At the end of the song bodies dropped everywhere, many twitching in pain, some more unluckier bit their tongues, pulled their hair, digged their nails deep in their arms or just peed themselves, but non escaped the shared pain from which Emerald was feasting now, her mouth showing a row of white sharp teeth as she smiled with delight.

The purple mist of her magic slowly gathered all the accumulated suffering of the entire mass of crying and screaming humans, returning to Emerald with every single drop of raw emotions.

" Hmmm! Taste like anguish, hmm divine! ". As the pain became unbearable, one by one the humans lost consciousness and Emerald took that as her parting signal.
" Thank you, thank you so much! You were a splendid audience! ".

Outside, the cab was still waiting for her. " Ready Ma'am? ".

" Yes dear, take me back to the hotel, this night was so... fulfilling ". Emerald's grin was confused by the driver as nothing but enjoyment which was true as twisted as it was.

CANTERLOT GENERAL HOSPITAL...

In a special room within the hospital, one of the two occupants snapped out of his unconsciousness. He inspected his surroundings before finally moving his head. He found only his partner occupying the bed next to him, deeply sleep and snoring like a locomotive.

" Ba- ugh! ". Trying to speak hurt his throat after two days asleep. " Bar-gh! Muss! Muss! Wake up! Wake the buck up you stupid munch! ".

" Arfg! Whafft? Wha? ".

" It's me you moron, we are trapped! We have to escape! ".

" Where's the boss? Where's the bull? ".

" Not here it seems, and I don't care. We have to go! ".

Bark tried to brake the straps of the bed but they were thigh against hi body and didn't allow any strength to be built. " Ha-rd ! ".

" Let it be, we're probably still weak from the battle, shhhh, I smell love, we can... I can absorbed had use it to escape, let's wait until a human enter, then we'll get out of here".

" Good plan, Muss like plan, Muss... tired ".

" Then sleep you fool, rest, we'll be free tomorrow, and then will make those stupid human mares pay! ".

SWEET APPLE ACRESS...

Big Mac woke up even before his alarm could go off, it was a new day, one of high importance, not only was his birthday but today would be special for another reason, one more important that another candle in the cake.

He felt refreshed despite been only 5 hours since he snoozed out, the expectation for this day to come just scared his sleep away. After a quick look at the mirror to fix his hair and wash his mouth he took a set of clean clothes, his Sunday attire included blue jeans, red t-shirt and a brown shirt with long sleeves, he would use shoes today instead of his boots, he wouldn't be stepping on the orchards today.

One final look reminded him that his good luck locket was still with his sweetheart. He smiled thinking of her and all the moments they would spend together. The night in particular was enticing. It was just a couple of days since the last time they had sex, turned in ponies no less. He could barely contain himself just thinking in Sunset.

Walking out of his room, he wasn't surprised that the house was still calm. His family worked hard but when it was time to rest and relax they took it like another chore and enjoyed it. Still, a single light could be seen from the hallway, Mac knew that it came from the kitchen so he went there.

" Mornin my boy, couldn't sleep a bit more? ". Asked Granny Smith from the table.

Mac moved next to her and kissed her soft cheek. " Nope. Mornin Granny, neither could ya apparently ". Mac took a cup of the coffee she has brew as well as a slice of bread and sat. He wasn't expecting her to be awake but it was a nice coincidence.

" Ah had a feelin that ah would be needed ". Granny sat opposite to him and took a piece of paper from her robe. She placed it between the two and watches as her grandson became curious.

" What ya got in there? ".

" Some ol paper one ah once gave to yer papi ".

" To mah Pa? ".

" Yep! Is funny how things don change despite the years, anyway, here ". Granny pushed the paper closer to him. " The store opens at 9:00 so ya have a bit of time to think carefully mah boy ". With that Granny rose from her chair and walked next to him returning the kiss he placed first, she then left completely.

Mac took the paper and read the contest. Finished, a smile appeared in his face. " Love ya Granny, yer the best! ". Mac hurried with his breakfast and took his truck to his next destination.

LEMON ZEST'S HOUSE...

Lemon woke up startled when she heard her father's voice thundering through the wall. " This is too early to be joking Flag! Are you... Are you for real? How many? 38?! Holy fuck! When were they found? Shit! Shit shit shit SHIT! ".

Lemon forced her ear to listen more. It was pretty rare for her father to swear like that, specially in the morning. " Ok, ok, I'm calm now, first let's get those people somewhere safe, call the Hospital and tell them to take as many of them as possible, then call every single clinic in the city capable of take a patient and monitor them properly, if we don't have enough then call the next town and ask for support, I'll be there in a few minutes, tell the others that you are in charge until I arrive ". Her father finished the conversation and moved around his room like crazy.

Lemon decided to dig a bit and got out of her room finding her father getting ready Ina hurry. As soon as she saw her her expression changed from serious to worry. " Lemon, listen carefully. Stay in the house ok, don't go outside until I say you can, got it? ".

" What? Why? What's going on Dad? What about the party? ".

" Forget about the party kid, this is important, something serious happened at night in the nightclub outside town, there's a lot of people hurt so untill I'm sure is safe been outside you stay here and don't disobey me ".

" But Dad- ".

" Lemon! I don't have time for this, after we sort things out I'll take you to Sweet Apple Acres and you can give a gift to Macintosh but only after everything is safe, until then the streets are off limits for you! Now I'll be leaving, I'll see you later ". With those final words her father left, Lemon stood there for minutes, frozen by his loud words.

It took a while for her to regain her senses and start acting like herself. When she was sure that he wouldn't be back she went to his room where his computer was located, as she waited for it to activate and be usable Lemon wondered what could have happened for her father to be so shocked and upset.

The guy who called her father, Officer Flag Pole was in charge of the night shift, he mentioned the Hub, a nightclub that Lemon wanted to see but so far was unable to, apparently the place was attacked someway and her father was now in charge solving the problem.

Once the computer came to life Lemon started messing with it, the password was easy.
" Seriously Dad, Lemonade? Ugh ". After dealing with came the main page, she looked for info in the incident related to Filthy Rich and found the one about the warehouses.
She entered in there and found many folders were to chose from.

" Hm main case, victims and witnesses, video footage (lost), suspects (2), physical evidence (?) Conclusions. Ok Teach told me to look for the stuff from the Dazzle girl ". Lemon clicked in physical evidence and more options came about.

* Assessment of evidence in case No. 1125 *
Place of incident: Rich's Warehouses located in XXXXXX, Canterlot, EU.
Owned by: Filthy Rich.
Officer in charge: Chief Lime Grass.
Assessment done by: Captain Flat Pole.
Date: XX-XX-20XX.

Items found in the crime scene were found along normal everyday women articles. The other items are as described.

1) A set of 3 gem of unknown origin , red, green and pink in color, approximately 3 in wide by 5 in long, worth unknown.

* Observations*
An expert will be needed to inspect the gems, also, Holy shit! I could pay my house and buy me a yacht with those babes and still have enough money for my kid's kids.

2) a journal of comercial brand with no name or identification, it contest is nothing but symbols and marks, impossible of decipher without code. Maybe part of a ritual of some old native language.

* Observations *
Blue Badge from security said to had seen the symbols once, according to him there was a girl writing songs using her mouth to hold the pen and her knuckles to keep the paper in place, sounds dumb.

3) Standing mirror of no particular brand, fingerprints were taken already, apart from that the back is marked with same symbols as the journal.

4) lock of hair. Laboratory already done, results as follow: orange color, female, approximately between 20 to 35 years of age.

5) track marks. A total of 3 vehicles were identified, by the marks it could be say that two were small cars and one is a truck or SUV. Traffic surveillance turned a few results, due to the low traffic during the incident.

* Observations *.
The chief was particularly interested in the truck of Macintosh Apple, which was spotted by the traffic cameras near the area of incident but since is well know that he drives his truck everywhere and I mean everywhere this is not rare enough to earn an investigation.

Lemon stopped there shocked, her father was suspicious of Big Mac already, plus his warning about been around Mac and the CHS crew in general was apparently founded on this one clue.

Lemon clicked the part about the evidence's location, Lemon was sure that the articles found in the Warehouses would be located in the CPD headquarters but to her surprise the report said that they were all still in the ' Premise of the incident ' meaning that they were still in the place where Big Mac and the Rainbooms confronted their enemies.

Lemon went back to her room and took out her cellphone and took longer it to the computer, soon the info was downloaded Inside the device. After returning everything to normal and turned it off Lemon went back to her room and dressed up for going out.

She texted Big Mac and told him to meet up near the shopping district, and without much though about her father and how angry he could be if he find out she disobeyed, she left.

FARSIDE HOTEL...

After waking up Emerald Breeze ordered a expensive breakfast and had a jacuzzi prepared for her. Still feeling frisky from last night she decided to relax first before contacting Abigail, the amber mare was very smart so chances were high that she would know if Emerald used her magic to cause trouble.

Emerald took the mirror and with her nails scratched the back marking it with equestrian glyphs allowing it to be infused with magic.

" Eques ar magika ento no mundi eques nuestra aparece! ". After the chant, the surface of the mirror became glossy and water like, a little distorted image appeared in the center and after a few seconds it became clear and now Emerald was face to face with the pseudo mixed of the Rebels.

" Helloooo Abbey! Did you miss me? ".

" Emerald, shouldn't you have contacted me sooner that this? ".

" Oh come girl, I was busy posting my base of operations and preparing in case I run into the gang that hurt little Adagio and Rawhorn, but today I'm ready to take on anything ". Abigail observed her like a dragon eyeing her meal, for a moment Emerald though that she had blown her cover.

" Fine, but don't draw unnecessary attention to yourself, and if possible avoid the Rainbooms and their allies ".

" Why dear Abbey, are you worried for me? Worried that I'll be outnumbered? ".

" Hardly, even with the numerical disadvantage you could still win, no, what I'm worried about is you attracting human attention, we still have no idea how good is magic blocking high caliber bullets or explosive rounds, you would be the very First to test it ".

" An honor I already have unfortunately, by the way, they hurt a damn lot ".

" Is that so? Anyway moving on, remember, your main goal is to erase any trace of our presence in Canterlot City, that include the two fools that Adagio lost to the Rainbooms and the stuff she left behind, then you'll return ".

" Sorry Abbey dear but that sounded like an order ".

" Not an order but a warning, we both know I can't order you around just as you can't deal with me, but I think we can cooperate as long as our goals are the same, but just so you know that I'm not kidding in messing with you I have a cold place to put you if you try to ruin my plans ". Abigail said with no hint of doubt that Emerald could detect, Emerald in the other hand knew what she was talking about and what that ' cold place ' was. Her eyes trembled for a second but it was enough to show Abigail that her warning was taken.

" You like to play dirty don't you? ".

" Don't we all Emerald? Now then, do you know where to move next? ".

Emerald took her time to answer, first swallowing her pride and then her hatred for the human scum in front of her, Emerald kept her smile despite the need to spit at the mirror. " I know where Muss and Bark are kept, getting out shouldn't be a problem, I created a little distraction for the human enforcers to have them busy, as for the rest of the stuff is still elusive, one of my main human targets should be here while the other is outside the city ".

" Hm, I see, very well, proceed as you see fit but remember to avoid the Rainbooms for the time being, if confrontation is unavoidable then get rid of them quickly and be discrete about it, that is all, you probably don't need it but... good luck ". As she finished the transmission the image became blurry again until it disappeared completely leaving behind a very angry Emerald.

" Bitch! But I'll find a way to deal with you later, now then, where did I left the tracking stone that short horn crested for me, Emerald found the stone with the arrow in her purse and proceeded to use it.

" Let's see, this should guide me to the location of Juniper Montage ". Emerald took the stone in her palm and soon the arrow moved magically pointing to her destination, which turned to be her own room. " What? Is this thing broken? ". The arrow moved again but stopped like before pointing directly down on her room. " Great! Stupid magic trick of third grade, oh but I'll make sure to let the fact that one of Abbey's inventions failed miserably be known ".

With her mood soured she dressed up and prepared for the Hospital, she would either get them out or let them die trying.

Unknown to her the stone did work and was in fact pointing down to the room below hers where the siblings owners of Everfree Camp where currently staying.

SUNSET'S APARTMENT...

Big Mac arrived at the apartment of his girlfriend and quickly started to work, in the way there he stopped by a store and bought a few things that would turn his night with Sunset beyond incredible. First, the bed, Sunset took the cover of the bed with her but it only helped with Mac's plan, he took out a nice new bed made with the softest cotton he could find, it was a lovely wine color that would mix perfectly with Sunset's own red hair, he then cleaned the dust that accumulated during the few days since Sunset moved with her new family and put a few aromatic candles in each side of the bed.

After the bed he proceeded to the shower, placing two towels as well as Sunset's favorite soap and shampoo for her hair. Inside the fridge he placed a special cake for after celebration and drinks. With everything ready Mac took one last look at the room and liking what he did he closed the door and left.

REGAL'S RESIDENCE...

" Morning Starlight Glimmer, breakfast is almost ready ".

" Thanks Miss Celestia, smell delicious ".

"Thank you, I hope you like it, I may not look like but I got good cooking skills ".

" I'm sure it taste excellent, where's Miss Luna by the way? ".

" Hm, she's still in her room, probably still angry with me too, is my daughter still sleeping? ".

" Sunset? No, she's just applying her 3rd facial cream product of the day, it looks like she wants to look perfect for the party ". Said Starlight as she grabbed a plate and served herself.

" More for Big Mac than for the party I believe ". Celestia smiled and also took a plate.

" I hope she doesn't take long or the food is gonna get cold ". After a few minutes hurried footsteps were heard and Sunset appeared, wearing a bathrobe and her face covered in a blue cream..

" Sorry sorry sorry, sorry Mom, sorry Starlight ". Said Sunset as she quickly grabbed food, both women observed with mouth open at her blue face, a complete contrast to her fiery red hair and peach completed skin.

" Ok, ahem, so what you want to do before the party, do you need to buy a dress or the gift or something else? ". Asked Celestia.

" Thanks but I already have my gift for Mac and my dress, but Starlight could use a dress, so we should go to the mall, it will be our first time going out as mother and daughter! ".

" That sounds wonderful! ". Celestia said with enjoyment.

" If that's the case wouldn't you prefer to go without me? I don't want to be in the way of your bonding ".

" Don't worry about it, it will be better with you around, besides, you need a dress ".

" I don't know, I'm not really so close to this Big Mac ".

" We can help you find a nice dress ".

" Maybe I should stay and practice some spells and see how they work in this world ".

" We could go find a place to have our nails painted ".

" Sunset I think I should look for a way to find if the Rebels have entered the city again".

" I also need to find a gift for Big Mac, and one for my sister to give to him ".

" Seriously! I think I should stay ".

" Then we can have some burgers before coming back, what do you say Starlight? ".

" I say, what are we waiting for, come on! ".

With Starlight finally swayed by the power of fried meat the three females left for the Mall. Only when the house was dead quiet did Luna came out, in one arm she was carrying a bag with her dress and the gift her sister suspected she didn't have yet. Outside she took her car and drove with destination to the place where she woke up the previous morning.

CANTERLOT GENERAL HOSPITAL...

The nurse in turn tried desperately to free herself from the slim man that was holding her by her mouth and neck while his mouth absorbed something from her. She didn't know what it was, only that her body was becoming colder and these was no better that the police officer in charge of looking after the two suspects.

His body was twitching in the floor after the bigger of the two suspects hit him hard with his bare hands. Just a few minutes ago the nurse entered the room to check on the vitals, she removed one of the restrains to take the pulse, only to find that the slim one was awake and soon forced her to release the rest of the straps, after doing so the suspect went to free his companion and the nurse used this time to scream for help.

Her plea was answered by the officer outside but even him was taken too by the big guy who brutally beat him down, then it was her turn, as less and less of the of the mist came from her body suddenly the nurse couldn't remember a lot of things, from her boyfriend, her sister, her parents, they were there still in her mind but she could remember why did she care for them, why did she became a nurse, she didn't care, there was no love for anything in her and when Bark absorbed her love for herself the nurse was now a practically a husk.

" Ah! It hassss been so long! I'm full now ".

" I'm still hungry ". Said Muss.

Don't fuss about it, we'll get you something soon, let's get out of here, I'm tired of this world ".

The two walked out leaving their victims inside without a care if they were spotted. It didn't took long before they were detected by a security staff member. " Hey you two! You can walk around this floor without a nurse! ".

" Grrrh! Bothersome human, Muss, deal with him while I find out where we are ". Muss proceeded as told and the guard was knocked out with minimal difficulty. Meanwhile Bark saw through the window and saw they where inside a tall building, Bark cursed the fact that he didn't have his wings to fly away from the place.

" Let's go, we need to find an exit and go back to Equestria ".

" Yes yes, you lead and I follow ".

As the two equestrians looked for a way out near the Hospital Emerald Breeze was ready to go inside. " Hm must do it quietly, but how? ". As she thought of a plan to enter a bit more incognito she saw a nurse walking out of the service door to take her break and an evil idea sprung in her mind.

" Excuse me dear, mind if I ask you something? ". Emerald approached the nurse with a grin already plastered in her face.

" Hm yes? ".

" Mind telling me what size are you? ".

THE HUB...

Lime Grass observed as the paramedic detailed her report. " All victims show the same symptoms, no doubt anymore ".

" Is it like when everyone was having nightmares a few days back? ".

" No but at this point we can't be sure, this is completely different thought, all the affected had lost consciousness but look here ". She opened the eye of a woman, 20 something years old, around his own daughter's age, the eyes of the girl moved erratically under the eyelid, small red vains stretched from all around the edge and meet in the iris.

" This movement indicate that the brain is under stress, also their muscles are spamming and retracting at random ".

" That do sound like the previous problem with the nightmares ".

" At some level, yes, but then when the nightmares begun people was able to awake from it and the brain was not directly affected by stress but by lack of sleep and as I remember the nightmares took several days to propagate and wasn't as centralized as what happened here as far as we know but again, we don't have the whole scope yet ".

" Could this be... you know, a terrorist attack ". Grass asked in low voice.

" It's impossible to say at this stage Chief but to be honest I doubt it, the person's we checked after the first incident showed no sign of chemical substances that could match a bioweapon, we'll check it as protocol but so far I don't think so ".

" I see, ok then, inform me as soon as you have something, what about the place, is it safe to enter? ".

" Yes, we checked and no gas, liquid or residue was found contaminated in the club, your people is checking the security cameras right now ".

" Thank you ". The paramedic dismissed herself and left in an ambulance leaving Like Grass to his own thoughts. " Damn City is going nuts! ". The Chief went inside the club to look for clues.

RUBY'S JEWELRY STORE...

" Here it is, I just need you to sign here and here... Thank you and have a good day ".

" Thank ya kindly Ma'am ". Big Mac inspected the box that the lady just handle him, a small velvet box that was safely kept inside the jewelry for many years. The last time the box was taken out of the store was before Big Mac was born, when Bright Mac officially took Pear Butter as his fiance. It was the family engagement ring, a small diamond shaped almost like an apple and that had a small portion of pink color in the center. It was a rare antique that his family owned since long before his birth and was used to engage Apples since before they meet the Regals.

The ring was considered worthless by normal standards since it didn't have the normal properties of diamonds but it was unique and priceless to the family. Big Mac put the box in his pocket and walked out of the store running into Lemon Zest.

" Wow there, ah thought ah told ya ah would pick ya up at yer house ".

" I know but this is important! We need to go to Rich's Warehouses, the things that the Adagio girl left behind are there and this is the best moment to get them, didn't you say that you need it them? ".

"Ah... ".

" Teach? ".

" Hold on, ah'm thinkin ". Mac really didn't know what to do, this day he didn't plan into going into another magic adventure but this was a chance that maybe wouldn't come again. " Ok, ah'll see what can ah do, thanks Lemon ".

Mac walked toward his truck and Lemon followed. " Ya want me to drive ya home? ".

" Nah, I'm coming with you ". Lemon said walking pass him and waiting by the passenger door.

" Ah can't take ya with me, it could be dangerous ".

" Is that so? Then how do you plan to get inside, with your rustic charm? ".

" Hey! Ah take pride in that! ".

" Ups, landmine, listen I know you're trying to put the whole I don't want you to get in trouble thing but that's exactly why I joined, I know the risk and more importantly I'm the only one that can help you get what you need, so don't be stubborn and let me help you this time ".

" Tsk, fine fine, ya win ".

" Yes! ".

" But only as far as we can push it, if we can't get anywhere then we bail and no comebacks, got it ". Lemon smiled and again did her two finger salute showing enthusiasm.

CANTERLOT GENERAL HOSPITAL...

Dressed as a nurse Emerald was planning to reach the two losers that were captured without a fuss but when she entered the place was already in high alert. Security personnel as well as two officers were talking and soon when upstairs using different routes.

Emerald approached the main desk. " Sorry to ask but why all the commotion? ".

" Are just coming from break? Well it seems something is going on in the fifth floor where those two guys were kept, we lost communication with a few nurses and the security guards in that floor, the cops took the stairs and the guards are using the elevator to see what's going on ".

" Is that so? The fifth floor you say right? ".

" Yes... Hey are you new? I have never seen you before ".

" Ah yes, just started today, actually I was assigned to the fifth floor, better be on my way ". Emerald turned around to leave but the nurse caught her arm.

" I didn't heard of any new nurse coming in today, who assigned you here? ".

Emerald rolled her eyes, suppressing her desire to slap the bitch for touching her do casually. " The Director of the Hospital did, now please, I need to go ".

" You aren't a nurse aren't you, who are you really? Show me your badge! ".

" So annoying, fine! For the record, I tried ". Emerald started singing a low tone melody that confused the nurse first, then disoriented before she fell like a sack of potatoes. She then took the elevator to meet with the other two.

IN THE ROAD TO CPD HEADQUARTERS...

Chief Lime Grass was practically fuming from his mouth, not only did they found no clue as to what or who caused this new epidemic, the surveillance turned out useless just like the one in Rich's property, the videos where just showing static and nothing else, audio was a no go either. In other words, everything right now was stuck in an unresolved mystery, he had no control and he hated every second without it.

The radio of the patrol called him. " This is HQ to nearby units to Hospital, requesting immediate responde, I repeat, all units near General Hospital-".

" Grass here, what's going on? ".

" Oh chief! I thought you were still in the club, anyway, good timing, we lost communication with the personal that we send to the hospital to watch over the suspects, we called the main desk but no answer came either ".

" How long was the last communication? ".

" 30 minutes or so, we thought that because of the shift of personal they took more time than normal but when we called the main desk nobody answered ".

" Shit damn it! Can this day get any worse? Ok I'm on my way, send me back up with riot equipment and another team with assault equipment pronto! ".

" Got it chief, they'll be there in ten ".

" Make it sooner, Grass out! ". Lime turned the siren on and pushed the pedal to the bottom.

CANTERLOT GENERAL HOSPITAL...

Holding a cop by the chin with nothing but a finger Emerald use her song magic to hypnotise the officer and break his will. " Tell me little lamb, where are the items we seek ".

" I... I... the items, we... they are... in the... back in the warehouse ". As soon as she hear the answer she let the man drop to the floor unconscious.

" You know where this place is? ". Asked Emerald to the two escapees who were fighting their way down. When they encountered each other Muss almost punched her only for her to hold his fist and slap him across the face, then blasting Bark with song magic revealing herself as the elder siren of the Rebels, as soon as they knew who she was they became obedient and afraid, just like she like it.

" We... we know, they capture us there ".

" Great! That means more trouble with this softies, the Rainbooms are a no show huf ".
Emerald said disappointed that she didn't got a bite of the magic girls or their siren friend.

" Better go then, or more humans will show up ". The three moved to the first floor where they took a car from an innocent bystander.

RICH'S WAREHOUSES COMPOUND...

Big Mac drove his truck as close as he could without calling attention, then he and Lemon jumped off the truck and walked repeating the plan they come up with.

" Ok so you sneak off the back while I distract the cops in the front, you text me when you get what you want and we bolt out faster that Sour Sweet when she hears the word cake ".

" Ok, just don't get yerself in trouble more that you need to, ok? ". Lemon nodded and the two parted ways. Mac ran following the metal fence all the way to the back where he could see the damage caused by their scuffle with Adagio and Rawhorn.

At the front, one cop and one of Rich's guard were talking to kill time before their shift was over. " Got a 8? ".

" Go fish ".

" Uggh, I don't want to play anymore, go fish imaginary is frustrating ".

" Oh come on dude! You weren't doing so bad ".

" This game is lame, just like the last one ".

" Imaginary solitary is awesome and don't dare say otherwise! ".

" You're an idiot... Uh? Stop there! Who are you? ". Said the guess when he saw Lemon approaching.

" Heya there, just walking around, hey Blank! Still playing imaginary Chess? ".

" Hey Lemon, she's Lemon Zest, daughter of our boss, what are you doing here? ".

" Just looking, I heard from my friends that something cool happened here, so I came to take a look ".

" Lemon, sorry girl, but this place is still under investigation ".

" And in private property, I can't let you in ". Said the guard.

" Oh! Come guys, just a peek, you know me Blank, I won't cause any trouble ".

" Sorry Lemon, but things is how he said, place still hot and a big no-no all around, if you father hear that I let you in he'll skin me alive and with Moore's old rusty knife! ".

" Ok then how about this, we play imaginary poker and if I win then you let me take a peek, ok? ".

" No can't do ".

" If you win then I'll play imaginary whatever anytime I see you, ok? ".

" Re-really? You would? ".

" Hey hey, no, just no, I got my orders ".

" Hey, let me humor her for a bit, I'm invencible In imaginary poker! ".

" Heck no! If you lose and let her in I'm gonna get it with my boss so no ".

" Then I'll have to tell her to leave, when she's gone we can keep playing ".

" You know what? She came all the way over here so play with her, but you better not lose! ". Said the security guard glad that he could get the annoying cop off his back.

Back with Big Mac, the farmer managed to find a place where the fence was damaged and passed through it, he quickly looked for an area marked by the police as the area of evidence, must of the damage was caused when the girls encountered Adagio first, so Mac looked there first, the place she was hiding had to be near the edge of the battle zone, Mac kept his head down, careful not to make unnecessary noise.

Finally, he saw a particular block where one of the doors was sealed with orange tape with the words ' RESTRICTED-POLICE-RESTRICTED ' and moved closer. As he inspected the door he founded locked, he tried to pull hard and slowly the handle started to give up, he was surprised for this as this was far more strength that the one he knew he had before but right now he was just glad, curiosity could be satisfied later, Mac continued pulling until it would bend.

Another vehicle approached the entrance to the compound, one with three passengers, from it Emerald, Bark and Muss came out. " Go, I'll wait here, all this running around in this ugly clothes puts me in a bad mood ". Emerald ordered her underlings.

" Fine ". Answered Bark and Muss followed. The two walked to the entrance annoyed with her treatment. " This is the last time I work for a sirens, they are too bossy ".

" Crazy too ". Bark couldn't agree more.

CANTERLOT GENERAL HOSPITAL...

If Like Grass was angry before he was enraged now. Not only did he found the same problems as before, camers footage damaged, unconscious people, including some of his own men and innocent bystanders hurt and or under some kind of drug induced trance. Those few who could recall how they were injured couldn't describe who did this to them, the only thing that give some source of information was a patient who managed to hide before been seen.

He described three individuals, the two first were no doubt the suspects from Rich's incident, the third was new, a woman with red hair and dressed as a nurse and apparently she was the leader as the other two obeyed her orders.

" HQ this is Grass, we have ID's for the suspects, the two from before and a woman, somewhere around 25 to 35 years old, red hair, described as attractive, dressed as a nurse, I want every men available on the hunt, they unarmed but dangerous ".

" Got it Chief, passing on the info to the rest of the units... Wait... receiving transmission from officer Blank slate... He said that there are intruders in the compound! The description match suspect 1 and 2, no sign of 3 and... It look like your daughter is in the property too! ".

" Wha- that's impossible! I told her to stay in the house! That girl! I'm going in! Send me back up as soon as possible! Call all available units for support! ".

" O-on it Chief! ".

" Shit shit shit! Be ok Lemon, please be ok! ". Lime Grass run back to his patrol car and for the first time in his life he ignored the rules of traffic.

RICH'S WAREHOUSES COMPOUND...

It happened too fast, one second Lemon was playing with officer Blank to distract him from Big Mac, next second there were two men walking towards them, the security guy approached them warning them that they couldn't move closer, his warning was answered with a blow to the head by the taller guy, the helmet he was using absorbed some of the blow as he didn't fall, he recovered and tried to pull out his gun but the big guy prevented him from successfully pointing, a gunshot broke the silence and by now the second guy was near them.

" Shoot! Shoot them! ". Lemon ordered. Instead of that, Blank called HQ and described what was going, Lemon wasn't surprised when the second intruder drop on him and he didn't get even chance to pull out his gun. But Lemon didn't stood idle either, the guy paid little attention to her so she snuck behind bad when Blank was about to be overpowered Lemon let loose a good old nutcracker kick between the legs that the intruder couldn't ignore, he fell to the ground holding his legs together and assuming a fetal position.

" Come on! Get up and shoot them now! ".

" I... Argh! ". Blank didn't have a chance as the other guy was now over him as well. Lemon could recognize a losing battle and instead of lose time saving Blank again she ran away to look for Big Mac.

Back at the car Emerald heard the distant gunshot and thought that the two morons have messed up once more and started walking toward them promising punishment if they lost.

" Teach! Teach where are you?! ". Lemon ran frantically around the empty small buildings looking for any sign of her former mentor. " Teach! Come on! We got trouble".

As Lemon ran away, Bark and Muss finally knocked their opponents out cold, Back getting another handful of love from the officer. " What happened? I left you alone and you keep causing trouble, hurry up and leave so I can go back and take bath! ".

" But the girl-".

" A girl? What is a girl doing here, was that one of the Rainbooms? ". Asked Emerald suddenly enthusiastic.

" No, is not one of the ones we fought against ".

" Hm, then do whatever you want just find Adagio's things and leave, as long as no one sees my face I don't care what you do with them ". Emerald turned around and walked away toward the car, once she reached it she took the driver seat and looked at the console, she briefly saw how to drive with the cab driver and Bark but it wasn't enough to do it by herself so she jumped off and decided to walk until some fool could give her a ride back to the city.

She walked through the rough rural road made long ago for the way it looked abandoned, as she came to a clearing she found a truck hidden away from view. She watched carefully, if someone saw her right now there would be trouble so she kept her presence in the shadows before moving again.

Back in the compound Lemon hide behind any object she could find but so far the bad guys were nowhere to be seen. As she turned a corner a hand took her by surprise and pulled her through a hole in one of the walls.

Instincts kicked in an an elbow flew against her attacker's ribs but he blocked it. " Hold it there Lemon it's me! ". Big Mac answered from behind here, after she got the message he let go of her.

" Damn scare you give me idiot! I thought you were one of those creeps! ".

" Did the guards tried to do somethin to ya? " Asked Mac angry.

" No, not them, other guys showed up, they... They didn't look humans, they just knocked down both guards like chomps, one of them... Damn it! I can't stop shaking! ".

" Calm down Lemon, calm down, ya just breathe, breathe ". Mac told her as he rubbed her back. " Better? ". Lemon nodded, now back in control of her nerves. " Ok then, if those guys are really rebels then they're here for this ". Mac showed to Lemon the bag that he has strapped to his bag.

" Is that the magic things? ".

" All of them, except for the mirror, that one was too big so ah took a picture of the back and broke it, better smashed in pieces that in the wrong hands ".

"Ok, then let's get away, or better, let's kick some ass! ".

" We can't just rush Lemon, some of those guys have powers we haven't seen, we need to be careful. Let me call the rest and see if we can get backup ".

" But if they come won't they get in trouble? Officer Blank managed to call Central, if they show up they'll arrest anyone involved ".

" Dang! Didn't thought about that, ok then let's sneak out then ".

" Ok then, but you own me big ".

" Sure, let's go ". The two left as silently as possible. Going all they way back, the two were lucky enough to avoid an encounter with Bark and Muss, but as they approached the truck luck turned on them.

" Looks like made it, if we hurry we can-! ". Lemon stopped in her tracks as a her eyes caught sight of the redhead waiting in front of Big Mac's truck.

" And here I thought this day was the worst, but here you are, never thought I'll see you again, my little lamb ". As Emerald spread her arms, a purple mist quickly rushed from behind her and surrounded them immediately.

" Big Mac, what do we do? Could she be a... Teach? ". Lemon saw something she had never seen or expected to ever see. A man she always thought strong and firm but gentle and caring like Big Mac, frozen, the change was almost instantaneous, one moment he was decisive and brave, and now his face showed nothing but fear and confusion. " Teach? Teach! ".

" Ah- ah hear ya ". Mac said it his voice sounded weak.

" Who's that does she know you? ".

" Ah-ah don... ah can't... she's... ". His voice kept sounding off, Lemon turned to the woman one more time, she was dressed like a nurse but the uniform didn't was a bit to big for her frame, plus she didn't give the vibe of a nurse, Lemon thought that she looked more like a model or some movie star, but her smile and the strange shine in her eyes were more of those of an animal, an animal who was in the hunt.

" Teach, snap out of it! ".

" Ah-ah'm ok now ". A lie, Lemon almost couldn't believe she heard a lie from him, his voice carried no resolution with it.

" Oh! Did you forgot about me little lamb? Did you forgot all those lonely nights you would cross half a town to come and see me? To talk about your pains, about your sorrows? To talk a out your guilt? ". The woman said putting a fake hurt expression.

Mac flinched at every question, specially at the end when she mentioned about guilt, is like every word was a blow against his being. " Come on now, leave the girl and come little lamb, we came make up for the time lost, tell me, about your family, do they still love you despite of what you did? Tell me about your friends? Do they know the real you? Tell me about your love, does she knows your deepest fear? Does ANYONE knows about your parents true dead? ".

" Teach? ". Big Mac didn't answer, rather than that he sunk to the ground, his knees giving up completely, his shoulders slumped forward, devoid of any strength.

" Come child, leave everything behind, no need to carry anything, you just need me ".

" Teach wake up! This isn't you! You're not this coward little shit in front of me! ".

" Ho ho! Don't be so harsh girl, there's those who are secretly coward but live they lives hidden and those who manage to put a front with a fake smile or a convincing attitude, but the fear and guilt are still there, my little lamb him just happens to be of the last kind ".

" Shut up bitch! I don't know who you are but I know him! He's not a coward! He's not a fake like you said! ".

" Is that so? What about you? What about that fear that you keep hidden as well and in the deeps of your being, I can smell the fear, the shame, the doubt, the sadness, you hide them well, but they are there ". The purple mist started to affect Lemon as well.

Lemon stood there, unable to move, her own fear surfing up like a erupting volcano. A memory long buried came about, her father hitting her mother brutally, demanding obedience and respect. The memory broke her heart. The first day her father showed his strict side by beating his own wife was the day Lemon first listened to rock music, its loudness was the only thing that prevent her from hearing the screams of her mother, asking for help that her daughter wouldn't give out of fear.

From then on it was just about appearance, she loved rock music, but every time, every song was a small reminder of her failure as a daughter and as a human.

" You aren't so bad now that I smell your little emotions, you two smell the same, fear, guilt, so delicious. I can always use another little lamb just in case my first one brakes, come little girl let me taste you ".

Emerald's eyes shone and Lemon watched walking slowly toward her, Big Mac saw this and knew immediately what was coming for the girl for he suffered the same 8 years ago, the memory long time buried by love and the forgiveness of his family but kept alive by his self loathing, Sunset was right about him, he hasn't forgiven himself. And now the same fate awaited Lemon, a girl he got involved into this.

' Are you gonna let an innocent person suffer in front of you '.

" What? " The voice asked, a voice familiar, not Sunset's for this one sounded male, was his own, Mac wondered.

' Ah didn't raise no coward! Up boy! Up! '. Asked the voice again confusing him more.

" Ah... ah can't! ". Mac saw with desperation how Lemon fought every step in vain, resisting every single step but moving closer to the mad woman waiting with a sharp grin.

' You can't or you don't want? '.. Demanded the voice to hear his answer.

" Ah... Ah want... to... save her! ". Mac said grinding his teeth and forcing his muscles to fight the fear that the woman caused.

' Yer child no more! Yer a grown man! And true man don't let the lady get hurt, yer an Apple! Up damn it! Show this monster ya know no fear! '. Mac moved.

CANTERLOT SHOPPING MALL...

The sound of a falling fork broke the conversation between Starlight and Celestia.

" Are you ok Sunset? ". Asked Celestia worried.

" Yeah, sorry, just me been a clutz ". Sunset answered honestly but the two women kept looking at her.

" What? ".

" I think she means if you're really ok, you have been dropping stuff since a while back". Said Starlight.

" What!? No way! You're imagining things ".

" Dear, you dropped the car keys ".

" Twice! ".

" You let change drop to the floor, half of your ice cream from earlier and now this ".

" I... I guess you're right, it's just... I getting this weird feeling, like an itch in the back of my neck and before you send no, not that itch! Is just that I can't quiet put a label on it".

" Maybe they're pre-party jitters, is your boyfriend's birthday and after the effort you put into looking pretty you probably are worried that you failed ".

" I did? Oh no! ". Sunset pulled out a compact mirror and started checking every detail in her face.

" See what I mean? ".

" Ok, maybe I'm overreacting a bit ". Both women looked like they were holding their laughs. " Ok ok, maybe a lot, I'm pretty nervous right now, so maybe that's the feeling I'm getting ".

" Calm down Sunset, it's just a party, is not like he was going to propose to you, right? ".
At her comment Sunset turned redder than ever while Celestia had the misfortune of chocking with her latte.

" Sta-Starlight! That's... Well he... I'm... ". Impossible as it would seem, she be and more red as her stuttering continued.

" Easy easy, just relax! Sorry haha, I never thought you would react like that ".

" A-anyway! Now that we now what could be, let's change the subject ok? ".

" Ok so, when do we get to the burgers? " Asked Starlight provoking laughs from Sunset and Celestia. Sunset relaxed, but the annoying feeling she had inside didn't go away, bit for now she accepted the possibility that it was induced for nervousness and that nothing bad was happening.

OUTSIDE OF THE WAREHOUSES...

It was just the sharpest of reflexes and the experience of previous battles that saved her head. Mac's swing forced her to let go of her female victim before she could take her desired meal. Mac used her momentary distraction to grab Lemon and move away from the redhead. " Teach? ".

" I'm ok now, really ok, I'm still afraid but ah don want ya gettin hurt because of me ".
Mac said to Lemon and this time she could feel the honesty behind his words.

" Thanks ". Said Lemon suddenly aware of how tight was Mac holding her.

" That... wasn't very nice my little lamb, or human for that matter, was that magic perhaps? ". Asked Emerald intrigued, her mist no longer affecting the duo, bringing nothing to her and just wasting magic, so Emerald dropped the effect.

" Get behind me ". Mac told Lemon and she nodded in response. Mac kept his eyes firm in the enemy, slowly and carefully circling her to have his truck at his back.

" Ignoring me are we? Well, don't worry, I can play naughty too ". The woman moved with the speed of a cat closing the distance in a second but if she was expecting that. If Mac was going to hold back because she was female she found herself wrong.

Another swing came the moment she tried to get between them and the truck. Emerald tried to pass under it but Mac used his body to ram her away and Emerald found herself airborne, again with the agility of s cat Emerald avoided extra damage by correcting her fall and backflipping for some distance, she her face was visible again it was obvious that she wasn't unscathed as she seemed first.

" Ah! My my, that was some tackle, I think my lungs are in the next town now ". Emerald said joking but with no real humor.

By now the truck was now at their reach. " Lemon, get inside and start the truck, oh and hold this for me ". Mac handled her the keys and the velvet box with the Apple ring inside.

" Uh but what about her? ". Asked Lemon as she took the objects. Stopping slightly when she saw the velvet box.

" Ah'll distract her while ya drive away ".

" No way, are you telling me to let you behind? ".

" Nope, ah'll jump in the back as soon as ya start drivin, now come on! ". Mac hurried her.

" Ignoring me again? ". Emerald prowled closer but Mac never let her out of his sight, she lunged at him just trying to maneuver through his size and prevent their plan from coming into success. As she suspected, his moves were too sharp, fast and powerful too be considered normal, not only did he matched her in speed but his strength was enough to brake bones at a clean hit.

Still, Emerald was to slippery to be caught and when she deployed her sharp nails to escape when he finally grabbed her arm she managed to draw first blood. The tips painted red with with the vitals liquid, Emerald in true villainous fashion licked the blood off showing glee by the taste. " Oh! So I was right, you have magic, now I'm more motivated.

Mac felt chills when her grin grew wider. " Lemon! What's the hold up! ".

" I'm trying! Not everyone can drive standard you know! ". As she desperately tried again so did Emerald Breeze this time trying to go for magic blast, Mac side stepped and moved forward as she had expected him, so she send a second one she had ready but she didn't expect Mac to blocked it with his arm and keep going for her. Finding no option, Emerald braced to meet him.

Enhancing her strength with the magic of her stone Emerald was able to match Big Mac but not before he pushed her a good meter back, her heels digging all the way, now they were lock hand and hand, each pressing forward and Emerald was losing.

" I see now! You are the one who defeated Rawhorn! You're Big Mac! To think that the same meek boy I met all those years back would turn into this ". Emerald shot him a look of interest and lust.

" Now I'm even more glad I came back, when I'm done with this little job I'll take you with me and rave you in ways you never dreamed.

Mac pushed harder. " Sorry, I'm taken already, Rrrrrah! With all the strength of his body Mac pushed one more time, Emerald's hands were forced back, this time Emerald wasn't able to withstand the force and she was thrown hard and far. A satisfactory pained yell was heard loud and clear from his position.

" Lemon, let's get-". When Mac turned to his truck and the girl in high hopes what he saw was a sight of nightmares.

" Te-a-ch? ". While he took care of the siren, Bark and Muss have caught up with them and took Lemon out of the truck, then the Changeling proceeded to suck the love out of her.

" No! ". Mac dashed toward them, only to be stopped by Muss. " Out of mah way ya bastard! ". Muss spat a bit of blood, produced by a kick from Lemon and walked ready to take on Mac. Their fight was short as even with equestrian strength Muss couldn't match to Big Mac's in his enraged state. " Yer next ya bas-tard? ".

Mac stopped when a sweet and delicate song waved through the air, Mac turned around and there he saw the siren, walking toward him while singing, her face was dirty and blood was spilling from her nose and forehead but she kept her menacing grin.

Mac tried to shake the numbness that was invading him but it was useless, his body felt tired and heavy, his vision was blurry and his breathing became erratic. Each step he took closer felt an eternity. Still, his approaching caused Bark to let Lemon alone and prepare for Mac but before he could get a shot at him Muss came from behind and delivered a clean punch to his back. Mac felt on his knees and the bag containing the gems and journal fell spilling some of its content.

" That's... Watch it you idiot! If you damage the gem it could explode! ". Emerald stopped her song to prevent Miss from blowing them up. " Take the bag and... ".
The sound of police sirens interrupted her again, cursing, she analyzed the situation, if she was seen she would call her mission and most likely would spend the rest of her days locked away in some human prison, running and hiding were the only options.

" Listen! Take them both and put them in the car, we're going to the portal, quick! ". Emerald ordered. As soon as the two humans were secured inside the stolen car, they drove away.

REGAL RESIDENCE...

It happened the moment they were back home, the sensation of wrongness inside Sunset swelled as her bond with Big Mac warned her that something was wrong with her partner. She felt a taste of desperation and dread that weren't her own, only then did she identified the first symptom that told her than he was in trouble, fear.

As the pit in her heart grew Sunset took out her phone and called trying to contact Mac and ask him what was going on, who or what was putting in such a distressed state. The phone ringed for a bit with no answer making Sunset more nervous but finally the call was received, but the voice that answered wasn't the one she expected.

IN ROAD TO THE PORTAL...

From Big Mac's pocket the ring of his phone was heard but ignored. He was in the back slumped over one side still under the effects of Emerald's song, Lemon was placed next to him just the same way. Lemon was not been affected by the song thanks to her trusted headphones that kept playing rock, unfortunately she was still weak from Bark sucking out her love, she couldn't find the reason to move, without love there was no motivation, no energy, her love for her parents was taken, so was the one for her friends, Bark was starting so take her love for herself when Mac interrupted him.

Passing over a hole caused the car to jump readjusting her position. Her eyes moved and she saw his, they were glassy as result of his condition. She was scared, for her and for him too, inside of her something small sparked, the conversation with Luna Regal replayed, her mention of how she had a crush on him came fresh to her mind, was it true? Did she care for him more that just a friend, a person who was asked to teach her important stuff, a person who despite her obnoxious music even more obnoxious personality had the patience to get along her and care for her even when she was sick, who at the end didn't took the money offered for the job. She remembered how out of sight she heard when he rejected the money from her father saying that if she passed the test it was pay enough.

The phone ringed again. " Curse those annoying human devices! Muss! Pass me that infernal thing! ". The big guy, the one who punched Mac in the back obeyed and stretching his arm reached to Mac's front pocket and took out his smartphone, in the split second that the screen passed next to her face Lemon saw the name ' Sunny ' on it. Mac's girlfriend, the love in his heart. Could had Lemon been able to reach that spot if she tried, she wouldn't know now, this were probably their last minutes alive.

Emerald was about to throw the phone when she saw the caller's name, the grin that came to her face was so far the most terrifying of all. She pressed the button. " Mac? Mac! Oh thank Celestia you picked up, I was going crazy! Is everything alright? Are you ok? ".

" I'm sorry, but your ' Mac ' is not available right now, he's taking a little nap in my lap, poor thing was too tired ".

" What? Who... Who are you? Mac? Where's Macintosh Apple? Where is he?! Answer me! ".

" My my, how rude, I'm politely telling you where he is and you yell for that? The shame".

" Listen you... Whoever you are, I'm just gonna ask one more time, WHERE! IS! MY! BOYFRIEND! ".

" He is... " Emerald saw the sign informing the proximity of the abandoned road, her grin growing wider. " About to reunite with dear Pa and Ma, a one way ticket matter of fact so he's gonna be busy tata ". After hanging she threw the phone through the window leaving Sunset with the dreadful message.

Back in her home Sunset's hands trembled, her heart hammering inside her chest, a thousand thoughts crossed her mind traveling at lightspeed. " Sunset? What's the matter? I heard you yelling from my room ". Came down Celestia, she came closer as Sunset didn't reacted or moved, when she saw her face she saw her daughter holding back tears.

" Mac ". Sunset said weakly. " Mac was... taken, he's... he's in danger, I felt it, I felt it and now I know it's real, where... where could he be? I... What can I do? ".

" Sunset? " This time was Starlight who came down, dressed ready for the party just like Sunset and Celestia.

" What's going on? ".

" Something happened with Big Mac, it seems he was caught by someone ". Celestia explained as Sunset was still in turmoil.

" I have to do something but I don't know what or where to star! I... ". Sunset was now at the brink of a meltdown, Celestia took her in her arms trying to calm her.

" I have a spell that could help, we need something important for him, the more important the more potent and exact the spell will be ".

" So-something from him? " Asked Sunset in tears already. Her hand brushed the locket in her neck giving her the answer. " Here! Use this! ".

Without question Starlight took the locket in her hands. " Step aside and don't interrupt me ". Starlight closed her eyes and a blue and purple light started to exit from her body. " Eques erun sora inconta alma, signa persa encontrar! Eques Tee! ".

As the last of her words echoed through the house, the locket shone and floated from her hands, it stopped at head level and shone even brighter, disappearing in a ball of light and forcing everyone to cover their eyes. When the light subdued in its place was a projector like image of a road and a bridge, the image lasted just a few seconds before it banished and the locket reappeared again.

" Was that? Was that the place where he is? I don't recognize it! ".

Celestia thought for a second and spoke. " The bridge! Is north road bridge just outside the City! ".

" You mean where Mac when to look for his truck? But that's on the other side! Is too far even in car! We don't have enough time! ".

" Maybe we don't, but we know who's fast enough to get there in time ". Starlight ssid.

All three women shout out loud the name of the girl fast enough to make time look like a turtle. " RAINBOW DASH! ".

IN ROAD TO THE PORTAL...

Lemon waited until the car jumped again causing both her and Mac to collapse with Lemon on the bottom. Muss growled but ignored them giving Lemon the chance to move, very slowly and carefully she removed her headphones and put them on Mac's ears, as she did so, slowly the effects of the song started to be undone, his eyes returning to life as her started to become unfocused, before she could fall to its effect she whispered in Mac's ear.

RICH'S WAREHOUSES COMPOUND...

Lime Grass arrived and found officer Blank and one of Rich's security guys down for good. When he approached to inspect them the sound of a speeding car make him turn around in time to see it, just for a second he got sight of green hair like his daughter, leaving the two men behind Grass ran to his car and quickly chased behind the car.

NEAR THE BRIDGE...

" Bring both of them! ". Emerald ordered as she walked around the road toward the other side of the bridge where the portal was accesible.

" What are we gonna do with them? ". Asked Bark lifting Lemon over his shoulder while Muss took Big Mac.

" I don't care about her, do whatever you want with her once you cross to Equestria, but him, he goes directly to my Chambers, and if somepony tries to block you you tell them that I send you! ". Emerald walked behind them when she remembered to check out the backpack, sure enough little Abby would go ballist if all the things from Adagio weren't taken back, Emerald opened it and her eyes went wide. " Stop, who of you morons took two of the gems, there's only one left! ". Emerald demanded.

The two henchmen looked at each other but none spoke. " Well? Are you going to talk or you want me to make you talk? ". Both guys looked frightened by the punishment but both kept quiet.

" I-i don't have a gem, I don't even like them ".

The blue eyes of the siren turned to the diamond dog, knowing how fond was his kind of gems no doubt her suspicion was now on him. " I didn't took them, I swear! ".

" I'll see if you're telling the truth ".

" N-no! I swear! I swear! I don't have them! ".

" Gems don't vanish in the air you mutt! ". Emerald approached him, ready to make him wish not to cross her when her eyes saw something suspicious. " Hey! What's that on his head! ". Emerald pointed to the headphones that only now they noticed.

In an instant Mac came to life, his body was slumped and been carried like a sack of sand but in seconds he was moving, first using the proximity to Muss to take care of him first.

Mac jumped off him, pushing him toward Emerald resulting in a mess of limbs and shouts. Before Bark could react Mac dispatched him as well with a jawbreaking hook, Mac took Lemon off him and took her toward the car before been hit behind the knee with a hot and painful magic blast. " I love when pray fights back! ". Welding more power from her stone, Emerald Breeze threw Muss off of her and blasted Mac in the back.

Leaving Lemon in the ground Mac turned to face the siren. " But you have to learn! ". Another blast in the leg, Mac walked toward her. " When to give up! ". Another blast, this one on the lower stomach. Big Mac doubled in pain but kept walking using his arms to cover his face only he then broke into a Sprint. " Ugh, you don't want to understand do you? ".

Emerald managed to score two more blasts before he was on her, a first landed on her cheek, she responded with her own in the burned part of his abdomen, another body racking punch to her chest causing her to spill blood from her mouth and nose, she dodged another punch and digged her nails inside the burned part of his leg, like if it were a knife she twisted her hand causing muscle and skin to torn open increasing the bleeding in his wound. Mac tried to will hid body to heal but it seemed to be a power only accesible when his other half was present. Trying to make another blow Mac tripped and lost balance, Emerald did use of the moment and blasted him again in the chest.

Not ready to give up yet Mac did one last try, as close as they were Mac caught her by the neck and pulled her closer where he could put his two hands around her. " Not... gonna... let ya.... get... away ". Putting everything into choking her he left go of everything. Emerald tried her best to get free but his grip was beyond human, soon the air started to become a problem for her.

Unfortunately for Big Mac the siren was more that one trick phony. Filling her lungs with the last of her air, she released a song blast that hit Mac in the face, braking the headphones and throwing Mac across the bridge.

Been able to breathe again Emerald stood in her feet once more, her body hurt and bleeding, the pain was high but not as high as she was right now, she would keep him, keep him and torture him and do unspeakable things to him, that and use him to get the other Abby, she would use him as bait and capture her as well and then she would brake her, again and again and-. " Argggh! ". This time it was Emerald who fell to her knees, the pain of each blow summing up in her slim body. By now Muss and Bark where back on their feet, barely. The two could drop at any second. " To where he is, hold him... hold him for me ".

The two named looked at each other, their eyes agreed that they wanted this day to be over and get some payback. They limped all the way where he was and started kicking him rather that hold him like instructed.

" What are you doing, don't kill him you imbeciles! ". Annoyed Emerald too limped towers them, grunting every step of the way.

" Argh! " Another shot of pain was injected in his body by the tip of the shoe from Muss, another stomp from Bark. Mac felt his body growing cold and the pain was numbing his mind. ' Only one trick left... I'm sorry ah didn't get to gave ya the ring...ya would have looked more beautiful with it... I love ya... Always... Sis... Take care of Granny and Bloom... Ah'll miss y'all.

Mac rolled his body, making it look like a useless attempt to cover himself, in true, he dug into his pocket and pulled the two missing gems, he took them when his captors were distracted, after Lemon whispered her crush and to give him encouragement to survive. Taken the two gems Mac tried to squish them between his hands putting all his remaining strength into it, even if he died, he wouldn't allow them to get closer to his family and to Sunset.

Another kick almost make him drop the gems, his energy wasn't enough to complete the task, he need it more, more strength, to protect, to protect her. Like a shower of cold refreshing water in a hell hot day, pink magic washed over him and concentrated on his hands. Emerald noticed this stopped just a meter from where her two companions where busy kicking Big Mac. " What's going on? What's he doing? ".

Mac compressed the rocks with all the new power that came to him and the gems cracked open. Next thing he felt was a warm sensation rushing through him, then it become hotter and hotter, like burning, probably he was burning but there was no pain, only the the warm, then nothing.

REGAL'S RESIDENCE...

When Princess Twilight and her friends nuke her with th power of friendship, Sunset thought she Suffered the greatest pain in her life, she was wrong, when her bond with Big Mac was cut she felt like if the air around her was taken, breathing became hard, thinking became hard, she didn't know that she was kneeling, she didn't know she was sobbing, she didn't know Starlight and Celestia were asking her what was wrong, she only felt a hole, and loneliness like never before. She didn't know that Mac was gone, but she could feel it.

SWEET APPLE ACRESS...

" Applejack! Applejack! ".

" Ah'm here, ah hear ya, what's gotten into yer boots? ".

" Is... Is Granny! Granny's cryin, she's just cryin and and and ah don know why! ".

" What? Ok, lemme to and see her ". Applejack ran toward her grandmother leaving her cousins behind to finish the preparations for her brother's birthday. As she reached the room where Smith was, she found it like Apple Bloom described her, a mess of tears and cries.

" Gra-Granny? What's going on? Why are ya like this? ". Applejack asked as she hugged her trying to bring any comfort to the elder woman.

" Mah boy, mah boy! Why does life want ta take mah last boy? " .

" Yer... yer last boy? ". Applejack didn't understood at the moment what she was trying to say, but eventually she would, all Canterlot city would know.

END OF CHAPTER 31.

Author's Notes:

Once again thanks for reading and like always, if you have a story to share with the people who read this story you can include it too. Until next time.

Next Chapters:

1) Fruits of love chapter 32.
2) My Little Pony Isekai chapter 2.
3) My Little Pony Isekai chapter 3.
4) My Little Pony Isekai chapter 4.