Midnight vs Nova

by Pen Dragon

Chapters

• The Hunt Begins
• The Meeting Part One
• The Meeting Part Two
• Nova's Origins Part One
• Nova's Origins Part Two
• A Angry Twilight and a Talk
• Surprise Visit
• Round One
• Unexpected foes
• A Draw?!!!

The Hunt Begins

It was a calm and beautiful night in Equestria, everypony was either asleep or enjoying Luna’s night sky, everything was peaceful in Ponyville especially for Midnight and Twilight as they looked up to the night sky from the balcony of Twilight’s library enjoying each others comfort.

“I’m glad we can spend time together Midnight, just the two of us.” Twilight said as she snuggled closer to Coltfriend.

“I couldn’t be happier Twilight.” Midnight said as he embraced Twilight. They had been through so much together with their friends, learning the magic of friendship, defeating all evil, and bringing peace to Equestria.

“Midnight look it’s a shooting star, make a wish?” Twilight asked.

Midnight only closed his eyes and smiled, already making his wish. “So what did you wish for Midnight?” Twilight asked.

“If I told you, it wouldn’t come true.” He said with a warm but cheeky smile and with that the young couple shared a passionate kiss. But what they didn’t realize was that was no shooting star.

The red light flew through the night sky with great speed, heading towards a cave with light.

“It has been too long since I had somepony worth giving me a challenge I mean sure it’s okay taking care of crime in Equestria but everything has been so dull.”

The red light soon disappeared revealing a large red stallion with green eyes, a long fiery mane and tail with wings to match and a fire cutie mark. As he entered the cave he was greeted by a small blue pegasus filly with a short white mane and beautiful sapphire eyes and a tall green pegasus mare a dark green mane and a wind cutie mark .

“BIG BROTHER!!!!” the little filly said as she rushed over hugging the red stallion. It was too cute for he laughed and hugged her back. “Good to see you too Ice beam I take it you had fun with Skyress.”

“Yeah she’s the best foalsitter ever.” She said with an adorable smile ever.

“Thanks again Skyress. You have no idea how much this means to me.”

“Nova you should know that I would do anything for a friend.”She said with a smile as she left the cave. “See you guys tomorrow.”

“Bye Skyress.” Ice beam said with an adorable grin that only made Nova chuckle. “Bro do you think we can meet a princess tomorrow? you promised me we could.”

Nova for his part wanted to take her to meet a princess but it was complicated. He did have somewhat of history with the princesses and didn’t want to deal with them trying to convince him to train ponies to wield fire. Not only that they didn’t even know Ice beam existed. “Well…. we’ll see if we can meet them.” He hesitated but his sister didn’t seem to notice.

“Okay.” She said as she skipped off to her little sleeping bag.

“Don’t worry sis I promise to do everything I can to make our lives easier.” Nova thought as he trotted over to his sleeping bag. “Nova can you tell me a bedtime story?” Ice beam asked. How could he say no to a face like that which only caused him to smile at his sister.

“Alright how about I tell you the story of the two sisters on how they defeated the evil Discord.

“YAY!!!”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“The end.” Nova turned to see his sister sleeping. He couldn’t but smile as he walked back to his sleeping and drifted off to sleep.

Soon enough Nova found himself in a bright room with a large glass table. Across the table sat a bright figure who shined brighter than sun itself.

“I figured you would visit me tonight Angel.” Nova said as he sat down on a red pillow.

“Nova I thought we discussed this that you don’t have to call me that. Honestly it’s quite embarrassing.” The Angel said as she took a sip of her tea

“I know that but it feels right and I know the others would agree with me too.” He countered which caused her to blush a bit.

“Alright call me what you will but knowing you Nova you already know why I am here I presume?” She asked.

“Honestly for once I am clueless as to why you are here.”

“Well I just came to inform you of the return of King Sombra and the Crystal Empire….”

“King Sombra, didn’t you say once that he was the most powerful Unicorn in Equestria.”

“Yes I did and I’m surprised you remembered that story from three years ago.” The Angel said surprised.

“I'm not an idiot I know my history."

"I'm not saying that you are Nova."

"I know but that's beside the point King Sombra has returned and you need somepony to stop him I hoping ?" Nova asked. He was actually glad to hear that another bad guy has come and hopefully give him a challenge. But sadly that would not happen.

"I hate to break it to you Nova but if you had let me finish, I was saying that King Sombra has been defeated and restored to the side of good." The Angel said as she took a sip of her tea. Nova only choked on a muffin he was eating. He was surprised that somepony was capable of defeating Sombra.

"I'm guessing the princesses finally defeated him then?" Nova asked.

"No he was defeated by a Unicorn named Midnight Blaze." She answered. But it only made Nova ask more questions.

"Angel you surely have to be joking?" Nova asked. "I mean Celestia and Luna had a hard time fighting and they are Alicorns."

"He did have help from his friends. Midnight has accomplished a lot since an old friend of mine informed me of him and might I add he’s an extraordinary Stallion."

"Yes you have mentioned him a few times but it wasn't a lot to go by to impress me." Nova said as he continued eating.

"Well  I guess you don't want to know how he defeated The Whisperer." The angel chuckled as she took a small bit of her cake that was on the table.

"WHAT?" Was all Nova could say. One of the Angel's oldest foes from thousands of years ago was defeated by some normal unicorn. He was more interested about this Midnight now.

"Nova you should by now that you should chew your food more often otherwise you'll keep choking on it." The Angel said as she laughed.

"Yeah yeah but this is just a dream." Nova said to The Angel.

"Yes, but what have I taught you..."  She asked. He only sighed.

"Just because this is a dream doesn't mean it's not real." Nova knew you shouldn't argue with The Angel. You can never win. Especially since she is his teacher. He always viewed The Angel as his mentor and mother. She always cared about him and his sister and she knew what he thought of her.

"Very good Nova." She smiled.

"Anyways you said he defeated The Whisperer someone that you've fought before. How did he do it."

"Well he did it with the help of Sombra who achieved Alicorn Hood. He was struggling with his nightmares and they only got worse for him having to battle with his inner demon which was assisted by The Whisper. But in the end instead of destroying his evil counterpart he accepted that worst part of himself which gave him the advantage to defeat him."

Nova was every bit as surprised at this story, true it was short but he knew their was more to it. He listened to The Angel's tales about Midnight's, how he traveled through time and met history's greatest heroes and villains, how the princess reincarnated him and his secret life he had, How he battled The Whisperer again and finally put an end to his wickedness. Nova has never been more impressed.

"He certainly has been through a lot even when coming to Equestria." Nova said.

"Indeed he has but now it's time for him to prove if he's worthy of being Equestria's saviour. That's where you come in Nova I want you to challenge him. Put him through a trial to prove if he's worthy. Push him to the edge of beyond, do whatever means necessary. He has great potential and I know he'll do great things someday."

"Mother.... I mean Angel are you sure you want me to do this? Because if he fails what will happen? Because I won't hold anything back." Nova asked. He wasn't even sure he wanted to do this but the challenge was too good to pass up. But his own mother didn't look too sure.

"If he fails your trial then I fear for the future of Equestria. He has the power but if he doesn't tap into it then...." She couldn't finish, but Nova had a pretty good idea of what may come.

"I understand. Please get some rest.......mother." Nova said as he got up and slowly disappeared from the room.

"Good luck......my son." The Angel said as she vanished in flash of light.

Nova groaned as the sunlight hit his face within the cave and was slowly waking up. He honestly wanted to sleep some more but his baby sister had other plans. "Wake up wake up today is the day." Ice beam said as she bounced on top of Nova's back. She was always an early riser.

"Ice why do you have to wake up so early, someponies need their shut eyes and in my case ME!!!" Nova yelled. You could hear his voice echo through the cave.

“BRO YOU PROMISED!!!!” She yelled back.

“Listen I know that but there's a slight change in plans. Mother has given me an assignment.” Nova said. But knowing his sister she wouldn’t give up so easily.

“But you promised.” She said as she made puppy dog eyes. He always submitted to her adorableness, but not this time.

“Look this is really important, I’m taking you over to Skyress place for a bit.” Nova said. "I promise we will meet a princess soon just give me a few days please."

“Fine but you better make it quick or else I’m telling mom.” She groaned

“Alright, alright lets not do anything we might regret okay…..hehehehe.”

“What did mom want you to do anyway?”

“She wanted me to test this Midnight guy to see if he really is to be the savior of Equestria.”

“Does this mean you're going to find him and make your archrival?” She asked.

“Well I wouldn’t go that far sis even if mom exaggerated about how powerful he is a little it doesn’t hurt to look into it. Besides the challenge is too good to pass up.”

“When your done can we still meet a princess?”

“Yes sis we will.” Nova said.This made her smile with joy as she hugged his brother.

It was a beautiful afternoon in Ponyville. Midnight and the guys would do their usual get together at Pepper Pony’s Pizza and Thunderlane and the guys have been meaning to ask Midnight

“So Midnight you and Twilight have been getting pretty close. When do you think you’ll pop the question?” Thunderlane asked.

“Yeah Midnight Ah’ know ya love her So whats stoppin’ ya?” Big Mac asked.

“Well it’s just….” Midnight was about to answer but Rainbow Dash Flew through the front door. Interupting them.

“Midnight, theirs somepony looking for you and I don’t like the looks of this guy.” Rainbow said.

“Well who is it?” He asked.

“I don’t know? He’s new in ponyville. But he’s kinda creepy not to mention huge.”

“Well I guess I should check this out.” Midnight said as he followed Rainbow outside. In the center of Ponyville a large pony in a brown cloak. Stood their silently without moving. The pony finally spoke.

“Ah so you're the one who defeated The Whisper not exactly what I was expecting. But your Midnight Blaze I presume.”

“Who are you and how do you know about the Whisper?”

“I know a lot of things about you Midnight and you’re accomplishments I have spent the past two days searching for you and….oh where are my manners.” The pony removed his cloak and threw it aside to reveal a large red Stallion bigger than Celestia with a fiery mane. “I am Nova Flame and I’m here to challenge you.”

End of Chapter.

The Meeting Part One

"What do you mean, challenge me?" Midnight asked, glaring at this stranger as he tried to sense his energy and size him up. To his surprise, he felt nothing from this odd pegasus. Nothing at all, almost as though he didn't even exist!

How is that possible?!

"I was sent here to test your worth, Midnight Blaze," Nova answered with an arrogant smirk that rubbed Rainbow Dash the wrong way.

"Hey, who do ya think you are, bub?" Rainbow flared her wings while the others exchanged looks of confusion, including Midnight.

"Dashie, calm down," Soarin stood by his mare while giving Nova a stern look, "Why do you wanna challenge Midnight at all? I mean, he's an alicorn and you're a pegasus."

"I concur with my friend," Blueblood interjected, "I mean, a pegasus challenging an alicorn? No offense to you, gentlecolt, but it doesn't seem like good idea."

"My reasons are between myself and Midnight, which is exactly as it should be if you guys are smart enough not to interfere," Nova all but threatened. Otherwise, somepony... could get hurt!"

"Oh yeah? Well what makes you think you even stand a chance against Midnight?!" Thunderlane snapped, not liking Nova's thinly-veiled threat.

Nova chuckled condescendingly at Thunderlane's boldness though he acknowledged to himself that trouble was starting to brew unless he could get Midnight to answer his challenge of one-one-one combat.

"Look, my business is with Midnight alone, so unless you're all looking for a trip to the emergency room, I'd take a hike right now!!"

Midnight definitely sensed something this time from Nova, a warning of retaliation.  Alas, his friends did not take Nova's threat seriously, as Rainbow challenged, "Why don'cha make us, creep?!"

"I've had enough of his attitude, let's get this punk, Dash!" Thunderlane made the first move, backed up by Rainbow ash, as both weather co-captains charged Nova, ignoring Midnight's warning, "NO!!!"

Too late, as Nova vanished in a flicker of movement, reappaearing behind Thunderlane a split-second later, to Midight's shock, He didn't teleport! That's- That's moving quicker than the eye can follow!

Thunderlane was stunned too, which was followed by an explosion of pain to the side of his head, as Nova back-hooved him, sending the dark gray pegasus flying into a tree.

"Thunder!" Rainbow yelled in concern but this only allowed Nova time enough to whirl about and do the same to Rainbow Dash!

Luckily for her, Soarin managed to intercept her unconscious body and safely catch her in his arms, "Dashie?!"

Midnight was shocked, and had felt it for only a second! Nova's energy had spiked to a level higher than any pegasus he had ever sensed! Hearing the knocked out Rainbow groaning, Soarin sighed in relief but threw a a glare at Nova, "You jerk! Was that really necessary?!"

"Easy, haystack," Big Mac said to him as Soarin came down, holding Rainbow's prone body close while Blueblood stepped forward.

"As a Prince of Equestria, I order you to- Oomph!!" Blueblood was interrupted by the unconscious Thunderlane being thrown onto him whn Midnight stepped forward.

"Guys, take Rainbow Dash and Thunderlane to the hospital, now!" he ordered while keeping his focus on the smirking Nova. "I'll handle this..."

"I gave a fair warning to your friends, but before they skedaddle, I'd like for them to witness this," Nova spoke as he challenged, "Do you accept my challenge? Another fair warning - I don't take 'no' for an answer..."

"I'm ending this nonsense...NOW!!!!" Midnight yelled before he took a deep breath and unleashed a sonic scream!!!!

"Uh-oh...!" was all Nova could say, having foolishly let his guard down. He was unprepared as the sonic vibrations of Midnight's scream sent him hurtling into the Everfree Forest, leaving a trail of destruction as he paved through the many trees and dirt, creating a straight and narrow path into the wild wood.

Midnight panted a little while Big Mac said, "Tha's stickin' it to him, haystack!"

"And stay down!" Soarin shouted towards the wake of destruction.

"Job well done, my friend," Blueblood added but noticed the look on Midnight's face as the alicorn sensed he same energy again.

A rocky burst got their undivided attention and they were stunned to see a pair of red wings flare from the debris as Nova pulled himself out of the mess, quaintly dusting off his coat as though he'd simply tripped. All of them, including Midnight, were stunned to see Nova appeared unharmed!

After confirming he wasn't worse for wear, Nova eyed Midnight with regard, Hmm, well ain't he full of surprises... to think a little push gave me that brief glimpse. But let's see if he can keep up...

Sensing it was coming, Midnight ordered, "All of you, get out of here, now!!"

Hearing the urgency in Midnight's voice, the stallions hurried off, carrying their unconscious pegasus friends with them as quickly as they could.

"TRY THIS ON FOR SIZE!!!" Nova roared as his mane and tail ignited with fiery mana and he took a deep breath... before unleashing a wildfire!!!

Midnight quickly Flashed behind Nova, his tail raised with a blade of solidified shadow, like a scorpion! He'd performed this very same sneak attack many times yet it failed as Nova spun around and caught the strike with his very wings!

"What?!"

Before Midnight saw it coming, he was sent spinning as Nova threw him him skyward and launched himself at him, his hooves ablaze!

Midnight reacted in the nick of time as Nova launched a barrage of fiery punches with his hooves, but Midnight armored his wings with solidified shadow and blocked the hail of hooves, and quickly flared them out, temporarily forcing Nova back!

"My turn!"

Midnight slashed forward like a dervish, his shadowy armored wings extending into blades but Nova easily deflected his attacks with his flaming hooves, sparks flying like liquid fire with each exchange of attacks, and it quickly became apparent that neither combatant was getting anywhere. Finally both fighters jumped away from each other, throwing the other a scowl, trying to size the other up.

After a few tense moments, Nova broke the silence.

"Heh, you're good. Honestly, I wasn't sure you ha the bite to back up your bark but whoa!"

Midnight growled at Nova's smirking and gave a sarcastic, "Yeah, yeah, happy to amuse. But I'm still gonna make you sorry for messing with my friends!"

"They asked for it," Nova waved it off. "Anypony reserves the right to defend himself, especially when somepony else attacks first."

Noticing the rage on Midnight's face, Nova sighed, "Oh would you relax? I barely gave them a slap on the fetlocks, they'll be fine after a rest."

"...I'm not interested in fighting you," Midnight said evenly, Nova's eyes narrowing.

"Well you're gonna have to, Midnight," Nova warned. "Fate has plans for you and I..."

Midnight tensed as Nova flared his wings but he merely took to the air, "You have until dusk to answer my challenge otherwise I'll be back and next time, if your friends act cute again, they'll get off worse than a simple knock-out... HA!!!"

Midnight scrunched his eyes closed as Nova's wings glared a blinding radiance, and when it dimmed Midnight saw that Nova was gone.

He has vanished... Midnight thought when he heard somepony yell, "Midnight!"

He looked to see his Twilight fly to him with worry, "What just happened?! Who was that just now? Why were Big Mac, Soarin, and Blueblood taking Thundy and Rainbow to the hospital?"

"I don't know, Twilight, but whoever this Nova is, he's gonna regret messing with my friends..." Midnight swore. "Twilight, I'm gonna need Spike to send a letter to Celestia."

End of Chapter.

The Meeting Part Two

It had been only two hours since Nova left. Thunderlane and Rainbow were fine but the both of them had to remain at the hospital for the rest of the day. Their encounter with them mysterious pegasus had left them both with concussions and Thunder had a broken wing.

Midnight seethed in rage as he looked on at Soarin, as he held his Dashie's hoof with a loving look of worry. It made Midnight want nothing more than to track down Nova and pay him back in kind for what the maverick had done to the blue alicorn's friends. Yet, to his growing frustration, Midnight knew next to nil where Nova Flame was concerned. He needed answers.

“Who in bucking tartarus is he...?! How does he know about the Whisperer, how can a pegasus posses such power?!”

“Midnight, I'm as stumped as you are," Twilight said to him gently as she put her hooves on her stallion's shoulders. "I've never heard of a pegasus having magic like Nova Flame! Pegasus magic has always been about weather manipulation and walking on clouds!"

“I believe we can shed some light on the subject.”

Both Twilight and Midnight turn to see both Prince Sombra and Princess Celestia, the married monarchs approaching woefully.

“Princess Celestia!" Twilight went over to her old mentor, who gave her a comforting nuzzle, the white alicorn saying, "We came as soon as we heard."

"Nova Flame, what do you know about him?" Midnight pressed.

“As you've seen, Nova Flame is no ordinary pegasus. He’s special in many ways like you, Midnight. I only heard rumors about him, but Celestia and Luna have met with him personally.” Sombra started off before looking to his wife.

Celestia sighed and took it from there.

“Indeed I have. You see before Luna returned, we were on the verge of war with a group of insurgent dragons, led by a most wicked dragon by the name of Albino. He declared himself the true ruler and emperor of the dragon kingdom, seeking to start a civil war. As a show of strength, and because he thought us ponies inferior, he intended to lead an invasion upon Equestria and enslave us.

"However, before he could lead his forces to march upon Equestrian soil, he was stopped by a single pony. Albino was among the most powerful and feared of his people and anypony or dragon that challenged him were either killed or imprisoned, but not this pony.  They say he possessed a power that even the false-emperor feared and was killed by him. Albino's army of insurgents fled in terror. Rumors spread and eventually reached Equestria.  The name of the pony was said to be Nova Flame and that he had come to Equestria to go into hiding..."

“Well what happened after that?” Twilight asked.

“I wanted to find out the truth for myself, and I sought him out, to thank him. But when at last we met it wasn’t a warm welcome, so to speak. It all happened at Saddle Arabia in a bazaar far from their capital…”

4 years ago

She'd glamoured herself and her two guards to make their incursion all the more inconspicuous, the marketplace was abuzz with activity. Merchants selling all kinds of goods and wares from around the world. Saddle Arabian horses, camels, ponies, zebras, even a few diamond dogs and minotaurs.

But none of them were the reason why she had gone to this trouble of leaving her nation without anypony but a select few knowing, sneaking into another, all to find this... legend.

She sensed him. She knew it had to be hi, no one else in this whole bazaar could have such power. She followed her senses to an alley. She sensed he was not alone.

"Wait here," she said to her guards who both nodded and stood at the entrance of the alley like sentries.

She proceeded alone, seeing in the darkened alley several crates stacked up, a tarp providing shade, and something inside providing light.

"Stop right where you are!"

The voice was sharp and demanding of compliance. Celestia stopped and watched as a most impressive pegasus stepped out of the makeshift shelter, glaring at her with eyes that indicated he was not fooled by her illusory disguise.

“Excuse me, stranger," Celestia said in her most friendliest voice, "are you Nova Flame?”

"Who’s asking?” the pegasus asked before adding, "And no lies."

Nodding in understanding, Celestia dropped her guise and said, “I am Princess Celestia.”

Nova Flame raised a brow in intrigue before he whipped his wing at the tarp, making it block the inside of the shelter before returning his gaze to his visitor.

“Your Majesty... an honor to finally meet you.”

“It’s an honor as well Nova. I’m quite surprise that you're not what I expected I thought I would meet a…" Celestia's statement trailed but the assumption was there.

“Unicorn," Nova shrugged. "I get that a lot and to what do I owe the pleasure of a visit from royalty?”

“Well, I wanted to thank you for saving the ponies from Albino and his insurrectionists," Celestia brought up.

“I didn't do it for the ponies of Equestria.” Nova clarified with a tone that was an odd mixture of detachment and protective.

Celestia was surprised by Nova's words but went on, “In any case, I would also like to offer you a place within the royal guard. You're quite talented in combat and could have a good future-.”

“No”

The answer as so abrupt and blatant Celestia almost felt insulted but she continued to be polite.

“No?”

“Listen closely, Princess... I've had just about enough of you ponies only thanking me just because you're looking for some extra muscle," Nova said rather coldly.

"You aren’t the first to offer me a job to be part of your military and just like you I turned them down. I am not some weapon for you to unleash on your undesirables... I use my powers to help ponies that need help. If you can't respect that get the buck out of my sight.”

Celestia couldn't remember the last time a pony spoke to her with such insolence but she was not angered or offended. She only wondered, What happened to this poor pony...?

Sighing, she nodded.

“I will respect your decision but the offer stands should you change your mind."

“And that was the last time I saw him.” Celestia wrapped up sorrowfully “He's been through such turmoil and it breaks my heart to see a pony suffer. A month after Luna returned Nova was last seen in Manhattan and she went to greet him. Surprisingly, the two of them had a much more pleasant conversation, about what I do not know. Apparently, Luna promised him that she wouldn’t reveal anything to me or anypony about his powers or his secrets.”

“Well if Luna knows him more than anypony then why isn’t she here helping?” Midnight asked with a testy tone while he was pacing.

“It’s been two years since she last saw him, and remember considers him a friend," Celestia explained, "But I doubt she would tell us anything; she’s been acting different since they met.”

“Well then what do we do then?! We practically know nothing about him. Don’t we have files, documents, or anything that can give us a lead to where he is!?” Midnight demanded with such anger, Celestia stepped back, her husband stepped up protectively.

“Midnight..." Sombra gave his apprentice a stern look, "Mind your attitude."

Midnight suddenly felt like a colt getting scolded and sighed with an apologetic look.

“Forgive me, Master... It’s just what he did to Rainbow and Thunder, it makes me...!

Midnight took a deep breath to calm himself.

"Not only that - I underestimated him! I should've been...”

“It’s okay, I know how you feel.” Twilight assured as she nuzzled him.

“Your Majesties, this just arrived for you.” a mail-pony interrupted as she handed the package to Princess Celestia and looked at the postage, an intrigued look dawning on her face.

“I believe this is for you, Midnight.”

“Who’s it from?” Midnight asked as he accepted the parcel in his aura.

“There is no name.”

Midnight began to open the package cautiously. Inside was a pink crystal, a small vial with a blue substance, a ticket to Saddle Arabia, and a note on the crystal that read 'Tap Crystal three times'. Midnight followed the instructions on the note and tapped the crystal, causing it to glow. It then projected an image above them of Nova, a cheeky smirk on his face.

“Ah, Midnigh! Since I’m speaking to you, it means my little project works. Fantastic!!”

“What do you want Nova?” Midnight asked, showing his fangs.

“Down, boy! I just wanna talk, pony to pony. Well, figuratively speaking, of course. Hehehe. Anyways I decided to give a bit more time, so! You have until tomorrow night, Midnight. In the box, as you can see, is a first class ticket to Saddle Arabia, and once you arrive, tap on that crystal again to get my location. And to show I'm the bigger pony there’s a small vile in there for your friends. It can heal them instantaneously... if they don't mind the temporary dizziness, vomiting, and wing spasms.”

“I am not in a joking mood, Nova...” Midnight threatened.

“No jokes! Y'know, I could have given them the nice and none-side-effective healing formula instead but since they attacked me...” Nova chuckled deviously. "Anyway, just give them this stuff, they'll be fine by tomorrow.”

"I'm going to find you, Nova," Midnight swore, "and after I kick your sorry plot six ways from sunday I'm gonna drag you, kicking and screaming if I have to, straight to Tartarus! Celestia might be naive enough to see you as some kind of a hero but I have no doubts you didn't stop Albino's little invasion out of the goodness of your heart!"

"I never claimed to be a hero, hero!" Nova said with brows furrowed, as though Midnight had touched a nerve. "Let's continue this 'chat' in Saddle Arabia... T-T-F-N!"

The image vanished and the crystal dimmed.

“My apprentice," Sombra spoke, "it would be unwise to meet this Nova Flame's challenge blindly. Remember Stud Tzu's teachings, 'Know thy enemy'."

“Then we go to somepony that has the knowledge," Midnight declared. "Celestia, we need to head to Canterlot to talk to Luna. She might be the only pony that can help.”

“I don’t know, Midnight," Celestia worried, "she won’t tell anypony about Nova Flame, not even me!”

“We have to at least try.” Twilight said, Midnight saying darkly, "Luna will talk, one way or another..."

End of Chapter

Nova's Origins Part One

Midnight and the others soon arrived at Canterlot, searching for Luna. They searched her private chambers, the dining hall, even the Canterlot gardens. Yet she seemed nowhere to be found.

"This is ridiculous..." Midnight grumbled as he and Twilight walked through a hall in the deeper part of the castle. "Time is running out and the one pony who could give me useful information seems to delight in making us play hide & seek!"

She was about to say something to calm her stallion when Twilight saw a nearby guard, standing vigil in front of a door. Seeing nopony else, she shrugged and decided to ask a him.

“Excuse me, sir, could you tell me where Princess Luna is, please? It’s an emergency.”

“Of course, Your Majesty. She’s in a meeting with a guest and has asked us not to disturb them,” the guard explained as he gestured with his head towards the door behind him.

“And who is this "guest" of hers?” Midnight asked with a raised brow.

“I believe it was somepony named Skyress,” the guard replied but Midnight for his part didn’t care and just pushed the guard aside and entered the room.

It was a quaint parlor, luxurious yet humble in decor. In the middle of the room, sitting on cushions with a small table between them were Princess Luna and a mare, discussing something. Or perhaps someone.

“I still can’t believe he’s back after so long.” Luna commented with a nostalgic look.

“It’s only been..." the mare started when she noticed their guests. "Oh well hello there, you must be…”

Ignoring the mare, Midnight gave Luna hard look, "Luna! We need to talk..."

“Well whatever it is you can say it to us. We're all friends here are we not?” Luna with a casual smile.

“As far as even your sister knows, you are the only pony I know that has any knowledge of Nova Flame so I’d start talking were I you-” Midnight said as his eyes began to glow an intense white, only to get wing-slapped by Twilight, surprising everyone.

“MIDNIGHT!!! YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO TALK THAT WAY LUNA!!!! What’s wrong with you?!” She yelled in rage, making Midnight flinch at her.

He couldn’t believe his Twilight had just slapped him. With her wing no less, as wing-slaps hurt the slapper as much as the slappee.

“Um... sorry?” Midnight said lamely.

“Sorry doesn’t begin to cover it!!!” Twilight scolded only to have Skyress raise her wings, saying, "Whoa, whoa! I think we all need to calm down here."

"What's going on here?"

Everypony looked to see Celestia and Sombra enter the room, Celestia smiling at the sight of her sister and her guest.

"Sister, I did not realize you had company."

"Oh I was just catching up," Luna shrugged, "when Twilight and Midnight came in, asking to know about Nova Flame. You see, we became good friends after I went to meet him.”

“What can you tell us of this Nova Flame?” Sombra asked.

“Yes I believe he’s gone out to attack Midnight and has harmed his friends in the process," Celestia added in worry. "It would be most helpful, Luna, if you and your friend would tell us everything.”

“Well from what Nova has told me," the mare said in a smart-alecky way, "Midnight's friends attacked him and he only acted in self defense. After all it is more than a test for you Midnight Blaze. Not only that Nova, me and You are alike in a lot of ways then you realize.”

“H..How so?” Midnight said as he cowed behind Sombra as Twilight gave him a death glare.

“Much like you- Or, your past self, I guess, we were brought here from the human world.”

“WHAT!!!” All of them yelled, surprised that she was once a human like Midnight was in the past.

“That can’t be, it's impossible! I was or my past self was the only human to have come to Equestria.” Midnight was in total disbelief.

“True, but this world is a lot larger than you believe. I will tell you this, Midnight, you aren’t the first human to come here transformed into a pony or griffon and so on.” Skyress stated in a as-a-matter-of-fact tone.

“Fine, but you and Luna have to tell us everything you know about Nova.” Midnight demanded with furrowed brows.

“Midnight...” Twilight warned with a such a stern look it sent chills running down her stallion's spin.

“Please with...a...cherry on top?” he said lamely, prompting his marefriend to giggle.

"I understand you've issues with Nova," Skyress said placidly, "but once you hear of his history you might not think so ill of him."

“I doubt that.”

Ignoring Midnight's snide remark, Skyress began.

“Nova was not always the way he is. Once, he was kind, brave, and could make all around him laugh in good cheer. Whenever somepony needed help, he was always there to lend a helping hoof. When he first came to this world he was only fifteen. I didn’t meet him then, but a friend of mine did. She told me that at first he was a real klutz! Yet charming in his own way….”

“Okay but what does that have to do with anything?” Twilight asked, secretly curious of this pony who once was human like her Midnight's past self.

“Well, he appeared in the land of Helios, the dragon country, just over eighteen years ago. But in his early years in this world he was known by a different name.” Skyress recounted.

"Nor was he even a guardian of fire. Back then, he was known simply as Flare, and much like you, Midnight he didn’t have a cutie-mark either, same with me. He became the apprentice of a blacksmith named Iron hooves. Iron Hooves took him into his family, and treated him like a son. But one day, an old legend returned from the past. A white monstrous dragon named Albino returned. He was the former Guardian of Fire, and had returned to claim all of Helios for himself. At his side were his two sons who claimed they wanted to bring peace and prosperity to all of Helios. One of them was Nova’s friend, Darkus, a smooth fork-tongued lizard who gained a high-standing in the Helios economy. Flare idolized him so that he asked to train under him. I don’t know what happened between them but there was some conflict of interests that Darkus chose to sever all ties with Flare.”

“And I take it that’s where it went all down-hill?” Midnight asked.

“Yes. Albino and his sons soon revealed their true colors and instigated a civil war, forming the Insurrectionists to usurp the dragon king, and threatening Equestria, with the intention of enslaving ponykind and reaping Equestria's resources. Flare and I were on the defensive and were tasked to watch the capital in case any invading forces arrived.”

“I don’t mean to interrupt but you said at the beginning of the story that something happened to him. What was it?” Celestia asked.

“I agree we need to know what happened in order to help your… friend so that we may settle this dispute amicably and prevent further conflict.” Sombra added.

“It’s difficult for me to say….but….”

“But WHAT!!!” Midnight snapped. He just wanted to know how to beat Nova and put an end to this but he was not prepared for her answer.

“He lost his family...” Skyress answered with a heavy heart, making Midnight flinch.

“...What?”

“Yes, Albino sent his forces to invade the capital, and even sent his sons to insure the task was done.” Luna added.

“Luna how do you know this?” Celestia asked in astonishment.

“He told me his life story as well, and some….other things….like how I was beautiful.” She recounted as she whispered those last few words as she blushed a bit.

“Ever since he lost his family in the invasion his powers were unlocked by the Angel. She also gave him a new name and Nova has ever since sought to find Albino and his sons ...and kill them.

"During the last years of the war he confronted Albino in a realm beyond the living world. The Dark realm.”

Everypony just gasped after hearing her say that. “But despite its name, it’s actually very much a paradise. I was there when he confronted him and Albino was by far the most powerful foe we ever faced. In the middle of battle Albino killed our friend, a pegasus named Steel Cutter.”

“I think I heard of him before, wasn’t he part of the royal guard?” Midnight brought up.

“Yes he was and was by far the bravest stallion I have ever met.” Skyress sadly confirmed.

“What happened next.” Twilight asked.

“In rage of losing his friend Nova transformed.”

End of Chapter.

Nova's Origins Part Two

“What do you mean he transformed?” Midnight asked with a look of disbelief.

“That’s for me to know and for you to find out. After all you will be fighting Nova tomorrow, am I right?” Skyress reminded him with a smirk but Midnight only glared at her. “You don’t believe me, do you?”

“A pegasus that can transform without some magical assistance? Yeah, sure, where’s your proof?” Midnight asked, only to soon regret as he saw Skyress smirk in response to his question.

“Well if you neigh-sayers won't be convinced with words... Behold! This is the face of my power!!!.” She declared triumphantly as her body began to glow. She was consumed by a bright green light that seemed to compress into a sphere, which then began to grow and lengthen.

Everypony in the room stared in dazzled awe at the sight before their eyes!. Even Sombra looked at awe. Soon the light dimmed and the pegasus was gone. In her place stood a green dragon with feathered wings, slim body, with yellow eyes. She only stood a head taller than Sombra but was still intimidating yet enthralling with beauty, like the wonder of a rainforest!

“Well?" She spoke in the same voice as her pegasus self, Skyress beaming vainly at the wide-eyes she was getting. "What do ya think?”

"I-I'm... I'm at a loss," Midnight uttered, unsure what to say while Twilight was amazed!

“Incredible! you managed to transform into a dragon without assistance from a unicorn or magical object!”

“Skyress, is Nova capable of this transformation as well?” Celestia asked.

“Yes," Skyress nodded, "as well as the other four guardians.”

“Wait, there are others?” Luna asked with a surprised look.

“Six total," Skyress confirmed. "You see, we the six guardians are tasked to watch over the world and protect it. Each of us has an element and a responsibility. My element is wind and I watch over the skies of Equestria whereas Nova watches over Helios but hasn't been there for a long while since a lot of it's been reduced to a barren wasteland.”

Breaking out of his awe, Midnight spoke up," OK, fine ,you can transform but why does Nova want to fight me?! I've done him no wrong!"

“In order for me to answer that, you must follow me.” Skyress replied cryptically as she raised her claw. Then, Twilight gasped as Skyress appeared to claw a trend of light out of thin air from just above her own height down to the floor, after which the line widened, blinding them all for a moment before it revealed itself to be a portal.

“Amazing...!" Twilight shuddered as Midnight helped her from stumbling over in awe.

“How did you...?” Sombra was too stunned to complete his question.

“Just because I’m not a unicorn doesn’t mean I can’t use magic. Now are you coming or not?” Skyress looked at them expectantly but everypony hesitated for a moment wondering if they should trust her.

“Where are we going?” Luna asked.

“To the Cave of Prophecies..." Skyress answered before slipping through the portal.

“Do you think we should trust her?” Twilight asked.

"I don't trust her at all, but I have to know why Nova wants to fight me...” Midnight nuzzled Twilight before stepping through the portal, and before long everypony followed him through.

They found themselves in a dark cave illuminated by wall-mounted torches going down for miles.

“This is the Cave of Prophecies," Skyress appeared before them in her pony form, her wings spread for dramatic effect, "where every fateful event is foretold."

The alicorns looked around and saw there were large holes in the walls, within each were orbs of smoking light. Approaching one, Twilight gasped!

"Hey! That's us when we defeated Nightmare Moon!"

“Look there, it’s when Discord was defeated,” Celestia pointed with her forefeather as they followed Skyress further down the cave. "And over there, when Shining Armor earned his wings as he and Cadance defeated Chrysalis's invasion."

“I don’t remember him though. Who is he?” Midnight asked pointing towards an image the two dragons battling out.

“The white dragon is Albino and the red dragon fighting him is Nova," Skyress explained with a look of nostalgia, "I remember it like it was yesterday. It took everything he had to defeat that tyrant. Nova was the first of us in over three thousand years to transform.”

“Oh please, you might have some shapeshifting powers but any mage worth his salt can accomplish it," Midnight said with his nose up in the air.

“You might be able to take the form of a dragon," Skyress gave him a smarmy look, "but that hardly makes you a match for Nova."

“What do you mean? I trained under a dragon warrior," Midnight brought up, "and he told me I was among the best students he ever had!"

"Perhaps, but how long did you take to master whatever dragon magic you did? How long did you hone such skills? You might be competent in dragon arts but you are by nature a lunar pony. We guardians embody dragon and pony magic." Skyress said with a haughty tone, "Stick with what you're good at, honey."

“The snide comments aside, I'm inclined to agree, Midnight.” Twilight spoke up. “They're masters of their dragon powers, and if it really comes down to you and Nova, you'll stand a greater chance by using the skills where you truly shine!”

“She's right, my student. Dragons are powerful and these guardians seem to focus their strengths to overcome the natural draconic weaknesses." Sombra added.

“You can't actually think they're stronger than us!?” Midnight couldn’t believe they agreed with Skyress, who spoke up before he could protest further.

“We're here. This is what I had to show you,” Skyress gestured to an image of both Midnight and Nova on the wall standing next to each other with shadows above them. Upon a closer look, they saw ancient writings carved into the walls in flourish-style, depicting an alphabet of letters foreign to them all.

“I can’t read any of this.” Luna scrunched her eyes, trying to find meaning in the spidery words.

“I too am unfamiliar with this language,” Celestia was as bewildered as her sister.

“It is a long-forgotten language from a society eons ago." Skyress explained, "Only those chosen by the Angel can instinctively know it. It says that two warriors are chosen to decide the fate of the whole world and its future. One will be its savior, destined to bring peace and prosperity, while the other shall be the rising darkness, doomed to bring this world under a dark oppression from which no good shall ever rise again.”

“So that shadows over us is the rising darkness?” Midnight asked.

“It’s more of a representation of your inner darkness corrupting you. One of you shall make a decision that may cause this chain reaction fulfilling the prophecy here on the wall.”

“Does it say who is which?” Twilight asked, starting to feel dread.

"No," Skyress shook her head. "Nopony will know until it’s happened and the cave depicts the happening."

“What do you mean?” Sombra asked.

“The cave magically expands itself whenever a prophecy is fulfilled,” Skyress said with a shrug. “Don't ask me for more details `cuz I have no idea."

“Incredible but does it at least tell us when this will happen?” Luna asked.

“Hmm I believe so but I’m still learning this language so don’t expect a full disclosure, heh-heh,” Skyress chuckled but when nopony laughed with her she cleared her throat,

"Yes, ahem! ...it says that somepony from one of your guys's past will return to set these events into motion. But it doesn’t say who’s past or when it will occur.”

“So... this is why Nova wants to fight me?” Midnight asked.

“Oops! Got a little ahead of ourselves...Sorry, just follow me,” Skyress directed leading the alicorns a little back the way they came.

“Ah, here we are. This hasn’t happened yet but tomorrow it will.” Everypony gasped and saw a moving image of Midnight fighting a red dragon.

“Is that Nova?” Celestia asked.

“Yes, his transformation has evolved over time, becoming faster and stronger. This is why Nova wants to fight you because the prophecy says so-” Skyress was about to finish until Midnight interrupted.

“But do we really have to fight?!? Surely, there's a way we can settle this more peacefully!

“I’m afraid not," Skyress shook her head apologetically. "Once an event that has yet to happen appears here in the cave it will happen one way or another. I’m sorry, but if it makes you feel better Nova didn’t want to do this either even if he gets some arch-rival out of it..."

“Actually I have been meaning to ask, why does he want an archrival anyway?” Twilight spoke up.

“I can answer that.” Luna said. “When Nova and I last spoke he said that he wanted a rival who can push him past his limits, somepony that can keep promises, somepony he can call a friend. It is strange that he calls it that but that’s how he makes friends.”

“Yes, and it’s also strange that you know so much about him Luna. Is there something you aren’t telling us?” Celestia asked with a sneaky look.

“Umm we...may have….dated in the past," Luna admitted meekly with a blush, those mere words raising her big sister's interests.

“Ahh....! Hehehehe so that’s what you were doing at all those "trips" from the castle last year.”

Soon everypony was laughing while Luna blushed from embarrassment. Even Midnight was laughing he couldn’t blame her though there’s somepony for everyone even if it was Nova. But she made a good point Nova didn’t want this like he did. He just wanted somepony to train with and talk with. Maybe he misunderstood him.

“Alright I think that’s enough for one day.” Celestia said. “Midnight and Twilight, you two can stay at the castle for the night and have dinner in bed if you two like. While I have a talk with Luna alone.”

Luna didn't like the smirk on her sister's face.

“I can send you all home if you like besides I will be meeting with you all tomorrow.” Skyress said with a grin before realizing something. “Oh I almost forgot this is for you, Luna.”

Skyress grabbed a letter from her saddle bag with her wing and held it out to Luna. The Princess of the Night just groaned in embarrassment as she levitated the letter to herself, and only one thought came to her mind.

Why does bad stuff happen to me? she thought as she continued to blush.

End of Chapter.

A Angry Twilight and a Talk

After they'd all returned to Canterlot, they said goodbye to Skyress and chose to retire for the night. All but Midnight and Twilight, as she was not happy with Midnight as they stood in Twilight's old tower as he was trying to apologize for his uncalled-for behavior.

“Twilight, I said I was sorry. I don’t know what came over me….”

“That doesn’t change the fact that you YELLED AT LUNA AND SKYRESS!!!! They were just catching up on things and then you just stormed in there like a war dog ready to kill!” Twilight admonished, Midnight's ears down in shame.

“Twilight, I just wanted answer, I..." Midnight sighed an Twilight's stern look softened when she finally saw how morose her stallion was.

"I was afraid….I was afraid that Nova would come back to hurt you guys and I was prepared to do whatever it takes to stop him! ...But I know now that he isn’t as bad as he seemed. I’m sorry, Twily...”

Twilight was a bit surprised, but felt her heart warm as she now realized Midnight had only been concerned with her and their friends' safety. She nuzzled up to him, whispering, "It’s okay, Midnight. I shouldn't have yelled at you as I did, and I shouldn't have assumed the worst in you for your behavior. It's just... Just please promise you'll do better to control your anger."

Midnight couldn't resist.

"Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye."

The couple gave each other the same reassuring smile before they shared a tender loving kiss.

“Now why don’t we get something to eat?” Twilight suggested.

“I'll order from Doughnut Joe's," Midnight agreed.

End of Chapter

Surprise Visit

It was almost time, and Midnight was still unsure of what to do. He couldn’t sleep even with Twilight in his hooves. All he could do was think about the cave and the prophecy. Was he meant to be the rising darkness? He had already seen his dark side as well as hat it had been capable of, but the cave just proved that it wasn’t over. He also wondered if Sombra, Celestia or even Nova was thinking about the same thing. He decided to take a walk around the castle and teleported out of bed so as not to disturb Twilight.

Reappearing in the hallway in a flash of light and frost, Midnight walked without destination in mind, as it was too focused on the battle ahead.

"Why can’t I stop thinking about that stupid prophecy?" Midnight thought with a frustrated sigh.

Maybe because you keep worrying that you're the rising darkness.

Midnight gasped, having heard that voice in his head. He flared his horn and looked around, extending his sphere of influence to sense any nearby life-forces that did not belong in the castle.

"Who goes there?!"

Who do you think? the voice answered in his head again, this time sarcastically. It’s certainly not Pinkie Pie ...It’s Nova you idiot.

“What!!! where are you?!" Midnight flared his wings, extending the shadows beneath them into blades. "And how are you getting in my head?! Answer me, Faust-damn you!"

Relax, I'm not anywhere close to you. Physically speaking, of course. Look, remember the crystal I gave you? It doesn’t just enable communication, it sends a distress beacon to mine. It tells me if something is wrong with whoever holds the other crystal and it woke me up.

"Problem with your explanation - I'm not holding the crystal," Midnight said with a tone accusatory

Because Twilight answered it and we had a nice chat. When she noticed you weren't in bed with her, she got worried about you. I volunteered to speak with you, and she established a telepathic link between the crystal and you, so here I am. Let's talk so I can go back to sleep...

Somehow Midnight knew Nova was yawning.

“Is there anything you can’t do?” Midnight snarled.

Hmmm….I can’t sew but we're not here to talk about me... What's eating ya?

“Am I the only one involved who isn't worried about the prophecy?!" Midnight sniped. "The Rising darkness choosing one of us to turn Equestria into a nightmare!!!"

He sighed and sat on the floor, his back sliding down the wall as he looked down in sorrow.

"I just don't... I don't want to hurt anyone. Especially not Twilight. Not again..."

Look, we don't know each other all that well but I do know one thing you should do.

“What?”

Stop worrying because it hasn’t happened….Fate has plans for you and me and I can’t change any of that; neither can you. Enjoy life while you can...I know I will….and who knows maybe I might ask Luna out again.

“You really like her don’t you?” Midnight asked.

Yes but I haven’t seen her for a year now and she’s probably pissed off at me. But that’s beside the point you just have to let it happen….Whatever happens... will happen. If I do become the rising darkness and you are forced to kill me... As long as Luna and my sister are safe then that’s all that matters to me.

Midnight could just picture Nova smiling sadly before he asked, “You have a sister?”

Yes but this can wait until tomorrow. You need your rest, as do I. Seriously, I’m exhausted! Good talk, hope it helped….See ya then, and be sure to give it everything  you got because I don’t plan to hold back...

“Ha! I plan to; you’ll be out before I even begin to warm up.” Midnight said with smirk at the braggy tone of Nova's voice in his head.

Hmph you better…

Nova's voice disappeared completely from his mind, leaving Midnight with only his thoughts.

“I guess I should stop worrying, I mean it hasn’t happened yet but that doesn’t mean I can’t prepare.” Midnight said to himself out loud as he trotted back to his room to embrace slumber with the love of his live.

Luna’s Chamber

Today is the day

The sun was rising and the battle between Midnight and Nova was soon and she has yet to see Nova again after so long. Luna had mixed emotions of anger and happiness. Happy that she would see him again after a year and anger for leaving in the first place.

“Are you alright Luna?” Luna instantly turned around to see her sister Celestia enter the room.

“Yes I am fine.” Luna said as she turned away.

“Luna I can tell if something is bothering you. It’s okay to tell me” Celestia said with a reassuring smile. Luna smiled back.

“It’s just that Nova and Midnight are entering a battle to fulfill a prophecy and we can’t do anything to stop it.” Luna said. Even though it wasn’t entirely a lie. "What's the point in having all this power if we can't even use it.

“I fear for the future as well Luna but all we can do is wait….” She paused for a second as she saw a tear stream down Luna’s face.

Luna really does care for Nova.

“And if there is a way to prevent this we will find it.” Celestia said with a comforting smile

“Thank you sister.”

“Your welcome Luna.”

Midnight’s and Twilights room

“Well Twilight today is the day.” Midnight said.

“The others will arrive this afternoon and the train to Saddle Arabia leaves around 6:00 PM. But I say we should be there at five so we can catch it in time. I also made a list of possibilities that may happen during your battle with Nova.”  Twilight said as she wrote everything down with her lucky quill. Midnight only chuckled.

“You know it’s cute the way you think Twilight, even though it might be helpful, I think I can manage without your list.”

“I...I guess you're right but you can never be to sure….no offence but you do tend to get overconfident at times Midnight.” Twilight said with a light pink blush.

“What? I...don’t get overconfident….do I?” He asked.

“Yes you do and I have a huge list on it too.” She said as she pulled out a scroll from her saddlebag and unfolded, most of it hit the ground as it unfurled itself.  Midnight was shocked by how long the list was of HIS mistakes.

“Okay maybe I do….” Midnight said with a blush of his own.

“Well with that aside lets have breakfast with the princesses.”

“Alright.”

Soon the young couple left their room and headed towards the dinning area where Celestia, Luna, and Sombra were waiting for them.

“Good morning you two. Did you sleep well?” Celestia asked.

“Yes and thank you for letting us stay Princess Celestia.” Twilight said.

“It was my pleasure Twilight.” She said.

“Also I received a message from Skyress that she wanted to meet with all of us to talk things over for a bit.”

“Did she say when?” Midnight asked.

“She said that she’ll arrive this afternoon at two o clock.”

“Alright then, what do we do in the mean time?” Midnight asked.

“You Midnight will be studying on dragons until Skyress train arrives.” Sombra said.

“Well so much for a relaxing morning.” Midnight said as he groaned from exhaustion.

“I suggest you eat now Midnight because in an hour you will be studying on dragon anatomy.” Sombra said as he took a bite out of his loaf of bread.

“Okay I will but do I really need to study on dragons, I mean I was trained by a dragon and I even mastered dragon transformation. So why do I need to study?” Midnight asked.

“Twilight suggested it and I agree. It will help you in your battle with Nova” After hearing that Midnight only glared at Twilight as she smiled sheepishly.

Sigh

“How many books?” He asked.

“Hmm….I do believe it was 25 books.” Sombra said.

“You expect me to read twenty five books in a few hours?! There’s no way I can read twenty five books before she arrives.” Midnight shouted.

“Then I better get started Midnight.” Sombra said. Twilight, Luna, and even Celestia were giggling and Midnight only glared at them.

Four Hours later.

They said I had to read on dragon anatomy, but they didn’t say I couldn’t skim through them hehehe.

Soon the doors burst open to Midnights room, Thunderlane, Blueblood, Big Mac, and Soarin entered his room. Midnight had completely forgotten that they were coming.

“Midnight don’t tell me you actually plan on fighting that creep?” Thunderlane said with anger.

“Yes I do. There’s no way I’m backing down now, Nova was right this is something I have to do.” Midnight said.

“Well haystack we’ll fight with you.” Big Mac said as he placed a hoof on Thunder to calm him down.

“Yeah we’ll gang up on him, he won’t know what hit him.” Soarin said with a smirk.

“I’m not one for violence but when one pony messes with one of us, he messes with all of us.” Blueblood said.

“I’m sorry guys but you can’t.” Midnight said sorrowfully.

“What do ya mean?” Big Mac asked.

“Let me start from the beginning.”

Midnight soon explained the situation to them about the prophecy and why Nova was doing this in the first place. Their expressions were looks of confusion and sorrow all except Thunderlane.

“That’s why I need to fight him on my own and I don’t want any of you to get hurt.” Midnight said.

“LIES!!!” Soon everypony turned their attention towards Thunderlane who was boiling with rage.

“Why would I lie Thunder? you know me….” But Midnight never got to finish because Thunder interrupted him.

“THAT’S NOT WHAT I MEANT!!!” He shouted. “What I mean is that you actually believe in those lies that stupid mare told you!!!”

“She took us to the cave itself and Celestia and Luna were their with us as well. She wouldn’t make something up like that?” Midnight said questioning his friend.

“She probably used some weird magic or….something I don’t know but she’s obviously is messing with your head Midnight. Come on guys doesn’t any of this seem suspicious to you?!!!” He asked his friends, hoping they would agree.

“Now calm down Thunder, I don’t know if this is true or not but what I do know is that Midnight wouldn’t fall for something like that if it was fake.” Blueblood stated.

“He’s right I would have been able to tell if it was an illusion spell or not.”

“Well then it has to be an advance spell or something? I don’t trust Nova or whoever that mare was? He is obviously leading you all into a trap and what’s worse is that you're doing exactly what he wants you to do.” Thunderlane said with rage. Midnight has never seen this side of Thunder before. He was really worried about him but he refuses to listen to anypony.

“Her name is Skyress just to let you know and I still don’t trust Nova either Thunder but I promise nothing bad is going to happen.”

“Pfft fine…..lets just get to the train station.” He said as he stormed off to the train station.

Soon everypony except Sombra and the princesses were at the train station waiting for Skyress to arrive. Twilight informed them that they couldn’t come because they had a meeting with somepony.

“So Rainbow how are you feeling.” Twilight asked.

“Ten times better Twi You know besides those wing spasms and vomiting from yesterday. Other then that I feel like I can do anything now. Although I can’t wait to kick that jerks flank. He’ll wish he’d never messed with me.” She said with a smirk

“Rainbow I told that he only acted in self defense. If you and Thunder hadn’t attacked him then maybe you wouldn’t have ended up in the hospital.” Rarity commented as she received a glare from Rainbow.

“Look there's the train.” Pinkie Shouted with joy. The train made it’s stop and skyress soon stepped out wearing her mane differently and wore a bit of makeup that made her absolutely gorgeous. Next to her was an adorable little filly hiding behind her.

“Hello everypony.” She said with a soothing voice.

“I’m glad you could make it Skyress.” Midnight said as he shook her hoof.

“Wait, Wait, Wait….that’s Skyress?” Thunderlane asked as he stared in surprise

“I see you’ve told your......friends about me.” She said with a raised brow.

“Yeah they weren’t expecting you to look like this….”

“What Midnight means darling is that you look absolutely fabulous.” Rarity said. Soon everypony noticed the little filly next Skyress with a big grin on her face.

“Oh. My. GOSH!!!” She shouted with a ear piercing scream and instantly appeared next to Twilight.

“I can’t believe I’m meeting thee TWILIGHT SPARKLE AHH!!!” She said as she pulled a notebook out.

“CAN I HAVE AN AUTOGRAPH!!!!

“Now, now, Icebeam haven’t you heard of personal Space?”

That Voice...It couldn’t be?

Soon Everypony turned to see Nova Flame exiting the train, carrying a few bags on his back.

“What?” he asked. What nopony expected was that Thunderlane immediately charged at Nova. While he just stood there with a blank expression. But before Thunder could do anything he slapped across the face and sent flying into Big Mac.

“What is wrong with you?” Skyress said with a deadly glare at Thunder.

“Yeah nopony messes with my big brother and gets away with it.” The little filly said as she shot ice from her mouth and turned Thunder and Big Mac into an ice sculpture. Everypony even Skyress was a bit surprised by what Icebeam did to them.

“Alright unfreeze them Icebeam or no cookies for dessert.” Nova said with a glare.

“Alright.” Icebeam said shamefully.

“What just happened?” Twilight asked, fascinated by the little fillies gift.

“Well it’s like this….If she doesn’t listen then no dessert...come on ponies keep up.” Nova said with a smug look.

“That’s not what I meant.” Twilight said.

“Yes I know I’m just teasing all of you. Although don’t look surprise after all she does take after her mother.” Nova said.

“Alright I’m at a lost how the hay did she do that?” Applejack asked.

“Tell me what is the opposite of fire Applejack?” Nova asked.

“How did…”

“I know a lot of things but you didn’t answer my question.”

“Umm….Water.”

“Eeh close enough it’s ice she’s my opposite in the elemental sector. I am fire and she is ice,  she is also a pain in the flank when she DOESN’T LISTEN!!!” He said to make sure that his little sister could here.

“Your welcome.” Icebeam said with joy as she continued to thaw out Thunder and Big Mac.

“Anyways as for how we know about you is just like Midnight….We come from the Human world and we actually have a lot more knowledge about you then Midnight did when he first arrived.” Skyress said as she tried to help Icebeam.

“Okay Nova why are you here?” Midnight asked.

“What? I can’t come visit Canterlot when ever I want?” Nova said. The others didn’t believe him.

“Okay I’m here because I promised my sister that I would take to meet a Princess and in this case.....YOU! Twilight Sparkle. She’s a big fan of the four of you princesses…” Nova said with a chuckle.

After waiting for half an hour for Thunder and Big Mac to thaw out they had talked for a bit and discussed about where they would be heading. The girls had some questions and Nova answered truthfully to the best of his abilities.

“Okay I think I understand most of this but I have been meaning to ask you how did you do that?” Midnight asked.

“Hmm….did what?”

“How come we can’t use our magic to sense you….it’s like you don’t even exist?” Twilight asked.

“It’s a umm...how should I put this now?…..” He struggled to find the right words

“You mean you don’t know?” Rainbow asked.

“I do know but it’s complicated….You know what it’s called Insight.” He said finally.

“What?” Was all they could say.

“Midnight remember how I said that each of us guardians have special powers besides our elemental abilities?" Midnight only nodded in response. "Well Nova has the power of Insight….He can use magic like you but in different ways and let me add that he has done impressive things with that gift.” Skyress said. Nova just blushed at the complement.

“Hehehehehe I wouldn’t go that far Skyress….hehehe”

“Oh come on bro tell them what you did Pleaseeee?” Icebeam begged. Saying no to that face would be suicide.

“Well okay then It’s more like sensing magic and I don’t mean any scanning spells or anything like that, I mean feeling it. Magic is all around you and it’s power is limitless, endless even, it is a force that is not to be reckoned with and everypony has this power deep within them. It also applies to your natural senses such as smell, sight, hearing, and so on. All you need to do is unlock it.” Nova said.

“So that’s why we can’t sense you?” Twilight asked. “But that doesn’t make any sense?”

“Sometimes things aren’t meant to make sense Twilight.” Nova said with a chuckle which only made Twilight glare at him.

“W...why….did...you...do that...for?” Thunder asked as he shivered from the cold.

“I didn’t do anything, you can blame Skyress and Icebeam for that. Honestly if you’d think before you act then maybe things like this wouldn’t happen to you. Anyways are you alright Big Mac?” He asked.

“Ye...yes.” He said as Fluttershy rapped her wing around him to keep him warm.

“So do you like PARTIES?!!” Pinkie asked.

“YES!!!!” Icebeam said.

“ME TWO!!!” Pinkie said with a massive grin.

“No.” Nova said.

“WHAT?!!!” Everypony was surprised he said no.

“Not yet at least, you are forgetting we have some unfinished business Midnight.” He turned to him.

“Yeah I know. When does the train arrive anyways.”

“Soon” Skyress said. Thunderlane couldn’t stop looking at her and it made her feel uncomfortable. Nova soon noticed this came up to him and whispered.

"Don't bother trying Thunder she's stubborn when it comes to dating. A little advice try not to be too forward alright?" Nova said with a wink, which made Thunder feel uncomfortable for staring at her that way.

"The train will be here any second now so if there are any last minute questions I would ask now so we don’t worry about any later.” Nova said.

“Actually yes. How did you make that crystal? I mean that would take a lot of magical energy to make something as complex as that and you aren’t even a unicorn. So how did you do it?” Midnight asked.

“Where I’m from unicorns aren’t the only ones that can use magic. Also I use to be a blacksmith so inventing things to make lives easier is just a little hobby I do when I have free time. But being a Lieutenant during the war it has taken time away from what I’m really good at. Haven't made something like this in a very long time.”

“Wait, wait, wait, War? What war? I haven’t heard of any wars happening recently in Equestria.” Thunderlane said.

“That’s because I’m not from Equestria. I live in the land of Helios. It was much like Equestria in so many ways, HA!!! I remember it’s Lucius orange sky and clouds. The beautiful peach trees and tastiest peaches in all of Helios….it would have been traded across to Equestria if it wasn’t for the war.

But before any more questions could be asked they all heard the sound of the train arriving.

“I will answer the rest of your questions some other time, but for now we must make our way to Saddle Arabia.” Nova said as he boarded the train, followed by the others. But what nopony realized was that they were being watched by five hooded figures in the distance.

“Hehehehe it would be so easy to destroy them all in one spot right now.”

“Patience my friends we will get our revenge soon enough. But for now gather our troops we are heading to Saddle Arabia hehehehehehe.”

It was soon Dusk in Saddle Arabia and our young hero's soon arrived at their destination after a long train ride. It would have been silent if it wasn’t for Icebeam’s many many many questions and the long rambles from Pinkie Pie. If it lasted any longer Twilight's head would have exploded.

“Midnight you and I will be heading out into the desert to begin our battle soon. Let me know when you are ready.”

“Alright I’ll be join up with you soon Nova.”He said to Nova who simply nodded in response. He gave Twilight a goodbye kiss and promised to be back soon. When all was said and done Nova opened a portal and they both entered.

They soon ended up on a rocky landscape with lots of rock formations and tall pillars. Midnight figured that Nova knows this desert better then anypony so he has the home field advantage for now.

Okay all I have to do is buy time until Luna raises the moon and my powers should over power Nova's and I can end this quickly. But then again he does know this place better then anypony. I don't know why but I'm actually excited for some reason.

Nova soon flew atop of one of the pillars with a smirk, Midnight soon flew to an opposite pillar with a smirk of his own. They both were silent for a while until Nova broke the silence

“This is it Midnight. It’s time to see which one of us is the most powerful warrior in Equestria.”

“You know this isn’t exactly what I wanted to do on a weekend hehehehehe.”

“Hahahaha I was thinking the same thing Midnight.”

“Well then Lets have at it! No holding back.” Midnight said as blue aura surrounded his body.

“I wasn’t planning too.” Nova said as his mane ignited into flames and a red aura surrounded his body.

“Now that there's no more distractions…..IT’S TIME WE SETTLE THIS!!!!!” Nova said as he charged at Midnight with full force.

Midnight soon did the same thing and charged as well both clashing hooves against each other. Both of them were throwing punches back and forth but they blocked each others attacks. Midnight soon landed one blow across Nova’s face but was soon returned. Both of them sent crashing into rock formations.

Midnight armored his wings with solidified shadow and flew with full force at Nova as he was on the ground. But to his surprise Nova blocked his blades with the tip of his hooves, both ponies struggling to hold their position. Both appeared to be equally matched until Nova shoved Midnight's wing blades and head butted him, sending him flying, but at the last second he teleported safely on a pillar.

Nova's hoof began to glow and Midnight knew what he was up too and began to channel his magic to his own hoof as well. Soon the two leaped at each other again and both of their hooves clashed, causing a powerful shockwave to be felt all across Equestria.

Back at Canterlot.

“Did you feel that Sombra?”

“Yes Celestia dear, It has started.” He said with a bit of sweat dripping from his face.

“They have so much power…..it’s unreal.” Luna said.

Whatever the outcome I just hope Midnight can prevail against Nova.

End of Chapter.

Round One

The battle between Midnight and Nova had begun and each blow they dealt to each other only increased their ambition to win. Their power was incredible and could be felt all across Equestria.

But Midnight was struggling due to the speed and brute force of Nova’s blows. While Nova hardly received any damage in there fight.

I...Just need to last a little longer until Luna raises the moon and then I can end this.

“Don’t tell me that’s all you got Midnight. I was barely warming up.” Nova said in a mocking tone. This only angered Midnight more as he took a deep breath and unleashed a sonic scream. But Nova was ready this time for it and a red barrier appeared around him. Soon Midnights sonic scream collided with the barrier and caused an explosion.

Midnight saw the large cloud of smoke and figured that it did some damage. It only caused him to smirk but soon disappeared. As the smoke cleared Nova stood there with the barrier still intact and as it disappeared Nova charged at Midnight with full speed. With one hoof he landed a blow in Midnights rib cage and sent him flying into a bunch of boulders that were reduced to dust a rubble.

“Hahahaha you’re trying too hard Midnight. If you had as much experience on the battlefield like me then maybe you’d stand a better chance against me.” Nova said with a smirk. He figured he out classed Midnight in combat and was waiting for his surrender. But to his surprise Midnight stood up with rage flew off into the sky and dive bombed him into the ground.

Midnight then grabbed his leg with his magic and threw him across the valley of the desert while firing multiple magic beams at him as he crashed into pillars of stone and rocks and reduced it to rubble. Midnight kept firing repeatedly with fire in his eyes. After firing repeatedly He stopped to catch his breath and conserve his magic for he knew the battle wasn’t over yet. But it was night and the moon was finally out and he felt his power growing underneath it's magnificent light .

“Still think I’m not experienced in combat Now?!!” Midnight shouted.

“Well you surprised me and I’m not going to lie to you, that actually hurt just a bit. But I wouldn’t let that go to your head.” Nova said as he dusted himself off and stretched his wings. “Well it’s certainly been awhile since I used half my power.”

“Then go on show me what you can really do then.” Midnight said as he used his magic to create armor made from the shadows of the night. All he could do was glare at him.

“Fine you should feel honored though only a few have been able to force me to use my full power in this form. Now witness my full power.” Nova said as fire consumed his body and his eyes glowed yellow. Midnight was expecting him to transform into a dragon like Skyress and if he did then he knew he was in trouble. But what surprised him was that there wasn’t a dragon.

Nova didn’t transform instead he had glowing orange armor with long wing blades and a battle axe made out of pure energy. It sent a shiver down Midnight’s spine. Nova’s power was amazing.

“Wait this is your full power?” Midnight asked.

“What were you expecting me to transform? You disappoint me Midnight. I thought a pony of your caliber would know that every warrior is capable of hiding his true strength. My transformation is only for those who are capable of pushing me to my limits in my current form. Although let's see how long you last against me when I'm at full power.” Nova said with a smirk.

Great….I wasn’t expecting this at all….Skyress said Nova was powerful especially in his dragon form. But she didn’t tell me that nova was this powerful.

All Midnight could do was summon a large sword and charge at Nova.

The real battle was only beginning.

Back at the city of Saddle Arabia the others had either checked into a temporary hotel for the night or went to the saddle arabian pizza parlor. Most of them were having a good time, all except for Twilight who wasn’t having a good time.

“Twilight you should relax a bit.” Skyress said as she took a sip from one of those chocolate shakes they made, which was better than the ones in ponyville surprisingly.

“Relax!!! How can any of you relax when Midnight is out there fighting against somepony who can turn into a dragon at any point and hurt him.” Twilight said. She was on the verge of tears feeling useless to do anything. She could feel the shockwaves from their power and she was worried that Midnight was getting hurt.

“You shouldn’t worry about your friend, Nova may at times seem like a jerk, but he’s actually a nice pony and believe me he’s not going to hurt Midnight…..Much.....but this is only a test remember? This was suppose to happen whether you could stop it or not.” She said as she took another sip from her chocolate shake.

“But I just…..feel so useless right now.” Twilight said until she felt another magical surge from Midnight and Nova. “This is…..unbelievable I knew you said Nova was strong but you didn’t tell me his dragon form could match up to that of Midnights Alicorn powers.” Twilight said as she assumed Nova transformed.

“Nova didn’t transform yet although it has been a while since he had to go to full power in his current form.” Skyress said which shocked everypony in the room as they eavesdropped on their conversation.

“You mean to tell us that Nova hasn’t even bothered to transform?” Thunderlane said as he flew next to Skyress. Which caused her to blush just a bit.

“YAY!!! My brother is winning!!!” Icebeam said with joy as she leaped into the air.

“Well I don’t know about that?.....” Skyress said.

“Why’s that?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“Well if Nova is already at full power then Midnight’s giving him a harder time then we anticipated. Midnight might actually win. But that's only if he finishes this fight now.” She said as she scooted away from Thunder. After hearing that Twilight sighed in relief and looked out the window  of the parlor with only one thought on her mind.

Please be safe

(listen to music while reading)

The battle was getting intense for Nova and Midnight. Nova for his part was surprised on how Midnight was able to keep up.

Damn it! I didn’t think Midnight was able to push me to this extremity. I had him completely out classed earlier, but now his power is greater than what it was before.

“You aren’t bad my friend but you still have a long way to if you ever want to defeat me.” Nova stated as he created a large axe with his powers and launched straight into the air and swung a wave of energy came from his axe.

Midnight evaporated into shadows and escaped at the last second and reappeared behind Nova and slammed straight into his back and sent plummeting to the ground.

“Had enough?” Midnight asked as his he lifted his blade and shot like a speeding falcon towards Nova. Nova for his part was able to recover and blocked his attack.

The clash from their weapons created a blinding, bright light and shook the ground. Midnight swung his sword but Nova dodged it and then swung his axe upwards. Midnight was barely able to block it and he then bucked Nova’s axe from his grip only for him to do the same thing.

Nova’s hooves began to glow and his eyes turning yellow and dashed at Midnight with full speed. But Midnight was ready and swung his left hoof while Nova swung his right hoof. What surprised Nova was that Midnight delivered a powerful blow across his face and was sent skidding across the floor into a large boulder.

But Midnight wasn’t done just yet as he began to create a crescent shaped energy wave from his wings and horn and fired at Nova. Nova didn’t have enough time to dodge it or block it and took it head on, creating a massive explosion.

That must have done something to Nova…

And it did. Deep within the smoke Nova stood there, as his body was steaming and his fur burnt and seared. He was shuttering a bit but had determination and rage in his eyes.

“Very impressive…..That actually hurt!!! But I’m not done just yet.”Nova spatted out as he wiped the blood from his mouth and glared at Midnight. “Now that we got that warm up out of the way. Why don’t you stop holding back and show me your true power?!!!”

“You want to see power? Well FINE!!! I’ll show you.” Midnight said as his body began to glow and a bright light shot up into the sky and clouds began to form above them. Midnight’s body began to change.

Soon his transformation was complete and the Alicorn no longer stood before them but a pale blue dragon. Nova for his part was a bit disappointed by the power of his transformation but it made it more interesting.

“Well, well, well Midnight…..not bad….but now I think it’s only fair for me to show you my transformation. Nova spread his legs apart slightly and began to concentrate as his body slowly began to glow and his mane flaring up again.

Midnight for his part wanted to end it all right now but for some reason he couldn’t. He didn’t know why but he felt he had to see his transformation. He knew if he waited he would have a hard time defeating Nova. But he couldn’t for some reason. It wasn’t because of fear it was his curiosity to see what he could really do.

Soon an orange sphere formed around Nova and slowly began to expand. Midnight felt Nova’s power continue to grow even though it was nowhere near his power but it certainly was a sight to see. Electricity surrounded his body and the light around his body grew brighter. Midnight could hear Nova’s bones cracking and watched as the his feathers fell off.

Nova’s roar was tremendous and the earth beneath them shook and could be felt all across Equestria.

“Wha?....What was that?” Twilight asked.

“That Twilight would be Nova and Midnight transforming right now hehehehehe it certainly has been a while since Nova has transformed. He really knows how to let it all out.” Skyress said.

“Thhhhhhhhiiiiiissssss iiiiiiisssssss awwwwweeessssoooommmmmeeee Twwwwwiiiii.” Pinkie said.

“Hehehe Pinkie is just how I imagined her to be when we met.”

“We need to….we need to help Midnight.” Twilight said as she was about to leave the parlor but a hoof gently grabbed her hoof.

“Don’t worry Twilight I promise everything will work out in the end.” Skyress calmly said.

“But….(Sigh) alright.” She gave in.

The sphere only got bigger as well as Nova’s immense power. Midnight knew he had to act now and stop his transformation.

“Enough!!! won’t admit defeat!!!” Midnight shouted as he flew into the sky with blazing speed and charged at Nova, but the sphere was a wall of energy and it pushed him back no matter how hard he tried.

“NOOOO!!! I. Won't. Give. UP!!!!!” He said as he kept push against the barrier with all his might.

“ROOOOAAARRRR!!!” Was all Nova could say as his energy pushed Midnight back and exploded.

A pony no longer stood there but a glowing red dragon stood in it’s place with glowing yellow eyes exactly like Skyresses eyes when she transformed. Not only that but he was more intimidating than her. But Midnight knew he had more power than him and only smirked.

“Well it looks like you’re finally finished. I guess I didn’t need to stop you after all. My transformation is still more powerful than yours. Midnight said with a chuckle.

“Well then I guess it’s time for round two then. So let’s see this so called power I have been hearing about.” Nova said with a smirk which only angered Midnight. With a mighty he took a deep breath and fired a flaming ball of blue fire at him.

End of Chapter.

Unexpected foes

Round Two

The battle between Midnight and Nova only intensified and every blow they dealt to each other shook Equestria itself. While everypony else wonders what is happening?

“I can’t take this anymore we need to help him Now!!!” Twilight shouted as she was about to take flight, but before she could a group of hooded figures appeared before them.

"Well, well, well, this is an unexpected surprise. I never thought that their would be another Alicorn besides the three Princesses. Hmm... quite interesting." The hooded figure said with a smirk and Twilight only shivered in fear of this dark figure.

"Master? I'm getting bored can't I go find that hybrid and end this already?" The other hooded figure asked.

"Now hold on a second? What do you want with Nova?" Skyress asked.

"Oh well if it isn't my old friend....Skyress I haven't seen you since the battle of Kastoria and you certainly have changed hehehe!." He chuckled.

Wait I know that voice

Soon Skyress's eyes widened in fear as she realized an old foe of both her Nova's has returned.

"Who is he Skyress?" Twilight asked.

"No it can't be?" Was all she could say.

"Oh but it is Skyress." The hooded figure said as he threw his cloak off, to reveal a black dragon with a silver metallic arm and a silver mask covering most of its face. Everypony that had been watching were shocked to the the figures appearance.

"For those who don't know me I am Darkus, prince of the Insurrection remnant and future ruler of Equestria and your doom. HAHAHA!!!

"No this can't be real your suppose to be dead!" Skyress said with anger.

"Well I can assure you that I am very much alive and more powerful than ever before." He said.

"Well I say you get lost you varmints if you know what's good for ya?!!" Applejack shouted as she stepped in followed by her brother Big Mac, Rainbow Dash, Soarin, and Thunderlane. But Darkus and his group only laughed.

"Oh it's cute that you think you stand even the slightest chance against me and my men. Even my weakest soldier here would barely have to lift a finger just to fight all of you." Darkus chuckled.

"They are lot stronger than you think Darkus and might I add I'm here with them. So I suggest you leave before somepony gets hurt." Skyress smirked causing Darkus frown in response.

"Hmm... true but if I remember correctly you barely lasted a minute in combat with me. What makes this any different?" He asked as his confidence grew.

"Because this time I can transform." Skyress said, causing him to gasp. But just started laughing again.

"HAHAHA! You almost had me there. You are obviously joking Nova was the only one among you to transform and even if it were true you wouldn't stand a chance against me." But as soon as he said that the ground began to shake and a familiar power was felt.

"WHAT WHAT'S going on?" Was all he could ask as Skyress began to glow once again.

Soon everpony had their eyes set on Skyress as her body began to change. All of them gasped in surprise, but for Darkus all he felt was fear.

"Twilight what's happening?" Thunderlane asked as he watched Skyress transform.

"She's transforming in a dragon again?" She answered.

"What do you mean again?"

"Oh right you weren't their I'll explain later."

Fear had grasped his heart once again as images of Nova's dragon form reappeared. He soon started taking few steps back only one of the hooded Insurrects looked at him in confusion then returned his gaze back at Skyress.

"So this is the power of a hybrid. Interesting?" The hooded figure whispered to himself.

Soon Skyress transformation was complete and a pony no longer stood their only a majestic green Dragon with Yellow eyes stood in place. Darkus only stared in horror of her transformation. She had the same eyes as Nova.

"It's....those eyes.....she has the....the same eyes!" He shivered in fear as another image of Nova appeared, glaring at him from the past.

Darkus fear was soon replaced by hatred and anger as he glared at Skyress.

"So how do I look?" Skyress asked as she turned to her new friends.

"You look awesome!!" Rainbow Dash shouted. Soon the others started agreeing, causing her to blush but it soon fades as she turned her attention to Darkus and just smirked.

"What's wrong Darkus? You look like you've seen a ghost."

"I AM NOT SCARED OF YOU!!!" He yelled in rage as he blasted a fire ball from his paw.

Twilight soon put a magic barrier just in time as the blast made impact. While Darkus and his servants laughed. She returned fire by shooting a magic bolt at one of insurrects and sent him flying out of the city.

"You made a big mistake attacking this city Darkus as a princess it's my duty to protect Equestria and now you answer to me!" Twilight Shouted as her eyes began to glow purple and she shot a wave of magic beams at Darkus and the insurrects. Some of them fled in terror of Twilight's power only half of them remained.

"Grrr....cowards! Who needs them. I'll be sure to destroy you first Princess!" Darkus spat in disgust.

"I don't think so Darkus your fight is with me." Skyress stated but Twilight stepped in front of her.

"No you and the others take care of the remaining insurrectionists....I'll take of him."

End of Chapter.

A Draw?!!!

Darkus was soon on the ground, gasping for air as the blows he received from Princess Twilight began to take it's toil on the dragon, but Twilight herself has worn out all of her magic reserves. Skyress and the others were able to fend off any insurrectionists that were in the area and only one remained in the same place as before.

"What are you doing you imbecile?! Kill those insects!!" Darkus roared with rage.

"No," The hooded figure said loudly for everyone to hear. They were all surprised, but Darkus was surprised the most.

"What did you say?" Darkus asked.

"You have done nothing but disgrace to our true master Albino and we can no longer serve you because you are Weak! Pathetic! And a disgrace to all dragon kind!! You'll never be like you father!" He said as he took flight leaving the young prince alone with his enemies.

"You coward!!! Fine than I'll destroy you myself!!" He shouted with anger as flames spewed from his mouth. Darkus poured all the energy he could muster into a final attack. "You and this pathetic village can perish together!!! DIE!!!"

"Everyone get down now!!! I'll try to stop it!!!" Skyress shouted to the others as she took a stance prepared to block it, only for it to collide with a blue sphere of energy, absorbing the attack, creating a blinding light.

Twilight took a good look at the sphere and instantly recognized Who it actually was.

"MIDNIGHT!!!" She shouted with joy.

"Hey guys sorry we're late....hehehehe," He said sheepishly.

"WHAT!!! Another one, fine than I'll just have to obliterate you as well you...."

"Be careful about what you say next Darkus.....after all you wouldn't want to make me or Nova mad!!" Midnight said as his expression turned into pure hatred for the black dragon.

"Why you worm!!" he said with malice.

"You know Darkus when you had your battle with this worlds Nova I would have guess you'd try to change your ways," When Darkus heard that voice he instantly froze in place as he turned only his head in the Direction of where it was coming from. "I guess I'll have to remind you of who is really in charge here."

What stood before him was none other than the hybrid himself, Nova Flame.

"Nova....." Darkus began to back away slowly only for Midnight to cast a knock out spell on him. Darkus could only fall to the ground as true terror took hold of his heart as fell into a nightmarish slumber.

"He'll never learn," Nova said with as he turned towards Midnight with a smile. "Well looks like your plan worked Midnight, didn't think he would freeze in fear at the sight of me. Am I really that scary?"

"No, but I had a feeling that after you battle with him, had probably scarred him for life," Midnight said as he rubbed the back of his head. He never thought his plan would work.

Twilight soon tackled Midnight to the ground as she smothered him with kisses, causing everypony to laugh.

"I thought I wasn't going to see you again," Twilight said as tears streamed down her face as Midnight gave her a light kiss on her cheek.

"Twilight I wasn't planning on leaving you or the others,"

"Oh come on did you honestly think I was going kill the guy?" Twilight only gave a sheepish look at Nova as his eyes widen in shock and disappointment. "Seriously after everything I said to you at the train station you still think I was going to kill him? Don't you know how much bull this is?

"Give it up Nova? It's best to just let it go," Skyress said as she patted him on his back.

"So wait who won?" Rainbow Dash asked. Nova and Midnight only gave her a confused expression.

"I think she means your fight? Who won?" Soarin asked.

"It's a Draw," Midnight and Nova said simultaneously.

"Allow me to explain," Nova said.

The battle only raged on as both Midnight and Nova kept exchanging blows. Neither of them were planning on giving up, and Midnight was determined to prove to Nova that he isn't some push over. He soon began channel magic from his horn into a final attack.

"I grow tired of this battle Midnight. I believe it is time we finished this!!" Nova shouted a large orb of energy formed above him.

"I couldn't agree more!!!" Midnight shouted as he fired a massive magic beam as it collided with Nova's ultimate attack.

"THIS ENDS NOW!!!" They both shouted as they pushed all of there energy into their attacks. Soon a blinding flash of light from both beams exploded, causing both Midnight and Nova to fall to the ground. Nova soon reverted back into his pony form as well as Midnight as they both gasped as they inhaled fresh air.

"Not bad Midnight.....I guess this world has a chance to survive as well,"

"What do you mean? This world?" Midnight asked.

"Well I guess I should start by telling you the truth. One I'm not your worlds Nova Flame,"

"What?!"

"That's right I'm not from your universe, but from another reality. You see I'm on a mission,"

"A Mission?" Midnight was interested in Nova's story that he couldn't help but just listen.

"Let's just say that I'm trying to find someone very important to me," Nova said as he helped Midnight to his hooves. Midnight for his part was a bit confused.

"Wait a minute, you said at the beginning of all of this that our destiny would be decided by this battle? Is that a lie too?" Midnight asked as he flared his wings in frustration.

"No your destiny is to be decided with your Nova, but our destiny will appear sometime in the future my friend. With Insight I can see into the future and your Nova will have to make a choice to help or to leave you and your friends behind. But I have a feeling that you can help him make the correct choice," Nova said with confidence.

"Are you sure I can do it?" Midnight asked.

"Hehehehe....I know so Midnight," He said.

"Um...hey Nova? Who are you looking for exactly?" Midnight asked.

"Well....I'm looking for....my Luna," Nova said with a smile.

"What?" Was all Midnight could ask. He became confused since he did somewhat have some history with Luna. But the question was which Luna?

"I take it your confused. My Luna from my universe is close to my age, we both knew each other for a while and I'll say that she was stubborn and she had quite the temper. But she was sweet and attractive, but one day she discovered something that she refuses to tell me and vanished. The only lead I had was that she used a dimension spell and traveled through it. When I used it I could only travel through one universe at a time, considering I'm a pegasus. Yet every reality I enter I find a different Luna, who was the same but different," Nova explained.

"And let me guess, you flirted with every single one of them?" Midnight said jokingly.

"Actually yes I did," Nova said casually.

"I only said that as a joke. I didn't think you actually did that," Midnight said as he fell to the ground laughing. Nova only rolled his eyes in amusement.

"We should probably get going Midnight. After all you do have a wife to get back to don't ya?" Nova said with a smirk, and Midnight could only gawk at him as his began to turn a deep shade of red.

"She's not my wife!!! Not yet....at least," Midnight said.

"I take it you were going to propose to her?" Nova asked, already knowing the answer. Midnight only nodded in response. "Well take my advice don't wait too long, otherwise your going to regret it. Believe me I know."

"Hey do you think you could keep this a secret between the two of us? I don't want Twilight to know yet?" Midnight asked.

"Certainly, but remember don't wait too long otherwise your going to regret it? Believe me,"

"Wait you....were going to propose to her? To Luna I mean?" Midnight asked.

"I was.....We should get going Midnight after all I sense something's wrong and we should take care of it immediately," With all said and done, both Midnight and Nova left without another word.

When Nova finished all of them were confused except for Midnight.

"Well that was the shortest story I've ever heard," Rainbow dash said.

"Well I would give you more details about what happened after our fight, but somethings are best kept secret, but believe me you'll find out sooner or later," Nova said as he winked at both Midnight and Twilight.

Twilight only looked confused while Midnight gave a nervous chuckle.

"So what do you plan to do with this ruffian?" Blueblood asked as he pointed at Darkus.

"Well you can take him to the Saddle Arabian prison, and the guards can help neutralize his powers, Icebeam and me on the other hand have to leave soon," Nova said as his sister hopped onto his back.

"Why are you leaving?" Twilight asked.

"As I said there's somepony important I've been searching for and we can't stay any longer, but I can promise we'll meet again, hopefully on better circumstances instead of a fulfilling some prophecy," He said.

"He isn't going anywhere just yet," Prince Sombra called as he landed with both Princess Celestia and Luna.

"You still have a lot to answer Nova!!!" Luna said with rage.

"Luna I know your angry, but please find your happy place..hehehehe......" Nova tried to explain, but Luna used her magic to grab him by the ear and yanked on it full force. "OW!!! LETGOLETGOLETGOLETGO!!!!!!"

"Hi Luna!" Icebeam said cheerfully.

"Luna I think your being to harsh on him?" Celestia asked.

"Even so he must be punished for leaving without saying goodbye to me!!!" Luna at this point was beyond reasoning as she had him in a headlock while yanking on his winds with her magic.

"OKAY YOU WIN!!! I'M SORRY, PLEASE LET GO!!!" Nova begged.

Luna was still unsure, but she released him and Nova quickly hid behind his sister.

"Okay I can stay to answer some questions, but please let me explain our situation?" Nova asked. Everypony including Luna nodded in agreement.

"Alright now where do I begin?"

Nova explained about where he was really from and about his mission in search of his Luna, most of them couldn't believe what they heard, but they could tell he wasn't lying.

"So you've been looking all this time for your Luna?" Celestia asked.

"Yes I've been search for who knows how long? My abilities to travel between dimensions comes from my fathers side and it's difficult to tell time. Somehow our Luna managed to have found a way to travel the same way I can. I don't know why she left, but I know I can find her. I'm sorry that I lied to you Luna. Can you forgive me?" Nova asked her. Luna for her part was hurt but she knew that his intentions were pure and he was trying to find comfort again.

"I understand Nova that I resemble your lover and I do forgive you even if you lied about it," She said sincerely. "But that doesn't mean I've forgotten what you did."

"I'll make it up to you, I promise!"

"I've been meaning to ask you this Nova, but who is your father?" Sombra asked.

"My father was known as Flare Blitz and he was the greatest warrior that had ever lived in existence, although...." Nova paused as he was in deep thought once again. "Uh...never mind anything else you want to know?"

"Yes does your Luna have a sister? Surely she could have stopped her for leaving?" Celestia asked.

"I actually agree with the princess. Don't you have a Celestia in your world?" Midnight asked. Soon everypony began asking the same thing. It began to irritate Nova just a bit.

"She never had a sister!" Nova blurted out and immediately covered his mouth. Everypony was in complete silence.

"What?" Twilight asked. Her own reality began to crash down as she tried to process what Nova had just said. "You mean to tell me that there's a Luna, but there isn't a Celestia?!"

"Look I've known Luna for years and if she actually had a sister I would have met her!! Trust me she's an only child!!" Nova yelled.

"Sorry," Twilight said.

"My point being is that even if there was another Celestia I doubt she could have made difference. If you knew who my Luna was, than you would know that once she's made up her mind, than there's no stopping her. Believe me, I've tried," Nova said casually.

"She sounds just like a certain Princess here," Celestia said slyly, causing Luna to glare at her.

"Well that's how she is and that's what makes her attractive," Nova said with a grin. Luna for her part began to blush from embarrassment.

"You have weird taste in women Nova," Midnight said only for Luna to hit him on the head with a rock. "OW!!"

"Hehehe...I could say the same for you the rest of you? But I think Icebeam and I need to get going now.

"Will we see you again?" Midnight asked.

"Well probably, but just remember that you'll be meeting your Nova very soon and let me say he's a lot stronger than me and has quite the temper, but I have a feeling you can change that Midnight as well as you Luna," Nova said as he summoned another portal and carried his sleepy sister on his back once more and began to enter it.

"Good luck finding her Nova!!" Midnight said with a salute.

"Thanks and good luck with that THING you said you were going to do!!" Nova said with a final chuckle as he and his sister vanished in a flash of light.

"What was he talking about?" Twilight asked.

"Just something I plan to do in the future, nothing too important...hehehehehe......" Midnight said.

"Midnight?"

"I promise I'll tell you soon Twilight I promise," Midnight said as he hugged the love of his life and smiled at the night sky. Seeing a bright future ahead of them.

End of Chapter.