Final Battle

Both schools sat opposite one another on the bleachers just on the doorstep of Canterlot High for the final event to determine the winner of the games. The Rainbooms were preparing themselves for the event, well mostly Rainbow Dash and Bunga, while the others just felt tired. And it wasn't because of the magic. They were tired of this whole rivalry, all this dispute and fighting among each other. It was all getting too much for them emotionally.

Kion especially. At first, he thought this would be like the Equestrian Games where ponies and Pride Landers would be able to get along and play each other wishing nothing but the best of luck towards one another even while competing against each other. But sadly, the more and more these games go on and the more he sees Crystal Prep and especially their principal first hand the more he feels dismay and dissatisfaction around him.

There is also the fact, then when he saw other Twilight, much like Sunset came forward seeing her as another power hungry villain who needed to be taken down. In addition when he found out that Sunset ruined other Kion’s life, he felt so filled with rage, he briefly forgot that Sunset is now a changed woman who clearly regrets what she did back then. But now that he is seeing things clearly, he doesn’t see that in both girls anymore. Especially after seeing Sunset, who’s bruises she endured from her earlier scuffle partially healed, crossing her arms with regret along with the miserable girl on the opposite side of the stands standing by her Kion and the rest of Crystal Prep. Sunset herself could hardly look at the new dagger Askari gifted her so she'll have a means to protect herself in case a repeat incident occurs.

Dean Cadance adjusted the mic to speak, "Since the score's tied, the final event will determine the winner of the Friendship Games."

Luna showcased both teams individual flags, each with a symbol of their team, "Somewhere on campus, a pennant from each school has been hidden. The first team to find their school's flag and bring it back wins."

"And as soon as our teams are ready, we'll begin."

Fluttershy looked aside still not feeling the competitive fire as her speedy and feisty friends., "I don't feel like playing these games anymore."

“Me neither.” Human Beshte said in agreement.

"We have to play!”

“This is the last event!"

Both Rainbow and Bunga reminded.

Rarity scoffed in exhaustion as she replied. "It's a little hard to focus with all the magic stealing and portal opening."

“Along with all of the controversy surrounding us after the last event.” Human Ono added.

"And I feel awful about what I said to Twilight." Sunset added in a guilt-filled tone of voice as the princess herself is currently placing a hand of sympathy on her shoulder with the other hand on the bruises she just incurred. “Along with what I did to Kion back then.”

"Especially since Twilight obviously didn't mean to do all the stuff she did and Kion is obviously standing up for himself and her." Fluttershy chimed in. "They’re both actually really nice especially when you get to really know them."

Poor Sunset face palmed herself, feeling worse for what she had said. All eyes, all glaring at Fluttershy, had her realizing that it wasn't really helping improve things.

To reassure everyone, the Kion from the Pride Lands spoke up, "Okay, everyone. Let's just get through this last event and prove we're not a bunch of cheaters. And who knows we might actually still win this fair and square."

“Kion’s right." Applejack said. "Then you two can go over and apologize."

Deep down Sunset didn't want to wait, as the guilt was already surfacing up to the point she couldn’t keep it in any longer, but was able to push it aside for now knowing her friends were right, she would get her chance to apologize.

Back with the Shadowbolts, Principal Cinch came up with another game plan. One that would guarantee her team a solid win. As she spoke, Twilight spotted Spike hiding behind the bushes. She silently told him to remain hidden knowing full well of what would happen to him if Principal Cinch saw him now and discovered he could talk.

"I know I'm asking you to beat a team that isn't playing fair, but Canterlot High must be made to understand that even with magic at their disposal, beating Crystal Prep is simply not an option."

"What if they grow wings again?" Suguarcoat asked.

"Or shoot rocks and fire stuff?" Indigo asked.

"A fair question. Though I believe we can now fight fire with fire." Principal Cinch adjusted her glasses as she approached Twilight Sparkle, making the poor girl quiver in fear with her only friend standing protectively by her side. "I've seen what your device can do, Twilight. Containing magical energy is fine, but have you considered releasing it?"

"But I don't even understand how it works."

“And that’s something we can’t risk at this point in the game.” Kion added.

"But you'd like to. And since our opponents have already used it to stay competitive, I see no reason why we shouldn't do the same."

“But that’s still cheating and would make us no better than the other team.”

"And I still don't think we would--"

"Unless, of course, you have no interest in Everton. Though, honestly, I think there's more knowledge packed in that little device than any independent study program could offer. And the same can be said to you too, Kion. Since you don't seem to care what happens with your life going forward. Then perhaps, whatever you really want in life isn't really your calling."

What did she mean by that, Twilight wondered. The very idea of releasing such power, she knew it was risky. Incredibly risky. Yet, Cinch was still holding the cards to her future to the point she is more torn than ever what’s the right thing to do here.

Principal Cinch:

I realize that you've always been an outcast

It's not everyone at school who likes to think

To find a student that's like you

I've had one or maybe two

But the good ones disappear before I blink

Students:

(Oh, wuh-oh-wuh, oh

Oh, wuh-oh-wuh)

Principal Cinch;

Now, I understand you have your reservations

(oh-wuh)

It's hard to have a brain as large as yours

(oh-oh-oh-oh)

But if we don't win these games

Well, I think I've made it plain

What will happen if we have the losing scores!

Twilight was still conflicted. Her principal really wanted her to do this, but was it right? Her words, the chants of the students, were all encouraging her to do this. Her body trembled as she held the device close, as if frightened one of them would take it from her by force if not for Kion by her side.

Kion himself looked on even more enraged and disgusted than ever with Cinch and everyone on their team. Even while telling them common sense and giving them a reality check that cheating is still cheating, they are still blinded by their desire to win. It was there inside, the gloves are now starting to come off with everything he has been through. And it seems now destiny is calling on him to act and play out his cards. Mainly the amulet Twilight has in her hands.

Students;

(Oh, wuh-oh-wuh, oh

Oh, wuh-oh-wuh)

Unleash the magic, unleash the magic

If we lose, then you're to blame

(ah, ah-ah-ah)

They all have used it, maybe abused it

(ah-ah-ah)

So then why can't we do the same?

(Oh, wuh-oh-wuh, oh

Oh, wuh-oh-wuh)

Principal Cinch:

Call it power, call it magic

If we lose, it will be tragic

More important is the knowledge we'll have lost

(oh-oh-oh-oh)

A chance like this won't come again

You'll regret not giving in

Isn't understanding magic worth the cost?

Students;

(Oh, wuh-oh-wuh, oh

Oh, wuh-oh-wuh)

Unleash the magic, unleash the magic

We're not friends here after all

Our only interest in this business

(ah-ah-ah)

Is seeing Canterlot High School fall

(Oh, wuh-oh-wuh, oh

Oh, wuh-oh-wuh)

The device that contained all the magic began to glow a stunningly beautiful bright purple color with red and yellow mixed into it that practically entranced Twilight. What she had come to learn about magic was indeed amazing, and powerful, it made her curious, she desired to learn more. So she could become smarter, so she could get into Everton. She came to realize that she is here for one purpose only after all, so why should that change now? And she shouldn’t allow it all to stop her from getting what she really wants in life.

At the same time, Kion himself was at a breaking point from everything that has happened to him at this point up to including what happened during these very games along with what Sunset Shimmer put him through. Even though Dean Cadance had Kion sit out the last event as a precaution so he doesn’t get into another fight today, he still felt it was a punishment itself. And now he’s just about had with everyone who has dared to cross him and his friend.

Principal Cinch:

What I'm suggesting is very simple

And since it's win-win on all scores

We only want to learn about the

Magic that you have stored

And as for me and all the others

We only want what we deserve

That our school will clinch the win

And my...

Principal Cinch and students;

...legacy will endure

The more they thought about it the device seemed to glow brighter, as if reacting to their thoughts and desires. The more they surfaced, the more their consciousness's voice slowly faded in favor of hearing the repetitive words from the Shadowbolts.

For Twilight since she is still learning herself, she thought maybe if she did release it she, in return, would release her own potential. She would better understand, she would gain more knowledge herself.

At the same time Kion himself was now deciding he’s had enough of everything and was ready to untap his true potential of what he is truly capable of and holding back all of those years of built up trauma and repressed anger.

"Very well. Let's do this." Kion stated as cold as Principal Cinch's words any day.

With a hesitant look on her face along with a fed up expression on her friend’s face, both Twilight and Kion stepped forward, the pendant glowing brighter and brighter with every step and every chant. Spike ran out of the bushes and followed after them knowing full well of what bad things will happen from this grave mistake.

Students:

Unleash the magic, unleash the magic

If we lose, then it's a crime

But we can win it if you begin it

(ah-ah-ah)

It's up to you to not fail this time

Unleash the magic, free the magic now

Unleash the magic, free the magic now

Twilight and Kion:

Imagine all I'll learn by setting it free

And how much I can acheive after finally cutting loose

"If both teams are ready…" Vice Principal Luna announced via the microphone as the Pony and Lion Guard (both human and Pride Lands) all spotted them making their way forward. Twilight herself reluctantly pressing forward while Kion looks more than ready with his determined frown.

Both Prince Kion and Princess Twilight could only watch on in horror seeing and knowing full well of what’s about to happen next.

Students:

Unleash the magic, free the magic now

Unleash the magic, free the magic now

Twilight:

Now winning these games depends on me

Kion:

And now that the gloves are off it is time to show everyone what we really are capable of

Sunset saw what Twilight was about to do once she placed her finger on the lid in order to open her device. Spike ran as fast as he could to reach her in an attempt to stop this.

Students:

Unleash the magic, free the magic now

Unleash the magic, free the magic now

Twilight:

And what doors might open if I try to use it

Dean Cadance approached the mic and rose up her hand, "…the last event of the Friendship Games begins…"

Students:

Unleash the magic, free the magic now

Unleash the magic, free the magic now

]Twilight:

But the magic's really what I want to see

Kion:

Especially now that this is something I want to see myself

Something that I now truly want like never before

And now I am ready to see this through

As she slowly opened the lid, the purple, yellow, and red lights increasing as she did, Sunset along with other Kion and Twilight all reacted and ran up to try and stop her, all the while Principal Cinch watched on with wicked glee.

Students:

Unleash the magic, free the magic now

Unleash the magic, free the magic now

Spike jumped up an a desperate attempt to stop her, "Twilight, no!!"

Students:

Unleash the magic, free the magic now

Unleash the magic, free the magic…

Cadance, Luna, Prince Kion, Princess Twilight:

"Now!"

"No!"

But it was too late, Twilight had done what she was asked to by her pears…

She had released the magic.

Only, the outcome was not what anybody had anticipated…

Once the case was opened the orb within unleashed a powerful beam that forced everyone down to their knees from its impact. Twilight and Kion both stood their ground, stretching out their arms as the magic the former had released reacted to exactly what they are was feeling inside.

The device that once held it fell to the ground with a clang. Twilight and Kion's body began to rise up. The former’s hair becoming loose and her glasses falling off as the spear lifted her upwards and becoming increasingly terrified with what was happening to her. She was now realizing too late that she made a huge mistake by listening to the Shadowbolts. The latter looked on and around without fear before calmly placing a hand on his friend’s shoulder to assure her that everything is all okay despite sporting a dark smile as everything is starting to go his way for once.

Principal Cinch and her students slowly backed away in fear, realizing this power was stronger than they thought. Too strong. The sight made the Shadowbolts realize that these two students they’ve pushed around one too many times. The spear grew larger and larger, slowly engulfing Twilight and Kion. All while the girl’s beloved Spike could do was watch in despair.

“Twilight!”

“Kion!”

Both their counterparts cried out in terror with what they are seeing yet unable to do anything about it.

Human Twilight looked at her principal and classmates who all pressured her into doing this. She looked on pleading to help her as she struggled to remover her hand from the magic now attached to her and Kion.

"Help…me!"

But it was too late for they were now completely trapped within the spear. The former made her choice to listen to Cinch, she obeyed her orders, she gave into her temptation and her own personal desires while the latter gave into his anger and desire for revenge.

In an effort to pursue something good…it ended up having the opposite effect. And now, the Shadowbolts were facing the consequences for their selfishness and pride. And it would be all because the innocent yet misguided Twilight Sparkle of this world along with her pressured and stressed friend Kion who is now full in to go down this dark path ready to deliver payback to all of his enemies both past and present.

The Rainbooms, The Lion Guard (from both realms), Spike, and Princess Twilight all watched with great sorrow as the poor girl and boy succumbed to the power of the magic the former had unknowingly stolen. From within, both Twilight and Kion could feel her bodies, their hearts, their souls, and their minds change.

Twilight’s skin became a sinister shade of purple, gloves appeared on her arms, long boots with glowing shoes and wings on the ankles, along with a long tail-like skirt with a star shaped belt around her waist, a sleeveless dress of dark purple colors and her now matching hair was now floating upwards, now painted black and dark purple. She felt a burning pain on her back when two black wings grew out from behind. Finally, a glowing horn grew from her forehead. A very dangerously sharp horn that is also twisted to match her new mindset.

Kion’s skin became a sinister shade of reddish orange, with his gloves and boots colored black, along with matching pants, fire shaped belt, and a sleeveless shirt. His transformation had him grow a red and black colored tail along with matching wings and hair with yellow streaks in them. In addition his skin and clothes all are covered with sharp spikes as he grunted in pain when they grew along with the wings Twilight had gained.

The moment Twilight opened her eyes, two rings of fire appeared around them glowing light blue to match. And the moment she processed what had happened, she could see everything so clearly. She now understood this magic and what it could do and is now loving it.

And so did Kion, as he sported a very vicious and evil looking grin with his teeth and ambitions now bared. His eyes now red in color with with black flames and pupils in the very center. For he now has the power he has long desired to achieve as burning anger was now fully unlocked.

No longer did Twilight feel any compassion, nor humility or kindness, or even love. She only cared about what she wanted now. And what she wanted was magic. She wanted to know it, to understand it. And the best part about is that she no longer has anything holding her back.

And as for Kion, no longer did he have any of his positive traits, no longer showing compassion, loyalty, kindness, or even humility and care for others. He only cared for what he wants to. And that’s to take charge of the situation, he wanted power to get it, power that’ll allow him to be the one to deliver retribution as payback for all of the misfortune he suffered.

The students and faculty were terrified of the sight before them, no question the CHS students were given flashbacks to when Sunset Shimmer became a demon entity herself. Not to mention it sparks frightful memories of the Lion Guard along with Twilight given her past as Midnight Sparkle in her realm. For them it was really looking at her past self in a mirror.

None the less, these new creature appeared with handsome and beautiful looks even though they are both now psychotic demons. While both looked content with their new forms, deep down they are not. Spike whimpered at seeing his best friend become such a creature while Twilight, Kion, and Sunset stood protectively in front of their friends.

The female creature laughed evilly as she hovered over them all like the goddess she prided herself to be. "Ha, ha, ha, ha! You were right! I didn't understand magic before, but I do now!"

“So do I!” The male creature declared as he sniffed and relished the air and everything around his body. “Because now I am just loving the smell of fear!” As soon as he said those words, he had fiery powers forming black flames that formed into two darkly colored double edged swords in his hands to which he twirled and had them form sparks when they clash together.

“As much as I have enjoyed the fun and games you all had with me. I think we all now have reached the end now you and everyone and around us.”

Twilight's bright blue horn began to glow brightly, the aura shifting down from the horn, to the flames around her eyes, right down to her hands. With a wide, eager, and wicked smile, Twilight shot a powerful ray of magic directly at the Canterlot High statue, where the portal once stood.

Kion’s eyes widened when the new monstrous Twilight Sparkle created a portal of her own, only this one looked more like it was a tear on a piece of fabric. The children and faculty could feel the ground beneath them shake as the clouds above drew in, darkening the night sky even more. But that wasn't all she had done.

The Lion Guard with Twilight all gasping once they saw where the portal led to. From within, they all spotted a familiar crystal-rainbow castle that sparkled in the light. From its front door, seven ponies and a dragon emerged, horrified to see the tear in their dimension before their very eyes as the skies around them became dark as well. The ponies saw their friends.

"Twilight!" Spike called out, extending a claw to her friend.

"Spike! Stay back!"

Nobody watching from above could understand what was happening, all they knew was that a portal had suddenly appeared and now even their home began to quack. The ground of Canterlot High began to crack and the wicked Twilight shot another beam directly at the Lion and Pony Guard. They all jumped out of the way just as another portal appeared on the ground. One that led to Cloudsdale.

Twilight and Kion rolled down on the ground, landing near the portal where her friends back home were. "Twilight! Kion! What's going on?!" Spike urgently asked.

"Well it’s a long story short…” Twilight awkwardly began before rapidly explaining in brief full detail. “...but the short version is after helping the students here compete against a rival school for these games going on, this world's version of me along with Kion both went crazy with dark magic and now they’re on a world destroying rampage, including ours."

“Really?” Both Twilight and Kion nodded. “Okay. That explains a lot.”

The students ran as far away from the scene as they could, but the monstrous Twilight would not allow it. She was having so much fun creating new portals, each one leading to a different location in Equestria; Canterlot, Ponyville, Manehattan, the Crystal Empire, Appleloosa, Giffronstone. Only, it didn't stop there. Twilight even managed to open portals that led to another world that was as close to Equestria.

Beshte gasped at the new portal that formed. "Oh, no!”

“Hapana! The Pride Lands!” Ono exclaimed in horror.

Sunny Flare then spotted her principal slowly making a break for it, "Hey! Where are you going?!"

"Anywhere to avoid that...monster! And I suggest you do the same!" Cinch said before running.

But she didn’t get far before being frozen in place by the magic of one of the students she greatly antagonized. Kion. “And I suggest you stick around, Cinch. Because this monster has a great big score to settle with you.” He then proceeded to lung at her with his swords in his hands.

Terrified, Cinch managed to dodge his dodge his attacks only for him to slash a folder containing his permanent record and every document in it, the nearby rails leading up the stairs, the double doors.before finally connecting with an upper cut to the forehead. Along with another one that cut her hair and knocked the glasses off of her face and knocked her off of her feet.

After finishing her off with a massive fire blast that scorched her body, he then proceeded to cut off Gladmane along with his two brother cronies with a magical barrier of flames. “What’s the matter? Lives flashing before your eyes?” The Flim Flam brothers found themselves feeling a sudden urge leak out of them while Gladmane tried to put up a brave front.

“Hey! Leave us out of this!”

“Yeah! We didn’t do anything wrong!”

“Hmm. I should.” Kion said while entertaining the idea a little before deciding. “But I’m not on account of your heckling and trying to bribe the other team out of their valuable coaches who helped make these games interesting.” And before any of them could get another word out he proceeded to blast them all with fiery dark magic that scorched them up as well. When he turned to Gladmane who just froze in fear on the spot. He simply scoffed and turned his back from him…

...but not without doing the same to him as well.

At the same time, Twilight looked on with delight as she observed the new worlds that awaited her. Specifically the worlds where both the Lion and Pony Guard from Equestria and the Pride Lands came from. Seeing this, her princess counterpart quickly unleashed the power of her taser to zap her before she could do anything to any of her pony friends.

“Stop! You can’t do this!”

“Why not?! There's a whole other world right there, and it's just filled with magic!" She said with wicked glee as she created yet another portal, nearly harming Vice Principal Luna and Cadance as she did.

"But you're destroying this world to get it!" Sunset chimed in.

"So what? There's more magic there, and I want to understand it all!"

"At what cost?! How much causing pain and suffering around you is worth it?” Twilight asked her insane counterpart.

That question itself got to her as if she sees that her other me has been there before and understands what magic truly means and that maybe she should consider listening to her…

...before finding her princess counterpart having to duck and dodge when other Kion came flying by trying to throw down with her after catching a glimpse of her tasing her friend.

She was then forced on the defense as Demon Kion unleashed fire balls and swung his swords right at her. Thankfully, it didn’t last long when she used one his previous attacks as a tactful dodge so she can rebound and perform a spinning kick that sent the demon flying backwards and crashing into the front of the school.

Unfortunately, that very impact combined with Twilight’s most recent tear through the fabric of dimensions created a crater in the very center of the ground around the students. Down below, the students could see a clear sky, and Ponyville just down below. Bit by bit, more and more pieces of the ground broke, causing more and more students to nearly fall.

The ground beneath Beshte began to give way forcing other Kion, Fuli, Ono, and Bunga all together to pull him back. Sunset was tossed to the side to where she spotted the device that contained all of the magic Twilight had stolen.

Applejack quickly took one student that was about to him by the arm and tried to pull him back up. "Don't let go!" she cried out as she maintained her grip on him.

The rest of the Rainbooms along with the human versions of the Lion Guard, as well as other students, and Askari’s agents, all did all they could to keep the other students from falling from what would definitely be a fatal fall if they fell and hit the ground.

Human Fuli saw the Shadowbolts, fearfully standing by the sidelines, unsure what do about all of this madness around them. "Girls! Help us, please!”

The very pleas from someone they’d least expect it to hear from were enough for them to make up their minds and do something their cowardly principal won’t do. They ran into the thick of danger to answer to the call.

Bunga struggled to hold onto Rainbow Dash while Rarity held onto two students, while holding onto the ledge with one hand. "Hang on!" he shouted.

"Obviously!" Rarity screamed as her fingers slowly gave way and she would soon meet her demise.

"We got you!" Indigo Zap and Lemon Zest caught the girl's hand just in time and helped them all back to safety.

Sunset held the device in her hands, when suddenly a corner of it started to glow as the rest of her friends along with the agents all moved to help save the other students from falling down the portal. Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed all worked together to help the Pride Lands Lion Guard pull Beshte to safety. Askari moved to assist Rainbow and Ono in saving two more students alongside the other Shadowbolts.

Just then the shaking of their surroundings, caused the ponies from Equestria to stumble and lose their balance to the point they ended up falling over the edge into their world. Seeing this sparked gasps from their friends from that dimension especially their Twilight and Kion. If it weren’t for Demon Twilight intercepting them and keeping them on their toes they would have been able to rush over to help them.

Fortunately for them, Agent Askari was quick to rush towards the crater to do something about it. Using a grappling hook to latch onto the edge of the portal and leaping along the breaking pieces falling down from the sky he was to pull it off. He was able to quickly catch each and every one by spreading his arms out to catch the ponies transformed into humans, along with Spike who turned into a dog like the other Spike grabbing onto the back of his neck. He then was able to flip over and safely land on the other side of the crater.

At the same time, the ones rescued couldn’t help but have a hard time processing both becoming human along with the fact that this world’s version of Scar of all people actually moved to save them.

“Um, girls…” Fluttershy first spoke.

“...did we just….” Rarity then said then.

“...get saved by Scar of all people…” Rainbow said next.

“...and turn into…” Applejack added.

“...humans?!” Pinkie finished while waggling her fingers.

“Yep.” Spike confirmed as he gets to see his dog sized body once more.

“And for the record that’s my nickname.” Askari corrected leaving the group taken aback by seeing this opposite self of the guy they are used to seeing. “Only used by my fellow associates here. And you’re all welcome.”

Just then Kion emerged from the building he crashed through by flying through the exact way he went through due to the shape of the hole in the building he made when he crashed. He then proceeded to eye the very former bully that tormented him back during his last appearance here. Now he feels it’s time to settle this once and for all.

He then flew over and used his dark magical powers on his swords to create a ring of fire around them along with Princess Twilight, Prince Kion, along with Demon Twilight. Said flames brushed everyone else near within it’s perimeter aside in order to ensure they would all not interfere with the battles that were about to go down. It was there the alicorns from the other world along with Sunset realized that it is all coming down to this as both demons moved to face them side by side.

“I’ve enjoyed the fun and games, Sunset Shimmer.” Kion said as he glared at the cornered girl now at his mercy who is now looking on in fear and regret of how this is what it’s now coming down to. “But I think we’ve reached the end now you and I.” He twirled and clashed with swords once more causing them to spark once more. “So what’s it going to be? You gonna take the coward’s way out? Run away to and hide behind your precious prince and princess from the other world?” He clashed his swords once more. “Or are you gonna fight?” He tosses a sword over to her feet, one that he managed to pickpocket from her while she was distracted.

“Pick it up!” Kion demanded as he twirled and clashed his swords again. Sunset herself looked on between the amulet, the presented sword, along with the fiercely eagerly and viciously smiling demon wanting to fight and take her down in a final blaze of glory. She wasn’t sure if she had what it takes to fight her past demons. “Go on! Pick it up!”

As Sunset hesitated of what to do next, closing her eyes as she had flashbacks playing in her mind, she is quickly comforted by her friends both Twilight and Kion standing by her. They both placed assuring hands on their shoulders as they helped her process the bad memories with other Kion play out before going forward through the events from being a former bully, to reformed friend who helped out big time in the Battle of the Bands, to a hero who helped them protect the Pride Lands and is now here with a chance to prove herself she has done a complete turnaround since then.

Just then they noticed and watched something spectacular happened. One by one, Fluttershy, Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Bunga, Fuli, Beshte, and Ono all gained a magical aura around them. Sunset herself didn't understand how this possible, especially after it was previously taken from them?

As Sunset gazed at the sudden colorful auras that emitted from her friends' selflessness, kindness, humility and integrity, and all while the device continued to glow as well. Her eyes shimmered as the very light presented to her, gave her the newfound courage and confidence she needs as a single tear fell from her eyes.

“What’s the matter?” Demon Kion taunted. “Lives flashing before your eyes?”

“No.” Sunset looked up bravely. “Just one. I’m done running, Kion.” She then faced Demon Twilight. “And this isn't the way, Twilight! I know you feel powerful right now, like you can have everything you want! I've been where you are, I've made the same mistake you're making! I put on a crown and, just like you, I was overwhelmed by the magic it contained! I thought it could get me everything I wanted!"

"Oh, you're wrong." Twilight replied with a confident smile. "Unlike you, I can have everything I want!"

"No, you can't. Even with all that magic and power, you'll still be alone!

"She's right!" The princess then spoke up next. "True magic comes from honesty! Loyalty! Laughter! Generosity! Kindness!"

“Not only that…” Prince Kion spoke up with more to add on that. “Fierceness! Speed! Strength! Bravery! Keen Sight!”

As they spoke the words, each of her friends' aura rose up and was transported into the device, which opened up. However, they were not the only ones. Even the glows from each and everyone from the Lion Guard crew from both worlds reacted as well.

The large group of friends willingly hovered beside Sunset Shimmer, all willingly sharing their own magic with her as the device rose Sunset, both the alicorn prince and princess upwards, the wings causing their hair to dance against it.

"I understand you, Twilight, Kion and I want to show you both the most important magic of all…"

Sunset closed the container and threw it against the ground, causing it to explode and create another spear of magical energy. But unlike the one Twilight released, which had selfish intentions, this one was entirely from selfless desires. The energy not only engulfed Sunset Shimmer, Prince Kion, and Princess Twilight, but also the rest of the Lion and Pony Guard from both worlds. The three gain their ears and wings once more, but they also gained more than that.

Much like Kion and Twilight from before, Sunset has discovered what she was meant to do. Her clothes began to change, her shoes were golden with flames and wings, along with a stunning white dress with symbols of her cutie mark on her arms and finger-less white gloves. The dress was short in the front but long in the back, giving the depiction of a bird's tail. On her forehead, grew a long glowing horn. She also grew wings too, but not just alicorn wings, but of the creature Sunset symbolized the most.

A Phoenix!

Just like the mythical fire bird, Sunset Shimmer rose up from her own ashes and was now reborn into a creature more stunning than anything ever seen. The magic Twilight Sparkle had stolen transformed her desires into her own self, into her own flesh, that was why she became a monster. But Sunset Shimmer had the magic not taken, but given and shared alongside her loved ones, bringing her inner spirit out into the open to fight this battle as she summoned her sword. She floated before the wicked Twilight and Kion alongside the Lion and Pony Guard leaders from the other realm, ready to engage in the fight they want.

At the same time both the Prince and Princess of Friendship managed to obtain powerful forms themselves as not only they got the ears and wings to go with their appearance but new outfits perfectly fitted for battle. For Kion himself, he sports a fitting golden yellow bodysuit with red boots, gloves, and a big red image of a roaring lion much like his Mark of the Guard on his chest. For Twilight herself, she sported a sparkling purple and pink sleeveless battle dress with a bright pink star on the chest along with dark purple leggings, finger less gloves and shoes fit for running in.

"…the Magic of Friendship!"

“So go ahead!”

“Bring it!”

The three all bravely and courageously declared.

Demon Twilight growled while Demon Kion just laughed it off with a broad and amused chuckle.

“Don’t worry, Twilight. We got this! And besides, this is going to be fun!”

Demon Kion led the charge as set his sights on Sunset, the very person who started this whole conflict. Sunset herself with her sword in her hand moved to charge at him likewise. The two flew up and clashed blades mid air before landing on the opposite side of the flame surrounding arena. The phoenix had to watch her surroundings behind her to avoid getting singed by the flames before taking another charge back to resume the aerial battle all while dodging the flames thrown right at her by the vengeful demon.

Demon Twilight on the other hand simply mustered up the most powerful blast her fury fueled magic can unleash from both hands. Both the princess and prince only needed one hand each to counter and match it. It took several seconds before the alicorns magic overwhelmed and dominated the demon’s forcing backwards and causing her to fly backwards from the impact.

Both Prince Kion and Princess Twilight split up to cover more ground as they gained up the demon Twilight. Said demon was quick to recover as she unleashed wild fiery dark magic fueled blasts at the two who were both quick and agile enough to be able to effortlessly dodge each and every one of them. Angered by this defiant display of resistance, she twirled around in quicker speed with hopes she can break up the offensive momentum the two have against her.

Watching on from the other side of the flames cast around to them to prevent them from interfering with the duel, their friends all watched on with great anticipation, proud smiles at seeing how well they are holding their own. With the magic her friends shared with them, they were able to close off all of the portals to the Pride Lands and Equestria.

At the same time Sunset and Kion continued traded blades as each of them were able to dodge the occasional flames tossed at one another. Then Kion was able to swing a series of attacks to force Sunset on the defense before finally managing to get to pin the girl down onto the ground with the latter nearly having her head cut off by the former’s sword as she mustered her strength to keep it from happening. But Sunset was quick to break free from the pin and was to blast the fiery demon away with a golden blast of magic followed by a spinning karate kick to knock him back.

“Okay. All right.” Demon Kion nodded seeing she is not going down as easy as she thought while twirling his swords once more. “Want to do this the hard way, huh?” He then proceeded to combine his dual swords into one large double-bladed staff much to the surprised concern and shock of Sunset seeing this.

Sure enough that concern is validated when using the power of dark magic and increased speed he was able to twirl it around with the first clash forcing Sunset backwards. Then the next clash forced Sunset on the defensive as he took a series of fiery-fueled swings that she barely dodged with the skin on her arms, feet, horn, the fabric on her dress, until she was knocked backwards by a double handed lung and burst of fire and onto the ground while dropping her sword from the impact of the hit.

At the same time Demon Twilight managed to finally connect a hit as she roared in rage while firing off a double handed hit on the two when they came side by side together to which caught the other demon’s attention as he simply shook his head before focusing his attention on finishing Sunset off.

“Too bad! Good help is so hard to find these days, isn’t it, Sunset Shimmer?”

Everyone watching on from the other side of the flames look on in horror and worry as both demons go in for the final and fatal blow. Simultaneously both demons raised their arms with the former reading his staff and the latter ready for another combined attack. Then when they aimed and fired their weapons…

...they all managed to evade them in time.

Both the prince and princess were able to counter the blast with an equally powerful blast to keep it away from it before combining their strength to easily repel it backwards to the point she found herself flung backwards once more. At the same time thanks to a spare knife she was given from earlier, Sunset was able block off the attack just inches from her face. Instead her body was spun around by the attack as she rode the momentum before sliding under the demon as he tried swinging at her twice while performing a front flip as she retrieved her sword.

“Well it’s a good thing I don’t need help from others right now. Thanks to me being prepared with rule number nine.” She smirked as she presented the spare blade much to the demon’s shock and confusion while Askari looked on proudly at her.

With a second wind, the heroes went on the offensive as both Twilight and Kion doubled down on their magical beams while Sunset doubled down on her swordsmanship to the point the two demons were forced backwards on the defense. The prince and princess worked in perfect sync as Demon Twilight barely could protect herself from their attacks before enduring a couple hits herself. At the same time Sunset was able to dodge the next couple of swings from the demon’s staff before she effortlessly moved to slice it in half much to his shock as he begins to realize this is not going his way.

Then Demon Twilight once more tried to increase her power more as she sweated and grunted in frustration trying to finish the prince and princess once and for all. Her lack of skill and experience with magic proved futile in the face of two masters of magic doubling down on her, literally with their superior agility and reflexes. At the same time Demon Kion with his staff broken back down into his two duel swords was able to grab onto Sunset’s when she tried to aim hers at him before flinging her upwards to the sky.

Sunset having anticipated that was able to use the momentum she gained as she flew and fell backwards down towards him to her advantage in a spinning and rotating manner. She managed to land a punch and drop kick powerful enough to knock the demon out of the air and backwards onto the ground before he could swing at her once more. The huge blow from the attack disarmed him of his swords leaving the demon winded and having trouble getting up.

At the same time Twilight struggled as she resisted defeat even when it’s coming right at her. But just before she exert the last of her power and strength in a futile attempt to stop it...

"Twilight!"

Hearing that voice caught her attention. She looked down as she spotted, her puppy looking up at her heartbroken eyes. The sight of him triggered something within her. Something she thought she had lost, but really didn't. Her eyes, once glowing a sinister blue, briefly turned back into their normal and beautiful violet color.

"Spike?"

That alone, ended up working in both the prince and princess’s favor as their power finally overpowered Demon Twilight’s. The power was too much for her, she couldn't control it. She couldn't contain it. She couldn't destroy it.

"Noooo!"

Twilight opened her eyes, no longer being surrounded by the blue flames. Her eyes were violet once again. Her vision was no longer but her mind still wasn't as clear, evident by the horn still on her head.

She floated in a white plane in space where she saw her friend Kion barely getting himself him from the attack that defeated him. They both ended up looking on as they see the glowing girls and boy in front of her. Despite the latter being really beaten up from the powerful hit he endured, he still looked on refusing to cower and beg for mercy. But to their surprise their words weren’t what they expected.

Sunset moved while reaching out her hand to the both of them with a compassionate smile. “Take my hand, Twilight. Let me show you there's another way...just like someone once did for me. Both you and your friend."

“And that someone is other me, Twilight.” The princess counterpart said as she looked on hoping that they will accept it. “And the same can be said for you to Kion.”

Demon Kion himself looked on still baffled and not understanding why they are doing this even when he himself was justs seconds ago in a vulnerable state.

“I know I can never take back what I did to you back then, but if you give me a chance, I can prove to you that you will not regret this decision.” Sunset then added to Demon Kion.

Skeptical and unconvinced, he floated on over to her with a menacing look while grabbing onto and holding onto his swords once more as Sunset kept her nerves steeled to the point she has no fear inside of her. No longer the girl after the boy that was trying to get revenge on her ever since he returned. Once the two were face to face, Kion growled as he looked deeply in the girl’s eyes for several seconds hoping that brave expression was just a front. But when she didn’t back down or flinch like he hoped, Kion himself ended growling in frustration before turning away from her while slamming his swords together.

“Kwa nini nililazimika kwenda kucheza na chakula changu?!” He ranted to himself while the others looked on slightly confused along with exchanged looks at Pride Lands Kion with his brief tantrum as the demon briefly turned back to properly face them. “You’re ruining this for me!” Moving to be face to face with Sunset once more. “I came here to protect my friend and get revenge on an arrogant, prideful, school girl and bully, who thought she was invincible.” After a brief pause, he then calmly sighed in defeat. “But I don’t see her anymore.”

The two demons looked at each other as they briefly debated the offer. The former felt great remorse that she ended up becoming a monster in pursuit of her ambition and desire to learn magic. While the latter after unsure of what her friend wants and coming to realize that Sunset is a changed girl from when they last met was enough for him to make up his mind. Especially knowing they didn’t have to offer this even with all things considered. From someone who used to be in their shoes, now they are seeing that this girl is offering her friendship. An opportunity to start a brand new life.

As tears shed from the girl’s eyes, she now knew the right path. At the same time, Demon Kion moved to sheath his swords as they both stretched out their hands and Sunset Shimmer took it. Both the prince and princes placed their hands over theirs, and a pure spiral of magic of yellow, red, and purple colors flew upwards, spiraling around Twilight and Kion's arm, towards their hearts, and up their heads, removing the horns and demonic features from their bodies.

They both could feel the change as the darkness they carried now faded, the magic Twilight had stolen, the power they once possessed, disappeared.

A beam lowered the three girls along with the one boy down in front of everyone before vanishing into thin air along with the flames surrounding them. Sunset, both Kion’s, and both Twilight’s returned back to their normal selves and appearances, aside from having messy hair from the duel.

Both Human Twilight and Kion shook their heads, feeling somewhat disoriented from the impact. Once the former came back to her senses, she released Sunset's hand and started to cry. "I'm so sorry...I didn't mean for any of this to happen…"

Sunset kindly took the girl's hands, smiling in reassurance, "I know. And going by my own experiences, they'll forgive you."

“We know we can.” Her princess counterpart assured with full faith as she too has been there before.

“And what’s important is that you are both coming around now.” The prince counterpart added in agreement.

“Great.” Human Kion returned flatly still having a difficult time coming to accept all of this. “It’s not every day that you are just handed forgiveness like nothing happened.”

“Believe me when I tell you it takes time getting used to but you’ll come to adapt to eventually.” The young prince comforted.

Just then they all found themselves gathered together in a great group hug by their friends from their respective worlds.

“Yay!”

“Group hug!”

Both Pinkie’s happily expressed.

Once she was certain the danger was over, Principal Cinch having recovered from Demon Kion's assault angrily marched over to Celestia, while Luna, Cadance, Mufusa, Askari, and Zazu stood beside her.

"Principal Celestia, on behalf of Crystal Prep, I demand that you forfeit the Friendship Games!"

Ono rolled his eyes, "Oh, brother! This again?!"

"Clearly, CHS has had unfair advantage for quite some time! And it's certainly obvious that your students have been using magic for their own benefit!"

Principal Celestia, on the other hand, only smiled and calmly retorted. "I'd like to think that saving the world benefits us all."

"And considering of what could have been, it's better than nothing." Mufusa then said next with a frown and crossed arms refusing to give into her demands.

"At least they didn't manipulate Twilight and Kion into releasing all the stolen magic and turning into power-crazed homicidal magical creatures that tried to rip the world apart just to win a game."

Bunga spoke up amazed with the girl’s response. "Wow! For a girl named "Sugarcoat" you don't sugarcoat anything, do ya?"

"I sure don't!"

"That's ridiculous!" Cinch exclaimed in defense.

"Nope, that's pretty much what happened." The dog Spike stated rather bluntly while still in alternate Twilight's arms.

Principal Cinch was downright speechless at seeing all the talking animals before her.

Sour Sweet bowed her head in shame unable to deny what she and everyone else did that led up to this. "Actually, we're all to blame." she said, right before turning sour again, "Mostly it was her."

But regardless, Principal Cinch refused to be humiliated like this, especially by her own students. "Obviously my students have been infected with your magic, but I plan on taking all of this up with the school board!"

"Go ahead." Princess Twilight dared with a smug smile and crossed arms. "I'm sure they would be very interested in hearing all about the magical students with wings."

"Oh, and the portals to different dimensions." Prince Kion added with a confident grin.

"And don't forget to tell them about the magical doppelgangers." Pride Lands Fuli added.

“As long as duplicates, copies, and double me’s and us’s.” Other Fuli chimed in as she moved to be in perfect sync with her double.

"And the talking animals!" Pride Lands Bunga added finally.

“Because that would never ruin your reputation." the dog Spike added with a smug smile, which was shared by the majority of the Lion and Pony Guard.

Cinch looked all around her, expecting to see her students back her up but much to her shock none of them did. They all stood beside the CHS students, not showing any signs of loyalty and the expected behavior that comes with it. Seeing this was enough for her to hit her breaking point like an erupting volcano.

“All of you from Crystal Prep will obey me, or this defiant breath will be your last as far as your future’s are concerned!”

"NO THEY WILL NOT!!"

All eyes fell on Cadance, who's patience with the woman had finally worn completely thin. She marched up to her boss, standing up to her for the very first time. "I have been nothing but nice to you even after putting up with you because I had hopes that deep down you wanted the best out of the students and could improve yourself. But since it’s clear to me now with your abusive attitude, that you are nothing but someone who only sees the students as a tool to boost your own pride and ego to cover the fact that you are a sad, pathetic, insecure woman deep down inside. Consider this the last time I take orders from you, Cinch!"

"And I can tell you right now..." Mufusa then said next with his words calm yet firm and stern. "...I too have just about had it your abusive attitude. So that being said, Cinch. You're fired."

"Now come on, Mufusa." Cinch pleaded. "There's no need to react like this."

"I mean it. You're fired. You're done. You're not using your power to hurt these students and especially my grandson and his best friend anymore."

"You'll regret this, Mufusa!"

"I regret now I regret for the past three years ever since he was enrolled in your school back then. Because the woman I knew back then has grown was not consumed with perfection you've created a toxic environment where you've encouraged nothing but negative feelings among everyone there compared to what I saw here today. So once again, you're done. You're fired."

Cinch had never been more speechless in her entire life. No one had ever spoken up to her like that and she wasn't expecting Mufusa to back everyone else up too. She backed away from the two who just told her off, only to back into the arms of Shenzi and Banzai who are quick to place her hands behind her back and handcuff her.

“Wait! What! What is this?! What are you doing?!” She struggled as she slightly resisted her arresting officers. “Why are you arresting me?!”

“Because…” Askari replied. “...while I can’t arrest you for anything involving the magical circumstances that happened here recently. There are charges I actually can arrest you for.”

“Charges?! Like what? What for?!!”

“Abuse of power…”

“Mind breaking along with Psychological abuse…” Shenzi added.

“Blackmail and Conspiracy…” Banzai added.

“...along with torture, incrimination, sabotage, and of course public endangerment.” Askari concluded.

“But...you have no proof!”

“Yes we do. Ed?” Ed pulled out a tape recorder which contained her recent behavior and voice towards Human Twilight and Kion for all ears to hear. Specifically her conversation with the two in the hallway before the athletic competition.

"Quite a coincidence that the CHS students moving on to the next event are the same nice girls who were so interested in you, don't you think?"

"I'm not sure."

“What are you suggesting?”

"I’m suggesting your friend, Kion, that perhaps you should get to know them after all."

"But I thought you didn't want me to."

"Let's just say I'm covering my bases. Who knows? Perhaps they will reveal to you the secret to Canterlot High's newfound success."

“Or maybe that might cause more trouble than what it’s worth! I mean come on! We already have a winning team with me backing the athletic competition. There’s really no need to resort to any of this!”

"I dunno. Spying feels kind of…wrong. I mean I understand the need to win here but resorting to something like that sounds more like cheating to me. And if others caught on to this, wouldn’t that tarnish your credibility as a principal?"

"Well, it's your decision, Twilight. It's not as if your application hangs in the balance. On second thought, yes, it does. And the same can be said to you too Kion, in regards to your permanent record."

“As you can tell, the proof is right there on that tape recorder.”

“Something that we happened to hear you admit while you were high up on your high horse.” Banzai added.

“So now, you have to deal with us along with the school board about this, and judging from the looks of this evidence it is not looking good for your reputation and position going forward.” Shenzi then said to which had Cinch groan feeling greatly humiliated in defeat.

“It certainly is not.” Askari then gestured his other agents towards where Gladmane along with the Flim Flam brothers are. Said agents were quick to pull them out of their hiding spots and arrest them as well. “Take them away.” He ordered of the agents who all proceeded to do so and escort them to their vehicles.

"And believe me when I tell you there will be a lot of paperwork ready to kick your butts later!" Zazu yelled out to them feeling his inner fire burning up himself.

"Oh and before I forget..." Human Kion then yelled out to the now former principal with a specific finger raised up. "Buck you, you old Cinch! And enjoy the hay you're about to endure because you so bucking deserve it!" He then laughed and taunted while greatly taking delight in seeing karma finally catch up with her. And that was before calming himself down as he can sense everyone else was shocked by his sudden outburst. "Anyways..."

Once that was over, Mufusa then addressed to the whole crowd. "Well, I know these Friendship games haven't been what any of us expected, but given what we've all just been through and after much discussion and consideration with your principals, I think it's fair to declare us all winners."

The students of both schooled cheered triumphantly…

All Together!

Author's Note

With the games all down to the final event, it seems that not everyone is up to finishing and fighting it out for a clear winner. But even still it doesn't stop Principal Cinch from making one last push to the finish wanting to be the first to cross that finish line. Even if it evens pushing to extremes and that's where the magical amulet came into play. But what she didn't account for was just how powerful and dangerous it was especially when Kion decided to turn it to his advantage after hitting his breaking point.

With two dark and powerful demons on the rise, Demon Kion wasted no time in personally confronting Sunset ready for one last duel with the intent on killing her off in a blaze of glory with Demon Twilight ready to take on both her princess self and other Kion. The battle itself shook both realms itself until finally the heroes of the day took down the demons and even offered them a chance to turn themselves around just like Sunset in the first film.

With a newly formed truce and friendship between them along with the Shadowbolts, for the first time in the Friendship Games history there is officially a tie between the two schools therefore everyone wins.