Chapter 13: The path to Chaj

Joseph Brooklyn, an average guy who went 17 not long ago. A human, mysteriously ending up in a land he had no knowledge of. Joe quickly befriended six ponies, he didn't even know them. Then learning later on with Twilight Sparkle's guidance, he is in the land of Equestria, Ponyville. After a few days, Joseph became more social with his new friends. He learned from them about their personal lives, likes and dislikes and even learning about overcoming himself from the past. It's amazing really, who would have thought the Equestrians would welcome him with open arms, like he belonged here. Joe loved Equestria and it's people, he could finally have a better life then on Earth. Now...he didn't expect what was coming in his future, things Joseph never thought about before.

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Joseph lifts up his fists, readying a boxing stance. Master Yang told his sparring partner to go 'easy' on him. Joe knew differently 'nothing is easy when you fight against a monk' he thought.

Miku starts moving her head around, hearing some cracking noises. She slowly lifts her four fingered right hand forward, showing the palm of her hand. Miku's left hand shows her palm but rests by the sides of her hip. Her eyes slight close half way, maintaining full concentration.

Joe did his best keeping his fighting stance, right now he feels so nervous, Joe thought he might breakdown. Something about the female rabbit intimidates Joseph, like energy surging around her, telling him 'You cannot win'.

'What is this feeling?' Joe thought, wincing slightly 'Why am I so nervous, she's going easy on me so why?'.

"Begin!" master Yang shouts, braking Joe's thoughts.

Joseph and Miku did nothing but stare for a minute, Joe didn't know what he'll do now. He knows Miku is highly skilled and would not falter against him, she is waiting for him to make a move. But if Joe doesn't make a move soon, the rabbit will instead. The human does not want Miku attacking first...Joe didn't want to attack her either 'I hate this' he thought angrily, tightening his fists.

Master Yang observes closely at the human, looking at his balled up fists, scrunched face. Yang senses Joseph's personal feelings 'I see...'.

Miku kept being silent and careful, but she relaxes while watching her opponent's eyes. 'Why won't the human strike? Is he afraid or is he calculating his moves ending with consequences?' Miku thought.

Spike meanwhile, watching from the crowd, cheers his best friend "C'mon Joe! You can do it!".

Joseph looks over his shoulder to see Spike smiling widely, Joe also smiles, feeling a boost of confidence "Nothing ventured, nothing gained" he whispers Gregory Brooklyn's quote.

Joe takes a step forward, taking a boxing stance. He thought the female rabbit would move but not surprisingly, Miku didn't even flinch. She just stared at him, keeping her palm outstretched, Miku's head tilts sideways 'His stance is...like him'.

Joseph finally makes a reckless dare, he dashes towards Miku, preparing a punch. The rabbit casually steps aside, watching Joe's punch missing entirely like it's nothing. In the human's point of view, Miku moved like lightning before Joe even threw his punch. He stumbles on the ground, picking himself up, Joe looks at her with shock 'She dodged like lightning before I threw my punch'.

But he wasn't out just yet, Joseph saw Miku with her back turned, giving a chance to counter. Joe ran up again, throwing another punch. Suddenly, she dodged again like lightning. Joseph nearly stumbles but managing to catch himself. He turns around showing more shock and awe, he didn't know how Miku did it. Joe then realised 'of course she could dodge me! She may be anthropomorphic but animals still has great senses. Plus with Chaj training, making her more agile.'

Joseph began throwing a barrage of punches wildly without second thought. The female rabbit casually dodges each punch with relative ease. As Miku avoids Joe's attacks, she kept eye contact on his eyes 'this human is very predictable, punches with no guidance' she thought.

Miku at last began using offence, grabbing Joe's wrist with her four fingered hand and grasped it tightly. Joseph gasps in fear 'Darn!'.

Miku quickly turns Joe around, pulling his arm up behind his back. This causes Joe to grit his teeth in pain "Arrgh!".

Spike yelps when Joe makes a paining sound "Joe!" the baby dragon shouted.

Master Yang didn't step in, he watches as Miku slowly brought Joseph Brooky to the ground, placing her other hand on his head. Joe gasps sharply each time Miku pressure's his arm, making sure he didn't retaliate. The human couldn't help it, the only thing Joe could do is give in by being forced down. Miku keeps her hand on Joe's head.

Yang silently sighs, Spike runs towards Joe with tears forming in his eyes "let him go you jerk!" Spike shouted.

The female rabbit gazes at Spike with no emotion 'a baby gem dragon...' thought Miku.

Joe tries moving around but with Miku's grasp, he could not move until she releases him "Spike...I'm okay, really."

"Well done Miku, please let Mr. Brooklyn go now" Master Yang commands her.

Miku swiftly releases Joe, facing forward at Yang, bowing in respect "Thank you master."

Spike helps Joe up with his stength, surprisingly, it did not take much effort "Joe! You okay brother?".

Joseph Brooklyn stands straight, feeling depressed of losing so easily. Dusting himself off, Joe glumly bows to Miku and master Yang "Thank you for this opportunity."

Yang nods slightly then he points at Spike "Now, young master Sparkle, it is your turn. Please remain there."

"Good luck Spike, be careful" said Joe, smiling warmly, rubbing his head before standing besides master Yang.

The rabbit stood besides Joseph instead of Yang, to which her master notices. He glances slyly, seeing Miku, one of their best students taking an interest in Joe. 'Not surprising, her family helped influenced their people into seeing the light with our old grand master Rubien. Miku's father fought with Kirk, right here, many years ago' the lizard thought about the past.

Master Yang motions a hand forward, signalling another student to appear. Stepping out from the crowd, a very big muscled anthropomorphic rhino appears wearing an orange Chaj uniform. It's head is like a normal rhino, a horn, grey skin but purple eyes.

The rhino giant glares at Spike fiercely, it starts blowing it's nostrils making steam come out. Successfully intimidating Spike.

Spike's eye widened, fearing the shear size of his opponent. He backs away slightly, starting to panic "m-master Yang...y-you're not s-serious...r-right?" Spike stutters, petrified.

Master Yang nods ever so calmly "This is your opponent young gem dragon."

Joseph steps in front of Yang, a mixture of rage and disbelief covering Joe's face "Master, are you mad? Spike is no match for that guy! Bigger, stronger and heck! Has Chaj training!".

Miku suddenly pops up in front of Joe expectantly, nearly making him fall backwards, the female rabbit stares angrily at him "Don't speak like that in front of a master in Chaj. Human" she said, saying 'human' venomously.

Yang pats Miku's shoulder lightly "Calm yourself, Mr. Brooklyn just cares very much about young master Sparkle's safety."

Miku does not take her eyes off Joe, still glaring angrily but went softer after master Yang spoke "Yes master, I apologise master."

"Think no more Miku" Yang said "Mr. Brooklyn, I understand how defensive you can be for your friend. However though, young master Sparkle must learn from his greatest weakness."

Joseph bites his lower lip, not completely assured by Yang's words, it was not fair on Spike going up against a rhino with Chaj skills. He is completely defenceless.

"As with Miku, go easy on him Kernot" Yang commanded.

Kernot grunted, speaking in a gruff sarcastic tone "yes master."

Spike's knees began wobbling, looking at Yang and Joe, absolutely terrified of Kernot "w-wait a minute...can we just-".

The gem dragon got cut off by Kernot's fist coming down on Spike, he sensed something, danger. Spike slowly turns his vision around, seeing a rhino's giant two fingers and a thumb balled up. Spike is too shocked to absorb what is happening, he felt his instincts saying 'move!'. Trusting instinct, Spike jumps right, avoid Kernot's fist smashing into the ground. Spike breathes heavily, sweat now dropping from his face 'What was that? I felt that something told me to move?' he thought.

But suddenly Spike felt moving again, rolling to his left, he avoided another punch from Kernot. The rhino's eye are filled with rage, probably because he missed a baby dragon, Kernot prepares another punch "This time I won't miss."

"Kernot! Stop this instant!" master Yang shouts, scaring his pupils.

Kernot did not follow Yang's order, he thrown down his fist at Spike. Joseph's eyes went wide in horror "SPIKE! NO!".

The baby gem dragon thought this is how it would end, remembering Twilight Sparkle hatching him. All those years they spent together as friends, now family. Moving into Ponyville, making friends with Twilight's, but Spike sometimes thought they didn't acknowledge him. A human suddenly came into his life, his best friend and brother, Joseph Brooklyn.

'Joe...' thought Spike 'nearly a week since you've been here in Equestria, you told me and my friends about your life. We all felt sorry for ya, kinda like me. Expect for not being a dragon. You were always there for everypony...for me. You saved Rarity...TWICE!...and I just watched...'.

Kernot threw his large fist down, for Spike it felt like slow motion. He closes his eyes and bracing for impact. Joseph's face pops up in Spike's mind, laughing heartedly. Spike opens his eyes slowly, Kernot's fist is nearly close 'Joe...you never give up. Then...why should I? Dude, I'm not letting Rarity go to a snobby pony! I won't let Twilight or my friends get hurt from anypony! I'm gonna help Joe protect everypony!' Spike thought, gaining moral inside.

The gem dragon raises two little clawed hands in front of Kernot. The rhino's brow twitched from confusion and amusement 'Is it hoping for a chance to block my attack by grabbing my fist? Ha! Foolish baby!'.

Kernot's punch crashes down, causing cracks rather large cracks on their training ground. Kernot made an evil grin when he punched Spike, proud of victory 'excellent, this puny opponent was no match for m-What the!'.

Spike, a baby dragon is clenching his claws through Kernot's fist (not that it hurt). Spike's teeth grits together while keeping Kernot's fist away from being crushed.

The big rhino couldn't help but gawk over this situation 'never, ever, in my life or family's life who's punch obliterated our enemies. But this baby dragon managed to grab and stop my punch from maximum impact!'.

"Impressive...for a baby gem dragon, lets see you dodge this!" Kernot roars with rage, lifting his other fist up.

Spike tries moving away but struggling with Kernot's other fist pushing down "u-uh oh" Spike whispers.

Before the rhino tries smashing Spike once more, he sensed an strong power coming towards him. Kernot's head turns right, now wishing he never did so. Joseph Brooklyn charges at him with anger written on Joe's face. He punches Kernot's face head on, sending him rolling across the ground, Chaj trainees caught him just in time.

Joseph breathes heavily, forgetting Kernot, he kneels down to Spike "Spike! Are you alright?" Joe asks, checking over Spike for injuries.

Spike wipes some sweat away, steadily standing up with Joe's support. Master Yang and Miku appear in front of Kernot. Yang's face didn't give any emotion away but to his students, master Yang's eyes give it away "Young Kernot, I am highly disappointed in you. I specifically told you 'go easy on him' but you disobeyed me and the way of Chaj. You also disobeyed me, you never disobeyed a master. That is a serious offence to our way of Chaj. Kernot, you shall be punished at the chambers of Caswell until grand master Chardonnay makes a verdict. Take him away."

In a flash of a second, Kernot is being carried away by a walrus and ox. Yang sighs sadly, looking over at Joseph and Spike "Joseph...Spike...I am sorry, I understand you are outraged with my decision. Kernot can be aggressive but I did not foresee this would happen."

Joe looks away from Spike to Yang, still feeling angry but more calmer "What were you thinking? Spike is only a baby dragon and a lot smaller than that rhino!".

"That's it, that is the whole reason" master Yang replied rather calmly.

"I don't understand" said Joseph.

Yang walks forward but slowly, sensing Joe's anger "young master Sparkle's weakness is facing the world around him being small whilst others tower over, he feels weak and discouraged. By facing an opponent greater by size, young master Sparkle's power adapts in situations. For example, when Kernot tried punching him, mister Sparkle dodged it, and the other punch."

Joe calms completely down, looking at Spike with wonder. "Even blocking Kernot's punch, his family are powerful fist fighters."

Spike picks himself up from the cracks, looking down on them, he felt extremely surprised about his Injuries "Huh? It doesn't hurt...much."

Yang nods "It seems so, if you didn't block however, it may have ended up...terrible. But, tell me, did you hear a voice maybe?" he asks, tilting his head.

Spike starts scratching his head "err...kinda...yeah".

"I see".

Joe suddenly stands up, a question sparkling in those eyes "Voice? Master, I may have heard it too".

Master Yang's eye snaps left at Joe "oh? Interesting...you both have adapted well."

Joe and Spike are now confused, completely lost their minds "Master, what are you talking about? What are these voices?" Joe asks.

"Simple. Your voices" said Yang in a blank tone.

Joseph and Spike did not speak, not even moving an inch, as if the world has come to a stop. Master Yang sighs in defeat "Alright, I shall tell you but I don't want questions, we're wasting time, you must overcome your fears" Yang says quickly, walking to their next destination.

"Miku, you and the other shall continue training until tea. Understood?".

Miku the rabbit bows "Yes master. We shall see you soon."

"Anyway, The voices you heard are yours, your conscious. And no, it's not another person, your power makes the brain more aware of its surroundings. For instance, if you're alone in a forest and someone else is following you. Normally you wouldn't know or it's hard to locate. With your power, it increases it, making you aware of those around you far away and guiding you from danger."

Joe's mind goes back, when Rarity was kidnapped by diamond dogs. Joseph sensed something was watching them and how right Joe was, but shrugged it off. 'That day with Rarity, I-I understand now' Joe thought.

"Your power also helps you fight better, remembering techniques that other use. It will be useful for having a rematch with Miku Mr. Brooklyn" Yang said, smiling a little.

It sent chills down Joe's spine "y-yes master" he squeaks.

"Here we are, this is another training ground, the same but one thing for young master Sparkle which will be shown soon" Yang said.

The training ground looks exactly like the previous one, young Chaj warriors being trained by masters for each group. Some punching air step-by-step, others fighting on tall pillars and so on, a new group are fighting with long wooden poles. They battle cried for each attack.

Spike looks around, astonished "Sir, what are we gonna learn?".

Yang chuckles softly "You will...sit down for 10 minutes watching those students train...each."

"What! Why?" Joe and Spike shouts.

"You will adapt. I must talk with another master, back in a few minutes" said Yang, walking off to a master.

Joseph and Spike dropped down on their bottoms, looks of disbelief "This is weird" Spike mutters.

"I agree, we should just be starting already" Joe glances at the sun "Judging by the sun, almost evening."

Spike shrugs "Guess we just stare at them all."

Joseph and Spike watches their fellow students in training for at least 6 minutes, at first they were annoyed with master Yang's command. Speculating they would not learn a thing from watching others who have trained more. But, they slowly began seeing it was not silly. As they watched, something inside their heads felt refreshing. Joe and Spike are remembering, fighting stances, speed and movement. Like they are reading a book, remembering key moments that become important for the story. Or learning science, improving knowledge.

Master Yang is standing away from them under some shelter, carefully examining Joe and Spike's eyes 'Incredible, they are adapting already in short time. But not enough time for them, it's evening, those two are getting annoyed waiting. I must get started, we will train while making them overcome their little problems' thought Yang, walking up to Spike and Joseph.

Clapping his hands once, getting the boys attention "times up, let us proceed training" Yang commanded.

"Finally! We're gonna do something!" Spike cheers with enthusiasm.

Joseph pouts at Spike disapprovingly "Spike, be respectful".

Yang shakes his head with a smile "No need, I won't lie, it is time for you start training. However, with so little time, we can't train to your full potential. So, now that you both watched other students train in different styles, we can see how you will fight."

Master breathes out, making a fighting stance "Now, I want you both repeating me on my command. Ready?".

Joseph and Spike take their own stances "Ready!" they confirm.

"Punch right!" Yang yells "make sure your left fist is by the side of the hip, the bottom of your fist should face upwards."

Joe and Spike followed master Yang's motions step-by-step. "Now...punch left!" Yang yells while punching the air.

Once again Spike and Joseph did exactly what Yang did before, only reversed those motions. Master Yang kept repeating punches, making sure the boys got a hang of it, feeling that he needed not to explain his next move in detail. "Kick right!".

Spike and Joe did so, swiftly and smoothly. Yang now begins throwing punches slowly without his guidance, the boys did exactly what their master did. Keep a steady pace, master Yang quickens it, then suddenly does as left kick, being followed immediately by Joe and Spike. The lizard master felt very impressed 'extraordinary! Their power is already adapting, by watching others train and practising with me. Their power is making them focus...time to move up' Yang thought.

"Enough! You are adapting very well, let us see you complete our obstacle course" Yang pointed to a small, simple yet hard looking obstacle course with other students running, sliding, climbing and jumping with great agility.

"Since you both are good at following my movements, can you complete this course without a stumbling, tripping or falling?".

Joseph and Spikes watches how the students perform this course, at the beginning it has 6 thick short logs. Each one going low and high, but the distance between them prove difficult to dodge if running quickly. Another part is climbing up a very tall and wide rope ladder, it prevents you quickly moving because of the wind blowing. Once on top, sliding must be done, it is not easy however. The trainees must slide down on their feet, avoiding collision with wooden poles, or face painful outcomes. Last but not least, jumping onto pillar to pillar , this is out of all, the hardest obstacle course. Over 15 pillars are present, some thin or thick, some tall or small. Miss a jump or loose balance, you fall down a long pit. Spike and Joe shiver on the thought of falling down "Sir, we could fall" Joe yelps while looking down a deep pit.

Yang chuckles softly in amusement "don't worry, if you fall, you get back up and continue. If you fall again, you try again. Fall again...you have one crippled bottom."

"Thanks dude, THATS reassuring!" Spike said sarcastically.

"Master Yang, is this really going to help us...whatever we're training for?" Joe asked, he'll never stop thinking about what Spirit is gaining from this.

Master Yang stares in Joe's eyes, almost freighting the human "you shall see young Brooklyn, you shall see".

Joe takes a moment to think about it 'we may get hurt doing this, maybe seriously. Yet, I faced my bullies beating me up if they caught me. I didn't run away, just told my teacher after being beat up. I faced pain before, saw a huge dragon and rescued Rarity from the diamond dogs. What could possibly stop me from being hurt?'.

"Master Yang, I will do this course" Joe said, bowing quickly before going to the starting line.

Spike stutters confusingly, but following Joe's footsteps as well. Yang simply smiles slightly at Joe's sudden fire. He puts each hand into each sleeve, relaxing until they finish under Yang's command. Master Yang sees Joseph and Spike are ready, even stretching a bit, Yang takes a deep breath and shouts loudly "You will complete this obstacle course until I feel you both have accomplished it. If you do by accident trip, fall or collide, just continue. Remember the course, learn of to manoeuvre and correct your agility speed."

Joe and Spike nods in acknowledgement, Yang nods approvingly "Ready?...Begin!" he commands.

The duo tense up, bolting off as if hearing a gunshot from a 100 meter race. They met their first obstacle, logs. Joe manages to avoid one by jumping over and ducking a higher one, however, due to his running speed, Joe almost trips over a third log. But when the forth is in sight, Joseph wasn't ready for ducking. This caused Joe to collide into the log, winding him out.

Spike also manages to jump over the first log which surprises himself. Spike being small, it looks like his power is indeed increasing, slowly but increasing. However, this accomplishment is going to be short lived, Spike misses a perfect jump making the gem dragon land horribly and crashing into a lower log.

Joe and Spike groans in pain, Yang sighs disappointingly, expecting better from them "Continue" the lizard orders.

Joseph and Spike mumbles a few words but gets up, walking out of the logs and moving onto the tall and wide rope ladder. Students are climbing fast as they can through windy conditions, wasn't really windy below for some reason. Joe and Spike now climb to the top, Yang made another disappointed sigh they weren't moving quick enough. Spike and Joseph were having a tough challenge climbing up, as they went further up, the wind grew stronger, moving the rope ladder like a rag doll. They struggled to hold on while moving up, both went up carefully and slowly.

5 minutes have passed until Joe and Spike reached the top.

Master Yang continues watching in disbelief, never in his life has he seen anyone take this long to complete this course, or even one obstacle 'My word! This is a new record in history! The longest time to beat this course was 2 minutes and 9 seconds, those two took five minutes and 34 seconds to climbs up that!' Yang thought furiously.

Joseph and Spike take deep breathes of exhaustion, they look down at their next obstacle, sliding down a slope with wooden poles which must be avoided. Joe feels brave and decides to place his foot on the slope, feeling somewhat secure, the human takes his other foot onto the slope.

Spike quickly follows this but is too quick which made Spike accidentally slip and slide down. Joe sees this and panics "Spike! Hang on-WHOA!" Joe yelps, he too slips, following Spike's misstep.

Yang doesn't sigh on this one, it was common for new comers to not slip on their first try, he watches as Spike and Joe try slowing down by gripping using their feet. Unfortunately it failed, their legs are spread wide, not good news when they collided into a log. Joe and Spike gasps in the utmost pain they have ever felt, not screaming or yelling in pain, just an open mouth and sitting extremely still.

Master Yang places his hands in front of him together, shutting his eyes when they collided 'for their sake and pride, I'll go easy on them...no, I will not actually. They can shake this off.'

Joe rests his back on the surface, not making a sound, twitching his head to see Spike, Joseph gasps as loud as he could "Spi...spi...Spike".

Spike twists his head sideways with struggle, his eyes are closed and teeth gritting together "Y...yeah?" Spike hisses.

"Lets not tell the girls about...ouch...this" Joe suggests.

Spike nods slightly "Yeah...good idea...dude...this hurts...so much".

Joe looks winces as he tried moving his legs "We...must keep moving" said Joe, trying to stand up again.

Two pairs of anthropomorphic grass hoppers swiftly carries Joseph and Spike down to the pillars "By master Yang's command, we were told to bring you both down here. Good luck, may the guidance of the old grand master Rubein be with you" the two male grass hoppers spoke together, saying their goodbyes with a bow then hopping off.

Joe and Spike watches them leave without another word. Spike looks at their final obstacle, he makes a big gulp "W-well, here's the final obstacle" said Spike, trying to motivate himself and his friend.

Joseph also looks down, seeing a deep pit. Looking up, he sees the 15 logs, some tall and some short, some thick and some thing, miss a jump and you fall. Joe looks over at Spike who is nervous as much, Joe nodded, he is going first again.

Joseph took the first jump onto a thick pillar which wasn't hard to jump on at all, he sees two other pillars in front, a tall thin one or short thick one. Joe plays it safe and jumps on the short pillar with ease, he made a mistake, the next one is not tall but thin with a bit more distance. Joe quickly scans for another way out, the only one was the pillar he just jumped from, it is too tall to jump on. Joseph with no other choice, takes a leap of faith for the pillar. Joe's heart felt as if it stopped beating, only hearing wind whistling through his ears, he is nearing the pillar until his foot missed the pole. Joe's face went pale now he is falling down, landing on the ground with a 'thump'.

"JOE!" Spike yells, seeing his best friend falling, the baby dragon panics until he sees Joe getting up with pain.

Spike couldn't just give up now, he had to continue on. So Spike jumps on the pillar like Joe did, he decided to however, jump opposite. Spike uses his claw to grab the thin pillar, he climbs up, maintaining his balance if possible. Spike encountered Joe's problem, this time, 2 thin pillars with distance. Spike felt this wasn't fair while seeing other students jump from pillar to pillar like it was so easy. He chooses the short thin pillar, Spike wriggles a little, then pounces like a tiger for its prey. However, his pounce isn't quite good enough to reach the pillar, thus leading to Joe's fate.

Joe sees Spike falling down and manages to catch him "are you okay? Spike?" Joseph asks.

"I'm okay, we-we gotta continue. We just gotta do this, for Twilight and the others, lets make them proud of us" Spike encouraged.

Joe nods in agreement, he looks around for a way back up. A wooden ladder is seen at this obstacle's end. The human walks while carrying Spike to the ladder, getting them out of this pit of embarrassment. For them, pit of embarrassment indeed, no one else has fallen down, not on any obstacle. Spike jumps out of Joe's arms and climbs up the tall ladder with ease followed by his best friend.

Joseph and Spike reaches back onto green grass, they look around for Master Yang, they see him giving a stern expression. The gem dragon and human gulps down nervously, awaiting a long scolding. Joe and Spike jogs over to Yang's position, their lizard trainer remains silent until his students finally reach him after...more or less complete their first trial at this course. Master Yang pulls blinks a few times, then scratching his chin in thought "for your first time attempting this course, I must say this...".

Joseph and Spike held their breath, hoping for a good report. Yang puts his hands behind his back then closing his eyes "I have never ever seen any one fail this badly."

Joe and Spike felt a surge of pain through their chest, like a sharp cold spear piercing a heart from Yang's words. "So badly in fact, that this is possible the worst, slowest and most clumsy attempt at this very simple course in the history of Chaj."

Joseph and Spike faces went from pain to shock, their Chaj master not only said they were bad, he had to go far saying they are the worst in their history. Master Yang sighs "Do it again until I say stop. AGAIN!" Yang commanded his students.

"Y-YES MASTER!" Spike and Joe shouted, running back to the course once again.

Joe and Spike rushes through the wooden logs yet again, but this time they improve slightly. Besides them both hitting a log again they got up more quickly then before. Joseph and Spike climbs up on the tall rope ladder, they improved this time only 2 minutes and 46 seconds.

For Yang, he nodded happily 'Excellent, they are adapting, if they do this once or twice again, it shall be a breeze.'

The human and gem dragon quickly got to their most painful obstacle, a slope with logs. Joe and Spike looks at each other, looks of determination in their eyes show. Surprisingly, they were not as cautious, they took a step and manages to balance themselves while sliding. Joe tilts his body slightly left, avoiding a log. Spike follows also, dodging a log as well. Now increasing speed unwillingly, Joe and Spike is about to collide with a log, he crashes into it but recovers and continues sliding down.

Joseph and Spike rolls off the obstacle and runs up to the pillars rather quickly, Joe and Spike quickly jumps on one to another, picking out their pillars more wisely. Both go to the middle until they accidentally took a misstep, falling down once more. Spike and Joseph quickly picked themselves off the ground and climbs up the ladder. Master Yang nods slightly, more impressed "Again!" he shouted.

Joseph and Spike quickly ran over to the star of the obstacle course yet again, they ran through the logs at relatively good agility. They dodged every single log, quickly and smoothly, Yang's eyes sparkled with amazement 'Oh my...they are actually doing it. They may have fully adapted.'

The duo bolted forward as soon as they finished the first obstacle and climbs up the tall rope ladder, their climbing speed has improve greatly, 24 seconds. Master Yang's eyes went wide, very surprised at this 'Incredible! They have greatly beaten their old record! Not even Kirk was this quick on his third attempt.'

Joe and Spike thought nothing else when they arrived on top, they slide down without hesitation, now dodging every log in an impressive speed like its nothing difficult. Both simultaneously jump off the edge and roll when they made contact on the ground. Joseph ran towards the pillars, not slowing down or a single thought, he jumps and taps his right foot on one pillar and swiftly jumping on another, then another and another. Spike also moves more quickly due to being small, he must keep up, nearly following Joe's steps, he swiftly jumps from pillar to pillar.

Joe thought about how this felt similar to an assassin from a video game, doing park-our around the cities of the world. It felt amazing to Joe and Spike, they felt...superior of their old selves. Joe sees a final pillar which he and his best friend must make a leap of faith if they so wish on finishing their training. Joe makes a few more jumps and finally jumps on the last pillar, in a split second, Joseph focuses all his strength on making a leap of faith. He bends down slightly with one leg and sprang it up, jumping off with all his might while putting his hands forward as if he's diving into a pool. Joe is flying over the pit he and Spike fell down twice, a trickle of sweat drops of his chin, hoping this time is a successful jump. Joe's heart skips a beat with bliss, he felt his body land on a solid ground while rolling slight as he landed, Joseph stands up, looking back in pride. But before Joe could scream cheering for victory, he had almost forgot Spike is still trying to complete the final obstacle, just a few more jumps.

Spike saw his best friend, or rather his 'brother' the baby dragon sometimes thought when Joseph Brooklyn, a human made a leap of faith, and what leap it was. Spike needed to concentrate as he jumps onto the last pillar, he gathers all the strength a baby dragon could muster for a leap of faith and jumps. Joseph and Spike felt as if time has slowed down as the gem dragon gains closer to the ledge. Spike grabs onto the ledge, praising Celestia for his claws but the dirt Spike is clinging on is tearing off by the dragons claws and weight. Joseph gasps and rushes in aid for Spike but immediately stops, realising what would happen 'If I help Spike up, it could be cheating...but I don't think that's what made me stop. Spike would probably be mad at me for helping, he has to test himself, I believe in him' Joe thought for Spike, but this didn't stop him from holding a hand out for Spike.

Spike sees Joe holding his hand out, but he wasn't close enough for contact. Spike then notices Joe is believing he can do this without help, Spike uses more strength in his arms and pulls himself up as quick as possible before following another drop. The gem dragon rolls away from the edge while breathing out a sigh of relief, Spike looks over towards Joe who quickly picks him up and spinning around like a father with a son "Spike! We did it! We didn't make a mistake!" Joe cheers.

"I know right! Dude! That was amazing! WE DID IT!" Spike joins in, adding laughs of joy.

Joseph and Spike hugs each other, taking in their moment of accomplishment.

Master Yang looks at his watch with an normal expression, he sees his students looking over and starts running over. Spike and Joe stood before their master, backs straight and heads held high, especially for Spike. Yang places his hands behind him, watching Joseph and Spike sternly "Your first performance was so terrible, a pack of old sloth grandmothers was faster than that. Your second was an improvement...but you had moved like a turtle just finishing a race. Your third performance...".

Joe and Spike braces for Yang's disappointed speech "You both moved like snake rushing through fire. Well done both of you, I am very proud of you."

Joseph and Spike's eyeballs went out so far, they almost pop out in shock and delight from their master's praise. It is an honour hearing from someone you don't know about but is a high level of authority in Chaj and is training you personally. That couldn't be beaten, even Celestia...maybe.

Master Yang looks up at the sun, surprisingly for Joe and Spike, it is almost evening, Yang stomps his foot lightly on the ground in frustration "it seems as if time has taken a bit of a toll on us, you'll be missing a training session and will be moving onto your final training session. Follow me please" said Yang in a hurry while walking off like a storm.

Joe and Spike quickly cathes in with their master and keeping a steady pace with him "master, if we may ask, what was our other training we were suppose to do?" Joseph asks curiously.

"It was a combat training session with me, however, although seemingly the same thing. I would have helped perfected your rightfully fighting style, you will have to figure out how you will perform those moves to your liking in the final training session and when you both leave Xenthur. For now, you two must be hungry, no?" Yang smiles, hearing his students stomachs growl.

Joe and Spike blush hearing their stomachs growl from hunger, master Yang guides them where they fought with Miku and Kernot "would you kindly follow me up these stairs for your food" said Yang, walking up the stairs with Joe and Spike following suite.

They entered a rather large room with all kinds of anthropomorphic creatures sitting down cross legged eating whatever they had on their plates. The green scale lizard of Chaj shows Joseph and Spike their meals "Here we have a simple yet filling meal for you, egg roast rice, hijouk leaves, green beans and a little bowl of ruqa sauce. Very well balanced meal, should last you a day."

A chef presented a Chinese like plate, crafted and polished beautifully, Joe notices most of the food looks like some back on earth. The egg roast rice which is an equivalent of egg fried rice, hijouk leave looked like some herbal leaves, green beans looks like Earth's, just a bit bigger and longer and ruqa sauce...its hopefully like Soy sauce. Joe and Spike picks up their plates with chopsticks added with it. Master Yang bows respectively at his students "enjoy your meal, for 15 minutes, I'll be back with your final training session. Good evening." Yang said his goodbyes in a hurry, and walks out.

"Where should we sit bro?" asks Spike, holding his plate.

Joe looks around and sees three empty spaces "over there, lets hurry before they are taken" Joe advises as they speed walk over to sit down at one of four long tables. Joseph and Spike places their plates down on the table, Joe picks up his chopsticks and positions them in his fingers, first easting some egg roast rice. Spike watches Joe eat with two sticks in his human fingers, he picks his chopsticks up as well and tries copying but couldn't seem to pick up his food. In frustration, Spike pokes his chopsticks into the leaves. Joe notices Spike poking his food angrily, he swallows before speaking "You okay Spike? Need some help?".

"Dude! How the hay can ya use those sticks? I can't do it!" Spike raises his voice.

Joseph makes an innocent smile at Spike "don't worry Spike, even on my world, not everyone can hold chopsticks. I'll show you how, its easy and fun. First off, since you have four fingers, put the chopstick on your last finger, make sure its curled up a bit so it doesn't slip off."

Spike does what he told him, Joe nods "good, remember, that stick shouldn't move and you'll see why. Next, get your other chopstick and hold it using three of your fingers."

Again, Spike does this, now feeling excited now that he is doing it, Joe nods approvingly "good, now try move your chopstick, make it tap with the other, remember, don't move the other one. Make sure your three finger chopstick is only moving."

Spike now begins slowly moving his three claws up and down with his chopstick, tapping them together, Joe points at a leave, seeing its easy to pick up "try pick that up and eat it."

The gem dragon carefully picks up a leaf, Spike's eyes sparkle in glee, he slowly began moving it into his mouth, successfully eating it. Spike chews and chews until swallowing, he looks at Joe, a clawed thumbs up "Thank you so much Joe! This is really cool! I gotta show Twilight and the others this!" Spike starts hugging Joe's arms, letting out a chuckle as well.

Joe pats his head like a big brother "I had to, couldn't let my little brother go on fighting without an empty stomach to get the mare of his dreams" Joe laughs heartedly.

Spike gives a playful push "Dude! Don't let anypony hear that!" he chuckles.

"Honestly, I cannot understand why you act this" a familiar voice suddenly speaks out.

Joe turns his head around and sees a certain someone that he met not too long ago, it is Miku the rabbit sitting next to Joe with the same food and amount, she sitting on her calves like how most females in Asia would. Miku took some rice and chews softly, she catches the duo staring, Miku swallows her food before speaking "Is something wrong?" she asks raising a brow cautiously.

Joseph and Spike jumps in fear "n-nothing!" they both shouted then quickly eating their food.

Miku shakes her head sideways with disappointment at their behaviour, she makes a sly glance at the human who is looking back and forth at her, seemingly wanting a question or two asked "What is it that you wish to discuss with me Mr. Brooklyn?".

Joe feels very surprised at this, but discarded his thoughts because of her years of training in Chaj "If you don't mind me asking, do you know what Master Yang is planning for us?".

Miku swallows her green bean with soy sauce "He will not give any information towards other except those who have authority in Chaj. I cannot help you with this subject. Next" the rabbit moves on impatiently.

"Urm...what can you tell us about the history of Chaj?" Joe asks whilst rubbing his neck.

Miku quietly sips some red herb tea that the servant gave out for everyone "I have heard master Yang told you some history, he covered our past history and how Chaj came to rule. I suppose I can tell you the aftermath of Chaj, however, not much is highly important but I will tell."

Spike and Joe finishes off their food and began drinking some red herb tea, it tastes incredible, like cherry blossoms. Miku takes a deep breath before giving her brief talk "after the war was won, the clan Chaj and our allies the rebels seized control over powerful clans and territories. Once we made sure every other clan has either surrendered or been killed. The new people of our land decided it was time to make an election on who should become leader of Xenthur. It so happens that that leader was the old grand master Rubein, for his sight of wisdom and light which led us to victory. We rebuilt Xenthur from all the damaged that was caused, it took time, but everything was built once again. While Xenthur was in peace and harmony, the Chaj masters had a discussion on what will the future of Chaj will be? Old grand master Rubein decided that this area where the Chaj clan will grow...Kraan home of the Chaj clan. We have openly welcomed new students on learning the art of Chaj."

Joe feels warm inside from Xenthur's and Chaj's happy ending "thank you for telling us that, we really are interested in your country and Chaj's history" Joseph bows.

Miku's cheeks turns light pink "It-think nothing of it! I am glad you are learning more about our history."

All of a sudden, the room has got louder and louder from mumbling to loud chatter, Joe, Spike and Miku felt confused by what is happening. They bow in thanks for their food and walks through the crowd. The three have got near the ending seeing all the Chaj students circling around master Yang "good evening students, today, we are having yet another sparing match." he informs.

Joe, Spike and Miku look at each other for an answer, nothing, all completely clueless right now "I will announce four students to come forth. Miku and Kernot! Step forward!" Yang commands.

Miku's ears perks up, her facial expression turns surprised and in thought 'who could I be sparing this time?' thought Miku and she walks by her master's side.

Kernot the rhino walks trough the crowd and stands next to Yang, it doesn't look like it but in his eyes, Kernot is very angry. Spike swallows nervously at seeing Kernot again, Joseph thought who would be their opponents.

Master Yang waits for a moment of silence and continues "will Joseph Brooklyn and Spike Sparkle step forth please!".

Joseph and Spike froze when their names have been called out, both are now in absolute fear, their bodies moved as if against their will. They stood before Yang in pale faces "Mr. Brooklyn, Miku shall be your opponent once again and Spike, Kernot is as well."

Joe looks at Miku in horror, Miku stares at Joe, looking slightly surprised but maintanes her structure. Spike looks up, his pupils went small at Kernot glares darkly at him while smirking evilly. Yang asks the two boys to follow him while their opponent are warming up, Joe and Spike couldn't do anything but follower their master's words. Master Yang and his two students are away from the crowd, he begins a private chat "Yes yes, before you both start whining like children losing their balloons, would you kindly listen. Do not worry about this battle, it is only one match, and with your skills and adapting from others. You will win this battle. You will understand once it begins."

"But master Yang! How can I beat Kernot!" Spike shouts.

Master Yang searches his left pocket and gives Spike a short metal bar, Spike takes it and inspects it "what is thing?".

"That is an extendible steel staff, it may look short but if you press that button, it'll extend as much as you like. To an extent" Yang explains.

Spike sees a little circle button and presses it, suddenly, the sides of the little bar extends into a long steel staff. The gem dragon accidentally drops being surprised, Yang picks it up and starts doing to simple to professional combat moves with a staff "Since your greatist weakness is being small, you need something that will help reach heights and fight your enemies if they are too far and tall" Yang closes the staff back into its original form and gives it to Spike "it is yours now, I hope you will use it well."

Spike holds it like a new pet he must protect, he nods slowly "Yes master, thank you master Yang."

Yang turns towards Joe with nothing in his hands "No weapon for you Mr. Brooklyn, from observing you, you are strangely like us Chaj fighters using their hands and feet. All I can say for you is that focus and remember from the other students you have learnt from just by observing them. And remember Miku's style."

Joe slowly bows "y-yes master."

"Remember this, both of you, I want you to also think why you are fighting, you have goals and wish to see them fulfilled. Use that as your strength, not hate and pain...off you go into the circle now" said Yang, giving some last moments advice.

Joseph and Spike bows and go's to the circle, deeply in thought 'What is going on? First we're once again, fighting to people we had no hope in beating. For Celestia's sake, Miku beat me without break a sweat, I was like a...oh well, no choice anyhow, guess I should do what I've learnt and focus. I got a good feeling' he thought while walking through his fellow students and entering the circle.

Spike speed walks with Joe, he too also thinking about this sudden training 'Dude, you've gotta be kidding me...I'm gonna fight that Kernot guy again!' Spike glances at Kernot who glares darkly at the baby dragon 'Well, I don't know how but I'll beat this guy!'.

The duo stands in front of their opponents looking straight into their eyes, master Yang stands firm "Bow."

Joe, Spike, Miku and Kernot bow respectfully at each other, "First up shall be Brooklyn sparring Miku. Young master Sparkle and Kernot, please stand aside and observe."

Spike quickly nods and jogs into the crowd of Chaj trainees, Kernot walks to them as well, grumbling softly. Joseph and Miku stood still and silently, awaiting for their masters command, but before that, Miku walks up to Joe. She stares at him in silence, Joseph realises he is being rude and bows quickly, he slowly tilts up his head seeing Miku's four furry fingered hand. Joe looks directly at her then stands straight, understanding she wants a handshake. Joseph is about to shake her hand until Miku bows as well, she suddenly senses his hand and stares at the humans face. Miku stands straight and they slowly shook hands. Joe felts Miku's grip, like iron fingers scraping metal from a car.

Master Yang smiles warmly 'maybe she discovered a human isn't as bad after all' Yang thought with a quiet laugh.

"Are you ready?" asks Yang, or rather building up their motivation.

Miku brought her palms forward, repeating her same fighting style, Joseph brought up his fists to his face like a boxer "oh Miku, this time, don't go easy on him" Yang advises her.

Miku simply nods in confirmation, Joe moans inside "great...thank you master Yang."

"BEGIN!" Yang shouts.

Miku now runs towards Joseph like a speeding bullet, she brought her palm forward, attempting a quick knock out attack. Joe sees her attack from experience of others, her speed and palm attack, he makes a squat position, dodging her blow. Miku felt confused but only for a fraction of a second until realising Joe had dodged her. The human attempts a quick punch to her stomach without hesitation, Miku moves out of the way but felt her opponent's fist slightly touches her stomach. The rabbit skids and like lightning, charges towards Joe yet again, this time she is going to send a barrage of kicks and punches. Joseph stands ready for whatever is coming, Miku does a side kick but Joe's palm snaps open and stops her kick. She didn't stop there, Miku now throws a punch to his face but Joe caught it. The rabbit growls angrily and quickly lifts her left foot kick Joe's head, he saw this and ducks his head down, only noticing Miku kneeing his stomach. Joseph almost yells in pain if Miku didn't try a spin kick, Joe got his thoughts together and hops backwards. He gasps for air, much as he could breath in 'I know I should be groaning in pain but what I just did was amazing. My senses are like a fox, except for not realising she kneed me in my stomach but I think I'm starting to get this. Can I keep this up? She isn't holding back no more...ouch! This hurts'.

Joe suddenly hears Spike in his mind, saying something that boosted their spirits up "We just gotta do this, for Twilight and the others, lets make them proud of us" Spike voice echoes through Joe's head.

"I want you to also think why you are fighting, you have goals and wish to see them fulfilled. Use that as your strength, not hate and pain" Master Yang's voice also echoes.

Joseph sees an image of his six mare friends all smiling at him with Spike, Luna, Celestia and his father, he sighs deeply 'thank you all for this second chance...now let me repay you!'.

Joe snaps his head up, staring at Miku completely calmly. Miku tilts her head sideways in confusion 'he's changed of a sudden...wait...what is happening? Why do I feel a strong sense of ener-'.

Miku's train of thoughts has been interupted by Joe's charging straight at Miku fist first, the rabbits senses kicks in at the last minute and she barely had time to dodge. However, Joseph wasn't stopping now, he continues punching her, pushing her backwards as she blocks as quickly as a rabbit could move. Miku is now struggling to keep blocking, the humans punches are very strong which is making her arms bruise. If she tried counter striking it could be a risky move, Miku sees Joe isn't using his legs to kick, this could be her advantage. She swings her foot to Joe's ankles, hoping to knock him down, expectantly, Joe stomps his foot down on hers, Miku gasps with horror as her eyes went wide. The human then lets go swiftly, Miku looks at Joe seeing his head pulled back and then swinging forward for a headbutt. Joseph's head hits her head straight on sending her rolling across the ground.

Some students caught her from rolling further, Spike's jaw nearly hits the ground, he felt absolutely astonished by Joe's sudden combat improvement. And he actually send Miku who beat him effortlessly and now Joe has sent her rolling. Lots of chatter erupted at the human making a critical blow on one of the best new students. The rabbit slowly moves her head around, seeing images of her fellow students being fuzzy or faded. Miku couldn't hear the chatter around herself, only hearing a long irritating beep and her breathing. She couldn't believe what has just happened, a human, trained for a few hours is beating her in 7 minutes. She clenches her fists with anger.

Master Yang sees her hand trembling with anger 'oh dear, it seems that her father's past with Kirk is affecting her.'

Miku struggles standing back up while maintaining her balance, she wobbles but manages to stay standing. Disorientated and hurt badly from a strong blow on her head, it was lucky Miku is standing at all "I-I...will...n-not...lose like my...father against the human...Kirk!" Miku screams, she charges angrily, attempting a punch.

Before she could even hit Joe, Miku felt a surge of pain at her stomach, Joseph Brooklyn has counter attacked. Miku felt weak at Joe's powerful punch, she allows herself to collapse 'how? This is just like how father lost.'

Joe caught her before she hit the ground, he has a pained expression with guilt and sadness, Joe thought he went too far "I'm so sorry Miku, I'm-".

Master Yang places a hand on Joe's shoulder, giving a reassuring smile "don't worry Mr. Brooklyn, Miku did very well until she let her emotions out."

"She said that her father lost to Kirk like this" said Joe, remembering her words of Kirk.

"Yes, he trained here, like you, Kirk met a new rival named Guigan. Miku's father was a excellent student here so I heard, well respected and skilled. Until Kirk arrived, Guigan saw him a threat to his place in Chaj. He rusfused working with Kirk and trained endlessly to one day defeat him. Once that day came, Kirk bested him, but the human wasn't selfish, Kirk knew Guigan was a strong warrior and respected him. Guigan and Kirk were sort of friends if you like, Guigan quoted they were 'equals in training'."

Miku's eyes flutters open, seeing Yang and Joe looking down at her concerned "Master...I failed."

"You did not, you have done very well Miku, I am proud of you" Yang assures her.

Miku looks away shamefully "but...my father will not be pleased."

Master Yang sighs sadly "You are right on that point, I will accompany you home and talk with him."

Miku bit her lip "thank you master."

Yang smiles happily and claps his hand once "Next up is young master Sparkle against Kernot! Step forward" the lizard looks over at Joe and Miku "Mr. Brooklyn, could you carry Miku to the medical apprentice?".

Joe snaps out of his own little world and nods "yes master!" Joseph picks Miku up bridal style.

The female rabbit gasps at this sudden action from her former opponent, Miku blushes red and looks over at Yang for assistance "m-master! I can walk fine!".

"Nonsense! You think you can walk from blow to the head and stomach? Nice try, off you go please. Get well soon Miku, I'll send you a card" Yang smirks.

Before Miku could make a comeback, Joseph took her to the apprentice frog doctor wearing a light blue monk suit with a first aid symbol "thank you, you may return to your duties" she said, placing Miku on her back and bouncing off.

Joe watches them leave "I'll visit her after Spike, I better get back in there before it starts" the human rushes back into the crowd ring.

Spike, holding his metal staff, watching Kernot's death glare. The gem dragon remains calm as best as possible, master Yang steps back, giving some space for them "are you ready?".

Kernot snorts at Spike, trying to intimidate him "heh...you know what? Forfeit this match and I'll forget everything about our fight and let you walk away. Good deal huh?".

Spike ignores Kernot's offer "no way! I'm not gonna give up after all me and Joe been through! I'm gonna make my friends proud by completing my training and beating you!".

Kernot growls furiously "You're going to regret you were ever hatched, brat."

Spike also growls "I'm glad it was Twilight."

"BEGIN!" master Yang shouts, starting their battle and finale match today,

Kernot starts by raising his fist into the air and bringing it down like a hammer, Spike watches this and prepares dodging, before that, he realises it's night time. Spike quickly remembers to dodge before being squished like a pancake. Kernot's fist smashes into the ground, cracking it, he growls "are you going to keep avoiding me or are you going to fight like a warrior?".

A drop of sweat drops from his face as he is thinking of a plan on beating the rhino 'okay, I have this extendible staff which is tall as Joe. I've never used one before, concentrate Spike, remember those students using one.'

Spike's concentration is interrupted by his senses tingling to move out of the way, the dragon did so, avoiding yet another mighty punch 'dude! I can't stand here thinking about this! Dodging isn't going to help me.'

Kernot stops attack and takes a brief moment so he could regain some breath "You think you're little staff will take me down? If that's it, you'll need a bigger weapon."

Spike, notcies when Kernot punches, he uses all his strength which makes him tired. He decides that a frontal assault on Kernot would at least give some sort of opening, if Spike dodges in time, he might get a hit on him. The gem dragon extends his metal staff and charges. Master Yang's brows raise, being quite surprised 'a reckless starting move...will this plan make it successful doing that?'.

Kernot snorts at the sight of Spike charging at him with an extended metal staff, he pulls back his fist, aims for Spike and throws his fist down. Spike rolls left, avoiding just in time, he then held onto the staff's end, lifts it up and swings down on Kernot's fist. The rhino responded with a painful yelp, Spike may be small but with his power, he could be strong as an adult dragon. Kernot roars, now obviously outraged with humiliation being hurt by a little metal staff. Spike jumps, frightened by Kernot's roaring, he grabs Spike's staff in which Spike didn't let go, lifts the baby dragon up and slams Spike down without hesitation.

Joseph's temper went off the rails, snarling violently, he was charging at Kernot until Yang swiftly held Joe by his neck and chest firmly "wait...don't interrupt...watch and believe" Yang whispers softly like a mouse.

As much as Joe hated it, he couldn't win an argument with master Yang, all Joe could do is watch and believe in Spike's abilities 'you can do it Spike'.

Spike groans in pain, he felt like thousands of wasps stung him all over, he looks at Kernot with one half open eye. The rhino laughs cruelly, a quick and easy victory for him and his family's name "you lose...weak little baby Chaj wannabe, whoever you know would be disappointed in you."

Spike's heart skips a beat and stares in shock at Kernot 'disappointed...in me?' Spike thought back at the happy memories with Joe, Twilight and his friends 'I love you Spike' the gem dragon hears Twilight's voice before he left for Xenthur. Spike sees Joe appearing in his mind 'I won't leave, I promise. He sees all of his friends together smiling warmly at him.

Kernot smirks and walks away, suddenly, he senses a strong energy coming from behind, Kernot turns around and sees Spike standing up straight with his staff in hand. The baby dragon glares at Kernot "I refuse letting everypony down, I refuse losing, I refuse letting a jerk like you win!".

The rhino shakens up a bit, managing a weak grin "o-oh yeah? Bring it on kid, I'll beat you again and again!".

That was a big, unknown mistake Kernot has made today, Spike has suddenly disappeared, Kernot looks around his surroundings for Spike. He felt a painful whack on his leg, Kernot falls on one knee and rubs his leg. The rhino looks around for his opponent but couldn't find him, his other leg got hit again, this time falling onto his hands for support. Kernot gasps in pain 'what the! What is going on? WHERE IS HE!'.

"SHOW YOURSELF COWARD!" Kernot demands in rage, his wish came true.

Spike stood in front of Kernot with a calmer expression then before but still angry, Kernot felt fear when Spike appeared like a lightning. Before the rhino could move to grab him, Spike quickly lands three hits on Kernots arms. Kernot yells in pain, Spike then repeats on the other arms, Kernot falls onto his chest. But Spike wasn't finished yet, he whacks Kernot's head two times in a swift attack, then he unextends his staff and places the tip on the ground. Spike presses a button raises the baby dragon up, he grabs the end of his staff does a mighty final swing on Kernot's head.

The metal staff collided with Kernot's head, knocking him out cold. Joseph stood and watched everything in horror, never had he seen Spike like this before, he was almost scared of him. Spike unextends his staff and kneels down at Kernot. The rhino was out cold surprisingly for Spike, he bows his head down "I'm sorry dude, you were a great opponent."

Joe walks over to Spike with an astonished look, Spike also looks up with a nervously smile "I...didn't know what I was thinking, guess my anger to over me."

Master Yang steps in calmly with two bears taking Kernot away to a doctor "You were not angry young master Sparkle, it may have seemed that way with most of us here, I saw differently. When Kernot said you might have disappointed everyone you know, you remembered your goal. You didn't want that to happen at all, you used that as I wanted you to. Well done."

Spike smiles sheepishly while blushing "thank you master."

Yang turns to Joe "same with you Mr. Brooklyn, you didn't want to make your friend's guidance, care and friendship go to waste. You want to repay them for everything they done for you, like you vowed to protect them. Well done."

Joe slowly smiles with appreciation and bows "thank you so much master Yang."

"Yes, quite true" a voice suddenly came from somewhere, everyone turned their heads to the stairs for the Kraan palace, seeing the grand master of Chaj, a anthropomorphic spider called Chardonnay.

Everyone inlcuding Yang bows on their knees, Chardonnay walks down the stairs to Joe and Spike "all may rise".

Chardonnay stares down at Joe and Spike like his own sons "I congratulate you on completing your training Joseph Brooklyn and Spike Sparkle, both of you struggled during this difficult training even with your power. But with time and learning, you both adapted quickly like predators. You fought and lost, yet maybe down but certainly not out, you fought again and won, not for greed nor selfishness, but for the ones you love most. I, the grand master of Chaj pass you two as full fledged Chaj warriors" said Chardonnay, hearing cheers from his students and warriors.

Chardonnay wasn't finished just yet "I also have something else to award them with" this made everyone even Yang confused on what else there was.

Chardonnay brought out two white monk robes with a hood and a scroll "I award with them white robes, their ranks are now Chaj masters with a scroll of proof of their rank and accomplishment" Chardonnay handed them out to Joseph and Spike, their hands shake while they hold their award.

Master Yang looks extremely surprised at his master's sudden rank of Master for two newcomers but remains silent until he gets a chance to speak with him alone. Chardonnay smiles brightly "well why don't you put them on?".

Joe and Spike looks at each like getting a christmas present, they wasted no time changing their clothes. Half a second later, the human and gem dragon are now wearing their master Chaj robes, they felt...powerful as they wore them. Everyone in the training ground bows respectfully at their new masters. Joe and Spike blush bright red in embarrassment.

Chardonnay then turns around, seeing his students watching him with pride, the spider smiles at them "Well students, since we have two new masters, you know what that means?".

Master Yang's green skin turned pale when a thought came into his mind "Wait...oh no!".

"LET'S CELEBRATE WITH A PARTY!" Chardonnay cheers with excitement.

All the Chaj students cheers in Joy, now all running around collectings materials for the party. Master Yang covers his face with his hands in shame "oh my goodness...not again."

Joseph felt sorry for Yang, trying to act professional at all times. Chardonnay places an arm over Yang's shoulder "Come now master Yang, lighten up! We all need a break here and there."

Yang sighs deeply "I know master, but these are Chaj warriors and some are still new, they might become rumbustious."

Chardonnay pats his back, letting out a laugh "you worry too much!".

Joseph and Spike sweat nervously 'I think he has a right to worry' they thought.

Chardonnay looks over to Joe and Spike more seriously "anyway, hop onto my back you two. It is time you all should be returning to Equestria."

---

Chardonnay ran faster than Rainbow Dash flying with Yang following them, they reach the beach where Joe and Spike's boat is still on shore. The sound of the sea and trees rustling made them all at peace. They climb off Chardonnay's back and slowly made their way to the boat.

Yang and Chardonnay stand by their sides proudly "it has been an honour teaching you both, I am proud to have been your trainer. I only wish you could have stayed with us longer" said Yang.

"Thank you master Yang, we couldn't have done this without your guidance." Joe replied, bowing as well.

"Yes, ever since seeing Kirk, Spirit and Razor train here years ago brought back good memories. I am also proud of giving you the title 'Master'. I hope you both will find the answers you're looking for, but remember, do not force for answers, time will tell" Chardonnay said with compassion at the end.

Spike and Joe bows at him "Yes grand master Chardonnay".

Joseph and Spike jump into the boat, Chardonnay pulls out a scroll "this will send you back like how Spirit did it."

Chardonnay was about to speak in his Xethurian language until a sound came from behind "wait!" a female voice shouted.

They all look to see who it is, it is Miku with a bandage on her head with Kernot in bandages one his arms, legs and head. Yang smiles "here to say goodbye? Please be quick about it then."

Miku and Kernot nods and rushes over to Joe and Spike, Miku talks to Joe "Mr...I mean master Brooklyn, I...wanted to say goodbye personally. I am proud to be your opponent and I hope we will fight again one day" she said.

Joe smiles warmly, shaking her hand "me too, I'm sorry for hurting you."

Kernot looks down at Spike, unable to think of appropriate words "I...want to say goodbye and...apologise for saying all those words. After you knocked me out, I heard you saying sorry for hurting me and saying I was a good opponent. You respected me while I acted stupid in front of you, I am going to become like you and help those in need master Sparkle."

Spike blushes like a lobster "Aw gee...don't worry about it, and I'm sorry for hurting you so badly."

"Remember you two, Joe is strong and highly defensive, like a juggernaut. Spike is fast which helps him take out his opponent's with a staff quickly." Chardonnay advises his young students.

Chardonnay starts whispering in Xenthurian, Yang turns to Joe and Spike "remember you two, remember my words. Never let anger take over, fight for what you believe in, that is your true strength."

Joseph and Spike bows down for the final time "Yes master! Goodbye and we hope to see you again soon!".

When Chardonnay finished his whispering, their boat blasted off like with great speed, the four watch them speed off until they are no longer in their sight. Master Yang looks over at his master "Sir, was that wise to promote them to 'Master?'".

Chardonnay chuckles "Yes, they are what Kirk, Spirit and Razor were once. Even if it was a year, I know they will someday surpass those great warriors".

Chardonnay, Yang, Miku and Kernot looks at the ocean with peace, Chardonnay broke it up "well now, let's party!".

Yang groans but in a happy way "you'll never change" he chuckles.

---

Joseph and Spike sits down, looking at Luna's moon, Joe smiles "how about that Spike, we did it! And we have proof!".

Spike laughs "I know brother! I can't wait to tell the others! They're gonna be sooo proud of us dude!".

Joe and Spike laugh for awhile, letting out their happiness of completing their training. Joe crosses his legs "Spike, want to meditate for awhile?".

Spike nods "sure, they said it helps concerntrstion" and with that, they cross their legs and began meditating.

However, after a minute of meditating, the sound of splashing putted them off "lets just go to sleep" Spike suggested.

"I agree" said Joe.

---

-Equestria, Ponyville.

A mysterious shadow figure is walking around Ponyville late at Night, the figure walks pass some statues, but sees one that interested the figure of all. The shadowy figure holds out what seems to be a hand and it starts glowing brightly. Once the figure finished, the statue starts crumbling, the mysterious figure chuckles "welcome back...Discord" it said.

X

-Equestria, Canterlot.

Princess Celestia, Princess Luna and General Spirit are having their supper (or breakfast in Luna's case) before Celestia retreats to bed and the general returning to his duties. They all are enjoying a friendly chat while Spirit teases Luna about her and Joe, Spirit suddenly felt a tingling sensation. He leaves his chair and walks over to the window, gazing out to the outside world.

Celestia and Luna look at him with a worried expression "Spirit? Are you alright?".

Spirit looks back at her then nodding "yes Princess, just stretching my legs" he turns back to the window 'this feeling. What does it mean...hmm...fascinating'.

To Be Continued

Hi guys! First off, I am really, really sorry for the 3 or 4 month delay, I am so ashamed of myself as a writer. I won't lie to you, I've acting lazy, I didn't have a writers block, I knew what to write, I just couldn't get off my sorry butt and type. I hope you all are still with me in this story. I made a promise and I will finish it. I never gave up at all.

I hope you all enjoyed this chapter and I hope it was worth the wait, 22 pages! Holy hell! I never wrote this much before! I did rush it at the end and yes, I suck at action scenes . Please Read and Review guys! I'll be back soon with another chapter...I'll give you a tease...its for Luna fans :3

Thank you for supporting me with your comments, its really good to hear from you guys! I lov you all!

And remember, FOR THE BRONIES! (series 3 is almost out! XD)

Oh yeah, here's a short story about the cops who went to Greg's house, what did happen on their last assignment? one of them is my best friend's character called Derek Martin, used with his permission for my story!

-Earth, Somewhere in America

Officer Derek Martin and Officer Jaden Westwood are on patrol until they received a call from the NYPD about a young girl having some trouble at home. Jaden and Derek stand at an expensive mansion for celebrities "Okay, Derek, this is the only time we are doing good cop and bad cop."

"yeah yeah" replied Derek.

Jaden rung the door bell and he and Derek waited for someone to answer the door, when Derek heard the door click, he kicks open the door. A girl screams in horror, she has an ugly face, bright red lipstick with long black hair and wearing a purple dress. Rebecca Black.

Derek went up to her slaps her face, Jaden holds Derek back from hitting her again "HOW CAN THIS HAPPEN!".

"Whoa whoa!" Jaden tried calming Derek down but failing.

Derek points furiously at her kitches, seeing a washing flooding with soap all over her floour "HOW DID YOU DID THIS!" Derek shouted.

Rebecca Black cries while blowing her nose, Jaden manges to calm Derek down and helps Rebecca Black to her kitchen "I'm sorry about my friend here, he's a little on edge about you and your song. Now can you tell us what happened here? How did this happen?".

Rebecca Black cries while explaining "I-I don't know! It just...happened!".

Jaden sees Derek pacing around "Yes yes, please step over hear away from him please".

Officer Jaden continues looking for the problem "What did you put in the washing machine Miss Black?".

Rebecca Black stops crying for a minute and gathers her thought "well...I...putted salt and ginger powder in."

"What?" Derek yells.

Jaden is shocked "You put...I don't know what to do!" he walks away.

Derek walks up to her and grabs a nearby fish and fish slaps her face, Derek opens the washing machine door and throws her in. He closes the door and turns it on "I HATE YOU! I USE TO LOVE FRIDAYS BUT BECAUSE OF YOU! I HATE IT!".

XD for you gh0st's buddy! I hope you all liked this! Check him out too please!