Chapter 5: Gauntlet of Fire
In the Well of Shades, Zhao was sitting on his throne in his throne room while in deep meditation.
He has been meditating since the royal Crystalling at the Crystal Empire and his henchmen didn't get Flurry Heart's berserk magic. But since one of his Dragonquins are hiding in the mountains, it still might destroy the Crystal Empire as well as get the magic from the ponies there.
For a millenia now, I have been preparing to take over Equestria since my last defeat a thousand years ago by the White Lotus clan. Zhao said in his thoughts. I have come this close to succeeding for my next goal to destroy Chase Young, his family, and his friends. And I will not let that alicorn stallion get in my way again.
While Zhao was in deep meditation, footsteps were heard as he opened his eyes to see Tai Lung approaching in the middle and bowed down to his master in respect.
"Master Zhao, we have just received word in the borders outside of Equestria." Tai Lung informed his master. "The Dragon Lands have begun the Gauntlet of Fire. Dragon Lord Torch is preparing to summon every dragon in that area, possibly even the four dragons that joined forces with Chase Young and his friends."
Zhao had look of satisfaction on his face as an evil smirk formed on his face.
"Perfect." Zhao said as he rose up from his throne. "And if he is preparing to throw the bloodstone scepter into the flame-cano. This will give us the perfect approitunity to steal some of its magic for next invasion plan to finally flood the world using the Sanzu River to rise again. This time we will not let Chase Young interfere with our plans again."
Then he turned his attention to Tai Lung.
"Take your best Quinkan soldiers to the Dragon Lands, Tai Lung. I want no mistakes this time." Zhao instructed firmly.
"Yes, master." Tai Lung acknowledged to his mentor as he rose back up on his feet and left to take some of the Quinkan soldiers to the Dragon Lands to steal some of the energy from the bloodstone scepter.
(Scene changes)
One day, Rarity and Spike were at the gem mines located located on the outskirts of Ponyville. Rarity would usually come here whenever she needed some extra gems for her fashion outfits and such. She added a large blue bow to her mining helmet.
The dragon was carrying the basket while the white unicorn was collecting and putting the gems and crystals on the basket. And at the same time, she shushed at her friend, who was looking very hungry at the jewels. She turned and looked at the sleeping bats hanging on the ceilings.
"The last time I was here, I woke them and ended up with a mane full of bats!" Rarity commented in concern. She sighed in upset before she smiled at Spike. "Thanks for being my basket holder, Spike."
"Basket holder?" Spike exclaimed, "I thought I was your bodyguard."
"What?" Rarity remarked before quickly recomposing herself, "Oh, heh, yes, yes, that of course, too." She then got back to work using her magic to extract the gems again.
"Oh, for once I wish unicorn magic wasn't so...luminescent!" said Rarity.
As Rarity continued collecting the gems, she heard some squeaking noise. She looked up and found bats were waking up from their slumber. She even saw some gleam lights on them, and even heard noise. And the only pony or dragon with her is...
"Spike! Spike! You'll wake the bats! Turn that off!" Rarity said in concern as she turned to her back. She gasped, "My goodness!"
Spike's body and scales was glowing brightly. And at the same time, he felt itchiness on him. He tried to scratch the itchiness out.
"Ugh, I can't!" Spike groaned.
And just before Rarity could do anything, the bats squeaked wildly as they dropped and flying straight at her and Spike. Rarity screamed in fear and worry as she took Spike immediately while escaping the cave at once.
*Main theme*
Back at the castle, Twilight and Chase had invited Celestia and Luna to the castle for tea and scones. Of course, Jade, Sunray, Trini, and Antonio were there since Chase had invited them.
"I'm so glad you two could come!" said Twilight.
"Of course," said Luna, "We so rarely get a chance to relax and just visit."
"Well, I'm just glad that I was able to invite some of my family here for our occasion, even if it means I still like to sit next to you, honey." Chase said as he pulled Twilight in for a hug, making his wife giggle and nuzzled his cheek.
"I have to admit you guys are a good couple." Jade said with a smile, seeing Twilight and Chase together is really cute.
"I agree." Trini nodded in agreement as Sunray and Antonio smiled as well.
"Well, all I can say is that it's about time you guys got together and married." Sunray said to his older brother and sister-in-law.
Chase and Twilight smiled back in return.
Celestia and Luna giggled in agreement as well.
"And as long as you and Luna are having some time off from royalty, I hope you'll make up for your schedule so we can catch up." Antonio suggested.
"That maybe true, Antonio. But there's usually some crisis we have to deal with," said Celestia, "Somepony always needs our help. But today-"
EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEK!
Rarity screamed from afar and suddenly the doors to the dining room burst open. Rarity was overed in grime as the former held Spike with her magic grip.
"Rarity, what happened to you?!" Chase asked in alarm.
"Twilight! Chase! There's something wrong with Spike!" Rarity cried out.
"What's wrong?" Twilight asked as she removed the tea and scones from the table and Rarity put Spike down on the table.
"I don't know!" Spike grunts since the glow was making him scratch himself, "Nngh! All of a sudden, my scales just started glowing and...burning!"
"Little is known about dragon culture," said Luna, "but this is a phenomenon we've seen before. It is the call of the Dragon Lord."
"Whoa..." said Trini in a low but shocked tone.
"Dragon's glow whenever the Dragon Lord has need of them in the Dragon Lands," said Celestia.
"Great..." Spike remarked, "H-How do I make it stop?!"
"The only way to end the summons is to answer it," Luna replied, "You must journey to the Dragon Lands and see what is expected of you."
"B-b-but the Dragon Lands are full of...dragons!" Rarity protested, "and they're ghastly creatures!" Spike looked a bit offended.
"Oh, oh, not you of course, Spikey-wikey," said Rarity, "but remember that rotten Garble?"
"How could I forget?" Spike gulped, "He would have burnt us to a crisp if you weren't there."
"Hold on, Rarity?" Chase said with a firm look. "Aren't you forgetting anyone else?"
"Yeah, what about Teejay, Echo, Mikey, and Sly?" Sunray asked in agreement with Chase. "They helped us when we took on Kai and the Quinkan on Nightmare Night."
"Yeah. As for Garble, no he wouldn't," said Chase, "We all proved that we can defeat him without much difficulty. The problem is that Garble is stubborn. You could beat him a thousand times and he still won't get it in his head to back down. He likes to use his strength to dominate and intimidate others smaller than him. Not to mention he likes to cross lines, such as hurting my wife and the rest of our friends."
"Despite Garble," said Spike, "If I have to go to the Dragon Lands, would you three come with me?"
"Ooh! Oh my goodness," said Twilight excitedly, "I'd love to! We are sadly lacking any information on dragon culture and customs. I could research them - maybe even write an article! This could be my chance a great contribution to the knowledge of Equestria!"
Twilight smiled widely...until she saw Chase, Jade, Sunray, Trini, Antonio, Rarity, Spike, Celestia, and Luna both giving her unamused looks.
"Honey…" Chase said glaring at his wife.
"And be there for Spike, heh, of course," said Twilight sheepishly.
"Be very careful," said Celestia, "the Dragon Lands are particularly dangerous for ponies. It would be wise to be discreet."
"Not if you can blend in with them," said Chase.
"Oh no, you don't!" Twilight said sternly, "You nearly scared me half to death the last time you went undercover and did a Splashdown into a pool of lava."
"Honey, I was fine!" said Chase, "Besides, Spike needs me around to keep that dumb Garble from pushing him around. Plus I've done a few upgrades to my undercover appearance if you wish to see it."
The others nodded as Chase took out his crystal, used his magic on it as the crystal became potent dust. It swirled around Chase for a moment before he resumed his dragon form, only this time he was a little muscular, smarter, thinner, and better looking.
"Well, how do I look?" Chase asked his family.
Rarity, Twilight, Spike, Celestia, Jade, Sunray, Trini, Antonio, and Luna were speechless for several seconds.
"You look absolutely savage," said Rarity and smiled.
Chase smiled in return.
"Garble will think twice before he misses with me if you're by my side," said Spike.
"I'd like to say I agree," said Chase, "but Garble looks too stupid to take a hint."
"Well, I feel better having you to defend me," said Spike as he went over to Chase and hugged him.
"Well, I believe if Chase keeps out of trouble," said Celestia, "He should do just fine in his new dragon disguise."
"That is correct," said Chase, "From what I can tell you, I am physically stronger and more durable thanks to my jiu jitsu skills. Plus I've still got plenty of agility to keep me mobile in this form."
"Very good," said Luna, "But please be careful nonetheless. You might be more durable, but you're not invincible."
Chase nodded in reply.
"Now I'm assuming that you only have one of those on you?" Rarity asked.
"Yeah." Chase said as Twilight gave him a death glare, "Hey, ease off. It took me this long to upgrade the crystal! I didn't have time to make a second one."
Twilight just groaned and rolled her eyes.
"Well, lucky for you, Chase, we have just made a few of our own." Jade said as she, Trini, Sunray, and Antonio showed their own transfiguration crystals.
Trini's crystal was a blue color, Sunray's was a silver color, Antonio's was a black color, and Jade's was a pink color.
They used their magic on their transfiguration crystals as each of them were turned into potent dust. They swirled around each of the four unicorns before they transformed into dragons as well.
Trini and Jade's dragon forms were much more graceful and teenage like.
Jade was a beautiful pink teenage female dragon, she had small goat horns on her head, spikes on her back, and her eyes were a golden type.
Trini's dragon form was much like Jade, only she had two rows of spikes on her back going down her tail at the end, her skin color was blue.
Sunray's dragon form was a little like Chase, only it was a silver color, he had short ram horns on his head, two fangs hanging on the outside of his mouth on both sides, and his eyes were red.
Finally, Antonio's black dragon form was a little muscular, he had short goat horns on his head, a row of spikes going down to his tail as the end had an arrowhead, and his eyes were dark blue.
Twilight, Spike, Rarity, Celestia, and Luna gazed at the Elite Ninja's dragon forms in silent amazement.
"Looks like I'll be safe with you guys at my side." Spike said definitely with a smile.
"Definitely." Twilight said in agreement.
"Ooh!" said Rarity, "I'm sure I still have the dragon costume we used the last time we snuck into the dragon lands." She giggled excitedly as she clapped her fore-hooves together.
"I think we might want something a little more practical," said Twilight.
(Scene changes)
Soon the group of two ponies and now two dragons were at the rendezvous location where Spike, and now Chase, Jade, Sunray, Antonio, and Trini, had been summoned. In the distance was a large mountain crag, where it could be assumed that was where the dragon lord lived. Their disguise was basically a chunk of rock that blended into the environment with two sets of eye holes for Twilight and Rarity to see. Chase, Jade, Sunray, Antonio, and Trini were just standing beside them. Rarity felt rather indignant.
"Hmmm...Well, it may be practical," said Rarity, "but this disguise isn't flattering in the slightest."
"It's not supposed to be flattering," said Twilight in a hushed tone, "It's supposed to blend in!"
"Take it from us, Rares," said Antonio, "Ya don't wanna do sporting barbequed chic." Rarity squeaked.
"Point taken, Antonio," said Rarity.
"Think you should use your old name while we're out here," said Spike.
"Would it really matter?" said Chase, "Garble and only two other of his...lackeys...would even know we were ponies. What can he do, snitch on me?" Spike chuckled as Sunray, Trini, Jade, and Trini snickered in agreement.
"Yeah, Garble is too full of himself to be a tattle tale," said Spike.
"Just remember not to go looking for trouble… Spyro!" Twilight warned as Chase glared.
"By the way, what should we name ourselves in these dragon forms?" Trini asked Chase as he pondered for a moment before he thought of something.
"Well, Trini. You'll be Kira." Chase said before he turned his attention to Sunray, Antino, and Jade. "Sunray, you'll be Zach. Jade, you'll be Delta. And Antonio, you'll be Fang."
"Good./Perfect./Awesome./Cool." Trini, Jade, Sunray, and Antonio said in unison.
"Shh!" Spike shushed.
"They're here!" Chase whispered as several other dragons arrived. All of their bodies were glowing as well. It was then a certain red dragon made himself known.
"Here we go," Chase remarked with an eye roll when he saw him.
"Hey-hey, look!" Garble taunted, "It's our old friend, Sparkle-warkle."
"It's Spike," said the little dragon indignantly as he glared at the red dragon.
"I'm guessing that's the bully." Jade asked Chase as she glared at the red dragon as well.
"Yup." Chase replied back.
"Are you sure your pony friends didn't give you a pony name?" Garble sneered, trying to make anime eyes, "and where's that pony big brother of yours?"
"Oh give it a rest, Garble," Chase remarked, "Your jokes are older than cold lava!" Garble blinked as he noticed the muscular dragon sitting beside Spike as well as his family.
"Well, long time no see, Spyro." Garble said with a smirk. "How was your time in Ponyland with your brother? Did you let any ponies treat you girly like?"
The other dragons laughed. Chase just groaned and rolled his eyes since he knew Garble was dumb. Jade, Trini, Antonio, and Sunray glared at the red dragon for mocking Chase.
"It's nice to see you too, Garble." Spike remarked in annoyance.
"I didn't say it was nice to see you. It's not. I don't like you." Garble snarled as he pushed Spike off the rock disguise and sat on it. "Was I not clear about that?"
Twilight and Rarity grunted since the roof of their guises sank a bit from Garble's weight.
"Crystal," Chase remarked as he and Spike glared up at the red dragon.
"Hey! That's my rock!" said Spike
"Oh, really?" Garble retorted, "Then why aren't you sitting on it?" The other dragons laughed.
"Because there's a big pile of blubber all over it!" Antonio shot back.
"Yeah, that's right!" said Garble before he blinked, "Hey!" Chase, Jade, Sunray, Antonio, Trini, and Spike chuckled and shared a fist bump.
"Hey, who are you four? I haven't seen you guys here before." Garble said, mentioning to Jade, Sunray, Trini, and Antonio.
"We're Fang, Zach, Delta, and Kira. Spike and Spyro's family. So do yourself a favor and get off of Spike's rock or Spyro will make you." Trini (Kira) said sternly.
"And how would he be doing that?" Garble asked with a mocking smile as he and his dragon friends laughed.
That proved to be a mistake as Chase grabbed Garble's arm, making him gasp, and slammed him on the ground on his back as he grunted in pain while his friends watched in shock as Chase loomed over Garble. He put Garble in a headlock.
"Say it." Chase (Spyro) said sternly as he kept a firm lock on Garble as he winced a bit before he groaned.
"Okay! Spyro is all wise and powerful." Garble said with an annoyed look before Chase twisted the red dragon's head, making his eyes widen a bit as he squealed.
"And?" Chase (Spyro) continued.
"And he's better than me in every possible way." Garble groaned in pain as Chase let go of him and was about to catch his breath until Chase slammed a fist on his head, pinning him to the ground.
"Aaaannd." Chase (Spyro) continued now smirking evilly.
"And I'm a lonely worm beneath his feet, who isn't fit to live in the same world as him because he's so amazing and I'm a dirt clod." Garble whined painfully as Chase licked his left index finger before he pointed it at Garble's head, ready to do wet willy as the red dragon widened his eyes in horror.
"AAAANND?!" Chase (Spyro) continued, smirking evilly.
"And in the history of the universe, there's never been one so awesome!" Garble finished, fearfully.
Chase then tossed Garble at his gang, making them grunt in pain. Spike, Jade, Sunray, Trini, and Antonio laughed hysterically at Garble's punishment. Twilight and Rarity giggled silently yet uncontrollably at the funny sight.
"And don't you forget that." Chase (Spyro) said sternly.
Spike got back on his rock disguise as Chase approached him.
"Man, Chase. That was the funniest thing I have ever seen from the last time." Spike said as he laughed a bit. "Thanks for helping me back there."
"Anytime, Spike." Chase said as Grable got back on his feet and approached Chase with an angry look.
"You're gonna pay for that, Spyro!" Garble said as he was about to give Chase a peace of his mind when…
"Is there a problem here?" A firm voice demanded, making Chase, his family, Spike, and Rarity gasp.
They turned to see four familiar dragons that saved Chase and his family from Kai. Echo, Sly, Mikey, and Teejay were standing behind Garble.
"Well, what's the problem?" Echo asked in the same firm voice that asked.
Garble gasped before he yelped in pain while clenched his stomach.
"It's these guys! They attacked me and stole my seat! They're the problem, sir!" Garble lied, pointing at the five pony turned dragons as they became shocked.
"Hey, that's not true!" Spike protested in anger.
"Yeah, his brother was just protecting him after Garble stole the seat!" Trini (Kira) added.
"As if! He believed in me because I'm his trusted lieutenant." Garble scoffed with smirk.
"The very same lieutenant who attacked the little guy and stole his seat?" Echo Five asked in annoyance, making Garble yelped in concern and worry. He continued, "And for the record, I don't recall making a liar and troublemaker like you as my lieutenant. So if I were you, I'd move to some place else before things get ugly. Got it?"
Garble gulped in concern while nodded fearfully. He and his gang quickly headed off before they get into some trouble.
"You guys alright?" Echo asked in concern as he, Teejay, Mikey, and Sly turned to six dragons.
"Yeah, we are. Thanks, Echo." Chase (Spyro) said, shocking the four teenage dragons.
"Wait. Chase? Is that you?" Echo asked the alicorn stallion turned dragon in surprise. Then he turned his attention to Jade and Sunray in their dragon forms as well. "Jade? Sunray?"
"Yeah, it's us." Sunray (Zach) confirmed their four dragon allies.
"Wait, who are those two?" Sly asked, pointing at Trini and Antonio in their dragon forms.
"Uh, that's Trini and Antonio. Our cousins." Jade answered with a smile.
"Well, I thought we smelled a pony sense here." Echo said with a smile before he became serious. "What are you guys doing here? It's now safe for ponies in the Dragon Lands, especially since the event is going to happen."
"Spike got called here for the summons. We couldn't just let him come here alone, even when Garble was going to pick on him." Chase explained before he had something on his mind. "More importantly, what are you guys doing here?"
"We're here to keep the Dragon Lands safe from harm. After hearing everything in the Crystal Empire from the recent news about the Quinkan, we came to this place hoping we could prevent Zhao's forces from coming here." Teejay explained to their allies.
"You don't think Zhao's forces are here, do you?" Twilight asked from the rock disguise.
"Twilight?" Mikey asked in surprise as he and his team turned their attention to the rock disguise as they saw the two pairs of the ponies eyes.
"Yes, it is us." Rarity whispered.
"What are you two doing here?" Echo asked in surprise.
"Looking after Spike." Twilight said, sheepishly.
Echo, Sly, Mikey, and Teejay looked at them with blank expressions before they turned their attention to Chase.
"You guys have gotta be more careful. You can't just be wandering around here. If you get caught, you're in a lot of trouble." Echo said with worry. "And you're lucky we've been able to find you here."
"Why?" Sunray asked in confusion.
"Dragon Lord Torch won't like it if we had ponies in this place. After we came here, he's been very distrustful to ponies and doesn't trust them. But since he's given Echo the promotion of general, he's been keeping an eye on us lately since he smelled us after our meet up with you." Teejay explained.
"Who is Torch?" Spike asked.
Just before anyone could respond, the gigantic shadow loomed over Spike and his friends including other glowing dragons. They all looked up and witnessed the arrival of something big and terrifying that no dragon dare to face - the Dragon Lord. He is gigantic dark and grayish blue colored dragon with three crimson spikes, ram's twin horns, large wings and spade tail-like worn the black armor, ruby crown and a golden ring on his horn.
"That would be him..." Antonio squealed fearfully and softly.
"Wow, he's really big." Jade gulped.
Echo, Teejay, Mikey, and Sly nodded in agreement.
"It might be best if you guys don't get on his last nerves. It wouldn't be right to challenge him." Echo advised.
"Sweet Celestia…" Spike gulped in fear.
"Dragons of Equestria, hear me!" the Dragon Lord announced, "I have been Dragon Lord for longer than many of you can remember, and my reign has been extraordinary!" The other dragons just stared.
"Agree with me!" he yelled furiously. The other dragons began to cheer for him.
"Torch! Torch! Torch! Torch!" the dragons shouted. Torch then raised his fist to make the dragons stop cheering.
Within the rock disguise, Twilight was amazed.
"This is fascinating! Dragons are notoriously reckless, but they do whatever the Dragon Lord says!" Twilight said in amazement.
Spike noticed a small figure flying near to Dragon Lord Torch. It's an ocean blue female dragon with short navy spikes, small wings, ram's short horns and spade tail-like. He awed in surprise and amazement.
"Who is that?" Spike asked curiously. His friends turned and looked at him.
"Who?" Chase asked curiously.
Spike pointed at the blue female dragon.
"The one next to him! She's... She's beautiful and... Perfect..." Spike said in amazement and dreamly.
"No idea. But I can tell you why you talked like that. You like her..." Antonio said with a teasing smirk.
"Oh! I get it! Spike's in love! Spike's in love! Spike's in love!" Mikey said teasingly.
Jade and Trini giggled.
"That's not it! I'm just... I just want to know about her! That's all!" Spike insisted in concern. His face burnt in red while smiling in amusement, "Plus, she's cute..."
"That's his daughter, Princess Ember, dummies," Grable answered in annoyance. Spike and his friends turned and glared at him. He huffed in annoyance, "What? I answered that question, didn't I? I wouldn't even look at her if I were you, unless you want Torch to eat you!"
"Well, nobody asked you to answer his question, Garble! So back off!" Echo warned, making Garble flinch in fear.
"He's got the point for once. Torch doesn't give the right of how protective and caring we have for her, he'll chase after us and eat us alive! I don't want to be part of it!" Mikey groaned in worry.
Echo nodded in agreement with a firm look.
"I agree. We've known Torch for a long time. He hated some dragon boys to go near his daughter. Don't try and mess with him, guys." Echo strongly advised.
"Got it..." Spike said with a gulp of fear.
"Unfortunately, according to dragon law," said Torch with an eye roll, "it is time for me to step down. Sad I know." The dragons just stared.
"Be sad!" Torch commanded and soon several dragons started crying.
"You know, as much as I want to be sad, I just can't. But it is just such a shame when good things must come to an end," Chase commented.
"I'll say." Antonio said as he cried to keep in character and used a handkerchief to blow his nose, making his family and friends turned to him before they looked at him with deadpan experssions.
"Oh, give me a break," Garble said with an eye roll, but then Antonio threw the now dirty handkerchief at Garble's face.
"EEK!" Garble shrieked in a high pitched voice as he threw the handkerchief off his face.
"Didn't know you were afraid of germs," Antonio snickered as Garble growled.
"This is why I have summoned you – to compete for the throne in the Gauntlet of Fire!" Dragon Lord Torch said proudly and firmly. The dragons including Echo, his team, and Garble's gang cheered wildly and proudly. Spike remained skeptical and scared about it. Chase, Jade, Sunray, Antonio, and Trini raised an eyebrow in curiosity. He continued while holding his purple scepter with crimson jewel, "Whomever has the strength and fortitude to retrieve this bloodstone scepter from the heart of the flame-cano will be crowned Lord of the Dragons!"
Dragon Lord Torch turned to the snake shape-like tall volcano with several crimson crystals. He flipped his bloodstone scepter right on top of its hole. The flames burst out from its mouth while its crimson light touched and passed through the dragons including Echo, his team, Garble's Gang, and even Spike. Their bodies slowly dimmed and became normal.
Within the rock disguise, Twilight Sparkle squealed in amazement.
"When the scepter disappeared, the dragons stopped glowing!" Twilight remarked to Rarity, "We are learning to much!" Twilight began using a quill to write down her observations as Rarity just rolled her eyes. Then there was trouble. Twilight's quill danced against Rarity's nose.
"Ahhh...ahhh...achoo!" Rarity sneezed.
"Guys!" Chase said, making Twilight stop writing as she and Rarity turned to him. "Don't get caught."
"Sorry." Twilight said to her husband sheepishly.
"The Gauntlet is dangerous, for I designed it myself! Only dragons with my ferocity, strength, and determination will be able to finish." Dragon Lord Torch explained proudly and firmly, "And I expect you all to be ready for this, with honor and dignity! We will gather at the cliff when the sun is at its peak!"
The dragons cheered wildly and proudly. Spike looked skeptical and doubtful of the event. He turned to his friends, especially the rock disguise.
"I don't want to be Dragon Lord or dragon toast, and I stopped glowing," Spike said in concern, "so let's sneak out of here!"
"W-What?! Are you kidding me?! Why?!" Antonio demanded in shock and upset.
"Because it's too dangerous for him, that's why!" Chase snapped, making his older cousin flinch back.
"I see..." Echo said in concern. He sighed, "Alright. You're too young for this. By dawn, you'll all go home. Tonight is getting dark. You all will need some energy to travel back home. Take good care, guys."
"Right. Come on, guys. Let's get outta here while we still have the chance." Chase ordered.
Spike smiled as he, Chase, Jade, Sunray, Trini, and Antonio quickly left with the little dragon pushing the disguise holding the two ponies away. But their quiet departure didn't go unnoticed and someone wasn't pleased with it…
"Ah! Where do you think you're going, little dragon and dragons bigger than you?!" Dragon Lord Torch demanded.
The dragons quickly moved on both sides while forming a straight line. They all were looking at Spike and his friends. Echo and his team looked shocked and surprised by it. Spike and his friends stopped as they realized that they had been spotted.
"So much for sneaking away," Antonio (Fang) remarked in annoyance.
"We are so dead." Jade (Delta) muttered with concern.
Spike gulped as he slowly turned and faced the angry Dragon Lord Torch.
"Oh, uh, hi, your Lordship," said Spike as Chase turned around but kept his game face on, "Uh, I was just going home!"
"And we were just taking him home," said Chase, "We're his family."
"You don't get to leave unless I say you can!" Torch yelled. Spike looked frightened while Chase glared at him and his family just looked annoyed. They're in deep trouble now until five certain dragons come to their side...
"Dad, look at him." Princess Ember said as she descended to the ground. She patted Spike's spikes gently, "He's just a runt. Besides, he doesn't even wanna compete. I'm not sure about his five friends. But let them go."
"He is rather tiny, heh-heh. I could squish him with my pinky claw," Dragon Lord Torch chuckled in amusement. This made Spike nervously chuckled while others looked at him before Chase glared at Dragon Lord Torch.
"Is that supposed to be funny?" Chase asked sternly.
"That wasn't a joke," said Torch bluntly, "it was a fact. When I want you to laugh, I will say "be amused"!"
"Oh, I'll be amused alright… when I get to see the ugly side of your face!" Chase retorted angrily.
All of the dragons gasped of what they heard as Spike, Twilight, Rarity, Echo, Sly, Teejay, and Mikey widened their eyes from Chase's remark. Even Ember was stunned at first before she looked at Chase for a second with a curious look.
Dragon Lord Torch was so offended by this as he growled menecingly at Chase.
"You dare to challenge me?! Dragon Lord Torch?! Soon-to-be-former Lord of the dragons?!" Torch demanded furiously.
"You wanna prove it?!" Chase demanded. "I'm not scared of you, Dragon Lord Torch! And I'm better than any of the dragons in this land! So be more considerate or I'll make you!"
Dragon Lord Torch glared at Chase angrily… then he laughed amusingly.
"Now that's being smart and strong for a dragon outsmarting the dragon lord without fear!" Dragon Lord Torch said. Then he turned to his attention to the other dragons, who were silent. "Agree with me and cheer for Spyro!"
The dragons flinched before they cheered for Chase's fearlessness against Torch.
Twilight and Rarity sighed in relief as well as Spike and the rest of his friends. Ember just looked at Chase curiously.
"Of course, your Lordship! I, uh, guess I don't understand dragon customs. Another reason why I shouldn't compete." Spike gulped.
Echo bowed down before Dragon Lord Torch.
"Your majesty, please forgive them. They mean no disrespect to you, especially the youngest one. He's very new and scared of this. I kinda let it slip while agreeing to let his friends take him home. Allow me to take this responsibility." Echo said respectively.
"Very well then, General Echo. I release you six." Dragon Lord Torch sighed.
"Thank you!" Spike bowed in respect. He turned to Princess Ember as he gave her a wink and flirt, "And thank you."
Princess Ember sighed in annoyance as she rolled her eyes a bit. Spike, Chase, Jade, Sunray, Trini, and Antonion then moved and pushed the rock disguise away as they headed off at once. Princess Ember then flapped her wings as she flew off at once. As Princess Ember was flying to the sky, Dragon Lord Torch grunted while stopping her with his claw.
Dragon Lord Torch looked at his daughter on his palm.
"Where do you think you're going?" Dragon Lord Torch demanded sternly.
"To prepare for the Gauntlet." Princess Ember answered in annoyance.
"No, you're not. You're not much bigger than that runt I just sent home with his family!" Dragon Lord Torch said firmly.
"But I'm smarter than most of these boulderheads and you know it!" Princess Ember argued as she hovered in mid air in front of her father.
"Being smart won't help you win this Gauntlet! It was designed for a big, strong dragon to win, because it takes a big, strong dragon to lead!" Dragon Lord Torch explained firmly and angrily. He then shouted at his daughter out loud, "Besides, I said no!"
"I hate when he does that!" Princess Ember growled in anger.
Princess Ember then flew off at once after she was ticked off by her father's denial of her participation at Gauntlet of Fire.
The other dragons were just chatting amongst each other.
"Ha. When I become Dragon Lord," said a dragon named Maar, "I will make burps an official greeting!"
"Ha, you?" said another dragon named Barry, "Please! When I win, I will pillage Equestria for all the pillows. Why should these ponies be comfortable when we sleep on rocks?"
That's when Garble shoved Barry and Maar out of his way.
"That's nothing!" Garble boasted, "When I'm in charge, the first thing I'll do is get revenge on those puny ponies! They'll regret they ever crossed Garble! We'll take whatever we want from Equestria and burn the rest!"
Maar and Barry hummed before smiled in amusement as they agreed to go with Garble's plans, though they only want the stuffs from Equestria only. Garble walked away with Barry and Maar following him.
Rarity, Spike, Chase, Jade, Sunray, Trini, Echo, Teejay, Sly, Mikey, Antonio, and Twilight had heard everything from the background.
"Oh, my gosh!" said Twilight in a hushed tone.
"Ooh, I can't believe I'm saying this," said Rarity, "But I hope that burping dragon wins!"
"None of them can win!" said Spike. "Equestria's in big trouble if any of them are in charge!"
"But what can we do?" said Twilight, "any idea's honey?" She then noticed that Chase looked very upset.
"Honey?" Twilight asked.
"I knew Garble was petty," said Chase, "But this is taking bullying to a whole new low. If he becomes the Dragon Lord, he'll stop at nothing to get what he wants no matter how many times we defeat him. And all of the pony kind will be at war with the dragons for thousands of years to come! Worse than that. If he goes to war with Zhao and the Quinkan, those spirit monsters will destroy the dragon race for good. Then the Dragon Lands are Zhao's to conquer!"
Twilight and Rarity had panicking looks on their faces, knowing that what Chase was saying was true. Spike pondered quietly as he got an idea.
"There's only one thing to do," said Spike, "and only I can do it! I have to enter the Gauntlet of Fire."
"What?!" Sunray, Antonio, Jade, and Trini said in shock.
"Are you kidding me?!" Sly asked with a shocked look as Teejay, Mikey, and Echo were surprised by this.
"Oh..." Twilight and Rarity groaned at the idea before they removed their disguise and tossed it behind them.
"Either that's the bravest or dumbest decision Spike has made..." Teejay spoke.
"Both, genius…" Mikey added with a sigh.
"What do you mean you have to win the Gauntlet?" Rarity asked, "why can't Chase, Jade, Sunray, Trini, and Antonio do it instead?"
"It's the only way to protect Equestria from the dragons, especially from Zhao and his Quinkan army!" said Spike, "You heard them! They have horrible plans for ponies if they win! Somehow, I have to do it!"
"Spike, do you have any idea of what you're talking about?" Echo asked in concern.
"There has to be another way," said Twilight.
"What about-"
"Chase is NOT going to do it instead!" Twilight snapped, "It's too dangerous. Besides, if either Chase or Spike were to win, they would have to stay here!"
"Honey, we're talking about the safety of Equestria," Chase tried to explain, "and I can probably handle anything that cave throws at me..."
"I DON'T WANT YOU LEAVING ME! MY HEART CAN'T TAKE IT!" Twilight cried out as tears streamed down her face and her lips trembled. Chase was taken aback for a moment before he sighed.
"Listen," said Spike before Chase could speak up, "that is why I have to do this and not Chase as well as the rest of our family. Twilight needs Chase at her side, especially Jade, Trini, Antonio, and Sunray. I know I'd be stuck here, but there's no other way to keep my friends safe. And we can't let the dragons go to war with Zhao."
There was a brief silence as Twilight dried her eyes.
"Spike, Twilight is right about this." Trini said with concern. "You'd never go home again if you compete in the competition!"
"We can't let you do it alone either, little buddy." Chase said with a determined look. "And if it helps, we can assist you. If we work together, we can guarantee you get that scepter and become Dragon Lord."
"And we'll be right beside you guys all the way." Trini said as she, Jade, Sunray, and Antonio stood beside Chase.
"Sounds like a plan to me," said Spike, "what do you girls think?" Twilight and Rarity pondered, both feeling tears in their eyes, but then they exchanged smiles with each other.
"Well, if you're both staying to compete," said Twilight, "then we're staying to cheer you on!"
Spike and Chase smiled. Then Chase turned his attention to Echo, Sly, Teejay, and Mikey.
"You guys don't have to help us if-" Chase was cut off when Echo placed a hand on his shoulder.
"You don't need to ask us, guys." Echo said as he and his team shared a confident smirk, leaving the members of the Mane Thirteen surprised. "We're with you every step of the way to stop the dragons anyway we can. As well as putting an end to Zhao's threat."
The others smiled at their dragon allies.
"Then let's do this!" said Chase as he placed a fist in the middle.
Trini put her hand on Chase's fist, followed by Sunray, Jade, Antonio, Echo, Sly, Teejay, Mikey, and Spike.
"For Equestria!" The ten shouted in unison with determination.
Unknown to them, someone was spying on them through a telescope. It was revealed to be Tai Lung using the telescope.
"Perfect." Tai Lung said as he lowered the telescope with an evil smirk as some of the Quinkan soldiers appeared behind him, glaring at the dragons and ponies. "We've got them."
(Scene changes)
When the sun was at the highest point in the sky, the dragons had all gathered at the edge of a cliff where Torch was waiting. It was then Spike, Chase, Jade, Sunray, Trini, Antonio, Echo, Sly, Mikey, and Teejay ran up to the rest of the dragons.
"I thought I released you, tiny one! As well as your family!" Torch remarked before he faced Echo. "What is this, General?"
"You better let the little one explain, your majesty." Echo advised respectively.
"We decided to compete. We are the dragons, after all." Spike explained.
"Are you sure? You can't even fly!" Garble exclaimed in amusement.
The dragons then laughed in amusement. Echo and his whole team, and even the golden armored and masked dragon were annoyed by it. Sunray smacked Garble's face very hard. The teenage crimson dragon yelped and groaned in pain.
"Why you little-!" Garble growled.
"Garble! That's enough!" Echo Five shouted in anger, causing Garble quiet and annoyed. He continued, "You'll learn to respect others especially the ones that can't fly, understand?! If he and his friends join the fight, let them join."
"The General's right," Dragon Lord Torch agreed as he explained, "All dragons are welcome to compete, but they do so at their own peril! Flying to Flame-cano Island is the first of many challenges you will face in your quest to find the bloodstone scepter!"
He then roared loudly, creating a massive flame above them as several dragons took off for the island.
"Whoa! Toasty!" said Antonio, clearly impressed to see such a large flame blast above him. Garble was "supposedly" trying to be a gentledragon with Spike.
"Good luck," Garble smirked as he has his claw out for shaking. Spike was about to respond it. He held his up, "Just kidding. I hope you lose."
Just before Garble could swing his tail, Chase took a huge bite on his tail. He yelped and screamed in pain. Sunray and Jade joined and knocked him out off the cliff. He fell into the water.
"How's that, loser?!" Sunray asked in amusement, "Let's make one thing clear! You mess with him, you mess with all of us!"
Emerging from the water, Garble spat some of it out. He groaned while glaring at Spike and his friends,
"I'll get you for this!" Garble shouted.
Garble took a flight to the sky at once.
"Come on, guys! We're wasting time!" Echo said, getting the rest of the team's attention as he hovered in the air, followed by Teejay, Mikey, Sly, Trini, Antonio, Jade, and Sunray.
They turned to Spike and Chase.
"Aren't you guys gonna fly with us?" Sunray asked with concern.
"Don't worry about me. I'm going for a swim!" Spike smiled reassuringly.
"And I'll be with him every step of the way!" Chase added.
"Okay, but watch yourselves, guys. There may be some obstacles coming your way especially the water," Teejay reminded his teammates.
Spike and Chase nodded in understanding. Echo, Trini, Antonio, Sly, Mikey, Sunray, Jade, and Teejay flew off at once. Chase and Spike jumped and dived into the water.
They both swarm at once. It was then a huge bush appeared in the water with them.
"You can do it, Spike!" said Rarity, "You too, Chase!"
Chase and Spike smiled as they continued to swim their way to the island. It was then some large sea worm appeared that shot water geysers at the dragons. Some of the dragons were knocked into the water while others managed to dodge the geysers. While Garble took a geyser to the face, he managed to recover.
"Good thing we're taking the low road," Chase whispered to Spike as they kept swimming around the sea worms.
It was then Garble hit the golden armored competitor. Garble recovered and resumed flying but the mysterious competitor fell straight into the water.
Spike and his friends spotted it.
"He's gonna drown!" Spike called out.
"Let's go!" Chase called out as they both went underwater.
"Spike! Chase!" Twilight cried out, but there was no reply as Echo, Teejay, Sly, Mikey, Sunray, Jade, Trini, and Antonio were concerned for them.
Then some bubbles surfaced from the water as Spike and Chase resurfaced with the armored dragon being held between them. Spike panted as he and Chase dragged the unconscious dragon to shore.
(Scene changes)
It wasn't long before the armored dragon started waking up and saw the worried looks from Spike and Chase's faces. Echo and the rest of their team were beside them. Behind them were Twilight and Rarity as they watched the dragon from their bush disguise.
"Hey, are you okay?" said Spike.
"You took quite a hit back there," said Chase, "We managed to get you to shore."
The mysterious competitor coughed heavily. Spike removed the helmet at once for him to breathe and spit the water out. To his and his friends' surprise, he turned out to be not only a female dragon, but also Princess Ember.
"Princess Ember!" Everyone gasped in shock and surprise.
"Your highness!" Jade and Trini exclaimed.
"Don't get all formal with me," said Ember quickly before saying sternly, "Who do you all think you're doing?"
"Only saving your ungrateful scales!" Rarity exclaimed in annoyance beneath her seaweed disguise.
"Rarity!" Sunray, Jade, Trini, Antonio, Echo, Sly, Mikey, and Teejay whispered sternly.
Chase facepalmed himself in annoyance as Spike winced and blocked the view of the seaweeds. But it was too late since Ember had noticed.
"Did that seaweed just talk?" Ember asked but didn't wait for an answer when she pulled the seaweed off to reveal Twilight and Rarity, "Ponies?! What are they doing here?!"
"They're our friends!" said Spike.
"Friends?" said Ember, "Dragons don't do friends."
"Well, these dragons do," said Spike as Chase, Jade, Sunray, Trini, and Antonio nodded in agreement.
"Same with us." Mikey added with a smug grin as Echo smacked himself in the face with an annoyed look.
"Correction, you and Alicorn Jiu Jitsu Master Chase Young do friends." Ember corrected.
Twilight, Rarity, Jade, Sunray, Trini, and Antonio cringed as Chase kept a stern look on his face.
"How did you know my name?" Chase asked.
"Oh, I pick things up," said Ember as she pointed at Chase's family-turned-dragons. "And if I had to guess, four of those other dragons have to be your family. Sunray Steel, Jade Young, Trini, and Antonio, which makes you five the Elite Ninja."
"You've heard of us? Guys, we're famous around here!" Antonio said excitedly.
"That's bad!" Jade said sternly, not wanting to be caught red handed by one of the dragons around the area.
"Oh, right." Antonio said sheepishly, realizing his mistake.
"Wait, since when did you figure out our team name?" Sunray asked with a suspicious look.
"I've been hearing a lot about you guys since the days you took on Zhao and the Quinkan. From when he attacked Cloudsdale or whatever it's called, and the Dragonquin invasion when he nearly flooded the world with the Sanzu River until you guys showed up to save the world from him." Ember explained before she turned to Chase and his family. "Course it was pretty obvious that you guys are not from around here. You five and Spike don't act like other dragons."
"You mean when they're reckless like Garble or is it because they're not always smart?" Chase asked, crossing his arms.
"I never said being different was a bad thing," said Ember dismissively, "I might not be into all that romantic mush, but mates usually have this look in their eyes when they're in love with each other. It's obvious one of these ponies is your mate, Chase."
Twilight blushed and looked away bashfully. Ember blinked.
"Funny, I thought your mate was the white pony," Ember remarked.
"He's MINE!" Twilight shouted loudly, but then flinched and smiled apologetically and her entire face went bright red as she backed up a bit.
"Alright, let's just put the romance aside for now. I don't want any awkward moments here." Chase said with a blunt look.
"Whatever." Princess Ember said in annoyance as she grabbed her helmet from Spike, "I don't care as long as none of you get in my way. I have a Gauntlet to win."
Echo blocked Princess Ember's way while glaring at her.
"Ember! Your father forbids you! You were not supposed to-!" Echo was cut off by Ember.
"I don't care what my dad said!" Princess Ember snapped at Echo Five, "I'll show him and every dragon who thinks I'm just a little princess there are better things than being big and strong!"
"Ember, I'd never doubt you and your ability especially how intelligent you really are. And in fact, you're strong too. It's just..." Echo sighed.
"Just what, General?" Ember demanded with a glare.
"Your father's just protective of you after losing your mother." Echo finished, shocking Chase, Jade, Sunray, Spike, Trini, Antonio, Twilight, and Rarity. "He loved you so much. He couldn't lose you or get you hurt."
"Wait, what happened to Ember's mother?" Jade asked with concern.
Echo and his team turned to the eight with somber looks.
"Ember's mother was taken away by Zhao long ago. The Quinkan came here after a battle took place in the Dragon Lands, many dragons fought bravely, but two didn't make it. Ember's mother was one of them and there was one other dragon, who had lost his family." Echo said before he pondered. "I can't remember who he was though."
That's when it hit Chase.
"Wait! Was he by any chance the name of Grazer?" Chase asked, shocking Echo, Mikey, Teejay, Sly, and Ember in the process.
"You know him?" Teejay asked in surprise.
"Yeah, we met him in the Everfree Forest a while back when he was fighting the Quinkan." Jade explained. "He got mutated into a Wingquin, but he survived in the Netherworld and got transported back to Equestria."
This left the five dragons surprised.
"Well, looks at least one of our kind survived, even if he did get mutated." Sly commented.
"Yeah, well anyway, back to my dad. He has a funny way to show it to me," Princess Ember remarked in anger while clenching her helmet, "This is the reason why I'm gonna prove my dad of how wrong he really is! There's more to me than meets the eye! I'm not a little girl!"
It was then a large monster using its flat tail, known as a slingtail, launched giant boulders at the dragons. Garble was one of the dragons to get smacked with a boulder as it sent him crashing the ground. He also happened to land just several yards away from the rest of the group and the bounder was on top of him.
"Don't leave me here, Spike!" Garble cried out.
"What's the matter?" Sunray taunted, "I thought you were a big and strong dragon. Baby can't handle whittle rocky!"
"Spyro! It's crushing me!" Garble groaned painfully to Chase (Spyro).
"Come on!" Spike said sternly as he headed over to Garble with Chase right behind him. Chase just groaned.
"I have a feeling I'm going to regret this," said Chase, but by the time he was ready to lift the boulder off the red dragon. Spike had managed to roll the boulder off on his own.
"Ha-ha!" Garble laughed as he got up and showed he wasn't hurt at all, "Knew you'd do it. Your pony friends made you soft." He then kicked a dirt all over Spike, burying the small dragon.
"Uh-huh," said Spike bluntly and annoyingly, "You're welcome."
"For what? I didn't say thank you," Garble remarked. He then sniffed in surprise, "Wow, you guys even smell like ponies." He continued sniffed from his back, "Or is it coming from over there?"
Garble turned to his back as he approached the seaweeds while sniffing patiently and carefully. Chase and his family became worried. Rarity and Twilight widened their eyes before they shut them as Garble came closer while sniffing the seaweed when…
"Uh, that's just me." Princess Ember made the gruff voice in amusement while pushing Garble back, "I, uh, robbed some ponies on my way over here."
"Huh, I like your style." Garble remarked in amazement. He then noticed her body and eyes, "Have I met you before? You kind of look like—"
"My, uh, old neighbor!" Spike moved to front of Princess Ember while looked around of his surroundings in making a name, "Uh, Sandy... Rockbeach!"
Everyone was in shock yet annoyed by Spike's make-up name as Chase facepalmed himself in annoyance.
"You gotta be kidding me." Chase muttered in annoyance and frustration.
Then a loud roar was heard as everyone turned and looked up as the slingtails continued shooting the rocks at the dragons.
"Stupid slingtails knocked me down!" Garble mumbled before addressing Spike specifically, "But I've wasted enough time making small talk. Get it? Ha-ha. Because you're too small to win this! I'm funny."
Then he flew away.
Princess Ember removed her helmet as she turned and looked at Spike. Chase, his family, Echo, and his team did the same thing as well.
"Why did you cover for me? You could've had one less competitor." Princess Ember asked in surprise.
Spike hummed in concern.
"I could ask you the same thing. You could've told Garble about my friends." Spike answered.
"Yeah. Why did you both help each other?" Echo Five asked in amusement and surprise.
"Well... I... er... It's just that-!" Princess Ember said in concern while blushed in red. She groaned, "I just want to return the favor to him for saving me, even though a dragon befriends the ponies. That's all!"
"Oh! Thanks! I'm glad that you help me, your highness." Spike smiled in embarrassment. He cleared his throat, "So... I want to help you too. I want to help you get your dad's approval for what you really can do."
"Oh! How thoughtful and kind of you are," Princess Ember said in surprise yet happy. She blushed in red, "No dragons have ever been kind to me, other than my dad and generals. And not to mention, I never did make a friend before."
"Oh. I'm happy to be one, your highness." Spike said, respectively.
"Please, little dragon, call me Ember. Your friends call me too if they want." Ember said, modestly.
"Sure. But call me 'Spike'." Spike said.
Both Princess Ember and Spike looked at each other lovely and passionately while their face burnt in red. The dragons and ponies awed in amusement and happiness.
"Yeah. If I didn't know any better, you two liked each other!" Antonio exclaimed in amusement, causing Princess Ember and Spike yelped while turned and glared at him. He chuckled, "Spike and Ember sitting on-!" Antonio then got his face whacked by Spike and Princess Ember. He yelped as he fell down hard, "Ouch..."
"He's a bit of a goofball sometimes." Spike chuckled uneasily.
"Well, he's not Garble. That's one dragon I can't stand the most." Princess Ember sighed.
And just before Princess Ember could respond, she and her new friends heard the screams and noises. They looked up and found most of dragons got knocked out by the rocks.
"Yikes... That looks rough." Princess Ember said in shock. She took a deep breathe and released, "But that's what makes it a challenge."
"You dragons certainly know how to go hardcore," Sunray added as he cringed at seeing another dragon get hit hard with another boulder.
"Are you kidding?" Spike retorted, "Those boulders are huge!" Then Jade got an idea and gestured for her family, Echo, his team, and Spike to lean in. She whispered her idea, which the nine hummed and then they shared a fist-bump together.
"Hey, what if we worked together?" Spike proposed, "You fly me up there, and I'll help look out for boulders, like a second set of eyes!" Princess Ember gave the suspicious glaring eyes at Spike.
"Wow... He must have taken a liking to her," Antonio commented in shock.
"Yeah. He really does have a crush on her." Sunray nodded.
"Come on, guys. Focus. We need to work together to not let the scepter fall into Garble's hands nor Zhao." Echo said, gaining everyone's attention.
Princess Ember was surprised by this.
"What?" Princess Ember asked in surprise. "That's what you guys are doing here? To make sure the scepter won't fall into the wrong hands?"
"Pssst!" whispered a familiar voice.
Spike, Chase, Jade, Sunray, Trini, and Antonio went up to the bush, but the moment they touched it, it flattened out. They turned to see that Twilight and Rarity had found themselves another rock disguise and they were using a tree branch to get their attention.
"Excuse us for a moment," said Chase as he and Spike walked over to the rock.
"Spike! Chase! Are you and the rest of the group sure it's a good idea to team up with Ember?" Rarity asked, "you all don't know her too well."
"I do know she could've told Garble about you," Spike pointed out, "but she didn't. I think we can trust her."
"Her behavior does seem contradictory to everything I've noted about dragons so far," said Twilight as she appeared above the rock with a rather worn out book filled with notes. "Echo and his team are also different from other dragons since they helped us stop Kai."
"Plus, unlike other dragons around here, she's got a brain," Chase added.
"As much as I want to against this idea, Spike," Sunray sighed in concern, "We have to trust Echo, Ember and their allies. We need all the help to fight against Zhao and his army."
"Thanks, guys for putting your faith and trust on me." Spike said with a relieved smile.
"Any time, buddy." Antonio responded back with a smile of his own.
"Spike! Chase! Jade! Sunray! Trini! Antonio!" Princess Ember called. Spike and his friends turned and approached her. She sighed calmly, "We've thought about it, and your plan makes sense. Let's do it."
"Really? Great! It's a deal!" Spike said happily as he held his claw out.
Surprised and shocked by Spike's gesture, Princess Ember shook the little dragon's claw gently. All of Chase's family smiled in both relief and approval as well as their four dragon allies. Their alliance is complete as they're ready to fight with the enemies.
"Just so you know," Princess Ember added in annoyance, "this doesn't mean we're gonna pick flowers or exchange necklaces or whatever pony friends do.
Spike smiled in relief and was happy about it. Chase and his family chuckled in amusement. Princess Ember growled in annoyance while glaring at her allies.
"Good luck. We'll meet all of you at the top." Twilight Sparkle said, "Come on. Let's get going!"
Rarity nodded in agreement.
Spike waved as he, Chase, Jade, Sunray, Trini, Antonio, Echo, Mikey, Sly, Teejay, and Ember walked away.
Now the eleven dragons took to the sky, not noticing Tai Lung had walked out of a corner of the rocks as he had an evil smirk on his face.
"As long as we have everything according to the master's plan, we will have the magic from the scepter soon enough." Tai Lung said maliciously.
(Scene changes)
Spike was on Princess Ember's back as he watched out for the rocks throwing at them both. Chase, his family, and their other four dragon allies followed them from behind. They all were flying straight up to the mountain's entrance. And at the same time, they have to avoid Slingtails' rock throwing as most of the dragons got hit and knocked out.
Soon, they were close behind Garble, who looked back to see the three dragons catching up to him. He quickly flew inside as Ember, Spike, Chase, Jade, Sunray, Antonio, Trini, Echo, Sly, Teejay, and Mikey landed just outside the cave.
"This is it." Echo Five said calmly and firmly, "Whatever happens we can't let Zhao get the scepter. Or it'll be over for all of Equestria including the dragons."
"So what do we do now?" Spike asked.
"I think we go through there," said Ember.
It was then two more dragons flew into the cave when a huge burst of fire came out of the cave above them.
"Well, that's gotta leave a mark." Chase said as the two dragons came out whimpered and slightly charred.
Ember, Chase, Jade, Sunray, Antonio, Trini, Sly, Teejay, Echo, Mikey, and Spike winced when they heard somepony shriek nearby. The eleven dragons turned to see that Twilight and Rarity, still in their disguise, were also at the mouth of the cave.
"Ugh, Rarity! Please!" Sly shouted with a glare.
"Sorry, darling, but oh that looks scary!" Rarity said, but then corrected herself, "I mean, you can do it!"
"Rarity, don't shriek like that unless you're in danger," Chase said sternly, "You're almost gonna blow your cover."
"We're sorry!" said Rarity and Twilight as they gave him puppy dog eyes. Chase sighed.
"Alright, ease off," said Chase, "We'll be careful, okay?"
"That's all we ask," said Twilight as Princess Ember turned to Spike while smiling.
"Listen, Spike. I wouldn't have made it this far without you, Chase, and his family. So I guess, if you want to, we could keep working together." She cleared her throat, "I mean, just until we get through that tunnel."
"Okay!" said Spike happily as he turned to his family and friends. Ready, guys?"
"READY!" Echo, Teejay, Antonio, Sunray, Jade, Trini, Sly, and Mikey exclaimed proudly and firmly.
"Then, let's go in!" Chase said with a determined smile.
Spike and his team charged into the mountain's entrance as they're now facing the dangerous obstacles...
(Scene changes)
Spike and his team traveled across the hallway of the cave for nearly an hour. They arrived at the scene where a few dragons stopped. They all encountered the cave's spike trapper from ceiling, walls and ground in trapping other competitors.
Spike's team looked at each other as they all nodded in agreement. It's time to use their teamwork. They all flew together in order to avoid the spike traps. They arrived at the end of the first trap. They quickly entered the tunnel's entrance.
They hadn't noticed that Garble had fallen behind them, but was determined to catch up to them when he got crushed between a set of stalactite teeth. Garble struggled to get out as he saw the eleven dragons heading down another cave. Garble then squeezed free and landed flat on his face, but he quickly recovered with an angry snarl and zipped away to catch up.
Further down the tunnel, Ember, Spike, Chase, Jade, Sunray, Trini, Antonio, Mikey, Teejay, Echo, and sly were trying to weave their way past some sharp crystal pillars that made a "Shing" sound as they tried to crash and smash into any dragon trying to get through the cave. While Ember and Spike struggled to avoid getting hit by the crystals, Chase, Jade, Sunray, Antonio, and Trini found this particular obstacle easy.
"How are you and your family having such an easy time with this, Chase?" Ember called out.
"Years of jiu jitsu practice," said Chase as he jumped over another set of crystals and slid under another. Trini and Antonio front flipped over the crystals with Sunray, Teejay, Sly, and Mikey following in pursuit. Jade and Teejay back flipped over the crystals "We do this kind of stuff everyday!"
"Spike, you never told me Chase was crazy," said Ember.
"He wasn't, he's done this kind of stuff before when he was just a kid!" Spike replied as he landed over another crystal pillar when he saw that Ember was in the path of an oncoming crystal.
Spike gasped as he quickly jumped and pushed her out before it hit and trapped her! Spike and Princess Ember sighed in relief before looked at each other. They blushed in red while smiling. They yelped as they looked away while getting up from the ground. Chase, his family, and their dragon allies chuckled in amusement.
"Come on, guys! Less looking at each other, more moving!" Chase said, getting back to the process of getting the scepter.
Spike and Ember snapped out of their awkward moment as the eleven dragons kept moving forward just as some crystal pillars missed hitting all three of them. Garble was still on their tails and not too far behind. He snarled at seeing them when a crystal pillar smashed into him.
"Urgh!" Garble groaned as he was smashed into wall, leaving a cookie cutter indention. He groaned as he fell out of it and landed on his face again.
Ember, Spike, Chase, Trini, Antonio, Sunray, Jade, Echo, Sly, Mikey, and Teejay soon reached the end of the passage and found themselves in a large area that had multiple flowing lava pools.
"Scenic view for a flame-cano," said Antonio, "kinda tranquil too."
"Yeah, but I wouldn't exactly say the best place for ponies if they were caught." Sunray said with a disdainful look.
"Oh, you made it!" said Rarity as the eleven dragons turned to see the two ponies now disguised as stalactites, "Oh, we were so worried!" Ember, Chase, Echo, Mikey, Sly, and Teejay were stunned.
"About us?" said Spike and scoffed, "That tunnel was cake!"
Not a second after Spike passed out. Spike's team sighed in annoyance. Princess Ember hummed curiously as she looked at the ponies.
"How did you two get through?" Princess Ember asked in surprise.
"That's what I'd like to know," said Chase as Jade lightly shook Spike a bit, making the baby dragon wake up.
"Oh, well, we girls have our ways, honey." Twilight said as Chase rolled his eyes with a playful smirk.
Suddenly, there was some rumbling. Rarity yelped as she lost her balance and wobbled dangerously toward the edge of the platform.
"Rarity!" Spike cried out as he ran up and pulled Rarity away from the edge just as a fire geyser fired a blast behind her.
"Oh, thanks, Spike!" said Rarity.
"Are you alright, Rarity?" Chase asked.
"I'm fine, darling," Rarity replied, "thanks to Spike."
"It was nothing," said Spike modestly as Rarity and Twilight smiled through their disguise.
"Nothing?" Princess Ember asked in surprise, "You just risked everything to save her! And they're putting themselves in danger just to support you as well as Chase and his family!"
"Isn't it obvious, princess? We're friends," Antonio answered proudly.
"He's right. We've always looked out for each other!" Jade nodded in agreement.
"Friends are a treasure that is far more valuable than even a cave completely filled with gems and any other items you can think of," said Chase, "After all, gems come and are consumed, but good friendship lasts forever."
"That's pretty sappy," said Ember.
"Maybe," said Jade, "but my brother is not lying about that either."
"Don't you have anyone who looks out for you?" Spike asked the dragon princess.
"Not really. Unless I count you and others here." Princess Ember admitted. She hissed while shook her head. She gave the glare at Spike and his friends, "Which I don't! Because we were only helping each other get through the tunnel, and now we're through the tunnel, so that's it."
"Ember? What are you saying?" Echo asked in concern yet suspicious.
"Well, there's only one winner," said Ember, "one scepter, and one Dragon Lord. So I guess it's every dragon for themselves." Spike looked hurt.
"Oh. So we aren't really friends?" said Spike.
"Maybe if we were in Ponyland," Ember remarked, "but like I said, dragons don't do friendship. Our alliance is done. And don't worry about Zhao, I'll get that scepter before he gets it. Goodbye."
"Hold on a minute! The magic of friendship is not just limited to just ponies, Ember," said Chase, "it's magic and knowledge belongs to every creature, including dragons."
"But...we're also not going to force you into it either. We've made our offer to be your friend, but the decision is ultimately up to you." Sunray added.
Ember quickly made her choice, by walking away and flying off. Chase, Jade, Sunray, Antonio, Trini, Echo, Sly, Mikey, and Teejay glared at her while Spike looked heartbroken.
"Not cool, Ember." Chase said sternly with his arms crossed. "Not cool."
"We'll go after Ember. You all continue your journey. Do your best, guys." Echo said as Chase, Jade, Sunray, Trini, and Antonio nodded in agreement.
Echo and his team flew off to follow Princess Ember. Spike sighed in upset as he and his team headed off at once.
Unknown to them, Tai Lung was watching them from the shadows once he had witnessed everything with an evil smirk on his face.
"That's right, lead us to the scepter." Tai Lung said as his Quinkan army appeared behind him as they glared at Spike and his team.
Then they jumped into one of the caverns above and slipped through the shadows.
(Scene changes)
For some minutes later, Spike's team walking across the corridors of tunnels while searching for the bloodstone scepter. So far, they found nothing was seen. As they continued down the path, Spike was venting to Rarity and Twilight, who were still in disguise.
"I can't believe Ember ditched me." Spike said in upset.
"She ditched us too, Spike." Chase said as his family nodded in agreement. "So much for spreading the magic of friendship in the Dragon Lands."
"I'm really sorry, Spike," Twilight Sparkle apologized beneath her disguise, "She's really special to you."
"Oh, you're better off. She was only looking out for herself. She's just like all the other dragons." Rarity said in worry tone.
"She's not, though." Spike protested while clenched his claws tightly, "I know it. She saved me, even when she didn't have to. I don't care what she says. That makes us friends."
"You still can't force her into it, Spike," said Chase, "But you're right that she is different."
Jade hummed.
"I don't want to push your luck, Spike. But I hope you're right about this." Jade said in doubt.
"Hey, wait!" Sunray said in alarm, making the group stop. "Where's Antonio!?"
The group noticed as they were one member short.
"He was just behind me a minute ago!" Trini said, worried for her brother.
"Oh no! He must've gone after Ember by now." Chase said with an agitated sigh as he facepalmed himself in annoyance before he recomposed himself. "Come on, we'll catch up with him later. We gotta find the scepter before Zhao's forces get it."
The group were hesitant before they recomposed themselves and nodded agreement as they continued on.
(Scene changes)
Princess Ember, Echo, Teejay, Mikey, and Sly continued walking across the top level of the corridor's tunnels for nearly an hour. They all stopped at once. Echo wondered why his princess stopped. She slowly turned to her back, and they did the same thing as well. They all found Antonio stood before them.
"Antonio? What the heck are you doing here?" Echo asked in concern, "You were supposed to be with your family to find the scepter to stop Zhao!"
Antonio sighed as he glared at Ember.
"I'm here to talk with Ember. And it's very personal!" Antonio said, sternly.
Princess Ember huffed as she looked away from Antonio.
"There's nothing to talk about, Boomer. Leave me alone now, as the order of the dragon princess! Go back and protect Spike, understand?"
"No! I am not going anyway until our talk is really finished! You're making the big mistake! All of us have same goal - getting the scepter before Zhao does! What's your deal about it?!" Antonio asked angrily.
"Look, Antonio, I already told you. Dragons don't do friends especially with ponies!" Ember argued.
"Yes, they do! Spike, Echo, Sly, Teejay, and Mikey! Especially you, princess! Don't you feel better and happy to have them as your friends?" Antonio demanded firmly.
"I would rather go alone than have friends. It keeps me focused on the mission. And trust me, it works this way." Ember responded back.
"Really? Was that the only reason? Was proving your dad that you can handle it by yourself so important than the friendship? What are you afraid of?!" Antonio asked furiously.
Echo and his team gasped in shock.
"Antonio, no!" Sly said, fearfully.
Princess Ember growled as she turned and faced Antonio.
"I'm not afraid of anything!" Ember snapped furiously.
"You like Spike, don't you?" Antonio asked suspiciously. It made Princess Ember blush. He sighed, "And he likes you too, Ember. Do you know why?" Princess Ember remained quiet. He answered, "Coz he believed in you. He cared for you. You're his friend, and his crush. He wants to keep you safe as a team, just like how we, the Elite Ninja, do it. Your dad knows about it. So, what are you afraid of?"
Princess Ember sighed.
"You're right, Antonio. I'm afraid. I'm afraid of Spike and his family getting hurt. They're very nice and friendly. And I'm happy for it. But if I was held hostage, they will have to sacrifice their goal for my safety. That's why I left."
"Ember, this isn't the first time we've been through a hostage situation," Ember said firmly, "And yeah, it's a pain in the neck. But we'll figure something out to solve it, no matter how hard it is. And also, we choose life over goals. Do you know why?"
"Why?" Ember asked.
"Lives are very precious to us, especially our friends and family. It also proved that we have hearts and love. It's something that Zhao never takes lightly so he will do something to his advantage if he does something horrible to them." Antonio said and explained. "Like when he took Twilight to the Netherworld since the Quinkan invasion began, that made Chase very angry because he really loves and cares about his wife."
"Antonio..." Ember tried to reason. "That was when Chase hates Zhao for that. I'm not like Twilight when she was kidnapped by Zhao."
Antonio smirked.
"Maybe, but that doesn't matter. Spike and our family need you guys for not only Equestria, but also your home. Think about it, Ember." Antonio offered gently.
Echo turned and looked at Princess Ember. She then has some dilemma and thinking.
(Scene changes)
Spike's team continued searching for the bloodstone scepter across the tunnels in crevasse. But so far, they found nothing.
Chase groaned in frustration.
"This is getting us nowhere." Chase said, agitated.
"Is it just me, or have we seen this crevasse three times already?" Twilight asked.
"Yeah!" Trini said. "Great! We're going around in circles! We need to find the correct path and find it now!"
"Any idea where the correct path has to be?" Jade asked with worry.
"It's kinda hard to tell. They all look the same." Spike said in concern. He then noticed crimson lights from the tunnel on his right. He gasped as he pointed at it, "Except for this one! Look!"
Spike then led the group down a new path. There before them was a very thin path that led to some red crystals. There within the crystals was the bloodstone scepter!
"We made it!" Sunray said in surprise.
"Yeah! I can't believe we're the only dragons to make it this far!" Spike said happily.
"You're not!" said a voice. Chase, Jade, Sunray, Trini, and Spike turned around to see Garble, glaring menacingly at them.
"Figures he'd follow us," said Chase, "Probably too stupid to figure out the path on his own!"
"And I'm not losing to two puny-pony-loving dragons like you!" Garble shot back as he knocked Chase, Jade, Sunray, and Trini away as they grunted in pain, falling unconscious before he grabbed Spike by the tip of his top scale.
Rarity yelped in fright.
"We've got to do something!" Rarity said in a panic.
Twilight then saw something in the distance.
"Look!" Twilight shouted.
Princess Ember and her team dived as they flew and knocked Garble, which made the red dragon let go of Spike...and made the little dragon tumble over the edge of the platform. Garble was also sent colliding into Rarity and Twilight, knocking them over and out of their disguises. Spike then screamed as he started falling, but Ember grabbed Spike and brought him back to safety.
"Ember!" Spike exclaimed in relief. Princess Ember smiled as she brought him up on the route. He smiled in relief, "I thought it was every dragon for themselves! Why did you save me?!"
"That's what friends do! And I am. I mean, we are. I never should have left you back there." Princess Ember exclaimed. She then groaned, "Agh, please don't make me talk about my feelings!"
Antonio chuckled.
"I knew it! You like him!" Antonio said teasingly.
"Shut up, Antonio!" Princess Ember exclaimed in annoyance.
Meanwhile, just a short distance away, Rarity and Twilight were looking rather woozy when Garble happened to not only recover, but discovered them.
"What the?!" Garble exclaimed and then growled at them. Twilight and Rarity both found themselves with their hind legs at the edge of the platform.
"Now that Spyro and his family are out of the way," Garble gloated, "I'm gonna finish you both off!" Twilight then growled as she made her horn glow.
"Give me your best shot!" Twilight challenged angrily, "You destroyed my husband! I've got nothing to lose!"
"Um, Twilight, did you forget I'm still here?!" Rarity exclaimed, "I do NOT want to be barbequed!"
Garble snarled when…
"Oh no you don't!" An angry voice shouted as something grabbed Garble by the tail, pulled him back as he yelped in surprise before he was flung in the air and slammed his back against the rocky wall of the cave.
There was Chase, Jade, Sunray, and Trini standing in front of Twilight and Rarity in fighting stances. Twilight smiled at her family, happy that they were okay.
"Alright, Garble. I've had just about enough of you threatening my family!" Chase said angrily to Garble as the red dragon growled at Chase before he charged at the him.
Then Chase outsmarted him by slugging him in the face with full force into the outer wall of the area, which made the red dragon slam painfully against the wall. Garble managed to recover quickly and growled angrily and went for a lunge.
Chase and his family stood their ground, ready to fight, but then Garble changed direction at the last minute so he could lunge at Twilight and Rarity instead. Fortunately, Ember was able to intercept Garble and pinned him against the opposite outer wall with Echo and Teejay aiding her as Sly and Mikey brought their two pony allies to safety.
"Spike! Get the scepter!" Ember grunted as she struggled to keep Garble against the wall with Echo's aid. Spike ran off to get the scepter as fast as his small legs could go.
However, Garble was able to break free and tossed Ember and Echo aside before he charged right at Spike from above. He was just within grabbing range when Ember grabbed Garble's tail and pulled him back.
Garble snorted as he used his tail to flip Ember over onto her back and they started wrestling each other. Spike gasped as he saw he was only a couple of yards away from getting the scepter. Spike glared angrily before he jumped onto Garble and started tugging the scale where his ear would be.
Unknown to any of them, Tai Lung climbed up behind the scepter as he stealthy watched the fight going on while smirking evilly. Then he took a piece of the crystal from the scepter off and brought out a dagger. He held the dagger at the shard of the crystal as some red magic was transferred into the dagger before it stopped.
Tai Lung smirked evilly as he placed the shard on the crystal.
"Perfect." Tai Lung said deviously before he disappeared.
Garble easily pulled Spike off and tossed him away, making the little dragon fall and was now hanging over the edge of the platform again. Chase saw this as he charged at the red dragon, giving Ember a wave to let her know he was right behind the red dragon. By now, Garble was feel very frustrated and agitated as he started wrestling with Ember again.
"I'm sick and tired of you three helping each other," Garble vented, "Dragons don't do helping!"
"These dragons do!" Ember said sternly as she flipped Garble over and tossed him to Chase.
Chase then grabbed the red dragon by the tail, swung him around quickly before he tossed Garble into the air. He then flew at him, delivering two punches to the face, a kick to the stomach, and tail swiping him to the ground, landing on his stomach. And he finally was knocked out.
Then Chase landed on the ground in a crouch before he rose up.
"That's what you get for messing with my family." Chase said, smirking.
Twilight and Rarity just smiled applauded Ember and Chase before they heard some dragons chattering behind them. Echo urged Twilight to use her magic to quickly put on their disguises and so she and Rarity did. Spike was still struggling to climb back up and his just lost his grip when Ember grabbed one claw and Chase grabbed the other.
Together they pulled Spike back up the platform. The three dragon's exchanged smiles with each other. Then Spike rushed up to the giant crystal and grabbed the bloodstone scepter.
"Whoa..." said Spike as the magic from the scepter empowered him as he held the bloodstone scepter proudly above his head.
It was then a large red wave of magic expanded from the scepter as well as ball of white light that extended beyond the island. The other dragons all saw the light, including Twilight and Rarity.
Ember, Echo, Sly, Teejay, Mikey, Chase, Trini, Antonio, Sunray, and Jade just smiled proudly. Suddenly, a certain red dragon tried to sneak attack the ten dragons when…
"Leave them alone!" Spike shouted sternly.
Garble then looked dumbfounded when he saw Spike holding the bloodstone scepter in his claw.
"What? You?! You have the scepter?!" Garble spluttered, "But that means that you're..."
"The Dragon Lord," said Ember, bowing to Spike in respect. "Dragon Lord Spike."
Chase and his family bowed in respect to Spike as well. Echo and his team bowed as well to Spike. So did the other dragons, who had arrived at the entrance of the area. Garble groaned as he knelt down to pay his respects...reluctantly.
"Dragon...Lord...Spike..." Garble muttered through his teeth.
"That's right!" said Spike, "Uh...Now, go start your long journey home. And give every dragon you see on the way a hug. Don't tell them why."
"Awww!" Garble whined, "But that'll be super embarassing!"
"How about I make you wear a pink princess dress for a hundred years instead?" Spike suggested.
Garble shrieked as Chase, Jade, Sunray, Antonio, Trini, Echo, Teejay, Sly, Mikey, and Ember snickered.
"That's what I thought," said Spike, "Now go! I command you to do it!"
"You heard him! You better do it while it lasts, punk!" Mikey exclaimed in amusement.
Garble walked away, grumbling and complaining to himself.
"I can't believe this," Garble complained as he gave a nearby dragon a hug and flew away.
The dragon smiled at the gesture. Echo laughed.
"Maybe now Garble will think twice before messing with ponies again," said Echo to himself.
One could only hope, but that red dragon doesn't look like he'll be learning sense anytime soon.
"Dragon Lord Spike." Princess Ember said in amusement, "Hm, has a nice ring to it."
Spike smiled as he passed the bloodstone scepter and its energy surge to Princess Ember.
"Dragon Lord Ember sounds a lot better." Spike said, smiling.
"Indeed," said Jade, "You'll make a great ruler, Ember."
"What?' said Ember in surprise as Echo and his team were shocked by this. "No. You're the Dragon Lord now."
She offered the bloodstone sceptar back, but Spike refused.
"The Dragon Lord is whoever brings the scepter back to your father!" said Spike, "Besides, you'll make a good leader. Chase, Jade, Sunray, Trini, Antonio and I were just doing this to protect the ponies from Zhao. But I know you'll protect them just as well as I would have. Plus, you've got Echo, Teejay, Mikey, and Sly to help you."
Sunray smirked.
"You know, he does have a point." Sunray said in agreement.
"Yeah. As long as you have our four dragon allies by your side, I'm sure Equestria will be safe." Trini added.
"You sure about this?" Ember asked, feeling a bit unsure. Spike gave Chase a smile, which he returned and gave the little dragon a nod.
"Absolutely," said Spike to Ember, "My home is in Equestria with my friends."
"Well, you'll have at least five friends here now, too." said Ember, "Same for you and your family, Master Chase Young."
Chase chuckled as Spike wrapped his arms around Ember, surprising her.
"What are you doing?" Ember asked.
"It's called a hug," said Spike and kept holding the blue dragon.
"Oh. I don't know if I like it," said Ember, feeling very embarassed as her cheeks colored a bit, "But...okay."
Spike hummed happil as he continued hugging the blushing Princess Ember while she patted his head gently. And at the same time, she gave him a kiss by head. Everyone awed happily to see Princess Ember and Spike hugging.
Antonio chuckled.
"Spike and Ember sitting on the tree! K-I-S-S-I-N-G!" Antonio teasingly sang.
(Scene changes)
Meanwhile, Torch was just sitting on his throne, looking very bored and grumpy. It was then a bright red light appeared behind him. He turned to see Ember holding the bloodstone scepter in her claw as Echo, Teejay, Mikey, and Sly followed her. The rest of the dragons followed behind them.
"Ember?" said Torch in shock, "You?!"
"I know you didn't think I could do it," said Ember firmly, "but I did."
"I expressly told you not to do it," said Torch furiously, "because you're not-!"
"I'm not big and strong. I know. But you know what? I won anyway. So maybe it takes more than just being big and strong to be a good Dragon Lord!" Ember argued.
Echo nodded.
"She's right, your majesty. She overcame most of the obstacles. My team and I saw it with our own eyes. I would like to review them for you if you want." Echo said in agreement.
"Later, general. In private between us alone," Dragon Lord Torch said calmly before he turned and looked t Princess Ember, "And I was wrong, Ember. You might not be big, but you are strong and smart, and perhaps that counts for more than I thought. You will make an excellent leader."
"Thanks, dad." Princess Ember thanked as she landed on her father's nose gently. She turned to her dragon citizens. She exclaimed, "Agree with him!" The dragons looked surprise and confuse by her authority. She giggled, "Just kidding! That's not gonna be my thing."
Dragon Lord Torch laughed in amusement.
"Dragons, hear me!" said Torch, "I present to you our new Dragon Lord, Ember!"
The dragons cheered. Ember just hovered in the air and waved. Echo and Dragon Lord Torch smiled proudly while looking at her. Suddenly, Garble appeared and hugged Dragon Lord Torch's nose, making him notice it.
"Hm? What is the meaning of this?!" Dragon Lord Torch demanded.
"I can't tell you!" Garble whined.
Princess Ember giggled in amusement to see Garble facing his punishment as Echo and his team chuckled in amusement as well.
(Scene changes)
In the outskirts of the dragon lands, Twilight, Rarity, Chase, Jade, Sunray, Antonio, and Spike were now heading out. Chase and his family had finally powered down back to their pony forms.
"Well, that ends everything," Chase commented in relief, "Now we don't have to worry about our flanks and alliance with dragons."
Twilight nodded in agreement as she turned to Spike.
"You did well, Spike," said Twilight, "With Ember as Dragon Lord, the ponies will be safe and you, Chase, Jade, Sunray, Trini, and Antonio gained us five powerful allies."
"And five new friends!" Spike added happily.
"Plus, Ember said I could write to her anytime I had questions about dragon culture!" said Twilight as she used her magic to pull out her collected notes, "With this much information, I'll be able to write a whole book on dragons!"
"Awesome, honey," said Chase, "Ponies will finally have information about dragons now!"
"And I gained tons of ideas for a new line of camouflage clothing!" Rarity added, "I think I'll call it "Camo-Maud"."
"And don't forget," Antonio smirked in amusement while looking at Spike, "Spike got crush! Spike got crush! Spike got crush! And her name is Dragon Lord Ember!"
Spike groaned in annoyance.
"I'm gonna kill you, Antonio!" Spike shouted angrily.
Spike then chased after Antonio around their friends. Their pony friends laughed in amusement. Antonio loved and enjoyed teasing Spike a lot especially when it involved his crush on Princess Ember.
"I guess that kind of reminds me of having my crush on you, honey." Chase said as he nuzzled Twilight lovingly, making his wife giggle while nuzzling her husband back lovingly.
"Maybe one day Spike and Ember will make a great couple." Jade added in agreement as she, Sunray, and Trini chuckled together.
Spike groaned as he knew this was going to be a long way back home as they continued on their journey.
(Scene changes)
At the Hollow Shades, Tai Lung and his Quinkan soldiers arrived at the Well of Shade as the snow leopard jumped into the Well and approached the throne room.
The doors to the room opened as Zhao was sitting on his throne chair before he noticed Tai Lung approaching him, stopped in the middle of the room, and bowed down in respect to his master.
"Master Zhao." Tai Lung said respectively before he presented the dagger with the red energy from the bloodstone scepter surging through it. "I bring you the bloodstone scepter's energy."
Zhao rose up from his throne and approached Tai Lung. He took the dagger and smiled deviously at the red magic energy.
"Excellent. I am impressed, Tai Lung. You have done well." Zhao said with a devious look. "You may leave me now."
Tai Lung acknowledged before he left for Zhao to take care of the red magic. The Quinkan leader touched the tip of the dagger's blade, making it shine bright red as the bloodstone scepter's magic was transported out of the dagger and into Zhao's left hand, making a ball of red magic surging dangerously in his palm.
Zhao smirked sinisterly before he placed the magic in a new Netherworld Quartz crystal and it sparked dangerously before it settled down while it continued to spark up a bit while glowing brightly.
"Well, Chase Young and his family may have gained new allies from the Dragon Lands, they let their guard down the moment we gained the bloodstone scepter's magic. Soon, I will begin the new invasion in Equestria and once more. And then I will have Chase Young, Twilight Sparkle, their family, and their friends out of my way once I reclaim the world to myself again!" Zhao said, smiling evilly.
Then he began to laugh evilly with his fists in the air.
Author's note: Hey guys,
Sorry for the long wait. Work has been busy for me. Just to let you know, I won't be doing all of the episodes as I will be adding two new specials before I reach To Where And Back Again.
Here's my chapter list for Season 6:
Chapter 6: No Second Prances
Chapter 7: Newbie Dash
Chapter 8: A Hearts Warming Tail
Chapter 9: Applejack's "Day" Off
Chapter 10: Flutter Brutter
Chapter 11: Spice Up Your Life
Chapter 12: Stranger Than Fan Fiction
Chapter 13: The Cart Before The Ponies
Chapter 14: 28 Pranks Later
Chapter 15: The Times They Are A Changeling
Chapter 16: Dungeons & Discords
Chapter 17: Buckball Season
Chapter 18: The Fault in Our Cutie Marks
Chapter 19: Viva Las Pegasus
Chapter 20: Every Little Thing She Does
Chapter 21: P.P.O.V. (Pony Point Of View)
Chapter 22: Where The Apple Lies
Chapter 23: Top Bolt
Chapter 24: The Big Brawl, Part 1
Chapter 25: The Big Brawl, Part 2
Chapter 26: To Where and Back Again, Part 1
Chapter 27: To Where and Back Again, Part 2
Well, I hope you guys have enjoyed this chapter. I'll be back to writing soon enough. Peace out!
