“That’s right. What you lost was…”
“Friendship.”
>”Friendship.”
>They all share a laugh at their unexpected synchronization.
>”Heh, yeah, we did lose some of our friendship. Rainbow Power must work by burning away at the strength of our bonds to fuel itself. That’s why it’s so powerful… it comes at the cost of our own friendship. But it looks like even if our bonds are weakened like that… they will never truly break. They’ll come back stronger than ever. That’s the magic of friendship!”
>”You bet! Nothing can come between us!”
>”Friends like us keep on smiling together no matter what!”
>”We’ll never stop caring for each other.”
>”We’ll always be friends, an’ that’s a fact.”
>”Friendship is something you can keep giving without losing a thing.”
>”I love you guys! You’re all the best friends a Dragon could hope for.”
>Twilight looks over at you. “And we have you to thank for it. You’ve been leading us back together… on and off the battlefield. We couldn’t have done it without you."
>The entire team rushes over and hugs you!
>You feel a tight bond between you and the Dream Team.
>!

————————————————————

Thou art I… And I am thou…

Thou hast established an inseparable bond.

This inseparable bond shall have a permanent home in thy heart.

We bestow upon thee the ability to create Coyote, the ultimate form of the Fool Arcana...

————————————————————

“C-Can’t breathe…”
>They let you go so you can catch your breath as they laugh happily.
“Thanks though. I’m proud to call you all my friends. We’ll get through this together. I know we will. Anyway… wait, where's Sunset?"
>Twilight looks at you in confusion.
>"You don't remember? She left to Canterlot to meet with Celestia, like you recommended to her yesterday."

"She what? Why would she be in Canterlot while we were fighting Shadows?"
>"Anon, Sunset doesn't know anything about this. Don't you remember how hard we had to try to keep information on SIHN away from her?"
>You get up in a jolt.
"What time is it right now?"
>Fluttershy looks at the grandfather clock in the corner of the room.
>"Oh my, it's 7:30 already? Rescuing Rarity took so much more time than usual. Especially since her attack came out of nowhere."
>You turn around and head for the door.
>"Hey, Anon, wait up! What's the matter?"
>Turning your head, you respond.
"This is really bad! We have to get to Canterlot-"
>A figure bumps into you and halts your progress.
>"Oh, sorry bro. Twily, we've got a situation here."
>Twilight hurries over to her brother.
>"What wrong, Shiny?"
>"Well, it'll be easier to show you. Come with me."

>!
>This is...
"The sun's not moving."
>Shining nods in affirmation.
>"And it's past time for the sunset. I have a bad feeling something has happened in Canterlot. Twily, did anypony board a train today?"
>The alicorn rubs her chin in thought, then looks as though something horrible has dawned on her.
>"Well, there was- Wait, you don't think Sunset brought SIHN with her to Canterlot, do you?"
>You feel their eyes probing you for answers.
"Well, I did touch her, but for it to activate so late is..."
>"Not impossible. You would have touched her last compared to everypony else, so if she was a carrier still... This is awful!"
>Applejack places a hoof on her shoulder.
>"There, there, Twilight. Doesn't do no one good to panic now."
>Shining looks to everyone with determination in his eyes.
>"She's right. We need to go to Canterlot now, and find out what's going on. The 8:00 train should be coming soon, so let's prepare for the worst."

>In spite of your protests, Shining leaves the defense of Ponyville to Domino and comes with you and the Dream Team on the 8:00 train.
>The atmosphere is tense to say the least.
>As the train makes it into the Canterlot station, you notice a large mob of ponies waiting at the very edge of the platform.
>The doors open, and the flood of panicked ponies mob right in: forcing you to push and shove your way through the crowd to make it to the outside.
>It doesn't take long to see why everypony was hurrying on out of here.
>Smoke rises from the castle while buildings look as though struck by bombs.
>Even with you armed to the teeth, most ponies don't give you a second glance in their fear.
>Your Team rushes through the chaotic streets and arrive at Canterlot Castle.
>It's condition is rather poor, given how holes dot the sides and fires are beginning to rage against the guardsponies diligently fighting the odds.
>Shining runs up to one yelling orders.
>"Sergeant! What's your status?"
>The sergeant salutes and replies.
>"Sounds of fighting have been heard inside the castle since 6:00, and all attempts to enter have been blocked by powerful shield magic, sir!"
"Was there a unicorn who entered the castle earlier today?"
>He scrunched his eyebrows in thought, then his eyes lit up.
>"There was. She entered the building just before the fighting broke loose. Prince, we must get the citizens to safety: magic bolts have been flying from the castle for a while now, and have been flying into the city. We've already confirmed 30 casualties, and those are the ones we've found."
>You see Shining concentrating as though he were fighting demons in his head.
>"Sergeant, focus your troops on saving the citizens and evacuating. I will dispel the barrier inside and take the Bearers in to stop this menace."
>"As you order, sir!"
>The guards finish up killing the fire and gallop off into the town to help with the evacuation.

>Your team makes their way to the front door, where a golden bubble blocks the way forward.
>The crest in the center is a crimson sun.
>"This crest... This looks like Princess Celestia's cutie mark! Why would she barricade her castle when she's under attack?"
>Shining shakes his head and psyches himself up.
>"Nevermind. Stand back, everypony!"
>A violet beam shoots out of the unicorn's horn and pierces the orb, dissolving the magic blocking your progress!

>As you rush in, you're welcomed to the sight of two injured Royal Guards supporting a bloodied unicorn.
>Even from this distance, it's easy to make out...
"Sunset!"
>Everyone rushes to the trio, as Sunset looks up wearily.
>"Heh, no 'Senpai' today? Something's got you worried..."
"Of course I'm worried! We need to get you to a hospital!"
>Sunset shakes her head.
>"No, don't worry about me... Luna isn't..."
>She pauses as coughs rattle her body.
>"You have to stop her."
>You cup her cheek with your hand.
"I promise."
>Satisfied, she closes her eyes while the Guards talk to themselves.
>"The barrier should be open now, considering how they got in. Let's hurry and get to the others! This mare needs medical attention quickly!"
>They hurry as safely as possible to the outside.
>With newfound determination fueling your steps, you all make your way to the throne room where the sounds of magic and fighting can be heard.

>You kick the doors open to see Celestia and Luna in a desperate struggle...
>...Against each other.
>Luna seems to be holding her own rather well, but the Sun Princess is breathing raggedly and is far more visibly tense.
>With the door opening, both combatants look in your direction, with Luna smiling.
>"Ah, my love! I'm grateful you made it in time. This being pretending to be my sister attacked Sunset when I came in. Help me defeat her and bring her to Justice!"
>Celestia glared at Luna as though the act alone could kill.

>"I attacked her? It was the other way around! I came into the throne room and was surprised to see Sunset there talking with Luna. As she turned around to greet me, like she was expecting me..."
>Tears roll down her face.
>"You struck her from behind! I had to divert your attention in order to allow them to escape!"
>Luna returned her gaze to her sister, coldness emanating from it.
>"Your lies will not help you, monster! Anonymous one! Help me defeat this impostor and we'll find our real sister and fix this!"

>You feel your hands clench in anger.
"Scan Moonbutt, Flutters."
>The yellow pegasus focuses her breath and gazes at the Moon Princess.
>"What the-? I'm not getting any kind of reading at all!"
>Luna scoffs.
>"Only because you fools can't see past a simple illusion. For your insolence, I'll kill you slowly! But first..."
>A Blue-Gold-ish aura surrounds her horn.
>"I will kill this fool of a monarch!"
>Her beam flies almost too fast for the normal eye to see, heading straight for Celestia!

>...And reflects off a purple shield that materializes in front of her.
>Shining stands in front of the injured Sun Princess, body poised for action against this alien Princess.
>"Hoho, my dear Shining. This is certainly treason on your end."
>The unicorn lets out a harsh laugh.
>"It'd only be treason if you were truly royalty. Being impersonating Princess Luna! Stand down and surrender immediately. Resistance will lead to authorization of deadly force."
>"Luna" cackles and charges a black-green aura around her horn.
>"Just like your dreams, Shiny? I wonder if anypony truly knows what goes on in your twisted psyche. Good night, Prince Shining Armor."
>The magic flies and strikes Shining square between the eyes, knocking the experienced Prince unconscious!
>The alien Moon Princess laughs and begins to take off!
>"We'll have to settle this later, hmm? Hahahaha!"

>You rush over to the sleeping Shining and Spike checks him.
>"He's at Stage 3! We need to hurry and get him out of there!"
"But what about her?"
>Celestia stands up and walks over to you.
>"I will make sure she doesn't escape. Save him, please!"
>The Solar deity extends her wings and takes after the impostor!
>The Dream Team looks at you.
>"Okay, big guy, we need to decide our item loadout and vanguard. Either Fluttershy or I has to play Analyzer. We need to act fast!"

"Little man, I'm counting on you to be our Analyzer for now. Shizuka, Pinkie, and Rainbow Dash, you're coming with me to start with. Stock up with 4 Candies, 2 Potions and 2 Feathers. Let's save Shining!"
>The Dream Team lets out a hearty, "Yeah!"

---------------------------------------------------------------------

>You quickly put on your glasses and get your team reoriented.
>Shizuka shivers a bit as she looks around the scenery.
>You all appear to be on a tundra in the middle of a snowfall.
>A frozen castle looms in the distance, purple tattered banners flapping against the northern wind.
>"S-senpai, you should've taken us somewhere warmer. Like your bed~"
>You ignore the comment and turn over to Spike.
"So how are you going to keep everyone else from being found by the Shadows?"
>Spike gives a confident grin.
>"Simple. Ouroboros is kinda like a snake, right? So he can unhinge his jaws and store everypony who isn't fighting in there! See?"
>The black dragon opens its jaws far wider than you would've liked to see.
"I see... Are you sure they'll be safe in there?"
>"It's not like Ouroboros is real, big guy. It'll be fine, just like before."
>The fact that everyone seems to have memories that you don't recall troubles you, but this isn't the time or place to ask.
>As you make your way towards the castle, you hear a booming voice above you.
>"Welcome, adventurers! I am your GM for this session, Shining Armor."
>"Now heroes, in order to truly experience this wonderful adventure, you must first roll up characters. In fact, I'll help you out with that!"
>[Big guy, four Shadows are coming our way! Get ready!]
>You ready your weapons as a floating pair of 20-sided dice, a black and green glove and two ice-blue floating heads with tomes in them charge at you with crusader-like masks!

Battle Start!

>[There's one Loaded Dice, one Filthy Hand, and two Frigid Books. Who do you want me to scan first? I can also scan for effectiveness of specific ailments on the target.]

"Okay, scan the Loaded Dice and check it for Poison weakness!"
>[You got it, big guy!]
"Change, Prometheus!"
>A tall, pale, bearded man cloaked in red appears before you.
>He reaches into his cloak and takes out a pale green flame.
>With it, he tosses it at one of the books: burning it terribly, but it stays afloat!
>[Direct hit, big guy! But that doesn't seem to be its weakness...]
>"Let's start big! Persona!"
>Rainbow flies through her card as the blue jet transforms into a mecha for a charged attack!
>"Come on out, Apollo Medicus!"
>The sun god's rays turn orange as they bear down on the enemy.
>Most of them don't bat an eye, but the Hand shrivels under Apollo's baleful glare!
>"Ha! Got one!"
>Shizuka stares longingly at the unharmed Book.
>"Won't you stay still for little old me~? Persona!"
>The bat-pony slices through her card with her kunai as a tan man on horseback fires an arrow dripping black like tar at the Book!
>The Shadow swiftly moves to the right, unaffected by her dark magic!
>The arrow strikes the ground and blackens the earth with decay.
>"Oh phooey, you're no fun..."

>The Dice spin rapidly around, glowing more rapidly as it's dull grey sheen turns more into a silver hue.
>[That Dice just increased its chance for a critical. Watch out!"]
>The Filthy Hand crawls painfully over to Rainbow Dash and makes a swipe at her.
>The blow connects as Rainbow twists her face in disgust.
>"Yuck, that thing smells disgusting! News flash: soap and water exists!"
>The burned Book begins chanting an ominous Latin-esque sermon, reducing your increased strength to normal!
>The second Shadow follows suit, weakening the team as a result!
>You see the sickly green glove snap its fingers, but nothing happens.
>[What's that Hand doing? Anyways, your attack is down, everyone! Try to fix that soon. Also, I've got results on the Dice:]

Loaded Dice

Arcana: Justice

Repel: Lightning
Null: Light
Weak: Dark, Fire

>[It looks like Poison has a chance to work on it. Here's your HP and SP status:]

HP:

Anon: 100%
Shizuka: 100%
Pinkie: 100%
Rainbow Dash: 82%

SP:

Anon: 80%
Shizuka: 80%
Pinkie: 90%
Rainbow Dash: 90%

"We'll be fine. Scan the Books and see if they're vulnerable to Fear!"
>[On it!]
"Persona!"
>You tap the golden Hanged Man card as the titan appears once more.
>He raises his hand up high, finger pointing to the heavens, as a purple orb manifests at the tip!
>As soon as it gets to a certain size, he flings the orb of magic at the Shadows!
>Winded as it appears, the Filthy Hand scuttles out of the way as the ball explodes with destructive energy!
>"Don't worry, Leader, I won't miss. Thunderbird!"
>The mecha aims its rifle at the poor, disgusting hand and pulls the trigger!
>An electrified blue laser strikes the Shadow faster than the eye can see, dealing massive damage!
>"Let's reduce that damage! Horsesona!"
>Apollo strums a harmonic chord, fortifying your defenses!
>"Weak to Dark, hmm? Take this! Castor!"
>Another black arrow flies, and strikes the dice square on the 15!
>Black veins crawl all over the Shadow as its silver sheen dulls back to gray, then to black as the wind scatters apart the remains.
>"More! More!"
>Castor rides around the opponent, shooting a barrage of arrows into their ranks!
>All of them hit their mark, felling the burnt Book and severely harming the rest!

>Battered and dry, the Filthy Hand snaps its fingers and flames fly at all of you!
>The pale green flame wielded by Prometheus absorbs the flares, but everyone else gets peppered by the barrage!
>Glowing white, the remaining tome fires a large shard of ice at Shizuka, causing her to let out a pained shriek!
>The Hand snaps its fingers, but nothing happens.
>[Oh no, Shizuka's really badly injured! Someone should heal her! Here are the stats for the Frigid Book:]

Frigid Book

Arcana: Justice

Null: Ice
Weak: Lightning

>[Fear has a low chance to work on it. Some of us are pretty beat up, but the Shadows are hanging by a thread! If we keep pushing, we'll surely win! Here's the HP and SP of the team:]

HP:

Anon: 100%
Shizuka: 19%
Pinkie: 89%
Rainbow Dash: 60%

SP:

Anon: 60%
Shizuka: 60%
Pinkie: 85%
Rainbow Dash: 70%

"Let's finish this quick!"
>[Hey, wait, big guy you didn't ask for-]
>Your warhammer slams to the ground, flattening the Filthy Hand like a pancake before it bursts apart.
>[Nevermind.]
"Change, Cain!"
>You tap the Devil Arcana as a dark hand bursts from the ground!
>A bloody, demonic man rises up with a pitchfork and opens his mouth, draining the remaining Book's spirit and granting it to you!
>"Anon's got the right idea, this ends now! Thunderbird!"
>The railgun on the fighter jet arcs through the air and combusts the Book into ashes!
>[No Shadows left! Good job, everyone!]

>"Indeed, good job, my heroes! You have created such beautiful characters to storm this castle and defeat the Ice Queen! Enter when you are ready, though I feel you might not have as much time as you think!"
>Shining's voice laughs and fades into the cold wind.
>[If you wanna switch teammates out, this is probably the time. Here's the HP and SP of each teammate:]

HP:

Anon: 100%
Shizuka: 29%
Pinkie: 99%
Rainbow Dash: 70%
Spike: 100%
Twilight: 100%
Applejack: 100%
Rarity: 100%

SP:
Anon: 80%
Shizuka: 60%
Pinkie: 85%
Rainbow Dash: 50%
Spike: 100%
Twilight: 100%
Applejack: 100%
Rarity: 100%

>[You currently have 4 Candies, 2 Potions, and 2 Feathers. What's your call, big guy?]

"Good work out there, Rainbow. Swap with Twilight for now."
>Ouroboros's maw opens as the two ponies swap places.
>"Ready to go, babe?"
"Please heal Shizuka first. Then we can continue."
>Twilight does so, and you finally cross the threshold into the Frozen Keep.

>"The inside is as frozen in time as the outside."
>"An empty yet beautiful estate tempts to sing of the heroic tales that once walked these halls."
>"But no heroes have walked these halls for a long time..."
>The voice of Shining follows your team as you make your way through the icy depths of the castle.
>True to his word, it is rather pretty, with trophies and plaques singing about the praises of heroes like Bronze Reign, the minotaur berserker, Pierre the gryphon duelist, and Boiling Teapot the unicorn wizard, among others.
>Twilight looks with a mix of realization and worry.
>"These names... Shiny's friends used to use these characters in their O&O games! But why would his Fantasia bring them front and center?"
>Shining's voice tsks her in response.
>"Tsk tsk, Twily. You know it's impolite to interrupt the GM. But seeing as though our next encounter is some time away, I will continue this tale:"

>"Perhaps the most important hero of them all was Sunray."
>"Sunray the Chivalrous."
>"Sunray the Pure."
>"Lord of many castles."
>"The paladin who personally went into the depths of hell itself to rescue the woman he loved."
>"The adventures he had with his allies to right wrongs and punish evil were the dreams he had since he was a colt."
>"But all stories have an ending."

>"Suddenly, the ground beneath you trembles, as two Beholders and a Golem of pure Steel move to block your passage!"
"You say Golem, but..."
>It really looks like a Gundam to you: with the robot parts and everything.
>[Everypony, be careful! These enemies look much stronger than the ones we fought before!]
>"Roll for initiative!"

Battle Start!

>[There's one Brilliant Golem and two Beholding Seekers. Who do you want me to scan first?]

"Scan the Golem for stats, and scan the Seekers to see if we can Fear them!"
>[Gotcha!]
"Change, Diarmuid!"
>A handsome man adorning a half-mask materializes in front of you.
>He proceeds to pull out two spears and two greatswords: each of ornate design.
>With minimal effort, he tosses each weapon to an invisible corner, trapping the Shadows in a square!
>And in an instant, he vanishes, and cuts and holes start appearing all over the enemies!
>You see a Seeker fall prone and seize the opportunity to charge at the Golem with your warhammer!
>The blow connects, but you can't help but feel that the blow was negligible in terms of harm.
>"Hey, Shizuka, let's make a scene!"
>"Sounds fun! After you~"
>Apollo begins to strum a somber tune as Shizuka flies up and sings lyricless along with the music.
>The song begins to turn the bright castle interior monotone and grey as the Shadows begin to hang their heads in mourning and respect.

Team-up Attack: Dirge of the Fallen!

>[Sniff... G-good work, Shizuka and Pinkie. Th-the enemies' stats have all gone down!]
>"Alright, time to do my part too for Big Brother. Nimue!"
>The elegant Lady of the Lake shoots three large shards of ice at the enemy!
>One Seeker manages to avoid it while the other takes it head-on.
>However, the Golem proceeds to deflect it right at you!
>You try your best to avoid it, but the berg strikes your side, making you wince in pain!
>The fallen Seeker regains its balance and proceeds to fire a great ball of flame straight at Pinkie!
>It connects, burning her mane slightly and making her cough.
>"You meanie!"
>The other tries to do the same against Shizuka, but fires slightly off and burns a nearby tapestry!

>[Big guy, you aren't looking too good. Here's the stats of the Brilliant Golem:]

Brilliant Golem

Arcana: Justice

Repel: Ice
Resist: Physical
Weak: Fire

>[Fear has a low chance to work on the Seekers. Be careful, these guys are very powerful. Here's your HP and SP:]

HP:

Anon: 35%
Shizuka: 100%
Pinkie: 69%
Twilight: 100%

SP:

Anon: 80%
Shizuka: 15%
Pinkie: 40%
Twilight: 60%

>"Senpai! As much as I'd love to gobble up some of those delicious Candies, don't forget that I can drain Health and Spirit from enemies as well!"

"Got it. Spike, scan the Seekers and find our chances on Charming them!"
>[Roger!]
"Change, Napoleon!"
>The Emperor card shatters and releases a short man decked in general's gear and adorned with many badges.
>A cannon rises from the ground and he lights the fuse!
>BOOM!
>A flaming cannonball flies through the air and severs the Golem's left arm, causing it to crouch in pain!
"One More!"
>Napoleon unsheathes his sword and raises it up in the air.
>As though waiting for that signal, faceless soldiers set up behind him, prepping their rifles to fire!
>The general slashes down, and the infantrymen fire at will into the group of enemies, missing a Seeker, but connecting with the other two Shadows!
>"You look beat, Nonny! Let's taste the power of the Sun!"
>Pinkie fires her party cannon at the card, summoning the sun god of medicine.
>He strums a calming tune and repairs both Pinkie's and your injuries!
>"You'll pay for hurting Senpai with your blood! Castor!"
>A quick kunai stroke, and the horseman circles around the enemy, firing arrows all around!
>All sustain damage while one of the Beholding Seekers becomes a pincushion before exploding!
>"There's still one Seeker left, I better protect myself."
>Twilight goes into a defensive position, guarding her weak points!

>The Golem rises up once more and swings his blade down at Pinkie!
>The blow connects, causing the party pony to stagger a bit!
>The remaining Seeker opens its mouth and releases a foul odorous gas that affects everyone around!
>[Careful, big guy, it just made everypony more susceptible to ailments! I've got the results for the Beholding Seeker:]

Beholding Seeker x2

Arcana: Justice

HP: 200

Null: Light, Fire
Weak: Wind

>[Charm has a very low chance of working, though with that last move, it should have a better chance. Here's the party HP and SP:]

HP:

Anon: 100%
Pinkie: 74%
Shizuka: 70%
Twilight: 100%

SP:

Anon: 60%
Pinkie: 20%
Shizuka: 15%
Twilight: 60%

>[The enemy seems to be faltering! We can do it if we keep pushing forward!]

"Then let's end this! Napoleon!"
>You tap the golden Emperor Arcana as the diminutive general preps another cannon for fire.
>BOOM!
>This time, the burning steel ball crashes through the Golem's leg, causing the giant to collapse.
"Change, Dantalion!"
>A noblecreature with a myriad of unique faces begins chanting from the tome it wields.
>As though summoned from the depths of the underworld, a green maelstrom of tortured screams slam into the Seeker, crashing it to the ground.
>Shizuka turns to you in anticipation.
>"Is it time, Senpai?"
"Let's do it!"
>"The bloodbath begins!"
>Everyone charges in and attacks the two Shadows incapacitated on the ground until they were little more than black mulch.
>[All Shadows defeated! Let's keep going!]

>"As the adventurers deal the final blow, the door at the end of the hall opens."
>"They have a gut feeling that preparations were best made before crossing that threshold..."
>[Here's everypony's HP and SP:]

HP:

Anon: 100%
Pinkie: 84%
Shizuka: 80%
Twilight: 100%
Spike: 100%
Rainbow Dash: 80%
Applejack: 100%
Rarity: 100%

SP:

Anon: 20%
Pinkie: 20%
Shizuka: 15%
Twilight: 60%
Spike: 100%
Rainbow Dash: 50%
Applejack: 100%
Rarity: 100%

>[We've still got 4 Candies, 2 Potions, and 2 Feathers. What's the plan, big guy?]

"Pinkie, switch out with Applejack. Shizuka, have a Candy before we continue."
>Pinkie bounces back into Ouroboros to be replaced with Applejack while the bat pony scarfs a Candy down voraciously.
>"Making all their preparations, the adventurers enter the mausoleum."
>"The scenery was grey and somber, with illustrious statues of Sunray's closest allies."
>"Oh, how he wished they didn't have to go, but he knew it was only natural."
>"There are things outside of this world that will naturally hold more importance, and friends always must part."
>"This was correct, but Sunray didn't feel it was right."
>"As he married the one who would become the Ice Queen, he noticed how all of his efforts seemed to be muted compared to the beautiful woman he loved."
>"A spy from a foreign kingdom hypnotized him and nearly made with his and her life!"
>"A terrible sovereign took him out with one blow!"
>"Even the forces of nature itself were in upheaval ever since his decision, weakening what he thought he was."
>"He then began to suspect that the Ice Queen was manipulating behind the scenes to make him a Heracles: castrated among his peers and made to look the fool."
>"Seeming caught in the flytrap's snare, he received a message from his beloved brother, Hex Decimal, that a strange assailant had assaulted him and he required assistance."
>"The ex-paladin's eyes lit up. Finally, a chance to do good deeds and slay evil-doers once more! Even moreso without his love overbearing on him."
>"The resistance to his plan was as expected and ferocious. The Ice Queen begged him not to leave, as she wanted to 'work on the kingdom we have', then accused him of a secret affair."
>"The two lovers went their separate ways with broken hearts and firm resolutions."
>"As you near the end of the mausoleum, three statues, one of a fencer, a bullman, and a sage, animated to life and proceeded to block your path!"
>"The only way out is through them! Roll for initiative!"

>[There's one Foppish Dancer, one Minotaur VIII, and one Silver Sigil. Who do you want me to scan first?]

"Scan the Minotaur and see if Fear is effective!"
>[You got it!]
"Change, Huitzilopochtli!"
>An azure-skinned Aztec warrior donning a blue-feathered cape breaths in deeply and yells to the heavens, psyching himself for the next attack!
>"Let's see if I can't keep your mouths occupied, hmm~? Persona!"
>With a swift slice, the horseman pulls out three apple-headed arrows and fires them into the group!
>Two of the arrows fall short, but the third lodges itself into the mouth of the Sigil, muffling its voice!
>[Good work, Shizuka! The Sigil got Silenced, so now it can't use abilities!]
>"Then let's see what I can do. Take this!"
>Twilight divebombs into the Dancer, leaving a nasty wound on it's side!
>"Let's get ready, John Henry!"
>The earth pony kicks her card, summoning a steel giant with a massive hammer and a roaring fire in his visor.
>The flames start to burn hotter and brighter, preparing to release a powerful attack!

>The fencer waltzes over to you and swipes at you with its rapier!
>It connects, leaving a scratch on your suit.
>The Minotaur releases a pained howl and charges straight at Twilight!
>Despite her efforts to dodge, the Shadow slams her into a nearby wall with its momentum!
>The gagged spellcaster proceeds to wallop her as well with its staff, dealing minimal damage.
>[Twilight just took a lot of damage. Someone should heal her! Here's the stats on Minotaur VIII:]

Minotaur VIII

Arcana: Justice

Repel: Physical
Null: Dark
Weak: Fire

>[Fear has a good chance to work on it. Be careful with your attacks! Here's everypony's HP and SP:]

HP:

Anon: 85%
Shizuka: 80%
Twilight: 41%
Applejack: 100%

SP:

Anon: 25%
Shizuka: 90%
Twilight: 60%
Applejack: 90%

"Scan the Sigil's stats and check to see if how effective Poison is on the Minotaur!"
>[On it!]
"Change, Fafnir!"
>You tap the Magician card as a stout man with purple robes appears before you.
>He points his gnarled staff at the Minotaur and mutters in a harsh language.
>As he does so, a magenta ball of fire flies from the staff tip and sets the beast on fire, sending it to the floor writhing in pain!
"We're not done yet!"
>The sorcerer suddenly transforms into a giant, ferocious red and black dragon and swipes a deadly claw at the Dancer!
>The blow connects, dealing massive damage to the Shadow and flinging it to a wall!
>"A good chance of Fear, right? I'll show you why you should be afraid of me. Castor!"
>The archer fires off an arrow with a can at the tip.
>As the arrow connects to the ground, a green gas seeps from the can and covers the beastman, infecting it with something!
>"Let's heal some of these wounds, Nimue!"
>The fair lady creates a rain shower, healing wounds and fixing suits!
>"Yer mine now! Persona!"
>The construct releases a mighty roar and swings down at the Fencer!
>...Only for the Shadow to weave out of the way, leaving a gigantic hole in the ground where it was!
>"Shoot, almost had him!"
>[Looks like Applejack's Charge got wasted...]

>The fencer does a suggestive pose towards Twilight, but fails to grab her attention.
>The Minotaur finally kills the fire, but cowers in terror at the sight of the grinning bat-pony!
>Still muffled, the Sigil whacks at Applejack, dealing minimal damage.
>[You're almost completely out of SP, big guy! Here's the stats on the Silver Sigil:]

Silver Sigil

Arcana: Justice

Repel: Fire
Absorb: Lightning
Weak: Light

>[Poison has a good chance to work on the Minotaur, though that doesn't matter now. Here's your HP and SP stats:]

HP:

Anon: 100%
Shizuka: 100%
Twilight: 77%
Applejack: 61%

SP:

Anon: 5%
Shizuka: 85%
Twilight: 60%
Applejack: 90%

"Scan the Dancer and see if the Sigil can also be Feared!"
>[You got it!]
"Change, Cain!"
>The demonic farmer opens his maw once more, sapping spirit from the silent Sigil to give to you!
>"I want to see you bleed! Castor!"
>The horseman fires an arrow at the Sigil, piercing its left shoulder!
>"Once more, Nimue!"
>Showers once more rejuvenate your body, returning everyone to full health!
>"Like Granny says, don't send somepony else..."
>Applejack charges at the Dancer and gives it a hearty kick!
>"...To do an Apple's job!"

>The fencer thrusts once more at you, injuring your side!
>Shivering in horror, the beastman makes no move.
>Finally, the Sigil bites through the apple gag and chants angrily at Applejack.
>Suddenly, flames erupt from the ground and burn her thoroughly!
>"Gah! Mah hat's on fire!"
>Seizing this opportunity, it releases a barrage of flame that hits everyone and knocks Twilight to the ground and puts the earth pony into a daze!
>[Oh no! Twilight got hit and Applejack's Dizzy! Somepony help them!]
>With another chant, a fireball strikes Shizuka, dealing moderate damage.
>[This is terrible! That Sigil's very dangerous with it's spells! Here's the stats for the Foppish Dancer:]

Foppish Dancer

Arcana: Justice

Repel: Ice
Absorb: Wind
Weak: Lightning

>[The Sigil has a very low chance to be Feared. The Dancer's almost down, but you've taken heavy damage. Be careful, guys! Here's your HP and SP:]

HP:

Anon: 42%
Shizuka: 22%
Twilight: 51%
Applejack: 16% (Dizzy)

SP:

Anon: 35%
Shizuka: 85%
Twilight: 25%
Applejack: 90%

"We need to end this quick: that Sigil's dynamite! Change, Tonatiuh!"
>[No ailment scan then? Got it.]
>The golden Sun card shatters at your touch as a golden man with an obsidian knife hovers above you on a sun-shaped kite.
>The kite begins to brighten until he is as bright as the actual sun!
>Reaching maximum power, the sun god fires a golden beam of pure energy at the enemies!
>The beam hits all of them, wiping out the shadows entirely and leaving only outlines where they once stood!
>[That did it, big guy! All Shadows are eliminated!]
>[We need to hurry though: Shining has reached Stage 4!]
"Understood, little man. Alright everyone, let's hurry!"
>"Right!"
>[This has to be our final fight next, so choose our next team wisely. Here's everypony's status:]

HP:

Anon: 52%
Shizuka: 32%
Twilight: 61%
Applejack: 26%
Spike: 100%
Rainbow Dash: 90%
Pinkie: 94%
Rarity: 100%

SP:

Anon: 5%
Shizuka: 85%
Twilight: 60%
Applejack: 90%
Spike: 100%
Rainbow Dash: 50%
Pinkie: 20%
Rarity: 100%

>[We've got 3 Candies, 2 Potions, and 2 Feathers. What's your call, big guy?]

"Applejack, good work. Switch out with Pinkie for a bit."
>The singed farm pony goes back into the belly of the beast as Pinkie pops into view.
>"Whatcha need, Nonny?"
"I need you to heal up the team, then switch out with Rarity, please."
>"You got it!"
>Apollo appears once more to heal up your wounds before Pinkie goes back in to swap with Rarity.
>"Thank you, Darling. I'm ready to use my new power to save Shining."
>[Hurry, guys! He's at Stage 5!]
>With preparations complete, the team hurries into the final chamber and find...

>"...Two unicorns duking it out in the throne room. While one looked like their dear Shining Armor, the other one was much slimmer, more feminine."
>Shining tries to catch his doppelganger with a right hook, only for him to weave out of the way playfully.
>"Enough with these monologues! Who are you, and why aren't we in Canterlot?"
>The Shadow giggles gleefully.
>"My, Shiny, where did your interest in deep worldbuilding go? Such impatience. Unfortunately,"
>Shackles appear under Shining, binding him to the spot!
>"No one interrupts the GM without consequences, so now I'll finish the story."
>The Prince's eyes widen in apparent horror and realization.
>"No, not that! Anything but that!"

>"And so Sunray reached the town that Hex lorded over, and began pushing everypony around him to improve security and keep his precious brother safe."
>"Then, he stopped and thought about it for a moment. The Ice Queen had accused him of an affair, and he realized that maybe she wasn't too far off..."

>Shining, now in a deadly panic, strains against the unbreakable shackles with all his might.

>"After all, he did have feelings for his sibling, ones that should surely end his career as a paladin and a normal man if anyone knew."
>The Shadow locks eyes with Twilight, making her avert them awkwardly.
>"Especially his precious sibling, who knew of his actions, but not of their intent."
>Twilight looks over to her trapped brother, who can't reciprocate.
>"Shiny..."

>"Stop it!"

>At the sound of the ex-guard's pleas, the double began to crack into a wide, ugly grin.
>"But he knew that wasn't truly it! He might have been a sick incestuous bastard, but even that wasn't truly the reason he left the woman he 'loved'."
>The grin falls into the scowl of a cursing man with nothing but hate in him.
>"It was because he hated her! Despised her! Always getting in my way whenever I 'couldn't handle' the 'duties' given to me by being Prince."
>"'Prince', hah! What a joke! Everything I do now pales compared to my wife! All of the dreams I've had were crushed the minute I said 'I do'. I wither under a shadow of the mare I thought I loved! This is correct..."
>The Shadow looks behind him back at the infuriated Shining.
>"But this isn't right! This isn't Justice! Isn't that right, me?"

>Something in Shining must have snapped, for in a burst of fury, he snaps the steel chains and slugs the Shadow against the wall, earning a bruise on both people.
>[Oh no, we need to keep them from hurting each other! They're still connected!]
>The Prince looks at this look-alike and spits in his direction!
>"Connected? Don't be ridiculous! This bastard is nothing like me!"

>A chuckle escaped the other unicorn's lips, then a laugh, then an insane cackle!
>"Hahahaha! You still wish to keep yourself chained? Then I will become my own self and take the Justice I deserve!"
>Dark energy explodes from the Shadow, sending Shining back and knocking him out cold!
>[Watch out, guys! The Shadow's gone berserk! We've got to protect Shining!

Battle Start!

>"I am the Shadow, the true self! The heroes have reached the main throne room, and the battle must commence! Roll for initiative!"
>The Shadow's new form, a robed humanoid with a gigantic ornate book, chants a mantra as three massive walls block him off!
>Two new Shadows emerge from the ground, one with a heart-shaped mask with a blue and pink spiral adorning it.
>[The Shadow has blockaded himself! We'll need to defeat these two Shadows before fighting him!]
>[There's Ice Queen and Fallen Knight. Who do you want me to scan first?]

>"The Game Master has decreed thusly: Wind will not be effective this turn! Make sure you follow the rules~."

"Scan the Fallen Knight and see if its weak to Rage!"
>[Right!]
"Change Coyote!"
>A wolf-like creature appears before you, its muzzle painted with symbols.
>It lets out a mocking laugh at the Queen, demoralizing it and reducing its stats!
>"Say ahh~! Persona!"
>Two apple-tipped arrows fly at the enemy, silencing the Queen while missing the Knight!
>"Let's save our SP, Rarity!"
>"Right!"
>The alicorn charges at the silenced monarch as the unicorn fires a shot, harming the Queen!

>"In response to being silenced, the Ice Queen decided to punish the insolent heroes with her mighty scepter!"
>The blows connect against you and Rarity, dealing moderate damage!
>"Seeing her Lady injured, the Knight proceeds to blow a powerful gust of wind at the party!"
>No one can escape, but Coyote appears at the last minute to funnel the wind back at the warrior, harming it slightly.
>"Can never trust these dice, huh? New decree: Ice is only half effective this turn."
>[Another rule, huh? Here's the stats on the Fallen Knight:]

Fallen Knight

Arcana: Justice

Null: Light, Dark
Resist: Physical

>[Rage has a very low chance of working on the Knight. Good job on the Ice Queen, but be careful. I think something bad might happen if we break a decree made by him. Here's your stats:]

HP:

Anon: 77%
Shizuka: 77%
Rarity: 64%
Twilight: 83%

SP:

Anon: 90%
Shizuka: 75%
Rarity: 100%
Twilight: 60%

"Scan the Ice Queen and see if Poison's effective on the Fallen Knight."
>[Checking now!]
"One more for the count. Persona!"
>The mischievous dog spirit cackles once more, reducing the Knight's stats.
>"You're mine! Castor!"
>The horseman fires an arrow that strikes the royal in the abdomen, dealing heavy damage!
>"Show us what you're made of, Vega!"
>The living dress unleashes a powerful gale that twists the armored Shadow into painful positions, dealing heavy damage!
>"Let's fix some of those wounds, Nimue!"
>A rain shower recovers a fair amount of health to the team!

>"The Ice Queen daintily bites the apple out of her mouth and reaches into her sleeve..."
>"Then, swiftly, four knives are thrown at the group!"
>Shizuka deflects hers easily, while you and Rarity manage to avoid yours!
>But Twilight takes the knife to the chest, collapsing to the floor!
>[Oh no, Twilight! Someone revive her!]
>"The true-blue continues her assault with a summoned chunk of ice tossed at the unicorn archer!"
>The blow connects, dealing moderate damage thanks to her defenses.
>"The Knight raises his shield and prepares for something."
>"New decree: Personae of the Temperance Arcana cannot act."

>[Here's the stats on the Ice Queen:]

Ice Queen

Arcana: Art

Repel: Dark
Absorb: Ice
Null: Light

>[Posion has a chance to work on the Fallen Knight. The Queen's almost finished, but what's that Knight doing? Be careful, guys! Here's your HP and SP count:]

HP:

Anon: 100%
Shizuka: 89%
Rarity: 73%
Twilight: 0%

SP:

Anon: 80%
Shizuka: 75%
Rarity: 85%
Twilight: 45%

"Spike, scan the effectiveness of Poison on the Queen!"
>[Coming right up!]
"Change, Gaea!"
>The golden Empress Arcana breaks, revealing a tall, mature woman with a pink gown and black hair.
>With a wave of her hand, a vine ruptures out of the ground and touches the unconscious Twilight!
>In that instant, the rugged dagger corrodes and scatters in the wind, sealing up the wound and getting the alicorn back in fighting shape!
>"Thanks for that, babe! Now let's get that Ice Queen!"
>"Hear, hear, darling!"
>"Since Castor's out of the question, let's cut her up real good!"
>Rarity prepares a wind spell while the other two go in to cut the royal to ribbons!
>Suddenly, the motionless Knight jumps in the way of the attacks, acting as a shield to the wounded Ice Queen!
>Shizuka takes two swipes at him with her kunai, but doesn't seem to make much of an impact!
>Vega sends another gale at him, but cannot break this warrior's spirit!
>Twilight makes a final stab with her naginata, dealing negligible damage!
>In the end, the Fallen Knight lowers its shield and returns to its place on the field!

>"Intrigued by the mysterious man in a suit, the Ice Queen blows some perfume his way."
>"Taken by surprise, the Anonymous one takes a large inhalation of the enchanted scent, and falls head over heels with her!"'
>"Satisfied, the Sovereign grants the Knight her favor and curse, spiking his offense while making it a shell of a knight."
>"With this new-found energy, the warrior unleashes another storm at the bat-pony, wracking her body in pain!"
>"New decree: You will not use magic this turn.

>"Anonymous found his defenses crumbling away, yet he cherished every new spike of frost that he felt from the beautiful mare he called Queen."
>"Such beautiful pink fur, such a glorious mane!"
>"It was no wonder why Sunray adored her so."
>"He felt like he could worship her for-"
>You feel the sting of a Potion healing you from your affliction!
>"Be more careful, Darling! Shizuka drank the other Potion!"
>"Better than to die of wounds since we can't use magic."
>"I won't need Magic for this! Nimue!"
>The beautiful madame pulls a sword from her lake and begins to skate towards the berserking Knight, dealing heavy damage to the warrior who forsook defense!

>"Angry of losing her playmate, the Ice Queen takes swings at Anon and Shizuka with her scepter!"
>Both blows connect, dealing moderate damage.
>"Still blessed and curse with his Lady, the Fallen Knight charges at the bat-pony!
>Its sword hits, dealing far more damage to Shizuka!
>"New decree: Personae of the Chariot Arcana cannot act this turn."

>[Glad to have you back, big guy. Looks like the Ice Queen can use Charm, so we'll need to be careful! Our buffs and their debuffs are no longer in effect, though that move the Queen used on the Fallen Knight seems to have weaken his defenses greatly. Here's your HP and SP:]

HP:

Anon: 70%
Shizuka: 37%
Rarity: 73%
Twilight: 80%

SP:

Anon: 65%
Shizuka: 75%
Rarity: 65%
Twilight: 45%

>[Poison has a very low chance to affect Ice Queen, but I bet a concentrated group effort should take them out!]

"No need to scan, then. Change, Hickok!"
>The Fortune Arcana breaks, summoning a lawman with a missing jaw, but a grim determination in his eyes!
>He pulls out four lucky coins and flips them to the party, strengthening their defenses!
>"Hey, Twilight, wanna try something fancy with our Personae?"
>"Sure, Shizuka!"
>Let me stitch up your wounds first, darlings."
>Shadow threads weave throughout the party, recovering everyone's health to full!
>"I'm ready, Shizuka. Let's show them the power of our friendship!"
>"After you~"
>"Persona!"

>Nimue's water pours out through the entire throne room, surround the two opponents in a lake of sorts.
>Suddenly, the water turns blood red and begins to suck the two into what appears to be a frozen lake under a Scarlet Moon in another world!
>"Now, my pretties,"
>Shizuka appears from the shadows in all her glory, charisma pouring out of her like a font of confidence.
>"I believe your time is up. Persona!"
>Castor begins to circle around them, but instead of arrows, he proceeds to fire black orbs of energy!
>Shizuka unfurls her wings, revealing the knives that she had apparently stored there!
>"I'm gonna carve you up like the pigs you are!"
>The bat-pony strafes around with Castor, flinging knives into the enemy with deadly accuracy!
>The onslaught continues, with both the Ice Queen and Fallen Knight loosing bits and pieces to the onslaught of weapons and magic!
>As she runs out of knives, Shizuka dismisses Castor and flies high into the air, casting a menacing shadow upon the dying Shadows!
>"Now perish!"
>As if waiting for her cue, two large pillars of black ice pierce through the enemy, going all the way from the bottom through their masks!

Team-up Attack: Curse of Vlad Tepes!

>"...Slowly. After all,"
>A sadistic grin covers her face like a merciless goddess.
>"We've all the time in the world here, where time flows not."
>As she says, it only feels to you like minutes have passed, when it must have been like years to those Shadows: popping out of the lake only as gelatinous blobs while Shizuka jumps out with a skip to her step.

>"Well done, adventurers! You have slain the Ice Queen, and have earned a just reward!"
>[Huh? Shining's Shadow seems to have recovered some of our health and spirit!]
>"Following the rules will reward you grandly. Be so kind as to follow my final decree:"
>The walls begin to crumble as the once docile Shadow takes an aggressive stance at you!
>"Die in these halls!"

>[Looks like he's the only one left, so I'll scan him. Doesn't look like ailments will do anything though. Here's your HP and SP:]

HP:

Anon: 100%
Shizuka: 80%
Rarity: 100%
Twilight: 80%

SP:

Anon: 85%
Shizuka: 95%
Rarity: 85%
Twilight: 65%

>"Hey, Senpai! That ranger you've got there looks like he'd work well with Castor. Wanna do it~?"

"Let's do it Shizuka! Follow my lead!"
>"Oooh~! I love it when you're so assertive~!"
"Persona!"
>"Persona!"
>Hickok appears once more and pulls out five cards from his pocket: two black 8's, two black Ace's, and one unknown card.
>He throws the two pairs at the cloaked Shadow, sticking onto several vital parts of his body!
>Castor proceeds to fire blackened arrows at the cards, piercing him multiple times at these spots!
>The ranger throws the final card at Shadow Shining's face, its back facing you and Shizuka!
>Castor nocks another arrow while Hickok aims a lone revolver at the card.
>"The only ones who know the final card..."
"...Are dead men!"

Team-up Attack: Dead Man's Hand!

>Arrow and bullet fire simultaneously, piercing through the Shadow's head and dealing massive damage!
>"Give us strength, Vega!"
>The living dress makes an elegant pose, increasing your hitting power!
>"I'll save you, Big Brother! Take this!"
>Twilight slices at the Shadow with her golden naginata, dealing increased damage!

>"Let's see if you'll keep your attitudes for long. Furious Seal!"
>Shadow Shining reads a passage of his tome as twin beams of red and green fire at the team!
>Everyone avoids them, the beams dissipating as they hit the ground.
>"Curses! May the Heavens punish your insolence!"
>Light from above crashes down on top of you!
>Everyone seems to avoid it, but a second look reveals Rarity unconscious on the ground!

>[Oh no! Rarity's down, somepony heal her! Looks like Shining's Shadow mixes ailments together. Here's his stats:]

Shadow Shining

Arcana: Justice

Repel: Light
Null: Dark

>[You've got 2 Candies and 2 Feathers left.]

>[Oh, almost forgot! Here's everypony's HP and SP:]

HP:

Anon: 100%
Shizuka: 80%
Rarity: 0%
Twilight: 80%

SP:

Anon: 45%
Shizuka: 55%
Rarity: 80%
Twilight: 65%

"I'll help out Rarity! Change, Gaea!"
>The motherly goddess appears once more and sends another vine to revive the fallen unicorn to full Health!
>"I'm hungry, Shadow-kun... Feed me!"
>Shizuka lunges at the opponent, biting into his flesh and draining some of his Health and Spirit!
>"Oof, you'll pay for that attack, you ruffian! Persona!"
>The black and white dress fires off another gale at "Shining", injuring him and blowing off his hood, much to his annoyance!
>"I should save my SP for something later. Yah!"
>Twilight flies at the Shadow once more, slicing his robes and dealing extra damage!

>"Lightning bolt!"
>Shining's book glows a bright blue as a powerful bolt of lightning strikes Shizuka, dealing heavy damage!
>"Heavens, smite my enemies!"
>Once more, giant orbs of light crash down upon the group, missing everyone but Twilight who takes cover behind Nimue!
>He spends some time putting his cowl back on before resuming his stance.

>[He looks half beat, but take care about your condition too! Here's your HP and SP:]

HP:

Anon: 100%
Shizuka: 55%
Rarity: 100%
Twilight: 80%

SP:

Anon: 30%
Shizuka: 70%
Rarity: 80%
Twilight: 65%

"We'll keep an eye on it. Change, Huitzilopochtli!"
>Another roar into the heavens by this warrior psyches you up for your next attack!
>"Then I'll soften him up for us. Persona!"
>Castor lifts his bow and fires a suction-cupped arrow at the Shadow, sticking to his head and reducing his stats!
>"Shall I make you famous? Vega!"
>With a gleam in her eye, the living dress swipes at Shadow Shining's jugular with her trio of knives!
>They connect, tossing the enemy to the ground!
>Rarity looks to you for approval.
>"Are you ready, Darling!"
"Always!"
>"This is your last dance!"
>Everyone rushes in and takes swipes at the downed Shadow, dealing heavy damage!
>"Let it rain, Nimue!"
>Nimue dips her hand into the lake and summons another shower, the healing rain soothing your injuries!

>"Agony of Sloth!"
>Twin lasers of blue and purple spiral towards the team, striking you and Shizuka!
>The two of you feel far older than you should.
>"Electric Storm!"
>Dark clouds surround and strike you all with electricity, knocking Rarity to the ground!
>"Lightning Bolt!"
>Another bolt flies at Twilight, but harmlessly flies by!

>[Big guy, you and Shizuka are Enervated! Heal that quickly! Shining's Shadow looks badly hurt, so let's keep at it! Here's everypony's HP and SP:]

HP:

Anon: 65% (Enervated)
Shizuka: 57% (Enervated)
Rarity: 49%
Twilight: 78%

SP:

Anon: 20%
Shizuka: 55%
Rarity: 80%
Twilight: 50%

"Need to get this Enervation off... Change, Sophrosyne!"
>You shatter the golden Temperance Arcana to reveal a woman in a black dress and flowing black hair...
>But not like any woman you've ever seen.
>First off, she towers over everyone else, easily being the largest Persona of the group.
>Second, a reptilian tail, horns, and partial back fringe seem to betray another nature.
>The titanic lady blows out a soft blue flame that begins to circle around the team.
>As it does so, you feel the oppressive weight of time burn away, returning you and Shizuka to fighting condition!
>"Thanks, Senpai~! Time to get some payback, Castor!"
>The Persona appears once more, yet doesn't seem to be carrying a bow anymore.
>Instead, he wields a large, menacing spear, eyes glinted with the intent to kill!
>Castor rides back to get some momentum, then charges at the Shadow like a jousting knight: piercing through his shoulder and dealing massive damage!
>"Let's stitch up those horrible wounds, Vega!"
>Shadow threads weave over your wounds, returning everyone to full strength!
>"Now's the time to use our magic, Nimue!"
>The Lady of the Lake lifts up a large portion of her water and freezes it into the shape of a spear!
>Satisfied with her work, she creates five more and tosses them all at Shining's Shadow, dealing heavy damage!

"Grr... you'll pay for that! Lightning Bolt!"
>Another flash of lightning darts towards Shizuka, only to miss her by a long shot!
>"Fireball!"
>An orb of flame strikes Twilight, leaving serious burns!
>"Smite that vampire already!"
>A gargantuan sphere of light magic barrels towards the bat-pony, yet she side-steps it with little effort!
>"What the hell?! These dice are rigged!"
>[Are we sure Castor's weak to Light magic, big guy? Twilight's badly injured, but so is he! That Charge you've stored might do it! Here's your HP and SP:]

HP:

Anon: 100%
Shizuka: 100%
Rarity: 100%
Twilight: 37%

SP:

Anon: 10%
Shizuka: 55%
Rarity: 60%
Twilight: 20%

>[By the way, big guy, your attack boost will disappear next turn.]

"Change, Perseus!"
>As you tap the Justice card, you look over to Twilight and feel a spark of ingenuity strike you!
"Twi, I think we can do a combination attack like this! Wanna try it?"
>The purple alicorn nods.
>"Just give me time to get ready!"
>"I'll soften him up for you, Senpai~. Persona!"
>Castor rides once more to attack the Shadow, but misses as the robed man jumps out of the way!
>"Drat! I almost had him!"
>"Once more, with feeling, Vega!"
>Again, the shadow threads restore your health and treat your wounds.
>"Okay, I think I'm ready now babe!"
"Persona!"
>"Persona!"

>The floor around Shadow Shining rumbles as Colosseum-like walls rise around him, filled with multiple ice weapons!
>A fair man with golden hair approaches from the other side of the field and flinches unintentionally, obviously not comfortable with this environment.
>You can feel the cold affecting your body more due to Perseus's weakness, but for your love...
"This cold is nothing!"
>Pink flames begin to surround the great Hero, melting the cold and granting him amazing energy!
>In a flash, the Persona begins to run around the arena, throwing all manner of frozen spears and spheres, battering up the poor game master!
>As a finale, Perseus pulls out his shield and throws it like a discus, decapitating the enemy and creating a fountain of dark Shadow energy!

Team-up Attack: The Larissan Olympics!

>[You did it, guys! The Shadow has finally been pacified! Now all Shining has to do is accept him, and we'll be able to get back and help Celestia!]

>"Sunray lifts himself off the ground and walks over to his doppelganger. Nay, his dark side. Everything he hates about himself that he kept away for so long."
>"This weakness he had was now prone on the floor: waiting for the ex-paladin to accept him after all this time..."
>"Sunray raises his hoof an-"
>The Shadow receives another shared slug to the face.
>"I've had enough of your stupid stories"
>Looking tired, Shining begins to walk away in the direction of the throne room's exit.
>He looks away from Twilight in a mixture of shame and denial.
>"We have to save Celestia. Let's go, guys."

>Shadow Shining looks at his leaving self with great sorrow and tears in his eyes.
>"But he couldn't do it. Even after his dirty laundry was aired, he refused to accept his reality and decided to proceed deeper into his fantasy."
>"This is correct..."
>The Shadow begins to crack up like a broken vase.
>"But this isn't right..."
>He shatters, dark wisps of shadow following the true Shining and focusing at the area of his cutie mark!
>To everyone's horror, the shield cutie mark on Shining's flank vanishes, and his eyes appear to be more gray than before.
>"Big Brother! Your cutie mark-!"
>"Twily. We don't have time for this. We need to go back."
>[Um... okay. Let's head back, everypony...]

>You all awaken in the ruined area of the Canterlot throne room, where the last battle had took place, noises echoing in the background.
>You see that the Prince's flank is still blank, but he doesn't seem too into it to notice or care.
>"Got to save Celestia... Save the day..."
>He collapses, too weak to do what he wants.
"We'll handle it, bro. You get some rest."
>Even if he wanted to object, Shining was too tired to truly argue.

>The rest of your way to the source of noise with fully recovered Health and Spirit, ready to help Celestia with subduing "Luna".
>As you make it to the door, you kick it down to see a dreadful sight:
>Two Celestias, one bloodied on the ground...

>WARNING! TOO MUCH MEMORY.
>PHYSICAL DUMP IN PROGRESS.
>... DUMP SUCCESSFUL.
>SHUTTING DOWN FOR REPAIRS AND UPDATES.