I was walking through Ponyville with both Luna and Pip the doctor gave me the okay to leave today. I performed the magic test but it will be awhile before the tests come through. Now I was on my way to a party at Bucking Bronco that Pinkie said she was going to organise for me yesterday after I woke up. Pip was running around ahead of us I could only smile at his antics as we reached the Bronco to see it was full of life. Half of Ponyville was here ranging from all my friends, Gilda, Trixie, Bonbon, Lyra, Derpy, Doctor Whooves, Dinky, Spitfire, Fleetfoot, Night Light, Twilight Velvet, Fancy Pants, Fleur and Saint Blade, Vinyl, Octavia, Feather Duster, Silver Tray, Lightning Dust, Quick Shot, Swift Spear, Holy Light, Nocturnal Shadow, Storm Cloud, Shining Armour and Cadence even the royals graced the party with their presence. There were so many smiling faces and I was having a blast my excitement doubled when Shining informed me that Cadence was 3 weeks pregnant. The problem was they didn't know how to break the ice to everyone. I decided to do it for them by proposing a toast to the lucky couple. That triggered the real excitement from everyone about a new royal family member. Cadence gave me a slap on the back of the head but hugged me for doing the hard work for them. Just then, Shining Armour and Celestia had to leave for something and Rage came up to me and whispered into my ear that we were going after a Templar called Real Estate. He was the pony who evicted Quick Shot and his family from their home and others like them to create Templar storehouses and safe houses. I gave him a nod before I snuck out with the others left for the assassin's den and got into our robes before we left for Canterlot.

"There he is," Quick Shot said in thought.

We were I the rafters of the throne room Celestia was sitting on her throne and an orange Pegasus with a yellow mane and tail was standing in front of her. He was wearing a fancy business suit and wore rectangular glasses and carried a briefcase.

"Alright everypony and everybody into position we do this whether or not Celestia is looking," I said.

"What have you lost it?" Rage asked in shock.

"We need to know if she will try to place us in prison or not besides we'll be wearing our shadows so no sweat," I said.

I gazed at the pair below us before I climbed down the sides of the room and stayed in the shadows before I put on my disguise ring and coated myself in my shadow. I saw Rage do the same only he was a blazing red earth pony with a dark red mane and tail. I nodded to Rage before I listened to the conversation between Celestia and Real Estate.

"Real Estate I've called you here for one reason and one reason only," Celestia said.

"Have you reconsidered my proposal to sell the old warehouse in the lower district," Real Estate asked with hope in his voice.

"No Real estate for too long I have received reports about you evicting ponies from their homes in Canterlot for no reason. I didn't do anything because I didn't have any evidence to stop you but now I do. So before I decide what to do with you I'm going to ask you a very simple question why are you doing this?" Celestia asked.

Real Estate just sighed before he kneeled down and opened his briefcase and spoke.

"I was hoping you would reconsider your highness and we didn't plan to do this yet but since you decided to stick your nose in where it doesn't belong I've been forced to use my hand," Real Estate said as he pulled out a gun and aimed it at Celestia. "You see my Templar brothers and I were going to kill you and your siblings at a later date. But since there and no guards around and just you and me I believe I'll just kill you here," Real Estate said.

"Do you honestly think that thing will kill me?" Celestia said as she stood up from the throne.

"Yes if the gun is loaded with Alicorn Stone," Real Estate said.

"You won't get away with this my siblings plus Ash and Rage will come after you," Celestia said.

"I'm counting on that then we can end the alicorn and Draconequus bloodline also be rid of the two smelly humans and the grand master will take control see you in hell Celestia," Real Estate said as he was about to pull the trigger.

I quickly unhooked a rope dart from one of my pouches and threw the dart at Real Estate the blade hit the arm that was holding the gun. As it hit I pulled it away from Celestia and the gun went off but the bullet missed her entirely. Rage then threw a rope dart and it hit Real Estate's other arm and we both pulled until Real Estate was spread out. Once he was secure Quick Shot jumped down from the celling in a shadow disguise and landed in front of Real Estate. His wings gave him a terrifying appearance I could see Real Estate was scared. Quick Shot drew his knife and stabbed Real Estate in the heart and twisted it.

"You had this coming," Quick Shot said and Real Estate's eyes widened in realization before his body went limp and Quick Shot took his necklace.

Quick Shot then took the darts out of Real Estate and Rage and I wound them up before we stepped out of the shadows and the rest stepped out of their hiding places. I gave a quick pat on Quick Shot's back before the throne room doors burst open. Shining Armour and about 20 guards stormed in and aimed their weapons at us but we just stood there and gazed at each other.

"Stand down captain."

I turned around calmly and saw Celestia staring at us.

"You have my thanks for saving me but I'm afraid I must detain you all for questioning so please put down your weapons," Celestia asked.

I looked at my group to see them all looking at me I gave them a signal and they all nodded before each one of us disintegrated like when someone throws ashes into the wind. The guards were shocked along with Shining and Celestia. One by one they disappeared until I was left I was about to leave until.

"Hold it!" Shining shouted before he tackled me.

I managed to throw him off before I got back to my feet and looked at him to see he was ready to fight but I stood up straight calmly and looked at Shining which him.

"Stay away," I said in my disguised voice before I vanished.

I woke up the next morning with Luna cuddled up to my side I stroked my hand through her mane before I then had a shower and got dressed. I opened the door I then walked downstairs and short time later I was having breakfast with both Luna and Pip. Silver Tray brought in the newspaper and her face had a look of worry.

"Ash you may want to look at the front cover," Silver said.

"Thank you Silver," I said before I took the newspaper and looked at the front page.

ONE BECOMES ELEVEN

The shadow vigilante struck again last night but not in any ordinary home the vigilante attacked Canterlot real estate owner Real Estate. It happened in the throne room right in front of one of our beloved princesses of Equestria Celestia herself. According to reports Real Estate had been evicting innocent ponies from their homes. All to support the terrorist group the Templars who were responsible for the destruction of the S.S. Storm Breaker. Along with the assassination attempt of Twilight Sparkle. Real Estate was also armed with a revolver ready to kill Princess Celestia had the vigilante not intervened when he did he would have succeeded. Later we find out instead of one vigilante it's a group of eleven ponies. Prince Shining Armour former captain of the royal guard attempted to catch one of the vigilantes. But, the vigilante's words were 'stay away' before he disappeared who ever these ponies are they have the thanks of many civilians.

I finished reading with a sigh before I saw a picture of me and the others in our shadow disguises before I looked away.

"What is it Ash?" Luna asked I responded by passing the paper onto Luna when she read it her eyes widened in shock. "I must see Celestia immediately," Luna said standing up from her seat still gazing at the paper.

"Is Auntie Tia alright?" Pip asked with worry.

"She's fine," Luna said.

"Luna why don't you take Pip with you to see Celestia," I said.

"But Ash Pip has school," Luna said.

"I'll talk about it with Cheerlie also its unlikely Pip will be able to focus on his work if there's something to worry about. I know I couldn't when Alex was in the arena while was having classes," I said.

"I see your point very well Pip were going to Canterlot," Luna said as Pip got out of his chair and walked over to Luna and took her hand and teleported to Canterlot

I then left the house and walked over to the schoolhouse to tell Cheerlie about the situation which she understood completely. I then walked over to Friendship Castle if I was told correctly the girls were having a pancake breakfast. I walked inside and went straight to the dining room and walked in I saw all the girls along with Trixie having pancakes. But Twilight was asleep and her mane was a mess with twigs, dirt and mud in it.

"Howdy Ash," Applejack greeted along with the others.

"Morning Applejack hey everypony what ya'll eating?" I asked.

"Every berry any chip surprise pancakes," Pinkie said before she scarfed down a good portion of pancakes.

"Sounds tasty," I said.

"Here try some," Pinkie said handing me a plateful of pancakes.

"Thanks Pinkie," I said.

"So you said Twilight was up all night is that why she's so out of it?" Rainbow asked gesturing to Twilight.

"I know I've seen rat’s nests in a better state," I said.

"Um I don't mean to sound unappreciative but has anyone noticed that Twilight's been a little too helpful lately?" Fluttershy asked.

"Now that you mention it she was lending a hand at Sweet Apple Acers the other day and stuck around till near midnight dug up 50 tree planting holes when all I needed was 10," Applejack said.

"She spent an entire afternoon rearranging a single gem draw at the boutique an entire afternoon," Rarity said.

"What about you Ash?" Trixie asked.

"Well I noticed that Twilight has been repeatedly coming in to visit me in the hospital and it was more often than Luna plus longer. I just thought she was interested to see the results of my magic test," I said.

"You think that's weird she raced me a hundred times the other day and lost every time she just kept going. Best out of 10 best out of 20 best out of 100 I mean hanging out with me is awesome but it was like she'd rather keep losing then...," Rainbow stared.

"Leave," Fluttershy finished.

"Yeah who does that?" Rainbow asked.

We looked at Twilight to see her land face first into her breakfast and cuddle it like a pillow.

"Somepony who's avoiding something that's who as soon as she wakes up we'll ask her," Applejack said.

Pinkie then started to gag because something was stuck in my throat I saw this and ran over to her and slapped a hand on her back. She spat out what was caught in her throat onto the table and I looked at the object to see it was a measuring spoon.

"I win!" Pinkie shouted.

"I'm pancake I mean awake," Twilight said while she had a pancake stuck on the end of her horn.

I just stared at Pinkie in confusion before I remembered it's just Pinkie being Pinkie.

"Uh Twilight is there something you want to tell us?" Applejack asked.

"You know how much we appreciate all you do for us," Rarity said as she lifted the pancake off Twilights horn only for Pinkie to jump up out of nowhere and grab the pancake and disappear. "And we simply adore having you around but we worry you might have been avoiding something else."

"Has it been that obvious?" Twilight asked which we gave a nod. "I've been the thing is and I know it's silly but I've been avoiding this place," Twilight said gesturing to the castle.

"*gasp*Why in Equestria would you want to avoid such a gorgeous castle?" Rarity asked.

"Yeah this place has everything big tall celling's that make you feel tiny shiny new floors that are cold to the touch and it even has long empty hallways," Pinkie said as her last words echoed throw-out the castle. "Ok I get it."

"It's doesn't feel like home does it?" I asked.

"Yeah how'd you know?" Twilight asked.

"How do you think I felt when I left my cave?" I asked.

"Well your right it doesn't feel like home," Twilight said.

"Oh is that all," Rarity said with a little laugh. "Why you simply need to decorate darling make the space your own."

"It's just so daunting look how big this place is I don't even know where to start," Twilight said.

"You can start by letting us do it for you we will make this the castle of your dreams while you head to the spa for some much needed relaxation. I'm saying this with love but have you looked in the mirror lately," Rarity said as she showed Twilight her reflection in a mirror. I've never seen you look this..."

"Frazzled," Fluttershy finished.

"Yes that is absolutely the word I was going to use," Rarity said.

"I guess I do need a little help and so does my castle and I know you'll do a great job because nopony knows me better then all of you," Twilight said

"We'll make this place feel cosier then hot cider on a rainy day," Applejack said causing Rainbow to perk up at a certain word.

"There's going to be cider?" Rainbow asked causing me and Applejack to give her a deadpanned look. "Uh I mean let's decorate.”

"Oh no did I miss the pancakes I sleep like a baby under that cold cavernous celling," Spike said as he walked over to us and stacked up on a few left over pancakes.

"Spike I'm so glad you’re here," Rarity said.

"Really?" Spike asked.

"Yes you’re taking Twilight to the spa," Rarity said.

"Great I've been meaning to get my claws sharpened," Spike said as he took a bite out of his pancakes and noticed us smiling at him. "Oh you mean now," Spike said as he took a few more pancakes and left with Twilight.

"Trixie will come to I've been meaning to get my horn filed as well," Trixie said as she followed the two.

"Hey Ash why are you here in the first place I thought you weren't coming to have breakfast with us?" Rainbow asked.

"Oh I forgot in all the excitement did any of you read the paper this morning?" I asked.

"Not really what's so special about it?" Applejack asked.

I summoned the newspaper before I showed it to the girls who were shocked.

"There are eleven now has that guy been recruiting," Rainbow asked.

"Well it does prove that they're heroes if they saved Princess Celestia from a Templar," Rarity said.

"Still these Templars are getting bolder in their attacks going for the princess like that," Applejack said.

"How did Luna take it?" Fluttershy asked.

"She was shocked left with Pip to go see her," I said.

"Well it's a good thing Twilight hasn't seen it yet otherwise it will add more to her stress level," Rarity said.

"Indeed now let's get to work I've got a fair idea on what to add to this place so I'll see you all later," I said before I left and as I did I heard singing come from the others.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdDxnAjeqjI

I walked around town and got the necessary things I needed for the castle before I went back and dropped by my house to collect something. Once I fixed up everything I decided to go check on everyone in the throne room and on the way I ran into Spike and Trixie.

"Hey Ash what do think of my claws and Trixie's horn?" Spike asked while we walked.

"Sharp and beautiful," I said.

"And how are you all doing?" Trixie asked.

"I've placed some things in one of the empty rooms but I'm not finished and I was about to go check on the others," I said.

"Well let's check it out," Spike said as he opened the door and we all walked in. "Hey guys how do my claws look Sweet Celestia!" Spike shouted when we entered.

The first thing I noticed about this room cause it was my first time here was the five thrones siting around a circular holographic map of Equestria. Next thing I noticed was the entire room was a mess off country lifestyle and garden supply's. An athletics trophy room a designer’s room with a giant portrait of the girls along with Spike and me in the bottom corners. An animal day-care centre with animals running around the place there was also with a party table and confetti cannon went off beside me.

"Spike are you Twilight and Trixie done already?" Rarity asked.

"Don’t worry I ordered her the super deluxe mane blow out she'll be awhile man this place is a mess," Spike said.

"Mess would be a complete understatement to describe this Spike," I said but I was confused when the girls let out a sigh.

"Thank goodness someone said something," Fluttershy said,

"It's pretty bad," Rainbow said.

"This place is a mish mash of knickknacks," Applejack said.

"I suppose it is a little cluttered," Rarity said.

"What are you guys talking about I think this place looks super fun," Pinkies said as another cannon went off.

The animals were then spooked and started running around out of control I looked at the girls to see them try to control the situation. I then saw Rarity try and stop some chipmunks from destroying her curtains but failed before she lost her temper.

"Everypony stop!" Rarity shouted and just like that the room came to a halt.

"Ok now it's a mess," Pinkie said.

"What are we going to do?" Rainbow called out.

"I don't know but Twilights blow out won't take that long if she was avoiding the castle before she'll never set hoof in here now," Spike said.

"C'mon guys we gotta do something Twilight's counting on us," Rainbow said.

"Spike Trixie you have to get back to that spa and stall her whatever you both do don't let her come home," Rarity said.

"Like forever but we live here," Spike asked.

"Well uh maybe you can manage until sunsetish," Rarity said.

"Got it," Spike said with a salute before he and Trixie ran off.

"Alright you guys I've got some more things to collect for the castle so I’ll let you all sought this out," I said before I left.

It was almost sunset and I just finished placing the last few things in the room and I was now walking over to the throne room. I heard a bit of a commotion coming from inside I peeked in to see that the only things left in the room were, the thrones the map and the girls all sitting around depressed.

"WhatdowedowhatdowedoifTwilightcomeshomenowshe'llbelikewhat'dyouguysdoandwe'llhavetobelikenothingandshe'llbealllikeIwascountingouyousomefreindsyouareandwellbelike," Pinkie said before she let out a scream and fake cried before she collapsed.

"Calm down Pinkie Pie we just need to figure out what we did wrong so we can make it right," Applejack said.

"Well I didn't do anything wrong I did exactly what I would do if this were my home," Rarity said.

"And that there is the problem," I said as I entered.

"Ash did you take care of what you needed to do," Rarity asked.

"Yeah but listen this isn't your home Rarity and you've been treating it like it is," I said.

"Yeah Rarity Twilights not into fashion like you are," Rainbow said.

"You’re not off the hook either Rainbow posters of the Wonderbolts and trophies seriously," I said.

"To shay," Rainbow said.

"You’re all guilty of making yourselves feel at home here instead of Twilight," I said.

"Ash is right ya'll we just need to think about Twilight what was it she loved about living in the Golden Oaks Library?" Applejack asked.

"Oh everything the books the smell of books the joy she felt from organizing books," Fluttershy said.

"Remember the time I crashed into all those books attempting my sonic rainboom after you guys just cleaned up ah that was good times," Rainbow said.

"Yeah for you maybe," Applejack said.

"Oh and Applejack remember when we were stuck having a sleepover there that turned out to be so much fun," Rarity said.

"I remember the day I first met you all that was quite a memory," I said.

"Remember the time it got blown up to smithereens," Pinkie said causing me to face palm. "Wait no wait that was the worst."

"We had a lot of good memories there though that's what made the Golden Oak Library home," Applejack said.

"Yeah," we all said in union.

"*gasp* That’s it," Applejack said.

We were standing in front of the ruins that used to be the Golden Oaks Library with shovels and pickaxes and ready to get to work.

"Maybe my plan won't work after all," Applejack said.

"Of course it will darling I can see it you Fluttershy and Ash stay here Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie you come with me we're going shopping we'll meet back at the castle," Rarity said before she Pinkie and Rainbow walked off I then grabbed a shovel and we all began to sing once more.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lLqe8mqKg5M

"Hello we're home," Twilight said as she Trixie and Spike walked in through the main doors.

"Welcome home," the group and I said as we came to greet them.

"Oh uh I love what you've done with the place you've all done a good job of preserving the integrate of the original design," Twilight said as we walked the still empty corridors.

"Aw come on it looks exactly the same do you know how hard it was to keep her from coming back here I never wanna see another duster for as long as I live," Spike said.

"Wait keep me from coming back here," Twilight asked.

"It took a teensy bit longer then we thought," Rarity said.

"What really makes home feel like home isn't what it looks like it's the memories you make when your there," Applejack said.

"So we made something that celebrates the memories we made with you since you moved to Ponyville," Rarity said.

We led Twilight to the throne room and there hanging from the ceiling was a chandelier made of roots and hanging from the roots were gems on strings.

"The ornaments on the chandelier are reminders of all the fun we had together," Fluttershy said.

"That one shows your party at the Golden Oak Library welcome you to Ponyville," Pinkie said gesturing to a gem.

"The time we shared donuts after the Grand Galloping Gala," Fluttershy said pointing at another gem.

"Also when I first started to teach you human magic when we were on our way back to the Crystal Empire," I said pointing at another gem showing Twilight and me on the train on our way to Canterlot.

"We were hoping that being able to look at your beautiful old memories would inspire you to make new ones," Rarity said.

"And the best part of it is that it's made from the roots of the Golden Oaks Library so you'll never forget where you came from," Applejack said.

Twilight walked towards the chandelier and gazed at it in silence we were worried she didn't appreciate it before she turned around to look at us with tears in her eyes.

"It's exactly what the castle needed," Twilight said before she ran over to us and wrapped us in a hug which we returned. "And I am ready to make new memories here."

"Then let’s start now with a new memory cake," Pinkie said before she ran off and came back holding a seven layer multi-colour cake. "Seven layer what's that flavour mystery surprise these might be chocolate chips or they might be super spicy black beans."

"Let's go to the dining room," Twilight said before she led us there and began to open the doors. "It's a little plain but at least it has tables and chairs whoa what happened in here last I checked this place was empty," Twilight said as she gazed around the ballroom like room the decorations just screamed Rarity's idea I aimed a smile and a raised eyebrow at the white unicorn.

"I couldn't help myself it was just begging for the personal touch," Rarity admitted.

"Truth be told I couldn't either your kitchen might have some rustic farm décor Twilight," Applejack said.

"And there may or may not be some Daring Do posters up in your library," Rainbow said.

"And some stuffed animals in your bedroom," Fluttershy said before a confetti cannon went off.

"What was that?" Twilight asked.

"*sigh*One of Pinkie's confetti cannons," I said.

"What it's not my fault I hid them so well," Pinkie said before we shared a laugh.

"Hey Ash what did you add you said you were organising something," Applejack said causing everypony to look at me.

I just gave them a smile and gestured for them to follow me which they did after our walk through the corridors I stood in fount of a pair of double doors. I looked back at the others to see them smiling at me before I faced the double doors and pushed them open. I let Twilight go in first and the look on Twilights face was priceless. It was the same as when she first saw how large the library in the Everfree castle was. In the room was an entire large chemistry set all shiny and ready to use.

"I managed to scavenge some parts from the Golden Oaks and restore them into working condition and whatever is new came from my bits. Also as for all the things you were studying with they’re over there on that shelf," I said pointing to a bookcase like shelf up against the wall.

"But that's the...," Twilight started.

"One that was in the library yeah also everything is stacked how you left it along with all those gizmos you made. The surroundings may be different but everything is in its proper place and best of all. I've added a switch that activates a soundproof spell so no one can interrupt you while you’re busy," I said.

Twilight then spun around and leapt at me and wrapped me into a hug.

"How you are able to do all this amazes me thank you Ash," Twilight said.

"Hang on this is half of what I did there's one more thing," I said before Twilight let go of me and I led the group to the library.

I walked inside and saw the posters Rainbow was talking about before I searched the shelves for what I was looking for.

"Ah ha found it," I said before I pulled out a book and handed it to Twilight. "Recognize this?" I asked as I handed Twilight the book.

Twilight took the book in her hand and gazed at the cover her eyes widened when she saw it.

"Starswirl's Journal Ash how'd you...," Twilight started.

"There's also this," I said as I handed her the girl’s journal which Twilight took and hugged it close. "In fact this entire shelf is filled with all the books that the stallions, Trixie, Gilda and I were able to save. We each held onto a few and figured we'd return them to you once a new house for you was built," I said.

Twilight gazed at every single book before she covered her mouth with a teary smile on her face before she turned back to me.

"You’re a miracle worker Ash you too Trixie I don't have the words for both of you," Twilight said.

I just gave Twilight a two finger salute while Trixie smiled before Twilight went to look at the books that were saved.

"You Ash are something else," Rarity said.

"I try now I must leave you all I have dinner waiting for me back home and I'm starving," I said before I waved to the others and left.

Luna was calm when she came back from Canterlot with Pip they told me Celestia was fine which I was pretended I didn't know any of the details. Now I was lying next to a sleeping Luna with that bad gut feeling. I then got out of bed and got changed and summoned Whispering Wind I wanted to summon my armour. But, the damage was so bad and the metal was so strong it couldn't be repaired so now it sits on a mannequin in the trophy room as a reminder. I stepped onto the balcony and looked back at the sleeping Luna to see her shivering from the cold. I closed the door and stared out over Ponyville and took to the sky. I did a quick circle over the place before I landed in the streets my eyes remained sharp for anything. All of a sudden, I hear a scream that sounded like Rarity I didn't waste any time and ran for the boutique. I arrived at the door and went to grab it only for the door to slam into me and toss me a few feet away. I looked at the door to see a dark smoke like creature with Rarity in its chest behind a set of bars.

"Ash help," Rarity cried out.

Before I could react the creature flew off I then stood up and saw four other smoke creatures were following the one that took Rarity. They each had Pinkie, Applejack, Twilight, and Rainbow trapped in them too. I was about to take off before the Thunderlane flew out of the boutique with Sweetie Bell in tow and both were in their pyjamas.

"Ash Rarity's been grabbed by some smoke thingy," Sweetie Bell said.

"I saw and four have got another four of the girls as well," I said.

Just then I saw Angel hoping over to me as fast as his little legs would carry him when he reached me I crouched down. He was out of breath before he started squeaking something at a rapid pace.

"Whoa slow down Angel you remember you need to speak slowly to me in order for me to understand you because my rabbit isn't very good," I said.

Angel then took a few breaths before he squeaked what he wanted to say to me.

"Great he said that Fluttershy was also taken by a smoke monster and they went into the Everfree. At least we know they wanted the bearers of the Elements of Harmony and where they are but why," I said.

"Who cares we need to go after them before something does happen to them," Thunderlane said.

"Alright Thunderlane you gather the stallions, Spike, Trixie and Gilda also get Scootaloo over to Sweet Apple Acers so Granny Smith can take care of her. Also wake up Luna and tell her what's happened and tell either Spike or Luna to send a message to Celestia explaining what happened. Sweetie Bell get over to Sweet Apple Acers and tell Granny what's happened and expect company from Scootaloo Angel I need you to take care of Fluttershy's animals till she gets back," I said.

Angel responded with a few angry squeaks and waving his arms around franticly.

"Because that's what Fluttershy would want you to do in this situation ok," I said sternly.

Angel looked at the ground and nodded before he hopped away because he knew deep down I was right.

"Ash what will you do?" Sweetie Bell asked.

"I'm going to see if I can get your sister back now head over to Sweet Apple Acers while I go kick some tail," I said before I put my hood on and ran off towards the Everfree.

As soon as I came to the entrance I changed into my wolf form and ran through the trees at lightning speed. I decided to go investigate the Everfree castle cause it seemed the most logical place to look but there were a few predators that got in my way. But, I dodged and weaved my way past them but I did not stop running till I arrived at the rope bridge to the castle. I changed back into my human form and drew Whispering Wind before I walked over the bridge carefully. I looked at the castle to see it was quiet but the only problem was that it was too quiet there wasn’t even a chirp from a cricket. I walked up to the castle and quickly looked inside to see no one there I continued through the corridors still finding nothing till I came to the room where I first Nightmare Moon. I peeked inside to see all the girls were lying on the ground unconscious. I looked around for anything else but seeing none I crept in. Satisfied that there was nothing else I ran over to Rarity and tried to wake her.

"C'mon Rarity now is not the time to be dozing we need to go," I said shaking Rarity.

All of a sudden, Rarity's eye snapped open but instead of the pupil being rounded it was slitted. Before I could react I was hit by a strong magic blast from Rarity that knocked me into a wall. Once I hit the ground I looked up to see all the girls were standing up but their fur and clothes were darker. Their eyes were slitted and they all were a little taller the one thing that remained the same was their manes and tales remained the same colour but were longer.

"Did you miss me?" all six mares said in union and in a familiar voice.

"Nightmare," I spat.

"Oh so you do remember me I'm touched," Nightmare said.

"How are you still alive?" I asked as I stood up.

"Heartless still has use of me and with the great necromancer Groger I can be revived whenever my master needs me," Nightmare said.

"Well when I free the girls I'm gonna make sure that this Groger won't be able to bring you back at all," I said.

Just the nightmare versions of the girls turned into the insanity versions and we all charged at each other. I was able to block many of their attacks but Applejack was able to punch me in my chest and make me stumble back a bit. I charged magic into my left hand (which I couldn't do till Luna enchanted the hand to feel) and punched Applejack in the face resulting in knocking her out. Just then, the smoke creature that captured her exited her mouth and flew into Rarity Fluttershy came up beside me and tried to slash me in two at my waist with her chainsaw. But I used Whispering Wind to block the attack but Pinkie ran up behind me ready to stab me with her kitchen knife. I used my left hand to backhand the knife out of Pinkie's hand before I gave her a sidewards kick to her stomach. I then leapt over Fluttershy's attack and tapped Fluttershy's head with my magic once again the smoke flew out and into Rarity. I then saw Pinkie was getting up so I gave her an uppercut to the chin and the smoke flew out again all of a sudden a scalpel went into my left arm. I looked and saw Twilight holding a mass amount of scalpels in her magic. I held Whispering Wind next to my head and stared at Twilight. All of a sudden the scalpels flew at me but I swung Whispering Wind in front of me in a figure eight path. I cut and deflected all the incoming scalpels while I walked towards Twilight. When Twilight ran out of scalpels I grabbed her by the shoulder and sheathed Whispering Wind before I tapped Twilights head with my right hand. Twilight then went unconscious and I placed her on the ground and saw the smoke fly out of Twilight and into Rarity. I looked at Rarity but I knew I was forgetting one realization struck me. I leaned forwarded to do a handstand and as I placed my hands on the ground I lifted my feet up. I saw Rainbow Dash behind me inches away from injecting me with the needle. I then used my legs to kick the needle out of Rainbows grip before I landed on my feet in a crouching position. I rammed my right elbow into Rainbow's chest and tapped her on the head with my magic and Rainbow collapsed. Once again the smoke left Rainbow and flew into Rarity.

"You'll need to do something a little better than that Nightmare," I taunted.

"Agreed," Nightmare replied.

Just then Nightmare left Rarity's body confusing me Rarity stood on shaky hooves before she regained her balance when she saw me she opened her mouth to speak. But the words died in her throat when the sound of something pricing something rang through the room. Rarity collapsed and I saw Nightmare had stabbed her with a dagger. While Rarity was on her hands and knees Nightmare kicked her with enough force for Rarity to come flying into me. I caught and carefully placed her on the floor before I began to look around for something to help me stop the bleeding. I suddenly remembered something just as the doors burst open and the others and the princess ran in.

"Ash what's happening?" Rage asked as he ran over to me and saw the wounded Rarity.

"Rage I need you to look I that crack in the wall over there," I said pointing at a crack next to the doors.

Rage then ran over to the crack while the others checked on the others while Thunderlane came over to me and Rarity and wept.

"What am I looking for?" Rage asked.

"Something to help stop the bleeding," I said.

Rage felt around inside the crack before he pulled out a white medical kit and brought it over to us.

"How'd you know that was there?" Rage asked.

"Pinkie said she stashes them all over the place for emergencies like this so thank her," I said.

"Stop the bleeding if you can but it's futile none of you will leave here with your lives," Nightmare taunted.

Luna, Celestia, Dream Catcher, Chrysalis and Discord were ready to take on Nightmare but I held my arm out and stopped them before I spoke to Rage.

"Rage get everypony out of here now," I said.

"Why what are you going to do?" Rage asked I just gave Rage a message in thought when I was done Rage had a look of terror on his face. "Everypony we need to go now," Rage said.

"What?" the stallions and royals asked.

"Trust me we need to go," Rage said as he picked up Rarity and lead them through the doors the group looked at me in worry before they followed leaving me with Nightmare.

"Run little maggots it doesn't matter though because I'll be after you next!" Nightmare shouted.

"But until then I'm the only opponent you need to worry about," I said.

"Please what exactly can you do because while I was being reborn I had a few upgrades done and I have a little back up," Nightmare said as a few circles of fire appeared out of the walls ground and what's left of the celling and demons crawled out of them.

"Well guess what you’re not the only one who was upgraded but I'm not going to waste my time with you," I said.

"You know it's not wise to underestimate your opponent but please don't let me stop you," Nightmare said.

"I know exactly what you’re capable of Nightmare but there is one thing you missed you thought you could scare me. What you did with the girls insanity modes like now is a joke but what you did to Rarity that will cost you dearly," I said threateningly.

"What exactly are you going to do to stop me?" Nightmare asked teasingly.

"I'm going teach you real fear also if you think you’re a monster 'I'll Show You A True Monster!'," I said the last words in multiple voices like with Chrysalis when she was possessed.

Third Person P.O.V

"We should be safe enough here," Rage said as he put down Rarity on the other side of the gorge.

"Here let me see if I can heal the injury," Cadence said as she went to work of Rarity's wound.

"Oh what happened?" Twilight asked when she came round.

"Are you alright Twilight?" Celestia asked.

One by one all the girls came round including Rarity who just had her wound treated by Cadence

"I think so I don't remember much except *gasp* oh my gosh is Ash alright?" Twilight asked.

"He's taking care of Nightmare the only one that was seriously injured was Rarity but it looks like she'll pull through," Spike assured her.

"I remember fighting Ash in that insanity version of myself along with the girls," Applejack said as she cried.

"Don't worry Applejack your safe now ok," Caramel said as he hugged her.

"That was really scary," Pinkie said with a terrified look on her face.

"Glad Ash was able to stop us when he did," Rainbow said.

"Rage why did Ash tell us all to leave? I saw how terrified you were when Ash spoke to you," Celestia said.

Rage just gave a sigh before he looked at the group who were watching him and stood up.

"It's not something that Ash or I tend to talk about or heaven forbid use you see when I was in Ash's head whispering dark choices into him all of them had to go somewhere. Since I was an emotion that came to life my words seemed to bring something to life inside Ash. Namely an alternate Ash that took every idea I thought of and feed off it until it became the very definition of the word monster," Rage said.

"What's this monster like?" Fluttershy whispered.

"You know your insanity versions along with, Nightmare Moon, Chrysalis when she was possessed, a mad plus crazy Discord, Sombra and Tirek and what each on was like right?" Rage asked earning shudders and nods from the group. "Well imagine all that placed inside Ash and smashed all together only this time it's out for blood," Rage said earning gasps from the group.

"But why does this have to do with us being out here?" Chrysalis asked.

"When Rarity was stabbed Ash snapped he's going to unleash that thing on Nightmare," Rage said.

"We have to stop him," Luna said before she ran over the bridge.

"Wait stop," Rage called out but Luna kept going and soon the entire group passed Rage following Luna. "Damn it why do I even bother when I know their right," Rage said before he too ran across the bridge and caught up to the others.

"Hey anyone here that music?" Thunderlane asked.

"Yeah and I don't know about you guys but I like it," Gilda said.

"We're too late Ash has let it out," Rage said.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HBeYy8ecjZY

The group ran through the corridors and did not stop till they reached the throne room doors Rage pushed open the doors but what the saw they were not prepared for. Ash had his back facing the group all the demons were looking at Ash in shock. Coming out of Ash’s hood was shadow like smoke and in the grip of his right hand was a demon with a terrified look on its face. Suddenly, Ash brought the demon to his face and the group heard a disgusting crunching sound, indicating Ash was biting the demons throat. The demon tried to escape Ash’s grip but slowly the demon died Ash removed it from his face to reveal to the group a large gap in the demons neck and shoulder. The group watched in shock as Ash threw away the demon corpse and wiped his mouth with his right hand. There was a mass amount of blood but just then the blood on Ash’s hand changed and moved long claws extend from his hand and went up his arm and the blood did the same for the other arm.

Ash then stepped forward but disappeared in an instant and at the same second a demon was torn to ribbons. Ash reappeared and swept his legs under another demon before he stood up as the demon was airborne Ash used his claws and slashed the demon in two in one strike.

“Kill him,” Nightmare ordered.

Just then a demon leapt at Ash from behind but Ash caught the demon by the head and glared at it before he crushed the demons head as if it were a grape. He then threw the body into a demon before Ash disappeared again. Ash then appeared behind a demon and drove his claws through its back once he did he expanded his claws ripping the demon apart. A demon then lunged at Ash behind the dead demon. But was impaled on the spikes that formed from the puddles of blood thanks to Ash

“He’s using blood as a weapon,” Celestia said in shock as she watched the carnage unfold.

“Now that’s something I didn’t know he could do,” Rage said.

The entire group watched as Ash ripped the demons apart with ease before he turned to Nightmare. Ash was in front of him in an instant and roared in his face at the same time as the song roared before Ash threw Nightmare into a wall. Ash was quick to grab his leg and snap the knee backwards so the bone was showing. Ash then picked Nightmare up and stabbed him in the stomach and threw him to the floor before Ash tried to jump onto Nightmare. But Nightmare rolled away only for Ash pick him up by the legs. Ash then swung him around overhead and slammed him into the ground and repeated it a few more times until the song ended and let go of Nightmare.

“Ash,” Rage called out to Ash.

Ash’s head snapped in Rage’s direction giving the group a full view of Ash’s face but the only thing to see was black and a pair of red evil eyes and a set of sharp teeth. black smoke flowed out of the hood like the vapours from Sombra’s eyes.

“Ash you need to calm down ok he’s beaten and Rarity is fine ok it’s alright,” Rage said.

Ash let out a roar before he disappeared Rage quickly drew his blades in a cross shape and blocked Ash’s attack before he could slash Rage. But, the force and the speed sent the two through the doors and into the chamber where the elements of harmony once stood. Both Rage and Ash stood up and glared at each other before the clashed steal and blood against each other. The two fought fiercely till Ash locked both Fury and Hate in-between his claws. Ash then twisted them out of Rage’s grip leaving Rage defenceless. Rage backed away from Ash as Ash moved closer as Ash was about to strike Ash was hit by something and was sent flying backwards. But, Ash did a backflip in mid-air and dug his claws into the ground and stood up. He looked to see the royal family were all armed with their weapons Ash just snarled at the group while the group stood their ground.

“Rage how do we stop Ash?” Celestia asked.

“I don’t know Ash has never used this before,” Rage said.

“So what do we do?” Twilight asked.

“We figure out how to stop him,” Eris said wielding a pair of pair of nun chucks.

Just then Ash attacked but Celestia blocked the attack with her halberd Chrysalis then thrusted her staff at Ash and hit him in the ribs. The blow sent Ash flying into the pedestal that once held the elements. But Ash did a flip and jumped off the pedestal and kicked Chrysalis in the face before he slashed at Dream Catcher only for Dream Catcher to block the strike.

“Ash please pull yourself together don’t make us fight you, you can do this,” Dream Catcher pleaded.

The eyes and teeth showed a small amount of pain before Ash leaped away from Dream Catcher and held his head before he growled.

“Dream Catcher what did you do?” Rage asked.

“I just told Ash to pull himself together and not make us fight him and that he can stop this,” Dream Catcher said.

“Well it seems to be working we gotta keep it up,” Rage said Ash then lunged at Rage but Rage blocked the attack again. “Ash I know you’re still in there what Nightmare almost did to Rarity was not your fault. You always told me to never become the monster your fighting otherwise there’s no point in winning which is what you’re doing now you’re better than this.”

Ash once again stumbled backward in pain and clutched his head.

“Ash if it weren’t for you we would have never known about mother still being alive and of Chrysalis and Dream Catcher’s existence you brought most of our family together again so please help us complete our family,” Celestia pleaded.

“Ash you taught me the importance of doing right thing even if it isn’t always easy but what you’re doing isn’t right,” Discord said.

One by one the group spoke their words to Ash and Ash’s screams of pain got louder and he collapsed to his knees until Luna walked up to Ash.

“Ash please this isn’t you I remember when you told me you’d do anything to keep us all safe but this isn’t what any of us would want you to do to protect us. Please don’t turn into a monster and hurt others like I did cause it won’t solve anything please come back,” Luna said as she placed a hand on Ash’s cheek.

Ash reeled back and roared at the top of his lungs all the darkness that was radiating off Ash slowly began to drain back inside him. Ash’s roars became screams of pain and Ash collapsed into Luna which she caught before she lifted his head up and Ash’s olive green eyes slowly opened.

“Luna,” Ash said tiredly.

Luna kissed Ash on the lips before she wrapped her arms around him.

“You certainly know how to scare ponies,” Applejack said.

“Guys I’m glad to see you’re alright and sorry I had to knock most of you out,” Ash said.

“It’s alright darling we’re just glad that your safe,” Rarity said.

“What happened anyway and why is there an awful taste in my mouth?” Ash asked.

“Are you saying my kiss tasted terrible,” Luna asked with a frown and raised eyebrow.

“No I’m talking about a different taste,” Ash said.

“I don’t think you want to know,” Rage said as he helped Ash stand.

“Do you remember anything from between when we ran out of the room and now Ash?” Celestia asked.

“Can’t say that I do sorry,” Ash said.

“Well I hope you haven’t forgotten our match.”

Ash looked behind the group and saw Nightmare in his smoke form charging at him and Luna. Ash then pushed Luna out of the way just before Nightmare struck Ash and sent him flying back a bit. The group watched as Ash remained still but suddenly Ash got up but only by using his feet.

“Ok that was seriously creepy,” Rainbow said.

Ash’s eyes snapped open to reveal cyan coloured slitted eyes Ash then looked at his fingers and felt his sharp teeth before he spoke in a voice that was not his own.

“Now this is a body I can feel the power from this one is great he will make a fine soldier in Heartless’s army,” Nightmare said.

"Like hell we'll allow that," Soarin said as he and the rest of the group redyed themselves for a fight.

"Oh I will take great pleasure in this and the best part Ash will be watching as I...," Nightmare started before he started screaming in pain and clutched his head. "What this isn't possible."

"I do believe you’re an uninvited guest in my head and I don't happen to like uninvited guests," Ash said as his left eye returned to normal.

"Ash is fighting back," Dream Catcher said.

The two souls in the one body both began to scream in pain as they tried to force the other either back into the subconscious or out of the body.

"We need to do something," Rarity said.

"Rage can you separate them?" Celestia asked.

"No Ash was the only one who knew how to use that spell," Rage said.

"Then we are left with one option the Elements of Harmony," Celestia said.

The girls nodded before they stood in formation and closed their eyes.

"No not again!" Nightmare shouted as he went to go for the girls to stop them only to be stopped.

Nightmare looked at what was holding him to see the metal arm's fingers dug into the ground.

"You just stay put till this is over Nightmare girls don’t hesitate to use that power on me no matter what!" Ash called as the girls changed into their harmonic forms.

The mane 6 eyes snapped open and were glowing white with power before a rainbow flew out of them and came crashing down on the two. Nightmare had a look of anger while Ash had a peaceful smile and closed his eye. The rainbow hit and formed a sphere around the two and let out a massive boom that sent the group flying in all directions and were knocked un-conscious. After a few minutes the group regained woke up and rubbed their heads.

"Uh that happened," Spike said.

"You said it," Thunderlane said.

"Is everyone alright?" Rage asked Rage's response was a load of weak groans from everyone. "What about Ash?" Rage asked as he looked over at where Ash was only to see a mass of smoke.

Rage stood up and walked over to the spoke and wafted it away only to see a large burn mark on the ground. The group then checked the area for Ash in case he was flung like the others only to come up with nothing.

"Damn where the heck did he go this time," Gilda said.

"Trixie does not enjoy having to repeatedly look for Ash," Trixie said.

"He's gotta be around here somewhere," Rage said.

Luna made sure to look everywhere for Ash till she saw Pinkie Pie looking at the sky before she flew down to her.

"Pinkie Pie not that I don't appreciate you looking at my night but now is not the time," Luna said but Pinkie remained silent.

"Luna did you do something different with the night sky recently?" Pinkie finally asked as she looked at Luna out of the corner of her eye.

"No I didn't Pinkie why?" Luna asked.

"Cause I think I found Ash," Pinkie said as she pointed upward.

Luna followed Pinkie's finger and once she saw what it led to her eyes filled with shock and tears before she collapsed. The sound of Luna's sobbing alerted the others and they came to see what was wrong. Luna just looked at what she was looking at causing the rest of the group to do the same and give off similar looks. There on the silver white moon was a silhouette of a wolf's head.