkle gave a confused stare.

“But… you told me it was all an old pony tale.” The Princess gave a coy little smile.

“I told you that you needed to make some friends, nothing more.” She reminded. “I saw the signs of Nightmare Moon's return, and I knew it was you who had the magic inside to defeat her, but you could not unleash it until you let true friendship into your heart.” Her smile fell. “Now if only another will as well.” She glanced to the side, where their prior foe had been defeated. “Princess Luna!

In place of Nightmare Moon was another alicorn, with a blue coat and mane, gasping as she was addressed. She trembled fearfully as Celestia approached her.

“It has been a thousand years since I have seen you like this. Time to put our differences behind us. We were meant to rule together… little sister.”

“Sister?” The girls repeated in shock.

“Will you accept my friendship?” Celestia asked with a warm smile.

Luna's lip quivered, her eyes watering. Without warning, she leapt up to embrace her sister, sobbing loudly.

“I'm so sorry! I missed you so much, big sister!” The years Celestia had longed to hear that…

She too, was in tears.

“I've missed you, too.” The sisters smiled at each other, both extremely happy. The girls watched tearfully, as well. Friends and family were brought together this day.

“What a heart-warming reunion.” Eyes went wide, and every head turned to find the speaker.

Upon spotting them, Two pairs of eyes widened in fear and shock, while the other varied between widening and narrowing.

Standing, arms crossed, was a green individual, wearing a dark red gi, grey shoes, and a blue cape. He stared down at the mares with a mocking smirk.

“Who… are you?” Celestia asked, walking in front of the group.

“It's…th-the D-Demon King…” Fluttershy choked out.

“Cargo…” Rarity finished. The Demon King looked to them, his smirk dropping momentarily.

“No, I have yet to earn that title. Just call me Cargo. The son of the one that was killed.” Death being brought up had the group on edge, moreso than ever. Even if they couldn't sense things, they could still feel this individual's outrageous strength.

“What do you want, huh? Looking for a beating?” Rainbow Dash asked, cocky as usual.

To her irritation, Cargo didn't even spare her a glance.

“I have but one goal. If you all assist me, noone will have to get hurt.” A deadly cross of a glare and a smirk was on his face, putting fear in the mares, and causing Celestia to subtly take a battle stance. “Tell me where the saiyan Kai is… So that I may enact my revenge.”

“NEVER!” Such a protest wasn't unexpected, but from the two mare least adept in battle, it was a shock. Moreso to see both Rarity and Fluttershy glaring, looking more than ready for a fight.

Twilight was curious, and spoke her mind.

“How do you know Kai?” Rarity and Fluttershy catalogued Twilight knowing Kai for later, but focussed on not wavering when Cargo's glare deepened.

“He killed my creator, my father, if you'd prefer. My entire purpose for existing is to kill Kai. After that, I don't care.” The smirk returned. “So? How many of your bones do I have to break before you tell me?”

Celestia glared right back at the demon.

“Even if we did know, we would never yield to torture.” That smirk grew into a grin, unnerving everypony.

“Perhaps YOU wouldn't break…” Without warning, his form wavered and distorted, shocking everypony and making them look around for Cargo. “But what about an already broken princess?”

Celestia felt rage consume her being at the mere thought of her sister being harmed, after all of this time to get her back. Her magic flared up as she turned around quickly, leaping around her sister to strike the demon preemptively. However, he was much too fast for her, and sent a flying backwards with a simple kiai from his right hand.

“Princess!” The girls cried out as Celestia impacted a wall, nearly shattering it.

“S-sister!” Luna was going to run after her, but Cargo was already upon her, staring down with cold eyes. Luna trembled again, knowing she was unable to defend herself. She was at his mercy.

“Now you get yours, Nightmare Moon!” Psychological injury, before physical. Luna grit her teeth and shut her eyes, waiting for the right fist to connect. However, a very loud impact sounded, but she felt no pain. “What the…!?”

Yet again, eyes widened.

Another figure was in between Cargo and Luna, catching Cargo's fist with their right hand. They wore a black cloak with the hood up and shading their face, not that they were facing anyone other than Cargo.

At first, the demon was surprised, as was everypony else. However, his confusion melted away, and he smirked.

“Well, well. He finally decides to show himself.” Cargo jumped back, creating a great gap of distance.

The hooded individual turned his head, looking to the group of ponies through shaded eyes. He let out a humorous grunt.

“Looks like you made some new friends while I've been gone. I'm glad.” There was no doubt about it. No mistaking it.

Rarity took a shaky step forward, jaw quivering.

“K…Kai…?” Closer, she could see a smirk on this individual's lips.

“In all of this time, who've you met that can steal the show like me?” He lowered his hood, revealing himself to be exactly whom Rarity thought. “Good to see you alive and well… Rarity.”

“KAI!” Despite the situation, Rarity couldn't help but throw herself into her brother's arms. A similarly thrilled Fluttershy followed suit, and Kai caught them both. The mares cried in relief and joy. “Kai…! We missed you so much!”

The saiyan smiled, nuzzling the two mares close.

“I missed you, too.” He knelt down to release the mares, and gave them a proper look over. They did the same. “You two've grown a lot, haven't you?” They were a bit taller, and definitely matured some from the last time he'd seen them.

“You have, too.” Kai was notably taller, and his eyes were sharper. “Where have you been all this time, Kai?”

“Well…”

Three Years

“So… when you said three years…” A younger, shirtless Kai began.

Kami turned to him briefly, before waving to a blue door with an hourglass on it.

“This room is the Room of Space and Time. The conditions are harsh, the range infinite, and the time is distorted to make a single day in this world… an entire year in there.” Kai's eyes widened in shock. That was possible? He could get so much training done in there.

“What kind of conditions?” He asked carefully.

“You'll find out now. And you won't be allowed to leave until the year is up.” Kami smiled, pushing the door open. “Are you prepared?”

“You kiddin' me? I'm always prepared! Now let's go!” Kai strode through the door, more than ready to train for a year straight.

Chapter 11

Three Years

“…Still confident?”

“…Mm-mm-hm-phm.” Kai's voice was muffled as he attempted to stand up. His face was right on the floor, his body racked by a sudden increase of gravity.

“What was that?” Kai managed to stand, albeit very slowly and with much effort.

“I said… slightly less so…” The boy gave Kami a look of confusion. “Why is it so hard to move?” Kami gave a gesture towards their surroundings, and allowed Kai to take it all in. “Woah…”

An entire world of white space—a white void. The only filled part of the world was the area they stood at, which held a bathroom, a few beds, and a refrigerator. Truly, this was an odd place.

“The gravity here is just about ten times more than that of Equestria's.” Kai's eyes went wide as Kami continued. “The temperatures can get a little outrageous, as well. As you get farther out, it can change from sweltering to chilling in a flash.” The saiyan's jaw nearly hit the ground. “And, since your clothes are ruined, I'll take the liberty of giving you extremely heavy weighted clothing.” Kami extended his hand towards a pale Kai.

“Uh… Maybe if I can just… ease into that?”

“Hm? But this IS the easy start.” With a brilliant blue sparkle, clothes formed onto Kai's body. A green gi, tied with a brown, brown wristbands, with the pants tucked into brown boots.

Kai fell over instantly.

“Y…you're kidding me… right?”

“Not at all. Each part of that outfit should weigh just about two hundred kilograms.” Kami had expected a surprised sound, but Kai only glared.

“Not that…! Green… is totally not my color!” Kami fell over as well.

The god slowly lifted himself up, hand over his face.

“THAT is what concerns you?”

“Try living with a fashionista for your life. You just can't see colors the same.” Kami rolled his eyes and tried again. “No, no.” And again. “Uh-uh.” And again. “Too yellow.” And again. “There!” He finally succeeded in a white color, with white wristbands and boots.

“If you're pleased, may we begin training?” This time, Kami displayed shock at seeing Kai jump up to his feet, seemingly unharried by the weighted clothing. “Are you… used to it already?”

“Not even a little bit. I'm just using ki to help me get used to it.” Kai answered.

“Hm… Smart… but not allowed.” Kai groaned, slouching as he dropped his ki and dealt with the weight on his own. “Better.”

“Not for me…”

“Anyway, let's begin simple. Two-thousand push-up, sit-ups and squats. Then, we'll have a spar.” Kami spoke, calm as always. “More or less, that will be the training regiment from here on, adding weight as time proceeds.” Kai let out a bored groan. “Of course, I'll be teaching you techniques that only a god such as myself knows.” The boredom left his face, and he grinned like a foal.

“Then let's get to it!” Kai immediately took a position for vertical push-ups, and began his two-thousand.

Kami could only watch with pride, but confusion as well. He shrugged it off, and planned his training for his first and only student. This would be an interesting few years, this much, Kami knew for sure.

Due to the lack of time passing in the Time Chamber, the student and master never knew how long they trained for, until they finally got outside of the Chamber again. Then, they had very quickly learned that their spars lasted for the remainder of the days, nearly five hours of sparring.

Over the years, Kai's hair had spiked slightly around the top, but was still smoothed down otherwise. His gaze sharpened, his face becoming overall mature.

Kai let out a sigh, leaning on his hands as he sat on the floor of the Lookout. Kami was trying hard to hide his fatigue. It seemed that Kai could shrug off every new challenge, and the weight of his clothes now… well, Kami was surprised he didn't burrow a hole in the Lookout just by standing in place.

Kami looked to Kai, and noticed his gaze on the moon. Kai was always looking at the moon for some reason. Kami followed his gaze, and looked as well. Though, his browline lowered, and his eyes hardened.

“Kai… What is today?”

“Hm? Uhh… The night before the Summer Sun Celebration.” Kai recalled, yawning lazily. “Why?”

“This night has been longer than usual, wouldn't you say?” Kai finally caught on, and stood to his feet.

“Cargo.” Kami held his palm up, and spawned a large, opaque orb.

“Perhaps. And yet, I don't feel his presence. Let us see.” He focused energy to the orb, and an image soon formed. Kai was familiar with this technique—the All-Seeing Eye technique. With it, one could see anything, anywhere, so long as they could either recall the sight of it, or sense the energy there. The view that formed was of a beautifully decorated room, filled with ponies.

They all were waiting for the grand reveal of their ruler, it seemed. However, when the curtains of the balcony were opened, nopony was there. Kami skipped through the impending confusion, and got straight to the cause. An unfamiliar dark blue—nearly black—mare.

Both Kami and Kai were surprised.

“Before my eyes, could it really be…?” Kami's gaze hardened. “No. A corrupted face on a familiar shell.”

“Is that actually Nightmare Moon?” Kami nodded to answer Kai's question. “That's unexpected. Should I… go and stop her?”

“You don't trust your friends to deal with this situation?” Kami asked, feigning hurt for his friends.

Kai lifted an eyebrow, and gave the newest image a look. Six mares, three he recognised, all standing against Nightmare Moon.

“Rarity, Fluttershy and Twilight Sparkle!” Kai exclaimed excitedly, watching as they rose into the air with energy all around them. “What happens after this?”

“This is real time, Kai. What you see is happening as we speak.” Kai nodded, and watched on. He smiled pridefully, watching his friends with new friends, defeating a foe with the power of their newfound friendship. “To think, the spirit of the Elements of Harmony resonate within these six girls. You really have picked your friends well.” Kami noted, genuinely impressed.

“Yeah… My pride is through the roof!” Kai's grin dropped for confusion a moment after. “Huh? That didn't kill her?”

“Kai, the Elements are not meant to kill, they are meant to abolish things that are not harmonious and that threaten the safety of the world.” Kami began. “And it did defeat Nightmare Moon. That is Princess Luna, sister to Princess Celestia.”

“…Huh. Interesting…”

“You have no clue what I just said, do you?”

“Did you say ‘Princess Luna is cute?’”

“Most certainly not!”

“Then no. No I do not.” Kami sighed once again.

“Ah, speaking of princesses.” The two could see Princess Celestia arrive, and noted the sun rising as they watched. “If only we could accept this happy turn of events.”

“Yeah…” Both already knew it was only a matter of time. Abruptly, Kai felt a weight lifted from his shoulders—literally. He glanced over, seeing Kami wave a hand over him, clearly dispelling the weight of his training clothes. Kami cast a questioning gaze, but Kai shook his head. “No need for new clothes. I'll wear this until I can get some new, custom made duds.”

Kami nodded, but still waved his hand again, this time summoning a long black cloak on the saiyan. The hood was up already, shading his features. It was Kai's turn to give a questioning look.

“Didn't you say you wanted to make an entrance?” At that reminder, Kai smirked. Before he could respond, Kami's gaze flicked to the orb once again. “It is time. The spawn of Cargo has arrived.” Both of their gazes hardened at the sight of the very spawn.

As they watched the next few seconds, Kai noticed something strange. He didn't address it here, but made sure he would remember to question it later. For now, Kai focused on keeping calm upon seeing Celestia getting blasted away.

“Thanks for everything, Kami.” Kai gave a two-fingered salute of goodbye. “I'm off.”

With that, he vanished without a trace, much to Kami's amusement.

“And now… the world is safe. For the hero it did not know it needed has returned.”

…Were the quicksilver flashbacks that Kai, kneeling in front of Rarity and Fluttershy, thought of. But, with more pressing matters, he simply gave a smile and patted both girls on the head.

“Tell ya later.” Kai stood up, taking a brief moment to look over the entire group. Interesting group, he thought. He cast a look toward Celestia, seeing her concealing a limp as she walked to the group. “Celestia. Get everypony clear. It isn't safe here.”

“Respectfully, I doubt they would leave even if I ordered them to.” Argued Celestia, wiping a thin line of blood from her chin. The mares nodded their agreement, causing Kai to chuckle.

“Brave or stupid, I like you girls.” He spoke, before the humor left his face, and he turned to Cargo. “Now…” The demon stood patiently, arms crossed. “You know, you seem alot different than your father. As soon as it became clear they didn't know where I was, he would have killed them. And he never would have waited for us to finish talking.”

Cargo snorted.

“It is unnecessary blood on my hands. Besides, so long as they stay out of my way, I will have no reason to harm them.” Cargo cast a glance to Rarity, and pointed at her. “That means no rocks, seemstress.”

“That's fashionista to you.” Rarity corrected with an eye roll.

Kai let out a chuckle at his sister's cheek, and simply shrugged.

“Well, you heard him. Get back, everypony. I'll take care of this.” The ponies that didn't know Kai were less ready to put this into his hands.

“Who do you think you are!? We're the real heroes, so how about YOU get back!” Too tired from using the Elements of Harmony before, nopony could stop Rainbow Dash from flying at Cargo and striking.

“Rainbow Dash, no!” However, the punch didn't faze Cargo at all. He simply gave her a glance.

“…I'm actually insulted. You thought that could hurt me?” Rainbow Dash stared back in shock. Sure, she wasn't exactly a powerhouse, but she could still hold her own. For that to do nothing… “Would someone get her out of my face? Before I kill her?”

Kai grabbed the mare by the back of her neck and placed her on the ground closer to their friends.

“Yeah… that was on the ‘stupid’ end of the spectrum. I respect that fire, though.” Rainbow Dash fumed, but said nothing else. She simply assumed her state of fatigue after saving Equestria once was the only reason she didn't faze Cargo. Yeah, that was it. “Alright, Cargo. Let's go all-out from the start. I wanna wrap this up fast.”

Kai gripped his cloak and tore it off in a fluid motion, throwing it to the side and revealing his white gi. Cargo smirked and took a stance, Kai following his lead. In sync, the two unleashed their power.

“HA!” With that one grunt, sapphire and vermilion geysers of ki radiated from Kai and Cargo respectively. The whole of the spectating group shielded themselves, stepping far back from the impending battle.

“He's even stronger than he was back then…” Fluttershy whispered in amazement.

“Kai… You really have grown up…” Rarity smiled, feeling her brother's true power.

“Th-this is a trick, right?” Rainbow Dash choked out, finally understanding why she hadn't done a thing to Cargo.

“What in the world is even happenin'!?” Applejack was nearly panicked.

“Everything's all shaky!” Pinkie was the least concerned it seemed.

“So this is what you meant… Better than magic, indeed…” Twilight recalled first feeling this energy, only now realising that it was a very light demonstration.

“Sister? Just what is this?” Luna inquired to her sister, eyes wide.

“This power… is Ki. And it is very potent.” Celestia replied gravely.

Kai smirked at Cargo, and Cargo smirked back.

“Ready?” Kai asked, more rhetorically.

“I've been ready.” Cargo replied venomously.

Kai took a low stance, his right arm in front of his body, his left tucked by his side.

Cargo took a similar stance, only in reverse.

Then, they leapt up into the air and began their bout. To almost everypony, they simply vanished.

“Where did they just…?” Twilight began to ask, until the sounds of dull thunder seemed to strike out constantly in different areas.

“No… they can't be…” It was becoming clear to the girls, and the one who refused to believe it was Rainbow Dash. She was the self-proclaimed fastest flier in Equestria, and she could back up her talk. She cleared the skies in ten seconds flat. But she could not fathom that these two bipedals, were going faster than she could perceive.

Luna looked to Celestia, seeing her older sister's gaze flicker from place to place.

“Sister?”

“…It is astounding… They truly are powerful…”

“No.” The group looked to Rarity, who was similarly flicking her gaze around the room. “They said they would go all-out… but they aren't yet.”

“How can ya tell, Rarity?” Applejack asked, completely confused.

“Because… I can still see them.”

“YOU can!?” Rainbow Dash asked incredulously.

“I watched him train when we were younger. He practiced moving at speeds like this. Over time, I just adjusted to it. But he had to have gotten several times stronger, while my eyes haven't seen anything of that speed for years.” Rarity paused, glancing to her speedster friend. “In other words… Either they are testing each other… Or Kai is holding back to match Cargo.”

Not even Celestia had considered such, but she didn't dare turn away from this battle. The others tried their hardest to see, but they didn't even see a blur.

Kai guarded a punch, a kick, then another punch, before returning the favor with a flurry of kick. Cargo deflected each one, and quickly attempted another punch. No luck, Kai simply lowered himself under it, and dashed upwards. The demon followed him, attempting to connect blow after blow with no luck. Cargo threw out a right haymaker in frustration, but found his punch fazing right through Kai's form. Kai's surprise attack failed when his own kick failed to strike anything but air. However, Cargo's follow up was a failure as well, his eyes wide after the unexpected double afterimage. He found himself barreling to the ground after a double hammer fist, but was able to slow his descent enough to tap off of the floor and fly up to Kai in an instant.

A fist was guarded by a shin, a foot by a hand, a palm-strike by a forearm. No attack could land on Cargo's end, but it frustrated him that Kai had one on him. He let the saiyan have a barrage of fists, and grew increasingly enraged at seeing him block each one with an open palm. Before he could think to increase his speed, Cargo was reeling from a sudden knee in his stomach. He coughed up blood, but was subject to an elbow in the back of his head. Eyes wide, he could do nothing when Kai flipped around to slam his back with his heel, sending him flying to the floor. This time, Cargo could do nothing to stop himself, and hit the floor hard.

Seeing the suddenly cratered floor, the mares unable to see the bout finally saw Cargo, but looked around for Kai. Kai lowered to the floor in front of the crater a moment after.

“You know, I'm starting to think I overtrained. Here I thought you'd be at least a dozen times stronger than your pops, but I'm only using half of my power.” Cargo jumped from the crater, rising into the air. He glared down at the saiyan.

“As if I'd believe that! If you're so cocky, try taking this without moving an inch!” The demon held his right hand out to the saiyan, and began to charge an orange ball of ki.

“A blast? I won't move. In fact, I'll counter it completely!” Kai took a wide stance, and lifted his right hand behind him, his left in front of his right, both sets of fingers curled and flexed. A purple ball of ki started to form at his hand. “For an alien like myself, I think the name of this move's appropriate! So try this: Saiyan Blaster!”

A huge beam of purple ki fired forth from his now extended hands, aimed right at Cargo. The demon's eyes widened, before he shot off his own technique with a ferocious yell. Orange met purple, and the instant of clashing threatened to throw the spectating mares off of their hooves. However, the clash of beams only lasted for another few seconds, before Kai's beam completely overwhelmed Cargo's.

“Wh-what!? This can't be!” The demon was consumed by the blast, completely helpless. The Saiyan Blaster went straight through the old castle's already decaying ceiling, and carried through into the morning sky.

Kai ceased the blast and lowered his hands with an exhale.

“Whew…! A good warm-up, at least.” Celestia recalled similar words from the saiyan upon their first meeting, back when she had bigotted guards amongst her rank. The trained guards didn't provide a warm-up for him. He had been completely calm and relaxed. Now, he looked and seemed just as relaxed, but claimed this to be a warm-up. A battle that put her lifetimes-long sight to the test, barely registered as a warm-up to him. “Hey, Cargo! You still alive up there?”

Nopony thought he could survive that, but they followed Kai's eyes to see a cloud of smoke clearing. To their shock, it was none other than Cargo, looking worse for wear.

“Impossible… How can you be so strong…!?” The battered demon demanded to know.

“I'll skip the melodramatic speech, and just say I have better motives for training, so I pushed myself harder and got better results. Now listen up, 'cause I wanna get this over with now.” Kai crossed his arms. “If allowed, you're gonna train to get stronger than me. I'll let you live, if only because you have yet to bring any real harm to my friends. But that gut check was for Celestia.” Cargo stared, waiting for the catch. “If you show up and hurt anypony in town, or anyone anywhere, unprompted, I'll kill you like I killed your father. We clear?”

The air of finality Kai had was shocking to those that knew him. He was always less assertive, and more naively helpful, doing anything if he was made to believe it would help. Now, he was his own pony, and he showed it clearly.

Cargo grit his teeth together, glaring hotly.

“…Very well.” A smirk quickly replaced his anger. “You may be stronger now… But just you wait, Kai. I will have your head.”

Kai matched his smirk.

“Sound exciting. Don't keep me waiting, green bean junior.” Cargo only growled, before flying away from the area through the newly formed hole. Kai allowed a genuine smile to fall upon his face, and adjusted his gi's obi with a tug. “And just like that, it's all over.” The saiyan looked over to the amazed group of eight, and flashed a toothy grin. “Right now I'm guessing some of you want an explaination?” The group nodded wordlessly, getting a chuckle from Kai. “Well then, this is how it is…”

And so, Kai explained to the mares that did not know who Cargo was, the legend of the Dragon Balls, and a bit of his training. By the end, everypony was shocked. If not by the enemy, in Fluttershy and Rarity's case, then by the extreme training he underwent.

“I remember when you were a colt, Kai.” The group's gazes landed on Rarity, who smiled with pride. “Taking on foals that had something to prove. Now, you're a real hero.”

“Like you're one to talk!” Kai countered, matching her smile of pride. “You used to be afraid to get your coat dirty, but look at you! Takin' on Nightmare Moon and stepping up to Cargo!” He gestured to the full group. “With a bunch of new friends, no less.”

The two shared a laugh, something they had been aching to do for all of this time. Rarity wiped a tear from her eye, and looked to her newest friends.

“Well, I don't know about you girls, but I could certainly use a beauty nap.” Maybe not for the purpose of beauty, but everypony agreed a nap sounded good. Rarity's smile grew, as she looked back to Kai. “Before that, let's get you out of those rags.”

The group began to follow as Rarity and Kai seemed to take point in leading them out of the castle.

“Yeah. You know, Kami tried to make me wear green.”

“Green!? But that is SO not your color!”

“That's what I said!”

“To think a god could be so unstylish…”

“A real shame, huh?”

The spectating mares felt a drop of sweat fall down their heads. Without a doubt, these two were siblings.

More importantly, the group knew already, this would be an interesting adventure.

That's the Ticket

Princess Celestia awoke with a start, suffering an instant headache as her head jerked up. She cradled her head in her hooves, letting out a sigh. However, her mind cleared and focused on one thing.

“…What a vivid dream…” Celestia looked around, spotting her paperwork all around her. She must have fallen asleep with her work, as usual. She let out another sigh. “The Celebration must have been a blur… I suppose my assumptions were wrong, if I am able to sleep so soundly. But… I remember it so clearly.” The princess shrugged her oddly specific dream off, and returned to her work.

Or she would have, if she hadn't heard the distinct sounds of laughter. Familiar-yet-unfamiliar laughter. Her gaze flicked to a corridor, where rooms were plentiful. With her royal and life-times long honed senses, she easily made out the door yielding such laughter, and lifted a brow in confusion. That was the room that was always upkept and cleared, for the day when…

Celestia's eyes went wide. Was it not a dream after all?

Not musing on it any longer, the princess nearly sprinted to the door and opened it slowly. What she saw was shocking, to say the least.

The saiyan Kai was seated on the bed against the room's walls, grinning at a blue coated mare sitting across from him, smiling back. With the door opening, the duo was alerted to the presence of Celestia, so they glanced over with their smiles remaining.

“Yo, Celestia!”

“Hello, dear sister!”

“L…Luna…?” Celestia tried her hardest to shake off the stunning realisation of her longtime dreams being a reality. After truly realising such, she couldn't help the smile that took over her features.

“Of course. We have missed living peacefully so very much.” Luna spoke, calm and happy.

“I've missed you, Lulu.”

“And I, you, Tia.” Even after all of this time, Luna could still notice the smallest things. Including her sister's quick and curious glance to Kai. “Kai has been assisting in getting us accustomed to this world new to us.”

“Really?” The older alicorn gave Kai a look, brows raised.

“Yeah. I figured she could use the company, if she'd have me.”

“And we do.” Luna spared Kai a short nuzzle of affection, which he returned. Celestia found herself shocked at the display. One day had passed since Kai returned from a three-year training session, and Luna returned from her thousand-year banishment. Yet, the two looked like they had been friends for ages. “Oh, that's right. Kai was speaking of a… Gala, was it?” Kai nodded. “He said it would be most fun to attend, given the opportunity. But, being that it is a prestigious event, he's never even seen a ticket.” Luna smiled hopefully at her sister. “Does our royal stature still apply? May we gift Kai a ticket please?”

Celestia nearly frowned, but kept up her smile.

“Sister, you are always the Princess of the Moon. I would not wish to rule with anypony else.” Luna's smile grew, as she and Kai watched Celestia's horn glow, summoning two golden tickets. “Here you are, Kai. And one for a friend.” Kai graciously accepted the tickets, looking to them in a calm awe.

“Wow… These must be expensive… I could sell this for a mint…” He heard Luna clear her throat, causing him to look to her sheepishly. “Just kidding!”

“Besides, if thou requires financial aid, simply ask us.”

“Nah, I've already mooched your time and these tickets. I'll be fine.”

“Our time was well-spent, Kai. Feel free to drop by once again.” Luna replied with a truly happy expression. Kai returned it simply, taking a moment to pat Luna's head.

“Whenever I can.” Kai gave Celestia a look, and waved shortly. “See you soon, too, Celestia.”

“Take care, Kai.” Celestia's brows rose when Kai suddenly vanished. She looked to Luna, who looked unruffled by that sudden show. “…Huh. Kai is very… interesting.”

“Indeed. He is a very kind individual. I truly hope to see more of him.” Luna closed her eyes, and promptly laid her head down onto her pillows. “Well, the morning is early, so we shall retire.”

Now, Celestia frowned. She had wanted to spend some time with Luna. Well, she wagered there would be plenty more time for that later. As such, she gave a small peck to her little sister's forehead, her smile returning.

“Pleasant dreams, Lulu.”

“Always pleasant, Tia.”

Chapter 12

That's the ticket.

Kai flipped the page of a coffee-related book as he listened to Rarity scold and nag him for worrying her for so long. She was pacing wall to wall, repeating herself and yelling—it sounded more like an upset wife to a neglegent husband. Still, Kai read.

“…and I was sitting, sewing beautiful dresses, just thinking ‘I wonder what Kai would think?’ all day, everyday! You didn't even come by to say ‘hi’! I can't believe you, Kai! Are you even listening!?”

“I'm always listening.”

“Then how are you going to make it up to me?” Kai reached in his newest black trenchcoat's pocket, and pulled out a normal slip of paper, placing it between the opened pages of his book. He closed the book and pocketed it, before reaching in his other pocket to pull out a dazzling, golden ticket. Rarity gasped at the sight of it, rendered speechless. Kai dropped to a knee for a better angle, and held the ticket out to her.

“Will you… go to the Grand Galloping Gala with me?” Kai was immediately under the crushing grip of a hug.

“Of course! Oh, of course! I love you, Kai!” Kai chuckled, hugging the mare back.

“I love you, too, Rarity.” For a brief moment, the two mutually realised that this looked alot like a proposal. However, they shrugged that off instantly, harboring no romantic feelings towards one-another. Right after, they noticed just how much they had missed each other, and hugged tighter.

Breaking the embrace, Rarity gave Kai a curious look, smiling brightly.

“Where did you ever find tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala?” Kai thought about telling her just where he had received them… but he decided against it.

“Let's just say, I've made friends in high places.”

“…Kami?”

“Wha—no. You're taking that too literally.” Rarity let out a short giggle.

“I suppose Pinkie is rubbing off on me.”

“I'm guessing the pink one is Pinkie?” Rarity nodded in response. “She seems nice.”

“Oh, she is. If a bit… hyper.” That made Kai chuckle.

“Hyper. Remember when we raided the cookies back when we were kids, and tried not to bounce off the walls when mom asked about it?”

“Oh, I remember that! We didn't get in trouble, but I think she knew.” Shaking her head, Rarity thought of something. “You know something, Kai?”

“What's that?”

“Wouldn't it be grand if we could go to the Gala with our friends?” Kai blinked. Plans went through his mind immediately. He shortly realised that, while he only knew her, Fluttershy and Twilight, surely Rarity had been refering to all of her friends. That was five more tickets, six to include Twilight's assistant Spike. He didn't plan to mooch off of Luna any further… but where did one find six tickets to an extravagant Gala? After all, it was only after he became connected with royalty that he had so much as seen a ticket.

“I'll find us all tickets. It'll be fun.” Despite having no clue how, Kai assured his sister he could do this.

Rarity smiled, already convinced.

“Just be careful.”

With a wave, Kai started towards the door, thinking of how to go about this…

“…And your plan is… to have me make counterfeit tickets?” Kami lifted Kai by his collar and held him over the edge of his lookout. “Goodbye, Kai.” He dropped him.

“Some god you are!”

“Ahahahahaha!! Kid, if I knew where to get tickets to that, do you really think YOU could afford them?” There was one vendor in a back alley Kai had known long ago, who had the saying, ‘If your coin is real, I don't care what you are’.

But… hearing that gave Kai an idea.

“Huh? What in the name of Shenron is a Gala?” Dragon Lord Torch claimed to have loot for Kai after his quest was completed. He thought that a ticket might be something he had. “Do you want your treasure or not?”

“I do, but I'll be back for it another time.” Kai slumped away.

Kai was running short on ideas. Rather, he had no more ideas, and was trying to form any. Then, he saw Twilight.

“She knows alot. Maybe…” Kai ran to the unicorn, calling out to her. “Twilight!”

The mare turned, brows rising when she saw who called her.

“Kai! It's good to see you after so long.”

“Agreed—say, do you know where to find tickets for the Grand Galloping Gala?” Him getting straight to the point seemed to irritate Twilight.

“No, not you, too! What do YOU want them for?”

“You have tickets?”

“Just one spare, and I haven't decided who to give it to.”

“Just one…” Kai put a finger to his head. “I wonder… Who'd you get it from?”

“Princess Celestia. Why?”

“Duh!” Kai smacked his forehead, sticking out his tongue to excuse his stupidity. “I haven't mooched off of Celestia in years! Thanks, Twilight! Hi, Spike!” With that, he vanished.

“I was waiting for him to notice me.” Twilight glared back at Spike. “What? I don't get to be noticed?”

“Celestia!”

“Gah!” The princess jumped, disrupting all of her paperwork. She gave Kai a look of waning patience.

“I know it's only been a few hours, but I need four tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala.” Now, Celestia quirked a brow.

“That makes six, adding your two. Why so many?”

“Well, Twilight told me you gave her two, and Rarity thought it would be great if everyone could go.” The princess held back a blush, embarrassed to have forgotten to gift an adequate amount of tickets for her student and her friends.

“Very well.” With a flash of light, she summoned forth four tickets to the Gala. Kai took them gratefully.

“Thanks!” Celestia smiled back and nodded. “Hey, can I have some money, too? I saw this great satchel, and…” Celestia stared blankly. “Aha! Hahaha…! Just kiddin'!” Kai waved and vanished from sight.

“…Troublesome.”

Rarity half focussed on this newest design of hers. Something about the dress was just… lacking, and that made her lose motivation. But she was used to this kind of thing by now. Just finish up, and move on to the next design.

A certain scent made her head perk up.

“Welcome home, Kai. How did your search go?” She wouldn't say the question was sarcastic, per se, but she had known well enough that procuring more tickets to such a prestegious event would be—

“Got all we need, already gave 'em to the others.” Now, Rarity looked over at Kai, who was scrutinizing her work. “Plain scarlet? Please tell me you're adding glitter to that?”

“Glitter! Of course! Why didn't I think of that?”

“Sometimes, glitter goes over the heads of the even the best.”

“Aww, aren't you sweet!” Rarity returned her attention to her work, adding on some glitter. It truly made the dress, a dress.

Kai smiled and took a seat on the nearby couch.

“…Hmm… Seems awfully soon to end it off here…” He mused to himself.

“It's not even noon. Why don't you go… I don't know, play with Sweetie Belle. Or clean your room. Or something productive.” Rarity threw out, only to receive a grunt. “You really need a hobby. Even before all of this, you never did much other than train.”

“I can't do much because everypony is still scared of me. And I can't do anything about that.” Kai let out a long hum of thought. “Do you need anything?”

“I don't think…” Rarity almost answered reflexively. She realised Kai was without anything to do, so she decided to force herself to want something, if just to give him something to do. “I never had my morning coffee.”

“Gotcha.” With that, the saiyan slid into the kitchen to make his sister a cup.

Author's Note

Took a while, I know, but we're still going all the way to the end!

Applejack and Kai

“What did you just say?”

“BUCKING. Apple-BUCKING.” Rarity stressed, already knowing exactly what her older brother heard. “Applejack spoke of it recently. Apparantly, Apple-bucking season starts tomorrow, and during it, there's almost a surplus of apples to be bucked.” Now, she shrugged. “All I'm saying is it might be in your interest to help out. After all, Applejack, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie don't know you as well as myself, Fluttershy and Twilight. It would be a good opportunity to bond!”

Kai put a finger to his chin. True, he didn't know the others very well, and they didn't know him. In fact, he hadn't even personally gifted them the tickets last week—he gave them to Twilight so she could give it to them.

“Alright! So all I'd need to do is hit the trees and cart the apples to their barn?” Rarity hummed in affirmation. “Then, I'm off!”

Chapter 13

Applejack and Kai

Applejack didn't really know what she was watching. One minute, she was hearding a stampede away from town. The next, when she returned to buck apples, apples were falling from trees. Just… an entire tree's worth of apples, falling into the baskets set to catch them. Then, she realised what was happening upon seeing the cause slow down.

The farmpony recalled being told of him, somewhat, but what she got was vague. After all, the ponies who knew him best, she hadn't had the time to hang out with enough for him to come up as a topic.

“Hey, you!” Kai stopped, catching an apple and glancing back at the mare. “Stop buckin' them apples!”

“Excuse me!? I've done nothing of the sort!” Kai protested, stomping towards Applejack.

“Then how're these apples fallin', huh?”

“It's called ‘Apple-bucking’, ya hick. Thought that was your specialty.”

“That's what I SAID.”

“It is? Oh, I thought you said… nevermind.” Another misinterpretation from Kai. “Anyway, I thought I'd help you out since we barely know each other.”

“Well… uh…”

“Kai.”

“Kai. I don't need your help, and I don't need nopony else's help, ya hear? I'm gonna take care of this whole season by myself!” Kai put his hands on his hips, glancing back at the large amount of trees left to buck.

“…What makes apple-bucking season so special, anyway?”

“Them trees ya see are just hidin' the rest.” Lifting a brow, Kai ascended high enough to see past the initial rows of trees. He blinked before lowing back to the ground. “Ya see?”

“Oh, there's no way you'll do this without crashing at day three, tops.” Kai told her bluntly. Before she could protest, Applejack found herself catching an apple, seeing it was the one Kai had been holding. “I'll leave you to it, country girl. But I'll be back later to grab a few apples to eat.”

The mare watched briefly as the saiyan walked away, whistling a tune to himself. Her teeth grit.

“Hey, Kai!” He turned. “It ain't ‘country girl’, or ‘hick’. It's Applejack!”

At that, Kai smiled.

“See ya, Applejack.”

For the next few days, there was a schedule. Applejack would wake up, go about her morning rituals, go outside, and then yell at Kai for bucking the trees. The second day of this, he stuck around, and they talked, the saiyan subtly helping the mare.

“So, why ARE you doing this alone? You live alone on this huge farm?” Kai wondered, palm-striking a tree across from the one Applejack faced.

“Nah… I got my Granny Smith, my lil' sis Apple Bloom, and my big bro, Big Macintosh. Usually, me and Big Mac would do the harvest, but he done got himself hurt.” Applejack explained.

“And you think it's your responsibility to complete it all alone, now.” Although it wasn't a question, Applejack still nodded. “I can respect that. But you know you're not alone, right?”

“Forgive my sayin', but it ain't like I'll rely on somepony I just properly met yesterday.” Kai chuckled as he knocked another tree of its apples. Applejack watched him do this, but only sighed. “…But… I appreciate the sentiment.”

“Yeah.”

The next day was even better for them.

“So, wait. You're sayin' you can shoot lasers from them… hands, of yours?” The duo was taking a short break under a tree, each eating an apple.

“Yup. It's really only good for destruction, so I don't use 'em in town much.” Kai said, taking a bite of his apple.

“Now that I think about it, you'd think I'd notice somethin' like yourself in town…” Applejack trailed off, silently asking a question.

“Ah, yeah, I tend to avoid going into town. Less hassle, ya know?” While she didn't understand his true reasons for avoiding town, she could understand that sometimes, steering clear of others made life a bit easier.

“I hear that.”

The third day brought laughs around.

“Ahahaha!”

“So, yeah! I think I do a pretty good snob impression!” Boasted Applejack. Kai wiped away a tear, still laughing.

“I'll say!”

Then, on the fourth day…

“Hey, Kai!” Kai halted, knowing that this was usually followed with a demand to stop. Though, she must have been anticipating him, as she called a lot sooner. “C'mon in! Can't work on an empty stomach, can ya?”

Kai stared for a second, before a grin broke out across his face.

“Yeah! Be right there!”

And breakfast had been… interesting, to say the least.

“And you can feel each one?”

“Yup.” Kai answered Apple Bloom's question, wiggling his fingers to show each one was under his control.

“What about when it gets cold? Ya don't have fur!”

“I just wear more clothes.”

“Woah... But what about—”

“Now, Apple Bloom, quit playin' twenty questions with the poor guy!” Applejack scolded, the young filly settling down. Kai smiled, not quite minding answering the questions, but definitely prefering to take at least one bite of his breakfast.

It was informative enough to the secretly similarly curious Granny Smith and Big Macintosh. The stallion was a bit more curious about something else, though…

“Finally acceptin' some help, Applejack?” To his question, Applejack rolled her eyes.

“He's the kind o' city folk that won't listen. No matter how many times I tell him not to help, he just does.” Kai chuckled, shrugging.

“I believe the word for that is ‘Friend’.”

“More like ‘Annoying’.”

It was interesting to watch them… Though Big Macintosh was curious once again.

“How did y'all meet, anyhow?”

“Romantically.” Kai grunted as Applejack punched him for that one. “I fought this evil dude who was about to fight her and her friends, right after their harmony stuff.”

“But, we didn't actually talk 'till a couple days ago.”

“Now, we're… uh… hit me with some of that southern twang.” Applejack gave him a deadpanned stare, before being unable to help a smirk from her face.

“Closer n' two pees in a pod.”

“Yeah!”

Granny Smith and Big Macintosh looked to each other, and mutually decided that, as long as Applejack wasn't pushing herself too hard, Kai was okay in their book.

“Geez, how long does this season last?” Kai wondered, striking his twenty-sixth tree of the day.

“It's not that it lasts long or nothin'. Everything grows all at once, so it all depends on how fast ya buck.” Applejack replied, bucking her tenth tree.

“And you were gonna do this alone?” Applejack chuckled.

“I would be now, if a certain somepony decided to listen.”

“Who would that be?” Kai laughed off innocently. The mare rolled her eyes, and simply continued working.

Kai could respect her stubborness, in a way. But, he still had his tendancies to butt his head in where he probably shouldn't, so he was in this for the long run.

“So, Applejack. I heard you're gonna get a trophy for being reliable or something.” Kai brought up, smiling at Applejack.

“Yeah, I guess everypony appreciates my help so much, they wanna give back. I don't really want nothin', but it's mighty nice of them.” Applejack replied with a scratch of her head.

“Aw, is somepony embarrassed?”

“I'll buck you.”

“E-excuse me?”

“Now, you know exactly I said!”

“I know. I just like to mess with ya.”

The mare shook her head, carting apples away from him.

“More trouble than help, I swear.” But her small smirk could not be denied.

And, true to their conversation, a vast majority of Ponyville was gathered up in front of a spiced up Carasoul Boutique. Apple-themed banners, a stand for speaking, and a curtain for the grand reveal of their hero.

“And so, with no further ado, it is my privilege to give the prize, Pony of Ponyville Award, to our beloved guest of honor, a pony of the utmost trustworthiness, reliability, and integrity. Ponyville's most capable and dependable friend: Applejack!” Mayor Mare exclaimed from behind the podium, gesturing to the large trophy first, then to the slowly opening green curtain.

To everypony's momentary surprise, Applejack wasn't there. The cheers died down, but only for a second.

“Yee-haw!” From above, Applejack was falling towards the stand, finally rolling to a stop just in front of her trophy. She turned to the mayor and smiled. “Well howdy there, Miss Mare! Thank ya kindly for this here trophy!” The Mayor smiled back, stepping away to allow Applejack to speak to the crowd. “Thank y'all for comin' to see me! Mighty flatterin'!”

“Thank YOU for saving us from that scary stampede, Applejack.” It seemed Twilight Sparkle still didn't quite understand how crowd energy worked, but it worked out, as everypony cheered in agreement.

“I just like to help, nothin' special.”

“Three cheers for Applejack!” Pinkie Pie screamed abruptly. “Hip hip—”

“Hooray!”

As they cheered thrice for Applejack, the mare covered her face with her hat.

“Aw, shucks… Y'all are makin' me blush.” ‘Guess I really am embarrassed… Oh!’ Applejack smiled out at the crowd. “If I can take a minute to be honest. For the last week, y'all have probably wondered where I've been.” A few ponies made noises of curiousity, having wondered that very thing. “I've been takin' care of the apple harvest, which I planned to tackle alone. But a certain somepony helped out, even though I told them not to. If I can be honest, though, without him, I'd be burnt out by now.” Everypony but one questioned who this mystery helper was, and why he wasn't here. “I asked him to join me here, but I guess he's a bit shy. Can't blame him, with a reception like this.”

After a little while of cheering and thanking, the crowd slowly dispersed, leaving the group of six friends. Rainbow Dash was the first to question the mare.

“Who helped you out, Aj?”

“Y'all remember Kai? Tall guy, black mane, stands on two legs?”

“THAT guy!?” The pegasus' face instantly soured.

“Yeah. He helped me out a ton—I reckon he's over there workin' right now.” Trading glances with each other, it was Twilight to speak up next.

“Do you need any more help?”

“The more the merrier.”

“Wooooo!” Was what the group heard upon approaching. Well, it was more like “Woo—oo—oo—oo!” Rarity, naturally, was the first to spot Kai moving at mach speeds, shooting off ki balls at the apple trees.

“Good morning, Kai!” Kai slowed a bit, able to be seen by everypony.

“Yo!”

“Ah! Hey! I thought ya said that was destructive!” Applejack protested immediately.

“Usually, yeah! But I just learned how to give it impact, instead of destructive force. You got, like, ten more trees, then this season's over~!” Kai landed to the ground, grinning.

“Then take five! We got the rest!”

As Kai chuckled and took a seat midair, the girls started on the last of the trees and carting the apples to the barn.

“Thanks for helpin' me all this time, Kai. I really appreciate it.” Applejack spoke sincerely.

“If you wanna go out, just say so.” Kai was suddenly subjected to an apple to his face. He caught it before it could hit the ground and chuckled. “Guess not.”

The group started to laugh together. Glad everything turned out alright.

The Monster, Exposed

Kai broke from his meditation and glanced back. His eyes met Rarity's. He'd felt her eyes on him ever since she took a seat and started sipping at the coffee he had made for them, but he was confused as to why she was staring.

“What's up, Rarity?” Rarity blinked.

“Ah. I was just curious about something…” Kai gestured for her to continue. “Fluttershy told me that… after I had been killed by Cargo, you flew into a rage.” He nodded, long past that moment. “She told me your mane spiked up and turned blonde. I've… actually been curious about that ever since she told me.”

Kai scratched at his head.

“I… don't actually know what that was. Some sort of transformation, I'm sure, but I've known another race to transform when they were angry, and it definitely wasn't that. Maybe it's some sort of… super saiyan.” He mused, crossing his arms to give it further thought.

“Are you able to do it again?”

“Yeah. It took a little while to learn to use it freely, but I'm far from mastery.”

“How can you tell?”

“It still takes too much energy to keep up the form. I've gotta train harder.” Rarity stared for a bit longer.

“Can I see—” A knocking at the door interrupted her question. Rarity sighed and walked to the door. “I'll get it.” When she opened it, she was pleasantly surprised to see… “Rainbow Dash?”

But the pegasus had an odd glare on her face. Clearly she meant business.

“Where's Kai? I heard he lives with you.” Hearing his name, Kai approached, and in perfect sync, Rarity moved to be replaced by Kai. “You. I challenge you to a fight!”

Chapter 14

The Monster, Exposed

In an area just outside of Ponyville, Kai stood across from Rainbow Dash, with Rarity standing afar to spectate. Kai stretched out, while Rainbow Dash continued to glare.

“Kai, do you really have to do this?” Wondered Rarity. After all, she knew as well as anyone who was stronger between the two. This seemed unnecessary.

“I've been challenged. As a warrior, I would be insulting myself and Rainbow Dash if I declined.” From that, Rarity knew Kai was lying. After all, he had started declining ponies when he was younger, until they forced the fights. Something was different here, but he wouldn't tell.

“Let's do this, already.” Rainbow Dash declared impatiently. Kai nodded and took a stance. Seeing he was ready, Rainbow Dash flew at him, already rearing back a punch. “Hyah!”

With a circular movement, Kai moved his hand to intercept her hoof, spin her through the air, and finally redirect her momentum into the ground, forcing her to fall onto her back. For a few seconds, she stayed there, staring. It was as if she hadn't quite registered what had happened yet. Kai took this time to lecture her.

“When you attack in anger, your only thought is to hit your enemy. At that point, you're pretty predictable.” Rainbow Dash sprang up and leapt at him.

“How's THIS for anger!?” Again, Kai only averted her momentum, forcing her to the ground. Again and again, she tried to strike Kai, only to fall short each time. Be it a dodge, a guard, or yet another redirection into the ground, she became increasingly frustrated. “Rrg! Hold still!”

Her wishes were obliged. Kai stopped moving, instead deciding to guard the next blow with his hand. Rainbow Dash's eyes went wide, and she tried to pull herself free. Nothing. Kai simply stared at her, and his scowl was unnerving to her.

“…I'm faster and stronger than you. Think you can win?”

“I KNOW I can win!” Kai smiled, even as he caught the other punch.

“Good. Then, when you wake up, I'll help you make that a reality.”

“Wha—ack…!” She couldn't do much else after suffering a chop to the back of her neck. She started falling to the ground, but just before her consciousness faded, she found her second wind. Not even Kai had been expecting it, so he ended up taking the next high-speed punch right to the jaw. “Heh… Gotcha…” With that, the pegasus fell, unconscious.

Before Kai could even kneel to pick her up, she was enshrouded by a blue aura. He glanced at an approaching Rarity, who sighed while shrugging.

“She didn't last a single minute against you. You knew she wouldn't. Now spill it, why did you accept her challenge?” She would have her question answered one way or another.

Luckily for her, Kai was in a sharing mood.

“I wanted to get a gist of her fighting ability. You girls are the real heroes, remember? The Elements of Harmony made it so.” Kai crossed his arms. “But, say you fight someone like myself or Cargo. We may get cocky, but we won't just stand in the way of a pretty slow attack like you girls used. If that fails, you'll have to beat the crap outta your enemy, and I won't always be around. I just figured maybe I could get one of you trained to do just that, and who better than Rainbow Dash—someone with the will and the want to battle.”

Rarity stared for a while. It made… almost too much sense. And yet, that was implying that not only would they face troublesome opponents again, but that they would be the main line of defense, and with the Elements of Harmony. He was also assuming there would exist more enemies of Kai or Cargo's caliber, and that Kai himself could be occupied while they needed dealing with.

“…You're absolutely insane.” Was all she could get out. Kai chuckled and shrugged. “But it's a great idea. The only issue is she might not want to be trained by you.”

“That's the thing about us warriors, sis. If there's a way to get stronger, we find it. She'll accept, sometime soon.” Though Kai seemed sure, Rarity knew Rainbow Dash's stubborness a bit better, so she simply turned to start walking back home.

“If you say so.”

“Kai!”

“Woah!” He hadn't taken more than ten steps out of his front door before catching a huge pink bullet. That bullet called his name. He looked at the mare in his hands and gave his memory a ping. “Pinkie Pie? Uh, nice to meet you properly—”

“Kai! I need a totally unbiased opinion!”

“Uh… I've never had one a raspberry, but they don't look particularly good or bad? Like that?” Pinkie Pie blinked, before shaking her head.

“Never had raspberries!? Here, have one!” Pinkie proceeded to blow a raspberry in Kai's face. He dropped her. “Anyway! Rainbow Dash—you know Rainbow Dash, right?”

“Yea—”

“Rainbow Dash has a griffon-friend but she's super mean! She popped my balloons and told me to buzz off! She's the meanest but Twilight told me it's my fault!” Kai cocked his head.

“How's it on you if she's being the jerk?”

“That's what I'm wondering!”

“Huh. Maybe we can catch her in the act of being a jerk and expose her.” Naturally, Kai's first response was to offer help. He gave that idea a second thought and considered his stance in Ponyville. “Wait, actually—”

“That sounds like a great idea! Let's go!” Without listening further, Pinkie pulled Kai into town, to a specific location.

It was pretty bizare… Kai had known few ponies to not freak out around him. From what he gathered of her personality, Fluttershy hadn't freaked out their first encounter because she was in a really bad place mentally. The other girls had seen him and were saved by him, so knew he wasn't bad. Today, he met two more ponies who didn't mind him existing. Mr. and Mrs. Cake. They welcomed him kindly, even serving him a milkshake on the house, as the commemoration of his first time entering their establishment, Sugarcube Corner.

That only occupied Kai's mind for a bit. His focus returned to Pinkie, who had somehow guessed correctly that Rainbow Dash's griffon-friend would be left alone at the nearby market area. Their job was scouting, it seemed.

And… wow, what a scouting job. Rather, what an easy scouting job. The griffon, Gilda, as soon as she was left alone, scared the applesauce out of Granny Smith, then stole an apple. But, unlike Kai's plan, she had done these acts so quickly and smoothly, they didn't have the time to bounce on her. On top of that, Pinkie seemed to be second guessing herself due to Twilight's poor advice, so she tried giving Gilda the benefit of the doubt.

That lasted up until they noticed Fluttershy walking backwards. Kai almost called out in confusion, but it became clear that she was hearding ducks through town, likely to a suitable home. The problem? She was on the same path as Gilda. And so, inevitably…

“Hey.” Fluttershy glanced back, giving an apologetic smile.

“Please exuse me.” She barely even finished before Gilda was in her face.

“I'm walkin' here.” Fluttershy backed up, suddenly terrified. The griffon kept walking towards her, not helping her nerves.

“I-I'm sorry. I was j-just trying to—”

“‘I'm sorry, I'm sorry.’” Gilda mocked. “Why don't you watch where you're going, doofus?”

If there was nothing else he hated…

Kai abhorred bullies. And he wasn't going to watch this anymore. If the spectating citizens wouldn't defend their own, Kai certainly would.

And so, it was a shock for everyone when Gilda suddenly found herself covered in a chocolate milkshake. Things seemed to freeze as she registered what had happened. Then, she glared. Her glare flicked from pony to pony, until landing on Kai, who approached with an empty glass in his hand.

“Did YOU throw that, dweeb?”

Kai ignored her in favor of kneeling in front of Fluttershy.

“…Go.” Fluttershy nodded, and flew away immediately. The saiyan stood back up.

“I asked you a question, dweeb!” When Kai finally did turn to face her, Gilda almost flinched at the anger in his eyes. Kai shifted his glare to the townsponies, who backed up fearfully.

“When one of your own is threatened, you just stand by and watch. But when you see something unknown, you hate it with everything you have…” Kai allowed an aura of blue ki to surround him. “You know what? Enough. I don't care about trying to justify myself. Not anymore.” Rather than a deepening glare, Kai grinned in a way that made Gilda flinch. “You want a monster? You'll get one.”

And the next instant, Kai was holding Gilda's face into the ground, the resulting crack making it clear just how hard he slammed her.

That was it. The was no large fight between the two—Gilda was knocked right out. Kai turned a bit, and smirked at the fearful ponies watching.

“Run.” With that issued from their source of fear, everypony scattered and got out of there as soon as they could. Kai, meanwhile, walked back to the table with Pinkie, his grin falling as he sat back down. “…Sorry you had to see that.”

“It's okay.” Kai lifted a brow. He hadn't expected to hear that. “You did that because you saw how mean she was being, and she was even about to make Fluttershy cry!” Pinkie smiled at him. “I know I wouldn't have done that… but what you did… I know it was just the way you show how much you care!”

The saiyan chuckled, stretching out in his seat.

“You know, you're alright, Pinkie.”

“And you're all left!” Kai blinked, then smiled, simply enjoying the silent atmosphere with Pinkie.

The next day found a unique situation. Kai was sitting with Sweetie Belle, the filly in his lap as he held a book open in front of her.

“Do we have to…?”

“Only because somepony failed her science test.” Sweetie Belle sighed. “Now, what happens to the molecules of a solid?”

“Um… they're… solid too?”

“…Well, technically…” Kai shook his head. “No! They are tightly woven together, rigid, almost.”

“What does rigid mean?”

“Are you failing ponish, too?”

“Yes.”

“Okay, look.” Sweetie Belle looked up at Kai, but her eyes went wide. Kai looked up, as well, and quirked a brow. The ceiling from their side of the couch to around the next door was about to fall. A solid three meters of ceiling. Kai discharged a blast of ki destroying only what was about to fall, then looked back at Sweetie. “…”

“…”

…And in perfect sync.

“Rarity! The ceiling broke!”

Kai's plan was for Rarity to telekineses the replacement boards up to place, but no, she thought it would be best if he fixed it with his flying abilities, and if she tutored Sweetie Belle instead. Truth be told, yes, Rarity was the better tutor. After all, she was the only one of them who went through all of her years of schooling. Sweetie was failing hers, and Kai didn't get to go to school.

“Huh.” Kai hammered the plank of wood over the hole. “I didn't even know I knew how to use a hammer.” Also true, Kai was not versed in even quick fixes, let alone building things.

That was neither here nor there when he sensed a quickly approaching attack. He bent all the way back, cinematically dodging a blue blur as it passed over him, but then immediately having to posture back up to check a punch with his own, another one, and then form a cross-guard against a frontwards buck.

Rose eyes burned into onyx.

“You hurt my friend!” In recent years, Kai wasn't stupid. He saw this coming.

“She was a menace to the town. I did us all a favor.”

“Liar! What's that supposed to mean, anyways!?”

“She's a thief, a jerk and a bully. She was about to make Fluttershy cry. That griffon's lucky to be…” Kai broke their clash abruptly by spreading his arms harshly. “…alive!”

Rainbow Dash glared seriously, unable to tell if she was being lied to. But… after staring for another few seconds, she decided.

“…Gilda… always did seem like she'd do those things. But… you get it, right?”

“Yeah. You never want to imagine your friends as being bad… no matter who tells you. It's like a sense of—”

“Loyalty.”

“Exactly.”

Rainbow Dash looked away for another few seconds. Then, her face suddenly took on a red hue.

“…What did you mean the other day… ‘make that a reality’?” Kai smirked.

“Let me finish up here. Then I'll show you what I mean.”

“…Rocks?”

“Just wait.” Kai gathered several rocks inside of a satchel, until it was filled to the brim. “You ever do weight training?”

“Weight training?”

“Yeah. Basically, you just train as normal, but with extra weight on you.”

“I've used hoof weights before, but it's not my style.”

“Well, make this your style.” Kai threw the satchel of rocks to Rainbow Dash, who couldn't catch it's unexpected weight.

“This is way too heavy! I can't train wearing this.”

“Really? This is like a feather compared to the weight I was started off at. In any case, until you're hefting that thing without even noticing it, you aren't ready to learn anything else.” Kai turned and walked away with a two-fingered salute. “See ya.”

“Wait.” He stopped, but didn't turn. “…By, anything else… you mean those cool lasers and stuff, right?” At his chuckle, Rainbow Dash's glare hardened. “Give me a week. I'll get used to it in a week.”

“Better get to it, then.” Without another word, Kai truly left, leaving Rainbow Dash to sling on the satchel and start training.

One of Us

Kai laid in his bed, coughing periodically. And sniffling. Then sneezing. Yes, Kai had gotten himself sick, but it took some mental strength to figure out how he had managed that, in his sick state.

With the weeks passing, he hadn't done much of anything. Apparently, a showpony arrived in town, but was humiliated by Twilight Sparkle. Being that the event drew a huge crowd, he naturally kept out of it.

Then, there was a dragon sleeping on a mountain. It was a simple affair to intimidate the thing, and surprisingly enough, Fluttershy had been there to give the “two” to his “one-two” speech of intimidation. And that had been it. The high altitudes, despite having been much higher for training, must have set him up.

Then he got caught in a rain-storm. These things were scheduled, but… Kai forgot.

Anywho, he was resting, and waiting for Rarity to return with healthy food to help him recover. But… it had been quite a while. Their home wasn't that far from the market district, so the journey should have taken ten minutes—twenty if something caught her eye. But fifty minutes and counting? Ridiculous… and worrying.

Coughing, Kai stood out of bed and dressed himself for the journey to find his sister. And maybe get a bite to eat while he was at it.

Chapter 15

One of Us

Being sick made flying and other uses of ki crazy difficult, so Kai walked through town at his own pace. Though, something concerned him.

“It's a ghost town out here… They haven't even seen me today.” He could guess at the reason or the cause, but he didn't really care as it was. All he wanted was to find Rarity… but then, she may be in hiding, too.

It was at that exact moment Kai noticed a single figure out and about. As he started to approach, he couldn't help but admire their cloak. It was simple, sure, but Kai was always a fan of cloaks. This individual was digging at the dirt for some reason. It hit Kai, in his own way.

“Ah, uh, hey!” The saiyan called out as he neared them. They turned, yellow eyes flashing at him. “You're—achoo!” Kai sniffled. “You're looking for fresh soil? You don't want this stuff, then. But there's some great stuff just on the other side of town, by this old flower garden.”

The individual removed their hood, revealing themselves to be a zebra—the first Kai had ever met. The zebra smiled at him.

“Truly? In that case, you've been quite a help to me.” She rhymed, getting a chuckle from Kai.

“No problem! I like to help when I can.”

“Then I will return the gesture. Allow me to cure your fever.” Kai cocked his head, silently questioning how she knew. She simply pointed to her nose, and Kai realised he had a snot-drop. He wiped it away.

“Well, thanks! My name is Kai, by the way.”

“I am Zecora, Kai. A pleasure to catch your eye.”

“Same!” With that, Kai led Zecora to the old garden he was refering to. But not without a quick glance backwards. He had felt eyes on them since he started talking to Zecora, and he could easily make out at least six figures inside of the Sugarcube Corner. ‘So that's where you went, Rarity…’

Disregarding his sister and her friends for the moment, Kai simply continued onwards.

Kai trailed after Zecora to her home, the zebra carrying the good soil in a sack on her back. True to her word, she had helped him with his sickness, providing him with a premade potion in her cloak that lessened his symptoms. Though, as they walked now, he couldn't help but feel a bit… at home. Kai looked around the Everfree Forest.

“I remember coming here a lot as a kid.” Zecora looked back at him, but he seemed not to notice. “I used to be such a crybaby, running here to get away from it all. That was a long time ago.” Now he looked to the zebra, who was paying close attention to his words. “Being an outcast isn't easy, is it?”

“...Most certainly not. But then… living with it cannot be taught.”

“Well, that's okay. You and me—we can be friends. I may be a saiyan, and you a zebra, but what does that matter?” They smiled at one another, outcasts, made friends.

It was another few minutes of traveling before there was anything else to note. Zecora held up a hoof, halting Kai in his tracks.

“Hold, Kai. I fear you are not as knowledgable in these as I.” Kai lifted a brow as he stared closely at the blue plants in front of them. Although Zecora opened her mouth to speak again, she was interrupted.

“Hey…! I remember these! Gave me the worst rash…”

“What's this? Are you saying you know what the cure is?”

“There's a cure? I just waited for it to wear off. Took a while, though.” Kai looked around, taking note of just how many of the plant there was. “So what is the cure, anyway?”

“Ah. Well, whether the ailment is abnormal or a mere rash, the cure, my friend, is a simple—” Zecora stopped herself upon seeing Kai's sudden movement. She followed his now back-casted stare, and saw a filly. Whether she was scared of Zecora or scared of being caught was unclear.

“You're… Apple Bloom, right?” Kai recalled, getting a nod in reply. “Thought you'd be with your sister.”

“I-I was… but…” Apple Bloom looked between Kai and Zecora. “Well, they keep sayin' she's evil and scary but…! But they're wrong, right?”

“Heh. Brave little filly, aren't you?” The saiyan knelt down, smiling at the girl appreciatively. “Zecora here isn't evil. Right?” Zecora simply chuckled, shaking her head. “See? Just because you see something different, doesn't mean it's evil.”

For a brief moment, the three smiled at one another.

Then the peace was broken.

“Apple Bloom!” Sprinting frantically to her sister was Applejack, much to their surprise. She was accompanied by the rest of the Elements of Harmony. The blonde mare scooped up her sister and hefted her onto her back. “We're gettin' outta here.”

“But—”

“No buts, missy!” It was then that Kai noticed something.

“Ah! Hey, don't—”

“Beware! Beware, you pony folk! Those leaves of blue are not a joke!” Zecora warned instead.

Rather than heeding the warning…

“Y-you keep your creepy mumbo-jumbo to yourself, ya hear?”

Applejack, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie proceeded to yell and hurl insults at Zecora. Kai stared with wide eyes, and opened his mouth to speak… but Zecora stopped him with a hoof and smiled, before walking away.

Kai's gaze lost its focus as he brushed past the mares, tuning their words out.

“Scum…” Absently, he knew there was a response… but he couldn't bring himself to care.

“Kai! Dinner!” Rarity called from the kitchen table, finished setting everything out. She awaited the tell-tale steps of descending down stairs… but nothing. She looked to Sweetie Belle, who shrugged in return. “Kai! Dinner is ready! You know, food!”

…No response.

“I'll go get him.” Sweetie Belle declared, standing and walking to the stairs. When she reached his room upstairs, she watched Kai briefly. He was just… staring at the ceiling. “Kai?” He slowly moved his eyes to her. “Um… it's dinnertime.” Just as slowly, his eyes returned to the ceiling. Sweetie Belle blinked, then turned to run downstairs. “Rarity! Kai is in one of his moods!”

All that followed was scrambling, hoofsteps, then the loud swinging of a door. Rarity was at Kai's side in an instant.

“It's about earlier, isn't it?” The saiyan was silent for a long time, but Rarity kept quiet. She knew he would speak eventually.

Sure enough…

“…They just… degraded her. Without a chance, they treated her like nothing. I've been on the end of it… but I've never seen it happen to someone else.” He sat up, leaning over his knee. “They're supposed to be heroes? I get you and Fluttershy, maybe even Twilight—as weird as she is, she wasn't insulting the poor zebra.”

“Kai. We aren't perfect. We live and we learn. From what you told me, even Princess Celestia has room for learning.” Rarity tried to defend her friends a bit.

“If they aren't perfect, how dare they yell at someone else for not being perfect, either.” His gaze darkened. “This world is lucky it needs them.”

“None of that, Kai. It was already more than enough to have heard I wasn't the only one brought back to life. Don't push it.” Kai met Rarity's glare, lifting a brow.

“I don't need to be lectured about that. It's a low point in my life, and it's over with. You should have been lecturing your so called friends.”

“You think I wasn't? Is that the view of me you've suddenly developed?”

“You sure didn't make an impact.”

“Have you?” Kai scoffed and looked forward again. “Contrary to your beliefs, I tried my hardest to sway them. Twilight tried, Fluttershy tried, even Apple Bloom tried. But, to no avail. Some ponies just don't care for those who are different.” Try as she might, she couldn't hide her disappointment. “Even if they are my friends… and supposed to be heroes.”

“…Sorry, Rarity.”

“It's okay, Kai. You have been dealing with this sort of thing since you were born. You're more than entitled to feel as you do.” Kai smiled, giving his psuedo sister another look.

“…Black and white stripes are so tacky, though.”

“I KNOW, right!?”

The siblings laughed together, forgetting their issues and proceeding down the stairs together.

The next morning, however, was a new batch of issues.

Kai awoke early, as he normally did, and struggled out of bed. Going through his usual morning routines, he gathered his clothes to wear. However, he had encountered a little problem when trying to properly put on his bottom apparel.

“Huh…?” He glanced in a long mirror… and his eyes went wide. “Woah! I have a tail again!” He did indeed have a tail, brown and bushy like a monkey's. Though, being a brother to a fashionista, his focus was on how he would even wear pants like this. With a snap, he realised.

Gathering scissors, he cut a hole at the back of his pants. Success struck when he could put his tail through comfortably. That was one issue solved… Well, kind of. He still had no clue how it grew back.

“AAAAAHH!” Kai flew through the doorway and into Rarity's room upon hearing her scream.

“Rarity! What's the—oh… my…”

“Kai! Don't look! I'm hideous!”

“I'll say!” Rarity's mane and coat were… unmanageable. That was all that could be said about it. “No amount of brushing is gonna fix that! What the heck did you do—fly with Rainbow Dash in a thunderstorm?”

“I just woke up like this… My life is over!”

“Don't cry, you'll just make it worse!” Kai walked over to her and tried to move her mane. “Ugh! It's all… oily.”

“Kai, yesterday, I was beautiful. Today, I'm a monster. This is some kind of curse, isn't it!?”

“Curses aren't real, but seriously. This is crazy.” Kai glanced up in thought. “Then again… my tail grew back, so maybe they're related.” He couldn't quite decide what it was, but… it sure was weird. Looking to his hand for an answer as a habit, he— “No way!” …actually found an answer. Kai looked to Rarity, and slowly moved her mane about.

“Kai? What are you…?”

“Ew, ew, ew, ew, ew—there!” He saw it, so he retracted his hands and shook them off. “So, back when I was younger—”

“We don't have time for nostalgia! We need to find all off the mane-care products in Equestria!”

“No, listen. There was this plant that I tripped over as a kid. It gave me a rash that looked just like this.” He held up his left hand, revealing several blue dots on him. “Then I saw them again yesterday when I was with Zecora. I left without paying attention, so I must have brushed against it by accident.”

“Those patches of blue plants, you mean?” The saiyan hummed in affirmation. “…Yes, I do recall walking right through them…” Rarity admitted. “And if that's what did it, then that means—”

“Everypony else probably has a batch of symptoms themselves.” Rarity nodded.

“What's the cure?”

“I… don't know. Back then, I had just waited for it to wear off, but that took a few weeks.” He snapped his fingers. “Zecora knows! She was about to tell me but we got interrupted.”

Rarity stood up suddenly.

“Then you may want to hurry. I'm sure some of the others will default to blaming this on Zecora.” Kai nodded in response and turned to the door. “Oh, and Kai?” He stopped. “Put a shirt on, for goodness sake.”

“Ha… right. Forgot about that.”

Kai appeared in the field of blue plants, falling into step down the path. He had to assume Zecora lived somewhere near.

“Kai? Where did you…?” He turned to face Apple Bloom.

“It's a secret. But forget that. I take it everypony else got a dose of the bad stuff and have ‘curses’?” He emphasised the word with finger quotes, not that anypony would understand that gesture.

“Yeah! And I just know Zecora can help.” The saiyan chuckled, before picking up Apple Bloom and setting her on his shoulder.

“You and me, both. Let's get this settled so we can go home.”

“Yeah!”

Perspective was one heck of a thing. As the afflicted group of six spied Zecora through her window, most were coming to a conclusion—even the more skeptical ones.

“Scary looking masks, confusing incantations, and a great big bubbling cauldron?” Twilight listed off, sighing deeply. “Everything is pointing to Zecora being… bad. Or… what if Zecora is just making soup?” Twilight was adamant about giving Zecora the benefit of the doubt… until…

“Mmm! The perfect temperature for ponies, I presume. Now, where are they…? Kai and little Apple Bloom?”

“Or… what if she's making Kai and Apple Bloom soup!?” From behind her unmanaged mane, Rarity rolled her eyes.

“I suppose nopony remembers how strong Kai is?” Her protest fell on deaf ears… as she had expected.

“We've gotta get in there and save them!”

With that, everypony, excepting Rarity, bursted through the door…

…only to crash right into the suddenly appearing legs of Kai.

“Huh? I counted four.” Kai turned, and displayed his own surprise at seeing Twilight and Fluttershy now on the other side. He quickly took note of their afflictions as well. Twilight's horn was floppy, Applejack had shrunk, Rainbow Dash's wings were upside-down, Pinkie Pie's tongue was swollen… but he couldn't tell what was wrong with Fluttershy.

That was neither here nor there. Kai glared at the recovering group.

“Are you frickin' kidding me?” Kai knelt down, giving Apple Bloom a brotherly smile. “Bloom, cover your ears, okay?”

“Okay.”

It was a very good thing Apple Bloom could not read lips. She had no clue what Kai was saying as her hooves went over her ears, but it must have had a profound effect on the others. She had never seen so many grown up ponies looking so guilty all at once. Even her own sister was rid of her stubborness and looking downright upset. His rant was filled with pointing, waving, a few gestures she didn't know, a couple stomps, and one burst of whatever special energy he used.

About two minutes of verbal lashing later, Kai gave Apple Bloom a gesture to uncover her ears, which she did.

“Good girl.” It was slightly offputting to Apple Bloom just how quickly he flicked through ‘deadly serious’ to ‘loving brother’ and back to ‘death’ with no notice. His gaze on the mares, he continued. “Now apologise or so help me I will cripple you all!”

“W-we're sorry!”

“Who are you sorry to!?”

“We're sorry, Zecora!”

“And what are you sorry for!?”

“F-for treating you wrong because you're different!”

“And…”

“And barging in your home!”

Kai smiled.

“Good.” Now he turned to Zecora. “Anyway, we got all the materials for the cure.”

“Wait, Zecora knows the cure?” Twilight Sparkle spoke with much confusion. “But I scoured all of my books for something and couldn't find anything!”

“Those flowers we walked through yesterday.” Kai explained. “They're called Poison Joke. Pretty much, they're prank plants, messing with things we care about.”

“And the cure is just a bubble bath.” Apple Bloom closed, gesturing to the cauldron Zecora had been using for her brew. “We were gatherin' herbal ingredients for it.”

“Speaking of, is this gonna be enough?” Kai pulled a bundle of ingredients from his coat and gave them to Zecora.

“It will be more than perfect. In fact, you two have brought it in excess.” Kai and Apple Bloom grinned at each other. “Ah, however, while your joy I do not wish to kill, remember I am still missing an herb from Ponyville.”

“Oh yeah…” Kai scratched his head, knowing well that they would never get that ingredient so long as Ponyville still hated them.

“You know something, girls?” Rarity suddenly spoke up. “I think it's just about time to put an end to the mindset of Ponyville. Who, after all, can ignore a message from us?”

There were no arguments from anypony there.

“Look Rose! How awful!”

“The wicked enchantress has cursed them all—and that monster is here to finish them off.”

“The horror, the horror!”

As the town ran scared, Kai waved to the group.

“I'm goin' home.”

“Kai…” Rarity grounded out. The saiyan sighed.

Twilight approached a pony and stopped her with a stern look.

“Daisy, we need to talk.”

It was almost too good to be true… but, no. This was real.

Everyone afflicted with Poison Joke was sitting in the curing bathwater, courtesy of spa owners Aloe Vera and Lotus Blossom.

“…This is nice.” Was all Kai could comment. What else could he say, really?

“Yes, this herbal bath is doing wonders for my coat!” Rarity enthused, understanding what Kai had meant, but deciding it was best not to dwell on it.

With everypony cured of their ailments, they were no longer troubled by anything. Speaking of…

“Say, Kai?” The saiyan looked to Twilight. “Our issues were mostly obvious, but I never saw what was wrong with you.”

“My tail grew back. Bad news if I looked at the full moon.” His tone was dismissive, making clear he didn't want to speak on it. “So, noone came up with nicknames for you girls, right? 'Cause I thought of a few as soon as I saw your condition!”

Before he could continue, a blue magic aura was submerging his head in the water.

“Let's not repeat that fiasco.”

Everypony simply laughed, even moreso when Kai lifted his head above the surface.

“Harity.”

“Monkey King.”

Their laughter rang out, a world's worth of happiness finding the group.

Coffee Kai

The punches may have been fast… but they lacked any particular bite. Thusly, Kai simply stood and took them all to prove a point. That only served to annoy his newest pegasus student Rainbow Dash.

“I know you can feel this! Just go down already!”

“Before I even bought you dinner?” Rainbow Dash halted her punch, blinking once, then twice, then a third time. Her face flushed red ever so slightly before she completed her punch. “Ha. Anyway, you're progressing pretty slowly. Do you even want power?”

“Yes!”

“Then where's your motivation? I mean, it's been ages since I gave you your weights. What happened to ‘I'll do it in a week’?” To Kai's blunt question, the mare could only look away.

“Some stuff came up, alright? I can't train all of the time.”

“So when you do, you should be pushing yourself hard. But look at you. You're not sore anywhere. You haven't been training seriously.” Kai crossed his arms, shifting his attention elsewhere. “Maybe you were the wrong pony for the job, after all.”

“Huh? What job?”

“To protect Equestria when I'm not around.” Although she didn't like it, nor would she admit it, Rainbow Dash knew just how strong Kai was. Maybe not his full power, but his display against Cargo had been a good indicator that he was leagues beyond herself or her friends.

And he was training and trusting her to protect her home?

“…Whatever.” That made Kai smile. That shift in stance meant she would take it seriously now.

Suddenly, a bell rang out loudly, their attention falling to the school they waited outside of. They waited for a while as colts and fillies piled out of the school as fast as they could. Kai remembered to put on a smile so his passive glare wouldn't scare anypony. He even received a few waves, which he returned. After a minute or so, his reason for waiting around showed themselves.

Sweetie Belle's eyes went wide as she easily picked her brother from the crowd, breaking into a run towards him.

“Kai!” He caught her, swung her around twice then hugged her tightly, the filly returning the hug. “This is like a dream come true! I've always wanted you to pick me up from school!”

“I've always wanted to pick you up from school.” Kai laughed with her. Setting her down, he noticed two other fillies approach to join her side. “Apple Bloom.” He patted her head, getting a giggle. “Scootaloo.” Her too, only she groaned out and tried shaking his hand off.

“Way too sappy for me.”

“Tell me about it.” Rainbow Dash mumbled.

“You three crusading today?” They shook their heads.

“Nah. Since winter's starting up, we're just gonna stay inside.” Apple Bloom explained.

“That's right, it is winter…” Kai recalled, before shooting Rainbow Dash a glance. “…Shouldn't you be helping with that?”

“We already set up the winter clouds. It'll be fine.” She waved off. “Oh! See? It's already starting!”

True to her words, a few crystals of snow had already started to fall, covering the ground bit by bit. Kai grunted in response.

“Well, let's get home before we get snowed on too bad.”

“Yeah!”

Chapter 16

Coffee Kai

“A most fabulous snowpony, wouldn't you—” A snowball to the face interrupted the filly.

He molded together another ball of snow, a grin on his face.

“I think you're a better snowpony.”

“A lady will not sully her hooves with a snowball fight.” He frowned… until a snowball impacted his face. He blinked while she smirked. “That's what magic is for.”

“Oh, it's on!”

Kai chuckled at the memories he shared with his sister during the winter, staring out at the snowstorm through a window.

“Can't believe I lost that one.”

Shifting his thoughts from then, he yawned as he pondered his recent life. Specifically, how fast time seemed to be passing. It had been some time since he had finally been accepted by Ponyville. It was still a shock, and an odd life to get used to. Ponies waving and speaking to him, when before they would run and hide, or insult him. It wasn't quite “Home, sweet home”, but it was something.

He'd always have an almost mocking smirk when recalling an incident with some unknown bugs called parasprites. He had listened to Twilight's frantic instructions as the creatures revealed themselves to be a very quickly replicating and similarly ravenous sort. Then he listened to Pinkie Pie try to gather instruments for... actually, maybe he didn't end up listening to Pinkie. Probably for her secret band or something. His solution was to just get them in one place and blast them to nothingness. Everypony disagreed with his methods, but they also couldn't help but to be relieved. And they knew Kai knew that.

Time simply passed in peace, and, with autumn closing with a running event a mere two weeks before, this was set up to be a rather harsh winter. Even he was feeling the cold, and he was inside. Luckily, Rarity was long-since prepared with a thick sweater for him to wear under his coat, and a white scarf. It contrasted his darker colors oh, so nicely.

“A-choo!” His musing was interrupted by a controlled sneeze. He didn't even turn to face Rarity, surely crafting yet another dress.

“I never really studied this kind of thing or asked, but, I always thought a pony's coat made the cold… I dunno, way less of a problem. Y'know, magic and stuff.” Rarity sniffled before adressing his curiousity.

“No, most certainly not. The cold is still most unwanted, even if we can stand it better with our coats. Hence why some ponies will wear clothing, not out of fashion, but for warmth.”

“Hmm…” Kai indeed saw a few ponies walking about, scarves and ear muffs on. “I bet a nice cup of coffee would do them well…”

“I know I could go for one.” As she heard movement, Rarity turned slightly to see what Kai was up to. “Going somewhere?”

“Yeah. I think I know what I want to do. Be right back.” And with that, he vanished. Rarity counted the seconds-turned-minutes, until Kai returned… slighly burned with an armful of treasures. “So, I guess the Dragon Lord is a little angry at me for making his daughter wait so long to see me… But he also doesn't want me around her…?” Rarity lifted a brow but said nothing. “I've got a few more trips of treasure to make. He's got a ton of this stuff!”

“Kai, take care not to flirt with his daughter. Ever since you've been accepted by everypony, you've been a bit more… risqué.”

“Why would I ever do that?” With that, he blinked out of sight, returning seconds after. This repeated itself ten more times, but on the final time, minutes went by. Rarity looked at the pile of treasure in confusion, until Kai reappeared, covered in a layer of charcoal and dust. He cleared himself off with ki, shaking his head.

“What did you say?”

“I just asked if she was single—honest!” Rarity's eyes narrowed. “…I mean… was it so bad to say I wanted to see her how she was when we first met?”

“…You said she was tied up when you first met.”

“Mhm.” The unicorn felt her browline lower. “Hey! Don't give me that look! She was totally gonna say yes, if Torch didn't try to kill me!”

“I'm so ignoring you.” She sighed and walked back to her dress-in-progress. “What ever happened to my innocent older brother?”

“I… hit puberty?” He wasn't really sure how he was supposed to answer that question. “I've never been innocent, I've been stupid.”

“Glad you said it.” Kai ignored her.

“There's nothing wrong with a bit of harmless flirting—if everyone's willing.”

“Was she really willing?”

“Yeah. You should see how she fidgets around me. It's actually really cute.”

“So you plan to date not just any dragon, but the Dragon Lord's daughter?” Rarity asked for confirmation.

“Oh, no, no. I don't like her like that. I think it'll be a little while before I get a crush on anyone. When I do, you'll be the first to know.” Although Kai said that, he noticed the look Rarity was giving him. “…What?”

“Are you quite sure about that? You have been spending some time away, with no explaination. But you're clearly seeing somepony.”

“…Oh! You mean…” He blinked. “No, no. I just spend some time talking with Luna every week, that's all.”

“Wait… you mean, Princess Luna?” He nodded. “Princess Celestia's sister?” Another nod. “Formerly Nightmare Moon?”

“Corrupted by, Nightmare Moon.” He corrected.

“Impressive. Courting a princess is no easy feat.”

“I just said it isn't like that.”

“Sure, sure. Whatever you say.” Kai rolled his eyes. That's Rarity for you, believing what she will. “So… what is all of the treasure for?”

“Well, this is all a bunch of gold and bits and stuff. There's this building that's been empty since we were kids around the way. I figured I'd go to the mayor, buy the deed, build on it a bit and gather some materials, then…” He put his fists to his hips and puffed his chest proudly. “I'll open up Kai's Café!”

“Oh my…” Rarity smiled, but still looked at him with concern. “Do you even know how to build? And even if you do, that kind of thing can take months. Do you know what you need for a cafe? Are you completely sure?”

“Sis, I've been reading books about coffee for years now. And, hello? I'm super fast and strong. I'm a one-saiyan-construction-team. This'll take a week—tops.”

“Hmm… Well, as long as you know what you're doing.” Kai gave a thumbs up and started gathering several bits into a nearby satchel bag—his old one. “Oh, Kai? May I have a few of those gems?”

“Of course. Going for a bedazzle, or a centerpiece spectacle?”

“Ooh, bedazzling! I almost forgot about that. I was actually thinking along the lines of jewelry.”

“Sounds good!” With more than enough bits for a fully paid-off decently sized house, Kai walked to the door. Before he left, he gave Rarity a look of curiousity. “Say… our mayor…”

“Mayor Mare?”

“Yeah. Is she cute?”

“I'm coming with you, now.”

“…Huh…”

“Wow…”

“…” Kai and Rarity looked to one another, then to the old, dilapidated building surrounded by a dying plot of land, out of the way of the other buildings in town by a quarter of a mile. “This is a real…”

“…piece of crap.” Though his language was crude, Rarity could not disagree. It may as well have not been a building at all. “Okay, step one.” Kai held his hand out to the structure, and proceeded to blast it to nothingness. “Out with the old.”

“Step two…” Rarity trailed off as she pulled out a paper and a quill. A few minutes went by… “In with the new!”

Kai looked at the blueprint she drew up. A grin crept along his face.

Oh, that was nice.

Let it be known, building in snow was not quite easy. However, Kai pulled it off nonetheless; with Rarity guiding him through from afar. Kai's impatience had taught him techniques to hasten everything—even the drying of adhesives. A small application of ki dried it up in no time. As a result, the building had been completely built in two days. Though, there were a few issues with the exterior…

One being that it looked dry… devoid of any greenery or presentation. That was when they called Fluttershy for help.

“And… there.” The gentle caretaker pushed the dirt back over the several seeds she had planted. She had been confused at the lack of snow at first, but another look at Kai reminded her of his odd power. “By spring, these should bloom all around your cafe, Kai.”

“Sweet. Thanks, Shy.” The saiyan knelt down, chuckling at the mare's suddenly bashful disposition. He offered her head a pat. “We haven't gotten to talk much since I came back, have we? Sorry for that.”

“No, it's okay. Just having you back is enough for me.” Fluttershy smiled at the thought. “…You gave me a life, so giving your new ambitions life is the least I can do.”

“Kai?” They both turned to Rarity approaching. “I started detailing everything you'd need, and even a general floor plan for this place you should follow. Here.” Kai accepted the sheets of paper.

“Hm… Not bad. Not bad at all.” And then proceeded to burn them with ki.

“Ah! Hey! Why did you—”

“Sorry, but this is one time I'm being dead serious. This is gonna be my business. I followed along with the outside because it was exactly what I had already planned. I already know what this place is gonna look like. The help's appreciated, but from here on out, it's my project.” Kai leveled a brotherly stare at Rarity. “Got that?”

“…It better be successful.”

“Don't doubt me.”

“Very well. How long until ponies can come for a cup of coffee?”

“Three days, to play it safe. And it won't just be coffee—it'll be everything! Tea, iced tea, iced coffee, hot chocolate, cold chocolate—whatever! We're seriously doin' this!”

“Um… e…excuse me…” They looked to Fluttershy. “Your cafe is… a little out of the way…. Should we pass out flyers or anything?”

“Nope. I remember goofing off around here all the time, even before I left all that time ago. Ponies will come here out of boredom and curiousity, notice the cafe, and pop in. You can come in for a cup, too, Shy. It'll be extra special for you.” He assured, scratching behing her ear. The pegasus smiled, both at the action and at his words.

“Please, don't flirt with my best friend.” Rarity groaned.

“Hey! I wasn't flirting! She's my friend, too, you know!” Fluttershy giggled.

“Well then, I should be going now. You know how Angel Bunny can get.”

“Yeah, feisty little bunny. Need me to walk you home?”

“Maybe if it was darker, but I should be fine.” Both psuedo siblings blinked in surprise as the pegasus walked away. “Goodbye.”

“…It's morning, though.”

“Fluttershy just made a joke…” They looked at each other. “Isn't she just precious?”

“The most precious thing.” They shook their heads. “Anyway, I'm back at it! This'll be fun!”

As the saiyan made to continue his work, Rarity smiled and walked away.

“Aaaand… There!”

The building itself was now a darker brown from before, practically mahogany in color. Now, brandished in white letters above the glass double-doored entrance, was “KAI'S CAFÉ”.

Inside, Kai could be just as proud, if not more. The interior walls were white, though decorated with a few framed pictures so as to avoid looking too bland. To his sides, right by the entrance, were brown single-booth seats, two across from each other on each side, and both of the booths facing a white table, kept pretty by a red rose on either table.

He clicked out the steps in his head… ten short steps for him, about the same normal steps for a pony. That would get them to the long L-shaped counter, long enough to seat ten all at once. He smoothly inserted himself behind the mahogany counter, looking at everything the back shelf had. Bags of coffee beans, grinders, several different filters, sugars, powdered and liquid creamers… Where another shelf was missing, there was instead a small stove with two burners. Next to it, was a small refridgerator.

Behind the counter were his cups and utensils—twenty cups was good to start with. From his perspective behind the bar and facing the floor, to his back left, was a small door that led to where he would store things. To his further back right, were the restrooms—maximum occupancy, six stalls.

Kai crossed his arms, smiling genuinely for what felt like the first time in ages. His eye caught the sign for a moment, and he jutted his hand out to force a kiai to flip it. Smile returning, he nodded in approval.

“Open for business.”

It had taken a single day. Just one. But Kai kept calm, even hearing the tell-tale jingling of the bell that would let him know he had a customer. He simply continued cleaning out a cup as the mares spoke amongst themselves.

“Honestly, it's a bit immature that you just can't enjoy coffee like a normal pony. Don't you want to be a proper mare, Vinyl?”

“That stuff you make is as bitter as your attitude, 'Tavi. I just can't get behind it.”

“Well you will today. Take a deep breath.” Octavia Melody breathed deeply, letting out a hum of satisfaction. “Smell the undertones of a café.”

“…Smells better than it tastes.”

Seemed about time to cut in.

“Welcome.” The mares looked over and met Kai's welcoming gaze. Octavia gave Vinyl Scratch a look, then flicked her head to the barstools. With an unseen eye roll, the sunglasses-wearing mare followed her friend to the counter.

“Good morning.”

“Yo.” Octavia glared at her friend for her informality.

“Would you two believe that you're my first customers, ever?”

“Really now? Well, when I think about it, this café was not here just last week.”

“Nope. Just built it. Name's Kai.”

“Hello, Kai. My name is Octavia Melody. This is my friend—”

“With benefits.” That earned her a slap on the head.

“…my annoying friend, Vinyl Scratch.”

“Nice meeting you two. What can I get you?”

“Just two cups of coffee, Canterlot blend, please.” Octavia ordered for them.

“Gotcha. I'll have it for you in no time.” Kai tended to the coffee for the next few minutes. No matter how fast one could go, he mused, no amount of speed or power could hasten the process of a good cup of coffee. Didn't mean he couldn't make small talk. “So, Vinyl Scratch, was it? It seems you don't like coffee much.”

“She means no offense, I assure you.”

“Oh, I totally mean offense. All the offense.” That made Kai laugh. The earth pony? Not so much. “The stuff's too bitter. That doesn't make me immature. It just means my 'buds are picky.”

“Everyone likes their coffee a bit different. Check it out.” With twin pours, Kai filled up two cups of coffee, one halfway, the other just shy of full. Taking the half-filled one, he turned, added a few things, then turned back to set it onto the counter, now as filled as the other. He mixed it with a stirring stick until it became a milky brown in color, the other as black as night. “Your orders.”

“M…my… That was… very impressive. To finish it so fast and precisely.” Kai simply smiled. Even though he didn't personally feel rushed, he supposed he was still faster than anypony else who tried making a cup of coffee. “Thank you. Vinyl, thank the nice… um…”

“Saiyan.”

“Saiyan.” Vinyl echoed with a smirk. “Thanks, guy! Sorry if I upchuck on your floor.” She took a sip of her coffee… only to have to take off her iconic glasses to stare at the cup in shock. “Woah! That's tasty! This can't be coffee.”

“It's as I said, everyone likes it different.”

Octavia gave Vinyl a curious stare, to which the unicorn offered the cup to her. She took a sip, and immediately gagged.

“It's dreadfully sweet…!”

“That's why it's so good! Y'know, I wasn't too sure about it at first, but you really made a great choice on bringing me here! This guy knows what he's doing!” Octavia shook her head and sipped her own coffee, though she was also glad her friend had at least found some way to enjoy coffee. “Hey, can I get an omelette, too?”

“Vinyl!” The mare scolded, before looking to Kai. “I apologize sincerely on her behalf. She should know better than to order something like that at a café.”

“S'cool.” Kai moved to the fridge and took out a few eggs. “You want something, too? Don't be shy.”

“Ah, no… just the coffee…”

It didn't take long to prepare the food, and by then, the mares were nearly finished with their coffee.

“Here you are.”

“Sweet!” Before she could dig in messily, a throat cleared itself. “Oh, uh, thanks!” Then she dug in.

“So, Kai?” Octavia began. “How long have you been in Ponyville?”

“Nearly my whole life. I left for a few years, but I came back a few months ago.” Kai answered with a smile. “The ponyfolks haven't been too fond of me 'till recently. But, I'm only a little annoyed by now.”

“Why didn't they like you?” Kai simply gestured to himself. “Ah… Being unique shouldn't be something to hate.”

“It shouldn't, but it is.”

“So that means you're like, single?” Both looked to Vinyl with brows raised. The saiyan nodded. “How open are you?”

“Alright! I believe it's time we get to the rest of our day!” Octavia emphasised this sudden decision by bumping Vinyl in the ribs. Hard. The unicorn coughed loudly, only able to nod in response. “Thank you very much, Kai. How much do we owe you?”

“It's on the house.” He waved off. Octavia wanted badly to protest, but… she recognised the look on his face. That translated from entire species, it seemed. That look of stubborness.

With a drawn sigh, the mare offered a smile.

“Well, we'll be spreading the word of a great new café, owned by a skilled and hospitable saiyan.”

“Who would that be?” They laughed together for a moment before the ponies stood to leave. “Come back soon. There's always a cup of a coffee for you two.”

“Of course we'll be back. Right, Vinyl?”

“As long as you make it the same way next time!”

With that, the duo left the building.

And Kai celebrated his first customers with a fist-pump.

“I'm hooooome~!” Rarity peeked from her workroom.

“Welcome back, Kai! So? Any customers today?” The grin on her brother's face told her more than enough.

“Yeah! I was swamped today! They all loved it, too!” Kai enthused as he began taking his coat off.

“Sounds like you had a busy…” Kai turned after Rarity suddenly stopped speaking.

“What, what's up?” Her eyes were wide. “…Is there something on my face? Or… you didn't notice the extra scars, huh?” She pointed. He followed her point, but saw nothing. “Girl! Speak!”

“Your hand! You have it! It's there!” He was still confused, but when he lifted his left hand to his face…

“By Kami!” On his left hand was what looked like a tattoo. A white cup, filled with steaming coffee. Yes, this was— “My cutie mark!”

“How do you feel?”

“…Stupid.” Kai and Rarity laughed as the saiyan moved to her worktable to sit next to her.

“Me, too. I mean, the signs were clear enough. The only books you would ever read were about coffee.”

“Welp, my two halves have been made whole. Thanks for sticking with me, Rarity.” He gave her a hug, which she returned.

“Thank you for having me along. Now you know who to be. I'm so proud of you, Kai.”

“Thanks.”

As the snow continued to fall, the siblings could barely even notice the cold as they continued to hug.

Extra

Winter Flashback

A young Kai, clad in a dark blue outfit with a sweater and scarf, looked over to his younger sister Rarity, both laying on their backs in the snow.

“…You only won that one 'cause of magic.”

“What is it you say? A win is a win?”

“Got me there.” They laughed. “…Say, why does it have to snow?”

“Hm?”

“There's no rule, right? So, why?”

“…I guess it's a traditional thing. Mom said that it used to snow a loooong time ago, so…”

“Weird.” Kai reached his hand out at the sky, his hand eclipsing the clouds from his own view. He clenched his fist to ‘crush’ it. “Giant balls of cotton candy, dropping frosting.” He could sense Rarity's confused stare. “The clouds making snow.”

“Oh. In that case, what about when it rains?”

“Uh… Then they drop… chocolate milk!” Another round of laughter followed. “That'll be the day…”

“I bet one day it really will rain chocolate milk.”

“Nah, no way. Isn't that against the rules for pegasi?”

“Who cares? It really will rain chocolate milk.”

“Wanna bet?”

“Yes!”

“If it rains chocolate milk… I'll do your chores for a whole month.”

“Hey, no fair! You already do my chores!” Kai chuckled and gave her a gesture to tell her she had the floor. “If I win… you have to tell me that secret you said you couldn't tell me!”

Kai's brows lowered minutely, but he smiled a moment after.

“Ha! You're on. But until then, I get to brag about being right!”

“Deal!”

At the exact same time, they sneezed twice. As if that was an alarm, they heard the door to their home open and a voice call out.

“Kids! Hot cocoa!” Their mother called out.

“Coming!”

Sneezing and sniffling again, the siblings grinned, covered by a blanket, and a mug of hot cocoa in their grasp. They looked out to the snow, illuminated by the moon. Rarity looked up at Kai, then snuggled closer to him.

“Do you think we'll be like this forever, Kai?” Kai stroked her mane affectionately, continuing to stare out at the snow and the stars.

“Definitely, Rarity. We will.”

Looking down at his little sisters asleep in his lap, Kai couldn't help but chuckle to himself.

“Yeah… Maybe not forever, but… right now is more than enough for me.”

Gala Drip

“‘Oh, darling, I absolutely insist! In fact, I'll make us all beautiful dresses for the Gala!’” Rarity's words… coming mockingly from a very disgruntled Kai's mouth. “What part of that should have included me?”

“Stop complaining!”

“No!” Kai protested, then held up a stack of dresses. “I've made all of these, and every last one you say, ‘No, not good enough for our friends!’ Come on! This one—this one right here!” He held up a starry dress. “This one is a keeper! My best work yet!”l

“Best!? That is by far your worst! There's no… pizazz!”

“No pizazz!? Are you blind!?”

“No, I'm a fashionista!”

“So am I!”

“I'm better!”

“No you're not!”

“Oh yeah!?”

“Yeah! My dresses are way better tha—Rarity! That's scarlet—are you insane!?”

“Eek! I meant to use crimson!”

“Here!”

“Thank you! What would I do without you, Kai!?”

…With nothing much to fill a friendless upbringing, Kai and Rarity often made clothes together. And every time, it is exactly like this… for hours. Mind you, this is what true synergy is for these siblings.

To preface, the Grand Galloping Gala was fast approaching, and Rarity was made privy to just what her friends planned to wear—practically rags. Recognising this as a crime against fashion, Rarity enlisted Kai's assistance and the two were fast at work on dresses for their friends.

The issue, of course, were these two perfectionists, who wanted them extra special for their friends.

“Done! Isn't it lovely, Kai?” Kai looked the dress over.

“…Did you bleed all over it? It looks horrid.”

“Horrid!?”

And here we go again…

Chapter 17

Gala Drip

There were quite a bit of troubles fitting a dress with their friends' styles and personalities, but if there was one thing the siblings were good at, it was adapting to troublesome challenges and situations. Kai delicately placed the first accepted dress onto a display ponnequin, lightly straightening it to prevent any wrinkling.

“Hey, Rarity?”

“Hmm?”

“I'm not… slowing you down, right?”

“Why ever would you think that?” Rarity asked with genuine confusion.

“Well… I can't stitch as fast as you. You're just too precise with your magic and all. I can't even begin to compete.”

“Kai, if not for you, the sketches for the designs would barely be finished tomorrow—if that! Sure, you may not be able to stitch and sew as fast as I can, but you're my inspiration. My motivation.” She adjusted her sewing glasses. “Now, come over here and hold that thread steady.”

“Got it!”

“Now, could you hold that cloth thirteen centimeters up?”

“Here.” Although he may not have been as generally precise as Rarity, it was nearly impossible to live with a true, professional fashionista for life without picking up some skills. As such, Kai could easily eyeball distances far and short, which probably did him a few favors in battle, and even making coffee.

“Hold steady, darling. I do not want to poke you by accident.” With the skill and finesse he was used to seeing, the unicorn threaded the different materials better than any sewing machine could. “Perfection. Oh, but I really do want to spruce it up just a bit more…”

“Yeah, but being done up extravagantly just isn't Fluttershy's style.”

“Unfortunately true. That girl is just so pretty, but so shy!”

“She'd make a good model, if she could just have some self-confidence.” Seconded the saiyan. “…I think I'm gonna give her more compliments. Might help her.”

“You mean it might help you.”

“Both.” They chuckled. “…I don't think I'd ever have a shot at a girl like that, huh?”

“Why do you believe that?”

“We're pretty much the complete opposite. I haven't seen her swat at a fly. But me...” Both understanding, their gazes dropped to Kai's scarred hands, Rarity sparing a glance at a light scar on the tip of his nose.

Still, Rarity smiled as she levitated the new dress onto a second display ponnequin.

“You know what they say; ‘Opposites attract!’ Have more faith—in both of yourselves. You both are great.” Rarity covered her mouth with a hoof as she giggled. “Perhaps you could use a boost in self-confidence, too.”

“Heh. Maybe.” Kai seemed almost bashful as he watched his sister gather more cloth and settle it onto... The Table Where Rarity Miracle Happen, or, you could be normal and call it TTWRMH, or you could be in the know, and just say, The Table. ...Sibling thing. “Gettin' started on…?”

“Let us see…. Twilight's was first… that was Fluttershy's… Next is Applejack's!” Rarity happily began on the next dress.

“Stubborn Applejack. I remember when she was all, ‘I don't need nopony's help, ya hear!?’” His southern drawl was a little over the top, but it was passable. “By the end of the first day, she was so tired, I had to walk her to her barn so she didn't knock out on the spot.”

“Reminds me of another certain stubborn somepony. One that would train everyday until collapsing, and I had to carry to bed.”

“Who would that be?” Rarity rolled her eyes. “Well, I'm living a slower lifestyle, now.”

“Yes. That reminds me, I never asked, but you're okay to be helping me, right? After all, your café has acquired quite a bit of popularity.” She had a point. Being a convenient source for hot beverages and light snacks during a harsh winter, plus the talk in town from customers, Kai's Café became a quite well known spot with the locals.

Kai waved her worries off.

“It's not like I've got any employees, and everypony understands the concept of taking a day off.”

“You really should look into getting some employees.” The mare pushed with a grimace.

“Not too many have a passion for coffee. 'Sides, I don't know how feel about hiring anypony in town. I mean, they only just recently started caring that I existed. I'd just be…”

“Spiteful?” He pointed with a snap, indicating that was the word he was looking for. “Kai… I know we've only occassionally spoken about it… but, just how much do you hate the townsponies?”

“Honest? Deadly honest?” Rarity nodded. “Being treated like I never existed for my entire life, only changing from that norm when they wanted to insult me or run from me, or the few who wanted to try to hurt me…” Kai gave his sister a certain… look. Like staring down a cold, calculating villain. “It's all enough to wipe out this entire place.”

“I… knew it was bad for you, but I never thought it was that bad…”

“It wouldn't be bad for an ordinary pony. Or, well, whatever would be treated like me. But… when you have the kind of power I have, you start to wonder. Why put up with it when I could just destroy it all?” He shrugged, carrying over some fabrics to Rarity. “You, Sweetie Belle, mom and dad. You're about the only reason I don't do something stupid. And, hey! It's turning out good, right? Ponies don't hate me, I only hate them a little, and we're both making new friends. It's, uh… What's that word…?”

“…Serendipity.” Another snapping point. “…Will you ever forgive them?”

“Who can say?”

“Could you at least try? For me?”

“It isn't that simple, Rarity. It never will be.”

“Why can't it be?”

“…Bes just the way Equestria is.” On Kai's mind, was how he found those who accepted him without batting an eyelash about his nature, only when he left Equestria. It showed him how narrow-minded this place's peace had made them. Celestia's peace.

“Haven't you met anypony other than us that likes you for you?” Rarity questioned worriedly.

“Hm… Ah!” His mind went to a couple he knew. “Yeah. My first customers. They were newer to Ponyville—never seen them before. They like me. Oh! And there was that other guy bit over a week ago who was visiting with his family—the kid was asking all kinds of questions. And…”

Rarity smiled. Finally, a breakthrough. Ponies Kai liked, and liked him back. Perhaps figuring out his destiny of coffee was for the best.

It was three days later that Rarity, with Kai's help whenever he could, finished everypony's dresses. And, unable to help herself, she made Kai formal attire for the Gala as well. Now the full group followed after Rarity with closed eyes so they didn't ruin the surprise.

“That's it. Keep them closed. Don't look.” Rarity instructed as she led them to her displays. She was very excited to be able to show her friends her work. “Okay, you can look now!”

The group opened their eyes excitedly, but the girls' excitement seemed to die out upon seeing their new outfits. They all let out gasps of surprise.

“These are your new outfits. What do you think of your old duds now, Applejack? Pretty swanky, are they not?” Rarity asked, displaying a mostly green dress with brown sprinkled about in some areas, green, apple themed horse-boots, with the whole dress being kept together by an apple shaped brooch. There was also a stetson hat with apples on it.

“And Twilight! I made this dress for you and I designed each outfit theme to perfectly reflect each pony's unique personality.” Now, she displayed a blue dress that had several stars of different blues and white on it. From the display, a white star would be added in the mane to complete the outfit.

“She stole the idea of your dress from me.” Kai chimed in with a smirk, earning a sharp look from the fellow fashionista. She made no comment, however.

“Oh, it took me forever to get the colors right on this one, Rainbow Dash, but I did it. Oh, and it turned out beautiful, don't you think?” Next, was a rainbow-patterned dress, with golden horse-shoes and a tiara of sorts.

“And I know you are going to love yours, Fluttershy. It just sings spring!” The next dress was green with flowers around the bottom of it. There were green shoes, a blue, butterfly-themed brooch, with the same accessory being used as a hair-clip.

“And Pinkie Pie, look! Pink! Your favorite!” Then, a pink dress, with blue and white around different spots. There were pink shoes with blue bows, and a white hat to complete it.

“I couldn't forget about my own brother, now could I? You're always moving, so I made yours with that in mind.” Lastly, hung up on the wall was a sapphire vest-like top, black sleeves with white cuffs, a white sash, black pants under a long, sapphire, skirt-like cloth, complete with white and blue boots.

“Aren't they all amazing?”

Everypony looked at their clothes, then to each other, and finally at Rarity.

“Wow… They're…” Twilight tried to find the right words.

“Yeah, they're…” Rainbow Dash was no better off.

“They sure are… somethin'.” Applejack put lightly.

“Yes! Something.” Agreed the purple unicorn.

“I love something! Something is my favorite!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed.

“It's… nice.” Said Fluttershy.

Rarity looked at everypony worriedly.

“But what's the matter? Don't you like them?” The girls looked away nervously.

“They're very nice…” Twilight trailed off.

“And we're plumb grateful 'cause you worked so hard on them.” Applejack added.

“There's something… missing.” With what seemed like a rejection from her own brother, everypony thought that was a good time to be honest.

“Mine's just not as cool as I was imagining.” The ponies glared at Rainbow Dash's blunt let-down, to which she shrugged. “She asked.”

Twilight gave Rarity an apologetic look.

“I guess what we're all saying is that they're just not what we had in mind.”

“Yeah.” They all agreed.

Rarity wouldn't have been fazed otherwise. Truly, she wouldn't. Although she could be sensitive at times, she knew her career was one of critique and rejection. But… but from Kai, too? Her own brother? She teared up, holding herself back as much as she could as she nodded.

“I…I see… W-well—”

“That's it!” Everypony jumped and looked to Kai in surprise. The saiyan grinned and held up his left hand. “It's missing this! Right on the front!” He exclaimed enthusiastically, refering to his newest feature.

Rarity gasped, then matched his grin, allowing a few of her tears to fall.

“Of course! I'll get right on it, darling!” With that, she zipped out of there with Kai's clothes.

The saiyan looked to the others, who were still a bit surprised.

“What kind of jerk would I be to reject a heartfelt gift, right? But, some constructive criticism ain't bad.” It seemed that, in his musing of what was missing, Kai hadn't heard the girls unanimously reject the dresses… which only made them feel worse.

The girls traded glances, realising now that they were in the wrong completely.

Even though everypony knew Rarity's skill, only Kai had been unsurprised by her arriving with his customised clothes a mere four minutes later. She lifted it to him with magic, smiling so happily at him.

“Here you are!” Now, right on the front was a cup of coffee, exactly like Kai's cutie mark. He grinned as he accepted the article of clothing.

“Sweet! Thanks, Rarity! I'll try it on, now!”

“Um, Rarity?” Rarity's smile dimmed just a bit upon meeting Twilight's gaze. “We want to try our dresses on, too. May we borrow the changing rooms?”

“Huh? But… I thought you didn't…”

“We were bein' mighty inconsiderate. The dresses are perfect, Rarity.” Applejack spoke, her tone as apologetic as she and the others looked.

“Oh… Well, in that case, of course you may use the changing rooms!” Smiling, the girls took up their dresses and went downstairs to change. Rarity shifted her stare to Kai, who had already partially changed into his new clothes. “…What did you say?”

“Me? What do you mean?”

“I can handle constructive criticism.”

“No clue what you mean. I was stuck thinking about these.” He responded, putting on the top half of his ensemble. “I was completely oblivious to anything they were saying. How could I possibly know exactly what to say to make them realise they were being brats? No way, no how.”

The unicorn giggled, before shrugging.

“I suppose you're right.” Naturally, since he had a head-start, Kai had finished dressing quickly. Rarity looked him up and down. “Hm…”

“Am I to your liking, my lady?”

“Why yes you are. May I have this dance, my prince?” The two laughed, then shook their heads. “Really, you sir, will be the talk of the town dressed in that.”

“That would be good for business. And same for you, sis.”

“Yes, I can see it now. Who knows? Word may spread and we just may get somepony important to take notice of my dresses. Maybe to put on a fashion show.”

“Forget all the waiting, let's just have our own fashion show!”

“You read my mind.”

Their heads turned when they heard movement from the stairs. Then, they saw all of their friends in the dresses made for them.

“How do we look, Rarity?” Pinkie Pie's excited question was accompanied by the others' hopeful smiles.

Rarity gave them all a critical stare. Such scrutiny, she was likely seeing if their molecular structures had any style, too. Gaze narrowing, hoof to her chin, bottom lip out, she began.

“You all…” A pause. “…look…” The girls' smiles started to fall slowly. “…absolutely…” Rarity grinned brightly. “Fabulous!”

With that, smiles and laughs were all that surrounded the group.

“Hold up…!” Come tomorrow, there was a bigger issue at hoof. Well, for Kai, at hand, as he was lifting his to halt the baby dragon Spike from continuing. From his peripheral view, he could see that Rarity was stunned silent. “Let me get this straight… Hoity Toity? As in, THE Hoity Toity? Bigwig fashion critic who makes and breaks designers' careers?”

Often times, the girls forgot that, for all of his brawn, Kai still had similar knowledge and tendencies to their fashionista friend. Still, Spike nodded with an unfazed grin directed to Rarity.

“That's right! He heard about your fashion show.” Spike informed the fashionista. Then he scratched his head sheepishly. “Well, maybe I happened to mention it to him…” He corrected. “He's coming here all the way from Canterlot to see your work, Rarity!”

That impromtu fashion show Kai and Rarity planned was just supposed to be a small thing, no more than the group of friends attending, unless anypony else was interested in watching. However, learning what Spike had done caused Rarity's eyes to widen in shock, while the others were excited for her.

“Whoa, Nelly! You could sell a ton o' dresses to this guy. Your business will be boomin'!” Applejack exclaimed.

“Wow!”

“That's so cool!”

“I don't believe it!” As the group clearly displayed their excitment, Rarity was thrilled, and yet, very nervous. It was like being anxious, times one-hundred.

She finally broke from her silent stupor to speak.

“Hoity Toity? He's coming here? To see these dresses?” She pointed to the dresses she had made.

“Yep! Get ready for all of your dreams to come true.” Spike told her with a smile.

The audience… well, word spreads fast. How fast? Everypony in Ponyville had attended, all sitting around the walkway-stage. Yes, it was quite the reception, and sitting as close as he possibly could, was none other than Hoity Toity. Rarity was on the verge of a panic attack, but there was no time for even a word of comfort.

For it was time.

A microphone gave off minimal feedback, followed by a clearing throat. Then, the familiar voice of Spike began.

“Since the beginning of time, the elite of Equestria have longed for pony fashions that truly expressed the essence of their very souls.” Just those few introductory words had the crowd completely captivated. “Patiently waiting decades—no, centuries—for the perfect pony gown. Today, at long last, Equestria, your wait is over! Let's hear it for the breathtaking designs of Ponyville's own Rarity!”

First, Twilight walked forward onto the walkway; doing her best to show off the designs of the dress. And oh, was it showed off. What would be mere beauty to another, was absolute perfection in the fashion critic Hoity Toity's eyes. He could almost seethe stars in the night sky, sparkling brightly against the dark backdrop. And yet, he wasn't looking at the sky, but at her dress.

“Oh, my…” He whispered, quite impressed.

Now, it was Applejack's turn to walk out. Hoity Toity could easily make out the vast apple fields that Ponyville had been all but famous for; Sweet Apple Acres. The succulent, red apples were etched upon her dress with such detail that he felt they would fall from the garb, and he could sate his sudden hunger for apples.

“Simply magnificent! And I suddenly have a fierce craving for some Dutch apple pie, candied apples on a stick, apple turnovers, apple cobbler…” The critic trailed off, lest he become even hungrier.

Next, Pinkie walked through the walkway. The high-class stallion's sweet-tooth was instantly triggered, and he felt a craving for several sweet snacks. He needn't worry about that, because if it got too fierce, he need only pick the candy from the mare's dress. Really, were those real pieces of candy? If not, then they looked too real!

“Brilliant!”

Rainbow Dash came forth, striding confidently. Hoity Toity looked on in confusion. He could swear it was night time, so what was a rainbow doing strutting across the walkway? Truly, the dress was just perfect! The mixing of colors was specific, yet not forced. It flowed naturally, just like a real rainbow.

“Oh, spectacular!”

Fluttershy strolled out after, walking with grace. Hoity Toity thought he could smell the undertones of grass as he looked at the dress. Specifically, it seemed that the dress sang of… spring! The tranquility of nature and animals that the season of spring brought on.

“Now this is a fashion show! All of these dresses are absolutely amazing.” He had expected that display to be the last, but was proven quite wrong when he saw another individual come forward.

Kai walked down the walkway, arms behind his back. The critic could see every specific detail, from the double-stitched shoulder section to cope with broad shoulders in motion, to the way the color scheme seemed to ever so slightly conflict with itself, but still work perfectly. He felt the power radiating, not just from the model, but from the outfit itself.

“This is…!” Hoity Toity had no more words to supply. The creator of this beauty could not only make perfect dresses, but stylish clothes for another species, entirely!? He had to know who, he had to! “Who is responsible? Step forward, show yourself!”

It was right then that the group of mares and saiyan took a few steps backs, and flicked their heads back. Walking down the walkway was none other than Rarity, now wearing a pink and yellow dress, with a golden tiara to complete the look. As she took her place in front of the others, the crowd went wild with cheers and applause.

“Brava! Brava! Magnifico! Encore!” Cheered Hoity Toity.

The mare models of the fashion show bowed, while the lone male simply adjusted his collar with a smirk.

“Oh, thank you. Thank you! Oh, thank you so much!” Rarity exclaimed through the cheers. The fashionista couldn't have been happier.

Our story would conclude the next morning. As Rarity sat in her chair sipping her mornkng coffee, Kai returned from outside and shut the door, shivering slightly. He walked to Rarity, flipping through the mail they had received with his left hand, a newspaper in his right. He handed off the paper to Rarity, who accepted it with a small hum of gratitude.

Kai sat on the couch and started noting the mail aloud.

“Spam. Spam. Resubscribing to Royal Care Mags, right?” Rarity nodded. “Oh, from Luna. Let's see...” Kai's eyes went wide. “Sis, Hoity Toity's order came in!” That letter was in her hooves so fast, it didn't even look like she had moved.

She opened the letter and read through it silently. She read it over a few more times, whispering a word or two out loud to be sure. Nodding in full understanding, Rarity proceeded to faint. Kai leaned over to read what she had. He nodded.

“Today's a drinking day, then. Lucky, lucky us. I just got some Dragonflame Liquor!” Freshly imported.

He'd be sure to buy a pin, that said "What is 'Free Time'?".

Blood Diamond

Kai was interrupted from his afternoon meditation by a loud, overly-dramatic gasp from downstairs. It was probably nothing, but Kai was still curious.

Popping down the stairs, his gaze landed on his sister. And then another mare, done up elegantly with an air of… fame. Didn't he recognise—

“Holy—” He clasped his hands over his mouth and ducked back into the stairwell. Rushing up silently, he adjusted his clothing properly, adding a royal blue, bedazzled scarf made for ‘Fashion Emergencies Only’, and checked himself in his mirror.

Stylish. Now, he could go back down. But not like your common, run-of-the-mill rabble—NO! He needed more style. And to seem dismissive. That would always do well with the famous types.

Hands in pockets, Kai descended the stairs and looked the mares' way. They noticed him, and Rarity looked a bit less nervous than she had been.

“Oh, hey Rarity.” Then he looked upon the other mare. “Sapphire Shores, huh? That's Rarity for you. Always meeting more and more famous ponies every day.”

“Hey, I get to see him in the flesh! Pleasure to meet you, Kai!” To be fair, Kai took that a lot better than most ponies would in his place.

“You—Sappire Shores—I mean—you kn-kn-know my name?” Royalty? Didn't make him bat an eyelash. Sapphire Shores? Respect to Sapphire Shores for being among the few to shake Kai.

The Pony of Pop giggled at his shock.

“Darling, there is no stylish pony who hasn't picked up that issue of Clothes Horse magazine!" He hadn't kept up with that magazine since he started his adventure…

“The wonderful photos of our fashion show, of course.” Rarity spoke up to explain. She gave him a look, sharing the undertone of surprise to be discussed later.

“And if I can say so, you are a whole lot cuter when you're not on paper!” Kai blushed. “And that outfit is to diiiie fooor!” His blush intensified, but he saw a business related segway that could save him.

“If you're a fan of my clothes, then you must be here for the designer.” He said as he gestured to Rarity.

“That's right!” Sapphire Shores regarded the unicorn now. “As I'm sure you know, I'll be touring all of Equestria with my latest concert, ‘Sapphire Shores' Ziegfilly Follies’, so I need to look seeensational!” She explained and exclaimed in a sing-songy tone.

Rarity perked up and grinned.

“I have just what you need. Sapphire Shores, prepare yourself for the pièce de résistance de la haute couture.” And with that, Rarity showed off her latest work, not just bedazzled, but decorated with whole diamonds to make it sparkle brightly. “I used every last diamond I found on this one garment.”

To say Sapphire Shores was impressed was to say the night was dark—an understatement. Her eyes were wide, reflecting the glitters and sparkles.

“And it is spectacular! I'll take it.”

“Really?”

“Oh yes, and five more, each done up in a different jewel.” Rarity blinked, then stared in shock.

“Beg pardon?”

“Costume changes.” With that clear, a wayward glance went over to where Rarity usually kept gems.

Empty.

Before Rarity could faint, Kai, also shocked, cleared his throat and took over a thoroughly neglected and barely mentioned side of business discussions these days—actual business.

“We're not doubting your financial stability, but we should warn, this project will be costly.” That was able to steady Rarity enough to remain conscious. After all, Element of Generosity or not, Rarity still had a business to run.

“Not a problem!”

Afterward, Rarity and Sapphire Shores briefly discussed the price of this project, and came to a decision. With an advance payment, to be fully paid upon completion decided, Sapphire Shores took out a small piece of paper and started writing.

Checks existed in Equestria. Just not in the way one may expect. You write it, you sign it, you give it to somepony, and they go to a bank to cash it in. The process was a tad complicated, but it was a magical-money combination, more or less pulling the set amount from one's already stored funds. True, it was a little biased towards unicorns, since only they could grab funds on the go, but nopony complained about a place to safely store money.

Sapphire Shores signed the check and gave it to Rarity.

“So, when can I expect to be lookin' all dazzled up?” With the celebrity's excitement, Rarity almost wanted to give a date closer than reasonable to please her. But, she realised Sapphire Shore seemed a lot more level-headed—if eccentric—than the magazines and tabloids made her out to be. So she was sure they both knew these thing took time.

“Sappire Shores, I can guarantee you, your dresses will be complete in no more than six days!” Even though that was sufficient in her own opinion, the estimate managed to shock Sapphire Shores.

“Six days?”

“I'm terribly sorry. I can try to be quicker?”

“Quicker? Than six days!? Oh, now I know I went to the right pony!” As Sapphire Shores laughed joyfully, Rarity was confused.

“You're not as slow as you think.” Kai whispered an explanation. Strange thing: nopony ever reveals how long projects take. Only the designer, the requester, and maybe some eavesdropping papparazzi knew, so when it gets out, that becomes a baseline. Regardless of the order.

Sapphire Shores gave a final grin to the siblings before walking to and out the door.

…The moment the door shut, both Kai and Rarity crumpled and hyperventilated.

“Aaaaaaaaah…!” Came Rarity's high scream of terror/excitement.

“H…holy crap…!” Kai was shaken, too. “Sa…Sapphire Shores… in the flesh. In the flesh, Rarity!”

“I know! I'm so shocked, but ecstatic!” She slowly recovered, hoof over heart. “But honestly, I hadn't even known we were in a magizine.”

“Thought you'd kept up with those magazines?”

“Ever since Hoity Toity spoke of us, I've been too busy to catch up!”

“Oh, right.” Kai scratched his head. “Well… Do you know what you're going to do about the gems?” Rarity shook her head with a frantic expression. “I gotta get back to the café… You should ask Spike for help. He'd love to help you!”

“That's a great idea! And I get to spend time with my Spikey Wikey!” As she gushed over her favorite dragon, Kai commited the cute pet-name to his memory and moved on.

“This one's all you, sis.” He told her.

“Do you mean to say, you aren't going to help me anymore?”

“Yup. Besides, I really should get back to the café… I'd fire someone if they took a break this long.”

“Well then, I should be off, as well. Gems won't find themselves, now will they?” Rarity asked rhetorically.

The siblings made their way out, one to find gems, another to continue working.

Chapter 19

Blood Diamond

It seemed this afternoon was set to be dull and slow. The mornings, naturally, found Kai's Cafe packed as usual. But as ponies continued their days and woke up, coffee was less of a need and more of a luxery.

Not that Kai minded either way. He just enjoyed this whole thing. Be it making the coffee, cleaning the cups, reorganizing the place, he enjoyed it.

His head perked up at the sound of the bell, and he smiled at the sight of his customers. Five familiar faces.

“Welcome, strangers.” Twilight, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie and Applejack looked around, completely taken aback. Fluttershy was already walking to the counter as if she had been doing so for her life.

“Hello, Kai. How is business?” She asked with a smile as she took a seat.

“Can't complain. Looks like ponies are lovin' coffee a lot these days.”

“They love your coffee.” Her compliment earned a bashful little chuckle.

“So… this is like… yours?” Rainbow Dash asked a bit skeptically. She just didn't see him as a… coffee kind of guy.

“Yup.”

“Seriously?” Applejack was in the same boat.

“Mhm.”

“Ah! I do recall seeing you read books about coffee.” Twilight noted it when he was multitasking reading and training years back. She supposed this was the reason.

Kai only smiled.

“I wanna try some! Let's try some!” Pinkie Pie was excited, and she could tell Kai was juat as happy about doing this.

“Of course. Take a seat.” The mares did just that, sitting on the stools and watching Kai turn to make some fresh coffee.

“I'm not really a ‘coffee’ kind of girl.” Rainbow Dash let him know from the start.

“Yeah, an' I'm used to waking up early, so I never needed it.” Applejack agreed.

“Spike says I drink too much coffee, but I disagree.” Twilight added her two bits.

“Mr. and Mrs. Cake don't want me to have coffee!” For obvious reasons, Pinkie Pie.

Kai just chuckled to himself as he set out the cups. Fluttershy came to his defense.

“Kai's coffee is truly great. It's almost addicting. I usually come to drink some even if I'm fully awake.”

In a few short minutes, Kai filled each cup, adding and mixing to some cups.

“Order up. Enjoy it, yeah?”

All together, the group sipped at their coffee… and all at once, they displayed shock.

“I'm no expert about coffee, but, having drunk a lot, I can say that this is the best cup I've had in my life!” Twilight complimented, going back for more.

“It's all bitter, but super sweet, too!” Pinkie chimed next.

“Mine's less sweet and more bitter. Perfect for me.” Applejack was a bit confused, thinking Kai had made their cups all the same. “Ya made them all different in just those few seconds?”

“I've had a lot of practice. And a very picky drinker.” Kai explained with a short laugh.

The girls had expected Twilight to ask questions… but she was in bliss just sipping her coffee. So Rainbow Dash asked.

“You've been making Rarity coffee for a while?”

“Not just Rarity. Our parents, too. And guests, though they never knew I made it. I guess I just started to get better over time.” He tapped the counter absently. “Thought I'd lost my touch, with how long I had been training. Glad I've still got it.”

“I'll say! I'm going to have to dedicate a fund to buying coffee here—no more cheap and boring coffee for me.” They gave Twilight a look.

“…That good, huh?”

“Yes.” She put simply, suddenly embarrassed by her behavior.

“It's okay, Twilight.” Comforted Fluttershy. “This is why I wanted you all to try it. I felt the same when I first had a cup.”

“Yeah, you did say it was addicting.” Rainbow Dash agreed.

“Speaking of, I take it you girls want refills?” Looks of confusion met Kai's question, until they looked at their cups of coffee.

“Wowie! I didn't even notice I drank it all!” Pinkie Pie was surprised, as were the others.

“This really is some good stuff.”

“Kai, you can pour yourself a cup, too.” Fluttershy encouraged.

“Ah… I know it's not a bar or anything, but I really shouldn't drink on the job…” He cursed at seeing that pleading stare from Fluttershy. No puppy or kitten has the sheer cuteness factor of Fluttershy, in his own opinion. That made saying no difficult. “…Okay, just a cup.” He yielded, pulling an extra cup and preparing everypony's coffee just as last time. Giving himself some, he added four cubes of sugar and a splash of milk. “Cheers.”

“Cheers!”

It was amazing, how friends could make even a typical afternoon coffee feel so fun and adventurous.

…Though, it seemed that peace and happiness were forever cursed to be interrupted at some point with tragedy.

The door bursted open, nearly taking the bell off with the force. Everyone looked to see Spike falling to a halt, panting as he tried picking himself up. The group was at his side in an instant.

“Spike, buddy! What's the matter? Weren't you with Rarity collecting gems?” Kai asked, already assuming that Spike was probably taking one of Rarity's overdramatic complaints seriously. Likely something about coffee, or why else would he—

“Rarity—” Spike gasped. “—woods—” Another gasp. “—jewels—” They followed him… so far. “—dogs—” All of this over dogs? Did Spike have a fear of dogs or something? “—hole—” A hole with dogs? “—taken—” Kai's serious scowl took its place. “Save her!”

Kai wasted no time, rushing from the counter, smashing through the doors and flying off to find Rarity.

Fluttershy was quick to snap everypony else out of their confusion and shock.

“Rarity is in trouble! We have to hurry!” Never had they seen the pegasus move so fast. After Twilight scooped up Spike, the girls were off.

On the way, Spike finally composed himself enough to provide an explaination of everything that had happened.

“Rarity and I were in the woods looking for jewels when these creepy guys showed up.”

“Creepy guys?” Twilight stopped him, hoping for a better description.

“They called themselves the Diamond Dogs. They grabbed Rarity and disappeared down a hole in the ground.” Now his ramblings were making sense.

“Well, this sounds mighty easy. Just take us to that there hole and we'll save Rarity.” Applejack spoke relatively calmly.

“…Um… Girls?” Fluttershy, still heading the group, came to a stop in front of where the hole should have been according to Spike. In its place was a huge patch of missing dirt, leading to tunnels of some sort.

“Woah… what the heck did that?” Rainbow Dash asked a bit rhetorically.

“WHO. And that would be Kai. Girls, listen to me… um… please.” The shy mare gave them all a serious look as they looked to her with confusion. “It's not my place to explain… Rarity can do it if she wants to. But… to put simply, Kai and I already lost Rarity once. Please don't be too surprised about what we're about to see…”

“What do you—” Pinkie's question was interrupted by an echoed masculine scream.

“…We should hurry.”

The first thing was the suddenly pungent odor that hit their nostrils.

“What is that smell…?” Twilight muttered curiously.

The next thing were the tremors, enough to give them a fright, but not to cause the whole place to go down.

…Then, they saw it.

“Sweet Celestia…!” The unicorn gagged, and the others gasped in absolute shock. She covered Spike's eyes, though she wished somepony could do the same to her. “Don't look, Spike. Keep your eyes closed until I say so.”

“Uh… okay?” He complied, closing his eyes and covering them with his claws, albeit confused.

You never quite expect that the first you'll see of a species would be a bloodied corpse. Diamond Dogs… These ones had been mutilated. Fluttershy did not look surprised, instead assuming exactly how they had gotten in the way of a truly feral beast. One against the wall, its body crushed, clearly swatted out of the way. Another on the ground in the path, split in two parts.

“…I can still hear screams. Rarity isn't safe just yet.”

“Di…did Kai do all of this?” Applejack, like the others, was sick to her stomach. This was the kind of carnage their friend could bring about?

“Yes.” Was Fluttershy's solemn reply. “And he'll do worse if Rarity even has a scratch on her.”

The girls nodded, but the tone of this ‘rescue’ was much darker. So much so, Pinkie Pie's usually poofy mane seemed to reflect the mood and straightened notably.

Passing several more corpses along the way, the group was stopped by the sound of troubled breathing. They turned to see a live Diamond Dog leaned against the wall. Though, being that his insides were outside his body, he would not remain as such for long. With a wheeze, the dog addressed the approaching ponies.

“Family… more important than… gem. We… get it…” He coughed loudly. “Family and friend… gone now… Made mistake… Pony… knows one of legend… Summon Shenron…”

“He's a legend to you?” Twilight couldn't help her curiousity.

“Was… Now our death… Never thought… say this… but… Gems… not worth it…” …The Diamond Dog expired.

“Kai… was some kind of legend for summoning somethone called Shenron…?” Twilight shook her head. “How awful… A legend appearing and doing… this.”

“This can't be Kai, right? It's some kinda… imposter.” Applejack tried to find the most likely solution for this.

With no clear answer, they continued onward. Through twists and turns until a clearly new hole came into sight. The opening was nothing like being chiseled, drilled, or caved in. It was smooth—perfectly cut away, as if a laser had carved it away. Nodding to each other, they decided this must have been where Kai had gone, and by extention, where Rarity would be.

Not much in the form of carnage was found in the next rooms, though they doubted the few gatherings of ‘dust’ were actually dust. More likely ash, from… well, that was obvious. After around two more minutes of careful following, they could finally hear a noise. Then a voice.

“—okay—” A feminine voice. That was enough to bring them into a run. A few corpses passed and small hops over blood puddles, and they turned into a dead-end room to see their targets. Kai, hugging Rarity tightly, and the mare in question patting him on the head comfortingly

“Rarity!” Although calm enough thus far, Fluttershy finally broke and jumped in to join the hug, sobbing as she did.

“Ah! Fluttershy, you, too?” Rarity smiled at her brother and closest friend. “Honestly, you two are like foals. Of course I would be alright.”

Everypony stared, each with different thoughts occupying them. Twilight's mutter grabbed all of their attention the next moment.

“Not a drop of blood…” And so they all noted, no blood followed into this room. None on Kai, none on Rarity, none on the walls or the floor. Everything was clean. As if the aftermath of the massacre that they had seen had been some kind of illusion.

Well… at least Rarity was safe.

“So what even happened? You didn't let me see anything!” Outside, Spike complained from Twilight's back as the group walked back home with a nice haul of gems. Twilight gave him a look and smiled softly.

“You would have been even more bored, Spike. It's okay.” He grumbled, but focused on Rarity with his own smile.

“I'm glad you're okay Rarity. Sorry I couldn't do anything to help you.”

“Oh, Spikey. You did plenty!” Rarity countered happily. “Why, you were so fast to get help, they didn't even have the time to tell me what to do!” Rarity praised him, and came a bit closer to offer him a peck on his cheek. Spike did his best not to faint. He failed.

“Rarity.” She looked to Applejack, whose gaze was fixed on Kai, pulling a cart piled high with gems, large and small. “You wanna explain what in the heck that was about?”

Rarity saw that the others were just as serious and curious. She sighed.

“Two and a half years ago, the sky went dark. It caused a bit of panic, to the point that Princess Celestia had to speak out to calm everypony.” The girls did recall that. It was indeed worrysome, terrifying ponies who assumed Nightmare Moon was real and plunged the world into eternal darkness… “Relics known as the Dragon Balls, or Wishing Orbs to be less crude, were responsible. Relics able to grant any single wish when used. Kai used these to summon the wish granting dragon Shenron, and used that wish… to bring me back to life.”

“What!?”

“You were…?” Rarity nodded.

“I was killed by the creator of the Cargo we all met that day.” She looked to Kai, seeing even from there how happy he looked to know that his sister was okay. That made Rarity smile in turn. “…Understand, with my passing, all he would have had was Sweetie Belle, and a world of guilt. Imagine having to explain that your sister was gone because you weren't strong enough. Even though it isn't true, that's just how Kai would see it. He would tell Sweetie Belle, our parents… and I'm sure he must still feel guilty towards you, Fluttershy.”

“I know.” Fluttershy whispered sadly.

“In a way… I get why he's like that. Why he would do what he did without a second thought. While I wouldn't do something quite as… brutal… I feel the same way.”

The girls took a while to absorb it all. But, even with it explained, they shook their heads in denial.

“I don't know… I just… I couldn't do somethin' like that…” Applejack spoke again, sighing. She flinched slightly at Rarity's suddenly cold glare.

“You don't have to do it. You just have to understand. I felt the way you did for a time. But I at least understand. And honestly? I can no longer blame him.” She refocused on her brother. “…It's hard to believe this is the same brother who tried not to hurt anypony for so long.”

There were a few different thoughts now. Twilight was thinking of keeping Celestia informed of this incident and asking about keeping a better eye on Kai. He seemed too unstable. Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie had the same thoughts of spending more time with him to try to fix a bit of the damage already dealt. Applejack wanted to keep on his good side, just in case he snapped or something. Rainbow Dash was already about to fly off to further her training, wanting to be strong enough to fight at Kai's side. She may have been shocked, but she understood what he truly meant by protecting.

Kai glanced back, smirking at Rarity. The others supressed a flinch, noting his timing was perfectly after they had wrapped up their conversation. They hoped he hadn't heard...

“So, this gonna be enough to stun Sapphire Shores?”

“More than enough. Which is good! All of this trouble has given me some ideas!”

“That's my sister!”

…Truly, they'd never imagine he would be the type to be so brutal.

Shaking it off, everypony carried on, pledging to eventually uncover the mystery of their odd friend.

Author's Note

“Okay, look. The Princess has never just waltzed into my house saying my name. Even then, she isn't ‘celebrity’ famous, she's the ruler. It's differe—Hey! Where are you going!?”

As Grand and Galloping as it May be

“I coulda sworn I told you a few times.” As Kai locked the doors to his café, Primrose shook her head in the negative.

“You said we would be closing up shop early today, but I would never have guessed you were attending the Grand Galloping Gala.” Indeed, this was the day that Kai had waited for months, and his friends for their lives. “You must have some good connections to be invited.”

“Something like that. I know Celestia, and I asked for some.” Primrose frowned.

“The princess, huh? Is she still… herself?” Less of a concerned question, more of a dismissive one.

“Boring and serious? Yeah, definitely.” Kai blinked as the two of them started walking in the direction of Primrose's home. “Wait a sec'. That's means you met her before.”

“Yes. I attended the Gala three years in a row. And met the princess each time.”

“What was it like? The Gala, I mean.”

“…I'd best not spoil the surprise.” He didn't quite like the way she smiled after that… “That has me thinking… Why exactly do you want to go to the Gala, anyway?”

“My friends are going. And I'd like to catch up with Luna. We haven't spoken in too long.” Too long being a few weeks, really.

“Princess Luna? Oh, that's right. That whole thing with Nightmare Moon…” Primrose recalled. Even when something big happens, if it's a small town, word spreads slowly. And by that time, it's pretty well unimportant. The only thing that stuck were the new bearers of the Elements of Harmony. “What's Princess Luna like?”

“Well… she's much more direct and fun than Celestia. A lot cuter, too…” Primrose quirked a brow. “Ah, I'll introduce you one day. I don't really like talking about ponies behind their backs.”

“I understand. Have fun, Kai.” So engrosed in this short conversation, Kai was confused why she branched off with what seemed to be goodbye. Until he saw that they were in front of Primrose's house. It fit in with every other generic house, save for the garden outside of the structure.

“Do you wanna come along? I'm sure I can—”

“No! No. Um… ahem… No thanks.” Primrose pretty much panicked, but recomposed herself. “See you tomorrow.”

“Yeah, see ya.” As she went into her home, Kai looked skyward and mumbled. “Still got a lot of time. May as well freshen up as much as possible.”

Chapter 21

As Grand and Galloping as it May Be…

As the sun began to set into evening, a familiar group of eight found themselves getting ready for the time of their lives. Although Rarity had been against the boys being with them while they changed, it was quickly pointed out how they… usually lacked clothes. Now, everyone was preparing. Twilight and Pinkie were getting their manes styled in a few of those nifty salon-grade stations. Rarity was applying all of her usual makeup, plus some more for the occasion. Applejack was spitshining Fluttershy's hoof. Rainbow Dash wasn't doing much besides letting her mane dry. Kai was brushing his somewhat spiky hair smooth. Spike wasn't so much preparing, as he was excitedly musing on what this night entailed.

“I still can't believe we're gonna be at Canterlot tonight. Our hometown, Twilight! And the best part is that we all get to hang out together all night long!” However, Spike's excitement was met by unsure looks from the mares.

“Uh… I don't know, Spike.” For once, Rainbow Dash seemed to want to put it gently.

“We'll just have to see.” Rarity continued.

“We're gonna be a mite busy.” Applejack loosely explained.

“Busy having fun!” Closed Pinkie Pie, sounding far too happy.

Spike frowned and looked down.

“Oh… okay.”

“Hey, c'mon, kid. If nothing else, you and I can hang out!” Kai tried to cheer the dragon up. He held up his bare left arm. “Dragon blood sticks together, y'know?”

Spike looked at him, and the onyx ring around his bicep. While he was curious, the thought of a dragon blood brother was really cool to him, so the baby dragon grinned and held up his own left arm.

“Yeah!”

Seeing that much excitement cheered the mares up, who had started feeling a bit bad about dismissing their young friend for their dreams. Twilight wished to speak to her mentor Celestia, Applejack planned to make a ton of extra bits by selling apple-related treats, Pinkie Pie loved the idea of attending the most prestegious party ever, Rainbow Dash craved her chance to impress the Wonderbolts, Fluttershy wanted to see all of the exotic pets in the castle gardens, and Rarity decided she would find her prince to fall for. Yes, all admirable goals and dreams.

Now, ordinarily, the group would be a bit more rushed right now. They would be, if left to Twilight. Her plans for transportation had been magic, in the way of a magically created carriage, pulled by transformed mice. The mice were scared off by Opal—Rarity's cat—and they were left with nothing. Twilight almost panicked, until Kai very kindly reminded them all.

“Wow, it's like I can't teleport or something. Wouldn't it be helpful if I could do that?”

…Yeah, kindly.

“Hey, sis? Mind helping me out? I got a cowlick that won't stay down.” Rarity nodded with a smile and went to help Kai and his unruly hair.

“Hm… I believe you're quite due for a cut. Shall I?” She asked, taking up scissors in her magical grasp. She was right. Kai's hair was past his shoulders by now, at his upper back.

“Nah… Nah, I'm rockin' this cut, for now. You can cut this, though.” Kai remained still and let her cut the cowlick. She did so, but a slightly miscievous smile fell onto her face.

“A grey hair!”

“What!?”

“Ha, ha.” Rarity gave a calm laugh filled with amusement and moved back to view herself in the mirror. “It also reads ‘gullible’ on the ceiling.” Kai grumbled slightly, looking over his hair for other imperfections, like grey hairs.

“It does!?” Everypony groaned at Pinkie's predictably gullible reply.

After their moment of jest, the group dressed themselves in their formal attire and admired themselves. Yeah. They were stylish.

“Oh, we're definitely turning heads with this.” Rainbow Dash boasted.

“Looks like we're just in time, too!” Spike noted by the now moonlit night replacing the darkening day.

“Beautiful as always.”

“U-us?” Fluttershy asked timidly to Kai's mutter.

“Wha—no! Well, I mean, you girls, too, but—er… I meant the moon.” He hurriedly spoke with a small blush.

“…Ya don't see that everyday.” Applejack chuckled at their flustered friend.

“Oh, laugh it up.” Kai grumbled with faux annoyance. Smiling right after, he held out his hand to the group. “We all ready?” Receiving answers in the affirmative, he knelt slightly so they could all grab hold of him. “Hold on tight. I've never teleported with more than one passenger before.”

With a breath and a moment of stillness, they vanished.

Some ponies arrived by a luxurious carriage. Others who already resided close arrived by hoof. Many were accompanied by other bigwigs and big names. Some even flew, namely the Wonderbolts. But in terms of making an entrance, nopony had anything on the group of eight that arrived in front of the castle without a single noise. It was as if they were always there, and were meant to be right there all along.

“Whew. It's already a lot fancier than I was expectin'.” Applejack noted with an awed grin.

“Yes, glamour, luxury, and class! We absolutely must conduct ourselves properly.” Rarity gushed.

“Yeah. Let's just hope I don't get attacked this time…” Kai spoke with a shrug.

“Wait, attacked? Why would…?” Twilight stopped herself. Okay, maybe it was hard to recall that most ponies were not used to Kai, especially back then. But the only ones permitted to do any sort of attacking in the castle would be the Royal Guards. She realised. “…All of that time back… Was that what we heard?”

“Yeah, they tried. They failed. And then a certain unicorn went all scaredy-cat on me.” Said unicorn blushed.

“That was… a long time ago.” The saiyan chuckled. “In any case. We should get inside. I can't wait to talk to the Princess after so long!”

Upon entering, hardly a word could be uttered before everypony locked their eyes on a target, and zipped off on their own. Poor Spike was about to speak, so he was spinning in circles, disoriented. Kai stopped him and gave him a sympathetic smile.

“Maybe we can all hang out later.” Spike tried to keep positive. “But right now, I wanted to show you the best donut spot around!”

“Yeah! Just give me a second. I want to say hi to someone.” The dragon nodded as Kai looked about. He saw the new throne in place next to Celestia's… He even saw Celestia greeting Twilight happily. But no Luna. “Um… maybe she's still getting ready. I did throw off her schedule with all the visiting… Yeah… That's it.” He decided, and looked to Spike. “Be right back, kiddo. Gotta talk to old sunny.”

“Old su… You mean the Princess? Geez, and I thought Twilight was being overdramatic when she called you disrespectful.” With a small laugh, Kai strolled towards the mentor-student pair.

“Oh, Kai! Did you want to say hello to Princess Celestia, as well?” Twilight seemed really excited about this whole thing.

“Eh, not really.” He brushed off in jest. Knowing him by now, Twilight shook her head in humor, and Celestia let out a short giggle. “I was actually wondering something, Celestia. Where's Luna? She running a little late or something?”

When the alicorn's expression dropped, it became clear that it was not that simple.

“The populace is… not quite ready to face Luna yet.” Just like that, it became clear. And Kai's mood was soured, like spoilt milk.

“…See ya, Celestia.”

“Ah. Kai, please wait. Luna—” But he was already too far away, speaking with Spike once again. “…would still like to see you.” She sighed. “…Has Kai been… amicable, to everypony lately?”

“Yes? Though, there was the incident with the Diamond Dogs I wrote to you about.” Twilight replied. “I didn't know Kai was friendly with Princess Luna. He mentioned her once or twice, but he never gave the implication of friendship. Then again, he's not exactly the most talkative…”

“Do you still consider him a friend?”

“Of course.”

“Good.” Although Kai was a mystery, he wasn't the focus of this night. Not for Twilight and Celestia, at least. “So! Tell me in great detail about these past months, not in the form of a friendship letter, but as a friend would.”

Twilight beamed.

“Well…”

“Well? Oh, come on!” Back with the boys, Spike was a bit less than happy. “Are we gonna eat or not?”

“We are! I just wanna say hi to another friend! I didn't expect to see her here, so… ya know?”

“Yeah, well, make it quick.” Grumbled the dragon.

Kai looked to the ponies on a small stage set by a window pane, and waved to a familar earth pony musician. Octavia Melody noticed him and smiled, albeit surprised. She whispered something to her fellow players, received a nod and set her cello down to walk to Kai. She gave him a look up and down before speaking.

“You look very charming, Kai. It's good that Vinyl isn't here. Who knows what she would try…?” The mare trailed off, annoyed yet fond.

“If she was here, she could hold me back from you. You're lookin' all kinds of good, 'Tavi.” Octavia blushed, glancing away. But, Kai knelt down and moved her head to face him. “Mind if I steal you away for tonight?”

“I-I am quite happy as I am, thank you.”

“Come on… Be a bit bolder. Aren't you jealous of how carefree Vinyl can be? Don't you want to show her you can be just as carefree?”

“My revenge shall be served to her, not with you.” Octavia giggled, giving the saiyan a short peck on his cheek. “But I appreciate your offer.”

“Madam Octavia?” A slightly aged mare called to her. Octavia gave her a nod and looked back to Kai.

“My time is up. Enjoy yourself, Kai.”

“Yeah, keep up the great music.” With that, Octavia returned to her area to play the cello. Kai stood, putting his hands to his hips and smiling… then he noticed Spike's deadpanned stare. “…What?”

“That was kinda shameless.”

“You take your shots when you can. You'll understand one day.”

“I don't think I'll be that bad.”

“Big talk from the guy who can't flirt.”

“I can flirt! But the mare I want doesn't flirt like that! She's more… more elegant. More amazing. More beautiful!”

“More Rarity?”

“Exactly! More—” Spike paled, looking back up at Kai. The saiyan, meanwhile, was giving the most taunting of grins. “H-h-how did you know?”

“I think it's obvious to everypony but Rarity. No offense.” His face was flushed. “You could do with a bit more life experience, but, in terms of matches… You're not that bad, kid.”

“Thanks.” Spike sighed. “Not that it matters much. Rarity's gonna find her prince tonight. I can't compete with a prince.”

“You don't get some things. You're young, and that keeps you from seeing things the way us grown ups do. Here, take me to this donut place and I'll tell you about it.” At Kai's comfort, Spike perked up a bit and started leading him.

“They're the best donuts around!” Spike assured with a smile.

“Good thing I skipped lunch.”

It didn't take too long, though, weaving through the ponies in attendance was a bit inconvenient for Spike, what with his short stature. But they were soon out of the castle, away from the hopeful ticketless crowd, and in the nearby establishment by the name of “Donut Joe's”. The door opened, and a bell chimed to mark their entry.

“Welcome, welcome! Have a se—” Surely, this pony behind the counter had to be Joe. A beige unicorn, with a brown mane and tail, donning a white uniform. He seemed surprised, but quickly replaced it with a smile. “Well, I'll be! Little Spike, and he's brought a friend. You're Kai, aren't you?”

“Holy crap. My reputation precedes me.” Kai spoke excitedly.

“What does ‘Holy crap’ mean?” Spike wondered with a lifted brow.

“It means we're both dead if you repeat that in front of Twilight—now go sit down.” Confused but scared enough, Spike quickly took a seat, Kai joining his side. “How do you know about me, boss?”

“Word spreads quick about a successful business owner standing on two legs. Especially when he's friends with the ones who stopped Nightmare Moon.” Joe explained. “Anyway, what can I get you two?”

“'Round of donuts, stat!” Spike demanded cheekily.

“Oh! And two mugs of your best alcohol!” Kai added on.

Joe lifted a brow but nodded, and Spike looked up to Kai.

“Why alcohol? Did you get hurt?”

“Nope. This is a different kind of alcohol. This Gala is your rite of passage! …Well, as a guy. And I'm gonna walk you through it and teach you about stuff I'm sure Twilight will never tell you!”

“Don't corrupt him, now. Go too far and Miss Twilight will hear about it.” The stallion warned as he retrieved their orders.

“Of course.” They waited, and in two or three minutes, they had their orders. Kai was a little surprised the place even had alcohol, but figured it was just a favor from Joe. He picked up the mug and sniffed it. “Mmm… spiced ale.” He took a sip and hummed again. “Phew! That's some good stuff! Spike, drink this stuff slowly, alright?”

“O…kay?” Spike mimicked Kai, sipping at the ale. He coughed as it went down. “Why's that burn? And… kinda different than soda.” He sipped again. “It's pretty good, though.”

“Yup. Alright, Spike!” Kai gave the dragon a smirk. “What do you know about relationships?”

“Like dating and stuff? Not much… I know there's lots of hugging and kissing.”

“My dear, dear Spike. Let me tell you all about the birds and the bees… but the uncensored version.”

…Let it be known… Kai is not a good influence.

Tuning into the others for a brief moment, nopony was getting their best night ever. Twilight couldn't talk with Celestia because she had to greet everypony who attended. Fluttershy had no luck getting the animals to come to her. Rainbow Dash had made it into the VIP area, but received no attention from the Wonderbolts. Pinkie couldn't get any of the stiff attendees to dance with her. Rarity's prince was turning out to be a real jerk. And Applejack couldn't make a sale.

Not turning out to be their best night ever at all.

Applejack perked up as six bits clanked onto her stand.

“Thank ya kindly! What'll ya ha…ha…ha…” Her eyes went wide and she was rendered speechless by the figure before her.

“Just a fritter and a caramel apple. Keep the rest.” The owner of this gruff voice took the selected treats and continued on their way, though, not without a parting comment. “By the way, I think you have the wrong demographic in mind. Next time, try selling h'or d'Oerves.”

Applejack looked at their form disappear around a corner, then to the bits left, then to the missing treats at her stand.

“…I'm… just workin' too hard. Yeah… That's it.” Then she blinked. “But, wait a sec'. That there illusion had a point! These ponies are too fancy! I just gotta jazz these up a bit.” And she knew exactly how…

“…and after about nine months, a baby is born, and can you guess where it comes out of?” Spike could only stare, stunned, flushed, and… stunned. “Yup! You got it right! Same place the magic happened before! And that, my dear Spike, is how babies are made. Questions?” …He fainted. “Okay then. Class dismissed.” Kai looked over to Joe, who stared accusingly. “…Please don't tell.”

“Oh, I'm telling.”

“Welp, boss! I'm gonna get a move on! Now that the kid's asleep, I might as well check on the Gala.” Joe shook his head, snorting and waving to Kai as he stood to leave.

Upon reentering the castle with no problems, Kai—

“Woah—what the heck!?” —found himself sidestepping… projectile cake? It looked to be coming from a large platter tipped over by the prone forms of Applejack and Pinkie Pie. He looked back to see the trajectory of the cake… and fumed at the sight of some suited white unicorn stallion holding Rarity in the way as a shield. “Oh, you're dead.”

“YOU…!” The fury in Rarity's eyes—this prince was terrified. “You, sir, are the most uncharming prince I have ever met! In fact, the only thing royal about you is that you are a royal pain!” She noticed Kai approaching, and that glare of hers turned into a triumphant sneer. “Kai! Would you like to show this prince how a true gentlecolt acts?”

“With. Pleasure.” The prince recoiled in disgust.

“What is that hideous… thing!?” Kai held his hand towards him.

“I'm a saiyan.” With that, the very, very weak kiai he sent out blasted the prince across the room and into a pillar, breaking it. Kai was about to move to catch it, but it wasn't on the path to hit anypony.

At least it wasn't, until Rainbow Dash tried to catch it to prove a point. Have as much strength as you want, but balance something improperly and it will fall. At least two ponies earned a scratch because of it.

Just then, Princess Celestia emerged from a door, Twilight Sparkle by her side. After assessing the situation, Twilight made an astute observation.

“Well… it can't get any worse.”

Murphy's Law. The general idea that anything that can go wrong, will go wrong. One normally invoked it by asking things along the lines of ‘What could go wrong?’ or saying things like… like what Twilight just said. What happens when this law is invoked? Well…

…you get to see it in action.

Fluttershy burst through the doors, looking none too happy at fleeing creatures and exotic wildlife.

“You're… going to LOVE ME!”

At with that, all Taurtaurus broke loose.

Kai gave Rarity a look.

“Permission to swear harshly?” She sighed.

“Granted.”

“…What the fuck.” Shaking off the momentary break from normal, Kai grabbed Rarity and went into a teleporting frenzy. He grabbed up their friends, and, with them making contact with him in some way, he teleported them to the one safe place he could think of.

“So, like… every girl has it?” Spike asked Joe in groggy confusion.

“Yup, every girl.”

“…Even the princess?”

“I'd assume so.”

“…I want my innocence back.”

“Line up, my friend.” Joe glanced past Spike's shoulder when he saw movement, and noticed some familiar faces. “Hey, welcome back, Kai. You brought some friends.” His brows rose. “And… Princess Celestia.”

“Yeah, we're gonna need a table.”

Spike gave Joe a gesture, then hopped off of the stool to approach the group.

“So, how was it? Was it your best night ever?”

The group traded glances.

“That sounds like the worst night ever.”

“Truthfully, I would beg to differ.” Spoke the princess. The group gave her a look of confusion. “You see, the Grand Galloping Gala is always just awful.”

“It is?”

“It is why I was so glad when I learned everyone would be attending. I had hoped you would liven things up, and you did not disappoint.” She smiled at the group. “While the evening may not have gone as you planned, I'm sure you'll agree that in the end it didn't turn out so bad for this group of friends.”

“You're right, Princess. Friends have a way of making even the worst of times into something pretty great.” Twilight agreed with a smile, shared by her friends.

“Yeah! Hanging out with friends!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

“Talking!” Fluttershy agreed.

“Laughing!” As did Pinkie Pie.

“You mean doing exactly what I wanted to do the whole time?” Came Spike's deadpan of a question.

“Yes, Spike. You were right.” Twilight admitted with a giggle.

“As horrible as our night was…” Applejack began.

“…being together here has made it all better.” Continued Rarity.

“In fact, it's made it…” Pinkie trailed off, as they all knew what it was.

“…the best night ever!”

And with that, the friends laughed mirthfully, truly glad to have experienced this. It was a lesson they would never forget.

“I just don't understand you ponies.” Just like that, Kai, Rainbow Dash and Celestia flickered into a battle stance, aimed at the darkened, opposite corner of the room. “Does friendship really make such a bad time, good?”

Kai lifted a brow, then dropped his stance, waving a hand to calm the others.

“Long time, no see, Cargo. How's the fritter?” Indeed, his foe from long ago sat, finishing a bite of a fritter with a dismissive look.

“I preferred the caramel apple, but not bad overall.” With that, Cargo stood from his table and approached Kai and his friends. “You know, I had come here to kill you.”

Everypony was on edge from hearing that, but the saiyan calmly tilted his head in curiosity.

“Why didn't you?” Cargo smirked.

“You looked miserable. I thought killing you would be doing you a favor, so I just watched you suffer a bit.” Kai pouted.

“Why are you here now? If your intentions are not to kill Kai?” Celestia asked sternly.

“I can't attend a party I have a ticket to?” Cargo held up a golden ticket to this very Gala, surprising the group. “In any case, your situational awareness is slipping, Kai. It's pathetic.”

“Yeah, well, you have two years of experience with hiding. Of course I wouldn't sense you.” Kai argued, only for Cargo to shrug.

“Um… Cargo?” The demon looked to Twilight. “You said that you don't understand friendship… Do you—”

“No. I've zero intentions of allying myself with the likes of you.” Although he said that, Cargo stared at Applejack for a few seconds. She looked around a bit nervously, but met his gaze. “I'll be back for caramel apples, however. Consider yourself lucky, apple pony. If ever I decide to rule this pathetic world, I may spare you.”

“Uh… thanks.”

With a final taunting smirk to Kai, Cargo left the establishment, likely not to be seen for a while. The group certainly did not expect him.

“You are… awfully cordial with him, Kai.” Celestia noted.

“Like I said last time, he hasn't done anything except hit you. If anything, right now, he's just an acquaintance. One that wants to kill me, sure, but an acquaintance, nonetheless.” Kai replied simply, the others sharing Celestia's look of doubt.

“I see…”

Silence for a few moments…

“…Kai let me drink ale and told me how babies are made.”

“What!?”

“Tattle-tail!” The collective glares of all of his friends stopped Kai from saying more. It was unsettling. Glares from all of them. He hadn't earned a glare like that from Fluttershy, before. Even Princess Celestia was raising an accusatory eyebrow. Kai lifted his hands placatingly. “Ladies… I have a very valid explanation.”

“…Go on.”

“You see—” And he turned tail to run.

“Hey! Get him!”

As they gave chase, Celestia tilted her head to Spike with a curious expression.

“How much, exactly, did he tell you?”

“Everything.” Pony Joe answered for him. Spike nodded in agreement.

“I see.” With that, she vanished, only to reappear with everypony dogpiling on Kai.

He blinked, then glared at the princess.

“Oh, that's just cheap.”

“Respectfully, I would like to see this.”

“Thank you, Princess.” The girls chimed out.

“Uh…! Um…! I'm sorry?” The returning expressions spoke loud enough. ‘You will be.’ “Wait! Cargo, come back! Kill me!”

A fate far worse than death. Punishment from six friends. Kai was in for it.

Yeah. Best night ever...

Author's Note

...Welp. See ya next season.

An Adventure... Begins to Begin

Long ago in the land of Equestria…

Before even the princesses' time of ruling…

There existed a powerful demon, of whom, threatened the safety of this world.

This demon was immensely powerful, strong enough to wipe out the entire world from existence, should it so choose.

However…

Through the use of a secret technique, this demon was sealed within an object, and hidden to never be seen again.

This was not the end of the demon's story.

There were two demons. At a time, one and the same, but now, two.

The unsealed demon had left the face of the world, unseen as its counterpart. Though, not without a parting gift.

A set of magical relics, known by many names. Wishing orbs. Magic spheres. Dragon Balls. Regardless of the name, the story was the same…

“…Gather all seven, and utter an incantation to summon the powerful dragon Shenron, to grant a single wish.” A young male's voice read the worn out book in his grip aloud. A smile fell onto his face, as he clutched a strange, orange sphere. “This definitely ain't a different version of the Elements of Harmony.”

The sphere seemed to glow, the four stars speckling its surface glowing a darker orange. Seeing it sparkle appeared to excite the owner of said sphere.

“This thing even matches the description…! If this thing's real, all seven must be, too! I'll find them all!” With a declaration that pierced the world around him, an adventure was set into place.

Chapter 1

An Adventure… Begins to Begin.

“Canterlot, you say?” Aspiring fashionista Rarity repeated after an inquiry from someone she knew well. The unicorn sat at her work table, following the one who asked's form with her eyes. “Why ever would you need to know where Canterlot is?”

One would imagine the sight of something unknown would shock and disgust a pony, but the sight of this young man was doing no such thing to Rarity. She was already familiar with the fair skinned, raven haired boy that paced the room, grabbing a few things as he walked. This was Kai, her roommate since she was a filly. The boy had been taken in by her parents after finding him all on his own.

Story for another time—Rarity was too curious about the current situation.

Kai adjusted his black long coat, his brown pants moving in sight as his coat swayed. White boots tapped powerfully on the floor as he paced.

“I'm goin' on an adventure. But I kinda can't do that without something to actually help me find them all.” Kai being vague was nothing new. He usually answered like this—unintentionally, but still.

“Find what, Kai?” Rarity asked in an obvious tone. Although used to the vagueness, it was still mildly annoying.

Kai scratched his head sheepishly, realising his fault.

“Sorry. I read this book of old, OLD legends, and found something called ‘Dragon Balls’.” A light blush fell onto Rarity's face, her eyebrows raising.

“How very vulgar of you, Kai. Subtlety is your best friend, you know?”

“Ah, not THOSE balls!” The boy clarified quickly, sighing when the mare only gave him a skeptical look. “Ugh…! I'll just show you.” Kai reached into his coat's pocket, rustling around for a moment, before pulling out the aforementioned orange sphere. “This.”

As he held it up, the item in question shined in the light of the sun's rays, which seeped through the opened blinds of their home. Rarity stared, mesmerized by the beauty of this supposed ‘legendary item’. It was so very clear, yet, at the same time, she could see her own reflection without seeing through it.

“Ooh…” Was all she could say. Until she noticed the stars. “Oh my! These stars compliment it very well! As vulgar as the name is, this truly is a beautiful item!” The unicorn gave a half-lidded stare to Kai. “What is it exactly?”

“It's a magical relic.” Kai answered as he pocketed the ball, ignoring the short sound of disappointment from Rarity. His steeled onyx eyes met with the mare's deep blue. “Collect all seven, and you get a wish—any one wish!”

Rarity was far less excited about this. A wish after collecting some suggestively named relics just sounded too good to be true. Not only that, but an adventure for a mere legend was dangerous.

“Um… Kai, wouldn't you rather stay home and… uh…” She thought fast, glancing to her latest project—a simple dress, which she planned tweak a bit. Clothing was a good choice, so… “Help me knit a nice sweater for this upcoming winter?”

Rarity held her breath, hoping for the answer she expected.

“Sorry Rarity, but I can feel this calling to me right now.” Kai raised his right hand to his chest, and clenched his fist. He gave an even yet determined look to Rarity. “I can feel my saiyan blood pushing me to do this for the action, and my pony blood pushing me to find my destiny on this quest!”

Indeed, Kai was half-saiyan, half-pony—Earth Pony, to be specific. A saiyan for a father, a pony for a mother; both gone for different reasons. The former left the planet, apparantly. That was still a hard thing to believe… His mother, however, had passed of an illness when he was very young. His physical features took after his father, and the only thing he actually took after his mother was the calling for a destiny—a cutie mark.

Moving on, Rarity gave a reluctant nod of understanding. She recalled how lost she felt when she was trying to uncover her own cutie mark. The mare felt the tri-diamond art upon her flank tingle very slightly at the thought of being without her special talent, and knew right then that, although she didn't like it, she had to accept Kai leaving.

“…O…okay.” Just saying that took alot of power from the unicorn, her eyes lowering to focus on nothing in particular. “I suppose… since you'll be gone, I'll have more time to design dresses. We'll have more money, since we won't spend it on your insane apetite…”

“Rarity…” Kai tried to stop her, only now realising how much his decision had upset his closest friend.

“Sweetie Belle can learn to stand on her own, instead of being spoiled by you all of the time.” Tears began forming in Rarity's eyes. She lowered her head, sobbing quietly. “We'll be okay without you, Kai… So don't worry about a thing.”

Kai stared, feeling strange about his quest now. He felt guilty about leaving his friends… no, family. Yet, at the same time, he felt so perturbed about his lack of combat and destiny, he could rip out his own hair. Already an adult, Kai was still without a special talent, and his only fights were against those who couldn't have hoped to match him. He had a good start as a mid-class half-saiyan warrior, and he trained hard on top of it.

Yes, Kai needed this journey… but seeing Rarity cry hurt him.

“Rarity, I didn't say I'd leave right now…!” At his sudden attempt of comfort, Rarity slowly lifted her head to look at Kai. The half-saiyan waved his arms enthusiastically. “I can leave in a few days or something! A-and it won't be forever!”

“Kai, it's okay. You don't have to delay your destiny for me.” Rarity stopped him solemnly.

“I'll only delay my destiny for you!” Argued Kai, not quite realising how that sounded. Or rather, how Rarity would take it. The mare blushed, her eyebrows rising. “I'll stay for another week—”

“Absolutely not! You will leave tomorrow morning and no later!” Now, the unicorn stood from the table, picking something up as she stood. Walking to the saiyan, Rarity glared through teary eyes. “I refuse to hold you back from discovering what makes you who you are! So, take today to prepare…” She used her telekinesis to float a bag of bits to the young man's chest, which he caught in both hands. “And stay away from here!” Rarity smiled, nearly blinding Kai with how bright and happy it was. “I won't let you leave if I spend the day with you, knowing it would be our last.”

Kai just couldn't help himself. He knelt, and grabbed Rarity close in a tight hug.

“Thank you… Rarity.” Releasing her—and not noticing the large breath Rarity sucked in as a result of being squeezed—Kai smiled with determination. “I'll go pick up supplies now. Don't wait up!”

With the bag of bits in hand, Kai turned and ran out of the door, planning to do exactly as he said.

Rarity watched him, somehow just noticing a difference in his stride. Then, she realised she had seen this stride from Kai for quite some time. A short laugh passed her lips, realisation striking her like a train.

“I see… This wasn't random at all… It's been a long time coming.” Shaking this off, Rarity turned with a goal in mind. ‘I should tell mom, dad and Sweetie Belle. It wouldn't do if they found out right when he was going to leave.’

At the market district Kai seldom visited, he dashed in front of several stands before anypony could scatter from the unfamiliar sight of himself. He was quite different, after all…

Kai bought all of the supplies he would need in no time, most of which being food. However, in his rush, he accidentally bumped into somepony, nearly falling over himself. That much meant he had likely toppled over whomever he bumped.

The saiyan turned, kneeling in a fluid motion to see who he knocked over. He helped the yellow pegasus to her hooves, and brushed her coat free of dirt. Giving the mare an apologetic look, he went to do as his look implied.

“Sorry about that.” Although he tried to look the mare in her eyes, she hid behind her pink mane and looked down. “Uh…” Kai never was good with silence. He remembered when he first started living with Rarity's family, things were super quiet and a bit tense. How did that end up mellowing itself out…? ‘Oh, yeah!’

Common interests. At the time, Kai had wanted new clothing, while at the same time, Rarity had just started taking up sewing and such. He had complimented a simple fix, which led to Rarity offering to teach him what she knew about sewing, which led to them conversing about fashion. Through that one compliment, Kai eventually bonded with everyone in the family, until he was part of the family.

So, Kai looked the mare over quickly, seeing if she had anything he could relate with. Though, looking her over, he could see how troubled she seemed. Her body-language was screaming ‘depression’. Often fussing about others more than himself, he was immediately worried.

“Hey, are you okay?”

Now, Fluttershy was never quite used to anypony stopping to talk to her for more than a moment, sometimes for directions, but mostly to tell her to watch where she was going, even when they bumped into her. So somepony stopping, not only to apologise, but to ask her state of being with concern? That was a shock that felt way too good to be true.

The pegasus simply nodded, offering nothing more than that. This was a tactic bullies used before, after all. Rope you in with concern, then remind you how nopony gives a flying feather about your existence. Always the same…

“No, you're lying. You even hesitated.” Kai knelt down, trying as hard as he could to put himself in the mare's sight, but the height difference was too great. She would have to look up at him, so the effort had to come from her, not him. “You seem depressed. Wanna talk about it?”

Fluttershy blinked twice, her eyebrows rising as she contemplated the saiyan's words. He seemed… awfully sincere. Sincerity was difficult to fake, and nopony ever pushed this hard just to bully her. Perhaps… perhaps he truly was serious. And if that was the case, did she really want to talk about it?

Raising her head, the pegasus met Kai's onyx eyes with her blue, and gave a very small nod.

Kai was thrilled.

“Good! It's always good to talk about your problems.” Kai glanced around, seeing the residents had mostly scattered already. Being different was difficult, but right now, it made things convenient. Besides, the Ponyvillians would come to accept the strange and learn not to judge a book by the cover one day, right? “Tell me about your problems, miss.”

“…Fluttershy…” Being so close, Kai just barely heard her whisper, and made an educated guess. Therefore, he returned the favor.

“I'm Kai! Nice to meet ya.” Kai shifted to a seated position, crossing his legs and listening intently to the quiet mare.

Fluttershy sat, as well, but she was unsure how to approach this matter. She never talked about her problems, not even to her family. Well, when she lived with them, that is. The mare finally decided to attack this bluntly.

“…Um… I… feel like I'm nothing but a bother to everypony. I'm so… useless. I don't even know what to do with my life anymore.” Fluttershy's blunt admission made Kai become completely serious immediately. “Everything I do is just wrong.” The mare sighed tiredly. “…Maybe it would be better if I wasn't around…”

“That's not true!” Fluttershy jumped in surprise, Kai's sudden exclaimation startling her. “What about the butterflies?”

“The… butterflies?” She repeated, confused.

To that, Kai pointed to her flank, specifically, her cutie mark.

“That mark is your talent. If the world was better off without you, your talent would be dying.” Kai was just throwing out a line here, hoping his bait was good enough to catch a fish. After all, he knew nothing about this mare or what her talent even was. “This world needs you, okay?” Fluttershy appeared to think greatly on what was just told to her. Understandable. It was a big deal, choosing life or death. “Here, follow me.”

Kai stood up, and reached out his hand to Fluttershy. Still contemplating, Fluttershy slowly raised her hoof, but stopped just short of the saiyan's hand. Almost hesitantly, she finally rested her hoof in his hand, and felt a wave of something akin to relief wash over her when the saiyan gripped her hoof gently. Then, a gasp left her lips when she was pulled to stand, and then pulled to walk.

Fluttershy looked up at Kai, her eyes filled with curiousity.

“Where are you taking me?” She asked in a whisper, grabbing the saiyan's attention. Kai glanced back, shifting his eyes to the pegasus. Then, he smiled.

“I'll be gone tomorrow, but I don't want to leave you alone.” The mare had hoped for more of an answer, but Kai turning to face forward told her that that was all she would get for now.

Though she didn't ask, Fluttershy felt quite curious about where Kai would be going. Too timid to ask, the mare settled for being led by Kai.

Head buried on her worktable, Rarity wiped away a stray tear from her eye, sniffling quietly. She was no closer to being finished with her project than she was nearly an hour ago. Her family was shocked, to say the very least. Rarity's tears had nothing on Sweetie Belle's…

“Come now, Rarity… A lady doesn't let somepony's temporary absence affect them greatly. Surely not enough to harry your work.” The unicorn chided herself, for the fifth time. No matter how she said it, the answer was always the same, and always made her start crying again. “But Kai isn't just ‘somepony’. He's family…”

Before she could start crying again, she heard the door begin to open, so in one fluid movement, Rarity pulled herself from her table, wiped her tears with a hoof, and claimed both a piece of fabric and a needle with thread already on it in her magic aura. She assumed a foccussed expression, and pretended to work hard, knowing who would be entering. She wanted him to feel that he wouldn't be too badly missed, so he wouldn't feel bad.

True to assumption, Kai's voice rang out, breaking Rarity from her ‘focus’.

“I'm home!” Rarity popped her head up, and groaned intentionally loudly.

“Must you be so loud, Kai?” Her ‘irritated’ inquiry only recieved a small chuckle, before Kai eventually came into view.

“Rarity, I have a favor to ask.”

“Hmm? On your final day here?” It was then that Rarity noticed another pony with Kai. Knowing that Kai was not well accepted with the residents of Ponyville, she raised an eyebrow at the pair, dropping her work.

“This is Fluttershy.” Kai knelt, gesturing to Fluttershy with a hand. Fluttershy shrunk at being noticed. “You were gonna go to the spa soon, right, Rarity?”

“Yes…?”

“Could you take Fluttershy along, too? She could use a stress reliever, and the company of another pony.” Both mares looked to each other, shocked at the request. Neither mare even knew each other, so how sudden was this?

But… seeing a familiar look on Kai's face, Rarity was instantly on board. Kai wore his emotion on his sleeves, because his face couldn't completely convey everything properly. Essentially, Kai was terrible at concealing how he felt, so the look of poorly surpressed worry for Fluttershy was far too obvious. Rarity only wondered what the concern was for exactly.

At the same time, Fluttershy just realised the intentions of the saiyan. This was what he meant, and since he would be gone wherever tomorrow, he planned to get her and Rarity close today, so Fluttershy would feel she could at least have someone around to confide in. Fluttershy was amazed that anypony could think so far ahead, so quickly. Or perhaps she had taken more time considering life or death than she had thought. Well, with somepony—or whatever one would adress Kai as—who cared this much for a stranger, Fluttershy was already decided.

“I'm sure I can get Fluttershy squeezed in for this appointment.” Rarity spoke. She knew the owners of the spa personally, so she wasn't worried about requesting a last-minute addition. After all, the timeslots she requests are usually when other ponies are very scarce, so there should be a spare pair of hooves. Smiling at the surprised pegasus, Rarity offered her hoof in greeting. “I hope to see you at the spa in an hour, Fluttershy.”

A bit flustered at suddenly meeting two nice ponies—er, a pony and a half—Fluttershy shrunk a bit, her face gaining a slight tinge of red. But, sure enough, the mare moved closer to Rarity, and accepted the hoof into her own. Just feeling such a contact from another pony made her feel better, and a smile fell upon Fluttershy's face.

“L…likewise.” She whispered back, releasing Rarity's hoof. Fluttershy looked up at Kai, seeing his bright expression from the happy pair's interaction. “Thank you, Kai. I feel a little better already.” After seeing Kai's face light up more after hearing that, Fluttershy felt her own smile grow. Someone truly did care about her.

“Good!”

Kai and Rarity escorted Fluttershy to the door, waving as she walked away with far less depression in her form. Alone again, Kai looked to Rarity, as she did the same.

“It will be fantastic having somepony joining me for some pampering.” Rarity started, getting a chuckle from Kai. Then the mare gave a practiced older sibling look to him. “You did get everything you needed, right?”

The fact he had to give a moment of thought didn't bode well in Rarity's eyes. However, Kai nodded a moment after thinking.

“Yeah, I think I got everything. Wasn't much, and I thought I'd need the spare cash on the trip.” To that, Rarity furrowed her brows.

“You didn't think THAT was your traveling fund, did you?” Kai's nod made her laugh. “Ahaha! No, no. Don't worry about the money, darling. Everything is taken care of.” The unicorn assured.

“Darling?” The saiyan pointed out the new pet name, getting an embarrassed look from Rarity.

“Ah, um…! It's something you call those who are loved dearly, or very close.” She rubbed her foreleg with her other hoof. “I just thought… saying ‘Goodbye, Kai’ would sound too playful for the situation...”

Kai appeared to think about it for a few seconds, finger to his chin. Then, with a smile, he nodded.

“I like it. Makes you sound all fancy. You should say that more often.” Fancy, and Kai likes it. There was no better reason Rarity could see for saying it more. If Kai liked it, then mark her words, ‘Darling’ would basically become her catchphrase.

An accidental glance back outside had Rarity gasping dramatically.

“You should continue packing necessities before it becomes too late.” Kai nodded, but Rarity still had more to say. “Since ponies are still intimidated by your presence, perhaps bringing a book would be best. Golden Oak Library hasn't seen business for quite some time, so you shouldn't run into anypony.”

“Golden Oaks is… that huge treehouse, right?” Rarity hummed in affirmation. “Tree library, huh…?” Grinning, Kai pointed to where he recalled the library being. “Alright! To the Treebrary!”

“…The… ‘Treebrary’… is that way.” Rarity corrected, pointing in the complete opposite direction as Kai.

Sheepishly, Kai scratched his head.

“Haha… Right.” Shaking his head, the saiyan grabbed his travel bag, and started out of the door. “Dunno when I'll be back, but have fun with Fluttershy if I'm not back by then!”

“Worry about yourself for once, Ka—darling!” It could take a little while to get used to that switch, but Rarity was glad to try. Regardless, her words were more meant as a goodbye, considering she knew well that Kai was much too caring for his own good.

Indeed, Kai only chuckled and waved, off to the library.

Rarity was happy to recieve such. She and Kai were close. She recalled first meeting Kai long ago. His scary expression… well, scared her. It was odd. Sure, Kai was a fighter by blood, and seemed to enjoy it when he managed to get into a fight—rare as it may be—but he was a gentle soul. His face was etched into a permanent scowl when he was neutral or by himself, but it was never intentional. That much could be seen clearly when he interacted with others.

The unicorn shook her head, realising she picked the wrong spot for a trip down memory lane. The middle of the main entranceway was a bad place to freeze up. Focussing, Rarity exited her home, and began walking in a direction.

“I should check to be completely sure that Aloe and Lotus can fit Fluttershy in the schedule.” She can't quite recall how she ended up meeting Aloe Vera and Lotus Blossom—the owners of the Ponyville Day Spa. She kind of just remembers knowing them. From how they react with her, the feeling seems mutual, so they became close, quick.

Rarity mused for a bit, seeing if she actually could recall where they met, humming to herself as she walked briskly.

Everything was settled, just about. Early in the morning, Rarity stood next to Sweetie Belle, here to see Kai off at the train station. The saiyan stood tall as they awaited the train, a black bag on his shoulder with all of his things. He kept his Dragon Ball on his person, though, in a smaller yellow satchel around his hip.

Unfortunately, Rarity's parents couldn't make it, having to leave to work. However, they already gave their regards, and told him to be careful. Now at the station, Rarity held Sweetie Belle close, the filly not wanting to miss this for the world. The young unicorn sobbed, clearly not wanting her older brother-figure leave.

“D-do you really have to go?” Sweetie Belle asked for about the tenth time.

Kai knelt down and placed his hand upon Sweetie Belle's head, ruffling her mane ever so slightly. Just that small contact caused her tears to lessen.

“I'm sorry. But hey!” Kai gave a toothy grin. “At least without me, you'll probably be able to be more reckless when finding your cutie mark!” Though still sad, the filly couldn't resist a small giggle, with only served to widen Kai's grin. “There's that smile I love! I don't wanna leave remembering sad faces—I wanna see you smile!”

In response, Sweetie Belle gave a huge, cute grin. Just smiling so largely had her tears finally ending.

“Dun't 'orget 'ee, Kai!” The filly pleaded through her grin. Kai laughed at her attempt at speech, but still nodded.

“As long as you don't grow too much! You're gonna be a mare before I know it, and I don't wanna miss the ‘Beautiful-popular’ phase!”

“But boys are gross!” Sweetie Belle protested, expecting Kai to know she didn't mean him.

Again, Kai laughed loudly.

“Yeah, I hear ya! But by then, you'll probably think a bit more like a grown-up.” Kai's words had the filly shivering in displeasure. “No rush, though. You'll know when you're ready for that kind of thing.”

“Yeah…” Her smile dimming a bit, Sweetie Belle moved to embrace the saiyan tightly. “I'll miss you, Kai.”

Of course, Kai hugged her back, just as tightly.

“I'll miss you, too, Sweetie.” Disconnecting, the duo smiled at each other, before Kai looked to Rarity, who was wiping a tear from watching them interact. “Thanks for everything, Rarity. Alot of the time, I felt like you were the older sibling!”

Rarity rolled her eyes with amusement.

“Well, three years isn't too much of an age difference. But still, I feel the same could be said to you.” She gave a sincere look to Kai. “I recall looking to you for alot of advice, and ways to move forward in both life, and fashion. So, thank you.” Kai's smile grew, and he tried to hug Rarity, only for her to raise a hoof. “Ah, ah! I must stay strong. Hugging you would make me too emotional right now.”

“True.” Interrupting the trio was the sudden appearance of the train, chugging along before screeching to a stop in front of the station. A small ‘hiss’ sounded from the train as it stopped completely.

A nearby conductor grabbed their attention.

“All aboard the train for Canterlot! Repeat, all aboard the train for Canterlot!” Attention rolling back on each other, the family shared a final happy look between themselves.

“Guess that's me.” Kai turned, and took a few steps towards the train. “See you la—”

“Wait!” Hurried hoofsteps followed the exclaimation, causing the trio to turn back in confusion. When they did, Kai and Rarity were pleasantly surprised.

“Fluttershy!” Indeed, Fluttershy stopped in front of them a moment after. The pink maned pegasus didn't even bother catching her breath.

“I was worried I might have been—” She took a sharp breath. “—too late to say goodbye.” Taking another breath, Fluttershy simply smiled brightly at the saiyan. “Take care… Kai.”

Seeing the previously depressed girl smile was very rewarding to Kai, and his grin was a testimate to such.

“Thanks. You take care, too. Take care of Rarity, and Rarity, take care of Fluttershy.” The two mares looked to each other, and nodded decisively. “Sweetie, look after both of them. You know how Rarity is.” Sweetie Belle saluted.

“What's that supposed to—”

“Last call! All aboard the train to Canterlot!”

“Ahh!! I'm gonna miss it!” Kai nearly panicked, before adjusting his things and running to the train. “See you all later!”

“Goodbye, Darling!”

“Bye bye!”

“Take care!”

In just a few steps, the saiyan was on the train and out of sight. A moment later, he became visible again through the train window, but by then, the train was already in motion again. As they heard the loud departing message from the conductor, the three girls waved to Kai as he waved back. They waved for as long as possible, but soon, the train was gone.

Finally out of sight, Rarity looked after the train with a look of sad joy, a smile on her face as tears formed at her eyes.

“Pony… or saiyan…” She hummed contently. “Either one… he is suited for greatness.”

What greatness, nopony knew. However, Fluttershy and Sweetie Belle agreed readily to the statement.

Kai sat on the train, his gaze on the rising sun's horizon. He would certainly miss his family and friend, but this journey would more than make up for it.

Now, it was time to begin his quest. But to do so, he'd need a way to find those Dragon Balls. He guessed that, since they were a magical relic, those with heightened magic senses could locate them somehow. He wasn't sure how, but he'd either need that pony to join him, or make him something to find the relics on his own. A sort of... Dragon Ball locator, if you will.

Where better to start than the capital of Equestria, and where the most powerful magic wielder existed?

“Princess Celestia, here I come.”

Extra

The depressed caretaker and the dependent fashionista.

At the Ponyville Spa, things were as awkward as awkward could be between Fluttershy and Rarity. The two mares were silent, sitting in the waiting room as they tried to think about how to open up a conversation. Five minutes yielded nothing, and neither spa attendants wanted to interrupt the tension.

Finally, Rarity spoke up.

“So, Fluttershy…” Being adressed so abruptly made the pegasus flinch, shifting her eyes to Rarity. “What procedure did you plan to get?”

“Um… I didn't know there were more than one…” This was the first time Fluttershy had stepped hoof inside of a spa of any sort. She always assumed there was a massage, and then that strange mud face and cucumber eye thing. “I guess I'll have what you're having.”

With words finally being traded, Rarity decided to keep the ball rolling.

“It's very relaxing, I assure you. The steam room just burns away all of your stress, and the massage? To die for!” Rarity grabbed Fluttershy's hoof, and led her along to actually begin the appointment.

Fluttershy simply nodded, not quite knowing how else to respond.

There was a pattern starting here… Awkwardness inside of the steam room. As the spa pony, Aloe Vera, poured water over the hot rocks to produce steam, no such stress was fading from either Fluttershy nor Rarity. A sigh from Rarity gained Fluttershy's attention, forcing a saddened look onto the pegasus' face.

“I'm being a bother again, aren't I…?” Rarity looked to her.

“No, not at all! I'm just unsure what to speak about with you.” Then, Rarity caught the phrasing of Fluttershy's question. “Wait, what did you mean by ‘again’?”

Fluttershy looked down, feeling the saddness from earlier return.

“I feel like I only ever bother everypony. Like I have no real purpose but bothering others…” A strange look crossed her face. It was similar to contemplation, but also confusion. “But…” Then, a smile crossed a face. “I suppose I'm not to everypony. Kai was kind enough to care, and you even let me join you, Rarity.”

“Well, Kai has always been concerned about others.” Rarity agreed reminiscingly. “Though I must say, I'm surprised you were so accepting of Kai. Others are not as kind.”

“Oh, well… That was a mix of being at a low point, and thinking that someone else held my own mentality.” Fluttershy looked to Rarity, and spoke her life's mantra. “You never know who needs a little bit of kindness.” She let out an uncharacteristically happy giggle. “Even myself, it seems!”

Her happiness made Rarity happy, hence her own giggle.

“I certainly will miss Kai, but I'm glad he could impact somepony's life.” Sensing the undertone of sadness to Rarity's comment, Fluttershy gave her a concerned look.

“Where is Kai going?” The pegasus wondered.

Rarity looked forward, sighing softly as she did.

“He plans to leave on a search for ancient relics, and his first stop is Canterlot. After that?” She shook her head. “Who knows?” Fluttershy gave the mare a look of sympathy, as she continued. “I suppose the trip was not so sudden. When I think about it, Kai had been eager to find his destiny for a long time. Finding a journey must have been the final sign for him.”

“Rarity…” The fashionista buried her face in her hooves.

“Kai has been my inspiration for all of my life! I would never be at the level of skill I am now, if not for him! It feels like I'm not just losing a family member, but a part of myself…!” Seeing how distraught Rarity was, Fluttershy gave a short second of thought about something, before nodding decisively.

Without another thought, Fluttershy embraced Rarity tightly, craddling her close. Welcomely surprised, Rarity gasped, but quickly ended up sinking into the embrace.

“It's okay, Rarity. Even though Kai will be gone, I'll still be here.” Realising what Fluttershy was saying, Rarity smiled happily.

“And I'll be here for you, Fluttershy.”

Having settled their problems, a plume of steam flowed through the room, symbolically allowing their problems and stress to fade away.

“So, what do you enjoy, Fluttershy?” Awkward silence begone, for Rarity and Fluttershy were closer now!

Donning white robes and towels for their manes, the pair was now getting one of the only thing Fluttershy knew a spa had: the ‘mud face cucumber eye’ treatment. Fluttershy wasn't much of a fan of having her face covered, so she had previously requested a simple dab of the mud cream on her cheeks. Rarity, however, had the full facial, cucumbers included.

“Me? I don't really do too much outside of taking care of my animal friends.” Fluttershy responded quietly, watching as Aloe Vera zipped by Rarity to place pillows under her for her comfort.

“Animals, you say?” Fluttershy hummed her affirmation. “I don't know too much about animals. I was thinking of maybe getting a nice kitten sometime soon, but…” Rarity trailed off, just as she felt what had to be a file on her horn. The hornicure treatment was great, truly great!

Fluttershy didn't protest to Lotus Blossom beginning to file her hooves. This was her first hooficure, and she wasn't quite sure what it would be like.

“I could help you with that. If you'd like, that is.”

“I would LOVE your help! But I want to hear more about your own animals.” To that, Fluttershy was about to wave her hooves in negative, but recalled being in the midst of a hooficure, and that her friend was blind via cucumber at the moment.

“Oh, no. They're not MY animals. I just take care of them when they come by. From the birds, to the squirrels, even a bear. The bear doesn't visit too often. I guess he's a little shy.” The pegasus giggled. “Just like me.”

Rarity smiled, happy to note how much the shy mare could actually open up. All they needed was a topic they both could enjoy.

“My goodness! I thought bears were dangerous?”

“No, no. Ponies just think that because they never get to know one. They're very gentle creatures, just misunderstood.” Fluttershy felt so good to be able to speak to another pony freely. Speaking to animals was great, and she would never take that for granted. However, there was a certain feeling talking to another pony gave her, one she hadn't felt in some time.

“Gentle and misunderstood?” Rarity laughed. “Sounds familiar, wouldn't you say?”

“Huh?” Fluttershy didn't quite connect the dots, raising an eyebrow.

“Oh, nothing.” The unicorn simply laughed it off, much to Fluttershy's confusion.

She shook it off, and pushed the conversation forward.

“Well, anyway…”

“What do YOU enjoy, Rarity?” Fluttershy asked through a slight drool.

The pair was now subject to massages, with a stronger stallion giving Rarity a heavy massage, and Lotus giving Fluttershy a much softer and relaxing one.

“Me-e-e-e? I-I enj-j-jo-o-y p-u-u-utt-i-ing to-o—”

“Um, on second thought, maybe we should wait until after the massages.” Fluttershy suggested, having a hard time understanding a word Rarity was trying to say.

“F-f-fabulo-ous ide-e-e-ea!” Both mares relaxed through the massage.

“Now then! Where were we?” Rarity asked after the massage.

Now inside of mud baths—obviously without their robes now—the mares could continue their conversation.

“What do you enjoy?” Fluttershy repeated calmly.

“Ah, yes. I enjoy putting together works of fashionable art! I try to put together the greatest dresses I possibly can!” Rarity replied enthusiastically.

Fluttershy gasped in surprise.

“You're a fashionista?”

“Why, yes I am!” The unicorn was proud of her work, and was thusly proud to speak about it.

“I've never really known anything about fashion. I can't believe you can actually make clothes!” Fluttershy never liked being noticed, so fashion went over her head. That didn't mean she didn't admire it. In fact, a part of her envied how extravagant the fashion that models wore could be. To realise that her newest friend was somepony who made such fashion was wowing!

“I can educate you in all of the greatest fashions of all time! Just say the word.” Rarity nearly dared her.

“Um… I would actually like to hear about making clothes from your perspective, Rarity.”

“My perspective? Really?” At Fluttershy's affirming hum, Rarity grinned widely. “Well, there's always the drafting to start with—without it, there can be no dress! Of course, I need a suitable model in mind. After drafting and sketching what I want, I always gather the materials I'll be using.”

“Is it okay to use any materials?” Fluttershy asked, taking care to ensure this was not a one-way conversation.

“Absolutely not!” Rarity was quick to deny. “The difference of quality material and cheap materials is like night and day! When you use quality materials, you can make any old outfit shine!” Rarity's coat seemed to sparkle as she said that. “After everything is there, then begins the fun! Cutting and sewing, stitching and knotting—there are errors occassionally, of course. But…” Rarity smiled happily. “If you don't mess up a few times, how can you learn from your mistakes, right?”

“Right.” Fluttershy agreed, smiling back.

“In the end, even if what I made wasn't exactly what I had intended… it is a masterpiece to me, and as I was taught… that's all that matters.”

“You're absolutely right, Rarity.” The remainder of their time inside of the mud baths was filled with smiles and silence.

Ending off the treatment was a hoof-dip in bubbly water, their robes back on, and their masks gone. Fluttershy and Rarity looked to each other, each calmed by the other's presence.

“Fluttershy, I—”

“Rarity, I—” Both spoke at the same time. Giggling this off, Fluttershy made a gesture. “You go first.”

Rarity nodded, and took a breath.

“Fluttershy, I wanted to thank you. For everything here.” The unicorn looked down, pausing for a moment. “I never had too many friends. Anything at all would get my coat dirty, and I hated that. So the foals hated me. In truth, Kai was my only friend, and very soon, he became a brother. Now, my only friend, and best friend…” She looked to Fluttershy with a smile. “…is you.”

Fluttershy was glad to hear that from Rarity. It made her eyes water, but she resisted the urge to cry. Instead, she took a breath as well, and spoke her part.

“Me, too. Everypony always bullied me when I was young. I had trouble flying, so… it was too easy for them.” Fluttershy wanted to turn away, but she remained looking to Rarity. “I only ever knew one pony to stick up for me, but we don't talk much…” She smiled brightly. “I'm glad to have you as a friend, Rarity. Thank you.”

Now, it was Rarity's turn to resist the urge to cry.

Both mares remained quiet, simply enjoying the presence of a good friend. Truly, all of their stress simply burned away.

Author's Note

Yo! It seems obligatory, so I'll join the party in saying that this is my first story ever. I plan to take this all the way to the end. Feel free to add criticism, suggestions, concerns, anything... except for spoilers. I'm not telling... Thanks for reading, and here's hoping you'll continue reading. Out!

The Meaning of a Protector

This particularly bright day found Rainbow Dash walking back and forth in front of a confused Kai and a determined Fluttershy. The rainbow mare stopped pacing and gave her audience a sharp look.

“So, we're all on the same page?” To that, Fluttershy nodded shortly, while Kai gave a slow nod.

“You want us to cheer for you… But why us?”

“Well, I mean, you and Fluttershy are the only ones who can come see me! So you've gotta!” She did have a point, being that the venue of whatever they needed to cheer for was located in Cloudsdale, accessable only by those who could walk on clouds… or in Kai's case, constantly hover above them.

“Shouldn't you be… you know… TRAINING?” Kai procrastinated, sure, but Rainbow Dash was just annoying him at this point. How long had it been since he told her to get serious?

“Me? I need to make sure you've got it down.”

“Got… what down?”

“Cheering! Duh!” At Kai's continued confusion, Rainbow Dash explained. “I don't know if you've got the right stuff to cheer for me.”

…Kai smirked.

In Canterlot, life was still very much peaceful. Especially with the sibling princesses. Although getting Luna adjusted to this way of life was slow-going, Celestia was simply glad to have her sister back in her life.

The two found themselves sipping tea together, enjoying the morning calmly.

“Lulu, may you pass me the—”

“—OOOOOOOOOO!” They jumped, but oddly, only Celestia seemed confused.

“What in the world…?”

“'Tis our best friend, Kai! Perhaps this is a cheer of challenge? Very well, then! We shall cheer, as well!”

“Luna, no—”

“How was that?” Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy were hugging each other and shivering.

“Y-y-yeah. Th-that'll do.”

“—OOOOOOOOOO!” They all looked up and around, the girls even more startled, but Kai only grinned.

“It's Luna!”

“…Isn't she in Canterlot?”

“Yeah.”

At that point, all they could do was fall over.

Chapter 18

The Meaning of a Protector

“Alright!” Rainbow Dash hovered just above the grassy ground. “We know that Kai can cheer. But Fluttershy… You're… not that impressive. So, let's review!”

“Oh, um, let's see…” Fluttershy thought for a moment. “Loss of control.”

“Good.”

“Screaming and hollering.”

“Yes, and most importantly?”

“Passion!”

“Right! Now that you know the elements of a good cheer, let's hear one.”

With a decisive expression, Fluttershy nodded and took a breath.

“Yay.”

Clearly, Rainbow Dash was not impressed. She was going to state such, but was interrupted.

“Rainbow Dash, just get to your stupid practicing. I'll help out 'Shy.” She glared at Kai.

“Stupid practicing? Uh, this is only for the Wonderbolts! And if I fail—I mean, not that I would—then I'll never get in!”

“You can't even train when I tell you to. Why would the Wonderbolts—” He stopped himself. Now, Kai was annoyed. Rightfully so. He entrusted the safety of what he sort of saw as his home to Rainbow Dash if he was ever away. And yet she hadn't trained at all for the occassion. Didn't mean he should crush her dreams. “Just start practicing, alright. You need it.”

“You're looking down on me 'cause of that green guy, huh?”

“I am.” At his admission, Rainbow Dash glared and took an angered step toward him.

“I was just tired! You don't think Equestria's fastest flier couldn't keep up?”

“You call yourself the best and fastest flier in Equestria, but you couldn't even keep up with your eyes. Your punch did nothing, and you couldn't do anything to me even when my guard was down. But you still have the nerve to be arrogant!” Try as he might, Kai couldn't resist being brutally honest, and a bit hurtful. “You're a nopony, but you act like you're all that and more! If you had trained like I said, you'd be cranking out that stupid Rainboom trick without trying by now!”

“The Sonic Rainboom isn't stupid!”

“Well, I'll never know, will I? You can't even do it at your full speed! Instead of listening to me, you just keep on failing and failing, making excuses every time. The wind, you were tired, your wings are a bit sore, the weather's weird…” Rainbow Dash looked away, having used each and every one of those excuses. “Magical frickin' rocks are only going to go so far. I told you already; you need to get serious!”

“I… I am serious.”

“No you're not. You're not even training or practicing like you care. If you did, you could get into the Wonderbolts, and keep everypony you care about safe. If you don't get stronger, you can't protect anything. Let alone yourself.”

“I can, and I have!”

“No, you've been in little scraps, and used the Elements with your—our friends. You're weak and inexperienced, but you won't get it through your head!”

“Why are you being such a jerk about it!?”

“Because I was right where you are!”

“That's different!”

“How?”

“I'm not a freak!” Kai flinched at that, then shot back.

“And I'm not a failure!” Rainbow Dash flinched back.

“Then maybe I shouldn't even GO to the Best Young Flyer competition!”

“Maybe not!”

“I'd only fail!”

“Maybe you would!”

“Fine!”

They turned away from each other, then Rainbow Dash flew away.

“Jerk…”

Kai crossed his arms with a frown.

“…Bitch.”

“Kai!”

“Oh sh—Fluttershy. Heh… forgot you were… there…” Fluttershy was giving him a particular look. One he hadn't seen in quite some time.

The “disappointed mommy” look.

“That was mean.”

“She won't listen! C'mon, Fluttershy! You know her better than me!”

“I do. But what you said was unnecessarily hurtful.” He remained silent for several seconds.

“…She needs to hear it from someone. And sugarcoating things isn't for her.” Fluttershy continued to stare disapprovingly. “…Fine, maybe I could have broken it a little lighter. But seriously, this isn't the first time I told her.”

“…Disregarding that… How do you feel?” The half-saiyan looked confused. “She… um… said something hurtful, too. That you were a freak…”

“Oh. I… um… I guess it hurt a bit more coming from someone I know, but I'm used to it. Thanks for asking.”

“Of course.” He scratched his head while Fluttershy rubbed her foreleg awkwardly. “…Um… Could you… help me get better at cheering?”

“Sure.” With an odd lingering awkwardness, Kai tried talking Fluttershy through cheering properly.

Two days passed without incident, until it was finally the day of the Best Young Flyer competition. Rainbow Dash flew with Fluttershy to Cloudsdale, constantly looking back with a regretful stare.

“…He's seriously not coming?” Fluttershy aimed her side gaze at her old schoolmate, letting out a soft hum of thought.

“Well… you two did seem rather… upset.”

“I mean, yeah… but… Can't he just get over it?”

“You called him a freak, Rainbow Dash.”

“So did everypony. Weren't they just messin' with the guy?” Fluttershy sighed, realising that Rainbow Dash truly didn't understand. Fear made even Fluttershy impulsive and quick to react, that was true; hence the issue with Zecora… but still, Fluttershy was level enough to understand kindness, when not driven by fear. She would be the first to admit that, had she not met Kai in the already depressed state she was in, she surely would have been just like the others that wronged him. Luckily, she understood.

And it was time to make Rainbow Dash understand, too.

“They weren't teasing him. They were segregating him because he's different.”

“But… he just shrugs off whatever they say.”

“It's happened for so long, he's desensitized to it. Um… I know I shouldn't say this… but Rarity even told me that Kai resents everypony so much, he wanted to… well… destroy Ponyville.”

“Woah… And he COULD…” It dawned on her just what he could do if he really wanted to. And nopony could stop him. It made her realise—truly realise—that, if Kai was evil, or someone strong like Kai was evil, nopony could stop them. And this was why Kai was so serious about her training. “I'm such an idiot… I-I should go home and train like he said…”

“We're already here. You may as well try in the competition before you go train.” Fluttershy gave her a smile. “Right?”

Landing upon the cloud ground, Rainbow Dash smirked and nodded.

“Yeah.”

Unfortunately, they could take no more than five steps before being bombarded by bullies. Familiar bullies at that.

“Well, well, well. What do we have here?” Rainbow Dash didn't know that the word she was looking for was 'cliché', but it described these bullies perfectly. The duo turned to a trio of stallions smirking at the rainbow mare.

“It's our old friend Rainbow Crash!” Yeah, that old nickname… She didn't even crash that often. But it happened enough to warrant a nickname, apparently.

“Get kicked outta any flight schools lately?” The first stallion asked in a clearly taunting manner, hence his friends laughing in response.

Although she had complained about Kai not being here under the assumption he was still upset… his words had cut at her something fierce. Failure, excuses… so she was a bit lacking in self-esteem and confidence right now.

”I didn't get kicked out.” She muttered half-heartedly.

“Face it, Rainbow Crash. Flight school had too many rules, and not enough naptimes for you.”

“Ask her about the sonic rainboom.” Rainbow Dash froze up.

“That's nothing but an old mare's tale. You don't have the skills to try something like that.” The bullies laughed as the mare looked down, dejected.

“You know, I think I said it before, but…” The clear ringleader of the bullies was suddenly flying off of Cloudsdale itself with a yelp. Everypony looked to the cause: Kai. “…I really hate bullies.” He proceeded to heft the other two in the air by their necks.

“D-don't hurt us!”

“Were these bothering you?” That question to Rainbow Dash made her smirk.

“Yeah, they were being so annoying.” The bullies paled, suddenly very regretful of their actions.

“Got it.” With that, Kai gave them the very light punishment of throwing them through the clouds… downward.

Rainbow Dash and Kai traded a long stare, before mutually smirking.

“You made it after all.”

“Who else is gonna laugh at you?”

“You wanna go?”

“Let's go.” Despite the clear call to a fight, the two just kept smirking. “So, what's the plan?”

“There's still time before the competition… You ever been here in Cloudsdale before?” Kai shook his head. “Let's show him around a bit, Fluttershy.”

“Okay. It's a very nice place, I assure you, Kai.”

“Cool.” They were set to take off, but a shadow loomed over them. Now usually, being that this was a population of pegasi, nopony would bat an eyelash at this occurance. Hence why Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy didn't even slow their step to lead Kai through the city. Kai, however, was unused to this, so he looked back, then up to see what shadowed them. “Uh… guys? Tell me if I'm crazy, but… is that Rarity with wings?”

“Pfft! You're crazy. Come on, that's just stupid.” The pegasi turned, fully expecting to see the odd result of Kai's imagination—probably the altitude, they wagered. But what they saw was, indeed… “Rarity!” With a pair of butterfly wings, no less. “You're… flying!?”

The flying fashionista smiled, spreading her new wings for display.

“I most certainly am! Aren't my wings smashing!?” With the light of the sun, her wings seemed to glisten. “Twilight made them for me. I just adore them!” She seemed to just notice the expressions the pegasi and saiyan had as they stared. “Why so shocked? We couldn't leave our favorite flyer without a big cheering section!”

“‘We’?” Echoed Rainbow Dash, only for her and her entourage to stare with widened eyes at a hot air balloon slowly popping through the cloud. When it finally rose and landed, their friends were greeting them with smiles. “I… I can't believe it!”

“It's incredible!” Fluttershy agreed.

“Sweet!” As did Kai.

“This is so cool! You guys made it!”

“Sure did!” Pinkie jumped out of the balloon basket, which, if she were a pegasus, would be just fine. Since she was not, Rainbow Dash tried to stop her.

“Wait!” But, she actually landed on the cloud and stood evenly. “How'd you do that? Only Pegasus ponies can walk on clouds.”

“Pretty cool, huh?” Clearly receiving no answers from Pinkie, they looked to Twilight for an explaination.

“I found a spell that makes temporary wings, but it was too difficult to do more than twice. So I found an easier spell that lets the rest of us walk on clouds.” Indeed, she explained.

“And we came to cheer you to victory!” Followed Applejack.

Rainbow Dash let out a short sigh of relief.

“To be honest, I was starting to get just the teeniest, tiniest bit nervous.” A severe understatement. “But I feel a lot better now that you guys are here.” She grinned and gestured to Fluttershy and Kai. “Me and Fluttershy were gonna show this guy around. You should all come with!”

Did anypony actually think they would say no?

The tour around Cloudsdale was going great!

…That statement is a lie for one pony.

If vanity was given form, then Rarity would be the physical embodiment of it. She had done nothing but flaunt her new wings, accepting all of the praise coming her way. She even went as far as to listen to the suggestion of an awed fan and entered the competition in question, planning to win not by skill, but by beauty. It got to the point that even Kai felt the need to say something to her.

“Rarity.”

“Hmm?”

“You remember the story of Icarus?”

“What of it?”

“New wings? Overconfidence? Ring any bells?” Rarity simply tutted.

“Come now, don't be so overdramatic. They're just beautiful wings, no need to be worried.” She waved off.

“Fine. But when those wings burn, I'm not gonna save you, IcaRarity.”

“That's uncalled for.”

Kai rejoined Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy. Rainbow Dash was nervous to the point that even breathing into a paper bag was not stopping her nausea and anxiety, leading to a loss of her lunch. It was good that Cloudsdale was not frequently walked under, for that exact reason.

Now, Kai disliked Rainbow Dash. He really did. Something about her attitude just ticked him off, as well as how dismissive she seemed towards anything other than herself. The feeling was mutual, from their few interractions. They always clashed, and, while never becoming physical, they were always getting into heated arguments and discussions. It was inevitable that a fight would break out between the two.

And yet, watching Rainbow Dash nearly hyperventating, with Fluttershy rubbing her back to calm her… Kai didn't even hesitate to kneel and pat her head. The mare looked up, not even bothering to hide her distress.

“I thought, if I couldn't win with the Sonic Rainboom, maybe I can look good and cool. But… I'm ugly compared to Rarity… and probably in general.”

“No, you're a tomcolt—there's a different group out for your type. Anyway…” Kai ruffled her mane a bit. “We know you can do it.”

“You called me a failure. And you were right. So what changed?” Rainbow Dash sighed out.

“Nothing. You're still a failure, and a loser.” She shook off his hand and glared at him. “That's it! That's the look. The one that tells me you're fired up.” Smiling, Kai lifted a finger. “It doesn't matter THAT you fail. It's what you do WITH your failure. My old mentor always said, ‘Fall down one-hundred times, get up one-hundred one.’”

“What if I just… can't?” Kai let out a sigh, and returned his hand to Rainbow Dash's head. He didn't realise just how little confidence she had. Her bravado was either completely false, or easily broken. Or both.

“When I trained all that time back, my mentor Kami just kept adding more and more weight on me. It was to the point I couldn't even stand anymore. And I asked him exactly that. What if I can't?”

“…What'd he say?”

“If you truly want something, truly need it, you'll find a way no matter what.” Rainbow Dash tilted her head, expecting more. “Yeah, I was a little dissapointed with that one, too. Basically…do you want to win?”

“More than anything.”

“Will you keep on trying, even with everypony saying you can't do it?”

“…It's hard, but yes.”

“Then, you'll do it. Just believe in yourself.”

She looked to Fluttershy, who smiled and nodded, then back to Kai.

“Yeah… Thanks, guys. I'm gonna go out there and win this!”

“And we'll cheer for you when you do.” Fluttershy assured.

The reception for this event was understandably huge. After all, the VIP guest of honor was Princess Celestia herself, and the Wonderbolts were naturally in their own special seats. It seemed like everypony in Cloudsdale showed up to see these aspiring fliers' moves. The best opportunity to be first and show what they had.

It was, then, quite odd when contestant after contestant, Rainbow Dash never showed… nor did Rarity. The group of friends were starting to grow concerned.

…Well, all except one.

“Did ya get enough snacks, Kai?” Applejack asked with a glare.

“Does it LOOK like I got enough!?” With all of the discarded popcorn tubs, wrappers and soft drink cups, it did indeed look like he got enough. He still ate, regardless.

“Can't you fly? Go an' check on RD.”

“Nah, she'll show on her own.” The saiyan brushed off.

“Well, she'd better hurry. The competition is nearly over.” Twilight noted with a bit of worry.

A few minutes later, and it was time for the last acts. This was it, and the crowd could only hope the best was saved for last.

“And now, for our final competitor of the day, contestant number fifteen!” The announcer exclaimed with all of the energy he had started with, if not, more. Though, after receiving another bit of whispered information, he added something on in confusion. ”Uhh… And apparently contestant number four…”

First came Rainbow Dash, hovering out with clearly false confidence, not that the crowd noticed.

Then Rarity emerged, flaring her wings and wearing… a lot of makeup.

Kai's spit-take: Legendary.

“THAT shade of lipstick! And the mascara; more like, massacred! What did she do to her face!?” Again, it was hard to follow that Kai was raised in the same fashion environment as Rarity and shared her habits.

“Shh! It's starting!” Pinkie shushed him while staring at the starting action.

Unfitting classical music started up, but this didn't stop anypony from getting hyped up. Rainbow Dash narrowed her eyes, and took off flying as awesomely as she could. She looped, zigged, and zagged. It was indeed an awing performance.

Unfortunately for her, the crowd was more enamored with Rarity's wings, so her high-flying skills were ignored. Although disheartened, the pegasus did not stop, and instead commenced the next phase of her show.

Spinning several clouds at super speeds displayed her control and finesse. She almost lost her balance, but she regained it at the last second. This time, the crowd seemed to notice, but still didn't want to miss the contrastingly beautiful display.

Realising only one thing would truly grab everyone's attention, Rainbow Dash ascended higher and higher. Rarity seemed to have somewhat similar plans, and flew up higher. The now winged unicorn smiled at her adoring audience.

“Look upon me world…”

“…False wings, form'd of feather and wax, as the wind takes, let body and mind relax.” The group spared the suddenly poetic Kai a glance, all confused.

“…for I…”

“Leave thy pride and arrogance unfelt, for fly too close to the sun, and thy wings…”

“…am…”

“…shall…”

“Rarity!”

“…melt.”

Poetry usually had some truth to it.

The artificial wings Rarity was given were far too close to the sun. The wings burned away, and only an instant was allowed for the collective shock. Then Rarity began to fall.

“Oh no! Her wings evaporated into thin air!” Leave it to Twilight to state the obvious. Luckily for Rarity, the Wonderbolts weren't famous for nothing, and sprung into action. Unfortunately, Rarity was not a calm faller, and her flailing around ended up taking out the elite flight squad, too. Now they were all falling to their deaths. “Kai! You have to save them!”

“I can't.” She had to double-take at that.

“Isn't she your sister!? Why won't you—”

“Because I already told her I wouldn't. Besides, this is Rainbow Dash's chance to prove herself. If she can't be trusted with this, then what's the point?” Although he seemed sure, his tensed hands gripping at his sleeves and the drops of sweat falling from his face made clear that he was nervous, too. “It's all up to Rainbow Dash.”

Rainbow Dash, however, had flown up far too high to hear the first screams of panic. The distant sound of the second brought her attention to several falling figures, one, she could identify as Rarity. Eyes wide, she immediately took off towards them.

“Hang on, Rarity—I'm coming!” She put everything she had into flying to save her friend… but it wasn't enough. She was no genius, that much she could begrudgingly admit. But what she lacked in booksmarts, she made up for in triral and error. Moving, attempting, failing, retrying. All part of an important loop that Rainbow Dash brashly followed that taught her what worked or not through experience.

It was with this, that she knew that she would not make it in time. At the very best, she could just barely catch one, and her choice was Rarity. But even if she did just barely catch her, her head would surely skip across the ground, or the angle would give her severe whiplash. At the worst…? Well, it mustn't be said.

Tears stung at Rainbow Dash's eyes, but she wasn't sure if it was due to the speeds she was going, or her sorrow at her friend and idols' unavoidable demise.

‘Rarity… I'm sorry! If I had just listened and trained, I could have saved you!’ Now, she wept openly, even as she tried her best in vain. ‘Kai trusted me… and I let him down… I'm no Element of Loyalty…’

…But then… there was a spark. Something simply… snapped in her. She could only focus on the ponies falling, and felt her body tremble. Time seemed to freeze, and Rainbow Dash felt a power from within. It was so very similar to the power imbued by the Elements of Harmony. And yet, it was so different.

She wanted to save everypony.

She needed to save everypony!

And thusly…

She found a way.

A deep blue aura engulfed the mare as she took off at impossible speeds. A rainbow ring was left in her wake as she was under the five falling ponies instantly. In an arc, she caught everypony fluidy, with no injuries sustained, and lifted back up to Cloudsdale's Colluseum. That ring pulsed out with a boom, loud enough to be heard towns away.

Rainbow Dash set the Wonderbolts down calmly, and allowed the approaching pegasi to take Rarity. Now, she could properly look herself over in a serene confusion. Not much time was allowed for her to do such, as the crowd went wild pretty much the next instant.

“I… I did it, didn't I?” She didn't even bother to try to stop the tears that formed out of pride and happiness. The tears stopped themselves as she pinned two particular voices going more wild than anypony else in the crowd.

“WOOHOO!”

“YEAH!”

She smiled. Her original cheering squad… For appearances, Rainbow Dash slapped on a confident grin and faced the crowd strongly.

She had done it.

With all said and done, Rarity was safely set into the basket of the hot air balloon, and had apologized to everypony for getting lost in her wings. All was forgiven, and even Rainbow Dash had no hard feelings.

“Aw, it's okay.” She waved off. “Everything turned out all right, right?” Though she did sigh, a bit dissappointed. “I just wish I could have met the Wonderbolts when they were awake.”

“Careful what you wish for.” Rainbow Dash was about to ask what Kai meant, but a tap on her shoulder made her turn, and then gasp.

“Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh!” Standing before her were none other than the Wonderbolts.

“So you're the little pony who saved our lives. We really wanted to meet you, and say thanks.” The rest agreed with that sentiment.

Rainbow Dash continued to fangirl, even harder this time. As she did, the others turned as they noticed Princess Celestia approaching. They bowed, excepting a certain saiyan of course, and Twilight greeted her mentor.

“Princess.”

“Hello, Twilight Sparkle, and hello to your friends too.”

“Princess Celestia, I am sorry I ruined the competition.” Rarity apologized once again. “Rainbow Dash here really is the best flyer in Equestria.”

“I know she is, my dear. That's why, for her incredible act of bravery and her spectacular sonic rainboom, I'm presenting the grand prize for Best Young Flyer to this year's winner, Miss Rainbow Dash!” As the princess crowned Rainbow Dash with this prize, the pegasus could not stop herself from fangirling even further.

The crowd cheered and lifted her off in celebration. By the time they were rather far, only Twilight, Celestia, Kai and Rarity were still in their original places.

“Looks like I'll have my work cut out for me.” Kai noted with a chuckle.

“Oh? Are you taking students?” Princess Celestia wondered.

“Not just any student, Celestia. Only someone like Rainbow Dash.” She simply nodded, understanding completely.

“It's Princess Celestia.” They glanced at a smirking Twilight. “To think you still haven't learned to be respectful after all of this time.”

“Woah, check it out. She's got a sense of humor! Did you teach her that, too?” Kai's jesting question brought an eye-roll from Twilight and a laugh from Celestia.

“In any case, it would seem you all learned something from this experience.” They nodded.

“Rarity has a mean right hook.” And he got to feel it after that remark.

“Thank you, Rarity. Now then…”

Clearing her throat, Rarity began.

“I learned how important it is to keep your hooves on the ground, and be there for your friends.”

“Excellent. Well done, Rarity.”

Now, they watched from afar as Rainbow Dash rode the feelings of success.

A Primrose by Any Other Name

Author's Note

First suggestion/request. I shall honor it as best as I can. TruestEclipse; this one's for you.

A Primrose by Any Other Name

Sleep was terrible. At one point in her life, she loved sleep. Dreams were the best. Seeing possibilities, scenarios never thought of before. A well of inspiration. Now? All sleep did was throw the memories of her past into her consciousness, deepening her mental scars.

She had done some research. How to supress memories by any means. It was impossible. Even hypnotherapy could go so far, since ones subconsciousness could cue up what was forgotten.

The relaxing train ride unfortunately led to her dozing off several time, and waking up each time more and more anxious. Finally, it was over, and she could find a way to stay awake.

With a tired stumble, she made her way through this Ponyville. She let out a breath as she spotted exactly what she was looking for. A café. She squinted as she looked at the sign. “Kai's Café” it read. She'd never heard such a strange name…

With a strained yawn, she walked through the doors.

Chapter 20

A Primrose by Any Other Name

The past few weeks had been uneventful… for Kai. Having a regularly frequented business and not having the excuse “I'm an Element of Harmony” meant he couldn't slink off as often as the others. Thusly, he was not involved with everything his friends were. Though it wasn't overbearing, he could still use his job as an excuse to get out of things he didn't want to do.

Such as when Rarity had met Photo Finish—only THE best fashion photographer around—and wanted him and Fluttershy to model for her. He had agreed to the initial shoot, but declined Photo Finish's offer of “Making him into a star”. He… disliked the limelight. At least in this sense. Fashion was where Rarity could shine, and he would stick to making a cup of coffee. Though, there was apparently some confusion, in that Photo Finish only wanted the model, not the stylist. Kai had also resolved himself recently to try to cut back on swearing, because Fluttershy had been so stressed that she had done so. He didn't need to be any worse of an influence on her. The issue settled itself when Fluttershy and Rarity were honest with one another, Rarity being jealous and Fluttershy hating modeling. All's well with that one.

Then there was… something about a tree—he wasn't really listening to Applejack. It was important, he supposed, and she needed help to plant it or something. He wished them well and stayed home. They hadn't liked him for that.

They had tea with Celestia at Sugarcube Corner… then Fluttershy killed her bird. By accident—apparently. It was a phoenix, so it was all good in the end.

Then Pinkie had her birthday. But, everypony was trying to throw her a surprise party, and Pinkie was trying to find out, and got super depressed. Kai didn't know, and for some reason, nopony told him about her birthday, so he just joined the second party dedicated to her pet alligator. …Pinkie cried. He didn't like Pinkie crying. Luckily, everything was set right, and all was cheery and happy with her birthday party.

Now, Kai stood behind his counter as usual, awaiting customers for this slightly chilly morning. He was glad for this decently long period of calm. He and the others needed it. After all, a certain event was only a little while away.

Before his musings could expand, the door opened, ringing the bell to let him know he had a customer. Kai's brow twitched minutely. This mare was not from Ponyville—never seen her around. A unicorn of slightly above average size with a deep green coat and a long grey mane. Strangely, it seemed it was greyed naturally, despite her youthful appearance, as parts of her mane were black. The mare's eyes were wide, but the pupils themselves were much smaller, as if in perpetual shock. Dark lines under her eyes indicated severe sleep deprivation. Lastly of note, her cutie mark was a collection of yellowish-white flowers.

Kai threw on a smile and addressed this mare.

“Welcome.” He was used to the look of surprise she gave him. He wasn't quite used to how quickly it faded, however.

“Hello.” A bit raspy of a voice, like she needed to clear her throat, but oddly melodic. She took slow and methodical steps to the counter and finally took her seat. “Um… do you… have Canterlot blend?”

“Sure do.” Kai reached for the materials from behind the counter. “How do you like it? Little sweet? 'Lotta sweet? Black?”

“Really sweet, please.”

“Got it.” From his peripheral vision, he could see this mare watching every little movement of his. At first, her curiosity seemed to be focused on his hands, but then it was on how he prepared the coffee. He decided on some small talk, as the coffee would have to brew for a while. Folks seldom ordered anything other than the average Ponyville blend.

However…

“You're the only employee… Does that make you Kai?” She beat him to it. He nodded calmly. “It… must get difficult… working alone. Aren't you inconvenienced? Finding days off and time to yourself?” She questioned with concern.

“Sometimes, but I can manage. And most ponies can understand why this place is closed a day or two every week.” Kai gave a calm and professional reply.

“I see.” She looked like she wanted to say something else, but the coffee was done. Kai went to pour it, then added a very generous amount of sugar. “Thank you, Mister Kai.”

Briefly, Kai's mind flashed to someone else who had addressed him as “Mister”, and felt a little sad. He shook it off before his face reflected such, and gave the mare a teasing smirk.

“Oh, come now. I can't look that old.” Her brows rose and she frowned apologetically.

“Oh, I'm sorry. I've never seen someone like you so I wasn't quite sure.”

“I'm just teasing. It's fine.” Kai gave a gesture to the prepared beverage. “Enjoy.”

The mare took a sip of her coffee. She blinked and stared at the cup.

“This is amazing. Just the taste makes me feel like the day will be just fine. How can this place not be packed?”

“The business is pretty new. 'Side, ponies like the sweets from somewhere like Sugarcube Corner a bit more than they like coffee.” The mare nodded, understanding preferences in business.

The rest of the time was spent in silence, Kai cleaning anything that needed cleaning, and the mare finishing her coffee. She smiled at her empty cup, then directed her happiness to Kai.

“You're someone who makes ponies happy. Starting off their mornings with a smile and a perfect cup of coffee. I… wish I could be half as useful.” She stood from the stool. “How much do I owe you?”

“A smile. And you've already paid in full. Thank you for your business.” A bit of color met her cheeks, but her smile did grow.

“Thank you so much.” She turned to leave, but seemed to remember something. “Oh, um… My name is Primrose.”

“Come back soon, Primrose. There's always a cup for you.”

Same time the next day, Primrose entered Kai's Café. However, this time there were more customers on the stools. Two familiar mares, one a unicorn, the other an earth pony. They, and Kai, were staring right at her since the bell had alerted them. The saiyan waved.

“Primrose, hey!” He blinked, then cleared his throat. “Er, I mean, welcome.”

It touched Primrose that he greeted her so casually already. She waved back and took a seat, giving the mares a stool of space.

“Huh?” Vinyl Scratch lowered her glasses to make eye contact. “Pretty sure I showered earlier. I don't bite, y'know?”

“Oh, I meant no offense—”

“Vinyl, she is clearly being courteous. Something we know you could do more often.” Octavia Melody scolded. She addressed Primrose with a smile. “My name is Octavia Melody, and this is my friend…” She shot Vinyl a look, daring her to repeat her actions during their previous introduction. “…Vinyl Scratch.”

“I'm Primrose. It's a pleasure to meet you.” Primrose responded kindly.

“'Pleasure's all yours.” Vinyl received a bump of scolding.

“Likewise, Primrose.”

Kai went through the motions of making Primrose her coffee, though he noticed a repeat of last time. She focused on his technique.

“So, do you live around the area, Primrose?” Octavia tried to start up some small talk.

“…Somewhere close…” Primrose gave a vague, spaced out answer.

“Did you move to Ponyville recently?” Another attempt.

“…Yes…” The same kind of response.

“…Have we lost her, Kai?”

“Nah, she's just a natural.” They gave Kai a confused look, then looked back to Primrose. Kai finished in a few more seconds, and placed the cup in front of Primrose. “Order up.”

“Thank you.”

As usual, Kai went to clean whatever needed cleaning, while his customers drank their coffee.

“What do you do, Primrose?” The mare gave Vinyl a look. “I mean, 'Tavi and me make music and stuff. You do anything like that?”

“Oh, no. I have no musical talent. I only recently moved here for… reasons. I don't do anything in particular yet.”

“Where did you used to live?” Octavia followed up quickly, not wanting her to space out again.

“Manehatten.” Primrose answered with visible discomfort. Octavia tried to rectify this with another question.

“How is it there?”

“…Stuffy. A-anyway…” She stood and set a few bits onto the counter. “I'm sorry but I have to go now. Thank you again for the coffee, Kai. I'll be back tomorrow.”

“Yeah, see you, Primrose.” As she basically ran out, Kai gave Octavia a look of faux disappointment. “You scared her off. I never would have thought you would do something like that.”

“For shame, 'Tavi. For shame.” Vinyl joined in with a shake of her head.

“I had no intentions of scaring her off…” Octavia gloomed for a moment. “…She doesn't seem to sleep much.”

“S'why I asked what she did. Remember when I did like, twenty shows for a week straight, back-to-back? She still looks more tired than I was.” Vinyl mused.

“What's your take, Kai?”

“Mine? Well…” Kai chuckled. “I think I may have just found my first employee.” The two traded a confused glance.

“Um… No disrespect is intended toward Primrose, but… how can a sleep deprived pony possibly be a candidate for employment?”

“I want to test it tomorrow, but I think she's already picked up on how to make coffee like me.” He smirked, even as the duo gave skeptical stares. “Time will tell.”

Seven-thirty would be the time Primrose arrived, Kai noticed. Today she entered and looked to see another two ponies sitting. She bit back a grimace. The last ones probed too much… She hoped these two wouldn't.

“Welcome, Primrose.”

“Thank you, Kai.” Primrose was about to take a place with a stool's distance from the other mares, but she was stopped.

“Hey, Primrose. Come here for a sec'.” She stared for a moment, then nodded slowly. She hesitantly shuffled behind the counter next to Kai and looked up at him, confused. “Rarity, Fluttershy, this is Primrose. Primrose, this is my sister and my close friend.”

“A pleasure, darling.”

“It's nice to meet you.”

“Likewise.” Kai smiled at the brief interaction.

“Primrose, tell me. When you stand here beside me, looking out at the shop, what do you see?” Primrose was even more confused, but she analyzed everything as best as she could.

Her brow twitched.

“Um… Miss Rarity and Miss Fluttershy don't have a cup in front of them. Should we… I mean, were you going to take their orders?” The grin only grew on Kai's face when he heard her verbal slip-up.

“Why don't you?”

“Me? But I…” But his expression towards her was one of complete belief. It made her feel… special. Looking towards the two customers, she took a breath. “Um… W…welcome! Is there anything I can get for you two?”

“Why yes. I do believe a cup of Canterlot Blend would be perfect right about now. What about you, Fluttershy?”

“I agree. I'll have the same, please.” Primrose smiled.

“Wonderful choice. It will be ready shortly.” She looked up at Kai, who looked back at her with his arms crossed. He quirked an eyebrow. “…You want me to… make it as well?” The saiyan simply nodded.

Primrose looked at the shelves and counters, and quickly found everything she needed to make their order, going through the steps in her head. It never quite occured to her where she knew these steps. After all, before now, she had never even made a cup of genuine coffee. She just bought it at other cafés.

Not long after, the coffee was ready, and she poured some into clean cups.

“Oh! I never asked how you wanted it. I'm sorry.” Primrose bowed her head slightly as an apology.

“That's perfectly alright, darling. We both like just a touch of sugar.”

“Okay, just a touch.” Primrose added the sufficient amount, or at least, what she believed to be ‘just a touch’. Mixed and ready, she lightly pushed their cups closer to them. “Here you go. I hope you two enjoy.”

The two smiled at her gratefully, and went to take a sip. They were rightfully surprised at tasting it.

“Goodness, me!”

“Oh my…” Their reaction formed a pit in Primrose's stomach.

“I-I'm sorry. I should have just left it to—”

“Kai. I believe you should try this coffee.” Rarity's stern tone didn't help.

“No, please. I-I've already embarrassed myself. May I be excused?” But Kai had already taken Rarity's cup and sipped at the coffee. He assessed the taste with all of his expertise, clicking his tongue a few times with his eyes closed.

Then, he hummed.

“Primrose. When we met a few days back, you said you wanted to be useful like you think I am. Starting others' mornings off well.” Kai set the cup back down and opened his eyes to look at Primrose. “You can make a great cup of coffee, and you're hospitable. I think you would be the perfect pony to help represent this café. To ask officially, Primrose, would you like to work for me at my café?”

Primrose stared. She stared for a long time. She wasn't frozen per se, as she still moved her mouth inaudibly, and her body shook ever so slightly.

Then, all at once, she broke down; tears brimming and covering the dark marks of sleep deprivation. Her mouth hung open as her jaw quivered.

“Y-y-you r-really th-th-think so…?” She sobbed out in disbelief.

“Of course. Come on, this isn't a time to cry, Primrose. It's a time to celebrate.” But Kai understood these tears. After all, he had cried them before.

“Nopony's ever… b-believed in me before.” Rarity and Fluttershy understood just as well, so they traded smiles before smiling at the unicorn silently. “What if I fail? And disappoint everypony, including you?”

Kai shook his head.

“That won't happen. And even if it did, just try again. As long as you keep trying, what's there to complain about?” Primrose sniffled and wiped her tears. Sufficiently convinced, Primrose gave her answer.

“It would be my honor to work for you.”

Sleep… wasn't so bad that night.