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The War for Equestria

by TheTallestGuy

Chapters

Chapter 1: In the beginning

In the beginning... The beginning was so simple. Life was good. Ponies were happy. Until...Until the day it all went awry.

It all started on a sunny mid-afternoon, in a field just outside Ponyville. The girls were playing a game. Dodgeball, or rather, dodge-apple, of all games. See, after the big cider situation a little while back, the ponies of Ponyville had had enough apple products to last a lifetime, or so it felt. For the moment, no one had a need, or want, for apples. So, what better to do with leftover apples than throw them at your friends?

The game had just started, and it was Applejack, Twilight, and Rainbow Dash on one side, with Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and a somewhat reluctant Fluttershy on the other. Rainbow Dash had just pegged Rarity with an apple. Rarity squealed with dread and disgust, and her dodge-apple uniform was splattered with apple bits and juice. Rainbow Dash was so far into her laughing fit that she got hit by a softly thrown apple, from none other than Fluttershy.

" Did...did I win? " Fluttershy asked no one in particular.

Rainbow Dash's laughter immediately stopped as she grumbled off the field. The game was down to two on two. Pinkie Pie whipped out her party cannon, and fired. Tons of apples rocketed toward Applejack and Twilight.

" Hey, that's not fair! She's using a CANNON for Celestia's sake! " Rainbow shouted.

" I got it covered Rainbow Dash! " Shouted Twilight, as she used her magic to stop the apples in their tracks.

" Well SHE'S using magic! Also not fair! " Whined Rarity. After a brief verbal tussle, both teams agreed on a compromise: No more magic, and no more cannons.

Pinkie Pie had been sneaking along the sidelines during the argument, and she snuck in a toss towards Twilight, hitting her mark. Twilight trotted off the field. Pinkie Pie was too busy dancing and celebrating to notice Applejack kick two apples toward her. The first missed, and she whirled around, looking for it, and in her confusion, got hit by the second. She pouted off the field.

It was down to Fluttershy versus Applejack.

" O-o-o-oh m-m-m-my... " Fluttershy stuttered. Applejack advanced slowly.

" I-I-I-I c-c-c-can't do it! " Fluttershy squealed as she cowered under her hooves in fear. Applejack stopped just before the midline. She frowned. She was all for fun and games, but she couldn't hit sweet, timid Fluttershy with an apple while she cowered like that. She walked forward.

" Don't do it AJ! We'll lose if you cross the line! Urgh! " Yelled Rainbow Dash. Applejack kept walking. Then, she stepped over the midline, and walked before Fluttershy.

" Come on now partner, you won, see? " Applejack said to her scared friend. Fluttershy stopped shaking and looked around in disbelief. Her eyes fell to the midline, well behind Applejack. She smiled her thanks.

" You know, RD, winning ain't everything. You gotta learn sportsmanship too. Now come on everypony, let's go get some dinner! My treat! " The group started to walk back to Ponyville, but they wouldn't make it back for dinner. As they started walking, they were teleported.

They reappeared in a grand hall. It seemed familiar, almost too familiar...Then, everyone realized they were in the Royal Palace in Canterlot! From behind the grand throne, Celestia appeared.

" My little ponies, I called you here for a very important reason. Ponyville, no, all of Equestria is in danger. And the danger is very close. There isn't much time to explain, but once I do, you must go back and warn all of Ponyville, and Cloudsdale too. "

" What is it Princess, what's wrong!? " Twilight pleaded.

" My little ponies, I fear...I fear something is coming. Something horrible, widespread, and unavoidable. "

" Just tell us Princess! Trust us, we can deal with anything, just like we have before! What's coming?" Rainbow Dash said.

Princess Celestia hesitated, then said in a quiet, almost defeated voice: " War. "

Chapter 2: Disaster strikes

The ponies were startled. Shocked. Disbelieving. It was unthinkable, to think that war could come to any place in all of Equestria, much less Ponyville.

" W-w-war? How? " Fluttershy stumbled.

" I don't know, my dearest Fluttershy, I don't know. But I've had reports of disaster from as far as places like New Mexicolt City and even the Fillypines. They tell of a terrible force of unknown ponies, being lead by an also unknown force, spreading hate and death across the land. We don't know what their motivation is, but we have to prepare, for they are heading in this direction, and will be here soon. I don't know exactly when, but it will be sooner rather than later. But right now, I need you to go back to Ponyville and warn everyone. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy, warn Cloudsdale. Help them prepare. We have not much time. " The princess directed.

" We're on it! " Everypony shouted. Celestia's stern direction had snapped them out of their confusion. While Fluttershy and Rainbow dash flew at top speed to Cloudsdale, the rest of the group were teleported by Celestia back to Ponyville. Both groups immediately warned their respective towns, telling the tale of the Princess' reports.

The towns started stocking food, pulling incompletely grown plants from the ground. There would be no time to grow them.  In Ponyville, they built a large underground bunker, large enough for all the residents of Ponyville and Cloudsdale. The unicorns helped increase the rate of completion exponentially, and also magic-proofed it. The only way to get in was through one of two main entrances, and even those were enchanted and reinforced.

Passwords were passed out, living spaces assigned, food and drink rationed out. The citizens were ready for the worst situation, but they had one last hurdle to overcome. They had to organize a military force. Celestia had lent her highest ranking officers, kept in secret until needed, and her toughest guards, to the cause.

The general, simply General Hooves for confidentiality, spoke.

" Now, I know this is a touchy subject, but it has to be done. We need ponies to enlist. " At this, there was a rumble of whispering. " I know, it's hard to understand, but we need ponies. Ponyville won't defend itself. We need people to make defenses, and fight off the evil that is heading this way. We already have our first six volunteers. Will you six please step up, and be recognized? " Hooves asked.

Rainbow Dash, Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie stepped out of the crowd and stood behind the general. The whispers among the crowd intensified. These six were the first? Unbelievable.

The general spoke again. " Now, do we have any volunteers? We have a draft installed, but we'd like volunteers first. So...Is anyone brave enough to step forth to do their duty? "

The first one to step up was Big Macintosh. Applejack was stunned, moreso than the rest of the ponies.

The general started the oath of service. " Big Macintosh, do you swear to defend Ponyville, and all that it includes, all of its denizens, and everything related to it? Do you swear to give your last breath to the cause of defending your fellow citizens? Are you prepared to give everything you have, and to pay the ultimate price? "

Big Macintosh stood there. He looked around, toward the Apple family. They looked shaken, sad, devastated. He looked back to the general. " Eeyup. "

At this, Applejack started to cry, and ran from the main assembly room. Rainbow Dash flew after her. " I got her! AJ, wait up! ".

The general looked satisfied with Big Macintosh's answer. " Anypony else? "

The second volunteer, steeled by Big Macintosh's resolve, stepped forward, stumbled a bit, and soon enough stood in front of the general as he recited the oath. " Are you prepared to give everything you have, and to pay the ultimate price? " He asked. The volunteers eyes were crossed as she saluted, " Sir, yes sir! Derpy Hooves, reporting for uh...duty! Sir! ". Bits of muffin were still on her hooves, but she would do.

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Meanwhile, in Applejack's room.

" Oh RD, it's not fair! Big Mac can't do this! He just can't! Ah know he's trying to be brave, but he's just a gentle giant! He won't last! " Applejack cried into Rainbow Dash's shoulder. They were on the bed, if you could call it that. It was just a padded cot. But, in times like these, you had to take what you could get.

Rainbow Dash was torn. She hated seeing AJ like this. She was her best friend. Out of all her friends, AJ was the most like her. Tomboyish, almost. Always loving a good competition, never afraid to get a little dirty. She...she loved her. There. She admitted it to herself. I love Applejack. I do. I realize that now. I realize... I realize I would do anything for her. Anything.

" Don't worry AJ, it'll be okay. Underneath his gentle self, I know he's tough. He'll be invaluable! And... You have my word, that I'll do everything in my power to protect him...And you..." She said.

Applejack was confused. " Me? Why do I need protectin'? You sayin' ah can't take care of mahself? "

Rainbow Dash sighed. This had gone in the wrong direction, but she could still save it. " No AJ! I know you can take care of yourself. All I was saying is that I'll look after you. "

" Why? "

" Because...because I care about you, you know? You're my best friend. And...and...I love you. I love you Applejack"

Applejack was stunned. RD was her best friend yes, but did she love her like that? Ah... Ah suppose I do love RD like that. She's just like me in so many ways, and I never did take up an interest in any colts. Ah do love you RD! I do!

Rainbow Dash was anxiously awaiting a reply. She should never have said anything, now her friendship was going to be ruined. Oh no. Why why why did she say anything? Darn it!

Finally, Applejack spoke. " Thank you for offering to protect Big Mac. It means a lot. " She nuzzled up to Rainbow Dash, letting her wings wrap around her, keeping her warm and safe. " I... I have somethin' to say. And I think you'll be happy... I love you too Rainbow. I really do. "

Chapter 3: Meet the teams

The enlistment process was complete. Every able-bodied pony had sworn in, and the rest had been given a draft number. Now, they needed training. All 1000 or so ponies would be split into two groups for training. Alpha team and Gold team. And, against the odds, the Mane Six and their usual cohorts were all put into Gold team.

All ponies had undergone two weeks of rigorous training, and were now considered soldiers.

" Now, for the second to final step in your training, you will undergo... A competition of sorts. These past two weeks, we have been training you for combat, we have taught you to disable your opponent in any situation, we have taught you to KILL! " General Hooves shouted. The ponies cheered. " Now, for the "competition". We will be competing to see which team has a chance to have their teammates to undergo extra training. To become...better than the best. And better than those! We want to train the best of the best of the best! So, our contest shall take place in the Arena, a section of the Everfree Forest that we have quarantined off for our purposes. It shall be a battle simulation. Aplha versus Gold. Does anypony have any comments, questions or concerns? ". The general said.

Suddenly, Rainbow Dash's voice piped up from somewhere within the Gold team ranks. " GOLD TEAM RULES! ".

General Hooves smiled. " Good. Now, move to your assigned areas and grab a jersey! EVERYPONY! BATTLESTATIONS! "

Gold team had set up their base within the Everfree swamplands. The unicorns of Gold team had temporarily frozen the swamp so they could walk on it. They had been given 5 hours to construct a base of operations and fortifications. Turrets were located at the cardinal points of their fortress, each with 10 unicorns who had been given suppression fire duty.

There was an hour left on the countdown before the simulation began. Rainbow Dash was flying around, checking everypony's readiness. All the unicorns were primed and ready to go. The pegasi air force was prepping their flight suits and gear, but they would be ready far before the countdown ended.

Half an hour before the deadline, a giant image of the general appeared in the sky. This was no surprise, magic could do almost anything. He spoke. " To add a little twist or two to our competition, we will be installing flags in your base. So this mean updating the rules. A team will win if: 1. All the opposing team members are taken down and tagged with the fluorescent green "dead" stickers that we gave to each of you; or 2. If you capture and bring back the opposing team's flag. It's quite simple. And for our second twist we will give each team an advisor, someone who has been trained extensively in military strategy. We hope you can adapt to these changes, and overcome the challenge ahead. General Hooves out. "

All of Gold team started whispering rambunctiously. Who could their adviser be? In the noon glare, a shadow descended upon them. It was a pegasus, clearly, but who could it be? The pegasus landed, and a huge plume of dust rushed into the air. Who is it? The dust settled. The entire camp gasped. It was Spitfire!

Rainbow Dash was the first to rush forward. " Spitfire!? You? What are you doing here? You've had military training? Oh my gosh, this is going to be the easiest battle we ev- ".

Spitfire cut her off with a hoof. " Yes, Rainbow Dash, I am your advisor. You didn't think the Wonderbolts flew solely for entertainment, now did you? " Spitfire chuckled. " Everypony! I am your military advisor for this challenge. Clear? " She shouted. The camp answered in return, " Ma'am, yes ma'am! ".

" Rainbow Dash, show me around and let me see your preparations. " Spitfire instructed. Rainbow Dash led her around the perimiter, showing her the magically reinforced walls first. " These enchantments are pretty solid. Which unicorn team applied them? " She asked Rainbow Dash.

Rainbow Dash chuckled, " No team. Just my good friend, Twilight Sparkle. "

Spitfire was in disbelief, " A single pony did that!? ". Rainbow took some pleasure in her reaction. " You betcha. She's the best magician around. She can do practically anything with that horn of hers. " Spitfire was pleased. If Gold team had such an advantage, there was no doubt that they would win. Still, anything could happen. She asked to see the turrets.

Rainbow Dash explained, " Each turret has two sides, each with five unicorns, and they have overlapping fields of fire. "

Spitfire was satisfied. She had seen enough. " Rainbow, gather your main team, and meet me back here. You have a... special assignment. "

Two minutes later, the Mane Six, Big Mac, and Derpy stood in a circle around Spitfire. Everyone else was in final preparations. There were five minutes until the competition started. Everypony else was getting ready.

Spitfire explained, " Okay guys, here's the scoop. You all are special. Moreso than your teammates. Twilight, you are the most magically talented unicorn I've ever seen. Pinkie Pie, somehow, some way, you break the known laws of physics. Often. I don't know how, and I don't want to know. All I know, is that you're also invaluable. Fluttershy, your skills with animals can be a great help in the field. Rarity, your skills with tracking and clothes can help make armor and camouflage, and tracking down whatever you may need. Applejack and Bic Mac, you two are extraordinarily strong, and have tons of endurance. Possibly the most out of anypony. Derpy, you're unpredictable in the field, which makes you dangerous, which is a good thing, I assure you. And Rainbow Dash, it's obvious. You can fly incredibly fast, past the speed of sound, and can withstand impacts of great force. Now, you have all been put into a special team. You'll be trained more than your teammates. You'll be, simply put, the best. "

The rest of what Spitfire had told them was hard to contemplate. They were all supposed to be a team of elite ponies. Better than the rest. It was hard to grasp. Anyway, they couldn't think about it. There was no time. A warning klaxon blared. The competition had begun.

Rarity said one final thing before they moved out. She looked toward the direction of the "enemy" base, and whispered to herself, " IT. IS. ON! "

Chapter 4: Capture the flag

The warning klaxon had just finished it's siren. Everypony took their battlestations, and awaited the coming fire. A deep voice filled the Arena: Capture the flag. The ponies looked around, a little bit confused at where the voice came from, but their minds quickly snapped back to the situation at hand. They had a battle to win.

Just before they left, the special team made up of the Mane Six, Derpy, and Big Mac double checked everypony's positions. The flag guard, who was originally going to be Twilight, had been replaced by Lyra and Octavia. They figured they could lull any intruders to sleep with their music. Everypony else was ready. It was time to head out.

" Okay guys, " Said Rainbow Dash as she held out a map for everypony to see, " I say we take the left flank all the way around, sneak into their base, and grab the flag before anyone knows what's happening. "

" That sounds like a simple enough plan to me, but how are we going to get back? " Asked Twilight.

Rainbow Dash replied, " Oh, I've got it covered. Trust me. " "Alright..."

The team moved out. They hadn't gotten far when the sounds of battle sounded throughout Everfree Forest. They could faintly hear war screams, and the pew pew pew of magic bolts being shot. Judging from where the sounds came from, both teams had met in the middle. Great strategy there.

" Hold on guys... I, I just thought of something. " Fluttershy stumbled.

" What is it Fluttershy? " Applejack asked.

" Well, we're in Everfree Forest, where everything is either greenish or brownish. " Fluttershy responded. " We aren't green OR brown. I suggest...well...we cover up in leaves and mud for camouflage..."

It was a good idea. Everyone agreed, especially with Big Mac giving a single " Eeyup ". Rarity was somewhat reluctant, but she understood the situation, so she agreed. Soon enough, everyone was a mottle of gray, green, brown, and green.

" Ugh, I will have to make some special clothes so we don't have to do this every time we're in the field. " Rarity whined.

Before long, the Aplha base came into sight. It wasn't quite identical to Gold's, but it was similar. It looked pretty solid.

" How are we gonna get in? Are we gonna be all super sneaky stealthy? Or are we gonna BLAST our way in!? " Pinkie Pie whispered, quite loudly.

Rainbow Dash had a cocky grin on her face. " Alright everypony. This is my time to shine. I'll just give it a solid Sonic Rainnuke, and after that, I'll give em a Rainboom, to distract them further. After that, have Big Mac carry the flag, since he's the strongest. We need everypony we can get, so if you encounter anyone, try not to hurt them too bad. Everypony else, form a protective ring around Big Mac, and use your talents to protect him. Any questions? "

Rainbow Dash took off before anyone could answer. She flew high, so high she was only a speck in the afternoon glare. Then, the speck started to get bigger. The rest of the team moved into position. They could hear Rainbow's scream just before she it. A split second later, there was a humongous crash, deafening in fact. There was a flash of light, and a mushroom cloud stood, in all colors, where the base once stood. It was completely demolished. Rainbow appeared, still flying. She was breathing heavy, and she was a bit scraped up. Her left wing looked a little sluggish.

" I'm okay guys! Here's the flag! RUN! " Rainbow tossed the flag, emblazoned with a giant A, toward them. Big Mac caught it in between his teeth, and the team took off, back toward the Gold base. The strange voice sounded again. Flag taken. They saw Rainbow, again a tiny speck in the sky. They kept running. Suddenly, Big Mac stopped.

" Listen, everypony! " Twilight whispered. The sound of battle... They had stopped. " The Aplha team must have started to retreat! ". Even as Twilight explained, the saw many pegasi flying back toward their base. The ground rumbled with the stampede of all the non-pegasi on Alpha team.

Rarity flared up her magic. " If those pegasi get back to their base in time, they'll come looking for their flag! I'll take out as many as I can! Let's get going! ". As the team started running, hundreds of gemstones filed in behind them. Rarity used her magic, and they all shot into the sky, the sunlight reflecting off them to turn the sky rainbow colored. In the same instant, Rainbow Dash had just met maximum speed, and broke the sound barrier. Everypony in the forest, with the exception of the team with the flag, stopped and watched as a rainbow took over the sky. Then, the Aplha pegasi were hit with gems. The fell out of the sky, tens at a time.

" That was convenient timing. Let's get back as fast as we can... If that's okay " Fluttershy said. The team ran on. Minutes later, they had just got into the main room. They placed the flag into the slot next the their flag, which had a giant G on it. The ominous voice rang out one last time: Flag captured. Game over

Chapter 5: A new addition, and the first mission

Once again, General Hooves appeared in the sky.

" Great job Gold Team. Extra rations for you tonight. Now, everypony else, dismantle your bases, and head back to the bunker. Get all wounded into the hospital wing. Once everyone is back up to speed, you need to be debriefed. Also, the special team chosen by Spitfire, I need you all in my office ASAP. Hooves out. "

At that exact moment, Rainbow Dash crashed through the window of their Gold base command center. She landed with a huff. She was pretty roughed up. She had feathers missing from her wings, she was scraped all over, and had a gash on her forehead. Her breathing was strained.

" Oh my gosh guys! That was so exciting! We won! I can't... I can't believe it...we...we won. " As she said her last word, she collapsed, unconcious, to the deck. The last thing she remembered was seeing her friends galloping toward her.

Five hours later. Estimated time: 1828

Rainbow Dash's eyes flickered open. She looked around. Ugh. Where? Where am I? What happened? Little did she know, her questions were about to be answered. The door to her room opened. She saw a sign in the hall that read ICU.

General Hooves trotted in, followed by her team.

" Hello there Rainbow Dash. How are you feeling? " He asked.

She didn't immediately answer. Her mind was sluggish. " What happened? "

Pinkie Pie interrupted the general, " Oh my gosh Rainbow Dash! It was awesome! You we're all Aaahhhhh! boom! Pow! POOOOOOOSSSSHHH! " She flailed her arms around. She stopped mid-flail and looked at the general. " Oh...Sorry Sir. "

" Quite alright Pinkie Pie. And to answer your question, Rainbow Dash, simply put, you won. First, you completely destroyed the "enemy's" base, and were only minorly injured. You then pushed your body past it's limit when you broke the sound barrier. You provided an excellent distraction, not only for your team to bring the flag back, but you also enabled your team to take out some of the enemy. Miss Rarity here is quite the shot. You put yourself in harm's way, but not necessarily. You saved many of your teammates, and I feel you exemplify the qualities your teammates should also have. Devotion to duty, courage, and self-sacrifice. I want to personally congratulate you and your team. " General Hooves explained.

Rainbow Dash simply smiled. She understood, but her head was still a little fuzzy. It was then that she noticed all the IVs and monitors next to her bed. She forced out a question, " What happened to me? "

Applejack explained, " Oh, sugarcube, we were so worried! You pushed yourself too far. You barely managed to make it home, and you were all beat up and exhausted. You collapsed as soon as you landed. "

Rainbow Dash took the explanation with a simple hmph. " Okay. So, what else are you here for? I doubt you made a visit to every wounded pony. "

General Hooves chuckled, " You're sharper than you look, kid. Alright, here's the scoop. I already briefed your team, so they know what's going on. Look, everypony else we've been training, we've just been training them for guard duty. We can't have a full scale battle going on. There's too much chaos involved. You and your team are the only ones that are going to be put on the front lines. If we send everyone, and they all bite the dust, there's no one left to protect the bunker. You guys are the best of the best, and you work together well. Also, there's one last minute addition to your team. Her name is Vinyl, Vinyl Scratch. "

Rainbow Dash vaguely remembered the DJ from a party she had attended, which seemed like years ago. " Why her? She's just a DJ. " Rainbow asked.

"I've left everything you need to know in the team file. " The general said, handing out a binder to the team, which contained information on everypony in the group. " I'll leave you to read that over. I'll come back around 2200 hours to discuss your first mission. " With that, the general walked out of the room.

Derpy perked up, " Read it Rainbow Dash! What does it say? ".

" Yeah! " The team said all at once.

Rainbow Dash opened the binder.

Special Forces Squad of Equestria: Team Analysis

Team Member: Rainbow Dash. A fiercely loyal teammate, she'll do anything to save her friends. Can push herself extraordinarily far, physically. She is a very talented flyer, capable of extreme maneuvers such as the Sonic Rainboom/nuke, which are very powerful. Able to withstand much physical damage, seemingly brushing it off. Cocky and slightly rebellious.

Team Member: Twilight Sparkle. A born leader. Great at organizing. She's also possibly the worlds most talented unicorn, able to perform seemingly endless types of magic, which include levitation, spontaneous combustion, and teleportation. Has banished an Ursa Minor single-hoofedly, and is the star student of Princess Celestia herself.

Team Member: Pinkie Pie. She's a mystery. She loves sweets. Able to, seemingly, ignore the laws of gravity and physics. Carries around a mobile cannon, and can manipulate the universe to her wim, fitting inside impossible small places, and always take a pinkie promise to heart. Normally cheerful, if you break one of her special promises, she will track you down to the ends of Equestria.

Team Member: Fluttershy. A shy pony if there ever was once. Socially awkward, and afraid of the smallest things. However, she has another side to her, where her true courage lies. She can be fierce and intimidating, even to the largest of creatures. She has tamed a full grown dragon and a cockatrice, among others. She's a wonder with animals, which will be a great help in any battlefield situation.

Team Member: Rarity. A wonder with clothes, she redesigned our camouflage and has made it more effective in the field. Maybe she'll be able to whip something up for our team. She's very generous at times, and is a good tracker. A lady on the outside, but, if it's necessary, she'll get down and dirty with the rest of 'em.

Team Member: Applejack. She's a tough one. Her legs are pretty tough. She kicks trees for a living. She's a master chef, at least when it comes to apples. Her brother is Big Mac, and they have an inseparable bond that only siblings have. They're the strongest, physically, of the team, and she's always honest. You may not like what she has to say, but she'll give you nothing but the truth.

Team Member: Big Mac. He's a quiet one. His main vocabulary includes " Eeyup " and " Nope ". He's always listening. He can uproot a grown tree with one leg. Imagine what would happen if he used two. A born workpony, he can work for hours without breaking a sweat. Doesn't over-analyze things. A valuable member indeed.

Team Member: Derpy Hooves. We weren't quite sure about adding her to the team, but she was one of the first few to volunteer, right after Big Macintosh. She's good with food, always having extra muffins around. She can be clumsy, but she has flanks of iron, which gives the assumption that she's tough. She cares greatly for her friends, and despite her eyes, seems to see just fine. She seems to pop up everywhere, even in the most unseemly places.

Team Member: Vinyl Scratch. The teams most recent addition. Goes by the stage name DJ P0N-3. While the Alpha and Gold teams were having their simulation, she proved her worth by demonstrating a somewhat unorthodox type of warfare. She can use music, or rather, sound waves, to disrupt and confuse enemies. Was initially denied entry at first, due to her rowdiness and partying attitude. She doesn't speak often, but rather uses music to express herself. We're sure the team will handle and accept her.  

The team had just finished reading Vinyl's file when she and the general walked in. Vinyl took a seat between Rarity and Twilight, her purple shades mirroring the images before her. The general spoke.

" Alright everypony, this is your new teammate. I'm sure you'll get along just fine. Now, about your first mission. We've had reports that the enemy force is a month away, and they seem to have stopped. All we want you to do right now is run some reconnaissance on their activity. We expect you to head out two days from now, so that Rainbow here has time to heal. Also, tomorrow, Princess Celestia has requested an audience with you, so you'll head up to her castle tomorrow. Understood? "

" I'll be back up to full speed tomorrow, sir! " Said Rainbow Dash as the rest of the team answered, " Yes sir! "

General Hooves looked satisfied as he left the room.

The next day. Estimated time: 1030

The team stood before the throne of Princess Celestia and her sister, Princess Luna. Rainbow Dash wasn't at full speed, but she looked it. She ached, but she would never admit it. The team waited patiently while the princesses conferred in whispers. Suddenly, Celestia spoke.

" Hello there, my little ponies. It's good to see you again. " She said, with a sad smile on her face. What she had to say was going to devastate them, and she didn't expect them to forgive her. Ever.

Twilight spoke for the team, " Hello princess, it's good to see you too. Before you start, I just have one question. Why aren't you helping us fight whatever it is that's coming toward us? "

" That's exactly what I wanted to talk about Twilight. " The princess said. She spoke out loud, " You can come out now. "

Who was she talking about? A pink cloud floated in, and it started to rain chocolate milk. The rain slowly formed into the form they all knew too well... Discord.

" What's he doing here!? " Twilight shouted? Her horn lit up as she started charging a bolt of magic. Discord looked down at his nails, and pretended to file them.

" Relax Twilight. " Celestia instructed. The magic faded from her horn. " He is not here to fight you, rather, I freed him to help me explain what is going on. Now, you know Discord as the spirit of Chaos. My eternal enemy. My sister's eternal enemy. But today, we are on neutral ground. Do you know why? " She asked.

No one answered.

" It is because none of us immortals can help you fight this war. " Celestia said.

The team was shocked, even the normally expressionless Big Mac. Their beloved princess wasn't helping them?!

" Why not!? " Shouted Fluttershy. Her other side had shown itself for this brief moment. " You're supposed to care for us, we're your subjects! We care and love you! Don't you love us? " Fluttershy cried. Her stream of courage ended. She broke down and started to cry into Pinkie Pie's shoulder. Pinkie Pie glared at Celestia.

" Oh dear Fluttershy. It's not easy to explain, or understand, but I'll try my best. You think of me and my sister as good and Discord as evil. Well...We are not good. And Discord is not evil. " She explained. She met looks of confusion and disbelief.

Discord took over, " Yes ponies, it is true. I am not evil, though you may think otherwise. I am the spirit of Chaos. Now, tell me why you think I enjoy toying with your beloved princesses. Ah, I'll answer that one for you. Because they are the embodiment of Order. Think of a compass. North, South, East, and West. Well, the princesses over here are East, and I am the West. We believe the coming force is South, or embodied Evil. North, the side of Good, and South, Evil, are stronger than the forces of Order and Chaos. That is why you six, and some of your friends, have been chosen to fight it alone. We believe that you nine are the embodiment of Good. You also cannot use the Elements of Harmony on our new foe. They only work on me, see. The only reason they worked on Nightmare Moon was because her mind was a chaotic jumble. Now, you, the force of Good, must combat Evil. Any questions? "

The team was stunned. Their princesses weren't Good? Just...Order? It was a heavy blow to take.

Twilight had nothing to say to any of the immortals that stood near the throne. She teleported the team back to a conference room back in the Ponyville bunker.

" Alright team, rest up. We have a big day tomorrow. Rarity, come with me. We have suits to make. " Twilight instructed the team.

They all went to their respective racks, and tried to sleep. They still couldn't handle the betrayal that they thought their princess had committed. But, it would have to wait. For tomorrow, they had their first mission to accomplish.

Chapter 6: Recon

" Alright everypony, let me go over things one last time. ", Twilight explained. " Overnight, me and Rarity designed the suits we're all wearing for the mission. The suits also cover our tails. They're made of a special fabric that insulates the wearer. Vinyl Scratch helped me enchant them. They'll blend into any background, so no need for more mud and leaves. It also has multiple pouches for whatever we may need. They also have hoods with special goggles that Vinyl also helped make. You'll be able to see a radar, and it will show everypony's location at all times, and their physical condition. Now, for this mission, we want stealth, rather than confrontation, understand? We're just checking the force out. No need to get loud. Now, General Hooves and his men have built a teleportation terminal, which will allow me to teleport us within a mile or so of the opposing force, and it will allow me to teleport us back. Let's go. "

No one had any questions. The explanation, and their mission directives were quite clear. Gather intelligence on enemy forces, and report back to General Hooves.

For the first time in the past month or so, Twilight had thought of Spike. She missed him. However, he had been sent away to live with the rest of the dragons. They were the last things any army would take on. He would be safe, for a while.

They approached the terminal. It would take them about a mile from the target area. Twilight shouted, as her horn began to glow, " Alright boys! Fire it up! ". The team stepped onto the pad, and there was a flash of light, and they were gone.

The team reappeared in a lightly forested area, but it was strange. The sky was red and filled with smoke. There was a feeling in the air. Something was wrong. They looked around. Everything was dead. The trees, the grass, even animals that hadn't escaped. Fluttershy whimpered. There was a slight mechanical, or magical, whine as their suits adjusted colors.

" Alright team, let's move out. " Twilight whispered. The team galloped along. Everything was covered in ash. Little puffs of ash popped up from where they stepped. After 5 or so minutes, they reached a ridge and stopped. They crawled to the edge and peered over. There was a massive tent city. A giant tent loomed in the center, white cloth with gold embroidery. The rest of the tents were just plain white.

" Goggles, zoom and enhance, 10 times. " Twilight ordered her suit. There was a whirring sound as the camp suddenly sprang into her field of view. Hundreds of ponies, or what seemed like ponies, were flitting around camp. Pegasi, in golden, flashing armor, flew patrol around the perimiter, while earth ponies and unicorns, depending on their rank, moved around supplies and other things.

On the left side of the camp, there was what looked like a mine. By this time, the rest of the team had also zoomed in with their goggles, and gasped at the sight. Hundred of animals and ponies had been bound and gagged, and worked the mine! One pony fell behind, and was immediately whipped. Whether into unconsciousness or death, the team couldn't tell. The rest of the workers nearly doubled their efforts.

" An army that size must need a lot of resources. It only makes sense. However, I think they mean to stay here. They have plenty of food, and they're constantly digging up more resources. Why would they set up an entire temporary city? I think we have a little more time than we originally planned. " Rarity explained.

The whole time, Vinyl was silently taking notes, along with having her goggles record the spectacle.

" Alright team, I think we have enough information for our first mission. Let's head back to our exfiltration point. There should be a magic circle where we first appeared. It will take us back to the pad. " Twilight directed the team.

They started to crawl back from the edge of the ridge, and when they were far enough, they got up. They started to trot back to the circle.

" That was easier than I thought it would be. " Rainbow Dash admitted. " I'm glad we weren't spotted. "

At that precise moment, a siren began ringing at camp. The team froze.

" You don't think they saw us, do you? " Applejack asked. Before anyone could answer her, the ridge where they laid not minutes before, exploded.

" Yep! Run! " Pinkie Pie shouted. They team ran at full speed. Soon enough, the golden pegasi from them camp were overhead, tracking them. They had some kind of ranged weapon, a bow or crossbow maybe. The team was halfway there. They could only keep dodging, or they risked slowing down. The pegasi were still far away, but their weapons could shoot very far.

Suddenly, one of their bolts was aimed true. The team had only a quarter mile to go when a bolt struck Fluttershy in the back of her leg. She tumbled and fell. The team stopped. Twilight and Applejack began to run toward Fluttershy.

" No! " Fluttershy shouted, as she sobbed with pain and sadness, " Leave me behind! Save yourselves! "

The two ponies ignored her as they approached. The pegasi were still firing, and their aim was getting better. Twilight had had enough and shot a bolt of magic in retaliation. The bolt struck a wing of one of the pegasi, and tumbled to the ground. He wasn't dead, Twilight was sure.

Twilight procured a wall of magic as Applejack loaded a screaming Fluttershy onto her back. They ran back to the team, the wall holding, for now.

They got back to the team, and they all started running again. Fluttershy was sick with pain. Vinyl pulled back and ran next to Applejack.

" What in tarnation are you doin', girl? " Applejack screamed.

In response, Vinyl talked to Fluttershy's suit. " Suit FS, designation Origin, override security procedures. Initiate countermeasure two! ". Applejack had no idea what she meant, but heard a faint whistle emanating from Fluttershy's hood. Soon enough, Fluttershy was unconscious, and admittedly easier to carry.

The team had made it back to the circle and without a moments hesitation, they had teleported back to safety, the circle disappearing with them. The pegasi turned back to retrieve his injured comrade and make a report.

The team reappeared on the teleportation terminal. Before any questions were asked, they escorted Fluttershy to the medical wing, then went to General Hooves' office for debriefing.

" Well team, how did it go? " The general asked.

Rainbow Dash answered up. " Well, sir, there's a huge force of enemy troops camped out in a city of tents, and Fluttershy took and arrow to the dang knee! So what do you think, sir? Was the mission a success!? "

She stormed out of the room and headed toward the hospital wing to check on Fluttershy. The rest of the team looked around sheepishly.

The general asked, " Is that true? "

" Yes sir. There is a large enemy encampment at the target area, and they're using slaves to gather resources. The entire surround area was completely dead. Ash everywhere. Trees, grass, animals. everything. We were on our way back when we were attacked and pursued. " Twilight explained.

The general mulled it over. " Very well team. You've done a good job today. And you have my apologies and condolences for Miss Fluttershy. You are dismissed for now. I'll give you a few days to recover, and let you know what's going on from there. Clear? "

Everypony answered, " Yes sir! "

The general was content. " Good. You're dismissed. Now get out of my office. "

Chapter 7: Rest and recuperation

Twilight unzipped her suit, hung it up, and dropped into bed with an umpf. She was tired, and that was probably the easiest their missions were going to get! She was exhausted, even. Her horn lit up, and her muscles started to relax and unwind. It felt great. Once she was done, she forced herself off her bed and into the attached bathroom. The bunker sat next to an underground hot spring, so the entire bunker had limitless hot water. She pour some soap into the steaming water as it ran and watched bubbles froth, to and fro. She climbed in with a sigh, and lay her head back as she relaxed.

Rarity had recruited some of the mares from their quarters, and had started a mini pseudo-spa. They scrubbed her scalp, mane, tail and hooves and they gossiped, as spa girls often do. It had been a long day, and Rarity felt spent. She missed Spike. That little guy would do anything for her. The sound of a hair dryer snapped her out of her thoughts. Oh my. It would probably do me good to get some sleep.

Fluttershy was still in the ICU. She had been hooked up to various monitors, with several IVs attached. She hadn't woken up yet, and her charts indicated her leg would need some time to heal, as the bolt had scraped bone and muscle. Rainbow Dash had stopped by to leave a get well card. Pinkie Pie left some sweets, and Derpy and left a muffin. When Fluttershy woke up, it would be like nothing ever happened.

Pinkie Pie had just fallen in bed. Fast asleep. She had a lot of energy normally, but today had been a large strain on her psyche. Especially seeing the bolt sticking out of poor Shutterfly's leg. She would sleep of her exhaustion, mental and emotional.

Big Macintosh, being the stubborn workpony he is, stayed up to help irrigate and farm the underground farms. Unicorns had installed mini-suns, so that plants could grow.

Derpy had just got back into her room, and she was under her blankets. She had dropped off a muffin for Fluttershy, to help her get better. She started to suffocate. She had gotten to wrapped up in her blankets! She bucked and kicked in her bed until her head came free, and she took a big gulp of air. She smiled her cross-eyed smile and thought to herself, Silly me.

Vinyl Scratch had plugged in her turntable and was practicing her DJing. It helped her relax. After about an hour, she had had enough. She lay her shades on her nightstand, and went to sleep.

Rainbow Dash had just entered her room, which she now shared with Applejack, just in time to see Applejack come out of the bathroom. Steam had started to pour out of the entrance. Applejack smiled.

" Heya RD. I just started a bath. Where ya been? " AJ asked.

" I was just dropping off a get well card for Fluttershy. You? " Ranbow Dash asked.

" I was just checkin' up on Granny Smith and Applebloom. They're doing pretty good. I have to talk with Vinyl tomorrow. I'm about to climb into my steaming bubble bath. Oh boy, that'll feel nice. "

Rainbow dash blushed. " Yeah, I'll grab a bath after you get out. "

Slyly, Applejack turned so that Rainbow Dash could see a single eye look toward her. " You're welcome to join me. " She said.

Rainbow Dash nervously trotted into the bathroom. She watched Applejack as she took off her suit. Ponies normally didn't wear clothes, but there was something about it... She blushed. She took off her own suit. They climbed into the steaming water, bubbles shifting around them. They sighed as the warm water enveloped them. They washed and scrubbed as best they could, getting the smell of ash off. Then, Applejack turned around and said, " RD, you mind getting mah back? I can't reach it, hehe. "

" S-sure thing AJ. " She lathered up AJ's back and was rubbing out knots she had in her back. AJ moaned. It hurt, but in a good way that a massage does. Too soon, Rainbow Dash had whirled around, and said " My turn AJ! "

Applejack was a little less nervous that Rainbow Dash. When she started rubbing her back, her wings had extended to their full extent, and her head rested on her front legs. She chuckled. Rainbow Dash blushed, but kept still. Applejack saw.

" Ain't nothing to be ashamed of RD. Heh. " She said as she nuzzled up to her lover. Half an hour later, they climbed out of the steaming bath. As they lay down on their cot, Rainbow Dash suddenly nuzzled closer to AJ and wrapped her wings around her, closing her in. She was crying.

" What's wrong RD? " Applejack asked. She started to get worried.

" Oh Applejack. Today made me realize something. It'll be easier to lose you than I thought. I'm scared! Hold me AJ! Please! Please... Never let go..." Rainbow Dash cried.

Applejack pulled her close. I won't let you go Rainbow. Never ever. I love you too much.

Chapter 8: A warning shot

Everypony but Rainbow Dash and Appljack was in General Hooves' office. They were three minutes late. They burst into the office, huffing and puffing.

" Sorry we're late! We overslept! " Rainbow Dash explained.

" Yeah, I bet. " Twilight muttered to herself. She was overly suspicious of Rainbow's and Applejack's closeness lately. But, for the moment, she didn't care, as long as it didn't interfere with their mission performance.

" Anyway, I received news this morning. I have good news and bad news. Which would you like first? " The general asked.

"...Let's take the bad news first " Suggested Pinkie Pie.

" Alrighty then. Bad news first. Four of our guards were found dead outside Ponyville this morning. They were all killed by a single bolt to the heart. From close or short range, we can't tell, and there are no signs of a struggle, on any of the bodies. " The general explained. The team was distressed by this news. The enemy encampment was so far away. How could they have gotten here?

The general continued. " Anyway, onto the good news. Fluttershy has recovered and she is now able to see visitors. " The general finished. He barely dismissed them before they were all out in the hallway running towards the infirmary.

The team had all squeezed into the room just as Fluttershy awoke. Everyone broke into tears. They were so relieved to see that she was okay, and she was pleased to see they cared for her so much. She was happy, especially when she ate the treats that Pinkie Pie and Derpy left, and she enjoyed the card Rainbow Dash had made her. " Thank you so much everypony. Especially you Rainbow Dash. I'll keep your card somewhere safe. "

Everypony smiled. They were glad to see their friend and teammate back up to full speed. Now, the rough part. They told her about the guards. She teared up, but a group hug made it alright for now.

" Come on Fluttershy, Let's get back to General Hooves. He'll want to see how you've recovered. " Twilight said.

As they entered General Hooves' office, they noticed he was reading a slip of paper. " Ah, team. I'm glad you came. This was just found this note on the body. " He explained, holding out the piece of paper. " It's a note. "

Rainbow Dash snatched it from him. " What does it say? "

She read it out loud:

Ponies of Ponyville,

We don't know where you are, but we know you'll find this, and your guards. Do not trifle with us. You can see how close we got to you. We know you were spying on us a few days ago. We are quite busy at the moment, enslaving the people of Whinneysota, and other things. However, if you continue to antagonize us, we will drop all other endeavors and come after you. You have been warned. This was just a warning shot.

The general, and the team, were stunned. " How could they know? " The general stammered. " Whinneysota is such a large place. If they can take that large of a city, then how can we stand a chance? "

" Hey! Pull it together you numb skull! Yer a general! Yer supposed to lead us and be brave! Lead us! " Applejack shouted.

The general panted, looking over the note. " Okay, look, get your gear ready. You're going in. "

" Fer what?! We don't know anything about 'em! " Applejack argued.

" That tent I saw in Vinyl's recording. You're going to infiltrate it and either capture a high ranking authoritive figure, or retrieve information. Documents, whatever you can find. Anything you think might be important. Now, go suit up. Yes, even you Fluttershy."

" Yes sir! " The team answered, after a moments hesitation. Would Fluttershy be able to handle it? They were all thinking it.

As if she could hear their thoughts, Fluttershy piped up, " Don't worry about me guys! I can do it! "

It was good enough for the rest of the team. In fact, it was about as good as it was going to get.

Chapter 9: Tragedy

The team had suited up and were ready to go. To help keep them safe, they were given weaponry for this mission. Rainbow Dash and Applejack were outfitted with a knife and sheath, Big Macintosh had been given a broadsword, strapped to his left flank. Fluttershy, being unable to handle the concept of death and killing, even after her ordeal, was given a crossbow with bolts that sent a shock throughout the bolt, intended to incapacitate rather than kill. Rarity and Twilight had no need of weapons, as they had their magic. Pinkie Pie, somehow, always had her cannon on hand (she never left home without it). Derpy said her muffins would give more bang for the buck, whatever she meant by that. And finally, Vinyl had been outfitted with special speakers to help project sound.  


They stepped onto the pad. Fluttershy was back up to full speed, and with new gear, the team was more confident than ever. With a flash, they were whisked away to their destination. Their second mission had begun.

With a quick flash of light, they appeared in a similar setting as their first mission.

" Alright guys, we need to be more careful this time. We all know how the last mission ended. " Said Twilight, with a gaze to Fluttershy. " Now, this is about stealth, not confrontation. We get in, grab what we need, and get out. From here on out, we use hoof signals only, alright? Any questions? "

" We should leave at least two ponies here. " Said Vinyl.

" What? Why? " Replied Twilight.

" You said it yourself. This mission is dependent on stealth. A smaller team makes for a stealthier team. "

" That makes sense... Okay, Derpy, you and Vinyl will stay here and secure our escape route. Got it? The rest of you, with me. " Twilight directed.

They trotted through the forest toward the enemy encampment. Their suits whirred as they adjusted to match their colors to the background. The environment had not changed. Ash still blanketed the ground, trees and grass dead. It wasn't surprising.

Soon enough, they came to another ridge to find that they had been teleported to the opposite side of the camp. The mine now rested to their right. The back section of camp seemed to be lightly guarded. Twilight zoomed in on the camp with her googles. It seemed that the back of the camp was where the enemy interred their slaves. She informed the team.

They waited until the next pegasi patrol had passed. They snuck down the ridge and dashed toward the tents. They slipped into the first one they could find. And somepony was inside.

It was a guard, or, at least, he had the same coat color as they guards outside. He didn't have armor on, but he showed no signs of physical abuse. He looked startled as a group of mottled ash-gray and tent-white figures burst into the flap of the tent. Before he could get a word out, he was tackled and gagged.

Fluttershy's bold side had come out of the dark corners of her mind and decided to show itself. She nudged him in the flank with her drawn crossbow. She whispered, so close to his ear that it sent shivers down his spine, " You make one false move, even ONE little squeak, and this bolt goes somewhere nothing has ever been before. Got it? "

He started whimpering his compliance. " Good. I'm glad we understand each other. " She said. She turned toward

Twilight. " I'll stay here and make sure he stays secure. Go get what we need, and pick me up on the way out. "

" Alright. Vinyl has programmed an alarm into our suits that we can trigger if something goes wrong. Stay safe. " She replied. The team headed back out of the tent.

They snuck from tent to tent, but most slaves seemed to be out in the mine. Security was almost non-existent at the time. They trotted toward the multi-story tent in the center of camp.

" Remember, hoof signals only " Twilight signaled. She motioned a hoof toward Rainbow, and made a diagonal slashing motion across the command tent. Rainbow nodded, drew her dagger, and slashed the tent. They slipped inside.

It was a strange tent. There was a metal frame on the inside. It looked like an incomplete building covered with a gaint cloth. Magical orbs hung in the room they were in, giving off light.

Twilight drew an X in the air, and then pointed upward. Target is upwards. It was a logical guess. Important things or ponies usually took a grand seat. They moved out.

They opened the door, slowly, and filed out of the room. There was a sign on the opposite wall. It pointed out a restroom down the left hall, and stairs, which they wanted, to the right. They headed right. The staircase was just ahead. Suddenly, they stopped. They heard hoofsteps coming down the stairs.

A guard, in blazing gold armor stepped into view. Without hesitation, Rarity stunned him with a bolt of magic. Applejack darted forward and kicked him right in the chest. Big Mac ran forward and dragged him out in the hall. The rest of the team advanced up the stairs. They heard a large sword being drawn, a thud, and then a sheathing of a blade. Big Mac appeared and went up the stairs without a word.

Twilight wondered, Where's all the security? You'd think they'd guard something or somepony that was so important. Hmm. They must be pretty confident. I bet most troops are preparing for their next attack. There are many pegasi busy with patrol and the slaves, but what about the rest?  

They met no more opposition. Twilight took the time to check everypony's status in her goggles. Fluttershy, Derpy, and Vinyl showed up first. Their status was normal. She moved onto her team. Almost everypony's heartrate was skyrocketing. Slightly elevated breathing in everyone but Big Mac, who seemed to be a pillar of strength. Everyone seemed okay. They hit the top floor.

Again, there were no guards. However, the hallway on this floor seemed to be circular, rather than square. They circled the whole floor, just to be sure. There was only one room. The team split into two lines, each on one side of the door. She motioned to Pinkie Pie, then made an explosion with her hooves. Pinkie nodded. She whipped out her cannon. She hesitated. She looked to Twilight. Twilight nodded. She pulled the firing string.

The cannon boomed, and the door imploded, and the team charged in. Immediately, a siren started to sound, and Twilight activated her suit's alarm.

No one was in the room! There were filing cabinets however. They were locked. Damn. Twilight didn't hesitate to zap the locks open. The team grabbed whatever they could, and stuffed it in their pouches. Big Mac stood watch at the door. Hoofsteps sounded up the stairs.

He shouted a single word, " Hurry! "

Within seconds, their pouches were full and weapons drawn. Enemies were on the top floor! They engaged. Rainbow and Applejack slashed and stabbed. Big Mac crushed bones with his broadsword. Twilight and Rarity shot zaps of magic. Pinkie reloaded her cannon and cleared the hall with a single shot.

An alarm in Fluttershy's suit activated. " Well, Mister, that was fun, but that's my cue. " She got up off the bed, kissed the guard roughly on the lips one last time, and shot the electrified bolt right in his gut. She exited the tent and headed toward the command center.

Alarms had also gone off in the suits of Derpy and Vinyl Scratch. Vinyl started to set up her speakers. Derpy buried her muffins along the ridge, and ran back to the magic circle.

The team had just exited the tent, and they were surrounded. The enemies slowed, but didn't stop their advance. Twilight received a nasty gash on the side of her face during an exchange with the enemy. Their earth ponies and unicorns had showed up. Twilight was having trouble protecting the team from magical attacks, so Rarity helped her, reinforcing Twilight's magic with their own.

Everyone else was fighitng. Big Mac swung his sword to and fro, hacking and slashing anyone who came near. Applejack and Rainbow Dash were stabbing and cutting at their opponents, never leaving each other's side. Pinkie Pie wheeled her cannon in front. They were getting overwhelmed.

" ENOUGH! " She shouted. The pulled the firing string, and her cannon fired. A path was cleared, and the team ran through it, propelled by fear. There were still being overwhelmed!

Then, Big Mac spoke the last words he would ever speak. He yelled to Twilight, " You need to get out of here! Now! I'll hold them off as long as I can! Get Applejack out of here! "

And with that, he halted and lashed out with both hind legs. The impact caused an enemy unicorn to literally explode!

Applejack and Rainbow Dash turned; they tried to get back to get Big Mac. They could see the enemy swarming him. He fought with everything he had.

" NO! Big Mac! Brother! " Applejack yelped.

" I need to help him! " Shrieked Rainbow Dash.

Twilight grabbed Applejack with her magic before she could get away. Pinkie Pie grabbed Rainbow Dash and dragged her back.

Big Mac had vanished under enemies at that point. There was no turning back. The team had just made it back to the  ridge, and Vinyl joined them.

Fluttershy could be seen flying backward, shooting her bolts into the swarm of enemies. She reached the ridge. " Vinyl, hit it! " She shouted.

Vinyl nodded, and hit the detonator switch that she was carrying. Immediately, hundreds of decibels of sound were directed toward the enemy. They also activated the sound-sensitive explosives Derpy had baked into her muffins. The ridge exploded in a rush of heat and fire. It was nearly unclimbable now. The rest of the team dashed toward the magic teleportation circle.

Fluttershy crashed into the rest of the team, sending them stumbling into the circle as Twilight activated it.

The team reappeared on the familiar pad in a jumble of bodies. They were safe. They had all made it. Well... almost all of them.

The realization of what had happened finally hit home. The team broke into sobs of regret, anger, hate and sadness. They had lost a valuable team member today. No, he was more than that. He was loyal, and steadfast. He was a role model. He was a friend. He was family. He was Big Macintosh.

Chapter 10: Coping

The entire bunker stopped work for the day. Everypony wore black. But, emblazoned on their black clothing, was a green apple. This day...this day would always be burned into their hearts. It was hard to imagine Big Mac gone. Most of the time, he was silent, but it was just...different.

With the help of Twilight Sparkle, a team of unicorns and the rest of the Apple family erected a statue of Big Mac in the center of their fields. A simple inscription was chiseled into the base:

This is a monument to Big Mac, who fought to the end

He fought for those he loved, family and friend

Granny Smith was largely silent these days, not saying much. The loss had taken a hard hit on her. Her old heart had barely taken it. She kept to herself, most of the time, and mumbled to the apples, speaking Big Mac's tale.

Applebloom was still in shock. Her only brother, her big brother. Gone. Big, strong, silent Big Macintosh. Gone. Her mind couldn't handle it. Not yet. Every day, she would ask Granny Smith when Big Mac was coming home. She was always answered with muttered whispers, incomprehensible speech.

The only other ponies who had taken it as hard as the Apple family were his teammates. Twilight had spent hours, past sunset even, in her books. Theory books about death. They all said the same thing. Death was permanent. If there was an afterlife, the only way to talk to someone their was to die yourself. All the same common sense. All the same bullshit.

Fluttershy mourned, for a bit, but she had her own problems. She talked to Derpy and Vinyl Scratch about her "ordeal" with the guard, since neither of them had known Big Macintosh very well.

" I wasn't in control! It was my other...me, I suppose. Ohhh... If only I hadn't taken Iron Will's classes. See, I have a split personality, who likes to take charge and push people around. It was like I wasn't in control! I could see what was going on, and...feel it...but I couldn't control myself! I was burning up! He was the only thing that made the burning go away. " Fluttershy sheepishly explained to her friends.

Derpy sat there, munching on a muffin, not really comprehending anything that had been said. Vinyl, on the other hand, knew what Fluttershy was going through.

" Look, Fluttershy, I know what your going through. I've been in similar situations myself. Being a DJ isn't just music you know. There's enchanting music, the lights, the laughter. It's all very hypnotic. I've made some decisions similar to yours. I might not exactly regret them, " Vinyl said with a chuckle, " but I learned from my experiences. You just have to move on and let it make you stronger. "

Fluttershy nodded. She was still worried about her alternate persona, but Vinyl's steady words, and confident, clear ruby eyes had given her the mental boost she needed. " Thanks Vinyl. I really appreciate...I really appreciate you taking your time to help me with my, uh, problem. " She blurted out shyly.

Suddenly, her heart beat loud into her ears. She could feel her blood rushing. Oh no. It was her other. What was she doing. She suddenly took a mental back seat. She saw her hoof reach out and stroke Vinyl's cheek. She watched as she saw herself lean in and land a peckish kiss, right on Vinyl's lips!

As fast as it started, it was over. She was back in control. She didn't know what to do. She squeaked in fright and darted out of the room.

" Any time Fluttershy, anytime. " Vinyl said, with a smile on her face. She looked over to Derpy. She forgot that Derpy was there. Derpy looked her square in the eyes (as much as was possible) and simply said, " Blueberry! "

Pinkie Pie...Now, Pinkie Pie didn't know Big Mac that well, but she still felt sad. She supposed. To take her mind off of sad things, she baked cakes, cupcakes, all kinds of sweets. She would pass them out to her friends. She triumphantly raised a hoof into the air and shouted, " Bake ALL the sweets! "

Rarity locked herself in her room, with her spa workers of course. She worked on a mourning dress so elegant, and so sad, that she thought that no one should wear it. But it took her mind off things, at least for a little while. As she was finishing up the stitching of the dress, she quietly sang to herself, "...And that's the art of the dress..."

Applejack and Rainbow Dash took it the worst. Applejack had lost her only brother, and Rainbow Dash felt as if she had  broken a promise. They sat in their room. Applejack hadn't felt like talking when they got back, and Rainbow didn't know what to say. That was twelve hours ago. A whole half day had passed, and neither had moved. Both were still in tears. Both were still in pain.

Finally, Rainbow gathered up the courage to say something. " Applejack... I'm so sorry! " The tears started anew. " I really tried to get to him! I did! You saw! Pinkie held me back! You can't blame me, you can't! I couldn't take it if you blamed me... " She blurted. She fell on the cot, defeated.

Applejack stopped crying. She sat up. She thought for a moment before walking into the bathroom and started the bath. Steam clouded their compartment. " Ah... Ah don't blame you RD. I saw what you tried to do. It just...It just ain't fair. Why Mac? He... " She stopped for a moment to gather herself. " He was the nicest colt you ever did see. I just don't understand why it had ter be him... Come on RD, we haven't had a bath since we got back. We stink, heh. Care to join me? " She said.

Rainbow Dash sighed, got up, and slipped into the tub. She was washing Applejack's back again when Applejack burst into tears again. AJ whipped around, sloshing the bathwater around. She normally soft, fluffly hair lay in wet strands down the sides of her face and the back of her head.

" Oh Rainbow! I miss him so much! It hasn't even been a whole darned day, and I'm a wreck! How? How can I live the rest of my life without Big Mac? " She sobbed.

Rainbow Dash was stunned. She didn't know how to react. But she had to help her friend, her lover. " Don't worry AJ. He's... He's in a better place now, alright? And no matter what happens, you'll have me to help you. " Rainbow explained.

" Thanks RD... " Applejack sobbed, " It means a lot. " The tears started anew. " Oh Rainbow Dash! Please! You need to help me. Take me away. Make me forget! I don't want to think about it anymore, or ever again! "

Rainbow Dash's eye widened at AJ's words. They made her hot under her collar. She blushed, and her wings immediately unfurled to their full length. . Was this really about to happen? She didn't have time to respond to Applejack's words. Before she knew it, Applejack rushed forward and ambushed her. Applejack's hot breath brushed against Rainbow Dash's neck. She felt a tongue on her neck, and her eyes rolled back into her head. Their lips met. AJ really did taste like apples.

Applejack whispered one word, her lips so close to Rainbow Dash's ear that it sent shivers down her spine. " Please... "

Rainbow led her back to their cot. She extinguished the magical orb of light with a flap of her wings. As the light faded, she looked into Applejack's emerald-green eyes one last time before the light faded. That word...it sounded one last time as the couple was plunged into darkness.

" Please... "

Chapter 11: Exploring your feelings

Fluttershy lay in her bed that night, unable to sleep. She stretched and ran her hooves through her mane. She was so confused. What were these feelings she was having? And why did she have them for Vinyl Scratch?

Because she's hot!

Fluttershy squeaked in fear and hid under her blankets. Who said that?

I did. Or rather, you did.

Fluttershy thought, Who are you?

The voice, which matched hers, answered. You. Or rather another you. An alternate you.

I don't understand.

I am simply your alternate persona. The one created with Iron Will's techniques. The one who doesn't get pushed around. The one who takes what she wants.

I thought that was just a... a p-p-personality flaw. Are you saying...that there's another me?

Sort of. Although, I'm not mean. To you at least. We share the same head, and the same thoughts. I wish you no harm. I just...like to be in control once in a while. Make things go how I want them to.

Is that why you...made me kiss Vinyl Scratch?

Her other self chuckled in her mind. Oh no darling, that was you. Don't you get it? I AM you. Sure, a different you, but you nonetheless. I still care for Angel, and all the other animals of the forest, I just don't care for their petty bologna. If Angel doesn't eat his lettuce, he doesn't eat.

So...You're saying that I really am...attracted to Vinyl?

That's exactly what I'm saying. Good. You're catching on... I'm tired now. If I don't take control, I can't use the energy that your body stores. And I wouldn't want to hurt you. Or me. Same thing. I'll leave you to your thoughts. For a little while at least.

Fluttershy shuddered. It was strange, having another you, inside you. So, were her feelings for Vinyl hers, or hers? Oh, it was so stressful, trying to figure this out!

She sighed. She guessed she would have to confront Vinyl about it. But what would she say? Did...did she want something like that with her? She never noticed anyone in that manner before, not even any of the colts. She thought for a little while.

I guess Vinyl is...attractive. Her hair has a nice style, I suppose. It reminds me of the sky and lakes near my house. And the birds and fish that live there. And her ruby-red eyes sparkle and contrast nicely with her electric blue mane. And those violet shades of hers add an air of mystery. Oh dear.

Fluttershy had started to blush, and was feeling a little warm. She guessed Vinyl was still up. It wasn't that late. She got up from her bed, and went to go have a chat with the red-eyed vixen.

Meanwhile, Applejack had been lying on her cot, with Rainbow Dash. Rainbow Dash. Applejack opened her eyes, and was staring at her lover. Her short-ish mane had partially covered her right eye. She reached out, slowly, delicately, and brushed it away. Rainbow did not stir.

Applejack sighed. She loved that mare. There was no question about that. She was just worrying. Worrying that her love wasn't returned. That she was just a plaything. She...she had to make sure. She reached over, and gently shook the shoulder of the mare next to her.

Rainbow's eyes popped open, along with her wings, in surprise.

" Sorry fer wakin' yah. Ah...Ah just had something on my mind, and I couldn't wait another second. Ah just have to ask you something. " Applejack explained.

Rainbow yawned, and replied, " Sure AJ, anything for you. What's up? "

Applejack hesitated, noticeably. " Erm...Oh, it's gonna sound stupid! And it might offend you... I don't want to lose you. "

" Oh come on AJ, it can't be that bad. I doubt I could ever willingly separate myself from you. " Rainbow Dash chuckled.

" Well... Ah was wonderin'... Erm. Do you...love me? I mean, really, truly love me? I'm not just a plaything for your amusement, am I? " Applejack said. Her eyes started to water.

Rainbow Dash stared for a second, open-mouthed. She spoke, " Oh Applejack! Of course! Of course I love you... " She brushed away the single tear that was forming in Applejack's eye with the lightest stroke of a wing. " I would never have made my promise to you if I didn't love you. I'd do anything for you AJ, anything. As a symbol of my faith to you, and only you, I want you to have this. "

Rainbow Dash then got up from the cot. Applejack turned around. Rainbow extended her wings toward Applejack.

Applejack was confused. She even said so, " Rainbow...what in tarnation are you doing? "

Rainbow had her head down. " The single greatest joy to any pegasus, anywhere, is flying. Feeling the breeze in your face, your mane, your wings. A pegasus' wings are their single greatest possessions. To a normal pegasus, there is nothing more valuable. " She explained.

Applejack's confusion remained. " That doesn't explain anything. "

Rainbow sighed inwardly. " It means... It means I trust and love you Applejack. Pegasus feathers are tough stuff, and hard, if not impossible to grow back once lost. I... I want you to take a feather... Any feather. Five feathers, ten, take them all! Whatever it takes to prove myself to you. "

AJ was stunned. " You... you'd rather have me than not fly? But, you love flying! Your dream, before this whole war started, was to be one of the Wonderbolts! You're...you're saying you love me more than flying...wow... "

AJ was lost in her thoughts for a little bit. Rainbow Dash coughed in that hey-I'm-still-here way.

" Oh! Sorry Rainbow. You just startled me. I'm sorry! I apologize. I'm sorry for asking you to prove yourself! I never should have done it. It's just that, with...with what happened to Big Mac, I didn't want to get hurt no more. Please, I don't want to hurt you! Ever. "

" Applejack, just take a feather. I was going to offer anyway. Please...take a feather. Once offered, it's the worst thing to be rejected. Take it. And take care of it. "

Applejack then reached her mouth forward, and clamped onto a single feather on Rainbow's right wing. She tugged.

It was the worst pain Rainbow Dash had ever felt. What was really two or three seconds felt painfully stretched into minutes. She was a pony of the air. She wasn't supposed to lose her feathers. No pegasus was. But the pain was outweighed by the love she felt for Applejack. And that's what she kept telling herself. For Applejack. For Applejack. For Applejack... Applejack!

Finally, and abrubtly, the pain came to a swift end as Rainbow collapsed onto the cot, huffing, next to Applejack, who still had the feather in her mouth. The feather radiated the colors of the rainbow. Applejack could literally feel the love embedded within the feather. It mad her sad that Rainbow had lost such a valuable thing. But also very happy, that she was the mare that Rainbow chose to give it to.

She cried, but only two tears, one out of each eye. A tear of sorrow and loss, for the small sacrifice Rainbow had made, and one of joy; she finally knew, without a doubt, that Rainbow was that one special pony that she would be with forever. The tears slowly slid down her face, and fell onto the bare spot that once held the magnificent feather that Applejack now held within her mouth.

Then, as the tears, of sorrow and joy, sadness and pleasure, hit the spot where the feather should have been, there were the tiniest sparks of light. A new feather began to form! Rainbow looked up in surprise. And happiness.

" I guess it's true. What they say. " She said.

" And what might that be? " Applejack asked.

" That true love really does make them come back. "

The two mares stared into each other's eyes for a moment. Dashing, challenging pink met a tender, warm green. Rainbow Dash and Applejack both felt happier than they had in a long time, possibly ever. The couple climbed back into bed. Applejack got on top of Rainbow Dash, snuggling up under her chin, while Rainbow wrapped both wings around Applejack, making Applejack feel warm and safe.

Feel protected.

Feel loved.

Chapter 12: Fluttershy confronts Vinyl

Fluttershy passed Applejack's room on her way to meet Vinyl. She heard muted talking, and a sob or two. She started to wonder if she should knock and see if everything was okay. Then she remembered that she shared her room with Rainbow Dash. Fluttershy figured that Rainbow Dash could help her. She continued on her way.

She took a left, then a right, and suddenly she was at Vinyl's room. There was a steady whump whump whump of the party music that Vinyl liked to play. She hesitantly knocked. The music came to an abrupt halt, and she could hear hoofsteps coming to the door. It was too late to back out now. The door opened.

Derpy had answered the door, and without a word, smiled and waved her in. Vinyl was lying on her bed, which was a water bed, and it was heated. Vinyl didn't even look up from the music magazine she was reading. She laughed.

" I knew you'd be back Fluttershy. " She stated. Fluttershy couldn't think of anything to say.

Vinyl talked again, " Hey Derpy, would you mind going to the kitchen and baking us some muffins? I'm in a muffin mood. "

Derpy, who wasn't really paying much attention to the conversation, snapped her head up at the word " muffins ". She started to get giddy. Muffins?

" Uhhhh...Sure thing Vinyl Scratch! I love muffins! " Derpy said. And with that, she darted from the room, going to locate the kitchen, and hopefully, someone to help her with her muffins.

" Now that we're alone... " Said Vinyl as she put down her magazine and got up off her bed. She trotted over to Fluttershy and stood less than one step away. " What's up, buttercup? "

Fluttershy skirted around Vinyl. She was too close. Now, Vinyl's back was to the door. " Umm. I just wanted to t-t-talk to you about...w-w-what happened...earlier. I hope you're not mad. "

Vinyl chuckled, the light from her disc jockey table reflecting off of her shades. " Oh Fluttershy, you don't get it, do you? Why would I be mad? " She took a few steps closer and whispered in Fluttershy's ear, " Silly filly... I liked it. "

Fluttershy's heart started to race. She was starting to feel hot. Oh no. Not now. Was she back? Please...other me... not now. I have to confront Vinyl on my own. I can't have you interfering. Please.

She got one answer. Oh no, my dear. This is all you. Have fun.

Fluttershy went pale. She didn't know what was happening. " Umm... You don't understand. There's...oh it's so hard to explain. There's another me, a different me, that makes me do things without thinking. "

Again, Vinyl laughed. She was a bit skeptical, but she could roll with it. " Look, Fluttershy, I'm going to say this as straightforward as I can. I like you. I want you. You're cute. "

Fluttershy squeaked and tried to scoot backward, resulting in her falling on the heated waterbed. Vinyl took her opportunity and pounced. Fluttershy was racing, physically and mentally. Vinyl leaned in till their lips were but an inch apart. Slowly, she reached up and took off her shades. Her fierce, glowing red eyes flashed brilliantly in the low light.

" Just let me try this Fluttershy. One kiss. If you don't want anymore, all you have to do is walk back to your room. But, after this kiss, if you stay with me, I'll show you a whole new world. " Vinyl offered.

Fluttershy nodded her consent. She closed her eyes as she saw Vinyl lean forward. And then, she felt it. The kiss. Vinyl's lips on hers. The heat from the bed, and the heat from Vinyl overwhelmed her. She kissed back. Then, much to Fluttershy's chagrin, Vinyl pulled away.

" So, what's your choice? "

" What? " Fluttershy mumbled. She was wrapped up in the heat of the moment. The heat of passion. " I'm... I'm staying with you..."

Vinyl didn't say anything, she just laughed. She leaned back in for another kiss. She covered Fluttershy in kisses. Her tongue brushed across her neck. Vinyl nibbled on Fluttershy's ear. She pulled back for a moment, and flipped. Fluttershy was suddenly on top of Vinyl. Her wings had room to extend.

" Take it away sweetie." Murmured Vinyl. Fluttershy was shaking. She didn't know what to do. So, she got off of Vinyl and turned on some music. It might help her relax. Except it wasn't her type of music. It was the type that Vinyl liked. Heavy bass pounded into the room, causing everything to vibrate.

" Good move. " Vinyl giggled. She led her new lover to bed. Having someone new to teach the ropes to was so much fun! Where this would lead, she didn't know.

Fluttershy was a whirlwind of feelings. Pleasure, confusion, happiness. She was getting lost. And for the first time, she didn't care. She let herself go. She let herself have fun.

As the mood lighting on the DJ station dimmed, the couple's eyes lit up. Fiery red met a cool, sapphire blue. Two polar opposites, naturally attracted to another. Timid to outgoing. Shy to social. Innocent to experienced.

Then, as the music took a slower pace, the lights dimmed to almost nothing.

Then fire met ice and melted.

Chapter 13: Back to business

It had been a long night. The team stood in the general's office, waiting to be briefed. The two couples looked like they had stayed up late. Well, no one knew they were couples. Oh well.

The general finally spoke, " Alright team, we've been going over all the documents that you've recovered. "

" What do they say? " Inquired Twilight.

" They tell of the enemy's leader. Only referred to in these documents as "Master". They also give a location as to his whereabouts. " General Hooves said.

Everyone's jaw dropped. " Where?! Where is he? " Asked Twilight.

" Well, according to these document, he's underground. More specifically, underneath their encampment. Looks like they were going to set up a permanent residence there. " General Hooves explained.

" Excuse me, but did you say, were, as in past tense? " Said Twilight.

" Yes. We received this letter, by magic, an hour ago. " He explained. He held out the letter.

It read:

Ponies of Ponyville,

We warned you, did we not? You have brought on the full wrath of our Master, and our army. You shall perish as an ant may perish underhoof. You have no chance of winning. It'd be awfully convienient if you all just killed yourselves for us, but that won't happen now will it? We doubt it. We shall arrive in ten days time. Be prepared for a slaughter.

" What are we going to do!? " Yelled Pinkie.

General Hooves sighed. " What other choice do we have? We're taking the fight to them. Everyone we've trained is going to the field. An all out fight. There's no other way. "

" But... we have nowhere near their numbers or strength. " Twilight said.

" I know, I know. But it's better than being killed off little by little. " He said.

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

An hour later, the team, and all the trained ponies, were on a special teleportation pad. Easily fifteen times bigger than their usual one. Everypony's family had attended the large exodus to see them off. It was a sad day. Some ponies had left behind letters, wills, amulets or trinkets for their family to remember them by. Most of them, if not all, would never come back.

With a lighting of a unicorn's horn, the whole force was away. They appeared on the same desolate, dead plain that the team knew so well. The force marched in silence as they contemplated what was about to happen. They weren't that far off from the ridge when there was a flash of light.

Were they being attacked already!? Had the fight started? The army looked around frantically. The light faded.

Standing in front of them were Princess Celestia, with a small contingent of her guards (who looked eerily similar to their foe), Princess Luna, with her bat-winged entourage, and, most surprisingly, Discord.

The team stepped forward. " What are you doing here? We thought you said you wouldn't help us. " Accused Rainbow Dash.

Princess Celestia smiled sadly. " I know I said that. And we're not helping you. We're helping them. " She indicated everypony standing behind them. " Your battle...your battle lies elsewhere. "

Princess Luna stepped forward and addressed the army behind the team, " Attention everypony. We...we have something to inquire of you all. Seeing has how we three are immortal, we thought it appropriate to make...an offering of sorts. We can take your souls from your bodies and implant them within our crowns. It will make you better fighters, since you will lack your care and emotions. If you survive, we will put your souls back into your bodies. But, if not, we shall donate our royal crowns to a temple in Ponyville, where you may be called by your friends and family, and interact with them. If you do not want to accept you do not have to, but we felt...indebted to our subjects. " She explained.

Surprisingly, every single pony, besides the team, accepted. Theirs would be a battle where they needed everything they had. While the extraction process was taking place behind them, the team went to talk to Discord.

" So, were you bored enough to come take part in our lovely situation? " Twilight asked, a bit sarcastically.

Discord chuckled, " You could say that Twilight Sparkle. It's just as important to me as it is to the princesses that you succeed. I haven't had the opportunity for battle in quite some time. " He flexed his claws and put a file to his fangs. " Also, I'm here for a very special pony. "

He disappeared, and reappeared in front of Pinkie Pie. He said to her, " Oh, my dear Pinkie Pie, how I wish you weren't taking part in this battle. You mean so much to me. You are just like me. So random, so full of energy. So chaotic, but in a good way. I want you to know, that even though I can't help you with your battle directly, you have my protection. Should a certain outcome be reached, I can take care of you. For as long as you want, anyway. "

Pinkie Pie smiled while the rest of the mane six stood there in utter shock and awe. Discord, care for somepony? That was random. Well...it did make sense. She gave him a big hug, which he treasured. It might be his last from somepony that was so like him. " Thank you so much! You'll always have a friend in me! And when we get back, can we have some cotton candy clouds!? You know, the one's with chocolate milk?! " She asked.

Discord chuckled and patted her head. " Of course my dear, of course! Now, go get ready. We haven't much time. "

As the group walked away, Discord wiped away the beginnings of a tear. He really hoped that they all made it, especially her.

Ten minutes later, the soul extraction process was complete. The army was ready. They looked similar to the enemy, at least in the eyes. Soulless, uncaring. The time had come. There was no time for doubt or cowardice. Only battle. And the enemy had prepared.

With a scream that shuddered across the plain, the army charged, with the princesses, their guards, and Discord overhead. The team was off to the right flank, hoping to slip in relatively unnoticed. The entrance to the underground layer was located inside the command tent.

The scream had alerted the enemy. Enemy ponies of every kind charged toward them. Before the sides clashed, the team had split from the main group and headed toward the command structure. All the enemies were out charging...charging toward their friends. The team didn't look back, but they heard a crash as the armies collided. They heard cries, but from which side they didn't know. They heard a bat-like shriek, which must have come from Luna's guards. They also heard a lion roar, and eagle screech, a pony neigh, and a lizard hiss, all combined into one terrifying sound. Discord.

Before they arrived at the entrance, the team's eyes fell onto the spot. The very spot where they lost Big Mac. Applejack hesitated. She thought to herself, No. You can't fall apart now. He'd want you to succeed. He'd want you to move on.

Rainbow Dash patted Applejack on the shoulder. She smiled. She looked at Applejack and nodded. As she was comforting her special girl, she noticed something on her neck. Applejack had tied her feather, still radiating all the colors of the rainbow, onto a necklace, which hung from her neck. Rainbow Dash felt a rush of love and pride.

Rainbow and Applejack caught up to the rest of the group, and as a team, the entered the tent. They headed through the hallways till they were in the very center.

" Now, there should be a trap door right about...here! " Twilight exclaimed as she kicked out and hit the floor. A trap door sprang up. Dust flew up and around the team. A dank stench wafted from the entrance. It was worse than anything anyone had smelled before. It was the smell of death.

They looked into the entrance. Pitch black. Everyone took a shuddering, yet steadying final breath to calm their nerves. Then, they descended.

Chapter 14: The final battle

The team headed down into the depths. It was humid, musky. Just plain uncomfortable. Modern stairs gave way to a natural, or natural-looking, cave formation. They headed down. Stalactites hung from the ceiling, dripping water in a steady, ominous drip drip drip.

They didn't know what they were going to do when they confronted this evil. It wasn't something you planned everyday, fighting an ultimate evil. Twilight had tied her hair back with a bandanna. Her hair got in the way of her eyes, and for this fight, she'd need to be able to see everything.

They stepped into a long corridor, with a bulky, heavy looking door at the end. They stopped at the door.

Twilight looked back to the rest of the team. " Ready guys? This is it. "

" Let's show this guy who's boss! " Said Rainbow Dash.

" I won't give him cake, I'll attack him with cake! " Yelled Pinkie Pie

" I've gotten down and dirty for this cause. I'll make him pay. " Declared Rarity.

Fluttershy whimpered, and bolted behind Vinyl. She nodded.

Vinyl patted Fluttershy on the head. " Let's rock! "

" Let's teach 'em that we won't tolerate his evil ways! " Said Applejack

" MUFFINS! " Shouted Derpy.

That was it then. The stalling was done. Twilight pushed the heavy doors open with a creak. Inside was an octagonal chamber. They stepped inside.

The door slammed shut behind them. Torches lined the walls. There was a sense of an ominous presence nearby. They saw a black sphere, about ten hoofs wide, and ten hoofs tall, floating in the center of the room. Was this the Master?

A thundering voice, one that could not be distinguished as male or female, that made everypony cringe, bellowed out, making the bubble quiver like jell-o.

Ah. Would this be the team of ponies that has been giving my minions such trouble? What brings you to my humble abode?

" We're here to defeat you, and stop your reign of terror! " Shouted Twilight.

Ahahahah. You make me laugh. We'll see. The blob said.

The blob reached out to them mentally. Telepathically. It would be easy to corrupt them, just like the army that now fought for his desires.  It reached out a mental tendril of darkness. As it reached toward them, it was burned by a ring of white light that floated around the group. So, it would have to get physical. It could do that.

I see. How's this then?!

The torches flared, and everything in the chamber turned blood-red. A black claw extended from the blob.  It scythed towards the fillies. They all leapt out of range. Twilight and Rarity fired purple and sapphire bolts of magic. The bolts hit the blob and dissipated. Damn!

Pinkie fired her cannon, only to have her shot rebounded toward her. The shot hit her in the side, and she was thrown back against the wall, unconscious or dead, no one could tell.

There was no time to worry about Pinkie. Fluttershy whimpered, her fear too great even for her alternate persona to take over. She cowed behind Vinyl. Vinyl turned her speakers to the max, and a screeching howl emitted from them. The blob was unphased. A streak of golden lightning zapped the speakers, and they started smoking. Seconds later, they simply fell apart.

The clawed appendage swiped again, scathing against Twilight's eye. She grunted in pain. Blood dripped down the side of her face. A deathly howl pierced the air, coming from the blob. In reached out a single claw and scooped up a droplet of blood. It then retracted the claw into itself. As the blood entered the blob, it shuddered, and expanded a bit.

Blood begets blood, and hate begets hate. Violence begets violence, and terror begets terror.

Derpy threw muffins at the evil being. It opened up and swallowed the muffins. Everypony took a moment to sigh and shake their head. It was a noble attempt.

Applejack thought, and thought hard. We can't get close enough for physical attacks, and magic won't work dog gone it! What will!? She hung her head in defeat. This was the end, wasn't it? Not just for them, for everything. Ponyville, Cloudsdale, Canterlot, and everything beyond.

But just as she was about to give up, she saw the feather. The feather Rainbow Dash had given her out of love. It's radiating colors were still visible, even if everything else in the chamber was red. She felt the love coming off of it.

Rainbow Dash had given it to her, to prove her love... Her love... Her love! That was it! That's how they would win! Fighting was violence, and that wasn't working! They would beat it with love!

She shouted to her comrades, " I know how to win guys! I can beat it! Distract him! "

The team, not having time to question her, leapt into action, more magic, muffins and sound flying through the air.

Claws and the golden lightning streaked out. Applejack dodged them all, barely. She shouted, " Twilight, I need a lift! "

Twilight's magic propelled her through the air, and she yanked the feather off of it's lanyard and held it in her mouth. She dove toward the blob, and it swallowed her.

" Applejack! NO! " Cried Rainbow Dash. She started to cry, and thrash about. Done. That's what she was. She fell to the floor, defeated. She started to cry. Damn it. She had just figured out their love. Things were looking good. And now she was gone... What was there to live for now?

The rest of the team stood there, stunned. What happened?

Suddenly, the blob of evil had begun to quiver, shake, and hemorrhage.

Applejack was inside the thing.

What...What is this?

" Heh, it's love. Pure good. I figured out that since you're evil, violence and hatred only make you stronger. So, I figured love would defeat you.

Hah! This puny feather? Watch.

A golden bolt of lightning struck the feather. Applejack suddenly doubted her plan. Too late to go back now.

The feather was still there! It floated, unharmed. Suddenly, it began to pulsate. The colors of the rainbow began flashing inside the evil.

No! I cannot be defeated! I have the strength of millions! I can corrupt things with a simple thought! NOOO!

The blob exploded, showering everyone in an inky substance, which changed into water, and flowed into a puddle on the floor. The torches stopped flaring, and color returned to the chamber. Applejack landed in the puddle, making a little splash. She smiled.

Rainbow Dash tackled her to the ground and began covering her in kisses. She didn't care if anyone was watching.

Twilight said, " I figured something was going on between you two. "

Vinyl chuckled. She had known all along. Rainbow just seemed like that kind of filly. Speak of, she turned around and hugged Fluttershy, and gave her a big victory kiss.

Twilight was stunned at that one. Rarity had fainted. When, nopony knew, but she'd sure be causing a commotion if she was awake.

The team's cheerfulness turned to sorrow as their gaze turned to Pinkie. She hadn't gotten up. And she wasn't breathing. Tears streamed down their faces. Pinkie, of all ponies? Why her? She was sweet, and so caring! Damn it. Just when they thought they won, they were wrong. Sure, they saved everyone else. But at that moment, they didn't care.

Twilight carried Pinkie on her back, while Vinyl carried an unconscious Rarity. They climbed, slowly, the steps that led to the surface. When they reached the surface, they were met by a barren plain. The slaves, the enemy ponies, the entire camp was gone. So were their friends. They must have went home when they knew the evil was defeated.

They came upon piles and piles of ash. The enemies must have simply dried up as they defeated the evil that was underground. Twilight sighed, even if the unicorns alternated teleports, it would take a day or two to get home.

" Might as well get started on the way back. " Twilight said. The team trotted forward.

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Back in the royal palace, Discord was having a chat with Pinkie Pie.

" I told you, my dear, that I would take care of you. If your friends live up to their reputation, you'll see what I have in store for you. " He said.

The spirit of Pinkie floated next to him. " If you say so! Hey, can you whip me up some spirit clouds? " She asked.

With a snap of his fingers, a spiritual cloud formed over Pinkie. It rained ghostly chocolate milk. She giggled. He loved that giggle.

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When the battle ended, the immortals had magicked everyone home. The bunker disappeared, everypony's possessions appearing back in their homes. Crops had changed fields. As promised, a temple had been erected, with the statue of Big Mac in the center, and to either side of him, a pedestal with a crown on it. One daylight golden, the other midnight black. Few ponies had been lost, but those that had returned to Ponyville with their families and friends for one or two last conversations before moving on to the afterlife.

It had been two days since anyone had seen the special team that had defeated their enemy. They started to worry. Then, in the late morning of the second day, seven figures walked through the main gates of Ponyville. It was them! The team that had faced off against pure evil and had won!

The group of ponies stopped for no one, not even their friends or families. That had one last pony to care for.

They walked all the way to Canterlot, and up the palace steps, and into the throne room. Luna, Celestia, and Discord stood there, as if they knew that these ponies would come here.

" Princess. As you can see, we won...but with a heavy cost... " Said Twilight as she laid the body of Pinkie Pie before the immortals.

" I can see that Twilight Sparkle. And I would like to thank you for your service to all of Equestria. You deserve a reward. " Replied Celestia.

" Yes, we hath decreed that an award be appropriated to our champions. " Luna said.

" Princess, we thank you for your generosity, but... There's no reward that can replace our friend. " Explained Applejack.

Discord stepped forward. " That, my friends, is where you are quite wrong. "

He waved a paw to his side, and a translucent Pinkie Pie appeared, munching on a cloud of cotton candy.

" Hey guys! Good job defeating evil in an epic battle of huge proportions and stuff like that. " She said between bites.

" PINKIE PIE! " Shouted the group as one.

Twilight coughed, " It's good to know her spirit is okay, but... she has to move on... "

Discord chuckled, " Wrong again Twilight. As much as Celestia talks about you being her best student, you think you would figure it out. "

Before Twilight, or anyone else, could ask, he created a small tornado, that picked up both Pinkie Pie's body and spirit, and whirled them around.

" Wheeeeee! " Exclaimed Pinkie Pie.

The blur of pink grew faster and faster, and then abruptly stopped with a flash of light. When everyone regained their vision, the saw their friend standing in front of them, alive and well!

" It's so good to have you back! " Said Fluttershy.

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Even though they had their friend back, they had still lost somepony else just as important. Big Mac.

The group visited the newly-built temple. Applejack was allowed to properly grieve, with Rainbow there to help her. She was kneeling in front of his statue, when his spirit appeared.

" Hello, sister. Good job. I'm proud of you. " His phantom said.

Applejack sat there for a minute, stunned. Then she started to bawl even harder. " Oh Big Mac! I miss you so much! What am ah gonna do with the orchard? What about Granny and lil Applebloom!? "

" Do not fret Applejack. There is an afterlife, but I do not feel like heading there yet. I'll wait. For you, Applebloom, Granny Smith. Whoever comes last. But for now, I wanted to let you know I'll always be with you. I have a gift for you. I'll always be there, listening. " He said. His phantom flew to Sweet Apple Acres.

He faded, but everything at the farm sparkled. Apples grew at an intense rate, and buckets flew to catch them as they fell. Pies and other treats began to make themselves. Applejack chuckled, delighted that her brother was still with them, in a sense. She touched the feather that hung from her neck, and felt the love that still radiated from it. Everything would be okay.

Eventually, things went back to normal. Pinkie Pie threw parties, Derpy ate muffins, and so on and so forth. The Mane Six continue to go on adventures to this day. Although, in the back of their minds, they knew.

They knew that victory was temporary. You just can't kill an immortal force. But, it was subdued, for who knows how long. If it came back, they knew how to defeat it.

Now, the only problems they have to worry about are which adventures to go on next.

The end.

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