Sword, Shield, and Scabbard

Chapters

A Poor Unicorn
an Old Face
Memories
Nightmare or Reality
Evil Resurrected
Taken
Allies
Returning the Favor
Bestest Best
Raritys, Demons, and Spirit Guides, Oh My!
Gosh, Dang It!
Virtually Brothers
Questions
the Bowels of Arigos
Prologue
Somepony Different, Someplace Familiar

A Poor Unicorn

Chapter 2

A Poor Unicorn

At the far outside edges of Canterlot, a stallion stood on top of a cliff right above his rickety home, made of scrap metal. The stallion had a blue coat with an unruly black and white mane that streamed toward the back of his head from countless times of running. His Cutie Mark was a circle of lightning with another bolt overlapping it. Black goggles covered his eyes as he stared out into the marvelous view before him. He could see Ponyville and the Forevergreen Mountain. He could also see the Everfree Forest filled with life as always. The story of this Unicorn is very dark and mysterious. He has no recollection of his family, not even the memory of how he received his Cutie Mark; however, it sits on his flank with pride. He’s lived in poverty ever since he was a foal, living with his one-and-only relative…or at least he believes her to be a relative. She’s taken care of him ever since he awoken in this dump which stands on a cliff of the mountain.

“Roadburn!” An old voice shouted from below him; bringing the stallion out of his steely gaze. “Where is that boy?” He pulled off his black goggles, revealing his emerald eyes, then looked down to the old yellow mare in the front yard of his home. She had a gray curly mane with a red bow tie on her tail, and her Cutie Mark was a plate of cookies. She had a blanket wrapped around herself to keep warm, and she looked really concerned. “Roadburn!” The stallion sighed as he jumped down from the cliff side, unto the roof of his home and down beside the old mare.

“Yes, Granny Cookie?” Roadburn asked. The old mare turned around to face him, not surprised to see him appear out of nowhere, but glad to see him.

“Oh, there you are, Roadburn.” Granny Cookie sneezed harshly. “I’m sorry. It’s the allergies, dear.”

“Then maybe we should come back inside so you won’t be so tortured.” Roadburn opened the front door of his home. Granny quickly trotted in.

“Thank you, Roadburn.” The old mare replied.

“No problem.” Roadburn closed the door and stepped inside. There really was not much room inside of their house. It was made of mostly steel, but it was enough to make two bedrooms, one kitchen, one living room, and one bathroom. They didn’t even have a floor, just the dirt. The beds they slept on were old and dusty, but still comfortable. Such a place compared to Canterlot pained Roadburn to see his Grandmother living in such conditions. He always thought of her as a grandmother. Even though foals would call their parents ‘Mom’, or ‘Dad’, he called his parent ‘Granny Cookie.’ The old mare sat on the dilapidated couch and began to relax from the warmth of the fire in the fireplace. The smoke escaped through a hole in the ceiling. It was fine enough, but the room would become flooded every time there was a storm. It was cozy enough for her to sleep in. “So, Granny.” Roadburn began. “There was something you wanted to tell me?”

“Oh, yes.” The old mare remembered. “Could you fetch some more firewood, and if you can, chop some up and place it in the fireplace. It’s beginning to cool down, Son.”

“No problem, Granny.” Roadburn nodded as he left the house and got to work on chopping some extra firewood for the fire. Once finished, he came back inside and placed the wood into the fire. It flared brightly as it grew again. “Thank you, Roadburn. You’re such a nice boy.”

“It’s no problem, Granny.” Roadburn assured her proudly. Soon after sometime, Granny Cookie fell asleep; leaving Roadburn to his thoughts. He then remembered an old friend in Canterlot and so he left the house toward Canterlot. Once there, he strolled through the marketplace. Two rich ponies, both mare and stallion, notice this filthy pony trotting through the city, again. They had to put a stop to this nonsense. They followed him toward the only donut shop in the entire city, Pony Joe’s. As Roadburn sat at his seat at the counter, the two rich ponies sat at a table far behind the stallion. “Hey, Donut Joe!” Roadburn grabbed the big stallion’s attention. He had the same light cream coat and brown hair as Roadburn remembered. He also still had the donut Cutie Mark as ever, and he still wore that tacky hat and apron.

“Oh! Hey there, Burn!” Pony Joe greeted with a delighted smile. “Here for the usual?”

“Yeah.” Roadburn nodded and the clerk gave Roadburn two cream-filled donuts, and a large cup of hot chocolate.

“Here ya go, and as usual, it’s on the house!” Pony Joe nodded as Roadburn ate his food, but then their moment was interrupted by the rich ponies laughing in their ‘proper’ manner. “Uh…can I help you?” Pony Joe greeted them a little confused as to why they were laughing.

“You call this a business?” The rich stallion scoffed.

“It’s absolutely preposterous!” The mare added.

“Oh, so you don’t like how I run my business, eh?” Pony Joe growled at them, obviously resentful of their remarks as Roadburn watched their exchange while eating his food and sipping his hot chocolate.

“Mm-hmm.” They nodded simultaneously.

“Giving food and drink to somepony as filthy as that bum right there!” The mare pointed straight toward Roadburn still scarfing down the food and sending crumbs all amiss.

“And it’s all for free?” The stallion also added. “Yet you charge us more important ponies to pay for the food.”

“You don’t even eat here!” Pony Joe shouted irritated. “Just who do you think you are?”

“Calm yourself, Sir. My name is Jet Set, and this is my wife: Upper Crust.” Jet Set explained themselves. “We spotted this filthy creature entering town and we just had to get him out of here before the New Princess finds him trotting about, dirtying the streets with his filth.”

“New Princess?” Roadburn repeated, curious. Since when was there a new Princess in Canterlot? Did he miss out on something while he was taking care of Granny Cookie?

“You, Sir, and Madam, are the most inconsiderate and selfish ponies I’ve ever met!” Roadburn’s friend shouted at the two intruders in his shop. “In fact, the only thing filthy I see in my shop is two ponies standing right in front of my best friend and me.” He growled as he walked around the counter and made his way toward the two rich ponies. “Now if you don’t leave, I’m gonna tell the New Princess that you two have been pushing around my friend ever since he first got to this city, ka-peesh?”

“Oh, well, I--!” Jet Set’s sentence was interrupted by Joe.

“Oh, well, you what?” It was obvious that Pony Joe was not kidding and Jet Set and Upper Crust left the shop with their heads held high. The shopkeeper chuckled as they left into the streets. “Those two never seem to give up on banning you out of Canterlot.” Pony Joe remarked as he returned to his counter, wiping off the crumbs Roadburn scattered on the counter. “But seriously, you kinda do need to be considerate of how you eat things.” Roadburn then wiped the cream beard off his face with a napkin and laughed.

“They say it like it’s a bad thing.” He laughed some more, but Pony Joe didn’t laugh with him as he usually would, instead the stallion gave him a firm look, and Roadburn noticed. He cleared his throat, uncomfortably.

“Burn. Look.” Joe started one his serious talks again. “We’ve been friends since foalhood, and I know your secret, but once anypony else finds it out, you’ll be thrown in jail in an instant. You should be careful about what you do nowadays.” He leaned closer to Roadburn with a hoof at the side of his mouth for him to whisper. “I’ve heard that the Royal Judge sees the truth, as well as the Royal Sorcerer.” He whispered and then returned to his earlier position. “You really don’t want to get caught in the act, if you know what I mean.”

“Yeah, yeah, yeah. I know.” Roadburn rolled his eyes.

“I’m just looking out for a friend.” Joe smiled, and took Roadburn’s cup and washed it with his dishcloth. “So how’s Granny? She still doesn’t want to come to Canterlot, yet?”

“Well, y’know I’ve decided to leave that alone. Her business is her business.” Roadburn replied.

“She hasn’t been forgetting things, yet, has she?” Joe asked him again.

“Not yet, but I know old age is getting to her quick, and this winter is also going to be brutal.” The Blue Stallion tilted his head down in thought. “Snow will come soon, and I still have not enough money to buy Granny Cookie that new house that she needs so bad.”

“I hear ya, buddy. I hear ya.” Joe nodded in agreement. “Which reminds me. Come with me to the back of the shop. I have somethin’ for ya to take.” Roadburn followed Pony Joe to the back of the shop. He was surprised to find a wagon filled with a couple sacks of flour, sugar, a few small tubs of butter, and a couple barrels of water waiting for him in the next room. There were also a few cartons of eggs. “Here’s enough food for the snow ahead. You have enough firewood, right?”

“Joe, I live in the forest, how can I not have enough firewood?” Roadburn chuckled. “And I can’t take food from you.”

“Hey! You need it more than my business!” Joe obstinately insisted. “So take it.”

“But why, Joe?” Roadburn asked again, confused.

“Because you’re my best friend, and as best buds, we look out for each other.” Joe laid an arm over his friend’s shoulders, and he was right. Ever since they were foals, they would always watch each other’s backs. Pony Joe was like a brother to Roadburn, although they live two entirely different lives. They are equal in their own way, and Joe shared many hilarious stories with Roadburn as they spent time together as friends. “Thanks, Joe.” Burn thanked his friend.

“No problem, Burn.” Pony Joe nodded, and he chuckled at a late memory. “Have I ever told you of the time I was taking my masterpiece ‘Donutopolis’ on the train to that contest here in Canterlot?”

“You mean the time when there was an investigation on finding who ate from the ‘Mmm’?” Roadburn laughed aloud. “That mare must’ve been insane thinking that you were a secret agent. I mean, look at you! You’re not smooth, just big, messy, and scruffy!” He laughed again, and Joe laughed as well.

“Even though, I would look ‘dashing’ in a tuxedo!” They laughed even louder and eventually Roadburn was sent on his merry way back home to the other side of Canterlot Mountain. On his way toward the exit, he noticed Fancypants trotting along with his brother: Luckyshoes through the marketplace. Out of the other rich ponies Roadburn hated, Fancypants wasn’t so bad. In fact, he secretly praised him for being so kind and gentle toward the ponies that were less fortunate in their lives, because he gave them food, water, and even shelter for the homeless. Rumors explain that Fancypants had become less important to the other wealthy ponies, because he spent more time with the misfits than them. But Roadburn knows that the truth is that Fancy is the most important pony in Canterlot. He should be awarded for his helpfulness to the needy. His brother too!
Roadburn was told that Luckyshoes came back from a distant land. He sailed the great ocean and knew many stories. Why he came back he never knew. The two ponies Roadburn was eavesdropping at the time left before it was mentioned. He then decided to trot over and greet the two brothers. They seemed like jolly ol’ fellows, and that they wouldn’t mind a short chat. “H…Hello…” Roadburn grabbed Fancypants’ attention, shyly.

“Oh, salutations, my good fellow!” Fancypants greeted delightedly. “What brings you to Canterlot, my friend?”

“And what’s your name, lad?” Luckyshoes added with a smile. They were really kind fellows with very obvious good character.

“I’m just on a marketing trip.” Roadburn answered, nodding toward his wagon. “I heard that you help the homeless. My name’s Roadburn.”

“You heard right, lad.” Luckyshoes nodded delightedly. “But all these other wealthy landlubbers think that we’ve gone and lost our importance to the city. What do they know? We’re only following what the Prince does for a living.”

“Prince?” Roadburn asked confused. New Princess? Prince? Just what has he been missing out on?

“Why, yes. Haven’t you heard? Prince Joyful returned and saved our world from Envious just a few months ago, and now he lives in Ponyville helping the needy with whatever he can. Luckily for him, not many ponies live in Ponyville without a home.” Fancypants explained.

“He should be up here in Canterlot doing our job, if you ask me.” Luckyshoes remarked.

“I wouldn’t say that. He’s probably doing nothing different at his home in Ponyville than what we do here.” Fancypants insisted. “Besides, we’re doing quite fine on our own, helping the city, if you ask me.”

“Aye, I believe you’re right.” Luckyshoes nodded. “I sailed with the lad before, and I’m sure he knows what he’s doin’. In fact, his friends and he were the reason I came back.”

“Really?” Roadburn grinned.

“Aye.” Luckyshoes nodded.

“I say, dear fellow, you look rather…dirty.” Fancypants remarked, noticing Roadburn’s filthiness. “What happened?”

“Oh! I was walking through town when some pony dashed past me, knocking myself off balance and landed in a dirt pile. I’ll be fine and get cleaned later. Right now, I need to bring all this food back home.”

“That’s very splendid, my fellow. Where do you live, by the way? In Canterlot, by any chance?” Roadburn shook his head.

“No. I live just in the outer edges of Canterlot.” Roadburn explained. “My Granny and I live in a hoof-made house.”

“Now that is what I call ‘living the simple life.’” Luckyshoes remarked with a kind smile.

“Well then, my brother and I must pay a visit to you sometime soon.” Fancy chuckled.

“I believe I should pay you a visit!” Roadburn immediately responded with alert in his eyes. “I really don’t think that you’ll enjoy our home that much.”

“Nonsense!” Fancypants insisted. “I believe that your home must be a very rustic residence. I would be pleased to see for myself.”

“Say, brother.” Luckyshoes grabbed the White Unicorn’s attention. “We don’t have any other work after this, so we can visit the lad’s home now.”

“Why yes! Why didn’t I think of this before?” He chuckled and turned his gaze to Roadburn, but found that the unicorn was gone. “Now where did the fellow go?” They had not noticed, but Roadburn left them for the conversation was moving in a direction he had not anticipated. As he continued out of the city into the forest, a carriage was traveling toward him, and he could not see who was in it from the distance he was at. He decided to walk a little faster, in an effort to see who inside the carriage. He began to see that it was a Royal Carriage, meaning that it would be either Princess Celestia or Luna riding home. He absolutely despised Luna and Celestia.

If the Princesses were all-wise, why didn’t they do anything to help the homeless, like Fancypants and Luckyshoes? They should learn from this Prince Joyful, who saved everypony a few months ago. That’ll make them think of the homeless more often, but why isn’t he ruling Equestria? He would make a grand king, no doubt. The Royal Carriage was getting closer as it was pulled by two Royal Guards, now Roadburn could see who is riding it. Wait a minute. The pony riding in the carriage wasn’t either Celestia or Luna. She instead seemed to be an everyday normal pony, however she was still an Alicorn with a Princess getup. That didn’t make him like her any more than the other two. She was coming closer and Roadburn could see that she was a purple Alicorn with black straight hair with two purple streaks. She stopped beside him, and Roadburn continued walking, but slowly, in an effort to secretly study her, however seemingly ignoring her. “Hello!” She greeted him, and Roadburn looked over to her with his black goggles swinging around his neck. He was pretending like he just now noticed her. “My name is Princess Twilight Sparkle. What’s your name, traveler?”

“A Princess?” Roadburn repeated, seemingly surprised. A Princess? She must the New Princess that everypony mentioned from before, but she looks really young to him. Her height was shorter than his. How is this pony a princess? “I’m sorry, but I’ve never met a princess before.”

“Oh well. I wasn’t always a princess.” Twilight explained, modestly. “I was once Celestia’s most faithful student, however time passed on and I’ve found that I was destined to be this way.”

“Interesting.” Roadburn raised an eyebrow, secretly in disbelief, however seemingly curious. “Well, it’s been nice meeting you, but I have to bring this food back to my Granny before she wakes up, so I’ll see you later!”

“Wait!” She stopped him. “I haven’t got your name.”

“It’s Roadburn.” The Unicorn replied as he trudged on his way, confusing Twilight, but she quickly jumped out of the Royal Carriage.

“Your Majesty!” A Royal Guard grabbed her attention.

“Don’t worry.” Twilight assured the Guard. “I won’t be long.” She quietly followed the stallion until he made a turn into the deep brush, which made Twilight curious on why he went off the road into the forest. One Guard followed her, and stopped beside her.

“Your Majesty. We can’t let you travel these roads alone.” He told her, but Twilight only shushed him.

“I want to figure out what his problem is, and besides that, he seems familiar to me.” Twilight whispered to the Guard. “Stay with the other Guard until I return. If you are found without me, I’ll take the blame, so don’t worry.”

“As you wish, Your Majesty.” The Guard nodded and he gave Twilight a bell.

“What’s this?” Twilight asked as she accepted it.

“Ring it and we’ll come to your rescue.” The Guard explained.

“Thank you.” Twilight hung the bag that the bell was offered in around her neck, and she quickly followed Roadburn through the forest. It wasn’t very long until she found a small shack, built on top a cliff under another cliff. The shack was leaning against the cliff wall as smoke floated through the roof. What a terrible home! She couldn’t imagine living in such a place of poverty. She watched as Roadburn entered the house and closed the door behind him. Quickly, Twilight dashed from the forest brush to the house and peeked through a small hole through the wall. She could see the interior, and it was saddening. All there was inside was a fireplace, a couch, a bed on the ground, a few thin blankets, and very little firewood. How could he even live in such a horror? But it’s obvious that he’s been through tough times, and somehow living through the worse situations.

She watched in awe as Roadburn parked his wagon inside and freed himself from the harness. The door was wide enough for the wagon to fit conveniently through. Perhaps he knew how to live in such an environment. He trotted over to the couch, which was turned away from Twilight so she couldn’t see. “Hey. Granny Cookie.” Roadburn gently shook whatever was in the couch. “Wake up.” Twilight could hear very light groaning of an old mare, very similar to Granny Smith’s voice. She then spotted an old mare standing up and turning her gaze toward the wagon and she gasped of surprise.

“Oh, Roadburn!” She hugged the stallion tightly. It was obvious to Twilight that now wasn’t the appropriate time to step in and give generous help. It was too soon, and so she left the house toward the forest, however she decided to stay hidden in the brush, in case of Roadburn’s return. This was hardly princess-like of her, but her intentions were true. Perhaps she could have a conversation with the poor stallion toward Canterlot. As time rolled by, Twilight remembered what she did to become a princess and the funny part of the Coronation was that Helpful, Merciful, and Sunny were late, mostly because Sunny was trying to look her best; however she took forever to find an appropriate dress.

She giggled at that memory, and she remembered what Merciful told her about becoming Royalty. “It isn’t what it’s cracked up to be, Twilight,” He said, “Sometimes being Royalty can be exhausting and the work can become unbearable.” At first that seemed to be discouraging to her, but Helpful also added, “But you’re a great leader, Twilight! I bet you’ll be better than me.” Of course, modesty forced her to insist that she could never be better than he would rule, but only time will tell. The sun was beginning to lower into evening and she began to wonder if he was even coming, but she soon heard rustling through the bushes. The rustling started come closer and closer, but she couldn’t see what was coming. The anticipation was growing in her. Was that rustling Roadburn or an animal? It grew closer and closer until the bushes just a few feet before her stopped. Silence lingered and uneasiness settled in Twilight. This doesn’t feel right. Ponies don’t creep in forests. She began to step backward, and she was lucky to get away a few more steps, however something blocked her path and she gasped of shock. What stopped her felt warm and slightly fuzzy from behind and she looked back slowly to see Roadburn behind her. “What are you doing here?” He asked with an indifferent expression.

“Oh! Roadburn!” She greeted with surprise. She couldn’t let him know that she was following him, and so she looked around for an answer. “I was just, uh, taking a stroll out into the forest to…refresh my memory.” She smiled, convincingly, but Roadburn looked at her in disbelief. She soon began to wonder how he got past her in the forest. “I thought you went home.”

“I did, and I had to return the wagon to my friend.” Roadburn explained. “I’m returning home now, and so should you, Your Highness.” He was secretly mocking her, but in a dry fashion so she couldn’t notice it. “Good-bye.” He walked around her, but the princess quickly stopped him.

“Wait!” She grabbed his arm, “There’s something out there in the bushes.” Roadburn looked at her in disbelief, at first, but there has been much activity in the forest lately. Timberwolves, most likely. Have the forest animals from Everfree begun to move uphill? That isn’t likely to happen, and yet, he finds himself wondering on that many times. He should check out what this princess is talking about. “Stay here.” He told her, and he trotted toward the bushes. At first, it seemed that all was well to Twilight, but as Roadburn turned to tell her that it was nothing, a Timberwolf jumped from the bush, and she screamed in fear. She closed her eyes and uniquely at that second, Roadburn turned around to face the wooden creature and he kicked its face, knocking it off course and flipping it onto the ground, unconscious. Five others quickly, entered the area at the same time Roadburn defeated the Timberwolf.

Roadburn noticed and dashed to the closet on his left and before it could respond, he tackled it and the momentum from his run made the Timberwolf fly off and hit two other wooden creatures, breaking them into pieces. One Timberwolf lunged toward Roadburn with an open jaw while the other went to end Twilight. As quick as lightning, the stallion dashed around the first Timberwolf and stopped between Twilight and her predator. He quickly punched the attacker, knocking off the head. Once finished, Roadburn turned his attention to the final Timberwolf and Twilight stopped her screaming. She caught her breath as she watched in confusion as the last Timberwolf retreated in fear. Roadburn stood beside her, and she didn’t know what happened.

One second Roadburn was going to be eaten by a Timberwolf, and the next, the Timberwolf looks scared as he runs away, and she only screamed once. “Wha…What just happened?” She asked, terribly confused.

“A Timberwolf ran away.” Roadburn answered, indifferently. “You should leave before more return. I’m returning home. So long.” Roadburn then left her with no other explanation. The Royal Guards heard her scream and they quickly came to her rescue.

“Your Majesty! Your Majesty!” They shouted after her, and they found her in the bushes. “Princess Twilight! Are you alright?”

“Yes, yes. I’m fine.” She assured them.

“What happened?” One asked her. Twilight thought over that question hard.

“Nothing happened. Let’s go back to the castle.” She ordered, and they left the forest, but they were not alone. Roadburn secretly watched them as he was hidden in the dark brush. Once they were out of sight he sighed a sigh of relief. That was too close. If Twilight knew of his secret, he could’ve been in serious trouble. Pony Joe was right. He should be more careful on what he does to protect his secret. His secret of Super Speed.

an Old Face

Chapter 3

an Old Face

Fluttershy gasped at the sound of knocking at her front door. She quietly walked over to the entrance of her cottage, and carefully opened the door. She found Helpful, Merciful, Applejack, Spike, and Snowy at her doorstep. “Oh, hello, everypony.” Fluttershy greeted as the crickets chirped in the darkness of night. “What are you doing here so late in the day? I didn’t know we’re on a double date, Helpful.”

“Well, we have an emergency, Fluttershy,” Applejack answered her, “And we need to borrow your Water Sapphires for a second.”

“Oh. Sure. I can lend them to you.” Fluttershy replied with a smile. “Come on in.” The four companions entered into Fluttershy’s cottage and they watched as Fluttershy reached for her box of Water Sapphires at the top of her shelf, but to her surprise it was lighter than she expected and she quickly placed it on the floor and opened it. She gasped of shock to find that the box was entirely empty. “Where’re the gems?” She shouted as she lifted the box and shook it rapidly, “Huh?” And then she looked through the shelf, “Huh?” And then began to breathe in and out deeply, in panic.

“Fluttershy!” Helpful grabbed her attention concerned. “What’s wrong?”

“T-the Water Sapphire shards!” She answered. “They’re gone!”

“Heh. C’mon, Fluttershy, you’re just over-reacting.” Helpful assured her as he reached into the box. “I’m sure they’re just…in…here…somewhere…” He felt nothing and he immediately looked into the box with his head buried deep into it, “Huh?” He then lifted it up and shook it rapidly, “Huh?” And then he looked through the bookshelf, since nothing fell out, “Huh?” Once finished he began to breathe in and out deeply, in panic, like Fluttershy did, but then his attention was grabbed by an unexpected laughter. The group turned their attention beside them to see a Draconequus laughing on his back. “What’s so funny?” Helpful dashed right up to him with a still panicked expression. The creature soon calmed down, and he stood up.

“Oh, it’s just the fact that you both made the exact same over-reaction.” He chuckled, and looked at Helpful with a curious look. “Say…haven’t we met before?” He poked the Pegasus, who looked confused.

“Uh…”

“Oh, wait! Don’t tell me,” The creature teleported beside Helpful, “You must be Prince Joyful! My! Haven’t we grown older?” He pinched the Light Tan Pegasus’ cheek, like he was a little baby. After he let go, Helpful felt a strange feeling of déjà vu. Have they met before? “Excuse me, but have we met before?” Merciful grabbed the creature’s attention, who appeared beside him.

“Ah! Prince Merciful!” He lays an arm across the Alicorn’s shoulders, as if they were old friends. “Has it been so long that we’ve seen each other? Really, Old Chap?” Merciful only gave him a blank stare.

“My apologies. I do not recall ever meeting you.” Merciful replied with a thoughtful expression.

“Of course, you don’t. You were too young at the time to remember.” The creature chuckled as he disappeared and reappeared on Fluttershy’s couch. “So I’ll introduce myself for Old Time’s sake.” He cleared his throat. “Hello, everypony. My name is Discord,” He teleported beside Helpful, “Spirit of Disharmony,” And then he disappeared and reappeared beside Merciful, “And Chaos. Now do you remember?”

“It seems to bring some distant relations.” Merciful replied.

“Oh grand!” Discord laughed as he snapped his lion claw and teleported onto the couch again with a cup of tea. “I was scared you totally forgot me.” He sipped his tea, like nothing terrible was happening. Helpful thought over this really hard, but he really couldn’t remember when he met Discord before.

“When have met again?” Helpful asked him curious.

“Ugh! Really, Joyful?” Discord sipped his tea again, snapped his fingers to make a wastebasket appear, and he tossed the glass cup into it, and it disappeared. “Then again you were just a baby at the time so you wouldn’t remember.” Fluttershy’s expression then turned to an excited smile.

“You’ve seen Helpful as a little baby?” She gasped excited. “Wasn’t he so cute?”

“He was adorable!” Discord answered as he was dressed in an old lady outfit and pinched the stallion’s cheek. “I mean, how could you say, ‘no’ to a face like he had?”

“Oh, for Magi’s sake.” Helpful pulled Discord’s claw off from his cheek, but it hung on and his cheek was pulled a few inches long.

“Oh, well, your youth is still going strong.” Discord complimented as he let go of it, snapping it back into place, and making Helpful rub it.

“Okay, Discord.” Applejack grabbed his attention finally. “Have you seen the Water Sapphires that Fluttershy had before?”

“What about them?” Discord crossed his arms as if he was being defiant.

“Well, they’re needed for emergencies.” Fluttershy replied, and Discord’s gaze turned to a face of surprise, but for a brief second.

“Is that what they’re for? Oh! How funny!” He laughed, but it was obvious that he was a little uneasy about this.

“Discord. What did you do?”

“I, uh, um…sort of…uh…” Discord poked his fingers together for an answer. “Ate them…” He winced for impact.

“You what!” Fluttershy shouted at reckonable amount of volume that made the entire cottage shake, the animals hide, and the group to cover their ears, except Discord, who was receiving the greatest part of the outburst. For a second it looked like Fluttershy’s mane had burned into flames, but it seemed normal once it was over with. Discord snapped his fingers and made a folding fan appear in his other claw and began to fan himself. “You should really open a window in here.” Discord told her.

“I needed those Water Sapphires to revive Helpful if he ever died again!” She shouted with a second tremor like before.

“Calm yourself, Fluttershy.” Discord assured her. “You’ll get them back in good time.” Fluttershy and the others looked at him confused.

“Really?” She asked curious.

“You’ll just need to wait until nature to take its course.” Fluttershy’s left eye twitched with a look of surprise. Applejack covered her face with her hat while Spike and Snowy exchanged looks of disgust. Helpful gave Merciful a look of uneasiness and then turned back to Fluttershy. “A-are you okay, Honey?” He asked her, a little nervous, but there was no answer. “Oh-no.” He trotted over to her quickly. “Say something, Fluttershy.” He waved a hoof in front of her face, but there was no response. “Fluttershy?” At that moment, water fell onto Fluttershy, waking her from the trance as she gasped in surprise. Helpful looked up to see Discord above them both with a just-now emptied bucket. He began to snicker as he landed beside them. “What was that for?” Helpful asked him with an irritated expression.

“Oh! Well, excuse me for trying to help.” Discord teleported to a chair and stretched his limbs out and yawned. “So please don’t be mad at me for lending a hand.” He continued as he tossed his eagle claw to him. Before Helpful could react, Fluttershy charged straight toward the creature in infuriation, who looked rather surprised.

“Fluttershy!” Helpful shouted after her and reacted. His black-tipped flacon wings glowed a bright red and Helpful flew around, in-between Discord and Fluttershy and caught her before she could get any closer. “Fluttershy, clam down!”

“Let me at him!” Fluttershy growled in fury. “I’ll rip off his lion arm first, and then the eagle arm, and then the rest of his body parts, one by one!” Helpful pushed Fluttershy back gently, but firmly and they started toward the door.

“I’ll have to bring back Fluttershy later!” Helpful explained as they both left through the cottage door. “Consider us on another date!” He slammed the door behind him, leaving Merciful, Applejack, Spike, and Snowy with Discord, who all seemed really surprised.

“That’s the first time I’ve ever seen Fluttershy that mad.” Spike remarked as he felt around his neck. “Really don’t want get on her bad side, except that the fact that it’s paper thin.” Snowy nodded in agreement with Spike.

“Egad!” Discord exclaimed in disgust. “Could you imagine being torn apart like that? It wouldn’t end well for anypony.”

“Well, just thank you, Discord.” Applejack scowled at the creature, who looked at her confused.

“Come again?”

“You’ve just ate our one-and-only easy chance of rescuing Rarity.” Applejack nodded in sadness.

“Say, where is that old bat, anyway?” Discord looked around himself curious.

“’Old Bat’?” Spike growled in anger for the insult. He started to stomp—or waddle—toward Discord in anger, but Snowy immediately grabbed his tail and pulled him back.

“Spike!” He warned him. “Don’t! It’s not worth it!”

“She was abducted by Diamond Dogs,” Merciful explained, “But you wouldn’t care would you?” Applejack, Snowy, and Merciful turned around toward the exit and started toward it, dragging Spike behind Snowy. Discord thought over this for a brief moment. He did accidently anger Fluttershy past her limit and he should make up for it, in fact, he should care about this, for her sake.

“Wait!” Discord grabbed their attention. “I can get you inside the Diamond Dog mines.”

“You can?” Applejack asked him, untrustingly.

“Why, yes, I can get you inside.” Discord assured her.

“How?” Snowy asked as he still pulled Spike back, who still seemed quite angry.

“Well, to your convenience, I just happen to know where another way inside is.” Discord chuckled with assurance. “I’ll lead you to the entrance, but…”

“But?” Merciful raised an eyebrow in curiousness.

“You’ll need everypony to come with us. You’ll need all the help you can afford, and we’ll be traveling afoot.” Everypony gave Discord a confused look, he noticed this and sighed. “I’m not teleporting us there because—one—we really can’t let Celestia know, and—two—what would be the fun in that?” Applejack then looked at Merciful and then toward Discord and back. Merciful just said that earlier today. Is there something with Discord and Merciful that she doesn’t know, or is she just over-thinking this, like Twilight would? Merciful smiled toward Discord. “It seems that we can trust you, Discord, but please don’t get any ideas.” Merciful warned him, firmly. “Besides that, we can become well-fit allies.”



“Argh!” Eli grunted in pain as he tripped and crashed into an iron cart and it tipped over, spilling the gemstones onto the ground. He didn’t care about the Diamond Dogs loot; he was running from something…something hunting him. He scrambled onto his hooves and dashed on through the endless mine Labyrinth. An evil laughter could be heard distantly behind him, echoing through the rocky passageway. His fear was clenching his heart, like a dragon grasping a sacred gemstone, and his breathing was dangerously rapid, but all he knew was to run, to run from that something. Right when he made a left turn, a cutlass, colored red, shot out toward him. “No!” He screamed as he immediately sat up in his bed beside Rarity, startling the mare from her sleep. She sat up beside him with concerned eyes as she placed a hoof on his shoulder. Eli gasped at the feeling of Rarity’s unexpected hoof. “Eli?” Rarity asked with concern, but her voice was muffled from the dog muzzle still fastened on her face, however, Eli understood her.

“It’s nothing, Rarity.” Eli assured her with a fake, however convincing smile. “It was just a bad dream.” The White Unicorn nodded in understanding as she lay back down and slept away. Was it a bad dream? Or a nightmare that came back for the fifth time? Eli had been haunted by the same dream ever since he woke up in this cell. Every time, he was being hunted down and waking up at the sight of some sword lunging toward him. Why does this dream keep returning? Eli decided to forget about it, but even if he did, the dream would come back again. Before he could roll out of their pallet, the Diamond Dogs, Spot and Fido, open the iron door with a loud screeching sound, startling Rarity from her sleep again. “You!” Spot pointed toward Eli. “Rover has plans for you!” The small Diamond Dogs opened the cell and Fido stomped inside, looming above both Rarity and Eli still in their pallet.

“Aw. Isn’t that cute, Spot?” Fido cooed. “The little ponies slept together in bed.” Eli and Rarity just stared at Fido with confused expressions.

“Huh?” Eli raised an eyebrow confused.

“I don’t care!” Spot growled. “Get the pony and we’ll bring him back to Rover, now!” Fido grabbed Eli, who exclaimed in surprise, and held him under his armpit, like luggage, as he stomped back toward Spot at the exit of the cell. Rarity couldn’t stand for those ruffians to take sweet Eli again. They’ll just beat him like earlier and she couldn’t stand anypony else getting hurt like this manner. She immediately jumped up and chased after Fido. The Diamond Dog noticed and he turned around to face her. She tackled into him, but Fido only stood there as Rarity’s expression turned to delirium from the trauma. Fido chuckled as he picked up Rarity by the mane. It was painful for her as she was lifted off the ground by her good hair. “Forget the other pony, Fido!” Spot ordered. “We have the pony Rover wants, so let’s go!” As Fido’s attention was grabbed by the small Diamond Dog, Rarity’s defensive instincts kicked in, and she kicked the canine right between the legs, and he let go of them both, howling in agony as he hit the floor. Rarity and Eli stood up and turned their gazes toward Spot, whose look seemed nervous. “O-okay, Ponies.” Spot tried to reason as they walked toward him with confident expressions. “May-maybe we can work out a deal. You go and I’ll make up an excuse to Rover for you escaping.” They walked closer to Spot still, and he walked backwards to stay away from them. “J…Just don’t hurt me!” He blocked his face for anything, and Eli quickly punched Spot at that moment and the canine flew onto his back.

“That’s for all those times you beat me up!” He shouted in triumph. The two dogs were down, Eli and Rarity can escape through the mine, but first they needed to remove the dog muzzle from Rarity’s face. Spot moaned as he sat up and rubbed his head, and then Eli grabbed his vest and pulled him off the ground, up to meet his gaze. “Now get the muzzle off of Rarity, or I’ll come up with another reason to punch you again.” Eli told the dog as he held up his other hoof, ready for another thrust to the jaw.

“She’ll only start whining again!” Spot looked away defiantly.

“I’m thinking that all that time in that cell sounds like a good enough reason for me popping your jaw off.”

“Please! I’ll tell you anything just let me go!”

“I need you to take off Rarity’s muzzle now!” Eli snarled with anger, Spot whimpered in fear. Rarity quickly pushed down Eli’s arm, letting Spot onto the ground, and she shook her head with saddened eyes. Eli noticed her expression of sorrow and sighed to calm himself. “Just take off the muzzle.” He tossed the canine onto the ground again. Spot quickly obeyed and unfastened the muzzle off of Rarity. She shook her head to get rid of the feeling on her face that muzzle created.

“Thank you, Eli.” She thanked the stallion. “That dreaded dog muzzle was cramping my marvelous mane style anyway.”

“You’re welcome, Rarity.” Eli assured her, and then he turned his attention to Spot. “Now, tell us where to find a safe exit, or I’ll do more than just popping your jaw off.”

“Okay, okay!” Spot agreed as he walked to a wall and scanned around the wall, touching and rubbing the small rocks littered all around the wall. Finally he pressed one in and the wall opened up, revealing a secret hall that stretched for quite a length. “There is an emergency tunnel we made some time ago, in case of cave collapsing. It’ll bring you outside in Everfree.”

“Sounds trustworthy enough.” Eli thought aloud. “Let’s go.” He started toward the hall, but Spot stopped him.

“Wait! Take us with you!” Spot pleaded them.

“Take you with us?” Eli exchanged a look of confusion with Rarity. “Why would we do that?”

“Boss has changed and not in a good way!” He explained to them both as Fido stood up, groaning from the pain. “He’s become more aggressive and mean than usual, since Master came.” Spot covered his mouth, shocked that he just let the ponies know what was going on exactly.

“Master?” Eli asked, curious.

“Why’re you taking orders from somepony else than Rover?” Rarity asked them as Fido sat beside Spot.

“We’re not. Rover’s taking the orders, we’re just following what he says, which is coming from the Master.” Spot explained with obvious nervousness.

“Uh-huh.” Eli nodded in understanding. “Who’s this ‘Master’?” Fido and Spot only shrugged.

“We don’t know. We’ve never seen the Master, only Rover has.” Fido explained to them both. Rarity and Eli exchanged looks of thought. “Please, take us with you. If you leave and we stay, there isn’t telling what tortures he’ll do to us.” Fido gently rubbed his neck, imagining the pain that could be inflicted upon them.

“Well you should’ve thought of that before you started beating us both to bruises.” Eli trotted down the secret hall, and stopped noticing that Rarity wasn’t following him. “Hey, Rarity. Are you with me, or what?” Rarity turned her gaze from Eli to Spot and Fido, thoughtfully.

“Maybe they should come along.” Rarity insisted Eli, who stared at her oddly.

“What? You remember what they did to us!” Eli protested, sternly. “They beaten us!”

“Only Rover slapped me. Nothing more.”

“But what about that Dog Muzzle they put on you?”

“We regret such things, Pony.” Spot whimpered sadly.

“Yeah. We were only following orders.” Fido explained to him with a frown. The faces of these two Diamond Dogs had guilt enough to somewhat convince Eli.

“Besides, Eli.” Rarity added as she trotted over to the green Earth Pony. “They even know their way around this cavern than us. Right, boys?” Fido and Spot nodded quickly with innocent smiles. Eli sighed and rolled his eyes. “Just give them a chance.”

“Alright.” Eli agreed reluctantly. “You can come along.” Fido and Spot both exclaimed in excitement as they closed the door behind them. Spot held a torch as he took the lead and guided them through the cavern.



“Tell me why we’re looking around in Everfree in the middle of the night?” Sunny growled, annoyed, but mostly tired. In fact, the other mane five was forced awake and they all were led by Helpful, Merciful, Fluttershy, Snowy, Spike, Applejack, and Discord to Everfree. They all were equipped with saddlebags which each held essentials.

“I’m sorry, Sunny.” Helpful politely apologized to his old friend. “But Rarity’s been pony-napped by those Diamond Dogs again.”

“Did you give them a gemstone, so they could pull you in?” She inquired to know from the Tan Pegasus, who sighed, remembering what happened.

“It’s a long story.” He explained to her. “Discord explained to us that he knows another way inside.”

“Well, why doesn’t he just teleport us in?” Sunny asked confused, but then Discord appeared beside her a laid his lion arm around her shoulders.

“Now, Sunny.” Discord cleared his throat. “What would be the fun in that?” He disappeared out of thin air, confusing Sunny and making Helpful laugh. Spike was riding Merciful’s back and Sunny rode Helpful’s as Fluttershy trotted beside them with Snowy on her back. Discord reappeared beside Fluttershy. “Hello, Fluttershy!” Discord greeted her with confetti falling from thin air, but instead she looked straight forward with a stern look. Not even noticing Discord as they continued through the dark forest. “Fluttershy, I’m right beside you.” Discord waved his eagle claw in front of her face, no response.

“Sorry, Discord.” Snowy explained to the creature. “She’s not talking to you because of you eating her Water Sapphires.”

“Oh, please, Fluttershy.” Discord rolled his eyes. “Are you still raving mad about what happened? I didn’t know they were for emergencies.”

“Well you still shouldn’t have eaten what wasn’t yours.” Fluttershy scoffed as she trotted a little ahead of the creature, which looked at her confused.

“Don’t worry, Discord.” Helpful explained to him with an assuring smile. “She’ll warm back up to you soon enough.”

“Don’t be so sure about that, Helpful.” Sunny protested as she yawned, tired. “When a girl’s mad about somethin’ you did, she won’t forgive you for a long time.”

“Now, c’mon, Sunny.” Helpful chuckled at the baby dragon. “This is Fluttershy we’re talking about.”

“I wouldn’t become confident, Brother.” Merciful explained to him. “Fluttershy’s mind is very cross with Discord, and unless the Draconequus can make up for what he did, she’ll hoard a very massive grudge toward him for his careless ignorance.” Discord thought about this for a moment. If what Merciful said is true, than Fluttershy will hate him for a very long time.

“How do I make up for what I’ve done?” Discord asked, curiously.

“Easy! Flowers, Chocolates, and a sweet Apology.” Sunny listed as she counted her fingers, interrupting Helpful.

“Y’know…” Applejack thought aloud. “That might actually work.”

“Unfortunately, it is much past the appropriate time for such gentle tidings.” Merciful reasoned. “We must be patient until the sun returns to us.” Sunny stared at Merciful with an impressed expression.

“Y’know, Helpful. Your brother has a knack for making every sentence he says mystical.” Sunny complimented, happily.

“Heh. Not quite.” Helpful explained. “But he has that good quality.”

“Thank you, Brother.” Merciful thanked the Tan Pegasus, and Applejack hugged the Dark Blue Alicorn.

“That’s a reason why I love this big guy.” Applejack explained with a delighted smile. “He always makes everything sound like poems.”

“Poetics, my dear, and well, over three thousand years ago, I spent my spare time to study the unique art of poetry myself, and as such, I began to reflect my poetic education in my vocabulary.” Merciful explained as he remembered his youth. “Such priceless memories of my unconditional youth were spent in that library.”

“There is a few times of which I forget on why I’m related to him.” Helpful whispered to Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie behind him. “Oh! Which reminds me. Celestia told me you went to the Crystal Empire, right?”

“Yeah!” Pinkie replied with an excited grin as they continued through the Everfree Forest.

“Wow! Really?” Helpful exclaimed in wonder.

“Have you heard of the Crystal Empire before, Helpful?” Spike asked curious.

“Heard of it? I could trot through that kingdom blindfolded!” Helpful laughed.

“He’s attempted that action as well.” Merciful added. “The Crystal Empire is of no foreign tale to us. We’ve been within the crystalline walls of the castle, itself.”

“Whoa. Really?” Rainbow replied with an interested expression. “Since when?”

“It was our younger days as Princes. Father actually was a great friend of the Crystal King there and we would always come there every year to, not only celebrate their friendship, but to encourage happiness of the Crystal Ponies there, too.” Helpful explained as he remembered all those joyous memories.

“Indeed, and the Crystal King was like an uncle to us.” Merciful added.

“Although, he was a little old.”

“True, but let us not forget who saved your life from the Ice Wolves of the Crystal Mountains.”

“King Sombra saved Helpful from Ice Wolves?” Spike gasped, amazed.

“Sombra? Who’s Sombra?” Helpful asked confused. “We’re talking about King Zircon, the third Crystal King of the Crystal Empire.”

“Oh, uh, sorry…” Spike apologized, understanding that the king they meant was not the dreaded Sombra. “I thought you meant somepony else. Please, continue.”

“Very well.” Merciful cleared his throat. “Now--.”

“Oh boy! Story Time! Story Time!” Pinkie Pie interrupted, bouncing up and down. Merciful only gave the Pink Mare a cold glare that really made her stop, too nervous to move.

“Without further interruptions, I shall tell you the story of how King Zircon rescued my brother from the deadly Ice Wolves.” Merciful cleared his throat. Pinkie scooted close to Merciful to hear the story better, and he sighed to let it slide. “It was at the Crystal Pony Fair that some of the younger foals in the Kingdom had been disappearing.”

“I was the first to take notice and I left the Kingdom, in search of the missing foals.” Helpful explained. “But I didn’t understand that I was trotting into a trap.”

“Indeed, Zircon noticed him trotting out into the snowy lands and he followed him.” Merciful continued.

“Well, why didn’t he stop you?” Pinkie Pie asked, confused.

“Zircon knew I was looking for the missing foals, and, well, he knew I could find them.” Helpful chuckled. “I could find a foal anywhere.”

“And his ‘knack’ for such things proved useful to Zircon as he followed young Joyful out into the cold.” Merciful continued once more. “My Brother, though young and frail, thought he could brave the colds himself, but he was terribly wrong.”

“The Ice Wolves captured me and I was taken to their cavern.” Helpful added. “And I wasn’t frail!” Merciful and the others only chuckled as they trotted through the forest.

“Zircon followed and his theory was correct—the foals were indeed captured by the Ice Wolves.”

“What are Ice Wolves anyhow?” Applejack inquired to know.

“Ice Wolves are like Timberwolves, you see, but they live in colder environments.” Helpful explained. “They’re well known for their hunting skills, and they never sleep.”

“Indeed, and they wanted to eat Joyful and the foals alive.” The others gasped in shock. “But Zircon jumped toward their rescue and used his Crystal Magic to save them, sealing the Ice Wolves in solid diamond.”

“Whoa. That’s awesome!” Rainbow Dash remarked amazed.

“But it came with a price. Crystal Magic may be powerful, but it has devastating effects on the user, if used to take the lives of the living.” Merciful leaned his head forward sadly. “Zircon died once he returned to the Crystal Empire, but he told Joyful that he was destined for greatness.”

“Whoa…” Spike thought, amazed. “What happened next?”

“Zircon’s only daughter, Princess Emery, took over the Kingdom as her father.”

“So how is Emery, anyhow?” Helpful asked them, curious, but the group exchanged looks of uneasiness. Merciful could see their reason in the uncomfortable silence.

“Perhaps, we should discuss the matter at another time.” Merciful insisted, and Helpful nodded.

“Okay then.”

“Okay, everypony!” Discord grabbed their attention as they stopped in a small field at the foot of Canterlot Mountain. “We’re here!” Everypony looked around confused. There was nothing here, but an empty field. How could they enter the Diamond Dog mines here? Where’s the entrance? “Uh, Discord.” Helpful grabbed the creature’s attention.

“Yes?” He replied with a grin.

“Where’s the entrance?”

“Oh, okay then!” Discord then disappeared and reappeared beside Helpful. “It’s really all quite simple, my good fellow,” He teleports between Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie, “Just when everything just seems to turn yellow,” He nudges Rainbow playfully, but she looks at him, indifferently, “However with enough weight on the foundation,” He then teleports to Merciful, making eye contact, “You soon learn that--.”

“We’re standing on it.” Merciful answered the large riddle Discord tried to make, and the Spirit of Chaos stared at him, withdrawn.

“Good job, Merciful…” Discord chuckled, shaken. “I see time hasn’t weakened your eyes…except for the left one though…” Discord pointed toward Merciful’s left white eye.

“That was an accident.” Merciful explained to him.

“And so is this.” Discord snapped his fingers, and the ground around them began to shake and gave in. They were all standing on a pitfall and they fell straight through. “Sorry!” He shouted down toward them and laughed as he disappeared. The fall wasn’t long. They soon landed in a few carts on a mining track. Luckily for them, the impact didn’t force the carts to move forward, sending them through whatever was ahead of their carts. The group stood up in their carts, groaning from the pain of their landing. “Is everypony okay?” Applejack asked, concerned. “Mercy?”

“I am fine, Milady.” Merciful answered as he stood up next to her in the cart. “How are you faring, Spike?” The baby dragon rubbed his eyes and yawned tired.

“I’m a little sleepy, but otherwise, okay.” Spike replied. “Is anypony else hurt?” Helpful, Fluttershy, Sunny, and Snowy landed in the cart behind Merciful, Applejack, and Spike’s, while the others landed in the cart at the very end. All three of these carts were linked together.

“Are you alright, Fluttershy?” Helpful asked her as he helped her up.

“I’m fine.” She assured him with a smile. Just then, laughter filled the entire cavern that lasted for quite some time. In fact, Pinkie Pie started to giggle and join the laughter and fell onto her back.

“Welcome to your one way ride to the Diamond Dogs’ Caves!” Discord’s voice spoke once the laughter ceased. “Please, keep your hooves inside the cart at all times, and don’t exit the cart until comes to a complete stop…or crash!” He laughed even more as the group exchanged looks of uneasiness.

“Discord!” Applejack shouted for him to hear. “You call this ‘another way’?” Discord appeared, his face meeting hers, crossly.

“And what?” He leaned back with his claw and paw on his hips. “Like you had a better way?” He snapped his fingers and the carts began to move on their own. “Enjoy the ride.” He disappeared with laughter echoing through the cavern and the cart began to move forward into the dark cave. Fluttershy hugged Helpful for comfort on their ride, and Snowy held onto Sunny.

“Do you mind?” Sunny grabbed the Ice Dragon’s attention.

“No.” Snowy squeezed Sunny tighter for comfort. The carts continued onward on a slow pace, as if it was a small carnival ride. They soon entered a long hall filled with light and once their eyes adjusted to the brightness, they could see that the hall had toys and machines from a carnival ride as well, and Discord was singing a song as they continued through the hall. The toys were all pretty much Discord wearing different outfits throughout this part of the ride, and Discord’s song went like this:

“With all the Love and Joy,
“There is Chaos here,

“Which has much more power,

“Then the Princess there,

“Every day,

“I’m amused,

“All the time,

“You’re confused,
“It’s a small world after all!”

“You’ve got to be joking.” Sunny spoke up, indifferently.

“It’s catchy…” Helpful shrugged as Sunny gave him a cold glare.

“Discord.” Merciful spoke up.

“What?” Discord’s voice answered him. “You don’t like the song? I can sing it in other languages!”

“Take us to very end of this ride, please.” He told the creature, which appeared right after he said this.

“What? And what would be the fun in that?” Discord asked him with a confused expression, but his only answer was a steely glare. He sighed. “Alright, alright. I’ll take you the very end of the ride.” He snapped his fingers and they teleported at the very end of the carnival hall. As they exited into the darkness, Discord shouted toward them from behind. “And bring me back a toy!” He laughed as he returned to his song. Sunny sighed of relief that it was over, but soon Applejack noticed something ahead in the track.

“Um…Mercy?” Applejack grabbed the Prince’s attention. “Do you see that?” The Alicorn looked ahead and he smirked as Spike widened his eyes.

“Indeed, I do.” He replied with a hint of delight in his tone.

“What is it?” Rainbow Dash asked as the cart slowly began to gain speed. She and Pinkie Pie couldn’t see anything in the last cart.

“Hold on.” Merciful told them all, and at that moment, the rails led straight down, and they were all plummeting downward! Everypony was screaming in fear, except for Pinkie Pie and Helpful the Selfless, who were shouting in joy, and Merciful, who was only silent. The rails straightened out and the carts were flying at ramming speed. “So this is what Discord meant when he said, ‘or crash’!” Pinkie Pie remarked as the carts turned right, fiercely.

“Quick!” Applejack shouted, over the sound of cart movement. “Where’s the brake?” Everypony looked around them for a brake, but there wasn’t any brake in the cart train!

“Discord!” Sunny growled in anger, and at that moment, the carts took another jerk to the left, knocking off Spike and Helpful in the process, forcing Fluttershy to lose her grip on Helpful!

“Helpful!” Fluttershy exclaimed in shock as they fell into the darkness. They both flew forward into the black void and fell for some time. Spike was shouting in fear, and Helpful’s black-tipped falcon wings glowed bright enough for them to see the water below. Helpful flew to Spike right when they hit the water. The current was strong. He grabbed onto Spike and held him tight. “Are you alright, Spike?” Helpful asked Spike, concerned. The dragon coughed up water as he asked this. He also noticed that Helpful’s wings illuminated the water as well.

“I’m fine…” Spike answered him. “I’m so tired.” Spike yawned as began to close his eyes, but the current’s pull was so rapid and rough that the water splashed onto them and awoken the poor baby dragon. “I’m up! I’m up!”

“And I don’t think we’ll be up for long…” Helpful remarked as he noticed a whirlpool up ahead of them both. “Hold on!” He held the dragon tight as they entered the whirlpool and spun around rapidly until they went under and everything went black…

Author's Note

This Chapter might need a little proofreading later...

Memories

Chapter 4

Memories

“Blood pressure seems to be normal…” Roadburn heard a familiar voice echo in the darkness. “No signs of instability. Beginning procedure…”

“Hello? Is anypony there?” He spoke up. A distinct humming noise could be heard from far away,

“Twenty percent power…thirty…forty,” It continued to grow louder and closer.

“Hello? Who’s there?” Fear began to overcome him slowly as the humming grew ever closer. A young colt’s screaming then fills the air, forcing Roadburn to cover his ears. “Who’s there? Go away! Leave me alone!” He turned around and used his speed to dash away from the noise as fast as he could. The darkness felt endless to him, and the noise and screaming of a foal continued to follow him! He immediately stopped and hit the cold floor under him and closed his eyes. “Stop it! Go away! Go away!” Then the sound of an electric zap silenced the noise. Silence lingered for a very long time as Roadburn began to softly cry to himself. The experience was just too much, and he had no idea what happened or where the screaming came from. To his surprise, he wasn’t the only one crying. He opened his eyes and he was no longer in darkness. Instead he was back in a past memory of his first days in foalhood after waking up. The area he was in was the forest and he could see his younger self crying on the ground in pain.

He remembered that pain. This was the day that he learned about his powers and he wanted to try them out, but the consequences of his recklessness were brutal. He had accidently broke his right foreleg after tripping on an outstretched root, sending him flying forward onto the other trees and he had been scraped and cut in the trauma. He could see how small he was before. He could remember all the reckless ideas he had in his head before this. They all ended up the same result as now, but he came back up in the end. He watched as the Colt Roadburn’s wounds healed at an extraordinary speed. He stood up and sniffed from the earlier pain, and raised his broken foreleg. The Young Roadburn started to laugh as he bent his foreleg with no pain. It was healed. “Whoohoo!” The colt exclaimed in triumph. He jumped around like he was just given a new toy.

He dashed off and Roadburn chuckled as he followed him. The path had never left his mind. He could remember it all the while. Colt Roadburn ran at an incredible speed turning left and right to dodge the trees in the forest, and Roadburn followed in the same form. Ahead of them both was a dead log that was vertically stuck between two trees. It was much larger than the Colt Roadburn heading straight for it. Roadburn dashed up beside his younger self. He remembered the thoughts that went through his mind during this daring attempt. “C’mon, Roadburn!” He shouted to the younger colt. “Just one jump! You’re fast! Undefeatable!” At that moment, the Colt Roadburn jumped and he flew forward, however it came off short, and he crashed into the dead log. His head stuck out the other side with a very disappointed look.

“Oh! C’mon!” He shouted in fury as he struggled to free himself. Roadburn trotted around to watch what else happened. He had forgotten entirely of what happened earlier. As the Colt Roadburn struggled, he heard the giggling of a filly. He looked up to see a White Unicorn filly with a long, blue streaky hair. Her eyes were maroon and her Cutie Mark was an eight note. “Hey-o!” The filly greeted him. “What’re you doing?”

“Uh…I was…” Roadburn watched as his younger self struggled for an answer. “I was running.” He struggled again to free himself from the dead log.

“Running?” The filly laughed, “You look like you were shot out of a Bass Cannon.” Colt Roadburn looked at the filly confused.

“Bass what?”

“Oh, it’s just an idea I had earlier that’s all.” The filly climbed to the top of the dead log. “Let me help you, dude.” She laid her ear against the log and tapped it. “Ah!” She smacked her head on the log, and the colt’s expression was indifferent as nothing really happened. “Hold on.” She jumped down and begun throwing rocks and sticks at the log Colt Roadburn was in, endangering him to get hurt.

“Hey!” The colt dodged a rock coming straight for his head. “Watch it!”

“Just hold still!” The filly threw another rock at him. “This should work.” She threw another rock and it hit his eye. He exclaimed in pain as the filly gasped seeing it swell black. “Are you okay?” She asked him, scared that he may be injured. The eye immediately healed back to its original form and the filly stared in wonder.

“See? I’m fine,” Colt Roadburn chuckled, “But please stop throwing rocks and sticks at me.”

“R-right.” The filly climbed back on top of the log and looked around it. “Hmm…” She gasped as in idea came to her. “I know!” She jumped on the dead log and the older Roadburn watched as she jumped up and down. It was an adorable sight of the two friends.

“It’s not gonna work!” Colt Roadburn spoke up finally.

“Just trust me. This’ll work.” The filly insisted as she jumped again. There was loud crack and the dead log fell apart, burying the two foals under the broken pieces of wood. The filly and younger Roadburn both dug themselves out and shook the dust off of them. “Sorry, dude.” The filly apologized, shyly.

“For what?” The colt asked her. “You got me out. So there are no hard feelings.”

“Heh. You’re pretty cool, dude. What’s your name?” The filly asked him with a grin.

“I’m Roadburn.” He answered as the older version sat down. It was clear that neither of them could see him. “Who are you…dude?” The filly laughed.

“You don’t get out much do you?” She chuckled. “I’m Vinyl Scratch, and I’m gonna be the greatest DJ in Equestria!”

“What’s a DJ?” Colt Roadburn asked her curious.

“A Disc Jocky! They play and make all sorts of music.” Vinyl answered him. “It’ll be awesome!” She hoof pumped in excitement.

“That sounds great!”

“Y’know. You’re a pretty cool dude. Wanna hang out some more later?”

“Sure!”

“Great! So I’ll see you later at Canterlot.”

“Canterlot?” The colt blinked twice in ignorance. “What’s that?”

“It’s city not far from here.” Vinyl Scratch explained to her new friend. “I can show ya!” Colt Roadburn gave this all some thought, and Roadburn could remember what it was.

“Well…I think I should get back to my Granny.” Colt Roadburn reasoned. “She might be worried about me by now.”

“Oh! That’s okay.” Vinyl nodded in agreement. “We can meet back here tomorrow then, right?”

“Yeah! Totally.”

“See ya later, Burn.” Colt Roadburn’s new friend waved as she left.

“Bye!” The colt waved back. Once Vinyl left, Colt Roadburn dashed off, and Roadburn followed through the forest again, and he knew where: home. They both dashed back and there was Granny Cookie, who was busy working on their shack, and she noticed the colt, not Roadburn, stop before her. Her mane was like Roadburn remembered back then, brownish with a black streak running through it. She had it wrapped into a ponytail as she worked. She was much younger as Roadburn remembered, and cute. “Granny! Granny Cookie!” Colt Roadburn greeted her excitedly.

“Roadburn!” She laughed at the colt’s excitement. “What’s got you all excited?”

“I can run, Granny! Really fast!” The colt ran around in a blurring circle in the front yard.

“Yes, I can see that!” She smiled delighted. Roadburn began to notice that she wasn’t so surprised at this. It was as if she knew this before. “I told you, you were special.”

“Yeah, yeah! There’s more!”

“Oh?” She raised an eyebrow with her smile.

“Yeah! I made a friend!” The colt shouted.

“Who is this friend?” It was obvious to Roadburn that Granny didn’t look as delighted as before.

“Her name’s Vinyl Scratch and she wants to be a DJ!” Colt Roadburn announced. “That’s a Disc Jocky! They play and make all sorts of music, and tomorrow I’ll be meeting up with her again so she can show me Canterlot!”

“Roadburn!” Granny Cookie shouted. “I’ve told you to never go too deep into the forest. Now ponies will know we’re here!”

“But I just made a friend…” Colt Roadburn looked at her sad. “A-and she--.” Granny Cookie interrupted him.

“No, Roadburn!” She ordered him. “You’re not meeting that pony again.” She turned back to her work on the shack.

“B-but…” The colt’s eyes filled up with tears.

“I said, ‘no.’” Granny stood firm. The colt bursts into tears and ran into the shack as he cried. Roadburn could remember the emotional pain that he experienced that day. He just didn’t understand, and he noticed that a tear formed on his cheek. He rubbed it off and sniffed. It was barely overwhelming to him, and he didn’t like where this was going. The scene around him began to fade into darkness and all Roadburn could feel was warmth. The next thing he knew, he had opened his eyes and found himself laying on the ground of the metal shack. It was another dream, and it was also a memory. He looked at Granny Cookie and remembered her outburst way back then, and began to wonder why. It was still nightfall and Granny had fell asleep. He then stood up tossed some more firewood into the burning blaze and left the shack toward Canterlot.
Meanwhile, in Canterlot Castle. “O------oh, where is he?” Princess Twilight worried as she paced back and forth in her room in Canterlot Castle. “I know tomorrow is the Winter Solstice, but can that dragon let me know he’s fine.” As she paced, Magi entered the room.

“You’ve summoned me, my child?” The Old Sorcerer grabbed her attention.

“Yes! Have you any word from Spike?” She asked him nervous of Spike’s current status.

“No word.” Magi told her with a comforting smile. “But don’t worry, my child. I believe that Spike is safe.”

“Can’t you contact, Gemini?” Twilight asked the Sorcerer. “I haven’t been able to contact him lately.”

“My apologies, but the Star Symbols are silent at this time.” Magi answered her. “I cannot say why, but they are.”

“Well, can’t you use your magic to find them?” Twilight asked again, desperate to know.

“Calm yourself, Twilight.” Magi tried to comfort her. “It’s not like the dragon has gone far. He’s in Joyful’s and Rarity’s hooves. If anything happens, I believe that Spike will be protected. Besides, Spike’s probably staying there, wanting to participate in the Winter Solstice with your friends in Ponyville.” Twilight sighed in relief.

“You’re right, Magi.” She rubbed her head, embarrassed. “I don’t know what came over me…”

“It’s understandable, my dear.” Magi assured her he wasn’t unhappy. “I used to be that way as well about my baby dragon named Fudge.”

“They actually made fudge over three thousand years ago?” Twilight asked him confused.

“Well, no.” Magi tried to explain. “It was actually a common name at that time. Somepony else invented that chocolate years ago, and I have no doubt that the pony who made it named it after himself.”

“Oh.” Twilight chuckled. “It was a cute name.”

“And so was the dragon. He had many similarities to Spike,” Magi chuckled remembering the dragon, “Except he ate everything in sight. He had such an appetite for Apple Fritter’s cooking.” Twilight chuckled again, and so did Magi. Silence passed by briefly.

“Y’know. I still haven’t figured out that crystal egg that we found some time ago…” Twilight kept the conversation alive. “You recognize something like this right?” Magi turned his gaze to the crystal, multi-colored egg, sitting on a stand in a glass dome. “I can’t say for sure, my dear. It is definitely a feat of superior magical craftsmanship. Something like this I could make, but it would take me forever to create. It’s also alive.”

“Alive?” Twilight asked curious.

“Yes, which means this egg is special.” Magi explained. “I’ll take it to my wing and I’ll study it in the morning.” The Sorcerer used his magic to remove the glass dome and take the egg. “It’ll be a great case of fine study.”

“I’m sure it would, Magi.” Twilight nodded in agreement.

“But first, I must make ready magic Kindergarten for their play.” Magi explained as he opened the door to exit, using his magic.

“What’s the play about, Magi?”

“Can you keep a secret?” The old stallion asked her.

“Yes.” Twilight grinned, excited to know.

“So can I.” He closed the door, and Twilight growled in anger. Magi has been keeping that play a secret from her and she isn’t allowed to find out from anypony else in the castle. Magi’s too smart for her to pull wool over his eyes. It’s virtually impossible to get any information from him above the Winter Solstice. Oh well. At least it’ll be fun to watch whatever he’s got planned for her. Winter Solstices are always something to look forward to in Equestria and she was proud to be leading it in the future. A knock came from her door and she opened it. “Yes?” She answered, and the little foal named Ginger Sprit was there to greet her with a bouquet of violets. The unicorn filly’s coat was a bright red and her mane was orange was yellow highlights. Ginger gave her the violets and the Purple Alicorn took them with a smile. “Thank you, little one.” She noticed that there was a card in the bundle. She took it out to read. “’For being Equestria’s next ruler. Thank you.’ D’aww.”

“Magi told me that I should bring that to you as our apprefieation!” Ginger Spirit mispronounced her words, and Twilight chuckled at her adorableness.

“It’s ‘appreciation’, dear, and thank you.” Twilight thanked the filly and she left skipping down the hall. It was such a nice treat Magi and all of Magic Kindergarten; a very good motivator that’s for sure. She closed the door and slipped the bundle of violets into a vase. She walked over to the balcony and she could see all the ponies below here in the streets, keeping themselves awake with one another. The streets were lit with torches and lights all around. If only her friends could see this. She soon spotted something among the crowds and she squinted her eyes so she could see it better. It was Roadburn! He came back to Canterlot. No doubt for the Winter Solstice. She immediately turned around and hurried to see him.

Meanwhile, in the streets of Canterlot, Roadburn walked through the crowds and he heard a voice calling for him. “Roadburn! Come and join us, lad!” He turned to the source and it was Luckyshoes sitting at the table with Fancypants and three other stallions. Deciding he shouldn’t be rude, he trots over and sits with them.

“Hello again, my good fellow.” Fancypants greeted. “I say, when we were talking to you and looked away for a short moment, you disappeared. Where did you go, friend?”

“Oh, I just needed to return home to put up my food. Sorry, I couldn’t say good-bye.” Roadburn made up the excuse.

“That’s fine, laddie.” Luckyshoes assured him. “We can introduce you to our mates.” The unicorn points to a buck-toothed, teenaged colt with a cream colt and brown mane covered by a Royal Guard’s helmet. His Cutie Mark was three turnips. “This is A.C. Turnip Top,” He points to a ginger-coated, short unicorn with a curly, light ginger mane. His Cutie Mark was a pumpkin with a knife stuck into it, “This is Jacko Lantern,” Luckyshoes the pointed to a Pegasus stallion with a light sky blue coat, and black mullet. His Cutie Mark was a bolt of lightning with wings outstretched, “And this is Soarin’.”

“Everypony, this is Roadburn.” Fancypants introduced the unicorn and they all greeted him.

“Where do you work, Roadburn?” Jacko asked him curious.

“I don’t work anywhere.” Roadburn answered.

“Where in Canterlot do you live?” Soarin’ asked him politely.

“Oh. I don’t live in Canterlot.” Roadburn answered him.

“Then where do you live?”

“Not far from Canterlot with my granny.”

“Where exactly?” Turnip asked him. The tension was growing on the Blue Unicorn.

“Never mind that. Where do you all work?” Roadburn changed the subject.

“I’m a Wonderbolt.” Soarin’ replied. “We’re pretty famous in the land, and we’re looking forward for the new generation.”

“New generation?” Roadburn repeated, confused on what he meant.

“I’ve heard. The new recruits are promising and Rainbow Dash is part of them.” Fancypants agreed. “I look forward to see her in action.”

“Aye, I would pay to see that.” Luckyshoes agreed as well.

“I’m Celestia’s Personal Guard.” A.C. replied. “I’ve been told to take the night off for now.”

“And I work at an arts and crafts shop. It’s called ‘Jacko’s Arts and Crafts.’” Jacko added as he raised his hooves up to virtually picture it. “I get a decent pay.”

“Sounds good.” Roadburn stood up. “If you’ll excuse me I have to go meet somepony.”

“Ah, yes!” Fancypants nodded. “So long, Roadburn, and sorry for pulling you away from your business.”

“It’s fine, Fancy.” Roadburn assured him. “Enjoy your time with friends!” He then left on his way toward Pony Joe’s. However, a voice shouted out to him.

“You again!” Jet Set’s voice could be heard not far behind, and as Roadburn turned around, he wasn’t surprised to see Upper Crust with him. “Why have you come back? Humph!”

“You say it like it’s a bad thing…” Roadburn stared at him indifferently.

“Well, you should leave now!” Upper Crust demanded him. “The New Princess is back and if she sees you, she’ll--.”

“I’ve already met this ‘New Princess.’” Roadburn interrupted her. “And she’s not what I expected at first. She won’t care if I’m dirty.”

“You’re a liar and a bum!” Jet Set shouted at him cross, making a scene. “You have not met the New Princess and she would be repulsed by your ugliness!”

“Now you’re entering an all-time low.” Roadburn added.

“Get out of Canterlot!” Jet Set readied himself to punch Roadburn, but Pony Joe came to his rescue and socked the Rich Stallion’s face. Everypony gasped in shock at the violence, and Fancypants’ crew came to see what was happening.

“You have no idea how much I wanted to do that!” Pony Joe shouted in somewhat triumph. He turned back to Roadburn. “You okay, Burn?”

“I’m fine, Joe.” He assured his friend. Jet Set stood up from the street and he was holding onto his face.

“Are you alright, dear?” Upper Crust asked her husband, concerned.

“I’m fine,” He began to raise his voice, “But this bum must leave Canterlot immediately!”

“What do you know, Jet?” Pony Joe argued. “He’s no different than anypony else!”

“He’s filthy and poorly groomed.” Upper Crust replied. “He has to leave.”

“And he lied about meeting the New Princess!” Jet Set added angry.

“Now hold on just a moment, Jet Set!” Fancypants grabbed everypony’s attention and they all gasped in surprise that he has become a part of this. He walked over to the scene with his friends. “That pony you refer to and attack is a dear friend of mine.”

“To all of us.” Soarin’ added.

“And if you’re gonna throw him over board then you’ll have to go through us!” Luckyshoes also added.

“All of us.” Pony Joe also added, and everypony else began to murmur and converse among themselves during Jet Set’s withdrawal.

“Well, Jet Set?” Fancy asked him with a look of confidence that he would leave.

“Fine…” Jet Set gave up. “Enjoy Canterlot, Roadburn.” The Rich Couple left the scene and everypony left their attention from the scene as they went onto their businesses. Fancypants and his friends came to see Roadburn and Pony Joe.

“Jolly good performance, my good fellow!” Fancy complimented Joe’s bravery. “Knocking off Jet Set’s jaw was a work of art, I tell you!”

“Thanks…” Joe thanked him. “We should talk in my shop. It’s less crowded there than here.”

“Very well then.” Everypony followed Pony Joe and Roadburn to Pony Joe’s and they all sat at the counter, while Pony Joe gave them each a serving of one donut and hot chocolate. They each introduced themselves before conversing.

“Jet Set and Upper Crust should really get lives.” Jacko spoke up as they ate.

“Yeah, I know.” Soarin’ agreed with him.

“Jet Set and Upper Crust has been on Roadburn’s tail ever since he first got here when he was a foal.” Pony Joe explained. “Somepony had to knock Jet’s jaw off some time.”

“Yeah, I would agree with you, lad.” Luckyshoes sipped his drink. “Sometimes justice must be served.”

“Heh, yeah!” Turnip agreed with him as he gulped down his drink. Pony Joe set him a donut and hot coca to join them.

“Well, it’s nothing to brag about, guys.” Pony Joe insisted. He began to notice Roadburn’s silence. “Hey, Burn. Why’re you so quiet all of a sudden?”

“It’s nothing.” Burn answered him.

“Hey, Burn, if what Jet Set almost did bothers you, don’t worry about it.” Soarin’ assured him. “We stallions stick together like glue.”

“Yeah!” Jacko nodded.

“And if anypony shall lay a hoof upon Roadburn, we will be there to protect our friend!” Fancypants vowed with his cup up high.

“Pals before gals!” Soarin’ added with his cup up high.

“Hear, hear!” Jacko raised his cup with the others. They all made a toast, and gulped down their drinks. After slamming them down onto the table, a voice could be heard behind them all.

“Wow!” They all turned around to see Princess Twilight and two Royal Guards with her. “You have many friends, Roadburn.” She remarked delightedly. “And they all stand up for you.”

“Princess Twilight.” Fancypants greeted as he quickly got off his seat and kneeled to her. The others did the same, except Roadburn, who looked quiet confused.

“Uh…” He couldn’t find the words to speak; he was so surprised to see her again here.

“Please, stand.” Twilight insisted and they all stood.

“Is there anything I can do for you, Your Majesty?” Pony Joe asked. “Anything at all?”

“Just treat me like the usual Twilight, Joe.” TwiX insisted.

“Of course, Twilight Sparkle.” Pony Joe nodded.

“Tell me, Roadburn.” She walked over to the unicorn. “What tro--?”

“Princess!” A Royal Guard ran in through the doors. “Your Majesty.” He kneeled to her.

“Yes?” She asked him.

“Magi has startling news and he asked for you to come quickly.” He explained to her. Twilight sighed in disappointment for being pulled away from Roadburn.

“Very well.” Twilight turned back to Roadburn. “I must go. Goodbye.” She left after the others said their goodbyes and the friends all sat back with Roadburn.

“So you do know the New Princess.” Jacko remarked with a smile. “That’s pretty big.”

“Yeah, I guess.” Roadburn shrugged. “Hey, Joe.”

“Yeah?” Joe replied.

“You remember Vinyl Scratch, right?”

“What about her?”

“Have had any word from her?”

“Look, Burn. I haven’t got any mail or rumors from Vin, okay?” Pony Joe explained kindly. “Even if I did, I’d share it with you.”

“Right…” Roadburn looked down sadly.

“You miss her too huh?”

“Yeah…”

“Wait. Who’s Vinyl Scratch?” A.C. asked curious.

“She’s an old friend of ours who left on a trip to Applewood to get a record deal.” Pony Joe explained to their new friends. “Unfortunately we haven’t had any word from her in a while…”

“I see…” Luckyshoes thought aloud, remembering to send to a letter to his crew on how things were for him.

“I’m sure she’s made that Bass something-or-other by now.” Roadburn chuckled remembering his dream. “Who knows?”



Meanwhile, in the Diamond Dog mine. “What is the meaning of this insolence?” The Master growled through the dark shadows before him toward Rover. Rover was unable to see the Master through the thick absence of light, except for his two bright red eyes that made him fear the Master even more.

“I-I told you, Master!” Rover bowed in fear. “My henchmen had disappeared along with the two ponies from earlier!”

“You fool!” The Master shouted in extreme anger. “If that Earth Pony leaves this mine then my master plan for World Domination will be in shambles! You will capture him before he escapes!”

“But, Master! He’s already left through the escape route.” Rover reasoned with obvious fear. “If we search now, he would already have escaped by the time we’re half-way in the route.”

“Then you’ve failed me, in keeping the Earth Pony here, finding the Ice Diamond I require, and keeping your ranks in line!” The Master snarled at Rover. “I have no further need for you any longer…” A moment of silence passed by, and Rover began to grow curious of what was to happen next. He looked up from the ground, and he squealed in shock to see the Master looming above him, but he only got a glimpse. By that second, the Master reached down and grabbed his throat with his ice cold hand and Rover’s body began to wrinkle and shrivel. He was growing old and the older he became the stronger the Master had become. He tossed Rover’s aged body away and it hit a wall, scattering it into dust. The Master thought through this situation quickly. “It seems that I must put this into my own hands…” His body then changed into a dark flame and flew through the cavern, on the verge to destroy Eli.



Meanwhile, in Canterlot Castle, Twilight had entered Magi’s Wing. “Hello, Magi?” She called for him. “Are you here?” She found him studying on the table behind a large stack of books. He noticed her. “Ah! You’re here!” He quickly used his magic to teleport the books into the bookshelf to clear the desk and he summoned the crystal egg before him. “I had found something incredible about this egg.” He levitated an unlit candle on the table, and the egg shone dimly bright and electricity strikes the candle and it lights.

“Incredible…” Twilight remarked astounded. “And you didn’t use magic, did you?”

“Of course not, my dear Twilight,” Magi replied, “It has a mind of its own.”

“Self-awareness?” Twilight asked curious.

“Indeed. It can do magic on its own.” Magi explained. “I was returning back from Magic Kindergarten practicing their play here. I settled the egg on the table with the unlit candle and when I took my eyes off of it, it relit the stick of wax.”

“Extraordinary.” Twilight remarked again.

“I’m going to continue my research and I’ll call for you again once I have found anything else.” Magi told her.

“Thank you, Magi.” Twilight left the Immortal Sorcerer alone in the wing. He grinned and blew out the candle and the egg relit it. He laughed.

Nightmare or Reality

Chapter 5

Nightmare or Reality

“You’ve got to be joking.” Rarity complained at the two Diamond Dogs. They’ve stopped at a fork in the hall, and Spot and Fido seem to have lost their way. “You’re the canines who dug this tunnel, and you don’t even know how to navigate through it?”

“Quiet down, Pony!” Spot ordered her. “I’m trying to remember the route to the outside.”

“This is absurd!” The White Unicorn scoffed. “To think that we were following the right guides.”

“C’mon, Rarity.” Eli smirked. “Just give them a chance.” Rarity stared at him with a disdainful glare.

“I’m really starting to not like you.”

“Alright, Ponies!” Spot grabbed their attention. “We remember the way now. Follow us!” Spot and Fido led down the right turn, and after exchanging a brief look, the ponies followed the Diamond Dogs through the hall. Though the light of that torch Fido held deemed bright, the hall still was as dark as they came as the group ventured through the cavern. Silence lingered about as the only sound that could be heard was their steps and the drops of water from the ceiling. “Hold on…” Eli spoke up finally. “Is that water I hear?”

“Yes, Pony!” Spot rolled his eyes over the Earth Pony’s ignorance. “Some caves have running water through them.”

“I know, but it sounds like a lot of water since it keeps falling so fast…” Eli explained, and everypony listened to the speed of the dropping water droplets hitting the floor. It was fast; so fast that there might be a water source nearby.

“Are we under a lake?” Rarity grabbed Spot’s attention.

“Actually near one. There’s an underground river system in these caves that lead into the Endless Crevice, then through Equestria’s lands and somehow back here.” Spot explained. “We’ve tested that and we were right!”

“So if we find it, it’ll lead us to the outside and we’ll escape!” Rarity squealed excited to escape from this dreadful cave system.

“We’ll take you through the safe path, and we’ll be back in your home safe-and-sound.” Spot told them, being defiant.

“But which way is faster? The underground river system, or the ‘safe way’?” Rarity inquired to know.

“The underground river is the fastest way out.” Fido’s mouth was immediately covered by Spot’s paw.

“Sh!” Spot shushed him.

“Then the underground river it is.” Rarity trotted ahead. “C’mon, Eli.” The green earth pony grinned at Rarity’s control over all of this. It may at times be hindering, but she knows what she’s doing.

“Well, lead us there, ‘friends.’” He gestured them to move ahead of him. The Diamond Dogs followed Rarity with very scared looks.

“I’m warning you now, Ponies.” Spot told them both. “You’ll regret all of this.”

“Well, once we get to my boutique, you’ll thank me later,” Rarity assured them both, “And we have names too, and we’d appreciate it if you call us by them!”

Spot thought this over carefully, “Very well. What shall we call you both?”

“Call me: Lady Rarity,” The White Mare insisted, “And call him: Eli.”

“I can introduce myself!” Eli told her from the back. “Thank you very much!”

Meanwhile, “Spike…” Something shook the baby dragon as he began to regain consciousness. “Spike, are you alright?” Spike opened his eyes and found Helpful gently shaking him. “Spike?”

“I’m okay, Helpful…” The baby dragon sat up and rubbed his head. He looked around and, with the aid of the moonlight from above through a deep hole, Spike could see that they were still underground, but there was no ceiling, they could see straight up toward the moon. There were several wooden beams going across, like there was some ceiling there ages ago. He also noticed that there was a pool near them in the chamber. That may have been where they came out from. The pool seemed like it was disturbed a second ago, maybe from Helpful pulling them out of it. “Where are we, Helpful?” Spike asked his friend as he continued scanning his surroundings. He also noticed that there was a big door at one side. It was several feet high, and a yard wide. It looked pretty thick, and it had a red cross on it with a Fire Ruby in the center. “I don’t know, Spike,” Helpful told him, “But I think you should see this.” Spike to Helpful and his friend pointed toward the center of the chamber and he saw that a sword was stabbed straight into the stone floor, making cracks and crevices around it. There was also a chain wrapped around the sword that stuck it into the floor. The sword was a fair length. It had a dull red color and the blade was curved backward. The handle of the sword was completely bare, and the counterweight was a small amethyst. “Whoa!” Spike exclaimed in excitement as he started toward the sword. “What is that?” Helpful only shrugged as he followed his friend. Spike gave it a close examination. The blade seemed razor sharp—sharp enough to cut through rock, obviously. Spike grabbed the handle of the sword. “Uh…Spike?” Helpful grabbed his attention.

“Yeah, Helpful?”

“I don’t think you’ll be able to pull that sword out.” He tried giving the baby dragon a comforting smile. Spike unhanded the sword and looked at Helpful weird.

“Well, I know it’s being held down by chains, but I think I can break it loose.” Spike pounded a fist to his chest. “Give me a hoof, dude!” He grabbed the sword again.

“Spike, I don’t think you understand.” Helpful sat down as he watched Spike try to pull the sword free.

“Almost…got it!” Spike grunted as he pulled with all his might, but the sword wouldn’t budge. Helpful just sighed and held his head up with his hoof to wait for his friend to remember what they were doing earlier.

Meanwhile in the mine tracks, the train of carts began to slow down not too long ago, but the speed was still pretty fast. Prince Merciful, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Snowy and Sunny were still riding through the loops and quick turns. Not only that, but they’ve gone so far into the mines that the walls were solid jewels. “The Canterlot Mines?” Sunny recognized it before anypony else.

“You mean the place that Twilight was sent into during the wedding of Shining Armor and Princess Cadance?” Fluttershy asked her curious as she held onto Snowy tight for comfort from the fearful experience.

“What?” Sunny asked her confused.

“It’s a long story!” Rainbow Dash shouted over the noise of the carts to answer Sunny.

“We’ve been riding this track for a long time now, Mercy!” Applejack conversed with the Alicorn. “You reckon that we’ll soon be stopping?”

“I can’t say for certain, my dear!” Merciful answered her. “I believe that Discord has us in a trap!”

“Is he after the Elements of Harmony?” Rainbow shouted toward him from behind the train, but the Draconequus appeared in front of the entire train, scaring almost everypony. A megaphone appeared in his lion claw, and he cleared his throat.

“Now really, everypony?” He shouted through the megaphone with a huge volume, echoing through the cavern. “All this uncertainty about me is making me sad!”

“Well, you did eat all of the Water Sapphires--snapping Fluttershy--you put us in a mine cart train and send us through this crazy ride for hours,” Applejack shouted back for him to hear irritated, “And to top it all off, we’ve lost Helpful and Spike because of your tomfoolery!”

“Applejack!” Mercy tried to calm her.

“Well, excuse me for trying to help you!” Discord shouted back at them cross. “Since you don’t need me, I’ll just pack my bags and leave!” Discord snapped his fingers and then a strait jacket appeared on him with a reporter’s hat on his head. A suitcase, held up by the handle, also appeared. “Now if you’ll excuse me, I have to make an appointment with the press director. I’m getting a job interview from the Equestrian Times newspaper.” His voice changed to a Manehatten accent, making everypony stare at him. “Y’know what? Forget about it! I’m out!” He snapped his fingers and he disappeared, but as he did, Applejack could barely see something far ahead of them.

“Hey, guys!” She grabbed their attention. “I think I see something ahead!”

“Really?” Pinkie Pie replied back. “What is it?”

Merciful raised his hoof over his eyes so he could see what was ahead. “Applejack! Hold fast to me!” He ordered as he held Applejack close.

“Uh, okay!” She held onto him tight.

“Everypony else, prepare to fly!” The others did as he ordered, no question. Something was wrong, and they had to get ready. Pinkie Pie held onto Rainbow Dash while Sunny and Snowy sat onto Fluttershy’s back and held onto her.

“What’s ahead, Merciful?” Sunny finally asked him.

The Alicorn’s horn glows a dim, black light. “An impediment!”

“What? What’s an ‘impediment’?” Rainbow Dash inquired to know, but before anypony could answer, the train of mining carts immediately crash into a track block and everypony flew forward. Merciful flapped his wings and he and Applejack flew above the sharp gems from below. Rainbow Dash held onto Pinkie Pie as she flew the Pink Mare up high. Unlike the others, Fluttershy was too scared to fly and she screamed in fear as she fell toward the jagged gems below. Luckily, Merciful used a levitation spell to save their friends. Once they were lifted back to their height, Fluttershy regained flight and steadied herself.

“Weeee!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed in delight. “Let’s do that again!” The others just rolled their eyes.

“So that’s an impediment…” Dashie took note as she looked back to the mining track block.

“Indeed, and since Discord has left us in here without aid, we’re blind for the time being.” Merciful explained. “We’ll not be able to--!”

“Hey, guys! I found a map!” Pinkie Pie interrupted the Alicorn from below. They all looked down to see Pinkie Pie standing before a board on a solid, smooth pathway. Dash looked at her then at her hooves that she thought still held onto Pinkie, and then she tried to figure out how she escaped her grasp and end up right on that pathway. The group flew down to where the Pink Mare was and Merciful examined the map. “It seems fortune has smiled upon us.” The Alicorn smiled as he gently peeled the map off the board with his magic. “If my calculations are correct,” He turned the map around for everypony to see him point out their location, “We are right here.” The others just gave looks of confusion.

“Um, Merciful, I think you got it wrong.” Sunny told him as kindly as she could.

“By whatever do you mean, Sunny?” He asked her confused, and then Pinkie Pie jumped in-between Merciful and the map after he turned it toward him.

“I think we’re on the place where the big, red ‘X’ is painted with the words ‘you are here!’” She pointed out for Merciful to see. She turned around to face the Alicorn, but his stern gaze told her to behave. She began to shyly frown and walk back to Rainbow Dash. Merciful looked at the map again. There was a big, red ‘X’ painted on it with the words ‘you are here.’

“Curse these modern maps.” Merciful growled in irritation as Sunny came up to him.

“I’ve been told these mines lead to Canterlot above us.” Sunny explained to him. “We’ll just need to follow the map.”

“Indeed, Sunny.” Merciful agreed with her with a warm smile. “The map says that we just need to follow this path to the city.” The Alicorn started forward to lead them. “Follow me, please.” The others followed him, and after some time of walking and a few unexpected detours, they finally find the exit, but also find a surprise.

“It’s a dead end?” Snowy shouted in shock. The exit was blocked with bricks and rock. It was sealed off by some building project probably years ago.

“H-How are we going to escape now?” Fluttershy asked, nervous of being stuck underground forever.

“Don’t panic.” Merciful tried to comfort them.

“You think you could blow this wall out, Mercy?” Applejack asked the Alicorn.

“We would be risking lives here, Applejack.” Merciful explained to her, thoughtfully. “This wall could be a part of somepony’s home, or a critical part of the castle. As much as I am aware, I don’t think that force would be a proper approach.”

“So how do you propose we escape this mine?” Sunny asked him confused and irritated of their misfortune.

“Hmm…” Merciful thought for a brief moment. He walked over to the wall, and his horn glowed magic as he tapped on it twice, and the bricks immediately shifted from place to place, opening the wall with ease. “Ah! Old magic never fails.”

“I’ve never seen that before!” Pinkie Pie jumped over to him. “Where’d you learn that, Mercy?”

“It was a spell given to royals so when we were attacked, we could escape through the walls.” Merciful explained to her as they exited from the mine shaft into a janitor closet.

“Somepony’s gonna be surprised once they find what’s behind that wall someday.” Sunny joked as she followed them out, and Merciful closed the wall with his magic. Fluttershy opened the door and they entered into the light of Canterlot Castle.

“Convenience!” Pinkie Pie thought aloud as they all walked into the ball room.

“It seems that the mines run directly under the castle.” Merciful observed as they started to spread out into the wide room. “The door we exited from must have been a last-resort escape in case of capture.”

“And we just used it as an entrance.” Applejack added to Merciful. A Royal Guard entered the room and gasped in surprise, he wasn’t expecting this group here once he entered.

“Prince Merciful?” He took off his helmet and bowed to him in respect. “What are you doing here so late, Your Highness?”

“Well, in case you have forgotten, tonight is the night before the Winter Solstice.” The Prince answered. “Everypony is permitted to travel through the castle and stay awake if they wish to see the first snowflake of winter.”

“I remember, Your Highness, but you were in Ponyville this late evening. How were you able to travel here so quickly?” He asked in him in the most humble respectful way a Royal Guard could. Merciful exchanged a brief look with Applejack and the others.

“It’s a long story.” Merciful answered him. “I must speak to Twilight Sparkle now. Awake her if needed, and bring her to me.” The Royal Guard nodded.

“Yes, Sir!” The Royal Guard dashed off to fetch Twilight.

Meanwhile in the Diamond Dogs caverns, the group of four unlikely allies found the Underground River. Eli knelt down to the dangerous rapids below them, much too fast for any of them to ride on safely. “So this is the Underground River huh?” Eli asked Spot and Fido as he stood up. They both nodded.

“Looks really dangerous.” Rarity remarked as she stared at the huge splashes of water from the rocks against the flow.

“That’s just the beginning.” Spot told them both. “Further on you enter an abandoned mine and after that, you get pulled underwater and soon you get shot out of a waterfall.” Spot explained to them as Fido made a visual aid of the explanations.

“Well, Rover could have already have found us gone, and he might have sent his minions to find us.” Rarity explained to them as she looked back to see anything following them.

“Right then, I’ll go first.” Eli volunteered, but the mare stopped him.

“Ladies first, Eli.” Rarity insisted, forcing the stallion to sit down and stare at her disdainfully. The unicorn walked toward the edge of the foothold and stared straight toward the water below her. She sighed. “For Spiky Wikey!” She deeply inhaled and jumped into the water. Spot and Fido jumped in as well. Eli walked over to edge a little uneasy at first. “Okay… I can do this…” Eli told himself. The rapid flow of the water just made Eli a little too nervous to jump into it. He feared for his health. He inhaled deeply and closed his eyes as he jumped into the water. The feeling of water was a new thing to him. It was different and weird, but it also felt soft and kind, however, the pull told him otherwise. He was flying through the water and the speed kept him going at dangerous momentum. His head finally broke through to the surface for air. He gasped whatever he could into his lungs so he could contain consciousness, but the water pulled him down again.

He soon swam back up for another breath of air and he spotted tracks above him. That meant they were getting close to going under. The water pulled him under again, and once he broke out to the surface, he heard screaming ahead of him. “Rarity!” He recognized the voice. He swam himself further up and he felt the pull of another current taking him away, and it went in circles and circles until Eli hit a rock. He held onto it in the dark, and he groaned in pain as the pull of the strong current continued to pull him away. The current pulled him around the rock, but he still held onto it. As he swung around it, he bumped into something soft, and it let go of the rock and screamed like Rarity. His grip loosened too, and out of reflex, Eli held her close and they both spun inside the current. They continued spinning around and around until the water got over their heads, and everything went black…

Meanwhile, Helpful the Selfless had fallen asleep from watching Spike’s futile attempt, and dreamt himself inside of Everfree Forest. The trees still as big and green as ever and the animals all ran and played around him. This was a very peaceful dream, only there was something missing. “Helpful!” Fluttershy’s voice shouted out to him and he turned around to see all of his friends: Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Spike, Snowy, Sunny, Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash, coming swiftly toward him with big smiles. Helpful dashed toward them and hugged Fluttershy to the ground and the others gathered and hugged them too.

Later, they were all playing tag in the forest, and instead of having all those shadowy patches of darkness hindering their eyesight, the sun shone enough for the shadows to be gone. Everything was too good to be bad. Helpful was running from Fluttershy, who was tagged, and he laughed as she chased him through the forest. Finally he lost her in the brush and once he ran off deeper into the trees, taking a right turn, he gasped in shock of a path of blood on the grass. He followed the path of blood toward a large cave. The blood path grew wider and fresher than earlier and he was growing anxious on what was going on. He followed into the cavern, nervously. “H-hello?” He spoke up for anything to hear him. He then heard splatting coming from deeper into the cave. He followed the sound and he soon found him inside a large chamber, illuminated by millions of candles. He spotted a teenage dragon that wore a knight’s helmet in front of a table. The dragon may have been facing away from Helpful, but he saw that the black-scaled, green-combed dragon was working on something as he chopped his sword onto whatever was on the table. Blood dripped from the top of the table, forcing Helpful to freeze in fear.

Just what sick, twisted horror was this dragon doing? They’ve never killed and torn apart their prey’s bodies like this, but the question still stood: who was this dragon chopping apart? Helpful soon noticed that there were purple feathers littered all around the dragon’s feet. “T-T…Twilight?” Helpful stuttered to himself. The dragon then stopped chopping and reached forward, and Helpful could hear a snapping noise. The dragon then turned around and threw something at Helpful’s hooves. He gasped in surprise, and he saw that the something that dragon threw at was Twilight’s horn! He looked up to the teen dragon, whose face was covered by the metal mask from a knight’s helmet, and he could see that the sword he held in his left hand dripped with fresh Alicorn blood. It was a red cutlass. Now this dream had gone from peaceful to horrendous! “Who in the name of harmony are you?” Helpful growled in anger.

“Don’t you remember me?” The teenage dragon asked him in a voice mixed by two, one sounded deep, and the other sounded like Spike, but slightly deeper like it was older. First Discord, and now this nightmare version of a teenage dragon was asking if he remembers him. What had he forgot from his foalhood? “No!” Helpful shouted in a voice that sounded like depression and fury mixed together. The thought of Twilight’s death was almost overwhelming. “I don’t know you!”

“Maybe this will. Do you know what an Ifrit is?” The teenage dragon asked again, and thousands of memories invaded Helpful’s mind. They were all centered on a battle against an enemy that his father, King Raziel, sealed away forever. He remembered that enemy was the very hate and evil that escaped from the Underworld; Scorch, the Black Ifrit. “No…” Helpful backed away from the dragon. “You can’t be! This is a dream! You’re not free!”

“Yet, but I will be soon.” Scorch tilted his head to the right, and he raised his arms. The flames on the candles blazed and grew into an inferno that enveloped the ceiling. The Ifrit lowered his arms and the flames fell upon them both and he laughed in insanity. “No!” Helpful shouted awake from his dream, startling Spike.

“What! What is it?” Spike jumped back from the sword and looked at Helpful, scared that he did something wrong. Helpful looked around himself. He was back in the sword chamber from earlier, meaning he only had a nightmare. He sighed as he shook it off. “Nothing, Spike.” He lightly chuckled. “Only a bad dream.” Spike looked at Helpful oddly.

“You have nightmares, Helpful?” He took a few steps toward him and sat down before his friend. He had a concerned expression. The Pegasus nodded.

“What do you have nightmares about then?”

“Very horrible things.” Helpful shuddered from the thought. Spike stood up again with a smile.

“Well, when I had nightmares, Helpful,” Spike explained, “Twilight would read me a book to help me go back to sleep…when I was younger, that is.” He chuckled as he poked his two fingers together, embarrassed. Helpful chuckled.

“That’s okay, Spike!” Helpful assured him. “It’s actually nothing new for anypony else who was younger and had nightmares before. Besides, back then, my father told me a very specific way to get rid of nightmares.”

“Oh really?” Spike asked, wanting to know. “What was that?”

“He told me, when I go to sleep, think of the good things that happened in my day, and it works! I go to sleep and never got nightmares!” He grinned at the joke.

“Well, I should try that sometime.” Spike nodded, and then he yawned. “Oh, boy… I’m sleepy.” Helpful smiled at the fact that Spike was still very young and needed to sleep. Before Helpful comply, the sound of splashing and coughing from the pool caught their attention, and when they turned around they saw Spot and Fido emerging from the water. They quickly dashed over and helped them out. The Diamond Dogs sputtered and coughed as they were pulled out. “Are you guys okay?” Helpful asked them, concerned.

“I bet they’re here to take us down, too!” Spike growled as raised his fists up. “C’mon! Come get some!” Helpful only sighed as Spike remembered what they were here for finally. He pulled the baby dragon back from the canines so they could breathe. Spot was the first to sit back up, and shook off the water, splashing it all around. Helpful tried shielding Spike with his wing from the downpour only getting himself soaked. Spot looked around, curiously. “Uh…” Spot stood up as he spoke. “This doesn’t seem to be the Endless Crevice.” Fido also sat up and shook himself, and Helpful successfully shields Spike while getting soaked. Then he folded his wing, dripping from the soaking water. He then shook himself to dry, and Spike ducked from the deluge. He gave Helpful a stern look and his friend smile back, innocently. “Wait a minute.” Spot said and he gave a hard look. “You’re those two from earlier!” He pointed at them and stepped back to Fido.

“Where’s Rarity!?” Spike snarled as he waddled toward them, angry, and Helpful pulled him back by the tail. Spot looked around them. Rarity and Eli weren’t anywhere to be seen.

“She’s probably dead.” Spot told him. “Got caught in the water and drowned.”

“No!” The baby dragon snarled in disbelief. “You have her locked up somewhere! Where is she!?” Before Spot could taunt him further, splashing and coughing came from the pool, and it caught their attention. It was Rarity and Eli! They survived and needed help out of the water. Eli was carrying Rarity out the water as he swam to the edge. “A little help?” Eli coughed as he laid Rarity on the floor. Spike and Helpful immediately gave him a hoof, and pulled him out. Rarity was unconscious and Spike was listening for her breathing. Nothing. “Oh, shoot! She’s not breathing.” Spike told them as he knelt down and put his claws together, placing them on her chest. He began pushing downward, counting at each thrust he made. When came to the fourteenth, Rarity’s eyes shot open and she coughed sputtered. Spike ceased and patted her shoulder with a smile. “Are you okay, Rare?” When her breathing returned to normal, she nodded as she sat up and hugged Spike. “I’m alright, Spike. Thank you.” Spike blushed as he embraced her loving hug. When Eli regained enough strength he stood up and smiled, relieved to see the Rarity was still alive. Helpful noticed him standing and turned toward him. “You alright there?” Helpful asked him, curious. Eli nodded.

“Yeah, been through worse.” Eli chuckled as he turned back to Spot and Fido. They didn’t seem so thrilled for Rarity’s recovery. “Well, you two seem ecstatic.” He said with sarcasm. Helpful looked over to them and gave a confused look.

“Uh…they don’t...” Helpful told him as he turned back to him. “What’s your name? Mine’s Prince Joyful, but my friends call me ‘Helpful.” He offered him a hoofshake, and Eli accepted it.

“Eli,” He blinked at him, “Did you say ‘Prince’?” Helpful nodded with a cute smile.

“Don’t look it, do I?” Helpful laughed as he turned back to Rarity and Spike. The baby dragon was helping the unicorn onto her hooves. “How you feeling, Rare?”

“Relived that I’m still alive,” Rarity smiled warmly, “Thank you, Helpful.”

“I don’t think you should be just thanking Spike and I.” Helpful chuckled. Rare gave him an odd look.

“What do you mean?” She asked him.

“Well, Eli here, was the guy that helped get you out of that pool!” The Pegasus chuckled as he playfully slapped the earth pony’s shoulder. Eli gave a surprised look as he almost lost balance. Helpful’s pretty strong, for a prince. Rarity nodded.

“Of course, tha--.”

“Your mane’s messed up.” Eli pointed out, rudely. Rarity then look gave an odd look and she raised a hoof to her mane, and felt it. The curls were gone! Not only that, but it was soaking wet, and it most likely looked horrid. “Oh, no!” She exclaimed in shock as she looked back to her tail to see it ruined. She sighed. “This’ll take all morning to fix!” She stomped a hoof on the floor.

“Don’t worry, Rarity.” Spike told her. “I still think you look beautiful!” Spike told her. Rarity smiled at the baby dragon as she nuzzled him, lovingly.

“That’s so sweet of you, Spike.” Rarity told him. “You can let go of me now, Spiky.” The baby dragon then let her go and stepped back. Rare stood straight and firm. “Now! We should be at the Endless Crevice, correct?” She turned to Spot and Fido.

“Well, Rarity…” Spot replied. “We don’t know.”

“Come again, dear?”

“We’re not sure where we are.” Rarity scanned the chamber around them and above.

“Well, then…” She made an odd look. “Where are we exactly?”

“Seems like some ancient chamber.” Helpful replied.

“Yeah!” Spike agreed with his friend. “There’s a sword over here too!” He ran back to the sword for Rarity to see. They followed him as he ran across the chamber, and then take hold of the sword. “It seems that it has an ancient reliquary!” He yanked on the sword again. The group watched and Eli noticed that one of the chains was beginning to give. Helpful sighed, again.

“Spike, I really don’t think--.” Helpful’s sentence stopped as Spike broke the chains and pulled the sword loose. The baby dragon laughed as he pointed it up in the air, but then, the Fire Ruby on the door shone and the door opened up. Everypony noticed this, including Spike, who couldn’t keep the sword up, and it hit the floor with a clang. “Wha… What is that?” Rarity asked, unsure of else to say.

“I don’t know.” Helpful told her and then a harsh wind blow out from the door and lifted them through the open ceiling, safely pat the wood. They all shouted as they were launched into the air above Everfree, and they landed in a clearing. Helpful was the first to get up, as he saw that Spot and Spike landed on Fido, and Rarity landed on Eli. Rarity looked up, slowly, and groaned as she met Eli’s eyes. They were both surprised to be on top of one another like this. “Uh…” Eli spoke, and then Rarity sighed as she stood up and walked off from Eli, looking for Spike, and confusing the stallion. “Spiky Wikey?” She called for her dragon and then she spotted him, still holding onto the sword and moaning as he up on Fido’s belly. He rubbed his head. “Ow…” Spike groaned as Rare dashed toward him concerned.

“Are you alright, darling?” She asked him as she ran. Helpful then came to Eli and helped him back up.

“You okay?” He asked him. Eli nodded.

“Thanks.” Eli thanked his new friend as he turned his attention to Rarity caring for Spike. Helpful noticed this.

“So how did you and Rarity meet?” He asked him as he looked over to the scene.

“Long story, pal.” Eli told him as he sighed.

“Ugh… I don’t feel so good, Rarity.” Spike told her as he rubbed his belly and slid down to the ground.

“Don’t worry, Spike.” Rare assured him. “We’ll take you back to the castle so you can have nice look nap.” She reached out to pat his head, but then it she felt a searing hot pain from touching it, and she quickly took her hoof back. “Ouch!” She sucked on her hoof, briefly. “Spike… You’re burning up!” Spike only moaned again as he tried using his new sword to hold his weight. He held his belly as he belched out fire, however, no message came from the flame. “What’s happening?” Spike asked as he burped again and fell on the ground in pain.

“Spiky!” Rare exclaimed in shock as he fell. “What’s wrong?” Helpful then galloped to them and pulled Rarity back from the sick dragon.

“You need to stand back!” Helpful warned her. “The sword he took was cursed!”

“Cursed?” Rarity gave the Pegasus a shocked look. “What do you…?” Her sentence trailed off right when the clouds above started to cover the moon, growing darker each moment. Fido and Spot both awoke and stood back from the baby dragon after noticed his conundrum and dramatic weather change. Spike belched fire again and tried standing himself up. He looked over to Helpful and Rarity, and they were shocked to his eyes were pitch black. “What’s… What’s happening to me!?” Spike cried and then he burped another time and Rarity screamed.

“Spiky Wikey!” She shouted for her loved one. Eli couldn’t believe it either, but this phenomenon was happening. Spike was undergoing some drastic change. He scales then turned black as his eyes, his green comb then grew longer and sharp. His stature began to grow as his moans of pain grew deeper, like he was growing older. He burped once more and this time a knight’s helmet appeared from the flames, and a shield appeared when he belched again. Shakily, Spike then reached out with his new arm, his sharp claws extending further out, and he gripped the helmet before him and placed it on his head. His green comb stuck out from the metal. The newly formed dragon then ceased his painful moans and he calmly grabbed his shield and equipped it on his left arm, and he reached out to grab his sword. He stood up. Now Spike was taller and strikingly more menacing than a few moments ago. “S…” Rarity tried to speak. There were tears in her eyes. “Spiky…?” The dragon immediately turned his gaze toward Rarity and Helpful, his eyes covered by the grate of his helmet. “Spiky Wikey?” Rarity called him again, hoping that he was still the same, but to her shock, the dragon roared in fury.

“Rarity! Run!” Helpful pulled her back for him to face the dragon. “Now!” Rarity did as he asked and Eli followed her, but a ring of fire stopped them in their tracks.

“None shall escape, putrid slaves!” The dragon snarled at them. Fido tackled the dragon into the ground and Spot then waved at Rarity and Eli.

“C’mon, ponies!” He called for them as Fido then dashed toward them and Spot grabbed them as they passed and sat them on his back as they jumped through the fire wall and escaped.

“No!” The dragon snarled in anger. He gave chase, but Helpful’s speed was greater and he knocked the dragon back.

“Don’t think so, Spike!” The Pegasus shouted as the dragon fell on his back. He jumped up and pointed his sword at the Pegasus.

“You dare to stop me?”

“I know you’re in there, Spike!” Helpful shouted, hoping that his friend’s still there.

“Hah! Your friend is no more!” The dragon scoffed as he twirled his sword a bit. “His body is now my vessel.”

“Who are you?” Helpful asked him with an angry frown.

“I am Scorch, the Black Ifrit.” The dragon introduced himself. Helpful’s expression turned to shock.

“No!” He shook his head in disbelief. “You can’t be the fire demon!”

“Oh, but I am!” Scorch laughed, amused at Helpful’s display of shock.

“You…” The Pegasus then charged at Scorch with his wings outstretched, the black tips glowed a bright orange! “Monster!” Helpful then tackled Scorch into the ground and out of rage, clobbering Scorch. “Bring! Back! Spike!” Helpful shouted as he bashed his hooves into the dragon’s steel helmet, and then the inside of Scorch’s helmet glowed red with fire, and Helpful jumped back, surprised right before he had his face burnt off with dragon fire. Scorch then ceased the blast and sat up like a marionette doll, making Helpful nervous. He stood up and grabbed his scimitar on the ground. The Pegasus took a few steps back as Scorch walked toward him. He was scared. None of his attacks seemed to have affected the demon, and he just stands back up without a sign of pain. Scorch then cackled as he raised his sword and charged at the stunned Pegasus, but luckily, lightning exploded between the two, knocking the demon back in surprise, and a second lash of lightning followed and curved upward into the demon, knocking him back even further. It then curved downward into the hole, sending the demon through the wood and pounding him into the stone floor. Helpful followed, flying after the lightning and Boltage flew out from inside the hole. “You okay, buddy boy?” He asked as he landed on the grass. Helpful stopped to greet him. “Boltage!” He said in surprise. “How’d you get here?”

“Where there’s a storm, there’s a Storm Charger.” Boltage laughed. “You don’t get out much, do you?” Helpful scratched the back of his head.

“Let’s just say I’m learning.” Helpful told him. “Was that you earlier?” Boltage nodded. The prince’s eyes opened wide, concerned for Spike’s body. “Did you kill him?” He ran over to the edge to find that Scorch’s body was in one piece, but he wasn’t moving, like he was unconscious. Helpful sighed of relief. “Thank you, Magi.” He turned back to Boltage. “We should get out of here, and report to Celestia what’s happened.” Boltage nodded in agreement.

“Gotcha!” He turned around and flew off toward the castle at a speed Helpful could follow. Helpful followed him, and sighed bored by the speed.

“Why are we cruising?” He asked the Storm Charger, who looked at him surprised, but before he could speak, an explosion from behind caught their attention. They turned around to see a beam of darkness being unleashed from the hole. They gaped in shock as when it ceased the cloaked being appeared in the air. He had no wings, nor a horn, and yet he was still flying in the air like them. The clocked being raised a sleeve toward them. “You…” He said with a dark, creepy voice.

“Who… Who are you?” Helpful asked him, nervous.

“I go by many names…” The being lowered his tattered sleeve; his cloak swaying in the air with wisps of dark shadows flickering and flying around it. “Bearer of Chaos, Destroyer of Wills, the Devil…” Helpful blinked twice, confused. None of these names sounded familiar to him. He turned his attention to Boltage briefly to see that he wasn’t recognizing these names either. “The what?” Boltage asked him.

“I see…” The cloaked being turned his head in thought. “So much has changed... Changed so much…that you have forgotten me…” He then raised his sleeve toward them again. “Then I shall tell you!” Bandages and cloth lashed out from the sleeve, and wrapped around Helpful and Boltage in surprise. They fell onto the ground hard, and grunted in pain. The bandages covered their faces so that they couldn’t speak. “I am Kronos, Lord of the Titans!” He waved his sleeve and shadows seeped and swerved around them, and they eventually covered them and vanished. Kronos then softly lowered himself from the air and turned back to the hole. He looked downward to see Scorch’s body twitch and move. He was reawakening. The Black Ifrit stood and looked up to see his master. “M-Master!?” He stuttered in surprised. “You… You’re supposed to be exiled!” He being only stared at Scorch coldly. The Ifrit then reconsidered his response. “Wha-what I mean is…” He knelt down to him. “All hail Emperor Kronos, the greatest of us all. Our god!”

Evil Resurrected

Chapter 6

Evil Resurrected

“When you do what you can for somepony.” Discord huffed as he kicked a stone into the pond in Everfree. “Not only that, but that desultory Equestrian Times paper business went out months ago. I should really take the time to catch up with today.” He sat down before the pond and loomed over his reflection. He sighed sadly as the reflection shifted to Fluttershy. “I’m so sorry, Fluttershy.” Discord apologized to the reflection of his friend. “I’ve made a mess of everything. If there was still some way to make up for it I would do it, but I think flowers,” A bushel of roses appeared, floating beside him, “And chocolates,” A heart-shaped, red box appeared also, “Won’t fix anything. I’d rather just tell you how much shame I feel of all of this. Please, forgive me. If you weren’t my friend, I’d never have felt how good it feels to have one. Don’t leave me alone again.” The flowers and red box disappeared from the air. “The rest of your friends still don’t trust me entirely, and I fear that if you weren’t my friend again I’ll have nopony else to turn to.” He sniffed, saddened by the thought of sheer loneliness. “Perhaps it’s not all lost. Prince Joyful’s a good chap. Maybe if I talk to him you’ll consider forgiving me, and so would the others.”

Discord’s moment was soon crushed by chuckling behind him. Discord gasped of surprise and turned back to see Scorch leaning against a tree; singeing the bark black. His arms were crossed and his armor’s luster gleamed in the bright moonlight. “My have you gone soft.” Scorch mocked him. The draconequus immediately recognized the black armor. It was definitely Scorch. The black cape behind him was so the same, and he had no doubt that the unicorn horn-decorated shield and red cutlass was under the cape.

“Scorch?” Discord scoffed. “You finally got somepony to free you from your prison? As a demon, you really can’t manifest in your own independent form. Pity.” He cocked his head to the side, mocking the Ifrit back. “You think you’re so tough? Why don’t you walk out of that body and prove it, eh?” Scorch was silent. “Thought so. You know better than to disturb a draconequus’ when he has his moments.” Discord turned around to remove Fluttershy’s reflection in the water. “You’ll only make him very rude.” He turned around and jumped back at the sight of Scorch closer than before. He was right in front of him. “Still quick on your feet, I see.”

“The Master has returned, Discord,” Scorch told the creature. “And as his Titan of Illogic, you must heed his call.”

“Oh, please.” Discord waved at him. “I no longer live by that name. It was changed a long time ago. Besides I’ve found an even greater power than the Master.”

“Oh?”

“I’ve found the mystical power of Friendship, and it’s greater any power I’ve ever encountered.” Discord crossed his arms and nodded. “I’m no longer a servant of Chaos.”

“Listen to yourself, Discord!” Scorch shouted, shocked by his replies. “These ponies have changed you!”

“And perhaps for the better.” Discord nodded. “Adieu!” He stomped away from Scorch from the pond, but was surprised again to see the Ifrit blocking his path.

“You once made a deal with the Master for you to have all the power of your wildest dreams.” Scorch told the draconiquus. “Do you really want to let all that slip away from you?” Scorch was right. The Master did make a deal with Discord that if he would serve him then the Master, in turn, would grant him his powers. If he turned away now, bye-bye manipulating reality and he’s already made his friends hate him. Why not return to the Master and serve him again?

“Oh! Scorch, you’re such a sourpuss!” Discord huffed in irritation. “Fine, I’ll serve, but only because I want to keep my powers, not because I want to come back, okay?”

“Very well.” Scorch nodded. “The Master has already gone ahead of us toward the castle town named Canterlot. We must move swiftly.”

“No need, Scorchy.” Discord snapped his fingers and they disappeared.

Meanwhile, in Canterlot Castle, Merciful and the others have explained to Princess Twilight what they’ve experienced so far in the Main Hall. “And that’s when we entered here.” Merciful finished.

“Through the janitor’s closet.” Sunny added for the third or fourth time.

“Oh my.” Twilight said as she took this in. “I hope Spike’s okay.”

“He’s with Helpful so he should be fine.” Their attention was grabbed by Discord’s laughter.

“Discord?” Twilight and the others turned their attention to the entrance where the laughter came from. Discord flew toward them, closing the door behind them.

“So you came back to apologize, ‘eh?” Sunny crossed her arms.

“Me?” Discord looked at her innocent. “For whatever for?”

“You left us inside the Canterlot Mines with no aid.” Rainbow Dash complained in Discord’s grinning face. “You didn’t lead us to the Diamond Dogs Caverns at all!”

Discord yawned. “Calm yourself, Rainbow Dash. That’s all in the past isn’t it?”

“Heh. Very funny. You haven’t even said, ‘sorry’ to Fluttershy.” Sunny growled as she gestured to the shy mare, whose expression seemed cross.

“No need, Sunny. That Discord’s done plenty enough.” Fluttershy huffed with her arms crossed and she looked away. “I’m not going to talk to him.”

“Wow. She really has changed!” Pinkie Pie told Twilight. “I’m not even sure if she’s the real Fluttershy.”

“I’m sure she’s over-reacting.” Twilight reasoned with the Pink Mare. “Give her some time and she’ll warm up to Discord.” Fluttershy huffed again and Snowy crossed his arms too, just to help his companion.

“I thought you might be still mad.” Discord poked the Shy Mare with a long steel rod. “So I brought somepony specail to help make your anger go away.”

“I’m surprised.” Sunny raised an eyebrow of suspicion. Discord cleared his throat.

“Oh, Scorchy.” He called to the door with a sing-song voice. The double doors flung open and a teenage dragon walked out. He was cladded in black knight’s armor with a decorative design of Celtic origin. He held a red cutlass in his right claw and a circular shield on his left. He stopped beside Discord and everypony looked at him in fright. Twilight noticed that the shield this dragon carried had three unicorn horns embedded into the steel, and at the center was another Celtic symbol. She also noticed that the green comb of the dragon stuck out from the top of his helmet. Although the helmet may cover his face, Twilight felt that he was familiar.

“Hiya, Scorchy! I’m Pinkie Pie and this i—” Merciful quickly covered Pinkie Pie’s mouth, silencing her, using his magic.

“Who are you?” Princess Twilight asked.

“Allow me to introduce to you Scorch, the Black Ifrit.” The Draconiquus introduced his ‘friend.’

“An Ifrit?” Applejack raised an eyebrow.

“Why, yes.” Discord chuckled. “Scorch, why don’t you get acquainted with our ‘friends’ while go and ‘check something’?” The Draconiquus snapped his fingers and disappeared.

“Something tells me that he doesn’t mean that at all.” Dash told her friends as Scorch twirled his sword.

“Everypony, stand back.” Merciful told them, and they quickly did so, leaving the Dark Prince and the Black Ifrit to dual. They faced each other with cold focused expressions. “After over thousands of years, you’ve finally freed yourself.”

“You’re one to talk about freeing oneself.” Scorch replied.

Merciful raised an eyebrow. “Is that supposed to be threatening?” He used his magic to levitate a sword from a knight statue behind Scorch. “I believed you demons knew all kinds of taunts.”

“Well, when I’m through with you, the world will know that you were indeed a poor ruler.” Scorch laughed and Merciful pulled the sword he levitated behind Scorch toward him. The Ifrit spun around and blocked the sword with his shield.

“Run now!” The Dark Prince ordered his friends and they ran out of the room.

“No!” Scorch exclaimed in surprise as he pushed the sword back; blades stuck out from the edges of his shield and he thrusts it toward his escapees, but he missed the last one: Pinkie Pie, by a hair. The shield hit the wall and Scorch pulled it back to his arm by a chain linked to the shield and his gauntlet. The doors slammed shut, and Scorch was irritated by their escape. He growled, and then his attention turned back to Merciful.

“It seems that we have a dual.” Merciful smirked as he held up his sword with his magic.

“Very well.” Scorch tossed his cutlass away, clinking and clanging onto the floor. The Dark Prince watched as the Black Ifrit lifted his shield up with the spikes sticking out and it whirred around in circles, like a buzz saw. “I accept your challenge.” He lunged forward, forcing the shield to fly toward Merciful, but it missed its target as Merciful leaned to his left.

Meanwhile, in Canterlot, Roadburn and his crew were all still sitting around in the donut shop, talking and sharing many funny tales when ponies outside began to scream and shout in fear of something.

“What’s going on?” Jacko asked, worried. The group exited the shop and turned their attention to a dark thundercloud coming toward them.

“This is what’s making Canterlot citizens scared?” Turnip questioned the situation. “This is barely legitimate.”

“Maybe it’s not the thunderstorm, but what’s inside it.” Luckyshoes reasoned. “Strange things happen when storms come out of nowhere.”

“Well, Brother, what do you think is in it?” Fancypants asked as more ponies ran past them. Luckyshoes shrugged.

“Only one way to find out.” The captain said, and Flight Lock landed beside them from behind. Roadburn noticed that he was a dark blue Pegasus with a spike blond mane. His Cutie Mark was now covered by blue armor. Roadburn knew this was a Captain of the Royal Guard’s armor. He must’ve taken Shining Armor’s place once he left to the Crystal Empire. “Flight Lock!” Everypony except Roadburn and Pony Joe greeted the stallion with surprise. Roadburn never really liked the Captain of the Royal Guard much. He considered him a problem with his midnight ‘outings.’ “Magi had ordered me to help aid you.” Flight Lock told them.

“Seems that whatever’s in that thundercloud is a threat to the city.” Pony Joe said as it came closer.

“Soarin’ you come with me, and we’ll see what’s inside that storm.” Flight Lock ordered. “The rest of you better help the troops with escorting everypony else to the Crystal Empire. Magi’s orders.” Soarin’ and Flight Lock flew off.

“You heard the guy.” Jacko said. “We need to move now.” He ran off to any other ponies heading toward the castle and began to have them rerouted to the Crystal Empire. Fancypants, Luckyshoes, AC, Pony Joe, and Roadburn did the same.

Meanwhile, the Mane Six, Sunny and Snowy run through the castle to the Elements’ Hall. As they crossed the bridge, they all noticed the gigantic thundercloud coming their way, and everypony panicking. “Oh, no.” Twilight sighed in dismay. “This doesn’t bode well.”

“Don’t worry, Twilight.” Applejack assured her with comfort. “We’re still with you every step of the way.” They reached the gem-decorated door and quickly entered, but the group was dumbstruck by the sight of Discord holding the gem-encrusted case in his claws with a fiendish grin.

“Looking for something?” Discord chuckled darkly as he smirked at them.

“Discord!” Twilight said. “What are you doing?”

“What my Master wants me to do.” Discord told her. “Y’know, I never was born with these powers of manipulating reality.”

“But you’re supposed to be our friend, Discord!” Fluttershy begged him. “Why are you doing this?”

“Because I’ve found a greater power than friendship; a power I’ve long forgotten after all these generations of stone imprisonment. Now the real fun begins.” Discord cackled at them all as the sound of thunder filled the room.

“I knew reforming Discord would do no good!” Sunny growled as she beats her fists together.

“What is this power, Discord?” Twilight asked.

“The power…” Discord pulled the case back into a throwing position, “Of a god!” He launched the case toward them and it broke into the pieces before the eight comrades. They quickly scrambled through the wooden shards and found the Elements of Harmony, but something about them seemed wrong.

“The Elements!” Twilight exclaimed in surprise as she held up her tiara with her magic. The gemstone on the very top was black. “What happened to them?” The very same happened to the other Element of Harmony. The gemstones were black as night.

“Oh! Has Magi never told you?” Discord looked at them with mocking pity. “Prince Joyful may have control over all the Elements, but there’s a catch. When he dies, they die, and when they die, your powers are inexistent, and when your powers are inexistent…well, let’s just say it won’t be so fun for you.”

“What?” They all exclaimed in shock. Discord began his maniacal laughter as Fluttershy’s eyes filled up in tears.

“Helpful…” She whimpered, “Dead?”

Meanwhile, in the Main Hall, Merciful ducked as the spinning-saw-blade-shield swept over him, circulating around and back to Scorch. Much damage has been made in the Main Hall. The walls have been cut through and many pillars have been scarred as well as the floor. Scorch stood and watched as Merciful panted from exhaustion due to so much dodging. The Dark Prince held up his sword with his magic. “Is that all?” He grinned, and Scorch immediately launched his shield again. Merciful jumped over to his right and the shield continued into a wall. The Black Ifrit tried to pull it out and back to him, but it was stuck. He tried again and again, but the shield was stuck in place. This was Merciful’s chance to attack. He charged the Ifrit with his sword straight forward to impale him.

Scorch noticed this attack and he jumped right before the sword could touch him, and Merciful stopped. He looked up behind him, and Scorch stood on the ceiling, seemingly defying the laws of gravity. He pulled on the chain to let loose the shield, but it was still stuck. “Are you out of tricks, Scorch?” Merciful mocked him, “Or are you too much of a coward to come down and fight like a warrior?” Scorch silently detached the chain attached to the gauntlet and allowed it to fall. He jumped down and landed on the floor, ten feet away from Merciful. He reached down and grabbed his red cutlass. “My Blood Curse thirsts for the blood of a challenger, and I have ignored that call for too long enough.” Scorch readied the sword. “Your blood shall be the first on this very night be drawn out by my sword.” Scorch lunged forward, and Merciful blocked his vertical slash. The recoil from the attack made Scorch step back and Merciful slashed back, but it was blocked again. The battle was like that a very long time. The sounds of movement, grunting, and sword-clanging was all that could be heard.

Finally, Scorch was knocked back off his feet and Merciful held the sword to his neck. The Blood Curse was knocked out of the Ifrit’s claws far out of his reach. “Please,” Scorch begged the Alicorn, “Have mercy.”

“I do not always live up to my name.” Merciful told the Ifrit. “I can become heartless, and unforgiving; senseless even.”

“But you wouldn’t kill one of your dear friends,” Scorch gently laughed at him, “Now would you?” Merciful didn’t understand, nor could he understand. The mask covering the Ifrit’s face kept him from seeing the truth.

“What do you mean?” Merciful asked him.

“Spike.” Scorch chuckled.

“You…you possessed him?”

“You kill me; you kill that worthless baby dragon.”

“You heartless monster!” Merciful growled. “Twilight Sparkle loved Spike ever since she was a filly! Possessing him is murder! He was a great dragon!”

“Oh, I’m sure he was,” Scorch sneered under his helmet, “But now he’s your enemy; not mine.”

“I swear on the everlasting power of the Star Symbols, you will perish for this!”

“And let poor Spiky Wikey die?” The Black Ifrit tilted his head. “You don’t think things through, do you?”

The Dark Prince could remember that statement from Envious when he escaped and almost himself when he saved Applejack during the attack on that ship.“You have no idea.” Merciful used his magic to launch Scorch from the Main Hall, outside, down the stairs, and whatever else awaited him. He looked out the door and he saw the storm brewing outside. “This does not bode well.” He turned back to find the others.

Meanwhile, Roadburn and Pony Joe enter a store filled with ponies trying to hide themselves. “Everypony, get out!” Pony Joe ordered. “Hurry! Take the evacuation route to the Crystal Empire! Go!” Everypony inside hurried out the door toward the route, and Roadburn checked inside the back room for others.

“Hello?” He checked as he turned on the light, and was surprised to see confetti blasting into his face.

“Surprise!” A White Pegasus Mare shouted as she jumped, making Roadburn exclaim in surprise and fall on his rump. The Pegasus was curly, fluffy blond maned and her Cutie Mark was three balloons. Her eyes were a purplish color. “Hey there! My name’s Surprise!” She jumped excitedly.

“I would have never guessed.” Roadburn replied with a fearful expression. He cleared his throat. “Look. You need to leave Canterlot now. The Royal Guard will help lead you to the evacuation route that leads to the Crystal Empire. Go!” He pointed for her to leave.

“Ha, ha, silly,” She poked his nose, “I’m not supposed to leave you.” Roadburn looked at her confused.

“Huh?” Roadburn raised an eyebrow.

“I’m—” Her sentence was cut off from Pony Joe entering the room.

“Burn, did you find others?” He asked as he entered.

“Hi-ho,” Surprise waved toward him.

“Oh, good,” Joe grinned, “Miss, you need to leave the city immediately.” He walked over to lead her out.

“But--” Surprise tried to protest.

“There’s no time. You need to leave now.” He grabbed her hoof and led her out of the store into the streets. Roadburn followed and they found that the thunderstorm had gotten closer.

“Oh, darn.” Joe said to himself, and he turned his attention back to Surprise, but she was gone. “What?” He looked around and found her right beside Roadburn. “Okay, miss. You need to get out of here now. The whole city’s being attacked.”

“I know.” Surprise giggled. “Isn’t it great?”

“No!” Pony Joe looked at her strange. “No, it’s not great! You need to get out of her now.” The wind began to grow stronger around them, blowing straight toward the thunderstorm, where the thunder grew louder the closer it came.

“Look, buddy.” Surprise said. “I must stay with Roadburn. It’s my sworn duty!” She saluted as Pony Joe and Roadburn looked at her confused.

“Her what?” Joe asked Roadburn.

“I don’t know!” Burn shrugged. “This mare’s crazy!” Thunder struck again, and the volume was so loud that it forced the ground beneath them to tremble. Roadburn almost lost his balance. “What’s even going on?”

“The Lord of the Titans is coming!” Surprise skipped and sang. She wasn’t helping the situation at all.

“Who is this lunatic?” Joe asked her confused and slightly panicked.

“Uh…she said her name was ‘Surprise’…” Roadburn answered thoughtfully. Fancypants, Luckyshoes, Jacko Lantern and Turnip Top all quickly came back.

“There you are!” Fancypants greeted them.

“What’s wrong?” Jacko asked. “Magi’s given the order to make sure that everypony escapes safe-and-sound. C’mon!” He waved for them to follow. Joe, Roadburn, and Surprise followed them to the escape route. Flight Lock and Soarin’ landed down before them.

“It’s no good!” Soarin’ told them. “The storm’s turned into a super cell! I’m surprised that it didn’t make a tornado yet!”

“We were unable to see what was happening, but we also got the telepathic message from Magi!” Flight Lock added. “He’s told us that the princesses are already at the Crystal Empire, and we must move now!” They led the way to the escape route.

“You didn’t forget anything important, did any of you?” Fancy shouted over the sharp wind to his friends, and Pony Joe and Roadburn remembered something.

“Granny Cookie!” They both shouted simultaneously with frightened expressions.

“What was that, friends?” Fancy looked back to where Pony Joe and Roadburn were, but all he could see was Joe. “Where’d Roadburn go?”

Meanwhile, in the Elements’ Hall, the Mane Six, Sunny and Snowy all watch in awe as Discord’s laughter subsided. “I haven’t had this much fun in a millennium!” Discord wiped a tear from his face.

“You won’t get away with this, Discord!” Twilight warned him.

“Just what can you do about it?” The draconequus cackled again. Fluttershy cried as she hugged onto Snowy for comfort. Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie were all baffled by Helpful’s “death”, Rainbow Dash and Sunny wanted to tackle Discord into the ground, and Twilight thought long and hard for an answer, but he was right--there was nothing they could do to stop this now that the Elements of Harmony have lost their power. “See the thundercloud coming toward your castle?” Discord looked out the window. “It’ll be a matter of time until this castle becomes my Master’s domain.”

“You take that back!” Rainbow Dash tried to charge Discord in midair, but Applejack held her back by the tail.

“Now tell me,” Discord walked over to them, and he stood over Twilight, “Where are the Chains?” Twilight looked up to Discord looming above her. Chains? What is he talking about? What would Discord need with chains? Before she could ask what he meant, a magical blast knocked Discord flying and he hit the window. It cracked from the trauma, but it was still in one piece as Discord slide off of it slowly, making a squeaking noise. Everypony looked over to the source of the blast and it was Magi of the Seventh Chain! In his hooves was the Scepter of Kronos, which he used to knock Discord off his feet, and a gilded, highly decorated shield was equipped on his left arm. “Magi!” Twilight gasped as everypony quickly ran over to him.

“Stand back, my friends!” Magi ordered and he pointed to the door. “Leave now!” Princess Twilight nodded in understanding.

“Yes, Magi!” Twilight replied. “C’mon!” She told her friends and they followed her with the Elements of Harmony out the room, and Magi shut it with his magic. Discord stood up and cracked his back.

“Ah, Magi,” He chuckled, “Seems that I’m taking a trip down memory lane tonight!” He laughed at the joke of it all. “Anyway, old chap, I believe you have something that belongs to my Master,” He pointed at the scepter, “Hand it over, so I may return it to its rightful owner.” He extended his arm, expecting Magi to give it to him.

“The Scepter’s rightful owner is a mortal whose every waking moment is to protect those whom he loves,” Magi corrected him, “The Symbols may have made the mistake of giving it to him once, but I will not do the same!”

“Uh-huh. Say, is that the Shield of Alamos?” Discord pointed toward the shield Magi held. “Judging that since you’re holding it means that you haven’t found an owner for it, ‘eh?”

“The Shield of Alamos choses whom he deems worthy,” Magi reasoned, “He is not simply given to a pony for his true power to be unleashed.”

“’He’?” Discord raised an eyebrow of thought. “Oh, yes! That ‘incident.” Magi grew silent. “You still believe he lives in that piece of metal? Ha! My, haven’t we grown foolish?”

“The path of evil is, but a path of fools,” Magi stated the proverb, “But those who turn back to the path of good shall revel in the rewards of light.” Discord looked at him disdainfully. “You can still come back to us Discord. You’re abilities weren’t meant for this cause.” Thunder shook the castle, almost knocking Magi off his balance. Taking this as his advantage, Discord blasted a fireball at the Immortal Sorcerer. He blocked it with the shield, bouncing it away and it hit the window beside Discord, shattering it into pieces. Discord looked out the window to see the fireball continuing its path into the open air. “I forgot about that…” Discord scratched his head as Magi countered with a lightning bolt. Discord turned around and used his claws to absorb the blast, but Magi didn’t stop the lightning bolt. Discord only laughed in a mocking manner. “You think that a little lightning can hurt me? Somepony’s a little rustier than he thought. You’re only using basic spells!” Discord cackled, but Magi smirked. He pulled the scepter back like a whip and Discord was pulled forward by the lightning, as if he was the end of the whip. Discord shouted and hollered as Magi whipped him around and ‘round, smashing him into the walls, hurtling him into the ceiling and slamming him into the ground.

Finally, he launched the draconequus through another window, shattering the glass as he let Discord go. The creature flew off and crashed into the Canterlot Sculpture Garden. Magi jumped onto the window sill and saw Discord sitting half-consciously on a pedestal with a marble cup in his lion claw and a stone monocle on his left eye. “Would you like more tea, Celestia?” He half-consciously mumbled as Magi watched in amusement. “One lump or two?” He extended the cup to nopony as his hallucination continued. “You’ve changed your mind? Okay, well, who needs tea anyway?” He tossed the cup behind him. “Oh, what happened to me? I was whipped around the hall like I was nopony’s problem. Oh yeah!” He nodded. “It was like up and down and all around,” He airily twirled his claw in the air, “Left then right, then out the window! It was like I died and when to Chaotic Heaven.”

“I must’ve rattled his brains more than I anticipated.” Magi looked at him oddly, but also amused.

Meanwhile, Merciful and the others managed to meet up in the halls of the castle. “Mercy!” Applejack exclaimed in surprise at seeing him.

“Where’s Scorch?” Merciful raised an eyebrow after short eye contact with his beloved. “I have pacified him for the time being. Hurry! We must…” His sentence trailed off once his sight landed on Fluttershy’s tear-filled eyes. He saw her memory of Discord explaining to them why the Elements have died and he was very withdrawn.

“Is there something wrong, Merciful?” Twilight grabbed his attention.

“My brother has died, hasn’t he?” He spoke after a moment of silence and thunder.

“I’m afraid so, Merciful…” Twilight answered him.

“This is indeed a sorrowful day, but we must escape to the Crystal Empire.” Merciful told them. “Magi will hold off our attacker while we escape.”

“Yay!” Pinkie Pie shouted with joy. “We’re going to the Crystal Empire!” She quickly covered her mouth, remembering Merciful’s cold stare every time she would do that, but Merciful only chuckled.

“Indeed, Pinkie Pie.” He grinned as his horn sparked with a black aura. “Off to the Crystal Empire.” Merciful used his magic to teleported them to the Crystal Empire.

Author's Note

And so the plot thickens!

Taken

Chapter 7

Taken

Meanwhile, Roadburn dashed through the forest with his great speed. The wind and rain hitting against him made it a little harder to focus, but he had made it to the shack. “Oh, no!” He shouted in dismay as the wind was steadily tearing and ripping apart his home. He dashed into the shack to search for Granny Cookie, but nopony was inside. “Granny!” He shouted for her as he looked outside. “Granny!”

“Roadburn!” A voice shouted out to him from deep into the forest below the cliff. He quickly dashed over to the edge and he spotted the old mare below. She was looking around like a panicked squirrel looking for food. “Roadburn, where are you?”

“Hold on, Granny!” Roadburn told her. “I’m coming for you! Just…stay there!” He dashed around the cliff to the ground below and Granny Cookie ran over to hug him for comfort.

“Oh, goodness!” She exclaimed in shock when the thunder struck more violently than before. “What’s happening, Roadburn?”

“I don’t know,” Roadburn told her, “But we need to leave to the Crystal Empire! C’mon!” He took her by the hoof and led her through the forest, but a tremor shook the ground under their hooves. “What’s going on?” A pillar of stone shot out of the ground before them, and the trees attached their branches into the stone. They pulled their roots out of the ground, and acting like arms, they pushed the boulder up from the ground and two pillars stick out from under, acting like legs. The boulder opened up like a mouth and crystalline teeth could be seen inside. “What is that thing?” Roadburn exclaimed in fear. It roared and charged at them. The Blue Unicorn scooped Granny Cookie onto his back and he dashed away from the gigantic creature. He stopped and watched as the creature continued his charge and crashed into the cliff side. The recoil of the crash forced it back and rocks fell upon it, but it wasn’t enough to bury it. Roadburn stood Granny Cookie up. “Run.” He told her. “Run now!” She nodded and ran as fast as she could to escape. The creature turned around to Roadburn.

“The Fourth Chain.” The creature grumbled.

Roadburn looked at it confused. “The what?”

The creature pointed a root at him. “You.”

Roadburn looked at the creature oddly, but he bolted to the creature’s left and bucked its arm. The wooden appendage broke into the shambles, but it regrew the next second. “What?” He stepped back in shock.

“Try again!” The monster punched Roadburn, sending him flying into a tree, which its branches hocked around and trapped him in place.

“H-hey! No fair!” He shouted at the rock monster and struggled to free himself from the grasp of the tree. The monster charged past Roadburn. He was after Granny! “No! Leave her alone!” He struggled for freedom from the tree again, but it was too late. The creature had captured Granny Cookie and escaped with her screaming in fear. “Granny Cookie!” Roadburn shouted in dismay. “No-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o!”

Meanwhile, Fido charged his way through Ponyville, over the train rails and straight into Canterlot with Eli, Rarity, and Spot riding him. He skidded onto the streets to a halt. The three climbed off of the Diamond Dog. “We’re too late.” Rarity told them as the thunder exploded and harsh wind blew past them. Discord flew—or was rather flung—out of Canterlot Castle and landed onto the streets, making a long trench behind him. He eventually stopped before the Diamond Dogs, Rarity and Eli, and pushed himself up slowly. “Oh, my aching head.” Discord tried to rub off the agony. He popped the top of his head off and pulled out his own brain. He rattled it like a baby rattle and popped it back in. “Much better.” He noticed the group staring at him, and Rarity almost hurling on the ground--that was so disgusting. “Oh, here’s one.” He stood up and snapped his fingers and Eli disappeared and reappeared beside him.

“Eli!” Rarity gasped in shock.

The draconequus loomed over Eli. “So tell me, where are your friends?” Eli looked at him strangely.

“Over there…” Eli gestured to his friends still staring at Discord oddly. Before Discord could roll his eyes, a loud ear-piercing sound shot through the air. Discord quickly covered his ears as did everypony else. “What’s that sound?” Eli shouted as he stumbled to Rarity. “Let’s get out of here!” Before they had the chance to climb onto Fido, Magi landed before Discord, and blasted Discord with another wave of magic. Discord flew back and crashed into a building. Magi took this moment to do what he could. He turned around and tossed the shield to Eli, and it slid to the Earth Pony’s hooves. Eli and Rarity looked at it confused. “Take it and fulfill what you came here for!” Magi told him. “I’ll hold him off! You must escape before he comes!”

“Who?” Eli asked the strange Unicorn, “And what are you talking about? I only woke up in some Diamond Dog mine three days ago.” Groaning could be heard from the building and Discord slowly crawled out of the hole he made. He rubbed the ach on his head.

“We should go.” Rarity pulled Eli back to Fido after he grabbed the shield and loaded it onto his back.

“What about him?” Eli gestured to Magi.

“Magi is immortal! He can take of himself!” Rarity assured Eli as she climbed onto the dog’s back with Spot. “C’mon!”

“You are failing!” A roar-like shout boomed with thunder, before Eli climbed up.

“I-I…I’m sorry, Master!” Discord apologized to the monstrous voice. “Magi’s skill has enhanced since before!”

“Fool! Are you not the Titan of Illogic? I will deal with him!” The thundercloud, now directly above them, began to swirl around, stirring the wind even more violently. A funnel swirled and stretched down between Magi and Discord. The wind was so powerful that it almost pulled in everypony. It disappeared and a black cloak stood hovering above the ground. A dark mist floated out from under the cloak. Slowly, it turned to face Magi, and Eli could only see two blood-red eyes in hood of the cloak. “My scepter,” The deity pulled out his arm to Magi, “Give to me what is mine.”

“You are not worthy of this scepter anymore!” Magi scoffed. “You will not rule this realm!”

“Very well.” Black fabric lashed out and coiled around Magi, taking him by surprise, and he disappeared in a puff of black smoke. The scepter flew back to the entity’s hand, and it flashed with a bright light. The ground began to quake and tremble beneath everypony. “Eli! Get on here!” Rarity shouted at him. Eli quickly turned around and climbed onto Fido’s back and the Diamond Dog bolted off. “I am Kronos,” The entity raised his scepter, and it changed form. It wasn’t a dull iron rod with an Ice Diamond anymore; instead the Ice Diamond grew out three small iron rods that stuck out to make it look like a cross. The upper body of the rod thickened, and the bottom spiked out. “Emperor of all life, and death,” Kronos shouted, and lightning lashed out from his scepter into the thundercloud. Mount Canterlot began to shift and move. Kronos was tearing out the city. A fissure opened under Fido, and they fell in. Luckily for them, Fido had grabbed the edge of the fissure. The shield fell from Eli’s back, but he caught it before it fell below. To his surprise, the shield latched onto his arm. “What the?” Eli responded with an odd look. Groaning and grunting, Fido pulled them back onto the surface, and the quake grew even more violent. Canterlot was breaking apart and the castle was beginning to take to the skies. “Run!” Spot shouted at Fido and he charged off, forcing Spot, Rarity and Eli to hold on for dear life.

The laughter of pure evil echoed through the night as Mount Canterlot spiked up into the air; its vegetation falling apart and dying to the foot of it. Rarity looked back in awe as the mountain began to reform into a new castle above its summit. “Canterlot…” She whispered sadly as they escaped the collapse of the grand city.

Meanwhile, Roadburn hung limply from the branches of the tree that still hugged around him tight. He did nothing, but breathing and hanging above the ground. The tree still hung to what was left of the mountain, on its side. All he could think about was that he would never see Granny Cookie again. Moments passed like hours, as he thought to himself silently of what tortures that creature could do to her. He was unsure of her safety. He floated away from the ground below, far, far away from it. The tree hung from was at the very edge of Kronos’ castle island. A rustle in the tree’s leaves still couldn’t grab his attention. A blond, curly mane slowly peeped out from the leaves and a white face followed with purplish eyes and a broad smile. It was Surprise! She somehow followed Roadburn here. “Psst.” She giggled. “Psst. Surprise!” She shouted as she flew out from the tree, but Roadburn didn’t look at her. He kept looking down in distraught. She poked him to grab the unicorn’s attention. “Roadburn.” She said. “Roadburn. Wake up, Silly Billy!” Roadburn looked up to her like he had awoken from a dream.

“Huh?” He blinked. “Surprise?”

“Surprise!” She shouted and rain came pouring down on both of them. “Heh, heh,” She smiled uncomfortably, “Need a hoof?” Roadburn looked down toward the ground below him. The steep side of the mountain was so vertical that it made him feel like he was a hanging wall picture.

“Uh…Sure, Surprise…” Roadburn accepted her offer. The Pegasus pulled the branches away from Roadburn, and caught him before he plummeted below. “Whoa!” Roadburn exclaimed a little nervous.

“Not used to heights?” Surprise asked him as they flew down below.

“Not afraid of heights, afraid of falling from those heights.” The Blue Unicorn reasoned as they landed below. “Thanks anyways.”

“Sure!” The White Pegasus nodded. “I’ve been tasked to make sure that you’re safe-and-sound!”

“By who?” Roadburn raised an eyebrow of curiosity.

“Uh…” Surprise’s look changed to thought. “I’m not supposed to say.” She smiled awkwardly. Roadburn just silently turned around and walked away, and Surprise followed him. “So where are we going now?”

“I’m going to save my granny,” Roadburn answered her, “And what’s this ‘we’ stuff you’re talking about? You’re not my bodyguard.”

“Yes, I am!” Surprise giggled. “I’m supposed to protect you.”

“Why?” He asked her.

“You’re a very special pony, Roadburn.” Surprise told him.

“What do you mean?”

“You’ll see soon enough.” Surprise giggled again as they continued through the dead forestry and rain.

Meanwhile, “Ugh…” Helpful moaned half-asleep. “I don’t feel so good.” Helpful opened his eyes, and he was confused. He was chained to a red stone pillar with a skull on the top, and before him was a wall. The sky was completely covered in red and black smoke. He looked to his right and lava geysers were blasting molten rock into the air far off from him fortunately. He looked over to his left to see a cave in the shape of a monster attempting to swallow him whole. Helpful also learned that his location was in some canyon. “What is this place?” He asked himself. He could he moaning behind him.

Alarmed, Helpful tried to look behind the pillar to see who or what was moaning, but its width was the size of the columns at Canterlot Castle, hindering his sight. The moaning came again. “What’s that? Who’s there?” He said as he began to struggle for freedom of his chains.

“Good lord.” The moaning voice finally spoke. “I’m starving.”

“Boltage?” Helpful recognized the voice. “Are you trapped too?” Boltage notices everything different around him.

“If you mean tied to a pillar by chains and stuck having to stare at a wall, then yeah.” The Pegasus answered.

Helpful raised an eyebrow. “You’re staring at a wall too?”

“Yeah, what are you looking at?”

“Uh…a…wall,” Helpful replied and shook his head. “We should get out of here.” He struggled to free himself again.

“Hey, Prince,” Boltage grabbed his attention. “Why don’t you use your ‘Super Strength’ to break us free?”

“Oh right.” Helpful remembered, “How silly of me.” He focused his power and tried to break free once more, however Helpful’s wings wouldn’t shine. Boltage was just hanging around for Helpful to break them loose.

“Is there something wrong?” Boltage asked.

“I don’t get it.” Helpful stopped. “My power is useless…”

“Maybe you’re not trying hard enough. Try again.”

Helpful strained himself to break the chains, but they wouldn’t even crack. “My powers are gone!” Helpful moaned. “How can this be?”

“Lemme take a whack at it.” Boltage insisted. He started charging up power.

“No, no, no, no, no!” The Tan Pegasus begged. He didn’t want to get shocked, chained to a pillar and to his fortune, the electricity in Boltage faltered.

“Hey, what gives?” Boltage demanded, surprised by the absence of his power.

“You too, ‘eh?” Helpful chuckled.

“What’s so funny?”

“Oh, nothing really. It’s just the fact that we don’t know where we are and we have no power to help us free ourselves from this prison.” Helpful explained. “It’s exciting, really.”

Bolt sighed. “Well, we better get out of here soon.” He felt a drop of sweat travel down his face. “It’s hot here.” After long moment of waiting and trying several attempts for freedom, Helpful and Boltage hear a mare’s laughter from the cave near them. “What’s that sound?” Bolt turned his fearful gaze toward the cave.

“It’s laughter,” Helpful answered, “Of pony origin.”

“When did you start talking like that?” Boltage raised an eyebrow. The laughter came closer and louder until a figure appeared in the cavern. It was indeed a pony, female, but she wasn’t alone. A griffin seemed to be with her. “You’ve got to stop laughing like that, Trixie.” The griffin’s voice interrupted Trixie’s laughter.

“But Trixie was just appreciating the funny joke that you told her some time ago.” Trixie answered her as they came closer. Boltage and he would exchange odd looks if the pillar wasn’t in the way. The figure became much clearer once they exited the cave. The griffin was brown coated and her bird head was white feathered. Her eyes were yellow. Trixie had a lightly colored blue coat and her mane was a cyan color. Her eyes were violet and her Cutie Mark was a wand beside a blue crescent moon. “Besides, Gilda, Trixie isn’t familiar with everything you griffins mean.”

Gilda only sighed. “Trixie, you really need some coolness lessons.”

“What?” Trixie looked at her baffled. “Trixie cannot believe what she is hearing! Isn’t she amazing just the way she is?”

“Amazing? No. Annoying? Yes.” Gilda replied.

Boltage whistled to grab their attention. “Hate to interrupt your witty banter, but, in case you haven’t noticed, we’re stuck, and we kinda need some help.”

“And who are you?” Gilda asked him.

“You hear that, Helpful?” Boltage laughed. “They’re asking who we are!” Helpful didn’t laugh with Boltage.

“He’s Boltage and I’m Prince Joyful, but you can call me Helpful.” Helpful answered her. Bolt’s laughter died down. “We really do need help Miss, uh…”

“I am the Great and Powerful Trixie!” Trixie shouted with her hooves in the air, “And this is Trixie’s fri—”

“Acquaintance.” Gilda interrupted.

Trixie sighed. “Acquaintance, Gilda.”

“Sup?” Gilda greeted them, crossing her arms and looking away, like she had swaggered.

“Stuck chained to a pillar,” Helpful answered, “Other than that fine.”

“How did you get stuck on there anyway?” Trixie asked him.

“We woke up this way.” Helpful answered, slightly embarrassed. “Do you live here, or?”

“No, we woke up here too, like you have.” Gilda answered him harshly.

“How’d you escape?” Helpful wanted to know.

“Like this.” Gilda walked over to the other side of the pillar and all Boltage and Helpful could hear was the sounds of clicking, like something was being picked at. Before they knew it, the chains fell down and they were free. “Whoohoo!” Bolt celebrated. “I’m free again!” Helpful walked around to see Gilda and to his surprise, she tossed a padlock to him and he caught it.

“Nice reflexes, junior.” She complimented him.

“Uh, thanks.” Helpful raised an eyebrow as Trixie walked around to them both. “How’d you unlock that?”

“My dad was a locksmith, and he taught me everything I know.” Gilda braggingly smirked. “So what was with your friend?” She gestured to Boltage, who was rolling on the ground; nothing unusual. “He was laughing all weird earlier when I asked who he was.”

Bolt stood back up. “I’mma try to fly up and get a better view of our surroundings.” He jumped, but instead, he couldn’t go airborne. He hit the ground, as if his flapping wouldn’t work. “What the?” He exclaimed in surprise. “I can’t fly?”

“Well, I can’t either.” Gilda nodded as Boltage stood back up.

“Hm. It might be a magic seal.” Helpful thought aloud.

“Well, the Great and Powerful Trixie can help with that.” Trixie gestured for Boltage to come to her, and concentrated. Her horn wouldn’t create the aura like they expected. “Oh, come on!” She growled as she tried her magic again, but nothing happened.

“Something wrong?” Helpful asked her, concerned.

“Trixie can’t use her magic!” She exclaimed in horror.

“Heh. I knew Trix were for kids.” Bolt joked.

“Ha! Nice one.” Gilda brohoofed him, and Helpful gave them both a stern look.

“What?” They both shrugged.

“We should leave this place.” Helpful reasoned with them. “No need to concern ourselves with magic seal breaking. We need to leave.”

“Well, Trixie suggests--!” A horrendous roar rumbled from the lava geysers. Everypony turned around to see the geysers blast magma in the air and as they hit the ground, they began to buildup and form into a body. It all soon hardened into a humongous giant made of hardened lava. His shape was a sphere with arms and legs, and there was no head, but that’s what scared them the most. The head was the body! The craggy eyes of the Lava Titan opened with the red molten rock flowing out and traveling down his stone face, like tears. It took a few steps toward them and everypony was too scared to even think about running. It was truly horrifying. It took a deep breath through its open nostrils and launched lava straight toward them all through his humongous mouth that stretched across his face. Helpful immediately pushed Trixie ahead of him. “Run!” He hollered to break the others from their trances. Gilda and Boltage both ran out from the lava’s path and they bolted away from the giant with Helpful. The Lava Titan gave chase, launching lava at his fleeing prey.

“What is that thing!?” Trixie exclaimed in fear as a patch of lava narrowly misses them.

“That’s a Lava Titan!” Helpful told her. “An ancient creature known to only thrive in…” It all hit Helpful like that piano from last week. “Oh! Star Symbols save us!” He shouted as they ran through the cavern, losing the Lava Titan and escaping out to another canyon with another pillar similar to the one Helpful and Boltage was freed from.

“What is this place?” Boltage asked again.

“The Underworld!” Helpful answered him. “We must’ve been sent to the Underworld!”

“You mean the place of afterlife?” Trixie exclaimed in shock, “But Trixie was captured and left here! Trixie didn’t die!”

“Well, neither did us, Trixie!” Boltage shouted toward her, a little rude. “There should be an exit in here!”

“The Underworld has one exit, but it’s guarded by Cerberus.” Helpful replied. “And we can’t get past him like this.”

“Yeah.” Bolt nodded. “We’ll be mincemeat.”

“So we’re stuck here, junior?” Gilda asked Helpful.

“Seems that way.” Helpful sighed sadly. He was already thinking of Fluttershy, and how she wouldn’t be able to know this. He was unaware that the Elements of Harmony died because of his absence in the world of the living. “We should find a safer place. I’ve been told that the Underworld not only has heat like this, but it also has a colder environment. If we can find a safe place between them, we should be fine.” Everypony nodded with him, and they followed the pathway, away from the Lava Titan.

Meanwhile, in the ruins of Mount Canterlot, Kronos sat in his new throne of his castle. Behind him was a giant, blazing fire. The room was huge. The floor before the Titan Lord was smoothened out, and the entire chamber was sealed off from any light outside. The only entrance’s double doors were blank and bare. Scorch stood on Kronos’ right and Discord stood on his left. The doors opened and a titan of earth and forest entered, and in its right root hand was Granny Cookie, fainted for her tragic experience. The Earth Golem stomped its way up to Kronos and then it bowed to him. “My Liege.” It grumbled.

“Why are you here?” Kronos asked him.

“I have brought to you this pony,” It pulled Granny Cookie up for Kronos to see, “I sensed you near me, and I awoke. You wanted this pony.”

“Hm…” Kronos took a moment of thought.

“You fool!” Scorch growled at him. “Our Emperor has no time for these vermin! Leave and dispose of that pony immediately!”

“Silence!” Kronos ordered the Ifrit. “Earth Golem, what you say is true. I wanted her for she knew a secret that this world doesn’t. Take her to the dungeon and when she awakens, bring her to me.”

“Yes, master.” The Earth Golem turned around to perform his order. Kronos turned his gaze to Discord.

“I have a job for you, Discord.” Kronos told him.

“Oh, goody!” Discord clapped his claws in excitement. “What am I doing this time?”

“You will go to the Crystal Empire and find me two Alicorns.” Kronos told him.

“Which are?” Discord raised an eyebrow, confused.

“Bring me Nightmare Moon and Envious.” Kronos explained. “Then eviscerate the Empire! Leave nothing left!”

Discord saluted to the Titan Lord. “Yes, sir!” He snapped his eagle claw and disappeared. Kronos turned his gaze to Scorch.

“You will depart for Raziel’s Castle.” Kronos ordered. “Find the Scabbard, and the whereabouts of the Chains of Existence. Oh, and see if you can exterminate our ‘nuisance.’ The one they now call ‘Eli.”

Scorch bowed to his master. “Yes, Your Highness.” Scorch bowed and left his lord.

Allies

Chapter 8

Allies

“This isn’t happening. This just isn’t happening!” Twilight told herself, trying her best calm down as she paced in the crystal throne room. “Discord’s betrayed the crown; the Elements of Harmony are dead, and Kronos has taken over Canterlot! This isn’t happening!” Merciful and friends watched from the doorway. They too didn’t want to believe this either, but the experience was overbearing--chaos reigned from Canterlot now, and they have no power to counter it. Magi has not come back and the Star Symbols were silent still. None of this boded well for the existence of ponies anywhere. Princess Cadance and Shining Armor were talking with Princess Celestia and Luna. Merciful did not participate in the discussion for he felt pity over Twilight. Her loss of Spike would be too much for her heart to take, and so he kept the information silent until it would become necessary. Fluttershy was in her room crying on her bed and Snowy was trying to comfort her as best as he could.

“I don’t believe it.” Sunny spoke up finally. “No defenses, no nothing was prepared for what just happened.”

“Yeah,” Rainbow nodded in agreement, “How come the Princesses didn’t protect their kingdom?”

“Indeed, the motives of my sisters hardly seem…logical, but we must remember that there is a reason for whatever they do.” Mercy reasoned with them.

“But what about Ponyville?” Dashie pushed.

“And Sweet Apple Acres?” Applejack added.

“What about everypony?” Pinkie Pie asked Merciful with sad eyes. Merciful remained silent. Finally, Twilight returned to them sadly.

“I guess…we can’t do anything to stop them.” Twilight admitted with a sigh, calmed down already.

“Don’t say that, Twilight.” Merciful told her. “There’s a reason for everything that happens in this world.”

“I wish I could believe you, Merciful.” Twilight looked down sadly. Merciful saw her sadness and remembered something his father told him once when he was saddened.

“Twilight, let me tell you something.” Merciful led Twilight to a window in the throne room. Through it they could see the Crystal Empire, and all the happy Crystal Ponies below. “When I was young, like you, there was a time when I felt sorrowful too. I thought that there was nothing I could do to make everything better, and so my father told me ‘when life gives you lemons…”

Twilight immediately got the message. “You make lemonade!” They both finished and laughed.

“But how does that help the situation?” The Purple Alicorn asked him.

“It means ‘to look at the bright side of things.” Merciful continued. “Look out the window. You see that the Crystal Empire is still in one piece.”

“Yeah.”

“And your friends are still here.”

“But where’s Rarity?” Twilight then remembered her friend. Everypony behind them exchanged looks and shrugs.

“Wherever Rarity is, I’m sure that she’s fine.” Merciful assured her.

Meanwhile, in Everfree forest, “I am so totally not fine!” Rarity growled as she, Eli and Spot smoothly rode Fido through the forest. The thunderstorm had faded long ago, making their travel easier.

“What?” Eli asked her, confused at why she yelled that.

“Canterlot is what!” She barked. “Our magnificent city is now destroyed by some tyrant who wants to rule us all with a gemstone on an iron stick!”

“Well, I’m sorry, Rarity,” Eli told her with an awkward look, “But there’s nothing we can do about it.”

“I hope Ponyville’s safe.” The White Unicorn sighed, worried about her home. “I need to know if everything’s safe…” She sniffed in a rancid smell coming from Eli, and looked at him with a disgusted look, “And to give you a bath.”

“A what?” Spot and Fido simultaneously asked. Rarity rolled her eyes at the fact that dogs hated baths and that they misunderstood. They eventually reached Ponyville and it was completely abandoned as morning came to aid their vision. Barrels were rolled over and scattered in shards, spilling their contents across the dirt roads, doors were left open, and windows were broken, a few houses had collapsed; most likely from the tremors and harsh winds from earlier. Just about everything was desolated. They passed by Sugar Cube Corner and it had partially collapsed at the back end, making it seem that there was a flaw in the construction. A pitter-patter of little hooves could be heard from inside. “Hello?” Rarity called out to whoever was inside. Fido stopped and they all climbed down.

“Is anyone here?” Eli asked and three faces appeared at the open doorway. It was Scootaloo, Applebloom and Sweetiebelle! They probably hid themselves in Sugar Cube Corner when the panic hit Ponyville. “Rarity!” They all shouted at dashed over to hug her for comfort.

“It was scary, big sister!” Sweetiebelle told her. “Everything started to get dark and we thought it was just a normal rainstorm, but it was much scarier than that!”

“The thunderstorm hit so strong, it was unnatural and everypony began to panic!” Applebloom continued. “We just didn’t know what was going on!”

“So we hid in Sugar Cube Corner for cover,” Scootaloo added, “And we waited until the storm passed, but everypony was gone!”

“Shhh.” Rarity comforted them. “It’s alright. It’s over with. You can calm down now.”

“But everypony’s gone.” Sweetiebelle hugged her older sister tighter. “I don’t know where Mr. and Mrs. Cake went when we ran inside.”

“What about the babies?”

“Gone too.” Scootaloo told her. “They all just disappeared.” Eli looked around himself and saw that they were right. There were no other signs of ponies anywhere in this forsaken ghost town. As the three fillies and the mare discussed their phenomenon, the Earth Pony looked down to the shield attached to his arm. He tried to pull it off, but it wouldn’t budge. He shook it, but this attempt was futile. Eventually, he took the time to study the design of the shield. It was old, obviously. Designed with a ruby in the center and lighting under the inscriptions carved into the shield. Wind drawings were put over the inscriptions and the ruby had two over-lapping, golden lines going around it. “That’s nice.” Eli commented silently.

“Fool!” The shield shouted at him.

“Ah!” Eli jumped onto his rump, surprised by the unexpected reply. Everypony noticed this. “A shield? Talking? Shields don’t talk!”

“A pony? Talking?” The shield mocked him. “Ponies don’t talk!”

“Okay, okay.” Eli calmed down. “How is this possible?”

“Humph! You are the chosen one? You are but a squire, who knows nothing of eloquent art.”

“A what?” Eli looked at the shield with anger. “You’re the piece of steel that attaches to ponies’ arms without warning!”

“Ah, yes. So you are the one.” The shield continued. “Then I shall train you until you are worthy of the sword.”

“Okay, what is this shield talking about?” Eli asked the others, who all only looked at him with surprise.

“I am not merely called ‘shield’, knave.” The shield told him. “I am called Alamos, Shield of Sanctuary, and you are my apprentice.”

“Wait a minute. I’m your apprentice?”

“Yes.”

“First off: you should let go of my arm.” Eli told Alamos.

“Very well.” Alamos detached from Eli’s arm and fell onto the ground. “Could someone, please, stand me up?” Scootaloo walked over and stood the shield upright. “Thank you, my dear.”

“Second off: my name is Eli.” The Earth Pony told him, interrupting Scoot’s thanks.

“Very well, then I shall call you Eli, the Knave.” Alamos said.

“Please, don’t.” Eli sighed as he placed a hoof on his face.

“It is appropriate. You are now being taught in the arts of a Knight of Justice.” Alamos continued, “I shall teach you the code of Chivalry and you will become what you are destined for, knave, and there is no turning back.”

“Why would I be in this?” Eli asked him.

“Because you have been chosen—hence reawaking me—Kronos has returned. He will be attempting to destroy the world,” Alamos told him, “And recreate his ‘perfect’ order as a god.”

“What?” Eli asked him. Another lighter rainstorm came upon them and began a downpour, soaking everypony below. “Perhaps we should search for shelter.” Alamos suggested.

“Right.” Eli nodded and they began a search for shelter.

Meanwhile, Magi was pushed by a Stone Titan behind him. Cuffed with bare memory of Kronos capturing him, Magi was held tight in a titans’ fortress. He observed the fortress around him and found the cells of the prison were all lined around the walls and above. Some cells were iron boxes that held the insane. The doors of this prison were actually molten lava. Only the Stone Titans could come in and out. Magi knew of such a place in the Underworld, Arigos. Arigos was a maximum prison that was controlled by titans to keep the most diabolical of villains in the living world’s history in the Underworld. He was pushed into a cell by the titan. “Welcome, Prophet of the Stars.” The Stone Titan mocked at him. Its body was made of entirely obsidian and his face had two red gemstones for eyes and a big mouth was stretched across it. His face was his body, like many titans. “It’s been a long time since I’ve seen you like this, Magi--alone, imprisoned, and frail. Your immortality means nothing here! The magical seal that our god, Kronos, has casted upon this realm nullifies all power to his captives, even their ability to fly. So I hope you enjoy your stay—it’s gonna be your last.” He laughed darkly at Magi, who only looked at him back with indifference.

“If I am a Prophet of the Stars, then let Scorpios come and free me.” Magi said, and the Stone Titan stood there with nervous silence. This lasted for a long moment.

“Is that all?” The Stone Titan finally laughed, and a huge orange stinger broke through the titan and launched him away. It was Scorpios; the Star Symbol of the desert! He heard Magi’s call and followed his command. It was over twenty feet high and several more feet wide. It busted through the cell bars with its pincher and Magi stepped out. “Thank you, my friend.” He climbed onto its back and it scuttled its way to the exit and two lava titans stepped before them, blocking them from the exit. Scorpios stopped and hissed at the two titans.

One titan roared, its magma sloppily drooling from its mouth, spraying it about. It raised a stone fist and swung it downward toward Magi, however, Scorpios countered by stabbing its stinger into its arm, breaking it into shards. Titan howled as it stepped back, its lava pouring from its destroyed forearm. The desert Star Symbol hissed again and used a pincher to grip the titan’s leg, it did the same with the other pincher, and squeezed. During this, Magi sat onto his rump, meditating in the battle. The pinchers then broke through the legs, causing the titan to fall onto its back, lava pouring out from within.

The other Lava Titan then made its attack, using both its fists and swept the Star Symbol back, almost knocking the wizard off. Scorpios scuttled around to face the titan and blocked another two-fisted attack with its pinchers, and it held its grip above its head. The Lava Titan then crudely laughed at the Star Symbol, and opened its mouth to spill its lava onto Magi, who saw this and jumped off Scorpios, who took the lava attack. The lava quickly hardened and encased the Star Symbol within. However, its pinchers still held their grip and broke off the fists of the Lava Titan, who howled and stepped back, its contents spilling from the forearms.

Once it regained balance, the Star Symbol broke the stone encasing and then stabbed its pincher into the titans face, breaking it apart, and spilling the lava everywhere. Magi had given himself distance from this battle, and he returned once the lava cooled. He looked up to Scorpios. “Well done, my friend!” He then pointed to the lava covered exit. “Now cease the lava flow so that I may escape.” Scorpios then screeched and went to the exit, and used its pinchers to stop the lava flow from above. Magi then ran through his window of opportunity and came to the main gate. Scorpios followed. Stone Titans then blocked the wizard’s path. “Halt!” One shouted, but the squealed seeing the giant scorpion coming their way. They then jumped out of the way of Magi and Scorpios. The Star Symbol using its giant orange pinchers to obliterate the troop of titans. The wizard then stopped and turned back to the Star Symbol. “Please, my friend, break down the gate so we may escape.” It then lowered its body for Magi to climb on and after he set himself onto it, the desert Star Symbol clashed its pinchers into the stone gate, chipping and breaking the rock. Eventually, it pierced a pincher straight through the gate, breaking the gate into scattered stone. It then scuttled onward with Magi meditating as they escaped Arigos. “They weren’t prepared.” Magi joked as they continued through the desert area of the Underworld.

Meanwhile, in Ponyville, Eli stacked some wood into the fire they made some time ago, and the flames flared brightly. Alamos was set beside Scootaloo, Applebloom and Sweetiebelle, while Rarity sat beside Sweetiebelle, hugging the filly to keep her warm. Spot and Fido sat directly on the other side. Eli sat beside Spot. They were all inside the barn of Sweet Apple Acres that was the only building that stood through the storm. “That’s all the dry wood I could find.” Eli told her.

“What are we gonna do now?” Applebloom asked curious.

“Ah, yes!” Alamos remembered. “I believe I was to tell you of the story of Kronos.” Everypony listened as Alamos began. “Thousands of generations ago, there were ponies and certain creatures named humans that lived in complete peace. It was the time when none knew evil or chaos. It was at the dawn of great dynasties that Kronos, a human, intended to create a perfect order of tranquility. The Star Symbols saw his purity and bestowed him the gift called: the Kronite, a mystical scepter with incomprehensible power. He was the first to ever learn magic. He ruled his dynasty with no equal until…”

“He got a little sidetracked?” Eli asked him.

“Indeed. Somehow he developed a complete lust for power and it made him so mad that he enslaved ponies to construct his empire to greater size.” Alamos continued, “It was enormous.”

“How big was it?” Scootaloo asked with obvious interest.

“It was a utopia with humongous structures that reached ever closer to the sun, but it still wasn’t enough to satisfy him.” Alamos answered her. “He wanted more, and it was like that for some time until two ponies and two humans escaped the Empire and made war against it with a town named Hope. Hope was a village that knew nothing of evil and friendship blossomed like spring daily, and the Star Symbols saw the good will of Hope and its purity, and that was when I was made.”

“By who?” Rarity asked him.

“Not all heroes chosen by the Stars are powerful alone.” Alamos explained. “Sometimes gifts must be given. The Star Symbol of Construction, The Sculptor, created me.”

“Who’s The Sculptor?” Sweetiebelle asked curious.

“The Sculptor was the Star Symbol that gifted this world the teachings of building. His great intelligence in construction and welding,” The shield continued, “I was made with two other gifts: the Scabbard of Order and the Sword of Justice, the Alamonaire.”

“Okay then,” Eli listened, “Who were you gifted to at the time?” Alamos became silent. It was an awkward silence. Nopony could understand why he wouldn’t answer, but he spoke up after some moments. “Eventually the Kronic Empire was defeated and Magi exiled Kronos into a different dimension, and he did with the other humans.”

“So humans don’t exist here?” Applebloom asked him.

“Indeed, child,” Alamos answered him, “Eli. The moment I attached to your arm was the moment I deemed you worthy of my power. You are the next Knight of Justice, and I must train you in the ways of your predecessor.”

“Whoa. Why do I have to do this?” Eli asked the shield a little annoyed.

“Eli, think about this for a little bit.” Rarity told him. “If Alamos is telling you to be the next Knight of Justice then you have to take the chance.”

“But why me?” Eli asked, obviously frantic about the scenario. “I’m no hero! I woke in some mine some time ago, and when I get out, this junk happens!”

“Knave, this is not your decision.” Alamos told him with a stern voice. “If you don’t accept this, the world will perish into Kronos’ everlasting rule. You must accept your future.” Eli growled at Alamos.

“Why don’t you just be quiet?” Eli shouted with an angry look as he stood up. “You don’t know me!”

“Eli.” Rarity tried to calm him, but he stormed out the barn in a huff. “I’ll talk to him.” Rarity trotted out after him. Another awkward silence filled the barn, and Sweetiebelle sneezed.

“Bless you.” Fido said.

“Thank you.” Sweetie thanked him. “Um, I’m Sweetiebelle. What’s your name?”

“I’m Fido,” The Diamond Dog replied, “And this is Spot.”

“Sh!” Spot shushed Fido. “I don’t want them to know me.” He crossed his arms. Sweetiebelle and Fido grew sadly silent.

“It’s okay, Sweetiebelle.” Scootaloo assured her. “Spot’s just gonna be a sourpuss.”

“What did you call me?” Spot growled at Scootaloo.

“A sourpuss.” Applebloom stuck out her tongue.

“Well, you’re all mules!” Spot mocked.

“You take that back!” Scootaloo growled at him.

“Donkeys.” Scootaloo jumped up and tackled Spot from across the fire. They beat one another on the ground, tumbling and tossing over as Fido, Sweetiebelle, Applebloom, and Alamos watched. They soon looked back to Alamos who sighed. “Well, what are you staring at me for?” Alamos told them. “Separate them quick.”

Meanwhile, in the Underworld, Helpful pulled Trixie up the steep cliff they had to climb over to continue their journey. Boltage and Gilda were ahead of them. “Trixie thanks you, Helpful.” Trixie thanked him as they turned to see what was ahead. A vast desert was before them and it didn’t seem that they were making positive progress…

“Maybe we took the wrong way…” Boltage shrugged as Trixie and Helpful walked over to him and Gilda.

“It doesn’t seem that there’s any ice here, Junior.” Gilda crossed her arms and gave him a stern look. “I don’t think there is any.”

“Well, it seems that we’re entering another layer in the Underworld.” Helpful remarked as he observed the surroundings. “We must be in the sixth layer.”

“’Layer’?” Trixie looked at him oddly.

“Yeah, you see. The Underworld is made to keep the dead in.” Helpful explained. “There are a total of seven layers in here: the core, the desert, the sea, the ice land, the caverns, the valley, and the jungle.”

“’The jungle’?” Boltage looked at him oddly. “There’s a jungle in the Underworld?”

“Well, the jungle’s actually filled with monsters and demons,” Helpful chuckled, “But they’re the least of our problems.”

“’Monsters and demons’?” Trixie asked him with alarm in her expression.

“Yeah, but the most dangerous is the Kraken which is found in the fifth layer.”

“The what?” Gilda asked him, also alarmed.

“The Kraken. Y’know. The Leviathan, Giant Squid.” Helpful trotted ahead of them, “Oh, and careful of the sand worms! They say if you stand in one place too long in this layer, they’ll find you!” After exchanging quick looks of uneasiness, everypony quickly followed Helpful through the blasting hot desert.

Later, in the downpour in Ponyville, Eli trudged through the mud in a very sour manner. “Eli!” Rarity’s voice caught his attention and he looked back to see her not too far behind. She stood at the very edge of the mud patch Eli was in. Her mane was soaked and her makeup dripping from her eyes. Eli’s mane was just as soaked as Rarity’s. “Eli, where are you going?” Rarity asked him.

“I…” He took a moment to think. “I don’t know…” He sat down on his haunches, upset. “I just think that shield’s crazy. I’m not a hero.” Rarity, at first felt repulsed to come after him in the mud, slowly trudged her way to Eli. She noticed a tear falling from his face.

“Eli? Are you crying?” Rarity asked him concerned.

“No.” Eli sniffed as he wiped off his sorrow. “It’s just my head hurts.” He put his right hoof onto his head as he replied.

“Eli…” Rarity thought for a brief moment what to say. “You remember how we escaped that Diamond Dogs’ Mine?” He nodded. “I just want to say thank you for helping me.” Eli looked at her confused.

“What do you mean?”

“If it wasn’t for you, I’d still be stuck in there, working for those ruffians,” Rarity explained, “And I’d still have to wear that muzzle on my face.” Eli listened carefully as he remembered everything that happened. “I guess what I’m trying say is that you’re not just a pony, Eli…you’re a hero…” The White Unicorn hugged Eli. Surprised by this hug, Eli just remained silent, unsure of how to respond. Eventually, Rarity lets Eli go. “Promise me one thing, dear.”

“Yeah?” Eli nodded.

“If you are to become what this shield says you should be, please, do it.” Rarity gave him a pouty face. Eli began to blush until his face was bright red. How could he say “no” to a face so adorable?

“O-okay…” Eli stuttered to answer. Rarity smiled and took his hoof.

“Let’s go back.” She helped Eli back up and led him back to the barn. Eli couldn’t really understand it, but he felt very strange.

Returning the Favor

Chapter 9

Returning the Favor

In the Crystal Empire, a Royal Guard trotted through the crystalline hallway. On his way, he passed by Fluttershy’s room, where he could barely hear the weeping of the mare inside. Strangely the guard stopped and peeked through the cracked open door. With his red and yellow eyes, he could see the mare crying in her bed with Snowy in her arms. The Ice Dragon was clearly barely trying to breathe while he was being hugged to death. Hugged? Looked more like strangled. He then quickly left the scene through the hallway.

As he pressed through the crystalline hall, Sunny came around the corner, and bumped into him. “Hey!” She fell onto her haunches, almost spilling the food she had on a tray, “Watch it, will ya?” The Guard only nodded to her and continued through the hall. Sunny oddly watched him as he left. “Well…I ain’t ever seen a Royal Guard quieter than that, not to mention clumsy.” She stood up and continued her path to Fluttershy’s Room. She knocked before entering. “Hey, Flutters.” Sunny greeted her with a sweet tone in her voice as she came in. “I brought you favorite dish; Fruit Cocktail! Mm!” Fluttershy soon stopped her bawling and lets go of Snowy, who rolled off the bed and gasped for air.

“Oxygen!” He breathed hard. Sunny gave the tray to Fluttershy lying on the bed.

“How you feelin’, hon?” She asked her, still concerned about her feelings.

“I fine…” Fluttershy told her as she ate from her bowl. “I miss Helpful…”

“I miss him too, dear,” Sunny patted her shoulder in sympathy, “But we have to keep looking ahead. It’s what he would’ve wanted.”

“Now I really wish Discord didn’t eat those Water Sapphires.” Fluttershy sniffed. “If I still had them we could’ve saved Helpful.”

“Perhaps things like this happen,” Sunny shrugged, “And when they do, it’s for a good reason.”

“How can you say that, Sunny!?” The Pegasus shouted at the dragon, who quickly stepped back in surprise. “Helpful’s dead, and it’s all my fault!” She wept, covering her eyes. Sunny carefully thought over her response before she spoke again.

“It’s not your fault, hon.”

“Yes, it is!” She muffled through her hooves. “I should’ve followed him.” As she spoke she uncovered her face. “I should’ve went jumped after him, never should have let him leave my side. He may be strong, but he isn’t immortal.” He covered her face again and sobbed once more. Sunny placed a claw on Flutters’ shoulder to comfort her.

“It’s not your fault, hon.” Sunny told her, “Even if you jumped in after the guy, you couldn’t have saved him. Heck, you might’ve killed yourself!”

“It would’ve been fine that way!” Flutters muffled through her hooves. “We could’ve both died together. Then I wouldn’t lose him ever.” She then uncovered her face once more, her gaze being thoughtful as she stared out to nowhere. Sunny grew uncomfortable and then gave a stern look.

“Flutters. Suicide isn’t an option.” She grabbed her attention. “Listen to yourself now. Thinking about killing yourself…” She then slapped the back of Flutters’ head.

“Ow!” Fluttershy rubbed the back of her head. “Sunny, that hurt.” She whimpered.

“Well good! Maybe that pain’s the sense setting in!” The baby dragon joked a bit, but she was still serious as she put her claws on her hips. Snowy then had regained his breathing and stood up.

“I’ll just…” Snowy spoke as he pointed to the door, “Just be outside.” He then exited the room, and shut the door.

“It still hurt, Sunny…” The Pegasus sniffed.

“Well, think, Flutters! You shouldn’t kill yourself because one: that’s selfish, and two: Helpful would never forgive you! You must realize that Helpful wants you to live on!” Sunny reasoned with the mare. “Don’t you ever think about that again! You scared me, you scared Snowy, and you would’ve gave Helpful a heart attack!” She then crossed her arms. Fluttershy eyes watered up again.

“Then… Then do I need to do?” The Pegasus asked her friend.

“All I ask you to do is stay alive.” The dragon put her claw back onto Fluttershy’s shoulder for comfort. “Helpful would want you to live on, even if he wasn’t around anymore. Just remember that Snowy’s with you, heck, all your friends are with you! So don’t be sad, okay?”

“Thank you, Sunny.” Flutters then wiped her tears away. “I promise I won’t do that again.”

“Good.” Sunny said as she patted the mare’s shoulder. “If you need a talk, then I’m your dragon. Hey, we girls gotta look out each other somehow, right?” She laughed and so did Fluttershy. The Pegasus then nodded with a smile. After Fluttershy finished her food, Sunny picked up the tray and headed toward the door, where Snowy was opening for her. “Hey, Sunny.” Fluttershy grabbed Sunny’s attention.

Sunny stopped. “Yes?”

“Thanks for the food.”

“Don’t mention it,” Sunny smiled, “And if you’re feeling better enough, you can join the others in the throne room.”

“Okay, Sunny.” Fluttershy nodded and rolled out of her bed. “I’m coming.” In the throne room, Merciful, Twilight, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, and Applejack were conversing amongst one another about the recent events.

“Why didn’t you talk with the others, Merciful?” Twilight asked him curious.

“I was more concerned about you.” Merciful answered her. “I stayed to help comfort you.” The Purple Alicorn smiled happily at Mercy.

“What’s taking them so long?” Rainbow crossed her arms as she balanced herself in midair impatiently.

“I am not certain, Rainbow Dash.” Merciful replied. “I shall see for myself.” The Dark Blue Alicorn walked toward the door, and then Pinkie Pie felt her Pinkie Sense kicking in.

“Uh, oh.” Pinkie exclaimed in surprise as her ears flopped, eyes fluttered, and knees shook and everypony noticed.

“Merciful!” Twilight grabbed his attention. “Watch out for opening doors!”

“Humph!” Merciful scoffed. “Mere supersiti--” Before he could use his magic to open the door, it opened and slammed into his face. Mercy staggered back and shook his head from the blow as Fluttershy, Snowy and Sunny entered the room.

“You okay, Mercy?” Applejack asked as she trotted over to him concerned.

“I’m fine.” The Alicorn told her.

“Oh, sorry, Merciful.” Fluttershy apoligized to the Alicorn as they entered the room.

“I forgive you, dear Fluttershy,” Mercy said; “It seems I still have much to learn.” Pinkie giggled as Fluttershy, Snowy and Sunny came in a little more and closed the door.

“How are you feeling, Fluttershy?” Twilight asked her good friend.

“I’m fine.” Fluttershy sniffed. “Helpful would’ve wanted for me to keep smiling.” She smiled as much as she could, but her sadness ailed her to no end. Her eyes watered again, and Applejack gave her a comforting hug. “Thank you, Applejack.” She thanked the Earth Pony as her tears ceased.

“It’s no problem, Fluttershy.” Applejack nodded. She let go of the hug once Fluttershy felt stronger.

“I miss Helpful.” Flutters quivered her lip.

“So do we, Fluttershy,” Rainbow Dash told her with a little edge in her voice, “But sulking about his death won’t bring him back!” Sunny shot Rainbow a sharp look.

“I don’t understand how this could happen!” Fluttershy whimpered and cried again. She hugged onto Applejack for comfort, since she was the closet.

“Quite the charmer, aren’t you?” Snowy raised an eyebrow at Dashie, unhappy about what she said.

“I was just being honest.” Dash shrugged.

“Rainbow, there‘re two types of honesty: gentle and brutal honesty.” Applejack gave her a glare. Fluttershy hugged AJ tighter for comfort, almost making her friend lose her breath. “Be careful which you chose, Dash.” The Rainbow Pegasus only scoffed.

“Whatever. You sound like Merciful.” She began to situate herself onto her back in midair. Mercy then looked over his friends in concern.

“Is that really a bad thing?” He asked, but before they could answer, the doors opened again and Princess Celestia, Luna, Cadance, and Shining Armor came in. Fluttershy soon calmed down, but held onto Applejack still.

“Ah, I see you’ve concluded the discussion then.” Merciful said as the doors closed.

“Celestia, what’s happening?” Twilight asked her. “What’s happened to Canterlot? Why was that thunderstorm so huge and powerful? Does it have to do with a certain entity from centuries ago? Is Roadburn okay? Where’s--?” She stopped her questionnaire once Celestia raised her hoof for silence.

“You are right to ask, Twilight.” Celestia assured her. “That thunderstorm wasn’t natural, no. It was made by incredible magic, and I fear Canterlot may be lost to us…” She closed her eyes to block out the thought and sighed for peace. “There is a greater being out there, yes, from generations ago.”

“Who is he, Celestia?” Applejack asked her while Fluttershy let go of her.

“His name is Kronos,” Celestia answered, “The Lord of the Titans.”

“Kronos?” Twilight tilted her head, she didn’t recognize the name.

“Yes.”

“Who’s Kronos?” Twilight asked her.

“Kronos is a being of great chaos and evil.” Celestia explained to her. “He is not like creature any of you know.”

“What do you mean?” Rainbow Dash asked her, confused.

“May I?” Merciful asked his sister, and she nodded. He then gently cleared his throat. “Kronos is a creature called a human.”

“A hoomin?” Pinkie Pie tried to repeat the word, confused.

“No, Pinkie. Human. They are creatures that neither fly nor use magic, but they can create.” Mercy explained further. “They were creators of many great things, music, construction, dance, and even art.”

“Do they have Cutie Marks like us, Mercy?” Pinkie asked him, pointing to her flank.

“No, they do not, Pinkie Pie.” The prince shook his head.

“Then how do they possess talents?” Rainbow Dash asked him.

“They possess a great deal of talents, like us,” Celestia then told them, “Their talents’ symbolism is through what they create and do.”

“They constantly wear clothing; something which we cannot understand.” Luna added, “But they were gentle and loving creatures…until Kronos came.”

“What did he do?” Twilight asked her.

“Kronos had humanity enslave ponies all within his empire, to feed his greed and lust for power,” The Sun Princess continued, “Leaving them to scramble for crumbs under the table.”

“That’s awful!” Twilight told them, and Celestia nodded.

“It truly was a dark age for us ponies, Twilight,” Merciful told her.

“So what you’re saying is that Kronos has returned to enslave us all and to rebuild his empire?” The Purple Alicorn assumed.

“Not quite, Twilight.” Cadance told her with a little uneasiness as if there was something more. She looked at her old Foal-sitter oddly.

“What do you mean?”

“A war started between the Kronic Empire and a peaceful town named Hope.” Celestia continued, “After Hope had overpowered Kronos, Magi, your ancestor, had exiled the devil and his servants into another realm, along with humanity.”

“But why also humanity?” Rainbow asked them. “I mean, Kronos was ordering them to do all the dirty work, and they were loving creatures too, right? So why did they get exiled for being innocent?”

“That is true, Rainbow Dash,” Merciful answered her, “The humans were indeed innocent for they couldn’t resist Kronos.”

“Why couldn’t they fight him?” Applejack asked him confused.

“Kronos is the Lord of the Titans, so that meant that he controlled the monsters of the world.” Mercy answered his beloved, “The humans were too scared to resist his horrid power.”

“But how did Hope win then?” Rainbow Dash asked, confused. The royals all exchanged looks of confusion. Then Celestia spoke up.

“That we do not know.” Celestia answered her, “But we do know that before humanity was exiled into the other world, they wanted to.”

“But why?” Twilight asked her.

“Humans were not only loving, but they were often prone to guilt once they do something wrong. It would soon consume them until they admit their misdeed.” Luna explained. “They felt so guilty for not being able to resist Kronos they requested their punishment, and Magi accepted because didn’t like to see them so saddened. So he sent them into the portal and they were gone forever.”

“So how did Kronos return?” Dashie asked them, curious.

“It would seem that somepony could have freed him from his prison between dimensions. He did try to return, but was then locked in-between worlds.” Merciful explained. “I would not mistake it that Kronos would now pay homage to this pony and treat it like an ally.”

“Or he would’ve killed it…” Luna added thoughtfully. “Either way, I doubt this pony would be useful to our plan.”

“And furthermore, I’m afraid that we must keep you in the castle for the time being.” Cadance told them.

“What? Why?” Rainbow Dash flew up to Cadance, making her a bit uneasy. “We can take Kronos on our own!”

“The Titan Lord’s got you all pacified, Rainbow Dash,” Shining Armor reasoned, “You won’t be able to do anything unless the Elements of Harmony still worked.”

“Then we’ll go back to the Underworld to save, Helpful!” Rainbow shouted with pride.

“It’s much too dangerous, Rainbow Dash,” Celestia told her, “We could be risking your lives.”

“It’s not like that’s new.” Applejack said with a smile. “We’ve laid our lives down to save Equestria many times.”

“And Helpful’s risked his life for ours.” Fluttershy sniffed, remembering how he saved her in that volcano, from the Sky Dragon, and falling from the sky.

“Please, Your Majesties.” Twilight beckoned. “Let us repay the favor.” Celestia was silent over the matter.

“What do you think, Merciful?” Luna asked her brother. Merciful thought long and hard. This wasn’t the first time Helpful died, but it certainly isn’t the last. If what they’ve told him about his brother is true, then his body should’ve been given to them as proof of his death, but since the Elements died, they wouldn’t need that. Just how did he die? And what has become of Rarity? She was with him when they left, could she be dead too? No. Discord would’ve told them that she was dead, including Spike. The poor baby dragon’s body was possessed by a murderous demon. There must be a way to free him, and Discord… What has got him to change sides in such little time? And what is this new power he has acquired? And why weren’t his sisters prepared for this? Let alone tell either him or their brother. He only has so little to what is going on, and he knows that there a huger picture than this. He’ll have to find out eventually. Maybe they can travel to the Underworld and find answers there. Perhaps the journey will answer more questions than what he has. “Sister, I believe we should let them go.” Merciful finally answered.

“Brother, are you certain?” Celestia asked him with concern.

“Do not be alarmed.” Merciful assured them. “I will accompany them.”

“I guess I should go too.” Shining Armor added. “They’ll need all the help they can get.”

“Oh, dear. I couldn’t…” Candace said, concerned.

“It’s okay, dear.” Shining Armor told her. “I’ll be safe.” Merciful remembered what all Shining Armor went through before and sighed to let go of his disapproval. Armor may have been captured before, but that’s because it was Envious—they’re facing Kronos, Lord of the Titans. He wouldn’t control Shining Armor, and knowing Armor, he has grown stronger since his last experience…he could see it in his eyes. “Very well, Twilight Sparkle.” Celestia said finally. “We will allow you to depart for the Underworld to save Prince Joyful.”

“Yahoo!” They all cheered except for Merciful and Shining Armor.

“I’ll go pack my things.” Shining Armor told Cadance and they nuzzled before he left.

“Ooooo! This is so exciting!” Pinkie Pie squealed.

“I know what you mean, Pinkie Pie!” Applejack could almost contain her excitement too. “For once, we’re rescuing Helpful for a change.”

“This is gonna be fun!” Rainbow Dash shouted and the others laughed too. Twilight laughed too, and noticed that Celestia, Luna and Cadance were leaving the room. She caught them in the hallway. “Wait! Princess Celestia, wait!” She caught up to the Princesses.

“Yes, Twilight?” Celestia answered after she stopped and turned to her pupil.

“I need to ask. Why wasn’t Canterlot prepared for the catastrophe?” Twilight asked her curious. Celestia and Luna only exchanged looks to one another, at first, and they turned back to Twilight. “My sister and I both saw this coming some time ago.” Celestia told her. “We knew that there was no defense that could prevent this, so our best option was to let it do so.”

“But why would you do something so careless?” Twilight asked them again after a brief gasp of shock. “You could’ve killed everypony in Canterlot because of that!”

“That’s why we made the secret evacuation route to the Crystal Empire.” Luna explained. “We understood that lives would be lost so we made a failsafe.” Twilight soon began to understand.

“But how did you know this would come?” Twilight asked again.

“There is a prophecy, Twilight.” Celestia told her.

“Another one?” Twilight asked her confused. “But I thought we already went through one before.”

“I had found Magi’s old wing in my library and inside was three new prophecies.” Celestia answered her. “This one was the first. It explained that Kronos was to return and enslave everything, but four heroes would emerge and fight Kronos.”

“Who are these heroes?”

“That we do not know.” Luna said, “But we do know that one is an Earth Pony, another is a unicorn, and the third is a Pegasus and the last: an Alicorn. The details are still unclear.”

“The final passage is in an ancient text we cannot decipher.” Celestia explained. “I had assigned Magi to decipher it, but somehow he won’t.”

“Why not?” Twilight asked, confused.

“That we don’t know either.” Cadance answered her. Twilight was at least somewhat relieved to know that the princesses were in the dark on some things too, but it also raises some new questions. Why wouldn’t Magi decipher that last passage? At least, they know where to go first. Maybe they’ll find more information on the trip. “Thank you, Princesses.”

“Remember, Twilight Sparkle. The journey you walk will not be easy.” Luna warned her. “Kronos’ army is humungous in number and can attack at any given moment. They can be any element at all, so don’t be careless.”

“Thank you, Luna.” Twilight thanked her. “I should get things prepared then.”

“Yes, you must.” Celestia agreed with her as she left them.

Meanwhile, in the Crystal Hall, Flight Lock stood at attention as Pony Joe, Jacko Lantern, Fancypants, Luckyshoes, Soarin’, and Turnip Top gathered around with him. “We have to go back, guys.” Pony Joe told them all. “Roadburn is going to need help back here.”

“I have absolutely no problem with that, but you saw what happened out there.” Jacko argued.

“And that thunderstorm was too powerful. Do you know what might’ve been able to control such a monstrosity?” Soarin’ asked him. “I sure don’t.”

“Listen to yourself, mates!” Luckyshoes barked at them both. “We made an accord with Roadburn and we were to keep our word! Do you know what you sound like right now? A bunch of spineless cowards to me!”

“Well put, brother.” Fancypants agreed.

“Fancy, you can’t be serious.” Jacko started to protest, but he was silenced by a sharp look from Fancypants.

“We vowed to protect him, and we shall protect him, even if this land is being taken over by titans.” Fancypants told him. “We fought before, and we can fight again.”

“Yeah, don’t remind me.” Jacko rubbed his head from the memory of being turned into one of Envious’ minions. “Fine, Fancy. I’m with you, but only because I’m a colt of my word.”

“You have my help, too.” Soarin’ agreed. They all looked at Turnip Top, who stared back.

“Oh!” He exclaimed in surprise, realizing that they were wondering if would come. “I’m coming!”

“Then it’s settled.” Flight Lock nodded. “We will depart to search for Roadburn, but first you look a little light on weapons.” He turned around. “Follow me.” They follow Flight Lock into the armory and there the colts equipped themselves with whatever weapons necessary.

“Hey, Flight Lock.” Jacko grabbed the Royal Guard Captain’s attention. “Aren’t you supposed to be here protecting the princesses?”

“Don’t worry, Jacko.” Flight Lock assured him. “I think Turnip Top can help cover our tracks.” Turnip turned around just Flight Lock said that.

“Do what?” He exclaimed in surprise.

“You’re going to keep the princess’ suspicions at bay while we go search for Roadburn.” Fancypants explained to the colt. “You are Celestia’s Personal Guard after all.” Once all gear was ready they started toward the exit, and Turnip followed them all toward the entrance of the Crystal Empire. They all wore Royal Guard’s armor and each had weapons equipped for battle.

“But what am I supposed to tell her while you’re all gone, Sir!” Turnip begged for an answer, “I’m not the sharpest tool in the crayon box.” Jacko and Soarin’ could almost burst in laughter.

“I’m sure you’ll come up with something, Turnip.” Flight Lock assured him as they came up to the gate and there were many Royal Guards standing watch with weapons at hoof.

“Halt!” One Guard shouted at them. “This is a restricted area.”

“Don’t worry, Private,” Flight Lock told him, “They’re with me.”

“But, Sir…” The Guard protested. “The princess’ orders were to keep anypony coming from the Crystal Empire in. You weren’t an exception.”

“Well, there’s some ponies left outside in Equestria and we must save them.” Flight Lock explained. “You have to let us pass.”

“I’m sorry, Sir,” The Guard apologized, “But the Prin—”

“I gave you an order, Private.” The Guard then nodded and they opened the gate. The boys all turned back to Turnip Top.

“So this is good bye?” Turnip asked.

“Aye, it is, Turnip.” Luckyshoes nodded. “Good luck, laddie!”

“You too,” Turnip Top saluted. “Please, make it back safely!”

“You can count on us!” Jacko saluted and as did the others. They left and the gate closed. Turnip Top just stood there with a blank expression as the time passed by.

Meanwhile, Spike moans as he turns over to his side in midair. He soon realized that he was floating and he opened his eyes and finds himself in a dark void. “What the? Where am I?” Spike shouted in surprise and fear. He was floating inside of nothing. What is this place? All there was here was silence. Spike began to grow worried, and regretful. “This all my fault.” Spike crossed his arms, scared. “I shouldn’t have done that. Gems of Power? What was I thinking? What would I even do with those? If only I can go back and fix everything.” He looked around for any sign of an exit, but there wasn’t anything but darkness. He was all alone in a dark void. Sadness swooped upon him and he began to cry. He curled up into a small ball and cried--his tears coming out from his eyes and floating about him.

He noticed his and he began to put the liquid together into a ball. Seeing his reflection off the ball, he remembered his life before this and as he remembered this, the liquid solidified and grew. Soon Spike found himself in Ponyville again in seconds. “Whoa!” He exclaimed in surprise. “Am I…? Am I back?” He looked around, eager for somepony, anypony to come out. Silence settled as he looked up and saw that the sky was still that black void, but it quickly turned back to the sky. “I’m in that void…” Spike realized. “I guess it changes wherever I remember something. Hm…” He puts his claws together to his forehead and concentrated to remember the ponies from Ponyville. “Spike.” Rarity tried to grab his attention. “What are you doing?”

“I’m concentrating, Rarity.” Spike told her. “I need to make more ponies so I won’t be alone.”

“Spike.” Rarity patted his head. “There’s already ponies here, dearie.”

“No there isn’t.” Spike opened his eyes and sure enough, there ponies all over Ponyville…only …that…they all…had white coats and purple hair…just like Rarity… Spike just gaped in surprise. Is that all he can think about besides Ponyville? Each pony reminded Spike of Rarity, but they each had a different mane style and Cutie Mark. One looked like Applejack, but her color scheme was like Rarity’s. She passed by them with her apple cart toward the market. Spike kept gaping in surprise. “Are you alright, Spiky?” The Rarity he created asked him. Spike shook his head to get rid of his surprise.

“Why does everypony look like you?” Spike asked. “I mean, well, not exactly, like you, but like you, by color scheme-wise.”

“What do you mean, Spiky?” Rarity asked him confused. “Everypony has always looked like this.”

“Well…I guess I can get used to it.” Spike thought to himself. Then the Rarity-colored Twilight walked over to him and Rarity with a broad grin.

“Hello, Spiky Wikey!” She grabbed the baby dragon’s face and squished it. “How’s my chubby-cheeked, little helper?” Spike freed himself from her grasp as he exclaimed in surprise!

“Twilight! What’s happened to you?” Spike fell on his haunches.

“What do you mean, Spiky?” The fake Twilight asked him, confused. “I’ve always looked like this. I haven’t changed.” Spike stood up.

“Well, yeah…I know…but why?” Spike asked her confused.

“Hey, Rarity.” Twilight grabbed Rarity’s attention. “Spiky’s acting weird. Is he okay?”

“I’m not sure, Twilight Sparity, but—” Rarity was interrupted by Spike.

“Whoa, whoa, wait, wait, whoa!” Spike stopped them. “Twilight ‘Sparity’?”

“Yes.” Sparity answered him. Spike looked over to Applejack. “Then if your name is Sparity, then what is hers?”

“That’s Rarijack, Spike.” Rarity told him. Spike gaped at everypony around him with wide-eyes. “Spiky?” Rarity tried to reach for him, but then he screamed and bolted out of fear.

“Where’s he going?” Sparity asked her.

“Oh, he’ll be back.” Rarity told her. “He never could resist our beauty."

Bestest Best

Chapter 10

Bestest Best

“Ah, your timing is impeccable.” Alamos complimented as Rarity and Eli walked inside from the rain. They could see that Fido and Spot were at one end of the barn while the CMC were at where at the entrance. “While you were gone, there was an unfortunate outburst and a fight begun. We had to separate them, as you can see.”

“Spot called us donkeys.” Scootaloo glared at Spot, who glared back.

“Well, you all better get over that.” Rarity told them. “Because they’re stuck with us until we fix this crisis.”

“What??” Sweetiebelle asked surprised. “So you’re going to do it, Eli? You’re going to be a knight!” Eli only sighed.

“Yes, Sweetiebelle,” Rarity replied for him, “He’s going to do it.”

Sweetie squealed excited. “We’re going on an adventure!”

“Alright!” Scootaloo jumped excited.

“Let’s do it!” Applebloom shouted.

“Cutie Mark Crusaders Adventure to defeat Kronos!” They all shouted with a huge amount of volume that almost made the barn tilt. Eli and Rarity smiled as Spot and Fido came over to them.

“So what’s the plan?” Spot asked Rarity curious.

“First, I must train Eli in the ways of the sword.” Alamos told them. “Then and only then will we have the strength to find the Scabbard and Sword to complete me.” Eli sighed as he sat down in front of the fire.

“When do we begin?” Eli asked the shield.

“Today, in fact.” Alamos replied. “You must find a sword.”

“A sword?” Sweetiebelle asked him curious.

“Indeed, little one. Eli must find a proper sword in order for him to begin training.”

“And we know where to find one.” Spot rubbed his paws together, thoughtfully.

Meanwhile, in the pouring Everfree Forest, Roadburn and Surprise continued trudging through the mud, unsure of where they were going. “So…” Surprise finally spoke, “Do you know where we’re going?”

Roadburn sighed and kept looking ahead. “I told you before there is no ‘we’, and I’m going to save my grandmother.”

“So who’s your grandmother?” Surprise asked him, curious.

“She’s the only family I got left…” Roadburn told her, his voice became softer.

“Silly Billy! Everypony’s got a family!” Surprise told him.

“Oh, yeah?” Roadburn looked at Surprise with a curious look. “Then do you have a family?”

“No duh!” Surprise giggled at him, and then she pointed up. “They’re up there.” Roadburn looked up, but the rain made it too difficult for him to see what she meant.

“Where?” Roadburn asked her as he rubbed his eyes from the rain. “What do you mean?”

“Oh! Um…” Surprise thought for a second and she took her gaze off of Roadburn for a moment.

“I know it’s not uncommon for Pegasi to be in the clouds all the time, but not usually large amounts of thunderclouds.” Roadburn told her. “What are you ta--?” She shushed him.

“Do you hear that?” She asked him. Roadburn perked his ears back and forth, but couldn’t pick up anything.

“No… What is it?” The unicorn asked her.

Surprise then walked forward, her ears perking in different directions. “I think I hear something…” She told the unicorn as he followed her. “It’s coming from…this direction!” She then bolted off and Roadburn then began to creep away, slowly, trying to ditch the mare. It almost felt safe when he turned around to find her again. “Surprise!” She shouted, scaring Burn. She then grabbed his hoof and dragged him with her. “C’mon, Burn! I think there’s others over here!” The two ponies then came to a small clearing, and there they found that a hot air balloon had crashed into the trees, but nopony was around. There was only a small fire on the hot air balloon’s basket, but it wasn’t catching onto the trees, yet. This seemed to be very recent. Surprise clopped her hooves together, happily. “Yes! I thought there might be others here!” She giggled. Roadburn stood up to find that there nopony around.

“There’s nothing here, Surprise.” Roadburn told her. The Pegasus then hopped over to the blazing basket. “I know, Silly Billy, but look here!” She pointed to the ground below her, and Roadburn looked down to notice tracks were on the ground.

“Whoa…” He said to himself. “I guess there’s somepony near here.” He trotted closer to see that more than one set of tracks were littered on the ground. He could estimate at least four, maybe five ponies that were here. Burn’s gaze followed the tracks upward into the brush. “Maybe we should follow them.” He finally spoke.

“That’s the spirit, Roadburn!” Surprise chimed and they quickly followed the tracks deeper into the forest brush.

Meanwhile, in the Crystal Empire, Merciful was busy packing his saddlebags when he heard a knock from his door. The alicorn stopped what he was doing and came to answer it. He opened the door and found that Fluttershy had been waiting for him. What an odd surprise. “Well, hello, Fluttershy,” Merciful greeted her warmly, “Are you all ready for the journey ahead?” She then nodded.

“Y-Yes…” She answered him, plainly, “M…May I speak with you, M-Merciful?” The alicorn then nodded and took a few steps back to give her room to enter. The shy mare entered the room and turned to Merciful after he shut the door, gently with his magic. He warmly smiled toward her. Something seemed to be on her mind, and it was bothering her. He would enter her mind and understand, but that would be rude of him and unnecessary. “What is the matter, Fluttershy?” The alicorn asked her, “Are you troubled still?”

“No…” She sniffed. Mercy could see her eyes watering with tears, “I…I-I…I just…” Her stuttering ceased and she started to cry, and she hugged onto Merciful, who was surprised by her hug, “Thank you…Merciful…” She finally told him, and she hugged onto him tight as she cried. Mercy had never been thanked like this before, even in his days of being the Royal Judge, he has never been thanked so sincerely. It almost reminded him of Applejack’s hugs; it was so meaningful. He then took a wing and wrapped it around Fluttershy, hugging her back. “You’re welcome, Fluttershy,” Merciful told her. However, their moment was short-lived. A huge explosion could be heard from outside and it surprised them both. “What was that?” Fluttershy yelped as she hung onto Mercy off the floor for comfort. The alicorn then hurried to the balcony of his room, and they could see dust and shards flying from the castle’s peak. Mercy’s eyes widened as the dust settled and a blue mist seeped downward toward the panicking ponies. “Fluttershy. Remain here,” Merciful told her, “I will defend our citizens.” Fluttershy did as he said without any argument. She dashed straight into his saddlebags, which was large enough for her to fit inside. The alicorn then took off into the air and landed gently on the debris littered street, under the threatening blue mist. The mist then fell behind him and formed the body of an alicorn mare. She was black and her mane was the blue mist from before. She must take the form of one herself. She also wore light blue armor, but it was very few, resembling much of a princess’ attire. She laughed at Merciful. “Ah, brother,” The alicorn mare said, “It has been too long, has it not?”

“Silence, fiend!” Mercy snarled, angrily, “You are not related to me in any way.”

“Oh, I think we’ll both see that we’re more related than you think.” The mare sneered at the prince. Not understanding what she meant, he then made eye contact. Everything was revealed to him. He then stepped back in shock. “No…” He said with fear, “It cannot be! My own sister!” He lowered his head in disgrace, briefly, and then lifted it back up with an infuriated expression, “You are Nightmare Moon; Luna’s discorded self.”

“Well, give the royal sourpuss a cigar!” Discord’s voice shouted from above, and a cigar appeared in Mercy’s mouth. He disgustingly spat it out as the Draconequus landed beside Nightmare Moon. He leaned against the mare. “How do you like my new friend, Merc?” Discord asked him as pinched his eagle talons together, like he had class. Before Merciful could answer a yellow beam of magic shot down from above and exploded from beneath Discord and Nightmare, driving them backward. Mercy looked upward to see Celestia, Cadance and Twilight standing at the balcony. They each flew into the air and Twilight fired another beam of magic, followed by another cyan beam of magic from Cadance, driving Discord and Nightmare Moon even further back. They each landed beside Merciful. “You aren’t in this alone, uncle,” Candance told him as they readied themselves for an attack. “Well, if it isn’t the royal family all together again,” Nightmare laughed, but then a spear struck near her hooves, driving into the street. They all looked upward to see Shining Armor, carried by Rainbow Dash, drop beside his beloved. “Sorry I’m late,” Armor apologized, “Luna’s body is safe, Aunt Celestia.”

“Very good,” Celestia thanked him.

“Now everypony’s here!” Discord cheered as he clapped his claws together, “Now, watch as Nightmare Moon and I destroy the Crystal Empire!” He maniacally laughed as he raised a claw which glowed a bright yellow, but Cadance blasted a sealant spell and it sealed Discord’s claw into solid diamond. He looked at it, puzzled. “We’re out numbered, Discord,” Nightmare Moon told him as she turned into a mist, “Retreat!” She then flew off from the scene. Discord watched in confusion as everything was not going as planned. He became so mad that he tensed up and held his breath while wincing until his face turned red and steam came out his ears. “Fine!” He finally shouted and snapped his eagle claw, disappearing from sight. They were gone now, and everypony was coming out from their homes and hiding places. The family then sighed of relief as they loosened up and relaxed. They were safe for now. Merciful then turned to Celestia. “Shining Armor said that Luna’s body is safe,” He told her, “Sister, what happened? Is Luna alright?” Celestia exchanged a look of uneasiness with Twilight and then she sighed.

“Come inside, brother,” Celestia told him, “There are too many here watching.” Once everypony was inside the room where Luna’s sleeping body resided with Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Snowy and Sunny, Celestia explained to Merciful. “While Luna and I stood at the top of the Crystal Empire, Discord had been disguised as one of our Royal Guards and he pulled Luna into a deep slumber, while she was asleep, he separated Nightmare Moon from within her subconscious, giving her a physical body to permanently live without Luna’s. I tried to stop him, but I didn’t act in time, and I was too late.” She sadly admitted and leaned her head downward in shame, believing that it was her fault.

“It’s not your fault, Celestia,” Twilight comforted her, and patted her back. Celestia sniffed and raised her head again with a more composed attitude.

“I cannot let you leave now,” Celestia told them.

“What!?” Rainbow Dash shouted, misunderstanding her, “And why not!?”

“Why, Celestia?” Twilight asked, kindly.

“Because if Discord possesses the power to do this then it’s just much too dangerous for you all to rescue Joyful,” Celestia explained, “You’re all too precious to give up and the game has just changed once Nightmare Moon was set.”

“And if he can get to me then Envious will be freed again, murdering all of you,” Merciful told them, “Celestia is right.”

“B-But, Merciful…” Fluttershy tried to reason with him, but he raised a hoof for silence.

“I will only become a nuisance, but I one of the two ponies that can protect you on this journey an--.” His sentence was shockingly interrupted by Fluttershy’s outburst.

“You can’t just leave Helpful all by himself in the Underworld!” She angrily shouted at them all, “He’s your brother! He’s your family! He’s the life link between the Elements of Harmony! And he’s my loving stallion! Isn’t his life worth rescuing even though our lives wouldn’t make it!? He would’ve done the same!” Her eyes began to fill up with tears again, “Please! Please…just bring him back…” She lowered her head and began to whimper and cry. Everypony was a little shocked by this outburst and nopony could comply, however, Sunny stepped up.

“Well? I for one think Flutters has a point, like we said before, Helpful would risk his life to save all of ours, and he’s proved that! Celestia. Merciful. You both should be ashamed of yourselves!” She scolded them, “Helpful is your brother. It doesn’t matter to him if he would die a painful, excruciating death to save both your hinds. He would not give up, and he’s proved that too! Now, please, let us go and save our friend. He means everything to us, please.” She then clenched both her claws together, “We need Helpful in order to fight back Kronos, you know that.” Celestia closed her eyes and sighed in thought.

“Very well, Sunny,” Celestia then agreed.

“Yes!” Everypony else, except Merciful and Shining Armor, cheered.

“Y…You really mean it?” Fluttershy asked as she wiped off the tears from her face.

“Please, be safe,” Celestia told them all.

“We will, Your Highness.” Twilight told her as they then left the room, leaving her alone with Merciful. Sunny then sighed and bended over in relief. Snowy noticed this.

“Something wrong, Sunny?” He asked her, curious.

“I’m just relieved that worked,” Sunny said as she stood up straight again, “I mean, those would be terrible last words.” Snowy laughed as they followed the others.

Meanwhile, Eli and company had come to an empty dirt clearing through the rain. Sweetiebelle, Applebloom, Scootaloo and Rarity were given umbrellas to keep dry while the boys were left in the freezing rain. “Remind me why we can’t have umbrellas like the girls, Alamos,” Eli asked the shield rather harshly, who was on his back, “I’m f-freezing.” He shuddered, cold.

“Because a knight must take care of the mares and foals, disregarding his own welfare at times,” Alamos told him, “That is what Chivalry is.”

“F-Fine!” Eli growled as Spot and Fido sniffed around on the ground. The fillies watched, curiously. Soon Spot waved to Fido.

“It’s over here, Fido!” He shouted to the mutt and once he stomped over to him, they began digging. Eli and Rarity walked over to them, curious as they watched. What sword do they have? Soon enough, Spot pulled out a dirty long sword and stabbed it into the ground before Eli. “Here it is!” He told the stallion, “One genuine sword!” Eli took the blade with his hoof and lifted it upright. It was a little heavy for his taste, making it almost impossible to lift as he strained to keep it up. Unfortunately, his strength wasn’t enough and he dropped his arm, the sword making a clang. “Wow, that’s heavy!” He remarked, taking a rest.

“Quit complaining, knave,” Alamos told him, harshly, “In order for you to fight, you must be able to lift a sword. Now lift it again.” Eli rolled his eyes and tried again, lifting the sword upright once more. He winced as he kept it up, giving his muscles some strain.

“Ow, ow, ow, ow,” Eli groaned as his arm began to shake and give.

“Eli, come now,” Rarity told him, “You need to build your strength. Don’t give up.” Eli awkwardly smiled at Rare and almost dropped his arm, but he caught it with his other arm in mid-drop and groaned loudly as he lifted it back up again; this time over his head.

“That’s enough,” Alamos finally spoke, and Eli gratefully lowered the sword onto the ground.

“Okay, how’d I do?” Eli asked the shield, almost out of breath.

“Poor,” Alamos told him, “You’re too weak! You must gain even more strength in order to use the sword. You must endure training immediately!” At that very moment, there was a scream in the distance and everyone turned their attention toward it, deeper into the forest of Everfree.

“Somepony’s in trouble!” Scootaloo told them, “C’mon, Cutie Mark Crusaders!” They all hurried off into the woods without a second thought.

“W-wait!” Fido chased after them.

“Fido, no!” Spot shouted as he chased after the bigger mutt. “Come back here!”

“Well, let us see what the matter is,” Alamos told them, “Hurry, Eli. There may be more than just one pony’s life at stake.” Eli nodded and Rarity and he hurried into the forest.

Earlier, Roadburn and Surprise had followed the tracks through the rain until they had found a cavern. There they spotted a total of six mares, each had collapsed onto the ground. They both immediately hurried over to see if they were still alive, and as they checked, they saw that one mare was a gray Pegasus with a blond mane, her Cutie Mark was some bubbles. Another mare had a mint green coat with a mint green mane with white highlights. This unicorn’s Cutie Mark was a gold bard. The third mare they found was an earth pony with a black mane and a light brown coat. She had a note for a Cutie Mark. The next was another earth pony with a black and pink mane and cream coat. Her Cutie Mark was three pieces of candy. The fifth was a yellow coated Pegasus with a red and yellow mullet. Her Cutie Mark was a couple of wings. The final pony they found was a white unicorn. Roadburn was surprised to see this unicorn. She looked just like…like Vinyl Scratch! Could it be? He carefully shoved the mare with his hooves. “Vin,” He said, “Vin, is that you? Vinyl? Wake up!” The mare’s lower legs only twitched a little as he pushed her. Roadburn stopped and sighed. She always was a heavy sleeper. He then reached in the mare’s saddlebag and Surprise watched with curiosity. “What’re you doin’, Burny?” She asked him as she walked over beside him. Roadburn then pulled out an air horn.

“I knew it!” Roadburn laughed as he held it up high, “She didn’t waste it!” He then winced as he prepared to set it off. Surprise covered both her ears and then the air horn blasted, waking up everypony, which they all jumped and screamed in terror. An odd moment of silence passed as they all noticed the new company. Surprise couldn’t help, but laugh now. She fell onto her back and rolled as she hooted and laughed her rump off. Roadburn sighed as she did this, but then Vinyl pitched in a little too and laughed, and so did the gray mare, which he noticed her lazy, yellow eyes. “That wasn’t funny,” The light brown Earth Pony complained with a prim and proper look, “It was very alarming.” She told them all. Oh great. A rich pony. Just what we all needed! “C’mon, Tavi’.” Vinyl chuckled, “Burn’s just playin’ around. Right, Roadburn?” She nudged him, playfully. Roadburn chuckled as she nudged him.

“Kinda…” He replied, “I found you all collapsed on the ground, and I couldn’t wake you up. So I went with the only option I had,” He said as he lifted up the air horn, “I’m kinda glad you still kept up with this, Vin,” He then gave it back to her, “It means a lot.” Vinyl took the air horn and stuffed it back into her saddlebags.

“How can I forget you, bud?” She then put him into a headlock and noggied him, “Huh? How can I forget my bestest best friend in the whole world?” Roadburn laughed as she noggied him, like they were little foals again.

“Vinyl, you know this guy?” The cream coated mare asked her.

“Yeah, I do, dude!” She then let Burn go, “He’s most awesome unicorn I met! Roadburn, meet my friends,” Vinyl gestured toward the light brown earth pony, “That’s Octavia, I call her ‘Tavi’ for short,” She then gestured toward the gray Pegasus, “That’s Derpy Hooves, she can be a bit of a hoof-full though.”

“Do what?” Derpy asked, half-awake.

“Anyways,” Vinyl continued as she gestured toward the minty green unicorn, “That’s Lyra Heartstrings, she’s pretty cool,” She then gestured toward the cream coated earth pony, “That’s Bonbon, she’s Lyra’s best friend,” She then gestured toward the bright orange Pegasus, “And that’s Spitfire, she’s a Wonderbolt. She was on vacation for a bit, but then all this crazy stuff happened!” She laughed a bit, “We tried to get away from the storm by using a hot air balloon, but the lightning and harsh winds made us hit ground again.”

“I thought I saw something,” Bonbon told them with a thoughtful gesture, “It looked rather odd, like it was somepony wrapped in cloth, or something.”

“You probably saw somepony’s blanket flying by,” Octavia told her, “What we should really worry about is what happened to Ponyville.” Just at that moment, the CMC enter the tunnel.

“Hello?” Sweetiebelle shouted as they entered the area, “Is somepony there?”

“Oh, dear,” Lyra said with a hoof to her lips, surprised, “Are you lost, little ponies?” Surprise jumped right next to them.

“Oh, my gosh,” She shouted excited, “More company!” She then jumped up and down excitedly. The fillies looked at her oddly.

“You sure act like Pinkie Pie, but you’re not Pinkie,” Applebloom remarked, “Who are you, miss?”

“My name’s Surprise!” She answered them, “Nice ta’meet’cha!” The white Pegasus then shook the hoof of each filly, happily. Vinyl looked over to Roadburn with an odd look.

“Where’d you find her?” Vin asked Burn, who sighed.

“I’d like to think that she found me…” The blue unicorn shrugged, “She won’t leave me alone, and she keeps calling me--.”

“Oh, Burny!” Surprise called out, interrupting him, “We have more company!” Roadburn and Vinyl both looked after hearing Bonbon scream out loud. They both saw the Diamond Dogs that just appeared. Surprise was just between them as she chimed, “Aren’t they just cute!?” She giggled, hugging them both.

“Surprise!” Octavia sternly shouted, “Get away from those ruffians!”

“No! No!” Scootaloo told them, waving her arms to grab their attention, “They’re not ruffians!”

“Yeah! They’re actually our friends!” Applebloom agreed with her friend.

“They’re really just a couple of sweethearts,” Sweetiebelle added with their explanation, “See?” She gestured toward Surprise petting Fido, who really enjoyed the feeling. Spot just crossed his arms and mumbled a few words to himself as he sat down. The minor six then exchanged nods and words of agreement. At this moment, Eli and Rarity entered the cavern, “Is everypony okay?” Eli grabbed their attention.

“We’re fine, Eli,” Scootaloo told him, “We just found more ponies around here.” Rarity and Eli took a gander at the ponies and introductions were made.

“And this’s Roadburn,” Vinyl Scratch finished her end of the introductions, giving the stallion a hug, “He’s my best friend.” Roadburn at first was a little surprised, but he embraced the hug anyways, hugging her tight. They eventually break their hug and return their attention to Eli, “That’s about it, dude,” She told him.

“So your shield can talk?” Lyra asked him, amazed by this, “That’s incredible!”

“Yes, I can speak,” Alamos said with pride.

“Yeah…” Eli replied with a thoughtful look toward the ground, “He chose me…”

“’Chose you’?” Octavia repeated, curious.

“Indeed,” Alamos replied, “Eli is of the proper heart and spirit. He is worthy of the Sword of Justice, and I am to teach him all the ways of the scared blade itself. The journey he is to take will be long and arduous. The pony that you see right now, may look like a filthy excuse for an apprentice, but with the correct chipping and polishing, he will become this world’s savior.”

“Heh,” Eli chuckled as he rubbed the back of his head, “He can also be a big talker, too.”

“It’s actually pretty neat,” Spitfire commented, generously.

“Many thanks to you, madam,” Alamos thanked her.

“Beautiful, and a gentlecolt,” Octavia said, looking at Al, dreamily, “Why aren’t you a pony?” The shield remained silent once she said that, and the cavern remained silent with the loud noise of rain outside echoing about, until Roadburn broke the uneasy silence. “Alright, now that we’ve seen each other again,” Burn said as he stood up and began his departure, “I need to go and save my grandmother.” Vinyl gasped as she went after him and Surprise, who naturally followed.

“Wait!” Vin stopped him, and she came around in front of him, “Is Granny Cookie okay? What happened?”

“You don’t need to worry,” The unicorn told her and tried to walk around her, but she grabbed his hoof and stopped him.

“I’m coming with you,” Vinyl told him, “It doesn’t matter what you’ll say, I’m comin’ with, dude.” Roadburn gave her a little look of annoyance. It was only natural for Vinyl to follow him, she always has, ever since they were foals, and no matter how much they’ll argue, she’d be the most stubborn. He sighed and shook his head with a faint smile. “Fine,” Burn said as he rolled his eyes, “Let’s go then.”Vin nodded, and Spitfire stood up.

“Hold on!” Spit caught their attention, “I’m coming too,” She said as she trotted over to them both, “You’ll need some eye-in-the-sky to make sure you don’t run into anything weird and I’m pretty fast, too. You’ll need me.”

“Oh, yeah?” Vinyl Scratch said with a confident look, “Roadburn’s plenty of speed. In fact, I think he’d fly circles around you, if he could fly!” Roadburn then cleared his throat, singling to Vin that she’s saying too much than he wanted.

“C’mon, Burn!” Surprise giggled as she jumped, “The more the merrier, right?”

Roadburn the sighed, “I guess so… Just don’t get in my way, okay?” He then turned around started heading toward the rain.

“We’re coming, too,” Bonbon said as the rest of the minor six followed them, “Strength in numbers right?” Roadburn didn’t answer as he stopped at the opening of the cavern that stopped at the pouring rain.

“Eli,” Alamos grabbed Eli’s attention, “Perhaps we should accompany the unicorn’s mission. He will need our help.”

“But I thought we’re going to defeat Kronos,” Eli told him.

“Sometimes a knight must accept a mission beside his primary in order to continue his careful practice in chivalry.”

“But wouldn’t that lead to him being sidetracked?” Eli asked him with a smart look.

“That’s why a knight never travels alone,” Al replied, and Eli sighed.

“Maybe we should help them, Eli,” Rarity told him, “I mean, we do have no idea where to find the other Gear of Alamos, and if we help we could find a clue to find them, and maybe they could help.”

Eli then nodded, “Well, I guess that’s a good idea,” He said as he stood up, “Let’s give ‘em a hoof then. Hey, guys!” He shouted to grab their attention, but once the last of the minor six exited the cavern, it froze over, encasing Eli and company inside. “NO!” Eli shouted as it froze over. In the heat of the moment, he had charged bi-pedal, pulled out his dirty longsword during his blitz and stabbed it straight into the ice, burying it in deep and creating many cracks within the frost. He then pulled it back out, pulled out Alamos, readying him, and then started charging and bashing into the ice. For a moment, it seemed like he was making progress, but it would just refreeze over. “Dang it!” He shouted, outraged. Rarity had been using a light spell and watched Eli’s performance with awe. Who knew that he had such vigor? Could he really be the Knight of Justice? Eli’s heavy breathing from the exercise slew down to a calmer pace as he sat down. “Great…” He said as he lowered his head, laying his sword down, “Now we’re stuck here…”

“If we still breathe, hope is alive,” Alamos told him, “Perhaps we may find another exit if we follow this cavern.”

“That’s right!” Rarity said as she and the fillies hopped up onto their hooves, “Every cavern in Everfree forest should have an exit somewhere!” Eli looked up to her. Perhaps there was hope still.

“I don’t know…” Spot said as he examined the floor of the cavern, “Some of the body of the channel wasn’t made by water.”

“Well, I’m sure it was those ponies before, not paying attention to what they were doing,” Rare said as she trotted deeper into the cave, “Come along, everypony!” The CMC quickly followed her and Eli stood up as Spot still examined the cavern walls with Fido as they slowly followed, mumbling and whispering toward one another.

“You two alright?” Eli asked them both, and they turned to him, “You’re lagging behind a bit.”

“We’re fine, Eli,” Spot told him, “It’s just this cavern that bothers us.”

“Is it because you haven’t explored this area before?” Alamos asked them as they moved again.

“Well…maybe…” Fido replied, thoughtfully, “Something just seems wrong…”

Raritys, Demons, and Spirit Guides, Oh My!

Chapter 11

Raritys, Demons, and Spirit Guides, Oh My!

In the mind realm of Spike, the poor baby dragon charged straight into Sugar Cube Corner. Slamming the door behind him, he quickly gathered everything the building, including the kitchen sink to barricade himself inside. He sighed as he heard only silence. Thankfully nopony was home. The Rarity version of Mrs. Cake and maybe Pumpkin Cake had left to do an errand. This made Spike realize something, “Huh…” Spike said as he made a thoughtful gesture, “Everypony here that is a version of Rarity is only female… Why aren’t there any guys around?”

“Hi there!” A dopy voice spooked him from behind. Spike jumped around to see Snips and Snails standing behind him. He screamed, believing that they were Rarity versions, but they weren’t, “What’s got him so spooked?” Snails asked his brother.

“He’s just a little stressed out, Snails,” Snips told him and shuffled over to Spike, who still screamed, “Hey!” Snips waved his arms in the air, “Spike! It’s us!” Spike stopped, took a deep breath, and screamed again, too disturbed to listen. Snips sighed, “You thinkin’ what I’m thinkin’, Snails?”

“No…?” Snails replied with a blank look. Snips then sat back and pounded his hooves together. Snails understood and walked over to Spike and smacked his face, knocking the dragon off balance, “Stop screamin’, ya loony!” Spike quickly came to focus, and sat back up. He saw Snips and Snails with the correct color scheme, like they were the original ones. “Snips? Snails?” Spike said as he stood up, rubbing his cheek, “What are you doing here? And why does my cheek hurt?”

“Never mind the cheek,” Snails told him with a nervous chuckle, “We’re here to give you a hoof!”

“A hoof?” Spike repeated as he put his hands on his hips, “Why would I need help from you guys? You’re both a couple of Sloppy Joes!”

Snails laughed, “I like Sloppy Joes,” He said.

“What’s a Sloppy Joe?” Snips asked his brother.

“I have no idea,” Snails replied with a confused look.

“Anyways, we’re not actually the Snips and Snails you know,” Snips told Spike.

“Oh, really?” Spike raised an eyebrow, curious, “And why’s that?”

“We’re you spirit guides!” Snails replied, crossing his eyes, “We were summoned by your longing for somepony else that wasn’t female!”

“Okay, first: you don’t know that,” Spike told them, “And second: why are you my spirit guides?”

“I have no idea,” Snips answered him, “Maybe it was because we were the first males that came to mind?” He looked at his brother, who only shrugged.

“Don’t look at me,” Snails said, “I’m just here for the free ice cream.”

“’Free ice cream’?” Snips repeated, interested, “Ooo, where?”

“We’re in Sugar Cube Corner, dummy,” Snails replied as he came around the counter, looking for the sweets.

“Oh, yeah!” Snips said as he followed him, “Wonder if they have any cookie dough ice cream!” Spike growled as he followed them behind the counter, grabbing them both by the ears and pulling them away from the sweets.

“Guys, focus!” He told them, “Right now, we need a plan to get away from all these Raritys!”

“We can…shoot you out of a cannon!” Snips shouted.

“No,” Spike replied, indifferently.

“We could…eat some ice cream!” Snails added.

“No,” Spike replied.

“We could…dig a tunnel into Everfree!” Snips shouted.

“No,” Spike replied.

“We could…eat some cupcakes!” Snails shouted.

“No…” Spike told him.

“We could…make some cupcakes!” Snips shouted.

“Double no,” Spike’s eye twitched.

“We could…eat everything in Sugar Cube Corner!” Snails shouted.

“That sounds like a great idea!” Snips jumped, delightfully.

“Guys, focus!” Spike grabbed their attention again, “Why aren’t you focusing!?”

“Because there’s a bunch of free food and this is your mind, so you’re technically dreaming,” Snips explained, “And you can do anything in your dreams, whether it be bad or good! So why not eat all that ice cream?”

“Whoa, whoa, whoa! Wait a second,” He waved his hands for them to slow down, “Did you just say I’m dreaming?”

“Yeah, so?” Snails asked him, not following.

“Why am I dreaming?” He then gasped, remembering what happened to him earlier, “Am I…possessed?”

“Yeah, so?” Snails blinked, still not following.

“Snails!” Snips sighed, “Look, Spike. We were awakened the moment you needed us. We’re here to help you return to your life as a Twilight’s little assistant!”

“But…” Spike said, “Why are you helping me!?”

“Hey!” Snails shouted, looking offended, “We don’t get to choose who we guide either, Mr. Why-are-you-my-spirit-guides.”

“Yeah, Mr. Why-are-you-my-spirit-guides,” Snails added, “And if you don’t want our help, we can just leave you here with the town of Rarity’s that’ll pinch your cheeks off!” Spike cringed at that thought. Not his cheeks!

“Alright, alright!” The baby dragon told them and sighed. He doesn’t have many options right now, and he doesn’t want to endure so much attention from the town-full of Raritys. “I guess I can use your help. What do we do?”

“Well, we have something in mind…” Snips said with a devious little look on his face.

Meanwhile, Helpful and company walked through the unforgiving desert of the Underworld. Sweating and thirsty, each of them was extremely exhausted. “Helpful…” Boltage grabbed his attention, “We… We need to…stop…”

“We can’t stop, Bolt,” Helpful told him, “We have to continue, or we’ll…we’ll get eaten…” Trixie fell onto the ground beside Helpful, too drained of energy to move, or speak, “C’mon, Trix,” Helpful said as he lifted her off the ground, putting her on his back, “We need to move… Water is just on the other side,” Gilda tripped and fell down too, “Boltage. Can you help Gilda, please?” Boltage also fell onto the sands. Helpful sighed, “C’mon, guys,” He said as he lifted Gilda and Bolt onto his back, “We can’t stay here…” He continued his path through the terrain of the Undersands. The heat was unbearable and the weight of his friends wasn’t helping Helpful through this mess. As he climbed the next dune, Boltage slid off his back and rolled down onto the sands below. Helpful cringed as his footing slipped and he fell too, rolling down with the griffin and mare and stopped with Boltage. The falcon winged Pegasus forced himself to sit up; his sweat stinging into his eyes as he stumbled onto his hooves. “We…can’t…stop…” He breathed and pulled Trixie up onto his back; however, his strength was too exhausted to keep this up and Helpful collapsed, “No…” He mumbled, “I can’t…” He looked up to see something in the blurring heat. It looked like a giant monster with somepony riding it, “Fluttershy…” He passed out.

“Your Highness,” An old voice stirred Helpful, “Your Highness, awaken. I have water for you.” The young prince barely forced his eyes to open. As they tried to focus, he could see that he was under shelter of some sort. A pony was beside him, and as his eyes focused, it was Magi! He came to their rescue, and gave them shelter. “Oh, hey, Magi,” Helpful coughed from being extremely thirsty.

“Don’t talk,” Magi told him as he placed a bowl of water at his lips, “Drink, Your Highness.” Helpful moved his hooves to the bowl and chugged the entire consumption of water down. He burped a little, feeling refreshed.

“That hits the spot!” Helpful chuckled as he stretched, sitting back up, “Where’s the others?” He noticed them around him, laying and still sleeping on the floor, “Did you give them water yet, Magi?” Helpful also noticed that they were in an old ball room from some castle. Desert sand scattered all around them and winds gently howled through the broken windows. Were they still in the Undersands? He also noticed a giant scorpion standing in the middle of the room.

“No, Your Highness,” Magi told him, “However, Scorpios has more water.”

“Scorpios?” Helpful asked Magi, confused, “You mean the Desert Star Symbol?” Magi nodded, “Oh, neat! So they’re finally answering us, aren’t they?” He looked over to Scorpios, studying it from a distance.

“So far I know,” Magi answered him with a smile, “I’ll get some more water. Stay here and rest.” Helpful nodded as he watched Magi walk over to Scorpios with the bowl. The sorcerer placed it before the Star Symbol and it hung its stinger over the bowl. Instead of venom, it poured out water from within it, filling the bowl back to the brim. Magi picked it up and gave some to Trixie, who awakened.

“Who…” She said after she drank some of the water, “Who are you?”

“I am Magi,” He told her, “Magi of the Seventh Chain. Don’t worry. You’re safe now.” Trixie smiled as she turned her gaze to Helpful, who smiled back.

“Some Great and Powerful Trixie I am,” She said, sadly, “I’m hardly even magical.”

“Don’t say that,” Helpful told her, “I’m sure you’ve got plenty magic within you. You just haven’t got to see it.” Trixie then smiled as Magi helped the others.

“Trixie thanks you, Helpful,” She told him. Gilda coughed a bit, choking on her water.

“Drink it slowly,” Magi told her, “There’s plenty to go around, young griffon.”

“Whatever,” Gilda said as her breathing calmed.

“So what’re we going to do now, buddy boy?” Boltage asked Helpful, “And who’s this?”

“I am Magi of the Seventh Chain,” Magi answered for himself, “And you are?”

“Boltage,” Boltage replied, “Storm Charger.”

“I am the Great and Powerful Trixie,” Trixie said.

“And I’m Gilda,” The griffon finished for them.

“How did you all become trapped here?” Magi asked them.

“Kronos,” Helpful told Magi, “He’s back, Magi.” Right at the mention of the name, Trixie, for a brief moment, held a worried look, and Boltage noticed. Magi nodded in understanding.

“Yes, I am fully aware of this, Your Highness,” He replied, “And he sent you here to the Underworld as well, correct?”

“Yeah,” Boltage replied, still watching Trix’s facial responses carefully, “I guess so…”

“Same happened to us,” Gilda told them.

“Well, how did you end up in here?” Helpful asked them, “You still haven’t told us that, yet.”

“We were minding our own businesses when Kronos had captured us,” Gilda explained, “He then sent us here.” As they listened, Magi made a thoughtful gesture. The story sounds highly unlikely to happen, especially if Kronos sent them here. He would’ve only killed them on the spot, but why not?

“Well, whatever the reason, I guess we’re all going to stick together now,” Helpful nodded and stood up, feeling refreshed, “Magi. Do you know of a way to cross the sea?” Magi returned from his thoughts.

“Hmm? The sea?” He mumbled, thoughtfully, “We must consult Rigel, the Warden of Arigos…but…I’m afraid convincing him for assistance would be an ordeal…”

“An ordeal?” Boltage asked a little confused, “Why would it would it be so hard?”

“Kronos has taken over Arigos, trapping me inside,” Magi explained, “But I was fortunate enough to be saved by Scorpios. Now titans run the entire prison and we cannot seek his assistance. Perhaps we may even learn the source of the curse.”

“Trixie would like to know what a Star Symbol is,” Trixie said, curious.

“Ah, the Star Symbols,” Magi replied with a delighted smile, “The Star Symbols are the guardians of our world. They send us heroes when times seem bleak and hazy. Usually they are the most unlikely of ponies and they even sometimes try to reject their fate. However, these heroes were respected and what they did to protect was not to be laughed at. Star Symbols are always watching us, providing for us and protecting us. They take many forms,” He placed a hoof on Scorpius, “Such as a great beast, or,” He placed a hoof on his chest, “A normal pony—even your closest friend may be a Star Symbol, and they have fathomless power.”

“And how did you know about this?” Gilda asked him, curious.

“I met them,” He replied, smiling, making Gilda and Trixie exchange looks of confusion.

“Trixie would like to thank you, old stallion, for saving her life,” The unicorn told Magi.

“Well, you’re welcome,” Magi chuckled, “Tell me, young mare, do you now magic?”

“Uhm… Well, you see, Magi…” Trixie mumbled, “Trixie isn’t the best unicorn that can use magic.”

“I see,” Magi said with a thoughtful gesture, “Not to worry, miss,” He jumped onto Scorpios’ hide, “Everypony has a place in this world. You just haven’t found it yet,” He smiled to her, sort of childishly, “Come now, Scorpios! We must keep watch outside while the young prince and his friends recover.” The Star Symbol chatters and scuttles out the ruined ballroom through a huge hole in the wall.

Silence lingered for long moment, until Helpful scooped up the bowl of water gently. “Anypony else thirsty still?” He asked them, curious.

“Trixie is still parched, dear Helpful,” She told him, raising a hoof shakily to help grab his attention.

The Pegasus smiled and walked over to her, but Boltage stood up, “I’ll give it to her,” He told her, taking the bowl from Helpful, “You should go talk to Magi a little more.” Helpful nodded and walked out toward Magi as Boltage gave Trixie the drink.

Magi was sitting on Scorpios’ back, meditating as the sun from above scorched the sands under them. “Ouch!” Helpful yelped as he hopped over to Magi, “Ah…that’s really hot…” He looked at his sore little hooves, wishing that Flutters were here to kiss them.

“Indeed, Your Highness,” Magi replied, still meditating as Helpful sat beside him, “The desert of the Underworld never meets the darkness of night, therefore; the sands will continue to burn endlessly. That’s just how Scorpios loves his habitat, though. He finds it to be comfortable.”

Helpful could feel that the hide of Scorpios was very cold. He felt it gently with a hoof. “How can Scorpios stand this heat and still be so cold?” He asked.

“Excellent question,” Magi replied, “Scorpios’s entire bloodstream is composed of water, which heats and cools at a slow pace. Therefore, he can stand long hours in the sun, but when his blood grows too hot, he finds water and bathes in it until he has cooled himself enough to stand the heat once more.”

“That’s remarkable,” Helpful nodded.

“It’s the wisdom of the Symbols, My Prince,” The old stallion opened his eyes, “Is there something you wish to ask me?”

“Yeah! I was wondering what you knew about Kronos and how he could’ve returned from in-between dimensions.”

“Quite simple,” Magi replied, “Somepony would have opened the portal and awakened him from his deep slumber.”

“Somepony or something?” Helpful asked him, curiously.

“Somepony,” Magi told him, “My vision was quite clear on that.”

Meanwhile, in Spike’s mind, the baby dragon is strapped to a huge red rocket and all around him is several crates-worth of dynamite and fireworks. He wore a green helmet. Snails and Snips were standing before the fireplace, where the launch was taking place. “Heh-heh! Okay!” Snails said, “Here’s what’s gonna happen!” He pulls to him a blackboard and Snails and he began drawing, but they did it so fast that the dust made Spike cough. They finally finished and Spike could they made a stick version of him being launched from the sky and crashing into a bunch of poorly drawn trees. “First we’re gonna launch you from Sugar Cube Corner and you’ll fly into Everfree Forest,” Snails pointed out for Spike, “Then you’re home free!”

“Uh… What happens if I don’t make it?” He asked them.

“Well, we’ll come back again after we get bored of watching you get smothered with raw Rarity love and stuff,” Snips told him with a smile, which didn’t help at all. They all hear a knock at the door.

“Spiky, Wikey?” Rarity’s voice came from the door, “We know you’re in there. Get out now! We just want to kiss your chubby, little cheeks!”

“Wait. Did she say ‘kiss’?” Spike asked with hearts on his eyes and a smile.

“Code: Red! Code: Red!” Snips shouted as he lit the fuse with a matchstick and hid behind the counter.

“We can’t be losin’ him like this!” Snails shouted and they both covered their ears.

“Spiky, Wikey!” Rarity outside shouted at the front of the entire town of Raritys. Their response was an explosion, which launched them all back as Spike flew above through the sky, screaming the entire way. Soon he landed in the forest with a ba-boom. The Raritys all quickly came to and found Sugar Cube Corner in shambles, but at the very center of it all was Snips and Snails, perfectly fine. They both smiled, innocently as they snuck away. The Raritys all growled at them as they snuck off. The two Spirit Guides stopped. “L-look!” Snips tried to reason with them, “We’re all figments of Spike’s imagination, right? So why don’t we all just let bygones be bygones and—run!” Snips dashed off, leaving a puff of smoke shaped like him and it just dissipated. Snails realized what his brother meant. “Hey!” He shouted and dashed off behind him too.

“Get them!” One Rarity shouted and the entire mob of Raritys gave chase.

Gosh, Dang It!

Chapter 12
Gosh, Dang It!

“Something’s here!” Octavia shouted over the harsh blur of snow. It froze over the cavern they just exited, and now everything was freezing cold. The party began to shudder and freeze. Roadburn looked around and saw a being near them. It several feet tall, slender and it had the head of an eagle and claws to match. It screeched at them and the winds grew worse. “That thing’s trying to freeze us!” Roadburn shouted over the wind.

“What do we do, Burn!?” Vinyl asked him, scared.

“Run!” He told them, “All of you run!” The group understood and they all began to run from the creature. The ice monster screeched and an ice wall blocked their escape.

“Now what!?” Spitfire shouted, however; the winds quelled and softened. The group looked back to see that the creature had been shattered and Roadburn was walking toward them. Vinyl knew what happened. She just kept it to herself, relieved that Roadburn took care of the dilemma.

“The bigger they are, the harder they fall,” He said as the others looked at him oddly.

“But how did you stop it?” Bonbon asked him, curious.

“I pushed it,” He told them, “He seemed fragile enough. C’mon,” He gestured for them to follow him as he walked around the wall, “Let’s get outta here.”

“But what about the others?” Lyra asked him as the mares followed around the wall.

“They’ll be fine,” He told them, “Besides, I have to save Granny Cookie.”

“But where are we gonna go, dude?” Vinyl asked him, curious, “Do you have any clues?” Roadburn stopped in his tracks and so did everypony else. As much as he hated to admit, Vinyl had a point. He didn’t know where he was going at all. Sure, Surprise asked him that before, but he didn’t care for her. A question like this coming from Vinyl usually makes him think things over hard.

“I…I don’t know…” Roadburn told her, “I didn’t think it over…” He placed a hoof on his head, feeling pretty foolish now.

“Well, we can’t just walk around in one line all day and night,” Octavia pointed out, “We need to find shelter.”

“I know a road near here that’ll lead us to a town nearby,” Bonbon told them, “It’s called Shores-a-lot. I hear they have a port there and have many new inns and hotels. Perhaps we can find a hotel to stay in, and since the land is in a problem, I bet we’ll find one for free.” Roadburn stood there and thought about it quietly.

“And maybe we’ll find out how far away we are from the Crystal Empire,” Vinyl told him, “We might find some help there from the prince--.”

Roadburn interrupted her, “Fine,” He said and looked over to Bonbon, “Lead the way.” At first, there was an awkward silence, but Vinyl gestured for Bonbon to get ahead and the Earth Pony walked ahead, leading them to the direction of the road.

Meanwhile, Eli and company venture deeper into the cavern. The Cutie Mark Crusaders stuck close to Rarity and the Diamond Dogs followed. Eli was forced by Alamos to the front because he was to protect. Eventually, Sweetie Belle spoke up. “Do… do you think we’re lost, Rarity?”

“No, Sweetie,” Rarity replied, “It might just be a big tunnel. That’s all.”

“But what if it takes us too long to escape?” asked Scootaloo, frightfully.

“Relax, Scootaloo,” Rarity calmly told her, “We’ll be fine. I’m sure of it. Isn’t that right, Eli?” Eli took a moment to look back to Rare, and stopped with a look of uncertainty. The others stopped as well.

“I think we’re lost, Rarity,” He told her with honesty.

“We are not lost, Eli!” Rarity told him, “It’s just a long cave. Besides, we’ll be out before we know it!”

“And what if we’re not?” Eli asked her, “What if we’re stuck in a maze, going in circles, over and over again?”

“Young knave, I understand that this new task is heavy on you,” Alamos grabbed their attention, “But don’t let your uncertainties rule your thoughts over smaller conundrums.” Eli sighed.

“Alright then,” He replied, turning back to the path, “I’m sorry…” Eli walked forward again, letting the group move once more. Soon they saw a dim light ahead. “There!” Eli shouted, relieved, “I’ve found the exit!” He then charged forward, disregarding the others and headed toward the light.

“Eli! Wait!” Rarity shouted after him.

“We’re almost there!” Eli shouted back and once he exited the light deemed bright, so bright that it made it hard for him to see and once it cleared, he soon found himself running over a cliff! “Dah!” Eli shouted in fear and he unsheathed his long sword, driving it deep into the face of the cliff, and he slowed down to a halt. Eli sighed relieved that he saved him from the trees below. “Foolish knave!” Alamos shouted, unhappy, “You nearly killed yourself before the enemy got to you!” Eli sighed, embarrassed.

“Uhm…” He said, “Sorry…”

“Just don’t do that again,” Alamos told him.

“Eli!” Rarity shouted from above. Eli looked up to see her, “Are you alright, darling!?” The others soon joined her, “Can you get back up here?”

“Uh… Does it look like I can?” He asked her, curious.

“I knew we should’ve come to my boutique before moving,” Rarity said. She turned to Fido, “Can you reach him?”

“I’ll try,” Fido replied and he crouched down onto him stomach, stretching his long arm down to Eli, who gratefully reached back to the Diamond Dog, and the dog grabbed his hoof, pulling the pony back onto the cliff. Eli sighed of relief that he back on solid ground.

“Don’t ever do that again,” Rarity told him, “You’re the only one who can save us, Eli. Please, don’t be so reckless.”

Eli rubbed the back of his head, embarrassed. “Alright, alright, Rare,” Eli replied, “I won’t do it again. Promise.”

“Don’t make a lady a promise if you can’t keep it,” Alamos told him, teasingly.

“Hey!” Eli shouted, crossly, “Ya don’t know that!”

“Look!” Applebloom shouted, grabbing everypony’s attention. The little redhead pointed out to the distance and everypony could see a humongous castle much larger than Canterlot Castle, and way more beautiful. They would see the entirety of the building, but it was covered by a tall, white wall covered in wisteria. “What is that place?” Eli asked, curious.

“It’s so huge!” Scootaloo shouted with excitement, “Who do you think lives there!? Al? Do you know?”

“I don’t…” The shield replied, “This castle may have been established during my long sleep…”

“Could be an outpost from Kronos…” Spot said, “Let’s not go there…”

“Well, practice makes perfect!” Eli childishly said, sheathing his sword, “Let’s take it!”

“You can’t be serious!” Rarity told him, “Earlier you weren’t so keen on fighting Kronos, and now you want to take on an outpost?”

“And…?” Eli asked her, raising an annoyed eyebrow.

“We should at least make sure of our assumption,” Alamos told them, “I am thrilled that you want to take on a challenge, Knave Eli, but you are still very amateur.” Eli rolled his eyes.

“Whatever, chief,” The green Earth Pony sighed, “Let’s go the castle, already.” The group then followed the cliff side path toward the castle.

Meanwhile, at the Crystal Empire, the remaining Mane Six, Merciful, Sunny, Snowy and Shining Armor stand at the gate of the Crystal Empire with Celestia and Cadance. An audience of the surviving Equestrians watched them. “Please, my friends and family,” Celestia told them, “Save Helpful, and find Rarity. Only the seven of you can completely defeat Kronos.”

“We will, Celestia,” Twilight replied with a confident look, “We won’t fail you!”

“Yeah! We’ll make that Kronos pay for what he’s done!” Rainbow Dash shouted, excited.

“Just gotta keep Mercy safe, too!” Pinkie Pie shouted, gleefully, referring to the earlier incident of Nightmare Moon.

“There’s no need for such worry for me,” Merciful told them, “If I fail to keep from Discord’s clutches, I will not end the same as my sister. I will defeat Envious as well.”

“Please, be safe, honey,” Cadance told her husband.

“Trust me, dear,” Shining Armor told her, “I will not stop until I’m back to the mare I love.”

“Oh, honey,” Cadance smiled, comforted by his words, “I love you.”

“Goodbye, Celestia,” Twilight told the princess as the gate opened, “We won’t give up!”

“Good luck, protectors of Equestria,” Celestia said as they all turned and walked through the gate, “The world is in your hooves.” As the group of heroes exited the gate, it closed behind them, sealing them from the point of return. “Alright, what’s the plan?” Rainbow Dash asked Twilight, “Which direction we headin’?” The excited Pegasus looked around with a hoof over her eyes, as if she was searching around.

“I’m glad you asked, Rainbow Dash,” Twilight told her, “We’re going to follow the tracks back to middle Equestria and we will find the Gate to the Underworld. It’ll be three days until we find the Gate.”

“Sounds good!” Dashie replied with a smile. She looked up and found dark clouds above them, “Looks like it’s gonna rain…”

“W-we should find shelter,” Fluttershy spoke up, and thunder made her jump over to Shining Armor, holding onto him, “Q-quickly too!” Twilight looked up the clouds, and looked at the field before them. Ahead she could see a mist floating in the distance.

“Nightmare Moon!” Twilight shouted, cross, and a bolt of lightning lashed out and clashed beside her, almost knocking her off her hooves.

“Run!” Shining Armor shouted as he charged ahead with Fluttershy holding onto his back. The others followed close behind him. Lightning lashed out randomly, nearly hitting each of them. Soon they came to the mist and Nightmare Moon appeared before them all with a great wind. “Leaving so soon?” The alicorn teased, “How rude. The party has just begun!” Nightmare laughed evilly as her mist lashed out to Shining Armor, but he jumped out of the way. Merciful unsheathed his sword as Shining Armor stood onto his hind legs, he pulled out his spear. Fluttershy quickly took cover behind her friends. “You may be my sister’s corruption!” Merciful grabbed Nightmare’s attention, “But even you cannot stand up to the eldest brother!” Armor lunged toward her with his sword, threatening to stab into her, but the alicorn morphed into her mist form and the spear pierced only air. Then, the mist curled around the spear and slashed through the metal, breaking the weapon apart. Shining Armor cringed as his spear shattered. Merciful pulled him back with his magic. “We cannot face her!” The Dark Prince told them all, “Retreat!” They all ran the other way, making Nightmare laugh as she gave chase. Twilight looked back to the incoming mist and gasped, seeing that Nightmare Moon was gaining on them. She concentrated and her horn glowed with her violet aura and it enveloped everypony. “Look out!” Shining Armor shouted and he tackled her. Twilight hit the ground, looking up to see Armor be struck by lightning, and he fell onto the ground, unconscious.

“Shining Armor!” Twilight shouted, shocked. The young alicorn ran over to her brother and lifted his head, “Are you alright? Say something!” Shining Armor didn’t reply, being unconscious. Twilight looked up to Nightmare Moon as she returned to her alicorn form.

“Aw, how tragic,” Nightmare mockingly laughed. Twilight looked at her with anger.

“You… You monster!” Twilight’s horn sparked with magic as she growled at Nightmare.

“You’re kidding. You’re kidding, right?” Nightmare laughed. The alicorn flew up to the thunderclouds above and Twilight followed her.

“Twilight, wait!” Rainbow Dash and the others, except Mercy, shouted after her as she disappeared into the clouds. Dashie prepared to take off after her, but Merciful stopped her in midflight with his magic.

“She needs our help!” Rainbow Dash shouted as she struggled, “Lemme go!”

“I understand, Rainbow Dash,” Mercy told her, “But I cannot let you. That’s just what Nightmare Moon would want.”

“But what about Twilight?” Dashie asked him, “She’s up there too!”

“I’ll go and assist our friend,” Mercy told her, “You stay with the others and find a place to hide Shining Armor. We’ll search for you later.” Dash looked down in thought, “Do you understand, Rainbow Dash?”

Rainbow sighed, “Alright, Mercy,” She told him, “Don’t let her die.” Merciful nodded as he let her go and took off into the clouds above. Rainbow looked down to her friends and nodded.

“C’mon!” She told them, “Let’s take him somewhere safe!” Merciful flew further into the clouds and heard loud thunder as the lightning flashed by him; the energy dancing and flying through the dense clouds. He looked around to find neither of them as he stopped in midflight. “Twilight!” He shouted, “Twilight, where are you!” The alicorn then heard the sound of magic clashing against itself. Mercy launched himself to the sounds and found Nightmare Moon and Twilight fighting against one another, clashing powerful waves of magic together. “Stop!” Mercy shouted, “Twilight! I will fight Nightmare Moon! You must stay out of danger!”

“She killed my brother!” Twilight shouted back as she unleashed a powerful beam of magic and Nightmare Moon launched one back, clashing against Twilight’s. They were both evenly matched. Merciful sighed and he unleashed a beam of magic and it broke their stalemate, grabbing their attention.

As Nightmare looked toward Merciful, the dark alicorn launched himself, sword outstretched and ready. Twilight watched, surprised, and as Mercy unleashed a flurry of slashes on Nightmare, the alicorn of shadows summoned a sword of her own to block Mercy’s attacks. Merciful flew back a little and clashed against Nightmare’s sword.

Angered by Merciful’s intervention, Twilight summoned a bolt of violet and flashed it between them. “Stop!” Twilight shouted as they looked at her. Taking this moment as advantage, Nightmare knocked Mercy’s sword away and she thrusts it toward his chest. Luckily, Mercy saw this in time to act, but he only could move enough for the sword to dig into shoulder. Mercy grunted in pain as Nightmare shifted to her mist form. Merciful took this moment and used his wings to stir a large wind into Nightmare, forcing her back through the clouds. The sword in Merciful’s shoulder dissipated, and Twilight came to. The purple alicorn flew over to Merciful, concerned. “Oh, I’m so sorry,” Twilight said as she looked at his flesh wound.

“It is fine, Twilight,” Merciful winced as she touched his blood drenched wound, “You need to return to the others before Nightmare Moon does first.” At that moment, the clouds before them opened up and Nightmare flew out toward them.

“You were saying?” Nightmare Moon shouted as lightning streamed around her, but not through her. Twilight noticed this and casted and force shield around them, knocking Nightmare back a little.

“So you don’t like the lightning, do you?” Twilight asked her, and she let the shield down, launching herself into Nightmare Moon and knocking her into a stream of lightning. Twilight was also caught in the shock and after it finished she fell downward with the other alicorn; both unconscious. “Twilight!” Mercy shouted as he flew down to her and caught Twilight using one arm, letting Nightmare fall down. Mercy looked at Twilight concerned. “Can you hear me, Twilight?” There was no answer and the alicorn sighed, fearful of for her recovery, “Please, Twilight.” Twilight’s eyes peeked open a little.

“M-m…Merciful…?” Twilight mumbled as the eyes closed again and she fell asleep.

“Don’t worry, Twilight,” Mercy told her as he flew out from the clouds, “You’ll be okay.” As he flew down, Merciful didn’t see Nightmare Moon’s body anywhere below. It was as if she disappeared. The dark alicorn flew downward to the trees and landed with Twilight on her back. “We must find the others, quickly,” Merciful told her as he walked through the leafless trees.

Meanwhile, in Everfree Forest, Bonbon had led her friends to Shores-a-lot, however; nopony was there, no doubt by the evacuation earlier. Roadburn looked around. “There doesn’t seem to be anypony around…” He said, then Vinyl poked his nose.

“Doesn’t mean that nopony won’t come to find us, right?” Vinyl told him and walked over to the center of the street and sighed, “Doesn’t seem too bad, does it fellas?” Roadburn looked around the settlement. There seem to be newly made houses with the old and many stagecoaches stood empty. Seemed like a ghost town, really. The stallion walked over to an inn, “Let’s just find where we are,” He said as he walked to the door, but then a huge rumble from above caught the group’s attention, and it began to rain once more. “Oh, great!” Octavia shouted over the rain as she hurried to the inn, “Let’s get inside! Hurry!” Everypony quickly followed her inside, and Roadburn was the last to shut the door behind him.

“Hello!” shouted Derpy for anypony, “Hello!” There was no answer which saddened her a little, “Aw…”

“Don’t worry, Derpy,” Spitfire told her friend, “I’m sure that we won’t be alone for too long.” Bonbon looked over to Roadburn and began to grow curious as she stuck close to Lyra.

“What do you think is wrong with Roadburn?” She whispered to her good friend, who merely shrugged. Surprise hopped over to the male unicorn.

“So, Burny! What’s the plan!?” Surprise asked him, curious, “What’re we gonna do?”

“You’re going to stay here as I go back to Canterlot,” Roadburn told her.

“You can’t be serious, dude!” Vinyl grabbed Burn’s attention, “You’ve said that before but we’re stickin’ with ya! No backin’ out!” Roadburn grew silent as he glared back at Vinyl, who glared back at him. Everypony else grew silent with anticipation. “Let’s jus’ find a map, okay, dude?” The male unicorn sighed and just walked out the door, slamming it shut behind him. The tension loosened a little more as everypony else sighed.

“How rude!” Octavia spoke up first, “And to think that he was a kind and gentle stallion.”

“He is, Tavi,” Vinyl told her, “He’s jus’ very worried about his granny, okay? After all, she’s the only family he has left.”

“And what about earlier?” Spitfire asked Vin, “That Ice Titan would’ve still be chasing us, but Roadburn somehow told him down in a couple of seconds, like it was nothing. Explain that, please.” Vinyl grew silent for a long time, and she sighed.

“Alright, alright,” The DJ nodded, “I know it sounds crazy, but Roadburn’s special.”

“Did he use magic of some sort?” Bonbon asked her, curious.

“Well…it’s a little like magic, sure,” Vinyl replied, thoughtfully, “But it comes naturally, like he doesn’t need to learn how to use it so much.”

“What is it then, Vinyl?” Derpy asked her as curious as her friends were. The DJ grew a little silent, but she soon spoke up again.

“Let’s jus’ say that some things are better left unsaid, dude,” She told them, looking back toward the door, “Burn isn’t the most…er…fortunate of ponies.”

“Humph,” Octavia scoffed, “That still gives him no excuse to act so childishly and stubborn.”

“Alright, alright, Tavi,” Vinyl waved a hoof to her, trying to tell her to calm down, “Let’s jus’ find the map.”

“You mean this map?” Surprise grabbed her attention as she held it up to the DJ, “I found it in the clerk’s booth!”

“Alright!” Vinyl said, cheerfully as she took the map with her magic, “Now we need to give this to Roadburn. He can read these better than I can.” Surprise happily nodded in agreement. The unicorn and Pegasus both walked to the exit and opened it to find Roadburn sitting after from the door alone in the rain. “Hey, Burnout!” Vin shouted to him as a tease, “We have a map here and none of us know how to use it! Would’ja be nice and come over to help?” A moment of silence passed and Vinyl sighed as she walked out into the rain. Surprise followed her out, and they stood across from Roadburn. “C’mon, Burn,” The unicorn patted his shoulder, “I said we’re gonna help so we’re gonna help, but we can’t help ya unless ya let us. C’mon, Burn. What’re friends for?”

Roadburn looked up to Vinyl sadly and sighed, “I’m a bad grandson, aren’t I?”

“Now, Roadburn,” Vinyl leaned over and gave him a hug, “You’re not a bad grandson… It’s jus’ there was nothin’ ya could do to save her, but you shouldn’t grieve over it…” Surprise jumped over and hugged Roadburn too.

“Yeah, Burny!” The Pegasus giggled, happily, “You can still go and save her! We can save her together!” Roadburn remained silent, and he soon spoke again.

“I just don’t want anypony else to get hurt,” He told them sighing sadly a little.

“And we won’t!” Vinyl Scratch told him, letting him go and giving him a wink, “Promise!”

“Yeah!” Surprise cuddled the unicorn a little, “Promise!” Roadburn sat there, thinking it over hard.

“Alright then,” He replied, finally. Vinyl giggled and hugged Roadburn and he embraced her hug, awkwardly ignoring Surprise’s, but the mare didn’t really show any care, she just held onto him, gently. Once they let go of their hug, Roadburn sighed, “Just don’t get hurt, okay?” He said with a sincere look. Vinyl giggled and playfully popped his shoulder with her hoof.

“You and your worrying, Burn,” She said as Surprise also giggled, “Still the same ol’ Roadburn.” Roadburn couldn’t help but smile at her words, they made him feel better about himself, “Let’s jus’ get inside, dude.” Vinyl and Surprise both headed toward the door and Roadburn followed them closely.

Meanwhile, Eli and company ventured closer to the great wall and through it, and once on the other side, they all stopped to marvel the humungous castle. The doors were huge and made of gold, the pathway to it was lined with silver and made of marble, and the castle itself seemed to be made of pearl. Eli whistled, “Doesn’t seem like an outpost,” He remarked as he walked toward the giant doors, “Looks more like--.”

“Raziel’s Castle,” Rarity interrupted Eli while she was in thought, “I… I’ve seen it once, but it was Magi who showed us this in a vision… I never knew it still stood after all these years… Wow…” Eli looked back to her and looked at her oddly.

“Who’s Magi?” He asked her, curious.

“Magi was an old friend of mine, knave,” Alamos told him, “He was companion of mine since the Pony and Human War broke out… I take it he’s still alive?”

“Oh, yes,” Rarity nodded to Alamos, “Very alive. In fact, immortal.”

“Well then,” Alamos laughed a little, “We should meet again soon, I have many things to catch with him on I presume,” The shield gasped in surprise.

“What is it, Alamos?” Eli asked him, curious.

“I sense it, Eli,” Alamos replied, “I sense a piece of me here in this castle.”

“So Raziel had a piece of you, eh?” Eli asked him, “Sounds like things are beginning to grow easier.”

Rarity nodded, “Yes. Just, please, don’t charge on inside, dear.” Eli chuckled a little as he scratched the back of his head.

“Don’t worry, Rarity,” He told her with a smile, “I’ll be careful.” Eli walked over to the golden doors and reached to open them.

“Stop!” Alamos shouted, grabbing Eli’s attention and halting his action, “Look at the door, knave.” Eli looked back to Alamos oddly.

“It’s a golden door,” He replied as the rest of the group caught up to them, “What’s wrong with it?”

“Just look at the door,” Alamos told him again. Eli sighed and returned his attention to the door, and he found markings of soot and distinct claw markings.

“What is this?” He asked as he placed his hoof on the soot, wiping a little off.

“You have heard of demons, correct?” Alamos asked him.

“Yes?” Eli replied.

“Well, what you see here is primal evidence of a demon passerby,” The shield explained, “The lady, foals and canines will all stay outside. However, you, knave, will slay the demon and retrieve the piece before it finds it first.” Eli stayed quiet for a couple moments and looked back to Rarity, who gave him an encouraging smile. Then, the earth pony looked back to the door and sighed. “Let’s do this,” He said as he reached out, and pushed the door open. “If I don’t return in time, don’t wait for me,” Eli told them, staring into the dim corridor that led to another, but smaller double doors, “Look for shelter and hide there.”

“Eli, I’m…” Rarity sighed, looking down to the ground, “Just don’t get hurt, okay?” Eli looked back to her with an odd glimpse, and he smiled.

“I’ll be back, Rarity,” He saluted to her and entered, closing the door behind him. Darkened by the absence of light, the corridor seemed more menacing now. With a gulp, Eli blindly walked through the corridor until he found the door to the main hall. Carefully, he pushed the heavy door open, and light entered through the cracks. He pushed it fully open, and walked out into the bright light. Eli covered his eyes and soon the light softened.

He reopened his eyes to find that the main hall was covered completely in vegetation, wide cracks littered the floor, filled with dead leaves. The stairs were covered in vines and a great oak tree grew from the center of the hall. Above, Eli could see that the ceiling was weak and many pieces had already fallen onto the floor, and sunlight peeked through the holes that marked their absence. Eli also noticed that six chandeliers have fallen ages ago, rusted and broken apart; the gems’ colors in each have faded. The walls had paintings that fell apart from the rain and snow, and now blank paper is on display, covered with the vines that stretched all around the main hall. Eli made a long whistle, “Looks like they let this place go,” He chuckled a little, but Alamos remained silent, “R-Right… Look for the piece.”

At that moment, a familiar voice sinisterly laughed at them all, “Well, well, well,” The voice teased them, “So it has begun. The Knight has been chosen and he’s here to reclaim a Piece of Alamos.” Eli looked around the room, and he couldn’t find where the voice came from, and then, a black puff of smoke appeared in front of the great oak before them. It grew and fire sparked out, catching onto the oak tree, catching it. “Oh, boy…” Eli said as he unsheathed his long sword, “Lemme guess…” He thought aloud as he pulled out Alamos at the ready, “It’s our ol’ pal, Scorch, ready to play a game of kick the bucket.”

“Don’t overestimate yourself,” Alamos told him as the sparking puff of smoke grew more and more violent, “Defend yourself, Eli!” Immediately, Eli lifted up his shield. The puff exploded and Eli blocked the explosion, but once it ceased, the floor began the shake under him as Scorch stood up from the base of the explosion, holding a five foot long scabbard in one claw. However, Eli didn’t have enough time to study the scabbard as parts of the floor began to give in around him. Scorch raised a claw and waves to the earth pony, “Good luck,” He evilly laughed and disappeared in a flash of flames. Eli cringed as the floor under him broke apart.

“Gosh, dang it!” He shouted and fell down to the darkness below.

Virtually Brothers

Chapter 13
Virtually Brothers

In the Desert of the Underworld, Helpful and company rode on Scorpios’ back as they “closed in on Arigos. “What is that place?” Boltage asked as they got closer to the giant stone prison.

“That, Boltage, is Arigos,” Magi told them, “A prison for the criminally insane and wicked after death.”

“So do demons and warlords live there?” Trixie asked the sorcerer, curious.

“Indeed, Trixie,” Magi told her, “But we are here for one thing.”

“The path through the Undersea,” Helpful said, “There’s a Star here that works as a warden here in Arigos.”

“However, I fear that Kronos may have manipulated the warden,” Magi told him, “That would only make sense since now the titans guard the prisoners and they even tried to imprison me.”

“But why are you coming back here?” Trixie asked him, confused a little.

“It’s one way or no way, dear Trixie,” Magi told her as they grew ever closer to the gate, “Prepare yourselves,” Magi told them as he hugged onto Scorpios’ shell. The others did the same, and for a brief moment, Scorpios stopped, raised both its pinchers and hissed, and then, nothing.

After a long, silent moment, Boltage breathed in to speak, but sand exploded before them and as the dust settled, the group could see a giant worm before them. Pale as the sands, and even more disgusting with its mouth gaping open, letting its venomous spit drip and slip out between its thousands of shark-like teeth.

Trixie screamed at the top of her lungs and Scorpios charged, full speed into the worm, jabbing its pinchers into the monster’s gelatinous body, spilling green blood into the sands. The worm shrieked in agony and gurgled out his blood. Scorpios chopped the sand worm in half with its pinchers and the body slid down onto the sand, staining it with green blood. The Star Symbol scuttled forward toward the prison. More dunes appeared from the sands, but then a loud horn was blown and the dunes retreated to the underground. Helpful and company looked around to see them disappear from sight. “What’s going on?” Gilda asked, confused.

“They’re accepting our challenge,” Magi replied, looking toward the open gate that Scorpios broke through earlier. He tapped on Scorpios’ shell twice and the Star Symbol moved forward. Scorpios scuttled into the prison, and the group took a look around themselves. The ground was made of metal as they heard Scorpios’ scuttling legs smack and tap the ground; the walls were made of a thick black stone, most likely obsidian, and they were lined with and black iron fence on the inside and the top of it was lined with fire, always burning, everyday. At the very center, ahead of them, was a great ancient fortress made of cold steel and stone. Smoke exerted from the many chimneys on top, and they could tell this is no ordinary fortress. Surrounding them and watching, were the legion of stone, and lava titans. Trixie, Gilda, and Boltage were each growing nervous of their numbers and intimidation. The lava titans were especially scary.

The lava flow, acting as a gate, opened up and the group turned their attention to a normal sized stallion walking out from inside. The lava flow closed behind him as he stopped beside a pole with a pyramid on the top. It stretched well over his head. The stallion had hazel brown color, and his mane was black. He had no Cutie Mark as he was seemed to be the only pony that lived here. His left eye had a dark brown three pointed star on it. “Magi of the Seventh Chain,” The stallion began, “Please, excuse my security. The titans can be rather brash than good.”

“Cut the small talk, Rigel,” Magi shouted, obviously, growing impatient, “We know that you’ve been working for Kronos, and you why we’re here as well! If you don’t let us pass through the Undersea, then we will be forced to defeat you.” Trixie gulped as she looked around toward the titans around them, each looking anxious for a massacre. She swiftly turned her attention to the conversation.

Rigel looked at Magi rather cross, “Very well, Magi,” He spoke as he took a hold of the pole, “If you wish to defeat me and cross the Undersea…” He broke out the pole, and dashed toward them with extreme speed, jumping into the air, readying a downward strike, “Then you best do it without hesitation!”

“Jump!” Magi shouted and he jumped off of Scorpios. The group followed, except for Trixie, who was too scared to move. Helpful landed and turned around in time to see this.

“Trixie! Move now!” Helpful shouted, however; Trixie couldn’t move in time to dodge. She closed her eyes in fear, and all she heard was a clang and thud. Trixie opened her eyes to see that Scorpios blocked the incoming blow with his pinchers. It chattered at Rigel, who stood with his weapon in hooves. Trixie could now see that the pole Rigel was using had an ax blade as a head with square teeth on its sharp blade. The back of the weapon's head was broad and square, each corner nailed with a piece of steel. It was a war hammer! “Trixie, get away from there!” Magi ordered her, and the unicorn finally jumped off and galloped toward them.

“What should we do?” Boltage asked as they watched Rigel and Scorpios fight. Magi looked around, and spotted something within the smoke above Arigos.

“There!” Magi shouted as he pointed up, “Do you see it?” Helpful looked up and so did the others, but they couldn’t see anything.

“What is it, Magi?” Bolt asked him, confused as he squinted his eyes to see through the smoke.

“It’s a glowing light. It should be easy to find,” Magi told them as he turned back to the fight, “I will draw Rigel’s attention. You go and find it.” The sorcerer walked toward the fight as the others turned to him in surprise.

“What!?” They all shouted in unison.

“But Magi--,” Helpful’s sentence was cut off by Magi’s sharp gaze. Helpful knew what that meant. It meant he should trust him and not argue for the sake of something very important; which in this case, Kronos taking over the world. Helpful then turned around, “C’mon, guys,” He spoke as he walked toward the building.

“But, Helpful, there’s titans watching us at all angles,” Trixie said as she cut him off by standing in front of him, “There’s no way we can get up there without being in danger!” Helpful paused in thought by these words. He didn’t know what to do now. They can’t climb without a proper distraction. Distraction… That’s it! Helpful turned to Bolt. “Boltage. Do you think you can grab their attention?” He asked his friend, and the Storm Charger nodded, “Good. Gilda, Trixie, you’re with me. Let’s do this.” Gilda and Trixie both nodded as they separated to execute this plan.

Meanwhile, at Canterlot Mountain, Discord dragged the burnt and unconscious Nightmare Moon by the hind legs through the main hall of Kronos’ Castle; a mighty chamber that had several cases of stairs and had several hallways that lead to more dangerous chambers. Above could be seen a great chandelier of bones. Iron Titans stood guard on both sides of the main stairway. They were like giants spiders in suits of armor. Their eight legs were sharp and deadly and their fangs drooled venom. They couldn’t spin webs, however; they spouted molten steel and they also breathed solid ice. Their hides had sharp spikes and razor edges that slice through anything. Discord sighed as he stopped to take a breather. “Why must I always go through the throne doors to make an entrance? I’d much rather enjoy teleporting into there, myself…” By that moment, he heard Nightmare Moon moaning and he looked down to her, “Well, it’s about time you woke up, my dear; means less work for me!” The draconequus let her legs go and the Alicorn stood up a little dizzily.

“What is this place?” She asked, half-conscious, “Is this Canterlot?”

“More like what’s left of it,” Discord chuckled, “I’d much rather have a different look here, but the master is our master. He’s the one who made us who we are!” The Alicorn looked at him oddly.

“Is that so?” Nightmare nodded, thoughtfully, “Please, explain.”

“All in due time, my dear Nightmare,” Discord spoke as he flew upward toward the throne door, “First: we must report back to our commander and chief.” Nightmare Moon followed and they entered the throne room. They came to the foot of Kronos’ throne and knelt. The doors behind them slammed shut as Kronos looked at them both with silence. It was a long silence. More like a condescending silence. As if, something important was missing. Discord eventually grew tired and stood up. “Master, I ha--,”

“Failed, yet again!” Kronos shouted as he raised his scepter and slammed Discord onto the floor, crushing him with sheer magical force. Nightmare was startled by the outburst and stepped back. “You have only done a fraction of your task and you have the nerve to return here, unfinished!”

Discord winced from the pain he endured, “Please, m-master!” He stuttered, “Their forces were too great… We couldn’t fight them!”

“Have you forgotten what you are?” Kronos then lifted Discord from the floor into the air, “You are Discord; the Titan of Illogic!” He then tossed him backward beside Nightmare Moon, “These ponies have made you weak and nearly useless to me!”

Discord coughed as the wind was knocked out from his lungs, “Please, Kronos…” He stood back up, shakily, “I can still finish what I have not! Give me a second chance…” Kronos sat there with silence, but a thoughtful glimpse was under his cloak.

“Very well, Discord,” He told him, “But the next time you fail me, you better come up with a far better excuse.” At that moment, Scorch entered the room and knelt to Kronos, holding a scabbard in his claws. Discord slowly got back up to see this and so did Nightmare Moon.

“Master, I have brought to you the Scabbard of Order,” Scorch spoke as he held the object high and continued looking down. Kronos stood up from his throne and gently took the scabbard, eyeing it fondly.

“Ah, yes,” The dark one said as he turned it around, studying its design. It was five feet long, a foot wide, and an inch thick. Made of leather, it was made with precious silver the overlapped like vines on a tree, and in each gap was a silver chain. The very bottom was capped with steel for a dual-edged sword, and the top had a small triangle cut out from the top, most likely for the hilt of the sword. It was quite beautiful. “This is it. Well done, my ifrit,” He looked at Discord coldly, “In the end, some prove to be stronger than others.” Discord sighed a bit, hurt.

“Eli was also disposed of as well, my master,” Scorch told him, “By now, he would be coughing out his own blood, dying a tragic death under the rubble of a once great kingdom. A death, I would say, too good; for him.”

“Excellent work, Scorch,” Kronos spoke as he raised the scabbard up and broke it in half. Scorch looked up as Discord cracked a smirk. Nightmare just watched silently, trying to follow.

“A great triumph, Your Excellency!” Scorch praised as he stood up with both arms in the air, curling his claws into fists of triumph, “Now nopony will be able to--.”

“Fool!” Kronos threw the shards at Scorch, who flinched as they hit his armor and fell onto the stone ground, “The Gear of Alamos is completely indestructible! None can merely take them and break them with ease, like so! If it were that easy, I would have done so generations ago!” The being pointed toward the door, “Go! Return to the castle and retrieve the true scabbard! Now!” His last word was manipulated darkly with rage. Nightmare Moon cracked a smile.

“It would seem that your subordinates are lacking in discipline,” She said with a clever voice.

“Hey!” Discord grabbed her attention, “We’re jus’ a little rusty! That’s all!” Scorch remained silent.

“Well, if that’s it, I believe I can give better service then these two combined,” Nightmare then slowly, causally walked to Kronos, “Allow me to find this ‘scabbard’, and let Scorch, here, go and help Rusty back there.” Kronos looked at her, thoughtfully.

“You must be Nightmare Moon,” Kronos said, “I must say, you make a rather alluring proposal,” Nightmare nodded to him as she stopped before him, matching his height, “But your task is to assist Discord, not my general’s.” The Alicorn gave him a glare and turned around.

“Very well,” She said as she walked toward the door, “Let’s go, Discord.”

“Alrighty then!” The draconiquus snapped his fingers and disappeared with Nightmare. Scorch turned around toward the exit.

“Do not fail me a second time, Scorch,” Kronos told him, “We do not have room for error.”

Meanwhile in Spike’s world, “Augh…” Spike groaned as he sat up, holding his pounding head with one claw, “What happened?” He looked around himself to find that he was deep within Everfree forest. The baby dragon stood up and took a moment to remember what happened. “Well, I was in my version of Ponyville and then—oh, yeah! I was shot of that chimney!” Just at that moment, he heard the rustle of bushes and turned toward the source, “H-hello?” He asked and immediately, Snips and Snails jumped out and charged past him. “Run!” They both shouted as they disappeared into the next brush.

“Run? Hey! Where’re you going!?” Spike shouted after them and at that moment, he felt the tremor of a stampede from behind him. The baby dragon looked back to hear the squealing and shouting of the entire town load of Raritys! “Gah!” Spike shouted as he quickly followed his unwitting spirit guides, “Run!” Spike dashed as fast as his little legs could take him, however; the Rarity mob slowly gained on him. “There! I see him!” One Rarity shouted, “Our little Spiky Wikey!”

“Stay away!” Spike shouted in fear, “I’m not adorable! I don’t taste good, either!” Right when he entered another brush, Spike was grabbed by the claw from behind and pulled back by a Rarity, who gave him a great big bear hug. “Oh, Spiky Wikey!” The Rarity that looked a lot like Mayor Mare shouted happily as the rest surrounded them, “I missed you sooo much!”

“Hey!” Another Rarity shouted, “Get your dirty off him! He’s mine!” The rest of the Raritys began a fuss.

“No, he’s not!” The Rarity Mayor shouted, “He’s mine!” She hugged onto Spike a little tighter and Spike made a rubber duck squeak. Everypony grew silent for a moment, staring at Spike, surprised. Mayor Rare squeezed him again and he squeaked once more. The Raritys began to giggle and laugh as Mayor Rare squeezed him several more times, making more rubber duck noises. “No!” Spike shouted, “Stop!”

“Aw, is poor little Spiky feeling sleepy?” Sparity cooed as she walked over to him.

“Or is he hungry?” Rarijack added as she followed, “I could make some pies!”

“Hold it!” Pinkity jumped between them, “I’ll be making the food for Spiky Wikey!” She then pulled the dragon out from Mayor Rare’s hooves, “He’s jus’ the cutest, wittle dragon there is!” Pinkity cooed as she cuddled him.

“Please! Just lemme go!” Spike shouted, holding both claws together, like he was begging, “I’ll be a good dragon! Honest!”

“Nonsense, Spiky!” Rarity told him as came and patted his head, “We’re gonna keep you forever! Come now, girls.” They all followed Rarity back to Ponyville.

“No! No, please!” Spike shouted in fear, “Heeeelp!” During this entire time, Snips and Snails have been watching the scene.

“Oh, no!” Snails frowned, “We have to save him, bro!”

“Yeah! You said it, bro!” Snips nodded to him, “Let’s follow them!” They both nodded and silently followed the group of Raritys.

Meanwhile, in the Underworld, Helpful, Trixie and Gilda find a ladder that leads them to the top of Arigos. Helpful looks back to Boltage and salutes to him, and he salutes back. The Storm Charger jumps onto a Stone Titan and whistled, grabbing it and others’ attention. “Hey, just to let y’all know, uhm, I’m on your head, so like, yeah!” said Boltage, “I bet you can’t catch me!” The Stone Titan growled and lifted up its arms to smash Boltage on his head, but the Pegasus swiftly jumped down and the Stone Titan smashed his own head, breaking it apart. He looked back to see it shattered onto the ground, and blinked twice. “Well then…” He said as the others turned toward him, looking menacing, “That wasn’t what I was going for, but…uh…” Bolt grinned and dashed off, between the legs of a titan. In that moment, the Stone Titan beside it turned and socked the titan into pieces, resulting in another attacking it and mass confusion began. The titans began attacking themselves. Boltage soon returned to the others, who began to climb the ladder. “Hey! I got ‘em distracted! How’s things on your end?”

Helpful looked down to him from the ladder and toward the mass battle, “That won’t last too long,” He said, “We need to move faster!” Helpful then climbed quickly up the ladder.

“Ooh, but Trixie’s getting tired…” complained Trixie, “We should let her take a break.” Boltage climbed up the ladder and pushed her upward from behind.

“Less lip, more climb!” shouted Boltage as they climbed upward. Down below, Magi stood on the back of Scorpios, crossing his arms as he sat.

“Come now, Rigel,” said Magi, “Have you forgotten who you serve? Have you forgotten who gave you life?”

Rigel jumped and chopped downward, but Scorpios grabbed him with his pinchers and slammed him onto the ground. The Star grunted from the pain, but he clutched onto his weapon, determined to continue fighting. Magi walked closer to him and stopped on Scorpios’ head, “Please, Rigel,” calmly begged Magi, “I do not wish to fight a fellow servant. We were once proud and just, but now you stain our honor by betraying our masters. Why would you do such a thing? You, of all the Stars, were the most selfless and strong. You never allowed any evil to control you. Your power was tremendous and so was your responsibility. Now, you serve what you were sworn to imprison. Why?” Rigel glared back at Magi, sweating from their battle, “Well, Rigel?”

The Star winced and sighed, “I’m sorry, Magi,” He then opened his eyes, “It’s Kronos… He’s taken…her away…”

“’Her.’ Hm…” Magi understood what he meant and nodded, “I see. Well, let us aid you in retrieving her back.”

“I can’t, Magi.”

“Why not?” Magi asked, confused.

“Because Kronos will kill her, if I do,” said Rigel, “I don’t want to lose her,” then, Rigel broke free of Scorpios’ grasp and slammed the hammer side of his war hammer on Scorpios’ face, knocking the Star Symbol back as Rigel jumped and landed a distance away from them, “If you truly wish to cross the Undersea, you must defeat me!” He raised his weapon and aimed it toward Magi, posing for a strike. Magi stared him long and hard, and soon he sighed, stepping off of Scorpios.

“Very well, Rigel,” the sorcerer told him, “I accept.”

Up top, Helpful and the others had climbed to the roof of the prison. It was wide, rusty and grated as smoke rose up from below. They all searched around for the shining light. “I can’t find it!” Boltage told them as he tried to see through the smoke. He coughed a bit from the smell of molten metal and another smell… something… flesh-like…

Trixie also coughed a bit, too, “Oh, Trixie can’t breathe in this smog!”

“We need to look around,” Helpful told them all, and then, he spotted it at the center of the smog, “I see it!”

“Where, dude?”asked Gilda as she came beside him, squinting her griffin eyes as she search. Eventually, she also spotted the light. It was fair and pleasant, like a bright candle at night. Helpful spreads his wings and stirred up a breeze to clear out the smoke. They could now see that a scepter, golden and shiny, stood alone. The gemstone was smooth and round as two golden and silver-tipped pegasi wings wrapped around it. “That’s it,” said Helpful.

“Well, what’re we waiting for?” said Gilda as she hastily trumped to the scepter, “Every second we waste, Magi’s life is in danger!”

“Gilda, wait!” shouted Helpful as he raised a hoof after her, but it was too late. The smog from under reappeared but with a great wind as it rushed up from under Gilda, launching her into the air.

“Gah!” Gilda shouted in surprise as she flew upward, and then, the smoke departed from under her, and she fell, “Whoa!”

“Gilda!” Trixie shouted as she galloped to his rescue.

“We’re coming, Gilda!” Helpful shouted as well as Boltage followed him as they charged to catch the careless Griffon. Trixie was the first to catch the griffon as she slammed onto the grating, softening Gilda’s fall, but hurting the unicorn, gravely. “Trix!” Boltage shouted as she hurried to help her back up with Helpful, “You okay?”

“Heh…Trixie is grateful for your concern…” said the unicorn as her yellow friend lifted her onto his back, “but she is fine.”

“Shut your yap, dude!” Gilda told her with a stern look, “You’re just lucky.”

“’Lucky’?” Boltage turned to Gilda with a look of fury, “You’re jus’ lucky that you’ve got a friend that would give her life for you!”

“Am I supposed to be grateful?” said Gilda, nonchalantly as she crossed her arms, “You ponies are just a bunch of weirdos.”

“Weirdos?” Bolt gritted his teeth as his anger grew so much that Helpful could hear a teapot whistle.

“Stop it!” Helpful told them as he stepped between them, “We need that scepter.”

“Whatever, Junior,” said Gilda as she turned around, “I’ll just chill here.” At that moment, a great roaring wind spun around them and the smoke came out from under them, stunning them as they coughed and wheezed from the rancid smell. Then, the smoke was caught by the wind and it spun around them in circles, cradled by the current. “Oh!” coughed Helpful as two sharp red eyes appeared before them in the wind, “A Smog Titan.”

“Foolish ponies!” The Smog Titan said with a raspy voice, “You will now perish in my toxic fumes!” The monstrosity laughed at them all.

“B-Bolt…” Trixie grabbed the yellow stallion’s attention, “Bring me to the scepter…”

“I’ll try,” Bolt coughed as he charged to the scepter.

The titan took notice of this, “Not so fast!” He laughed as a wind began to push them back, making them both cough harder from the disgusting stench. Boltage didn’t give up. He charged again. “Give up, you fools,” The titan said as he unleashed another wind, but Helpful flapped his wings to stirrup a new wind that countered the Smog Titan’s. “Argh!” It shouted as he summoned a new wind to stop Boltage, who grabbed the scepter.

“Here, Trix!” said Bolt as he gave it to his blue friend, “Do your thing!” Trixie grabbed the scepter, and held it high.

“Here we go!” she said as the scepter shone a bright light. The unicorn aimed it toward the Smog Titan and lighting shot out, slashing through the face, however; the being seemed unfazed.

“Is that all?” He laughed as the wind pushed them back to the others, “Now perish!” The titan then summoned an iron spear and launched it toward them. During this, Trixie held up her scepter to block the weapon. The spear hit the jewel of the scepter with a ding, and at that second, a great surge of magic exploded out from the scepter, knocking away the spear and eviscerating the Smog Titan as he writhed in agony.

The spear came to a free fall. Its point slowly turning downward and suddenly it struck deep into the steel floor, beside Rigel, who was too busy trying to chop Magi in half. However; despite his old age, the bearded sorcerer was too quick and agile for the Star’s mighty ax blade.

“You still haven’t changed, old stallion!” laughed Rigel, who was beginning to enjoy this more than he probably should.

Helpful took the scepter from Trixie, “Thanks,” said he in a happy tone and he threw it to Magi, “Magi! Catch!” The old unicorn looked up to see the flying scepter come toward him, but a titan, locked in battle, swung his arms upward, knocking the scepter upward once more. It came to a slow in the midair as Magi took action and climbed up a Stone Titan’s back and made his leap of faith. Rigel slammed his hammer onto the floor and the force took him upward to the scepter as well, in an attempt to thwart Magi’s catch.

Magi came close enough to the scepter and reached, but to his surprise, Rigel swung his long weapon around and knocked the scepter away from him, sending it far away to the ground, in the midst of the titan battle.

“No!” The unicorn said as he reached after the scepter. Rigel raised up his weapon and prepared for a final blow. Magi noticed and grabbed one of Rigel’s hind hooves and pulled him downward, forcing Rigel to miss his mark. They both fell onto the ground, and Magi was the first to stand back onto his hooves, and made a run for the scepter. Rigel slowly got up after he landed hard on his back, and saw Magi’s charge after the mystic artifact. The Star raised up his war hammer and, with a great huff, launched it toward Magi. The war hammer it its mark, sending Magi forward and onto his stomach, sliding some distance under the titan mob. Once he stopped, the old unicorn looked up to find the scepter in front of him. Magi cracked a grin.

As Rigel picked up his weapon, he spoke, “The death under the stomping feet of titans is more than enough to suit you,” Rigel laughed, but then he spotted a bright violet flash in the chaos, and he made a dull look, “Oh, no…”

“I’m afraid so, Rigel,” said Magi as he summoned a great wave of magic and obliterated the titans around them. Rigel remained unharmed as he turned back to Magi, keeping his dull expression. He then slammed the blade side of his war hammer into the floor and raised both hooves. “Fine,” said Rigel, “You win.”

“Whooohoo!” Helpful and his friends, besides Gilda, shouted.

“Now, since we have some privacy,” Magi summoned a great bubble around the fortress, and he levitated the rest of his group beside him; he also casted a healing spell for Trixie so she could stand up, “Tell me. Where do they have Mira?”

Rigel remained silent for a couple moments of anticipation, “I don’t know,” he finally answered, “All I do know is that they’ve trapped her somewhere.”

“I’m surprised,” Magi said with a look to match, “Mira is the last being I’d expect to be captured by Kronos’ forces. In fact, I thought you two were inseparable.”

“Who’s Mira?” Helpful asked the old unicorn.

“She’s a Star; the Guardian of the Underfrost,” Magi told them.

“And my wife,” added Rigel with a plain look, “She may still be in the Underfrost for all I know.”

“We can save her for you, Rigel,” Magi assured him, “Just let us.” Rigel thought it over quickly and nodded.

“Very well, Magi,” he said, “With that Magister, you can even break the spell that Kronos put upon here right now. Go ahead.”

“Wait,” said Trixie, “I thought you were our enemy.”

“I am but a simple pawn in a bigger game,” Rigel told them, “I don’t mean anything to the one that forced me to serve.”

“He makes a good point,” nodded Boltage. Magi then tapped the bottom end of his scepter onto the metal floor with a clink. A small wind exerted from the Magister and passed through them, gently.

Helpful looked at his hooves, “Did it work?”

“Only one way to find out!” shouted Boltage as he spread his wings and took off into the air with small streak of voltage behind him. Gilda and Trixie both gaped in surprise as Boltage flew around at the speed of light, making a large ring of controlled lightning in the air. Helpful got excited and in his excitement, the black tips of his falcon wings shone red once more and he flew up into the air, making Bolt’s speed and they made two rings in the air. Helpful’s bright red ring of light was vertical and inside Boltage’s horizontal ring of lightning. They began to move in opposite directions, making a midair gyro sphere. They spun faster and faster until the rings blurred into one another, and they stopped suddenly. Their bodies wrapped in a red aura and energy dancing around their bodies.

“High hoof!” Bolt shouted, not noticing their new look, and neither did Helpful as he raised his hoof and they slapped their hooves together, making a huge shockwave of red lightning. Everything was devastated and once the dust settled, Boltage and Helpful were relieved to find that Magi had summoned a forced shield to protect Arigos from the unintentional explosion.

“What…was that?” Trixie asked in shock as the force shield went down.

“What were you two thinking!?” shouted Rigel, cross, “You almost destroyed Arigos, and then what would’ve happened?”

“The inmates would get loose…” Helpful ashamedly answered, “Sorry, Rigel… We got carried away.”

Gilda flew up to them, “But that was pretty awesome!” She laughed a little, “How did you do that?”

Boltage and Helpful only shrugged, and Magi’s gentle laugh grabbed their attention. “It was the fusion of light, and lightning that created such a powerful explosion,” Magi explained, “Helpful’s powers of light, and Boltage’s control over lightning made it possible for a fusion, and, as witnessed, had devastating effects.”

“But how is that possible?” Trixie asked, curious.

“Lightning and light are one of the same,” Magi replied, “Light may be a more gentle form, and lightning may be more volatile, but they both are bright, shining examples of power. They are virtually brothers.” Everypony nodded in understanding.

“Brother!” Bolt shouted as he gave Helpful a great big hug, and Helpful embraced his hug tightly.

“I have two brothers!” laughed Helpful. Everypony laughed for a few moments, and then Rigel cleared his throat.

“Okay,” he said, “So I’m assuming that we need to get you all through the Undersea.”

“Yes, old friend,” Magi nodded to him, “We need you to open the path.”

Rigel nodded and walked to the lava doors, “Follow me.” Magi nodded for the others to follow and they followed Rigel into Arigos.

Meanwhile, in Kronos’ Dungeon, Granny Cookie slowly awoke from her long sleep in a craggy, black prison cell, which hung from the ceiling of the chamber. She looked around for to see only darkness. There were no lights, no way of knowing where she was, being suspended in midair. She began to grow nervous and scared. “H…Hello?” she whispered at first, but raised her voice slowly, “Hello?” Granny coughed a few times and wheezed. The air down here was foul. The scent of death lingered around her profusely. The old mare held onto her nose, and at that moment, there was sudden loud crack of steel, scrapping against stone, and the old mare could see a dim light around the corner of some stairs. A door was opening.

“Hello? Who’s there?” she shouted, “What do want from me?” Silence was her only answer as there was no other shadow casted in the light. After a moment of unsteady breathing, the cage shook and Granny yelped in shock. “Leave me alone!” she pleaded and the shaking ceased. She looked around through the shadows, trying desperately to see any movement. Abruptly, the torches were lit ablaze, hurting poor old Granny Cookie’s eyes as she winced and yelped a second time.

Soon the old mare opened her eyes again to see a tall figure before her, floating outside of her cage. She saw his tattered black cloak swaying in the air, and his red piercing eyes through his hood. He clutched onto that strange scepter, like it was his life. A long moment of silence passed as neither of them said a word. They just stared at each other. Eventually, Granny spoke up, “Who are you?”

“Who am I?” suddenly answered the cloaked being as he swiftly looked into the cage closer, forcing Granny back a little in fear. The being then flew around the cage like a hazy wisp and stopped behind Cookie, “I am the fear that runs deep beneath you,” he said as Granny turned around and took a few more steps away, “I am the one you call, ‘the Bearer of Chaos’, ‘the Hoarder of Evil’, ‘the Devil,’” the being flew around one more to behind Granny, who instinctively repeated, “I am Kronos, the Lord of the Titans.”

“Oh…okay,” Cookie then collected her composure and nodded, “A mythological creature. Nothing more.”

“What!” Kronos banged against her cage with his scepter, forcing it to swing and Cookie to lose her balance and fall onto her stomach. Once the swinging quelled, the old mare stood up.

“Well, then again, you could be real,” Cookie nodded in thought.

“Watch your tongue,” said Kronos with irritation in his tone, and he cleared his throat, “I know who you are.”

“Oh, you do?” Cookie said with a look of indifference, “Well then, that’s a nuisance, isn’t it? I shouldn’t be running around and putting my face on the newspaper. Naughty, Cookie,” she patted her own forehead, like it was a joke. Kronos summoned a Colt Roadburn before Cookie. He smiled at her and waved happily.

“Hi, Granny! I love you!” the duplicate shouted, happily, “Can we play today?” The old mare looked at the colt with a shocked look.

“Such a sweet, little foal he was,” Kronos told her, “I wonder where his parents are…if there were any for him.”

Granny grew cross, “Leave my grandson out of this!”

“Oh?” Kronos tilted his head to the side, “Is that attachment I sense? My, my, Cookie, you’ve made such a mess.”

“I’ve made a mess?” Cookie looked at him, “You’re the one who stole me from my grandson, and destroyed Canterlot, trying to rule over Equestria!”

“So you do recall the legend!” Kronos laughed, “And so I assume you remember everything else,” Granny Cookie just stood there and stared at Kronos, long and hard, “You see, I have a deal for you. You must show me your work, and if you don’t,” he clutched one hand and the colt Roadburn disintegrated into dust, “I will have to destroy what pathetic things you hold so dear.” Granny was shocked by this and growled at Kronos.

“You monster!” she shouted, “You leave my grandson out of this!”

“He was already in this to begin with, Cookie,” Kronos told her, gravely, “You must understand that what you’ve done has consequences. And he is one of them.”

Questions

Chapter 14
Questions

In the Lock and Key Hotel, Roadburn sat onto his haunches as the seven mares discussed on how they were going to get back to the Crystal Empire. Some argued, others laughed and Roadburn was the only one who remained silent. Soon he became a little drowsy and he fell asleep.

Soon, the laughing and the voices of mares faded away and it was replaced by the giggling of foals. Roadburn opened his eyes to see that he was now in Canterlot, in broad daylight, too. He found that he was sitting at a table with two foals: Vinyl and himself. They paid no mind to the real Roadburn as they giggled a laughed. “Okay, okay, okay!” Vinyl giggled, “Do it again!”

Colt Roadburn sucked in some air, making his cheeks puff out, and he closed his eyes as he flopped down both ears. He lifted one ear and opened the opposite eye, which looked like it was humorously bulging, and he flopped the ear as he raised up the other one, closing one eye and opening the other, and he kept doing that until he opened both eyes and lifted both ears, looking silly. He let out the air, making a funny sound as his lips flapped against one another. The foals then burst in laughter, slamming their hooves on the table a little.

Roadburn smiled at this memory, and then he heard a familiar voice, “Hey!” the voice grabbed their attention. The foals and Roadburn looked to the side to see a chubby little foal wearing a tacky apron and hat. His mane was a light brown and scruffy and his coat was a light cream. “Don’t make a big racket! You’re scaring the costumers!” The little foal told them with a cross expression.

“Oh, sorry, dude,” Vinyl apologized as she stood up and walked over to the foal, “My name’s Vinyl Scratch. What’s your’s, dude?”

The foal looked at her questioningly, “Joe, Pony Joe,” Joe replied, “My mom owns this restaurant, so you better quiet down, please.”

“Oh, okay, okay!” Vin nodded, “We’re sorry, dude. We’ll go and play somewhere else,” she then turned to Roadburn, “C’mon, Burn!” Colt Roadburn nodded and happily walked up to Vinyl.

“Okay, Vinyl!” he giggled, and turned to Pony Joe, “My name’s Roadburn!” he offered a hoofbump to the colt, “I’m new here in Canterlot! Nice to meet you!” The colt looked at his hoof puzzled, but he bumped it with his own hoof.

“Pony Joe,” the colt replied and Colt Roadburn playfully shook his hoof.

“Am I doing it right, Vinyl?” Colt Roadburn asked his friend, who laughed and stopped their hooves.

“Good enough, dude,” she replied with a giggle. The colt lets go of Pony Joe’s hoof with a giggle.

“See ya later, Joe!” Colt Roadburn waved as he and Vinyl made their leave.

Roadburn watched and decided to follow, and as he followed, he heard another distinct voice speak, “Roadburn? Burn! Roadburn!” The blue unicorn woke up with a stir and noticed that he was back in reality, “Good to see you’re still with us, dude,” Vinyl told him as Surprise and Spitfire walked in with a large bag.

“Everypony! Look what we found!” shouted Surprise as Spitfire laid the bag on the table and opened it, revealing weapons and armor fit for mares inside, “They were just lying there in the a Royal Guard outpost!”

Lyra took a sword and lifted it, “Seems a little heavy,” she said as she moved it from hoof to hoof, trying it out a little.

“That’s because you’re holding a short sword, Lyra!” Surprise told her as she pulled out a helmet and flail. She put on the helmet, “These weapons will help us fight our way to the Crystal Empire!”

“I’m not using one of these brutal tools!” Octavia said sternly as she turned around from the table, lifting her head, “I am way much gentler than that.”

“Dude, we kinda don’t have a choice here,” Vinyl told her.

“Yeah, and you’ve seen the size of those titans and what they can do,” Bonbon told her, “We need as much strength as we can muster to fight against them.”

“And it’s a good thing we have this guy!” laughed Vinyl, “We’ll get to the Crystal Empire in mere seconds.”

“Remind me why we’re going there, again,” said Roadburn.

“Jus’ to get more help, dude,” Vinyl told him.

“Well, I’m still not grabbing a weapon,” Tavi’ told them all, “I am a musician from Cantelot. I do not indulge in violence.”

“Okay, well, I guess you’ll just get ripped apart from those giant monsters,” Spitfire said with a snarky tone, “While we go and get back to the safety of the Crystal Empire.”

Octavia grew silent as she thought this over. They were in deep trouble and there’s no telling what could be after them. Better protect herself anyways. She reached over the table and grabbed a small knife, “Fine,” she replied, “I’ll do it.”

Surprise then jumped and slammed a helmet onto Tavi’s head, “Yay!” she shouted.

Meanwhile, outside Raziel’s Castle, Rarity and the others were spooked by the explosion and hurried into the main hall. “Eli! Eli!” Rarity shouted as she tried to look for the earth pony through the cloud of dust and smoke, “Eli, are you alright!?” There was no answer and Rarity began to panic, “We have to get down there now!” she told the others as she prepared for a jump.

“Rarity, no!” Sweetie Belle shouted as she and her friends hugged onto her hind legs, stopping her from jumping, “You’ll get seriously hurt, sis!”

“What do you suppose we do!?” huffed Rarity, “We can’t just leave him there to die!”

“L-Lady Rarity,” Spot tried to grab her attention as he hid behind Fido.

“What!?” shouted the unicorn in anger.

“W-we…might be able to reach him…by s-searching through the castle…” Spot suggested, “R-right…?”

Rarity thought it over and nodded, “Yes, that’s what we’re going to do!” the unicorn shook off the Cutie Mark Crusaders and trotted around the hole, “Come now! We don’t have any time!” The Diamond Dogs and CMC quickly follow her through the castle, searching for a way down.

Meanwhile, up North, Merciful continues his search for their group as he carried Twilight Sparkle through the forest. “We shall come upon them at any moment,” The dark alicorn told his unconscious friend, “Please, stay alive.” Mercy then heard a great shouted and he hurried to the source by flight. He gently landed at the edge of a large hole, and at the bottom he could see dust afloat. He squinted his eyes, trying to see through the cloud, and soon it settled on six stallions, each wearing Royal Guard armor and looking back up to him. “I say, dear fellow!” one with a fancy accent shouted to him, “Could you help us out from here?”

“Those of you who can fly, give me assistance, please,” said Mercy as he laid Twilight down, gently. Soon after getting the heavy stallions out from the abyss, Merciful was given gratitude.

“Thank you, dear fellow, for removing us from the hideous hole,” the fancy pony thanked him, “I say, you aren’t Merciful by any chance. Are you?”

“Yes, I am,” Merciful replied as he gestured to Twilight, “and my friend requires medical attention, quickly.”

“That’s okay!” the short ginger unicorn shouted with a first aid kit in his magical grasp, “I can help with that! What does the princess need?”

“She was struck by lightning during a battle with Nightmare Moon,” Mercy told them, and each stallion gasped, shocked to hear the name, “You’ve heard of this being before?”

The fancy stallion exchanged looks with the yellow unicorn, and walked over to Merciful, “Nightmare Moon was an evil that was hidden deep beneath your sister; Princess Luna.”

“I am aware of this,” replied Merciful plainly. Jacko turned to his work.

“Nightmare Moon was born from her jealousy and greed for attention,” the stallion continued, “and as such she tried to shroud the land in eternal darkness. We know the story all too well.”

“I see,” replied Merciful as he looked into the stallion’s eyes, seeing his thoughts and memories, quickly, “Well, that makes sense. Now tell me, who are you? And what are you doing here outside of the Crystal Empire, wearing Royal Guard armor?”

“I am Fancypants,” the fancy stallion replied to him, taking off his helmet and letting his mane fall into place, “and these are my stallions.”

Meanwhile, in the Lock and Key Hotel, everypony was trying out their new equipment and armor, except Roadburn, who didn’t think he’d need such things. He sat alone at the table as they were practicing in the reception room. Eventually, Bonbon walked into the room, curious on why he wasn’t spending so much time with them and sat across the table. Roadburn looked up to see her with his dull look of indifference.

“Lemme guess,” said he, “You’re going to try to persuade me to put on some armor and carry a sword?”

Bonbon merely shook her head, “No, sir,” she told him, “Not at all.”

“Then why are you here?”

“It’s just that you’re always alone,” explained Bonbon, thoughtfully, “and I’ve been wondering why you do this. Everypony else is in the other room, but you don’t seem to care that much. How come?”

Roadburn remained silent for a long moment, “Why should you care?” he finally asked.

“Well, you just seem a little, I dunno…sad,” replied Bonbon and Roadburn looked down to the table with more silence, “It’s alright to tell me. I won’t tell anypony, honestly. I keep a lot of secrets,” she tried to give him a comforting smile, “Was it a break up? Somepony thought you were dumb, maybe? Or did you lose somepony close to you?”

Roadburn looked up to her with a slight look of surprise, but he quickly hid it away as he looked to the side, “S…Something like that…” he finally answered.

Lyra looked at him confused, “Somepony close?” Roadburn nodded, “Well, how’d it happen?”

“She was taken from me.”

“And this she was your mother? Wife? Grandmother?” asked Bonbon, politely.

“Grandmother,” Roadburn replied with a sad glimpse.

“Sorry to hear that,” replied Lyra, “I guess, you did mention that earlier,” she nodded, remembering the time they acquainted in the cave, “and she taken, right? By who?”

Roadburn didn’t answer, at first, but he turned his glare back to Bonbon, “By a monster,” said he. Lyra slightly frowned from Roadburn’s glare, “Is there anything else you’d like to ask?”

“Well…there is one more thing…” Bonbon told him, “A little earlier, I saw Surprise talking to herself in the mirror. Do you know why?”

Roadburn shook his head, “Other than the fact that she’s insane, no,” he replied to her.

“Well, she did say some pretty weird things,” Bonbon nodded to Roadburn, “Like, ‘then we’ll have to send them to aid those guys’, and, ‘well, everything’s going great over here’! Stuff like that.”

“Insanity,” Roadburn replied as he sat back and crossed his arms, “I don’t know what her deal is with me, but she’s fixated on me like a lost puppy.”

“Maybe, or maybe she sees something in you that you like to hide, making it hard for us to see it,” Bonbon told him, thoughtfully, “Besides, she does act like a certain pony my friends and I know and love.”

Roadburn nodded, “And who would that be?”

“Her name is Pinkie Pie,” she replied, “She worked at a little place called Sugar Cube Corner. She throws all sorts of parties and banks a lot of sweets and stuff like that. She everypony’s friend, and if she was Surprise, there would be no difference.”

“Well, I haven’t seen Surprise do any of those things,” he replied to her, “other than her being friends with everypony all the time.”

Bonbon giggled, “You seem so calm when you’re annoyed,” she complimented him.

Roadburn blushed faintly, “I-I…er… Sure,” muttered the blue unicorn, “I guess…”

“My, aren’t you a riddle, Burn,” Bonbon told him, “I like riddles,” she leaned in a little close and laid her hooves onto the table, crossing them under her, “You’re one I’d love to crack.”

Roadburn was surprised at her direct approach, but he kept his composure and stood up, “I’m better off alone,” the stallion told her as he walked into the kitchen, leaving the mare alone. As a rule, he never romanticizes with anypony, it was a distraction to him and if he got too close he would reveal too much. Vinny knows this, too, and she understands his space.

Burn pulled out a cup from the shelf and poured some water from the sink into it. He never uses magic, let alone knows any. He found life simpler this way. As he drank his water, Spitfire came into the room, wearing her armor as she came over to the sink, making herself a glass.

“Preparing for battle is some hard work, huh?” Spitfire said and she took a sip from her drink, “Aren’t you gonna join?” Roadburn didn’t answer as he drank from his water, making Spitfire uncomfortable, “Oooookay…” she said and she took a gulp. Roadburn continued ignoring her, but his concentration broke once she nudged him, “Hey! I don’t bite, buddy. I just wanna talk. You said your name was Roadburn, right?” Roadburn then sighed and gave her a nod, “And Vinny’s said you’ve got plenty of speed. What’s that supposed to mean? Are you fast runner?” silence was her only answer as the sound of rain tinkled onto the window and roof, “Why so secretive?” Spitfire nudged him again, “Do you have trust issues, or something?”

“I…” Roadburn sighed, “I’m a fast runner. Yes.”

“How fast are you?” the yellow Pegasus asked him, “Y’see, I’m a Wonderbolt and I’m interested in speed, too, y’know.”

“I’m…fast enough,” he replied.

“Heh. ‘Fast enough,’ eh?” she bopped his shoulder with a hoof; “I like you. You aren’t as cold as Tavi’ keeps complaining about.”

“She talks about me like a bad thing?” Roadburn asked her, curious.

“Well, yeah, but don’t worry,” she told him, patting his back; “You’re not a bad thing. Surprise sees that, Vinyl sees that, and I see that.”

“Do you think I see that?” Burn asked her, curious.

“I dunno,” Spitfire answered, puzzled, “Do you?”

“I sometimes scare myself…” Roadburn admitted, looking at his drink, “I don’t know my parents. I don’t know my own strength… When I was young, I used to have nightmares of terrible things; screaming, and unnatural sounds. The voices of ponies I can’t recognize…” he then realized he said too much, and looked over to Spitfire, who tilted her head, listening to him, quietly, “I’m sorry… You must think I’m crazy like Surprise now, don’t you?”

Spitfire shook her head, “Nah,” she answered him, “Not even close. You don’t talk to mirrors at least. Heh, heh. It mostly sounds like you had a rough foalhood. Do you have those nightmares?”

Roadburn merely shook his head, “No, I… I just remember things…” he took a sip from his glass.

“What kind of things?” Spitfire asked him, curious.

“Foalhood stuff,” the blue unicorn told her, “They’re how I met Vinyl and others…”

“You have more friends?” asked Spitty, “How many?”

Roadburn thought it over a bit. Many ponies consider him a friend: Fancypants, Luckyshoes, Jacko Lantern, Soarin’, Turnip Top, and Pony Joe. “Enough,” Roadburn told her as he sipped his drink again.

“Am I considered a friend?” Spitfire asked the blue unicorn, and he could there was a faint blush on her face. Now he was stuck. He couldn’t be rude and just leave her like this. She was a nice pony and he might as well be polite.

“Yeah, uhm…” he nodded quickly, “A friend of Vinyl is a friend of mine.”

“Funny,” Spitty giggled a little, “Back there you said you were better off alone,” she then finished her drink and walked out the kitchen, leaving Roadburn a bit flabbergasted, and uneasy. True, that’s what he said, but is that what he truly feels?

Meanwhile, at the bottom of Raziel’s Castle, Eli laid in the midst of fallen debris. His eyes shot open, and he gasped for air, painfully coughing in the process. The green pony looked up to see the giant hole that was made and the fire from the oak tree was still burning, but not so much as he anticipated. He laid there and rolled around off his stomach, but his leg halted the roll. Eli looked at it and found his leg crushed under the weight of a huge boulder. The green pony winced in pain and let out a scream in agony. He laid back onto his stomach and screamed a little more. “Calm down!” A small voice shouted in front of him and it caught his attention. Eli saw a tiny pony in front of him with small insect wings, much like a fly. It was definitely a mare as her white mane reached down to her hooves. Her tails was also stretched out some too. She had a pure white coat and bright red eyes. Eli gritted his teeth still from the pain and groaned a bit, trying to hold back the agony.

“It’s okay, mister,” the little pony told him as she trotted up to his nose, she spoke with a small, cute girl voice, “I’ll save you! Just sit tight!” The pony then fluttered up and landed on the giant rock that held down Eli, and made a long whistle. For a long moment, nothing happened, but then stomping could be heard and felt along the floor. It grew a little more violent as the stomping grew closer. Eli slowly looked up to see a bi-pedal stone giant walk into the light. It carried a huge claymore on its back behind its head, and Eli could see that it looked like a pony, but with a shorter neck and muzzle, it stood on two legs, and it had hands. The face of the being had a giant green gemstone set on it. It also seemed to be wearing some armor.

“Could you help this mister out, please?” said the smaller pony and with a nod, the giant walked over and lifted the stone debris off of Eli’s leg with ease. Eli watched in surprise as the giant hurled the stone away, like a frisbee. The green stallion turned over onto his rear and felt his leg. He winced once he felt the sharp pain on his shin. The small pony landed on his shoulder. “Excuse me,” she grabbed his attention, “Is your leg broken?”

“Uh…yeah… I think so,” Eli nodded as he sniffed.

The little pony fluttered over to his leg, gently, “I can fix it, if you’ll let me, sir,” she told him. Eli thought she was nice and he nodded. The pony fluttered up to the stone giant’s shoulder and Eli couldn’t see what was happening up there, but soon she came back with a bag and she stopped over his leg. “This is a healing medicine that my people made for unfortunate ponies, like you,” she explained as she pulled out a small bottle and poured out a light blue liquid onto Eli’s leg. It sparkled as it was dribbled onto his fur. “Try it now,” the small pony nodded to him and Eli first felt his leg. No pain.

“Whoa,” Eli said as he stood back up, “Thanks a bunch, little guy.”

“’Little guy’!” the pony huffed, angrily with Eli and fluttered up to his face, “First off: I’m not little! I’m just short! Second off: I’m a girl!” The stone giant reached down and gently moved a hand between Eli and the pony. The pony looked up to the giant and smiled, “You’re right, Atlas. I shouldn’t have let myself get angry,” Atlas then moved its hand from between them and the pony sighed to compose herself, “Let me start again. First off: I’m not little. I’m short. Second: I’m a girl. Not a guy. Okay?” Eli quickly nodded, just a little spooked by the little pony’s outburst, “Now, I thought I saw something else fall with you… What was it?”

Eli immediately remembered what she meant, “Oh, Alamos!” he then hurried to find the shield, “Al! Alamos! Where are you?”

“Over here, you knave,” shouted Alamos under the debris, “I’m buried under your mess.” Eli sighed, relieved to know where the shield was and Atlas soon dug the shield out from the pile, “Thank you, giant. I am forever indebted to you,” Atlas then gave the shield back to Eli, who took it.

“Thanks, Atlas,” Eli thanked him, and looked over to the little pony, “What’s your name?”

“My name’s Rose Petal!” answered Rose, “I’m a breezie!”

“A pleasure to meet you,” Alamos replied, “My name is Alamos, Shield of Sanctuary, and this is Knave Eli. We’re on a quest to find the Scabbard of Order.”

“Oh, the Scabbard, eh?” the little breezie giggled, “Of course, I can help you find the Scabbard. We’re in the catacombs of the castle, you silly.”

“I…don’t think I follow,” Eli replied with puzzlement.

“Oh, Atlas and I are the guardians of the Scabbard,” explained Rose to them, “which would mean that the Scabbard of Order is hidden somewhere in here! Many thieves like to run in and take the Scabbard, but we’ve been able to throw them out, like the trash they are!”

“How brave for somepony such as you,” Al remarked, “Doesn’t it get lonely by yourself?”

“Nope!” said Rose, “I have Atlas with me. He’s a big sweetiepie!” she then flew up to the big being and hugged its stone chest, “Isn’t that right, Atlas?” The stone giant nodded as he used one hand to embrace her tiny hug.

Eli smiled, “Well, that’s great!” he chuckled, “Now, can you show us the way.”

“Oh, we can’t just let anyone we see to take the scabbard,” replied Rose as she lets go of Atlas, who let her go as well, “You’ll need to defeat us!” she landed onto the floor and stood up onto her hind legs, “Put ‘em up! C’mon!” Eli couldn’t help but crack a smile and snicker. Atlas reached down, gently picked up Rose Petal by the tail and shook his head.

“Aw, c’mon, Atlas!” complained Rose as she was sat onto his shoulder, “You never let me have any fun!” She crossed her arms, unhappily as Atlas patted her head with his giant stone finger. After a short moment, Rose cheerfully hugged his finger. Once she let go, Atlas reached for his claymore and pulled it out, readying himself for a fight. Eli gulped as he reached for his long sword, but he felt nothing. He looked to his back and found that the sword was missing.

“Oh, shoot!” Eli shouted as Atlas readied a downward strike. The green pony looked at him with a nervous smile and chuckle. Suddenly, he bolted, leaving a puff of smoke of his shape. Atlas gave chase.

the Bowels of Arigos

Chapter 15
the Bowels of Arigos

` Helpful and company followed Rigel deeper into the mechanical mayhem of Arigos. The steel walls turned from silver to red and the air became hot, like an oven almost. “Jeez, Rigel,” said Boltage as he began to sweat, “Could you turn down the thermostat in this place? It’s so hot!”

“My apologies,” Rigel replied, “but my prison works under these conditions endlessly. It’s a simple part of the punishment that our prisoners deal with everyday. It’s supposed to make them have regrets.”

“Why would you work them to work like this?” asked Gilda.

Rigel stopped in front of a wide window, “See for yourself,” he said and everypony walked up to the window and peered through the glass. What they saw shocked them. It was like seeing the inside of a giant clock, but with molten magma being poured and moved around, while prisoners work, pulling levers and breaking rocks with pickaxes on long assembly lines above. Most prisoners worked the assembly line as a few worked the levers, the rest: a small hoof-full of prisoners, sat around and hugged their hind legs. None of the group could see their faces as they were turned around.

“W-What’re they doing?” Helpful asked, nervously curious.

“They are preparing,” Rigel told him, “As punishment for their misdeeds and rejection of peace, they were sent here and be forced to work for the Star Symbols in the most brutal fashion.”

“I see that’s labor,” Bolt said, thinking he had the right idea.

“That’s a mere portion of it, Boltage,” replied Rigel as he tapped his war hammer onto the glass of the window, gently, and he small group of ponies huddling around each other and turned their attention toward them. Everypony except Rigel and Magi gasped in shock at the sight of their faces. Their eyes and mouths were sewn shut with small dry trails of blood from their wounds. They all quickly stumbled to the window, muffling sounds and moans as they placed their hooves and faces against the glass.

“This is what happens to those who will defy their punishment,” explained Rigel to the horrified group, “If they wish to see the light of day and breath the air of freedom, then they have no need for their senses for they had none to begin with.”

“That’s insane!” Trixie shouted, misunderstanding, “How could you do something so cruel to them!? They probably had families! Parents! Friends that loved them dearly and you put them in here! You… You monster!”

Rigel gave Trixie a hard glare, “You believe I’m the monster?” he said, “Do you have any idea how many lives these ponies took? The amount of mares they ambushed in the night? Stealing their flowers? Then, leave them to die; bleeding what little life they had left? Do you know how many laws they have each broken? How much chaos they’ve began? What lives they’ve ruined because they were too busy seeking for pleasure, when what they should’ve been seeking was obedience!” a great silence took place at that moment, “If you believe I do not care for these poor, forgotten souls: that is your decision, but I will say this. There isn’t a mere second that goes by without my pity on them. They had so much more to live for, so much promise, but they threw it away, worrying about themselves,” he swung his hammer and pointed at the window, “and that was their fate!” Trixie grew silent on the matter as she listened to him, “Ponies that believe they can live their lives for themselves only fall here!”

“But why not give them a second chance?” Trixie asked him, trying to show a little mercy.

Rigel lowered his hammer and gained back his composure, “Everypony like them are given thousands upon thousands of chances,” he replied, “Some are given chances every day, others, not so often. It staggers the imagination of how often they’re given mercy in their lives and they don’t see it.”

“I…I…” Trixie lowered her head in sadness. The words he said scare her. She has been trying her best to live her life better than her selfish ways, but now, she feels like she was sent hurtling downwards to the ground, hard, and she can’t get up. Was this the fate of the selfish? Boltage began to notice her silence and wrapped an arm around her shoulders, holding her close.

“Hey, Trix,” Bolt grabbed her attention, “It’s okay. I know it hurts, but…they could’ve saved themselves before.”

“I don’t understand,” Trixie whimpered as tears formed in her eyes, “Why? Why couldn’t they stop their ways? Why? Why, why, why, why, why!” she began crying and Boltage held her close, “I’m sorry! I’m so sorry!”

“It’s alright, Trix,” Boltage told her, “Everything’ll be alright. We’ll be back home soon.”

Rigel walked over to them and placed a hoof onto Trixie’s shoulder, “I’m sorry that I grieved you so much, dear pony,” he apologized to her.

“Well, all this punishment brings an important question,” said Helpful, “what are they making?”

Meanwhile, in Raziel’s Castle, Rarity, the CMC and the Diamond Dogs met back with each other back on the top of the stairs of the main hall. “Did you find anything?” Rarity hurriedly asked.

“We’re sorry, Lady Rarity,” Fido told her, “We haven’t found anything that’ll lead us down there.”

“Neither did we,” Applebloom added, “Sorry, Rarity.”

“Ooh!” Rarity moaned as she began to trot in place a bit, “Do you think he’s okay?”

“We’re not sure, sis,” Sweetie Belle told her, “but we’ll get to him soon enough, okay?” The CMC all smiled to comfort Rarity, but she ignored them, pacing in place, while muttering to herself.

“Rarity,” Scootaloo tried to grab her attention, “Please, calm down!”

“’Calm down’?” Rarity looked at her in surprise, “How can any of you stay calm!? Eli’s probably lost and alone, cold and maybe even hungry! How long has it been since he ate!?”

“You’re worried about his stomach?” Scoot asked with an odd look.

“Well, wouldn’t you be worried too?” the white unicorn asked them, “Eli’s in so much trouble!”

“Okay, Rare,” said Applebloom as her friends and she walked over to stop her pacing, “It’s time to take a little breather.”

Rarity sighed and smiled at them, “You’re right, Applebloom,” she replied, “It’s just that Equestria’s only hope is now probably lost to us, and there’s nothing I can do!” Rarity flailed an arm and the fillies all ducked as the arm flew and smacked the frame of a blank and torn portrait, causing it to abruptly fall onto the floor and slowly, creakily fell onto the whole group, making them break through the dilapidated paper. Rarity had an outraged look on her face and the others became uneasy as they back away.

“Where’s Eli!?” Rarity screamed at the top of her lungs. Everyone held onto their ears from Rarity’s sonic blast of a scream, and once she was finished, Scootaloo noticed an open shaft in the wall that the picture was hung from.

“Hey, look!” Scoots grabbed everyone’s attention as she pointed to the shaft, “That looks like a way down!”

Rarity wasted no time as she jumped down the shaft with a shout, “I’m coming, Eli!”

Meanwhile, in Spike’s Dream Reality, Snips and Snails sneak back into Ponyville, and make their way to a window of Town Hall. They peer through the glass to find Spike standing with a rope tied around his wrist and tied to Rarity, who stood beside him with a large, excited grin. Mayor Rare stood at the pedestal as everypony talked among themselves and squealed their love to Spike, who began to grow nervous for his life.

Mayor Rare cleared her throat to grab everypony’s attention, “Filly’s and Gentle-Rares,” she started, “We are all gathered here today to discuss our yearly schedule for who gets the Spike privileges.”

“I get first dibs!” Bonity shouted as she jumped in the midst of the crowd, which created a big argument, and Mayor Rare shouted, “Quiet! Quiet!” they all hushed, “Anyways, seeing that our Ponyville is populated with over three-hundred sixty-five mare, each of us be assigned an annual days of the year to take care of our little Spiky Wikey!”

“Wait,” Spike whispered to himself, “Three-hundred sixty-five mare are taking care of me?” he looked out to the immense crowd and shuddered, harshly, “I think I’ll pass for the next lucky dragon!”

“Oh, now come, Spiky,” Rarity told him, “You know you love us, and we love you, so come here and give you wuving marefriend a hug!” she opened up her arms and scooped up Spiky, cradling him like a little baby, “I love you, my wittle Spiky Wikey.” Spike screamed at the top of his lungs and everypony laughed.

Snips and Snails turned away from the window, “Wow! Things have gotten worse than we imagined!” Snips told his brother.

“Yeah!” Snails nodded, “To think that there’s three hundred, sixty-five mares in one town. How much male population is left! I mean, it may become the planet of the mares!”

“No, no, no, you blockhead!” shouted Snips, annoyed, “The three hundred, sixty-five mares is how many mares he’s seen, not the entire population of Ponyville!”

“Oh… But how’re we gonna get in and save Spike?”

“Easy! I’ve got a plan!” Snips said as he rubbed both of his stubby hooves together, making a mischievous look.

“We’re going to throw pudding at them?” Snails asked, still not following him.

“Wait. What? Huh. Er…” Snips shook his head, “Aw, c’mon!” The small unicorn gestured for him to follow as he walked away, and his brother followed.

Meanwhile, in Arigos, Rigel stopped before a great iron door that seemed to have nothing to open it with, but before them was a gear attached to the floor, which through the glass on the floor, they could see many other gears below them. Rigel flipped around his weapon and turned the pyramid counterweight and the group saw the hammer side open up into four parts. “Stand back,” Rigel told them and everypony stepped backward, giving him space. The Star slammed the open hammer side into the gear, making a perfect fit in the gear’s teeth. He pushed it around, like a huge crank. The gears below made a great creak at first, and they all began to move, forcing the iron door to open, revealing an ancient chamber.

“Whoa,” everypony remarked in awe as the door opened.

Rigel stopped and pulled his weapon out, “Enter,” he told them and they followed Rigel. Once inside, they found long rows of pony-like machines, each of them chrome colored and unmoving, hooked up to the walls behind them with wires and pipes. They stopped at the middle of the hall, and stared at the vast array of machines in awe. The rest of the hall before the hall seemed to be vast, and endless. Gilda came to the side and placed her claw on a force field, which made a bouncing noise with a wave of white streaming through it.

“What are these, Rigel?” Helpful asked the Star, “What is this place?”

“We’re close to the heart of Arigos,” Rigel told him, “These machines are the army the Star Symbols have plans for. However, I know not of their purpose, I only serve.”

“Which you stopped doing once they took your wife,” Gilda scoffed with crossed arms.

“Gilda…” said Trixie, motioning her to be silent.

“Again, I apologize,” bowed Rigel to Gilda, “I had no way to fight against Kronos.”

“You have done nothing wrong, Rigel,” Magi assured him, “Kronos merely had you pacified, and we forgive you.”

“Magi, do you know why these machines are made here?” Bolt asked the old scorcerer.

“You are right to ask, Storm Charger,” nodded the old unicorn, “I’m afraid even I wouldn’t know. The Star Symbols don’t tell us everything, and sometimes, they don’t tell us anything.”

“What makes you think they’re on our side?” Gilda asked, “I mean, really. Think about it. They’ve done nothing, but make everypony else do work. Now, they’re building an army, a vast legion of machines!” she gestured a claw to the machines around them, “They don’t tell us all the information we need! They don’t tell us anything! They’re a bunch of cowards!”

“Silence!” Rigel shouted in rage, making Gilda and the others jump, and, “Do not speak of my masters in such disdain! You do not know what they sacrifice to protect our planet, our world! Most of my brothers have died in the Human and Pony War with great valor, and you have the nerve to desecrate their deaths with your words of slander! The Star Symbols dedicate their lives to protect us and yet you have the nerve to speak of them so lowly! You have no idea how much rage you can invoke with only a few careless words! If I didn’t know any better, you sound jus--!”

“Rigel!” Magi grabbed Rigel’s attention with a stern shout, “That’s enough. You’ve made your point.” Rigel looked over to Magi and sighed, regaining his composure.

“I will give you this warning, Gilda,” the Star told her with a hateful glare, “Your carelessness will lead to suffering and anguish.”

Gilda just glared back and turned away, “Whatever,” she said, and Helpful and Boltage exchanged looks as Trixie remained silent. A long silence passed.

“We must go on, Rigel,” Magi told the Star, “We don’t have much time.”

Rigel nodded to Magi, “Follow me,” he said as he walked back to the exit with the group and closed the door with a great slam.

Meanwhile, in Spike’s World, Spike was dragged by Rarity through the dirt as they came into her boutique. “Oh, I can’t wait to begin our day, Spiky Wikey!” Rarity giggled, “I’ve got so many outfits for you to try!”

“Oh, no!” the baby dragon shouted as he squirmed in the dirt, being pulled by the rope, “Please, don’t! I don’t wanna live like this! Please!” he began to cry as Rarity picked him up and gave him a big kiss on the forehead, then cradled him as she walked inside, closing the door behind her.

Snips popped his head out from the brush beside the door, “Snails,” he whispered to the other bush, “Are you ready?”

“Yep!” Snails yelled loudly as he popped out his head, “Ready for what?”

“Shh!” shushed Snips as he flailed his arms a little “Be quiet!”

“Oh, sorry,” the taller colt nodded.

“Do you remember the plan?”

“You mean the one that involves all this caramel that you asked me to confiscate from Sugar Cube Corner?” asked Snails as he pulled out a huge barrel of caramel from the bush.

“That’s the one,” giggled Snips.

“Can you run that by me again?” asked Snails, “I think I might’ve forgot.”

Snips sighed with a facehoof and looked up to Snails, “Fine. First: we take the barrel up to the roof of Rarity’s boutique, and we secretly cut a hole through the roof, next: we patiently wait for Rarity to walk under the hole and we pour the caramel on top of her, next: we jump inside, like ninjas, and cut the bonds between Rarity and him, finally: while Rarity’s distracted by her dirtied up mane, we ride the flying tiger to freedom!”

“But, Snips, we don’t a flying tiger,” Snails told his brother, “We don’t have a flying anything, and I don’t think Spike’s figured out how to properly use his mind… I don’t think he’s learned anything other than Rarity being a complete obsessive maniac, and that he hangs out with too many girls.”

Snips made a long sigh, “Just follow my lead, please?”

“Okay then!” Snails nodded. Inside, Rarity carried Spike and sat him in front of the table.

“Now, Spiky,” she said as she began to browse through her cabinets, “I have just the thing to cheer you up,” the white unicorn turned around and placed a cake in front of Spike. It was a several inches high and round, covered with white icing and lined with purple icing on the bottom, and green icing on the top, and written in green icing had, “Welcome Spiky Wikey!”

Spike looked at the cake and wiped off his dry face, “What is this?” he asked, uncertain.

“It’s a gemstone cake!” Rarity squealed as she pulled as she cut out a slice and gave it Spike, “Go ahead and taste it!”

Spike took his fork and dug a chunk off the cake, holding it up to his face, uncertain still since all the Raritys here are complete psychopaths. The baby dragon looked back to Rarity and she sat near him, leaning over the table, holding her head up with her hooves.

After a long moment of silence, Spike could hear some noise from above, like sawing. He looked up to see a saw cut through the ceiling and make a hole, right above Rarity, and watched as the ceiling piece was caught and pulled up. Spike could then see Snips and Snails above with a big barrel, “Now!” Snips shouted and they poured caramel from the barrel onto the shocked Rarity, who freaked out. Snips and Snails jumped down and used their magic to break Spike loose from the rope. The chubby unicorn knocked out the fork from Spike’s claw, “No!” he sighed, “It’s good thing we came back for you, or you would’ve been stuck here forever!”

“Or at least, till we decided to come back for you,” Snails chuckled, unwittingly. Snips and Spike made an indifferent look at Snails, who noticed, “What?”

“Nothing,” Spike said as he turned to the door, “Let’s get outta here!”

Snips and Snails followed him as they ran, “Right behind you!” they shouted, and Spike stopped at the door, “Great! Almost out! Now what’s the plan on getting out of Ponyville, avoid the Raritys and whatever next you both have in store for me?”

“Uhmmmm, heh, heh…” Snips nervously chuckled.

“Wait…” the baby dragon turned to them with a look of indifference, “You haven’t got one, do you?”

“No,” the unicorn brothers concurrently answered. Spike facepalmed hard. Morons. Suddenly, the sound of heavy breathing could be heard from behind as Snips and Snails felt the breathing behind them. Spike opened his eyes wide as he noticed the caramel-covered, outraged Rarity behind Snips and Snails, who looked oblivious to it.

“Uh,” Spike pointed behind them, “Guys…”

“What?” Snails asked him.

“L-Look behind you,” stuttered the baby dragon and the unicorns looked back to see the outraged mare. Snails had his usual dull look as Snips was wide-eyed with alert.

“Oh. Well that lasted shorter than we thought,” said Snails.

“Run!” Snips shouted as he reared and Spike opened the door, letting the little unicorns run out and he hitched a ride by grabbing the tail of Snails. Spike pulled himself onto Snips’ back, and he looked back to see the Rarity give chase.

“Theives!” the white unicorn shouted, “Those little thieves are stealing Spiky Wikey!” Immediately, the town shook as a herd of Raritys gave chase and galloped right behind the three escapees.

“Guys!” Spike cringed as he saw the Raritys gaining on him, “They’re gaining on us!”

“We’re going as fast as we can!” Snips shouted. Suddenly, another herd of Raritys appeared before them, headed by Sparity.

“Halt thieves!” the Twilight-Rarity shouted at them.

Spike yelped and began to run out of ideas, but he remembered something. Something he promised he would never do again so long as he lived, but now he has no choice. He took his tail and made a frown of determination, “Sorry, tail,” he said and took a deep breath, and bit his tail. The pain surged through his body, causing his reaction of self-defense and he blasted a concentrated green flame. He held onto Snips as they gained speed and Snails jumped onto Spike, and they came straight toward the gang headed by Sparity. “We’re gonna hit them!” Snails shouted, and right when they would’ve hit them, Spike shot them skyward and they flew directly over Ponyville.

“Whoohoo!” Snips and Snails both shouted in triumph, but then Spike’s fire began to sputter and weaken, and soon they were all sent hurtling toward the forest of Everfree, each screaming on the way down.

Meanwhile, at Raziel’s Castle, Rarity fell down the shaft for a few moments and then she hit a slide, causing her to move forward and around in circles, and soon, she came to an opening and slid into a complete stop. She laid there on the dusty stone floor with her eyes rolling in the dark. The circling left her stomach upset. “Ohh…” moaned Rarity and she halted a vomit with her hooves and swallowed it back down, “Ugh! That’s nasty! I just… Ew!” her ears perked to the sound of galloping, and she sat up, looking around for the source, “Hello? Who’s there?” said she as the white unicorn peered through the shadows. The galloping grew closer and closer, “Eli?” Rarity said, “Is that you? Where are you, darling?” the galloping came so close that she could find the source, and she turned, “Eli?” Wham!

Prologue

Kronos: Lord of the Titans, Bearer of Chaos, Devil. He was once human. Several generations ago, he became Emperor, enslaving ponies everywhere. They endured arduous labor and hardship while the humans lounged about in the city. The ponies were forced to scramble for food scraps under their master’s table. The land knew no friendship, no kindness, no honesty, no loyalty, no generosity, no laughter, but it knew magic very well. Kronos was the first human to ever harness the mystical powers of the unicorns by using his Scepter: a steel rod with an Ice Diamond on top. It was the first object to ever control magic and the mythical titans, the only real power that made the ponies fear him so much. Although powerful, his magic was short-sighted.

Kronos had not known it, but two humans and two ponies fled from the Empire and found a small town named: Hope. Hope was a town where no pony or human would ever quarrel or command against one another. Instead, they were comrades, aiding one another in work, enduring together in hardships, playing together as a family, and celebrating as one. It seemed that Hope was a true example of the friendship, long forgotten in the Empire between humans and ponies, and it was all they needed. The two humans and ponies persuaded Hope to declare war with the Empire, and once they explained what all happened in that wretched city, Hope agreed. Then the first Human and Pony war commenced.

At the end of it all, Hope had succeeded and the Empire was captured. One of the ponies that escaped from the Empire was Magi. He found a sacred power beyond comprehension; he named it the Fourth Wall. It was an energy that was there, but then again, it wasn’t. Once the very day of Kronos’ sentence, Magi had mastered the power of the Fourth Wall and opened a rift between space and time. The sentence was exile, and it was one of the most interesting exiles they had. They exiled the servants of Kronos into the rift and taking the Scepter first, Magi pushed Kronos inside himself. Once that was finished, the humans of Hope and the Kronic Empire felt increasingly guilty of their race’s oppression on the kind ponies, and so they insisted on exiling themselves into the rift. Magi didn’t like such an action, but after he saw the shame and sorrow within their eyes, he allowed them to leave in peace into a new realm, and that was the last of the humans on this planet.

But it was not a surprise to Magi when he noticed that Kronos attempted to return through the rift on that same day; wanting the sweet taste of revenge on those ponies. However, Magi quickly closed the portal, and Kronos was sealed between two realms; the humans and the ponies. It was three days later that Magi had prophesied that Kronos would indeed return. Gathering his titan forces and enslaving the land again. During this, four heroes will emerge, and they will fight Kronos and his army. Kronos will have four generals under him: a Titan of Illogic, an Alicorn of Shadow, an Alicorn of Darkness, and a Demon of Fire. Their strengths will be evenly matched, but a change of loyalty will tip the balance and the four heroes will defeat the Titan Lord.

Magi had only caught a glimpse of such heroes in a vision. One hero was a Pegasus with the Power of Seven, the second was an Alicorn with Eyes of Judgment, the next was a Unicorn with Unexpected Speed, and the last was an Earth Pony, equipped with a Sword, Shield, and Scabbard, each bestowed with Insatiable Power. He explained that among these four, one of them would be the most unlikely and lowest of Ponies.

During the Generations of peace and life, Magi never failed to recall those events, even to this very day…

Author's Note

Still need to work on that Prologue some more. Not finished.

Somepony Different, Someplace Familiar

Chapter 1

Somepony Different, Someplace Familiar

“What are Diamond Dogs?” Helpful the Selfless asked as he pulled his wagon he brought from his mansion with Rarity through Everfree Forest, after lunchtime. The wagon was old, but it was large enough to be twice as large as a regular wagon at Sweet Apple Acres thus needing two ponies to pull.

“Oh, they’re just a group of canines that have eyes for precious gemstones.” Rarity explained to Helpful. “They can become quite troublesome at times. That’s why I had you come along with Spike and Snowy. While they dig for gems you can protect us from getting captured.”

“Yeah, well…my powers are still difficult to master.” Helpful explained, a little nervously. “But I’ll try my best to protect you three and the gems.” Giggling could be heard from inside the wagon from Spike and Snowy, making Rarity and Helpful curious. “What’s going on back there, guys?” As he looked back, Snowy and Spike looked over the edge of the wagon.

“Spike was showing me something just amazing!” Snowy answered with a smile. “What was it called again, Spike?”

“It’s a top, Snowy.” Spike replied as he pulled up the toy.

“Yeah, a top. Have you played with tops, Helpful?”

“I remember playing with tops before, but back then they were called ‘spinners’ and we spun them with string instead of our hooves.” The tan Pegasus explained as he remembered playing with the toy. “All that time on that island’s made you ignorant around this land.”

“Well, I wouldn’t say, ‘ignorant’, but yeah. Although I’ve been stuck there, I’m okay with being clueless.” The Ice Dragon replied. “I’m learning so many things, making so many friends that don’t eat themselves,” Rarity and Helpful exchanged looks of discomfort as they remembered the events on Snowy’s Island, “I’m sleeping on a bed instead of a nest in the trees that I have to build every day and if it rains, I won’t have to worry about getting wet because of the roof above my head. It’s practically paradise here, living with Fluttershy in Ponyville. I care for the animals while Fluttershy cares for me and the animals, at times.”

“Really?” Spike replied with a skeptical expression. “And there has been no downside?” Snowy gave that question some thought.

“Well, there’s Angel, but he’s the only real downside to my stay.” Snowy answered, and Spike believed him.

“’Stay’? You make it sound like you’re going to leave, Snowy. You should call it your home.” Helpful chuckled. “And who is this ‘Angel’?"

“Oh, he’s just Fluttershy’s pet.”

“Which is?”

“A rabbit.” Helpful immediately stopped, making Rarity almost trip onto the ground, but her harness saved her, and he stared out into space with wide eyes.

“Helpful, what’s wrong?” Rarity asked him, concerned. Soon, the Pegasus shook his head back to reality.

“Huh? Oh. It’s nothing, Rarity.” Helpful replied as they started on their path once more. Spike and Snowy exchanged odd looks while Rarity stared at Helpful oddly as well. That was just a little new from Helpful. It’s almost as if he was scared of something, but they decided to put the thought aside and continue. “So how’re you enjoying Equestria, Helpful?” Rarity asked him so she would forget the earlier thought.

“It’s been great and I love working for my sister as her most trusted servant.” Helpful explained to her. “I’ve been enjoying the life here in Ponyville and everything is just perfect. The foals like to play with me more and they made a fan club for me and whatnot. It’s great to help others here in Ponyville, because that’s what I do.”

“Sounds like you have a good life ahead, Helpful.” The White Unicorn remarked as they had entered a clearing in Everfree and stopped at their destination.



Down underground, a mine of Diamond Dogs laid and the Greedy Savages worked and labored on mining and digging for any precious jewels. The three head Diamond Dogs checked on their progress to see how much they have collected. Rover, their leader, walked to one of their iron wagons, but found it empty. “What?” Rover growled, irritated. “There aren’t any gemstones in this rust bucket!” He reached in and pulled out only a small pebble that fell apart into dust. His paw tightly clenched the dirt as he turned around to Spot and Fido, throwing the dirt in front of them. Spot immediately dashed right behind Fido for cover from Rover’s fury. “You said that pony could be able to find us more gemstones!” He snarled at them both.

“I know, Rover,” Spot replied, still behind Fido, “But he’s not cooperating with us, no matter what we do.”

“Did you try beating him?” The Diamond Dog growled again.

“Yes. We’ve t ried everything we’ve thought of to make him show us where the gems are,” Fido replied, nervous, “But he won’t break.”

“Well, then we’ll break his bones until he gives in!” Rover snarled as he stomped off from his comrades, who both sighed of relief as he left. Rover stomped into the prison and opened the cell that held the pony that they were keeping. “Now, Pony. You better show us where the gems are, or your bones will be dust.” The pony looked up toward Rover. The Diamond Dog, just now getting a good look at him, saw that the pony’s mane was a brown tangled mess. He had a dull green coat and blue eyes. He was teenaged, but the Cutie Mark he was supposed to have was gone. What really shocked Rover was that the pony was not the type of pony they needed, it was an Earth Pony. Not a captured Unicorn like Rover assumed from Fido and Spot. He was now angrier than before as this reality of miscommunication was revealed to him. “You! Stay here!” He growled, pointing at the Earth Pony to stay. Then he left the cell closing the door, locking the Pony inside. The Earth Pony dashed to the door of the cell, wincing in pain from his bruises.

“Where are you going?” He shouted after Rover.

“That’s none of your business, Pony!” Rover shouted back as he left the prison. The Earth Pony had awoken here in this mine a few days ago with no memory. He was terribly confused on why these dogs wanted him to find them gems when he doesn’t know how. He’s been beaten so many times that it hurts to even walk, or even sleep.



Up above, Spot and Fido cleverly hid themselves behind a large bush as they stalked Rarity and Spike, not sure why they’ve returned. “It’s that Pony again, Fido.” Spot whispered to his friend. “What’s she doing back here?”

“Maybe for a picnic?” Fido guessed.

“No, you fool!” Spot growled, but then he spotted Helpful and Snowy. “Look. There’s others.” They both watched as Helpful and Snowy walked to the wagon and filled it with gemstones.

“Uh-oh. We better leave before Rover finds out.” Fido and Spot turned around, but Rover was right behind them with a very infuriated expression.

“Find out about what?” He snarled, making them both squeal in fear. “You fools!” He stomped closer to them, forcing them to step back out of the bushes into the open, where everypony could see them. “That Pony you found was an Earth Pony, not a Unicorn!” He growled at them.

“L-look, Rover. We can explain.” Spot tried to reason with him.

“Excuses! That’s all you ever give me is excuses!” Their boss snarled. “You better find me a Unicorn, so help me, or I’ll skin you both alive and make you as supper and two new carpets on my floor! Do you understand?” Not looking behind them, Spot and Fido bumped into the wagon that Helpful, Rarity, Spike, and Snowy brought making Rover crash into them. The lead Diamond Dog growled in intense anger. “Who put this wagon here!?” He shouted with a reckonable level of volume.

“We did.” Rarity scoffed with her chin held high. “What you doing here?”

“I-It’s the Pony!” Fido stuttered, nervously.

“And she has others!” Spot added as they both bowed to her with respect. “Please don’t whine at us! We were just looking for gems when we noticed that you were as well.”

“Is that normal?” Helpful asked Spike, curious.

“Actually, Helpful, this is a first for me.” Spike replied.

“Get up, you idiots!” Rover pulled Fido and Spot back up onto their feet.

“But what if she starts whining again, Rover?” Fido asked him, nervous.

“I don’t care!” He snarled back.

“Oh, please, I don’t even care for what you’re after. I’m busy on my business and I’ll leave you alone if you leave me alone,
deal?” Rarity outstretched her hoof for a hoofshake. Rover looked at the Unicorn questioningly, but he grabbed her hoof and shook it gently.

“Deal.” He agreed with her, but Spike noticed that Rover’s expression had a slight smirk, and that meant trouble.

“Rarity! Be careful!” Spike warned her.

“Now, be confident, Spiky.” Rarity told the dragon. “Rover here understands th—AH!” Fido quickly scooped up Rarity into a bag and Spot swiftly tied it as Rarity struggled to get out.

“Ha! We have the Pony!” Rover shouted with delight. “Now we can find those gems again!” They all dashed off, but Helpful chased after them.

“No!” Helpful shouted as they all jumped into a hole that was quickly refilled by dirt from the inside. Helpful started digging, but he couldn’t get through. The dirt just continued to fill up. “Oh-no! Rarity!” He shouted in dismay as Spike and Snowy quickly dashed over to help him dig through the dirt. But it was to no avail.



Down below, in the mines of the Diamond Dogs, Rarity was squealing and whining as they took her to the prison cell throwing her out of the bag, and slamming the cell door hard. “Welcome back, Pony.” Rover cackled as Spot locked the door. “Don’t try to whine. It’ll only prove worse for you.”

“Let me out, please!” She whined as she stood back up, but they ignored her. Upon leaving the prison they secured an iron door behind them. “Oh, why I’ve never…” Rarity huffed. She heard a low moan behind her. Alarmed, she carefully turned around to find its source and was shocked to find a badly bruised Earth Pony on the floor. She dashed over to him deeply concerned, “Oh my stars, Darling! What happened to you?”

“They…they beat me and b-bruised me,” The Earth Pony groaned as Rarity helped him sit up, “All because they wanted me to show them where the gems were.”

“Oh my stars. Are you alright?”

“I’ll be fine.”

“How did you get captured?” She asked him curious.

“I don’t know. I can’t remember.” He rubbed his head, but winced in pain from the bruises.

“Here,” Rarity gently pulled the Earth Pony to a wall to lay him against, “Sit still and try to breathe, okay?” The Earth Pony nodded as Rarity concentrated her magic onto his wounds. She concentrated on the spell she learned from Twilight. The bruises began to heal, but slowly.

“M…My name is: Eli.” The Earth Pony told her. “What’s your name?”

“It’s Rarity.” She replied as she finished her spell. “Now you need to sit still and allow the magic to heal your bruises.”

“Okay.” Eli nodded as she sat beside him. Some time went by and the minutes felt like hours as the silence lingered around them. Rarity soon noticed that Eli had no Cutie Mark and that meant that he also may have amnesia. She decided to speak since there was nothing else to talk about. “Do you remember where you live?” She asked him, curious.

“No.” Eli answered. “I can’t remember anything. I just woke up on the floor of this cell, and that’s as far as I can remember.”

“Hm…” Rarity thought over this thoroughly.

“So where do you live?” Eli asked her to keep the conversation alive.

“I live in a town named: Ponyville.” Rarity answered him. “I own a fashion shop named the Carousel Boutique there.”

“Oh…” Eli replied with a thoughtful expression. “Do you make a good profit?”

“Every-so-often, yes.” Rarity nodded. Silence came back for a few seconds, until Eli spoke again.

“The Diamond Dogs mentioned that you’re here again. Have you been here before?”

“Yes, but they didn’t hurt me as much as they did you, those ruffians.”

“How’d you escape?”

“Well, I didn’t really escape… I took control over the Diamond Dogs. They did everything I said so they could find the gems they needed, but since they don’t listen to me now; I fear what may actually happen to me.” Rarity explained to Eli with a nervous expression. She looked up toward the ceiling in thought, but then she gasped at the feeling of another hoof gently holding hers. She looked down to her hoof and found that Eli was holding it. She quickly pulled it back from him and stood up. “Well, I didn’t know you felt that way, Eli.” She held her chin up high as she walked to the door, confusing the Earth Pony.



“Now what seems to be the problem?” Merciful asked the two mares as a crowd gathered around them.

“Well, Your Highness, when I came to the stand, I knew that the price for oranges was just three bits, but once I got there,
she raised the price to eight!” The first mare explained to him.

“That’s not true!” The second mare objected. “I had raised the price this morning, not once you got here. My husband just got fired from his job in Cloudsdale and now we can barely have enough profit to pay for resources. I needed to raise the price.” The crowd began to murmur and converse among themselves as Merciful turned his gaze to the first mare and then to the second, looking into both of their eyes. Finally, he came to a conclusion, and turned to the second mare.

“You are lying.” Merciful pointed at the mare. “You have no family, and your husband does not work in Cloudsdale--in fact, you have no husband at all. You did raise the price on the oranges once you saw this mare come your way, in a greedy effort to have even a larger profit, and have revenge after what she accidently did to your wagon.” The crowd became silent after the Prince explained this, and the second mare seemed to be a little withdrawn as well. “Greed and Revenge do not solve anything in life. Money cannot buy you Joy, and Revenge cannot bring you Satisfaction. When Violet broke the wheel of your wagon, it was indeed an accident. You should forgive her for she is truly sorry for her clumsiness, and never attempt such a course of action on anypony.” The second mare just glared back at Merciful, but she sighed sadly.

“Yes, Your Highness.” The second mare nodded. “I forgive you, Violet, and I’m sorry for trying to take a lot of your money.”

“I forgive you, Maggie.” Violet answered, and the two mares hugged and made up. Merciful watched in satisfaction as the two mares became good friends in a short length of time. As the crowd walked on toward their businesses, Applejack, who was watching the scene in the crowd, trotted over to Merciful, curious on how he could have known that happened.

“Hey, Mercy.” She grabbed his attention.

“Yes, Applejack?” Merciful replied, curious.

“How’d you know that the mare was lying?” Applejack asked him. “I mean, that really sounded true to me.”

“Well, my dear, ever since I was a young colt, I could see the thoughts and minds of ponies by just using eye contact.” The prince explained to her, but the mare looked at him confused.

“Say again?”

“I can see the truth, unlike other ponies.” Merciful, because of having the height of Luna, kneeled down to where he can be at the height of Applejack, who understood what he meant.

“Oh. So is that why your Cutie Mark is a full moon with four six pointed stars?” Applejack wondered with a glad smile, but Merciful turned his gaze toward the ground, sadly.

“N-not exactly… I--.” Merciful’s sentence was cut off by racket from the outer edges of the marketplace.

“What in tarnation is that?” Applejack pondered as she and Merciful trotted to the source of the commotion. Once there, they found that Helpful, Spike and Snowy had crashed into a pot and pan stand, sending pots and pans everywhere. Helpful had his head stuck in a large pot while Spike and Snowy were buried in a pile of pans. “Help! Who turned out the sun?” Helpful’s voice echoed from the pot as he blindly stumbled around, crashing into a pole which vibrates the pot. Everypony started to laugh at Helpful’s show as he stumbled around, dizzy. Merciful rolled his eyes as he used his magic to pull the pot off of Helpful’s head. “Brother, what is wrong?” Merciful asked him as the pot released his brother, and Helpful regained consciousness.

“Oh, uh… Merciful! Am I glad that I’ve found you,” Helpful started, “You’ve got to help me! Diamond Dogs have captured Rarity!”

“Again?” Applejack stared at Helpful, confused. “But why would they ever capture Rarity again? I thought they made an agreement.”

“Well, it seems that somepony broke it.” Merciful remarked, indifferently, as Snowy and Spike dig themselves out of the pans.

“Well, it doesn’t matter why. We need to save her before we’re too late.” Helpful told his elder brother then he turned his gaze to Spike and Snowy, who dazedly scuffle beside him. “C’mon, guys. We’re going back.”

“What?” Spike asked as he shook his head to reality. “I thought we were getting everypony to help.”

“Well, Spike, my brother, Merciful, and I are all the help we’ll need. We’ll get into those caves if it’s the last thing we’ll do.” Helpful explained to them both. “Now let’s go.”

“A-alright.” Snowy agreed after he came back to consciousness. They both climbed onto Helpful’s back and they all galloped off with the cheers of ponies behind them.



“So why do they want gems?” Eli asked Rarity, curious, but she only gave him a blank stare of thought.

“I…I don’t really understand it exactly…but they just want them because of their beauty is what I’ve known so far.” Rarity explained as she continued to study the jail cell around them. “They should really clean up this cell, I mean, look at it! They’ve really let this place go.”

“Well, there was a few times that I’ve wondered if this is how life is supposed to be.” Eli continued, a little thoughtfully. “Is your home like this, in a cage with nothing to do?”

“Oh, heavens, no!” Rarity immediately responded, shocked by his question. “My home is much different than here.” Eli felt relieved to know that there could be hope to escape, but then the clicking of keys could be heard from behind, Spot and Fido were opening their cell.

“C’mon, Pony.” Spot ordered Rarity as Fido hid something behind his back. “Come here and we’ll give you a gift.”

“A gift? From you? What a joke! You Diamond Dogs never give anypony anything unless you can’t stand them.” Rarity scoffed, and Spot began to growl with anger.

“You will come and receive your gift or we’ll force you to!” Spot snarled at Rarity.

“I’d like to see you try!” Spot and Fido exchanged looks of confusion at first, but then shrugged as they walked over to Rarity, somewhat surprising her. She immediately started what got them hustling for her in the first place: whining.

“Oh, pleeeeease, don’t hurt meee!” She cried out as Eli covered his ears from the loud noise. “I just wa--!” Her sentence was cut off once Fido fastened something on her face. It was a Dog Muzzle. She tried everything she could to get the muzzle off, but her hooves weren’t made to fasten and unfasten things. Her cries and sentences were muffled up by the leather net. Fido and Spot sighed as they pulled the ear plugs from their ears. “Why didn’t we think of this in the first place?” Spot wondered aloud, and Fido shrugged. “Oh well. Now, Pony! You will show us where to find those gems, or we’ll do the same to you as we did to him.” Spot pointed to Eli, still sitting on the floor, healing. Rarity gasped in shock. Since when did the Diamond Dogs become so hostile? They would never really hurt anypony like they did to Eli.

“C’mon, Spot.” Fido urged his friend to continue. “Mas--.”

“Shush, you idiot.” Spot whispered to the big dog as he covered his mouth. “We can’t let the ponies know of his existence.” He turned back to Rarity. “So, Pony? Will you obey, or will you fight like last time?” After a long moment of silence, Rarity nodded in agreement with Spot, shocking Eli.

“No!” Eli immediately tried to stand on the floor and charge at the two dogs, but he grunted in pain as he hit the floor and gasped for breath. Rarity squealed in distress, and it was obvious that she shouted his name. She dashed over to him, concerned, but the two canines grabbed her from behind. “Come now, Pony!” Spot told her.

“You have work to do.” Fido added as they dragged Rarity out from the cell and closed the door behind them. Eli recollected his breath and sat up, but he was too late as the Diamond Dogs closed the door behind them with a slam. He slammed his hoof on the floor out of anger, but a sharp pain on his back hurt him, forcing him to rub it to have it feel better.

“I swear, Rarity.” Eli spoke aloud. “We will get out of here.”



Helpful, Merciful, and Applejack galloped back to the scene of which Rarity was abducted before. “Here we are!” Spike pointed to the big dirt mounds around them. Helpful turned his attention back to the wagon they pulled here, and found that it was empty.

“Well, they cleaned out the wagon. That’s for sure.” Helpful remarked as he looked into it.

“And I was looking forward to having that big emerald.” Snowy crossed his arms, disappointed.

“What do you reckon we should do, Helpful?” Applejack asked him, curious, but the Pegasus only shrugged, making Merciful laugh.

“I apologize, Applejack, but my brother is not trained on creating plans on such short notice.” Merciful explained to her. “But I am.”

“Okay, Mercy, what’s the plan? You’re gonna teleport us in?” Applejack asked him.

Merciful laughed once more. “Now, Applejack, what would be the fun in that?”

Spike immediately remembered something that worked miraculously last time this happened. He dashed over to the pack Helpful was still wearing since they got here, and pulled out a quartz shard.

“Well, I’ve learned that if you want to get into the Diamond Dogs’ cavern, you gotta bait ‘em.” Spike explained. “Anypony got a fishing rod with them?”



“Rover! We’ve got the Pony to do as we want her to.” Spot announced with obvious excitement as Fido and he pushed Rarity in front of Rover at the very center of the mine. Rover seemed very pleased with this report.

“Very good.” The Diamond Dog walked toward her with a menacing grin. “Now, Pony,” He spat, “Show us where to find the gemstones.” Rarity, at first, was disgusted by the slobber that the canine spewed onto her face, and the stench his revolting breath. Just what do these Diamond Dogs eat?

“Well, Pony?” Rarity sighed as she unwillingly concentrated her magic, but after a few moments, nothing appeared under the ground. Rover’s anger kindled greatly against Rarity. His patience was beginning to run increasingly thin, and he was tired of everything not going as planned. He immediately raised his paw and slapped Rarity, knocking her off balance forcing her to fall on the cold hard ground. “You’re not obeying again!” Rover exclaimed in intense infuriation. “Get up, and show us where the gems are!” Rarity stood up, her cheek had a small red spot on it, and she concentrated her magic once more, but nothing happened again. Rover growled and slapped Rarity off balance again. “Don’t think that disobeying will break us! It’ll only break you!” The Head Diamond Dog snarled. “Now show where the gems are!” Rarity lifted her head off the ground; her eyes were filled with the tears from the massive pain she just endured. What in the great wide land of Equestria had made these Diamond Dogs so threatening? It’s almost as if something is forcing them to, but what? And she has been using the spell needed for finding gemstones. Before Rover could slap Rarity again for not getting up, Spot spoke up. “Perhaps, the gems aren’t here, Rover.” Spot reasoned, a little nervous of his boss’ reaction, but to his surprise, Rover raised an eyebrow of thought.

“Hm…” He thought aloud. “Perhaps…” He turned to the other Diamond Dogs that have been standing around, watching. “We’re moving the mine! Take all provisions and tools southward, and start digging.” Rarity stood up, slowly, but she was shocked to see Rover in front of her. “You may have lucked out this time, Pony, but next time, you will show us where the gemstones are, and you will be here forever, working for us. Welcome to the mines.” Fido and Spot exchanged looks of uneasiness to one another. Somehow…their leader has changed, and not in a better way. Sure Rover has been rude and angry when things aren’t going well, but not in this fashion. He’s become more aggressive since the Master came. “Spot! Fido! Take our Pony back to the other one, and then come back to supervise operations.” Rover ordered them. “I need to, uh…never mind.” As Rover left, Spot and Fido escorted Rarity back to her cell.



“Here, Doggy, Doggy, Doggies!” Spike whistled as he shook the small quartz above the dirt mound, but nothing happened, and it was like that way for some time. “Here, Doggy, Doggy, Doggies! I got a nice pretty gemstone for ya!” As he continued to call for the Diamond Dogs the rest, except Merciful, called for them as well, in hopes that the dogs will appear.

“Spike.” Applejack grabbed his attention. “I know this worked last time, but I just don’t think that it’s gonna work this time.”

“C’mon, Applejack.” Spike replied with an earnest expression. “You’ll just have to trust me.”

“I know, Spike, I know.” Just then a paw reached out and grabbed the quartz and pulled it into the dirt, pulling Spike with it and surprising them both. “Whoa!” They shouted. Helpful, Snowy, and Merciful responded by helping them pull the Diamond Dog back. After a short-lived stand-still, the quartz was released and they all fell onto their backs. After standing up, Rover’s head popped out of the dirt. “Are you serious?” He asked them with a confused expression. “Using a Semiprecious stone to allure one of us up here? You must be joking, Ponies.”

“It worked didn’t it?” Helpful asked him with a confident smile. Rover stared at him for a few seconds and rolled his eyes.

“Well, I’m not letting any of you in, like it happened last time.” Rover disappeared into the dirt mound and Spike ran after him and started digging into it.

“Wait!” He demanded. “Where’s Rarity, you coward?” The others exchanged looks of concern as Spike continued his futile attempt to dig inside.

“Uh, Spike.” Helpful tried to grab his attention, but he didn’t listen. “Spike.” The dragon growled in anger as he turned around to face them with his infuriated expression.

“What?” He barked at them all. A short moment of silence swiftly lingered around them, until Merciful broke it.

“I understand that you want so desperately to save your beloved, but, Spike…” Merciful thought to himself for a brief moment. “Perhaps a different approach is in order. We’ll need to find a new solution.”

“But we can’t!” Spike shouted, upset. “They won’t take the gem, and we can’t find a different one for them to take! And Rarity has been asking Fluttershy if she could borrow her Water Sapphire Shards, but she said those were for emergencies.”

“Is this not an emergency?” Merciful raised an eyebrow. Spike gave that question some thought.

“Well since you put it that way.” Spike replied.

“Great! Then let’s get moving!” Helpful insisted as they left toward the Shy Mare’s cottage.



Eli was startled awake as the iron door of his prison was slammed shut and the Diamond Dogs pushed Rarity inside. He immediately stood up and dashed to Rarity concerned as the mongrels left. “Are you okay, Rarity?” He asked her concerned. The mare looked up to Eli with tear-filled eyes, and he could see that her right cheek was red and swollen. He gasped in shock. She began to cry from all the pain she had just endured; Eli reached out, held her and patted her back in sympathy. “It’s alright, Rarity.” He assured her. “You’re safe now.” It was some time before Rarity’s sobs begin to quell. Eli helped her to lie down onto a small, but soft pile of dirt he had dug up from the ground.

Night had fallen. Eli covered Rarity with the only item he had, a small blanket from the Diamond Dogs. “I know it’s not very clean, but it’s the best I can do to keep you warm tonight.” Eli assured Rarity, she nodded in understanding. “Good night, Rarity.” He turned around to begin making himself a bed, like he made for the mare, but she grabbed his hoof and stopped him. He turned his gaze back to Rarity, who looked at him as if she needed something. “Do you need something?” Eli asked her curious, and she nodded. “What is it?” Rarity only pulled him closer. Eli began to understand what she meant. “Do you need somepony to sleep with you?” He raised an eyebrow, a little uneasy about this, and Rarity nodded with sweet eyes. “Um…okay…” He laid right beside her on the dirt mound and covered half of the blanket onto him. He turned his gaze to Rarity, who stared back with pleased eyes. Now he felt a little awkward about all this. “Well…goodnight.” He turned over to his other side and closed his eyes for sleep. Rarity didn’t mind if he had turned around. Eli was beside her and she felt happier with another pony near her, especially in this terrible place. Strangely, Eli having amnesia seems to be a little far-fetched. How did he get the amnesia in the first place? And how can he remember his name, unlike Helpful who couldn’t when he had it? It was all…strange, but no matter. His body temperature was enough for her to be warm tonight, and it’s awfully warm, like a radiator. Is that even normal pony body temperature? Oh well. He’s warm and that’s fine. “Sweet dreams, Eli.” She thought to herself as she closed her eyes, asleep.