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Literature Text
Entered the guest's room, Twilight levitated the ancient brush as she wrote everything down on the scroll. And at the same time, she sobbed and sniffled tearfully in sadness and pain about her decision affecting her friends. But she knew it's the only way to protect them from harms.
After she has finished writing down on the scroll, she levitated and put it inside Spike's bag. She turned and looked at her friends sleeping and snoring peacefully and happily especially Pinkie drooling about her sweets.
Twilight loved her friends and Ben so much, and do anything to protect them, even it means she must sacrificed herself to do so. She kissed Ben's cheek, making him smiled happily.
Twilight approached to both Spike and Nyx. She sobbed tearfully of seeing them. She gave them a kiss on their foreheads gently. As she turned away and about to move, she heard a familiar voice moaned weakly.
"M-Mummy," Nyx ask her mother in concern. What is she up to?
Twilight turned and looked at Nyx, responding, "Nyx?"
"W-Where; what's going on?"
Twilight shushed gently before hugging Nyx. The Alicorn whisper, "It's okay, Nyx. I want you to listen. No matter what I do to you or anypony else, I will and always love you all. All of you will always be in my heart. Do what you think it's right for everyone. I'm counting on you all."
Nyx yawned, "O-Okay, mummy..."
"Goodnight. Mummy loves you... Always..."
Twilight kissed Nyx's forehead before gently put her to sleep. She smiled weakly while crying at the same time. Before she left, Twilight sneaks over to Starlight and put a note in her saddlebag, which is labeled, "Starlight, read once you leave the capitol." She turned and headed off at once before her friends wake up. She even wiped her tears off.
During the rainstorm, Twilight made her way to the Imperial Phoenix's office, where Azure Phoenix was discussing with both Schemetrick and Anger. They turned and looked at her.
"Twilight," Azure ask with a curious look on his face. From her look, he is beginning to expect (and hoped) for her answer.
Twilight panted heavily, "Azure, I'm here for negotiation!" She approached to Azure Phoenix. She bowed down. "I'm here to join you."
"I'm sorry? Did I hear correctly?"
"Yes. On one condition."
"Very well; speak. I shall grant you for joining my side." Azure said with a hidden glee in his eyes. He knew Twilight would come around and joined his side. And yet, he is also curious as to what she wanted in return.
"Be sure you keep it. Otherwise, you'd never get the chance to save this kingdom." Twilight said sternly to the lord.
"How dare you?!" Anger hissed in anger as he prepares his weapon. She agreed to join and yet the mare dared make such demand?!
However, Azure stopped him, shaking his head. He turns back to Twilight to speak once more, "Very well. I'm listening."
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On the next day; Mane Seven, Ben, Nyx, Spike and Phobos were eating their breakfasts. Instead of their usual happy, they all were moody, worried and upset due to Twilight hasn't return to them.
"Twilight hasn't been back since yesterday. Nopony seen her," Applejack ask her friends in concern.
"Nah, haven't seen her." Rainbow remarked, mouth full of food to Rarity's disgust.
"I haven't seen her either." Fluttershy said in concern. "I hope she is all right."
"But did anypony saw her at all?" Applejack ask with a frown on her face. Something is not right here.
Nyx spoke up suddenly, "Actually, I saw her. I'm not sure I did. But she looked upset and sad. She said something about 'You all will be in my heart'."
"Ooooh, Tarzan reference," Pinkie exclaims happily, this made some of her friends roll their eyes at this. Pinkie is just being random again.
"I sure hope she knows what she's doing." Sunset said seriously. She got a bad feeling about this.
"Girls; Do you think... Do you think we did right?" Fluttershy ask the others meekly and worried. Twilight was upset about their involvement in taking down Azure hard.
"What are you talking about, Fluttershy?" Rainbow ask Fluttershy puzzled.
"Must we kill Azure Phoenix?"
"Well, he was asking for it!"
"Look, it's not that we felt right about killing Azure....it's just that he's going out of control lately." Rarity said seriously. "Plus, the way he was going after Twilight repeatedly."
"Right, and besides, he killed Bilbo and been an obnoxious asshole!" Phobos exclaims in agreement.
"But... But it feels wrong. I mean. We would never use violence to kill our own friends, even though they may did something wrong." Fluttershy said meekly. She's right, despite the wrongs that was committed, the heroes has never killed anyone.
"And you think Azure Phoenix is exceptional? Look what damage he has done lately. He's been cruel and ruthless to almost the peasants and enemies. And he doesn't even shed tears. Not once." Rarity scowls to Fluttershy in disbelief.
"Right and he has been a Super Duper Meanie!" Pinkie exclaims in agreement.
"Not to mention his rivalry with dad." Ben said with a frown. "Okay, not an example, but still!"
"Plus, what would Han, Celestia and Luna would say if they saw what he was doing?" Spike remarks as he shakes his head.
"No... Fluttershy's right. Even though Azure did a lot of wrongs, he actually help us so much. He saved Twilight twice - teaching her to control her Dark Magic and even defeating Qin Wang Di than taking revenge." Applejack said seriously. The others opposing Fluttershy stopped to think. Applejack does got a point there.
Ben sighs, "He even stood up for all of us. Twilight was right. Without him, we would have been lost. And not to mention, Twilight would have been trapped inside Midnight Sparkle."
"Oh man, after hearing that, I feel like a heel." Rainbow exclaims with a groan.
"Right, and we keep forgetting this Azure isn't like the one we know back home." Spike said, feeling guilty as well. "I wish we know what changed him for the better later in his life."
"Right, I feel guilty too!" Pinkie cries out in guilt.
"We should talk to Twilight about our decision, including Virtue." Applejack said seriously. Perhaps everyone should back out of this idea while they can.
Starlight begins to speak in agreement, "Hopefully they-!"
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Mane Seven and their friends told Virtue and his crew about their decision. And their reaction is...
"SON OF A BITCH! TRAITORS! I'M GONNA KILL YOU!" Warpath screams out in fury.
Mane Seven and their friends screamed in fear and worried. Warpath was about to attack, if not for both Blade Dragoon and Dragonspear stopping him from attacking them. Virtue and some ministers were in shock and upset.
"Why?" Virtue asked, demanding to know the reason for the reason why the Westerners wanted to back out of this now.
"We must assassinate Lord Azure! He could destroy the world!" One minister exclaims in agreement and reason.
"Well, what if there's a good reason?" Ben ask the others with a frown. "I mean, granted, we hate what he's doing....but Azure Phoenix must have several reasons."
"Plus, Azure Phoenix could be a good ruler someday." Rarity admits, "Maybe not now, but maybe someday."
"We done should give him a chance." Applejack remarks in agreement.
Another minister groans out in disbelief, "You can't be serious! You're not actually allow that monster to rule us?!"
"I agreed. He's a threat." Blade Dragoon said seriously. If left uncheck, Azure could destroy everything. How could the oracle's friends be so sure he wouldn't?
"Because look at what he did for us!" Spike exclaims in reason.
"Maybe you guys don't agree with us but Azure did a lot of good things for helping us like fighting off Yellow Scarf Rebellion, Cruez, solving the bandits' food problem and even help you, Virtue to get your home back." Ben said, counting off what Azure did in light of his "crimes".
Applejack nodded in agreement. She added, "Yeah. Even though his methods can be brutal and dangerous, he did help us through."
"And of course, he did help Twilight a lot more than any of us like taking her dark side - Midnight Sparkle, helped him deal with Seekcurse especially teaching him to be himself than being ruthless war mongral, and of course, Starlight and Sunset solved friendship problem between him, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna." Pinkie said happily, recalling that as well.
Virtue Dragon and his crew looked dumbfounded and shock of what they have said.
Fluttershy quickly said, "Forget that part. But the point is that he really help us a lot."
"Yeah. He maybe not the kindest stallion, but he's brave, wise and noble hero." Starlight said seriously.
"Yeah, we should try and reason with him than just assassinate him. Assassination is not our way." Sunset comments in agreement.
A third minister just scoffs at this, "You Western are fools and idiots I ever met."
"No. We are. We shouldn't involve you all for this. I'm sorry." Virtue said with a sigh, realizing that the Westerners are right. Perhaps Virtue's group should've kept Ben's out of their plan.
"Why are we apologized to them for? They wanna side with Azure!" Warpath protests in anger and outrage.
"Master Warpath, Twilight considered him as a friend. If not for her, our land would have been conquered." Dragonspear said seriously. He's right. In light what Azure did, all would've been lost a long time ago.
Blade Dragoon pauses to think before speaking, "Hmm... Dragonspear is right. Because of her, we have defeated Devil Destroyer."
"Indeed. We'll try to talk with him. And hopefully, Azure won't go that far." Virtue said seriously. Perhaps they should try to talk with Azure and reason with him.
"Yes, of course. Thank you, Twilight's friends. It appears you saved us from a horrible mistake."
"And we may save your friend from hers as well." Dragonspear said seriously. If what they were originally planning on doing had made Twilight make her final decision, hopefully they can talk her out of it!
The first minister groaned, "You all are fools! You're gonna get us killed!"
BAM! Everyone yelped in concern. They turned to the window. They realized that their conversation has been eavesdropping. Blade Dragoon and Warpath approached to the window as they quickly grabbed and thrown the spy to the floor.
"Laxtinct," Pinkie exclaims in alarm, recognizing the pony in question.
"Were you spying on us?!" Rainbow demands to Laxtinct in annoyance.
"What were you doing up there?" Phobos demanded to Laxtinct, holding a claw to his face. "Come on, speak!"
"I don't think it's wise to do that." Nyx said to Phobos in concern, fearing Laxtinct may get the wrong idea here.
Laxtinct yelped, "I can explain!" Everyone glared at him. "Who am I kidding?! Assassins! Assassins! Traitors! They're gonna kill Azure Phoenix; HELP!"
"Shut up, shut up!" Applejack exclaims as she tries to close Laxtinct's mouth quickly.
"We will try to explain!" Starlight exclaims frantically. "Try to under...."
"Uh oh, too late," Spike yelps as he hears some voices from nearby.
"Oh no; Major Laxtinct has been captured! We must help him now! Sound the alarm! Sound the alarm!" Some Imperial Phoenix Soldiers are heard calling out. Laxtinct was so loud that they heard him. Now looks like it's too late to go back now!
"Oh no; We must go now!" Virtue exclaims in alarm. Once word gets out, Azure and his men will be wanting their heads!
"We have to find Twilight! She could be in danger too!" Spike exclaims, fearing the worst for his mother/sister figure.
"Unless it's too late and Azure has got to her first!" Sunset exclaims frantically.
"We got to try though!" Ben exclaims quickly as he leads the others off quickly. "Come on!"
"Sorry, Laxtinct. Please understand." Pinkie said as Laxtinct was let go quickly.
Virtue led his sworn brothers and friends to leave and escape the guest room. Ministers also went to their separate ways.
Laxtinct sighed, "I thought I'd be a goner."
------------------
Mane Seven and their friends were running away, and at the same time, they were searching for Twilight. And they also must avoid and defeated some of Imperial Phoenix Soldiers and Officers. They managed to escape.
They all arrived at the courtyard, where they all were surrounded by the large army of Imperial Phoenix Army. The entrance was blocked by Anger, Blazefist, Bladestrike, Strict Stalker and Axen.
"Going somewhere?" Anger remarked with a snarl.
"Finally caught you now," Blazefist said in determination yet hint of disgust is heard in his voice.
"Damn it. They were expecting us. This is not good!" Warpath scowls out in concern.
"Where's Twilight?!" Ben demanded furiously at the ones who were and/or will be their friends.
"Right, release her right now!" Sunset demanded furiously at the group.
"Give us our friend back or we will beat you silly!" Rainbow exclaims, ready to fight. She however yelps as an angry snarl by Anger forced her back.
"I don't answers to traitors. After what we have done for you all, you betrayed and tried to assassinate our lord. You'll pay for this!
"Have you no honor?!" Axen demanded more than he asked. He was getting used to these allies but they decided to screw it and betray them all!
"Hang on. We were going to back out of it." Starlight said seriously to her former allies. Whatever or not Axen heard her, he chose not to comment.
"Please, give us time to explain." Fluttershy insists in worry.
Azure Phoenix merely held up a hoof in dismissal as he spoke sternly, "That's enough. I knew that one day you will betray me. Your treachery ends here."
"Azure! You'll pay for abusing the authority!" Virtue exclaims furiously. He would've charged if the actions of the enemy preparing their swords haven't forced him back.
"I did what I must to achieve my ambition, even it means to become a villain."
"Why are you doing this?! You're a good pony, just like us." Nyx said a bit hurt by this betrayal.
"Right, come on, Azure don't y'all remember how we helped you in the early days?" Applejack ask in worry.
"You got to at least remember that!" Spike exclaims in agreement, hoping that Azure will reach reason.
"And not be a total jerkass like you were recently!" Phobos exclaims, most to his friends' annoyance.
"Not helping, Phobos."
Azure Phoenix scoffed, "Good? It's just a word. I did what I must to protect and save Land of Ma, by any means of necessary, even if I must sacrifice my allies for it."
"Where's Twilight?! Give her back!" Ben demanded furiously. Ambushed or not, he will get Twilight back!
Azure Phoenix moved aside. Schemetrick, Ratio, Woren and Snaptrap arrived at the scene. They moved aside and revealed Twilight wearing the dark blue Chinese lady's robe with moon and stars patterns, and even golden crown and jewelry on her head.
"What," Rarity yelped in alarm and worry.
"Twilight, what are you doing?" Starlight ask in shock, fearing the worst.
"And take off that stupid outfit, you look ridiculous!" Rainbow scoffed a bit, finding what Twilight to be wearing to be ridiculous.
"You aren't helping, Rainbow!" Applejack exclaims to Rainbow in annoyance.
"What? It does look ridiculous."
Twilight remained silent while looked away from them.
Warpath exclaims furiously, "I knew it. She's a traitor!"
"No... It can't be..." Dragonspear said softly as he shakes his head. The pony was hoping Twilight wouldn't do the unthinkable and betray all of her friends and loved ones.
"No. Not Twiley. Not her!" Ben protests in shock and disbelief. He refused to believed what he's seeing her.
"What did you do to her?!" Rainbow demanded angrily at Azure.
"Release her from your magic right now!" Rarity exclaims in the same way as her friend.
"I don't know what you did but you won't get away with it!" Nyx remarked with an angry scowl.
"I didn't use magic on her. In fact, it was your fault that turned her to me. I knew you will betray her. You're not her friends. You used her for your ambition.” Azure said calmly. The heroes look shocked, but at the same time, they realized the shocking horrifying truth: Azure was right. He didn't use magic at all, Twilight turn on her own accord, "But now, she chose me. She and I share some common. Doing what is necessary for the greater good."
"What have we done?" Virtue mumbled under his breath in guilt. If only they haven't decided to kill Azure in the first place...
"Brother?" Blade asked Virtue in worry.
"No... It can't be..." Applejack said in horror. She hated to admit it but Azure was telling the truth.
Ben on the other hoof screams out furiously, "You're a damn liar, Azure! Twilight would never share the sick wicked goal as you are!"
"Right, she's our friend through and through!" Fluttershy remarked, trying to be brave.
"Deny all you want. I have tamed the phoenix now." Azure said calmly and arrogantly.
As Azure Phoenix climbed down the stairs, he began to sing 'Behold the Darkest Truth'. The Imperial Phoenix Soldiers armed and aimed their swords and spears at Mane Seven and their allies.
"Awww, are we going to do this song sequence?" Pinkie whimpered a bit in disbelief. "Jus hated this song when he was making this part."
"No time to be random, Pinks." Rainbow said to Pinkie as the song begins.
Azure Phoenix: It's time you face the reality
It's time you must accept the truth
Your friendship is nothing but lies,
Bring pain and sadness to her.
He turned and looked pitifully and sympathetically at Twilight, who looked shame and upset. He turned and glared at Mane Seven and their allies.
Azure Phoenix: She once has faith in friendship,
And you all have swear an oath to her.
But now, you reveal your true colors
Nothing but big lies.
Azure Phoenix drew his Imperial Sword out. His army stomped their hooves, spears and swords while gave a loud battle cry and cheers about Twilight's friends being traitors to her.
Azure Phoenix: Behold the Darkest Truth!
The Phoenix now knows the truth
She among the Mighty
You caged at your Fantasy
Hearing what Azure Phoenix and his army has said, their words stunned and shocked Mane Seven and their allies. Virtue and his allies remained firm and calm.
Azure Phoenix: Behold the Darkest Truth!
Confess your true and greatest crimes
It's time to accept defeat
And give up
Now the Phoenix belongs to me.
Azure Phoenix demanded Mane Seven and their friends to recall what adventures they have been through especially the battles and struggles they have faced together with Twilight.
Azure Phoenix: You all start out the same
Nothing but simple and naive fools.
Deceiving yourself and her
No danger has come to you all
Azure Phoenix added in about what her friends have done to Twilight during three occasions when she needed the most.
Azure Phoenix: But then there comes a moment,
When she needed you the most,
You chose to abandon her,
She almost died on the battlefield
Every adventure Mane Seven and their friends recalled, they have realized their mistakes - abandoning and left Twilight almost get killed by their enemies. They all became shock and concern about their failures.
Azure Phoenix: And because of your betrayal
She now knows the darkest truth
The Phoenix finally takes its flight
She now knows the path she must take
Azure Phoenix signaled his army to move aside while armed with their bows and arrows. They aimed their arrows at Mane Seven and their allies.
Azure Phoenix: Behold the Darkest Truth!
The Phoenix now knows the truth
She among the Mighty
You caged at your Fantasy
Mane Seven turned and looked at Twilight, who refused to look at them. Anger and other officers armed and aimed their weapons at them, making sure they won't get close to her.
Azure Phoenix: Behold the Darkest Truth!
Witness your greatest failures
It's time to accept defeat
And give up
Now the Phoenix belongs to me.
Twilight Sparkle is Mine!
Virtue and his sworn brothers were confuse and uncertain of what's going on. But to Mane Seven and their allies, they were ashamed and upset.
"That song was worse than the "Not One of Us" song from "The Lion King 2"!" Pinkie exclaims in concern.
"Twilight, you know we don't mean it. We'd never meant to hurt!" Applejack called out to Twilight, trying to reach her.
"Please, have you forgotten what your friendship means to us? To everyone else," Rarity pleads to Twilight as well.
"Please come back to us!" Fluttershy cried out sadly, but it appears that the friends' pleads have reached deaf's ears.
"I think it's time you leave, traitors. Oracle Twilight has no interest of asking you to join us." Azure said sternly. He is giving the "traitors" the chance to leave or get killed.
"Twilight, please," Ben exclaims frantically to his love.
"Archers, take your position!" Anger ordered the archers who took their positions to open fire if the ones not on Azure don't leave now....or try to attack to take Twilight back.
"Damn it. We have to go!" Virtue exclaims frantically. Looks like they lost today, they need to flee at once!
"Not without Twi! Twilight, please," Ben called out to his love frantically.
"Mommy, please, come back with us!" Nyx exclaims to her mother in worry. She can't believe that this is even happening!
Twilight refused to respond. Azure Phoenix smirked as he said wickedly, "Run... Run... Run away. And never return..."
"You'll pay for this, Azure. I'll get her back!" Ben exclaims sternly. He can't believed that he actually respected this pony and was going to consider even sparing his flank!
"Leave now..."
Ben prepared to summon his Master Sword, he isn't scared to die just to get his love back. However, a telepath voice from Twilight cries out, "Ben, no, please! Flee now! I am giving you all the chance to escape or Azure will kill you all! Please..."
Ben stopped as he eyes Twilight who is secretly eyeing him. He sighs while speaking telepathically back, "All right, but for now, I will get you back..."
"I know you will." Ben then spoke normally to Azure, "Fine, we're leaving....but let me say this....Han, Celestia and Luna would be very ashamed at what you're doing right now! I don't even know what my mother even saw in you to begin with."
Hearing that made Azure shocked and confused as Mane Seven and their friends quickly made their escape at once; they all headed and exited the Xuchang Palace at once. Imperial Phoenix Army are still armed and aimed their arrows at the enemies.
As soon as Mane Seven and their friends escaped through the entrance, Azure Phoenix, shaking off his confusion, gestured his hoof up in stopping the army. Anger nodded as he gestured his army to lower their bows and arrows.
"As promised, Twilight, they're spared. However, I cannot guarantee if they refused to surrender or still fight against me." Azure said. He's saying that if they get in the way or refuse to give up, he won't guarantee their survival further.
Twilight sighed, "I know. They know what they must do. But I lived to serve you, Lord Azure for my friends..."
"Good. Welcome to the family, Oracle Twilight..."
"What is next, my lord?"
"Remain here and help and train my children for both battles and strategies. My army and I will finish what we have started." Azure said calmly.
"Yes, my lord. But-" Twilight begins to protest but Azure cut her off.
"I assure you. They will not be killed, but they will get hurt for getting in my way. But I will try to Leave."
Twilight nodded as she turned and entered the palace at once. He turned and marched straight to the entrance, followed by his officers and the army.
"You're not actually honoring Twilight's wishes?" Anger asked Azure in surprise by his decision.
"That depends on their decision. If they join us, then they're welcome. If not, they must die. Twilight's feelings aren't my concern at all." Azure said coldly. "Her talents are. As long hers still some use to me, my ambition will come to realize.
Schemetrick bowed as he said, "As you wish, my lord..."
Azure presses on. However, what Ben said to him concerns him. 'Mother'; What is the fool on about?
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The ones who left moved away to safety, they are still shocked and upset over the turn of events. Starlight sighs, it's as if fate have dealed a nasty hoof today.
"What's this?" Sunset ask as she notices something sticking out of her saddlebag.
Starlight, noticing, took out a note which reads, "Starlight, read once you leave the capitol." Out of curiosity, the mare opens it.
"'Starlight, if you read this, then please listen: I didn't betray anyone, but what I did is to keep you all safe from Azure and his allies' wrath. Spike has a scroll which will explain further details. Once you read that later at a certain place, get rid of both letters so that Azure and his spies won't realize the truth. I'm trusting you, Starlight, the one who, with Celestia and Ben's help, freed Equestria from Accord; Your faithful teacher, Twilight Sparkle'." Starlight reads the note as Sunset listens.
The two mares look surprised but Starlight put the note away quickly. They hope Twilight knows what she's doing....
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After escaping the Xuchang Province, Mane Seven and their allies headed straight to Xu Province, the only known location Virtue has as his base. They have reached their destination and managed to evade their pursuers. They're safe for now.
Knowing Azure Phoenix will come and lead a major invasion on Xu Province, Virtue has ordered his sworn brothers making preparation for war by recruiting and training their own army. And five days have passed, and no sign of Imperial Phoenix Army coming to them. Nevertheless, they've been training and working hard for the fight against their enemies.
However, Mane Seven and the little ones were still upset and despair to make preparation and do their training due to they have a hard time to believe that their very best friend has turned on them, not only because of their past failures to save her but also turn on her against them.
"I can't believe she turned on us..." Fluttershy said in shame, "Why couldn't we be a good friend?"
Rainbow sighed, "I know how you feel, Fluttershy. We're really bad friends, weren't we?"
"Yeah, we all do..." Pinkie said shamefully.
"If only one or two of us were there with her from the start of the mess," Applejack said in guilt, "Then, she wouldn't turn on us."
"I agree..." Rarity said in shame, "I wish there's a way to reason her."
Ben hummed, "I don't think she turn on us."
"What do you mean? She doesn't look or talk with us!" Phobos exclaimed in concern, "We don't even know why she turn on us!"
"Actually, we do," Starlight said firmly, confusing her friends. She approached Spike, "Spike, can you passed me your bag?"
Spike nodded as he let Starlight to take a look on his bag. Sunset also joined and helped her. For a few minute later of searching, both of them found and took the scroll out. Their friends came and surrounded them.
"What is it, Starlight and Sunset?" Applejack asked in concern.
"Did you know something?" Ben asked in concern yet hopefully.
"Yeah." Starlight answered with confidence, "After we left the capital, we both found a note on my bag. She said that she left some details on Spike's bag."
Sunset nodded, "Yeah. And she didn't betray us because we were bad friends to her. She did it to protect and save us."
"Really? From Azure?" Rainbow asked suspiciously, "She could have at least told us, than just kept quiet and sided with that jerk lord!"
"I'd pretty sure she has the reason to do it," Applejack said firmly, "Twilight always has the reason to take the risks and save us."
Ben nodded, "Yeah. And I bet this message will tell us what's going on."
Sunset and Starlight unrolled the scroll. Their friends gathered around and looked at it. They all began reading Twilight's message. What written on it has not only shock and surprise, but also bring tears of joy and relief. They read the message carefully:
"Dear Friends, Family and Ben...
You'd probably think and angry with me for what I have done. And you have all the rights to be mad at me. But I beg of you all to read this message carefully.
I didn't betray you all because of how bad our friendship are. I did it to protect you. As long you're all with me, you'll never be safe. Azure Phoenix will find a way to finish you off, without letting me know it. So, I joined his army. But I also make a bargain and condition that he can't refuse for my advice and knowledge. The condition is that my friends are not to be killed.
But it's not just that, I need you all do your part to help both Virtue Dragon's nation and Water Tiger Kingdom to join forces and fight together against Imperial Phoenix Army. Because if they don't cooperate, bad and terrible things will happen to them. And so, I left some notes for you all to follow and alter the history. I know that you all will come and save me.
And no matter what happens, you must help them to fight and win, even it means you have to hurt me. But So, don't worry about me. I know the risks well especially I have faith that I can and will change him and his way. Azure will see that friendship is the true magic that change everything. And hopefully, he will end the war peacefully...
Your faithful friend,
Twilight Sparkle..."
Applejack was the first pony to cry tearfully, followed by Ben and others. They have realized that Twilight really treasured their friendship.
"Twilight..." Fluttershy said sadly, "I can't believe that she sacrificed herself to save us. She's really bravest pony we ever had for either admitting her mistakes and protecting us from danger."
Starlight nodded, "She is, Fluttershy."
Applejack sighed, "We have to do this..."
"But we might hurt Twilight," Pinkie said in concern.
"You heard what she has said..." Applejack said firmly, "She entrusted us to stop Azure if she can't change his way."
Rainbow nodded, "I'm with A.J. We have to get Virtue and Brave Tiger to work together and beat Azure Phoenix for good!"
"I still can't believe that Twilight thinks she can change him..." Ben said in disbelief, "How he talked to us that way..."
Nyx sighed, "True, daddy. But this is still in the past. Remember?"
Ben sighed, "I know, Nyx. I know. It's just so hard for me to forgive him for what he has done."
"We all do," Rarity said in agreement, "But for now, we need to focus on our tasks. She has done her part for our sake. And now, it's our turn to do the same for her."
Sunset nodded, "Yeah. Let's do this."
"Uh, guys..." Spike said fearfully. Everyone looked at him. He pointed at the front walls, "He's coming!"
Mane Seven and their friends came to the castle's walls, where they found the large army of Imperial Phoenix Army coming to the Xu Province Castle now. They were all in shock and surprise of what they're looking at.
"Oh boy..." Phobos said fearfully, "This isn't good. And it's not a good news too."
"Is mummy with them?" Nyx asked in concern.
Spike hummed while using the monoscope at the army, "Since she's now one of Azure's strategists, she should be in the front. But I don't see her. Why?"
"This is what Twilight suspected," Applejack said firmly before turned and looked at her friends, "Azure is going to finish us off, without Twilight knowing about this."
"Well, And I'd say we fight back now." Ben said firmly.
Rainbow nodded, "Yeah! Time to kick their asses! They're gonna be sorry for messing with the wrong ponies especially forcing Twilight to take the risk!"
Everyone cheered wildly and firmly, "YEAH!"
Dragonspear arrived at the castle's walls. He was surprised to see his friends regain their strength and determination, despite what has happened to Twilight. Nevertheless, he approached and spoke with them.
"Everypony, it is time," Dragonspear spoke. Everyone turned and looked at him. He asked, "Are you ready for it?"
Mane Seven and their friends shouted, "YEAH!"
--------------------------------------------
The Imperial Phoenix Army formed their own tactical formation. The first group consisted of 2,000 Dragon Riders in Wedge Formation, led by Bladestrike, Blazefist and Laxtinct. The second group consisted of 3,000 infantry in column formation led by Armorhide, Strict Stalker and Axen. And the final group consisting of 15,000 soldiers as infantry, Dragon Riders and archers was led by Azure Phoenix, Schemetrick, Snaptrap, Anger, Bullhound and Navy Arrow. They all have arrived and prepared to invade Xu Province.
"I'd never thought I would be back here to finish what I have started," Azure Phoenix stated dryly and darkly. He turned to Anger, "Kill Virtue Dragon and her friends as well. If those brats really want Twilight, confirm their surrender."
Anger nodded firmly, "Will do, my lord." He turned to the front. Unsheathed his Scimitar, He shouted while charging to the front, "All units! ATTACK! NO MERCY! First and second unit, engage!"
Imperial Phoenix Army gave a loud battle cry. Bladestrike gave a loud battle cry as he charged on the front, followed by Blazefist and Laxtinct and their Dragon Riders. Armorhide led his unit to charge in as well.
Xu Province's Gate opened as three brave generals led the army to charged and engaged with them. Dragonspear rode his White Speed Dragon as he charged and thrust his spear at the army at once. Blade and Warpath joined in by swinging their weapons at the enemies. However, they weren't alone. Ben, Applejack, Rainbow, Sunset and even Nyx in her teenage mode also joined the battlefield. The rest of their friends remained with Virtue as they defend the castle while fending the invaders off. Both sides fought fiercely and determinedly to win the battle.
Virtue led the army to defend the walls. His soldiers fired their arrows, throwing spears and stones at the enemies, who were trying to climb up the ladders, using siege towers to get over the walls, and even ramming at the gate. Pinkie used her Party Cannon at them. Starlight fired her magic powers at them. Fluttershy, Spike and Phobos threw some stones on them
Blade Dragoon and Bladestrike charged and rammed their dragons at each other off. They both jumped out and landed on the ground. They both slammed their weapons at each other fiercely and firmly for few rounds. while dodging the attacks as well. Warpath fought against Strict Stalker, Armohide, Axen and the large army of soldiers. Dragonspear fought against Anger while fighting off the army from both sides. Ben and his team also fought against the enemies as well. They came across to both Blazefist and Laxtinct, who armed with spear and hammer.
"Found you traitors..." Blazefist said darkly as he armed with his spear, "I've been waiting for this day especially wanted to fight you both."
Rainbow groaned, "I'm guessing that Laxtinct told you about us..."
Laxtinct chuckled uneasily, "I was just doing my job. Come on. Just join us. We won't kill you."
"And become a tyrant like Azure? No thanks," Applejack said firmly.
"But you said Azure helped you all a lot, and even in the future. Have you forgotten about that?" Laxtinct asked angrily, "And you all said that you all won't kill him!"
"We did. We promised Twilight that we won't kill him," Sunset said firmly, "But..."
"That doesn't mean we're gonna go easy on him. We will stop him!" Ben said firmly.
Blazefist scoffed as he armed with his spear, "I'd like to see you try. Did my future self told you about how much Hippogriffs?!"
Ben sighed, "He did. Unlike you, he knows when to let go of his anger and forgive them. He's the real hero, but not you."
"Yeah. You're right. I'm not like him," Blazefist said darkly, "Because in the future, I will kill them by my own hooves!"
Blazefist screamed in anger as he poured the oil on his spear's tip before ignited the fire. He charged while swinging his spear at Ben and his team, who moved back at once. The red Pegasus screamed in anger as he charged and swung his spear at them, who dodged and deflected the attacks at him. They also fought back at him, who did his best to defend and block the attacks. Applejack used her Mind Whiplash on his right hoof while Rainbow grabbed his left hoof before Sunset levitated and held his wings tightly. Ben charged and slammed his punches on Blazefist's face for few times.
While Ben's Team were dealing with Blazefist, Laxtinct came and swung his hammer in knocking them aside. He helped his older brother up. Both of them charged and engaged their enemies at once. Ben's Team fought fiercely and engaged against Blazefist and Laxtinct. They never thought that they would end up to fight with two members from future Dragon Strike Force.
--------------------------------------------
The battle rages on the battlefield of Xu Province for almost three days...
At the main camp, Azure Phoenix and his main Imperial Phoenix Army were watching the battlefield from distance. The Leader of the army grew impatient and irritated with the battlefield. While he was impressed with the warriors fighting back in both determination and bravery, he can't afford to wait anymore longer. He has to end this.
Azure Phoenix turned to Schemetrick and Snaptrap. He spoke, "End this now..."
Schemetrick and Snaptrap nodded firmly. They turned to both Bullhound and Navy Arrow, and gestured them to follow them. Four of them headed off to finish the battle once and for all.
Virtue Dragon and his crew did their best to push the enemies back. But unfortunately, the enemies have proven themselves too strong and their numbers were too many for them to handle. Not even Ben's Team could help them.
BOOM! Xu Province's Castle Walls got breached by some giant rocks. Everyone looked to the front, where they found Schemetrick and Bullhound were using few catapults to launch couple of rocks for attacking the walls and soldiers fiercely and wildly. And at the same time, Snaptrap and Navy Arrow led their small units infiltrated from the back of castle walls, where they ambushed and attacked Virtue Dragon's forces and peasants from behind. They even captured Virtue's wives also.
Virtue Dragon's army panicked and screamed in fear as they unable to stand and fight anymore, thus easily get killed by Imperial Phoenix Army. Virtue realized that he can't stay and defend his home anymore. The battle is lost.
"We must leave now!" Virtue said firmly. He shouted, "We must leave! Everyone escape! Get out of here now!"
"Escape! All units escape! The battle is lost!" The captain ordered fearfully.
Virtue quickly led his forces to leave and escape the castle walls. Unfortunately for them, one of Imperial Phoenix's catapults thrown the rocks right at Rarity and her team. They all screamed and panicked fearfully as they all falling down. Ben's Team noticed it as they quickly came and rescued their friends now. And just in nick of time, they did.
Unfortunately for the team, another boulder came and thrown straight at them, causing a powerful impact to split them.
Rainbow, Rarity and Sunset got thrown into river, which led them to the south. Warpath gave chase to save their friends. Ben, Pinkie and Phobos slammed on the walls, where they got grabbed and rescued by Virtue and Dragonspear while heading to north. Applejack held Starlight, Fluttershy, Nyx and Spike to the ground, surviving the impact. Blade came to their aid and just before he could lead them to safety, he got himself and others surrounded by the large army of Imperial Phoenix Army. Blade's team were ready to fight till death.
"Dragoon! That's enough! You can't win!" Bladestrike pleaded. Blade and his team remain firm and determined to fight. He sighed, "At least, think about your brother's wives. If you died now, who will protect them or even guide these ponies back to Oracle? Or worse, you'll never reunite with your family again. Please reconsider, old friend..."
Blade hummed in concern yet angry before gave in some thoughts about what Bladestrike has said. Blade sighed as he lowered his weapon down. Applejack and her friends remained firm and angry to put up their guard.
"I know you want to see her again," Bladestrike said calmly, "I insist you, do it for her, not for Azure or anyone else. For Oracle. You want to see her, don't you?"
As angry and refused to lower their weapons, they can't help but think about Twilight. They all know how much struggle she has put up to protect them. The least they can do is to see her alive and comfort her that they're not angry with her. They lowered their weapons.
Bladestrike turned and gestured Blazefist and Laxtinct to arrest the prisoners of war. All of them led into the carriages, where Virtue's family is holding in.
Anger returned to his cousin, whom he reported about the success. Azure Phoenix smiled in pleasant that he has once again win the battlefield. And what's more Twilight's friends have been dealt with...
--------------------------------------------
"Azure Phoenix has brought massive army down upon Virtue Dragon's Rebellion, and thus, they all crumbled before his ambition. And so, Virtue and his allies went separate ways and disappeared except Blade Dragoon, whom combined honor, loyalty, bravery and intelligence into one formidable warrior. Pleased to have him on his side, he welcomed the warrior to his army ranks. And now he has to deal with other conspirators, who remained inside the palace, including the Emperor himself..."
Inside the Throne Chamber, Emperor Xian, who is now 20-years-old, whimpered and quivered in fear as he has heard some news about his loyal retainers and ministers have all been executed. The Emperor was holding his sword as he was waiting and readying to fight Azure Phoenix.
As expected, Azure Phoenix has arrived and entered the throne chamber. He firmly yet calmly marched towards the Emperor, who is still scared and worried about him.
"Azure Phoenix..." Emperor Xian said fearfully, "You have come to kill me?!"
Azure Phoenix calmly bowed to the ground, "I would never presume to do so, your highness..."
Emperor Xian hissed as he stood up while armed with his sword, "I tried to have you killed. I would have no right to complain."
Azure Phoenix smiled amusingly, "You're a wise stallion, your highness" He turned and looked away while retained his calm and firm looks, "If it is your wish to kill me, then I will not stop you..."
Emperor Xian approached and readied to kill Azure Phoenix. However, his hooves was shaking to hold his sword due to him being scared and worried of Azure Phoenix. He wasn't sure if he has what it takes to finish his enemy. Unfortunately...
"I... I can't... I'm not my father..." Emperor Xian said fearfully while looking at Azure Phoenix, "You really frightened me, Azure. You shed no tears for your allies. You side with enemies if necessary. You even turned a friend against her own for the sake of your ambition. And when someone is not needed, you get rid of them. Even if it is me."
Azure Phoenix turned and glared at Emperor Xian, with his dark glare, scaring the emperor to drop his sword down.
"A land needs its ponies. And without the ruler, the ponies are lost," Azure Phoenix said calmly and firmly, "Your highness is needed. At least... while I am alive, that is..."
Emperor Xian could not help but be afraid and worried of what Azure Phoenix has said. It caused the Emperor to drop his sword down. The unicorn has truly frightened him a lot.
"Your presence allows me to move freely." Azure Phoenix said calmly as he turned his back and walked away, "To walk upon my ordained path... To build a new and better land. And thus, this is only the beginning..."
END...
Review and Suggest...
Main Casts:
Tara Strong: Twilight Sparkle
Jason Marsden: Ben Valorheart, Hou
Ashleigh Ball: Applejack, Rainbow Dash
Andrea Libman: Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie
Tabitha St. Germain: Rarity
Daveigh Chase: Nyx
Cathy Weseluck: Spike
Chris Sanders: Phobos
Kelly Sheridan: Starlight Glimmer
Rebecca Shoichet: Sunset Shimmer
Michael McConnohie: Narrator
Douglas Rye: Azure Phoenix
Dave B. Mitchell: Virtue Dragon, Blade Dragoon
Steve Kremer: Warpath Temper, Minister
Terrence Stone: Dragonspear
Minor Casts:
Red Tatesciore: Azure Phoenix's Singing Voice
Kirk Thornton: Anger, Soldiers
Quinton Flynn: Schemetrick
Doug Stone: Bullhound
Roger Craig Smith: Bladestrike, Soldiers
Josh Keaton: Blazefist
P.J. Bryne: Laxtinct
Travis Willingham: Axen
Vic Mignogna: Snaptrap
Yuri Lowenthal: Brave Tiger
Michael Sinterniklaas: Riverstrike
Gideon Emery: Courage Tiger
G.K Bowes: Tigress
Tony Oliver: Emperor Xian
Author's Notes:
'Behold the Darkest Song' is based on 'Open Up Your Eyes' from My little Pony the Movie (2017).
Next Chapter 18 - Loss and Hope: Twilight and her friends are lost and split from each other. And now, they're lost in Three Kingdoms Era. What will do they now? How will they survive without each other? Can they survive and fight until they reunite? Only time can tell...
After she has finished writing down on the scroll, she levitated and put it inside Spike's bag. She turned and looked at her friends sleeping and snoring peacefully and happily especially Pinkie drooling about her sweets.
Twilight loved her friends and Ben so much, and do anything to protect them, even it means she must sacrificed herself to do so. She kissed Ben's cheek, making him smiled happily.
Twilight approached to both Spike and Nyx. She sobbed tearfully of seeing them. She gave them a kiss on their foreheads gently. As she turned away and about to move, she heard a familiar voice moaned weakly.
"M-Mummy," Nyx ask her mother in concern. What is she up to?
Twilight turned and looked at Nyx, responding, "Nyx?"
"W-Where; what's going on?"
Twilight shushed gently before hugging Nyx. The Alicorn whisper, "It's okay, Nyx. I want you to listen. No matter what I do to you or anypony else, I will and always love you all. All of you will always be in my heart. Do what you think it's right for everyone. I'm counting on you all."
Nyx yawned, "O-Okay, mummy..."
"Goodnight. Mummy loves you... Always..."
Twilight kissed Nyx's forehead before gently put her to sleep. She smiled weakly while crying at the same time. Before she left, Twilight sneaks over to Starlight and put a note in her saddlebag, which is labeled, "Starlight, read once you leave the capitol." She turned and headed off at once before her friends wake up. She even wiped her tears off.
During the rainstorm, Twilight made her way to the Imperial Phoenix's office, where Azure Phoenix was discussing with both Schemetrick and Anger. They turned and looked at her.
"Twilight," Azure ask with a curious look on his face. From her look, he is beginning to expect (and hoped) for her answer.
Twilight panted heavily, "Azure, I'm here for negotiation!" She approached to Azure Phoenix. She bowed down. "I'm here to join you."
"I'm sorry? Did I hear correctly?"
"Yes. On one condition."
"Very well; speak. I shall grant you for joining my side." Azure said with a hidden glee in his eyes. He knew Twilight would come around and joined his side. And yet, he is also curious as to what she wanted in return.
"Be sure you keep it. Otherwise, you'd never get the chance to save this kingdom." Twilight said sternly to the lord.
"How dare you?!" Anger hissed in anger as he prepares his weapon. She agreed to join and yet the mare dared make such demand?!
However, Azure stopped him, shaking his head. He turns back to Twilight to speak once more, "Very well. I'm listening."
-----------
On the next day; Mane Seven, Ben, Nyx, Spike and Phobos were eating their breakfasts. Instead of their usual happy, they all were moody, worried and upset due to Twilight hasn't return to them.
"Twilight hasn't been back since yesterday. Nopony seen her," Applejack ask her friends in concern.
"Nah, haven't seen her." Rainbow remarked, mouth full of food to Rarity's disgust.
"I haven't seen her either." Fluttershy said in concern. "I hope she is all right."
"But did anypony saw her at all?" Applejack ask with a frown on her face. Something is not right here.
Nyx spoke up suddenly, "Actually, I saw her. I'm not sure I did. But she looked upset and sad. She said something about 'You all will be in my heart'."
"Ooooh, Tarzan reference," Pinkie exclaims happily, this made some of her friends roll their eyes at this. Pinkie is just being random again.
"I sure hope she knows what she's doing." Sunset said seriously. She got a bad feeling about this.
"Girls; Do you think... Do you think we did right?" Fluttershy ask the others meekly and worried. Twilight was upset about their involvement in taking down Azure hard.
"What are you talking about, Fluttershy?" Rainbow ask Fluttershy puzzled.
"Must we kill Azure Phoenix?"
"Well, he was asking for it!"
"Look, it's not that we felt right about killing Azure....it's just that he's going out of control lately." Rarity said seriously. "Plus, the way he was going after Twilight repeatedly."
"Right, and besides, he killed Bilbo and been an obnoxious asshole!" Phobos exclaims in agreement.
"But... But it feels wrong. I mean. We would never use violence to kill our own friends, even though they may did something wrong." Fluttershy said meekly. She's right, despite the wrongs that was committed, the heroes has never killed anyone.
"And you think Azure Phoenix is exceptional? Look what damage he has done lately. He's been cruel and ruthless to almost the peasants and enemies. And he doesn't even shed tears. Not once." Rarity scowls to Fluttershy in disbelief.
"Right and he has been a Super Duper Meanie!" Pinkie exclaims in agreement.
"Not to mention his rivalry with dad." Ben said with a frown. "Okay, not an example, but still!"
"Plus, what would Han, Celestia and Luna would say if they saw what he was doing?" Spike remarks as he shakes his head.
"No... Fluttershy's right. Even though Azure did a lot of wrongs, he actually help us so much. He saved Twilight twice - teaching her to control her Dark Magic and even defeating Qin Wang Di than taking revenge." Applejack said seriously. The others opposing Fluttershy stopped to think. Applejack does got a point there.
Ben sighs, "He even stood up for all of us. Twilight was right. Without him, we would have been lost. And not to mention, Twilight would have been trapped inside Midnight Sparkle."
"Oh man, after hearing that, I feel like a heel." Rainbow exclaims with a groan.
"Right, and we keep forgetting this Azure isn't like the one we know back home." Spike said, feeling guilty as well. "I wish we know what changed him for the better later in his life."
"Right, I feel guilty too!" Pinkie cries out in guilt.
"We should talk to Twilight about our decision, including Virtue." Applejack said seriously. Perhaps everyone should back out of this idea while they can.
Starlight begins to speak in agreement, "Hopefully they-!"
------------------------
Mane Seven and their friends told Virtue and his crew about their decision. And their reaction is...
"SON OF A BITCH! TRAITORS! I'M GONNA KILL YOU!" Warpath screams out in fury.
Mane Seven and their friends screamed in fear and worried. Warpath was about to attack, if not for both Blade Dragoon and Dragonspear stopping him from attacking them. Virtue and some ministers were in shock and upset.
"Why?" Virtue asked, demanding to know the reason for the reason why the Westerners wanted to back out of this now.
"We must assassinate Lord Azure! He could destroy the world!" One minister exclaims in agreement and reason.
"Well, what if there's a good reason?" Ben ask the others with a frown. "I mean, granted, we hate what he's doing....but Azure Phoenix must have several reasons."
"Plus, Azure Phoenix could be a good ruler someday." Rarity admits, "Maybe not now, but maybe someday."
"We done should give him a chance." Applejack remarks in agreement.
Another minister groans out in disbelief, "You can't be serious! You're not actually allow that monster to rule us?!"
"I agreed. He's a threat." Blade Dragoon said seriously. If left uncheck, Azure could destroy everything. How could the oracle's friends be so sure he wouldn't?
"Because look at what he did for us!" Spike exclaims in reason.
"Maybe you guys don't agree with us but Azure did a lot of good things for helping us like fighting off Yellow Scarf Rebellion, Cruez, solving the bandits' food problem and even help you, Virtue to get your home back." Ben said, counting off what Azure did in light of his "crimes".
Applejack nodded in agreement. She added, "Yeah. Even though his methods can be brutal and dangerous, he did help us through."
"And of course, he did help Twilight a lot more than any of us like taking her dark side - Midnight Sparkle, helped him deal with Seekcurse especially teaching him to be himself than being ruthless war mongral, and of course, Starlight and Sunset solved friendship problem between him, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna." Pinkie said happily, recalling that as well.
Virtue Dragon and his crew looked dumbfounded and shock of what they have said.
Fluttershy quickly said, "Forget that part. But the point is that he really help us a lot."
"Yeah. He maybe not the kindest stallion, but he's brave, wise and noble hero." Starlight said seriously.
"Yeah, we should try and reason with him than just assassinate him. Assassination is not our way." Sunset comments in agreement.
A third minister just scoffs at this, "You Western are fools and idiots I ever met."
"No. We are. We shouldn't involve you all for this. I'm sorry." Virtue said with a sigh, realizing that the Westerners are right. Perhaps Virtue's group should've kept Ben's out of their plan.
"Why are we apologized to them for? They wanna side with Azure!" Warpath protests in anger and outrage.
"Master Warpath, Twilight considered him as a friend. If not for her, our land would have been conquered." Dragonspear said seriously. He's right. In light what Azure did, all would've been lost a long time ago.
Blade Dragoon pauses to think before speaking, "Hmm... Dragonspear is right. Because of her, we have defeated Devil Destroyer."
"Indeed. We'll try to talk with him. And hopefully, Azure won't go that far." Virtue said seriously. Perhaps they should try to talk with Azure and reason with him.
"Yes, of course. Thank you, Twilight's friends. It appears you saved us from a horrible mistake."
"And we may save your friend from hers as well." Dragonspear said seriously. If what they were originally planning on doing had made Twilight make her final decision, hopefully they can talk her out of it!
The first minister groaned, "You all are fools! You're gonna get us killed!"
BAM! Everyone yelped in concern. They turned to the window. They realized that their conversation has been eavesdropping. Blade Dragoon and Warpath approached to the window as they quickly grabbed and thrown the spy to the floor.
"Laxtinct," Pinkie exclaims in alarm, recognizing the pony in question.
"Were you spying on us?!" Rainbow demands to Laxtinct in annoyance.
"What were you doing up there?" Phobos demanded to Laxtinct, holding a claw to his face. "Come on, speak!"
"I don't think it's wise to do that." Nyx said to Phobos in concern, fearing Laxtinct may get the wrong idea here.
Laxtinct yelped, "I can explain!" Everyone glared at him. "Who am I kidding?! Assassins! Assassins! Traitors! They're gonna kill Azure Phoenix; HELP!"
"Shut up, shut up!" Applejack exclaims as she tries to close Laxtinct's mouth quickly.
"We will try to explain!" Starlight exclaims frantically. "Try to under...."
"Uh oh, too late," Spike yelps as he hears some voices from nearby.
"Oh no; Major Laxtinct has been captured! We must help him now! Sound the alarm! Sound the alarm!" Some Imperial Phoenix Soldiers are heard calling out. Laxtinct was so loud that they heard him. Now looks like it's too late to go back now!
"Oh no; We must go now!" Virtue exclaims in alarm. Once word gets out, Azure and his men will be wanting their heads!
"We have to find Twilight! She could be in danger too!" Spike exclaims, fearing the worst for his mother/sister figure.
"Unless it's too late and Azure has got to her first!" Sunset exclaims frantically.
"We got to try though!" Ben exclaims quickly as he leads the others off quickly. "Come on!"
"Sorry, Laxtinct. Please understand." Pinkie said as Laxtinct was let go quickly.
Virtue led his sworn brothers and friends to leave and escape the guest room. Ministers also went to their separate ways.
Laxtinct sighed, "I thought I'd be a goner."
------------------
Mane Seven and their friends were running away, and at the same time, they were searching for Twilight. And they also must avoid and defeated some of Imperial Phoenix Soldiers and Officers. They managed to escape.
They all arrived at the courtyard, where they all were surrounded by the large army of Imperial Phoenix Army. The entrance was blocked by Anger, Blazefist, Bladestrike, Strict Stalker and Axen.
"Going somewhere?" Anger remarked with a snarl.
"Finally caught you now," Blazefist said in determination yet hint of disgust is heard in his voice.
"Damn it. They were expecting us. This is not good!" Warpath scowls out in concern.
"Where's Twilight?!" Ben demanded furiously at the ones who were and/or will be their friends.
"Right, release her right now!" Sunset demanded furiously at the group.
"Give us our friend back or we will beat you silly!" Rainbow exclaims, ready to fight. She however yelps as an angry snarl by Anger forced her back.
"I don't answers to traitors. After what we have done for you all, you betrayed and tried to assassinate our lord. You'll pay for this!
"Have you no honor?!" Axen demanded more than he asked. He was getting used to these allies but they decided to screw it and betray them all!
"Hang on. We were going to back out of it." Starlight said seriously to her former allies. Whatever or not Axen heard her, he chose not to comment.
"Please, give us time to explain." Fluttershy insists in worry.
Azure Phoenix merely held up a hoof in dismissal as he spoke sternly, "That's enough. I knew that one day you will betray me. Your treachery ends here."
"Azure! You'll pay for abusing the authority!" Virtue exclaims furiously. He would've charged if the actions of the enemy preparing their swords haven't forced him back.
"I did what I must to achieve my ambition, even it means to become a villain."
"Why are you doing this?! You're a good pony, just like us." Nyx said a bit hurt by this betrayal.
"Right, come on, Azure don't y'all remember how we helped you in the early days?" Applejack ask in worry.
"You got to at least remember that!" Spike exclaims in agreement, hoping that Azure will reach reason.
"And not be a total jerkass like you were recently!" Phobos exclaims, most to his friends' annoyance.
"Not helping, Phobos."
Azure Phoenix scoffed, "Good? It's just a word. I did what I must to protect and save Land of Ma, by any means of necessary, even if I must sacrifice my allies for it."
"Where's Twilight?! Give her back!" Ben demanded furiously. Ambushed or not, he will get Twilight back!
Azure Phoenix moved aside. Schemetrick, Ratio, Woren and Snaptrap arrived at the scene. They moved aside and revealed Twilight wearing the dark blue Chinese lady's robe with moon and stars patterns, and even golden crown and jewelry on her head.
"What," Rarity yelped in alarm and worry.
"Twilight, what are you doing?" Starlight ask in shock, fearing the worst.
"And take off that stupid outfit, you look ridiculous!" Rainbow scoffed a bit, finding what Twilight to be wearing to be ridiculous.
"You aren't helping, Rainbow!" Applejack exclaims to Rainbow in annoyance.
"What? It does look ridiculous."
Twilight remained silent while looked away from them.
Warpath exclaims furiously, "I knew it. She's a traitor!"
"No... It can't be..." Dragonspear said softly as he shakes his head. The pony was hoping Twilight wouldn't do the unthinkable and betray all of her friends and loved ones.
"No. Not Twiley. Not her!" Ben protests in shock and disbelief. He refused to believed what he's seeing her.
"What did you do to her?!" Rainbow demanded angrily at Azure.
"Release her from your magic right now!" Rarity exclaims in the same way as her friend.
"I don't know what you did but you won't get away with it!" Nyx remarked with an angry scowl.
"I didn't use magic on her. In fact, it was your fault that turned her to me. I knew you will betray her. You're not her friends. You used her for your ambition.” Azure said calmly. The heroes look shocked, but at the same time, they realized the shocking horrifying truth: Azure was right. He didn't use magic at all, Twilight turn on her own accord, "But now, she chose me. She and I share some common. Doing what is necessary for the greater good."
"What have we done?" Virtue mumbled under his breath in guilt. If only they haven't decided to kill Azure in the first place...
"Brother?" Blade asked Virtue in worry.
"No... It can't be..." Applejack said in horror. She hated to admit it but Azure was telling the truth.
Ben on the other hoof screams out furiously, "You're a damn liar, Azure! Twilight would never share the sick wicked goal as you are!"
"Right, she's our friend through and through!" Fluttershy remarked, trying to be brave.
"Deny all you want. I have tamed the phoenix now." Azure said calmly and arrogantly.
As Azure Phoenix climbed down the stairs, he began to sing 'Behold the Darkest Truth'. The Imperial Phoenix Soldiers armed and aimed their swords and spears at Mane Seven and their allies.
"Awww, are we going to do this song sequence?" Pinkie whimpered a bit in disbelief. "Jus hated this song when he was making this part."
"No time to be random, Pinks." Rainbow said to Pinkie as the song begins.
Azure Phoenix: It's time you face the reality
It's time you must accept the truth
Your friendship is nothing but lies,
Bring pain and sadness to her.
He turned and looked pitifully and sympathetically at Twilight, who looked shame and upset. He turned and glared at Mane Seven and their allies.
Azure Phoenix: She once has faith in friendship,
And you all have swear an oath to her.
But now, you reveal your true colors
Nothing but big lies.
Azure Phoenix drew his Imperial Sword out. His army stomped their hooves, spears and swords while gave a loud battle cry and cheers about Twilight's friends being traitors to her.
Azure Phoenix: Behold the Darkest Truth!
The Phoenix now knows the truth
She among the Mighty
You caged at your Fantasy
Hearing what Azure Phoenix and his army has said, their words stunned and shocked Mane Seven and their allies. Virtue and his allies remained firm and calm.
Azure Phoenix: Behold the Darkest Truth!
Confess your true and greatest crimes
It's time to accept defeat
And give up
Now the Phoenix belongs to me.
Azure Phoenix demanded Mane Seven and their friends to recall what adventures they have been through especially the battles and struggles they have faced together with Twilight.
Azure Phoenix: You all start out the same
Nothing but simple and naive fools.
Deceiving yourself and her
No danger has come to you all
Azure Phoenix added in about what her friends have done to Twilight during three occasions when she needed the most.
Azure Phoenix: But then there comes a moment,
When she needed you the most,
You chose to abandon her,
She almost died on the battlefield
Every adventure Mane Seven and their friends recalled, they have realized their mistakes - abandoning and left Twilight almost get killed by their enemies. They all became shock and concern about their failures.
Azure Phoenix: And because of your betrayal
She now knows the darkest truth
The Phoenix finally takes its flight
She now knows the path she must take
Azure Phoenix signaled his army to move aside while armed with their bows and arrows. They aimed their arrows at Mane Seven and their allies.
Azure Phoenix: Behold the Darkest Truth!
The Phoenix now knows the truth
She among the Mighty
You caged at your Fantasy
Mane Seven turned and looked at Twilight, who refused to look at them. Anger and other officers armed and aimed their weapons at them, making sure they won't get close to her.
Azure Phoenix: Behold the Darkest Truth!
Witness your greatest failures
It's time to accept defeat
And give up
Now the Phoenix belongs to me.
Twilight Sparkle is Mine!
Virtue and his sworn brothers were confuse and uncertain of what's going on. But to Mane Seven and their allies, they were ashamed and upset.
"That song was worse than the "Not One of Us" song from "The Lion King 2"!" Pinkie exclaims in concern.
"Twilight, you know we don't mean it. We'd never meant to hurt!" Applejack called out to Twilight, trying to reach her.
"Please, have you forgotten what your friendship means to us? To everyone else," Rarity pleads to Twilight as well.
"Please come back to us!" Fluttershy cried out sadly, but it appears that the friends' pleads have reached deaf's ears.
"I think it's time you leave, traitors. Oracle Twilight has no interest of asking you to join us." Azure said sternly. He is giving the "traitors" the chance to leave or get killed.
"Twilight, please," Ben exclaims frantically to his love.
"Archers, take your position!" Anger ordered the archers who took their positions to open fire if the ones not on Azure don't leave now....or try to attack to take Twilight back.
"Damn it. We have to go!" Virtue exclaims frantically. Looks like they lost today, they need to flee at once!
"Not without Twi! Twilight, please," Ben called out to his love frantically.
"Mommy, please, come back with us!" Nyx exclaims to her mother in worry. She can't believe that this is even happening!
Twilight refused to respond. Azure Phoenix smirked as he said wickedly, "Run... Run... Run away. And never return..."
"You'll pay for this, Azure. I'll get her back!" Ben exclaims sternly. He can't believed that he actually respected this pony and was going to consider even sparing his flank!
"Leave now..."
Ben prepared to summon his Master Sword, he isn't scared to die just to get his love back. However, a telepath voice from Twilight cries out, "Ben, no, please! Flee now! I am giving you all the chance to escape or Azure will kill you all! Please..."
Ben stopped as he eyes Twilight who is secretly eyeing him. He sighs while speaking telepathically back, "All right, but for now, I will get you back..."
"I know you will." Ben then spoke normally to Azure, "Fine, we're leaving....but let me say this....Han, Celestia and Luna would be very ashamed at what you're doing right now! I don't even know what my mother even saw in you to begin with."
Hearing that made Azure shocked and confused as Mane Seven and their friends quickly made their escape at once; they all headed and exited the Xuchang Palace at once. Imperial Phoenix Army are still armed and aimed their arrows at the enemies.
As soon as Mane Seven and their friends escaped through the entrance, Azure Phoenix, shaking off his confusion, gestured his hoof up in stopping the army. Anger nodded as he gestured his army to lower their bows and arrows.
"As promised, Twilight, they're spared. However, I cannot guarantee if they refused to surrender or still fight against me." Azure said. He's saying that if they get in the way or refuse to give up, he won't guarantee their survival further.
Twilight sighed, "I know. They know what they must do. But I lived to serve you, Lord Azure for my friends..."
"Good. Welcome to the family, Oracle Twilight..."
"What is next, my lord?"
"Remain here and help and train my children for both battles and strategies. My army and I will finish what we have started." Azure said calmly.
"Yes, my lord. But-" Twilight begins to protest but Azure cut her off.
"I assure you. They will not be killed, but they will get hurt for getting in my way. But I will try to Leave."
Twilight nodded as she turned and entered the palace at once. He turned and marched straight to the entrance, followed by his officers and the army.
"You're not actually honoring Twilight's wishes?" Anger asked Azure in surprise by his decision.
"That depends on their decision. If they join us, then they're welcome. If not, they must die. Twilight's feelings aren't my concern at all." Azure said coldly. "Her talents are. As long hers still some use to me, my ambition will come to realize.
Schemetrick bowed as he said, "As you wish, my lord..."
Azure presses on. However, what Ben said to him concerns him. 'Mother'; What is the fool on about?
------------
The ones who left moved away to safety, they are still shocked and upset over the turn of events. Starlight sighs, it's as if fate have dealed a nasty hoof today.
"What's this?" Sunset ask as she notices something sticking out of her saddlebag.
Starlight, noticing, took out a note which reads, "Starlight, read once you leave the capitol." Out of curiosity, the mare opens it.
"'Starlight, if you read this, then please listen: I didn't betray anyone, but what I did is to keep you all safe from Azure and his allies' wrath. Spike has a scroll which will explain further details. Once you read that later at a certain place, get rid of both letters so that Azure and his spies won't realize the truth. I'm trusting you, Starlight, the one who, with Celestia and Ben's help, freed Equestria from Accord; Your faithful teacher, Twilight Sparkle'." Starlight reads the note as Sunset listens.
The two mares look surprised but Starlight put the note away quickly. They hope Twilight knows what she's doing....
------------
After escaping the Xuchang Province, Mane Seven and their allies headed straight to Xu Province, the only known location Virtue has as his base. They have reached their destination and managed to evade their pursuers. They're safe for now.
Knowing Azure Phoenix will come and lead a major invasion on Xu Province, Virtue has ordered his sworn brothers making preparation for war by recruiting and training their own army. And five days have passed, and no sign of Imperial Phoenix Army coming to them. Nevertheless, they've been training and working hard for the fight against their enemies.
However, Mane Seven and the little ones were still upset and despair to make preparation and do their training due to they have a hard time to believe that their very best friend has turned on them, not only because of their past failures to save her but also turn on her against them.
"I can't believe she turned on us..." Fluttershy said in shame, "Why couldn't we be a good friend?"
Rainbow sighed, "I know how you feel, Fluttershy. We're really bad friends, weren't we?"
"Yeah, we all do..." Pinkie said shamefully.
"If only one or two of us were there with her from the start of the mess," Applejack said in guilt, "Then, she wouldn't turn on us."
"I agree..." Rarity said in shame, "I wish there's a way to reason her."
Ben hummed, "I don't think she turn on us."
"What do you mean? She doesn't look or talk with us!" Phobos exclaimed in concern, "We don't even know why she turn on us!"
"Actually, we do," Starlight said firmly, confusing her friends. She approached Spike, "Spike, can you passed me your bag?"
Spike nodded as he let Starlight to take a look on his bag. Sunset also joined and helped her. For a few minute later of searching, both of them found and took the scroll out. Their friends came and surrounded them.
"What is it, Starlight and Sunset?" Applejack asked in concern.
"Did you know something?" Ben asked in concern yet hopefully.
"Yeah." Starlight answered with confidence, "After we left the capital, we both found a note on my bag. She said that she left some details on Spike's bag."
Sunset nodded, "Yeah. And she didn't betray us because we were bad friends to her. She did it to protect and save us."
"Really? From Azure?" Rainbow asked suspiciously, "She could have at least told us, than just kept quiet and sided with that jerk lord!"
"I'd pretty sure she has the reason to do it," Applejack said firmly, "Twilight always has the reason to take the risks and save us."
Ben nodded, "Yeah. And I bet this message will tell us what's going on."
Sunset and Starlight unrolled the scroll. Their friends gathered around and looked at it. They all began reading Twilight's message. What written on it has not only shock and surprise, but also bring tears of joy and relief. They read the message carefully:
"Dear Friends, Family and Ben...
You'd probably think and angry with me for what I have done. And you have all the rights to be mad at me. But I beg of you all to read this message carefully.
I didn't betray you all because of how bad our friendship are. I did it to protect you. As long you're all with me, you'll never be safe. Azure Phoenix will find a way to finish you off, without letting me know it. So, I joined his army. But I also make a bargain and condition that he can't refuse for my advice and knowledge. The condition is that my friends are not to be killed.
But it's not just that, I need you all do your part to help both Virtue Dragon's nation and Water Tiger Kingdom to join forces and fight together against Imperial Phoenix Army. Because if they don't cooperate, bad and terrible things will happen to them. And so, I left some notes for you all to follow and alter the history. I know that you all will come and save me.
And no matter what happens, you must help them to fight and win, even it means you have to hurt me. But So, don't worry about me. I know the risks well especially I have faith that I can and will change him and his way. Azure will see that friendship is the true magic that change everything. And hopefully, he will end the war peacefully...
Your faithful friend,
Twilight Sparkle..."
Applejack was the first pony to cry tearfully, followed by Ben and others. They have realized that Twilight really treasured their friendship.
"Twilight..." Fluttershy said sadly, "I can't believe that she sacrificed herself to save us. She's really bravest pony we ever had for either admitting her mistakes and protecting us from danger."
Starlight nodded, "She is, Fluttershy."
Applejack sighed, "We have to do this..."
"But we might hurt Twilight," Pinkie said in concern.
"You heard what she has said..." Applejack said firmly, "She entrusted us to stop Azure if she can't change his way."
Rainbow nodded, "I'm with A.J. We have to get Virtue and Brave Tiger to work together and beat Azure Phoenix for good!"
"I still can't believe that Twilight thinks she can change him..." Ben said in disbelief, "How he talked to us that way..."
Nyx sighed, "True, daddy. But this is still in the past. Remember?"
Ben sighed, "I know, Nyx. I know. It's just so hard for me to forgive him for what he has done."
"We all do," Rarity said in agreement, "But for now, we need to focus on our tasks. She has done her part for our sake. And now, it's our turn to do the same for her."
Sunset nodded, "Yeah. Let's do this."
"Uh, guys..." Spike said fearfully. Everyone looked at him. He pointed at the front walls, "He's coming!"
Mane Seven and their friends came to the castle's walls, where they found the large army of Imperial Phoenix Army coming to the Xu Province Castle now. They were all in shock and surprise of what they're looking at.
"Oh boy..." Phobos said fearfully, "This isn't good. And it's not a good news too."
"Is mummy with them?" Nyx asked in concern.
Spike hummed while using the monoscope at the army, "Since she's now one of Azure's strategists, she should be in the front. But I don't see her. Why?"
"This is what Twilight suspected," Applejack said firmly before turned and looked at her friends, "Azure is going to finish us off, without Twilight knowing about this."
"Well, And I'd say we fight back now." Ben said firmly.
Rainbow nodded, "Yeah! Time to kick their asses! They're gonna be sorry for messing with the wrong ponies especially forcing Twilight to take the risk!"
Everyone cheered wildly and firmly, "YEAH!"
Dragonspear arrived at the castle's walls. He was surprised to see his friends regain their strength and determination, despite what has happened to Twilight. Nevertheless, he approached and spoke with them.
"Everypony, it is time," Dragonspear spoke. Everyone turned and looked at him. He asked, "Are you ready for it?"
Mane Seven and their friends shouted, "YEAH!"
--------------------------------------------
The Imperial Phoenix Army formed their own tactical formation. The first group consisted of 2,000 Dragon Riders in Wedge Formation, led by Bladestrike, Blazefist and Laxtinct. The second group consisted of 3,000 infantry in column formation led by Armorhide, Strict Stalker and Axen. And the final group consisting of 15,000 soldiers as infantry, Dragon Riders and archers was led by Azure Phoenix, Schemetrick, Snaptrap, Anger, Bullhound and Navy Arrow. They all have arrived and prepared to invade Xu Province.
"I'd never thought I would be back here to finish what I have started," Azure Phoenix stated dryly and darkly. He turned to Anger, "Kill Virtue Dragon and her friends as well. If those brats really want Twilight, confirm their surrender."
Anger nodded firmly, "Will do, my lord." He turned to the front. Unsheathed his Scimitar, He shouted while charging to the front, "All units! ATTACK! NO MERCY! First and second unit, engage!"
Imperial Phoenix Army gave a loud battle cry. Bladestrike gave a loud battle cry as he charged on the front, followed by Blazefist and Laxtinct and their Dragon Riders. Armorhide led his unit to charge in as well.
Xu Province's Gate opened as three brave generals led the army to charged and engaged with them. Dragonspear rode his White Speed Dragon as he charged and thrust his spear at the army at once. Blade and Warpath joined in by swinging their weapons at the enemies. However, they weren't alone. Ben, Applejack, Rainbow, Sunset and even Nyx in her teenage mode also joined the battlefield. The rest of their friends remained with Virtue as they defend the castle while fending the invaders off. Both sides fought fiercely and determinedly to win the battle.
Virtue led the army to defend the walls. His soldiers fired their arrows, throwing spears and stones at the enemies, who were trying to climb up the ladders, using siege towers to get over the walls, and even ramming at the gate. Pinkie used her Party Cannon at them. Starlight fired her magic powers at them. Fluttershy, Spike and Phobos threw some stones on them
Blade Dragoon and Bladestrike charged and rammed their dragons at each other off. They both jumped out and landed on the ground. They both slammed their weapons at each other fiercely and firmly for few rounds. while dodging the attacks as well. Warpath fought against Strict Stalker, Armohide, Axen and the large army of soldiers. Dragonspear fought against Anger while fighting off the army from both sides. Ben and his team also fought against the enemies as well. They came across to both Blazefist and Laxtinct, who armed with spear and hammer.
"Found you traitors..." Blazefist said darkly as he armed with his spear, "I've been waiting for this day especially wanted to fight you both."
Rainbow groaned, "I'm guessing that Laxtinct told you about us..."
Laxtinct chuckled uneasily, "I was just doing my job. Come on. Just join us. We won't kill you."
"And become a tyrant like Azure? No thanks," Applejack said firmly.
"But you said Azure helped you all a lot, and even in the future. Have you forgotten about that?" Laxtinct asked angrily, "And you all said that you all won't kill him!"
"We did. We promised Twilight that we won't kill him," Sunset said firmly, "But..."
"That doesn't mean we're gonna go easy on him. We will stop him!" Ben said firmly.
Blazefist scoffed as he armed with his spear, "I'd like to see you try. Did my future self told you about how much Hippogriffs?!"
Ben sighed, "He did. Unlike you, he knows when to let go of his anger and forgive them. He's the real hero, but not you."
"Yeah. You're right. I'm not like him," Blazefist said darkly, "Because in the future, I will kill them by my own hooves!"
Blazefist screamed in anger as he poured the oil on his spear's tip before ignited the fire. He charged while swinging his spear at Ben and his team, who moved back at once. The red Pegasus screamed in anger as he charged and swung his spear at them, who dodged and deflected the attacks at him. They also fought back at him, who did his best to defend and block the attacks. Applejack used her Mind Whiplash on his right hoof while Rainbow grabbed his left hoof before Sunset levitated and held his wings tightly. Ben charged and slammed his punches on Blazefist's face for few times.
While Ben's Team were dealing with Blazefist, Laxtinct came and swung his hammer in knocking them aside. He helped his older brother up. Both of them charged and engaged their enemies at once. Ben's Team fought fiercely and engaged against Blazefist and Laxtinct. They never thought that they would end up to fight with two members from future Dragon Strike Force.
--------------------------------------------
The battle rages on the battlefield of Xu Province for almost three days...
At the main camp, Azure Phoenix and his main Imperial Phoenix Army were watching the battlefield from distance. The Leader of the army grew impatient and irritated with the battlefield. While he was impressed with the warriors fighting back in both determination and bravery, he can't afford to wait anymore longer. He has to end this.
Azure Phoenix turned to Schemetrick and Snaptrap. He spoke, "End this now..."
Schemetrick and Snaptrap nodded firmly. They turned to both Bullhound and Navy Arrow, and gestured them to follow them. Four of them headed off to finish the battle once and for all.
Virtue Dragon and his crew did their best to push the enemies back. But unfortunately, the enemies have proven themselves too strong and their numbers were too many for them to handle. Not even Ben's Team could help them.
BOOM! Xu Province's Castle Walls got breached by some giant rocks. Everyone looked to the front, where they found Schemetrick and Bullhound were using few catapults to launch couple of rocks for attacking the walls and soldiers fiercely and wildly. And at the same time, Snaptrap and Navy Arrow led their small units infiltrated from the back of castle walls, where they ambushed and attacked Virtue Dragon's forces and peasants from behind. They even captured Virtue's wives also.
Virtue Dragon's army panicked and screamed in fear as they unable to stand and fight anymore, thus easily get killed by Imperial Phoenix Army. Virtue realized that he can't stay and defend his home anymore. The battle is lost.
"We must leave now!" Virtue said firmly. He shouted, "We must leave! Everyone escape! Get out of here now!"
"Escape! All units escape! The battle is lost!" The captain ordered fearfully.
Virtue quickly led his forces to leave and escape the castle walls. Unfortunately for them, one of Imperial Phoenix's catapults thrown the rocks right at Rarity and her team. They all screamed and panicked fearfully as they all falling down. Ben's Team noticed it as they quickly came and rescued their friends now. And just in nick of time, they did.
Unfortunately for the team, another boulder came and thrown straight at them, causing a powerful impact to split them.
Rainbow, Rarity and Sunset got thrown into river, which led them to the south. Warpath gave chase to save their friends. Ben, Pinkie and Phobos slammed on the walls, where they got grabbed and rescued by Virtue and Dragonspear while heading to north. Applejack held Starlight, Fluttershy, Nyx and Spike to the ground, surviving the impact. Blade came to their aid and just before he could lead them to safety, he got himself and others surrounded by the large army of Imperial Phoenix Army. Blade's team were ready to fight till death.
"Dragoon! That's enough! You can't win!" Bladestrike pleaded. Blade and his team remain firm and determined to fight. He sighed, "At least, think about your brother's wives. If you died now, who will protect them or even guide these ponies back to Oracle? Or worse, you'll never reunite with your family again. Please reconsider, old friend..."
Blade hummed in concern yet angry before gave in some thoughts about what Bladestrike has said. Blade sighed as he lowered his weapon down. Applejack and her friends remained firm and angry to put up their guard.
"I know you want to see her again," Bladestrike said calmly, "I insist you, do it for her, not for Azure or anyone else. For Oracle. You want to see her, don't you?"
As angry and refused to lower their weapons, they can't help but think about Twilight. They all know how much struggle she has put up to protect them. The least they can do is to see her alive and comfort her that they're not angry with her. They lowered their weapons.
Bladestrike turned and gestured Blazefist and Laxtinct to arrest the prisoners of war. All of them led into the carriages, where Virtue's family is holding in.
Anger returned to his cousin, whom he reported about the success. Azure Phoenix smiled in pleasant that he has once again win the battlefield. And what's more Twilight's friends have been dealt with...
--------------------------------------------
"Azure Phoenix has brought massive army down upon Virtue Dragon's Rebellion, and thus, they all crumbled before his ambition. And so, Virtue and his allies went separate ways and disappeared except Blade Dragoon, whom combined honor, loyalty, bravery and intelligence into one formidable warrior. Pleased to have him on his side, he welcomed the warrior to his army ranks. And now he has to deal with other conspirators, who remained inside the palace, including the Emperor himself..."
Inside the Throne Chamber, Emperor Xian, who is now 20-years-old, whimpered and quivered in fear as he has heard some news about his loyal retainers and ministers have all been executed. The Emperor was holding his sword as he was waiting and readying to fight Azure Phoenix.
As expected, Azure Phoenix has arrived and entered the throne chamber. He firmly yet calmly marched towards the Emperor, who is still scared and worried about him.
"Azure Phoenix..." Emperor Xian said fearfully, "You have come to kill me?!"
Azure Phoenix calmly bowed to the ground, "I would never presume to do so, your highness..."
Emperor Xian hissed as he stood up while armed with his sword, "I tried to have you killed. I would have no right to complain."
Azure Phoenix smiled amusingly, "You're a wise stallion, your highness" He turned and looked away while retained his calm and firm looks, "If it is your wish to kill me, then I will not stop you..."
Emperor Xian approached and readied to kill Azure Phoenix. However, his hooves was shaking to hold his sword due to him being scared and worried of Azure Phoenix. He wasn't sure if he has what it takes to finish his enemy. Unfortunately...
"I... I can't... I'm not my father..." Emperor Xian said fearfully while looking at Azure Phoenix, "You really frightened me, Azure. You shed no tears for your allies. You side with enemies if necessary. You even turned a friend against her own for the sake of your ambition. And when someone is not needed, you get rid of them. Even if it is me."
Azure Phoenix turned and glared at Emperor Xian, with his dark glare, scaring the emperor to drop his sword down.
"A land needs its ponies. And without the ruler, the ponies are lost," Azure Phoenix said calmly and firmly, "Your highness is needed. At least... while I am alive, that is..."
Emperor Xian could not help but be afraid and worried of what Azure Phoenix has said. It caused the Emperor to drop his sword down. The unicorn has truly frightened him a lot.
"Your presence allows me to move freely." Azure Phoenix said calmly as he turned his back and walked away, "To walk upon my ordained path... To build a new and better land. And thus, this is only the beginning..."
END...
Review and Suggest...
Main Casts:
Tara Strong: Twilight Sparkle
Jason Marsden: Ben Valorheart, Hou
Ashleigh Ball: Applejack, Rainbow Dash
Andrea Libman: Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie
Tabitha St. Germain: Rarity
Daveigh Chase: Nyx
Cathy Weseluck: Spike
Chris Sanders: Phobos
Kelly Sheridan: Starlight Glimmer
Rebecca Shoichet: Sunset Shimmer
Michael McConnohie: Narrator
Douglas Rye: Azure Phoenix
Dave B. Mitchell: Virtue Dragon, Blade Dragoon
Steve Kremer: Warpath Temper, Minister
Terrence Stone: Dragonspear
Minor Casts:
Red Tatesciore: Azure Phoenix's Singing Voice
Kirk Thornton: Anger, Soldiers
Quinton Flynn: Schemetrick
Doug Stone: Bullhound
Roger Craig Smith: Bladestrike, Soldiers
Josh Keaton: Blazefist
P.J. Bryne: Laxtinct
Travis Willingham: Axen
Vic Mignogna: Snaptrap
Yuri Lowenthal: Brave Tiger
Michael Sinterniklaas: Riverstrike
Gideon Emery: Courage Tiger
G.K Bowes: Tigress
Tony Oliver: Emperor Xian
Author's Notes:
'Behold the Darkest Song' is based on 'Open Up Your Eyes' from My little Pony the Movie (2017).
Next Chapter 18 - Loss and Hope: Twilight and her friends are lost and split from each other. And now, they're lost in Three Kingdoms Era. What will do they now? How will they survive without each other? Can they survive and fight until they reunite? Only time can tell...
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Well done with this Chapter, now we await for the next chapter.