“Roland does have a point,” said Jacob, “I mean you’re supposed to be the Princess of Friendship herself, and you didn’t trust your friends enough to help shoulder your problems without asking for your help or without giving them a yes or no answer. Which in turn…kinda makes you ironic.”

He stood up and walked over to her and crouched, looking at her face to face.

“As the Princess of Friendship,” said Jacob, “You’re supposed to learn by now that you can rely more on your friends and supposed to develop a stronger sense of trust, becoming a symbol of friendship and understanding the importance of believing in others.”

Princess Twilight looked down in shame, realizing she should’ve done that. Until she felt a hand on her shoulder.

“Twilight,” said Jacob, “You need to learn that not everything is always in our control. For if we fail to see the bigger picture, everything falls apart. But who are you trying to prove? Are you trying to prove to Princess Celestia and Starswirl, or are you trying to prove yourself?”

Princess Twilight stood up and took a few steps before crossing her arms.

“I was only trying to make them proud.” Said Princess Twilight, “I look up to the both of them so much, I wanted to be like them. I tried to do what I do to make them happy.”

She looked at Jacob and said, “I tried to do all of this, in their names.”

“Twilight,” said Jacob, “Five things you should know.”

Jacob stood up and pointed things out for her.

“First, Princess Celestia didn’t ask you to intervene with her affairs. Second, Starswirl and the Pillars didn’t ask you to free them from limbo. Third, neither of them had asked for your admiration. Fourth, you need to take responsibility for your actions. And fifth, never have heroes. As a lot of us learnt the hard way, you’ll end up having fewer disappointments.”

Princess Twilight looked away as she used her hands to stroke her hair out of habit.

“But more importantly, even though it didn’t look like they cared during your trip to Mt. Eris, they did care, just not on your level.” Said Jacob.

He leaned over and said, “And you weren’t actually fair for pointing out their faults. For how was Rarity to know Capper would sell them out? How was Rainbow to know that Tempest was close into tracking them?”

Princess Twilight lowered her eyes, realizing that he was right on that subject.

“When facing the unknown, you can’t expect to know everything and do everything and think you’re prepared for anything. For even though you have the knowledge and training, you don’t have the experience for it. Just like everything else, being a hero, a friend, and a leader, takes time and experience. Experience a handful of us have as adults.”

Jacob sighed and rubbed his head, realizing he has a headache and drinks his medication, then puts it away.

“The point is,” said Jacob, “As leaders, we’re supposed to have discipline, restraint, learn to trust others around us and try to rely on protocols for help, we don’t stab our friends in the back and abuse their trust by lying and tricking their friends into distracting a foreign dignitary by stealing their treasures and nearly starting a war, just because they didn’t have the patience to see things through.”

“But we were on the clock.” Said Princess Twilight.

“I know you were,” said Jacob, “But you can’t constantly rush in. Seeking out diplomacy takes time and patience, and to remember that Equestria was built on Friendship, Harmony, and Trust, and you cannot save it, by ignoring what it stood for. Something that you should’ve known and realize.”

“And what would I have done?!” said Princess Twilight, “Let the Equestrians die?!”

Then Jacob said the unexpected as he turned to her.

“If it meant sacrificing a few hundred lives to save over trillions, then make their sacrifices worth something.”

Princess Twilight was startled by what he said, especially those who were listening.

“Why would you say that?” asked Princess Twilight with dread.

Jacob took a breath and told her.

“Because I was in the exact same spot you were.” Said Jacob.

This earned a surprise look from Twilight. He gestured her to sit down, which she did as he told her his story.

“Long ago, I was visiting my friend Sonic on Mobius.” Said Jacob, “Myself, Tails, Rotor, and a few others were busy building a teleportation device that could help teleport us from one part of the country to another. But instead, both myself and Sonic accidentally teleported to another part of the galaxy…”

This surprised Twilight, as well as the others.

“How did you do that?” asked Twilight.

“Made a miscalculation.” Said Jacob. “But along the way, we met other alien species.”

He showed her tons of holograms of the aliens, which surprised her.

“There are Turians, Asari, Salarians, Krogan, Elcor, Hanar, Volus, Quarians, Drell, Batarians, Vorcha, Reapers, Geth, Collectors, and so on.”

He snapped his fingers away and looked to the sky.

“When the two of us were teleported, we ended up on one of the human colony’s planets known as Eden Prime.” Said Jacob, “A world so beautiful, you could practically grow any kind of garden there.”

**********************************************************************************************

Sonic and I were accidentally teleported there when the entire thing went off. Sonic was confused, but I knew where we were. I just didn’t think it was possible. Before Sonic could ask anything, I went on ahead on a hunch. But as I was on a hill, there it was…

A large sentient machine, known as a Reaper, who came from a powerful machine race that comes by every fifty thousand years to destroy all advanced civilization, leaving the younger ones alone. I went over to the docks, and there I saw a Turian Specter named Nihilus, one of the best. But then I saw a Turian that would be one of the greatest enemies of the galaxy; Saren Arturus. I rushed on over, trying to get to them. Just as Saren was going to take the shot, I pushed Nihilus out of the way.

He demanded to know what I was doing, but then I told him what Saren did. At first he didn’t want to believe me, but to even my surprise, Saren told Nihilus that it was true, so he sent the Geth after us. During the fight, with Sonic’s help, that’s when two humans, Ashley Williams and Kaiden Alenko, came to our rescue. Though he demanded how I knew, I told them that there wasn’t any time, considering all of them are heading straight towards the Prothean Beacon, a powerful device built by an advance civilization from long ago.

When we got there, we were able to secure the device. But somehow, it reacted to me and engulfed me with its knowledge, causing it to be destroyed. When I came to, they were surprised that I survived, but I asked them to take me to the device, and with my power, I was able to repair it. Now all of them had indeed more questions.

So we went back to the citadel, and we were able to make a case to the council. At first, they wouldn’t believe me, but with the help of a Quarrian, we were able to help. Though some were skeptical of trusting me and Sonic, we proved we were worthy of helping.

We not only recruited her, but also a Turian named Garrus, a Krogan named Wrex, along with the two humans we encountered. In time, we even encountered an Asari scientist to help us.

We went to different locations in stopping Saren from taking over. Sonic went over to save the Colonists on Feros, whilst I saved a friend’s mother, who was indoctrinated by the enemy, as well as the Rachni Queen by giving her own voice and helping her escape.

Then we arrived at a world where we cornered Saren. Wrex wanted to save the cure, but because of Saren, he would indoctrinate them into serving him, something Wrex had tried to resist from the beginning. But instead, I secretly made him a cure and cured him of his problem.

We went back to the Citadel, but we knew the Council wouldn’t be of help, so we went off on our own. By the time we got to another world, Saren had used a device to get into the Citadel and take over whilst his fleets were ambushing the Citadel Fleets. Myself, Sonic, and our entire team fought Saren to a standstill, until we finally defeated him.

But when we were about to unlock the citadel, we heard the council was on one of the ships and were in danger. Some of them wanted to hold back the fleets to stop the Reaper ship, but I couldn’t, so I chose to make a difficult decision. I opened the arms, but I told them to save the council and the remains of the Citadel Fleet. With what human ships were left, we were able to destroy the Xorda and Reaper ships, whilst the Geth fled Citadel Space.

The council were thankful for what we did and granted humanity a seat to the council, but we couldn’t leave yet. Because for the past week I was helping Wrex rebuild his new home called Urdnot City, even established diplomacy with the Batarians by giving them a device to help make a world livable. Even saved the Ryder family’s mother, and convinced Alec Ryder to abandon the AI project and begin something new that would gain the council’s favor, by making new combat armor, dubbing it, Project Sentinel Vanguard.

**********************************************************************************************

“After that, we got back home.” Said Jacob.

Princess Twilight was surprised by this, but asked, “What does that have to do with my situation?”

“You wanna know how old I was when that happened?” asked Jacob. He knew Princess Twilight shook her head to that. Then he looked at her with the corner of his eye and said, “When I was twelve.”

This shocked Twilight, as well as the others who listened over.

“That’s…a lot for a child.” Said Princess Twilight.

Jacob scoffed at that, and said, “I haven’t been a kid, since I was five years old.”

Princess Twilight was confused by this, with Jacob walking over to her. He lifted his shirt and revealed at his right thigh. Ten cuts, along with a burnt skull, much to Princess Twilight’s shock.

“I was tortured for a whole year till I was six.” Said Jacob before lowering his shirt back down. “I was beaten, poisoned, traumatized, whipped, burnt, had my legs and arms broken, only for them to do it again once I healed. After Benjamin Martin, codename Sarge, who was like a second father to me, rescued me and over thirty other kids I defended during that time. He offered to train me. So, we left my world and traveled the Multiverse. And the first five months I was gone, I spent fifty years traveling.”

Jacob looked at the sky and closed his eyes.

“I spent being trained for six hundred years,” said Jacob, “In the end, I became the smartest, wisest, strongest, skilled, and most powerful warrior, in over one hundred thousand dimensions.”

This shocks Princess Twilight, even the others.

“After I got my powers, I wasn’t ready for the full responsibility.” Said Jacob, “And after I turned twenty, the Galaxy needed us again. This time, it was about human colonists being taken by a race known as the Collectors and the Black Arms Race. I recruited who we needed and established more help, even helped restore their fleets. But during that time, we were able to take the fight to them. Some wanted to use the ship’s resources to further our advancements, but the place was an abomination, and they already slaughtered over a hundred thousand colonists.”

Jacob sighed and looked up at the sky.

“But after I died and got resurrected a year later, I was thrust into another war. The Reapers returned, along with the full might of the Xorda, the Black Arms Race, and the enemy of the Order, known as the Death Knights. It was a hard few months, but we won and were able to use the greatest power to banish them from not just our galaxy, but our entire universe. But at the cost of 55 million innocent souls.”

Jacob turned to a shockened Princess Twilight.

“In case you wonder why I couldn’t just go save lives, because I had to go out there, securing the trusts of the leadership, and establish diplomatic relations. Because if we don’t, then we’d end up creating more diplomatic incidents and nightmares, even potential of them starting a war with us just because we didn’t follow the right protocols. Because if we didn’t, more would’ve been lost. And I knew it was going to happen because in my world’s timeline, the same thing happened and the losses were twice as devastating. These things are never easy, and it’s always hard to know when it is a good time.”

“But at the cost of so many?!” said Princess Twilight as she shed a few tears.

As she looked at Jacob, he walked over to her and gently held her face and wiped her tears with her thumbs.

“Twilight,” said Jacob calmly, “Nobody said that being a leader was easy. There will always be difficult decisions ahead, where a trillion lives are on your shoulders, and that every decision you’d make would make the difference between life and death. Because even if you find a way to keep the world spinning, not everyone is going to be on the train ride home.”

“What are you saying?” asked Princess Twilight.

Jacob then held her by the shoulders and looked at her directly in her eyes.

“Oldest rule when fighting the good fight, Twilight, and the hardest part of this job,” said Jacob, as Princess Twilight had a hard time grasping this. “You can’t always save everybody.”

Jacob released her shoulders.

“I would’ve been a complete mess, heck, I’d rip my own heart out just to end it,” said Jacob, “But in the end, I’m glad I never did.”

“What changed?” asked Princess Twilight.

Jacob then took out a picture and showed it to her. When Princess Twilight looked at them, she could see a young human boy, surrounded by animal looking people, all of them together, laughing, having fun, whilst also celebrating his thirteenth birthday.

“Who are they?” asked Princess Twilight.

“My friends.”

Jacob listed them and showed her.

“That there’s Sonic the Hedgehog, his wife Sally Acorn, his surrogate brother, Miles Prower, but Tails to his friends. Amy Rose, my wife Nicole, Bunnie “Rabbot” D’Coolette, her husband Antoine D’Coolette, Rotor Walrus, but Boomer to his friends. Big the Cat, Cream the Rabbit, and her Chao friend Cheese. Knuckles the Echidna, his wife Julie-Su, Vector the Crocodile, Mighty the Armadillo, and his sister, Matilda, Espio Chameleon, and his wife Liza Chameleon, Ray the Flying Squirrel, Charmy Bee, and his wife Saffron Bee.”

As she kept looking, he continued.

“They help give me the strength I needed to move on, to help those in need, to fight for the rights of others, and to be there for them when no one else can. They help carry the burden off from my shoulders, and in the end, the lines became a lot easier for me to see.”

He placed the picture away in his pocket.

“Like you and your friends, we were also different.” Said Jacob, “I also scolded a few and for good reason. Sonic and Sally may have meant well, but because of a few events between them and others, things went downhill, so I had to do what I did. It may have been cruel at first, but they realized that I was right. They needed to hear it.”

He looked at her again.

“I made the hard calls and decisions like you did, but it was because of them, I chose to stand by the people who made me what I am today.”

“But I…”

“And you tried to do it for the right reason,” said Jacob, “Which is admirable. You made a choice, you wanted to save your family, friends, home, and loved ones. Do you happen to know if anyone were in your shoes, er, hooves, they would’ve done the exact same thing, just not completely like at Mt. Eris. I tried to do things on my own, and did you know what it costed me?”

She looked at him as he told her.

“My father, left me when I was a week old, he wanted to find a way to stop the Death Knight threat, even if it meant saving me. But when I finally found him when I was thirteen? He cared about saving his research to stop the Death Knight threat. But when they attacked the city he was hiding, my entire team of heroes I recruited were all slaughtered trying to hold their position. But when the bombardments came, my father was trapped under a building, only for me to watch helplessly get fished out and killed on the spot. Nothing I could do, no choice.”

Princess Twilight was surprised, but he continued.

“My mother, was held prisoner in front of me and my brothers, but I barely had the strength or vision to go and save her. She bravely stood up for us, and ended up getting stabbed and shot on the spot. I was there when it happened right in front of me and my brothers, I was powerless, to stop it. With her last breath, she tried to tell me not to let hatred consume me, she told me to take my brothers to run and protect the rest of my family. But instead, I let my vengeance and fury get the better of me. I wanted payback, no choice.”

Then he said his final piece.

“But as I continued to slaughter them, the Death Knights foresaw that, so they used that to their advantage to slaughter the rest of my family and friends back at New Liberty, they used that advantage to sabotage my tech and everything, to keep me from going back to my friends to make me suffer. And when Lucifer’s devil made that deal with me, I wanted vengeance on those who took everything from me. And I couldn’t do it on my own, no choice.”

Princess Twilight, even the others were speechless as they heard more of the story.

“Do you have any idea how many times I wanted to go back and make things different but couldn’t, because they were a fixed point in time, if I did that, everything my family and I sacrificed for, would’ve been for nothing.”

“I…I didn’t know.” Said Princess Twilight.

“Twilight,” said Jacob, “You may come from a world with somewhat the same ideals like other worlds, but not everyone is the same. We’re all different in many ways. Changes happen. Tragedies happen. Pain and suffering happens. But in the end, there would be new forms of life, new ways for us to cope with the loss. We all make choices, and those choices affect everyone. You’re not a god, Twilight.”

He walked over to her and held her left shoulder.

“If you want to walk a certain path that you’re set on to help others, that’s fine.” Said Jacob, “But make sure you don’t push away those who love you for who you are. The real you. For you are not Princess Celestia. You are not Equestria. You are much more than that tenfold.”

(I don’t know how everyone’s reaction would be. Maybe you’d have better luck there)

“About Roland telling you about you being an Alicorn was a mistake?” said Jacob, “He didn't mean any harm.”

“Sure, sounded like it.” grumbled Princess Twilight.

“What he meant was,” said Jacob, “Becoming an Alicorn comes with a price.”

Princess Twilight looked at him in confusion.

“Titles what we have aren't meant to be kept for all times,” said Jacob, “When we have titles, we have responsibilities, that much is true. But other times when the time comes, others have to carry on our titles in order to continue the responsibilities that we have taken.”

“What do you mean?” said Princess Twilight.

“As you don't know,” said Jacob, “I am known as the Chosen, a protector of the Multiverse. But the responsibility of Chosen had been in my family for over a hundred thousand years. And I'm 4000th Chosen to protect the Multiverse. Only difference is, I do things a little different than those who came before me.”

This surprised Twilight, but Jacob continued.

“Back to the point,” said Jacob, “Becoming an Alicorn, means that you'll end up outliving your family, and watching loved ones come and go. Because of it, within a hundred years, everyone, and everything you ever knew, will be dead and gone...forever.”

That's when Princess Twilight remembered what Roland said.

“And whilst you may be a princess, you will end up losing the ones who made you who you are. So, you can rule on your throne for how many years, whilst everyone and everypony you’ve ever known and loved. Will be dead and gone, forever”

She was shocked by what she remembered what Roland told her.

“The friends you made are extremely special Twilight,” said Jacob, “Princess Celestia walked the same path you did, and she ended up outliving everypony she cared about. Sure, she and her sister still have each other, but it doesn't fill the void. The bonds you have can never be replaced. And because of it, you'll never find that special connection ever again.”

“But...” said Princess Twilight, trying to say something, “But, I...”

“How many other Alicorns do you, Cadence and Flurry Heart knew, besides Celestia, Luna, and Tempora?” asked Jacob.

Though Twilight was a little surprised that Jacob knew Tempora, she still couldn't find the words to say. And that's when Jacob dropped a bombshell.

“I reckon not a lot since you and ponykind have a tendency to be oblivious and ignorant to everything around you, so let me make it clear for you right here and right now. My family and I knew a lot of great immortals over the years as each and every single one of them tried to find peace and happiness in their lives, all of their intentions real, great, and pure, it never ended well for any of them, not ever.”

Princess Twilight couldn't find the words, with Jacob saying, “Tragedy, Heartbreak, loneliness, whatever. That's what your life is gonna be like from now on, if you continue down this path.”

He walked over to Twilight and placed his hand on her shoulder.

“Sooner or later Twilight,” said Jacob, “When that time comes, and it will one day. You're going to have to make a choice in your life. Do you want to live a full life and outlive every one of your family, friends, and loved ones? Or do you wish to join them, so that you can be at peace with them, and let the younger generation take that responsibility. It's your choice.”

Princess Twilight was surprised by this, but she looked down and shed a tear…would she really have to say goodbye to all her friends and family within a hundred years or so? Would she be alone after so many years?

Sunset, Shine Boy, TK, Kari, Luz, and Amity were surprised to hear this as they looked at one another.

Kari whispered to TK. “So, it’s either outlive everyone or give it up to be with your friends.”

“It reminds me of when we had to go home after defeating Apocylamon and leave our Digimon behind.” TK said. “And we didn’t think we’d see our Digimon anymore.”

“And what do you think will happen to our Digimon when we’ve outlived our lives?” Kari clenched TKs hand.

TK responded by squeezing her hand softly. “I know we can’t ignore that, but I do know we should enjoy every moment with Patamon and Gatomon while we can. I was afraid I didn’t when Angemon defeated Devimon and reverted to a Digi Egg. I don’t know what Twilight will do, but I can only hope she’ll do what she knows is right.”

“So, Twilight’s a Princess, but she’s also immortal?” said Luz before looking at Twilight. “I don’t think I’d be able to go through with it.”

Amity felt the same as she placed her hand on her girlfriend’s shoulder.

“So, in order to keep us, Twilight has to give up her Alicorn status?” Sunset asked before Shine Boy walked up to her.

“Might want to keep that to yourself, Sunset.” He advised.

“I know, but that’s what it sounds like to me.” Sunset whispered.

“I know, but one, Twilight seems overwhelmed as it is. Two, I don’t want to question Jacob after everything he’s done for us up till now. Three, and most importantly, every decision we make will have consequences. I’m not saying Twilight should give it all up for us. But our choices we cannot take back. Maybe she may have to decide what’s best for all of us and not just herself. No one said it would be easy. No one said we would succeed all the time. All we can do is the best we can.”

“So, what do you propose we do?” Sunset asked.

“Trust Twilight’s decision. And hope she understands and trusts Jacob.” Shine Boy sighed.

From Jacob, he was still talking to Princess Twilight.

“Just…think about it.” Said Jacob, “No one said that it would be easy. But…I think you should tell them the reason why you have a hard time trusting others.”

Princess Twilight was startled by what he said, but then he said, “It may be terrifying at first, but sometimes it helps to take the first step.”

Jacob hugged her for a bit, which she returned and held him tightly, as if he was her father. Some of them thought it was heartwarming, to see Jacob calm them down. Jacob released the hug and rolled his eyes.

“You can come out now, I know you’re listening over.”

This confused Princess Twilight, until she noticed Sunset and the others coming out.

“How long…?”

“Long enough.” Said Kari in worry.

Sunset walked over and said, “Twilight, why didn’t you say anything about this? We could’ve helped.”

She sighed and said, “I know.”

“Come on, let’s see if the village has something to eat.” Said Sunset as they walked.

That was, until Jacob stopped Shine Boy.

“Mind if we have a few words?” asked Jacob.

Shine Boy was hesitant at first, but seeing Jacob help them in the past and trying to help Princess Twilight, he nodded and walked over, allowing them to sit down.

“You seemed very troubled.” Asked Jacob, “Did something happen to you?”

“You might say that.” Said Shine Boy, before feeling Jacob’s hand.

“Tony, you know I’m only asking because I’m worried about you, right?” said Jacob. “Even a penguin with the poorest eyesight can clearly see when something is wrong.”

Shine Boy was confused when he brought up a Penguin, but answered Jacob.

“It’s just…ever since this adventure began, a handful of individuals kept brining everyone down by bringing up their past mistakes.” Said Shine Boy, “One of them came forward over why he was like this…”

“You’re welcome.” This caused Shine Boy to look at him in confusion, “Who do you think convinced Splinter to talk to him and convinced Tanya to tell him everything.”

This shocked Shine Boy, with Jacob winking at him. Shine Boy cleared his throat as he continued.

“Still, it feels overwhelming. I don’t even know what to do.” Said Shine Boy.

Jacob thought about it before looking ahead.

“You know, you’re not the only one who feels that way, especially when you felt like losing hope.”

This confused Shine Boy as he asked, “What do you mean?”

“In another world, where a certain Keyblade wieldier named Sora, who got involved in Princess Twilight and the others’ adventures,” began Roland, “He also lost hope because of Cozy Glow. Sora can be sensitive and his nature helped him drive him to protect others. When Cozy Glow was exposed, Sora blamed himself because he chose his loved ones over protecting her, thinking that she couldn’t be responsible, but she is. He even threw a hissy fit about it, thinking that he was weak. But like Princess Twilight, he kept overthinking things, blamed others, and wondered why the Keyblade had chosen him.”

“And in another dimension, in a Galaxy far, far, away. A Padawan named Ahsoka Tano, was framed for a crime she didn’t commit. But instead of staying behind and let them launch an investigation, she chose to ran, which only fueled their suspicion of her. When she got caught, they expelled her from the Jedi Order. When they found the true culprit, the Jedi didn’t even give her a proper apology, what with their ‘no attachment’ rules. Her master Anakin was also frustrated by the council’s change, and voiced that they didn’t give her a choice when she left the Order, for the moment when there were any suspicion about her loyalty, the council turned their backs on her.”

Jacob shook his head and said, “His master, Obi-Wan, told him that he admits that mistakes were made, but she was the one who chose to leave. For part of the Jedi way is not letting your personal feelings cloud their judgment, and that’s exactly what Ahsoka did.”

“Wait,” said Tony in surprise before looking at Jacob. “I remember those. My master showed it to me during my early days of training.”

“Glad you remember.” Said Jacob, “However, the timelines changed when I chose to be involved.”

“You?” asked Shine Boy.

“Indeed,” said Jacob, “Different timelines in those worlds were created. In one; I trained the first Jedi and helped create their Lightsabers.”

He pulled out his weapon and ignited it, which surprised Tony.

“This is actually an Ark Sword, which the Lightsabers’ true designs come from.” Said Jacob, “But the difference is, whilst their Lightsabers are made of crystals, these crystals are created by a piece of our souls, literally making it part of our lives. And when they are passed down, they gain their memories through the soul crystal. Though they learn how to fight, they can create their own ones and add to the fire.”

He placed it away as he continued.

“I intervened when Ahsoka was framed.” Said Jacob, “Before she ran, I was disguised as a clone, and told her to trust me, for I have a plan to help her. At first she was hesitant, but she trusted me. Whilst she did that, I secretly sent my forces to every clone to remove certain chips from their heads. I told Anakin that I have things under control, even though the clones on Coruscant blocked him, I pretended that the order would come from the Supreme Chancellor. During that time, I caught him and have him fight me. During that time, I dragged him into a courtyard, where I had an illusion and broadcast set up. I tricked him into exposing himself as the Sith Lord, and have him revealed that he was the one who started the Clone Wars between the Separatists and the Republic, as well as his plan to wipe out the Jedi, and to use Anakin to destroy it. When I dropped the illusion, everyone witnessed it and were horrified, even the Jedi and the Clones. He was arrested for his crimes, but the betrayal hung deeply in the air. But there were still those who were loyal to Palpatine. And when Windu was killed, they continued to bring an end to the war and other uprisings. And the rest was history.”

Shine Boy was surprised by this outcome. “And…the other?”

“I created Kingdom hearts and trained the first Keyblade wielders, including the Master of Masters.” Said Jacob, “When Sora was at his lowest, he asked why the blade chose him, which I intervened and helped. I explained that not everyone can predict the outcome, and that it was natural for wha the did, he wanted to protect his student, and he fought those who became villains for a reason. But I had to reveal the truth that being a Keyblade wielder was in his blood, for both his grandfathers were Keyblade wielders. And I told him that the keyblade didn’t choose him to be its wielder, but myself. I told him that the universe needs a keyblade wielder, and that none of them had the same drive of what it meant to be a hero, and that he was chosen to be an equalizer, a balance between Light and Dark, for he had walked those two paths before, even if one of them was temporary.”

Jacob looked at Shine Boy, “So you see, there are others who walked the same path like you did, who also felt the same way. But that didn’t mean one should give up.”

“But even though the two turned their lives around, I’m worried that what we might encounter will never be enough.” Said Shine Boy, “And everyone would constantly be brought down and would die because of it and…I felt like I’ve reached my limit and I don’t know what to do.”

“Not if you show them a different way.” Said Jacob.

Shine Boy looked at him and said, “You believe?”

“As a certain bald mutant once said,” said Jacob, “Just because someone stumbles, and loses their way, it doesn’t mean that they’re lost forever. Sometimes we all need a little help, even the leaders.”

“I know.” Said Shine Boy, “But I do the best of my abilities, and it almost overwhelms me.”

“You’re afraid.” Said Jacob, “And the others know this.”

“And…it’s my fault for what happened to Connor.” Said Shine Boy.

“Tony,” said Jacob, “That wasn’t your fault. You didn’t know something like this would happen. And Connor’s destiny had already been put into motion long before he met all of you. The same goes for Splinter.”

“And I know others were still sensitive about the thing with Jagwar,” said Jacob, “Which is why I told the Daiyou that no one will participate until they turn 25.”

“Wait, what?” asked Shine Boy.

“You are right about one thing; they have feelings and they need to think,” said Jacob, “But teens around that age tend to make impulsive decisions and would do more harm than good, if you believe in all that teenage drama. And their maturity hadn’t fully develop yet. Something that my last student failed to realize when the Death Knight threat arose.”

"Death Knights?" asked Shine Boy.

"An ancient enemy." said Jacob, "“My family had fought them for over a hundred thousand years, and they continue to be a threat to this very day.”"

Shine Boy looked at Jacob.

“And it’s not just their pain you’re afraid of, it’s also your own.” Said Jacob. “And as scary as it may sound, that pain can make us stronger, for if you allow yourself to feel it. Embrace it. It would make you more powerful than you can ever imagine. It’s also our greatest gift, to bear their pain without breaking. Because of the single and greatest of powers…hope.”

Jacob couldn't help but smile at Shine Boy, for in a way...he reminded him of a lot like him.

“And can I tell you a secret?” said Jacob, which Shine Boy looked at him. “I used to think like that, same with half of my friends and students.”

This surprised Shine Boy.

“And did you know the last time I onetime argued with one of my old students, Master Yoda?” said Jacob, “When he didn't want me to go help others in need. 'Do not concern yourself with others, Jacob.' he once told me, 'Sentiment can only lead you to attachments and the journey to the dark side'.”

Shine Boy was surprised by what she said. “Sorry for caring.”

“But beings like us,” said Jacob whilst reassuring Shine Boy, “We are born and strengthened from those sentiments. We do not fight to kill our enemies or fight for the thrills and excitements. We fight to protect our loved ones, because it was the right thing to do and because we made a promise to those, we want to help who have struggled as much as the other. That is why it cuts so deeply, when we felt like we failed them and the promise that we made.”

Shine Boy didn't have the words to say. “Wow. You really do get it. Thanks.”

“Anytime,” said Jacob, “But you shouldn’t let those doubts feed on you. Sometimes old habits can die hard, especially when you want to make the change yourself.”

“And now Roland’s doing it again, despite he promised not to.” Said Shine Boy.

“But you noticed something, didn’t you?” said Jacob.

This confused Shine Boy, until Jacob used his power to create holographic screens, showing the events that happened, which surprised Shine Boy. He saw the footage of Roland scolding the Mane 6 and Rock N Beats, as well as Applejack and Rarity. But it was paused.

“You see that face?” said Jacob. “What you saw there, was no emotion, no remorse, nor regret, nor pain. Only anger.”

“And?” asked Shine Boy before looking at Jacob, “What of it?”

Jacob smiled from underneath and showed him another footage, this time of him and Princess Twilight arguing.

“What do you see?” asked Jacob.

Shine Boy looked at Roland’s face. And that’s when he saw it. The remorse, regret, and pain, even wanting to shed tears.

“The demon robbed Roland more than just his humanity.” Said Jacob before he and Shine Boy looked at one another, “It robbed him of his emotions.”

Shine Boy looked again as Jacob explained.

“That is why his friendships never fully developed, or how he and Sunset didn’t take the next step of their relationship, because the demon side had been eating at him for years. His Shine Boy and Gamer may have tried to save him, but it only slowed it down. They saved him from the demon, but not enough to restore his emotions.”

Jacob showed an image of Roland, who was not at the village’s river after talking to Princess Twilight. There they saw Roland sitting down onto the rock near the river, sitting down, crying with his head lowered.

“I’m sorry, Twilight.” Said Roland before grasping his head, “I’m so sorry…please forgive me…”

This shocked Shine Boy when he saw Roland in that state.

“Because all of you removed the demon side, you gave back the one thing that had been stripped from him.”

Jacob looked at Shine Boy, “You brought back his emotions, and he was experiencing them for the very first time. What he said came from his heart and not Batman, because he was afraid for Princess Twilight, fearing that she would make the same mistake as the other one.”

He looked at the image, with Shine Boy also looking and focused.

“All that pain, all that regret, all the anguish, and the horrors he went through that he kept at bay, was because of the demon side. But now that he is free of it. He is experiencing it for the very first time.”

He placed his hand on Shine Boy.

“In other words, Tony Bedding, you’ve given Roland a great gift, the one thing that he lost so long ago. That is one thing you can be proud of. He’ll still need help, but now he will find the one thing that he had lost…his humanity.”

He held onto Shine Boy’s shoulder and said, “And he already sees you as his own brother. He may not say it, but one day, he will, for he, like you, will have a role to play in the grand scheme of things. And don’t worry, Roland will apologize to Princess Twilight, you’ll just have to wait and see But if you require proof, follow Roland until he reaches Princess Twilight’s cabin.”

Jacob looked at him and could see Shine Boy was still worried.

“Still,” said Shine Boy, “I wish fate wasn’t so unkind to Roland. I wish none of this would’ve happened.”

“So do all, who walk the same path as you and who live to see such times, but that is not for us to decide.” Said Jacob, “All we have to do is to decide what to do with the gifts, friends, and family that time itself has given to us.”

Shine Boy looked at Jacob, “There are other works in play besides good and evil. Roland was meant to find his way to all of you, he was meant to be reunited to those that he felt he lost hope in. But unknown to them, there’s still the small bit of light that kept him from being consumed by evil, the one that helped continue to hold onto hope, just as you were meant to help guide him the way. But there are two ways to guide that light. One such as yours…”

Jacob smirked and leaned towards him.

“And the other, who will be his light that will shine the way with calm and peace.” Said Jacob, “In other words, his own spitfire and soulmate, with someone you know.”

This shocked Shine Boy when he used the word soulmate. But the question is…with whom.

“And do you think you’re the only one who wielded the Shine Power?”

This confused Shine Boy greatly.

“There were many warriors who wielded the Shine Power, your ancestors, other warriors of Light, and the Knights like Zion, all of them wielded the powers of light. And one day when you have your own moment.”

He pressed his finger against his chest.

“That light, is all over the Multiverse.” Said Jacob, “Believe in it, and they will be with you…always.”

Those words motivated Shine Boy as he looked down, but he couldn’t help but smile and look at Jacob.

“Thank you.”

“You’re most welcome.” Said Jacob.

Shine Boy stood up and said, “I’d better get back to the others. We still need more information from the Shaman.”

“You do that.” Said Jacob as he shook Shine Boy’s hand. But he suddenly quirked a brow, but thankfully quickly.

Just as Shine Boy walked…

“One more thing,” said Jacob, which Shine Boy stopped and looked at him, “When you hear someone shout incoming, be sure you and Serenity duck…unless you two wanna smell like Kiwi for a week.”

This confused him greatly, but nodded his head, confirming he received the message.

Jacob walked Shine Boy walk, but once he did, Jacob suddenly had a concerned look.

When he held Shine Boy’s hand, he felt the water in his body via his water bending, and he could feel something was very off.

He looked at the scanner and could see his body was in great stress, and some of his organs appeared hurt. He then used his appraising eye and saw that Shine Boy’s Shine powers were completely off.

‘That’s not good.’ Jacob thought before turning it off, ‘Not good at all. If what I felt is true, then I’d better get my gear and equipment ready.’

Jacob used his mindsight ability and could see Daniel among the folks.

“Hmmm.” He pondered. “Maybe we can find some common ground.”

He stood up and teleported to Daniel, hoping to clear some things between them.

*************************************************************************************************

As Daniel walked, he couldn't help but feel haunted by Shine Boy's words.

“Because it's my choice. Respect it and I'll respect yours.”

Daniel scoffed at that, “Do what you want.”

“Why indeed?”

Daniel startled and saw Jacob sitting there nearby.

“And you are?” Daniel asked.

“Call me Jacob,” Jacob replied, “I'm just watching from afar.”

“You saw that, huh?” asked Daniel.

“I did.” said Jacob, before raising an eyebrow. “Don't you think you were a little unfair to him?”

“Unfair?” said Daniel, as if insulted, “You're taking his side!!! After what he did!!!”

“And you thought you'd stoop to his level?” asked Jacob as he frowned.

Jacob shook his head.

“So, this is the great Daniel, agent of the Time Force and SPD and student of the Wind Ninja and Pai Zhuq academies?” said Jacob. “I'm not impressed.”

“Yes, I've already been told that,” Daniel said.

“You know, he finally apologizes to you for being a jerk, and you still don't believe him?” said Jacob. “You could have at least tried, accepted it. After everything that had happened.”

Daniel shook his head. “Does he really think his world is the only tragic one? Does he think it's all about him? I've seen a world far worse than his and the people I've met would make him look like a poor wounded puppy, but of course, I'm the only unpathetic one here.”

Suddenly Daniel felt his mouth was wrapped around some kind of mana magic and he tried to break free, but no magic could be affected. But when he looked, he saw Jacob holding him down using magic he had never seen before, much more advanced.

“Phew, the youth of today never listen and think it's all about them,” Jacob said before getting up and slowly walking towards him, “Normally I would never use the authoritative tone, but given what I've seen.”

Nevertheless, Daniel broke free of Jacob's spell, arching a brow.

“How did you do that?” Jacob asked.

“You're not the only one who learned tricks.”

‘Hmm, impressive.’ Thought Jacob, ‘No wonder the academies told me about him and praised him.’

Jacob cleared his throat and spoke to him.

“In case you didn't get the memo or don't know me, Daniel.” said Jacob, “Just as it was me who created the Digital World, I created the Morphing Network long ago, trained the Morphing Masters and trained every boss like Zordon to lead every Ranger team in history, including the Wind Ninja and Pai Zhuq academies and your precious little Time Force and SPD.”

This surprised Daniel.

“The point is, every time you were cornered and you were about to be killed by your enemies, and magically, a portal would open up and tell you to go inside to be safe.”

It was then that Daniel understood.

“So, what,” Daniel said, “I owe you now?”

Jacob took a deep breath and calmed down.

“No.” said Jacob. “I just want you to listen to me. You say the world doesn't evolve around people like him? Well, look who's talking. Because let me remind you of the Ninja, SPD, and Time Force academies. Each of them help develop discipline, honor, compassion, trust, and respect. A few things you obviously don't have.

“Of course I have all those qualities, but some people want to take advantage of them.”

“Not always,” Jacob said. “Yes, there are some who take advantage, but just because one does doesn't mean everyone does. Like Shine Boy said, we're not all the same.”

He approached Daniel and said, “For the sake of every life that is precious, we have to choose to be better. Otherwise, we would be no different than the people we are trying to save.”

“Why didn't you say that to Ronald?”

Jacob ignored Daniel's question.

“And as for your supposed qualities.” said Jacob, “you say you have discipline, honor, compassion, and respect. Yet, from what I have seen, what you did with Roland. You were impatient with him, you were ashamed to look down on him, you treated him with cruelty, and although respect must be earned, he did not respect you, because you showed him none.”

“And he acted differently? No, tell me why he should act?”

Then he narrowed his eyes.

“You may have only had, what, a decade of training?” said Jacob. “I was trained by all the masters of all the worlds, taught by the greatest masters that even a living mortal couldn't see since I was six years old. And for the first five months I was away, I spent fifty years traveling the Multiverse. When I returned home, I regained my normal age, but all the training I endured did not disappear. So, the process continued. I spent about six hundred years training. Eventually, I became the wisest, smartest, most skilled, and powerful to be a doctor, soldier, martial artist, pilot, hunter, etc., in over a hundred thousand dimensions.”

This surprised Daniel as Jacob continued.

“When I was betrayed, I spent six years hunting down those responsible and sold myself. I killed monsters, beasts, and every form of abomination imaginable. I even killed Zeus and his fellow pantheon members. In time, I became known as...”

“The Wraith of Earth Prime.” muttered Daniel.

“That's right.” said Jacob before looking at Daniel. “When I finally accepted my destiny as the Chosen One, I trained the next generation of the Order, trying to increase our numbers before going out into the Multiverse. But I didn't know that the Death Knights convinced any and all enemies of the Rangers, VILE and many others to perform their criminal acts, while I trained any and all benefactors to infiltrate and guide the heroes to stop them. I mean, the things you learned from them; you only scratched the surface of their potential. After all.”

Daniel looked at Jacob. But there was no anger, only a sense of compassion and honor. He knelt down and presented his hand to him.

“Now then.” said Jacob before making a root beer appear in his hand and presenting it to him. “are we ready to talk?”

“I don't drink.” said Daniel and Jacob exchanged the beer for a liter Coke. “Then what do you want to talk about, but don't expect me to become Ronald or Bats lapdog, let alone yours.”

“I wouldn't trade it for the world,” Jacob said.

He snapped his fingers and created a fire for the two of them to sit across from each other. But to Daniel's surprise, a pot was created and, at the same time, magic was used to place various ingredients, including pieces of boar meat.

“So, you cook too?” asked Daniel.

“Of course,” Jacob said, “I learned all the ways to cook. And truth be told, in another world, Mexico is full of anthropomorphic animals. And it looks cannibalistic, as some are wild boars and kill domestic animals, but surprisingly they know how to cook well. Tell me, do you cook too?”

“I had to learn, I wasn't born in a cradle of gold, we had to make do with what there was.”

Jacob served him and Daniel food in their respective bowls and they accepted it. As they ate, Jacob began to eat at a slow pace. At that Jacob saw that Daniel had two SPD badges on his neck.

“Why do you have two badges?” He asked.

“One was my brother's.” Daniel said.

“You had a brother?” said Jacob in concern, “No one knew.”

“Hey, I don't go through life saying what happened in my life with just anyone.”

“Okay, I'm sorry if you felt pressured, now if you don't mind, what happened to him?”

“On our first mission in SPD we had to infiltrate one of the Trubian ships while they were in orbit, we were met by a series of gunshots, my brother resisted, but his suit and equipment were badly damaged, nothing the bio-foam could fix, going out in those conditions would not be safe for him.” Daniel recounted. “We were supposed to install a bomb, but while we were infiltrating the timer got fried, it had to be triggered by hand, my brother did it, I tried to convince him not to do it, that we could find a solution, but there was none.” He paused. “He gave us enough time to leave, after that day I never saw him again.”

He felt a hand on his shoulder, gaining his attention, with Jacob looking at him in sympathy.

“I'm sorry about that.” Said Jacob, “I know what it’s like to lose someone close to you like that.”

He sat back down whilst they both fell silent before continuing.

“Well.” said Jacob. “No drama, no tone, and no moody attitude, why are you being so hard on him?”

Daniel wanted to speak, but noticed Jacob was looking at him calmly. After taking a drink, he sighed.

“It's just that...” said Daniel. “Ever since I met Roland, he wouldn't stop talking about what had happened in his world. Because of him Raph, Sunset, Twilight and AJ and his family died, and all because he couldn't see past that stupid forced promise from Mikey and his so-called friend who wasn't his friend.”

“Ok, you may be right about the Frankie part, though half right.”

“What do you mean?” Daniel asked.

“I'll tell you later, but back to the subject at hand, the thing about Ronald made you think he was making up stories and looking for an excuse to be pitied.” said Jacob as he pointed with the spoon. “You could have at least been patient with him.”

“And what,” Daniel said, “Let him keep knocking others down? Let him fawn over Mikey, thinking he needs special treatment? And before the fight Mikey was going to, Roland offered to train him, but he turned everyone down. Besides, I don't remember you telling Ronald to be a patient here.”

“Maybe you're right about that last part.” said Jacob. “But speaking of that fight, because of that drama, friendships parted and it left a bitter taste in everyone's mouth.”

“Tell me about it.” said Daniel as he rolled his eyes.

“I can't.” said Jacob, confusing Daniel. “Because neither you nor I saw it. Neither did the others in your circle of friends. So, when you see tensions and drama between them, you don't see what the cause was, or why they fought, or how it all started. You saw what you wanted to see. You see drama, and then you see them.

“But... the fights between them and the drama...”

“You saw that superficially,” Jacob said, “but your problem is that you wouldn't see things from the other's perspective if you were in their shoes.”

Before Daniel could say anything....

“Take Roland as an example,” Jacob said, “he did his best to try to keep his friendships together, but because of his fears and the trauma that awakened the beast inside him, they all became separated, which led him to make rash decisions that others didn't agree with. But because of the childhood trauma he experienced, it defeated and destroyed him. Team Shine couldn't help him because somehow, their identities were exposed to the world, and their enemies hunted them down and they were all forced to flee and couldn't help any of their friends, not even Roland, considering he trusts Team Shine with his life more than anyone else. When they all fell apart, everything Roland had feared and tried to prevent finally happened.”

Daniel looked down for a moment, unsure how to respond to that.

“So, what Roland told you was true, from a certain point of view, of course.” said Jacob.

Daniel just rolled his eyes. “Yes I know, everyone believes what they want to believe.”

“Daniel, you'll have to learn that, of the many truths we all have.” said Jacob before taking a spoonful and swallowing it. “We always rely heavily on our own point of view. You're so focused on the titles, their reputations, and their actions, that you don't bother to get to know them like Shine Boy does. He understands it better than anyone else. As a gentleman and as a hero, that's the kind of people we need. That's the real beacon of hope that everyone sees.”

“Have you seen Shine Boy these days? I wouldn't describe him as a beacon of hope.” Daniel said. “And contrary to what you think, I don't focus on titles, their reputations, and their actions; but first impressions are always important. And Ronald and Mikey never made a good first impression.”

“Anyway, people like Shine Boy,” Jacob said, “Never gave up on the people he wanted to help, because of his determination and fighting spirit. Like a handful of others, he didn't give up on Roland when he wanted to change his life. You did. Half the people who worked with him did. Which has always been a problem.”

“What's that supposed to mean?” Daniel said.

“You claim you fight for the good.” said Jacob before pointing a spoon at him. “And yet you think he didn't want help. why?”

“Because he's a lost cause,” Daniel said.

“The same thing happened to Ransik.” said Jacob. “And to Jarrod and Megatron, too.”

This made him pause for a moment.

“And before you continue.” said Jacob. “You claim they were close friends and brothers in arms of Raph and Applejack, and yet you didn't care if they almost killed their friends.”

“Yeah, well, if Batman had told them why the Joker was so dangerous and not kept it a secret, they wouldn't have rushed in there.” said Daniel.

“They were overconfident,” said Jacob. “If there's one thing my mentors told me, it's to never underestimate your enemies. Because even if you had all the training, it wouldn't prepare you for real life experiences. Raph's temper had always been out of control, always lashing out and questioning Leo's leadership. And because of his anger, Raph constantly quit and almost got his friends killed. And because of his own insecurities and fears that no one understands him and he's constantly trying to prove he's better, he tends to take his anger out on others without even thinking about the consequences.”

“And for guys like you it's easier to bastardize Raph than to say that others are wrong?” Daniel said.

“Okay, yeah, Raph and AJ were right in the end about Batman and he apologized to them.” Jacob said. “And then there's Applejack, since you admire her and Sunset so much, here's something you didn't know. Something that is the same in both her world and Roland's. Something he told Team Shine. I've seen it myself and it's...very different than I could have imagined.”

“Do you think I don't know Sunset's story? I know very well who she was, she did everything she could to change, but to many that wasn't enough, but of course, I'm the only one who does that?” Daniel said.

“Then you should know that after Sunset was defeated, Princess Twilight could see how guilty she looked, even if she had to call on the power of harmony to help her realize that. She asked the girls to take care of her, to teach her about friendship, to help her give her a chance to earn her trust, and made them promise to take care of her. Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie, the kindest and most enthusiastic of the group, were willing to give her a chance, but Rarity wasn't quite on board with this, and Rainbow and Applejack refused.”

“Yes I know.” said Daniel.

“See?” said Jacob as he pointed. “Even friends tend to hide things they're not proud of. As Night Shine would say; some idiots refuse to let mistakes like that go. And the fact that Princess Twilight made a mistake by trusting them...”

“But...” said Daniel as if to protest.

“Let me stop you for a moment.” said Jacob. “If you asked anyone else to babysit a friend to help you, I'd believe you.”

“That's not the point.”

“Then what is the point according to you?” Jacob asked.

“The point is that they could have said no, everyone could have said no, but they didn't, and like you said, Princess Twilight made a mistake in believing that it would be easy for CHS to learn her lessons, but the truth is that she can't force anyone to learn their lessons or force them to make friends.”

Jacob arched an eyebrow. “What's that about?”

“In an alternate world, Sunset left CHS after the events of Anon-A-Miss.” Daniel said.

“Really?” before he muttered, “Huh, forgot about that part.”

“She was sick of everything, of everyone assaulting her, of being accused, that's why she left.”

“But she was running away, and running from the past doesn't solve anything.”

Daniel nodded. “By the time the truth came out, everyone became more miserable, but still, Sunset was better off without them, made a new life at CPA, became friends with the Shadow Five and Twilight.”

“Well, you said it yourself...there's the consequences of judging a book by its cover. Although, again, the CMCs, Sunset, and all of them in any world have a history of doing something extreme, so I agree with you on that.” Jacob admitted.

“Why are you defending him?” asked Daniel.

“I'm not.” said Jacob. “I'm just trying to get you to understand how the human mind works.”

Jacob handed him a book on psychology and another on understanding the mind. Daniel looked at him with a frown.

“And this helps...why?” asked Daniel.

“Because when someone at a very young age experiences a traumatic event, it can have very damaging side effects on their psyche. And because of that, your mind will experience psychological damage that can affect your maturity and adolescence. And when you are older, your mind will be so damaged that you will cause harm not only to yourself, but to those around you.”

Jacob helped himself to more food as he continued.

“It may not be a big problem for you and some people, but if you run into something like that, then you need help with the right kind of people.”

“People like him don't want any help,” Daniel said.

“There's a difference between wanting help and needing it.” said Jacob, before looking at Daniel. “And you want to talk about lost causes? Let's see the list, shall we?”

He pulled out the pictures of all the SPD Ranger equipment and showed them.

“Jack didn't care about the rules and tried to talk his way out of it. Sky was brash, arrogant, impetuous, cocky, bossy, and mean. He thought he was better than the others, even saying he wouldn't follow either of them because one was a girl and the other wasn't leader material. Although he thought he deserved to be a Red Ranger, that's why Cruger made him a Blue Ranger, so he could learn humility and follow someone else's orders. And Syd was also a spoiled, selfish child. Cruger even treated his Rangers like dirt because of his recent nightmares about what had happened to his team in Sirius.”

He then showed a picture of Alex.

“Alex was a loner and, when he tried to take control, he belittled his entire team and didn't care about the future. He was so blinded by rules and regulations that he didn't care about the risks. Jen and Wes were even impossible to deal with.”

“And that's coming from someone who moments ago was telling me the importance of following the rules?” Daniel told Jacob.

“And that's coming from someone who has hundreds of reports for insubordination?”

“Only when my leaders are wrong.”

He then showed the Wind Ninja Rangers and the Masters of Jungle Fury.

“And don't get me started on these.” said Jacob before he was interrupted.

“And you judge me for not giving Ronald a chance?”

Jacob shook his head. “You still don't see the point.”

He set down his bowl and paced back and forth.

“Take Ransik for example,” Jacob said, “When he was born a mutant, he was constantly ostracized and rejected by everyone. And because of that, his mind was broken, while his heart grew cold at the same time. There were people who tried to help them, someone like Frax, but he too turned him into a monster. It wasn't until the right events happened, and the realization that he had killed his daughter, that brought him to his senses.”

Jacob then spoke of another.

“Then there's Jarrod,” Jacob said. “When he was young, many children bullied him, his parents were absent. But as he grew older, his torments haunted him into adulthood. And when he was denied what he wanted, he released Daishi and was possessed by it when he lost it. But he was finally able to free himself.”

“And you never know why Sunset is always angry? Why is she always prone to anger?” Jacob asked.

“Of course I know, her father.” Daniel.

“He died in a train accident,” said Jacob. “Because of that, she was completely traumatized, so was her family. And that kind of trauma can turn into anger, wanting to blame something and blinding you with the lust for power.”

Jacob leaned toward him and said, “Trauma, pain and tragedy can change a person completely, something you, more than anyone else, seem to know, just a little. After all, that's what led Ransik down a dark path.”

Daniel was speechless. “But...”

“And in case you're wondering about his mother.” said Jacob, “She didn't know what his mother had gone through because she was never home. She went to magic school after her father died. Who do you think took care of everything at home?”

“Celestia.” said Daniel and Jacob nodded.

“She had to take on that role because her mother was a mess because she lost her soul mate. Her brother Sunburst was a clueless fish who couldn't comb his hair even if his life depended on it and that was the cause of her magic not being able to cast them, Celestia had to take care of both of them. Twice, in fact. Celestia was protecting her, you short-sighted fool, as everyone who cares about her always does,” said Jacob.

“But if things were so bad, then why didn't Princess Celestia or Princess Twilight tell her? Daniel demanded.

“Because they were protecting her too,” said Jacob.

“But protecting her from what? From the truth? Or were they protecting themselves? Sunset deserved the truth, at some point they should have told her the truth, but they didn't.”

“Do you think it's easy to tell the truth?”

“No, but what a lie, an illusion, I see it now, Sunset didn't leave because she didn't get what she wanted, she left because she felt betrayed by people who were close to her for keeping the truth from her.”

“Why do you say that?”

“I know what it's like to say everything is okay when it's not.” Daniel said. “What it's like to put on a fake smile and tell the world everything is fine just so they won't worry, but in reality all you're doing is protecting yourself.”

“Daniel...” Jacob said. “What's wrong?”

“Nothing, this isn't about me.”

“Well, I'll let it go for now.” said Jacob. “Look, Sunset is your friend and always will be, Daniel, there's no doubt about that. And life hasn't always been fair and easy for them. But that doesn't mean life has been fair and easy for everyone else.”

“Tell that to Ronald.”

He sat back as Daniel kept his head down.

“From what I've seen of you so far,” Jacob said, “you have the makings of a great warrior, you're the kind of person who isn't afraid to ask the right questions or take a stand. But... from what you've told me, you've also held things back.”

“I don't need sympathy now, like I said, this isn't about me,” Daniel said.

“Very well then.” Said Jacob. “Now, another topic. Why did you think Roland should’ve known about the demon contract?”

“Because even a kid would know that there are things you shouldn't mess with even as a joke.” Said Daniel.

Jacob flexed his brow.

“You mean like how Sunset knew Twilight’s crown would turn her into a demon monster when she thought it would turn her into an alicorn?” said Jacob in a sarcastic tone. “Or that she boasted that Princess Twilight didn’t know what would happen if anyone would be exposed to Equestrian Magic when she didn’t exactly know that either?”

This caused Daniel to pause.

“Although, then again, when it comes to the unknown, there are many secrets that we don’t know.” Said Jacob, “Especially since none of them knew that Twilight was the reason Equestrian Magic continues to leak into their world.”

This surprised Daniel as he looked at Jacob. He showed him footage, and could see the crack on top of the statue, whilst magic was leaking through like gas.

“Twilight didn’t know all of this would happen either,” said Jacob, “But because she didn’t stay out of those kinds of affairs, she caused Equestrian Magic to leak through. If you thought she looked hurt because she felt responsible for the whole Midnight Sparkle situation…imagine how she would feel if she found out she was responsible for half the folks who turned into Equestrian Magical monsters.”

He placed it away and said, “In every world, in every Canterlot High, from every Rainboom, every Twilight, or in this case, Sci-Twi, had put their worlds’ destinies into motion that would cause magical disasters to happen.”

He placed the footage away.

“And as for Sunset,” said Jacob, “Though she is destined for great things, her frustrations tend to get in the way. And because of it, it too set her own destiny into motion.”

“How do you know that?” asked Daniel.

“One of my allies, the CA group, watched over the Sunset Shimmer of that universe,” said Jacob, “But she fell to the dark side and became a Sith because the Dazzlings, who somehow got there and also became evil, manipulated her into thinking her friends abandoned her. When they freed her, instead of going back home, she chose to stay behind to make up for her deeds, even when she was not fully to blame.”

“And when she came to help them at Hogwarts, a couple of associates, named Postwar and Arctic, chose to look after her. But because of the backlash of her past of CHS and the Star Wars realm, her frustrations grew. And Rainbow Dash, in her idiocy for bringing up past mistakes, caused Sunset to lash out and argue with Princess Twilight. And in turn, she also brought out a sensitive topic at Postwar’s loss of family when they were destroyed.”

This surprised Daniel.

“Postwar, in his anger,” said Jacob, “Also pointed out that Sunset tried to do things on her own and sarcastically mentioned of how it didn’t work out for her. He then brought up topics like how she tried to use the crown to turn herself into a princess, but it turned her into a demon instead. And how she tried to become a better person, yet she constantly let her emotions get the better of her that caused her to lash out at everyone. He pointed her that everyone tried to warn her to keep her emotions in check, but she kept losing it. And that she thought she was entitled to everything because she worked hard and suffered, but it wouldn’t be enough. And that she needed to be balanced, committed, be mindful and be worthy, but instead she proved to be a mistake.”

Daniel was shocked and stared in disbelief.

“He also told her that it’s no wonder she didn’t become an Alicorn, or a Princess, or even a bearer to the Elements of Harmony. And that she was ridiculous, immature, hot headed, half-witted moron, and that he never met a sadder, more attention starving prat, and that he knew folks like that, and that Discord was right about a few things, for she would never be a hero and could never save anyone, for she couldn’t even save a relationship with Flash Sentry, the same one she didn’t notice, wanted to get back together with her since camp Everfree. And that he was surprised that she didn’t die alone and that she still even have friends considered she chose to ditch them, and that it's one of Harmony’s best jokes, that she didn’t die, expect that would be on all of them.”

“That little…” growled Daniel.

“Believe me, after their mission was over, I had a stern talking to him too.” Said Jacob. “But the point is, when she’s old enough, she’ll let it go, same with Mikey growing up.”

“Which he seems to never do.” Muttered Daniel.

“The timing for it was not yet right.” Said Jacob, which confused Daniel. “Mikey will grow up, just not yet. And it doesn’t help for the fact that he was born with ADHD.”

This surprised Daniel.

“Believe me, I’m surprised about it too.” Said Jacob, “And as for Roland, he will one day change his ways. But there’s a reason he hasn’t been completely turned evil yet. Because the smallest light was still keeping him sane and hold onto hope. But it’s no ordinary light.”

Jacob then told him the truth about the light, and what resided within Roland. When he was finished…Daniel was shocked.

“I…don’t know what to say.” Said Daniel.

“Which is the reason I’m trying to free him.” Said Jacob, “But the timing is not yet right. Believe me, I want him back, but the fates told me I have to wait. For if I act too soon, his fate will be sealed, and I will lose him forever.”

Jacob wiped his tear, with Daniel realizing he was telling the truth.

“Which is what your leaders were trying to tell you about him, but you didn’t listen.” Said Jacob.

“If what you said is true, why didn't you convince them to expel me?” asked Daniel.

“Because just like them, I see potential in you, just like the Splinter you met in Ronald's world, plus you still have a role to play in all of this.” said Jacob.

This made Daniel pause and feel confused.

“What role?” he asked.

“It was no accident that you met Roland, nor that you were immediately suspicious of him the moment you met him when you found out.” said Jacob. “In fact, this is all setting up for something big.”

Jacob motioned for him to sit down next to him. Though wary, Daniel did so as Jacob watched him.

“Since your universe was created, I watched it for a while until one day I discovered this.”

He pulled out something that looked like a tablet. Daniel took it and looked at it. He could see many manuscripts. But when he saw the images, which looked very familiar, his eyes opened wide.

“I told my fellow sages at Almortigar Ramos about this and they confirmed that it is legitimate,” Jacob said. “A great battle is coming and one day, when the time comes, everyone will be there. And through that, a great and powerful energy, known as the star of harmony, will awaken and grant them that great power to defeat that great evil.”

He picked up the tablet and continued.

“Don't you see? Everything is connected. The meeting of the Turtles and the Rainbooms, their journey to different worlds, the meeting with different allies, you and Roland, everything. It's all connected,” Jacob said. “And maybe you don't know them as well as you think you do.”

Before Daniel could say anything, Jacob signaled him to stop.

“You didn't think someone else was responsible for destroying your friendship...behind the scenes?”

This made Daniel look at him in confusion.

“Someone who made Roland break up his friendships,” Jacob said, “Someone who made Mikey think he was the victim and that he was special. Someone who made Bright Eyes commit suicide and expose Team Shine. Someone who got Sunset, Raph, and Twilight out of the way. Someone...who wanted to use someone...to become his own vehicle.”

Jacob showed him the tablet. Daniel took it and looked at the images. After looking at some of them over and over again, that's when he saw it. He saw the real mastermind behind it all. The real culprit of having caused a rift between everyone. Of having broken someone from the inside.

“Hijo de tu chin...”

Jacob stopped him. “Language.”

“Someone else knows about this.”

“You're the first. Ronald, Batman, and Shine boy will be next, the others will have to wait.”

“I insist that someone else knows.”

“Who?”

“Sunset. It's because of her that we're here.”

“All right, but only her, the others will have to wait. And I think you might need some of these.” Jacob said as he pulled out a box of Morphers. “These are the Master Morpher Generation 5.”

Daniel took the red Morpher. “I don't think I should, according to the files the most qualified person was...”

“I know.” Jacob said. “But I know very well he knew you were the best choice. Or you can use this one.” Then Jacob pulled out an SPD Morpher.

“The Prime Morpher? It's not finished yet; Kat and I were supposed to do...”

“It's finished, I finished it, now it's up to you.”

Daniel slowly accepted it and looked at it. He could feel an immense power coming from it.

From afar, someone was spying on the village and spotted the individuals. That individual was Dregg and his forces.

“There they are.” Said Lord Dregg.

“What are our orders?” asked Mung.

“Prepare our Vreen.” Said Lord Dregg, “We shall take them as prisoners and demand the rest to give up the artifacts.”

The Vreen left with Lord Dregg. However, one of the Footbots spotted something and stopped the rest. It scanned a certain individual, which was none other than Jacob Drake.

Suddenly, their visors went from red to purple black. And then…they transformed.

The robot then opened communications and spoke in an ancient tongue that none knew nothing about. But it sounded like…an invasion order.

*******************************************************************************************

From within the camp, Roland, and the others, once their heads had cooled, all sat near the fire as the Shaman spoke.

“I can sense that all of you had a harrowing experience of what was said.” Said the Shaman.

“In more ways than one.” Muttered Roland. He felt Shine Boy holding his shoulder, remembering what Jacob had said to him and tried to be a beacon of hope. “I just wish I…didn’t have all this…I want to move on, I really do, but…I don’t know how. I try so hard to let everyone in but…why am I afraid?”

“You are letting the fear of your past, cloud your future, Roland.” Said the Shaman, “You, your companions in this room, and the rest of your friends cannot face what’s ahead if you choose to hold onto the strings of oppression. For if all of you are to become what you are meant to be, then you must choose to embrace your full voice, the true voice of change. Only then, will all of you be free.”

Princess Twilight remembered what Roland said, what Jacob said, and now the Shaman. For she really did held herself back and chased others away.

Luz and Amity were also once like that. Though it had been years, they cannot let those doubts cloud their future.

TK and Kari held one another’s hands, and looked at one another in concern.

Sunset also knew her frustrations constantly got in the way, and that she needs to work on them.

“You are not slaves to your own darkness,” said the Shaman, “Yet you let the smallest of things, overtake your sense of compassion and reason. For you to be free, you must learn to let go of those said obstacles. For achievements can lead one to jealousy. As some of you already know. And because of it, you let them overtake your sense of reason, and are blinded by the wicked, who do not keep their word, and perform honorless deeds. Something that Jagwar had learnt.”

“What?” said Sunset, “But what he tried to…”

“The Jagwar you knew, had a different name.” said the Shaman, “The first and second, bore the name Jagwar. It is the youngest, who now carries it.”

“Wait,” said Luz as she realized what the Shaman meant, “So you’re saying that the name Jagwar is…a title?”

“Indeed.” Said the Shaman, which surprised everyone in the room, even Roland. “The title of Jagwar was passed to the youngest, when he heard the deeds of his family. And thus, he chose to walk the honorable path, instead of a darkened one. And as of now, he is cleaning the sins of his past. And in time, will face you when he is ready.”

This caused them to look at one another, not knowing how the others will handle this.

“And now, now all of you must continue to grow, if you are to hope, the Multiverse will be free.”

“Don’t worry, we’ll stop the Shredder.” Said TK with determination.

“The Shredder, is not the true threat.”

This shocked everyone, even Roland.

“For the Shredder, is an agent, who had been sent, by the Multiverse’s greatest enemy.”

“Who could be worse than the Shredder?” asked Princess Twilight.

“They are known as the Agents of Death.” The shaman spoke and showed them through its fire.

“Long ago, the Multiverse was young, until one day, a king bearing the power of death, rose to power and enslaved many worlds. They kill half the race, and the other half are exalted, into one of them. They continue to carnage and destroy the worlds for a millennium. However, the protectors, known as the Order, rose up and fight against them. Though a hundred years ago in Multiverse time, they were wiped out during the Purge. Now they have risen, to continue to protect the innocent.”

Shine Boy clicked, and remembered what Jacob said.

“My family had fought them for over a hundred thousand years, and they continue to be a threat to this very day.”

“This is what he tried to warn us about.” Muttered Shine Boy.

“How big of a threat are they?” asked Kari.

“Remember all the evils that all of you had faced?” said the Shaman, “From the Rangers, to Team Shine’s, and many of your allies you have met and fought alongside?”

They all nodded to this, wondering where he was going with this.

“It was the King of Death, who trained and sent your enemies to wreak havoc on the innocents on every world. And in turn, the Order trained the mentors of the heroes you fought alongside.”

This shocked everyone as they looked at one another.

“For you to face your greatest enemy, you must face the Shredder, if you are truly to see, what truly is at stake. For your time grows short, but it is not the time to face them yet. And none will be safe.”

That’s when they heard clicking sounds, gaining their attention, along with every villager within.

“And your safety…is over.” Said the Shaman.

They heard loud screams, causing Roland and everyone to run outside, to see what’s going on.

Suddenly, two blades bursted through a villager, causing Amity to shriek.

“What the-?” Shine Boy dumbfounded.

The villager dropped, revealing his killer to be a certain big bounty hunter.

“HI-TECH!” Roland and Shine Boy gasped.

“Who?” Luz asked.

“He’s Dreggs most loyal bounty hunter!” Roland cried.

Shine Boy spoke as Hi-Tech stood ready to fight. “He’s also not much of a talker.”

“Oh, but I am!” The group looked up to see Dregg walk up with his second in command and an army of Vreen.

“I know you! You’re Dregg!” Shine Boy gasped.

“That’s Dregg?!” TK blinked as Kari shivered.

“That’s LORD Dregg to you, Fleshling!” Dregg sneered.

“Pretty big talk coming from a little shrimp who uses a robot body to intimidate folks.” Taunted Roland.

Dregg growled as Roland took a few steps forward.

“Tell me, what does it feel like to be weak!!” shouted Roland, “Does power all that haunt you, is that why you strive for conquest and pilot a robot body so desperately!! All who have witnessed you know the truth. Without that body, without your Vreen, you’re nothing. And another thing…”

Roland took another step forward and glared down at him.

“Vilgax is twice the warmonger you’ll ever be.”

That set him off, causing him to scream in rage.

“That does it!!” shouted Dregg, “Rip him to shreds!!”

Just as one of the Vreen stepped forward, suddenly it got shot through the right side of the head, making it collapse.

This shocked everyone in the village before they looked at the direction.

For right on top, was a sniper that was hidden from the shadows. But when it took a few steps forward…

All of them were shocked by what they saw. But they were not alone.

(picture an army of them and wearing black armor)

And last, but not least…

This shocked everyone when they saw what was standing up there. But the Mudokons, they instantly recognize them. One of them pointed out in fear.

“D…d…d…” said one of the Mudokon before shouting, “Death Knights!!!”

The sniper screeched and pointed at the village. Within mere moments, all of them attacked the village.

“Protect the village!!” shouted the Mudokon.

Some of the Mudokons transformed and carried clubs, whilst some carried laser projectile weapons and fired. Both sides fought, but when they saw how the new enemy were brutalizing some of them, some watched in fear. The Vreen were somehow caught in the middle, and ended up fighting both sides.

“You dare to get in my way!!” shouted Dregg as he foolishly tried to fight back.

Then they watched one of the warriors looked at them. Shine Boy then recognized it.

“Locust?” muttered Shine Boy.

The moment Roland looked at him, his eyes flashed, and instantly recognized it. He heard the voice.

“Here?! Now?!” said Amadeus from within. This caused Roland to snap and attack the Locust by tackling it into a hut.

“Roland!!” cried the others.

They heard loud grunt noises. Within a split second, the Locust tackled Roland outside and had him pinned to the ground, with the latter struggling, but Roland managed a punch, staggering it. When Roland saw what appeared to be his rifle, he tried to reach it, only for his hand to be stomped on, making him shout in pain, shocking the others.

Roland was grabbed and tossed hard against a large stone. He tried to reach something, with the Locust approaching him. The moment it was close, Roland grabbed a fire lamp, and used it to smash its head, making it scream as it burnt. Roland grabbed his rifle to try and shoot it, but the Locust pinned Roland against the wall.

Roland spotted a pistol of sorts at the Locust, grabbed it, and shot it through the chest, before it collapsed. Roland panted as he held onto his arm in pain, with Shine Boy and Sunset running over.

They held onto him and tried to get him to stand.

“We need to…get out of here.” Said Roland.

“This way.” Said the Shaman as he guided them away.

From nearby, Daniel fought against the new enemy with his Morpher. That was, until he saw Sunset running.

“Sunset.” Muttered Daniel, realizing that he needs to warn her. He ran over to her. “Sunset!! Sun…!!”

Suddenly, ghostlike figures appeared, blocking his way.

“What the…?!” said Daniel when he saw them, “Get out of my way!!”

He tried to push past, but they wouldn’t let him through.

Jacob was busy fighting them, when he saw armored warriors (nearly resembling to Mandalorians), landed nearby and shot some of them down.

“Evacuate the villagers, keep them at bay!!” shouted Jacob, allowing them to head off.

Then he saw the ghost like figures blocking Daniel. He was shocked, realizing what they were.

“Oh, you have got to be kidding me!!” said Jacob before going over, but then found himself being blocked by them too. “Seriously?!”

Daniel then saw an opening and used it to move through there. He walked through street by street, until he was able to find an opening to reach to her. That was, until he saw something big coming, shocking him.

Back at the others, they were able to make their way through, with the ship close to them. That was, until they were surrounded by many more of those strange forces.

“Stand your ground!!” shouted Roland.

Roland pulled out his dual pistols and started to shoot around. Shine Boy used his Shine powers and martial arts to fight, Sunset used her Kunai, Princess Twilight her Kamayari sickle spear. TK and Kari fought using their weapons, with Luz and Amity doing their best to fight.

“This is crazy, they’re extremely tough!!” said Luz before she was smacked by the Locust.

“Luz?!” exclaimed Amity, before growling and use her full abomination power to punch it away. “Get away from my girlfriend!!”

TK and Kari use their Bo-staff and Tessen fan to fight them off.

“I wish Patamon and Gatomon were here to help us!!” said Kari.

“Same here!!” said TK before he noticed Kari was smacked away, causing some of the debris to trap her leg. “Kari!!”

As he ran over to help, they heard a loud yell and grunt. Then they saw Daniel, who was depowered, battered and bruised. As he struggled to get up, they saw something terrifying walk through the fire.

They saw one of the Locust, but a larger one, and appeared to be their leader. He walked over to Daniel, who took out his blaster and shot him, but the shots kept bouncing off of him, causing the monster to grab Daniel by the neck and lift him up. Before anyone knew it, the monster rammed its knife through Daniel’s gut, shocking everyone. Roland, who was busy shooting, noticed what happened. He was shocked to see the monster, recognizing it, whilst the Monster recognized Roland for some reason, before tossing Daniel away, mortally wounded.

Roland then growled and charged up with energy, then charged towards the monster. His body glowed as he shouted.

“Equestria!! SMAAAAAAAAAASH!!!”

He kicked the monster so hard; it sent him flying through the building. Roland landed and quickly helped Daniel up whilst he grunted. Roland looked at the fires around. Just as he was about to do something, the Shaman grabbed him by the arm.

“No, you must escape!!” said the Shaman, “Come on!!”

Roland carried Daniel back to the rest of the group, with Daniel grunting.

“Why are you helping me?” grunted Daniel.

“I tried to tell you,” said Roland, “I’m trying not to be the same person anymore. And I’m really sorry for not seeing the signs sooner, something that you tried to warn me about.”

Roland placed Daniel down and used what he could to heal the wound. As the others fought, Daniel stopped Roland.

“Why are you helping me?” asked Daniel again.

Roland looked at him directly in the eye and did what Princess Twilight did.

“Because this is what friends, do.” Said Roland.

Though Daniel was surprised by what Roland had said, he heard a noise and noticed the debris coming down, so he shoved Roland out of the way before he collapsed. But as he was blocked, he didn’t see Jacob appearing and grabbed Daniel before teleporting away.

The Master turned to Roland. “Go! Escape!”

“I’m not leaving you!” Roland protested.

“My life is insignificant. You must returned to your allies! Continue your mission! Now Go!”

Shine Boy was firing his Shine Power at the Vreen when it suddenly gave out. He tried firing again but it short circuited again.

“Must’ve used too much against Luke. Roland, we have to retreat!”

“But the villagers!” Princess Twilight cried before Sunset grabbed her.

“Twilight! Remember what Jacob said!”

Princess Twilight winced before looking with determination. “You’re right! Everyone! To the ship!”

As the eight hurried towards the Ulixes, TK grabbed Kari from falling debris while Amity held onto Luz.

Mung turned to a couple Vreen. “Destroy the foundation. Let none escape!”

They soon arrived to the ship and quickly climbed in and took their positions.

“All systems go!” Roland reported.

“Ignition!” Shine Boy stepped on the pedal to start the engines. But they did not start. “Ignition! Ignition!”

Shine Boy kept stepping on the pedal but the engines would not start.

TK looked at the monitors and saw the Vreen. “Vreen at two o clock!”

The Vreen then fired at the cliff the ship was on causing it to collapse.

“We’re falling!” Shrieked Amity.

“Come on! Come on! Don’t do this to me now!” Shine Boy kept trying to start the engines.

At that very moment, Kari’s eyes lit up and placed her hands on the console which lit up the ship.

This was enough to get the engines started enough to lift the ship out of the planet.

From down below, Dregg watched as they escaped before cursing. But before he could go anywhere, he found out his Vreen were all destroyed, save for his Lieutenants, as this new entity’s guards are holding them hostage.

“You dare to challenge and defy…!!” shouted Dregg before the bigger guy shoved his hand into Dregg’s chest, pulling out his miniature version, startling the bug warlord.

The larger creature stared down at the tiny Dregg, before growling at him. He tossed the tiny Dregg away, which allowed one of the Vreen to catch him.

“Fall back, fall back!!” shouted Dregg.

One of the Vreen was able to open a gate, allowing the one carrying Dregg, and a quarter of its full force to retreat through the portal.

The large creature stared at the portal closing, before growling.

“Move out.” Growled the creature, before one of the armored beings opened a gate via its own portal ray gun.

The larger creature and many of the forces soon moved through their own portal, before closing it and leaving the ruined village behind.

*******************************************************************************************

Back on the hill, Daniel came to and sat up in shock. He looked down and saw his wounds have been healed. He was able to stand up, with Jacob helping him up.

“Easy there.” Said Jacob as he helped him up.

“What happened?” asked Daniel.

“You were stabbed by one of the deformed human Generals, or in this case, the Locust General,” said Jacob, “But I was able to save you.”

That’s when it clicked to Daniel. The name Locust, and the face said it all.

“Wait, Locust,” said Daniel when he looked in shock, “As in Sera Locust?!”

“That’s right.” Said Jacob, “They’re aligned with the Multiverse’s greatest enemy, the Death Knights. You’re lucky to be alive, nobody was able to live after that kind of encounter.”

Daniel was able to stand, until he and Jacob saw ghost like beings flying around in certain spots.

“What were those things?” asked Daniel.

“Whispers.” Said Jacob.

“Whispers?” asked Daniel in confusion.

“Otherwise known as the arbiters of fate.” Said Jacob, “Drawn to those who attempt to alter Destiny’s course, and ensure they do not.”

“Wait,” said Daniel in shock, “Like capital D, Destiny?”

“You wondered why I didn’t talk to Roland?” asked Jacob before looking at Daniel. “More importantly, if I wanted to, don’t you think I would’ve already helped all of you stop Shredder?”

“So, you’re telling me that these things will even attempt to stop us from telling the others who the traitor is?!” said an incredulous Daniel.

“Precisely.” Said Jacob, “Whenever you want to talk to them, call them, communicate with them, send spiritual warnings, messages, heck, they’d stop you from changing the course of history if given the chance.”

Daniel groaned and joked, “Were those things always thorough?”

“Trust me, they’re always annoying.” Joked Jacob.

That’s when they noticed the Shaman approaching Jacob, along with some of the Villagers as the rest were being evacuated.

“Well?” asked Jacob.

“You are correct, Jacob.” Said the Shaman, “The spirit that you seek, lies within him. But as I have witnessed, the current occupant won’t go down so easily without a fight.”

Jacob nodded and said, “Thank you, for your efforts. My people will see to it that you’ll be placed in Almortigar Ramos, as agreed.”

“Thank you, old friend.” Said the Shaman before leaving with the group.

“So, if we can’t warn them, what will we do?” asked Daniel.

“That’s another thing why I’m here,” said Jacob before looking at him, “I need your help.”

This surprised Daniel.

“Don’t worry, you’ll get your chance in helping the gang,” said Jacob, “But until then I need your help in finding a way past the whispers. I have my resources at your disposal. If you can find a way to help me remove it, we should be able to do what we need to do.”

“I’ll do what I can.” Promised Daniel.

Jacob saw something in him, and couldn’t help but chuckle.

“You’re so much like your grandfather.” Said Jacob.

This confused Daniel, “You knew my grandfather?”

“He spoke very highly of you.” Said Jacob, “And…he was one of my best students.”

This shocked Daniel.

“The reason your dad didn’t want you to get involved, was because he blamed me for what happened to him.” Said Jacob, “But in truth, your grandfather died saving trillions of lives when the Death Knights tried to destroy a handful of worlds involving the Rangers.”

Jacob dug something out of his back and present it to him. Which almost looked like a Lightsaber. When Daniel took it, he turned it on, surprised to see it silver colored, as the cross guards were shaped like the Rangers’ weapons.

“That weapon is called an Ark Sword,” said Jacob, “It was your grandfather’s. And his father’s and his father’s before him. Now it rightfully belongs to you. He’d be honored if you would wield it.”

Daniel turned the weapon off and placed it on his hilt. He took a breath and looked at Jacob.

“Alright, I’ll help, on one condition; no secrets.” Said Daniel.

Jacob chuckled and said, “Deal.”

Jacob shook his hand, which Daniel opened a portal, which Jacob provided the coordinates.

“I’ll meet you at Almortigar Ramos soon.” Said Jacob. “And I’ll tell you everything I can. And whilst we’re added, I can help upgrade your Morpher, clearly I need to boost its energies more.”

Daniel nodded before jumping in and the portal closed.

When all of a sudden, a being in a hood appeared, and what was different was that it almost looked like a werewolf.

“You called for me?” asked the werewolf.

“I did.” Said Jacob, “I located it.”

“You did?” asked the wolf.

“I did,” said Jacob, “But the latter won’t make things easy.”

“Given your last fights with them, I agree.” Said the wolf.

“Which is why what I’m asking won’t be easy.” Said Jacob before turning to him. “The boy that contains the spirit. I want you to find him…and end him.”

The wolf took of his hood.

“Normally I would not do this,” said the wolf, “But if it’s for him, then I will do it.”

Jacob nodded for a bit and said, “Thank you.”

The wolf whistled and walked away before disappearing.

Jacob crossed his arms looking down, thinking if he did the right thing. That was, until a certain individual appeared.

“Are you sure it was wise, Jacob?” asked Paradox, walking towards Jacob with his cane.

“You heard what the Shaman said,” said Jacob, “He’s somewhere in there, trapped inside, and the occupant won’t let up without a fight. The others were just as difficult.”

“That is true,” said Paradox, “Though there are other methods of freeing him.”

“If there was, I’d use it.” Said Jacob, “But for some reason the Whispers are in the way.”

“Indeed,” said Paradox, “Though it is strange that they now show themselves and keep you from stopping him. They never intervene unless it’s necessary.”

“If there’s a way to surpass them, Daniel and I will find a way.” Said Jacob.

“Funny, how you chose to aid him and you ask for his aid.” Said Paradox.

“I’d rather have friends than enemies.” Said Jacob, “Besides, he has his grandfather’s fighting spirit inside of him.”

Jacob turned to Paradox, “But I’m more concerned about the Death Knights. They just revealed themselves, and they’ve never done this before. You don’t think they know, do you?”

“That is a true possibility.” Said Paradox, “They did try to make an attempt to stop Sonic and the others from being born when they found out about their origins.”

Jacob then looked onto the horizon.

“Is something else on your mind, Jacob?” asked Paradox.

Jacob sighed and said, “Though Princess Twilight is meant to be a great ruler, it’s her decision to seal the magic away, robbing the ponies and creatures of what makes them unique is a big mistake.”

“She didn’t have any other choice, Jacob.” Reminded Paradox.

“There’s always a choice.” Said Jacob, “If there had been another way to stop what she had done to Equestria, Twilight would never have resorted to this. But then again, if the magic wasn’t so out of control.”

“Indeed,” said Paradox, “No matter what world, Equestria’s magic had always been out of control. And the magic would only result into anarchy if they fight. A foolish gambit indeed.”

Jacob sighed and walked to the edge of the cliff and watched over the horizon.

“Sometimes I wonder if I should tell them about a certain fire Alicorn.” said Jacob.

“You know you cannot do that, Jacob.” said Paradox.

Jacob looked at the village that was burning whilst half the villagers were safely evacuated by unknown soldiers, as Paradox stood next to him.

“You already did change events, remember?” said Paradox, “Because of both yours and your father's actions, Mobius, Equestria, and their human counterparts' worlds were fused together via Unity Engines, whilst also making your world ten times bigger, so that the countries and their magic and technology would remain untouched. And because of it, the timelines had changed; though by some miracle, barriers were placed so none knew of the others' existence. And because of that, the future element bearers' parents are the exact age as the Rainbooms when they were teenagers, whilst Princess Twilight and her friends were still in their right ages. And by the time they will become adults and will one day gain children of their own, that is when the new bearers will take their place, led by a Starscout. And as for the Fire Alicorn...”

“I already destroyed her before she could do any damage.” said Jacob.

“Precisely.” said Paradox before placing his hand on Jacob's right shoulder, which allowed Jacob to look at him. “For their world, the events must come to pass. And you are right, we don’t let fate decide for us. But sometimes...not everyone can change their fate.”

Jacob shook his head, “Honestly, I haven’t felt like this since that time I found out I couldn’t go back in time to save my family because they were a fixed point in time.”

“Indeed.” Said Paradox before removing his hands. “Now then, I suggest you go to Almortigar Ramos and aid young Daniel in the task. Once you do, alert the Order. They need to know the Death Knights are in play.”

“Of course.” Said Jacob before opening a portal, “I’ll need to contact the Freedom and Justice Force for help, too.”

“I will continue to monitor things.” Said Paradox, “Until then, be careful.”

“I could say the same thing.” Teased Jacob before he disappeared, as did Paradox.

*******************************************************************************************

Back on Shredder’s warship, Lord Dregg arrived, and he was angry.

“Shredder, I demand an explanation!!” shouted Lord Dregg, “What are…?!”

But then he stopped and were shocked to see the same ones from the village. The Leader was strangling Shredder against the wall, with a few black hooded figures nearing him.

“What is the meaning of…?!!”

The ones in black hoods used a staff to erase Dregg’s mind and sent him away, before turning to the Shredder.

“You will release me at one!!” shouted Shredder, “On who’s authority are you…?!”

Suddenly, the large one took out a scroll and present it to the Shredder.

“Message.” Grunted the large one, before releasing the document and leaving, with opening a portal and leaving with the figures.

Shredder grunted and held his neck before taking the scroll and reading it. He widened his eyes and looked up.

“He knows.” Said Shredder. “I’m running out of time. I must have a vessel if I am to defeat him.”

He tossed the scroll away and left to continue of his business, before leaving the scroll behind. And on that scroll, was the symbol of whom the message it belonged.

*******************************************************************************************

Back on the ship, after the whole ordeal of dealing with the monster, everyone tried to take a rest, until they heard on the Intercoms.

“All hands,” said the Intercoms, “Ulixes on approach.”

Half the friends went to the hanger, wanting to see if the ones who boarded the ship was okay, especially since they heard that a handful stowed away on the ship. When the ship arrived, they were surprised that it had endured tons of scorching.

“Uh oh, looks like they ran into trouble.” Said Donnie.

After the ship landed, the ramp opened and a handful of folks got out, with many faces that were spooked. They immediately went over, wondering if they’re okay.

“Kari/TK!!” shouted Tai and Matt when they went over to their younger siblings and hugged them.

“What were you thinking, sneaking off like that?!” scolded Tai.

“You two could’ve gotten hurt!!” said Matt.

“Honestly, we went along to make sure Shine Boy was okay.” Said TK.

“Yeah, we were worried about him.” Said Kari.

“And what happened?” asked Raph.

“We ran into Lord Dregg.” Said Sunset.

“Dregg?!” said the Turtles and Rainbooms.

“That creep was after you guys?!” said Rainbow Dash.

“We went to a camp to see a Shaman, but it was under attacked.” Said Roland. “Then next thing we knew, we were attacked by bad guys we’ve never seen before.”

“Rest up, then report to the bridge, we’ll talk about this in the morning.” Said Max.

Princess Twilight went to the Rainbooms, Mane 5, and the Turtles, and was nervous at the same time.

“Guys?’ asked Princess Twilight, “Can we talk?”

They were concerned, especially with her tone, but if she wanted to talk to them, then it has to be serious.

Leo then noticed Shine Boy looking gloomy, with Grandpa Max trying to talk to him.

“Tony,” said Grandpa Max, “You doing okay?”

“All I know is that this didn't make me feel better.” Shine Boy huffed and he walked away.

Everyone was concerned when Shine Boy acted like this. Leo went after him, wondering what was going on.

He was in the hallway when Leo walked up. “Tony! Tony wait! I understand you’re upset about this-!”

“Leo this is HUGE! Not only have we not found this good for nothing traitor, but we just lost a whole tribe not to mention Roland’s master to Dregg and got Death Knights after us. DID I MISS ANYTHING?!” Shine Boy interrupted.

“Tony, I get it. We’re at a disadvantage. We’ve lost a lot of confidence in our abilities, master Conner, a bunch of ninjas, and had to send Snips and Snails home to recover. You’re still hurt from fighting Luke. I’m still getting used to accepting the fact that I have to take Conners place as leader of the Hamato clan.”

“A responsibility I dropped on you for not listening to Conner.” Shine Boy quivered. “And how long until Obaki puts you down causing you to lose them too? I- I can’t lose you or the others.”

“I still got my brothers and you guys to help me when I’m down.” Leo put hand on Shine Boys shoulder. “Let me be there for you.”

“It’s just everything is happening too fast since we started this good for nothing mission.” Shine Boy sniffled before he walked away.

Leo felt bad for Shine Boy. Just as he walked, he thought about the last thing he said after Dregg.

“Death Knights?” muttered Leo.

It wasn’t long before Serenity caught up to Shine Boy. She turned his head to her as he shed tears of regret.

“I’m so sorry. I’m so sorry.” He whimpered.

“I know.” Serenity whispered before kissing him in the lips before he two hugged each other

*****************************************************************************************************

Somewhere on Earth 07, most of VILE and Footbot forces were digging around near a Mayan temple. After much searching, one of the Foot Bots had brought Le Chevre what appeared to be a sword of Mayan Origin.

He observed it and noticed the quality of it, with one of the Foot Bots approaching Le Chevre, and created a hologram of the Shredder.

“What is the status?” asked Shredder.

“Good news, Shredder.” Said Le Chevre as he showed him the sword, “We have found what we have been looking for.”

“Excellent.” Said Shredder, “Prepare for departure to this location, we shall begin post haste.”

“And what of their allies?” asked Le Chevre, “If we make our move, no doubt they will catch wind of our plans.”

“Oh, do not worry.” Said Shredder before his eyes were glowing, “I have something special in mind.”

*****************************************************************************************************

Meanwhile, Princess Twilight was talking to her friends and the Turtles.

“So, what did you want to talk about?” asked Leo.

Princess Twilight was reluctant to tell them. But remembering Jacob’s words, she told them the truth.

“Back in Equestria, during our trip to Mt. Eris.” Said Princess Twilight. She took a breath and said, “There’s a reason why I didn’t trust anyone.”

This confused them as April asked, “What do you mean?”

“This was a while back, when I was still in Magic Kindergarten.” Said Princess Twilight.

She then told them that she met a pony named Fanco back in magic kindergarten. She was just minding her own business, until he came up front and befriended her. The two of them were close, and she somewhat had a crush on him. When she confessed, he said he felt the same way. One day, he guided her to another room with the rest of the class.

Before she knew it, he dropped garbage on her, making her the laughing stock. It was then she dawned that he never liked her from the beginning, he was just looking for a victim to prank, and he never loved her to begin with. She then ran away crying. She was so traumatized; she didn’t go back for a month. But after that, she had a hard time trusting anyone, which led to the same thing over the years and why she didn’t want to be friends with Moondancer and the others. Hence why she focused on her studies, so that she wouldn’t be hurt again.

“And that’s what happened.” Concluded Princess Twilight depressingly.

Everyone was shocked by the revelation, even Spike.

“Whoa,” muttered Spike, “I had no idea after all these years. No wonder you didn’t want to make friends with anyone, or with the girls since you moved to Ponyville.”

“I know that none of you are him,” said Princess Twilight, “But every time whenever I meet new ponies or people, I try my hardest not to think of those moments, trying to be brave and strike a conversation.”

She then began to tear up.

“But every time whenever I do, I still keep thinking of that moment back at Magic Kindergarten. And that time when I tried to expose Chrysalis and no one believed me, it felt like my teachers wouldn’t believe that I was being tormented.”

She shed a few tears.

“But when we faced Tirek and the Storm King, those moments still came back.” Said Princess Twilight, “I ended up thinking that none of you had any good ideas, and no matter how hard I try, it always comes back over and over. I keep thinking about that pony who tricked me and abused my trust, and because of it, I couldn’t trust anypony ever again.”

She lowered her head and said, “That pony ruined my life back at Magic Kindergarten, and in turn, made me constantly paranoid and distrustful. And I’m so sorry for that.”

Princess Twilight ended up sobbing, with Sunset and Spike being the first ones to quickly to hug her, even Karai. Everyone else felt bad for Princess Twilight, all because a colt that pranked her that made her into this way.

*****************************************************************************************************

Later that day, Princess Twilight was in her room, sitting on her bed with her head lowered. Then a door was opened, revealing to be Roland, who had just much of a guilty face as she does.

Shine Boy and Serenity saw this and were shocked to see him. They snuck towards the door and snuck a peak at what was going on.

Roland approached Princess Twilight and sat down next to her on the bed.

“I’m sorry Twilight.” Said Roland. “For everything.”

Princess Twilight was silent for a moment. And said, “I’m sorry too. From what you told me…you were afraid that I’d end up like her, didn’t you?”

Things were quiet at first, until Roland held her hand, but didn’t move.

“More than you can imagine.” Said Roland, “I’ve been so afraid my whole life and…”

“Not as much as I do.” Said Princess Twilight, “But…you were also right. How many ponies and my friend shave to pay for my choices?”

“I found that out the hard way.” Said Roland, “I wish I could make this right. And…I really do need help.”

Roland looked at Princess Twilight.

“Tony is doing his best to help me, same with Team Shine.” Said Roland, “Maybe…the Princess of Friendship can help me find what I have lost long ago? If she wants to.”

Princess Twilight remembered what Jacob said.

“If you want to walk a certain path that you’re set on to help others, that’s fine.” Said Jacob, “But make sure you don’t push away those who love you for who you are. The real you. For you are not Princess Celestia. You are not Equestria. You are much more than that tenfold.”

Princess Twilight thought about it.

“I’ll do my best.” Said Princess Twilight before looking at Roland, “If…you’ll give me a chance?”

Roland couldn’t help but chuckle and said, “I could ask you the same thing.”

Princess Twilight couldn’t help but giggle. Roland gently hugged Princess Twilight, with the latter returning it.

From outside, Serenity and Shine Boy saw the whole thing, which surprised Shine Boy by what he saw.

‘Jacob knew?’ thought Shine Boy, ‘How did he…?’

“Incoming!!”

Reacting to it, Shine Boy ducked as he grabbed Serenity, causing something to fly over and went splat. When they looked, they saw Beast Boy laughing and pointing, whilst they noticed the victim was Cyborg.

“Beast Boy!!” shouted Cyborg before chasing him, “Get back here!!”

The two of them ran as Cyborg gave chase. This surprised Serenity and Shine Boy.

“Did Cyborg smell like Kiwi?” asked Serenity.

This again shocked Shine Boy as he remembered.

‘He knows that too?!’ he thought, ‘What…is he?’

Author's Note

Authors’ note 1

And there you have it. Sorry it took so long, but it was worth it.

Never thought I’d finish this on Christmas day. So let this be an early Christmas present for the lot of you.

We finally got to know more of Jacob’s background, and a new and deadlier threat had arisen. Who are they? What are they? The answers will soon come.

Until then…Happy Holidays, everyone!!

And special shoutouts to Danyram and WarriorofFaith for their help in putting this together.

Authors’ note 2

· The funeral scene was inspired by Dark Crystal series, song of the dead
· The Shaman Roland went to see was from the game Oddworld Soulstorm.
· Jacob’s backstory of the Citadel was a reference to the Mass Effect series.
· Jacob mentioning the Jedi was a reference to the Clone Wars
· Jacob mentioning Sora was a reference from the Sora’s Misadventures series
· The wolf is from the Puss in Boots movie. Why, because he’s awesome.
· The music I played for Connor’s funeral was from the series, Dark Crystals.
· The pony Fanco, the one that pranked Twilight, was a reference to the Lion Guard season 6 crossover, figured it would be a good reason why Twilight didn’t trust anyone.
· Mentioning about CA is a reference to Cinematic Adventures
· When I mentioned Freedom Force and Justice Force, I didn’t mean the ones from TMNT and that video game. Freedom Force (consisting of Mobians from the Sonic games), Justice Force, (consisting of heroes of Marvel and DC)