The Adventures of the Power Ponies
#55-Eternal Bond Part 3
"Destroy Maretropolis," the Masked Matterhorn asked in shock. "They can't be serious!"
"I'm afraid they are," Timberwolf said. "In fact, they told me to tell you to turn to Channel 3 News in Maretropolis."
Shining Armor reached the remote and turned on the television nearby. The news showed dreadful things happening to the Power Ponies' hometown. Three, spectral sirens flew through the air and their screams would shatter anything they were aimed at. Anar D was also there turning fire hydrates into gum waiting to explode by the water pressure underneath.
"I can't look," Saddle Rager said turning her head from the screen.
"This is News Flash here with an emergency update," the reporter said. "Maretropolis is under siege. It would seem that..."
Suddenly, Darkmatter appeared right next to News Flash. The reporter gasped when he saw him.
"Make this broadcast worldwide," Darkmatter said. "I want to be certain my little monkey sees me."
"Y... You heard him, Close Up," News Flash told his camera-colt. "Extend this broadcast."
A few seconds later, Darkmatter took the center of the camera frame.
"Princess Twilight Sparkle, or may I call you the Masked Matterhorn," Darkmatter announced, "Surrender yourself to me. Your reward: your town will live. My accomplices are only stretching their legs for now. There is no time limit, but the longer you keep hiding..."
Anar D appeared in front of the camera with a deranged look on his face.
"...The more we get to have our... jollies."
"Turn yourself in now," Darkmatter said. "In the meantime, we're in control of Maretropolis and with just the right touch...
"This is the perfect time"
"To bring out the perfect crimes," Serena sang.
"Murder, theft," Melody sang.
"Devastation," Carol sang.
"This calls out for celebration," Anar D sang.
"The sounds of annihilation here," Serena sang.
"Makes our point perfectly clear," Darkmatter sang.
"Change starts on this very day," the Order of Change sang.
"Good-bye, truth, justice, and the Equestrian way
HAHAHAHAHAHAAAAAA
Now, we're in charge
Now, we're in charge
It's the point you won't forget
On your mark. Get set
Now, we're in charge
We cause tricks
To get our kicks
You used to be strong as a barge
Now, we're in charge"
"Even those who hate each other can work as one," Melody and Carol sang.
"With our dark magic, peace comes undone," Serena sang.
"Excellent work," Darkmatter said.
"Better run in cower," Anar D sang,
"'Cause we have the power"
"You better have every peaceful moment spent," the Siren Sisters sang.
"'CAUSE NOW, YOU'RE UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT," everyone sang.
"NOW, WE'RE IN CHARGE
NOW, WE'RE IN CHARGE
HERE, TROUBLE COMES TO SIT AND THRIVE
TURN AROUND AND RUN FOR YOUR LIVES
NOW, WE'RE IN CHARGE
EVERY CORNER WILL BE BLOWN
FROM NOW ON, EVIL'S LIVING LAAAAAAAAAARGE"
"TURN AWAY," Melody shouted.
"ARREVEDIRCI," Anar D shouted.
"WE'LL DESTROY THIS TOWN," Serena shouted.
"TURN YOURSELF IN, MONKEY," Darkmatter shouted.
"NOW, WE'RE IN CHAAAAAAAARGE," the Order of Change sang.
"NOW, WE'RE IN CHARGE"
The ponies in Maretropolis ran away. The heroes kept watching until the screen went blank.
"This is monstrous," the Masked Matterhorn gasped. "Can't the princesses do anything about it?"
"Darkmatter's covering that to," Timberwolf said. "He said that if he sees any princess other than you approaching Maretropolis, he'll destroy it faster."
"There's got to be a counterpoint to it all," Shining Armor said. "We can't let Darkmatter win. I'll contact the princesses and inform them of the situation."
"Shining," the Masked Matterhorn said, "I think... I think I should let him take me."
"What," everyone gasped.
"Absolutely not, Twilight," Shining Armor said. "It's too dangerous. After Darkmatter gets what he wants, the Siren Sisters will release Arcanus. And Darkmatter knows how to kill you."
"Anar D thought he knew," the Masked Matterhorn said, "And he was wrong."
"It's still too dangerous," Shining Armor said.
"Come on," the Masked Matterhorn said. She turned to her friends. "Guys, you all support me, right?"
"Uh," everyone said awkwardly.
"Actually..." Zapp said.
"We do love you," Radiance said.
"But the thing is..." Mistress Marevelous said.
"We don't know what Darkmatter's method is," the Shadow Blot said. "Maybe it is best if we just find another way."
"I don't believe it," the Masked Matterhorn gasped. "I thought you would support me."
"We do," Hum Drum said. "It's just that... If anything happens to you, there won't be anyone left standing against the Siren Sisters."
The Masked Matterhorn turned away and entered her cabin. She picked up a pillow and screamed into it. She fell onto her bed and put on a sad face.
"Don't cry, young one. Your friends only want what they think is best?"
The Masked Matterhorn looked and saw a familiar stallion beside her.
"Doctor? I thought you were coming back the day we fight Arcanus."
"Did I," the Doctor asked. "Oh. Well, I did meet you there. And then I traveled to other points in time. This one time, in another Equestria, Applejack's little sister tries to scare me into buying some apples. But I digress."
"Well, what are you doing here," the Masked Matterhorn asked.
"The better question is, what are you doing here," the Doctor said. "Didn't Darkmatter threaten your hometown if you didn't surrender to him?"
The Masked Matterhorn sighed with a heavy breath. "He did. The problem is, everyone who I think should support me on my decision thinks it's best if I stayed out of it. I just don't know what to do. It's getting too hard to explain things anymore. My brain is all confused with all that's going on."
"Well, answer me this," the Doctor said, "What does your heart say?"
"That I should save my city... and all my friends."
"I hope you're right. By the way, before I leave, I'd like you give you this piece of advice: a friend is always loyal to you, no matter what he does. Farewell."
The Doctor disappeared leaving the Masked Matterhorn alone in her room.
"Why would he tell me something I already know," the Masked Matterhorn said. She looked at the window and realized what she had to do.
"And they'll destroy Maretropolis quickly if anyone other than the Matterhorn enters," Shining Armor told the other princesses through screens.
"This is a predicament," Princess Luna said.
"What does the Masked Matterhorn have to say about this threat," Princess Celestia asked.
"Actually..." Shining Armor said, "She wants to surrender herself, but we said no."
"What," Cadence asked.
"Well, we had no choice," Zapp said. "We don't want to lose our friend."
"Yeah," Masque said. "She owes me $10."
"No, she doesn't," Rodan corrected his friend.
"Hey, I wanted to be part of the conversation," Masque said.
"If only she understood how grave the situation is," Shining Armor said.
"Well..." Cadence said, "Maybe it's time she learned the truth... about Darkmatter."
"What," Radiance asked. "What truth? He... didn't really offer to teach Twilight magic?"
"He did," Shining Armor said. "Everything we said was true. There were just... some parts of the story that we left out... for her protection, of course."
"Shining Armor, she's a big girl now," Princess Celestia said. "Tell her the truth about Darkmatter and we'll see what her choice is."
"All right," Shining Armor agreed. "I'll tell her."
Shining Armor hung up the communication and walked across the blimp. The Power Ponies and Mighty Machines waited for a minute until they heard a shout.
"NO!" Shining Armor returned to the group with fear filling his eyes. "TWILIGHT IS GONE!"
The Power Ponies and Mighty Machines gasped.
Anar D changed Power Tower into a darker, more menacing shape. The Order of Change stood on top of it.
"Well, would you look at that," Anar D said looking through a telescope.
"Give me that," Darkmatter said taking the telescope. He looked through it and saw the Masked Matterhorn approaching the outskirts of town.
"Ah," Darkmatter said in joy looking through his telescope, "My monkey, the Masked Matterhorn, has made it. Marvelous.
"Oh, that was a good tongue-twister," Carol said. "Try this one: the Sinister Sorceress sent six super-sized skates and silk socks to Soaron."
"This is no time for silliness," Darkmatter said removing the telescope from his eye. There was a white circle surrounding his eye. Anar D giggled at that.
The Masked Matterhorn landed right in front of the Order of Change and confronted the evil unicorn.
"Welcome home, little monkey," Darkmatter said. "Have you come to surrender?"
"Before I answer that, I have a question," the Masked Matterhorn said. She turned to the draconequus. "Anar D, how could you betray us like that? I thought we were friends."
"The Siren Sisters offered me something better than simple tea parties," Anar D explained. "For the past three months, I've worked my tail off because of a favor for you and the others. I thought it was because we were friends. Now that I think about it, when I returned you didn't ask me how I was or say 'welcome back'. You didn't even give me a hoof bump. Personally, if I had to choose where to be imprisoned between friendship and Pandora's Box, I'd choose the latter."
"Face it, dear," Serena said. "Anar D is on our side now. True, we used to be enemies, but since he gave his box to us in exchange for us not using it, it's all water under the bridge."
"And the worst part is," Melody said, "You left your other friends in the dust."
"Too bad," Carol exclaimed. "So sad."
"Now, if you would come with me," Darkmatter said. "I moved all my lab equipment in this tower."
With a hanging head, the Masked Matterhorn followed the Order of Change inside. At the top of another building, the Blue Comet watched the villains carry the alicorn inside.
"I don't think so," Blue Comet said sternly.
"We've got to head to Maretropolis," Hum Drum said. "The Masked Matterhorn's in danger."
"Agreed," the Shadow Blot said. "How do we get there fastest?"
Mistress Marevelous pulled out a map. There were several paths around a forests.
"We could move down this path and we should get to..."
"Wait," Zapp said. "Why not just cut through this forest here?"
"Because that's the Everfree Forest," Mistress Marevelous explained. "Legend says that any pony who enters is never found again."
"But still, we've got to save my sister," Shining Armor said. "I say we take the risk."
"Besides, we don't have to enter the forest," Dusk said. "We can just fly our blimp over."
"All right," the Shadow Blot said. "I'll make course."
Twenty minutes later, the team saw a large forest completely shrouded by black, barren trees. They hovered right above the trees.
"You see," Hum Drum asked. "If we just go above the trees, nothing can happen to us."
"Devastate," Devastator said. Timberwolf widened his eyes in fear.
"Did you just say this is easy? You never say it's easy... ever!"
"Devastate," Devastator asked.
Suddenly, there was a sudden shift that tripped the heroes over. They looked out the window and a lot of black vines from the Everfree Forest below and wrapped around the blimp.
"That's why," Timberwolf said.
The heroes shouted as their ship was dragged down into the forest.
When they came to, the Power Ponies, the Mighty Machines, and Shining Armor awoke from bring knocked out. They looked around and saw the ebony-black trees surrounding them. There was barely any light left.
"We're in the Everfree Forest," Filli-Second said. "I've heard rumors say that it eats your brain and rots your mind... Kind of like cartoons."
"Wait," Zapp said. "Did you hear that?"
The heroes overheard shouting from a short distance. They followed the sound and saw a mare in a hat angry at a zebra in front of a tree hut. The zebra had a few golden rings on her body and there was a bronze box behind her. The mare had a bright-orange body and a brown mane. She was dressed as an adventurer.
"No way," Zapp gasped.
"Do you know who that is," Radiance asked.
"Sort of," Zapp said. "That mare is the spitting image of my favorite fictional adventurer: the Lone Mare. Although, I don't recognize the zebra."
"I do," Mistress Marevelous said. "Four months ago, the night Anar D split us up, he disguised himself into that very zebra and called himself Madame Stryfe. That must be the real one."
"Come on, lady," the Lone Mare said. "What do I have to do to get the artifact you're guarding?"
"Listen here, I've already told you," the zebra said, "The only, simple thing you must do is solve my riddle, and that is all. There's no need for you to bawl"
"But your riddle didn't make any sense," the Lone Mare said. "How exactly is it simple?"
"I said that it was simple, not easy," the zebra said. "I apologize, but that's how it should be."
"Need any help," Zapp called out flying from the bushes. The Lone Mare and the zebra saw the heroes beside in the bushes.
"No, thank you," the Lone Mare said. "I work alone. It's in my name."
"Speaking of," Zapp said with giddy excitement in her voice. "I have so many questions! I thought you were just a storybook character."
"That is not a question, kid," the Lone Mare said. "But... I suppose you deserve to hear the truth. You see..."
"OOH," Filli-Second shouted. "You're really A.K. Yearling, the author of the Lone Mare stories. You took a trip to Maretropolis last week and there, you entered a club, but you couldn't remember what happened. The next day, you woke up with the same abilities as your book character and now, you're using them to make the Lone Mare real and you've come here in the Everfree Forest for a mysterious artifact that is said to be the source of the curse of the Everfree Forest, but before you can get to it, you've got to solve the riddle of this zebra guardian so she can give you the box behind her which holds said artifact! *SQUEE*"
The Lone Mare dropped her jaw and widened her eyes. She couldn't believe what the hero had said because it was exactly true. She turned to the other Power Ponies.
"Yeah," Hum Drum said. "She amazes us to."
"Wait," Zapp said. "So you're A.K. Yearling... and you're a New Hero who can turn into the Lone Mare?! THAT'S SO AWESOME!"
"Glad you think so, kid," the Lone Mare said rolling her eyes. "Now then..." She turned to the zebra. "Madame Arocez, give me the riddle again."
"If that's what you wish, it will be so," Madame Arocez said. "Let's hope that this time, you will know. 'I always stick, but I'm not glue. You don't choose me, I choose you. No matter what, I'm here in the end. Just accept and see me as a friend'."
"You see what I mean," the Lone Mare asked. "Nothing about this riddle makes sense. All right. 'Always stick, but not glue'. Is it sap?"
"No," Madame Arocez said.
The Lone Mare groaned loudly and sulked to the ground. "What am I going to do? I can't solve this riddle."
"Maybe not alone," the Shadow Blot said. "But what about with us?"
"Listen to me," the Lone Mare said. "Clearly, you didn't hear me before, so I'll enunciate. I... work... alone."
"Look," Zapp said, "Just because the Lone Mare in your books work alone, it doesn't mean you should. So what if going solo works in your stories. This is real life. If you allow us to help, it'll be easier."
"Just give me one good reason why I should accept your help," the Lone Mare said.
"Well, loyalty is always tricky," Zapp explained, "But the main idea is, you'll always know where to find a friend."
Interested in Zapp's words, the Lone Mare looked at the box that the artifact was in. She saw it have a rainbow glow and she felt the same feeling in her own eyes. She smiled and looked back at Zapp.
"Thank you, kid," the Lone Mare said. She turned to the zebra. "Madame Arocez, ask me again."
The zebra smiled with confidence. "'I always stick, but I'm not glue. You don't choose me, I choose you. No matter what, I'm here in the end. Just accept and see me as a friend'."
The Lone Mare breathed in confidence and declared. "The answer is... Loyalty!"
"That is..." Madame Arocez said, "...Correct." She reached to the box behind her and presented it to the Lone Mare. "All your worries are now put to rest. With this, you all can leave the forest."
"Good," Shining Armor said, "Because I've got a sister in trouble."
"If that's so, I want to help," the Lone Mare said.
"Not yet," Zapp said. "You see, the New Heroes are probably in danger. They're all rounding up in Canterlot until we can be sure it's alright. You should go there too."
"All right," the adventurer said. "But first, I'd like to give you this." The Lone Mare reached into her pocket and pulled out a little pin with a lightning bolt. "I got this collectible from my superhero idols, the Wonderbolts."
"You're a Wonderbolts fan too," Zapp gasped.
"Yes," the Lone Mare said. "I'm giving it to you because I trust you enough to stay loyal."
"Thanks," Zapp said taking the pin. Suddenly, the pin glowed in a rainbow of colors and Zapp was surprised. "This must be that Pin of Loyalty."
"What's the treasure in that box anyway," Mistress Marevelous asked.
"Let's look together," the Lone Mare said.
She opened the lid and the box was open. She pulled out something that made everyone confused.
"That's it," Timberwolf asked. "That's it?! That's what this Everfree Forest gets its creepiness from?! That little, hollow cylinder?!"
"I'm going to have to do research on this," the Lone Mare said. "But in the meantime, I'll be off to Canterlot."
The heroes approached the end of the forest. Since the blimp had been destroyed, the Power Ponies, the Mighty Machines, and Shining Armor had to make the rest of the trip on hoof. The Lone Mare then left in another direction. Madame Arocez watched them all leave with a face full of worry.
"They leave now, but don't understand. Let's hope the piece doesn't fall in the wrong hands. What that artifacts brings is much more dangerous than the Siren Sisters and their master, Arcanus."
The Masked Matterhorn woke up and she was trapped in a large tube. She was bound in electric shackles. She had a metal container covering her horn.
"Don't bother trying to teleport out of there," Darkmatter said from outside of the tube. He was standing with the Siren Sisters and Anar D. "That metal around your horn is made to contain your magic. It's similar to what I was forced with during my days in prison."
"Darkmatter," the Masked Matterhorn growled.
"Good," Anar D said. "You're awake."
"Good," the Masked Matterhorn repeated mockingly. "You're an evil traitor."
"Yes, I'm a traitor," Anar D said, "But you're the one shackled and bound for death."
"He has a point," Carol said.
"At long last," Darkmatter said, "After all these years, I finally got back my little monkey."
"Okay, stop calling me that," the Masked Matterhorn said. "That's the craziest pet name ever, especially for a diabolical supervillain like you. Why in the wide, wide world of Equestria would you call me a monkey?"
Darkmatter chuckled. "You really don't know? Shining Armor never even told you?"
"Tell me what," the Masked Matterhorn asked.
"The truth about us," Darkmatter said. "You see, I call you a monkey, because that makes me..." The Masked Matterhorn was not prepared for what he said next. "...A monkey's uncle."
The princess hero widened her eyes and tried to believe that he didn't just say what she thought he said. But she knew what she heard.
"Whoa," Anar D chuckled in shock. He had a pair of 3-D glasses and held up a bag of popcorn. "I'm going to need more popcorn."
"I'm sorry," the Masked Matterhorn said, "But it sounds like you're saying that you're my uncle."
"That's exactly what I'm saying," Darkmatter said. "Your father, Night Light, is my older brother."
Anar D turned to the Siren Sisters. "Did you three know about this?"
"Of course, we did," Serena said. "That's why we recruited him."
"But..." the Masked Matterhorn said nervously, "...How is that even possible?"
"How's about one last bedtime story before eternal slumber," Darkmatter said. "It all started when your father and I were young. We started off on trying to make a few good coins. Your father was a genius, but he never had the guts to do what was needed. Like you, I found some friends. The only difference between yours and mine is that mine were usually involved with some... illegal affairs. I tried to convince your father to join us, but he turned his back on me. It was then that I learned that it was every pony for themselves. I worked my way up to the gang until I became the head of it all. Years later, you were born and you displayed more incredible magic than any that I have seen."
"Let me guess," the Masked Matterhorn said, "You couldn't stand seeing my dad with a powerful unicorn baby while you got squat. That's why you offered to teach me magic, because you thought you could raise me better than your brother."
"You're kidding me," Anar D said with a disappointed tone. "You're telling me that this whole thing was all about jealousy? You're weirder than I thought. And what about your little method for killing alicorns? You know, there was a very, very small chance the kid was going to be princess."
"You think I didn't know that," Darkmatter asked. "My method wasn't for the child; it was for the other princesses in case they could stand in my way. But I was captured before I got the chance. Now that you're a princess, my little monkey, and it's too late for me to train you my way, I guess I'll have to kill you."
"Oh, yeah," the Masked Matterhorn asked. "I faced sinister sorceresses, an army of Changelings, a dragon made of my own magic... even Hum Drum's morning breath. I can handle anything."
"I don't think so," Darkmatter said. He approached a cabinet and opened a drawer. "You see, I learned that nothing can match the power of an alicorn. So I figured, the only way to kill an alicorn is with the power of another alicorn."
"You're going to turn yourself into an alicorn," the Masked Matterhorn asked. "Forget prison. You're going to the funny farms. You'd have to be an alicorn to have their magic."
"Do I," Darkmatter said. "Not as long as I have this!" He held up a little necklace. At the front, there was a red jewel surrounded by a decorative, black alicorn on it. The Masked Matterhorn gasped when she saw it.
"The Alicorn Amulet! You found the Alicorn Amulet?!"
"I've had it hidden in my original lab for years," Darkmatter explained. "After we took over Maretropolis, I had my supplies moved here. Yes, this is the Alicorn Amulet, forged by a dark alicorn to store his power in case of emergency. Legend says that any unicorn can have the magic of an alicorn with this thing."
"Seriously," Melody groaned. "Why didn't you use that thing back at the Under Dog caves?"
"Because there's a side-effect of the Alicorn Amulet," Darkmatter said. "The more you use it, the more it takes influence over your body. I can't risk my mind."
"What mind," the Masked Matterhorn asked.
"Instead, I've got a weapon in storage upstairs that'll work," Darkmatter continued. "It absorbs the magic from any artifact and makes into a focusing beam."
"So when you put the Alicorn Amulet in the machine," Serena said, "It becomes some kind of... death ray for alicorns."
"And anything else," Darkmatter said. "Anar D, you stay and watch the prisoner. We'll retrieve the death ray."
"Yes, sir, captain, captain, mister, man," Anar D said.
"Keep pushing me, D," Darkmatter growled as he left the lab with the Siren Sisters.
"Whew," Anar D sighed. "I thought they'd never leave. Now, then..." He approached the control panel and started to push buttons. There was no reaction.
"What are you doing now," the Matterhorn asked in anger.
"Oh, what does it look like I'm doing," Anar D asked trying to tug a piece of the tube off. "I'm trying to get you out of here so we can stop them from freeing Arcanus."
"What," the Masked Matterhorn asked in confusion. "But... I thought you betrayed us."
"You actually bought all that," Anar D asked in a chuckle. "Kid, the last thing I want is to join forces with the very girls who tried to kill me 10,000 years ago. I'm still on the side of truth, justice, and the Equestrian way and all that jazz."
"But why..." the Matterhorn asked.
"Look," Anar D said. "I promise, I'll explain it all later. Right now, we got to stop them before the sirens reach the top of the tower."
"Why," the Masked Matterhorn asked.
"Because that's where they're going to bring back Arcanus from," Anar D explained. "I convinced them to tell me they're plan. When they gave the New Heroes superpowers, they also put in a life-draining spell that takes away their essence. Once they're at the highest point here, which it the top of the tower, they'll use the essence of superheroes to open a portal and break the chains off of Arcanus at the same time. And if that happens, the New Heroes are goners!"
"Well, don't just stand there," the Masked Matterhorn said. "Get me out!"
"Just give me a minute," Anar D said. "I have no idea how this works. Maybe this button."
Anar D pushed a button, and everything the Masked Matterhorn said couldn't be heard.
"Oops," Anar D said. "Soundproof. Maybe... OOOOWWW!" He screamed when he felt a chomp of metal teeth. He looked at his cloven hoof and there was a little, metal imp gnawing at his ankle. He shook it off. "Where did you come from?"
"From me."
Anar D didn't see the Power Ponies and the Mighty Machines coming from the window. He gasped when he saw them.
"It's my power," the Shadow Blot said. "Now, release the Masked Matterhorn before I make a metal manticore to chew you like gum."
"Hold on," Anar D said. "I can explain."
"GET HIM," Zapp shouted.
The Ponies and wirewolves attacked Anar D, but the draconequus didn't try to fight back. Dusk blasted shadows from his claws into D's face. Masque tripped Anar D with his tail. Timberwolf ripped off his arm and smacked Anar D with it. Filli-Second ran in a circle around him making him dizzy. Radiance formed a hard-light flyswatter and smacked him with it. Hum Drum turned into diamond form and punched him with it.
"THIS IS FOR BETRAYING US," Saddle Rager shouted turning into her monster form. She and Devastator punched Anar D back and forth between each other like a ping-pong ball.
Finally, Mistress Marevelous levitated her rope and hogtied the draconequus.
"Whoa, whoa, whoa," Anar D shouted. "Where's the fire!"
Suddenly, Rodan reached out his claws and fire came out of it blasting Anar D. The fire cleared and the draconequus was covered with soot.
"Is it hot or is it me," Anar D asked. "Look, everyone, I'm still on your side."
"Yeah, right," Zapp said. "And I've been lobbing with the Pish-Posh Brothers."
"You took my head off," Timberwolf said.
"Oh, you've lost your head plenty of times," Anar D said. "I thought you'd be used to it."
"Devastate," Devastator shouted.
"Hey," Anar D said. "Did I insult your mother?"
"Listen to him."
Blue Comet flew from the cieling and landed in front of Anar D.
"Blue Comet," Radiance asked. "What are you doing here?"
"And why are you defending this creep," Hum Drum said.
"Because he's telling the truth," Blue Comet said. "He tried to get the princess out of there. I saw the whole thing."
"Then why didn't you save me from being clobbered," Anar D asked.
"Back when you were evil, you trashed my living room," Blue Comet said. "That was payback."
"Let's just get your friend out of that thing and stop the bad guys," Anar D said.
Suddenly, everyone screamed when they saw Darkmatter at the doorway. Next to him was a large, mechanical cannon with the Alicorn Amulet in a capsule on top.
"So, Anar D cannot be trusted with anything," Darkmatter said. "Therefore, you must be destroyed along with the little monkey." He pulled a lever and the cannon started to hum.
"What is that," Shining Armor asked.
"A death ray powered by the Alicorn Amulet," Anar D said. "It's the weapon he has that can kill an alicorn... and, in the crossfire, us."
"Devastator, I think this is your moment to shine," Saddle Rager said. "I can count on you."
Determined, Devastator reached the front of the group and faced the death ray. Suddenly, the death ray blasted and headed towards the big wirewolf. Then, Devastator opened his mouth really largely. The inside of his mouth had boring tools. The blast went right inside of the big guy. As soon as the cannon stopped firing, Devastator closed his mouth. Darkmatter was astonished when he saw that Devastator's belly was glowing.
"But you're a mindless beast," Darkmatter said nervously. "How?"
"Devastator..." Devastator said. He then opened his mouth pointed at Darkmatter. A larger blast shot out of his mouth and he shouted the rest of his sentence from it. "...SMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASH!"
The red beam covered Darkmatter and his death ray. Darkmatter screamed wildly as he felt major pain flowing through his body. When the blast cleared, the death way was gone, but Darkmatter was standing with cracks covering him. He looked at the Power Ponies with complete anger.
"Kids."
Darkmatter fell to pieces and into a pile of dust. After that, Shining Armor went to the control panel and pushed one button. The capsule the Masked Matterhorn was in opened up and she was released.
"Show off," Anar D complained.
"Hey, Anar D," Saddle Rager said, "Why didn't you just use your magic to teleport Matterhorn out?"
"AW, MAN," Anar D shouted.
At that moment, the Masked Matterhorn hit Shining Armor on the head.
"OW," Shining Armor shouted. "What was that for?!"
"For not telling me Darkmatter was our uncle," Matterhorn said.
"Oh," Shining Armor said nervously. "He told you, didn't he?"
"Let's just get going," Anar D said. "We've got New Heroes to save."
On top of Power Tower, the Siren Sisters looked at the city and beyond. They were grinning.
"Ready, girls," Serena asked her sisters.
"Ready," Melody said.
"What she said," Carol said.
"Not so fast, Siren Sisters," the Masked Matterhorn shouted as she bursted through the door with her friends.
"Looks like we got some rats," Serena said.
"They're not rats," Carol said. "They're 8 ponies, 6 wirewolves, and a draconequus."
Melody groaned. "Go back to sleep, Carol."
"All right," the Masked Matterhorn declared. "Let's Power Pony up!"
The heroes and villains charged at each other. The Siren Sisters were tougher than they looked, so despite the numbers, it was an even battle.
"I'm putting you down," Melody called out to the Masked Matterhorn. She shot a red beam from her jewel and aimed it toward the alicorn.
"NO," the Blue Comet shouted as he flew in front of the beam. He was pushed toward the Masked Matterhorn. He didn't pass out, but his mask slipped off of his face when they hit a wall. When she saw his face, the Masked Matterhorn gasped.
"News Flash," the Masked Matterhorn asked, "The TV reporter? But why..."
"Talk later," News Flash said putting his mask back on.
The battle continued. Soon, the Siren Sisters were back-to-back with each other.
"NOW, RADIANCE!"
The unicorn heard the Matterhorn's words and formed a hard-light cage around the trio. She also created some clamps around their mouths so they couldn't be heard.
"We... We did it," Anar D said. He then celebrated. "WEEEEE DID IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIT! WE WON AT LAST!"
"Hold it, Anar D," the Masked Matterhorn said. "You've got some explaining to do."
"Oh," Anar D said. "All right. Ask me anything, friends?"
Back on ground level, the Power Ponies and Mighty Machines were talking to Anar D while Shining Armor was reading the Siren Sisters their rights.
"It was all a set-up that I made," Anar D said. "I came up with it on the way to apprehend them. We still didn't know why they wanted the New Heroes and I knew they would try to convince me to join their side, so I played along and gained their trust until I could learn their plan. After that, I'd reveal myself as a double-agent."
"So... this whole thing was an act," Mistress Marevelous asked. "What about all the devastation you brought here in Maretropolis?"
"I only pulled some harmless pranks," Anar D said. "Think about it. I popped off Timberwolf's head, but that happens to him all the time. I could've followed the Order of Change into the Under Dog catacombs to capture you, but I didn't. And during our siege for Maretropolis, no one got hurt because of me. Those should've been obvious signs."
"Obvious," Mistress Marevelous asked. "Anar D, those were as subtle as a black spot in the dark."
"Wait," Timberwolf said. "What about Pandora's Box? I saw you give it to them as a sign of your loyalty."
"Like Scynder's pendant," Anar D asked. "What you saw me give them was a fake box. I got the real one right here." He pulled out an identical box. "Those girls can't tell sedimentary from metamorphic. By the way, I decided to let the Siren Sisters keep the fake on during their time."
"Don't you think this should've been something you could've told us," the Masked Matterhorn asked. "You should've kept us in the loop. Why didn't you let us in on it?"
Anar D sighed and revealed his intention. "Because it was personal. During my 3-month investigation, I have learned a terrible secret. When Arcanus was banished, he placed a curse on Equestria to suffer from Discordant Convergences every three years until he returns. He knew that one day, the result of one could lead to his release. So, in a way, Arcanus is responsible for turning me into a draconequus and bringing the wirewolves to the Netherealm and... seperating me from my sister. I did it on my own because it was personal and I didn't want you all to get involved."
"So... you're still our friend," Saddle Rager asked.
"Of course, Saddle Rager," Anar D said. "You're all my first friends in 10,000 years. You're all like family to me. Personally, if I had to choose between getting what I want and friendship, I'd choose the latter."
What they didn't know is that Carol, the blue-haired siren, listened in on the whole conversation. She lowered her head with her mouth covered.
"Well, thanks for the truth, Anar D," the Masked Matterhorn said. "And... I guess what you said was right. We do seem to take you for granted. From now on, we'll act out to be more friendly to you."
"That's all I ask," Anar D said. "Now, if you'll excuse me..." He placed the Siren Sisters in a large cage with wheels. He held onto the strap. "I'll be taking these three to Canterlot." He whistles as he left the area.
"And as for you," the Masked Matterhorn said approaching the Blue Comet. "I thought you were just a TV reporter. What are you doing being a superhero without the super?"
"Don't look at me," the Blue Comet said. "I had no choice. My chief editor always had me work onw unimportant stories unless it was happening right now. For once, I wanted him to send me investigating a conspiracy, but he wouldn't let me. So when I heard of the New Heroes amassing, I knew I had to check it out. And since my editor wouldn't let me do anything, I went in under a new persona. That's when you found me and the rest is history."
Suddenly, without warning, the Masked Matterhorn leaned in and pecked her lips on his cheek. The Blue Comet jerked his head in shock.
"W... What was that for," the Blue Comet asked.
"It's to say thanks... for taking that blast for me earlier."
"Oh." The Blue Comet was nervous. "Well... I'd best be off. My boss would be furious when I miss attendance again." With that, he flew away and the Masked Matterhorn sighed happily.
Hum Drum watched the whole thing and glared at Radiance. He took a deep breath and approached her.
"Hey... Radiance," he said getting her attention. "I was wondering... would you be interested... for a nice dinner?"
Radiance took a moment to think, but she then smiled. "All right."
"Really," Hum Drum asked. "Great. I'll make the reservations." He turned away and left the scene. He then cheered loudly. "YEEEEEEEES!
"I'VE DONE IT! I STOOD UP
AND FINALLY GREW THE STUFF
THAT WAS A TOUGH JOB FOR HUM DRUM
I'M HAPPY IN MY HEART
NOTHING CAN PULL IT APART
I'VE DONE THE JOB FOR HUM DRUM
AND I HAVE NO IDEA WHERE THIS COURAGE CAME FROM
HERE I GO
CAN'T WAIT
GOT A
BIG DATE
THIS IS DEFINATELY A JOB FOR...
HUUUUUUUUUUUUUM DRUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUM"
On the way to Canterlot, Anar D dragged the wagon with the Siren Sisters' cage behind him. There was no one else in the wide open field. It was the middle of the night. Anar D materlialized a drinking mug and extended it to the Siren Sisters.
"How'd you like some coffee," Anar D asked.
"Is it poison," Melody asked.
"Yes, kid," Anar D said sarcastically. "I pretended to be by your side, gave you a fake box, hesitated on arresting you, and spared your lives when you were arrested... so I could then poison you."
"Why are you dragging us to Canterlot," Carol asked. "Couldn't you just warp us there?"
"I could," Anar D said, "But I'm just doing this to make you think about what you've done."
"I'm still surprised that you are stuck in this prison called friendship," Serena said. "You said it yourself, you'd rather be stuck in your box than stay a friend."
"Pay attention, will you," Anar D said. "It was all an act. Now that your plan is foiled, you can't bring back Arcanus."
Serena started to chuckle. Then, she laughed loudly. "You really thought you stopped our plans?"
"Well, technically, it was the Power Ponies who stopped you," Anar D said. "Oh, come on, face it. You told me your plan word-for-word and we stopped every bit of it from happening."
"We did tell you we were going to blow up the New Heroes, didn't we," Melody asked.
"Actually, the true plan has only begun," Serena said. "And all you have to do is let us out."
"Why would I want to do that," Anar D asked.
"Because of this," Serena said pulling something out of her jacket. In her hand was a rock box with a hatch on it.
"The box I gave you," Anar D asked. "Again, pay attention! I gave you a fake box! That thing has as much control over me as a rubber ball."
"If you know what's best for you, you'll free us now," Serena said clutching onto the box.
"I'm not listening," Anar D cried out covering his ears. "Lalalalalalala! Lala... AAAAAAHHHH!"
Anar D felt a great jolt of pain coarsing through his body. It was like the inside of him was being electrocuted. He looked at the box and was terrified when he saw it glow.
"Surprised," Serena asked. "You didn't really think we'd trust the very guy who turned us into freaks of nature, did you? We guessed your little charade and made a little switch during our Maretropolis takeover. Now then, open the cage and let us go."
Struggling with the pain, Anar D pushed through and opened the cage. As soon as he did, the pain stopped and he breathed heavily. The Siren Sisters walked out and grinned.
"Good boy," Serena said. "Now then, bow before us."
Anar D sighed and placed his knees and hands on the ground. He nearly shed a tear when he bowed his head.
"Just like we thought," Melody said. "Now, we can get on with our real plan."
"Real plan," Anar D asked. "You mean, you weren't planning on killing the New Heroes?"
"Not yet," Serena said. "There are still some... loose ends that we need tied up."
The Siren Sisters grew their wings from their back and formed a red glow. Anar D was terrified to see the determination in their eyes. They then sang in unison.
"PURE EVIL
IN OUR WILL
SHALL TAKE YOUR CONSCIOUS SOOOOOOUUUUUUL
ARCAYA, SIORIS
MENTORO, ADORUS
NOW, WE'RE IN CONTROOOOOOOOOL"
Out of their red gems, a green mist shot out and bolted through the area. The Siren Sisters laughed loudly at the shifting mist while Anar D turned his head away in shame.
The used football arena was used as a meeting place for every New Hero.
"All right," Shining Armor said sending the latest New Hero across the field. He looked at his clipboard. "Let's see. We've got the vertigo-creating Camera Woman. We've got the Iron Buffalo, who can change his skin into iron. And we've got..." He squinted at the last name on the list. "The Muffin Mare?" He turned to the gray, cross-eyed pegasus with the brown costume. "What's your power again?"
"Watch and learn," the Muffin Mare said. Suddenly, muffins materialized in the pesusus' hooves. "Muffin creation!"
"Ooooookay," Shining Armor said. He turned back at his clipboard. "Well, it took a lot of work, but we've finally gathered every New Hero the Siren Sisters have created. Now, all I have to do is find a way to make up to my sister about Darkmatter."
Suddenly, green mist brushed past him and he was curious at what they do. He wasn't prepared when he saw the smoke enter the New Heroes' noses and mouths. Suddenly, the New Heroes jolted straight up and their eyes were glowing green. They all then spoke in unison.
"ALL HAIL ARCANUS!"
"What's going on," Shining Armor asked. "I got to get out of here!"
Shining Armor ran out of the door with the help. He then looked back and saw the New Heroes break through the walls and ceiling. They swarmed over Canterlot and attacked everything they saw. The civilians were frightened by it.
"I GOT TO WARN THE PRINCESSES!"
Suddenly, a large vine appeared underneath him. He was tied up and C.R.U.S.A.D.E. approached him with their green eyes glowing.
"ALL HAIL ARCANUS," they shouted.
Shining Armor looked across the street and saw other New Heroes attacking. He recognized Terrania...
"All hail Arcanus."
...And the Lone Mare...
"ALL HAIL ARCANUS!"
...And even the Under King.
"ALL HAIL ARCANUS!"
Shining Armor was horrified at what he was seeing.
Meanwhile, in the Netherealm, Lord Arcanus was still bound to his chains, but that didn't bother him anymore. He had a diabolical grin.
"It has begun."
The Power Ponies and the Mighty Machines were comparing notes with each other on top of City Hall.
"So wait," Saddle Rager said. "Guys, if Arcanus can't escape the Netherealm, how did you six?"
"Devastate," Devastator said.
"Through the skin of our teeth," Masque said, "...If we had teeth... and skin."
"You'd be surprised what scrap metal we'd find around the Netherealm," Timberwolf said. "We salvaged as much as we could to build a generator that could bring us to Equestria and warn you about Arcanus. Of course, there's the fact that the generator could only have enough power for one trip, but we made it in one piece."
"You know," the Shadow Blot said, "For the first time in millennia, we've got nothing going on with us. There's no monster trying to eat us. There's no dark dimension we're trying to survive. There's no more threat. We... we don't have any trouble."
"FOR THE FIRST TIME IN FOREVEEEEEER," Masque shouted.
"Hey, Radiance," the Masked Matterhorn said, "Shouldn't you get ready for your dinner with Hum Drum tonight?"
"There's no hurry," Radiance said. "My beauty comes naturally, you know."
"Still," Mistress Marevelous said, "You should know how much it means to Hum Drum."
"What do you mean," Radiance asked.
"Uh, Rade," Mistress Marevelous said, "What do you think this dinner is?"
"A celebration dinner," Radiance said. "It's our way of celebrating for stopping Arcanus from returning."
The Power Poines and Mighty Machines had awkward faces.
"Uh, Radiance," Zapp said, "We're not invited. It's just you and Hum Drum."
"How come," Radiance asked.
"Because..." the Masked Matterhorn said, "...It's a... date."
The moment was silent. Suddenly, Radiance spoke.
"A date? As in, two people get together to be even closer to be each other's special some-pony?"
"Yes," the Shadow Blot said. "You see..." He stopped when he jolted up.
"Ricky, what's wrong," Timberwolf asked.
"HIT THE DIRT!"
The Shadow Blot pulled everyone to the ground. A green mist bolted over them.
"What was that," Rodan asked.
"It's heading for Power Tower," Zapp exclaimed.
The green mist hit Power Tower and it completely disappeared.
"Well, the headquarters looks okay," Dusk said.
"Let's get in," the Masked Matterhorn said. "Hum Drum's inside."
The Ponies and Machines were inside Power Tower and walked through its hallways.
"Sensors indicate... spooky," Masque said. "In fact, I'm going with, very spooky."
They entered a room and Hum Drum and the Power Pets were standing with their backs at the heroes.
"Hum Drum, are you all right," the Masked Matterhorn asked nervously. "Hum Drum?"
Suddenly, Hum Drum and the Power Pets revealed their glowing, green eyes.
"ALL HAIL ARCANUS," he shouted.
"That's spooky," Masque gasped.
"Like what you found."
The Power Ponies and the Mighty Machines looked and saw the Siren Sisters behind them.
"You again," Radiance asked. "What did you do to Hum Drum?"
"You see, we've hidden a mind-control spell inside of the superpowers of the New Heroes," Serena said. "We couldn't activate them sooner because we needed time to kill when you foolishly bring all New Heroes into Canterlot."
"You mean you're controlling every New Hero in Equestria," Dusk asked. "You're mad!"
"What about Anar D," Saddle Rage asked. "What happened to him?"
"Glad you asked," Serena said.
Suddenly, a sudden shift was felt. Everyone looked outside and saw Anar D 50 stories high. He grabbed Power Tower and lifted it from the ground.
"ANAR D," Saddle Rager shouted. "WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!"
"Sorry, kids," Anar D said with a voice full of regret. "They took the real box."
Anar D flew into the sky with Power Tower in his hands.
"SIRENS," the Masked Matterhorn shouted. "AS PRINCESS, I ORDER YOU TO STOP AND RELEASE THE NEW HEROES!"
"Ah, but there's a new order now," Serena said, "Arcanus' order." She then stroked Hum Drum's scaled. "Besides, Hum Drum doesn't seem to mind change, don't you, boy?"
"ALL HAIL ARCANUS!"
"TAKE YOUR STINKING HANDS OFF OF HIM, YOU DARN, DIRTY SIREN," Radiance shouted.
"I got this," the Masked Matterhorn said. She fired an ice-blast from her horn towards Serena, but the human smacked it into another direction with a backhand.
"Don't bother," Serena said. "The more New Heroes that are under our spell, the stronger we are. You can't stop us and when we bring you to the rest of the original heroes and princesses, we will drain the life force out of the New Heroes and bring forth Arcanus. And when he gets here, he'll have a fresh buffet of energy we prepare for him. We just need to gather all the original heroes. And guess what... YOU'RE LAST!"
At that moment, the Siren Sisters transformed into their other forms and roared.
"Sheesh," Filli-Second said. "It's times like these that make you wish you hadn't gotten out of bed."
"MAKE FOR THE WINDOWS," Rodan shouted.
The Ponies and the Machines turned to the window and jumped out. Saddle Rager turned into her monster form and grabbed the Power Ponies while Devastator grabbed the Mighty Machines. They had a rough landing, but they made it safely on the ground.
The Siren Sisters turned back into humans and watched them land safely on the ground and growled.
"Are we going after them," Carol asked.
"But what about the Power Ponies," Melody asked. "We need all heroes destroyed."
"Don't worry, Melody," Serena said. "They'll come to us."
On the ground, the Power Ponies and Mighty Machines watched Anar D fly off with Power Tower in his lion paw. Soon, a familiar pegasus in a blue costume arrived onto the scene.
"Blue Comet," the Masked Matterhorn said.
"What happened," Blue Comet asked.
"Oh, nothing much," Masque said. "It's just the Siren Sisters mind-controlling the New Heroes and box-controlling Anar D. You know, the usual Tuesday routine."
"If the Siren Sisters are forcing the New Heroes to hunt down the originals," Radiance said, "That means we're the only ones yet to be captured."
"We've got to take the fight to the Siren Sisters," the Masked Matterhorn said.
"But how," Timberwolf said. "I don't know if you noticed, but there are three sirens with mind-controlled New Heroes ate their disposal and a draconequus they can control and we've got no one left to help us. We're six ponies, six wirewolves, and one powerless pony. That's an unlucky 13; count them."
"Are you sure there's no one left to help us," Blue Comet asked.
Everyone took a moment to think. Then, they came up with an idea that is very risky.
The jail cells were filled with many supervillain criminals. They all turned their attention to the Power Ponies when they entered.
"All right, everyone, listen up," the Masked Matterhorn declared. "Most of you here aren't stupid!"
"That'll win them over," Zapp said sarcastically.
"Some of you may know there's something wrong," Matterhorn shouted.
"We knew before you did," the Sinister Sorceress said.
"Yes, I'm sure," the Masked Matterhorn groaned. "But the point is, if we don't stop this threat soon, it won't matter if we're friends or enemies because we're all going to be dead. The only way for us to stand a chance is if we join forces... for the moment."
"Is that so," Pish, one of the Pish-Posh Brothers asked. "What do you think, brother of mine?"
"Well, I seem to recall that the Power Ponies locked us in here in the first place," Posh said.
"You're lucky it was just prison," Mistress Marevelous said.
"Look, how's about this," the Masked Matterhorn said. "I'm a princess. If you help us fight the Siren Sisters and get the New Heroes back, I will personally testify for you all in your parole hearings."
The supervillains looked at each other and instantly, they knew their answers. A few minutes later, the supervillains gathered their weapons and costumes from the evidence locker.
"Ooh, this is making my mane stand up," the Mane-iac said. "Today only, heroes and villains are putting aside their differences to fight a common threat to ponykind. Too bad that threat isn't me."
"If we live through this, Zapp," Gryphon Galore growled, "You and I are going to settle this after this."
"Well, that's too bad," Zapp said, "Because we're probably not going to live through this."
New Heroes were surrounding Canterlot Castle underneath the dark of the night. They were not letting anypony in or out. The only other ponies inside were the princesses and the original heroes. They were standing in the gardens all worried about what what might happen next.
"I wonder what they've got in store for us?" Heatwave said.
"Stretch here discovered that the Siren Sisters hypnotized all the New Heroes," Slapstick said, "And they brought us all here to get rid of us."
"Do you believe everything your rubber chicken says?" a fancy unicorn with a monocle and blue mustach asked.
"Ever since I ignored him when he told me my cat, Mr. Featherbeak, was actually a parrot." Slapstick replied. "Took us all by surprise. And who are you anyway?"
"The Dirigeant." the fancy hero said. "I have the power of mind control."
"Well, then why don't you snap the New Heroes out of it?" Soaron asked.
"I tried." the Dirigeant said, "But I just can't seem to reach them."
Suddenly, Anar D appeared in the sky holding up Power Tower. He shoved it inside the castle and the Siren Sisters appeared on the balcony looking down at the original heroes. Serena was in front and glared marvelously at the hostages below.
"This day is going so perfect
The kind of of which I dreamed since I was small
EVERY HERO AT OUR MERCY
AS HELPLESS AS THEY'RE MEANT TO BE
AND SOON, ALL OF EQUESTRIA WILL FAAAAAAAALL"
"Serena, Carol, Melody," Princess Celestia declared, "Release us now!"
"Not going to happen, princess!" Serena said. "Carol, give us our amulets!"
"Oh," Carol said nervously. "Actually, I think I left them inside the tower."
"You left them inside the tower?!" Serena asked angrily. "Seriously, why did I think you could do this, this one simple thing? It's like I'm talking to a chicken."
"Hang on," Carol said.
"A really, really, big, stupid chicken named Carol," Serena growled.
"Ouch," Carol said.
"And do you want to know something else," Serena asked. "I never liked your tacos!" That made Carol gasp. "NEVER!" That very comment made Carol whimper.
"Hey, losers," Melody said, "You're embarassing us in front of the doomed."
Serena sighed heavily. "Carol, get inside and get the stones."
Carol turned around and entered the tower. She went across a few rooms and found the red rocks. She picked them up and sighed for a second.
"What am I doing," Carol asked herself. "I work myself to death doing the best I can, but Serena and Melody can't see it. The Power Ponies are failing right now, but they're not yelling at each other. And another thing, I'm finally going to get what I want out there, so how come something so right could feel so... wrong."
"Maybe because it's not right."
The Doctor appeared out of nowhere and right in front of Carol.
"Who are you," Carol asked.
"The Doctor."
"Well, doc, what are you talking about," Carol asked. "What do you mean that nothing I'm doing is right?"
"Because it's not what's meant to happen," the Doctor said. "And I think you know it also. Why in this entire Multiverse would you want to hurt innocent ponies?"
"Serena said that it's because they hurt us in the past," Carol said. "We're just getting even."
"You really think getting even will change what has happened," the Doctor asked. "Child, you're blaming the world for your life being saved when you can use your gift to spread kindness to the world."
"But it would've been nice to just go back to the way things were," Carol said, "Just to not be different; just to be... normal again."
"Are you kidding me?" the Doctor asked. "Everywhere I go, ponies I meet would attempt to make themselves very noticed. They want to feel special. You're lucky, if you ask me. Answer me this: why be different when you can be rare?"
Carol looked at the rocks in her hands. She then see them glow in a rainbow of colors. She felt the same feeling coming from her own eyes. She knew just what to do.
Outside the castle, the Power Ponies peeked in and saw Serena and Melody at the Power Tower balcony waiting for their sister.
"All right," the Masked Matterhorn whispered. "As soon as they're vulnerable, we strike. We'll force them to release the New Heroes."
"What if they send Anar D after us?" Zapp asked.
"You're talking about me, I presume?"
Anar D appeared right next to the Power Ponies.
"How'd you know we were here," the Shadow Blot asked.
"I could sense another alicorn a mile away," Anar D said. "Look, I can't help you here." He changed his head to Serena's. "I'm a slave to the blonde bugaboo now." He changed his head back. "What are you going to do?"
"Just stall them until we get to them," the Masked Matterhorn said.
"That, I can do," Anar D said. He warped himself right next to Serena.
"What do you want," Serena asked. "You know you can't escape me while I have the box."
"That's true," Anar D said nervously. "I was just wondering... what time is it? Remember, I get regular coffee breaks."
Carol walked out onto the balcony with the red stones in her hands. Her head hung low.
"Good girl, Carol," Serena said. "Now, let's get this party started."
Anar D was sweating and he gulped.
"No." Carol sighed.
"What," Melody asked. "What do you mean, no?"
"Lord Arcanus expects us to release him tonight," Serena said.
"I... said... NO," Carol shouted. "You two are the worst sisters in history! And everything the other ponies said was true! Like how you're a couple of..." To keep the story child-friendly, this part of the dialogue can't be revealed. Everyone was surprised at what they heard. Even the heroes and villains outside were shocked. "Well, here's something for you: I'm sick of being evil, sick of being loyal to Arcanus, and most of all, I AM SICK OF YOU! SO... I QUIT!"
"Preach, sister," Anar D exclaimed. "PREACH!"
"And guess what," Carol continued, "Arcanus will never return because he needs all three of us to cooperate. So now, you two are going to pucker up..." She pointed at her backside. "...and plant a big, wet one on my..."
Suddenly, Serena bent her knee and kicked Carol off the balcony. Slapstick caught her, but Carol dropped the red stones at the balcony and Serena picked them up.
"Stupid Carol." Serena said. "We don't need her specifically. Anar D..."
"Whoa, no way!" Anar D said. "You CANNOT make me sing back-up!"
"No!" Serena shouted. "I just want you to create a copy of Carol with the same Siren magic."
"And give her an estimated I.Q. of 0." Melody added. "That way, she can be smarter than the original."
"HOLD IT RIGHT THERE!"
Suddenly, the Power Ponies, Mighty Machines, and supervillains appeared and entered the gardens. They stood with the original heroes and the princesses.
"I'm impressed, Masked Matterhorn." Princess Celestia said.
"You're not the only one with an army." Zapp said.
"Looks like you've got some upgrades," Melody said. "But it doesn't seem like you had to scrape the bottom of the barrel for these amateur villains." The villains growled.
"Actually, we have an edge," Serena said. "The only way you can reach us is if you get past the New Heroes. And you wouldn't dare hurt them."
The New Heroes moved. They gathered up around Power Tower and turned to the original heroes and the supervillains.
"ALL HAIL ARCANUS!"
"Well, I have no problem with hurting them," Gryphon Galore said. "Never was a fan anyway."
"All right, every pony," the Masked Matterhorn said, "We've got to get to those Siren Sisters before they drain the life force out of the New Heroes! Save the New Heroes! Save each other! SAVE EQUESTRIA!"
At that moment, the heroes and villains charged toward Power Tower. The New Heroes charged at the other and an all-out battle exploded.