Author's Notes:

Swiftriff- "Octavia do you mind doing my author's note real quick."
Octavia- "And why am I asked to do such a task?"
Swiftriff- "Oh come on Tavi, I already talk to you about it last night, remember?"
Octavia- "Oh...I see. Very well then, I shall proceed with this...'Author's Note' as you call it. What is it I must do again?"
Swiftriff- "Well, ya know just inform the viewers about what's going on, interact, mingle, ya know stuff like that. I left a note of things to mention on my desk."
Octavia- "~Sigh~ Very well then. But I ask you don't make a habit of this."
Swiftriff- "He he, can't make any promises, but I'll do my best. See ya later." *steps out and closes the door to his room*
Octavia- "Now let's see, where is this note he spoke of...*searches for the note on his desk* Ah, here it is. Now lets see here..."

Good morning viewers and readers. I would like to inform you all that Swiftriff is currently unavailable at the moment, for he is preparing himself for a concert...or a 'gig' as he prefers to refer it as. My name is Octavia Melody, and I will be making some announcements regarding a list of information Swiftriff wishes to address to you all. First he is please to announce that he has started a...'Facebook page' (whatever that may be) and decorously invites you all to visit, view, and like the page if it suits your standards. It is titled 'PAGE: Ponies, Art, and Games Everywhere (Interesting choice for a title, I suppose.). If you wish to view the PAGE, here is a link he has provided for you all if you so desire: https://www.facebook.com/pages/PAGE-Ponies-Art-and-Games-Everywhere/364515743710136. Second he also wishes to graciously thank all of you viewers for your ongoing support, It brings him such joy to hear your kind words as he strives forward to satisfying your desires by progressing in this story of his. You would not believe what Vinyl and I have to endure as he is filled with jubilation, running about within our dwelling, chanting and cheering in a gleeful ruckus. It's nice to see him in such a state, although can prove to be a bit...overwhelming at times. That shall conclude this Author's Note and I bid you a good day. Enjoy the story. (Wait, there is more on this note. what is this..."be sure to end it with 'Keep it Jammin'.'? Is this really necessary?...~sigh~)

Keep it Jammin'. (I may never understand that stallion.)

I stood there gawking at the sight of the training facility. There was a track with different obstacles in its course, a caged lot with workout equipment's, and a range. It was so spacious and well kept with an admiring landscape, despite the abuse it must endure from the countless guards within the facility, but at the heart of it all stood a marble coliseum with architecture sharing a roman design. Simply put, it was breathtaking. Celestia giggles at my gawking expression and says.

"I suppose it does have a grand appearance. Do you like it?" I barely nodded as I was stricken with wonder at its beautiful sight. But my admiration was short-lived as two guards appeared before us, but their armor wasn't as clad as the others. One of them was an orchid colored Unicorn mare with a long pink mane pulled to a ponytail, and her bangs were cut short and curved to her left side. With gentle sky blue eyes and a slender figure, she was equipped with a fitted light chest piece, possibly steel with golden linings on her collar and shoulders with steel rivet studs, with a tight blue spandex and steel leg guards adorn with intricate designs that had a Victorian appeal, a topaz stone embedded in each knee, and a cutie mark with a pink heart inside a burgundy shield.

Now the other one had a more solemn ambiance. He appeared to be a dark grey Pegasus stallion with dark violet eyes and a sleek light blue hair that was almost the same style as the other guard, except his bangs weren't brushed to the side but instead hung askew, almost without care. He had a brown light padded chest piece, with a blue sash wrapped around his black pants that reminded me of what monks would wear, and fashioned on the hip of his pants was a emblem of two Dao Swords crossed like an 'X'. Celestia looked to the two with a serene smile.

"I'm glad to see you two are here. This is Vincent Valor." She introduced while gesturing to me with an indicating hand. I gave a smile and a wave as I said my hello before the mare guard came inches in front of my face with a curious gaze, examining me from top to bottom. Then with a cute giggle she grabbed my cheek and playfully pulled them apart.

"You are soooo cute. I'm Shieldoath, it's nice to meet you. I just know we're gonna be good friends." She said with a very bubbly tone as she continued to poke, pull, and then hug me, "and he's sooooo soft. A bit firm, but soft." She commented while squeezing the life out of me. "Dear god, she's almost as bad as Pinkie." No sooner said, Pinkie appears and hops on my shoulder looking at Shieldoath with an excited smile.

"Those were my thoughts exactly." She stated before she giggled, hopped over my shoulder and in between Shieldoath and I.

"I'm Pinkie Pie."

"I'm Shieldoath."

"I've never seen you before. ~GASP~ Oh my gosh, you know what this means?" Pinkie asked with a growing grin as she started bouncing up and down before Shieldoath got excited herself and started bouncing as well now.

"Oh, tell me, tell me, tell me." Shieldoath begged with excitement.

"This calls for…'A PARTY!'" She exclaimed while jumping in exclamation.

"Oh my gosh, that sounds super AWESOME." Shieldoath burst before they both started talking a storm.

"We are not here to 'party' sis. We are here to observe and give our opinion regarding Vincent's performance." The gray stallion scolded in an attentive tone. Shieldoath gave a giggle before stating.

"Oh lighten up Sworn, I'm just having some fun with some new friends. Seriously, you need to have some fun, and not be such a grouchy pouch." The stallion known as 'Sworn' merely sighs before addressing himself to me.

"Sorry for my sister's behavior, she could be…'energetic' sometimes. My name is Swordsworn, Captain of the Royal guards. As you heard, my sister and I will be judging you based on your performance as per Princess Celestia's request."

"Well it's nice to meet you both, and there's no need to apologize, I've dealt with worse." I stated while casting my gaze at Shieldoath and Pinkie Pie who looked like the best of buddies, arms over one another and still talking without end. Swordsworn gave an amused look as he chuckles.

"I can see what you mean." He stated in understanding. My attention returned to Swordsworn as I asked.

"So how will I be tested and judged, will I be facing off against you two?" I indicated towards him and Shieldoath before he shakes his head as he answered.

"No, fortunately it won't be that bad. More will be explained as we make our way to the arena." He looked at Celestia and nodded as she returns the same gesture before facing everypony.

"Let us make way to the arena so we may proceed." She announced as Luna and Celestia turned and walked side by side towards the entrance. Shieldoath broke away from Pinkie and hopped on Swordsworn's back as she declared.

"Woohoo, let's get this show on the road."

"Get off my back!" Swordsworn demanded with agitation. Shieldoath shook her head as she replied.

"Nope." Then she kicked him in the sides as she resumes, "Onward to the show!" Swordsworn merely sighs as he begins carrying his sister on his back, following the Princesses to the entrance. I couldn't help but smile upon the sight of seeing two different siblings having quality time together, despite her childishness and his seriousness.

"Oh that actually looks like fun. I wanna try it." I heard Pinkie state before I began to fear the worst from her statement. "Please Pinkie don't try getting on my baaAAACK." Before I had a chance to turn and face Pinkie to say otherwise, she immediately latched on my back, her soft body squeezing against my back and her breasts just smashed against the side of my head. "WHY ME?! Can't she just hop on AJ or Rainbow? But damn she is soft, and smells like bubblegum. Just play casual and please body, don't betray me and stay calm." I clenched my eyes and slowly straighten up as Pinkie was giggling with that adorable laugh, making it more difficult to contain myself, as she nuzzled her cheeks against mine and stated.

"Onward Vivi. To the arena!" She finished while pointing after the entrance. I smiled as I grabbed Pinkies legs to keep her on my back, and boy were they incredibly cushiony to the touch, my fingers just sunk into her soft and plush fur, and she was wearing shorts too…My luck.

My face was burning from all the physical contact and I did my best to avoid everyponies gaze as some of them giggled, smiled, and sighed from what I thought was envy, or jealousy…I couldn't quite put my finger on it. But I also noticed something strange, Pinkie didn't feel that heavy, in fact she was incredibly light. I don't know if it has something to do with their anatomy or if it's just Pinkie, but I'm not complaining.

Everypony was making their way down a path to the entrance of the coliseum as we were passing by what all the training facility had to offer, but during 'sight-seeing', we began striking a conversation with the new siblings. Pinkie urged me to move beside them, and I quickened my pace as the four of us were beside one another.

"So which one of you is the oldest?" Pinkie asked.

"We're twins actually." Swordsworn responded in the never-changing solemn tone.

"Really? Hmm, now that I really look at you two, I do see quite a resemblance." Pinkie stated with an observant gaze. I laughed at her way of interaction, she was really a sweet mare that takes consideration in knowing her friends, and isn't afraid to be sociable.

"Well to be honest, I am the oldest." Shieldoath stated with a playful smirk on her face.

"Yeah, but you don't really show it." Swordsworn commented before being bucked innocently in the sides by the rider with her tongue sticking out on him.

"I rest my case." He groaned after releasing a sigh. Then the rest of the girls appeared beside us as Twilight asked.

"So Shieldoath, if your brother is Captain, what rank are you?"

"We're both Captains." Shieldoath replied. This got Twilights interest as she began asking more questions.

"Did you happen to serve under my brother by chance? He used to be a Captain as well before he relocated and became Prince of the Crystal Empire." "What the hell?! Her brother is a fucking PRINCE? What's next, she's gonna say 'oh by the way I'm a princess.' If that turns out to be the case I'm gonna bash my head into the nearest object I see." I thought mentally and was surprised as hell to hear this news, though I was also impressed to hear her brother has made quite the accomplishment. She must be very proud of him.

"Captain Shining Armor? He's your brother?!" Shieldoath questioned in surprise. Swordsworn looked towards her as he states.

"Now that you mention it, I do see the similarity. He used to talk about you quite often."

"Yea, but I didn't have any idea you were Twilight Sparkle…you are, aren't you?" Shieldoath finished with an inspecting gaze towards Twilight. She smiled sheepishly and realized she forgot to introduce everypony else, save for Pinkie and I.

~SQUEE~

"There it goes again!" I shouted in agitation. Everypony looked at me in confusion, and then Pinkie whispered in my ear.

"Vivi, are you hearing things again?" "Are you kidding me?! Why am I the only one who notices that damn squeaking sound? Forget it, I give, I GIVE!" I noticed Celestia ahead, chuckling for some unknown reason, which wasn't helping me one bit and looked at Pinkie who was nuzzled against my cheek.

"It's nothing Pinkie." I looked at Twilight and resumed, "sorry for my outburst." She only smiled as she stated.

"It's okay, you didn't do anything wrong. But anyways, I'm sorry I didn't introduce us sooner. Yes, I am Twilight Sparkle, and these are my friends: Applejack, Fluttershy, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, and you've already met Pinkie Pie and Vincent." She clarified and indicated respectively during introductions.

"It's nice to meet everypony." Shieldoath said joyfully.

"We have arrived my little ponies." Celestia announced as we crossed an arched threshold and appeared at the entry. There were three paths ahead of us, one leading straight ahead and two others to the side going up some stairs to what I believe would be seating's for the audience. The flooring was sand, the walls maintained a beautiful marble, and the path ahead was lighted by the suns light, revealing part of the arena, and on the way I can make out an armory.

Celestia and Luna turned towards us as Shieldoath hopped off Swordsworn's back, and Celestia began her explanation regarding the test.

"Now Vincent, this test is merely to display your fighting capabilities, how you observe your opponents actions, and how you react. All standard expectations in combat."

"Once thou enters, a magical field will surround the arena to protect thy audience from…'unwanted' incidents, and keep combatants inside till either thy opponents have fallen, or thou hast." Luna added.

"But need not worry Vincent, for the weapons are enchanted to not deal harm to you, only to indicate your injury, though if 'dismembered', that part of your body will seize to fully operate." Celestia continued.

"This sounds more like a game." I commented. Shieldoath giggled at my comparison of said test.

"Many believe it as such, but still view it as training, and fight as if their lives are really on the line." Celestia stated. I nodded in understanding, seeing this as an opportunity to cut loose without injuring yourself or others in the process while seeing the result of combat capabilities on both sides.

"You'll be facing against fifteen opponents, not all at the same time, but the difficulty will increase the further you progress." Swordsworn informed. This information caught me off guard at the number of enemies that I had to face. "What the hell? Who in their right mind can face off against fifteen enemies? Are they trying to knock me out, I might exhaust myself before then…oh well, can't back down now I suppose." Luna was giggling at my reaction as she comforted.

"Tis okay, it won't be as bad as thou may believe it so. We have faith in thee Vincent."

"Yeah, in fact you'll probably have a lot of fun out there. I know I do. Hehe." Shieldoath stated.

"You can do it, just get out there and show em' who's boss." Rainbow cheered making punching motions in her cheering.

"Alright girls, I'll give it my all." I nodded, feeling more confident thanks to the support of my friends. Pinkie Pie nuzzled my cheek as she wished me good luck before hopping off.

"Fight well Vincent, and you may pick any weapon necessary for your test. No need to hold back." Celestia stated as I nodded.

"Thanks Celestia, I can promise I'll put on a good show for you." I said adding a wink. The princess blushed and made her way to Twilight and whispered something before Twilight gained a surprised look as she made her way to me.

"Vincent." Twilight called to me.

"Yes Twilight?" I replied.

"I noticed you were kinda shocked when I was talking about my brother. But in case you were wondering, I am a Princess." She stated nonchalantly as I stood there in disbelief.

"…"

I stood there speechless as Celestia was giggling to herself in the background, and I turned to face the wall and slammed my head at the wall so hard I literally cracked it…the wall, not my head. Surprisingly it didn't hurt for some reason and everypony were bewildered by my sudden action while Celestia was just laughing her hot little ass off. Twilight was stammering, confused as to what has taken place before asking out of concern.

"Are…are you alright Vincent?"

"No I'm fine, just…had to get that out of the way." I replied with a forced smile. "Are you fucking kidding me?!" I mentally raged before I looked over at Celestia and a thought struck me. "Celestia…" she stopped laughing and looked at me with one raised eyebrow in innocent wonder. "Are you reading my thoughts?" She only giggled before sticking her tongue out. "God damnit, I've been SET UP! Can all princesses read minds?!" I wondered as I looked to Luna who just looked back at me and smiled before making her way up the stairs, getting a glimpse of her nice posterior as I stood there and gulped. "I hope not. But since Celestia probably knows what I thought of her, and if you can hear me Celestia…I REGRET NOTHING!" I looked at her with a devilish smirk as she was blushing while everypony walked past her going up the stairs before Twilight approached her and asked.

"Is everything alright Princess, you look really…flustered?" She quickly tried to shake it off and looked at Twilight with a forced smile.

"I'm fine Twilight, let us make our way upstairs." She quickly went up the stairs as Twilight shrugged it off and followed. I chuckled at her reaction and turned to make my way down to the armory and searched for a weapon before I dawned upon a katana. I drew it and was testing it to see if it's to my liking as I heard hoofsteps approaching me. I turned to see Rarity approaching, her cheeks were bright red and I was curious as to why she was still down here.

"Hey Rarity, why aren't you upstairs with everypony?" I asked her curiously before she quickly embraced me in a hug as our lips met in a passionate kiss. It caught me by surprise at first, but I returned her embrace with one free arm and kissed her back with the same fervor. She sighs in delight as we parted lips and stared into each other's eyes.

"I wanted to wish you good luck, and give you my support before your test. I know you'll do just fine, and I'll be at the front row rooting for you darling." She replied with sweetness in her voice. I cupped her cheek delicately in my hand as she leans into my hand affectionately.

"Thank you Rarity." I said as I kissed her forehead before resuming, "you better head up with everypony, they might get worried about you." She merely chuckles as she released her embrace.

"I may be a lady, but I know how to handle myself. A lady always has her ways." She pronounced with a teasing tone as she made her way to the stairs, clearly giving me a show as she strut her stuff before winking my way as she went up and out of sight. "I don't know how I get myself involved in this position, first Rarity, then Applejack, who's next? Although Rarity is really trying to earn my heart, but I'm not sure I can commit without hurting somepony in the process." I made my way out to the arena with my katana in hand. "I mean what if I choose Rarity and break AJ's heart by leading her on, or vice versa. This whole relationship thing can be complicating sometimes." I thought before feeling like I was submerged in water as I passed what I assume was the barrier, stepping out to the arena.

"Let's get this show on the road." I said to myself. I made my way to the center of the arena, with the sound of sand crushed under me in each step, the sun blazing brilliantly in the open sky, and all around was the rounded structure of the coliseum with seats cascading downwards towards the center. I noticed that behind a barely translucent blue barrier, were all my friends waving and cheering for me. I nodded and gave them a two finger salute as I stood in the middle. Another thing I noticed was some of the guards came to watch me fight as well.

Luna took a stand and flew airborne. Then in a very loud and ear-splitting volume she made her announcement to the audience.

"Fillies and Gentlecolts, please pay respects and show thy support for Vincent Valor as he forgoes his test." The crowd was cheering ecstatically, I honestly didn't realize I would draw in such a crowd, but I didn't mind one bit.

I then heard a POP and looked to the source to find a wooden dummy with the head of a pony and a broadsword on its back. I was incredibly confused at this point for I was expecting something…well, alive.

"Fighters, get ready." As Luna continued her announcement, the dummy then moved, much to my surprise and drew its broadsword from its back. I grew a wicked grin as an inspiration sparked in me. I raised my finger in a gesture that meant 'One moment', and reached in my pocket as the dummy tilt it's head in what I believe was wonder. I drew my headphones as I stabbed the katana into the sand beside me, tucked the headphones under my shirt and plugged one of them in one of my ears.

"Ya know, I heard when you cut down a tree, it makes a sound." I stated in a deep tone as I searched my tracks and finding a suitable song, I resumed, "But I wonder…"I drew my katana from the ground and laid it on my right shoulder as I finished with a wicked tone and smile, "can you scream?" I pushed the button to play 'Scream' by 'Avenged Sevenfold' before Luna declared.

"And…BEGIN!"

The dummy charged at me as I quickly tucked the phone in my pocket. It raised its blade and attempted to strike down, but at that moment, time felt like it slowed down as I felt adrenaline pumping in me, my music pounding in my ear, and I flicked my katana, colliding with its broadsword and throwing its arm to the side with great force. Seeing my opponent wide open, I vertically cut upwards, severing its attacking arm from its body, feeling no resistance as my edge fluidly cut through its wooden arm with precision and speed, like cutting through butter.

It took the dummy a moment to recover from my parry before it registered its missing limb, and through its moment of distraction, I delivered a diagonal attack, dividing it in two from its shoulder to waist. I began to realize a change in my performance, my speed was swifter, my senses were sharper, and my strength was unnaturally stronger. "Perhaps this is part of attaining Davian's power, to the point it even alters my own bodies capabilities." Distracted in my own thoughts, I heard the wind rushing my way as I barely dodged an arrow as it graced against my neck from behind me. I turned to face two more dummies, one was stringing another arrow in its bow as another swordsman was closing distance between us. I made my move to meet the bladed enemy in the middle as the archer began shooting cover fire. I deflected two of the archers shots as the swordsman attempted to horizontally strike my ribs, I guarded the attack with my katana pointed towards the ground, and then guided its blade with my own as it traveled over my head and to my other side as my free hand grabbed its wrist. I rotated my body, dragging its arm behind it and over my shoulder, with our backs nearly touching as I see the archer ready another shot.

Once it released its arrow, I threw the swordsman in my grasp over me, as it served as a shield from the projectile before crashing to the ground. I reeled its weapon from its now limp grasp and made my way to the archer with sword and katana in each hand. It readied another shot in a rush as I analyzed its movement and calculated its target as it let the arrow fly towards my solar plexus, I quickly flipped and position the weapons in a backhand grip, descending towards my target. It didn't have the time to ready another shot or evade me as I stabbed both blades through its chest and pinned it into the ground. My opponent lay motionless in the sand as I heard the roar of the audience as they cheered me on, pleased by far with my performance. I hear more pops as I faced three more opponents, two of them had spears while one had a large two-handed greatsword.

The two spearmen rushed me and attacked on each side with a thrust. I parried the one on my right and side stepped to avoid the left, seeing the left enemy preparing another strike, I pushed the right spear aside and ducked to avoid a blunt strike. As the spear was over my frontal form, I struck the spear upwards and prepared to follow for a mid strike, but my target was saved as the other spearman blocked my attack. Just then, I noticed the large greatsword descending upon me in my peripheral and withdrew to avoid its devastating attack.

As I was landing from my retreat, one spearman took to the air as another jumped over the large blade embedded in the sand and made its way by land. As the airborne target descended to impale me, I rotated my body, blocking the attack in motion, and as its spear collided in the ground, I made my full rotation off to its side and sliced through its neck and outstretched arms. Meanwhile the other one thrust its spear my way, I side guarded and motioned it over me and to the other side in a single motion where the spear was within my open grasp of my free hand. I pulled the spear, bringing my target off balance and sliced its arm off, then slashed its gut and twisted my body around and with the spear in a backhand grip, impaled the dummy before releasing the spear as it held it up in a vaulted position.

I looked beyond my recently defeated opponent and noticed the remaining enemy beckoning me to make the first move. I walked around the vaulted foe and steadily increased my pace to a sprint as I made my way to the awaiting dummy, with blade at my side I struck upward in a side slash as it slashed downward to block my attack.

~KACHINK~

The katana couldn't withstand its guard and broke upon impact, the dummy then lifted its blade and did a side slash of its own as I rolled away to avoid it, rose back to my feet, and leaped away to get distance between us. I looked at my weapon and saw its blade cracked in two. I sighed in agitation before my opponent approached me. I quickly threw my sword at it as it deflected it and attempted a quick overhead slash, but the timing was too short to execute a proper slash, so I simply sidestepped from its strike, and with it on my left and exposed, I countered with a close elbow strike to the face while reaching with my right hand to grab under its chin, positioned myself behind it with our backs against one another and then reached with my other hand to pull its head over my shoulder, breaking its neck and spine…if it had a spine that is…I don't know, MAGIC.

It slumped off me and fell to the ground as its blade dropped to the sand with a muffled crash. "Let's see here, one…three…six enemies down, nine more to go." No sooner as I finished my count, four more enemies' teleported in the field. "So that's what that popping sound was." I reached down and lifted the greatsword with one hand, and much to my surprise, it didn't feel that heavy, almost like a typical broadsword in comparison. I smiled upon this revelation as I was faced against two archers, a dual-knife user, and a shielded swordsman. I gave the large weapon some test swings, getting easily accustomed to the feel of its little resistance within my hand. With great speed and precision, my enemies can see the extent of my capability as I easily maneuvered the blade with ease.

Hesitant to make the first move, the swordsman cautiously approached me with the knife user attempting to circle behind me. The archers readied their bows and exchanged consecutive shots, providing an opportunity to distract me so the swordsman can make its move. I noticed their intention and deflected the arrows as the swordsman approached, but as it was close in range and readied a side slash, I had my weapon readied and made a preemptive attack, it attempted to block the attack with its shield, but my strength and speed was overwhelming as I cut through its shield and part of its arm before our two weapons met, breaking the smaller blade in two.

As it recoiled from the attack, I followed up with a stab downward through its head and impaled it in the ground. I then hear the sand crunching behind me and quickly turned to see the knife user in motion to stab my sides, but I was too quick as I grabbed hold of both wrists, kicked its gut as it hunches over from the impact, and I rolled over its back, dragging its arms as I was now positioned behind it and with great force, brought its arms downwards as it breaks over my shoulders and forcefully stabbed its own back. I see the archers ready another volley of arrows as I quickly took the knives in hand, withdrew them and quickly twist around to decapitate my enemy. Quickly leaning back to avoid one arrow, tucked myself in a crouch from another, then side rolled airborne to avoid the next as I aimed and threw my knives at my two targets.

~THUNK THUNK~

I made my mark as one made contact on the neck and the other on the chest as I landed from my evasive maneuver. I was breathing heavily, feeling exhaustion catching up to me as I stood straight up on my feet. I hear more pops to see the last five opponents appeared before me, making steadily collective breathes to calm myself and prepared for my final bout. I was faced with two greatsword wielders, a shielded swordsman, and two spearmen. I grabbed the large blade beside me, retract it from the fallen enemies head and laid it upon my right shoulder. I raised my left hand towards them and beckoned them to make the first move.

A spearman attacked on my left side with a thrust as I parried upwards and kicked it in the gut away from me, then a greatsword was falling towards me as I slashed downwards, guiding it away from me and into the spear of another attacker on my right, splitting the wooden weapon as I slashed through its neck, guarded another overhead strike from another greatsword. I pushed the weapon away and kicked away from my attackers, gaining some space and regaining my composure from the fray as the shielded swordsman took to the air and was diving my way. It brought its sword down as I guarded and kept it in place above me before seeing the spearman circle behind me. I pushed the swordsman away and turned to barely parry an attack before I countered in three strikes, severing it to different pieces as I noticed shadows behind me. I quickly turned once more to see two greatswords crossed over me as I intercepted their attacks and brought it down in front of me simultaneously. I was ready to react before another sword thrust my way as I quickly blocked it and flipped backwards to avoid the greatswords rising to strike me once more. I landed back to my feet and saw the greatswordsmen preparing to make another strike as they lift their blades over their heads. I quickly took a stance with both hands grasping my weapon, deeply inhaled and concentrated, feeling time slow to a near stop when I focused my mind to my very being. I opened my eyes to see the blades drawing nearer in a slow motion as I finally felt collected and whole before making my move.

~KATATING~

The sound of their large weapons dug deep into the sand as they realized they have missed their target, which I now stood behind my two attackers with my weapon pointing straight ahead before I relaxed and placed it on my right shoulder. The two dummies turn to face me, readying themselves once again, but shortly after, the two attackers behind me divided to pieces as they collapsed to the ground. I can hear the wind whirring by as the crowd went silent upon the event that has unfolded. What they have witnessed barely took place in a blink of an eye,and was a technique I have developed during my time training with dad, and have improvised to make based on his concepts and my personal style of fighting. Usually though, I performed it with a katana, because of the comfort I had with the blade, but surprisingly I made due with the greatsword in my grasp thanks to my enhanced capabilities.

I slowly approached the final swordsman as it took a step back. I watched it carefully, waiting for any attack it may make as I approached it, but to my great surprise, it dropped its weapons and kneeled before me. I stopped in front of it, my mind trying its best to look past its confusion to comprehend it surrendering itself. As the audience remained silent, I then realized what needed to be done. So I lowered my hand in front of it.

It looked up, facing me as a smile spread gently across my face. It took my hand in its own as I helped it to its feet, and the crowd roared in jubilation. We stood there for a moment as I began to witness the fallen pieces around me were reassembling and recovering as they slowly stood from where they have been defeated with their weapons all scattered on the ground beside them. I smiled as I turned to the exit, but stopped shortly as I faced all my prior opponents, stabbed my sword to the ground and bowed to them as they returned with a salute before they ported away with their weapons, leaving a clear field of sand.

I retrieved my weapon and turned to make my exit, back into the hallway where all my friends stood waiting for me, except Shieldoath and Swordsworn. I looked around seeing if maybe I overlooked them as my friends congratulated me.

"That was AWESOME! I knew you could fight and all back with Gilda, but now I'm starting to think you were pulling your punches back then." Rainbow complimented.

"Not exactly, I actually gave it my all out there. I believe the only reason I did better and have improved was because Davian's power may have enhanced my fighting prowess."

"Really?! I never heard of magic that passively enhances a body. Perhaps an enhancement spell or enchantments, but those were created to perform specific tasks upon casting, not naturally occur." Twilight inputted. I merely shrugged.

"It's the only explanation I can think of that seems remotely reasonable. I doubt I could make such dramatic progress from a one-day training session." I expressed while thinking of other possibilities towards this questioning discovery.

"With the way ya' work yaself, ah wouldn't put it past ya'." Applejack teased while giggling. "Wow, I never really heard her giggle before. She sounds really cute when she does. Hehe, looks like a have a new mission: Make AJ laugh more often." As I was in thought, I was embraced by something soft, cuddly, and pink. I looked to see pinkie nuzzling herself in my chest, and noticed Rarity was blushing while slightly scrounging her face. "Guess she's upset that she didn't get to me first. But why has Pinkie Pie become so affectionate all of a sudden, she's been like this the entire day."

"I would like to congratulate you Vincent on passing the test. Not only did you defeat all fifteen of your enemies, and on your first try nonetheless, but you have also shown mercy and respect for your opponents. I feel certain that you are, without question or a doubt, the Warrior of Light. For even though your combat skills are cunning and relentless, you fight with a sense of honor that I could see clearly among the stands. But now, with the conclusion of the test, I pass the task at hand to my sister." I looked at Celestia questioningly as she made her statement before facing Luna with a confused expression.

"And what 'task' exactly needs to be done?" I asked very curiously. Luna looked at me with a gentle smile as she replied.

"Dost thou recall the Prophecy thou read the night before?"

"Yes, I recall it stating about two warriors facing some unknown evil force, which I believe it to be the Netherlings." I recalled.

"Indeed, but there was another vital part within said Prophecy." Luna stated. I looked at her with raised eyebrows as I asked.

"And what may that be?"

"The Blade of Legends." She answered. I was in wonder if the princesses had any idea about this 'Blade of Legend'. I proceeded with hope to have my question answered.

"So what does this have to do with the weapon?"

"We wished to test thou to see if thou be worthy to wield the Blade of Legends. That was the purpose of this test, and thou hast passed beyond all expectations." Luna replied.

"So you know where it is then?" I asked with anticipation as she nodded in confirmation.

"We do. But we wish to take thou there ourselves…alone." I can see she was a little embarrassed from the thought, and honestly, without knowing why but I was pretty nervous about it as well.

"I will return everypony back to Ponyville to await for Vincent's return when the matter is resolved." Celestia stated. Then Pinkie asked enthusiastically.

"Will Vincent be done by tonight?" Celestia nodded in response before Pinkie hugged me tighter then last time before she pressed her nose against mine as she looked me straight in the eye.

"Be sure to come back to Sugarcube Corner by seven tonight. Don't be late~." She beamed as she released me and hopped back to the group as Rarity approached me. She looked at me innocently and I couldn't help but smile as she said.

"Be sure you come by my place before then. I wish to ask you something, and may require your assistance on the matter." I blushed as I heard that offer before, but nodded in thought that it might be something of a favor rather than 'that'. She smiled as she gently embraced me as she whispered in my ear.

"I really mean it this time darling." I chuckled softly from her clarification, and easing my mind as I returned the hug and released after a short moment before I approached Luna.

"Thou art ready Vincent?" Luna asked.

"I'm ready whenever you are." I replied. She nodded as she took hold of my hand, earning a blush to spread across my face as her horn glowed in a brilliant blue aura before we teleported with the scenery making a drastic change to reveal a dilapidated stone castle on top of a cliff in the middle of a dark forest, even though it was still day time when we left the coliseum.

I looked around and seeing the castle which appeared to be quite old and abandoned, not a soul in sight or a sound was made besides the wind in the forest, rustling its leaves in its passing.

"What is this place?" I asked as I stood beside Luna in curiosity before I realized she had released my hand.

"We art within the depths of the Everfree Forest." I have heard some things about this forest during the tour Twilight gave me back in Ponyville, it was said to be an unnatural place with ferocious creatures that calls it home. But to me, it sounded like any other forest that I know of back in my world.

"As for the castle that stands before thee, tis known as 'The Castle of Two Sisters'. But we called it home…that is, before 'it' happened." Luna expressed as she set her gaze away in what seemed like shame. I looked at her and felt concerned for her as I cautiously pressed on.

"Do you mean…when you were Nightmare Moon?" I immediately regret having mentioning that, for she turned her back to me and crossed her arms to herself.

"So thou hast heard of our misdoing." She said softly in guilt. I approached her as she continued, "dost thou see us as a monster now?" She huffed. I gently grabbed her hands and turned her to face me, but her eyes still looked away in shame. So I leaned forward so my face was close to hers as I said with assertiveness.

"No, I do not." This gained her attention as she finally looked at me with hopeful, glossy eyes.

"The pony I see before me is the same pony I have met last night. A beautiful, kind, and a rather unique mare." I commented as I emphasized 'unique', earning a light chuckle from her.

"I am glad to have met you, and I do not hold what happened in the past against you, for the past shall stay as such, being a reminder of the mistakes we have made to help make us better into who we are today. I care for you just like I would care for any of my other friends." I genuinely stated as I looked into her sparkling blue eyes as they began to water as she gave me a quivering smile before she cried into my shoulder.

I released her hands and held her while softly brushing her silky mane as she returned the hug, grabbing the back of my shirt as she let her tears and emotions pour out. I didn't mind at all, and was glad that which I could be there to support her in a time when she needed someone the most, to fill the gap of loneliness and being accepted for who she is, and not for who she once was. She soon settled down and shuddered the last of her tears.

"We thank thee. Thou art a true friend indeed, and we art truly happy to have befriended thee." She thanked wholeheartedly. I felt her hug me closer and tighter as she nuzzled her head unto my shoulder and neck. I felt her heart beating against my chest as it beat in a gleeful rhythm, as she sighs in content before withdrawing our embrace, wiping the tears on her face.

"How embarrassing. We apologize for our lack of restraint." I only smiled as I reached with my left hand and delicately used my bandaged hand to wipe the remaining tears away. She only stared with a blush as I gently cleaned her.

"You have no need to apologize Luna." I comforted as she smiled and took my left hand in her own.

"Let's put this all behind us and press forward. Shall we?" She suggested as she beckoned me towards the ancient stone castle. As we entered through its threshold, I noticed the ceiling was exposed, letting the sun peak into the ancient interior, revealing the life of the forest growing in and out of the castle. No trees, but grass, vines, plants and the like.

There were six arc paths, three paths to the left and right side with two crumbling thrones atop a small set of stairs with a still-standing stone counter or alter in between said thrones. Luna made her way to the thrones as I shortly followed along. She made her way up the steps, went behind the alter and used her magic to move the alter to the side, revealing staircases that led underground.

"Come along Vincent." Luna stated. I nodded and followed behind her, and as she took her first step on the stairs, torches began to ignite to life, leading a path of light down some ways alongside the walls. We made our way down as more torches lit in front of us while some behind us extinguished. "Must be magically enchanted. Even after one thousand years its 'features' are still active." We finally made it to the end of the stairs and made our way to a stone door. There was a hole in the center with some symbols, as if a key was needed to open the door. I stared in wonder and watched as Luna approached the door and inserted her horn into the hole, giving a blue light to the symbols as the door made cracking sounds. She removed her horn as the door rumbled and split three ways, revealing an object in the center of a lighted circular room. The object was encased in purple crystals, and I only stared as Luna turned to face me.

"Behold Vincent, the Blade of Legends." She announced as she gestured to the encased object. I approached it slowly, vaguely seeing something inside the crystals, but couldn't make it out. I looked at Luna and asked.

"So what am I to do?"

"We believe you are to free it from its prison. Many stallions and mares have tried to free it, but all have failed, even magic had no effect. Twas like it negated and siphoned magic, leaving unicorns in magical exhaustion." I was greatly intrigued by this tale and turned back to the blade.

"Reminds me of 'The Sword in the Stone'." I commented.

"What is this 'Sword' thou speaketh of?" Luna asked.

"It's one of my favorite stories when I was a kid. There were different variations, but a legendary sword known as 'Excalibur' was embedded into a stone. Many knights attempted to free the sword for whoever draws it shall be worthy and declared king. All have failed of course, but a boy who was untitled or without rank pulls the sword without anybody present. This scared him for he felt he was unfit to be king and returned it to the stone. But later on, when his brother was knighted and the boy became a squire, his brother attempted to free the blade, only to have failed. The boy was then called forth for one had witness him free the blade before when he thought he was alone. He was nervous but eventually he freed it once more, and was declared king at that point in his young life." I finished telling the story, of course cutting to the chase as Luna marveled.

"Such a responsibility can prove to be heavy and tasking." I nodded in agreement to her words

"Perhaps, but he had people he could count on, friends he made along the way to help him in his endeavors." I stated.

"As do thee Vincent." I looked back to see Luna smiling at me, comforting me as I smiled and faced the blade, approaching it and slowly stretched my right hand out to its makeshift handle. I was breathing heavily, nervous from what is to come of this, but pushed forward as I fully grasped it.

It started to radiate light within my grasp, then it shined brighter and began emitting a humming sound. The crystals began to crack in my grasp and shattered as I felt the handle of the blade and began to make my effort to pull. Its cage was resisting, but I persevered and kept pulling, cracking the crystals down along its body as the blade slowly began to inch its way out from its prison. The humming grew louder and the light grew brighter as an unknown force whirred around the room, attempting to blow everything in its path away. Luna grounded herself, shielding her eyes as her mane whipped from the force behind her. I roared as I pulled with every strength I had before the blade finally broke free as it emit a pulse, pushing the light and force out the room as it collides and travels up the walls.

I was heaving from the exertion, and as the light dimmed away, the humming sound softly emitted within my hand as it slowly faded with its light, revealing a beautiful and intimidating weapon. Luna lowered her arms to witness the blade within my hold as she gasped in admiration. Within my hand was a weapon with a black metallic blade, a curved edge that stretch almost as long as my body, with a golden design that coiled and intersected in almost a tribal style along the length of the blade,and a guard that vertically aligned with the blade. The guard displayed a round, gear shape with a large, round, black stone embedded in the center, and a foot long handle protruding from the guard with a white colored spiral with black inner dents giving a more comfortable grip to the weapon.

"It's beautiful." Luna awed out loud. I stood there admiring the blade, it had the concept of a greatsword, but its edge curved like that of a katana. It didn't feel too heavy, was perfectly balance, and just felt…like a natural extension of my arm, it was perfect. Then a thought sparked, leaving a smile to spread across my face.

"I thought of a suitable name for it." I stated. Luna looked at me with interest and asked.

"What dost thou wish to name it?" I looked earnestly at the weapon in my hand as I announced its new name.

"Salvation."