NamelessTrax

Shade looked at Fear in surprise, sure they worked well together and were an unstoppable force, but was he so blind to not notice Fear thought more of it than just simple teamwork? Shade continued on, letting Fear’s hand fall from his shoulder, “Now is not the time...” He whispered evenly as he followed Apollo and the others out through the doors. Just outside the doors, mere feet from it, were over a dozen Batkin Legionnaires. They were flat against the ground, unable to move or even speak as they were being effected by Apollo’s trait. Chandler chuckled, “This has been an interesting day indeed.” Turning to Maelstrom, “My Lord, given the light of circumstances, we should hold off and regain ourselves. A humble suggestion, My Lord.” He offered his advice with a curt bow.

Shade felt himself be caught off guard by his words, remaining still he pictured Leaf in his head, probably waiting for him to explain himself. Immediately Noctus was beside Apollo, dipping his head respectfully, “I will follow you, Master.” He said honorably. Suddenly footsteps sounded as a powerful looking man stepped through his brethren, Ragnorak Earthfall, he followed in Apollo’s path. Ignoring the glares around him. Another slipped on a cowboy hat and followed after Ragnorak, the spurs on Seven Shot’s boots clicking as he walked, becoming the only sound in the room. Lastly, a lithely built woman stepped into stride with them, Echo Locke. As Black Star finally got to his feet, Shade started walking down the aisle, his eyes looking straight ahead as he fell into step beside Apollo. “Traitorous sc-“ He was cut off as the weight bore down even more, forcing him to a knee again. Chandler glanced at him but didn’t say anything, ‘Shades choice was obvious, but for him to be the last to move.... it is surprising...’ He thought to himself. Ally watched carelessly from her couch, this didn’t concern her, and frankly she’d get a show out of it later. The small group approached the doors, in which Fear stood in their path, the other Members murmured between themselves quietly. Confused why their brothers and sister would choose to go against Maelstrom like this?

Ally rose up with Maelstrom, finding it surprising that it was Apollo all this time, but still this really didn’t effect her true goal. Shade had also risen at the same time, they had all been caught off guard initially, but he had to admit this is a powerful Trait if used correctly. From the reports a thousand years ago, Apollo knew exactly what he was doing. Apollo’s return would explain Shadow’s recent behavior, was this what he meant from earlier? Slowly the rest of the Silent Fang began to stand up, able to shoulder the weight of Apollo’s Commanding Trait. Noctus was in complete surprise, but his eyes shined with hope and joy, ‘My Lord Apollo! You are alive and well!’ He thought to himself eagerly. Chandler noticed Black Star was having a harder time rising to stand, guessing it involved more than just physical strength to overcome this Trait.

Black Star cleared his throat awkwardly and stood back, internally reminding himself to stop talking like that. A short round looking oler Man stepped forward, standing before Maelstrom, “As of now there are 7 Humans who now possess Traits, given to them by Nightmare Moon. Caesar took out the one called Azure Blade, However he is not their strongest anymore.” Upon snapping his finger, several magic projections of the Equestrian Champions were summoned around him, “Their Traits are still being researched, but it looks like the four Magic users get a massive magical boost, something to take caution of. It would help more if those who part in the actual battle shared more information with me.” He said with sneering smirk at Shade. Chandler, the Silent Fangs personal Researcher and Doctor, basically Black Star but less vocal. Shade felt his grip tighten around his wrist as held his arms behind his back in keeping a professional posture, “Perhaps you’d like to find out for yourself, hands-on is always a good way to research, No?” He replied back coldly. Chandler chuckled, “Very true, no denying that.” He said in a snarky tone. In the dungeons of the Black Fort, Shadow opened the cell cage, seeing the Woman battered and beaten nearly to death on the floor. He got his knees and held her up, cradling her upper body in his right arm. The Woman opened her eyes weakly, smiling painfully as she saw Shadow’s face, “I had a dream... that one day you would come to me... I am so happy... to have lived long enough to see it...” She spoke as if every word was pain to her, but she continued anyway, brushing her bruised hand over his face. “Tell me, what kind of life did you see, outside of this?” Shadow asked solemnly. The Woman started to tear up, “For the past few hundred years, some of us Legionnaires grew tired of the day to day training and endless talk of revenge... We started to talk about what else there was to life... surely there was more?... One day we used a scouting duty to visit a human town, ... it was unlike anything we’ve seen... Laughter, singing, romance, ... Fun... I felt emotions I never knew I was capable of...” She paused to cough of blood, but she smiled, “... I wanted to learn the craft of Sewing,... to make something with my own hands... I-I wanted to bear children and raise them in peace... and I was not alone in this...” Shadow shook his head, “We cannot have children, our kind has tried for centuries and nothing has come of it.” He told sorrowfully. The Woman smirked, “Thats not true... We can, just not with our own... one of us did... after he fell for a human woman... he had a family in secret... till Chandler found out... He slaughtered Him and his family and kept it all under wraps... the rest of us found out after and were devastated... We vowed to escape this wretched Legion and start our own lives far away... but Black Star caught us... Through all his toture I never lost hope, because I would dream... of a time when our kind lived peacefully in this world...” She looked into Shadow’s eyes, “With you... as our Savior... The true King of the Batkin... Shadow you have done the impossible and rose the ranks of the Silent Fang with your own strength, and you have always treated the Legion with fairness, you’d be surprised how glorified you are among the Soldiers... some of us even held you above Maelstrom in such regard...” Shadow opened his mouth to speak, but she placed a finger over his lips, “... It is too late for me... but you can still save the others... so Please... Lead you’re people from this useless bloodshed... and show them there is more to life... please.. My King-“ Her hand fell down into her lap, her cold body going limp as her last breath escaped her lips. Shadow closed his eyes, emotions swirled like a storm till he thought of Apollo’s Questions. Scooping the Womans body up with one arm, he made his out of the cell. Walking out onto the streets, Shadow carried the Woman’s body, passing by the Batkin Legionnaires. Footsteps sounded behind as a few stepped in to follow, by the dozens more followed suit. As he past through the back gates, Shadow glanced behind to see a few hundred were following him out of the Black Fort. He looked down at the womans face, “You’ve been waiting for this... My apologies that it took this long...” He whispered as he continued on, Leading his followers away into the distance.

Caesar paused mid step, turning his head to the left, looking back with a single eye. Instantly everyone could feel it, an overwhelming sense of the void, an Intent to Kill so powerful no one could even make a move to run. Trax felt sweat slide down his face, imagining himself seeing Ceasar in a demonic form, like the very demons who hunted in Tartarus itself. “My sister is stronger than me in her own right, if you really want phase her, survive long enough to become stronger... or you’ll fail.” Ceasar told her darkly before continuing on, “She likes you, so don’t disappoint her, or Death will be all that awaits you.” With a final step he flickered away with blinding speed. Oakly dropped foward to his hands, shaking with terror, “Monsters... no, they’re demons, we’ve come so far and still they are out of our reach.” Returning to the Forward camp, no victory cheers sounded, the group of Champions strode in with the help of Equestrian Soldiers. Celestia met them, expressing her condolences for Azure, she had grown close to him in the past year, he will be sorely missed. The Champions were settled into a tent, Trax was analyzing maps and battle plans with reports staked beside him, at a desk in the back of the tent. Jag and Arial were resting on cots in the right, both bandaged up a little. Flint sat in a chair, stoking the fire as it heated up a stew in the overhanging pot. Kasey was cleaning his katana in silence, every now and then his arm would cramp up, still feeling the after effects of his triat usage. Oakly sat in the left back corner, his head down in sorrow, holding his sabre sheathed in his lap. “For now, we issue a Full-Retreat Order, if Ceasar, Ally, or Maelstrom are seen on the battlefield. Ceasar didn’t have a scratch on him, and Azure wouldn’t have died unless he gave it everything he had.” Trax said outloud to everyone in the tent, it was clear they still had more training to do, but it would hands-on battletraining from here on. Celestia was sent back to Canterlot, with her magic depleted so low, she would need to rest and stay out of battle. Shade tied off the bandages around Shadows left arm stub, over time he could regenerate it back, but Shadow willingly decided against. To the Top ranks like Shade, a wound like this could regenerate within an hour or two, but Shadow was not like them. He started at the bottom, his healing was by far much slower in comparison, and it depended on the mental state as well. Ally kept many of her scars from those who she deemed worthy, Maelstrom was the same in this regard, Ceasar just recently returned with a small scar over the corner of his right eye. Black Star’s facial scarring was caused by similar magic to what created them, therefore it did not heal completely, he used magic to constantly conceal it. Shadow nodded his thanks, “Thank you Shade, I’m gonna go for a walk.” He said as he stood up from the bed, Shade dipped his head in acknowledgment, “Let me join you.” Shadow shook his head as he took his cloak from the nightstand and positioned on him so it covered his left side, “No, I want to be alone, you’ll know when its time.” He told him simply as he walked out. Ally watched as he brother packed a bag and slung it over his shoulder, “You know He isn’t going to like this, especially when you’re not gonna say anything.” She said warningly. Ceasar shrugged it off as he walked to the door where his sister stood, “Things have changed, and I’ve made promise I intend to keep.” He told her evenly as they stood face to face. Ally considered using force, but the look in her brothers eyes told her He wouldn’t make it easy, and a fight between them would level this Fort. Ally sighed and stepped to the side, “Always so dramatic.” She joked with a frown. Ceasar stifled a chuckle, “Right, I’m the dramatic one. Be seeing you Sis.” And with that Ceasar was gone. Black Star watched from his position next to Maelstroms throne, Ally waltzed in heading straight her couch just behind the throne, making herself comfortable. The throne room was large and open, with pillars on either side leading from the large double doors. Every Silent Fang member was there, with the exception of Shadow and Ceasar, and Shade just now walking in. Black Star was quick to notice he was without Shadow, but didn’t probe into that too much. Instead he surveyed the members they had now after this recent battle, 18 members were left total. Black Star decided they’d start their meeting without Ceasar and Shadow, leaning in towards Maelstrom. “We are ready My Lord, two are missing but they are useless anyway.”

Flames surrounded Triton, but did not burn him, only embraced him with a calming warmth. Flint caught him, “Tsk, show off.” He said jokingly. Flints aura armor wore off, and he too feel to his knees, feeling the after effects of using his trait. Kasey and Oakly sheathed their weapons and started towards them when they heard Killjoy callout. In that moment, Arial fell from the sky, landing on top of Kasey, “Thanks for the catch...” She said weakly, Kasey responding with a shaky thumbs up. Oakly breathed out in relief, “I guess this means we won.” He said as he saw Trax making his way towards them, two Equestrian Soldiers on either side to suppress him. “Woohoo.” Jag’s cheered breathlessly nearby as he raised a fist up before letting it drop to his side, “Ow.” Footsteps caught everyones attention, Oakly placed a hand on his sabre’s hilt, but he froze as he saw the horrible sight. Ceasar walked towards them, carrying Azure’s lifeless body in his arms, and Azures axe strapped to his back. Trax felt a deep sorrow, but he had no more strength to feel hatred towards Ceasar. Besides, Azure wouldn’t have died with a smile on his face like that, not if he didn’t hate his killer. Ceasar stopped before them, his crimson red eyes dull and expressionless. Slowly he went to his knees, carefully place Azures body down, and then setting the axe next to him. Oakly dropped to his knees, both from his traits drawbacks and of shock, “... No... this can’t be...” He said in disbelief. Ceasar stood back up, “I... I’m sorry...” He said shakily before turning around, walking away from them. Everyone watched him go, shocked in horror, but deep down they knew this was a risky battle begin with. Trax had his two soldiers help him over to the body, he knelt beside it, examining it over. ‘Many scratches, cuts and bruising... but this stab wound... it’s odd...’ Trax thought to himself. Then he noticed dried watermarks on Azures face. “Stand down Captain, thats an Order, let him be. Azure wouldn’t want us to.” Trax said sternly, as be glanced at Killjoy.

Shade stumbled forward, the blood stream froze in mid air as a purple aura surrounded it, pulling it back into Shade. ‘His strength has increased exponentially’, Shade thought as he rotated his shoulders, shattering the icy daggars. Turning to face Triton, ‘His magic has also increased’, He said to himself as he saw the rise in Tritons magical power. Shade held out his right hand, instantly his scythe came to him, “You remind me of myself, I’m seeing how far down that familiarity goes.” Shade strode in fast, his body seeming to glide over the ground like a shadow. Suddenly Shade flickered behind Triton, bringing his scythe back around and slicing into Tritons side. The force sent Triton crashing across the ground, Shade followed up with his left hand waving two fingers up and around. “Blackout.” Shade spoke as the ground beneath Triton turned pitch black, within an instant shadowy spike speared up but we’re unable to penetrate the aura armor around Triton. ‘My blade didn’t cut him, that aura armor of his is cracked but held up against my attack... such power, but for how long?’ Shade considered as he examined Tritons form. Demi came roaring from debris, colliding with Jag in a fury of traded blows, “Let see how long you can keep this up then! I can go all day!” Arial backed up as Dark Shade burst out from the rubble, his black wind surrounding him, “Now I’m angry.” Arial summoned two silver tornados in her hands, throwing them at Dark Shade, who responded with his own black tornados. The colision was separated as Arial and Dark Shade both blasted columns of condensed wind, meeting between them at a standstill. “Ha! You overestimate yourself human, wounds like these are nothing for our regeneration factor!” The brute Silent Fang member laughed as he stood back up, the gashes on his chest were giving off steam while they closed up. The Bat-like beast gave itself a shake before it slowly grew back its severed left armwing, facing Kasey with a low growl. Oakly sighed as he sheathed his katana, Kasey following suit as he sheathed his sabre, “Guess we are still a little new at this.” Suddenly the twins untied their weapons from their belts, and tossed them to each other. “You believe switching weapons will make a difference?” The Bat creature growled with a slight hiss. Oakly shrugged as he methodically gripped the hilt of the sabre, “Why not? Afterall, we’ve been using each others weapon for the past two years.” Kasey ran his fingers over the katana’s wrapped hilt, “We thought learning each orhers weapon would be good training, since we mastered our original weapons early. Man, I can feel it all coming back to me now...” Kasey drew his katana with such fluid movements, taking a low stance as he held his sword up and aimed at the Bat creature. Oakly drew his sabre, placing his left arm behind his back and taking a perfect posture. Knees slightly bent, feet shoulder with apart and perpendicular to eachother with the left foot back. The sabre held out in front at the ready, his full attention on the Silent Fang brute, “Yeah, I’ve missed this...” The Silent Fang Members grunted in disbelief before charging their opponents. Sparks flew as Trax and Shadow continued their duel, but they were evenly matched now. The two slide apart from a loud clanging parry, “My apologies, but my comrades are relying on me to win, so I will do what I must.” Trax said as he activated his Trait. Shadow smirked, “I’d be disappointed if you didn’t face me in earnest-“ He was cut off as the ground beneath him cracked and crumbled, putting him off balance. Shadow then realized everything, Trax had been setting this moment up since they started this duel, all his missed swings were aimed to strike the ground. The presure from Trax’s trait was the trigger. Shadow watched as time slowed down, Trax was already before him mid swing, the moment seemed to take forever. Shadow knew he lost this, he was wide open, and lacked the anger to activate his trait. ‘I get it now, I understand everything, and what I must do...’ Blood splattered the ground, an arm made a sickenin thud as it hit the ground. Shadow backed up from Trax as he spit up more blood, but he smiled through the pain, “... Thank you... for helping me see my path clearly...” He choked out before his black aura bat wings spawned from his back and gusted him up and away. Trax watched as he sheathed his short sword, his trait settling down, he then let out a sigh of relief as Shadow vanished out of sight. “Finally.” Trax breathed before he dropped to his knees, unable to move his body. “I might have overdone it a little...” Shade was about make another move in Triton, aiming to see how powerful that Trait really is, but movement caught his eye. His eyes went wide in horror, seeing Shadow float down to him, wounded and missing his left arm above the elbow. Shadow glided to land before him, Shade immediately grabbing him to hold him up, “S-Shadow?... How did this happen?” He asked worriedly. Shadow chuckled weakly, “... This is on me, an atonement for my sins...” Shade glanced at Triton, his eyes filled with worry and fear. In a second Shade wrapped Shadow in his magic and the two vanished in black mist. Nearby, Dark Shade and Demi glanced at eachother before they too took off, quickly vanishing into the distance, the Vampire Legion already in full retreat. Flint paused with his two enemies, and when they tried to attack him off guard, Flint blast them back with a wall of flames. “What just happened?” Out of sight from all of this, Azure was held up by the neck, his body beaten and bloody. “Why the hesitation?” The question from Azure made Ceasar pause, He didn’t know how to answer him, not in earnest anyway. “I don’t know what you’re talkin about-“ ”That sickening feeling you’re getting right now, its an emotion called guilt, we humans get it all the time.” Azure cut in, “You put yourself above us as a higher species, claiming emotions as a human weakness.... seems now after a thousand years of bloodshed, you’ve finally grown a conscious... I find that honestly sad. A beast learning what it is to inflict pain on another lifeform... all that killing had finally caught up you, but you don’t know how to feel about it...” Azure paused to cough, placing his hands weakly on Ceasar’s wrist. Ceasar slowly lowered him down in shock, Azure grinned as he felt content with himself, “Make a promise to me, after this, go out explore the world... you might just find something you didn’t know was there...” Ceasar stared in confusion, feeling like his whole world was being shattered before him, turned upside down. “I....” Suddenly Azure coughed up blood as his body convulsed, Ceasar went wide eyed in horror as he looked down to see his sabre had been grabbed, Azure had stabbed himself with it. Ceasar looked into his eyes as they started to dull, “.... Azure...?” He whispered weakly. Azure then smiled brightly, “... You remembered... would you look at-“ The words escaped him as he fell back, Ceasar caught him as he bent down, withdrawing the sabre from Azure’s stomach. Tears dripped onto Azure’s face, “... Dammît...”

Shade waved a hand, as if pushing the dust and mist out of his way, walking unhindered and untouched out from the attack. "A thousand years ago, I was nicknamed the Silver Wraith by you're ancestors. Witness firsthand, what they survived." Shades voice faded as he was wrapped in more shadows, within an instant he was before Triton, mid-swing with a dark brown wooden staff. The hit sent Triton sliding back, Shade following through as he raced around, a long blade appeared at the end of his staff. Shade clashed with Triton, his scythe parrying against Tritons trident. Shade smirked, "Incredible power, show me what it can do, My Friend." Jag smirked as he guarded against Demi's onslaught of rapid punches, "Quick question, Do you wanna see something cool?" Demi laughed as he paused to charge up his final hit, "Now I know you're playing me, but I do." Demi's fist began to glow as he came in with a heavy swing, on impact the ground behind Jag was shattered, sending a force of wind back. Demi raised an eyebrow in mild surprise, Jag chuckled as the dust cleared, revealing him in his dragon aura armor. "Oh that is Hardcore!" Demi yelled excitedly, "Also not good for me," He added semi-cautiously. Jag reared his other hand back, as the earth moved to anchor Demi's feet, "Also not good for me." He said briefly before Jag's punch sent him flying across the battlefield like a ragdoll, and rocketing into a cluster of stone. Arial activated her trait as Dark Shade surrounded her with a black tornado, instantly dispersing it with ease, "If Triton is taking this seriously, so will I!" Arial manipulated a silver wind with her hands, separating it into several spears, launching them at Dark Shade. His black wind merely able to steer them off target, suddenly he was hit hard in the gut by a shot of condensed silver air, Dark Shade spit up a bucket of blood before he flew back and down to the ground. Arial hovered down towards her enemies crash site, keeping a watchful eye for trouble. Flint stepped back as the other Silent Fang member recovered from his earlier wounds, "Heh, guess I'll give into peer pressure then." The Silent Fang guarded themselves as a wave of heat burst out from the human mage, growing nervous as they now saw him with a flaming aura armor, resembling a dragon. Both activated their traits in response, turning one into a shadowy wyvern, while the other grew hard spikes all over his body. Flint smirked as the two monsters launched themselves at him, catching their hits and sliding back a few feet. "Now I'm really fired Up!" Flint roared as he burst out with a raging firestorm, sending the two Silent Fang monsters crashing back. Kasey ran from the bat creature, giving chase to him on all fours. The Bat creature scratched up the earth, sending rocks at Kasey. Sensing a good moment, Kasey slid to a halt, the rocks missing him completely. Kasey poised with his sabre, activating his trait within, "Absolute," His eyes widened as he suddenly speared forward past the Bat creature in a single step, "Strike!" Opening up a large gash in the beasts side, and dismembering its left arm-wing. Oakly readied his katana, the Silent Fang member tower over him with a downward swing, his massive hammer slamming down. "Absolute," Oakly whispered as he moved his katana upwards, "Parry!" Suddenly the large Warhammer was deflected off the katana's blade, the Silent Fang member gasped in shock as he was left completely open to Oakly's follow through of several slashes to the torso and legs. Oakly finished with a leaping double foot kick, sending the giant back and crashing to the ground. The twins made eye contact with each other, giving a thumbs up of acknowledgement. Azure spun around his axe with quick and precise movements, deflecting any of Ceasar's stirkes, but only the lethal ones. Azure was being littered with multiple slits and cuts. "I've kept up with the reports, every battle you've been in for the past few months, is a one sided massacre. No survivors. However, our magic users would always find you in their far sights, after the battle." Ceasar slowed down his offensive in mild surprise, listening to Azure's words, "Why do you stand there motionless for hours on end?" That last sentence made Ceasar stop abruptly, his face dark with anguish. Azure kept up his guard, "I saw one of the playbacks... That face, was not the face of a merciless killer, especially then one your one famous for. No, that face was one of remorse." The word sent a shock through Ceasar, causing him to start shaking, "When you've lived as long as I have, and killed as many as I have, you start to wonder if you'll ever remember their faces. It dawned on me awhile back, that I couldn't remember a face, or even a name, or even their allegiance. All that I could recall was that I took a life... A close friend of mine said he recently met someone he didn't want to kill, because he wanted to watch them grow instead, and share that life with them. I didn't understand, still don't, but it intrigued me nonetheless. Now, after each kill, I take time to burn my enemies face into my brain." Ceasar's voice started to shake at the end, his grip tightening around his sabre, "Also, that was very impersonal!" Ceasar zipped up to Azure in the blink of an eye, gut punching with a closed fist, his eyes lit ablaze with emotion. Azure spit up blood, but quickly caught his footing, giving Ceasar a hard punch in the face with a heavy left hook. They separated from force of the hits, Azure dropping to a knee as he took more damage from the exchange. Ceasar merely wiped some blood from his bottom lip, "Nice move, hope that wasn't all you could manage." He said coldly. Shadow and Trax dueled on flat ground, Trax gained ground easily, as Shadow felt his mind wander. Apollo's words echoed in Shadow's mind, every order by Maelstrom being questioned, the past thousand years in exile being reconsidered. Then the image of the Batkin womans face flashed in his head, Black Star's words of the group who attempted escape from the Vampire Legion, suddenly he felt a brief burst of rage. In that moment, Trax was forced to use his trait to guard as Shadow sliced with a heavy swing, the block was successful but the massive force behind it sent him flying over the ground till he moved mid air to slide to a halt. Trax watched as the brief dark aura from Shadow vanished again, 'His trait is like mine, but is honed by years of training, I should be more careful of those outburst. I barely blocked that attack in time', He thought to himself cautiously. Shadow shook his head, “My apologies, I broke the rules, and you using your trait was only fair considering the circumstances. Let us continue.” Trax didn’t know what to think, again he sensed no ill will from his opponent, only saw the calm fairness in his eyes. Were they even enemies in this moment, instead it seemed like they were just two swordsman, honorably dueling? "Ah yes, He always was an interesting one to watch. Very well Apollo, lets see what you’re Son has to offer..” Nightmare spoke curiously.

Shadow felt himself be blindsided, his darkness vanished as he saw in slow motion, watching Trax's fist impact into his gut before he went flying back. Shade went wide eyed in horror, pausing himself, taking the full force of Tritons attack. Flint wasted no time in gaining the upper hand, quickly demolishing the watery bubble trap with a massive fiery explosion. The Silent Fang trapped inside was burned severely, crying out in pain as he squirmed around on the ground, the other went on the hardcore offensive and kept Flint occupied. Shade stood up, the shadows around him began flowing towards his feet, "Alright, as I said once before," Suddenly Shade's voice sounded with an echo, the shadows crawled up his legs before enveloping him in a black cloak, "You have My Attention." Without warning a black ball slammed into Triton's trident, knocking him back. As he landed, several more black balls surrounded Triton quickly before glowing, in an instant they exploded in a massive shadowy fire. Arial threw her hands outwards, blowing Dark Shade back with a burst of powerful wind, before turning worriedly to Tritons battle. "TRITON!" She screamed with terror. Jag raised a barrier around him, guarding against Demi's barrage of rapid fire punches, feeling them getting stronger and stronger. Shadow picked himself up, seeing Shade using his trait for probably the first time in centuries, a rare sight indeed. He chuckled with pride, "Heh, I guess you really respect this one, good to see you grow, My Friend." Facing Trax once again, he felt himself no longer able to feel hatred towards his enemy. "Hey, Colonel Trax, lets say we have a clean rematch. No traits, just Us at our best?" He asked mildly. Trax raised an eyebrow, nothing about his attitude gave any ill intent of breaking the rules, but he would keep his guard up anyway. "The last time we met, you were consumed by rage, hungering for revenge. Now, you are different... Why the change?" He asked simply. Shadow sighed, "I must admit, I do feel bad about that, honestly. I was unsure how to feel, and Wrath came easy, so I let myself be consumed by that. Afterwards, I felt... remorse. In short, I was confused of my feelings, and now I am unsure how I should feel." He explained coolly. Trax narrowed his eyes at Shadow, but lowered himself into a stance, readying his short-sword. Shadow followed suit, gripping the hilt of his black blade, holding it up and pointed at Trax. The two suddenly burst at each other, colliding in a fury of sparks, their strikes matching as they traded blows. Ally kept still as her body gave off steam, the wounds Killjoy inflicted becoming a thing of the past. A hand grabbed Killjoys foot and tossed her aside. Ally let out a long exaggerated sigh, "Such intensity, so much emotion, like a child flailing angrily." She mocked as the scratch on her cheek turned to a scar, "I'll keep this one, a little reminder that you are getting better, but still not at Her level." Ally snapped her fingers, then turned away to start heading off, "Keep it up darling, I can't wait to face you again." She turned her head to glare at Killjoy with a lusting red eye, "Please keep getting stronger." Her last words ended as she whisked away. Another Silent Fang member landed in her stead, one of the ones Oakly was fighting previously, now ordered to fight Killjoy. Oakly flew back from guarding against a massive hit, sliding to a firm halt, he re-examined his opponent. The one who stayed behind was bigger now, and wielding a giant Warhammer, his strength had increased exponentially. Oakly readied his katana, "So, they're finally gonna use their traits, fantastic." He said mildly sarcastic. Kasey backed up as his opponent turned into a large bat-like creature, "Uh, anyone wanna trade?" He inquired jokingly. Off to the side, Azure spun around, waving his axe to create distance between him and Ceasar. However, Ceasar was faster, able to get in close enough for a split second, scoring small slits on Azure. Being forced to change it up, Azure paused it in surprise, catching Ceasar off guard and spearing him back. Ceasar landed gracefully, having used his sabre to guard, "This is fun, I can see why you were able to kill one of us, you have a knack for catching others by surprise. Too bad that's all you'll get!" Ceasar went wide eyed with pure glee, forcing Azure to go back on the defensive, but being pushed back with each block he made. “Interesting, Star Swirl chose well. To think He would devise such a plan to turn one of my own, truly he was gifted.” Nightmares voice sounded praising, acknowledging the dead Wizards abilities. “So, I’m not oblivious to possibility that you have another plan in progress. We used to be very close, why keep secrets hmmm?” She inquired curiously.

“Interesting...” Shade’s voice came from directly behind Triton, as he seemed to walk out from behind him. Before Triton could react, a towering wave of shadows forced him away. Shade recalled his shadows back, swirling around him like Tritons water. Shade was beside himself now, He himself did not fully understand why he kept the scar from that day, perhaps it was out of respect for his opponents aptitude. Afterall, neither of them really had their full focus on this fight. Shade could tell Triton was keeping watch over his comrades, just like he was. Suddenly flicked his left wrist, sending a shadowy slice upwards and clashing with a silvery wind before it had a chance to strike Dark Shade from behind. Arial went wide in surprise, her one chance to land a decisive blow was foiled, and being able to apply a tactic Triton had taught her. Dark Shade grit his teeth, not wanting to thank Shade, but knew his comrade was watching out for them regardless. In a fury, Dark Shade pressed his attack on Arial, which put her on the defensive, but still held her own. Shade kept his eyes on Triton the entire time, “Impress me further. From here on out, I’m going to start inhibiting you’re fellow comrades one by one, you’re goal is to stop me.” As he finished, Shade shifted his right foot, which sent a shadow rushing out. Nearby, Oakly was in a constant clash with his two opponents, when suddenly he felt himself be held still by an outside force, “What is this-“ He was cut off as one of the Silent Fang took the opening and landed a hard punch to the gut, Oakly spit up blood before he was sent flying back across the ground. Recovering quickly, Oakly rolled over dodging a downward kick, then deflecting several more strikes before kicking one of the Silent Fang away and engaging with the other. Flint blasted the area around him with fire, ‘Triton what did you get yourself into? Are you fighting him? Cause it looks like he’s training you.’ He thought to himself before guarding against a heavy onslaught from his two opponents. Nightmare chuckled, “If not for our familiar past I would reprimand you for that remark, but also I couldn’t if I wanted to. I was only able to put my consciousness into this pendant, considering I’d be quite bored with myself for however long I’d be kept under by Luna.” She explained in kind, before sighing heavily. “I think I get why you’ve changed, to be honest my drive for an Eternal Night has grown weak. Being sealed away, then being freed, only to be defeated once more... Don’t get me wrong, I do not regret what I’ve done, but I no longer desire domination over Equestria. For now I will observe, maybe in a few more hundred years I can break out fully and see what goes on then.” She said nonchalantly. “By the way, how has been having a Cat for a body?” She inquired curiously.

Shade turned his body to one side, gracefully dodging the icy daggers. He moved his hand around swiftly, like he was drawing with his two extended fingers, “Tell me, what is you’re fascination with me? You must know I can end this battle quickly.” He asked simply as his shadows reached up and surrounded Triton, incasing him in a shadowy ball, suddenly Shade clenched his fist which caused the shadow ball to explode in purple flames. Shade gathered more shadows around him, doubting that move ended Him. A single thing seemed out place for Shade, if his healing ability was so great, why was there a scar from their previous battle still upon Shades face. ”Hello pretty Kitty, I was wondering when you’d catch on.” Nightmare Moons voice echoed from the pendant, carrying a snarky tone.

Ally stood up, her body contorting like a rag doll before she stood straight, twisting her body to stretch it out. “Mmm thanks for that, I needed a good back popping. Now, when you actually do start, let me know for real.” The movement was like a blink, Ally’s fist impacting into Killjoys gut, “Don’t get full of yourself just cause you trained for a year and got a Trait, while I spent a thousands years preparing for this exact moment.” She said coldly before she opened her fist, blasting Killjoy down into the ground with pure physical strength. Flint swirled his flames around, keeping two Silent Fang at bay before they broke through, but to their surprise Flint was waiting for them. Engaging them in hand to hand, Flint held his own before he erupted with an engulfing flame, blasting them back. “Yeah that’s right! We aren’t the same anymore, we’re fighting on equal ground now, so give me all you got!” Kasey dueled against his opponent, He didn’t know the name of this Silent Fang member, but from their skill it wasn’t one of the higher ranking. Oakly spun around, deflecting several blows before ducking backwards, dodging the others flyover kick. ‘They must be of the lower ranks, Ceasar makes them look like childsplay... No, it’s because I’ve gotten stronger, I can keep up with their movements.’ He thought to himself as he clashed with the two Silent Fang further. Arial and Dark Shade traded blows of wind as they flew around in the sky above, Jag and Demi-Tyne meeting int a furry of punches, their arms seeming like they had multiple as they moved so fast. Azure twirled around his axe, blocking or deflecting Ceasar’s barrage of strikes, his speed outmatching Azure’s. Which forced Azure to remain in one place, in order to stay alive. Trax kicked Shadow back, following up quickly with a single slash that caused a wave of Light to spread out from his sword. Shadow blocked it, but flew back from the force, sliding to a halt, he grit his teeth as he forced himself feel more and more hate. Letting out a roar of rage, Shadow sped forward, Trax inhaled smoothly as he readied himself peacefully. Their clash creating a massive crator in the earth, Light and Dark energies spread up into the sky.

The group felt a sudden tremor in the earth, Kasey stumbling off guard to catch his balance, "What the buck?" The dust cleared with Ally holding onto Killjoys foot with one hand, "Oh? You got stronger..." Ally slammed Killjoy down, then spun around to fling her across the field into the nearby hillside, causing a scar of destruction in her path. Ally took a single step, her speed sent her straight to Killjoy in a second, "Show me you're new strength, show me you are worthy to bare my beloved's Name." She growled darkly. The group spread out, simultaneously the Silent Fang followed. Shade narrowed his eyes as he examined Triton, his eyes flashed, and he smirked. "You're magic has increased, and I can sense you have gotten stronger physically as well. Consider me intrigued." Shade waved his hand, casting a wave of shadowy vines out at Triton. Kasey went up against one, as Arial took to the skies against Dark Shade, and Jag meeting Demi-Tyne in a full out brawl. Oakly readied his katana as he faced two hooded Members, but as they attacked, he deflected them with ease. Azure nodded, "He'll be fine, Oakly is more talented then even I." He chuckled nervously. "Then perhaps he should be my opponent, since He might give me a real fight." Ceasar spoke coldly, Azure rolled his shoulders and took his stance, wielding his large headsman's axe. "Believe me, I won't be holding back, so you'll get a good fight." Azure's voice was cold and serious, his bold blue eyes starring down Ceasar. The Valentine Twin smirked, "My name is Ceasar Valentine, On Guard!" Ceasar sped forward, parrying with Azure's axe, a wild grin spread across Ceasar's face. Trax walked forwards, as Shadow walked towards. Instantly their energies flared up before they sped forward at each other, clashing in a burst of Light and Dark. Shadow struggled to keep his thoughts in his anger, slowly he began to lose ground as he clashed with Trax.

The battlefield became a raging storm of magical blasts, most the Equestrian Soldiers were set up far back, the Vampire Legion doing the same on the opposite side. The current battle was far beyond their capabilities. Celestia slid back to a halt, twirling around her golden halberd, deflecting a fury of successive strikes from multiple enemies. She braced herself firmly as she blocked a heavy hit, her halberd parried against a black blade, like a katana but with a straight edge instead of a curve. The force was heavy, and contained an enormous strength behind it. The ground buckled beneath her feet, before she pushed the force off and sent out a wave of sun magic, blocked by a black smoke before it hit any of the targets around ber. Celestia grit her teeth, not knowing how long she could keep this up for, and her magic was running low. Her shoulders shrunk as the dust was cleared, revealing a towering tornado of dark wind. Celestia lit up her hands with a sunny glow, preparing to defend, but saw the enemy launching attacks all around her. ‘Damît!’ Suddenly the dark tornado was cut into pieces, the 7 figures charging in were each blocked by a surprising newcomer. Quickly the enemy backed off. Shadow brandished his black sword, his dark energy radiating off him as he sped in towards Celestia. Suddenly a white flash intercepted him, his eyes narrowed but he kept his advance. The two forces collided, exploding in a clash of dark and light energies. Shadow met the eyes of the opponent who was matching him, and to Maelstroms guess, Nameless Trax was alive... and stronger than before. Shadow felt his anger start to fall, allowing Trax to press and send him flying back. Trax jumped back as a flaming wall surrounded the group and Celestia, then spread out, forcing the Batkin to fall back. Celestia let herself fall to knee, looking up, she was beyond relieved to see the people who came to her rescue. Trax stood with Killjoy on his right, Oakly and Kasey standing to her right. Flint stood on his left with Triton, Jag, and Arial in the line. Azure came to Celestia’s side, helping her to stand, “We’ll take it from here M’Lady, make sure our forces stay clear, it’s about to get a little messy around here.” He told her reassuringly, with a bright smile. Across the field, Shade regrouped with Shadow as he dusted himself off, Ceasar walking up to them his hands shoved into his pockets. The others joined them, their faces clear of any joking, this was the warning, and they could sense a change in the tide of this war already. Trax sheathed his short-sword into the scabbard on his back, his dark grey trench coat waved in the wind, wearing light armor underneath the coat. Oakly and Kasey both wore something similar to their Fathers, their coats and armor having colored trims. Blue Oakly, and Red for Kasey. Flint wore red and black armored robes, looking like a true battle mage, wanting to represent for the Equestrian forces. Jag and Arial wearing similar armored robes, but in their respective colors. Jag had a dark brown and grey trim, Arial sporting a light blue and silver trim. Trax let his white aura settle, “They outnumber us just a little, pick a target and stay with them, don’t make any dumb moves.” He told them sternly. Suddenly a scream echoed over the battle field, sending shivers down everyone’s spine, “RED VEIL!!!” A shape crashed onto the field, followed by a giggly laughter, “Come and Play with me! I can sense you’ve gotten stronger! Show Me!” The female voice said loopily. Trax glanced at Killjoy, “Will you be alright?” He asked seriously, not so much concerned for Killjoy, just worried about who her opponent is. Ceasar chuckled lightly, “Was wondering if she was gonna come or not.”

Trax went over to the bench, they had been practicing for the past hour, and so far he hadn’t felt anything relating to his Trait. Azure had discovered his trait during their sparring, having ones five senses hightened for even several seconds is a powerful skill if used right, and Azure couldn’t have been given a better Trait. As Trax was washing his face, he noticed Tavi giving Oakly and Kasey a stern talking to about their rough sparring, causing him to smile. Instantly Trax felt something, his shoulders seemimg to give off a white shine, and his muscles being renewed with strength. Then it clicked, Shadowed Heart embraces the dark to gain strength, was his to embrace the light? He locked eyes with Tavi, and she smiled at him. Trax felt a burst of strength and energy inside him, clenching his fist caused this energy to unleash itself, cracking the ground beneath his feet before it shattered around him. Before anyone could speak, a Soldier came runing out onto the field, “Colonel! The Frontlines are in Danger! Princess Celestia is doing her best, but there are more Silent Fang Members than there have been. This is their big push!” He yelled breathlessly. The grounds were silent till Flint stepped forward, grinning with excitement, “Then what are we waiting for, I’m burning to push back!” Celestia formed a sunny shield around her and the nearest troops, sheltering them from a rain of shadowy lightning. This was the main front, where the frontline command post was closest to, losing this battle would be a major blow to the Equestrian front. There are 10 total Silent Fang here, triple the usual amount they send. Celestia guessed that feeling Nightmare Moons presence spurred them, they most likely caught onto their plans. She noticed several shapes inching closer, using a burning sunny blast, she forced them back. Though one kept moving closer, with eyes burning with that cursed green and purple flare.

Flint stood up as flames engulfed his body, then settling into a similar armor-like aura, giving him the appearance of a dragon. His green eyes had a yellowish glow to them, the flaming aura forming into horns upon his head, curving out then straightening. The flame-like aura gave him gauntlets, gloves, boots, and a tail that all made him look like a real dragon. Jag tightened his fists as his light brown aura gave him a rocky appearance, his horns thick and wide for ramming strength, his tail carrying a bulky club at the end. His dark brown eyes having a dark orange tint to them. Arial was covered in a light grey wind, giving way to her feathery fashioned aura armor, having short thin horns sticking back, and a long lithe tail. Her grey eyes having a silvery tint. Flint flexed his back muscles, the aura instantly sprouting dragon-like wings, his excitement overcoming. Flint slid his left foot back, the aura claws of his feet digging into the ground. Drawing in a deep breath, Flint blew out a massive flaming breath, spanning high into the sky and causing a giant hole in the clouds. Cutting it off, Flint grinned wildly with pride, "Oh yeah, and that alone gets me Hyped." He said with an enthusiastically serious tone.

Trax focused himself, but felt nothing, “We should head back to the training grounds, we’ll start there.” He said outloud. Shadow strode into the war room, making eye contact with Shade and Ceasar, to which they nodded and stood up to follow. Demi-Tyne, Dark Shade, Noctis, and several others rose up from their seats to follow as they headed out the front gates. “Our mission is to assist the Legion in pushing our advance, this is directly from Lord Maelstrom himself. We all felt her, and we have made our choices. There may be new threats, so no more half-aśśing, no more holding back.” Shadow told them sternly. Trax and Azure sparred in hand to hand, working to figure out their Traits. Oakly and Kasey were sparring closeby, they had already discovered theirs, and they were a matching set. Oakly could activate his Trait unconsciously, allowing him to parry or deflect any physical attack with ease, but only for 15 second intervals at a time. He called it, Absolute Parry. Kasey could use his Trait to pinpoint a weakness in his enemies defense, to strike with a full force strike, he called it Absolute Strike. Flint and the other Cardinal Dragons, sat in meditation, focusing their magic to bring forth their new abilities. A Trait they all shared, based off their Element.

Shadow dipped his head, “Yes Sir, I will see to it personally.” He said evenly before turning away, his eyes flashed with concern, bur also with a glimmer of relief. Oakly and Kasey used each other to stand, “I don’t know what I was expecting, but that was painful.” Oakly spoke roughly. “A warning would have been great... well, maybe...” Kasey chimed in jokingly. Jag went from his knees to stand up stiffly, then cracked his neck with a loud pop, “Oh yeah! That feels much better now.” He said with a hardy chuckle. Arial sat up rubbing her temples, “No amount preparation could have prepared me for that, tho I am glad it was only briefly.” She sighed in relief. Trax looked at his hands, closing them he looked at Apollo, “What’s the catch to this Trait?” He asked curiously.

Nightmare Moon folded her arms, "Interesting, I look forward to how this will play out. You were my most trusted adviser, Apollo, and because of that I will give Luna back. Just do me one favor if you get the chance, Make sure Black Star suffers." With that last word, she exploded into darkness. As the light filtered back from the broken windows, Luna was left on floor, drained of her energies. An echo of Nightmare Moons voice lingered in Apollo's head, "I hope your Son can live up to his destiny, your very race depends on it..." Around him, the others began to calm as their Traits settled into their bodies, their strength slowly returning. Trax was the one of the first to start standing up, "Alright, sound off, who's not dead?" He said groggily. "I'm up." Flint spoke as he got himself to a knee. "Had better days." Azure said cooly as he sat up, rubbing the back of his head.

Shadow felt the weight of Maelstrom, then the power of Nightmare Moon, his shock was beyond belief. Yet he didn’t feel that call, that voice telling him to go to Her, why? Around the Fort, every Silent Fang member could feel Her presence, yet remained still. Ally raised her head from her pillows to merely scoff, while Ceasar and Shade glanced at eachother before going back to drinking and reading. Black Star relished in glory as he felt Maelstroms power overcome the Fort, “Yes! Show her she is nothing to us! We are above all in this World!” He yelled from the war room. A massive amount of pressure overwhelmed the barrier, shattering it with ease. Nightmare Moon witnessed her own children condemning her, her very call was ignored, and a once loyal servant now challenged her. Her fists tightened, as a single tear shed from her eye before she burst into a fit of rage, “NO!” Her outburst sent everyone back off their feet, only Apollo being able to stand firm against it. Within a second it stopped suddenly, Nightmare Moon breathed out a deep sigh, “This... was unexpected... I’ve been stuck inside Luna for too long, these mortal feelings are unusual.... but stronger than I imagined. My own creations, my... children, have foresaken me... “ She looked up to stare directly into Killjoys eyes, “So I’ll make a few more...” Suddenly her tone changed, shadowy green bindings tied down the four magic users, “Live you’re dreams as the Dragons you claim to be.” She spoke in a booming echo, casting a black mist over Flint, Triton, Arial, and Jag. Causing them squirm and wriggle in pain, hushed as the bindings covered their mouths. Trax stood up but Nightmare Moon flashed before him, taking him by the throat, “You claim to be a good Soldier, but I know all about the dark nightmares you have every night, so embrace the blinding light you feel oh so unworthy of.” She blew the black mist on his face, instantly sending him into a wrathing pain, dropping him she waved off a cloud of the mist at Azure, “Sit down, Executioner.” She scoffed mockingly. Oakly and Kasey were strapped down by her shadowy green vines, “Twins? One more reserved than the other... this will do.” She sprinkled the black mist over them, leaving them struggle in pain. Approaching Killjoy, she bound her tightly in magic before gracefully putting a hand on her face and kissing her, the black mist spilling in through her lips. Pulling back she let Killjoy to her own devices, “Well my dear Apollo, what do you think, certainly more entertaining than yours was. I’m curious, why choose the path you are on? What drives you to run differently than I?” She asked curiously as she went to stand in the center circle again.

“I put a sword through his chest after beating him relentlessly, I doubt even he could have survived, it would take a miracle. However, no, I did not stay around.” Shadow replied evenly, keeping a calm composure, thinking how Maelstrom would have guessed that a supposedly dead member could be supporting the Equestrians without actual evidence. Azure nodded, then gave the Cardinal Dragons their cue. The four of them pooled their magic into the center circle, the pendant was levitated and placed around Luna’s neck, instantly a dark shockwave burst out from Luna. Suddenly Flint the others took bracing stance as they felt their magic being forced from them, attempting to gain control before it went too far, but the pull was too immense. Luna was pulled to the center, a black sphere formed around her, before shattering away. The air became still, the room darkened as they only light was a viscous green radiating from the dark figure now standing in Luna’s place. Flint felt his body start to shake uncontrollably, the Woman who stood before him no longer Princess Luna, and this rise in Black Magical Power made him uncomfortable. Nightmare Moon opened her eyes, slowly glancing around with her green and purple slit eyes. Though she had no clothes, her body was partially wrapped by a black smoke. Flint grit his teeth, fusing his magic with his comrades to form a barrier around Her. Nightmare Moon blankly blinked, then smirked showing s single fang, “That’s cute, but unnecessary.” She said simply. Azure took a step forward, “Does that mean you will comply?” He asked sternly. Nightmare Moon chuckled, “Oh hun, I meant unnecessary because it will not hold me.” She replied back. Giving her pitch black starry hair a quick run through with her hands, she spoke in an unnerving smooth tone, “Look, this is how it’s gonna go, I’m gonna play coy and hear what you have to say. Considering I wouldn’t have been summoned for anything less than Equestria’s complete destruction. Since my last defeat and Luna’s return, I have been consciously aware of everything Luna knows.” She paused to examine Killjoy up and down, then grinned, “Nice to see you with clothes on for a change.” Then she turned to stare down Apollo, “Oh that’s precious, the big bad Lion is now a house cat, Star Swirl was always an odd one in his ways.” She licked her lips before lifting up her hand, Flint tensing up as he prepared himself. A hand on his shoulder put him at ease, Trax stood next to him as he faced Nightmare squarely now, lowering her hand she decided to entertain him. Trax knew that only Flint and Apollo could fully see Nightmare Moons Magical Prowess, while the rest of them could barely sense it through their instincts. Trax met Nightmare Moons gaze, “You know what we face, you know who we face, and you know why we have summoned you. So I’ll cut straight to the point, Will you help us?” He spoke sternly with a forced even tone. Nightmare Moon narrowed her eyes at him curiously, glancing at Killjoy then to Azure, lastly with a final lingering glare at Apollo. ‘Apollo is the only one who would make escaping, a tedious process’ She thought to herself before shrugging, “Give me one good reason why I should do everything you ask of me, only to be sealed back into poor Luna. Just one.” She told them slyly. Trax smirked slightly, “Triton, show her.” Minutes prior, Trax and Triton watched a magical playback projection, sent by Celestia from the Frontlines.

Shadow felt the revelation hit him without warning, things coming clear made his mind wander and almost forget where he was, straightening up he corrected his collar as a distraction. Jag patted Tritons back, feeling like a cinderblock, "Thanks buddy, you always know what to say in hard times." Flint started to follow Apollo, "Lets go, and bring your game faces, this is gonna be unlike anything we have faced before." He said sternly, their opponent now could be considered a God in some rites. A moment later, The Cardinal Dragons met with the others inside the main chamber. In the center was a summoning circle written in black ink on the floor, the pendant of Nightmare Moon in the center of the circle. The Cardinal Dragons took their places around the edges of the written circle. Azure and the others stood back behind Luna, "Begin when you are ready, Princess." He told her smoothly. Outside the Castle, over a hundred top of the class Magic Users stood at the ready.

Shadow jerked a thumb at Fear, “He does, I just have a question for you, but that can be asked later.” He said before stepping back. Jag scoffed but smirked as he approached the orb and laid his left hand upon it, instantly a mirror image of himself appeared, solid as if it were real. Pulling back, Jag gave a hardy holler, “Thats how it’s done my friends, clear as day!” Arial went after, placing her right hand on it with a careful touch. Her own reflection appeared with ease, but a slight difference was her reflections hair and clothing moving as if in a slight breeze. Jag dropped his jaw in awe, “That’s fu...” Arial turned around shooting him a glare, “Language!” She hushed at him sternly. Flint walked up and gently put his left hand on the orb, instantly his reflection appeared with a firey aura. This put him above Jag and Arial, his perfect reflection with animation and displaying his own magical aura. Azure nodded in agreement, “Indeed, let us head to the main chamber now, The Cardinal Dragons will meet us there. As requested we have over a hundred expert magic users on standby, in case She gets rowdy.” He said motioning for them to follow him. Trax whistled to his sons, instantly Oakly and Kasey were flanking the group on either side, with Luna and Killjoy in the middle and Trax bringing up the rear. The group made their way towards the chamber, anxiously anticipating what was about to happen.

((Perhaps lol)) Trax sighed, “I guess it was inevitable at some point, you always were an impatient one.” He joked slyly. Azure bowed slightly to Luna, “Princess, how has you’re own training come along? It will take a great deal of concentration to bring out Nightmare Moon, The Cardinal Dragons are doing a last test, the they will be ready.” He told her respectfully. Shadow led Fear past the two Silent Fang members on guard duty, they gave them a firm salute in due respect. Approaching the throne which was built by Black Star, specifically for Maelstrom, this didn’t really sit well for the rumors. “Lord Maelstrom, how fair you this day?” Shadow asked as they stopped before the throne.

Shadow went grim, “No one really doubts his abilities and power, he’s just arrogant and annoying about it. I believe his popularity of late is due to his relationship with Lord Maelstrom, which makes me uncomfortable.” He said coldly. He left out Ceaser’s attitude and about the rumor about Black Star saying something during one of the recent battles, this got Shadow thinking about Apollo’s questions even more deeply. “I’ll accompany you to Lord Maelstrom, I’d like to ask him something, and confirm these rumors.” Arial got red, then got even brighter as Triton spoke, she could only nod her head up and down to him. When he smiled at her ever so slightly, she froze up in bliss. Jag stopped beside her, and waved a habd in her face, she barely blinked when he did so. Jag followed her loopy stare and then sighed, “Oh come on you love bug, I swear children these days.” He gruffed as he picked her up over his shoulder, where she remained stiff as a board with her hands pressed on her red cheeks. Flint led the four of them back to the tower, and entered into the candle room. There in the center, was a floating orb. A magical tool which measures a persons magical prowess, this would be their last time testing themselves. The way it works, is by releasing your own magic into the orb, it projects a copy of yourself standing opposite of you. The more detailed the copy, the stronger you magical strength is. The first time they did this, each of them could only get their hand to copy over, and the since then they have tried periodically but only getting partial images. Flint turned to his partners, “Who would like to go first?”