Episode 3: Royal Reunion Of Regal Friends

Scene 3.0: Shadow's Dreamscape, 12:00 AM, Day 2 of 365

Inside Shadow's dream world which looks like a vast forest, he is sitting on his back on a large and dark gothic gate surrounded by countless chains and multiple padlocks with no keyholes as he is playing his harmonica along with 2 copies of himself of different colors playing a different instrument each: The Blue Shadow is playing the guitar and the Red Shadow is playing the piccolo to a catchy and lively tune in which Q is Flying rhythmically to. At that moment, someone is hiding in carelessly rustle the bushes he or she is hiding that Shadow discreetly notices and makes him extremely annoyed. Using his magic discreetly, Shadow picks up a small pebble and tosses it at the not so subtle spy.

??? (Female Voice)

Ouch!!!

Shadow:

(Annoyed)

How many times do I have to tell you to stay away from my territory, You Accursed Luna-Tic!?

Twilight:

(Surprised)

What Did You Call Me!?

Shadow:

(Surprised, Ashamed, Clears Throat)

Sorry about that, Princess Twilight. I thought you were someone else.

Twilight:

I heard that you and Luna were at odds, but I did not expected it to be this bad.

Shadow:

I hope you came here to hear my side of the story instead of labeling me a villain before I get the chance to explain myself.

Twilight:

I know you are not bad pony, Shadow. Although I have to admit that Jack does have a checkered record while we worked together until a few days ago when he up and left without telling us everything muzzle to muzzle.

Shadow:

I'm nothing like him. I am an open book to almost everything anyone asks of me.

Twilight:

Then how about we start on why is it you and Luna are at odds.

Shadow:

Let's start that discussion with this gate right behind me. First let me ask you: what do you think about how this gate look? Tell me what do you see right before you, describe it to me.

Twilight:

(Disturbed, Worried)

I'm not going to lie. That is one creepy gate. The image of countless creatures wailing in both fear and suffering. Shadow...What is this horrible thing?

Shadow:

It is the "Gate Of Nightmares". There is a legend of a trio of fiends searching for the most evilest soul across time, space and reality. Once they have found such monster, they bestow upon it such the power to turn the most deadliest of nightmares into reality. For example...if you were to be chocked to death in the nightmare, in the real world everyone would think passed away because of an asthma attack or worst, that you hanged yourself willingly.

Twilight:

That's horrible. But since its a legend, there is a kernel of truth to it, unfortunately. But if that is so, then why is this gate in your mind?

Shadow:

Even I don't know how to answer that question. However, since this evil gate is in my mind, I made a vow to never open it myself or anyone for that matter. This type of power such should never exist and yet for some unholy reason, it does. I made it my sole mission to be its guardian; making sure it isn't ever open by anyone not even me.

Twilight:

(Thinking)

So this is why Starswirl is scared of Shadow. He thinks that one day Shadow might be tempted by the power of this gate. But if that's the case then...why are there so many chains and locks covering it?

(Out Loud, Notices Missing Keyholes On Padlocks)

I have never seen locks like that before.

Shadow:

Those are "Trick-Locks".

Twilight:

Trick-Locks?

Shadow:

While I was traveling the world, I arrive at a village of spirit mediums. Even though I was an outsider, they were open-minded enough to allow me take part in their training and customs. The reason for that is because only women have the power to be Spirit Mediums. However thanks to them sharing their customs and traditions to me, I learned of the Trick-Locks. A Special Type of Locks that would take an eternity for the feeble minded to crack. These locks are also indestructible due to the amount of magic each of them hold. Even if the one who places the locks perishes, they cannot be undone. The only ones that can unlock them are the placer, a sage or someone with a lot of patience. Even I forgot how to undo them myself.

Twilight:

You forgot?

Shadow:

I forced myself to forget. Even though I despise this abhorrent gate to no end...I was also afraid that one day I might be tempted by the power of this gate. Every time I feel this gate's power influencing the real world, I put on another Trick-Lock for a little extra insurance. It's a little paranoid of me, but I refuse to take any chances.

Twilight:

(Laughing Out Loud)

Shadow:

(Curious)

Hah!? That's an unexpected reaction.

Twilight:

(Calming Down, Smiling, Tearing With Joy)

Sorry, sorry. It's just some ponies are blowing this WAY out of proportion and are worrying for nothing.

Shadow:

Like That Luna-Tic.

Twilight:

Actually...

(Notices Luna At A Distance With Extremely Disapproving Glare, Clears Throat)

Actually it's Starswirl. He heard from Luna about the gate and he's afraid that you will end up like Stygian when he succumbed to the Darkness of the Pony of Shadows.

Shadow:

(Annoyed Sigh)

That bearded has-been is also a big annoying thorn on my side for a while now because of this gate fiasco.

Twilight:

1: Show him some respected; he is a legendary hero and your elder and 2: I'll get every pony off your flank now that I have 200% confirmed that you are not that dangerous.

Shadow:

Whatever.

Twilight:

By the way: What was that lovely song you were playing?

Shadow:

It's Called "Chocobo".

Twilight:

Chocobo? What's a Chocobo?

Shadow:

(Enthused And Lively Interest)

A Large Legendary Bird the size of a pony that can run faster than the fastest Earth Pony. There are as many breeds as there are colors and each posses unique traits base on their color. The most common color is yellow and can be found on specific forests called Chocobo Forest. Then there are White Chocobo whose unique trait is restoring all of your lost mana. Black Chocobos are known to be the only breed that can fly.

Twilight:

(Amused Chuckle)

I never heard of them until now and this is the first time I have seen you come out of your edginess.

Shadow:

(Clears Throat)

Blame my No-Good First Teacher. He always like to talk about them in his stories. When I heard rumors that you can meet a Chocobo in this reality, I jumped headlong into uncharted islands just to see them without knowing what I was getting to.

Twilight:

Did you get your wish?

Shadow:

Hardly. The island I ended up was filled to the brim with poisonous flora to outsider except for the creatures of the island. Even the water was poisonous...THE WATER!!! I was so thirsty and hungry, but I found a lone phoenix egg. Desperate to eat something--

Twilight:

(Surprised)

You didn't...!?

Shadow:

Nope! I didn't. Because when I cracked the egg, this birdbrain popped out of it.

Q:

(Angry)

KYUUU!!!

Twilight:

That's how you and Q first met!?

Shadow:

Yep! Fortunately my teacher's bodyguard, A Minotaur wearing a Golden Fleece, brought me my most desperate nutrients.

Twilight:

Why didn't you went to him when you were that hard up in that condition?

Shadow:

Because I wanted to prove to him I didn't need him in order to survive on my own. But I ended up proving him right in the end.

Twilight:

What about Q's Family?

Shadow:

I said I found a "Lone" Phoenix Egg and as you noticed, Q is an extremely unusual type of Phoenix. We traveled all over the island looking for his family, but we never found any Blue Phoenixes. We found Green, Yellow, Purple and even Black Phoenixes, but never a Blue Group of them. Not only that but we found out that each type of Phoenixes possesses a unique skill exclusive to their Color Breed just like the Fable Chocobo, but unlike the Chocobo, the Magic of the Phoenixes are even greater. Q's Unique Trait is the ability to Fast Travel to any location in the world, so long as that Village, Town or City is marked with Q's Blue Feathers. If the feathers are damaged or destroyed, I can't fast travel there anymore. In order to prevent that, Q and I always searched for the right and safe spots to place his feathers. Anyhoo...long story short, Q and I became partners in everything. The Rogue, Platinum Shadow and The Sapphire Phoenix, Q. Now That's a catchy title, don't you think?

Twilight:

(Smiling)

It kinda does.

Q:

Kyuu, Kyuu, Kyuu.

Shadow:

That was fast.

Twilight:

What is?

Shadow:

It's 5 before 3:30. I need to wake up and get breakfast ready for everyone at the castle.

Twilight:

(Surprised)

WAIT!!! You Are Asleep!?

Shadow:

I'm a Dream Master. I can control my dreams at will. I need to if I am to keep this gate safe from those who would try and open it.

Twilight:

Wait! You didn't tell me how you and Luna met.

Shadow:

Right! Luckily that's short enough of a story to tell. Well, as soon as I returned from the Chaotic Void, the first thing I decided to do when I came here is to make sure this gate was tightly shut. As soon as I finished, she accused me of throwing an innocent child into the Nightmare Gate. That's why I call her A Luna-Tic! How can I do such a thing and even if I did, it would have been extremely downright impossible for that to happen!

Twilight:

Why do you say that?

Shadow:

There is also something in the Legend of the Nightmare Gate that most do not know about. A Key Detail about this accursed gate only known by those who fear it like me. Once the Nightmare Gate is open, even if it's just a crack, it can NEVER be closed EVER Again.

Twilight:

(Shocked)

!!!

Shadow:

(Annoyed Scoff)

Before that LUNA-TIC dares to brand me the evilest man in all cosmos, she should get her facts straight before accusing someone for a crime that is virtually impossible to commit!

Twilight:

(Disappointed And Sad Expression)

Shadow...You want to know...how I see this...as the Princess of Friendship?

Shadow:

Usually I would say I don't want to hear it, but...

(Sad Sigh)

...I...can never say that to you. The reason for that is...you remind me of my sister in a way.

Twilight:

Sister? The one you grew up with?

Shadow:

No...There was another. I met her here when I was just a child. But thanks to the corruptible properties of the Eye of the Void, most of my memories of her are fragmented.

Twilight:

If that's true then why you still have a clear memory of everything else if the Eye of the Void is that dangerous?

Shadow:

In order to master the power of the Chaotic Void, I need to enter it with my most treasured of memories in order to survive the madness inducing infusion of power. My First Teacher removed all of my memories with the exception of hers...As the chaotic energy tore my body literally piece by bloody piece and put back together the same way...I was overcome with pain so intense...there's no word to describe how agonizing it was. The pain sensitivity drove me immensely insane that in a sick twist...the pain became pleasure...for countless eons being infused with that much power...I could no longer feel anything at all. All I desired...was to disappear in that dark endless abyss...but she saved me. The memories of my big sister. Her light was my salvation. I was able to survive that clashing turmoil of chaos magic because of her. When I was traveling the world...I wasn't only looking for that deadbeat father of mine...I was looking...I was looking for her too...even though I can't remember her face, voice and name.

Twilight:

Shadow...

Shadow:

Enough of my banter. What is it you wanted to tell me about me and Lunat-- I mean Luna?

Twilight:

You both got off on the wrong hoof and said things to each other without having all of the facts. Maybe if you--

Shadow:

No.

Twilight:

But--

Shadow:

I don't want to sound offensive when I say...I refuse to be friends with Alicorns! It's because of Alicorns, So many lives were lost during the Great Alicorn War.

Twilight:

(Confused)

What? What do you mean? There was a Great War involving Alicorns!?

Shadow:

There was...so many tragic lost of life...All because of the Vanity of Alicorns. All I am allowed to say is...by the end of the war...The Alicorns went extinct...Until Celestia and her sister came out of nowhere. They might not be responsible for the Great War...but you know what they say: "The Sins Of The Parents Are To Be Laid Upon The Children". I will never accept any Alicorn as either my equal or superior!

Twilight:

I am an Alicorn too, Shadow.

Shadow:

You aren't a Pure-Blooded Alicorn...you were converted into one, just like Cadance.

Twilight:

And Flurry Heart?

Shadow:

(Somber Tone)

I see a lot of myself in her, so I cannot bring myself to hate her. Because it would feel like I am hating myself.

Twilight:

(Thinking, Curious)

Did Shadow just...why would he say that with sadness in his voice? He's a Unicorn. How can he compare himself to Flurry who is an Alicorn with him not being one himself?

Q:

(Angrily)

KYUUU!!!

Shadow:

(Sad Chuckle & Smile)

Sorry, partner. I'm going, I'm going. Well...It was nice talking with you, Princess. I apologize for any misunderstandings I caused and that bump on the head I gave you.

Twilight:

(Sad Smile)

Have a nice day, Shadow.

As Shadow disappears, signally him waking up, his dreamscape vanishes as Luna with a disappointing look on her face, walks to Twilight and says:

Luna:

The next time you try to get involve between the situation of Platinum Shadow and myself, we are going to have words. This is my burden and mine alone. You have no right to get involved.

Twilight:

But Luna--

Luna:

(Royal Canterlot Voice)

NOT ANOTHER WORD, TWILIGHT SPARKLE!!! THIS MATTER IS CLOSED!!!

As Luna walks away, Twilight is both Saddened and Confused...unable to understand why both Shadow and Luna are at odds when this misunderstanding can be solved with a simple and friendly conversation.

Scene 3.1: Ponyville, Sweet Apple Acres, 4:30 AM

As the Apple Family are about to begin their day the surprisingly see Shadow waiting outside playing Ticktacktoe with Q and Q won the game which annoys Shadow greatly.

Q:

(Happily)

Kyuu, Kyuu, Kyuu, Kyuu, Kyuu!

Shadow:

(Sighs)

That's 35 Games in a row. Best of 71?

Q:

(Shakes Head, Points At The Apple Family)

Kyuu!

Shadow:

Hey.

Applejack:

How long have you been waiting here?

Shadow:

Not long. About half an hour give or take.

Rainbow Dash:

Well, I admire your dedication to show up on time. But I don't see Luster around and you said that the both of you would be here.

Shadow:

I tried waking her up, but she kept saying the most cliche of phrases: "Just 5 More Minutes", I gave up after 2 tries.

Rainbow Dash:

You could have tried a third time.

Shadow:

Rule of 3 Cliche? Not my style. I want to do something a little more creative if I am ignored 2 times.

Applejack:

Please don't do anything mean.

Shadow:

She asked for it.

At that moment Shadow casts a spell that teleported Luster a few feet above the Apples Pigpen and dropped her into the mud.

Luster:

(Furious, Covered In Mud)

HEY! WHAT'S THE BIG IDEA!?

Shadow:

Finally awake? Good because it's time to work.

Luster:

Not like this I'm not.

Shadow:

Fine!

Shadows casts a spell on Luster that cleans her up completely, even her teeth without the need to brush them and even mouth wash.

Luster:

(Mouth Feeling Minty Fresh, Surprised)

How..!?

Shadow:

It's a cleaner spell. It cleans and tidy up everything from hair styling to mouth washing, unfortunately it takes a lot of mana for it to work. Luckily I have a large pool of it thanks to my Chaos Magic Training.

Luster:

This is really useful for last minute tiding up. Can you teach me how to do it?

Shadow:

Sure, but like I said. It takes a lot of magical energy to pull off.

Luster:

I'm not the Princess Top Student for Nothing.

Shadow:

Ok, I teach it to you after work.

(Transform Into His Pegasus Form)

What's the first thing we'll tackle today, Rainbow Dash?

Rainbow Dash:

Just follow my lead, Shadow. Luster. You will be tallying up both Shadow and my awesome performance scores for the whole hour.

Shadow:

1 Hour? I thought this job was going to take longer.

Rainbow Dash:

That shows how much of a newbie you are. Weather control is always a cinch with me around. Try to keep up.

Shadow:

Yes, Ma'am.

As Rainbow Dash and Shadow move clouds around as well as busting a few of them, Luster is enticed by both of their skills almost as she was watching a show that she completely forgot that she is supposed to monitor their progress. After all of the work is done, Rainbow Dash and Shadow started laughing on how well they worked together that they actually finished the job in less than half the time.

Rainbow Dash:

(Smiling)

You are really good, Shadow! Are you sure you don't want to stay being a Pegasus instead of a Unicorn? You really got some pretty nice moves there.

Shadow:

(Chuckles)

Sorry, but I feel more dexterous as a Unicorn than a Pegasus.

Rainbow Dash:

Aw. What a waste. Whatever rocks your boat is fine anyways. Luster. What's the score?

Luster:

(Ashamed)

I'm sorry! I forgot to do it! You two were so amazing up there that I completely forgot all about it.

Rainbow Dash:

I have that effect on every pony.

Shadow:

Oy, Vey. Anyhoo, we finished the job in 27 minutes. If there's nothing else you have for me, I'm heading toward Applejack and Big Mac to see if they have a few chores I can help out around here before the first bell at the school rings.

Rainbow Dash:

That's a really good idea! Here's your to do list, Shadow!

Shadow:

(Annoyed, Accepts List Of RD's Chores)

Are you loading off your list of chores on us? Applejack is not going to like it if she finds out her partner is having the hired help doing the job she is supposed to be doing.

Rainbow Dash:

You are still on the clock, Shadow. So you need to do everything I ask...Also I promise to pay you and Luster a little extra if you can cover for me doing my chores. Applejack always nag me that I don't do the chores the right way. I love her and all, but there are times she is can be too much of a perfectionist.

Shadow:

I expect double payment for this.

Rainbow Dash:

I promise. I never leave any pony never hanging.

Shadow:

Welp, Luster. It seems we have a little extra work.

Luster:

This will be my first time working on a farm. What are Rainbow Dash's to do list?

Shadow:

Just a few household chores. Nothing too grand or complex. If we are swift, we can have it all done in an hour or so.

Luster:

Then let's get to work. By the way...how are we going to do this without Applejack finding out?

Shadow:

We don't. We are getting payed to do this, so it's no skin off our noses.

Luster:

But Applejack will be mad if she finds out and Rainbow Dash will be in trouble.

Shadow:

She'll be even angrier if she finds out later than earlier. The longer you keep the deception, the greater the anger will be once it's out in the open. Trust me, I've seen it happen.

Luster:

(Defeated Sigh)

Fine. We'll do this your way then.

About 20 to 32 minutes later, Applejack finds Shadow and Luster doing Rainbow Dash's chores which she knows what's going on, so she ask them anyways:

Applejack:

What are you two young'uns doing?

Shadow:

Rainbow Dash's chores.

Luster:

(Face-Hoof)

Did you have to be so direct about it? Have you no tact?

Shadow:

It's like removing a bloodsucking leech. Tear it out fast and quick for painless relief.

Applejack:

(Annoyed)

I'm going to have a word with that partner of mine when I find her!

Shadow:

Please, don't. She didn't pawn off her chores on us, we asked her if there was more work to do since we finished tidying up the weather faster than planned. I was going to ask you if there was any chores you wanted us to do around here but we decided to ask Rainbow Dash first since we were still on the clock for her job.

Applejack:

(Suspicious)

Is that so?

Shadow:

I really mean it. The one at fault here is me, not Rainbow Dash especially that I literally asked for it.

Applejack:

(Defeated Sigh)

Fine. I won't chew her out for this. But next time talk to me first.

Shadow:

Yes, Ma'am. We promise.

Applejack:

By the way, do you both want breakfast. Apple Bloom cooked up some mighty tasty pancakes with her favorite pear jam.

Luster:

Thank you, Applejack. I was feeling a little peckish.

Shadow:

I already had breakfast at the castle so nothing for me except a slice of apple pie if you don't mind.

Applejack:

Come along now before it gets cold. After breakfast, you will walk with Apple Bloom and me to the school. And since it's your first day, you need to talk to Starlight for her to take you to your classroom since the school started the teaching season last month.

Luster:

I guess we are stuck with remedial classes in order to be up to date.

Applejack:

The School of Friendship is not that type of school, Luster. You'll see when you get there.

At the breakfast table, everyone is enjoying the pancakes Apple Bloom has made, however she is a little cautious around Shadow for how he insulted her and her friends yesterday.

Shadow:

Nursing a grudge is not a healthy habit, ya know.

Apple Bloom:

After what happened yesterday, I'm not taking any chances.

Shadow:

(Chuckles)

That was my "Be The Big Bad Jerk Once A Lifetime" Deal. I did so in order to prepare you what type of guy I am. I'm not going to be like that ever again around you and your friends.

Apple Bloom:

Well you did hurt our feelings by acting like that.

Shadow:

Don't blame me, blame my first teacher. He taught me to be like this and told me to do it to everyone I am going to be dealing with once and only once.

Apple Bloom:

You need better teachers.

Shadow:

Why do you think I'm enrolling in the School of Friendship?

Apple Bloom:

Because your dad told you to.

Shadow:

Yeah, true, but I am also curious on what type of school it is. But still...I apologize for me insulting you and your friends like I did, but I needed to see what type of women I was dealing with. Unfortunately I had to resort to my first teacher's doing of things. I can understand you not wanting to forgive me. I have always been branded a villain by pretty much everyone.

Apple Bloom:

(Defeated Sigh, Mild Chuckle)

You really are a punk, huh?

Shadow:

(Smiling)

I do my best.

Luster:

That's nothing to be proud of, Shadow.

Applejack:

(Amused Scoff)

You remind me a lot more of Discord than Jack, y'know that Shadow.

Shadow:

I'll take that as the biggest compliment ever.

Around 6:50, Applejack and Apple Bloom are walking with Shadow and Luster to the school and along the way they meet up with both Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo.

Sweetie Belle:

Well, if it isn't the riffraff.

Scootaloo:

Do we really have to walk to school with this punk?

Shadow:

How nice that you are complimenting me with your insults. I feel so special.

Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo:

(Glaring At Shadow)

Apple Bloom:

Now Girls, I know Shadow was mean to us yesterday, but I can assure you he won't be like that from now on.

Shadow:

(Evil Smile)

How can be so sure?

Applejack:

Platinum Shadow!

Shadow:

(Laughing)

Sorry, sorry. I was just teasing. Apple Bloom is right. It was a one-time thing. I always do that to everyone at some point or another and I only do it once. So don't you worry. I promise not to do it again.

Apple Bloom:

Pinkie Promise?

Shadow:

Pink...Oh, right! Pinkamena had an odd way of making her promises. How did she say it again? Wait, never mind. I remember.

(Clears Throat)

Cross My Heart And Hope To Fly, Stick A Cupcake In My Eye. There! Happy now?

Apple Bloom:

Very! Come on! We don't want to be late now, right?

Scene 3.2 Ponyville, The School of Friendship, 7:30 AM

In a classroom on the second floor label 2-5, there is a shiny and imposing orange Male Dragon, a Female Changeling with similar traits to an Alicorn, a Griffon wearing a regal vest, a Female Kirin with a brown coat and orange mane, a Female Cerulean Hippogriff, a Cute and innocent looking Male Yak and among them is a teenage Flurry Heart about the same age as Luster as well.

??? (Changeling):

I hear there are going to be 2 new high profile students joining our school today.

Flurry:

I heard that one of them is my Aunt Twilight's Pupil, Luster Dawn.

??? (Griffon):

Any idea on who is the other one?

??? (Hippogriff):

I tried to sneak a peek at the castle, but Captain Tempest kicked me out again.

??? (Dragon):

Always going head first to find things out, eh Slipstream?

??? (Kirin):

Aren't you curious on who the other one is, Blaze?

Blaze (Dragon):

Let's just say I almost lost my brother too many times to count when he succumbed to his curiosity. That's why I rather wait than stick my neck out waiting for it to be lopped off.

??? (Griffon):

You never talk about this brother of yours, Blaze. And when you do, you say things like this.

Yavish (Yak):

Yavish want to meet Blaze's brother. Yak thinks him Fun!

Blaze:

He is fun to hang around with, but he would always get me into trouble and my mom is extremely overprotective of him because he's a pony.

Everyone:

(Surprised)

YOUR BROTHER IS A PONY!?!?!?

Blaze:

Did I fail to mention that since we've known each other?

Flurry:

Is he adopted?

Blaze:

Yeah. We were known as "The Pride And The Joy" of the Dragon Lord with me being my Mom's Pride and my brother being her joy.

Slipstream (Hippogriff):

What was his name?

Blaze:

My mom forbade every dragon to say his name because of that Traitor, Volcanus. She's afraid some creature connected to him might hunt down and do unspeakable things to my brother.

??? (Changeling):

I also have an older brother that isn't a Changeling. Coincidentally, just like Blaze's Brother, my older brother is a pony.

??? (Kirin):

Yours too, Krystal? Is he also protected like Blaze's brother?

Krystal (Changeling):

I really wish that was the case, but no. The reason I can't say his name is because of Ocellus. She and my brother really don't get along. I don't blame her since he was the class clown while he stayed for a few month at the hive. He really tormented her during his stay. But I Pinkie Promise to tell you his name at the library later.

Slipstream:

Any creature else has a secret brother which coincidentally is a pony?

??? (Griffon):

(In Deep Thought)

...

Slipstream:

(Evil Smile)

I know that look, Gatz. You have an idea who he is, don't you?

Gatz (Griffon):

Maybe...but I need more evidence in order to solve this mystery.

Blaze:

Like?

Gatz:

Let me disclose my encounter with a pony that I am forbidden to talk about as well. He was frame for a crime he didn't commit, so I decided to clear his name. He lent me his Phoenix to assist me in my investigation. As Prince of the Griffons, I offered him a defense attorney for his trial. He refused and stated he will defend himself. Even though my investigation was being fruitless, his skills as an attorney are second to none especially that every time he yells "Objection" and pointing his hoof at the witness really give me chills.

Blaze, Krystal:

(Surprised)

...

Gatz:

I was right. The pony I am speaking of, he is your brother, isn't?

Krystal:

(Worried, Nervous)

I..r-re-really d-don't knowww wha-waht are youuu t-talking ab-bout...?

Gatz:

Blaze?

Blaze:

(Clears Throat, Regains Composure)

It's a coincidence. There are many ponies that fit that bill. Also, my brother doesn't own a Phoenix.

Krystal:

My brother does.

(Clams Up Desperately, Start Sweating Bullets, Stuttering Gets Worse)

Gatz:

(Notices a Connection)

Florid Harvest. Have you met a pony you are not allowed to speak of?

Florid Harvest (Kirin):

Yeah, I do. He's a really weird pony. He had a way of speaking that is incredibly weird like saying "Everyone", "Woman", "Man" and my other things. He never say every creature, every dragon, every pony, every griffon every hippogriff, every yak, mare, stallion, colt, steed, hooves--

Slipstream:

(Annoyed)

WE GET IT!!! He's a weirdo! Just...stop...TALKING!!!

Florid:

(Saddened)

But I love to talk...

Gatz:

I'm starting to see who this pony is...and I notice that he is one and the same. Well, Slipstream? What about you?

Slipstream:

I know a pony that fits the bill too, but I highly doubt it is him. But knowing you, Gatz, I'll tell you. When I first met this pony, I thought he was going to be a stuck-up stick in the mud dud of a party-pooper. Imagine my surprise that he knew how to paint the town red. Thanks to him I learned never to judge a book by its cover. Aren't you glad, my dear Gatzy?

Gatz:

(Clears Throat, Blushing, Maintaining Composure)

Quite! Yavish. Your turn.

Yavish:

(Excited)

Fun Pony come to Yakyakistan. He smash good like Uncle Rutherford. Pony play Yovidophone like Master. Pony knows how to perfect balance vanilla extract on cakes. Black Pony more Yak than Pony!!!

Gatz:

Black...Pony you say?

Blaze, Krystal:

(Facepalm, Thinking)

You and your big mouth, Yavish.

Slipstream:

(Thinking)

Leave it to Yavish to spill the beans when he's all excited like this.

Florid:

(Excited, Dense)

WOW! The pony I met is also a Black Pony!

Blaze, Krystal:

(Furious, Thinking)

Yavish we can forgive because of his innocence, but you Florid, You never know when to keep your mouth shut! You scatterbrain chatterbox!!!

Gatz:

Well Flurry, you are the last one. What did he do for you?

Flurry:

(Smiling)

He...he's the reason I am here...at this school and...having you as my friends.

(Saddened)

But...I noticed that...when Sombra was around, he would switch from his cool and collected demeanor to a pony filled with so much hate. I don't know what Sombra did to him, but...He's not a monster anymore. He has been reformed thanks to Radiant Hope. I wish he would understand that.

Gatz:

I see...well. All of this have been enlightening and I just figured out that we do know him and that this pony is one and the same. The identity of this pony is...

Ocellus:

Good Morning, Class. I know the first bell hasn't rung yet, but I really want to start class early since we are getting a new student today and I want her to feel welcome when she see us working together.

Florid:

One? We heard that it was actually two.

Ocellus:

Really? That wasn't what Spike told me in his letter 2 days ago.

Gatz:

It might possibly a last minute change. We all know that Jack-Of-All-Trades has a bad habit of pulling a fast one on every creature.

Ocellus:

(Annoyed Sigh)

It wouldn't be the first time.

At that moment there's a knock on the door and Ocellus head outside and catches everyone in the school of guard by yelling:

Ocellus:

WHAT IN TARTARUS ARE YOU DOING HERE, YOU UNRULY BRAT!?!?!?

Shadow:

Nice to see you too, Ocellus.

Starlight:

Is there something we should know, Shadow?

Shadow:

It's a very long story. All I'm allowed to say on the moment is that I had a very good reason.

Ocellus:

(Furious)

Starlight, please tell me that this hooligan isn't the second student joining this school today.

Starlight:

Yes, he is. I want to know why you two are at odds, but that will have to wait until later. Right now you all need to do is attend your classes for now.

At that moment Smolder arrives to see why Ocellus yelled as she did.

Smolder:

Is everything alright--?

Shadow:

Sis!?

Smolder:

(Excited)

Shadow! It's been a long time! What are you doing here?

Shadow:

I'm a student here now. And what are you doing here?

Smolder:

I'm a teacher here. Ocellus? Why did you yelled? The whole school could hear you.

Ocellus:

(Annoyed)

It's a long story.

Starlight:

Unfortunately we need to hear about it later. Right now every creature need to attend to their respective classes. Shadow, you will have to explain all of this later.

Shadow:

I will.

Ocellus:

I swear, if you pull another of your pranks, I will--

Shadow:

It's all in the past...2 to 3 years the past to be exact. Can't we put it all behind us and be friends?

Ocellus:

With friends like you, who needs enemies?

Shadow:

(Defeated Sigh)

You can't fault me for trying.

As soon as Ocellus enters the room with Shadow and Luster, Blaze, Krystal, Flurry, Gatz, Slipstream, Yavish and Florid are overjoyed to see Shadow again, they run to him like they haven't seen him in a very, very long time.

Everyone:

(Overjoyed)

SHADOW!!!

Shadow:

(Chuckles, Smiling)

You are all here too!? Man, it has been a long time! You all look a lot different than last we met.

Blaze:

It's been years, Shadow. Of course we would look different.

Krystal:

(Blushing)

Blaze is right, Aniki. Even I got a growth spurt.

Shadow:

You seem familiar. Out of everyone here, you standout the most since I can't remember who are you. Since you are a Changeling, I assume it was on the Changeling Hive.

Krystal:

It's me Aniki. Krystal.

Shadow:

(Shocked)

Krystal!?!?!? But...you're...you're...half my age and yet...you look full grown. What happened?

Ocellus:

(Worried)

Krystal:

No Creature knows, not even me. Even Princess Twilight, every scholar and doctor doesn't know why I grew up so fast.

Shadow:

(Curious, Worried, Hiding Worries With Smile)

I see...Anyhoo...I'm glad you are doing well, Krystal.

Krystal:

(Smiling)

Thank you, Aniki.

Luster:

(Surprised, Thinking, Depressed)

I don't believe this. Shadow...Shadow knows all of them...These Creatures...all of them are next in line to lead their respective kingdoms...and they are all friends with Shadow. This...this is amazing! Shadow...Shadow is just...as amazing as Princess Twilight. Traveling the world and making friends with the most high profiled of creatures. As for me...I'm just...I'm just a bookworm that once thought I don't need friendship in order to excel. No matter what I will do...no matter what I will try...I...I will never achieve what Shadow has accomplished his whole life. I...I...I Am...

Shadow:

(Notices Luster's Sadness)

Ocellus. Can I have a moment to chat with Luster for 5 minutes. I promise I will make it up to you.

Ocellus:

5 Minutes. Not a second more.

Shadow:

Thank you. Sorry guys, but I need to postpone this reunion a little longer. Luster, we need to talk.

Outside the classroom, Shadow pulls a monogrammed handkerchief with his initials and gives one to Luster.

Shadow:

Let me guess: You compared me with you and came to the conclusion that you will never achieve what I have. Let me tell you here and now Luster: You and I are completely different people that have led totally different lives. You have lived your entire life in Canterlot while I was traveling the world looking for that deadbeat of a father. Trust me when I tell you: I wish I had your life. Living with your family day in and out, a normal childhood with an awesome teacher like the princess. All my life I had to worry on what to do in the next 7 seconds...7 seconds that could result in a calamity to myself and/or everyone around me. 7 Seconds Until The End...Do you know what it is like to have such a steep and hefty responsibility on my shoulders?

(Deep Sigh)

Luster...be proud that you have never known the strife and adversity I had to endure all my accursed life. Be proud that you lived in joy of your childhood instead of the torment of mine. On the surface...I look like I am more worthy of being a prince than anyone, but in reality...I have committed far too many sins to ever deserve the right. Luster...My friends were going to be yours too with or without us meeting. Each and one of them next in line to be the rulers of their respective kingdoms. As the princess' pupil, sooner or later you were bound to meet. So don't you dare say there was no chance of it happening, because you would be wrong. The princess sent you here to Ponyville to meet them and have them help you grow just like the princess did before you. So wipe away your tears and be proud that you are living a happy life.

Luster:

(Inspired, Grateful Smile)

Shadow...Thank you...thank you for your words. For...Being my friend.

Shadow:

(Amused Scoff)

Whatever...Now let's get back inside before Ocellus bites my head off for going over the 5 minute mark.

Luster:

How long have we been out here?

Shadow:

10 Minutes on the dot right about...Now!

Ocellus:

(Furious)

PLATINUM SHADOW!!!

Blaze:

(Facepalm, Ashamed)

Oy, Vey. First day of school and he already has detention lined up for today.

Slipstream:

(Evil Smile)

So glad Shadow hasn't changed one bit.

Krystal:

(Worried, Ashamed)

Aniki...

Yavish:

Yak can't wait for Shadow Games.

Flurry:

(Smiling)

I'm looking forward to Shadow's Wild and Wily Antics.

Gatz:

(Smiling)

Life just got brighter for all of us.

Florid:

(Smiling)

I just can't wait for all the laughs.

Not far away from Ponyville and watching Shadow and Luster from afar are 2 cloaked figures wearing masks similar to masquerade ball masks but with a futuristic look. And both of them are of the same height as the Former Princess Celestia and wearing a similar crystal that Shadow has, but the colors are different: The Male's Crystal is Golden while the Female's Crystal is Lilac.

??? (Jack?):

So it finally begins.

??? (Jewel?):

(Annoyed Scoff)

Finally! I was getting tired of being Jewel La Flaga. Now I can finally lead my Renegades as their Rightful Leader.

??? (Jack?):

Still...that girl poses a threat to my plans.

??? (Jewel?):

Girl? You mean Luster Dawn? And here I thought she was an ace in the hole for you.

??? (Jack?):

I was gauging how to work her into my plans, but unfortunately she will be more of a burden than an asset for what I have planned for my son. Luster Dawn is so green and inexperienced, she will hold Shadow's Progress Back.

??? (Jewel?):

Is that so? And what will you do? You cannot make any last minutes changes anymore. The window for that closed the moment he arrived in Ponyville.

??? (Jack?):

Not Necessarily. I will be the first to admit that it is far too late for me to make a change in plan, but that does not factor Shadow in altering it for us.

??? (Jewel?):

Meaning?

??? (Jack?):

I may have never gotten the chance to tutor Luster Dawn as much as I hoped, but that does not mean that Shadow can't do it in my stead. You saw what happened just now between them. Shadow comforted her from her insecurities and gave her a sense of hope to look forward to. If Shadow teaches Luster on everything he knows...

??? (Jewel?):

(Laughing Evilly)

You do realize what you are saying? If Shadow helps that brat grow, he won't make any progress himself. And you said so yourself that she will hurt his growth.

??? (Jack?):

True, but...if Shadow and Luster's relationship is a symbiotic one like that of Twin Telepathy, we will see some interesting development in the next couple of days. Shadow is far more resourceful than you give him credit and Luster has a few tricks of her own that no one knows except for Twilight herself. By the time he collects the Final Diary Crystal, Shadow's True Power will be nurtured enough for him to tap into it, restoring the Long Dormant Power of the Ancients and kicking off the Trinity Prophecy on schedule. As soon as it begins, we will see who is worthy and who is not. I'm looking forward to it. The Complete Collapse Of Twilight's Kingdom...

(Evil Laughter)

To Be Continued...