Disclaimer: All MLP:FiM characters belong to Hasbro and DHX Media. I do not own any of them except my OC.
I was reading a book in the library when I suddenly heard a knock on the door at the front of the castle. I went down to answer it, and when I opened it, it turned out to be Rainbow and Fluttershy. I said "Hey guys. What brings you over?" Rainbow said "We just heard about this new author that is trying to make Daring Do look bad and neither of us can come to an agreement on who's right. So, since you have a powerful artifact that can tell who is really telling the truth or not, we figured we'd stop by." I looked over at Fluttershy and asked "Is that true?" Fluttershy sighed and said "Yes." I said "Okay guys. Before I can tell you who's really being honest here, I need to see more evidence before I can make a decision. Is there anywhere we can go so I can see if something bad is happening?" Rainbow scratched her neck and said "Well… there is a book signing today at the bookstore in Fillydelphia." Okay. We can start there. I said "Hmm. That would be a good place to start. Let me just write a note real quick to Twilight before we leave so she doesn't freak out when I'm gone and thinks the worst." Yeah, we know how that is.
Fluttershy and Rainbow giggled a bit at that sight because they've seen how Twilight gets when I've gone missing and didn't tell her where I've run off to. I simply wrote a note on my bedroom door that said I was out with Rainbow and Fluttershy and wouldn't be back until the end of the day. Hopefully, that's a good enough explanation and she won't come looking for me because of it. After I finished writing it and hanging it on the door, I went downstairs and headed out the door with Rainbow and Fluttershy. "Okay then, let's go." We all spread out our wings and took flight to Fillydelphia from Ponyville. After a little bit, we made it to the bookstore and walked inside. Fluttershy took a look around while Rainbow said "Well, at least A.K. Yearling's true fans know that Martingale's book is bogus." From the looks on their faces, I don't think that's the case. Fluttershy said "I'm not sure those are all fans." Yeah, you would be correct. When A.K. went to sit down, the first pony in line slammed his hoof on the table and yelled "Why didn't your book say that Daring Do was real?!" Because maybe she wanted to hide that. Use your brain, you dimwit! "This changes everything!" Eh, sorta.
Another one in line yelled "And why do you only write about her good side?! Is she bribing you?!" What kind of bogus is that?! A.K. and Daring Do are the EXACT same character. They aren't two different ponies. The one in the front of the line pulled out the book and said "On page 531, it says Daring Do kicks puppies!" How would that author know that? Seems kinda sketchy to me. The filly next to that pony asked "She does?!" A.K. quickly defended herself and said "What?! NO! Look, are any of you here for my actual book signing?!" They all looked around and said no which only irritated me. I think I've had enough of these ridiculous ponies. Time to dispose of them. I created an opening at the window so nothing would break and I took my shadows from the scepter and yeeted them all out across the street before closing up the window again. Rainbow and Fluttershy were left speechless and I said "What? Since they were complaining so much, might as well just have them go straight to the source." Rainbow was about to retort something, but then said "That's… actually pretty genius." Thank you. That's what I thought.
They turned to Daring Do and Rainbow looked nervous. "I guess we're a little late to warn you about the new book, huh?" Word spreads pretty quickly. A.K. sighed and said "I always feared that someday, everypony would learn that Daring Do was real." Of course. Because the haters out there will try to expose you to make you look bad. Fluttershy was confused and asked "But why? Aren't you proud of your adventures?" Of course she is Fluttershy, but that's not the reason why. A.K. said "Of course, but I'm not in it for the fame." That's good that you're not. Because the only thing that does is boost your ego and make you prideful. But, one day, that fame will go away and no one would remember you anymore. Instead, you'll be remembered for the person that would do anything to grab attention and that is something the fool does. So, good job on your part, A.K. for not being that way. "The stories seem too good to keep to myself." I can understand that. Those kinds of adventures are extremely hard to keep to yourself. You have a temptation to share it with others but don't want to be a bragger. So, you write books to solve that problem and not have to worry about others thinking you're being prideful or something. "I wish I knew who this Martingale author was." I think I might have an idea, but I need more evidence first before I can justify my argument.
"And why he's determined to ruin my character and me!" That's what happens a lot these days. There's always someone out there that wants to write terrible things about you to get others to believe that you're the bad guy and they're the good guy. It's foolish, but it's part of sin nature, so it makes sense. Fluttershy turned to the window and said "Maybe we can ask him." Hmm. How ironic. Doing a book signing across the street. Who knew? Oh, and I'll definitely have to speak with him on this. Rainbow was shocked and said "No way! He's doing a signing across the street?!" Now that's just rubbing it on someone's face right there. A.K. said "You'd better go without me." Why is that? "I can't risk the chance Martingale might recognize me as Daring Do." Seems fair enough. Okay, we will. Be right back. I went into my shadow form and dashed across the street before returning to my lion form and hiding behind the shelf. Rainbow and Fluttershy stood next to me and I knew who that author is now. I see the scar on his right eye. That mark is only one from a lion. No other creature can have that kind of scratch that's on his face.
It's Dr. Caballeron. No doubt about it. Even his goons are in disguise as well. Rainbow quickly realized who this guy was and gasped in horror. She said "That's not Martingale. It's Dr. Caballeron in disguise!" It sure is. "That would all make sense. Daring Do's arch nemesis created a fake author self so he can write books that make him sound like a hero! Who does that?!" You would be surprised at how many people do that. That is literally the definition of the American media right there. Always making up fake stories to shame people they don't like and praise others that they do like. The key is whoever lines up with their agenda. And since almost 99% percent of the media is full on extreme left wing flaming liberal, they would basically hate people from the other party which is stupid in my opinion, but whatever. It all goes back to the Baby Boomer generation where they said they would take over the government, the media, and academia. And it worked because it's still going strong to this day. That has not died off yet. Will it ever? I'm not sure. But I would like to hope so. Anything is possible. Anyways, let's move on here before CNN and MSNBC try to cancel me here for calling them out. Fluttershy said "Uh, A.K. Yearling?" Is that really the best you got? Because I can think of better examples than that. Rainbow ignored her and said "This is totally different." Eh, somewhat.
We went up to where Dr. Caballeron was and Rainbow confronted him. "Well, well, well. Up to your old tricks again huh?!" I guess so. "Just like in Somnambula. Spreading lies to make Daring Do look bad!" Well, I remember quite fondly of that and I'm surprised Caballeron hasn't given me any angry glares yet. Fluttershy came up and said "Would you sign our book?" That's the most random thing I've ever heard. Here you have all these accusations come up and then somepony asks for their book to signed. I find it funny. If you don't, that's perfectly fine. I don't care. Caballeron said "I am just a simple author." Yeah, I don't think so. I can see right through your scheme here. I can tell you are lying because the scepter told me so. "Telling it like it is." I took a look at the book and some of the stuff actually is correct, but I can see the point that Caballeron is trying to make and it's not a good one. Sometimes, just by reading most of the book, you can see the direction that it's headed in. Of course, not everyone sees it that way, but whatever.
"Who should I make it out to?" Eh, probably Fluttershy. I ain't here for free copies of books here. Fluttershy said with enthusiasm "Fluttershy with two t's." Rainbow was having none of it and knocked the book away before Caballeron could sign it. She said "We know who you really are! And unless you want to tell all of them, you better answer some questions!" Yeah, no more time to hide Caballeron. He stood up and said "I'm afraid that's all we have time for today." He laughed nervously and the crowd was disappointed. "But please, take a free copy of my book on your way out." The crowd cheered again and grabbed the books like a bunch of vultures nesting on roadkill. I went into my shadow form and backed away from the crowd so I wouldn't get caught up in it because that would be no fun. Rainbow saw him leave and followed after him. I returned to my lion form and flew next to Rainbow to see what his real reasons were. Rainbow said "We aren't going to let you get away with this Caballeron!" She means business. However, Caballeron turned around and said "Get away with what? Merely telling my side of the story." I said "Not every side of the story is being truthful though. I've seen it happen before." Finally, Caballeron gave me an angry glare and said to my face "Yes, I remember quite well considering the fact you used violence against me as if I was your afternoon snack!" I quickly grew mad and roared at him in anger.
I said "Don't even bother trying to make me look bad in front of my friends up there and also, I had good reason to do that. You were basically kidnapping one of my friends and told me, a royal mind you, to be quiet when it is only I that tell others to be quiet. Besides, I'm not really sure how bringing up that proves your argument. I'm just saying." Caballeron opened his mouth to say something, but had no answer for that whatsoever. Yeah, that's what I thought. He turned to Rainbow and said "You think everything in A.K. Yearling's books are true?" I never thought that. Sometimes, things can be messed up and can accidently say the wrong things. "Daring Do indicates in her quest, she states that the Thang Thorn Flowers are red. In fact, they are blue." He is technically correct. I've read books on that flower in Twilight's library at the castle. So, he's not wrong about that. Fluttershy said "It's true. They are." Of course, she would know that because she's out in nature all the time. Rainbow scoffed and said "That sounds more like an editor's mistake."
That would also sound right as well. I think so far, that both parties are at fault here. They each have said things that aren't really true and are determined to prove that the other is in the wrong. Caballeron raised a point and said "Still, if that is wrong, is it not possible that other bigger things aren't too?" He does raise a good point. Editor mistakes happen all the time and should be called out for them to be fixed. Not to use that as a reason why they are a terrible person or in this case, a pony. "Take a look and see my book." Rainbow still was having none of it and said "But I don't have to take your word for it!" I guess so, but that's being reduced to a child's argument if you think about it. "Come on Fluttershy, Zachary!" I was about to leave, but Caballeron sighed in distress. I still don't trust him, but I'll listen to hear what he has to say to add to my argument here. Fluttershy turned around as well and asked "Is something wrong?" Perhaps. But I want to see what his answer is. Caballeron said "It is terrible being misunderstood." Yeah, I know how that feels. "It is true in the past, that I've not been as nice to Daring Do as I should, but I have my reasons." Oh, I'm sure you do. However, that still gives you no excuse to act in revenge because of that. Fluttershy flew down and asked "Wanna talk about what happened? Not really, but I need to listen to this to make sure if it sounds genuine or not. Caballeron said "My team and I were only ever interested in researching artifacts and taking them to our museum where other ponies could study." I see.
It sounds genuine, but I'm not convinced. Sounding genuine and being genuine are two totally different things. Believe me. I know that all too well. "But Daring Do always seemed to get there first with her own plans." She had a reason for that. She thought that you were the one trying to steal it and was protecting them. "I offered to team up with her, but she refused." That happened in book four. Also, that was before Daring Do knew Rainbow. She still applied the philosophy of working alone which doesn't seem very smart in my opinion, but whatever. "She had her own ideas of where the treasures belonged." Okay, even if she did steal them from you, that does NOT give you the right to break into her home and steal the artifacts like it's a shopping spree inside of Walmart. Fluttershy said "Daring Do did have a lot of artifacts on her shelves at home. But didn't you try to sell them to the highest bidder?" Yes he did that. Caballeron looked around and said "Only because I had to." HA! Yeah right. Selling very valuable items to the highest bidder sounds more like a power move to me than trying to save this "museum" of yours.
"Since Daring Do kept taking our artifacts, our museum closed." Well yeah, because you couldn't keep the business going since you had no money. From a business perspective, that makes sense. "We were desperate for money to keep it open." Yeah, well, with that being said, you could have found other ways to do it instead of selling valuable items to the highest bidder. Fluttershy thought about it and said "She does destroy a lot of ancient sites. Not to mention the homes of the animals that live there." That's what he wants you to think. He wants you to notice the small things and forget about the big picture which is downright stupid and foolish. You sound just like those ponies in Somnambula when Caballeron disguised himself as one of the citizens living there and made them all believe that Daring Do was the bad guy. Caballeron said "And I felt like it was my duty to tell the world." Yeah, well, those small things aren't as important as you may think. Animals were made as part of God's creation, they were not made in his image. That's the argument I always make when vegans tell me it's "animal abuse" to eat meat which is absolute bullcrap. It's like they want these creatures to be enshrined on some pedestal valued much higher than humans and we're all supposed to bow down and worship them as an idol which is also foolish.
There is only one person I serve and that is God. I serve no one else and only him. As I've said before, it says in Matthew 4:10 "Worship the Lord your God and serve him only." And that's what I shall do. So for all vegans out there that want to shame me for eating meat, there's my answer right there as to why I will never stop eating meat. Always have, always will. Just to be clear, I'm NOT throwing all vegans under the bus, I'm only calling out the ones that like to go around and shame others for eating meat. Sadly, those people make the entire community look bad and give us meat eaters all the more reason to continue eating meat. Anyways, enough of that. "Thank you for listening and understanding, Miss…?" Fluttershy said "Fluttershy with two t's." Right. You said that already. Caballeron ripped off his disguise and said "And I… am Dr. Caballeron." Yes, yes. We know that. It doesn't take a genius to figure that out. "Martingale is merely a nontobroom to build my brand." Okay whatever that means. "You know, I think we could use an insightful pegasus like you Fluttershy." Why does this seem wrong for him to do something l;ike that?
I feel like he's going to exploit my friend in not so nice ways if you're picking up what I'm putting down. "Have you ever thought about being an adventurer?" I do it all the time technically. Fluttershy looked around and said "Who, me?" Yes, you. Who else? I went outside and waited for Fluttershy to come out because I didn't want to be around for that. Finally, Fluttershy came out the door and Rainbow said impatiently "Finally! What took you so long?!" There are reasons for that. Fluttershy said "I decided to find out which author is really telling the truth, so I joined Dr. C's tinactin expedition!" Caballeron ahd the rest of his goons gave both me and Rainbow evil smirks and I just growled lowly. Rainbow couldn't believe her eyes and said "Say what?!" We quickly rushed over to where A.K. Yearling was and I heard one of the fillies from earlier say "So Daring Do doesn't kick puppies?" Of course not! And even if she did, it was probably on accident. A.K. yelled "That was one time accidentally!" She is right. Rainbow opened the door and exclaimed "A.K.! You have to help me! Group Cu Cu Martingale is really Dr. Caballeron and he has Fluttershy!" Good grief. Slow down. "The book thing was his new plan to ruin Daring Do's reputation and he's trying to make my friend a criminal!" Technically yes, but we still have time.
"They're up to Tenochtitlan right now!" If you say so. A.K. thought about it for a second and said "He must be after the Truth Talisman of Tonoteau." I remember reading about that. "It requires the wings of a pegasus to retrieve it." Which is why Caballeron was able to convince Fluttershy to tag along with him. Rainbow said "That's got to be why Caballeron tricked Fluttershy into joining his gang!" I said "You would be correct and if we don't get a move on, they'll be able to get inside the temple before we even reach the jungle." A.K. Stood on the desk and declared "Then it's up to us to stop him!" She took off her cloak and changed to Daring Do while the filly standing there was standing in awe. We quickly took flight to the jungle and I flew ahead to see where they were located. I saw them brushing through the jungle and I followed them very closely. I cast an invisibility spell on myself to where I could still see myself, but they couldn't see me. It made it easier to follow them without the risk of them hearing my wings flapping or my shadow from above.
I heard Caballeron say "Watch where you put your hooves everypony. We do not want to disturb the fragile jungle ecosystem." I rolled my eyes and gave him a glare. I do care about the environment, but you are doing it for the wrong reasons. That's why I don't support you on that. You're one of those impractical environmentalists who always complains in Congress about environmental issues but never actually does anything about it. I despise those kinds of people because they are simply just being annoying and stupid. If you're going to complain about environmental issues, you might as well try to do something about it because it would be pointless otherwise. Fluttershy didn't catch the memo on that and said "Oh, that's so thoughtful." I guess, but Caballeron's not doing it for the right reasons, so I'll have to disagree on that one. Caballeron said "Yes unlike Daring Do, who slashes plants aside with her cruel magentic." I growled in anger because that's just an excuse to trash talk Daring Do and I don't stand for that whatsoever. Fluttershy turned around and said "Thank you." You're not welcome. One of Caballeron's goons was about to eat something, but Caballeron threw a spear at the food and pierced it into the tree. Dang. He yelled "Fool! Don't you know that's poison?!" Umm, excuse me. Let me make something clear to you here. You are not supposed to call ANYONE a fool. That is wrong and should never EVER be practiced.
The Bible specifically says that because it's basically saying that if we call someone a fool, we would be a hypocrite because we were that way at one point as well. That's why you don't call someone a fool. Their behavior would be foolish, but they themselves are not a fool. Only God can call someone a fool because he is holy and we are not. We all have sin nature in our hearts and God doesn't. That's why he can call someone a fool. With that aside though, Caballeron is correct. That thing is poison and should not be consumed. I read about that in one of Twilight's books called "Poisonous Plants of Equestria" in her library. Believe me. I spend a lot of time educating myself so I don't get stuck in a sticky situation. Caballeron quickly realized that Fluttershy was within earshot of both of them and could hear them say that. "I… don't want you to get hurt my friend." Yeah, this dude is basically passive-aggressive in my opinion. The pony that tried to eat the plant said "But I'm hungry." I'm sure you are, but don't go around eating whatever looks edible because some of those have hidden unpleasant surprises lurking inside of it.
Caballeron squinted his eyes and Fluttershy said "Oh, I can help with that." You can? How so? "Here." She pulled out a picnic blanket and it had apples and apple juice there as well. Caballeron was confused and asked "You… are willing to share?" Of course she is, Caballeron. It's part of her personality which is kindness which is also her Element of Harmony as well. Fluttershy said "Of course. That's part of the fun of having an adventure with friends." Yeah, she knows that all too well because she does it with the rest of us all the time. Or at least, when I'm not busy. They all began feasting on the snacks, but then there was some rustling in the bushes. First came a Panther, then a Wildcat, and then a Cougar. The group gasped in horror and then a little kitten hopped on the Panther. It seemed friendly, but then it tried to scratch Caballeron. They all took off running and Fluttershy stopped right before the bushes. Time to exterminate these pests. Caballeron said in fear "Fluttershy, run! These ferocious beasts want to eat us for dinner!" I'm going to eat them for dinner once I take them out. Fluttershy said "That's a common misconception." HOW?! They are predators and predators eat humans or whatever the dominant species are on Earth when they cross their path! "Have you ever tried just talking to them?" Only you can do that Fluttershy. The rest of us can't! Well, I can, but the average pony can't.
Caballeron thought it was heresy and said "That's crazy! You're on your own!" For once, I do agree with Caballeron. That's considered nonsense and not very realistic. Anyway, he jumped into the bushes and hid. One of the goons said "She's a goner." Not if I can help it. Another one said "I can't watch!" Then, don't look. I charged up my scepter and before I could send out a lightning bolt to kill them, Fluttershy quickly calmed them down and I released my magic on the scepter. Fluttershy said "We're very sorry for coming into your territory. But we're just passing through." I wish this was a thing in the real world back home because that would be nice if Fluttershy could just come around to calm down dangerous predators from eating humans. Caballeron was shocked and asked "How did you do that?" Easy. She has the ability to talk to animals. I'm not sure how, but that's just what happens. Fluttershy explained "Every creature likes to be listened to." Eh, that's true in this world, but back home, you can't say that whatsoever. "You just need to take the time to understand them." Like I said, that's true for Equestria, but not for Earth.
"You are more talented than I realized." I find that to be very insulting because you basically underestimated her abilities, but then again, you don't know her that much, so can't really blame ya. Fluttershy said "Thanks. I'm having the best time with you all!" How though? Oh wait. You're being played. They were all happy to hear that and I flew back to where Rainbow and Daring Do were and told them what I found. Rainbow said "Fluttershy must be having the worst time with Caballeron's goons." Actually, you would be surprised. Daring Do said "We need to catch up to them before they reach the Truth Talisman." Yeah, we do. Rainbow said "Why? What's so special about it?" I'll let Daring Do answer that one for you. Daring Do said "It has the power to make the pony holding it tell the truth." Hmm. Another artifact that can tell if you're being truthful or not. The Defense Scepter, which is the one I carry with me, can also tell if someone is being honest or not. That's the power of Harmonics magic. "But Caballeron only wants it because it's made of solid gold." Heh. Not surprised. Probably just wants to get rich with it. "He'll melt it down and use it to get rich." There ya go. She just said it right there. Rainbow said "So, if this talisman is so important, why didn't you already save it?" It's not that cut and dry Rainbow. I said, "It's a lot harder than you think Rainbow." Really it is.
Rainbow was about to add something, but Daring Do said "He's right. The temple traps are far too dangerous to face without a map. And maybe even with one." Yeah, that's not exactly reassuring, but I can easily pull up a 3-D map of the temple so we can see where to go and what to avoid. I flew up higher and zoomed in on where Caballeron's gang were. I put in my ear piece and listened to the conversation. I heard one of the goons say "Boss, how about we take the shortcut?" There's a shortcut?! Oh wait. Duh! There's a shortcut for everything these days. Caballeron didn't like that and yelled "How about you be quiet?!" That's the second time today that Caballeron lashed out at one of his minions. He noticed Fluttershy standing right there and quickly changed his choice of words. "I… mean, no thank you Biff. Let's just follow the map." The rest of the gang started walking and Biff said "Aww. I'm supposed to be Dr. C's second in command. But he never listens to me." That's just how he is. At least Celestia listens to me when I make suggestions about the military.
If I feel like the military would be better stationed somewhere else than where they currently are, I'll bring it up to Celestia and generally she does listen to me. I never have to worry about her ignoring me at all. I only make those suggestions so that I can better protect Equestria. She cares so much for her subjects and this is how I help her with that. Fluttershy looked at Biff and said "Well, keep trying. I believe in you." I think sometimes, Fluttershy has a little too much faith in others, but it's fine. I much rather her have too much faith instead of too little. They were all able to reach the top of the temple and Caballeron said "At last. Now we simply have to wait for the Sun to reach it's highest point. And our path will be revealed." I see. One of his goons went to lay down under a tree because of how tired he was, but he was sitting right under a wither's nest. Those are nasty creatures and do not play around whatsoever. He tried swatting them away, but Fluttershy said "Withers. Don't move." The other goons hid behind one of the rocks and Fluttershy moved as close as she could to the hive. The goon laying on the ground was frozen and was shaking in fear and Fluttershy got a piece of bamboo or something to lure them away. She started blowing it and the withers followed the noise and came over to Fluttershy which allowed the goon to escape to a much safer place. The Withers moved back to their hive and that goon cheered in excitement.
I flew back down and Rainbow and Daring Do were right there. Daring Do said "There they are! We can catch them before they enter the temple." Yeah, let's go. As we rushed up the stairs, Daring Do got trapped into vines and was brought to the ground. Rainbow gasped in horror and went to try and free Daring Do. I know exactly who this is. "Get back Rainbow Dash! It's Ahuizotl!" Rainbow got caught in the vines as well and Ahuizotl simply just laughed. He tried putting me into vines, but I quickly countered them with thick black web wires to shoo them away. Eventually, he just gave up and looked at the two. He said "Daring Do. My old nemesis." What do you mean old nemesis? She was always your nemesis. "You may have outsmarted my jungle cats, but you CANNOT ESCAPE ME!" We'll just see about that. Rainbow said, "We didn't see any cats." Fluttershy lured them away. That's why. "We're just here to rescue Fluttershy." Ahuizotl simply looked at Rainbow and said "Hmm. It must be a coincidence that only a pegasus can retrieve Tonoteau's treasure and there are two of you here." Yeah, we know that.
I let Ahuizotl run his mouth and then I grabbed the end of the vines with my scepter and flew them up to the top of the temple, escaping Ahuizotl's grasp. He roared in anger, but I was too quick for him. I was able to get both of them free and we started flying up. I went to the very top so I could make sure we could make it. Caballeron saw the Sun at its highest peak and put some sort of diamond artifact on the top of the stone which cast a very bright light around the entrance and up into the sky where the Sun was. Caballeron moved away and the door opened and revealed a staircase. He said "Quickly! Before the Sun moves and it closes!" They all ran in and when the power from the Sun stopped, the door began to close. However, I charged up my magic and my scepter roared to life and held it in place so Rainbow and Daring Do could get inside without getting crushed. But, this thing was so heavy, I could barely keep it from moving. They made it to the top and I yelled "Can't. Hold. Much. Longer. HURRY!" They both got inside and I released my hold of the door. I went into my shadow form and dashed down through the staircase. We made it inside and I returned to my lion form. Rainbow said "Phew. That was cutting close." A little too close in my opinion. Daring Do said "And without a map, we'll have to guess which way to go." I said "I have a fix for that. Let me see here." Time to look here.
I scanned to see which door didn't lead to a trap and it was the one in the center. "This one in here. Follow me." We were able to successfully make it through the temple and were able to find Caballeron. They wanted to confront him, but I put out a paw for them to wait and listen before confronting him. Caballeron said "Oh no. I knew the Truth Talisman could not be moved by magic, but I never realized we'd have to fly to retrieve it." Of course you know that. You're only trying to get Fluttershy to fall for your scheme here. "Our journey has been for nothing." Yeah, I don't care. Fluttershy fell for the bait and said "Don't worry. I can get it." I don't think you understand Fluttershy. Caballeron said "Oh Fluttershy, you're too kind. But I could never ask that of you. It might be dangerous." He is technically correct. You'll see in a second. Fluttershy didn't care and said "I wanna do it for all of you. My new friends." I rolled my eyes in disgust and both Rainbow and Daring Do gagged at that sight. "And to protect a historical treasure." It really doesn't need protecting, but whatever.
She flew up to retrieve it and once she did, lava started launching out of the air. Rainbow and Daring Do really wanted to go help, but I told them this was not the right time to strike yet. They just needed to wait a little while longer. Fluttershy tried flying away, but the lava was far too quick for her to escape. One of the goons ran over and yelled "Give me a hoof here!" The other two ran over and jumped on top of him. The one on the top was able to push one of the pillars down onto the lava as a bridge, so Caballeron could get Fluttershy out. He ran onto that said pillar and caught Fluttershy when she began to fall. He helped her up and both of them ran off as the pillar began to collapse. Finally, the lava stopped and one of the goons said "We did it!" Yeah, yeah. You did. Now move on please. One of the other goons said "You're safe." At least that's good to hear. Both Rainbow and Daring Do sighed in relief knowing that Fluttershy was able to escape unscathed. Fluttershy smiled and said "Thanks everypony." You're welcome I guess. Fluttershy gave Caballeron the Talisman and he put it around his neck. I signaled to both Rainbow and Daring Do as the time to strike and we took off. Daring Do said "Give us the talisman Caballeron!" Caballeron glared at us and Rainbow yelled "We're not taking no for an answer!" Fluttershy saw us and said "Wait! You don't understand!" Oh, I perfectly understand all right. All three of us saw what just unfolded.
"My friends are researchers! They only want to study the Talisman and keep it safe in a museum!" That's nonsense. Technically, he only said that with other artifacts. That doesn't mean he was saying the same thing for the Talisman. "Right, Dr. C?" He's going to lie to you. He started sweating nervously and said "Uh, no." Every time he says something, his eyes glow green which is really interesting. Fluttershy was shocked by that and said "But… but you said-" before Daring Do interrupted and said "Now that he's holding Tonoteau's Talisman, he has to tell the truth!" I said "Just because he said that he wanted to protect artifacts in the past doesn't mean he'll do the same in the present." Rainbow glared at Caballeron and said "Admit it Caballeron! You were only pretending to like Fluttershy because she has the wings you needed to steal the Truth Talisman." That is correct. However, there's a twist to this. You'll see in a second. "Isn't that right?!" Caballeron yelled "No! I admit that was the original reason, but my hench ponies and I have come to value your friendship and kindness." Now there's the twist right there that I was talking about.
Fluttershy smiled and Rainbow seemed surprised. She said "Didn't see that coming." I knew it did. "Or that!" The door suddenly opened and it was Ahuizotl again. Ugh, this creature doesn't want to give up eh? Oh well. Time to take things up a notch. Ahuizotl said "More intruders?! And you dare to steal Tonoteau's Talisman?!" Not all of us are, thank you very much. "Guardian Ghoulies, ATTACK!" Suddenly, these stone creatures roared to life and flew down to surround us. Ahuizotl just laughed evilly and backed away before closing the doors. He shut all of them so we couldn't get out. After a few seconds, they started flying around and Caballeron exclaimed "Fluttershy! Can you ask them to stop like the jungle cats?" Nope. Can't do that. I said "You can't do that. These creatures are made of stone that's powered by magic, not live creatures." Rainbow started flying away and yelled "So, how do you get rid of them?!" I'm sure there's some way in here. Daring Do said "I know they don't like bright light!" That's it! I got just the thing. Fluttershy said "There's none of that in here." I can fix that real quick. I said, "Watch this." I went up to the top of the room and charged up my scepter. Then I cast a spell that made it radiate red lights in all directions and it was so bright, it was like looking at the Sun itself. The creatures didn't like that and they went back to being solid stone. Perfect.
The scepter stopped glowing and Fluttershy said "Wow. Nice work. I had no idea your scepter could do that." I smiled and said "There's a lot of things my scepter can do that you have no idea about." Before Fluttershy could say something else, Daring Do said "Talk later! Now it's time to escape!" That is true. She tried kicking the door, but it didn't budge whatsoever. Biff said "If we want to get out of here, we're gonna have to work together." That's really smart of you to say. Put your differences aside for now and come together as one. Caballeron said "That's… actually a good idea." For once, he didn't say something stupid like the pervious two times. Fluttershy said "See? I told you he'd listen." Yeah, we know that. Anyway, Daring Do seemed skeptical and said "A truce until we escape? How can we trust you?" Well, with the Truth Talisman around his neck, he'll tell you the truth anyway, so it's fine for now. He said "I cannot lie." I like big bucks and I cannot lie. What? I like lots of dough. I didn't say I love it because the love of money is the root of all evil, so don't jump on me for that.
"Now, all together!" Yes sir! We all pushed the wall down and we walked across to another room. However, we ran into Ahuizotl who was polishing his nails or something. It was kinda the most random thing I've seen in a while. He noticed us and said "You again! Ragh!" He picked up Caballeron with his tail and Caballeron threw it over to Daring Do. "If I wanted to play games, I will get out of my peanut for that!" I have no idea what that means, but whatever. Daring Do saw an opening and yelled "This way!" We all followed after her and Ahuizotl wasn't about to let us get away. He blocked Daring Do and she flew upwards. He tried grabbing it with his hands, but Daring Do threw the Talisman to Rainbow. "Rainbow Dash!" She picked it up and avoided every hand grab that Ahuizotl tried to do. She said "I'm gonna need the Deluxe Spa package after this adventure." Wow. She finally admitted that. But, we'll probably have to be quiet. Don't worry though. I had it recorded, so if she tries to deny it, I can just show it to prove it. "That doesn't leave this temple." Fine. If you say so. She threw it over to Fluttershy and she held it in her grasp. Ahuizotl was closing in on her and she threw it to the next pony. They all played hot potato and then I retrieved it. It can't escape my grasp now, Ahuizotl. The rest of them started running and when Ahuizotl tried to grab me, I used my thick black web wires to keep him away.
Once I had it around my neck, I disengaged my black web wires and ran off with it. I went into my shadow form so I could be even faster and simply go right through Ahuizotl in case he tried to block me again. I returned to my lion form and handed it to one of the henchmen. He said with it around his neck "That's it. I'm quitting the henchpony business to finally follow my dreams of becoming an opera star!" Now that's even more random. What Ahuizotl did with his nails was random enough, but what this pony just said takes the cake. We all just looked at him weird and the pony handed it over to Caballeron. "Uh, maybe you should hold this." Yeah, I think that would be a good idea. The place shook and Ahuizotl said "You cannot hide in there forever! It's a dead end! Ha ha ha!" Unfortunately, he is correct. He kept banging on the wall to try and crush us and I knew we had to do something. Daring Do said "Ahuizotl won't give up until he catches us." Pretty much. Unless we are able to successfully escape and fly miles away from him. Fluttershy said "I think our problem is the solution." Now there's a paradox right there.
Rainbow seemed confused and said "Uh, did you forget that there's a monster out there that wants to crush us?" Yes, we do remember that. However, there is a reason why he is doing that. Fluttershy said "But why? Nopony ever asked Ahuizotl what his side of the story is. He must have a reason for being so upset." You are correct. There is a reason for everything. Even when people don't want to admit it. Rainbow said "Or maybe he's just a bad guy!" That's not being very realistic, Rainbow. "Do I need to remind you that he tried to squash Daring Do like a hundred times?!" I said "Even with that Rainbow, Ahuizotl has a reason for that. There is a reason for everything. And I mean everything." Caballeron said "It is true. I was so scared that I had to change my ascot." Okay then. "Agh! Curse this truth teller!" You rather tell lies then? That's not very wise. Anyway, he threw the Talisman away and Fluttershy caught it. She said "Understanding begins with listening." She's not wrong. She walked out and flew up to Ahuizotl. Everypony else was doubtful, but I had faith in Fluttershy, so I didn't worry too much. Ahuizotl saw Fluttershy and said "Prepare to meet your doom!" If you dare harm one hair on her body, I'll make sure you meet your doom. I don't play games Ahuizotl, so don't screw it up here. I'm giving you the benefit of the doubt here. Don't make me regret it.
Fluttershy said "Um, not really. Just here to ask, why are you chasing us, Mr. Ahuizotl?" Let's see what his reasoning is. Fluttershy lifted up the Talisman to him and he began to change his expression. He said "Well, the thing is, I'm in charge of protecting this jungle. If another artifact goes missing on my watch, I'm going to be in so much trouble with the other guardian creatures." Yeah, I bet that's not fun. Fluttershy sympathized with him and said "Oh, that sounds like a lot of responsibility." Believe me. It is. Ahuizotl said "It is. And those two have taken so many relics from my land. My job is on the line. So maybe, I'm a little violent and ferocious. Can you blame me?" No, not really. I understand how that feels. He has a job of protecting ancient artifacts and when they get stolen, he turns aggressive and violent which makes him act like a villain. He picked up the tissue that Fluttershy gave him and blew his nose a bit. Both Daring Do and Caballeron came out and put their hooves on the Talisman.
Ahuizotl seemed surprised, but he didn't do anything. Daring Do said "The only reason I've been taking the artifacts is because I thought I was protecting them." That's not a bad reason, but you didn't know that they were already being protected. I guess that happens. Caballeron said "I was stealing them to get rich." Yeah, that's a dumb reason. Ahuizotl got in his face and gave him a glare. Caballeron started sweating nervously and quickly defended himself. "But I never realized you had a noble cause. I thought you were just being a monster." That's what they all think, but it's just not true. Ahuizotl sighed and said "I get that a lot." I'm sure you do. Rainbow came out and said "Maybe there is something to this whole "listening to everypony" thing." Definitely so. Fluttershy said "It doesn't always mean they're telling the truth, but every creature deserves kindness." I would agree with you, but actually none of us deserves kindness whatsoever. We all deserve to die. But because we have a God that loves us, he's given us a second chance at life and we won't have to fear his wrath. If we accept him as Lord and Savior. If you don't, well… it's not going to be pretty during the tribulation time period. Just read it in Revelation and it's pretty dark stuff. God does not mess around when it comes to punishing sin. Anyways, enough of that before this turns into a sermon. Ahuizotl said "True. And because you returned the Talisman and took the time to understand me, I will let you all go." Whew.
That's good to hear. "On one condition: You swear to never steal artifacts from the Tenochtitlan basin again!" He held out the Talisman and both Daring Do and Caballeron said "I promise." There we go. That issue is now resolved. Daring Do said "I'll even write that in my next book." Uh, you might not have wanted to say that. Caballeron was surprised and said "Your next book? You mean, you're actually A.K. Yearling?" Keep your mouth shut and don't go around spreading word about that. Daring Do had a nervous expression on her face and said "Don't tell anypony!" I won't, but I'm not sure about him. Caballeron said "That gives me an idea." I wonder what that is. Even Ahuizotl started thinking about it a little bit. We all left the temple and me and Rainbow came back a few weeks later to see how things were going. We went to that bookstore again and Rainbow said "Hey, what's going on? I thought your first co-written novel would bring out a ton of fans." I looked across the street and I rolled my eyes. Of course. I figured that.
A.K. Yearling said "We've been upstaged by a new author." I could tell that Caballeron was not happy whatsoever. Rainbow turned around to see that Ahuizotl had started writing books as well. I went over there to listen and I heard Ahuizotl say "And so, the noble Ahuizotl bravely toiled day and night to protect the jungle's special artifacts…" After the story was over, I headed back to the castle and went inside. I said "Twilight? I'm home!" I began looking around to see where Twilight was but I couldn't seem to find anything. Before I could give up, I felt two purple hooves ensnare my neck from behind me and I heard Twilight whisper in my ear "Guess who?" I smiled and picked her up with my magic to bring her in front of me. She wrapped her front hooves around my neck and wrapped her back ones around my back and gave me the most passionate kiss I've seen her give so far. I of course returned it because this mare is oh so dang beautiful and I can't get enough of her sometimes. We pulled away after a few seconds and I said "Miss me?" Twilight smiled and said "YES! I hate it so much when you're not around with me. Sometimes, I wish I can hog you all to myself and never let you out. But, I realize that I can't do that to you and I can't do that to my friends either. You understand, right?" I said "Yeah, I do. And you are right. You shouldn't restrict me from hanging out with my other friends just so you can have me to yourself." Twilight sighed, but then smiled again.
She said "But that doesn't mean I can't have you to myself right now." I guess it doesn't. I used my magic and carried her to her "royal" chambers. Yeah, you know where this is going, so I'll just wrap things up here before Fanfiction catches on to what's happening. So, this has been quite the crazy few weeks here. But, at least things between Daring Do, Caballeron, and Ahuizotl have been resolved. Now we can finally put this issue to rest for good. No longer will we have to worry about this. I think this is a good ending to the saga. Now we can focus on putting other things to rest before I eventually ascend to the throne with Twilight.
AN: Well, this is quite the interesting ending to this saga that began all the way back in Season 2. Now, we can move on to other things. I can't wait to get to them and I'm sure you guys will like it too. Hope you enjoyed the chapter!
Next Chapter: Skipping childhood! When the Cutie Mark Crusaders plan to go to the fair in Appaloosa, they almost forget to bring an adult with them. They asked each of the Mane Six and they were all busy. Plus, they even told them it was far too dangerous for them to go that far alone. Zachary really wanted to take them, but Twilight needed his help, so there wasn't anything he could do about it either. Frustrated, the CMC's wish they were adults so they could go to the fair. Their wish gets granted by a magical flower and they head off to the fair. Zachary pursues after them and is determined to stop them from doing something stupid. Will the CMC's be able to turn out fine, or will their childish brains still get them into trouble?
Until then, my fellow readers