It was a beautiful new day in the land of Equestria. Twilight, Deadpool, and all of their friends were at the Crystal Empire. They were all heading to the Crystal Castle at the heart of the empire.
"Seems like only yesterday I was saving this place from being totally destroyed. Hey, you guys remember that?" Asked Spike.
They all walked by a newly erected statue. Coincidentally, it was a statue of Spike holding the famed Crystal Heart.
"You only mentioned it about fifteen times on the train here," Said Rainbow Dash exasperatedly.
"Yes, and we never hear a peep out of you about your exploits," Said Rarity sarcastically.
"Heh, point taken," Said Rainbow sheepishly.
"Yeah, let the little guy boast a little. Spike doesn't get enough of the spotlight in the show," Said Deadpool.
As they made their way to the castle, they passed by several shops, where large crowds of Crystal Ponies were gathered. Unlike how they appeared when the Crystal Empire returned, the Crystal Ponies had a crystalline appearance true to their name.
"I'm glad you all wanted to come, but I don't think it's gonna be that exciting. I pretty much just have to smile and wave as the dignitaries arrive," Said Twilight.
"Just smile and wave like James Charles, and it will be more fun!" Said Deadpool while waving his hoof to one side.
(Come on, say it with me!)
(No.)
(Please?)
(No.)
(Please?)
(No.)
(Plllllllleeeeeeeaaaaaaaassssssseeeee-)
(For fuck's sake! Fine!)
(Hey sisters!)
"... Yes, but you get to smile and wave like a princess," Said Rarity.
"How exactly is that different than smilin' and wavin' like 'not' a princess?" Asked Applejack.
"It isn't," Said Twilight glumly.
Twilight became noticeably sadder. This got her friends' attention.
"What's wrong, Twilight?" Asked Fluttershy concerningly.
"Why the looooooooong face?"
Pinkie Pie stretched Twilight's face to cartoon-like proportions. Deadpool pushed Pinkie away, which caused Twilight's face to snap back into place. She rubbed her chin in unexplainable mild pain.
"Okay, Pinkie, we're ponies. We get it. In all seriousness, what's got you down, Twilight?" Asked Deadpool.
"I've just been feeling a little unsure about things lately. It doesn't seem that my new role as a princess equates to all that much," Said Twilight.
"That's just silly. You've got a real important role in Equestria," Said Applejack.
"Princess Celestia wouldn't have asked you to come today if she didn't think so," Assured Fluttershy.
"I guess you're right," Said Twilight with a smile.
"Of course we are. Now hurry along! You don't want to risk having that important role diminished because you were tardy for your regal meet-and-greet," Said Rarity.
One hour later…
Outside the Crystal Castle, the sound of fanfare filled the air. An orange pegasus stallion wearing royal guard armor, a back cloth and saddle plate stepped forward to announce the arrival of the dignitaries.
"The Duke and Duchess of Maretonia!"
The Duke and Duchess of Maretonia regally walked down the path leading to the castle. On the opposite end of the path, Princesses Celestia, Luna, and Cadance went to meet up with them. Up above, Twilight watched over from a balcony. She lit up her horn, and used her magic to unveil a regal banner that hanged from underneath the balcony. Once she unveiled the banner, the other Princesses and the Duke and Duchess met up. They bowed to each other before making their way inside the Crystal Castle. Twilight waved regally to them from above.
"That was it?!"
Twilight turned around, and saw Deadpool and the rest of her friends. Deadpool appeared to be frustrated.
"Princess Celestia had you come all the way to the Crystal Empire just to do that?! That's like having Kevin Hart be the greeter at a comedy event!" Said Deadpool frustratedly.
Twilight was saddened after hearing Deadpool's rant. Only then did he realize he messed up.
"I mean, whoa! Great job, hun! Really regal and important!" Said Deadpool with nervous laughter.
THWACK!
As a consequence of his outburst, Applejack smacked him in the back of the head. Twilight lowered her head out of sadness, looking towards the ground. Her friends either glared at her coltfriend or gave her sympathetic looks.
Later that evening…
Twilight paced around one of the large hallways of the Crystal Castle. She appeared to be in a better mood. A pair of large doors opened, revealing the throne room and the Duke and Duchess of Maretonia. The dignitaries walked up to her and bowed, which she did in return.
"Your Highness. Thank you for understanding our desire to keep the number of those privy to these confidential discussions to a minimum," Said the Duke gratefully with a powerful and regal voice.
"Of course," Replied Twilight.
The Duke and Duchess walked past her and made their way to another set of large doors. She waved them off before the doors closed behind them. Princesses Celestia, Luna, and Cadance stepped out of the throne room and met up with her.
"Is there anything else I can do to assist with their visit?" Asked Twilight.
"I'm sorry, Twilight, but their visit is already over," Replied Cadance.
"Oh…"
"Something wrong?" Asked Luna.
"I guess I just don't really understand why I'm here. Couldn't one of the royal guards have unfurled the banner?" Asked Twilight.
"Having all four of us in the Empire to greet them lets the dignitaries know that their visit is considered an important one," Answered Celestia.
"Plus, it gives me an opportunity to see my favorite sister-in-law."
Princess Cadance gave Twilight a hug, which she reciprocated with a smile.
"And I'm happy to see you. All of you," Said Twilight.
"But…?" Questioned Cadance.
"But I… well, it's just that Princess Luna raises the moon, Princess Celestia raises the sun, you protect the Crystal Empire, and all I seem to do is… smile and wave."
"How about we take this somewhere with some fresh air?"
Princess Cadance gestured to the other princesses to follow her. She guided them to the balcony that Twilight was stationed earlier. They had a good view over the Crystal Empire. Not many lights were on outside, so there was little light pollution blocking out the starry night sky.
"I understand wanting to play a bigger role, Twilight, but that can take some time. You have done incredible things, and accomplished so much before and after becoming a princess, and I know you will do even greater things once you find your purpose. You will just have to be patient," Said Celestia.
"I guess..." Said Twilight half-heartedly.
"You don't seem convinced."
"I'm sorry for feeling this way, but I just can't help but feel that I have not done anything of note since my ascension as an alicorn."
"You have nothing to apologize for, Twilight. You may think you have been doing nothing, but that is far from the truth. You have been growing and learning about magic, friendship, and yourself. And it is what you learned that will help you discover your purpose," Said Celestia.
"Take it from me when I say I understand wanting more. I felt envious when my sister was getting more praise from our subjects for their love of her day as opposed to my night. And, well, you know what happened when I let my jealousy consume me. If I had been more patient, and told my true feelings to Tia sooner, I may have not allowed the Nightmare to possess me and lashed out against my own sister. You should not feel bad for not playing a bigger role. Enjoy what you do have and continue to work hard, and the role you seek will be within your grasp in time," Said Luna.
"I too was once in your shoes, Twilight. Before I became the ruler of the Crystal Empire, I went around Equestria and helped spread love to all of its citizens. While I am proud of what I did then, I didn't feel like I had done anything of real significance. Now, I'm helping keep love and hope alive here in the Crystal Empire with Shining Armor. It took some time, but I finally knew what I was meant to do with my talents," Said Cadance.
"While you claim of not doing anything noteworthy, remind me again who saved the Tree of Harmony and the rest of Equestria within her first month as Princess?" Asked Celestia with a smirk.
"Well, I suppose that is true," Said Twilight with a sheepish grin. "What you are all saying is true. I have done some pretty great things over the past year, and I have certainly learned a lot about friendship and magic. That was part of the reason why I became a princess when I finished Star Swirl the Bearded's spell. Admittedly, the thought of being a Princess was scary at first, seeing as how I would have a LOT more responsibilities, and the challenge it would add on maintaining my friendships. It took the support of my friends and coltfriend when I was overwhelmed. I would not have become a princess if it weren't for them, and I may have gave up and asked to be stripped of my title, and my alicorn wings and magic if it were not for their encouragement."
"You know, I think I am starting to feel better. I still want to know what my true purpose as a princess is, but, as you all said, I won't know until the time is right. So, until then, I'm going to be patient and continue to learn about friendship. Thank you all so much for helping me," Said Twilight gratefully.
"Of course, Twilight. We may all be colleagues now, but we will still be there to lend an ear and help you with your concerns," Said Celestia.
Twilight and Celestia walked over and embraced each other in a hug. The former then did the same with Cadance and Luna.
Meanwhile, in Canterlot, a unicorn stallion was walking down an alleyway, carrying a bucket of oranges. He hated having to be out late in the evening, but he wasn't given much choice. It most certainly did not help that a light fog rolled in.
CLING-CLANG!
He heard a noise from behind that startled him. He turned around, only to see it was a stray can rolling on the ground next to some barrels. He sighed in relief before continuing on his way. In that instant he nearly collided with someone. He couldn't make out any of their features because their entire body and face were concealed in a black cloak. Whoever was underneath was breathing heavily.
"Very sorry. (Chuckles) You came out of nowhere," Said the stallion.
The cloaked figure didn't respond. They both stood in eerie silence.
"'Is he friend or is he foe?' the pony wonders."
The cloaked figure finally spoke. Their feeble yet eerie voice unnerved the stallion.
"I can assure you… I am no friend."
The hood of his cloak lifted up slightly, revealing a long pale red face and nose ring. They also revealed a lanky arm from underneath the cloak, bearing a four fingered hand instead of a hoof. They held their hand in a fist.
"I am Lord Tirek, and I will take what should have been mine long ago."
Tirek opened his mouth widely, and he began to drain the unicorn's magic. In a matter of seconds, he drained the unicorn of all of his magic. Consuming his magic caused the stallion's eyes to lose their color and his cutie mark to vanish. The unicorn fell to the ground, dropping all of his oranges. Suddenly, Tirek glowed orange, and he grew several inches taller. The stallion could make out Tirek's glowing yellow eyes from underneath his hood.
"Hehehehehehe!"
GASP!
Princess Celestia suddenly woke up from her sleep in a startle, breathing heavily. Not a moment sooner, Princess Luna entered the guest bedroom she was sleeping in.
"Sister, are you alright?!" Asked Luna concerningly.
"I've just had the most terrible dream," Replied Celestia.
"Why do you think I'm here? You know as well as I that this was not a dream, but a vision."
"Then we don't have much time. The stronger 'he' becomes, the more we are 'all' in danger."
The next day, Princesses Celestia, Luna, Cadance, and Twilight were all gathered around a small table. In the center was an old book. Princess Celestia opened the book, and began to tell an old tale.
"Tirek and his brother Scorpan came here from a distant land, intent on stealing Equestrian magic. But Scorpan soon came to appreciate the ways of Equestria, even befriending a young unicorn wizard."
"Scorpan urged his brother to abandon their plans. When Tirek refused, Scorpan alerted us to Tirek's intentions," Added Luna.
"Scorpan returned to his own land, and Tirek was sent to Tartarus for his crimes. But it appears he has found a way to escape."
"We believe it happened when Cerberus left his post at the gates."
"But that was a long time ago. Why is he just now starting to steal magic?" Asked Twilight.
"His time in Tartarus left him very weak. He has just now gathered enough strength to use his dark powers," Explained Celestia.
"But with each passing moment, he grows stronger still," Added Luna.
"And I know just the princess who can stop him," Said Cadance while smiling towards Twilight.
"Yes. I'll find him and-"
"No, Twilight."
Twilight was surprised to hear her former mentor tell her no.
"I'm afraid I must call in another to stop Tirek. Discord."
"... As in 'Discord' Discord?"
Twilight was currently with her friends on the edge of Ponyville. After the meeting between the four princesses, she returned home to Ponyville, where she regaled them of Celestia's verdict.
"Yes!" Said Twilight.
"I don't think it's that big of a surprise. He can be very helpful," Said Fluttershy.
All of her friends gave her blank stares as a result of her statement.
"He can sense when there's a magical imbalance. The next time Tirek steals magic, Discord will be able to track him down," Explained Twilight.
"So, what are you supposed to do in the meantime?" Asked Rainbow.
"(Sighs) Nothing. Unless of course one of you needs me to smile and wave," Said Twilight glumly.
"Hey, turn that frown upside down, Twi. After Celestia chose to have Discord track Tirek instead of you, it probably intensified your feeling of self-uselessness. But I bet that you will have some big boss fight in the second half of the chapter that will determine the fate of Equestria!" Said Deadpool.
Instead of cheering her up as he planned, Twilight seemed to become slightly agitated.
"Twilight?"
Twilight looked away from Deadpool, but he just put himself back within her line-of-sight.
"Twilight, what's wrong?"
"Nothing."
Twilight turned her back towards Deadpool. To her surprise, he saw him hanging from nothing in front of her.
"Come on, Twilight. I can't figure out what's wrong unless you talk to me," Said Deadpool sweetly.
"Ugh! Fine. Yesterday you ranted about me having a minor role in greeting the dignitaries without taking my prior feelings into consideration. Now you are being a supportive coltfriend, yet you haven't apologized for yesterday," Said Twilight irritably.
Deadpool returned to having his hooves on the ground, then grabbed one of Twilight's hooves.
"You're right. I'm sorry for making you feel bad about yourself. I was frustrated, and I didn't think about how you would feel about what I had to say. I will try to work on controlling what I say during periods of frustration. So, will you forgive me?"
Deadpool looked at Twilight with his best puppy dog eyes. She sighed before smiling at him.
"Okay, I forgive you," Said Twilight.
"Yay!"
The couple gave each other a make up hug before turning back to their friends.
"I was planning on heading to the Castle of the Two Sisters to catch up on some reading. Would you all like to accompany me?" Asked Twilight.
"Sure, it's been a while since we all have been there together. It might be fun!" Said Applejack.
"Oh! I get to finally see the place you all have been hanging out during season four of the show!" Said Deadpool excitedly.
On that note, the group of friends made their way to the Castle of the Two Sisters. A few minutes later, the group stumbled upon the ravine that led to the cave housing the Tree of Harmony. They all stopped to look at the tree, containing the Elements of Harmony.
"(Sigh) I still can't believe we had to give back the Elements," Said Rainbow.
"It had to be done or the Tree of Harmony wouldn't have survived," Said Rarity.
"But Twilight was right. Even without the Elements, our friendship is as strong as ever," Said Fluttershy.
"I just hope another 'friend' of ours never makes us sorry we had to give them up," Said Applejack.
Suddenly they all heard laughter that was all too familiar to them. They looked up, and they saw Discord. He was wearing a black hat with a couple daisies and a pink and white scarf, carried a carpet bag, and he was floating down from above using an umbrella.
"Ha! He's Mary Poppins, y'all!" Said Deadpool amusedly.
"Oh, you're talking about me, I presume?" Questioned Discord.
"How'd you guess?" Asked Applejack annoyedly.
"My ears were burning."
Discord's ears suddenly caught fire. He summoned a glass of water, and splashed it over his ears, extinguishing the flames.
"What are you even doing here, Discord?" Asked Rainbow irritatedly.
"Oh, just a bit of light reading before I head off on my extremely important mission."
Discord put on a pair of reading glasses, and skimmed the pages of a purple covered book with the Elements of Harmony on the front cover. He then quickly switched into a general's uniform, pulled down a banner of the Equestrian flag, then pulled out a bubble pipe and stuck it in his mouth.
"I suppose you all know that I've been tasked to capture a certain escapee," Said Discord.
"Big deal," Said Spike.
"You're right, Spike. It IS a big deal."
Discord took a puff of his bubble pipe, causing a bubble to form around Spike. He floated several feet above the ground before it popped. He didn't fall far before Rainbow Dash caught him.
"Seems I possess a magic that gives me quite an important role in Equestria. Maybe they should make ME an alicorn princess."
In a flash of light, Discord had a giant pair of pink pegasus wings, a matching unicorn horn, and he wore a purple crown on his head. Cheering could be heard from the surrounding area, but there was no one other than him and the group of friends. He then blew kisses towards the imaginary audience.
"Mmwah! Mmwah!"
"In your dreams!"
BONK!
Rainbow Dash roughly knocked the crown off of Discord's head.
"Oh, I never dream of such things. Ask Princess Luna," Said Discord.
"Don't you have a creepy magic-stealin' villain to track down?" Asked Applejack.
"Yes, yes, yes, of course." Discord suddenly grabbed everyone and teleported them in front of the Tree of Harmony. "It's just that I couldn't help but notice that Twilight hasn't yet opened this little chest of hers."
Discord walked over and pointed at the hexagonal chest resting on the flower. As he had mentioned, the chest had yet to be opened.
"I-I-It got me thinking, what if what's locked inside is something that could help her prove her royal worth? I only bring it up because she said that she's been feeling like her role as a princess doesn't equate to much," Said Discord with a mock pouty lip while making one appear on Twilight's face.
"Wait a minute. How do you know how she was feeling? Have you been peeping on my girl?" Asked Deadpool sternly.
"What? No, no, no! I was merely eavesdropping. Oh, my. Is eavesdropping not the way you're supposed to find out what your best pals are up to? Woe is me. Will I ever learn the intricate nuances of being a good friend?" Asked Discord in mock sadness.
Everyone gave him blank stares.
"Ah-Ahem. Well in any case, I suppose now is as good a time as any for me to make my exit."
Discord put on a helmet before taking a seat on an electric scooter. He revved up the engine, then teleported away.
"And good riddance!" Said Applejack.
"I like ya, Discord, but you can't just go eavesdropping on ponies. Especially your friend's romantic partners!" Said Deadpool.
Suddenly, Discord reappeared behind them, holding the book he was looking at earlier.
"Oopsie-doopsie! I almost left with the little journal all of you girls have been keeping. What a fascinating read. Haven't you girls just learned so much?" Discord leaned in to whisper to Twilight. "I've bookmarked a few of the more interesting passages. You really should take a look!"
Discord precariously placed the journal on Twilight's horn. He then leaned in to whisper to Fluttershy.
"We're still on for tea later, aren't we, Fluttershy?"
"I wouldn't miss it," Said Fluttershy with a smile.
"Well, I'll bring the cucumber sandwiches…!" Singsonged Discord.
A golden doorknob appeared out of nowhere. Discord turned it to the right, and he made a door appear. He walked into a white void before shutting the door, returning everything to normal.
"Sometimes I think the 'reformed' Discord is more obnoxious than the 'before-he-was-reformed' Discord," Said Applejack annoyedly.
"Indeed," Concurred Rarity.
"Yeah, he can definitely be obnoxious. Makes me glad that I'm level headed." All of Deadpool's friends gave him blank stares. "What?"
"But he could be right, couldn't he? What if there is something important in that chest?" Pondered Fluttershy.
"There's only one way to find out," Said Twilight.
A few minutes later…
The group of friends were in the dusty old library of the Castle of the Two Sisters. They were all reading through the many old books in search of some clues on what was in the chest and how to open it.
"Anything?" Asked Twilight.
"No," Said all of her friends in unison.
"There must be something in this library that can help me figure out how to open it. The answer's in one of these books. I just know it."
Twilight looked at all of the books she had gathered on a small desk. Her eyes rested on the Friendship journal that she and her mare friends wrote in. Remembering that Discord suggested that she had a look at it, she opened the pages while rolling her eyes.
THUMP!
Meanwhile, in Canterlot, another unicorn fell victim to Lord Tirek. His magic drained body was too weak to hold him up, and he toppled over onto the ground. Tirek grew even larger, and now that his cloak was starting to no longer fit him, more of his features were visible. Aside from a less pale red face and his nose ring, he had a long white beard, two small horns, and his eyes were like staring into the depths of the void save for his yellow pupils.
He looked ahead, and saw another unicorn stallion up ahead carrying a box with his back turned against him. Seeing easy prey, he sneaked up from behind. As he got closer, he noted his appearance. A grey coat with a black mane and tail, a pale blue horn, and a tornado for a cutie mark. He stretched his hands out, ready to grab the unicorn.
"Tirek, I presume?"
At the last second, the unicorn turned around, revealing Discord's head. Tirek stepped back in surprise when he realized it was Discord in disguise. He squinted his eyes, still surprised at who he was seeing.
"Discord. You're free?" Asked Tirek, his voice sounding less feeble yet still eerie.
"As a bird," Answered Discord while transforming into a chimera bird.
"I commend you on your escape," Said Tirek with a bow.
"I'm afraid the feeling isn't mutual."
SNAP!
With the snap of his fingers, Discord summoned chains to bind Tirek's arms. In anger, Tirek tried to break his binds but to no avail. An orange orb appeared on his forehead, and he fired a beam of magic at Discord. The draconequus merely split his head in half, avoiding the attack.
"Oh, I should have known you would want to have Equestria all to yourself," Said Tirek bitterly.
"Oh, I'm not doing this for me. I'm doing it for my friends." Discord leaned in to whisper in Tirek's ear. "Just between the two of us, it's mostly for Fluttershy."
"Fluttershy? You're not saying you're friends with PONIES?"
"Surprise!" Shouted Discord while bursting out of a giant cake.
"I am surprised that someone with your intellect does not see this 'friendship' is but a new form of imprisonment. Clearly you've had to abandon your true nature to stay in their good graces," Said Tirek.
Discord strummed the strings of a harp while a halo floated above his head. He then tossed the musical instrument over his shoulder.
"I have done nothing of the sort," Said Discord.
"Oh, please, I've seen this before. But he was always weak minded. You are Discord, you are legend, you cannot fall into the same trap that claimed my brother! Help me to grow strong, and be rewarded with something far greater than 'friendship'. Freedom."
Hearing the centaur say freedom instantly caught Discord's attention.
"Once I've stripped these ponies of their magic, nothing would give me greater pleasure than to see their world turned upside down. Who better to do so than the master of chaos himself?"
Discord grabbed his goatee in his eagle claw and stroked it. He seemed to be actually contemplating Tirek's words.
"Join me, Discord, and reclaim your greatness. Unless, of course, 'pony errand boy' is the role you've always wanted to play in this world."
Discord looked behind him, and saw a floating nightstand. Resting on top were two items. One was a lamp shaped in his image, and the other was a framed photo of him and Fluttershy. Discord scratched his chin as he contemplated Tirek's proposal. He hated to admit it, but he did have some good points. He was Discord, Lord of Chaos for Pete's sake! He should be able to make it rain chocolate milk or turn the dirt roads into a soapy ice rink! He's the master of his own destiny, yet he was letting these ponies dictate his life! They really were trying to change him for their own selfish ideals! He should be able to create chaos whenever and however he wanted it!
… But could he really turn his back on everyone? On Equestria? He would be throwing everything away, and there would be no turning back if he betrayed them. There would be no doubt that Princess Celestia would never give him another chance at using his powers for good. He would also be proving that his supposed friends (except for Fluttershy and Deadpool) were right in that he was not redeemable, and the thought of being trapped in stone for another millennia made him shudder.
Then there was Fluttershy. Sweet, sweet Fluttershy. She was the only pony who was willing to give him a chance when no one else would. He knew beyond any doubt that she indeed viewed him as a friend. If he switched sides, he would no doubt end up breaking her little heart… And it would be awkward to bring it up when he next saw her at their tea party.
Discord looked at the chains that bound Tirek's arms together. He was in deep thought for the next minute on what he should do.
SNAP!
Snapping his fingers, he removed the chains. Tirek rubbed his hands around his arms where the chains were. A wicked smile grew on his face.
"Very well, I will join you. It will be freeing to finally be able to cause chaos wherever I go. And quite frankly, I am the master of my own destiny. I shouldn't allow them to decide how to run my life," Said Discord.
"Excellent. I knew you would understand. I think we should go out and celebrate our new alliance. But where to start?" Pondered Tirek.
"Manehattan would be a great place to start. It's one of the most densely populated areas in all of Equestria. You would be able to drain a lot of magic just by attending one of the Bridleway shows. I personally love Hinny of the Hills! Although, I should probably bring up a potential problem we could face."
"Which is?"
Discord summoned a chalkboard, and drew stick figures of the Mane Six and Deadpool, drawing a circle around the latter for emphasis.
"As you would have probably assumed, this land has its fair share of protectors. There are six ponies that wield the Elements of Harmony, but even if they were to retrieve them, you would most likely drain all of them and the Elements of their magic before they could pose a threat to you," Said Discord.
"Then why do you bring them up?" Asked Tirek.
"Because they have a friend, and he is somepony you should be very cautious of. His name's Wade Wilson, but he goes by the moniker Deadpool."
"So, what? He is a pony like the rest of them. I will just drain him of his magic as well."
"Yes, but even if you do drain his magic, I believe that will not be enough to stop him. You see, he has got this gimmick called a healing factor. It accelerates his healing to super pony proportions. Almost nothing kills him, and in your case, even with his magic drained, his healing factor makes it so he rarely ever tires. And even when he does, he usually recovers pretty quickly."
"Really? A pony that could actually pose a challenge. Maybe he would be worth visiting."
"You would have to regain a large portion of your strength before we face him. Unlike the majority of Equestria's heroes, he has little qualms about killing his opponents. He has been going down a less lethal path, but if we were to give him little to no other options, he would not hesitate to kill either of us. Added with the fact that he is an expert markspony, swordspony, and at distracting his opponents, going against him is basically suicide. If we have any chance at beating him, we would have to be at the top of our game, and be able to outsmart him."
Discord removed the stick figure of Deadpool from the chalkboard as if it was a sticker, and it came to life. It aimed a crudely drawn gun at Tirek, and it fired miniature paint balls at him. Discord then placed him back in the chalkboard and folded it up into an origami swan before it flew away.
"Well then, what are we waiting for? Let's go drain some magic to replenish my strength, and spread some chaos along the way," Said Tirek menacingly.
Both Lord Tirek and Discord laughed maniacally, plotting their conquest. Behind the former, the picture of Fluttershy and Discord on the nightstand came to life. The Discord in the photo summoned prison bars around him and Fluttershy, and teleported away with a wicked grin. As soon as he left, Fluttershy began to cry.
MWAHAHAHA!
A little while later...
The group of ponies were still searching through the old library for clues on how to open the chest. Unsurprisingly, Deadpool quickly lost interest, and he was just looking around the room.
"So, this is where you all have been hanging out throughout the season. A castle where all of you gals and occasionally Spike hang out together. Like some kind of She Shed," Said Deadpool.
"Hey! This is not a She Shed!" Said Rainbow irritatedly.
"Fine then. What about a Her Hut? Sister Shack? Lady Lodge? Oh, oh! I know, let's call it the Cunt Castle!" Said Deadpool.
"WHOA! HEY!" Shouted all of the Mane Six in unison.
"What?! I didn't mean it in a derogatory way! I would want to hang out in a place called Cock Castle!" Said Deadpool.
"Changing the subject, I think I found something! I've been reading our journal, and there's something interesting about the sections that Discord bookmarked. Applejack, do you remember when you had to tell everypony that the tonic Granny bought from the Flim Flam brothers didn't really work?" Asked Twilight.
"How could I forget? It was one of the hardest things I ever had to do. But in that moment, I knew I had to be honest. I just knew it. But what's got that to do with openin' the chest?" Asked Applejack.
"I've found that each of you has had to face a situation where living up to the Element of Harmony you represent wasn't easy. Fluttershy, it was when you realized that the way to show kindness to the Breezies was by forcing them to leave your home," Explained Twilight.
"Oh, the looks on their poor little faces! But I knew that, as difficult as it was, pushing them away was the kindest thing I could do," Said Fluttershy.
"Rarity, even after Suri took advantage of your generosity at Fashion Week in Manehattan, you didn't let it cause you to abandon your generous spirit," Said Twilight.
"I simply couldn't have lived with myself if I didn't do something special for the friends who have always been so generous to me!" Said Rarity.
"Rainbow Dash, you had the chance to fly with the Wonderbolts at the Equestria Games, but instead you chose to compete with your friends," Said Twilight.
"Sure! But being loyal to my friends was way-"
"Ooh, my turn, my turn!" Said Pinkie excitedly.
"Pinkie Pie, you realized that seeing your friend laugh was more important than proving you were a better party planner than Cheese Sandwich," Said Twilight.
"Aka Weird Al!" Added Deadpool.
"Best party I've ever had," Said Rainbow.
"It's clear we've all had our moments to shine, Twilight, but I'm with Applejack. What does any of this have to do with the opening of the chest?" Asked Rarity.
"All of you had tough choices to make. But when you made the right one and embraced your Element, it helped somepony else make the right choice too. Each of you received something from the pony whose life you helped change. I know it sounds crazy, but maybe there's something special about those objects that could lead us to the location of the keys. The chest is connected to the Tree of Harmony, the Tree is connected to the Elements, and the Elements are connected to the six of us. There must be a connection! I hate to admit it, but maybe Discord was trying to be a good friend after all," Said Twilight.
A few minutes later…
The group of ponies returned to Ponyville to gather the items they received after making a choice related to their Element of Harmony. They then went to the Tree of Harmony and the chest. Everyone placed their items in front of the chest. A spool of rainbow thread given to Rarity, a Wonderbolts pin given to Rainbow Dash, a blue flower given to Fluttershy, a gold bit given to Applejack, and a rubber chicken named Boneless given to Pinkie Pie.
"I know there is something plot related with these objects, but I don't see anything on them that would give us a clue as to where the keys might be. They're just… ordinary everyday objects," Said Deadpool.
"Come on, Boneless! Give us that key!" Said Pinkie while throttling Boneless aggressively.
"I don't think that's going to work," Said Twilight.
SQUEE!
Pinkie tossed Boneless, and Twilight had to duck in order to avoid getting hit in the face. It hit the chest, but then a bright light surrounded it. The group gasped in shock. Before their very eyes, Boneless turned into a key with the bow in the shape of Pinkie's cutie mark. The key then inserted itself into one of the six locks.
With excitement, the others grabbed their objects and placed them on top of the chest. All of the objects were surrounded in the same bright light. They turned into keys with the bows shaped like their respective owner's cutie mark. They then inserted themselves into four of the locks. There was only one keyhole left without a key.
"There's still one key missing. The key that represents the element of magic. My element," Said Twilight.
"Oh, but I'm sure that if we've gotten our keys, you have too, Twilight," Assured Fluttershy.
"Think, Twilight. When have you completed a difficult magical task, and in doing so encouraged another pony to do the same?" Asked Rarity.
"I haven't. If I had, I would have written about it in the journal," Answered Twilight.
"Hmm, I know!" Deadpool took out one of his katanas and held it in both hooves. "Twilight, it may not be magic related, but you helped me. You helped me become a true hero, a better pony. To show you my appreciation, I would like to give you my katana, Bea. I may no longer have the duo of Bea & Arthur, but if it will help you open the chest, then I will gladly bestow her to you," Said Deadpool.
Shrugging her shoulders, Twilight took the katana in her magic. She pointed the blade towards the chest. Once it made contact with the chest, she waited for the light to take it. Nothing happened, and she sighed in defeat.
"Thanks, Wade, but I think we will need to try something else," Said Twilight.
"Let me try it."
Deadpool took his katana back, and he walked over to the chest. He placed the tip of the blade in the lock, but nothing happened. He then pulled it out and put it back in.
"Come on! You can do it!"
Deadpool thrust the sword again, but there was still no reaction.
"Nothing's happening!"
(Try a different position!)
Deadpool stood up on his hind legs, and held the katana at a slight angle. He repeatedly thrust the katana into the lock. This didn't change the end result.
"Damn, this is tight!"
(Thrust harder!)
As Deadpool was trying to forcefully open the chest by thrusting into it, the rest of his friends watched in stunned silence. They were all blushing profusely, and Twilight used one of her wings to cover Spike's eyes. Eventually, after several failed attempts, Deadpool collapsed onto his back.
"Shit… That was a workout, and it was all for nothing," Said Deadpool tiredly.
(It couldn't have just released out of pity?)
(Are you two not listening to yourselves right now?!)
HURK!
Suddenly, Spike belched up a letter. Twilight grabbed it, and she quickly read it.
"What's it say?" Asked Spike.
"That Wade and I are needed in Canterlot at once!" Said Twilight.
A little while later, at Canterlot Castle, Princesses Celestia, Luna, and Cadance were waiting in the throne room for Twilight and Deadpool to arrive. Suddenly, the doors to the throne room burst open, and Twilight and Deadpool ran up to the throne.
"We came as quickly as we could! Is something wrong? Is it Tirek?" Asked Twilight.
"I'm afraid I put too much trust in Discord and the effect that friendship would have upon him," Said Celestia.
"Discord has betrayed the ponies of Equestria and joined forces with Tirek," Added Luna.
Both Deadpool and Twilight were absolutely stunned by this revelation.
"Aw, man! I just followed Discord on Twitter!" Said Deadpool.
"How could he do this?! I thought our friendship meant something to him! I thought he had changed," Said Twilight angrily.
"Tirek has stolen enough magic that he now has the strength to steal flight as well. Without pegasi to control the weather, there will be no rain in Equestria. There is word that he has gone after earth ponies as well. Without their strength, they will not be able to tend the land," Explained Celestia grimly,
"Ponies will no longer be in control of their world. That power will belong solely to Tirek," Added Luna.
"There is no doubt that Tirek is after alicorn magic. With Discord by his side, we will not be able to stop him from taking it."
"Once it is in his possession, his power will know no bounds, and all hope will be lost."
"But there is one solution. It is only by making this sacrifice that Equestria and the lands beyond it might be saved. We must rid ourselves of our magic before Tirek has the chance to steal it from us."
GASP!
To be continued…
Hey everyone! I hope you all enjoyed part one of the last chapter of the season four arc of "Deadpool: Mercenary of Harmony", centered around the season finale episode "Twilight's Kingdom"! Will Twilight find her purpose? How will the Princesses rid themselves of their magic? And, most importantly, will Twilight, Deadpool, and friends be able to stop Lord Tirek and Discord, and save Equestria? Be sure to stay tuned for part two! Until next time, this has been ThePhantomArchives, and I hope you all have a great day!