Chereads / THE UNEXPECTED LOVE LIFE OF DUSK SHINE / Chapter 6 - Chapter 5: The Trials Begin ( manticore Attack)

Chapter 6 - Chapter 5: The Trials Begin ( manticore Attack)

An hour later, I'd gotten to the forest, and I saw how dark it was. I couldn't see my hand on my face. I landed on a cliff, which I guessed was. My surroundings were bleak, primarily rocks and some branches. Alright, I should be here now. In the Ever-free forest, I have to find the elements and defeat Nightmare Moon. "But first, now that I'm here I must find a way down right now." I kept on strolling around and trying to find a way out from here. "There's no time for distractions!"

"Huh!?" then, a sudden crumbling? I slipped into a side of the edge of the bluff. And by being in the midst of danger, I couldn't think Clearly. As I tried to break by holding to anything, but I rolled down the mountain. I was clenching for dear life. Gravel and sand we're dropping and as for me, the more I clinched— my grip was losing up, "Grr! I can't… hold… on. I'm going to fall. So stupid!! How could I end up like this!? If I can't get out from here, this place will be my grave!" I tried to climb up. Propelling myself too. Further, I moved, the more I struggled to. It was a struggle, but I believed that would get there on my own. But, "AAH!!" "Come on! I can do— huh!?" I'm going to die? At the moment, I plummet to the grand. So I thought. I looked up and to my surprise, "Apple Jack!?" she was holding on to my arm. " Well, well, well. Would you look at that? Looks that Calvary has arrived just in time."

"Eh?" What did she mean by that? A Calvary? I didn't know what she meant by that. The way she asked me something that I was mystified about.

"You're lucky I'm as good as I am with to track runaway farm animals."

"Are you comparing me with a pig?"

Oh, hmm, I was thinking something smaller; like a chicken.

"Never mind that! You have to help me up, please."

"That's easier said than done." She was struggling herself. I couldn't hold on anymore, but I need to get up to the precipices. My heart was throbbing. The pounding, louder it got. Can't… hold. The ledge…, "This ledge is going to crumble any second now."

"It would be easy to pull you up. But if I do that, we will both plunder too in the bottom of this mountain."

"And staying like this any longer it's not a good idea, either. This got to be another way we can solve this!" thus our expectations changed, and her attitude was perplexing. "I see.... Only one way to get us out of this mess...

… but I have to let you go." My face was in anguish. I couldn't believe what she just said. Letting go? I got hysterical. It was crazy, I burst like a volcano. I fumed as if smoke came out of my mouth. "Are you mad!! That makes no sense!" I began to yell at her. Then she asked me this, "do you trust me?" Her expression, a soothing demeanor. Her words, relieving as if they had no lies in them.

"Listen! You are going to be fine. We're both going to be just fine. It all comes to one thing…"

"…Do you trust me?" I looked at her with a perplexed attitude. Inhaling and exhaling too, having an overwhelming decision to make. She's asked me to trust her. Should I? I don't know, even so, someone like this risking her life for someone they barely know. It seems too unrealistic. Still, she went the trouble with this. I grind my teeth anxiously. In the end, I responded, "yes! Applejack, I trust you." She let go and I closed my eyes while she did the action. Slowly I opened my eyes. And heard a familiar voice shouting if I feeling diaphanous.

That voice; familiar it was. Why does it sound like I recognize? it as-it-is; a raspy tone. "Hey…"

"Hey! This is a nice view. Don't close your eyes, you don't want to miss it."

"Dash!!" I was bewildered. Rainbow was holding me with her arms.

"You know… I lifted pillows heavier than you, egghead!"

"So, what do you think? Pretty cool entrance, right?" She said with a pompous attitude, so I told her. That wasn't important to answer. What was more important was Applejack's safety? We needed to go back and get her off the peek of that edge. I heard something. Some rumbling. "Dash, we have to go back!"

"Now!" Terrified was my expression.

"Huh?" she looked confused. Her expression showed a look of obscureness.

"It's Apple Jack! She's still on that cliff! If we don't go back and help her, she'll be…" out of nowhere, the cliff began to crumble. Rocks, and other materials we're plummeting to the ground, that would include. A. J. I'd screamed her name as loud as I could. "Apple Jack!!!"

"What?"

…. You're still alive!? This shocked me. Then she looked at me with disgust, but she was nevertheless, willing to hear me out. "Hold on there, sugar cube… you're saying it as if it's a bad thing!" I saw that Fluttershy was carrying her; it seemed that she was having a hard time flying, and at the same time carrying her by herself.

"Y~your too heavy…" I could see she was struggling to lift her.

"He-he… this little cowgirl suggested that we should do a sweep of the area." A sweep? —What plan. I wonder, by a sweep, did they mean by following I blindsided. In a midpoint... Wouldn't that take hours? Wait. the moment they got here, they had to plan; area and surroundings, sky view search, even a magic energy detection system. After a few minutes, we got down. I asked them to leave, to go back home. But they were too eager to follow me. They tried to explain that they wouldn't take off without a fight. And that it would be a big problem for me to do this by myself, "now you can go back to your town." yet again I ask them, to go home in calm conduct, but they still we're willing with no excuse. But I thought differently. I didn't wish for them to get hurt.

"Oh, I don't think so! You can't tell us to leave. Right after I saved your ass!" "And…"

"Come down Rainbow gal."

"Dash!" Fluttershy begged.

Fluttershy and Applejack tried to put Rainbow to be at ease, but she went on her escapade against me. She ignored the words of the others then she began barking towards me. I didn't mean by working as a dog more like; shouting her opinions.

"Now, listen, sugar-cube…" Apple Jack tried to get me to hear her, " I know you're facing a terrible hardship, and I realized that this night can't get crazier. But remember you can count on all of us too." She was an energetic character.

"Together we can fix this out!"

I stared at her for the duration of our conversation then, change my gaze away. Not saying a single word back. With speed, Rainbow was by my neck. I'd didn't say anything I just gave a stare— I did not care. So, she said, "you should change that attitude, and start being more grateful for once, egghead!"

"We want to help… Uhm, if that's ok with you?" Fluttershy said that with a timid voice. Still, that was Brave of her to do.

Why? This isn't going anywhere. "guys, listen, I'm going to say this once…. I'm…" out of nowhere someone jumped out from the bushes. And called me; "Darling!" she hugged me tightly, not letting go of me, "I thought my heart would break if I spent another minute, second without you by my side my dear sweet prince!" It was Rarity. And she was with pinkie. Where were they? Did they take a different route from the others? I thought. This time we're in the midst of the wilderness. "Everfree forest." To be honest. This was the second part of the chapter, called future of life. Eight feet away from us, Pinkamena and Applejack talking to each other, and their discussion seemed to be what I was thinking of. "Yeah, I thought you and sweet cheeks were to wait outside of the entrance to the forest?" Rainbow asked Rarity. "How did you just…? My name is Rarity. Don't forget that."

And In the meantime, I was in the middle of their chat. Trapped in the arms of Rarity's an underwhelming hold. "Very well, Miss. Rarity. To what we owe the pleasure of your company?" Rainbow raised a question to her. She let me go and walked with stability in which gave her a sense of high-up nobility complex. " I would never dare to imagine that I would be venturing so deeply in this dirty and repulsive mid-field woods if it wasn't because we were told, you desperately needed our help."

"Wait. What? What are you saying, What help?"

"Stop playing coy. While we were waiting for you, some cavalier approach us and told us we should rush to your aid. Because you needed help." Then she looked a bit off. The sustenance she had was puzzling. "He did seem quite elegant." Rarity said. "Still, now that I think about it, I've never met that man. I never forget someone like him…"

"…He had a unique accent. And he was accompanied by a mail carrier. What was her name again?"

"Oh, I know! I know!" Pinkie raised her arm energetically. And waved her hands side by side. It was too much. I had to end this chat that wasn't going anywhere. Then I said this, "listen, guys… I want all of you to head back to town now." Being strict but also civil. I wished for them to understand that what I was doing wasn't a stunt. That I might not survive. "you must understand that this isn't a game, and going for this mysterious ancient entity is not a normal sunny morning stroll you can enjoy with your friends and family."

"Uhm, Dusk…" I didn't listen to Applejack I just ignored her and maintained addressing the issue to all.

I kept on explaining further why trying to fight back against Nightmare Moon would be a wrong turn. And think about the worst outcome of their lives. Being killed; would be my responsibility to ensure. But I knew I would be broken.

he asked us with a giggle in her throat. We stopped for a break and ate. Then pinkie brought out some sweets and… a–– table? Wait, how did she— someone else, please explain this to me how she did that? My mouth dropped. I was puzzled. Everyone we're as if they were okay with her doing this. If this, this was a typical occurrence. I let it slide aside for now. But I won't. She's a mystery by herself. Eventually, I'll find out. It seemed like Pinkamena baked the food we were eating. They were delicious; we ate these different types of pastries; the first one on the menu was a small round tube. Kind of a cylinder form that inside had a sweet but creamy filling. And on top of Some Crust chocolate sprinkled on top. The second one was kind of—a unique one. But also, a simple one. A cookie. But the only thing that made it unique was this, it had inside the chocolate is covered with more chocolate, with caramel in the middle and on top. White cream that was made of milk and powdered sugar to cover it. And as you chew, it was bouncy crunch on the outside, but soft on the inside in which melted in your mouth. The last one I remember was just an Apple pie with a crust made of pâte sucrée (sweet pie crust) for extra taste and flavor. Applejack wept in tears to eat that pie. Her face showed satisfaction. The other girls were just laughing with amusement. Each of them with a sample. As we finished eating, I had to tell them more about our dilemma. I soughed out of my breath; relating to them why Nightmare Moon was who she was. "Girls." They stopped engulfing their food and looked at me. I prepared them for upcoming information on the princess of the shadows.

"This is Nightmare Moon we're talking about here…"

"An incredible powerful mystical being. The incarnation of darkness itself. If the story about her are even remotely true, she is capable of controlling and manipulating elements from beyond the realms, the plane of existence… She can govern and command forces we can't begin to comprehend."

"I think I've made it clearer that this journey could be the end of all of us. You noticed what transpires to those who oppose her…" I got a glimpse of Rainbow Dash while saying this to all. She turned off her gaze from me, knowing where the facts were credible, "tsk!" She clicks her tongue in resentment. She knew I was right. Maybe it wasn't ok. To think about, but it felt like if I don't do this, the end would be closer. So I told, " this is my task. My burden… and mine alone!" I said. The next the thing I let out… was a bit narcissistic on my part. "As Princess Celestia's brightest and most faithful students, I should be the one responsible for this culmination of madness. I pray for them to understand? So I thought. "I won't be risking the lives of innocent civilians," I beseech them; then, they look at each other. Pinkie put her face close to mine, and I felt unease. Her squishing came closer to my face. As she did, she declared this. "But no great hero has ever overcome overwhelming odds his- or her-own! Ever! Oh, Dusky, you're such nutty! This is my chance to become the awesome, amazing justice warrior-ess I always wanted to be! There is no chance in this whole wide world I'm letting you face this Nightmare Moon chick all alone. I'm tagging along if you want it or not!" she says this with a smile and— stars in her eyes? I noticed how the others were so eager too. Rainbow gave a no-hold bars attitude. As she was ready to pounce, "I'm coming too. I have a score to settle with that dark overconfident little bitch." She said, still pissed. Next to her was Fluttershy, hiding her fear, despite that, she was ready too. Clenching up both of her arms up in a fighting stance. It was so adorable. Is it just me, or is she doing this for hiding the reality that she's frightened? Then, she mumbled, "I also want to h-help Dusk…"

Then there was Applejack. With fire in her eyes, " if that mare' proposal succeeds to cover the entire world Into eternal darkness, which would means the end of Sweet Apple Acres. I must protect the family business, I'm so coming with you too."

Lastly, there was Rarity, who gave a display of glamour and dignity in her words, "what should a lady do in times like these? I'll join you!"

Oh no, is she coming too? This won't end up perfect. If she comes with us I'll be in more danger than with her; Nightmare Moon. Nightmare Moon would be a smaller issue. Great to hear the only one who is man-thirsty in the group wants to help me. Oh, sweet Celestia help, me? I prayed for a peaceful, not toxic gloaming cloud. I know she's a person to rely on, but she's the one who would make it difficult for me to get away from. On the awareness, she wants something from me, I'm not saying what it is, but it is not decent or proper. I could see that. Out of the blue, Pinkie Pie is 'Passionate,' about this excursion. She began to explain why this would be in-quote, fun, "all alright girls, for now on we're a team! A team of cute girls."

I hope she's not thinking of me as a girl? I presumed. Even though I looked like one. When I was little, my mom used to dress me as one. Worst years of my life. " Fighting for truth and justice in this world filled with despicable evils and horrible monsters. We are the—" I stopped her from finishing up the last part of that sentence and I said, "that's enough! All of you!" I shouted, " wasn't I clear a moment ago?! How many times do I have to repeat myself for you, you're all…insane! These girls are none compos mentis. I sighed and felt a bit irritated, "why can you understand?! It's the apocalypse! The end of the world! We either win the battle or kiss life goodbye!" I warned them, "ah, don't worry I'll be easy with me around!" Rainbow with a confidence but smug mug she uttered; "What in Tartarus; this isn't a game!" I yelled, "Oh—Ha-ha-ha-ha! Very well, then we'll…" Rainbow showed a smirk. "Just have to… cancel the Apocalypse! She announced. And besides her, the others posed around her. They looked like soldiers ready for combat. "Alright! Let's go, everybody!" Applejack said while going forward.

"Hold a second Applejack…."

"Wow, Dashsie! That line was so cool! Just like you!" Pikamina, with enthusiasm her voice, leaped.

"Fluttershy, I speculate, would be satisfactorily convenient for us to stay in the rear and provide aid."

"Y-yes, Rarity." With jitter in her voice, Fluttershy squeaked, but still, trying to show a firm resolve.

"Come, girls, we must hurry. I did promise all I'd return to the family reunion before long." Applejack/ Jacqueline explained.

I yelled, "CAN SOME SOUL HEAR ME OUT!?" I was thwarted. Like a ghost, the present was non-existent. "Oh! I almost forgot. Now you better make sure you keep up with me, sugar-cube."

I yelled deep into the side of my voice. STOP IGNORING ME!! Applejack said it was internally, "…Might need me to save you again." "Grr!" I stayed quit and kept walking.

 3

Aaahh!! I felt that this would be a long excursion. Time passed. We're getting tired. As we dragged our feet, we heard whining behind us, "Ooh, how long does it take to get there? I'm starting to sweat, and my—"

"Dam it. If you didn't know this would take this long, why did you come here with us to this mission?" Rainbow's frustration with Rarity's ignorance was understandable. She did whine most of the way here. Nevertheless, we were not sure how long this excursion would take us. Maybe days, weeks, or even months. It was hard to know. Rainbow and Rarity just started to banter and banter for hours on end. "It would help stop complaining every single time."

"Well, excuse me, I'm a lady. And besides, sweat doesn't— oh, my bad, I overlooked that you're a child, not a woman. You act more animal than a refined member of Society."

"What did you say, you… grimalkin!" Rainbow Dash said with an irritating gaze. And adding a snarky grin to boot. Rarity did not like the name one bit. She was as if flames were raging out from her eyes.

What did you call me!?

"Girls, come down. There's no need to fly off the handle." Applejack tried to come them down but with no prevail; "this is no time to be arguing at a time like this while we are trying to work together." She said.

"Stay out of this!" said Rainbow.

"Stay off this; this is between her and me." Said Rarity. I didn't want to get my hands on this one. And I did; what does dad call this? Umm, a catfight.

Aaaargh!! This is why I wanted to do this myself. I could have this finished ages; why they come for anyway…To follow me? … No, that's— But what if— did they just come here to have fun? They have been arguing for hours. I can't believe they are my backup. Abruptly, I felt a tap on my right shoulder. And a soft voice tried to talk to me; it was Fluttershy.

"Oh, umm, Flutter…shy. What's wrong?" I asked.

"Well, I, you see. I've been seeing your face, and you look slightly irritated. Why is that?" She asked me. I was surprised. For ultimately, she was silent all the way. Until now, she spoke. Did I look that upset in her eyes?

"Huh? Me? —Oh, no, I'm fine. Don't fret. I'm fine. There's no need to worry about me; I'm fine, believe me," I was trying to assure her that everything was going to be reassuring. Then, I peeked a small smile on her face, and she said, "your right." ("I hope so.") mumbling the last part of the sentence, I'd wondered what could be next toward our destination. While the others were arguing, Fluttershy and I conversed with each other and learned a bit more from our own lives living in different places; she told me how wonderful she got along with other creatures and the emotions they said to her. And how she called it their actual words. At first, I didn't understand what Fluttershy meant by that. And I just looked at her as if I knew what she implied by that. "Wow! Can you tell me more?!" I said. Then I saw her face light up, and she was delighted—a blissful expression. As we know, the sky was pitch black. And the stars, they would've glistened to guide us to our terminus end. Either- way, they couldn't have. We were at the Everfree Forest. The dark location that light can't reach. The Everfree Forest was known for its Unpredictable explanations and unpredictable creatures living in the woodlands; the beasts most commonly inhabit the area are mystical beings—for example, Timberwolves.

Timberwolves: are a race of wolf-like golem that, by the name, they're made of timber and magic. It is important not to get close to one; they are dangerous. And act like a natural predator—their abilities: their sharp fangs, feral speed, pack hunting—They hunt in groups and surround their prey without any escape—tremendous endurance and ability to regenerate from destruction. It's just one of many specimens that live here.A length of strolling continued, and the more passing time we wasted, at least the feud stopped. The only new problem now is pinkie singing. She'd been singing non-stop as we approached a bridge crossing a raging waterfall. At the same time, the others were conversing with each other, those girls. Livid I was. Do they think this is funny? I thought.

As we kept moving, they kept stopping. And at the same time, conversing. "Darling, your follicles… so glamorous!"

"Do you… r-really think so?"

"Oh, of course, you must tell me your secret."

"Umm…"

"I've never been here before."

"I came here with my grandmother and big brother."

"Really!?"

Hearing their discussion made me frantic on their titer

Because it seemed like they didn't understand why we were here; this wasn't a field trip with students or a family outing; this was an end-of-the-world peril, a high enough perilous turn that even I felt scared. I just wanted them to understand how hard it is. I tried to explain to them in a way, but it sounded more hysterical. "girls!!" I shrieked. "Can you act more like adults and mandate yourself as you care for what's going on?!" shouting at the top of my lungs. Still, they ignored me.

"Whoa! Hey, Look, Aj! Come and check out the view," Said Pinkie with amusement on her mug.

"Your right; it is lovely, Pinkie."

He-he! I know, right?

"Are you ignoring me… again!" I yelled out.

I might have overstepped a bit. We are here to stop Nightmare Moon, but I need to come down. Of culmination I just overheard the chat they were having. And in the meantime, we approach the "Valley of culmination." The valley of culmination is where the iconic battle started. The war in we're Princess Celestia went on a one-on-one struggle between the empress of the night, Nightmare Moon. It's believed that Nightmare killed the younger sister, which is Why I ask myself. Why did our ruler defeat her and imprison Nightmare Moon on the moon itself?

"This forest is enormous! And I've never seen this place before! How long has this been here?" with excitement In her voice, she was scowling around with binoculars. And a camera too. Next to her there was Aj, told Pinkie and she was surprised too. And when she was younger, she came here with her family—and clarified the story of the valley to her.

"Haven't I heard that name before?"

…?

A few inches later, we got to the other side of the overpass. That would make it easier to hurry, "alright, ladies. Recess is over… we must not let dilly daily on what we came for."

And as a reminder, you were the ones that wanted to accompany me, so… let's not waste more time!"

Finally, we got to the other side of the grove and kept on walking, and by the left, we saw two statues that represented both the Princess and Nightmare Moon in battle. Nightmare on the right and princess on the left. In the middle going through them, a waterfall. Then a voice called to me, with a Southern accent. It was Apple Jack. She was askin' me questions about my knowledge, the study of magic, and my re- lationship with the princess, "sugar cube…." Aj called out to me. "Huh?" I found her attitude mystifying. Her questions were out of the blue, and I'd ask, should I answer them? It doesn't damage anyone by explaining. So I asked her. "What is your must question?" I asked. "Is it true that Princess teaches you herself personally?" shocked, I looked. "Well, yes, but they are other professors. But I receive personal lessons are coming from her." "Oh! I thought the princess was always busy and didn't have the time for such things."

"Well, that might be, but sometimes when she doesn't have meetings, she would teach me minor magic." And hand-to-hand fights. My brother was teaching me the usage of the blade—that ling-erred for days. And she would attend the training.

"She must care about you very much, sugar cube." Sounding impressed in her voice, "well, once in a while, she has to leave; their other educators in the academy, so I attended some of their sermons." I said with an optimistic impression. "Wow, that's as wild as a June bug in strings." She said.

"But, there is someone in particular… Who is always there when the princess is out? I have great admiration… …professor Nexus!" as we were chatting, Applejack and I were shoved aside by a certain individual that was a bit desirous towards me. My cheeks turned the of color red. Rarity was getting near me, and I couldn't escape her. And behind her was Applejack, scowling. With an upset attitude with eyes narrowing down towards her, I could almost see the veins in her head is popping out. To an extent, Rarity was overjoyed—If we call that. Her eyes were wide open directly at me with a powerful hold. As if she was a snake charmer playing her flute. Then, she inquired of me to tell her more of my life in Canterlot's cities and the capital of the kingdom; "I hav'd dreamt in living in our city capital! I have trained myself in subtle ways and refined manners of the big city." Said with a high opinion, "my dear sir, I am sure you will find that discussing your experience with the royal academy with a refinement education. And having an experienced young beautiful lady who, such as myself, will prove to be much more rewarding and alleviating than the likes of Applejack." Saying it without any hesitation in her voice. I saw a shade on Aj that was easy to notice." Whoa! Whoa! Just hold on."

Just hold it, right there, sugar cube. Applejack gave a raw stare at Rarity; "just what the hay are you trying to suggest?"

"What I'm trying to say, my simple and rustic friend, is that Mr. Dusk would rather have a somewhat conversation with a more feminine and eloquently cultured for a change."

Umm, I'd never said that… not even once. Why Is she pouring words that I didn't— you know, better than not getting myself into this because I know I'll get hurt, yeah. This was getting out of hand. And the others were standing in as spectators. And they were eating as if we were watching a show. "Hey pinkie can you pass the popcorn," said Rainbow. "Sure!" pinkie mumbled. "Girls! Can one of you stop this?!" I whispered to them. "By the way, where did that popcorn come from?" I said as I was confused. Then, Applejack shouted at Rarity with a blue gaze. That stare. Sharp enough to pierce through you. "That's enough, missy!" despite what you think, I am not that dumb! If you continue to insult me, then I'm gonna—"

"You gonna what?!"

"Oh, wait! Let me guess. Considering that you behave more like a wild gorilla than a civilized civilian…."

"…I do believe you follow your basic Instincts and threaten me with fiscal violence—" then, out of nowhere, Applejack sprinted towards Rarity. And still giving her an icing stare. Rarity was petrified; she couldn't move, but she could still speak; she leaped on top of Rarity and circled the dirt. At first, I thought they were going to fight. And I thought Applejack was about to give her a Smack-down. But what we didn't anticipate in the bushes was some rattling from inside.

"Growl!!" a creature came out from the bushes. It was a manticore. Its-it's a manticore! We were in the Everfree Forest. It made sense to encounter one. But in a time like this? Well, we were making a lot of noise, sooo—

Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy were scared. Pinkie Pie yelled while Fluttershy was squealing. Applejack was with Rarity, and she was trying to calm her down. Rarity was shocked, shocked by fear. She couldn't run, "t-that thing. Al-almost ate me."

"Get hold of yourself, Rarity!"

"Growl!!" A manticore; is also known as a (martichronia.) Terrifying creature: a human-like face, a lion's body, and a scorpion's tail. It's believed that these creatures could shoot venomous spikes that were part of their coat and can have the ability to speak too.

"Get out the way! Watch out, girls!" I cried. With high velocity, Rainbow took off. She yelled out; I got this egghead. The manticore was getting closer and closer to the girls. He was preparing himself to have a feast; the menu was us. From a distance, I could see Rarity shaking. Tension was building up. Fortunately, Rainbow Dash got there on time. She smacked the manticore on the face and began yelling at the manticore. "Hey, Kitty cat!" "if you eat that fat-ass, you won't have any space in your stomach for the rest of us. Why not try me instead?" I couldn't believe it. It was Rainbow in combat against the manticore. And she was dodging and weaving every single attack the manticore was giving, a swerved from the left and skirted the right. From my point of view. I could see that Rainbow Dash was enjoying herself too much. Man, she is known for being a thrilling chaser. I thought to myself. She's going to get killed… I don't do something… it'll be my fault.

"Daassh!! Look out!" Fluttershy shrieked, wary of her. At the same time, Rainbow Dash gave Fluttershy a look of assurance.

Rainbow Dash begin to ascend. She opened up her wings and took flight. And at the same time, the manticore took speed.

Rainbow began to scream a battle cry, "let's go, kitty!" then suddenly, "Grr—" the manticore was lassoed. And by the neck. It was Applejack saving the day. She was holding the Rope with a firm grip.

"Aj! You just ruined my epic moment…."

Can she be more grateful that she's alive?!

Applejack is struggling, so I thought until I saw a tremendous strength coming from her. She launched a 420lbs manticore as it fell to the ground. We were all impressed, and our mouths opened to see that in real life. Rainbow walked to Applejack.

"Umm, Apple… jack…"

"Don't worry, I didn't use all my strength, so it should be alive. That should keep him at bay." She said while looking furious and having her arms traversed to each other. I was impressed by how strong she was. I couldn't guess she was the same who couldn't lift me— hold on. Why not? She's strong enough to raise a manicure aloft on her own….

"Darling!"

"Bwuah! I was so afraid! Bwuah!" Rarity was holding me in a deadlock that I almost spit out blood from my mouth, so tight. Can't… hold… on. *sniff* t-that monster… *sob*

If she kept this up, I'd pass out!

"Rarity, let go of Dusk. He's passing out," said Fluttershy.

"Oh my gosh, I – I'm sorry."

As I calmed myself, I tried to explain to the others why I didn't use magic to deal with the manticore. It was simple; magic is not something that you use all the time; magic is something that you need to practice and understand how to use it. One mistake, you might injure someone. I tried to explain to Pinkie Pie how magical powers work," we need to go and help Rainbow and Applejack to quell that gigantic manicure." Then, Pinkie Pie replied, "I know, I know. You can use your magic?" ecstatically, she answered, jumping up and down as she snickered. I was just exhausted. Trying to clarify how teleportation would take more time, but I had no choice. I wanted them to give attention to what I had to Say, and hopefully, this girl. I hope they will not take this as a game. "teleportation spells are one of the hardest incantations to master. There are rules to understand how teleportation works." I explained that first, you need to know where you'll be teleported and the distance you'll be. Then, you need to calibrate the amount of magic required based on the distance.

"You can't materialize in a place you're not familiar with. And if you fail to access the actual two distances between the two locations, your body will likely end up somewhere else, for example, trapped in a mountain wall or both of your halves split into two." I said as they looked at me, stunned. I kept explaining to them; why it would be dangerous for me to use my magic. I told them that using magic to make this colossal manticore disappear would take a tremendous amount of magic power, and the farthest point I would be able to send it would be— PonyVille. I was exhausted from all that had transpired. And still, there was to come. "What will you do, Dusky?" Pinkamena asked as she looked at me with concerned eyes; I'd instead save energy for what was to come. I assumed to myself. I gave myself a huge sigh and began telling them how we could deal with the Manticore. "I know a few combat spells, seals, and ward manly, among others. My brother taught me some tricks I could use in a fight. But I doubt they'll be of any good now."

"And as I told you, the amount of energy I can spare now, it's unquestionably limited. That is why I think the best way to deal with the manticore would be to stun it." I said.

"I could use a concentrated Ray of magic to, paralyze it momentarily….

…. However, that would not be easy to accomplish while it's moving; if there is a slight chance I'll miss the shot, the outcome–- death was the only thing." I was struggling with the suggestion of doing it and thinking about it. Is it an excellent opinion to do? Rainbow and Applejack, We're still in combat with the Manticore. They were circulating the onslaught from the beast. While at the same time thinking of a strategy.