Name: Pocket Plum
Species: Pony – Pegasus
Gender: Female
Coat Color: Dark Purple
Mane Color: Half Yellow and Half Pink (Split down the middle)
Eye Color: Pink
Cutie Mark: A grey metal cloud.

Abilities: She can build buildings and machines on top of clouds. Naturally, she can construct items that allow an individual to walk on clouds. Additionally these items allow for walking on water. She can also make items that can slow your fall (it works by interacting with the moisture in the air).

Unique Features: Her wings are around 50% larger than normal. (My fault, but it seems to help her move faster and be more agile so no harm done.)

When Barn and I arrived at Coltberton everything seemed absolutely normal. In fact, Coltberton was a fairly prosperous town even by Equestrian standards. Some of that was attributed to the knowledge left behind by Sir Colbert. Certainly they had a much more advanced knowledge of machines than I was used to.

The town had at least one hundred houses, a few dozen shops, a trade guild, a few taverns, and other common features for Equestria. But it also had an advanced plumbing system, an aqueduct, a steam engine, and rudimentary animatronics. (And of those animatronics, many were human. That confused the crap out of me when I first saw one move.)

The town also had a surprisingly high proportion of its citizens involved in military affairs. If legends are true, Sir Colbert was a knight, scholar, and an inventor. My guess is that he was a French noble during the Enlightenment era. Legends of his heroic battles against beasts and foul creatures made it so that every pony grew up dreaming of being a knight in shining armor. That or they wanted to become some sort of architect or inventor. The place was home to many researchers and scholars. Every citizen had a great faith in progress and reason.

That just reminded me: if there were more humans like Sir Colbert who brought their knowledge to Equestria, it might explain why technology levels are so varied from place to place. But that, of course, is simply speculation.

Regardless, Barn went into town while I stayed hidden in the nearby forest with the majority of our supplies. Apparently some ponies in the town recognized Barn and apologized for the lack of reason they showed him the first time. Barn spent much of the first day chatting with the mayor (a big, grey Earth Pony) and being shown around town. Luckily, I was not bored as I was able to listen in and talk to Barn through a mini radio. After I nagged him a couple of times, he was eventually able to inquire about the pony he had remembered.

Turns out the pony’s name was Pocket Plum. She was a pegasus but had been unable to fly for years. No one had seen exactly what had happened but she was discovered near-death on the ground, having fallen from a cloud. She could not remember what had happened to her, due to a concussion, and her wings were almost completely stiff. A curse was suspected. In fact, the reason they had chased Barn out the first time was that there were no other suspects, they knew of his abilities, and they used him as a scapegoat. Though, as I said, they agree that this action had been too harsh and brash.

Barn forgave them for the incident and inquired about why someone did not fix Plum’s wings. The townsponies said that they tried. They described the current condition of her wings and how they reacted to each treatment. Nothing seemed to work.

Of course, based on the description and symptoms, it took me only a few seconds to realize what was going on with Plum’s condition but that will be explained soon enough.

Regardless, Plum was the town’s top architect and her abnormal architectural abilities could still be used as long as others carried her to the clouds or pulled the clouds down.

This was good news for us. Knowing her condition, I now had a plan to get her to join us. Now all that was left was the hard part, actually convincing her to join us.

It took some time (far more than I liked) but the tour finished near the end of the day. Showing more of the town's hospitality, Barn was given free stay at the inn. As soon as he was settled, I told him to contact Plum and bring her to the forest.

Even with all of the guards, Barn was able to sneak out and go to Plum’s house unnoticed. He knocked on her door, was greeted by Plum’s yellow-skinned, white-maned, Earth Pony (yeah I double-checked it was an Earth Pony) sister named Pellet. Anyways, he was able to convince Plum to go on a walk with him. She was suspicious but, as I said before, Barn just has that aura of trust and friendliness.

As they headed towards the forest, they chatted about a few things, nothing important.

Before I give the recording, I must say her wings were in a rather sorry state. They were the proper size but they looked weathered and sickly. I was surprised she could move them at all. But as with all individuals who have been crippled, it no longer seemed to affect her mood.

Plum: *Giggle* I bet they learned their lesson.

Barn: Naturally, though they were dumbfounded as to where I got all that water. Oh, here we are.

Plum: The Versailles meadows? (Looks around.) Is something here?

Stratos: That would be me.

Plum: Who said that? Where are you?

Stratos: I am Stratos Lucid, and I am hiding in the shadows of the forest.

Plum: … Barn, who is this and why is he hiding?

Barn: An important associate of mine and I can tell you he is very secretive.

Stratos: Pocket Plum, a pegasus known for being able to build any solid structure on top of a cloud. And, unfortunately, one who can no longer use her wings.

Plum: I am well aware of who I am, thank you.

Stratos: Would you like to know why you cannot use your wings?

Plum: Really? You think you know the answer? Do you realize how many ponies I have seen?

Barn: He’s not… Trust me, he knows.

Stratos: So, how about it?

Plum: Fine. Give your answer.

Stratos: Of course this is partial speculation; I’d need more accurate data to give a full detailed medical report and be one hundred percent sure. Regardless, what is happening is a sort of combination genetic and environmental condition. It appears that the blood vessels reaching your wings are a tad too small. That tingling sensation are your muscles starved for the proper amount of energy. That is why they are weak. In a smaller body it was fine but as you grew older, your body became bigger but vessels become longer and needed more energy thus worsening the condition. However, the reason why you cannot use your wings at all is because of the accident. The broken bones and damaged vessels further weakened areas of your wings, crippling you on a cellular level by basically shutting off access to certain muscle groups. The lack of blood also stunted your natural healing. The total result is that your wings get enough blood flow so that you can still move them a bit but are overall too damaged to ever heal properly. In fact, they are partially stunted because they do not receive enough blood to grow properly.

Plum: I didn’t catch all of that.

Stratos: Blood can’t reach your wings. They don’t have enough energy to work.

Plum: Oh… Why didn’t you just say that?

Stratos: I like being a little science-y. And I like rambling. Mostly the latter.

Barn: I can attest to that.

Plum: Well thank you very much Mr. Lucid. Unfortunately, that is completely useless to me.

Stratos: Would you like to be able to fly again?

Plum: I have been to every doctor, medical, and magical professional there is. Nopony has been able to help me. I accept the fact that I will never fly again.

Stratos: But would you like to be able to fly again?

Plum: I am perfectly fine with the way things are. I can do anything anypony can do. I am completely happy with my life.

Stratos: Let me rephrase this. Do you want to fly again?

Plum: If possible… Yes.

(I walked out of the shadows and revealed what I am. To make it easier to see me, I also activated the suit, causing its inner components to reveal their neon glow and, on top of that, activated Barn’s enchantments causing those glyphs to light up as well. I pretty much looked like an actual knight in shining armor, albeit a very technologically advanced one… it was quite dramatic. No wonder she thought I was a ghost.)

Plum: S-S-S-Sir Colbert! You-You’re real!

Barn: Not quite.

Stratos: I am a human, much the same as Colbert… glad you remembered not to pronounce the T. After all, it is a French name. Well… sort of anyways. Actually, as you can see by my armor, I have techniques and abilities Colbert could only dream of. Oh, and I already said my name was Stratos.

Plum: But I, oh wow, uh, I… Oh I have to tell the others!

Stratos: Not so fast. Listen, I have a proposition for you.

Plum: What is it?

Stratos: Barn and I, along with a few others, are starting a group. We are currently in the midst of getting approval from the Princess herself. Hopefully she will agree.

Plum: What is the purpose of this group?

Stratos: To protect Equestria.

Plum: *Bursts out laughing* From what?

Stratos: Ms. Plum, I will ask that you refrain from merriment. This is a very serious issue and I would not be coming to you otherwise.

(That got her attention.)

Plum: What happened? Is the Princess hurt? Is she in danger?

Stratos: No. We have noticed that there are regions covered in dark magical energy located in many places across Equestria. We have fought a reanimated creature created as a result of these magics. We intend to find out what is causing this and we desire only the best to join us.

Plum: So why the secrecy?

Stratos: We possess technological and magical knowledge that could revolutionize Equestria. But this knowledge could also endanger the populace if not used correctly. But that was the original reason. More importantly, we are not sure exactly where the source of this dark magic is coming from. If it is a being or group of beings causing this, we would rather not potentially alert them.

Plum: So you want me to join this group?

Stratos: Yes, and there would be many benefits towards doing so.

Plum: Such as?

Stratos: I already told you, I can fix your wings. Probably improve on them actually. You’d also have access to, well, almost anything you could desire. And you would be among an elite group of individuals.

Plum: …I’ll think about it.

Stratos, Barn: Think about it?

Plum: What? Did you two honestly think I would just abandon my friends and family just because a human showed up and offered to heal my wings?

Stratos: You don’t have to abandon them. We are asking you to help us and keep our secret.

Plum: Which I imagine would require many trips across Equestria and pull me away from everypony for long stretches of time.

Barn: Plum is right about that.

Plum: I also have to trust you that you aren’t lying to me. I don’t care if you are a human. You are obviously not Sir Colbert. Until you can show me proof from the Princess herself that you are working for Equestria, I’m not going to help.

Barn: Plum I—

Plum: Thanks but no thanks Mr. Lucid. Don’t worry; your secret is safe with me.

(I quickly thought of a way to salvage the situation.)

Stratos: Okay, fine. I hate using scare tactics but we didn’t come here for you.

Plum: *Sigh* Why did you come here?

Stratos: This place has one of the highest concentrations of this dark energy. Something is going to happen here soon. We just decided to recruit you because it was convenient.

Plum: I’m flattered.

Barn: Plum, we are offering our help. Because of the first signal, Stratos and my friends encountered an undead basilisk. They were unprepared and it took everything they had to stop it. We are stronger now but this situation appears much worse. If we do not do something, then many ponies in this town are in danger.

Stratos: And every place in Equestria is at the same risk. We are talking about a potential army of darkness if something is not done. Celestia cannot handle a nation-wide event. If we don’t act before then, a lot of ponies will have their lives ruined at the very least. I don’t want this to happen to Equestria. Equestrians should not have to experience the hollow feelings of Earth.

Plum: Hollow…

Barn: Plum, is something wrong?

*PAUSE*

Plum: When I was a young filly, on the day I broke my wings, I remember… something dark attacking me. It was a shadow with the most hauntingly empty feeling attached to it. I’m sure it thought it killed me. I never told anypony, I did not think they would believe me. I said I lost my memories instead… I’m sorry Barn, I had no idea they would chase you out for it. I always regretted that.

Barn: Plum, that’s in the past. Everything is much better for me now. I’m not concerned about that. I am focused on the present. Please, if nothing else, consider what we are saying.

*PAUSE*

Plum: I’ll meet you back here tomorrow. Hopefully, I’ll have a decision by then.

Stratos: Thank you.

(Barn and Plum walked back towards the town.)

Esper (over the radio): Wow that was a close one. Can’t believe you lied to her like that.

Stratos: I didn’t lie.

Esper: “An army of darkness?”

Stratos: Okay, maybe I exaggerated a little bit but uh… Any word from Zed?

Esper: Well, he made it into Canterlot and cut off all radio communication. He said he plans to sneak into the Princess’s room tonight.

Stratos: Little creepy. Have the reapers spotted anything?

Esper: Nope, everything’s clear in the air.

Stratos: Then you should get some sleep; it is past your bedtime.

Esper: Make me.

Stratos: *Grumbles* Well then, I’m turning off the radio and going to sleep.

Esper: Aw, come on, who will I talk to?

Stratos: Barn.

Esper: Oh yeah! Good night Stratos!

Stratos: Night Esper.

Probably didn’t need to include the last part but I already transcribed it.

So, yeah, that’s what happened there. Plum's story did worry me. I had believed everything began recently but it appears this had stretched back farther than I considered. I had inwardly believed the expeditionary force was somehow the cause of these anomalies. Of course now I know this goes back way longer than my lifespan, let alone the expeditionary force. There was, frankly, no way they could be associated with this.

The next morning was actually quite uneventful. Barn had decided to go to the field but spent most of the time sleeping. He had stayed up most of the night talking to Esper. (I wonder if he ever considered just turning off the radio, or was his good nature just too strong to allow that?)

I was waiting patiently. I took readings and checked equipment just to pass the time. Actually, I spent most of it just admiring another beautiful Equestrian environment. The grass was particularly green and flowers were numerous. It’s amazing how easily such sights can occupy my time.

Soon enough, Plum arrived with her niece and her niece’s three friends. Barn got up and began to play with them. While Plum watched over them, we got to talking.

Stratos: So, made up your mind?

Plum: No.

Stratos: Fantastic.

Plum: I’m sorry; it’s too big a decision to be made so quickly.

Stratos: Well don’t worry, we don’t plan on leaving until either you come with us or something big happens.

Plum: Such as?

Stratos: I have no idea. We have no idea what triggers these things and we only have one case to go off of.

Plum: Then how do you know something will happen here and not somewhere else?

Stratos: We don’t. But, generally speaking, if you see an energy spike that is probably where things are going to happen.

Plum: So you think this town is the source of these troubles?

Stratos: I said that this likely involves all of Equestria; so, no, I do not.

Plum: This thing could—

Stratos: I’m not telling you anything else until you agree to join us or until I feel like it.

Plum: I just need to know what I am getting myself into.

Stratos: You were nearly killed by a monster. That is what you are getting yourself into.

Plum: If I join you my life is in danger?

Stratos: Honestly, I think all of our lives are in danger.

Plum: Is there anything we can do to stop it?

Stratos: I have no idea.

Plum: Why do you want me?

Stratos: *Sigh* This is the final question I am answering. We need a skilled pegasus.

Plum: But I can’t fly. Even if I could, I haven’t flown in years.

Stratos: I am not concerned about your physical abilities in the slightest. Our armors and equipment allow a drastic increase in those fields. But we cannot replicate innate magical abilities. At least not yet. You have a completely unique ability and any amount of control of the weather is appreciated. You also are a skilled architect even besides your other talents and I have no doubt you could drastically improve our base and equipment. Even then, given this town’s culture, you probably have some sort of military training. You have an amazingly diverse set of useful skills. There is a reason we are choosing you and not anybody else.

*PAUSE*

Plum: Stratos… is your friend trying to say something to you?

Stratos: Hm?

(Barn was rushing towards me yelling at the top of his lungs.)

Barn: TURN ON YOUR RADIO!

Stratos: Oh crap.

(I had forgotten to turn my radio back on from last night. Based on how scared Barn was, I almost hesitated to find out what was going on.)

Stratos: *Click* Stratos here. What—

Esper: *Unintelligible*

Stratos: Esper, I can’t understand you.

Esper: WEIRD READINGS! DOTS APEARING!

Stratos: Where?

Esper: EVERYWHERE!

(I turned on the radar on my helmet's HUD. Of the many dots, a small group was heading right towards us.)

Stratos: Oh no.

Plum: PATTY!

Barn: Armor now!

I focused my attention forward. As Barn rushed to my position to get his equipment, the four fillies were still curiously trying to understand why Barn was running away. They turned around only when they realized there were creatures oozing out of the ground behind them.

These things were unlike anything I has seen before. They were massive though held no exact shape or size. They appeared to be made out of some kind of black tar-like substance. Some were humanoid, others four or more legged. Their eyes were glowing green or red or yellow. These were golems. Animated substances bound to the will of their creator.

The many lifeless assailants nimbly lumbered forward, moving with the grace of boulders, intent to crush anything in their path. Including those little ponies.

I would not let that happen.

I activated all the enchantments on the armor, overloaded the boosters, and launched at the golems. Clearing the distance in seconds, I punched the first golem through the chest and wrenched my fist back, ripping the things in half. I pulled out my sickle and slammed it down on top of another’s head while simultaneously kicking a third. I ripped my sickle and my leg out of the golems, tearing them apart, and looked back to confirm the girls were galloping away.

I had only looked away for half a second but one golem used this time to strike me in the chest.

If I had been wearing traditional medieval armor, the blunt force could have cracked my ribs. Fortunately, the recon armor absorbed most of the impact and I was merely tossed back a few meters. I got up to retaliate and noticed something was wrong with my suit. The booster engines would not activate. The tar on the suit was hindering my movements. If I did not have the enhancers I’m not sure I would have been able to move at all. As it was, I was limited to the speed of an average athlete.

These things were tough, but if you destroyed them with physical attacks their tar-like remains would ensnare you. En masse, as was the situation, that could be a problem.

Luckily, I was not alone. Several shimmering shards shot through the air and cut another golem down. Barn had already got his suit on and was using his enchantments to create energy weapons. He tossed me two pieces of equipment which I attached to my gauntlets. They were specialized enchanted metals meant to allow me to fire crystal-like magical attacks with a sweep or flick of my arm. Good for long range attacks.

As they closed in on us, Barn and I launched a wave of these magical crystals. We took down as many as we could while keeping our distance. When the remaining golems continued to advance, Barn and I looked at each other and charged forward.

We realized the golems were not particularly fast or agile. They had no sense of self-preservation. In fact, I would not say they were all that strong. Also, considering I was already covered in the tar (though I had to protect my visor for vision), attacking them more was not going to slow me down. And my sickle proved to be surprisingly good against them, allowing me to cut off their limbs as I dodged their attacks. Barn found an alternate means of safe attack. He channeled energy through his helmet and created a magic sword held in his mouth. Considering his boosters still worked, he could use them to charge at the golems and cut off their legs before they could properly react. The other golems would crush their own allies to get to us.

With all of our training against Zed, Barn and I found it all too easy to take the rest of them down. In total, we destroyed at least thirty of these golems. When it was over, I made sure no tar was on the handle of my sickle and attached it to my upper thigh. (By the way, that was the same sickle I had used against the basilisk. It was now reinforced and enchanted. Almost a proper weapon.)

As soon as we finished, Plum and the fillies came rushing over to us.

Fillies: Thank you Sir Colbert!

Stratos: I’m not—

Plum: What’s going on?

Stratos: We don’t know.

Plum: I mean right now.

Barn: Esper.

Esper: The golems are appearing all over town. The citizens are dealing with them but already many are being immobilized by the glue.

Stratos: The glue?

Epser: Your suit indicates it is black glue.

Plum: Who are you talking to?

(I ignored her question.)

Stratos: Plum, do you want to help?

Plum: Yes.

Stratos: Barn, get her set up with the armor. I’ll handle the situation until you arrive.

Barn: Right. Plum, follow me.

I headed into the town. It was almost war zone. Many buildings had been damaged or destroyed. Most of the civilians were still running for cover while a group of knights and volunteer militia fought on. The ponies had managed to fight the golems back to the outskirts. There they could fight in the open grassy fields surrounding the town rather than the cramped streets that would favor the enemy. But most of their fighters were now immobile and another wave of the attackers was coming. Had they not had such a prominent military culture they probably would have been overrun by now.

I completely ignored the fact that I should stay hidden and rushed into the front lines. By now the glue holding me back had dried and my armor was beginning to snap off pieces of the adhesive, allowing full mobility. I jump-kicked one of the golems (breaking off the last bits of adhesive from my leg) and released another salvo of magical spears.

The ponies briefly cheered at the arrival of their supposed past savior and informally put me in charge.

Jest (the mayor): Sir Colbert, there’s another group of these monsters heading for us. What should we do?

Stratos: Hang on. Esper.

Esper: Yes?

Stratos: Tag ‘em.

Esper: Activating combat procedures. Reapers engaged. Target’s acquired.

Traditional gunpowder may not work on Equestria, but explosives do. The reaper UAVs were all equipped with a homing missile and two rockets. Esper told them to target the largest groups of the golems.

In seconds rockets rained down from the sky obliterating the oncoming force. There was nothing left but craters and ashes.

More golems began to form.

Jest: What magic was that?

Stratos: It’s not magic. It’s technology. The product of countless years of research into weapons of war. In some ways you could say it is the product of human reason.

Soldier 1: With Sir Colbert on our side there’s no way we can lose!

Soldier 2: I’ll get his blade.

(I got fed up with them calling someone else’s name.)

Stratos: Colbert is dead. I am Doctor Stratos Lucid. And we do not have an unlimited amount of those attacks.

(They took it surprisingly well.)

Jest: Okay Doctor Lucid, what should we do?

Stratos: Make sure none sneak into the town behind us. Otherwise, hold this line as long as you can. Focus on long-range attacks, melee them only if you have to. For some reason, at this point, most of the golems are appearing here in this field and not anywhere they please. The source is probably here somewhere.

(Jest nodded and brought a small group of ponies with him back into the town. As he left, Barn arrived.)

Barn: Stratos I’m here.

Stratos: Where’s Plum?

Barn: Still getting ready. Learning the enchantments.

*Explosions* (Another wave of rockets was released.)

Barn: How many more of those salvos do we have?

Stratos: Not sure. Probably at least two.

(Pellet (Plum’s sister and apparently leader of the town knights) noted Barn’s armor. It did not take her long to put two and two together.)

Pellet: You know this human?

Barn: Sorry, I had my reasons for not telling you.

Esper: Stratos, the energy concentrations seem to be originating directly behind the line of golems. It is probably the source but something there is messing with the targeting systems. I could blind-fire but it would be a waste of ammo.

Barn: It’s probably hiding under an illusion to make it invisible. I can dispel it.

Stratos: Alright, new plan. Barn, you’re with me.

Pellet: What’s the plan?

Stratos: We’re gonna punch through the enemy, eliminate the illusion, and take out whatever is causing it. Unicorns will provide covering fire.

Esper: Salvo away. You might want to get going.

*More explosions*

Stratos: Those who wish to follow, do so. Let’s do this.

Barn and I charged forward followed by a small group of unicorns, pegasi, and normal pony knights. Several bolts of magical energy and telekinetically-propelled objects flew over our heads and crushed or blew apart anything in their path. Barn and I contributed our own ranged attacks cutting down anything in front of us until we were forced to engage physically. Still, we ignored most of them, letting the ponies take care of the minions.

The golems were not exactly slow but we were plenty fast. We had no problem weaving, ducking, jumping-over, side-stepping, or otherwise dodging their strikes while maintaining our sprinting pace. Barn and I cleared the necessary ground in no time. When we got in range, Barn activated another enchantment as I quickly eliminated the few nearby golems.

As the distortion disappeared it revealed a truly terrifying figure. An abnormally large Pegasus made completely out of twisting shadows. Its form seemed to ooze miasma. It had the most horrifyingly empty eyes I had ever seen. That crimson glare was indescribable. It was the dark void personified.

Quite frankly, we were caught off guard. Barn and I stood there speechless. Only Esper’s words pulled us out of our trance.

Esper: What is that thing?

*It released a hissing roar at us*

Stratos: Esper, tag it now!

Esper: I can’t! The sensors don't work!

I didn’t even see it when it first moved. I blinked and by the time I finished, it had closed the small distanced and stomped Barn into the ground. I threw a salvo of spears but it practically disappeared leaving after-images in its wake. It stuck me from behind, knocking off my helmet, tossing me over the ground, and dazing me. Somehow I managed to quickly pick myself up.

I did not see what happened next. No one did. But I was somehow thrown into the air. The creature flew down and struck me in the chest with its front hooves before blasting away. Only a last second activation of the boosters prevented me from becoming two-dimensional upon hitting the ground. Even so, the G-force shocks damaged my organs and caused some light internal bleeding.

I’m pretty sure it thought it killed us but both Barn and I got up to witness the thing fly into the air and create a series of storm clouds. The winds picked up and tornadoes took shape.

The townsponies were too occupied with the minions to stop it. Even though we were wounded, it seemed it was up to us to kill it. Barn and I prepared another ranged attack when something tackled the shadow pegasus out of the air and smashed it into the ground.

Without something creating the unnatural weather, the tornadoes and clouds dissipated.

We looked over at the impact zone and saw a pony jump away. To our surprise, it was Pocket Plum. She had activated the suit and its enchantments. To allow her to fly, I had built a custom-made military flight-suit that had several additional boosters and engines built into it. On top of that, thanks to Barn’s enchantments, magic flowed into her wings covering them in a golden-white aura and allowing her to use them with ease. Even with all this mechanical and magical help, that she was flying at all was impressive.

She was not intimidated by the creature. In truth, she was angry. She stomped her hooves, spread out her wings, and growled at it.

Plum: You monster! You crippled me!

She bolted forward. The creature generated and threw a lightning blast at her. The electricity flowed around her. (Plum was wearing a flight suit; of course I made it virtually shock-proof.) She rammed into the thing once more but it threw her off.

We wasted no time. Barn and I rushed forward, unleashed a ranged barrage, and moved in to strike. Some of the barrage hit but the creature was still too fast and it jumped into the air, only for Plum to drop from above and slam it into the earth once more. Using his magic, Barn boosted my enchantments and I quickly punched it square between the eyes, sending it tumbling backwards over the ground.

We tried to press our assault but it lifted its wings and swept them forward creating a torrent of wind that threw the three of us back. We had not weakened it at all.

We landed on our feet (or hooves) and with Barn to my left and Plum to my right we charged back into battle.

It was fast. Really fast. But I had experience with the basilisk and basic combat training; I was used to quick reactions. (I’d also like to credit my years of playing video games.) Barn had spent a life of traveling and battling monsters, alone when needed, and so he was used to unknown abilities. Plum was from a military culture, was expertly trained, and was angrier than I had seen anything before or since; I doubt much could stop her. It did not find us easy prey.

We dodged its attacks, physical and magical, and counter-attacked at every chance we got. The battle was a near stalemate. With three-on-one we were able to coordinate our actions in such a way that if it attacked any of us, it left itself open to retaliation. Our armor was tough enough that we could shrug off most of its blows without too much worry.

But, as I said, it was almost a stalemate. Every attack of ours was doing damage but it seemed to have unlimited energy and was slowly wearing us down. Moreover, my injuries began to slowly catch up with me.

Perhaps annoyed with its lack of progress, the shadow-thing began to focus its golems on us. That brought the rest of the townsponies to our aid. In fact, many of the glue-encumbered warriors had been freed and more townsponies had gathered their courage. Moreover, one of the townsponies had the idea of using magic to animate the many animatronic human-like machines and use them as warriors. The result was a large army of reinforcements, led by Jest, arriving from within the town to aid us further.

The two opposing forces crashed into each other like a torrents of water. We were surrounded by comrades yet, for me, the battle was more difficult than ever. Assailants and allies would appear out of this chaos to strike or assist. I had to attack and guard from every direction, barely avoiding hitting my own friends. Golems were being cut down and blown apart while ponies and machines were being ensnared or bashed left and right. I myself was struck a number of times.

Cumulative impacts worsened my internal bleeding. Nor was I used to exerting this amount of energy for this much time. I quickly grew exhausted. Soon enough, I was just being tossed around like a rag doll. I was not a fighter; my strength was failing me.

After one more blow to the head, I lost focus, and my enchanted inscriptions dimmed. I dropped down on my knee. Only the suit kept me from completely collapsing. I briefly noticed that a group of ponies, including Barn and Plum, managed to trap the dark creature in thick ropes. They could not hold it down for long and it began to summon storms once more.

Through all of this, I remember feeling bad for Esper. Even if there had been no interference, the reaper drones could not fire with so many friendly targets nearby. Esper could only helplessly watch as the battle turned against us. Since the suits could monitor our physical conditions, she knew we were at our limits.

My vision was fading. I recall the distinctly metallic taste of the blood in my mouth. The only thing keeping me remotely aware of my status was Esper's constant pleas.

Esper: Stratos. Stratos! Get up! …Please get up.

(A golem seeped up from the ground and rapidly stomped towards me. I tried to react but my body wouldn’t let me.)

Stratos: Sorry, Esper. Zed would—

*Bang* (A magical blast ripped the golem apart.)

Pellet: Here. *Pellet, backed by two unicorn soldiers, threw a sword to me*

(I instinctively caught it with my left hand. The holy aura surrounding the blade made me forget my exhaustion.)

Stratos: What is it?

Pellet: The sword of Sir Colbert. Azrael. The one he used to slay his opponents, including a greater demon. It’s a weapon made for a human. Use it.

I held Azrael up to the sun. It was a magnificent weapon. The blade seemed to cut the air around it. Even after hundreds of years, the enchantments had made sure the blade never dulled or grew brittle. It was as light as a feather but stronger than any metal should conceivably be. It appeared to glow with a faint heavenly light. This was the sword of a legend: a man who took on the impossible and won.

The blade must have given me power. Suddenly, I was filled with confidence. My suit’s enchantments lit up. I stood up. With a flick of my wrist, I cut down a line of golems assailing my comrades. Azrael’s holy light annihilated the impure beings while leaving the virtuous untouched. I revved my armor’s boosters. I unhooked my own enchanted sickle and tightly gripped it with my right hand. Protected by the blade, against this shadow-being’s storm, I effortlessly walked toward the struggling demon.

As soon as the dark pegasus saw the blade, it hissed and focused all of its attention on me. It fired a sphere of magical energy from its mouth but, with a gentle touch, Azrael deflected it towards a group of dark minions, blowing them to pieces. The fiend tried this attack several more times, each with similar success. This only enraged the unholy thing.

Plum saw what I was holding and smiled. She motioned to Barn and the others with her wings. They released the ropes and the demon charged.

I was in the moment. As the battle raged around me, everything seemed to slow down and grow quiet. I could see the demon move. It was all too clear.

It closed in on me, centimeter by centimeter. Milliseconds before contact, I acted. I shifted to the side, did a single upper slash with Azrael, slicing off the left wing, then pivoted, hooked my sickle around its neck, and twisted around, decapitating the fiend.

There was no blood. The creature lacked all substance. It limply tumbled to the ground and began to fade.

The weather once more cleared. Within seconds, my comrades easily finished off the few remaining golems.

As they realized what happened, the ponies cheered. I simply walked away from the remains.

Stratos: Esper.

Esper: *Sniffles* Yeah?

Stratos: Tag it.

One final missile came down and engulfed the remains in an explosion.

Satisfied with the result, my energy was completely gone. I dropped my weapons, took a few more steps, and fell to the ground. Everyone rushed over to me. But I rolled onto my back, grinned the biggest toothy grin in my life, and exuberantly spoke.

Stratos: That *Breath* was awesome.

In the light of the moment, it was one of the most relieving statements possible. Chuckles turned to laughter which turned back into cheers.

Barn and Plum helped me back to my feet.

Pellet: That was amazing.

Stratos: Hey Plum.

Plum: Yes?

Stratos: How about now?

Plum: Hm?

Stratos: Willing to join us now?

Plum: *Giggles* I’ll think about it.

Stratos (and Esper): Darn.

Pellet: Uh, Doctor Lucid.

Stratos: Um, I have something to admit.

Pellet: What?

Stratos: I’m not actually a doctor. I never got my doctorate. My friends just called me that as a joke because of my attitude towards my professors and it stuck.

Pellet: Ah, well then, I have something to admit too.

Stratos: What?

Pellet: Sir Colbert said he purified Azrael but it was a cursed blade. Also, Azrael was the blade Sir Colbert used to kill a demon, but it was the same demon that killed him.

Stratos: *Beat* I am very glad I did not know that beforehand.

(I stumbled and nearly fell over.)

Stratos: Uh, I think I need to rest. Though I'm probably still dying so my body likely needs some healing magic. If you don’t mind that is.

Barn: I’ll get on it. *He activated one of his enchantments on his armor's leg and stuck it against my chest*

Stratos: So, do we get some sort of celebration or what?

Jest: Yes.

Stratos: Really?

Jest: Yes. But first we need to fix up the town. Which should take a few days.

Barn: All for the best. Esper will be wanting to join us.

Plum: *Scratching her ear* Is that who I kept hearing?

Stratos: Yup, she is the one who was manning the drones, monitoring the situation, and dropping rockets from the sky. Her help was essential. It’s only fair she joins us.

Esper: Yay! I’ll be right there!

Stratos: As soon as you tell Zed what happened.

Esper: As soon as I tell Zed what happened, right.

Pellet: In the meantime. Would you mind telling us who you are?

Barn: I don’t think you’re going to avoid discovery this time.

Stratos: You never know. I can be sneaky.

Esper: He also likes to lie.

Stratos: Quiet, you.

So, from there, while the town was slowly being rebuilt, Barn and I were treated like heroes. I told the townsponies an abridged story of my origin, leaving out some sensitive details. I explained who I was and that I was from another world, same as Colbert. I left out the whole expeditionary force, my intent to start the Unknown Guardians, and the dark magic signatures by simply explaining that I knew there was dark magic in their town and had decided to go and help.

In thanks, or perhaps for some sort of symbolic tradition, they not only offered me Sir Colbert’s sword but also gave me his diary. Though they could not understand his words, for them it was an unrivaled treasure.

It was not soon after that the ponies began to teach me Sir Colbert's legends. Apparently, Sir Colbert came to the town and, just like me and my friends, saved it from a group of monsters. He continued helping the town, spreading the message of the Enlightenment, and investigating the world of Equestria. Amazingly, he lived to the age of one hundred and forty and became an unmatched holy arcane user in addition to his skills as a knight. He died defending the town from a demon (a fate I am glad not to have shared) but did not die straight after slaying his opponent. Instead he told them to, “Press onward and achieve a future of enlightened perfection. Always defend Equestria. Always trust humanity. Always trust each other. This may be my end, yet it is not tragic. My life has been wonderful. It was worth every moment. Thank you, my friends.”

Touching; and I truly do mean that.

In my off time, I began to translate Colbert’s diary. No wonder they did not understand it. It was written in code. For some reason, Colbert had written his notes in an odd combination of Latin, Greek, French, and Italian. If I did not have my computer, it would have taken me at least years of constant study to translate his works.

I was able to tell the citizens of Coltberton what I learned. The journal originally chronicled his arrival to Equestria, his meeting with the town, his life, and finally ended with his change in thought. He complimented Equestria and hoped that humanity could learn from their example. In fact, he said that Equestria was proof that true enlightenment was possible. His final entries were dedicated to his friends and how happy he was. The citizens of Coltberton were touched to hear his words, and many vowed to be more vigilant in their studies and practices.

It’s good that they trusted my word. Sometimes I hate to be like the Unknown, but I couldn’t tell them everything.

Esper arrived in two days. Normally I might have worried about her but she too had her own set of armor and was training with Zed so I knew she would probably be safe with short trips. She was really happy to be able to show off her special ability and help rebuild the town. (Of course she took care to avoid producing radioactive metals.) She was extra delighted when no one was afraid of her magic.

And on the fourth day, the day of the festival, Zed arrived.

I told everyone who Zed was, what he was, and how he was immortal. I therefore stated it only made sense to give the immortal warrior the immortal weapon. I handed Azrael to Zed. He was stunned by the gesture and (for some reason) everyone cheered.

In turn, he quietly sent a document to my suit’s computer but overtly revealed that he had brought someone important with him.

Princess Celestia and four of her royal guards softly floated down from the sky and greeted us. I admit I was in awe. This was the first time I had seen her when I was calm and collected. In that state of mind, being in her company was entirely different. The alicorn’s presence was literally indescribable. From her rainbow-spectrumed flowing mane to the radiant-white aura surrounding her wings and the golden energy flowing from her horn, I had never felt something so heavenly, holy, and powerful, but simultaneously warm and affectionate. (Wait, I guess she was at least partly describable.)

I wish I could describe her better but I do not believe, no matter how hard I tried, that my words would ever do her justice. She was simply akin to a physical god, albeit in the form of a white, winged, horned horse.

When she wanted to, her voice could sound every bit as enchanting and soothing as her figure. She thanked Barn, Epser, and I for defending this town. She explained that she had decided to come and make sure the town truly was okay. However, as everything was okay, she would not mind partaking in the festival. Naturally, no one refused this suggestion.

The celebration was quite enjoyable to say the least. In fact, it reminded me of the one we had in Esper’s town with games, music, stories, and laughter, albeit on a much grander scale... and a lot of animatronics. A few of those machines looked like me. I still find that a little creepy nevertheless it showed their appreciation and I was not going to stop them. This celebration was for me, or at least I was a focus of it. The second coming of Colbert.

Coltberton still holds a celebration across that entire week each year. No doubt our actions will become legendary.

If you cannot tell by my writings, it was one of the most exciting moments in my life. I felt like a legendary warrior from the games, movies, and stories I had so often experienced. I had not come to Equestria expecting to be such a figure but I was glad to live through it if only for a moment.

Unfortunately, reality caught up to me. In the back of my mind I remembered my own words and worries. There was something troubling going on within Equestria and it was connected to those dark magical fields. That meant that this would just be one out of many battles.

Obviously, so far, we have survived. That’s not to say it has not been challenging but I’ll get to that later.

You see, in truth, as said, I left out one part of Colbert’s writings. In addition, the document that Zed had sent me was revealing. I will elaborate soon enough.

I showed my friends (and, as part of my plan, Pocket Plum) my findings. They too were greatly concerned.

I quietly called for a private audience with Princess Celestia asking that Zed, Esper, Barn, and Plum join me. This request was granted. My friends let me do most of the talking.

Celestia: I was wondering when you were going to call for me.

Stratos: Yes, sorry for that.

Celestia: It has been a while since we last met.

(Minus Zed, everyone's eyes went wide and they looked at me. I had yet to tell anyone of my previous encounters with the Princess. I nervously chuckled and shrugged back.)

Celestia: I have rarely seen a celebration so magnificent for such a modest town. It is just as rare for me to find its guest of honor to be so inwardly glum.

Stratos: Yes, well, I *Breath* I have my fears.

(Her demeanor became serious.)

Celestia: So, is it true what your companion has told me?

Stratos: I would hope this battle was proof of that.

Celestia: And there is more of this sinister presence?

Stratos: A lot more, it covers practically every corner of Equestria.

Celestia: How has this escaped my notice?

(It was a rhetorical question but I answered anyways.)

Stratos: We only picked it up because the Unknown did. I'll assume you know who they are. In totality of ability they far outstrip me. And they only discovered it because they have technology that Equestria does not presently possess. They looked at all of Equestria and noticed these subtle patterns.

*PAUSE*

Celestia: I fear to ask: How long has this magic tainted my land?

Stratos: At least hundreds of years.

(This stunned the Princess. From my then-limited experience, I had not considered it possible for her to look that concerned.)

Celestia: What tells you this?

Stratos: Coltberton has a journal of a certain Sir Colbert.

Celestia: I am familiar with this work. Not I, nor any of my friends, were able to understand it.

Stratos: Well I was able to. Most of it dealt with his personal life in Equestria. Perhaps a way to chronicle his existence. But the final parts were the most relevant to our discussion.

Celestia: May I see them?

Stratos: Zed, show her the entry.

(Zed pulled out his data pad. Using the unicorn magic of levitation, Princess Celestia pulled the data pad over to her and read it out loud.)

Celestia: As of now, the seven hundred and twenty fifth Summer Sun Celebration has passed. Therefore it is the seven hundred and twenty fifth year of the sun. It has been over a century since I arrived in this enchanted land. Sadly, I fear this may be my final entry. My discoveries have brought me to one conclusion: The dark aethers I have been tracking are the source of a series of disappearances and destruction. Anyone who has investigated it has been eliminated. I had desired to give this information to the Princess or Endewize when I found more, but I believe these unholy forces are now converging on my location. As strong as I have become, it shall soon consume me. It has been the death of many powerful Equestrian warriors and mages. It has eliminated many predicted prodigies. All has been in secret. I have compiled a list of all of whom I suspect have fallen to this thing. Hopefully, someone will find it and make use of it. Then again, I pray to my Lord in heaven that they do not. For if they do, certain doom will follow.

Stratos: From there we have found dozens of pages containing names and the dates of their disappearances or deaths. They are not limited to any species. Dragons, griffons, even a few humans are among their number. And I suppose we could add Colbert to that list.

(Princess Celestia calmly put down the data pad. I could tell this information deeply disturbed her.)

Stratos: I wish I could say it ended there but I believe we might have a problem just as great as this one. Sadly, I am related to that one.

Celestia: By your words… it involves humanity.

Stratos: Perhaps Zed has told you already but I did not come here alone. I was merely the only one who stayed. The others told me that it was for the good of Equestria that humans should leave. There is some truth to what they say but… My friend, Nickolas Endeavor, he was like a brother to me. We looked out for each other constantly. I’m certain we can trust his words. *I motioned to Zed* Zed, show her the file.

(The screen of the data pad shifted to a new image. Celestia lifted it up once more.)

Celestia read that one in her head so I will just put it right here.

Stratos, this is Nick. I was not supposed to do this but I encrypted this file so that either you would decode it or it would unlock itself when you got a hold of certain works. I do not know whether you are still pursuing that goal of finding their source of prosperity but I want to be honest with you. While it would be nice, I don’t think you have any chance of doing what you planned. We did not leave you here because we believed you could actually accomplish your goal. If you do, that’s fantastic but that’s not important.

I know you cannot trust me when I say how much I actually know. After all, I would have to lie if you asked me something I did know but had to keep secret. I am sure you picked up on it but I will say that we knew something was wrong. We have no idea exactly what is going on. From our suspicions, and what a few ancient works we translated have stated, these events have been going on for a long time with those investigating it being systematically eliminated. We decided to leave because we did not know whether or not we had the forces to handle the situation. We are not positive whether to come back or not but we know there can be exchanges between these realities. Whatever is going on could affect our world and, therefore, could endanger Earth.

Yes, we exaggerated our reasons for leaving. We did not tell you or most of the staff why we were actually leaving because we knew you and others would ask for military action. For the moment, this is an option we would prefer to avoid at all costs.

If you cannot find out what is going on and properly document it, we might be forced to take drastic measures. These could include Unknown Soldiers and nuclear ordinance. We are willing to annihilate all of Equestria, the entire planet really, to protect Earth if that is what it takes.

That sounds extreme, but remember how weak the Equestrians are. If we cannot handle this, they are doomed.

I know it sounds crazy, but indirectly you might be the best chance Equestria has at survival. You can do something for Equestria. And maybe, by proxy, something for humanity. There is a reason why you are here.

This is not official, but I am going to assign you this mission: Find out what is the cause of these disturbances and how much they could affect Equestria and, more importantly, Earth. Once we understand what is happening we can act from there.

We will return. If this is our problem, we will deal with this one way or another. We will save the most extreme options for last. I promise you that.

I don’t know how hard this will be for you but please, don’t ever give up.

You are not alone. Not really, anyways.

Never forget that.

Good luck.

Your Friend,

Nicholas Endeavor

So, it looks like Nick knew a lot more than he was telling me. I guess we were both lying, even more than either of us thought, when we had that last conversation.

I really do wish I knew how much they truly knew.

But this confirmed my fears; it was why I called for a direct audience with Princess Celestia.

Stratos: If we cannot find a solution to this, my colleagues may decide to wipe out all life on Equestria.

Plum: Forgive me for interrupting, but can they really do that?

Stratos: When my friend spoke of the nuclear ordinance he was specifically referring to the weapon known as the hydrogen bomb. One such weapon is capable of creating an explosion producing heat several times hotter than the surface of the sun. This explosion is many kilometers or miles in diameter and releases a lethal shockwave that stretches much farther. The good news is that none have been dropped in an actual act of war. More because they fear retaliation then any concern for other lives. For protection of Earth, they might deploy these weapons.

Celestia: How many of these weapons do humans possess?

Stratos: Humans possess thousands of missiles, each holding a varying amount of these bombs. There are also no doubt many hidden in secret. They are precise instruments in their activation. The differing physics between our worlds could prevent their use of prebuilt ones. But they could decipher the difference and, with current technology, I’d image they could build several hundred a year if necessary.

Celestia: Is there no protection?

Stratos: This is technology, not magic. There is no way to dispel it. And if a great number are employed, there is no way to destroy all of them before they hit their targets. If the bombs detonate, there is no reverse. It would be all over.

(My friends already knew of these weapons. They were not surprised. Plum was speechless. Celestia was stoic. Perhaps this situation of possible annihilation was not so new to her.)

Stratos: It is not all bad news. While I don’t trust normal humans, I trust Nick. He will make sure they will only use this as a last resort. As long as he is there, more likely, they will utilize military actions. They can field hundreds, thousands, perhaps even millions of warriors more powerful than I or anyone before me could ever hope to be. And they can bring to field more powerful weapons than I could ever hope to have.

Celestia: But they will only do that if they decide they can afford it. I am familiar with the cost and loss of war.

Stratos: If we are fighting an Eldritch Abomination err, an evil god, they may decide for the aforementioned drastic actions. Even without nukes they will still destroy anything in their way to remove a threat.

Celestia: And the only way to avoid this outcome is by ending this threat before it endangers humanity.

Stratos: Yes. And this must be done in secret. Whatever this is, it will try to eliminate anyone or anything that tries to discover what it is and what it is doing. However, as Zed may have told you, I have knowledge, technology, and abilities far outside of what Equestria is normally capable of. Even besides that, I believe me and my allies are strong enough to overcome this danger. That said, *I turned to Zed, Esper, Barn, and Plum* do any of you wish to turn back now?

Zed: I am with you to the end.

Epser: You can count on me!

Barn: *Chuckle* There is nothing I find more important than helping a human for the good of Equestria.

(We turned to Plum who was still in some thought about this situation’s reality.)

Plum: …The world is in danger. That includes my home. How could I turn a blind-eye to this? Besides, Sir Colbert would never approve of such cowardice. I will join you.

(I slowly nodded my head.)

Stratos: Thank you.

(I turned back to the Princess.)

Stratos: Princess Celestia, I have the technology and intelligence, but we also require access to any information available to Equestria. And we will be willing to investigate this and perform any actions necessary for the protection of this kingdom, though we will likely need to recruit additional members to do so. We are willing to show you our science and technology. All we need is your blessing and cooperation. The only other thing I ask is that this secret organization be known as the Unknown Guardians. Well, your highness, what do you think?

*PAUSE*

Celestia: There seems to be little thought necessary in this matter. The answer is obvious. By royal decree I declare the establishment of the Unknown Guardians led by Doctor Stratos Lucid and his companions Zed, Esper Teach, Border Barn, and Pocket Plum. You shall be this land’s greatest protectors. Good luck to all of you, may our future be a bright one.

And there you have it. A tad quick and informal but we became an official secret organization. We are Equestria’s Unknown Guardians.

We finished up the celebration, this time in surprisingly high spirits.

When it was over, Plum announced that she was going to be traveling with us and that we all had many battles ahead of us. I added that I would be repairing her wings. She was confused and I told her that the armor and magic was meant to go with actual wings and were not going to be substitute. She would get her actual wings back. I further stated that I needed the town to keep my existence a secret and to trust me on this judgment. Considering how respected we were, well, they could hardly deny my request.

Once more, it was hard to leave, but we had to get to work. It was hardest for Plum, who had to say good bye to everyone, especially her sister and niece. You know, it occurs to me that, out of everyone who joined us, she really had the most to lose. She was part of a loving family and community. She hardly had the troubles we did. She was leaving behind a life of peace for one of conflict.

I guess that was why she was so determined to help us.

When we got back to the base, I first used the medical devices to study and eventually repair her wings. There was one problem. I had never actually done that procedure before. I don’t know exactly what I did wrong but the result was that her wings ended up being bigger than normal. But it seemed to work out. They actually made her a better flier and she enjoyed them so no harm, no foul, I suppose.

After this, she immediately got to work. Her architectural skills were phenomenal. She quickly learned all I had about modern construction and practically redesigned the base from the bottom up.

Sadly, her special talent was not really used all that much, but it did allow us to create several cloud-walking and descent-slowing items and some spy equipment that could rest on clouds. And we found out that cloud-walking, in this case, also meant water-walking. Besides that, her weather controlling abilities were always useful.

As we expected, though not for the reasons initially figured, her life in Coltberton prepared her well for life with us.

While she was always a little wary of me, her frequent contact with Coltberton inventors and extensive knowledge of Colbert meant she knew how to deal with my peculiarities better than most of my own colleagues. Her military training matched up well with Zed's desire to constantly hone our skills through sparring. Her experiences with her niece made her far better at handling Esper than I could ever hope to be.

Most of all, Plum and Barn spend a lot of time together. She mostly puts up with his love of Lovecraft as long as she gets to read legends about warriors with him. Actually, she prefers to watch movies. Not about love or romance but instead action or adventure movies. The Lord of the Rings trilogy seems to be a personal favorite of hers. (Barn complains about how many times he has had to watch it as he can now recite the movies line for line, scene for scene. That includes the credits. Yet, he obviously puts up with it.)

And Plum just has an overall pleasant personality. While she could be sarcastic, she was plenty energetic, always willing to help, and always willing to listen to personal matters. She was probably the most social out of all of us so knew how to handle our differing personalities and needs. Of course sometimes she would use her artistic abilities to splurge. (We simply do not need pink and yellow attack droids.)

Regardless, it was good. We needed all the help we could get. Our lives got considerably busier from there on out.