Hey guys! Sorry another delay! This is not as long as I wished but I still hope it was enjoyable!

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The End Times

Chapter 27: Confrontation

Equestria, High in the sky

The Man is starting to feed off the energy slowly, drawing towards him like smoke that makes him feel as if he's having a refreshing drink "Y-Yes...it'll be with me soon!" he gasps out.

"And soon this world, reeking of human as these creatures seem to accept human ideals will all pay for their stupidity. If I was strong enough, Joseph could've already been dead on some planet...oh well, having life makes it more amusing" said M.

---

Equestria, Near Manehattan

Spirit is solemnly sitting on the ground, unable to still believe this was the end of Equestria and other life as they know it. His job was a Guardian of Equestria, terrific job he did! What would Kirk think of him now? Weak, horrible, unkind, selfish...but to be honest, seeing Joseph Brooklyn always made The General smiles inside 'that idiot, was never like you in manner or attitude, but he certainly received your honourable and caring side...I really did care for him Kirk, I'm sorry if I didn't show it.'

Pinkie Pie is still sitting near Spirit, only now she's leaning on his giant body. Her mane slummed down and coat darkish pink from depress "Spirit, are we...all gonna...gonna...be gone gone?" she whimpers.

Rarity sits next to her in comfort, nuzzles her face "I'm...afraid so Pinkie Pie."

"Listen you two, if any one of you thought your efforts or efforts of others were not worth fighting for then you're dead wrong. At least you all fought to prove yourselves being defenders of Equestria, fighting for others and your friends all whom you love dearly. Always remember, what you done was worth fighting for" said Spirit with a smile, hoping that would give them reassurance and joy in their last moments.

Rarity stares at him in astonishment, never before seeing the white unicorn so upfront, honest and kind...most likely when nearing death, there should be no point of hiding emotion "thank you sir, always thought you're such a stuck up snobby pony" she smiles.

Spirit blinks a few times and shifts uncomfortably, not really expecting to hear that from her when they're about to die "uh...thanks, I suppose."

Looking back at the sky one more time, all starting to think of their pasts and what their futures could've been like, maybe they'll come back in the next life? Who knows? Life is strange.
Suddenly, Rarity, Spirit and Pinkie Pie's bodies are being surrounded by strong magic, hurling them away from their location in hopes of being somewhere else, at first Spirit thought this was M's tricks but soon realizes something "Wait...Celestia and Luna? What the hel-" he is cut off, disappearing into thin air with Pinkie and Rarity.

---

Equestria, Appleloosa

Joseph Brooklyn is sitting down on the ground, staring up at the sky like everypony else in Appleloosa. Thinking this is their end, last breath, last chance to enjoy something in their life and eat one more apple.

Applejack is sat down with Joe and her cousin Braeburn, hoping something that could somehow potentially find a place to be safe. Deep down, the mare's heart knew without a miracle, nothing could be done unless the monster in the sky above has any hint of mercy...which is clearly a false hope, Discord could've vouched for that "Joe..." Applejack speaks out.

The human doesn't look back, only staring at M slowly gaining energy "I want to thank you Applejack, for everything you all had for me, if it wasn't for you guys...I'd properly gone mad or died ages go."

Applejack frowns and gently whacks Joseph's head "what did ah say about sayin' things like that?"

"s-sorry..." Joe says with a chuckle "but seriously, I am forever grateful for you girls...I love you all very much."

The two of them smile and hugs each other tightly, forgetting the events above to enjoy this moment as friends since they met.

All of a sudden, they hugging duo are surrounded some sort of magic, pulling them away! Braeburn yells in shock, thinking it was the Man's trick "Cousin! Mister Brooklyn!"

Before Joseph Brooklyn and Applejack could do or say anything, this sudden magic makes them disappear into thin air without a trace.
Braeburn just stood there in silence, feeling guilt for not doing anything and fearing his cousin and new friend's safety "be safe..." he whispers.

---

Equestria, Midlands

Joseph slowly opens his eyes, the sudden blinding light fades away and regains his vision slowly. Something made him and Applejack teleport away from their location, something powerful for an important cause. When Applejack and Joe are able to clearly see, they notice their friends are also there! Twilight Sparkle, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Spike, Spirit and even the two princesses!
All of them shake heads slight or rubbing eyes to help clear their vision, Spirit grunted something about being blinded to death "Argh! Who the blinded us?! Why I'll...uh...Princess Celestia and Princess Luna!" Spirit shouts with surprise.

Princess Celestia and Luna both look very tired and hurt from the use of magic and combat, Luna slowly walks forward, gaining everyponys' attention "Greetings all, we apologise for the sudden teleportation we did to you all...but matters have turned far worse than we ever could of anticipated."

"I am afraid so my little ponies, as you all witnessed above...The Man...Discord..." Celestia speaks but her voice breaks near the end.

General Spirit and Twilight Sparkle walks over and comforts her, all of them saw Discord being killed brutally by M. Even after all Discord had done, he didn't truly deserve death...Celestia and Luna and their ponies are far above that. Even so, if lives are in danger...then one must protect their lives and others to their best abilities "I never wanted Discord to die, even if he meant for me, my sister and you all...but..." said Celestia.

"Princess Celestia! Please, don't say anymore...we can't change the past but we can save our future, which our present is at risk from the Man above is" says Twilight, pointing upwards.

Luna walks closer whilst staring up "you're quite right Twilight Sparkle, he is gathering the energy from what those machines produced. Equestria's natural source of life and magic, all gathering in a massive ball of power. M is very slowly draining that power and we must stop him!"

Rainbow Dash blows steam out of her nostrils, wanting this battle to be over quickly "I'll fly up there and stop him! With one quick swoop of my sonic rainboom!"

"Are you an idiot!? The Man will most likely detect you way before you even get the chance to attack! Now that he's gathering energy, M is stronger than ever before!" Spirit shouts.

Rarity touches her chest in distress, but Spike comforts her by stroking stroking a foreleg "but there HAS to be some way of getting up there! Maybe...striking a quick blow before M can realise what's going on?"

Everyone looks at Rarity in thought, starting appreciate the idea but the predicament of M's possibly chanced senses. If General Spirit didn't accept the sonic rainboom, then what else could they do? Shadow Breeze feels too drained to use any of his abilities but even if he was able to, it wasn't nearly as good as Rainbow Dash's idea.
Princess Celestia perks her head up, having an idea "wait, maybe...yes! I have an idea my little ponies, it's a very risky move but I need everypony's approval of this."

Pinkie Pie jumps around, happy to hear her Princess has an idea of ending all the sadness and fighting "tell us! Tell us! I ain't afraid of no quake!"

Spike face palms and groans "There hasn't been a Quake for a long time Pinkie Pie...but it'll arrive soon."

Everypony stares at Pinkie Pie but especially Spike, looks of horror that this little gem dragon is slowly starting to become a referencing, random, strange but fun being. Rarity is interested to see where this will go in their hopeful future if they survive this.
Princess Celestia clears her throat for attention which she receives once more "Moving that aside, my plan is very risky as said, if you have any questions or concerns please let me know after. If me, Twilight, Rarity, Spirit and my sister combine our magic together, we can teleport somepony above The Man's position in the sky and strike him."

Spirit considers this but has some optimism "But my magic isn't as strong as Rarity's, however I can try and give whatever I got. And about the plan, it is a good idea if the teleportation is instant enough that M doesn't get a chance to see whoever is coming."

Twilight rubs her chin, thinking she is able to give it her all as well but is concerned who is going to go up there "Princesss Celestia, who is going to strike him?"

The Princess of the Sun shifts uncomfortably, maybe regretting previous thoughts "I...highly suggest Joseph Brooklyn."

Everyone gasps besides Spirit and Joseph, all trying to protest that their friend shouldn't go since it is too much of a risk and can't bear seeing Joe is danger of failing, falling, being hurt more but Celestia raises a hoof to let her continue "please, let me explain...Joseph is selected because of his unique strength and best chance of defeating M thanks to his training in Xenthur and Spirit. Deep down I can sense Joseph has the will power and strength in order for M to be beaten...but...it is also because The Man and Joseph are connected in some way, the past and present. Everything that has happened and what had happened to Joseph, it's a personal matter in my belief."

Joe looks down at his feet 'yes, she is right...this is between me and The Man, I am the cause of all this happening, war, pain, death...even if they tell me otherwise, it's the truth. But I'm not going to run away anymore!' he thought.

The human boy walks forward towards his princess and mother, everypony sees a look on Joe's face, a familiar one but this one is fierce. When standing in front of Celestia, she gives a sorrowful look, wondering if her words hurt Joe and understand le anger. But a look of surprise appears on her face, her new son's eyes, facial features express more so than ever before! This is pure commitment, courage and filled with...Determination!

Joseph Brooklyn stands tall and firm, like never before "Princess Celestia, I accept your plan and wish to part of this. I understand The Man has clear goals because of me and Kirk...I also wish to make up for my crime even if it it takes my lifetime. I will NOT fail you all!"

Twilight, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Spike, Shadow and Luna all go up to their human friend and give a massive group hug with some kisses from the girls. They hold tightly onto him, not wanting Joe to go...but they can't stop him "Joseph Brooklyn of Earth, America, New York City...you have grown so much and I'm so, so proud of you! Please promise us all that you'll come back!" says Twilight with a sad smile.

Rainbow Dash sniffs but holds a fake angry look "yeah! If you...die...I'm gonna make you train until you drop! So come back!"

Rarity wipes a small tear away and smiles supportively "you go and make us proud Joseph, like you always did."

Pinkie Pie starts crying a fountain of tears, literally, but also nuzzling his neck "OHPLEASECOMEBACKSAFEANDSOUND! I'LL THROW YOU THE BIGGEST PARTY IN MOST AWESOME HISTORY EVER! THINK OF THE KIDS!"

Joseph smile sadly and hugs her, but he blushes with a confused look "what kids?"

Fluttershy smiles sweetly and more confidently then ever before, not only he changed but Fluttershy has opened up slowly but surely. Both almost grown up together "Joe, please come back safe and sound...the animals and I can't bear to see you go. We'll always be here for you!"

Applejack smiles widely and tips her hat, staring into the boy's eyes thoughtfully "ah reckon' yer have a big fall sugercube, but don'tcha worry! We'll catch ya! Just remember we got lots of tomorrow mornin' so ah want ya bright an' early! Hear me sugercube?" she instructs, then hugging him tightly.

"Don't worry Joe, we're here to ensure you won't fall like Applejack said, you'll do it fine" says Shadow Breeze, giving a weak smile from still being tired.

Luna rolls her eyes and shakes her head "he's only going to be teleported into the air and striking M! I'm sure we can contain M when he falls done also" she says with a bright smile.

Spike the gem dragon folds his arms with a mock serious look "I ain't gonna catch you without crushing myself."

Joseph chuckles and hugs Spike "don't worry, I'm gonna give make my punch count!"

Princess Celestia walks over and nuzzles the boy's face, having a small smile, appreciating what he's doing "thank you, my son, I'll catch you...I promise."

The human blushes slightly and gives a final look to Spirit, who is getting stares from everypony and grunts at this "What? I'm not kissing you! Get ready boy, we're teleporting you! Everyone in position!"

General Spirit, Luna, Celestia, Twilight and Rarity circle around Joe and starts glowing their horns, with the large stallion having some trouble staring his horn. The human breathes deeply in and slowly exhales out, he clenches his right fist in order to build in strength. A feeling of fire burns deep within Joe's body, as if a rocket is about to burst.
Suddenly he feels his body starting to being pulled away, just like before! This feeling is calmer, gentle...giving a quick glance at his friends, Joe nods "I'm ready!"

Joseph builds as much energy into a single punch, screaming from the top of his lungs until he is teleported away for The Man's position! Appearing right above M, Joe sees he is about to draw all the energy from this ball of power, the human must act! As he falls down towards The Man, he raises his fist and aims for M's head "AAAAAAAAH!" Joe screams.

The Man snaps his up, wondering what could possibly be near him without his senses? To his horror and surprise, Joseph Brooklyn with a serious expression is mere inches away "wait...what!? NO!"

Joe yells out and sends his fist down towards The Man's face mask, striking directly! Almost everypony could hear the smashing sound, like breaking a tree in a single blow! Everypony down below gasps loudly, it worked...Joseph Brooklyn was able to delivier a striking blow! They all cheered "YES! YES!" The girls and Spike shouted.

However, as M if falling backwards from the human's attack, he accidentaly splits the energy in half so that in surrounds The Man and Joe. Both of them feel the incredible power, so pure and giving them thoughts of being able to achieve any goal they desire!
But M was able to recover from Joseph's attack and growls loudly, clearly enraged at what just happened "You little piece of crap! I'm going to tear you from limb to limb!" he yells, grabbing one more dark crystal to teleport Joe and himself away.

Just as Princess Celestia was going to catch her son, The Man teleported them away. Her eyes widen with pure dread, once again they all lost an important friend "n...no!"

Twilight Sparkle and the others can't believe this as well, it went so well! They must of both drawn the energy into each other by accident "No! Princess Celestia! Luna! Spirit! What just happened!? Please tell us!"

General Spirit stares at the sky, this time in awe of what happened "I...saw too, both of them suddenly got half of the energy. What's worse M teleported them away from somewhere, and I have no idea where they are...I can't sense them!"

Rainbow Dash stomps her hoof angrily "we have to go find him!"

Spirit gives her a glare "No! We have to let this go on...it's between them now, besides we have to clear up the remaining forces of Discord's Army. Once we secure the prisoners and secure our homes, then we can carry out a search for Joe, I don't want anyone here to even TRY and find him! Otherwise I'll lock you all up myself! Think of the lives of others first, that's what Joe wants."

The Mane Six, Spike and Shadow reluctantly nods, some biting their lips, staring at the sky one more time "Joe...come back safe" they whisper.

---

Outside of Equestria, Unknown

A dreadful screaming of the open air being torn open by a black portal appears, dropping out two lifeforms. One being a human boy and the other a demi-god being smacked into the earth, they lay on the ground for a few moments to get the sense of this astonishing power flowing through.
'W...wow...this feeling is absolutely spectacular! I feel like jumping over buildings within a single leap, run faster than the wind without a gasp for air! And...stronger than ever before! The Man...he's laying down there, must be feeling this too' Joe thinks, slowly standing up.

The Man also stands up and slowly touches his mask, rubbing it slightly "you...managed to crack my mask and gave me a slight headache from that punch. I'll admit, you gave it your all Joe" he says roughly, turning around with an obvious crack in the middle of the Guy Fawkes mask.

Joe feels M's death stare, he tries to go head on but falls to one knee "w-what!?"

M also falls on his knee, shivering slightly and breathing slowly and deeply "heh...you're feeling it too? Since you punched my face, you caused this energy to split apart! Now it's in both of us! You damn filthy ape! I waited so LONG to find the best and correct planet in order to gain enough energy to complete my own goals...now you ruined it...and I swear human, I will make you scream...AND LAUGH WHILE I'M AT IT!" M roars, shaking the ground beneath them!

The human male opens his arms out, daring and inviting the man in the silver suit "then come get me!" he shouts.

The Man breathes more, trying to move but struggles, feeling his body seizing up "argh! This is a side affect...our bodies need to adjust to this split when it was suppose to be whole!"

"You want me to thank you for sharing that with me? If so, you're badly mistaken M! Everything you done to everyone, damages, pain and suffering...even death! They had NOTHING to do with all this and yet you used me and Kirk as an excuse to harm them! You're going to pay for this!" Joe shouts, feeling the rage boil.

M takes a few moments to digest what he said and slowly begins laughing "Oh...Kirk...that brings so many painful memories for me! That thing you call human...I brought me and you here for a reason Joe!" he yells, gesturing to their location.

They're on a tiny grassy island in the middle of the ocean, the size of this is almost twice the size of an average back garden. When Joe looks around, out in the far distance, squinting his eyes...there appears to be land, it looks like Equestria! But the fight must go on before he can return, Joseph looks back and still feels his body seizing up, since they're talking...he wants more information "tell me M...why do this? Trying to become some god? So you can terrorize innocent people?" Joe asks almost spitefully.

The Man looks up into the sky, grunting "Because of Kirk! He killed my sister!"

Joe's face falls in disablief, not knowing if he should believe that "your...sister? Wait...The Witch...that was your sister? But she was terrorizing Equestria and causing harm! You're supporting that!?"

"Shut your damn mouth! She had her reasons!" M bites back, about to explain something.

---

Many years ago, deep in space

A younger M was sitting around in a open space, stared at the many infinite stars that are all over space. He always loved exploring every sector possible, learned new cultures on planets and how space worked itself "I wonder what my sister is doing now?" he spoke to himself.

A soft pair of handed covered his eyes which surprised him, a soft chuckle reminded him who it was. The younger M touched the hands and smiled "Big sister!"

M looked back seeing his older sister was wearing an amazing white dress that reached to her feet and long white gloves on her arms. Her hair was long and blonde and eyes were green, tall and slender. She was known as the Goddess of Joy.
"Little brother, what're you doing out here? I have to see the others for an important meeting" Joy said softly, stroked his hair gently.

The young M smiled more and was lifted into her arms, he felt her floating towards 3 men all around magical table that's crystal clear. They all looked to see Joy and her little brother, one of them smiled and opened his arms widely "Hail Goddess of Joy and young brother! We were expecting you sooner Joy!" he smiled but said sarcastically with a smile through his teeth.

Peace was a deeply praised and much respected god. Peace, stability and security are very important elements, this divine being was associated with and he's often considered to be active and provocative.

Often depicted as human with the body of a dragon. Peace is usually worshiped through chants and pledges.

Joy bowed her head, smiled slightly from that tone "Forgive me, I was searching for my little brother, we can start now. Go along over there, we won't be long."

Little M smiled and hugged her, he skipped away while Peace chuckled as he ruffled the boy's hair "always a lively one! Please! Sit"

When Joy sat down with the others, she noticed their fake smiles...something was going on "Hello my friends, may I ask what is the meaning of this meeting?" she asked softly

One of them suddenly lost their smile immediately and pouted his lips "What for!? We came to ask you about what we discussed last week!" said a god called Wisdom

Wisdom was a deeply esteemed and much trusted god. Science, knowledge and literature were the main elements this mighty being was. Most would regard him as petty and objective. Often depicted as a wolf is usually worshiped through offerings and alms.

Joy shaked her head slightly "I'm sorry? I seemed to have forgotten-"

"Why the offering to be part of something even greater! There is another, well, god if you like that is giving an offer of a lifetime!" said another god called Life.

Life was a hugely admired and deeply regarded god. Homes, winter and day were his specialty. A lot would of explained him as obnoxious but charismatic. Depicted as a somewhat humanoid hawk Life was worshiped through gifts and alms sometimes, but wasn't quite bothered.

"But that is from another realm well away from this space, we know nothing of what lies beyond our own realms. Why are we talking about this my friends?" Joy asked, wondered why they talked to other Gods that had nothing to do with their own realm.

Peace's expression turned sour, he leaned on the table while holding his hands together "Joy...this is the power we can use to fully defend and uphold what we established, Peace, Life, Wisdom and Joy! If we continue on this path like for many millenniums, lesser beings will give up on us! Those prayers, alters, alms, gifts were for a long time appreciated our efforts of keeping their beliefs around. With this new power the other gods are offering, we can ensure our existence isn't futile!"

Joy stood up who felt anger swelled inside, the universe created them for the sole purpose of helping others without second thoughts. Yet her 'friends' were feeling worthless, but who could blame them? Even Joy knew that many lesser beings were forgetful of them in their space...but this wasn't the way to go, finding other ways of forcing others to believe without consent.

"What IS this offering these gods promise?" asks Joy.

Wisdom looked at his friends, who nodded their heads they all slowly stood up with eyes closed. Their bodies once glowed light of harmony and purity, was becoming denser, darker...when they opened their eyes for Joy, all she could do was stare worryingly "no...no...my friends, what have you all done!?"

Peace, Life and Wisdom's bodies were now glowing in darkness, a harsh aura that if any natural life were near would wither away in death or shiver violently. They turned to Joy who was still grasping her sense of whatever reality she had "this power is evil, dark, dense and cruel! How could you all possibly accept this!? This isn't going to help others but only cause death and dismay!" Joy shouted.

"We thought you'd react this way Joy, which is a shame really...we wanted to give this power to you as friends, however you've proven difficult. So we have no other choice!" Peace bellowed rather angrily.

All of sudden, Joy started to get a horrid chill throughout her body like something moved inside. Darkness was spreading! She saw an old clay urn opened in Life's hands, black smoke poured out and moved to Joy. The Goddess tried resisting the dark temptations trying to poison her mind, trying to get evil thoughts she would never of dreamed.

Wisdom, Life and Peace smiled widely witnessing this, but that soon changed when their 'friend' actually resisted! She looked like a walking corpse but her sanity maintained! This was surely impossible the three former friends of Joy thought, maybe she needed more? Or maybe she needed an extra push? Peace chuckled darkly and appeared Joy's little brother by his side who was under some sort of trance...only making the goddess shriek loudly and bursted with power, so much to scatter stars!

"Joy! If you do not follow our instructions...then your little brother here will be a great subject to test on! You clearly love him too much correct?" Life spoke, motioned at young M.

This completely made Joy stop sharply, feared for his safety of being one of them and/or being hurt. She had no other choice but obey and accept whatever they desired...unless somehow she could find an opening "Y-yes...whatever you do...don't. Hurt. Him" Joy said venomously at the end.

Peace grinned evilly and walked towards her, placed a strong hand on her shoulder "If you want to keep your brother safe, there is a planet...a land we thought would make good target practice for your new abilities. The darkness will grow over time and you'll soon appreciate it! Like it or not...now go and destroy them!" shouted Peace.

Joy grimaced, she didn't want this...but her brother meant more to her than anything, a tear dropped from her eye before leaving by floating across space.

Peace, Wisdom and Life stared at her flying away to land Equestria, the trio looks at each other and laughs.

---

Outside of Equestria, Unknown, Present time

"Is that a good enough explanation for you human? My sister wasn't some evil witch that wanted to kill you all!" M shouts, clenching his fists.

Joseph Brooklyn cannot remove his look of disbelief, who would of thought that from Spirit's point of view of The Witch. She wasn't evil to begin with, all she done was because of The Man being in danger and the darkness inside was controlling her, tempting her. But when looking at The Man and his reasoning in doing all this destruction...what makes him so different?
"how come you're causing all this destruction? She was going to lose you and was poisoned with darkness so she didn't willingly do it. Yet you are!"

The Man sighs loudly, shaking his head in disappointment "you don't remember? Damn idiot, Kirk and these filthy animals aided my sister's death! You and them deserve to die!"

Joe stood up slowly, the seizing has finally stopped and now more powerful than he could possibly imagine! But same for M too, both start getting use to their power by warm ups but still staring at each other.

The Man rotates his neck, cracking out joints with a satisfied sigh "this power won't be with us very long, Joe, but I swear it'll be more painful than the last time..." he says, getting into a fighting position.

Joseph Brooklyn watches closely at this stance and prepares his own from training, this is it...they're fighting for their lives and the lives of many other people. Avenger versus Defender, Demi-god against Man, More power against a need for Redemption. The End Times will be decided...

"Show me what you got Joseph Brooklyn!" The Man shouts, running towards Joe.

The human frowns, he too charging to M in hopes of ending this once and for all "I won't lose to you, M!" Joseph shouts back.

To Be Continued

Thank you all for reading guys! I am so sorry for not updating, had another lazy moment AND had a slight writers block of what I'm going to do! I have steam going through so it should be all well.

About this chapter, I am going out and saying this is my least favourite to write because I believe it was empty with only 9 pages of content! I seriously would of written more but last time, 30 pages!? I can't...and I'm pretty ill at the moment, cold is going around.
This WAS going to be another long one but after much thought I decided against it and would give this out as planned.

Next chapter, some major fighting! I am awful at writing fight scenes especially for a long period of time! So I'm going to have to try and find some balances! Any tips would be much appreciated!

Thanks for reading, please Read and Review! Really helps!

See you all next time!

And remember...FOR THE BRONIES!