4. Two United Teams, One Magical Adventure
The McDuck family, Headmare Starlight, and the young six heard Sunburst from the holo-letter about the situation. Sunburst stated that magic is disappearing from the school.
"You're joking!" Starlight said in disbelief. "There's no way the magic can disappear again. All of us defeated Tirek, Chrysalis, and Cozy Glow. So how can this be happening again?"
"But that's just it!" Sunburst said from the holo-letter."Some other source is causing this problem once more. But that's not the only problem. It gets even worse. Come to the school, and I'll show you what I mean."
Starlight heard and understood. She makes a firm face and says, "Will do. I'll be right there."
Sunburst's hologram disappears, and his letter rolls back into a scroll. Starlight uses her magic and sends her holo-letter back into her bag.
She then turns to the young six. "Students!" Starlight says, "We must go back to the school now. There's big trouble happening over there."
"You don't need to say it twice," Sandbar stated. "We heard, and we're coming too."
Smolder says with confidence, "We defeated those three lousy losers. So, we can beat this new one too, right?"
"Yeah!" Silverstream cheered, "We can do this."
Ocellus, Yona, and Gallus agree with their other friends. Starlight is proud of her six best students.
She then turns to the McDuck family, who listens to the whole situation.
"I'm sorry about this," Starlight said with a firm and regretful mood. "I know it was an amazing discovery to meet actual talking ducks, but we've got bigger problems now. If you'll excuse us..."
"We're coming too!" Scrooge stated firmly.
Starlight and the young six are startled by Scrooge McDuck's declaration.
"You ducks?" Gallus said with confusion.
"But what can you do?" Ocellus asked in concern. "You're just talking ducks wearing clothes."
"Hey," Louie speaks, "We're not just talking ducks with clothes."
"Yeah!" Dewey says with a smile, "We're talking ducks with clothes and being daring, awesome, adventurous, and smart."
Starlight and the young six turned skeptical about the ducks.
"You got to take us with you!" Della demanded. "We didn't come here to take a nature walk like Webby said."
"You see, we have a big mission," Huey stated. "But we don't know our way around this world you all live in."
Silverstream heard, turned quizzical, and said, "What do you mean... you don't know our world?"
"We'll explain that later," Scrooge said. "But for now, please take us. You have to trust us!"
Starlight turns to the young six who are still skeptical about the ducks. But in unison, they all turned firm and agreed. Finally, Starlight turned back to the McDuck family.
"Alright!" Starlight said. "I don't know what's going on, but if you're willing to help, then I accept." The Mcduck family heard and grinned. "Follow us!"
Starlight and the young six led the way. The McDuck family followed the seven creatures back to the school of friendship.
It didn't take long for the McDuck family, Starlight, and the young six to arrive at the school's front doors. Starlight quickly opened them when they were at the doors, and the gang rushed into the foyer. They see Sunburst and Trixie trying to calm the students as everyone panics and hesitates.
"Sunburst! Trixie!" Starlight shouted and got both of their attention. "What's going on!? Why is every student shouting and crying?"
"Starlight!" Vice Headmare Sunburst spoke. "Thank goodness you're here. As you can see, magic is disappearing again. All the unicorn ponies have lost the ability to use magic."
As proof of Sunburst's point, some of the unicorns tried to use their horns to perform magic, but the magic in them was slowly fading away. They can't lift or transform any objects. The unicorns cried in agony.
"But that's not only it!" Student Council Trixie speaks to Starlight and the gang. "Look!"
Trixie shows another more significant problem. A few earth ponies tried to carry or move heavy materials and objects, but none could budge them an inch. Two pegasi ponies tried to fly and flap with their wings, but they both fell and hit the floor.
Trixie then says, "Earth ponies have lost all their strength, and pegasus ponies can no longer fly. It's like every pony's inner magic has truly disappeared."
"What about you two?" Starlight asked in concern.
"My magic is gone as well," Sunburst replied.
"So am I!" Trixie said with great despair. "The great and powerful Trixie is longer great and powerful anymore."
Starlight turned horrified. The young six became concerned too. But then Starlight realizes that if every pony lost their magic… Starlight quickly activates her horn for magic, but the aura on her horn suddenly disappears.
"No!" Starlight panicked. "My magic is gone too!"
"How could this happen!?" Gallus panics. "We all defeated Cozy Glow when she siphoned the magic."
"And we all defeated her, Tirek, and Chrysalis together and saved Equestria," Silverstream stated.
"So then, what's going on?" Smolder asked and was worried. "Why is every pony losing magic again, but... worse?"
"It's Bradford!"
Starlight, Sunburst, Trixie, and the young six heard and turned to Scrooge McDuck.
"That malicious menace is stealing all this world's magic to fulfill his plan," Scrooge stated.
"Whoa!" Sunburst said with astonishment.
"That big duck can talk!?" Trixie said with surprise.
"What do you mean?" Starlight asked Scrooge.
Scrooge answers, "Bradford has already infiltrated this world you live in, and he's stealing all the world's magic as we speak. He's using an utmost powerful and magical item as a battery charger by stealing this world's magic."
Dewey then says, "And we're here because we're after that stupid buzzard."
Starlight hears, and then she says, "This Bradford you mentioned… Is he some sort of evil lord or something?"
"Technically, a twisted birdbrain who turned his traumatic fear into hatred toward everything he encounters," Huey corrected.
Webby then says, "But most of all, we're here to stop him before he accomplishes his mission."
Starlight, Sunburst, and Trixie heard the ducks. Sunburst makes a thought.
"Starlight," Sunburst speaks, "It seems like these ducks know what's happening to our magic and how this… Bradford is a threat to our world."
"He's right," Trixie agrees. "Maybe these ducks are here to help us."
Starlight pauses for thought and then says, "Assuming this is true, then these must not be ordinary or special ducks that can talk. They came to us because of this problem."
"Which gives me one big question," Sunburst asked in curiosity. "Where exactly did these ducks come from?"
Starlight and Trixie pondered about Sunburst's question. And the three ponies turned very curious about the McDuck family.
DING-A-LING! DING-A-LING! DING-A-LING!
Suddenly, another ringtone called, alerting Starlight, Sunburst, and Trixie. Starlight pulls out a holo-letter from her bag and opens it. Appearing in the letter is the princess of Equestria, Twilight Sparkle.
"Twilight!" Starlight said with shock, "What's up?"
"Starlight!" Twilight said from the holo-letter, "This is serious! I don't know what's happening, but Equestria's magic is disappearing. To make matters worse, earth ponies are losing strength, and pegasus ponies are unable to fly."
"Same thing here at the school! All of our students are having the same problem as well."
"This is really bad. This sounds more disastrous than Cozy Glow stealing the magic back then. Starlight, I'm calling an emergency council friendship meeting. I've also summoned former princesses, Celestia and Luna, including Starswirl, to attend the meeting. I need you here at Canterlot with your school's latest report."
"I'm on my way, Twilight!"
"Is there anything else you need to inform me about this catastrophe?"
After hearing from Twilight, Starlight peeked at the McDuck family. The headmare turned firm and curious, knowing the ducks would help Equestria.
Starlight looked back at the hologram Twilight. She says, "Yes! I'm bringing some special… birds… who know how to resolve this major issue. They seem to know what's causing all our magic to vanish."
"Bring them here right away. I'll be waiting. Twilight out."
Hologram Twilight disappears, and the letter rolls back into a scroll. Starlight puts the scroll back into her bag. After she did, Starlight turned to the McDucks. Starlight makes a firm face.
"I hope you ducks are true to your word that you will help us," Starlight said.
"Of course we are!" Donald stated.
Della then says, "We are not going to let this blasted buzzard get away and steal this world's magic. We beat him before, and we can do it again."
"That's a good thing to hear," Starlight said, still with a firm tone. "Cuz I want you to tell that to the ruler of Equestria when we get to Canterlot."
"Equestria?" Huey wonders.
"Canterlot?" Louie asked.
"You ponies have a ruler?" Launchpad questions. "Huh, I know ants and bees have a queen, but I didn't know ponies have one too." A few McDuck members stare at Launchpad in discomfort.
Starlight turns to his two best friends, Sunburst and Trixie.
"Sunburst, Trixie," Starlight says, "I want you to protect and watch over the school as I go to Canterlot and meet Twilight and her friends. Will you be okay?"
"Just leave everything to us, Starlight," Sunburst said with a grin.
"The great yet powerless Trrrixie shall keep your word and these students safe," Trixie declared.
"What about us?" Sandbar asked. He and his five best friends are eager to help.
Starlight replies, "This situation may be more dangerous than you fighting with Cozy Glow in the past. So, I want you to stay with Sunburst, Trixie, and the school."
"Aw man," Smolder complained.
"That's lame…" Gallus said with disappointment.
Starlight says with a cheeky grin, "If you take my word and do a good job, then I'll give you bonus extra credit for being the best responsible students. It'll help pass your nature project."
The young six heard and jolted in awe.
"I take it back!" Gallus said. "Let's show this school we're the best responsible students ever. Who's with me?"
"I am!" Silverstream said with great joy. She and the other four agree with Gallus.
With everyone's decision, Starlight turns to Scrooge and his family.
"So ducks…" Starlight said with curiosity, "Ready to meet the princess of Equestria?"
Scrooge grins and replies, "Lead the way, Starlight."
Back in Canterlot, things aren't going so well. Ponies all over the high-society town are panicking in great fear. Unicorns can't perform their magic, earth ponies lose all their strength, and pegasus ponies can't fly. It turned into a disaster for the residents of Canterlot.
In the chambers of the Canterlot Castle, Princess Twilight and Spike are waiting for their friends and allies to show up but are worried about the situation happening in Equestria.
"How can this be happening again!?" Spike said in fear. "We defeated Tirek, Cozy Glow, and Chrysalis, that stole the magic. So, why?"
"I don't know, Spike," Twilight replied. "I was just confirmed from one of our guards that the statues of them are still locked deep within the prison chambers."
"If that's the case, then who else is responsible for this?"
"That I don't know either. But Starlight says she's bringing certain birds that know what's happening to the magic of Equestria. I just hope they get here on time. The magic is siphoning every bit as we speak."
"I hope your friends, the former princesses, and Star Swirl get here soon too."
Suddenly, the princess and the dragon heard the chamber doors opening. Two ponies, an earth and a pegasus, rushed inside, and they were...
"Pinkie Pie! Fluttershy!" Twilight said with a smile.
The two ponies appeared before Twilight and Spike. They all hugged each other.
"We got here lickety-banana-splity like you said, Twi!" Pinkie said with a grin. "We got your message Spike sent us."
"Where are the others?" Fluttershy asked.
"They're on their way," Twilight said. "But right now, I need a status report. What's happening at your homes?"
"Oh, it's just like you stated in your letter," Fluttershy said with concern. "I was at the animal sanctuary feeding the birds in the tree, and all of a sudden, I couldn't fly anymore. I tried to fly again but couldn't stay in the air for one minute. It's like I lost the ability to fly. And all the animals are panicking like they sense incredible danger. I tried to talk to them, but, in my great shock... I can't talk to the animals anymore! It's like they can't understand me! Oh! This is horrible."
"You think that's bad!?" Pinkie said with great concern. "I was going make a super-duper, amazing, awesome, scrumptious, delicious, sweet, cherry-vanilla-filled, creamy, apple slice cake for some pony's birthday. It was going to be ginormous! But get this! No matter how many times I tried to bake it, a dozen, a hundred, a thousand, fifteen thousand, hundred thousand, a million gazillion times, I can't bake the cake ANYMORE! HOW CAN I NOT BAKE CAKE ANYMORE!"
"Oh my… What's happening to us and every pony, Twilight?"
Before Twilight could answer…
"Hey ya'll!"
A farm girl's voice called out, alerting Twilight and the others. They turned to the chamber doors, and coming towards the rest of the ponies were Applejack, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash. Twilight and her best friends are proud to see their other three friends arriving.
"Applejack! Rarity!" Fluttershy said with a grin.
"Rainbow Dash!" Pinkie Pie said with excitement.
"Are we too late?" Applejack said with concern.
"No, just in time," Twilight said with a calm smile. "But tell me, what's your status?"
"Simply dreadful!" Rarity cried in agony. "My magic is gone… AGAIN! I can't even use my horn to sew the wardrobe for the social event anymore. I tried using my hooves…" Rarity shows one of her hooves, but it's covered with bandages and tape. "…But all those sharp and pointy needles and scissors scratched and scarred them so painful and ugly!" Rarity cries dramatically in agony.
"You think that's bad? Hear me out!" Rainbow said with great concern. "I was just racing to train for the Wonderbolts, then suddenly stopped flying out of the blue and crashed to the ground. I tried to fly again, but no matter what, I could never get back into the clouds again. This never happens to me."
"And I never lie, but you ain't gonna believe me when I say this out loud," Applejack said with great worry. "I was just applebucking the apples for the social event, but then I kicked an apple tree at one point, and it hurt! I had never felt that pain before. But the worst part was I tried doing another good kick, but the tree didn't budge after my last applebuck. Not even one of the apples wiggles from my bucking. It felt like all my applebucking strength just… disappeared."
After every pony gave their brief and major report, the ponies and Spike turned very scared and wondered what was happening.
"This sounds very horrendous," Twilight stated with great concern. "I hope Celestia, Luna, and Starswirl are okay."
"We're all fine, Princess Twilight."
Just then, an elderly man's voice spoke. The ponies and Spike turned to the source. And appearing to Twilight and her best friends are Starswirl, Celestia, and Luna, who arrive via a portal magically created by Starswirl.
The Mane Six and Spike are proud of the three powerful ponies on the scene.
"Starswirl! Celestia! Luna!" Twilight said with joy. "We're so glad you're here."
"Likewise, your majesty," Starswirl replies with a grin.
"And we have a lot to talk about," Celestia said firmly.
Every pony gathered around in the throne room of the disastrous event happening in Equestria. After a quick and delightful reunion, every pony and Spike discussed the catastrophic event happening in Equestria. Every pony turned very alarmed.
"This is way beyond any problem we dealt with from our previous missions," Luna stated. "Not only has our magic disappeared, but all of our natural abilities as well."
"Indeed," Celestia agrees, "Princess Cadence and Shining Armor informed us that every pony at the Crystal Empire is also losing their magic."
"We just have enough magic to arrive at your emergency meeting on time, Twilight," Starswirl noted. "But as you said, Equestria's magic and every pony's abilities are draining every second."
"Twilight," Celestia speaks, "how will you solve this?"
Twilight responds with regret, "I may be the new ruler of Equestria, but I don't have all the answers. I'm supposed to protect every pony in this world. But this is one huge problem I can't figure out. However, Headmare Starlight said she's bringing certain birds that know what's causing our magic and abilities to vanish. I hope she gets here soon."
"I hope she does," Applejack wishes. "I feel so worried about Granny Smith, Applebloom, and Big McIntosh. I mean, Big Mac cannot even move a heavy plow now that his inner magical abilities are gone."
"I know just how you feel, darling," Rarity said, comforting Applejack. "My poor Sweetie Belle cannot use her horn no more. She feels so useless without her magic. I have never seen her so utterly sorrowful like that before."
Rainbow Dash thinks and says, "What could this unknown enemy want with our magic and abilities anyways? It's like, some pony or something is trying to rid the Equestia's magic."
"I don't know, Rainbow," Twilight Sparkle replies. "But I feel we're dealing with something far more powerful than all the enemies we battled in the past."
KNOCK! KNOCK!
A knock on the chamber doors was sounded, alerting every pony in the throne room. "C'mon in!" Princess Twilight called. The chamber doors open, and stepping inside the room is...
"I'm sorry if I got here so late," Headmare Starlight speaks. She approaches the other ponies, who are proud to have Starlight join the meeting.
"Thank goodness you're here, Starlight," Spike said joyfully.
"I wanted to get here sooner, but with the magic disappearing, I had to use the pony express as an alternative way to come here."
"Starlight," Twilight speaks, "the school...?"
"I left Sunburst and Trixie in charge, but like you said, magic and every ponies' abilities have disappeared. You too?"
"Oh yes..." Fluttershy said with concern. "I cannot fly anymore or communicate with the animals."
"And all my buck-kicking strength has left me weak like a vulnerable tumbling tumbleweed," Applejack stated.
Luna says, "All of our magic is slowly depleting, and all the folks back in Silver Shoals have lost their magic and abilities too."
"I can't imagine how it came to this," Celestia stated with great anxiety.
"Starlight," Starswirl speaks, "from what Princess Twilight told us, you said you've brought these special birds that can help solve this catastrophe. Am I correct?"
"Yes, I did," Starlight replied, "but I should let you know, these are not just ordinary birds I brought. They are nothing like any birds we've encountered on our past adventures. But honestly, they seem to know about an enemy causing our magic to disappear."
Twilight and the others heard. "Please, Starlight," Twilight speaks, "If they know how to save our world's magic, then they will help us. Where are they?"
"On the other side of the doors. I told them to wait until I have your permission."
"Then Starlight, let them in."
Starlight then approaches the chamber doors, and she fully opens them. She stepped to the side to show the special birds to her friends. Every pony and Spike gasped and widened their eyes in surprise. What is revealed to them are…
"Ducks?" Twilight said curiously.
Yes, appearing before Twilight and everyone else are…
Scrooge McDuck and his family.
The ducks approached the ponies.
"Seriously?" Rainbow Dash said skeptically, "You've brought ducks to help solve our big problem?"
"I have to agree with Ms. Rainbow Dash," Starswirl commented with disbelief. "I can't see how a bunch of feathery birds with… unusual clothes can aid our situation."
"Ah, don't be daft, sir," Scrooge speaks, "Of course, we are here to help."
In a flash, every pony gasped in surprise to hear a duck talk.
"You can talk!?" Spike said with shock.
"OH MY GOODNESS!" Fluttershy said with great amazement.
"Aye, please to make your acquaintance, everyone and your majesty," Scrooge greeted as he bowed and took his top hat off. His family also bowed to Princess Twilight. "Miss Starlight told us about the royal and magical highness of Twilight Sparkle on our wae here."
"Wow…" Princess Twilight said with awe, "I never thought there be talking and walking ducks here in Equestria."
"But that's the thing, Twilight," Starlight responds, which got Twilight pondering. "Like I said, these aren't just ordinary ducks. They told me they are not from here at all."
"Yes," Scrooge speaks up, "you see, we're not from this world you lads call it… Equestria. We came from our world to yours because we're chasing a heinous hoodlum that escaped to this world."
"Wait an apple-picking minute!" Applejack interrupted. "What in the hay do ya mean ya came from your world?"
Louie replies, "Like Scrooge said, we're from another world. We don't know anything about you ponies, unicorns, pegasi, dragons, yaks, hippogriffs, griffons… or any other creatures living here. We didn't even know you magical creatures can talk and that a fabulously royal princess living here too."
"Is this true of what you speak of?" Celestia asked.
"Duh!" Dewey replies sarcastically, "We're telling the truth. We barely even know you guys. The only thing we know is ponies, Starlight, and E-qew-tria."
"It's pronounced Equestria, Dewey," Huey corrected.
"I see," Twilight understands. She then makes a curious thought to herself. "I never thought there were other worlds besides the one I used the magical mirror to meet…" Twilight stops thinking and speaks to the McDucks. "Tell me first, who are you… ducks?"
"Right, your Highness. I am Scrooge McDuck, a multi-trillionaire businessman and the richest duck in my world. Please ta meet you."
Rarity gasped. "A Trillionaire!?" Rarity said in great amazement.
"Whoo-wee!" Applejack said with great happiness. "I'll bet he has tons more bits than Filthy Rich."
Scrooge then shows the rest of his family and team. "And these are my family members," Scrooge stated.
"Hi, I'm Huey, the smart triplet."
"I'm Dewey, the adventurous triplet."
"And I'm Louie, the evil triplet." The ponies blinked and were a bit startled by Louie's statement. His other two triplets stared at Louie in grief. Louie realizes this, and he reacts quickly. "Uh, I mean, the lazy triplet."
"Hi there, every… pony! I'm Webby, and I can fight." Webby then shows off her karate and spy moves.
"Woah-ho, I like that duck," Rainbow Dash said with pleasure.
"Hello, I'm Donald Duck. And this is my sister Della."
"Hi ponies and your majesty," Della greeted.
"And don't forget me," Launchpad said as he popped up between Donald and Della, "I'm Launchpad, Launchpad McQuack at your service."
Scrooge then turns to his family and orders, "Everybody, line up!" The gang heard and formed in a straight row with Scrooge in front of the team. "And pony lads, and your highness…, we are the one and only…
the McDuck Family."
Every duck made a heroic pose.
Spike, Applejack, Fluttershy, Rarity, Pinkie, and Starlight made an "Oooo!" amazement sound. Celestia, Luna, and Starswirl smiled.
"That's… so… awesome!" Rainbow Dash said with joy.
"Thanks for your kind and generous introduction, McDucks," Princess Twilight replies with a cheery smile. "Now, allow us to introduce ourselves. Starlight already told you, but I am Twilight Sparkle, the princess and peaceful ruler of Canterlot and Equestria. And now, meet my wonderful friends."
"Greetings, ducks!" Spike speaks and flies to the McDuck family. "I'm Spike. As you can see, I'm a full-fledged dragon. Please to meet you."
"Howdy, y'all. The name's Applejack." She removed her hat and placed it on her chest to show her formal greeting. "My friends call me AJ for short, so feel free to call me that partner."
"Salutations, McDucks," Rarity greeted as she gracefully bowed to the ducks. "I'm Rarity. It's a pleasure to meet you." Rarity gets close to Scrooge as she bats her eyelashes. "Especially you, Mr. McDuck."
Rainbow Dash comes dashing in toward the McDucks and greets them. "I'm super-fast. I'm awesome! I'm twenty percent cooler! And they call me Rainbow Dash! Nice to meet ya, ducks!"
"Oh, my goodness…" Fluttershy greeted softly. "I'm Fluttershy… Gee, I didn't know there were ducks that could talk. This is... so amazing!" Fluttershy gets close to duckling triplets. "Tell me, what are you ducklings thinking right now!?" The triplets stare at Fluttershy with eager eyes.
"Hell-oooo, Ducks! I'm Pinkie Pie!" She greeted as she suddenly popped out of Scrooge's group. "I'm so nervouscited to meet you!"
"Nervouscited…?" Webbiy asked in befuddle.
"It's a mixture of both being nervous and excited simultaneously. I'm feeling excited to meet talking ducks from another world, but I'm also a bit nervous about encountering ducks that can talk and walk like us at the same time. So, I'm nervouscited!"
"Once again, Pinkie, that's not a real word," Applejack noted.
"I must say," Rarity speaks with elegance, "It's an honor to meet someone rich and sophisticated. Tell me, Mr. McDuck, are you from some sort of family with your wealthy hierarchy background?"
"Not at all, Rarity lass," Scrooge replies with a grin, "I didn't come from a snobbish and high-class family. I got my mass fortune from everything I learned about business, values, money, and trades in every little detail I experienced. It wasn't long until I started as a shoe shiner and became the wealthiest tycoon entrepreneur in my home. I own a bank and my own corporation under my family name."
Rarity gasped in excitement and spoke again, "You have your very own line of business? Why I just started running a boutique shop in Canterlot. I'm still working out the kinks. But tell me, Mr. Scrooge McDuck, is there any helpful advice for me that made you a successful business pony, UH! I mean, duck?"
"Well, I can't reveal all of my secrets of my success. But I can tell one thing you and all you other ponies can take heed of."
"OOOO!" Pinkie Pie said with great anticipation, "Tell us!"
"The one about me being the richest duck is I'm always tougher than the toughies and smarter than the smarties. That's right, pony lads. Like my family and I here, we work smarter, not harder." All the other ponies made another awe moment in amazement.
Twilight Sparkle smiles for this moment, but she is notified by Celestia hoof-tapping on the princess.
"Twilight...?" Celestia speaks, "Aren't you going to introduce three more?"
Twilight Sparkle widens her eyes and realizes in shock. "Oh, dear! I can't believe I introduced my five best friends when I forgot I also have other best friends who are very precious to me. Some princess I am. McDucks, I would also like you to meet three more loyal and dear friends of mine."
"Greetings, ducks. I am Celestia, a former princess of Equestria."
"I'm Luna, another former princess of Equestria as well."
"And I am Starswirl. And we are very grateful for you ducks to aid in our desperate situation. But, still, I find you ducks very interesting. How curious that other worlds have creatures like us."
"Indeed it is," Twilight said with joy. But she turned firm. "But right now, we have an important discussion and problem to deal with."
"Right, your majesty," Scrooge agreed. "I assume you want a good explanation from us?"
"As princess of Equestria, by all means."
After a lengthy discussion of the McDucks appearing in Equestria and the events happening right now, Twilight and everyone else understood from the McDucks' point of view.
"So, let me get this straight," Applejack speaks. "You came from a place called Duckburg, and an evil buzzard you defeated before has stolen this magical star that grants any wish?"
Rainbow then says, "...And that this buzzard named Bradford escaped into Equestria to steal our world's entire magic to fulfill his master plan?"
Rarity finally says, "...Which, of course, why you ducks came from your world into ours to chase after that dastardly fowl?"
"Yep," Huey replies, "that's pretty much it."
"Wow," Starlight says with awe, "this is a lot to take in."
"You said it," Spike agrees.
"What's a lot to take in?" Pinkie asked with glee. "Is it something sweet?" Starlight and Spike rolled their eyes in irk.
Twilight, Starswirl, and the former princesses heard every statement from the McDucks. Twilight then asks.
"Are you getting all this?" Twilight asked the three powerful ponies.
"We sure do," Celestia replies. "But the way I see it, we're dealing with something far more powerful than Equestria magic."
"Worst case scenario, it's an enemy that's not from our world, too," Luna said. "We've dealt with many enemies in the past. But not like this one, especially with an ultimate artifact that grants anything he wields it."
Starswirl asks everyone, "I want to know why he needs to steal an enormous amount of magic for that star? If that Millennium Star can grant anything the holder wants, why go so far as to power it up for even more magic?"
"That part we still don't know," Webby replies. "Bradford said he needs a lot of magic for the star to fulfill his ultimate plan. A guaranteed one, too."
"Oh my..." Fluttershy said with concern, "This Bradford buzzard sounds scary. What did he try to do before?"
"A villainous one, if you want to know," Louie replied.
"Bradford hated adventures," Della speaks. "When he was kid, he was always scared of them because of his grandmother's daring and dangerous adventures. Ever since he swore to get rid of them, but he hated Uncle Scrooge McDuck so much because he loves adventures. He thinks Scrooge keeps bringing 'chaos' to Bradford, upsetting the balance of his 'ideal' world. He almost got our uncle, but fortunately, we prevailed in the end."
"A buzzard that hates daring adventures?" Rainbow Dash said with exasperation. "Seriously, how lame is that?"
"Really lame, Rainbow," Dewey agrees. "I mean, c'mon! Who doesn't love adventures? The excitement, the places you go, the awesome action…?"
"…the thrilling experience, the treasuring hunting, the cool creatures you meet…?"
"…the exotic lands…?"
"…the fun risks…?"
"…the great expeditions…!"
"…the totally hoof-kicking bad guys…!"
"…BRAVE THE NEW FRONTIER…!"
"…CHART THE UNKNOWN…!"
Dewey and Rainbow Dash stare at each other in amazement for a moment. And then…
"SO AWESOME!"
They both shouted in unison, both feeling the joy of great adventures.
"I'd never known you love daring adventures," Dewey said with awe.
"Neither did I," Rainbow replies with great joy.
"We really have good adventurous chemistry."
"Totally!"
The other ducks and the other ponies witnessed Dewey and Rainbow Dash's liking for each other.
"Oooh boy," Louie said with displeasure. "Get a room."
"Anyway, continuing where we left off…" Twilight speaks.
Huey says, "So that's Bradford for ya. After he stole the Millennium Star from us, he escaped and fled into this world you ponies call Equestria. We followed him here. But we lost track of him after we arrived, and we don't know where he is now."
In concern, Webby says, "How are we supposed to find him in a big magical world we don't know?"
The ducks and the ponies ponder Webby's question…
RUMBLE! RUMBLE! RUMBLE!
Suddenly, the place started shaking like a tremendous earthquake. The ducks and the ponies felt the impact of the great tremble.
"What's happening!?" Spike panicked.
"I don't know!" Donald replies.
The whole continues to shake from the massive earthquake. The stained-glass windows shattered by the quaking, revealing the skies and Canterlot outside the throne room. The interior walls crumbled, and chunks of the structure fell to the floor. The ponies and the ducks avoided the falling chunks and took cover. The whole place continues to shake…
"Hey!" Launchpad shouts, "What's that!?" The pilot duck points something out toward the window. Everyone else looked to where Launchpad pointed.
A huge black tower rises towards the sky outside the broken stained-glass windows. The McDucks and the ponies get a better view by approaching one of the broken windows and looking outside. When they did, they all turned shocked. They all see four black towers in a far distance rising from the ground and into the sky. Each of the four towers is placed in different corners of Equestria. As the four towers reached the peak point, they all stopped rising.
The ducks and the ponies witnessed the towers.
"What are those disgusting buildings!?" Rarity asked distraughtly.
"Towers…?" Huey ponders.
"Where did they come from?" Della asked firmly.
Fluttershy looks up and then says, "LOOK!"
Everyone heard Fluttershy and looked up into the sky. They all turned, shocked again.
A big hovering fortress encased with a dark aura shield appears in the clouds. It slowly descends and remains floating in the sky, hovering over Ponyville and Canterlot. The ducks and ponies saw, but then something else happened…
They see the top of the four towers start to glow and shoot a wavy beam, heading to the flying fortress. The beams headed to a certain tower within the fortress where they are gathered. The heroes kept watching this unfathomable event.
"What is happening here!?" Huey panicked.
"And what are those beams doing to the flying thing up there?" Starlight asked.
"Are you all seeing this?" Twilight asks Celestia, Luna, and Starswirl.
"Yes…" Starswirl replies firmly, "And this does not look good."
"Hey!" Webby speaks up, "Something's else appearing above the fortress!"
Everyone looked to where Webby pointed. When they did, a holographic picture appeared, and it depicted a bird in a business suit. And that bird is…
"Bradford!" Scrooge yelled.
"That's Bradford!?" Twilight said in surprise.
"Hey, at least we found him, right?" Launchpad said.
Then Bradford, via the hologram, announces the flying fortress.
"Attention all citizens of this magical world," Bradford said. Every civilian in Equestria heard from all far corners of the world. "Do not be alarmed by these disturbing and unexpected events. This is part of a proposed deal I plan to offer to make your world much safer and ideal. In fact, I'm making an offer that will benefit all worlds across the universe.
I have this magical relic that will guarantee your worlds will be free from any unexpected, chaotic, and insane events. And it will grant all worlds a safer and more peaceful place where there will be no problems, conflicts, fears, and disasters, even if by the littlest amount that will cause them.
But to fulfill that, I need this world's entire magic supply to power this magical star to fulfill my proposal. The four towers that appeared just now are used to 'borrow' this world's magic power and generate the star. It will take time for the star to reach its utmost peak point of magic.
Don't be alarmed. I am a businessman, not a villain. As soon as the star reaches its maximum energy of magic, I will give the perfect deal for you citizens you'll ever receive. But to ensure this deal goes perfectly, I would not suggest and try to interfere and stop the towers from 'borrowing' your magic. The towers are equipped with highly-advanced security that no one can bypass. Those who meddle shall meet their… consequences and punishments.
In the meantime, I want you all to relax and remain calm until our deal is ready to grant this ideal I'm offering. Have a good day. Bradford out."
The holograph of Bradford disappears, and every creature of Equestria becomes very anxious about Bradford's "offering."
Back at the castle's throne room, the McDucks and the ponies heard and faced each other.
"So that's Bradford, you all stated," Luna said. "Now we know who our enemy is."
"But Bradford has already begun stealing the magic of Equestria!" Donald said in concern. "What do we do now!?"
"What great adventurers like us do, me nephew," Scrooge replies with a firm grin. "Stop Bradford and save the world."
"Aw yeah!" Dewey cheered confidently, "It's villain thwarting and saving the world again!"
"Yeah!" Della agrees, "You said it, Dewford man!"
"Woo-oo!" Webby shouted. "Another great adventure!"
"Oh my goodness," Fluttershy said with surprise after she heard from the ducks. "You… aren't really scared?"
Louie replies, "Well, we are a tad bit scared. But hey, better than Bradford fulfilling his plan and following his lousy rules. Who knows, there might be super-rare treasure in this world calling for me."
"Say what now?" Applejack asked and heard Louie. The green triplet makes a shy grin at A.J.
Scrooge then says, "What Louie's trying to say is: we've dealt these experiences for a long time, and adventuring is in our family blood. And when it comes to saving Duckburg and the world, we step in and save the day by all means. No matter how dangerous or simple it is, us McDucks won't back down and finish to the very end."
"Hey!" Pinkie Pie speaks and realizes, "That's what we like to do too! We go on adventures and save the day from catastrophic events, supernatural disasters, horrible villains, and even solve drastic friendship problems."
"Are you serious?" Huey asked.
"Duh! Seriously!" Rainbow replies with glee. "We've been doing this for a long time, ever since we met Twilight Sparkle in Ponyville and used the Elements to stop Nightmare Moon."
"Elements? Nightmare Moon? What's that?" Dewey asked.
"That's another story, partner," Applejack said.
"Oh, you ducks are so brave and magnificent," Rarity said with awe. "I wish we could come. But that horrid Bradford has stolen our magic and abilities. Without them, we're just defenseless and useless ponies to save Equestria. OH! The horror!" Rarity starts to cry, and her mascara starts to melt.
"Rarity's right," Twilight agrees. "Without our magic and abilities, we can't aid and save Equestria from Bradford's plan."
"Too bad there's no spell that can give you magic for a crisis like this…" Starlight comments with disappointment.
"But there is!" Starswirl speaks.
Everyone heard and turned to Starswirl. He magically summons a scroll and opens it. It has an inscription instructed on the scroll.
Starswirl says, "The pillars and I created a very special spell ever since Cozy Glow tried to steal the magic within the school. We perfected it, and this will guarantee work. This spell can give you magic and inner strength abilities for a temporal moment, exactly 48 hours. Once it's activated, you will have magic until the time limit is over. And the best part, this spell has a special lock that no pony can steal your magic within the time limit."
The ponies heard and turned surprised. "Starswirl!" Twilight said with amazement, "You can do that!?"
"I didn't think you needed this spell since you've defeated Cozy, Tirek, and Chrysalis. But with Bradford now appearing and stealing the Equestria magic, I thought this spell would come in hoofy one day."
"Oh, Starswirl! You're my hero! Thank you!"
"Anything for you, Princess. It's my saying thank you for teaching me the value of true friendship." Twilight and her five best friends are proud to hear about Starswirl's special offering.
"There is one catch, though. To possess magic, you need to borrow some other ponies' powerful magic to use it. Magic needs to be obtained somewhere, and Bradford has already started to drain all our world's magic. Ergo, the only other ponies with powerful magic besides Twilight Sparkle are…"
"…Oh no!" Twilight said in shock. "You mean…"
"Unfortunately, yes, Twilight," Celestia replies with regret. "While you still have a bit of alicorn magic left in you, we also provide alicorn magic, just enough for you and the rest of your friends."
"Starswirl also carries enough magic to support you, ponies," Luna stated. "Once Starswirl activates his special spell, our magic will transfer to you, and you have the magic and power you need to aid the ducks on this big mission."
Rainbow hears and replies in great concern, "But Celestia! Luna! Starswirl! Are you seriously going to be okay with that!?"
Starswirl replies, "We may not use our magic again, but you will need it to help the ducks and every pony in Equestria and stop Bradford's plan. I learned that you six are the best heroes in this era for saving Equestria from many disastrous events. I believe you can do it again."
Twilight heard, but she made a troubled look on her face. The new princess doesn't know if this is rightful to take the two alicorns and Starswirl's magic. But Twilight's five friends appeared next to her, and they all grinned at her.
"C'mon, Twilight," Applejack says. "Equestria needs us again. And in order to save Equestria, we need the magic and inner abilities to overcome any challenges along the way."
"She's right, darling," Rarity agrees. "And for once, we're not doing this alone."
"Oh my, you're right," Fluttershy said and understood. "We have the McDucks on our side too."
"Yeah!" Rainbow agrees, "Just look at 'em. They seem fierce and determined. We're totally going to save Equestria with those awesome ducks with us."
Pinkie Pie says, "It's like going to be twice the saving, twice the excitement, twice the action, twice the team, and twice the fun with those ducks."
Twilight heard her friends, and she understood. Twilight faces Celestia, Luna, and Starswirl, who agree with her five best friends. The new princess then says, "Alright, Starswirl, let's do this."
The mighty stallion unicorn heard and said, "Is every pony ready?"
"We're ready," Celestia replies.
"Likewise," Luna agrees.
Starswirl then turns to Twilight and her friends. "Twilight…?" he asked.
"I'm in!" Twilight answers with confidence.
"Count me too, partner!" Applejack said.
"I'm waaay in!" Rainbow declared.
"Why, of course, I'm in as well, darlings," Rarity said.
"I'll do it, too," Fluttershy said with little confidence. "I just adore hanging with those cute and talking ducks."
"Pinkie Pie is in too!" She cheered.
"I'm in too!" Starlight said with certainty.
But the Mane Six turned shocked to hear that Starlight Glimmer appeared and wanted to join the mission.
"Starlight!?" Twilight said with surprise. "Are you sure?"
Starlight replies, "I know what you are thinking. I have big responsibilities at the school of friendship. But right now, we have a major crisis here in Equestria. Sunburst and Trixie can take care of the school, but you ponies will need all the extra support to stop Bradford from stealing our world's entire magic. Go ahead and try to stop me, but I'm still going no matter what."
"Who says you can't go, Starlight? We never said anything of the sort."
Starlight heard, and her face turned google-eyed. "You mean…!?"
"Why of course, deary," Rarity answers, "One more pony on our team wouldn't slow us down."
Twilight then says, "As princess of Equestria, I would be glad to have you join our quest."
Starlight hops in excitement to hear the great news and thanks her compassionate friends. She then freezes and regains her composure, trying not to embarrass herself. But she joins the Mane Six and is ready for Starswirl's special spell.
"We're all ready!" Twilight declared.
Starswirl hears, and he activates the spell using his magical horn. In a few seconds, the scroll glowed, and magical aura barriers encased Twilight, her six best friends, Celestia, Luna, and Starswirl. The McDucks watched this magical event. Then, beams from the barrier withholding Starswirl and the two alicorns appeared and connected to the barrier encasing Twilight and her friends. Finally, the beams transferred the two alicorns and Starswirl's last bit of magic into Twilight and the other ponies. After a few minutes of casting and transferring, the spell ended, leaving Celestia, Luna, and Starswirl magic-less and fatigued.
"Bless me bagpipes!" Scrooge said in shock. "Are ye ponies Okay?"
The three ponies slowly stood up and regained their consciousness. "We're fine, Mr. McDuck," Celetsia replies. "Twilight, how do you feel?"
Twilight and her friends regained their composure. After they do, Twilight tries to make an aura appear on her horn. In the next few seconds, her horn glowed. All seven ponies have magic and inner abilities once more.
"It worked!" Twilight said with joy. "Starswirl! Your incredible spell worked!"
"I have my magic powers again!" Rarity said with great joy as she noticed her horn was glowing too.
"Aw yeah!" Rainbow Dash cheered as she now flies again all around the throne room. "I'm a super high-flying Wonderbolt pegasus again! Awesome!"
"Yee-haw!" Applejack shouted with glee as she started hoof-kicking, "I can finally kick a stubborn old stump on a grilling hot Sunday!"
Twilight approaches the two alicorns and Starswirl. "Thank you, Starswirl," she said with a regretful smile. "I promise your shared magic will not go to waste on our mission."
"I have no regrets, your majesty," Starswirl said with a calm grin. "Make good use of yours and our magic before your 48 hours are up."
"Indeed," Celestia agrees, "you and the ducks got a world to save."
Twilight heard and understood with a nod. She then faces Scrooge McDuck and his family.
"So, Mr. McDuck," Twilight speaks, "shall we get started?"
"I thought ye never asked," Scrooge replied with a grin. "And please, just call me Scrooge."
Using Twilight's incredible teleportation magic, the ducks and the ponies arrived in Ponyville. In a short time, everyone gathers at the town hall in the center of the village. Mayor Mare and everyone else in Ponyville all gathered around the heroic duo team.
Mayor Mare says, "As the mayor of Ponyville, I wish you, Princess Twilight Sparkle, your friends, and you ducks from another world good luck on your quest. Every pony in Equestria will be cheering you."
"Thank you, Mayor Mare," Twilight replied. "We won't let all of you down."
Scrooge then says, "Rest assured, Mayor. Your world and its magic will be saved by us. I'll bet my top hat we will guarantee to bring your world peace again."
Celestia, Luna, and Starswirl appeared in front of the heroes.
"It's a long adventure out there," Celestia warned. "But I have high hopes that you will succeed."
"I do believe you can triumph and defeat this buzzard for the sake of Equestria," Luna said with a grin.
Starswirl then presents a map to Twilight and Scrooge. "Take this map with you," he said. Scrooge and Twilight received it and looked at the map. "Judging by where the four towers are located, I've marked down where to find them. You must find and destroy those towers to stop siphoning the magic it absorbs."
Twilight analyzes the map and comments, "Hmm... It looks like one tower is far west after the Everfree Forest and another in the mountains behind the Crystal Empire."
Scrooge observes the map and states, "And the third tower is somewhere south in the jungle, and the last tower is being held in the sea in the east."
Starswirl speaks, "I would suggest going to the tower in the forest first. It's a good start, considering you ducks are our first outside-world visitors to Equestria. There will be lots of danger during your journey, so you should be very aware of your surroundings."
"Don't be daft, me bearded bud," Scrooge confidently replies. "Remember, we're the McDucks. We go on many adventures, and we've experienced many dangers and threats along the way. We're all used to this."
Starswirl giggles and understands Scrooge's statement. He then says, "I can tell you're no ordinary ducks that love a good splash in the pond. So all I can say is, good luck out there, and be extra careful."
"Will do, lad. Will do…"
Twilight places the map into her saddle bag. She then turns to Starswirl and every pony else. "Thanks, every pony, for providing these useful traveling saddle bags. As the princess of Equestria, it is my duty to protect all ponies and bring peace and harmony back from this new threat. Equestria is in our good hooves." The citizens of Ponyville cheered for Princess Twilight. She then turns to Celestia and Luna who are both smiling at Twilight. "I know you're not princesses anymore, but will you be alright temporarily taking my princess duties while I'm gone?"
Celestia replies, "Don't you worry, Twilight. We may be retired, but in this case, we still have our royal skills within us. We'll keep Canterlot, Ponyville, and every pony safe in your absence."
Luna then says, "You and your friends, including the McDucks, must save Equestria. We'll be cheering from here on out."
"And I'll be aiding the princess and the whole team as well," Spike said as he appeared next to Twilight.
Twilight heard and asked, "You sure a little dragon like you can handle this big and dangerous job?"
"I'm not a little dragon. I'm a dragon with wings and fierce enough to brave any danger. And you never know when you need a trusty fire-breathing dragon during this adventure."
Twilight smiles for her loyal dragon. "Alright, Spike. If that's what you say, then I trust you, and you come along." Spike cheered with joy.
Applejack is with her Apple family. Her family wishes Applejack safe luck on her quest.
"You're going to be okay, Big Sis?" Apple Bloom said with concern.
"Of course, little Sugar Cube," Applejack replies, comforting her sister. "Twilight, Mr. Mcduck, and the others need me and the others to stop Bradford and save Equestria. But I promise I'll be back safe and sound. And that's the honest apple truth."
Apple Bloom hears, and she hugs Applejack. After the hug, Applejack looks up to Big Mac and Granny Smith.
"You Apples going to be okay while I'm gone on this tarnation quest?" Applejack asks.
"Eee-yep!" Big Mac replies with a big grin.
Granny Smith says, "We'll save you a good apple custard pie when you return. Now go give that whipper-snapping buzzard the hay for AJ!"
Applejack smiles and hugs both Granny Smith and Big Mac.
Rarity and Sweetie Belle are together, but Sweetie Belle feels sorrow.
"I wish I could go with you, big sister!" Sweetie Belle begged.
"I understand, my dear little Sweetie," Rarity said regretfully. "But without your magic, you won't protect yourself from that ghastly and hideous buzzard that will hurt you. You must stay here and keep yourself safe. But I promise we'll have some good sisterhooves quality time to enjoy when I get back."
Sweetie Belle hears and hugs her beloved sister. "Oh, thank you, Rarity! I promise I'll be good and protect every pony from harm."
Starlight gets one last look at her two best friends, Sunburst and Trixie, before the headmare leaves.
"It's a long and windy road up ahead, Starlight," Sunburst said with concern. "You sure you're going to be okay?"
"Don't worry, Sunburst," Starlight replies, comforting her friend. "Just make sure you and Trixie protect every pony at the school during my absence. Can you both do that?"
"The great yet powerless Trrrixie shall keep a best friend's word," Trixie replies.
"You can count on us," Sunburst said with a calm grin. "And good luck, Starlight."
Starlight hears, smiles, and says, "OH! Thanks, you guys!"
All the other heroic ponies also said their partings too. Scootaloo did a hoof-bump for Rainbow Dash and wished her the best of luck. The Cake family members hug for Pinkie's safety and hope for the best of luck for her. And Fluttershy's animal friends, including Angel the bunny, cheered and roared for her.
Once the six ponies said their partings, they reunited with Twilight and the McDucks, eager to start their grand adventure. The ducks and Twilight noticed their presence.
"We're all set and raring to go, partners!" Applejack declares.
"That is… if you don't mind if we tag along with you cute ducks," Fluttershy asked shyly.
Huey replies, "Junior Woodchuck rule number fifty-five: When two or more Woodchucks work towards the same goal, the best option is to work together towards that goal."
Rainbow Dash makes a confused look. "What's a Junior Woodchuck?" she asked.
Scrooge says, "What me nephew is trying to say is: You are welcome to join the adventurous McDuck family, pony lads. And we'll need all the help we can get to stop Bradford again."
"Hoo-wee!" Applejack cheered, "Ducks and ponies? Feels like we're going to make one magical and adventurous tale out of this fine quest."
"Funny you should say that," Louie commented. "I feel like someone is making this tale as we speak…"
"Enough chitty-chatty lads," Scrooge speaks, "We're wasting time just talking about nonsense we don't know. Twilight Sparkle?" Twilight heard Scrooge. "Ready for a heroic adventure?"
"You know it, Scrooge," Twilight replies. "Let's head into the Everfree Forest and find that tower."
"Where's this Everfree Forest, if I may speak?"
Twilight points the way. "Just over that bridge and that end out of Ponyville."
Scrooge turns firm and makes a declaration. "Alright, family and magical friends! Let the adventuring… BEGIN!"
Twilight and Scrooge lead the way. The rest of the team followed the leaders of the two teams.
"Alright!" Dewey cheers, "Let's Dewey this!"
"Seriously, Dewford!?" Huey said with irk.
"What? It's my only cool catchphrase. C'mon, every hero should have one."
"A catchphrase?" Rainbow says and hears. "That sounds awesome! I gotta make my own too!"
"Great," Louie said with exasperation, "Dewey's asinine slogans are contagious. It ruins our family's branding name."
"Wooooo!" Pinkie cheers loudly. "Adventure! Here we come!"
"I'm so nervouscited!" Webby yelled with great enthusiasm.
"Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy," Donald complains. "As if we can't get enough adventures already."
"C'mon, Donald," Della says, "We're never too old to have any more heroic adventures."
"Ain't that the truth, partner," Applejack agrees with Della.
"This is going to be fun!" Launchpad cheered.
"You said it," Spike agrees with the pilot duck.
Scrooge, Twilight, and their whole team headed out of the center of Ponyville and straight toward the exit. Every pony, including Celestia, Luna, and Starswirl, waved and cheered for the heroic duo team. The McDuck family and the Mane Heroes continue towards the first tower deep within the forest.
And so begins their most magical adventure ever…