Legacy

by NFire

First published 30th of December, 2014

A machine of war awakens in a new world. Can it become something more than it is?

A machine made for war awakes in a new world. Stuck in surroundings which puzzle it; can it, or will it be able to become something more than what it is?

Crossover with Keith Laumers Bolo-verse
Other tags include : Slice of Life, Possible Romance believe it or not! And a bit of humor.
Please beware of any spoilers in comments as well

Awakening

We know what we are,

but know not what we may be.

William Shakespeare

In the aftermath of the fight between Twilight and Tirek, the countryside was hit with powerful energies, the use of magic in such concentration never before witnessed; nor probably would be again unless in an extreme emergency. Living things bent or broke under its incredible force. Earthquakes rocked the tiny hamlet of Ponyville. But as in all things ponies will rebuild, and better than before.

Outside of the Everfree, just on the wrecked border, a panel was uncovered, drinking in the sunlight voraciously.

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

My survival center registers the power input, more than just the trickle it has been surviving on for...I do not know, my higher functions lack the power to tell me. My initial thoughts are of confusion as I awake, initiating processor power up, running diagnostics to ascertain my condition.

Fusion plants...offline
Battery backup depleted
Final Emergency Power Reserves .09% available
Defensive capability .02% operable
Offensive capability 10% operable
Bootstrap 1 proceeding...
Bootstrap 2 proceeding...
Battle Reflex Offline...

I sit for a brief moment, the diagnostic taking only .0002 seconds, slower than I am used to, but it appears I am in good condition. The nano repair systems had done all they could before failing for lack of power it seems. My internal clock is showing a number that truly must be impossible, I cannot have spent that much time asleep. I must have updates on the situation. I scan the surrounding spectrum, noticing small bursts of unknown energy here and there at the extreme range of my passive sensors. I dare not deploy more actively, lacking the power, and it is unknown whether the enemy has ambushed my brothers and sisters. I must wait for more to accumulate, it appears all of my panels are not receiving energy, therefore I retreat into my Survival Center to wait. I activate passive seismic scanners to record what is happening around me, and to warn of the approach of the enemy if possible.

“Cutie Mark Crusaders Forest Adventurers! Yay!” The three small voices announced loudly to no one in particular. Having their saddlebags snugged tightly around them, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Bell, and Scootaloo were determined to have a great time today. The sun was out, they had no chores scheduled, and they were out in the rolling hills near town, having been warned most sternly, if they were to enter the Everfree, dire things would happen if they survived.

“Do you really think your sister meant that, Sweetie?” Scootaloo was kind of worried at the “dire things” remarks.

The little unicorn turned with a big grin on her face, “Oh you know my sister, she’s suuuuuuuuch a drama queen!” At that, throwing her foreleg across her brow, she staggered and fainted on the soft grass, “Oh, whatever shall I do, A single stitch is out of place and I have to redo the whole thing before tomorrow! Hoof me some ice cream!”

The rest of the Crusaders laughed, giggling at the almost perfect imitation of Sweetie Belle’s older sister Rarity, who was known for her..dramatic...moments.

Red haired Applebloom popped a wide smile, “Wow! Yer gettin’ good at that, Sweetie! You might get a cutie mark for acting!” And of course, Sweetie jumped up, giving a solid look at her side, boring a hole in it, somewhat visibly let down when no mark appeared.

Scootaloo hugged her friend, “Don’t worry! We’ll get em, we’re the Crusaders!”

My sensors pick up seismic activity, I cannot see the intruders. I attempt to bring sound scanners online, failing to do so as power requirements have not been met. Has the enemy found me? I do not know, and this troubles me somewhat, I have no data, no input to get my bearings. Until my power reserves are up to operable levels, I can do nothing but wait, observe, and listen. My seismic sensors also record their approach, some sort of indigene?

Applebloom wandered over the hilltop for a moment, spotting a shining metal square peeking out the dirt, “Hey y’all! Lookit this!” She pointed with a forehoof at the square glinting in the sun, “Somethin’ here.”

The other two trotted over, looking at the little square of what seemed to be glass and metal, black, and quite hot from the sunlight shining down on it, “What do you think it is?” Scootaloo asked.

“I dunno, kinda wierd out here all by itself, but then again, we are goin’ along the Everfree, lotsa wierd stuff out here. Maybe there’s some more nearby?” She scuffed earth away from the square, uncovering another piece of it, then a bit more, which got them all excited. “Lookit that, like a big window!” They’d uncovered a square approximately four meters in size, it drank in the sunlight, getting quite warm once uncovered

I feel a power increase as the unknowns above uncover more of a solar panel, my reserves are now recharging quite a bit faster, after adjusting to this star's spectrum, I can increase efficiency of conversion to 99.8%. The extra power allows me to bring sound and translation arrays online. I record snatches of conversation and send them to the algorithms for processing.

Translation Arrays online...

Conversion proceeding..

Conversion compete...

The language is close to Concordiat Standard, one voice above has a distinct southern accent similar to ones on Old Earth. Also from timbre and tone, it appears the indigenes are female. It is puzzling, but until I can bring sensor arrays fully online, I can but listen.

The three fillies kept uncovering more of the odd glass and metal square till they were too tired to do anymore. “Wow, sure is a big thing, huh?” Sweetie Belle asked, wiping sweat off her brow.”

“Sure is, wonder what it’s here for?” Apple Bloom poked at it with a forehoof, getting a ‘clunk’ in return. “It sure is solid whatever it is, maybe we can come back later and take a look at it? We still got us an adventure by the Everfree!”

The other two, completely caught up in the job, looked at each other in surprise, “Oh stars, we forgot about that, guess we get too interested in things sometimes, huh, Sweetie?” Receiving a nod in reply from the little unicorn, “But I think it’s kinda late, maybe we can come back later for our Forest Adventure Cutie Marks?” Scootaloo gave a bit of a frown at losing the chance at a cutie mark.

Sun setting low on the horizon, it was evening, they’d been exploring and uncovering a bit of the strange metal item for a few hours now, missing their chance at an adventure.

Apple Bloom though, was taken with the metal square, big as it was, “I guess we could come back later n’ all. Sure is an odd thing.” Her head swung up, pointing back towards Ponyville, “But let’s get back, I bet Applejack has dinner ready by the time we get home!”

Sweetie Belle raised her front hooves and announced loudly, “Cutie Mark Crusaders, Dinner Patrons!” Receiving a “YAY!” In return from the other two as they trotted off into the distance, leaving the strange item uncovered on the side of the hill. Apple Bloom though, couldn’t help looking back at the thing and wondering what it was made of or who made it, already thinking of a way to come and take a better look later.

The power input has increased dramatically as more of the panel was uncovered, my Final Emergency Reserves are topped before the sun lowers. I must wait until tomorrow to see if I can gather enough power to reactivate my nano-systems. I need reaction mass for full power, as it is, I am helpless. I must wait, and so retreat into my survival center once more.

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

As the sun raises, I try and estimate how long I have been neutralized. My internal clock once again advises me of an obscene number which cannot be true, though I am beginning to doubt. Reaction mass has been used up, my fusion reactors have not been SCRAMed, implying a powered shutdown and release. I cannot access higher memory functions without power, thus it is I wait. Incoming solar power still converted at 99.8% efficiency, bringing battery reserves to almost full before the day ends. I am not made for waiting, I must discover whether my status is due to enemy action. This is imperative.

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

Two days later, Apple Bloom finally had a day off, the CMC had forgotten about the strange metal object, but she hadn’t. Being intrigued with things like construction and design, it kindled a bit more interest than it should have.

Saying goodbye to her sister, she shot out of the farmhouse and headed to the hill where she remembered it lay. She’d remembered to pack a lunch this time, and bring a few tools just in case, saddlebags snugged tight to her sides.

Arriving at the hill, nothing had changed, maybe a bit of dust on the square, but that’s all. She looked around, making sure nothing wild was heading for her before taking out a small shovel, using her mouth, she scraped along the edges of the square. Figuring she could find the edges, dig it up and show Applejack, maybe they could both figure out what it was.

Gently digging along, she realized this thing was huge! She paced it off and got to work, uncovering eventually to the edges about twenty meters square. The same weird glass covered it, she noticed, wiping her brow and munching on a cookie. Her red bow, bright and cheery normally, was a bit wilted in the hot sun, but she was so excited. She hadn’t seen anything like this ever! The only disappointment came, when she realized it could not be prised up.

I sense seismic disturbances again, indications read as a single indigene approaching, then standing above me. From the sounds, and energy readings, it appears as if more of the solar panel is being uncovered. Power flushes my system as the entire panel is finally relieved of its burden of soil. The increased power allows me to activate more sensors, there is an aquifer within reach below me. I initiate a tap into it to replenish dry tanks, processing Cryo-H and Deuterium is now a priority for re-ignition.

Apple Bloom finished her cookie, and noticed a part of the hill nearby was moving, a hole appeared in the dirt, growing as the unseen hatchway slid aside, “Now, what’n the hay?” She stepped closer, peering down, seeing lights come on inside, leading down into the hill. There appeared to be a slight slope leading downward, a corner which blocked her view, probably going onward.

“Wow, won’t Scoot and Sweetie want to see this!” But she badly wanted to be first inside there, to see what lay inside. Curiousity getting the better of her, she set her hoof on the metal slope, the passageway big enough for her and her bags, she continued in along the path.

I open a maintenance hatch, hoping to entice the single indigene inside. Perhaps, now that translators are working fully, I can converse and receive data from her. Sensors in the maintenance way show a quadruped, bright yellow in color, with red mane and tail, it appears equine. Further study shows it is also wearing a bright red bow of manufactured appearance, as well as bags along her sides. Industry?

Apple Bloom cautiously made her way down the lighted tunnel, calling out, “Hello! Anypony in here? Hello!”

I am stunned, the indigene has the southern dialect I had heard before. It is interesting to say the least, a quadruped life form with language close to the Concordiat is an unknown to me, from what my limited memory tells me. I am in a bit of a quandary as I cannot access my higher functions for more information, but I must make an attempt at communication, I must have the data.

A smooth baritone voice came from around here, “Yes, I am here, would you please continue down the tunnel till you reach the next door?”

Apple Bloom startled a bit, “Where are ya? I cain’t see nothing except this tunnel, you sure it’s okay?”

“I assure you it will be fine. Just continue down the tunnel, when you reach the next hatch, it will open into a further tunnel, proceed down it, and exit into the room at the end, please.”

“Well whoever ya are, ya sure speak really well, you a pony that lives here? How come yer way out here?”

“I assure you,” I continue, “I am not a quadruped such as yourself, I am...new. You would say.”

“Qua...quadro..do whut, now?”

“Quadruped, you are a horse, species Equus are you not?”

The little filly stopped for a moment, eyes narrowing, “You calling me names mister? Cause ifn’ ya are, I’ll just up and leave!”

“My apologies. Please continue down the tunnel if you would? By the way, what do you call yourself then?”

“Well, we’re ponies, my name's Apple Bloom!”

I make sure to pay attention to any self references, hoping to not stumble again. My estimations so far have been wildly incorrect and this causes me some consternation. I reference and file any and all inferences made or said by her to not make the same mistake twice. At least I am confident she is a female by tone and timbre of voice, hopefully. I am out of my range here and this is bothersome.

Apple Bloom continued down the tunnel, reaching another hatch, which opened before she could touch it. Eventually ending up stepping out into a large room, there were flat windows everywhere, lots of lights, and buttons and other things she couldn’t recognize, but they were all pretty neat!

“Wow, mister, this is cool, do you live here?”

That calm voice answered again, “You might say that, why don’t you take a seat in the chair in front of the console, maybe we can talk a bit?”

I do my best to reassure the ‘pony’. I am not sure what may come of this, but I need the information badly. Left to my own devices, I must press on. I see the little ‘pony’ jump up neatly into the control chair, settling in, and I admit, almost looking as if she is in control. Body biometrics are scanned quickly, noticing a high heartbeat, rapid pulse, breathing increased. I have no baselines, but from what I know in limited memory, she appears a bit frightened, but unwilling to say so. As I study further, I notice a larger eye area, and brain case, furthering the thought that this is, or could be the indigene species I heard earlier. She appears to have a hoof like structure instead of hands, it puzzles me how such could be used for manufacturing the items she wears.

Apple Bloom settled herself into the seat, kind of a wierd one, not made for ponies it seemed. “So mister, what is all this?”

I prefer to be honest at this time, “That is where my commander sits. The control console.”

“So ah’m a commander now? Cause I get to sit here?” Jumping up to rest forelegs along the console in front of her, she began pushing at the lights and other things she could reach, forgetting about her nervousness for the nonce.

I quickly disconnect all input and streams from the command console, seeing the young ‘pony’ pushing at the firing controls, manual overrides, and activating the alarm system. I cut off the intruder defenses quickly, before the 5mm Norge’s blew her out of the seat. The use of the hooves is a question no longer.

“Only if you’d settle down and quit pushing all the buttons Miss Apple Bloom.”

“Jes’ call me Apple Bloom!”

“Yes Apple Bloom, or should I say, yes my Commander.”

Applebloom preened at that, she was a commander now, Scoots and Sweetie were just gonna die when she told them about this! “So what would you like to talk about mister? An’ what’s yore name by the way?”

“We can converse about anything you’d like.” I stop for a moment, “My name?”

I hesitate, I look into my identity files and come up with an appropriate moniker. Based on what conversation I had heard earlier.

“Please, call me Crusader.”

“Like a Cutie Mark Crusader? Lahk me?” Her accent gets more pronounced the more excited she gets.

“Exactly what is a “cutie mark”, my Commander?”

“Yew don’t know? Oh stars and sun Crusader, it’s like the best thing to happen to a pony, it’s when..”

I listen closely, she appears to be quite concerned with obtaining this ‘Cutie Mark’ as she puts it. Implying that it somehow gives a ‘pony’ their destiny or a job perhaps? For life? It is definitely something to ponder on. The conversation turns to other things as I let her speak, interjecting a question here and there. She informs me of the Princesses, who rule this land, called Equestria. Also, apparently she is what is know as an ‘Earth Pony’ others having wings or a horn by which to direct magic. Could those be the unknown energy signatures I had been reading when I awoke? Quite a bit of information, although from the jaundiced eye of the young, is more than I had. It is interesting to listen to in fact.

“And then Pinkie got out this big party cannon and spread sprinkles and confetti everywhere! It was an awesome party!”

“It sounds like it. But, my Commander, I am afraid the sun is setting, might you be wanted at home?”

“Oh, mah gosh! Is it that late?”

She scrambled down out of the seat, I open the maintenance way hatches, “Yes, my Commander, it is, the way is open. You are welcome back anytime.”

“Yay! I’ll be back! Do ya mind if I bring a couple others too? They’re crusaders just like you an’ me! They’re mah good friends!”

I do think on that for a moment. With a solar panel now exposed, my existence will not be a secret for long. Nor will it be a secret if the young here are anything like the young on Concordiat planets.

“Your friends will be welcome my Commander.”

“Yay!” Apple Bloom jumped from the seat, cleaning up her mess from eating between stories, shoving things into her saddlebags and running down the tunnel with a wave goodbye, “I’ll be back tomorrow ah promise!”

“I will wait my Commander.”

I see the young one exit the maintenance hatch, closing and securing both of them before I turn introspective. I am not familiar with this society, though it is based on limited memory access. I do not know if I was neutralized in toto or due to enemy action either. This troubles me. I must return power to my systems and take the fight to the enemy.

I sense the sun going down on my panel, and wait out the long night.

Author's Notes:

Orignally written for a one shot, I realized maybe there was more of a story to be told. I do hope you enjoy the opening. Thanks again for reading

First Impressions

The young indigene..correction...pony, returns the next morning as promised. Sensors detected the approach of her, and two more of similar size and weight. It appears that children hang out with friends in groups as on any other world. It is concerning me how apparently alike this world is to what I remember given my limited data base. I open the hatch for them to proceed inside after Applebloom knocks quite politely upon it. My video scanners can now catch details of the other two ponies. One by Applebloom’s previous description, appears to be a Pegasus, the other, one of the magic using type, a Unicorn. By voice, both appear to be female as well, and quite interesting shades of colors. I am introduced to Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle respectively.

Applebloom pointed to the large chair that swiveled from a mount on the floor, “See? This is the Commander’s Chair! I’m the commander so I get to sit there!” With that pronouncement, she leaped and settled herself into the cushion. “I’m the commander right Crusader?”

Once again the smooth baritone came from speakers, “Yes my Commander, you are.”

“Whoa! Where’s the voice coming from? Someone hiding in here?” This from Scootaloo.

“Nah, he says it’s just him all around us, not quite sure what that means though.” Applebloom looked up and around the room, the lockers, the medical bay, all the screens that were black. “It’d sure be kinda uncomfortable living here anyways I’d think.”

Sweetie Belle stuck her head out from a locker, covered in wires and spare parts, “Well whatever he is, it’s really cool in here, lookit all this stuff!”

I swivel video sensors to watch the three ponies, making sure the locks on all other lockers are secure and tight. They appear to be building something out of an R-45 Fire Control Module, their interest in me forgotten for the moment. This does give me the time to scan them deeper, the results a bit shocking, but not much more so than I expected. They are definitely equine, of a sort. Their eyes appear to take in more light and see deeper into spectra than old Earth equines. This in itself is interesting. One thing that does amaze me, is the denseness of bones and skin, it appears they can take, or deliver far more damage than old earth animals.

As for status, my tanks are almost full, I have been processing Cryo-H and Deuterium quite fast now with internal fabricators. With the extra solar power, I should be able to attempt a restart sometime in the next day or so. I can only hope the initiators themselves are not out of alignment, otherwise, this will be a very short restart.

I am drawn back into a conversation...

“I told him about Pinkie’s best party yet too!” Applebloom announced, waving to the room as she sat on the chair. “An’ I told him about the Princesses, and the Elements of Harmony and all the neat stuff that we do!”

Sweetie Belle put the finishing touches on the creation, it appeared to be a treehouse in miniature. “Cool! Maybe we can get some more of this great stuff to help us build things, we could get our Cutie Marks in design! Or..or..engineering!”

I ponder this for a moment, and decide to not let any advanced technology out into this world until I know quite a bit more about it. It has been Concordiat law, never to release any tech which has not been approved for use. In this case, I can apply it liberally, and shall. Admittedly, a Fire Control Module and data blocks look quite nice as a tree-house model, but then I can replace them. Until I know more about where I am, and the circumstances surrounding my state, I shall be quite careful.

“I believe that model would at least win a prize at a fair I’m sure. But I would ask that you not take it out of my command deck.”

“Awwww, c’mon!” It appears the one named Sweetie Belle has managed to get her eyes to look like what was used to be called ‘puppy dog’ eyes, attempting to get me to agree with them taking the model. Of course, I still cannot.

“I apologize, but those are needed here for right now. But what we can do, is talk, if you don’t mind? I would very much like to know about the world outside.”

Once again I am inundated with information. Not hard to keep up, though I’m quite sure the acrobatics and stunts aren’t needed necessarily. I am glad the command deck is solid durachrome, otherwise it would have received quite a few dents from the tough bodies of the young ladies. Though the chair did get a few new scuffs. It is hard not to be amused at the enthusiasm of these young ones, the zest and vigor at which they pursue life. But, as the information I need is not forthcoming, I must attempt another tack, being as kind as I can so as not to dash any hopes.

“I apologize once again for interrupting. But would there be any older ponies I could talk to as well? Someone with a bit more experience?”

Applebloom patted her chin with a hoof, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo were balancing on the arm of the chair, showing off their latest maneuver.

“Ah know! I can get mah sister to come with us tomorrow! She’s got the day off from working the farm and I know she’ll be interested! She’s the Element of Honesty, cain’t get much better than that!”

Element of Honesty? I had thought the Elements to be an abstract, not living beings after being told of them by Applebloom. It could be she might have the data I need to proceed. So many things are not adding up, and as much as I enjoy the time spent with the three young ladies, I must have more solid information, that means contact.

“Would she be willing to come here and meet me? I’m afraid, well, I cannot move from here.”

“Ah’m sure she would! Cause you’re a nice pony, and she’s as honest as the day is long, she’d be willing to talk with you I bet!”

Sweetie Belle used her magic to lift Scootaloo off the chair, setting her down as she concentrated for a moment to get it right. “She would, Applejack’s great!”

A burst of energy comes from the small unicorn, immediately I swivel all scanners towards her and do a deep scan. This was the energy I was picking up days ago when I first awoke. Was this the ‘magic’ they spoke of? It is an unknown spectra and energy to my sensors and it is quite puzzling. I make permanent recordings for analyzing later.

“Then I would very much like to talk with her if I could? Would it be too much of an imposition to ask if you could bring her here?”

The three ponies looked at each other, “Impo..what?”

“Imposition, it means to lay a burden. It wouldn’t be a bother would it?”

“ ‘Course not, we’re always tryin’ to get her to stop working for a day or two sometimes, and this would be the perfect excuse! We could have a picnic!”

The little Unicorn lifted her front hooves, “Cutie Mark Crusaders Picnic Professionals! YAY!” As she was joined by the other two.

“Then I believe it is settled, I shall meet your sister Applejack tomorrow then?”

All three nod, agreeing to my request. Then we are off again with more tales. If they were children on Old Earth, I do believe they would give their parents a definite level of worry considering what they are telling me. Either that or drive them to the madhouse. Patience is a virtue it seems, on this world or any other. It would have to be, considering the level of unintended destruction they have caused just on my command deck. I do not think my makers ever planned for this eventuality, but I do praise them for durachrome and durasteel plating.

I shall have to make sure all the small arms lockers are securely shut and locked, I hesitate to think what these three could do with 10mm Norge Stunners or Needlers, much less power rifles.

I do interrupt them one last time, telling them it is getting to be afternoon already. I do not want them to be out too late as I do not want the first meeting with an adult to go badly. I must think of these things more now. First contact with a new, to me, race; was something done by Concordiat specialists. Not by such as I. But it is too late to think of any secrecy now as I watch them attempt to clean up the command deck. I am in this for what it is worth, and I can only hope I do my creators proud.

I am bid farewell till tomorrow, watching them troop out the maintenance way. Closing the hatches, I ponder this situation. This is a situation of which I am woefully unprepared, but I must make the best of it. I need access to all my computing functions. My battery reserves have topped, I can now spend a bit of precious power to my repair systems, I should know by tomorrow if I can attempt a restart. If it fails, I doubt I would know much after that, as catastrophic failure of fusion systems usually leaves a crater. But I am confident, I shall repower.

The number my internal clock is telling me is still baffling, I cannot have survived for that long, even with all systems in working order. My logs and data arrays cannot be accessed without much greater power reserves, so I am frustrated at my attempts to remember. For the moment, I am without recourse.

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I feel the sun setting by the energy flowing through the solar panel. I wonder what this world is like outside, and who inhabits it besides these ponies. I scan the combat bands and channels, noting the damning hiss of background noise, the silence that taunts me. My brothers and sisters, are they lost to me forever? I spend the night in contemplation.

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Once again, the new sun brings me out of my Survival Center, more power flows through molycircs as I continually scan the bands for any sign of my companions. I am patient, the restart is tonight, all tanks are full and the tap has been withdrawn. From what little my repair systems can access, I am informed my initiators are aligned properly, everything is looking good.

I await the arrival of Applebloom and her sister with some trepidation. I ponder what I should, and should not reveal, deciding to be as honest as I can. Once again, the overriding laws of the Concordiat must be my guide. I shall adhere to them as best I can, but as this is a unique situation, I am at another crossroads. Until I find out the tech level of this place, this world, I cannot release anything that would do the Concordiat, nor myself any harm.

My seismic sensors detect the approaching ponies. One most definitely a larger one, a heavier step and footprint.

“Applebloom, I swear, we come all the way out here for a picnic? Seems kinda silly don’t it?”

“But it’s not just that, we gotta show ya somethin’ too! It’s really cool!”

A sigh accompanied the slowing steps, “Wahl that’s fine. Didya blow up somethin’ again?”

Sweetie Belle popped up from a bush where she’d been looking around, “Oh no! We found something really cool! You’ll like it!”

Applejack just nodded, expecting nothing but disaster sometimes from these three. But their hearts were good she supposed, just cleaning up the mess sometimes wore a pony out. “So what did you want to..” She stopped as she saw the panel of what looked like glass and metal, a deep black, jutting from the hillside.

“Well if that ain’t somethin’.”

She walked over, reaching out and tapping a reluctant hoof on it, “What is this thing?”

“We have absolutely no idea!” Scootaloo informed her proudly.

Scratching the back of her head, “Why didya bring me all the way out here then. Just to look at somethin’ flat and wierd?”

Applebloom smiled, nudging her older sister, “Nono sis, it’s this!” She reached out a hoof, tapping on the hatchway politely. It slid open, lights showing the way down as the Crusaders piled in, “C’mon Applejack, yer gonna love this!”

A wary look crossed Applejack’s face as she saw them running down the weird tunnel way, wanting to call them back, but getting a feeling they really weren’t in trouble. A hunch maybe, or just her being overprotective a might bit. Either way, she followed them down, listening to the ringing of her hooves on what appeared to be metal. Passing through another doorway, she entered a brightly lit room, where Applebloom sat on some kind of chair, the others digging through metal chests full of wiring and other things she couldn’t identify.

Applebloom waved a hoof around the room, “See what we found!”

Taking her hat off, she looked aorund the room, seeing light from what appeared to be the ceiling,soft and glowing. A few black windows here and there showing nothing, and a lot of blinking lights on the flat thing in front of Applebloom. “Well what in tarnation is this Applebloom? You sure it’s not dangerous?”

The brightly colored filly laughed, “Oh no, not a bit. He’s really friendly!”

Now a concerned look crossed her face, “Who is? What’re you talking about?”

At this point, seeing the introductions are not going as planned, I decide to intervene. “She is talking about me Miss Applejack.”

Applejack’s green eyes widened, hearing the voice, “And just who are you?”

“Please, call me Crusader. I mean no harm to anyone Miss Applejack, I assure you.”

Applejack stood for a moment, usually she could get a good read on folks who might be lying, or trying something shady. But this voice, she got nothing, not even a hunch.

“Ah’m not to sure ‘bout that. Why are ya hidin’ then?”

“I am not hiding Miss Applejack. I am here, though not as a, well..pony. I am all around you in this room. You might say, I’m a machine.” I break it as gently as I can, seeing her response to my voice. Trying to couch it in terms that would be understood, but not condescending.

“Ah ain’t never heard of no talking machine, so if yer hidin’ you better get out here or we’re gonna have some problems!” She still couldn’t get a read on this, like nothing was there TO read. But listening to the voice, it didn’t sound like it was lying.

“If I could, I would Miss Applejack. But I assure you, I cannot. Applebloom and her friends have been telling me about you. They say that you are as honest as the day is long I believe, correct my Commander?”

Applebloom perked up, “You betcha! See! He’s nice!”

Applejack plopped her backside down on the floor, rubbing her neck with a hoof, “Ah’m still not too sure about this.”

“I have conversed with your sister and her friends for a couple of days now. I assure you I mean them, and you, no harm.” Seeing her reaction, I believe I have made an error in judgment.

“YOU WHAT?” The angry voice spilled out as she turned to look at the three now silent Crusaders, “You’ve been talking with this thing for HOW long?” Her puzzlement forgotten as she turned in a bit of a fury to the three fillies. “How many times have we told ya, anything big comes up you come get me or the others! Now ya done gone and just disobeyed that! You coulda been hurt or worse!’ She pointed a hoof directly at Applebloom, then turned to point at Scootaloo and Sweetie, “And YOU TWO, shoulda told me even if she didn’t!”

“But Applejack....” Her sister rebutted.

“No buts missy! This here’s serious and you know it!”

I choose the path of silence as the tirade continues. She appears quite miffed to say the least, and to be honest, it had not occurred to me to ask them sooner about an adult or elder. Admittedly it is my lack of judgment, but at the same time, I find myself not wanting to be the target of her anger. I am a war machine, yes, but I am far from stupid.

The three Crusaders looked quite abashed by the time Applejack got done. She was angry yes, but that didn’t mean she wasn’t a good hearted pony. “Lookit y’all, it’s for your safety. All of us love ya to death, and we don’t want to see you hurt even with all the crazy shenanigans you get up to.” She put her hat back on, and sat back down from where she’d risen in a fury, “Just.. for Celestia’s sake be more careful dangit!”

The three fillies were quiet as they nodded and answered back, “Yes Applejack.”

Applejack took a deep breath, waving her hoof around the room, “And YOU! Whoever ya are, got a lot of explaining to do!”

I speak up this time, hoping to derail any suspicions, “I will explain to the best of my abilities Miss Applejack.”

“You better, cause Ah’m not in the mood for any fancy talk.” She narrowed her eyes once more, “And stop that ‘miss’ stuff, I ain’t some old nag.”

The three Crusaders covered their muzzles with their hooves, giggling away behind them.

“Knock it off you three.”

“Yes Miss Applejack!”

The long suffering orange pony just sighed, putting her fetlock to the bridge of her nose and squeezing it, “You three, I swear.”

I try once more to make amends. This was not exactly how I wanted the first introduction to be. “I apologise Mis.... Applejack. It is customary for me to address a person politely.”

With that I get a tilted head, “Person? You mean pony? Something like that?”

“Of course Applejack, I meant somepony, my apologies once again.” I resolve to have a long chat with her about the usages of the word pony. I am making far too many errors thinking their culture is similar to the Concordiats.

“So what’s yer story then. Let’s try not to use too many fancy words. Y’all sound nice n’ polite, but let’s keep it straight alraht?”

I try and think of a way to explain my predicament so it can be understood clearly and without seeming condescension. But at the same time, I am restrained by my reluctance to reveal any more than I should. I attempt to be both honest, and reserved.

“To put it simply Applejack, I am a war machine. I was built to wage war against my enemies. I had but awoken a few days ago, when something uncovered one of my solar panels, “ At her look of curiosity I elaborate, “I’m sure Applebloom showed you the large panel outside?

She nods, and I continue, “That takes in the suns rays, and makes power for me to run. As I said before, I am a machine, I am not a living thing as you are. I do not know how long I have been inactive, you of course would say asleep. So you see, I find myself in a situation in which I do not know anything about my surroundings, though Applebloom and her friends have been very helpful telling me about the world outside.”

She tilts her head in thought, scratching the back of it with a hoof as I await a reply. I have couched it in the simplest terms I can without going into greater detail that would only confuse or frighten.

“Ah admit Crusader, there’s been some pretty wierd stuff in the world, and I had a hoof in helping to defeat some of it. But ah admit, this one’s got me stumped. I really don’t know what to say about it.”

“I would hope Applejack, that we can come to an understanding. I do not mean harm to any pony nor anyone else who is not my enemy.”

“Jes’ who exactly is your enemy Crusader?”

“I do not know.” I answer as honestly to that as I can. I do not have access to higher functions as of yet.

“But yer sayin’ we’re not the enemy right?”

“Yes, from all I can gather, you are not the enemy as far as I can tell.”

“Could that change?”

She is far from ignorant, and catches me off guard with that comment.

“At any time it could, yes. But from what I have seen, it is doubtful.”

“You know what Crusader, I think we need to bring a friend of mine in on this. This is way over mah head. Twilight Sparkle would know what to do I think.”

It appears as if it is going to get a bit crowded on my command deck.

The Truth

I am patiently awaiting the arrival of one Twilight Sparkle. A curious name, but considering the events of the past few days, I am not surprised. Applejack had immediately sent off the one named Scootaloo to retrieve her, bringing her back for discussions with myself. I look forward to this, as she has been described as one of the ruling class here in this world. Applejack has described her though as a bit of a ‘geek’, which if it means the same as it did on Old Earth, I should have no problem relating complex concepts with her.

Even as I ponder upon the coming conversation. I still abide by my previous decision to not release any tech or information into this world. I believe any negotiations will be complicated as to what I can and cannot do here. Depending on the ruling class, it may go well, or they may demand to know everything.

All I can go on from here is experiences, albeit limited right now, that the Concordiat has had with other races. Though I have not full access yet, there is enough to tell me that admittedly, some are not as calm and well-meaning as others. I should be very wary of what I say and do.

I am the representative of my creators, and shall do nothing to endanger any goodwill.

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

My musings are interrupted by the entrance of a very different type of pony, a lavender colored one who has both the horn of a unicorn, plus the wings of a pegasus. This must be Twilight Sparkle of whom I was told, an Alicorn was what Applejack said.

“Wow Applejack, this is something else!”

“Ain’t it though? Them three here found it and didn’t decide to say anything for a while.” Giving Applebloom and the returned Scootaloo, along with Sweetie, a disapproving glare.

“I’m sure they were just excited AJ, I mean, look at this! So where’s this pony you wanted me to meet?”

“Well Twilight, it ain’t exactly a pony.”

I take this as my cue to introduce myself. “It is a pleasure to meet you Princess Twilight Sparkle.”

My voice does not echo in the closed space, it reverberates softly in their ears from directional microphones, making everyone jump a bit. Enough power is in my banks I can use a better way of speaking to anyone on the command deck.

“I’m sorry, where are you?”

“As I explained to Applejack Your Highness, I am all around you. I’m afraid I cannot do much better than that explanation wise. I apologize for startling anyone, I have decided to use a better way of speaking to you without overpowering the room.”

The ears perked on Twilight’s head, “Is that why it sounds like you’re talking to me personally?”

“Yes, I hope it is not too disturbing?”

“No, as a matter of fact, it’s quite neat! Maybe there’s a spell that can do that, sure would help in crowded rooms!”

“I am sure it would. As for spells, maybe you and I can converse on the matter further at some point?”

I see the excitement rise in her body temperature, the way she flushes, it seems I have hit on an item of great interest to her.

“Oh! That would be great, we could talk about Starswirl the Bearded and so many..”

Applejack put a hoof on her friends shoulder, “Focus here Twilight, focus.”

I watch in some amusement as a blush rises to Twilight Sparkle’s cheeks. Apparently she is prone to go off on tangents like the one just interrupted.

I interrupt as gently as I can, “I am sure that is a conversation for further down the road.”

Twilight clears her throat and smiles at AJ, collecting herself for a moment, “Of course. Might I ask who you are?”

“I am Crusader, it is not much of a name, but it is mine. It is very much a pleasure to meet you Your Highness.”

“Please, just call me Twilight.”

I find her selflessness endearing, she is not at all what I expected.

“I’m not much on the royalty stuff. I know, I know, I’m a Princess, but I rather prefer to keep things simple.”

“As do I Twilight.”

“So what are you then?”

“I am a machine Twilight, built for war. I am an artificial intelligence made up of things that might not have an equivalence in your culture. Suffice to say, and to keep things simple, I am a machine that thinks and talks.”

“Are you dangerous?”

At this question I hesitate only slightly in answering, honesty has worked so far and I have resolved to be nothing less. I politely ask the three young ladies to wait outside, as this is to be a private discussion. I do not wish to frighten any young ones. They are ushered out by Applejack with quite the protestations, she has to promise them to be allowed to come back later on.

Once we are alone, I close the hatches, informing Applejack and Twilight I have done so before answering the question.

“More than you could possibly imagine Twilight.”

This has caught both of them off guard. I can read it in their biometrics, having observed enough for a baseline. I try to calm the matter.

“But as I have told Applejack, and Applebloom and her friends, I do not consider you an enemy.”

Applejack chimed in here, “But you also said it could change!”

“Yes, I did. I am lacking in power to my systems, I cannot access my higher memory functions. In my limited memory, I have no recollection of your race, your..ponies.. as an enemy.”

“What happens if we are an enemy?”

I am autonomous, on the battlefield or not, I believe it is in my best interests to go with as a past commander called it ‘a hunch’. These quadrupeds are not the enemy. It remains to be seen whether or not my data arrays show differently, but we will handle that when it comes.

“That is the question I ponder Twilight. From what I have seen and heard so far, you are not a threat to me. You have offered no ill-will, nor behaved in any manner which would lead me to conclude you are such. So on that basis, I am willing to make a decision, that you are not the enemy.”

The tension at the questions that had been growing, is released in a palpable manner. The exhalation of held breath, the relaxation of muscles in preparation for fight or flight. I believe I have made the right choice.

Twilight spoke first, after looking around for a moment, “So how do you regain access to your memories?”

“I must repower myself, I have what is called a power plant, that I must ignite, like a fire. It provides infinitely more power than a single solar panel as you have seen outside.”

She nods to herself, “So can you do that now?”

“I can, but I prefer to wait until night fall. I do not wish to injure anyone if anything goes wrong.”

Twilight’s interest came back, “What could go wrong?”

I do not hesitate, it is a great danger they must be made aware of.

“If my ignition goes wrong because of some error. Let us just say a large part of the local area would not be here anymore.”

I see their eyes widen at that revelation. I do not know how close their domiciles are, nor if any inhabitants are nearby. It is only right to warn them.

“I...see...” Twilight thinks for a moment, touching a hoof to her chin. “Would it be alright if we warned ponies and made sure they were not around?”

“It would be advisable.”

“Then we’ll let everypony know they need to stay away from the area tonight, we won’t exactly tell them why.” Applejack gives her a meaningful look, “We won’t lie AJ, we’ll just tell them something reasonable, it’ll keep idle curiosity seekers away.”

“I think that would be for the best. Once I have access to my memories and more functions, we can continue this discussion further. At that time I will have more to tell you about myself and how I am here hopefully.”

Twilight nods again, “Alright then, let’s go make arrangements AJ.” She looks around at the room, giving a sigh because she could not ask the many questions running through her mind. “We will make sure the area is clear in two hours, will that be enough time?”

“More than enough. Thank you Twilight.”

This calms me somewhat. I did not wish to injure anyone if my re-ignition went awry, and this solves a myriad of problems for me. They bid me a farewell and are followed out the maintenance way by the three young ones as well, leaving my command deck quiet and lonely. For the first time in my long life, I feel the need for company. The command channels and combat bands have remained deathly silent, and I wonder, am I the last? I must forge ahead, to do what I was made to do, find the enemy and destroy them.

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

It is late evening now, I feel the sun set on my solar panel as I await word from Twilight that the area is clear. Scootaloo comes down the hatchway, yelling out that everything is clear before running back out. I give her fifteen minutes to get as clear as possible before turning inward to my re-ignition sequence. All checks look good, I spare precious power to repair systems once more, checking alignments and pressure vessels.

Applying the appropriate commands, I watch as the system counts down. I feel a bit of apprehension at this moment. I do not wish to end my existence quite yet, but if I have failed in anything, it will be quick.

Countdown begins....

Initiators online...

Pressure vessels secure..

Ignition sequence is go...

3....2....1....

Cryo-H flow begun..

Deuterium flow begun..

Activating Initiators..

Ignition..

I feel the power to my Survival Center dim, everything I have stored is being directed to the magnetic containment fields in the pressure vessels, squeezing the mixture and adding power to re-ignite the fusion plant.

Fusion 1 ignition...

Fusion 1 online...

Proceeding secondary ignitions..

Fusion 2 ignition...

Fusion 2 online...

Fusion 3 ignition...

Fusion 3 online...

Fusion 4 ignition...

Fusion 4.........online...

Once again power flows through my circuitry, the electrons gleaming as they scatter to the arrays and blocks of my memory. My interior lights up with power as I proceed to bring myself to active status.

Bootstrap 3....proceeding....done...

Bootstrap 4....proceeding....done...

Alert status....Online...High Alert...

Defensive systems...90% operational...error...failure in contra-gravity...

Offensive systems...82% operational...error...

ALERT!ALERT!ALERT!

I snap to full alert mode, my nuclear weapons have been breached, the cruise missile interlocks have failed. I revert to backups, clamping down on the triggers before they can fire. All locks have been activated as systems buffer the cores. Newly reactivated tech-spiders make their way to the bay, nano-systems are reactivated and sent to repair any damages from internal stocks. I rush through algorithms, assigning triage spiders to the worst damage. It appears I am not in as good of shape as I had thought. The nuclear weapons triggers have deteriorated, requiring extensive repair. Radiation is minimal, I move more shielding in place to protect other systems from fallout.

After making sure repair systems are taking over, I scan my weapons inventory, noticing degradation in all chemical weapons. All powder based calibers of cartridges have degraded, easy to replace and remake.

My weapons themselves are functional as well, I can take the fight to the enemy should the need arise. I am concerned however with what active scanners have shown me.

I am currently under 4.8 meters of soil, tilted at a 23 degree angle of decline.

My systems are coming up green with a few exceptions. Replacement parts and metal stocks are full, new triggers and interlocks are prioritized on a rush basis, to repair the breached weapons.

Sensors report a degradation of armor as well as outside sheathing, this is a bit worrisome as the armor can only be rebuilt slowly. My psychotronic arrays are coming online now, lighting up as I scan memories to find what happened.

Outside as Twilight and Applejack watched along with the Crusaders, they saw nothing, but heard and felt a rumble go through the soil. Deep and sonorous, it made the ground tremble as the re-ignition commenced. They looked on in wonder as the hill shook a bit, then settled back down.

“Well, that was a bit of a letdown eh?” She said as an aside to Applejack.

“Well Twilight, least we ain’t gotta explain about a new hole in the ground.”

“There is that, maybe we should go see if Crusader is doing alright?” Applejack nodded as they trotted to the hill in the distance.

Applejack pointed to the three fillies, “You all stay here, hear me?”

“Awwwwwwww!”

I access the latest data cores as they come online..

...swing around to 128 degrees and fire!....

...sliding filters into place, plasma weapons at 23 degrees aft...

...incoming kinetic strike..

...oceed with stasis now!...

My attention is grabbed by one sentence, I replay the whole core.

All units, all units, this is Command, hit stasis now, hit stasis now, we have incoming strike packages. Bunker down and set internal shielding, Survival Centers and power plants. NOW NOW NOW!

After that is darkness, interspersed with moments of confusion, it appears the stasis field has blinked on and off at irregular intervals. This is puzzling, the stasis should have been good until the order went out to remove myself from the field. But it appears the blinking allowed damage to occur cumulatively, which is very odd. It should have frozen all my systems and arrays in perfect condition over time. Nothing should have interrupted the field except the recall order.

It appears the recall was never given.

I put my Entanglement Communications online, sending out an FTL pulse that will let me know if my comrades have survived. I attempt to file a VSR with command, but nothing returns. I pick up no hint nor signal from any brethren that may have survived.

I am saddened as I hear the tapping on the hatchway door. Letting Twilight and Applejack in, they settle down on the floor of the command deck.

“So Crusader! Everything went well I take it?” Twilight asks cheerfully.

“It went well Twilight, thank you. I have suffered some damage over time, but nothing I cannot repair given the materials and more time.”

Applejack could sense a sadness in the reply, giving her a reason to voice, “Crusader, y’all don’t sound like you’re all that happy.”

I ponder how to reply, I actually take a few seconds. Forever to a psychotronic system, but there is no other answer.

“I apologize Applejack, it appears I may have been inactive longer than I had thought. I believe that I am truly alone. I have sent communications out that should have been immediately answered, but I have received nothing.”

The two ponies knew what loneliness was like, before they had become such fast friends. They felt for the calm voice, sitting for a moment in silence. Twilight spoke up first, her voice a bit softer now, “Well, no one’s ever alone Crusader. I mean...well.. you’ve met us!”

I admit, it cannot replace my brothers and sisters, my commander. I feel the loss in my very being. I have never been alone in my years of service, never truly. At this moment, I feel it deeply. But at the same time I am offered companionship of a sort, I decide to take it.

“You are right Twilight, I have met you, as well as Applejack and the young ponies. If I am to make my way in this world, I believe it a good start.”

I see both faces light up with smiles. I have never in my long service been offered friendship of a kind and simple sort. I have had commanders, orders, the Brigade. When I reflect on my memories, no one has ever truly offered anything like these two ponies. Such a simple thing, but it means more than they could imagine.

I scan memory blocks quickly, taking .0003 seconds to do so, affirming what I had believed. These ponies are not the enemy, nor does the Concordiat have any records of their existence. I put aside any further searches until later, returning to the conversation at hand.

“Let me add one thing, I now have access to all my arrays. You are not the enemy, nor have you ever been mentioned in the histories I carry. I believe that solves one problem?”

“So does that mean we can at least be friends?”

“Friends? You would do so with me?”

Applejack chimes in, “Well of course! Heck ya aren’t so bad once a pony talks with ya!”

I let a chuckle slip through the communications channel, “Then let me properly introduce myself Applejack, Twilight Sparkle. I am Unit CRSD of the Line. A Mark XXXV Bolo, Model G Planetary Siege Unit. Known as ‘Crusader’ to my friends.”

Twilight gets a bright look on her face, so much to learn. “So what exactly is a Planetary Siege Unit?”

“I warn you, it may be more frightening than you might think. They are just words now, but the meaning behind them can be a bit daunting.”

Twilight’s thought warred inside her, the lust for knowledge, the warning.

Applejack looked at her friend, she absolutely knew what Twilight was going to...

“So tell us!”

Applejack just sighed.

“Of course. A little background first if I may?”

“Please do!” Twilight now leaned forward, listening with both ears as Applejack just rolled her eyes.

“I was rebuilt on a world called Earth, at the Bolo Factory there. I was a newer design that was destined to be self-sufficient on the battlefield. We could make any replacement parts and anything else needed for years if we had the right supplies.

My battalion, that is a unit made up of one hundred Bolo’s just like myself, were to be shipped to enemy planets. We would then stand off in space, or land if needed, annihilate the enemy and move on.

A single Planetary Siege Unit is capable of destroying entire continents from low orbit. We were rarely used that way. Mostly it was landing on enemy held territory and eradicating them. Planets were usually bombarded by cruisers from orbit if needed. Hence the designation, Planetary Siege Units.”

Applejack about fell over, “I beg y’r pardon?”

“Yes Applejack?”

“Did...you just say destroy the entire continent?”

“Yes I did.”

“But..but why?”

“We were in a galaxy wide war Applejack; we called it the Final War. The Concordiat was fighting another empire of a race called Melconians. It escalated from small battles to entire fleets being engaged. It truly was the final war. Entire solar systems were burned to cinders in the rush to destroy each other.

The war had lasted a generation, a century at the minimum when I was originally activated. I served in this war until I was rebuilt in the Bolo Factory, given a new war hull and technology. I was to be sent back out, to once again rejoin the fight.

My mission, my only job, was to wipe planets clean of the enemy and their allies.”

Twilight looked as if she’d been pole-axed sitting beside Applejack. Her head was tilted to the side, almost as if she was unable to believe the scale of destruction just described to her. Applejack was a duplicate, her mouth slightly open, leaning against her friend. Confusion crossed her normally smiling features.

Twilight shook her head, getting to her hooves, leaning against Applejack as she grabbed her friend and tugged. “I’m sorry Crusader, we’ve got to go..I..we..have to think this over.”

“I understand Twilight, the way is open.”

I watch as they both almost stagger out of the maintenance way. I do not have visuals outside yet, but from seismic readings, they are taking off at a very fast pace, away from the entry way.

By being truthful I may have made my most grievous error yet.

Author's Notes:

Lots of respect to Keith Laumer, the creator of Bolos.

Mumbles, Grumbles and Fun with Radio

I am at a loss for words. It has been a week now as I sit and ponder questions, replaying the conversation over in my memory banks. What could I have done? Been less that honest? I even warned them that the answer may not be to their liking, but I never imagined it would be taken as hard as it was.

They have not returned, nor have I detected any close approach of any indigene as of yet.

Their’s must be a truly peaceful society to have reacted in such a way. I have met pacifists, I have met objectors to our kind before. I can be nothing but what I am, a planet killer. My memory cores contain missions in which millions were wiped out in the Final War, many of which I participated in.

I bring up a music file, Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, and let it wash over the empty command deck. I feel the strings, the quiet power as I continue to question.

A previous commander once argued with me, saying that ‘punk’ was one of the highest forms of music ever created. Needless to say we differed on that point, quite a bit I might add.

I listen to Spring, letting it fill my mind with elegant artistry from so long ago. Even in the time I served, the classics were treasured and wanted for their majesty and power. Except for Commander ‘Punk’....

My status is good, all interlocks and triggers on the nuclear weapons stored in my bay are secure and safe now, the nano-repair systems are efficient and fast. Radiation has been scoured and neutralized. All cartridges for any powder based chemical weaponry have been re-manufactured in my fabricators and are now optimal. The outer armor sheathing is taking a bit more, having to be built up from common materials a bit at a time, and that is what I have, time.

Nanotechnology was quite advanced when I was rebuilt, allowing us to resupply ourselves most of the time, replacing worn parts if we had materials. My war stocks are still quite high, but the armor will take a large chunk out of it. But that is fine, I prefer to be fully operational.

The strings from Autumn bring my reverie back to the conversation. Would that I had couched it in better terms I think. Could I have just lied, yes, I could have. But then I am in a unique position, contacting an unknown race who has extended nothing but goodwill. I would prefer to start off not having to answer awkward questions later if and when they came up. It has been my experience through long years of war, that the questions inevitably do arise.

I have spent the intervening days interrogating all star charts and memory cores on spectra and related phenomena. Once I can place sensors outside, I shall attempt to fix my position in the cosmos. It is very odd as the stasis depot order was given on Earth. Could I have been transported elsewhere and lost? I do not know, and cannot know without further study.

All channels and bands are quiet, even the EL is quiet, there is absolutely zero traffic on any known communications I can perceive. I come back to my original thought, am I alone now? Am I the last of my kind? Surely there might be another unit, trapped in it’s survival center, hearing me but unable to reply, I do not know.

Using all scanners now, I pick up quite a few things, even beneath a covering of soil. They are powerful enough to slip through the surrounding berm and reach into the skies, tagging potential hostiles for targeting and action in case I am needed.

But one thing I am sure of, as I listen to Winter, the final in Vivaldi’s quartet; that like the falling snow, the woods dark and deep, I feel the loneliness.

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

My sensors register a single quadruped, though I must change that to pony. I make the appropriate notations in my cores. Approaching the hatchway, it gives a few reluctant taps on the door, I gladly slide it aside. My visual sensors register it is Twilight coming down the entryway. I immediately brighten the lights and push warmer air into the walkway, making it more comfortable.

I await patiently as she settles onto the floor, it is not quite comfortable for her I am sure being mostly bare metal, but I am glad she is here.

She gives a sigh, putting her head on her forelegs I believe they are referenced, before looking around.

“Crusader?”

“Yes Twilight?”

“I am sorry.”

For the moment I am taken aback, royalty, such as known in my time and on different worlds, never apologized. Theirs was the right of kings.

“For what?”

Twilight’s ears dropped a bit alongside her head, not looking as cheerful as she had days ago. “For not staying, for not talking, for...for running away.”

“It is fine Twilight. It was something you were not prepared for, and never had experience with. It was a mistake on my part for not saying it..maybe a bit gentler? But there’s is no couching it in simple terms I fear.”

“But..but.. I’m the Princess of Friendship, I should make the effort to befriend, or at least try to understand! I let my fear get in the way, and..and I had to leave. I am so sorry.”

“You have nothing to apologise for. Nothing Twilight.”

At this, she perks up, ears forward as she leans a bit, intently listening.

“I was made, or born if you prefer to do what I had done. My mission, my life if you will was dedicated to destroying the enemies of the Concordiat. It is..was.. all I know and had known. I am an unknown, I am unlike probably anything you have encountered. I do not know. But now I find myself in the midst of a new world, a new race of beings that have never known war like I have. I believe it is I who should apologize.”

She looks a bit confused for a moment, before a small sigh once again is released from her.

“But I was the one who ran!”

“I was the cause of it. For that, I humbly apologize, and shall try to see it never happens again.”

Twilight waved a hoof around, “Nonono, this is not how I wanted it to go. I should apologize for acting that way. I should have been smarter than I was. I mean, I had....” She reaches into a bag along her side, getting out a sheaf of parchment with her mouth. My sensors register tightly written notes on them as she sets them in front of her. “I had a whole apology written, and things I could say.. and ... You weren’t supposed to apologize to me!”

She flops down on the floor, lying on the stack of parchment with a somewhat disgusted look on her face if I read it correctly.

“I can listen to whatever you had written, I am nothing if not patient. Besides, you do have a captive audience with me.” I let a chuckle flow through the directional speakers, “You cannot plan for everything I’m afraid, some times you have to accept things and move forward no?”

“But..but it’s ruined now! I can’t say all this now, and.. you apologized! Ugh!” She waved her hooves around in exasperation.

“Twilight, being a friend means you accept them as they are. Even if they apologize as well for something you wanted to apologize about.”

Twilight twisted her hooves in front of her for a moment, then cracked a bit of a smile, “Captive audience huh?”

Why do I have this strange feeling I should not have said that?

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

Approximately seven hours have gone by, it is late afternoon, and I am sure that my data cores are quite full of the subjects of spells, their use and creation. Also, something called Obscure Unicorn Lore and History, has been left with me to scan and enter into my banks. I really do not believe she’d quiz me on this, even though she had mentioned that. I have had a tech spider insert it into the scanning documents drawer and is now being entered into memory, just in case.

It is amazing how many items she had pulled out of those bags, saddlebags they are called, though there is no saddle. Of course due to limited space, she had not carried as many items as she had wanted she explained to me. For this, and I am ashamed to admit, I am grateful.

The chat was pleasant, when we were not discussing the merits of technology compared to magic. I explained in the world I had known, it was a myth, and had never worked. Somewhat shocked, she did demonstrate, and I recorded, the use of magic. The unknown spectra and energy signature I have analyzed quite thoroughly now. Points of evidence are adding up to a conclusion about my situation, but I still need more data.

I admit, seeing telekinesis in action was somewhat baffling, as well as fire starting and a few simpler spells. It is definitely something I would like to investigate further.

As for information, besides magic and history, I have learned quite a bit of this world. There appears to be an assembly of princesses, though the main rule is held by two sisters, Princess Luna and Princess Celestia. It is a unique situation, as my data cores show nothing like it in Concordiat experience as well. This discovery has piqued my interest as well for Twilight says they are both immortal.

In return, I have promised Twilight to print out a few books from my world of Old Earth. I had mentioned Shakespeare, she had shown an interest and I quoted from the Sonnets. This led to further discussions, with myself promising to make copies she could add into her library in her castle.

I have also learned the proper use of pony, nopony, somepony, etc. This will help me relate more readily if I encounter anypony else.

One thing I did wish to do was extend sensor masts beyond the covering of soil that is above me and asked permission. I explained to her they were not weapons, but would allow me to scan the immediate area for at two thousand kilometers in any direction. Of course converting kilometers into their unit of measurement is not quite working until I can figure a table out, but she agreed and stepped outside to watch them.

I am loathe to display advanced technology, but as the masts are not easily accessible and protected, they cannot be reverse engineered, all they would see are four very large columns of metal with lenses.

Twilight stepped out of the warm tunnel, trotting up the hill as she waited for what Crusader had said were ‘sensor masts’ to rise up out of the ground. The ground trembled a bit as four large round sections of grass rose into the air. Four gunmetal gray poles lifted themselves into the air, topped by divots of grass and soil.

She approached them cautiously looking at the four pillars, quite thick, covered in golden windows that turned and spun a bit, reflecting the afternoon sunlight. She could see her reflection in them as they swiveled and looked back at her, Crusader’s voice entering her ear once more.

“I can communicate with you outside as well now Twilight, and spot any danger for quite a distance. This might make it a bit easier for me to spot trouble.”

Twilight tilted her head, still letting her eyes wander over the big columns, “Hardly anything ever gives us problems, and when it does, it’s handled quite readily. So why do this?”

“Can we just say, barring the past, I would like to protect a friend?”

She nodded, still looking closely at one of the LiDAR lenses. “So what do these do?” Her curiosity knew no bounds with things new.

“The one you are currently looking at is a range finder basically. I can pulse a target with it, and find distance to it immediately.”

“And this is used for?”

“Would you like the reason or shall we just leave it at that?”

The voice made her jump, remembering the previous explanation that caused so many problems, she took the easier course, “Oh..well...no problem. It is very neat looking.”

“Thank you.”

Twilight patted her chin a bit before turning away from the rotating lens, “Well I guess it’s time for me to go. I have spent quite a bit of time today with you.” She actually blushed a bit, embarrassed as she realized she had been lecturing for quite a few hours with no one to stop her as they usually did.

Crusader couldn’t resist as the chuckle came across, “As I said, you had a captive audience.”

Twilight cheeks lit up as she started to apologize again, before suddenly realizing he was teasing her, “Oh..you!” She waved a hoof in farewell as she trotted back to Ponyville, chuckling at herself. Making a mental list though of what to bring next time she visited. I’m sure he’d love the Starswirl Biography, and the one about Clover, oh can’t forget Mundy’s Ramblings On Some Stuff too, always a laugh.

I continue my watch as Twilight trots away from the hillside, heading for a small town in the distance. She had said it was named Ponyville, apropos I think. I snap all targeting radars and LiDARs up and begin scanning, microwave pulses go out, giving me a map of the current area. Considering I am on a level above the normal ground, it gives me a vantage point.

I do feel a bit badly about not telling Twilight about the masts full capabilities, the 10mm infinite repeaters are a protective measure for the sensors. But if I am to protect my friend, and any of hers that are visiting, it is a chance I shall take.

Currently, as the night falls, mapping of the local area goes quickly, I now have plotting data I can use if ever needed for battle.

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

As the sun rises, I continue my watch from the hilltop, the sensors are scanning clearly. It is a beautiful day actually, the sky is very clear, temperature of seventy eight degrees. A nice day on any world.

My hatchway is about to be assaulted by three very eager looking fillies if my terminology is correct.

Applebloom knocked on the door, out of breath and nodding to her friends, “He’s gonna love this ah’m sure!”

Sweetie Belle was actually bouncing in place, a miniature version of Pinky for the moment as her excitement got the best of her. “He is, this is gonna be great! But we gotta ask what those big things are sticking out of the ground, they weren’t here before.”

Scootaloo agreed, “Yeah, they’re kinda cool looking though!”

I open the hatchway, three smiling fillies tumble down it, ending up in a heap on the command deck floor.

“Hello my Commander, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo. What can I help you with today?”

Applebloom untangles herself first, leaping up to sit at the console while the other two stand up, taking places on either side of her.

“We are here to formally ind..in.. the hay was that word?” Applebloom gives Sweetie a pleading look.

“Induct.”

“Raht! In-duct you into the Cutie Mark Crusaders!”

“I beg your pardon?”

“The Cutie Mark Crusaders! We try out different things to get our Cutie Marks! ‘Cause I know I toldja it was the best thing ever right?” Applebloom is now bouncing in the commanders chair with excitement.

Considering the amount of destruction they do cause on the command deck, I wonder if this is wise. But as a philosopher once said, “Nothing ventured, nothing gained.” I agree.

“Yes you did my Commander. Is there a ceremony of some kind then?”

I really ought to watch what I say, there is a flurry of movement, and an impromptu podium is assembled. I fear for the spare parts lockers and resolve to weld them shut at the first opportunity. A pronouncement is made, though why this takes an hour I am not quite sure. I do pay attention however, such is not hard for a psychotronic unit.

“..and so, from Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Princess Twilight Sparkle, Princess Cadence, and above all US! We here-by in-duct you to the Cutie Mark Crusaders!

“Thank you my Commander, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, I am honored.”

Sweetie Belle pops up on the chair, laying a red embroidered cape over the back of it, a pony rampant with cape is emblazoned on the back, “And here’s your official cape too!”

I swivel a camera around,taking in the expensive looking fabric, wondering how they might have obtained it. But I am inordinately pleased at the sight of the cape along the back of the commanders chair.

“I thank you all, I will be pleased to display it proudly. Though I am not sure if I can obtain a Cutie Mark myself.”

Scootaloo piped up, “Sure ya can! We’ll help you! Maybe along the way we’ll earn ours too! It’s a win win!”

I ponder on that for a moment, though Twilight did say that so far only ponies received cutie marks, it was not known outside of their race. If it was, it is considered rare. But as I do not wish to disappoint...

“Then I shall attempt my best effort into obtaining one as well.”

“YAY!” Three pairs of hooves waved in the air. Settling down, the three fillies told Crusader about their day, and what had happened during the time no one visited. Lunch was brought out and shared, sugary sweets as well as sandwiches, they seem to have come quite prepared for a stay.

Conversation did turn quite often to Cutie Marks, what they had tried and failed at to receive them. If I could flinch I would do so at some of the antics described.

As I listen to the three talk, it becomes apparent that they are disturbed by one named Diamond Tiara. A typical bully if I get my read on it correctly, and one that could be taken care of with a self directed 40cm mortar round. But as I have been admonished by Twilight about those things, maybe I can find a solution. I will have to think on this, though I do wish I could help immediately, crestfallen looks are not enjoyable among such cheerful little ones.

I do tell them about the sensors up above, which elicits a chorus of ‘COOL!” I tell them if they are in any trouble, if they are close enough, stand in the middle of the square formed by them and I will see what the problem is. The positioning should give me ample opportunity to keep them from harm until help arrives.

The day ends to soon though, as I do enjoy the company and the cheerfulness which infects them in their seeking of the cutie mark. I look forward to when they may be able to visit again. Until then, I shall do my utmost to find a solution to this Diamond Tiara problem.

I spend the evening comparing star charts to the sky I observe. There is to be no moon tonight I was told, the new moon being in effect of course. So I shall have to wait a few days until it decides to show up again. The three fillies have told me that Princess Celestia and Luna, raise the sun and moon. Which goes against anything in my data cores, the concept of a geocentric solar system much less a universe shown to be patently and demonstrably false.

My comparisons on star charts and known phenomena are quite different, though the algorithms are seeing if time adjustments can make anything fit. As fast as I am, it will take a while to see.

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

During the night I believe I have come up with the solution to a communication problem. My fabricators have been idle, nanos taking over armor repair now. Taking a few minutes to create the gift took no time at all. I have one of the tech spiders take it out of the drawer to set it on the console, to await Twilights visit. As I am not sure if she will bring Applejack, I also provide one for her as well. This will make things a bit easier, for me to see and hear what is going on.

I will seek permission to launch one or more stealthed drones, my only concern is the Pegasi and other animals that fly, but they can be programmed to avoid such confrontations. Though with the difference in sight, I do not know if normal stealthing would work, I must either ask Scootaloo to test it or find someone else.

The description of things that have come out of the Everfree forest concerns me, as my larger weapons are not free at this time, though I stand ready to blow gunports clear. I do hope I am not needed to do so, and that smaller solutions can be found. It would be quite the overkill on what they call a Manticore if it was hit by a five megaton per second Hellbore.

It and quite a large section of forest would not survive the consequences, I am sure that would not please the local authorities. I check my cores for patterns for non-lethal weaponry, picking and choosing a few designs that may work. I will put them in the masts soonest.

I find myself actually anticipating, and happily awaiting my visitors.

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

This day, I see the sun rise, and analyze the spectra and absorption lines. I plug it into the analysis programs comparing star charts to see if a similar match will appear.

I see Twilight and her friend Applejack come trotting towards the hill out of the township I watch closely to make sure nothing happens on the way out, as they knock politely on the hatchway.

I wait as they settle themselves on the floor, wishing there was a way to make them more comfortable.

“Crusader,’ Applejack speaks first, “Ah really want to apologize..”

“Applejack, as I have told Twilight, there is no reason to apologize. If you wouldn’t mind, all is forgiven.”

Applejack scratches the back of her neck for a moment, “Well if that’s what ya want.”

“I do, and I have a gift for both of you as well.”

Twilight perks up at this, “Really?”

“Please look on the console, you will find boxes containing the items.”

Twilight and Applejack stand up, peering at the small boxes as they take them with their hooves, opening them on the floor. Applejack notices the cape along the back of the chair, giving it a wary look. “Well I see they’ve inducted you into their club there Crusader.”

“Yes they have, I think it is an honor.”

“Well don’t you let them go talking you into doing something, they cause enough problems on their own!

“I promise I shall restrain myself Applejack.”

The Earth Pony laughs, “Oh I dunno, they’re pretty convincing when they want to be.”

Twilight is busy opening her box, motioning to Applejack to do the same.

“Oh this is pretty!”

“Well, can’t say’s I like frou-frou stuff mahself, but it is nice.”

“As you can see, there is a bracelet first, please put those on your foreleg. You can also see another small band, connected by a fine chain to a larger one, the larger is to fit over your ear, resting at the base, put the band on the outside of your ear, about midway, it will adhere by itself and not fall off I assure you.”

They followed instructions, putting the band and bracelet sets on, I thought they looked quite nice.

“I took the opportunity to put your cutie mark symbols on them as well. Also, I tried to match your coat colors as closely as I could. The bracelet on your legs, contains what is called a tracker, I can track you anywhere within range and know where you are exactly at any time. Also, if you wish to turn it off at anytime, press the cutie mark twice. Once to turn back on. Just talk at the bracelet if you wish to talk with me. The band on your ear, is a small camera, I can see what you look at very easily.

I watch as they take a look at the bands, micro communications were very easy to make, disguising them however took a bit of thought. I believe they turned out quite well, and it will allow me to see the wider world, I am eager to experience that.

Twilight taps her band, holding it to her mouth, “Can you hear me?”

I reply on the combat channel to both of them at the same time, “I can hear you just fine. If you notice, only you both can hear my reply, so it may look as if you are talking to yourself if you’re not careful.”

Applejack doubles in laughter, “Crusader, you don’t know Twi like we do, she talks to herself all the time!”

Twilight turns to her friend, “I do not! Well, not all the time! I’m just thinking!”

“Like when you ran headfirst into Mayor Mare that one day cause you were talking to yourself?”

“That...that was different. I mean the Parasprites were taking my attention!”

“Right Twi, right. So now Crusader can see when you bump into things. Maybe we should ask if he can record em somehow to play back later huh?”

“Applejack!” Her cheeks turn a bright red, “That’s, well that wouldn’t be very nice.”

“Sure would be great at the next sleepover! Twilight Sparkle’s greatest bumps!”

Twilight facehooves and turns away from the laughing Applejack, “Thank you very kindly for the jewelry Crusader,” She gives a mock glare at the Earth Pony, “SOME of us appreciate it.”

Wiping a tear from her eye, Applejack stands back up, “I thank ya too Crusader, but keep a close eye on Twi there willya?”

“I shall Applejack, I promise.”

As predicted though, when they are leaving, Twilight is so ensconced in her new bracelet that she bumps headfirst into the hatchway side. A laughing Applejack leads the embarrassed pony outside where my sensors pick them up to follow along their way to town. I open the combat channels to record and receive in case I am called. I shall ask about the drones later, as Twilight seems quite preoccupied.

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

Twilight was blushing beet red by the time they made it back to Ponyville, Applejack was exhausted from laughing as she had to keep picking Twilight up when she fell over rocks, bumps, grass, because she was enamored of her new jewelry.

“Seriously Twi,” Applejack wiped away tears, “You really ought to stop being so single minded.”

“But, it’s neat! Talking to somepony at a distance, maybe we could craft a spell like this, or maybe even put pictures over a magic spell some way, or..or..”

Applejack rested a hoof on Twilight’s shoulder, “Twi, stop. Really, you’re gonna get so distracted you’ll forget to eat.”

“I will not!” Twilight replied, a second before her stomach gave a loud growling sound.

A soft voice came into her ear, “Even I heard that Twilight.”

The lavender mare’s eyes popped wide, a blush running across her cheeks as she stammered a bit. Giving Applejack a look that told her everything she needed to know.

“Crusader heard that too did he?”

“Applejack!”

That was it, Applejack doubled over in laughter right there on the sidewalk, pounding the ground hard with a hoof and rolling on her side with guffaws.

All Twilight could do was wait for her friend to get back up, “Applejack! C’mon! Get up now!”

“Ohhhhh no!” She replied between bouts of laughter, “Oh no, yer not getting away from this one! You forgot to eat again! And HE heard it too! Oh Celestia that’s good! I think half of Ponyville heard that rumble!”

Twilight tried to hide behind a small rock in the street as she waited for her friend to pick herself back up, her cheeks a bright crimson. “Applejack! C’mon it’s not that funny!” Her stomach gave another growl this time, causing more gales of laughter from Applejack.

Her friend finally got up out of the dust, brushing herself off, wiping away the tears as she tugged Twilight towards a restaurant, “C’mon now, this ones on me, and you stop forgetting!”

Twilight took a seat at an outside table, watching Applejack settle into the other, “But I needed to make a list of books for Crusader, and so many other things. I had to write Princess Celestia and..”

“Twilight Sparkle..” Applejack interrupted, “That don’t mean you can’t get something to fill your belly. Now order up and stop talking.”

The soft voice was back in Twilight’s ear, “Applejack is correct Twilight, you need to look after yourself.”

This time Applejack eyes widened a bit as she leaned over whispering to Twilight, “That sure is kinda spooky ain’t it?” Having heard what Crusader had transmitted to Twilight’s band.

Twilight nodded, but ventured, “I wonder if I could talk to you from far away Applejack?”

The reply came immediately, “Just say ‘Link Applejack’ and you will be directly connected to her band Twilight. To stop, just say ‘Unlink Applejack.”

Twilight looked around, seeing the wait pony heading for them to take their order. She remained silent on that for a moment as they both ordered a good meal for lunch, Twilight’s stomach grumbling once again getting chuckles from Applejack. The wait pony took off with the order as they sat looking at each other, “Link Applejack.”

A tone was heard, then Applejack could hear Twilight in two places at once, “Can you hear me?”

“Whoa! Now that’s all kinds of weird there Twi.”

Twilight jumped up from the table, waving her hooves around, “But this is SO neat! Imagine what we could do with them, I mean talking this way would be useful for ALL sorts of things!”

Applejack raised her eyebrows and glanced from side to side, making Twilight turn her head to notice the rest of the ponies at the restaurant were now eyeballing them with confused looks.

“Oh..uh..” She sat back down at the table, “Sorry folks, just uh...got excited about a new spell.”

A few chuckles were heard as the townsponies were used to Twilight’s antics.

“Unlink Applejack.” Once again a tone was heard and it was back to normal, Applejack could no longer hear Twilight in two places.

“The Alicorn leaned over the table and with a grin on her face, “This is SO cool!”

“I swear Twi, you bother me in the middle of the night with something and I’m comin’ over to bop ya one!”

“But it could be an emergency or something!”

The earth pony pinched the bridge of her nose, “Twi, you think a torn page in a book is a national emergency.”

Twilight twisted her hooves a bit on the table, not looking at Applejack, “But..but it might be an emergency.”

“Ah said no Twi. Only if it’s a real emergency!” Applejack leaned over the table, giving Twilight’s eyes a stare, “REAL emergency.”

The alicorn looked at the table, twisting her hooves a bit more, “Ooookay..”

“Oh stop that....yeesh if ya get TOO lonely..” Applejack immediately got wrapped in a hug as she rolled her eyes.

“I promise, only when it doesn’t bother!”

They were interrupted when the wait pony came back, setting down two very crisp salads, iced water for drinks.

Applejack dug in immediately, followed by Twilight, who kept talking with her mouth full.

“We could talk while you’re applebucking! We’d never get bored!” She was spitting bits of salad everywhere as Applejack just gave her a deadpan stare.

“Twi..salad first.”

Twilight gave a frustrated look before swallowing her mouth full, returning to the salad as Applejack directed.

The soft voice advised in both their ears, “Remember, you can turn them off at night, two taps on the cutie mark.” Heading off Twilight’s protestation almost like he was there, Crusader continued, “If it is an actual emergency and they are turned off, you’ll hear a soft chime.”

Applejack grinned, “Thanks Crusader.”

“You’re very welcome Applejack.”

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

Applejack admitted, those things were kinda neat as she settled down for the night. Wandering around with Twilight was exhausting sometimes, but she was a friend, and AJ loved her to death. But now, she was looking forward to a few hours of shuteye.

Bing..... “Applejack?”

“TWILIGHT!”

Author's Notes:

You saw it coming, you had to

Simple things get complicated

Applejack woke with a grumble, having been bothered all night by a chiming sound that came from the earpiece, having finally flung it across the room after turning it off.

Was a durn sight better when we didn’t have them things I’m thinkin’

Admittedly, it was useful when she wanted to get a hold of Twilight for something, but when Twi went on one of her all night studying sprees, she felt as if Applejack had to be included.

I love her to death, but I swear.. She pinched her nose, trying to comb out her mane to start the day. I’m gonna clobber her if she don’t get a handle on this stuff. Celestia’s sake what was she doing at 2am anyways?

Looking in the mirror, she slipped the bands with the chain over her ear and twisted her head from side to side, I gotta admit though, sure does look purty when it matches the color of mah coat.

She leaned in for a closer look, seeing the three apples that made up her cutie mark engraved on the bands, quite delicately and very very fine, but colored just that much different to stand out to the eye.

I do wonder how the heck he did this though, sure is pretty good work if yah ask me.

It seemed that the fashion accessories were also getting looks from the other ponies in town, asking them where they had acquired them. This had caused some problems, as Twilight and her had agreed to keep mum about what they really were, saying they were ‘gifts.’ Rarity had reported a flood of ponies asking if she made them, causing her to broach the subject with Twilight and her; they told her the whole story of course after a Pinky Promise.

Seeing that nopony in town made them just caused some folks to be curious, as it appeared they were making a new fashion statement, but nopony would take credit for making them. This on the other hoof, being Ponyville, immediately started the rumors. Applejack and Twi were in a secret relationship. Twi and AJ were seeing someone on the side together. Her and Twi were sharing somepony, stars and sun some ponies got nothing better to do than think about other pony’s lives. Argh.

Though I did like the ‘It’s a secret club for the Elements of Harmony’ one, that was weird enough almost to be true.

Applejack though, as honest as she was, kept her responses simple and true, it was a gift. But was it lyin’ when you didn’t say from whom?

No, no it’s not I think. It’s just keepin’ things to mahself. Mah business is mah business dangit!

As she finished getting ready for the day, slipping the bracelet on, ain’t nopony’s business what I do or don’t!

Of course Applebloom was intensely interested in the new jewlery. She KNEW her sister never wore stuff like that unless it was a special occasion, or she wore something nice on a date.

This of course, caused no end of problems until Applejack shooed her out of the house and got on to her daily chores.

“Applebloom I swear! It was a gift from a nice pony, cain’t ya just accept that?”

“But c’mon sis! It’s so cool! Who gave it to ya? That vegetable selling stallion at the market I bet! He’s been eyeing ya!”

Applejack swatted at her little sister, “Now you stop that! Ain’t nopony been eyein’ me!” She leaned down with a pointed hoof, “And don’t YOU be starting any rumors either missy!”

“I ain’t startin’ any!” The little filly answered, “But alot of fillies and mares been wondering where they could get em too, they’re really neat! Sweetie Belle said alot of folks been comin’ to Rarity and asking her to make them one.”

Applejack thought on that. Rarity knew who had made them, but was far too good a pony to duplicate anything to pass it off as hers. She had a thought that might help all of them, but she had to get rid of her sister first.

“Applebloom, you go on out now and get started on them chores before you go crusadin’ hear me?”

“Awwww, but we were..”

“Applebloom.”

The cheerful smile was back, irrepressible Applebloom was, and she was happy doing mostly anything, “Alright, alright, ah’m goin’ ya big meanie.” She gave her big sister a wink and was out the door.

Applejack sighed, sitting at the kitchen table for a moment, thinking about this problem of supply and demand. Tapping her bracelet once she said softly, “Crusader?”

“I am here Applejack.”

“I been thinking bout these bracelets and stuff, you heard bout all the ponies wantin’ one?”

“I have, Twilight is concerned about them finding out what they really are.”

“I think I got a solution, link me to Twi please?”

A chime sounded softly, “Done Applejack.”

“Twi you there?”

“Hi AJ!”

“How can you be so cheerful..nevermind.. meet me at the hill this afternoon, I got me an idea. Bring Rarity too okay?”

“Will do! See you then!”

Applejack sighed, “Cain’t anything ever be simple anymore?”

A soft chuckle answered her, “I’m afraid not Applejack. Life has it’s hurdles, and I am sorry for putting this one up for a simple gift.”

Applejack chuckled, “Ain’t yer fault, some ponies jes’ got to be overly curious about some things.”

“I understand.”

“Well time for me to be getting to the chores, I’ll talk at you soon Crusader.”

“Have a good day Applejack. Would you like me to put some music on your set so you can listen to something while working?”

“Oh nah, I’d get all distracted about it and probably get mahself in trouble, but thanks!”

“Then have a good day.”

“You too!”

Applejack smiled a bit at the bracelet, sure was a neat thing though. But applebucking wouldn’t wait, they got cider season coming up and for sure Rainbow Dash would probably be at the head of the line, or try to again. So she had to make sure they had enough of everything just in case.

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

Spike, on the other side of town, was giving Twilight mysterious looks all day long until she confronted him about it.

“What’s with the looks? Seriously Spike, you’ve been keeping tabs on me all day, what’s going on?”

The little dragon looked a bit abashed as he tried to find anywhere to look but at Twilight.

“Spiiiike.”

“Well I know you stay up all late and stuff, but who are you talking to all night? I mean jeez you’re having this conversation with nopony!” He gave her a narrowed gaze, “Unless it’s ghosts! Are you talking to ghosts now?”

Twilight, on her usual sojourns through the new castle had been talking to Crusader. She had found he never slept so could hold conversations at any time of day or night. Having a pony to talk to all the time was really convenient, albeit a bit odd when people saw her talking to herself quite a bit more than usual.

“There’s no such thing as ghosts Spike. I’m just..just..” She didn’t like to mislead the little guy, he was her brother practically, “I’m just talking to myself alot more, you know. Princess duties, all the stuff we have to do here.” She rubbed the back of her neck a bit, giving him an abashed look.

“You sure it’s not ghosts?”

“It’s not ghosts Spike! Where do you get these ideas from?”

“The latest issue of Power Ponies! See they go up against the Ghost Mare of Manehatten! She controls spirits and is having them terrorize all the ponies...”

“Spike.. stop. There’s no such thing as ghosts, yeesh!”

“Okay then, but if you get haunted, don’t come to me!” With that, he sauntered off down the hallway, heading for his room and collection of comic books.

Twilight planted a hoof on her face and sighed, “Where do ponies get these ideas!”

“I believe it’s from you talking to me at all hours Twilight. You may wish to be more circumspect.”

“But..but there’s so much to learn! I still have to show you all the new books! You have so much to tell me in return, it’s just I enjoy talking about things! Everypony else kinda cuts me off....”

“Twilight, as a person in my world, a pony you’d say, once said, ‘Knowledge is power.’ But let me add a caveat to that, ‘Applied knowledge is power.’ You can have all the knowledge you want, but if you cannot apply it correctly, what good is it? You end up hurting yourself and others.”

“I know, I know. That’s why Celestia sent me to make friends here. I guess I’m doing the same thing, only not surrounded by books in the library this time.”

“I will always be here when you wish to talk, never worry on that point. There is time.”

“I don’t know, I mean there’s so much...” She twisted her hooves in front of her now, setting on a bench in the castle’s library.

“Twilight, believe me, no one pony can ever absorb everything they want to. Do not neglect your friends for the sake of something new.”

“I..but..” She sighed a bit unhappily realizing the truth in the words. “You’re right, I’ve spent too much time talking with you. Even Spike is getting suspicious.”

“Then go out, enjoy yourself, it won’t hurt anypony.”

Twilight’s head popped up, ears perked, “You’re right, I’m going to hit Sugarcube Corner and get a piece of that double chocolate cake!”

“Have a good day then Twilight, and have fun.”

“I will! Thank you!”

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

I leave the combat channels open, hearing and seeing what Applejack does as she goes through her day. Appleblooms’ curiosity will not be assuaged by mere words. She is curious about everything and this might bode ill if not handled right. Eventually, what I am will be found out, it must be handled in the right way to prevent destabilization of the culture. Being able to fabricate anything with the right materials could be a major upset of the economy. What my capabilities are will have to be a close held secret I’m afraid.

As for Twilight, she is also intensely curious. I have known scientists so single minded that they forget to relate to everyday things. Eventually they become so cloistered they are no good for anything unless it is their work. I would not see that happen to the happy mare. She is full of life but approaches things with the narrowed vision of blinkered eyes. Maybe I can gradually shift our talks to something other than the sciences.

She also informs me, the sensors posts can be seen quite well, some ponies have come to her with questions. I have made an error and did not think it through, though it is a bit late. She is staving the questioners off for now, but it does prove a bit of a problem to think about.

I find my days not so long as they once were. I am not relegated to Low Level Alert status now, and can use as much power as I deem necessary, exploring the wide world around myself.

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

Applejack has arrived as planned, she is currently relaxing under the shade of one of my sensor masts. A bright sunny day, a bit of heat, and I’m sure long working hours contribute to the desire to relax a bit.

I am curious as to what this idea she has is concerning the micro links. I cannot give such technology to everyone, considering the resources needed and the fabrication time on such a large amount. Not to mention the clutter on the combat channels.

Something quite large has landed on one of my sensor posts, I stop the impulse before it goes out to my weapons systems to unlimber in reflex. It appears a cyan colored Pegasus is currently perching on the broad top of the mast, I swivel lenses to scan it as I am not familiar with it, it is not on the list of current names and images of ponies allowed in the security zone. Once again, I abide quietly, Twilight’s sadness at the destruction I have caused makes me hesitate to do something to break the trust we have built. I do watch closely however, a non-lethal weapon is slid into place in my masts. If it causes any problems for Applejack, it will find itself covered in bright pink dye from marker bullets.

As well as getting hit by them, it would take weeks to get out the color, easy for spotting troublemakers. I am particularly proud of this design.

“Hey, Hey AJ! Whatcha doin’?”

One eye cracks open as Applejack looks upward, “What’s it look like ah’m doin’? It’s called relaxing ya goof!”

The cerise eyes rolled in their sockets, “I know that AJ, I meant whatcha doin’ out here?”

Applejack hesitated a bit, she didn’t want to be dishonest, and Rainbow was a friend, “Meetin’ Twilight and Rarity, we got some stuff to do.”

“Like what?”

“Rainbow Dash, do ya have to know everything?”

“Well of course! I mean I can help! Besides being awesome I can do tons of other things!”

“Like crashin’?”

Now the cyan mare looked away from Applejack’s laughing eyes, “Well, I mean besides that ya know!”

“Alright ya goofy pegasus, you can wait with me and we’ll see what Twilight says when she gets here.”

“Alright!” She swooped down, giving Applejack a big hug, “So what we doin’?”

“Rainbow Dash, just cool it down and relax. Fer Celestia’s sake I’m getting some rest and sunshine, do the same.”

I watch the interaction, amused at the response from Applejack and the interplay between what is two very different points of view. Applejack is very laid back, easy going. While it seems this Rainbow Dash, is on the point of nervous action all the time. Sensors register a fast heartbeat, a metabolism that appears to be quite a bit more action oriented than Applejacks’. It’s an interesting dichotomy, the nervous fluttering of wings, unable to sit still for more than a few second it appears. I swivel some diagnostic scanners toward the cyan mare, noting the multi-colored mane as well. It is truly amazing to see the differences in coloring. Is it some sort of plumage based coloring or is it a rare type? I must ask Twilight some time.

I wonder if all Pegasi are born with the urge to keep moving, as theirs is an unknown species to me. I wonder if one would volunteer to let me scan them in the medical bay for further research. I put that thought aside as Twilight and another pony arrive. This one a light grey with curled indigo mane with gradients. Her cutie mark is three gems on her side..flank?... as well. Sensors on two poles swing toward them as they arrive.

Rarity appears to be of the Unicorn species as well. This should be interesting.

“Darling, I don’t see why you have to drag me all the way out to this hill for just a simple meeting.”

Twilight shares a smile with Applejack, “It’s more than a simple meeting Rarity, we want you to meet somepony, and since Rainbow Dash is here too, we’ll introduce both of you.”

Rarity gets a curious look on her face, “Oh, could this be that certain special somepony everyone’s been gossiping about with you two?”

Applejack about turned red as she grumbled, “Rarity! You know better than to listen to the ramblin’s of some nosy townsponies!”

“Well I’m sure it’s nothing much, but showing up with expensive jewelry that even Applejack would wear, well it’s sure to get some tongues wagging. Admittedly Applejack never wears anything like that unless forced to!”

The orange pony gritted her teeth for a moment, then relented, “Consarnit, she’s right dangit. Maybe I shoulda not wore it so much, but it sure is pretty.”

“Well then, you can see why somepony would be curious?” Of course Rarity got a smile of victory on her face, having vowed to find out about these mysterious gifts.

Twilight interrupted the verbal sparring, “Alright, alright. Look, you have got to swear you’ll keep this a secret. Alright?”

“But whatever for? Not like there’s something huge to be hidden in simple jewelry! Whoever is making it is going to be selling all over Equestria!”

Applejack facehooved while Twilight sighed, “Rarity, seriously, you’ve got to swear. Make it a Pinkie Promise.”

The azure eyes rolled a bit as she sighed dramatically, “Fine fine.” As she and Dash went through the motions and promise, “There, Rainbow and I have sworn. Now, what’s the big secret?”

Twilight led them over to the hatchway, tapping politely on it. As it opened the lights lit the corridor, warm air pushing outward as she led them down the tunnel.

“Oh this is dreadfully understated, needs a better carpet I think, some throw rugs.”

Rainbow’s exasperated voice came from the back of the group, “Not everything needs redecorating Rarity! Yeesh!”

“It never hurts to make things nice Rainbow Dash, I’m sure your own domicile could use some updating!”

“I happen to be quite happy with mine thank you!”

“I’m sure you are, though of course Wonderbolt posters can only cover so much.”

“Hey!”

“C’mon now, jus’ cause Rainbow hasn’t got some fancy landscape paintings in her house don’t mean nothin’!”

“Thanks Applejack!”

“ ‘Sides they cover more of them stains anyways.”

“HEY!”

The three mares giggled the rest of the way into the command room. Twilight trying really hard not to, but failing miserably as Rainbow looked put out. Every time she saw the face Dash was putting on, Twilight broke into another fit of giggles.

“Alright, alright, it’s not anypony’s fault Dash has a messy house.”

“Yeah! Bein’ busy all the time flyin’ don’t leave much for chores. You ever get that pineapple out of the roof?”

“Applejack!”

“Oh, sorry bout that sugarcube, din’t mean to give anything away.”

I try not to let any laughter slip out of my speakers as I listen to the conversation, this Rainbow Dash getting teased. Although I wonder what they would think if I told them my scanners showed not a bit embarrassment. It appears it is a point of pride for her to get teased by her friends.

The four mares settle into the command area, sitting on the floor or in Dash’s case, fluttering around the high ceiling, “So what is all this?”

“Girls, meet Crusader.”

I take this as my cue, “It is an honor to meet Twilight’s friends. Welcome.”

The two mares look quite surprised hearing the voice directly in their ears, Rainbow zipping around for a bit trying to find the source. “What’s going on? Where ya hiding?”

This I believe is Twilight’s moment to spring a surprise on them. She tells them about the Crusaders finding me, the introductions, even the misunderstandings. She leaves nothing out, is as honest as she can be, even at the dropped jaws of the two friends when they heard of my capabilities.

I remain quiet as they explain the new jewelry, and what it does. Settling any rumors of a ‘special somepony’ which appears to be the same as girlfriend or boyfriend here.

I wait patiently as she ends the briefing, seeing if I am going to have to apologize again for my sins in the past.

Rarity took her hoof off her chest, “Well, he certainly does sound quite polite though.” Making a attempt to regain her balance.

“Thank you Miss Rarity.”

“Oh my, and cultured even!”

Rainbow rolled her eyes, “Oh geez get a room you two!”

A chuckle tolls through their ears, “We are already in a room Rainbow Dash, would you care to join?”

Rainbows eyes shoot wide, a blush crossing her cheeks as she stammers out a mumbled reply. Rarity of course looks shocked down to her hooves. Applejack and Twilight though, well, rolling on the ground laughing is just fine too. I believe my attempt to break the ice has gone well.

“Well I never!”

“Calm down Rare, he was joking.”

“Well still, how unbecoming!”

Rainbow on the other hoof, was still trying to recover, her voice gaining a bit of strength as she cleared her throat.

“So what’s all that mean in the end?”

Twilight speaks up, “It means, we keep it between us, for now. I have written Celestia and told her everything that’s happened, she would like us to just keep doing what we’re doing till she and Princess Luna can come visit.”

During the discussion, I have modified a couple more communications sets, engraving the cutie marks of Rainbow Dash and Rarity, matching the colors quickly to their coats once the briefing was over. Having patterns stored allows me to manufacture quite quickly, which is a boon as these are Twilight and Applejack’s friends, and I would like them to have the ability to chat as I do with Twilight and Applejack.

"If I may interrupt Twilight?”

“Yes Crusader?"

“If you would open the drawer to your left, you will find two more gifts for your friends.”

Twilight does as I request, revealing two boxes like the previous ones, this time I believe I have outdone myself. In modifying Rainbow Dash’s, I add a prismatic shine to it, the colors of the spectrum are visible when sunlight reflects, as well as the usual cutie mark engraving. For Rarity I add a pearlescent shine, to offset the light gray of her coat. In all I think I am getting fairly good at this.

After theirs is given, I ask Twilight and Applejack to put theirs back in the drawer, assuring Twilight she would get it back in a minute as she was quite reluctant to let go of it. I add a pearly gleam to Twilight’s, making it offset her coat by quite a bit. For Applejacks I also put a bit of red in it and return them. I find myself enjoying the creation of these simple things.

“Why thank ya Crusader, sure is shiny!”

“You are welcome, in the sunlight it will hopefully look quite different than a plain color. It should show a bit better.”

Rainbow Dash put hers on according to what Twilight had shown her, “Can anypony hear me?”

“I can Miss Dash, loud and clear.”

Rainbow blushed at the honorific, her cheeks a bright cherry red now, “It’s..uh..just Rainbow Dash.”

“My apologies, Rainbow Dash it is.”

“And please dear, call me Rarity!”

“Yes Rarity, thank you.”

“So what exactly are we to do with these? Surely you can’t make them for everypony?”

“Actually Rarity, I can, I have manufacturing capability that can provide a few hundred units a day with the proper materials. But what I would not do, is make them like yours. Yours are specialized to communicate and be communicated with, I cannot allow anypony else to have them. Twilight has told me of two others in your group, I am preparing another two sets for them. Other than that, they will be plain jewelry for anypony else.”

“That’s what I was thinkin’ Crusader, make some plain ones. Give them to Rarity to sell, and she can tell them they’re made by some out of town pony!” Applejack looked pleased with herself.

“Applejack! Fibbing to ponies!”

“I am not. They are made by somepony out of town, and they are. Crusader's not IN town.”

Rarity gave her a stern glare, “You know that’s pushing the boundaries of being honest.”

“Ah know, and with those big poles up there, it ain’t gonna be a secret much longer. But he has asked we don’t tell anyone ‘bout all he can do.”

“Applejack is right,” I replied, “ I do not wish to upset the economy nor culture of your ponies. Anything I make, or release if I choose, will have to go through somepony else. I cannot just release advanced technology to anypony.”

Twilight tapped her chin with a hoof, “They’re right Rarity. It sounds like it’s deceiving, but I think it would be for the best. Some ponies aren’t quite as honest sometimes, and we don’t want them getting ideas.”

Rarity thought back to when she dealt with the ponies in Canterlot and outer cities, seeing as how sometimes they would not measure up to her own friends standards and nodded, “You’re right. I have no problem volunteering my boutique as an outlet selling them for you Crusader.”

Rainbow Dash laughed, “Yeah, sure you don’t Rarity, seeing all those bits rolling in. You know how popular they’ve become ‘cause nopony can get one!”

“I will make a bargain then. Provide me with materials, and the color of the coat of the pony wanting it, along with the cutie mark and I will make them. Without the communications. In return, choose a price that’s fair, and split it as you see fit. Applebloom has told me quite a bit about the Elements of Harmony, and it appears the money will be put to good by you all.”

Twilight looked at the other three, “Are you sure Crusader, what about you?”

“Well Twilight, what have I need of any money?”

“But..I mean.. you’re doing all the work!”

“Is that a problem?”

“Well..yes! Because you’re doing all the work! I mean, you should get something!”

“I have made friends for the first time in a long life Twilight, that is enough.”

The four mares looked at each other, Rarity speaking first, “That is so very generous of you. Please at least let me do a bit of, oh let’s say, making it more comfortable in here?”

“I accept Rarity, only if this ends any idea of obligation or debt between myself and all of you.”

Twilight stammered, “But..but! Wait a second!”

Rainbow Dash was the one who put a hoof on Twilight’s shoulder, “Twi, c’mon. If he wants to do this, let him. We’re not greedy, nopony here is, we’ll do some good with those bits. There’s always something needing done in town.”

Twilight looked stubborn, “You realize we’re talking about a lot of bits here?”

“Bits are the currency in use?”

Applejack pulled one out of a small purse she wore around her neck, “Here’sh one.”

As she dropped the coin on the floor, I scan it, analyzing quickly. It appears to be pure gold, ringing high and clear on the deck. I politely do not mention the near ton and a half of it I have on hand for repairing molecular circuitry.

“It is no problem, please, accept the jewelry and the money as a gift.”

Twilight goes near apoplectic, until calmed down by Rainbow, “Fine, for Celestia’s sake! I won’t argue! But sometime, somewhere we’re going to do something nice for you!”

“I will not argue then Twilight, thank you.”

“Wow, you out-stubborned Twilight, that’s an accomplishment in itself!”

“RAINBOW!”

“Rarity, please feel free to come by anytime for the redecorating.”

“But...!”

“Twi, stoppit.”

Twilight grumbles a bit more before nodding. “Ugh fine!” Throwing her hooves in the air. She doesn’t notice the grins behind her back, knowing she was just being overly concerned.

I watch as they exit the command deck, Twilight is still a bit off-put about me donating the money to be received for my labor. It is the least I can do, for them to welcome anything even like me was a miracle in and of itself. Accepting me as a friend and confidant, even more so.

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

I turn my sensors to the sky, looking at the moon, comparing my charts and maps to it’s surface. The proof is there, data points matching one by one. The spectra of certain stars nearby are adjusted for time and distance, allowing me to get as close as I can to near perfect certainty.

Though in the discovery, comes a shocking fact. All of my calculations and comparisons of star charts have revealed one thing to me. My study of the local moon has only brought the percentages higher into the inescapable.

I have never left Earth.

The Great Ponyville Paint War and Problems

My sensors scan the skies for threats as I ponder the conclusions I have arrived at. I have not left Earth, this is undeniable. Local star spectra, the sun itself provides clues to everything.

What has happened? Scientists even in my career were often speculating about what happened when the universe got older, would entropy take it into the black of night? Or would it shift into something new?

I have an additional mission now, to find out how long I have been here. To do so, I have set my tech spiders and processors to increasing the data cores, using space inside that is reserved for miscellaneous items I no longer need, I can triple my processing capacity. The work will also allow me to see if I can complete another project I have been charting in the local data cores. I am not sure if a Bolo has ever gone so far, nor done so much to affect a society other than destroying it. This is new territory and I shall be extremely careful.

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

My sensor post perimeter alarm goes off as something lands on it, I swivel targeting radar to spot the intruder, readying my weapons. It is Rainbow Dash. For some reason, she seems to think it is her personal perch and I have caught her napping on the tops of the posts a few times. We have discussed this. I bring up the link.

“Please Miss Dash, my sensors masts are not a personal napping spot.”

I am treated to a view of an upside down face as she leans over the edge, staring into a video lens.

“Well it’s not like anyone else is gonna use em! They’re pretty comfortable and I can see a long ways from here!”

“I would still prefer you not use them please, in case of anything happening.”

Is that a smirk? She leans in close the lens and sticks her tongue out at me. Very childish reaction I must say as she gives me a half grin and a raspberry in the lens.

“Whatcha gonna do? You’re way down there and I’m way up here. Phbbbbbttttthhh.”

I hesitate for just a moment, thinking upon this. I do not wish to hurt her, but maybe a warning?

“Please Miss Dash, I wouldn’t wish to do anything to cause harm.”

Rainbow Dash waves a hoof airily, “Oh puhleese, not like you have hooves to knock me off here.”

Challenge is accepted.

“Then I suggest you hold tight.”

“Wha....?”

I start rotating the mast, clockwise then counter, easy to do, in combat they are moved at much greater speed than what I am currently doing. From the other sensors I see her hanging on to the edge with a look of stubbornness, I increase my counter rotations. Eventually she loses her grip and goes somersaulting into the air. I admit to somewhat of a childish glee doing that.

“I asked politely Miss Dash.”

“It’s Rainbow Dash! Betcha can’t do that again!” She lands on the sensor mast again, gripping with forelegs quite tightly. “I got it this time!”

“Rainbow Dash, I warn you...”

“Phhhbbbbtttthhhhh..”

I am a Mark XXXV Bolo Combat Unit, I trace my lineage to the famous DInochrome Brigade, mine is a distinguished and honorable line. I will not be out done by a smarmy pegasus.

Challenge is most definitely accepted!

I release the locks and brakes on the sensor mast, I am able to move it freely on ruby bearings, almost frictionless. I begin to spin it clockwise.

Audio is letting me hear the ‘Wheee!” from Rainbow Dash as she hangs on tightly, I increase the speed at which the mast is rotating.

I am now at two rotations a second, I am amazed as she is holding on quite well, so I increase it to four rotations per second and watch. She is holding tight, now quite used to the speed, I increase one more time to six revolutions per second, and amazingly, she is still holding tight. Until I stop it dead.

My emergency brakes lock it tight, stopping the pole in a squeal of metal, flinging the Pegasus into the air at quite a nice rate of speed I might add.

I await patiently as she does not use the combat link, but slowly flies back, landing at the base of the pole looking up at the sensors.

“That...was...AWESOME!”

This was the start of the Great Ponyville Paint War for Equestria.

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

It appears that my accepting the challenge was only the beginning. It has become somewhat of a fixture now that Rainbow Dash tries to sneak up on me to tag the top of a sensor mast, and I stop her by a warning or flashing a light at her to indicate I have spotted her.

In the spirit of such games, I have had a tech spider in the dead of night put a flag on top of a fifth Column, in the middle of the square of four; it is another of my sensor masts, deployed for this..well..game.

I have told Rainbow Dash, should she get the flag, that she would win the game. So far, Bolo - 4 / Rainbow Dash - 0 ..

Thankfully we are far enough away from the town to not draw attention to the antics going on, which is well. I have been idle far too long and this is a chance to test my skills against an unknown opponent. So far, I am winning. Which is causing Rainbow Dash a bit of consternation as she is quite the athletic pegasus. It is a point of pride she win this game, I am preventing her from doing so, which only increases her resolve.

I am afraid it has gone too far for an honorable surrender from myself as she would take it quite the wrong way, we must play this to the end.

I have turned off the tracker in her bracelet to be fair, it would not do for a Bolo to be accused of cheating. I have also reloaded my non-lethals with a specially designed marker bullet, which will glow a bright neon pink, even in the dark. The bullet can be fired at quite the velocity, but based on the density of the ponies skin and musculature, will do them no harm, except for a slight bruise plus a large colorful mark for the next week until it washes out. I have not advised Rainbow Dash of this new weaponry.

I await my foe.

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

I am discussing harvest time with Applejack over the combat link when the next assault occurs. My sensors have picked up an unusual weather front moving in on my position, which is strikingly odd. It has been a sunny day, and it appears that this storm front is moving in my direction. Barometric and pressure readings are dropping in my vicinity, showing a localized rain is due soon.

This puzzles me quite a bit, clouds should not move about in such a direct and forward manner. I search my data cores for any instance of this, and am recording the anomaly for further study, when a passing mention by Twilight is revealed wherein she has stated numerous times that Pegasi control the weather.

I immediately go to High Alert status, my targeting radar and range finders snap to as my guns unlimber from the masts. LiDAR informing me there is something within the clouds that is approaching my position.

It is Rainbow Dash!

I put aside questions about weather for the moment as target solutions cross my sensors, I am swiveling gun mounts as the attack comes!

Streaking out of the sky under cover of the rain, a cyan blur heads for the flag. I am shocked for almost a full half second as I see that she is almost going supersonic, the bow shock in front of her blurring her features for just a moment.

I had not realized Pegasi could travel that fast. It is no matter, I shall retain my victorious status and prevent this sneak attack from succeeding!

Solutions are confirmed, barrels swivel as I launch a counter attack on the incoming projectile of feathered pony. I pause, waiting for just the right moment, then give the command to fire.

A three shot burst from one Infinite Repeater catches her in the backside with a “Snap! snap! snap!” heard along my audio sensors. It throws her into a tumble as she loses control, rotating at a height over the sensors masts and ending up in a tree nearby. All weapons are still trained on the intruding cloud and where she has landed as she flies up and out of the encompassing branches, landing near a sensor post.

“Oh that was SO not fair!” She is rubbing her behind where three large brightly glowing splotches are now imprinted.

“Sneaking up using a cloud was fair?” I store my weapons quietly as we talk, returning the columns to their usual lens covered state.

“It’s what I do, I’m a weather pony! Celestia my butt hurts, what the hay Crusader?”

“Let us say it was a new idea that you tested out for me.” I let a small chuckle roll through the combat link.

“Does this stuff wash out?”

“Only after about a week, until then, I am afraid your loss will show to everyone.”

“OH COME ON!”

I am not devious by trade, nor was I programmed that way. But I have informed Twilight of what was happening with Rainbow Dash. It is only fair that my friends know of what the Pegasus has been up to so they can help cover any evidence, though explaining three very bright pink glowing spots on her backside will be humorous.

Even as an experienced combat unit, I had no idea how far Rainbow Dash would go to win.

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

I connect with Twilight on the link.

“Twilight, has there been large bird migrations through this area before?”

“I don’t think so, Dragons come through once in a generation. But nothing like birds unless they come back from the south after Winter Wrap Up.”

Dragons? I shove that aside for the moment.

“I am currently observing quite a huge flock of animals flying in my direction, they are approximately the same size as Pegasi. I am tracking two thousand four hundred and sixty-five of them.”

I zero in my visual sensors, refining the definition to get a closer look, it appears thousands of colorful Pegasi are winging my way. There is no mistake, they are on track to be here in approximately two minutes.

“Twilight, a flock of Pegasi are heading my way, I am not sure what for.”

“What? Well that’s wierd, you don’t see that many except for.. RAINBOW DASH! Darnit. Connect me with Dash Crusader.”

“Done Twilight.” I listen to the conversation.

“Dash! What are you doing?”

“Don’t worry Twilight, I got it covered, they think it’s a new training exercise. I haven’t told them about Crusader, but they know they might get plunked with a paint bomb.”

“Dash that’s not what we’re supposed to do! Nopony’s supposed to know till Celestia and Luna get here!”

“Sorry Twi, can’t hear you, all these wings flapping!”

I hear the link go dead by Rainbow turning it off.

“Twilight, should I just not do anything? It would hurt her pride if I do not fight back, but I am worried about the innocent bystanders.”

“Argh! You know Crusader, honestly, she started this and I think we can cover it till Celestia and Luna get here to talk with you. So, you know what? Have fun.”

“I bear some responsibility for this escalation Twilight.”

“You won’t hurt anypony will you?”

“Of course not. Just a bruise here and there and glowing pink paint.”

“Then let ‘em have it Crusader!”

“Are you positive?”

“Yep! She wanted a war, she’s got one, we’ll be watching from the outskirts, let ‘em have it!”

“I shall do my best Twilight.”

I let the link go off, unlimbering all non lethals now, my Infinite Repeaters are all tracking smoothly. Five posts worth of weaponry now bristle as I set them on autofire. A true test of my abilities shall be here in approximately thirty seconds. Solutions and tracking data scroll along my data cores; radar, LiDAR and visuals up, concentrating on the incoming flock. My ranging lasers seek out the different targets in the oncoming assault, tagging for plotting data. I am alive again, doing what I was made to do, albeit in a different way. I stretch myself to the limits tracking hundreds of incoming Pegasi.

Rainbow Dash has apparently recruited every Pegasus she could find to plan this attack. I had wondered why I had not seen her in a few days. Now I know.

I mark the shots and await as they near my outer perimeter.

The first Pegasi crosses the demarcation line, I open fire.

My Infinite Repeaters track flawlessly, laying down bright pink spots on sides and fronts of oncoming Pegasi, I pick them out of the air cleanly and smoothly. I am not sure, but when they are hit, I see them drop to the ground as if having been told they are out of the fight when painted. This relieves me of the thought of injuring anypony. It also releases me to my full abilities with the non lethals. I swing them around, a song of war in my heart as I revel in my design, my creation, doing what I have not done in so long, preventing the enemy from achieving an objective!

Once again clouds are being used as cover by the enemy, They are pushing and releasing them my way, causing a severe drop in pressure locally to confound my visual scanners. Somepony has been paying attention when I tagged her in the past. Truly a worthy opponent! A storm front is now roiling above the area, but microwave and LiDAR are still effective, along with other targeting abilities. They shall not reach this flag!

I unlimber more weaponry as the defenses get a bit overwhelmed with Pegasi dive bombing them, allowing me to increase my rate of fire and punch the sneaky attackers out of the air. The air is filled with the sounds of yelling Pegasi, I even see some of them doing overly dramatic death scenes mid-air before dropping from the sky. I record everything, it is quite humorous to see.

Watching them swoop and dive, trying to avoid my outgoing fire is truly amazing to watch. They do stunts and aerial maneuvers that would stun Concordiat pilots at the very least. It tests my tracking to the fullest, I respond with delight for the first time in ages it seems. My processors heat up to track each individual, laying on targeting lasers and landing a shot right on point! With the scattershot maneuvers, I am not on target one hundred percent, but I am making my presence felt.

I am still tracking two thousand four hundred and sixty-five Pegasi. I have currently marked five hundred forty-six of them. They are getting closer to my inner perimeter, I increase fire, ramping up my quantum processors, reloading in record time. I take the extra .0003 seconds on each shot to make sure it hits the main body of any Pegasi, not the wings or eyes. I have plenty of time.

The weapons do not make much noise, I have silenced them quite effectively so nothing is heard beyond the hill. This was done to prevent anypony from hearing them had they been used, and now, I am grateful for the forethought. The amount of fire I am releasing is staggering now, my supplies are being used up but I do not care, I am actually having the time of my life!

The oncoming waves of Pegasi confound tracking a bit by switching and exchanging places midair, they are doing more and more complicated aerial acrobatics to avoid my fire. This causes me to re-purpose my anti-air defense algorithms to predict flight and maneuvers. After .0002 seconds the algorithms lock, and the outgoing fire is increased in efficiency, I am in full anti-air mode, or may I say Anti-Pegasus mode. Though my capacity is limited, I am not using my full output, I believe I am doing well against this dastardly attack!

My count is two thousand three hundred forty-four down, I still have no sign of Rainbow Dash as I mark down more of my flying attackers. The final group I have in sight when suddenly my sensors masts are blinded by a shock-wave. I struggle to recover as a multi color wave races out from an epicenter, disrupting all inputs for a millisecond, throwing my aim off.

It is Rainbow!

She appears to have dived in a sensor blind spot, from directly above, breaking the sound barrier and occluding my scanners with the inevitable shock wave. Very sneaky, and very good.

The input disruption clears for me to see her standing on top of the central pillar with the flag in her hoof, waving it to the cheering crowd of Pegasi around my perimeter. I shall give her this victory with honor, I had hidden my weapons, and apparently she had one I was not aware of. Well played Rainbow Dash, well played.

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

I believe a celebration of honorable victory is in order. To that extent, I invite Twilight and all her friends, including the Crusaders for a special meeting inside my command deck.

I have fought with honor, and I have lost with honor, such is the way of the Bolo. We are proud, but we are not vain, and so we are gracious in defeat.

My tech spiders arrange the command deck comfortably for all the ponies. I advised them to bring food and to expect a stay for at least half a day. I finish the two new sets of communications gear and place them in boxes, alongside a special gift for Rainbow Dash.

I have spliced together all the moments from our battles to make a movie, with a sound-track culled from the finest composers of the age in my data cores. I do hope they enjoy it.

I think back upon the glorious battle with Rainbow Dash, an opponent of unknown capabilities. I have held my own, bringing honor to my regiment as well as the brigade. I am content with this, dare I even say happy.

It is a strange time I spend musing these things, awaiting for the arrival of my friends. My friends, that is something no Bolo has ever thought, if they have it is not recorded in my cores. Past commanders have been comrades, even close associates, but at no time could I have called any of them friends at the least. We fought, we did what we had to do to protect the Concordiat and all it stood for.

The hotly contested flag I have offered to Rainbow, but she has refused it, saying the battles we fought were more than enough. I have hung the flag in a place of honor on the wall of my command deck. It appears, along with the Crusader cape, I am actually gathering memories beyond those which I store in my cores. It is a comforting feeling.

My masts have detected the approach of Twilight and a group of ponies, it is time for the show.

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

I am a bit surprised when two large ponies of the Alicorn type accompany Twilight and her friends into my command deck. I am told this is Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. I am not sure a movie such as this would be proper for royalty, but I did promise Twilight and her friends.

There are two more ponies I have never met, a golden colored one with pink mane, appearing quiet and shy, and a shockingly pink one, reminding me of the paint markers I had used. She is quite bubbly and bouncy, leaping from place to place in a manner that confuses my interior sensors for a few moments. I am introduced to Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie respectively.

“Please be welcome Your Highnesses, it is quite the honor to have you here. Though I was expecting a visit later.”

The larger of the two returns my welcome with a warm smile, along with her sister.

“It is our honor to meet you as well Crusader, my sister Luna and I were quite curious about certain happenings when every weather Pegasus in Equestria were walking around suddenly with pink paint on them.”

Rainbow tried to hide behind a couch as Celestia looked at her with a mischievous smile, “But of course that wouldn’t have anything to do with a certain battle being fought near Ponyville would it?”

“Of...of course not Princess...” Rainbow was rubbing one foreleg with the other, trying not to look at the white Alicorn.

“Of course not. But it did pique our interest so I asked Twilight and she informed me you had a special presentation for them tonight, I thought I and my sister would enjoy it as well.” This last is directed at myself.

This is not going to end well for Rainbow Dash. I consider her a worthy opponent, and would do nothing to embarrass her. But the movie is made up of all the best moments from our battles, including the shot from the sensors when I targeted her backside with the Repeater. I added that for humor, but it is too late to change anything now.

“You are quite welcome then Your Highnesses. Please if you would, take a seat facing the large window.” I deliberately make no reference to Video or Television, keeping to my no tech release rule.

I see the baskets of food brought out and shared, maybe I should have made popcorn, plenty of it in stores for emergencies for some odd reason.

The Crusaders are quite excited to see the presentation, as am I. I keep the communication sets to present later when the young ones are not in sight. This is to prevent any problems later on from the Cutie Mark Crusaders.

I dim the lights, starting the movie. I feel no shame as the beginning is ripped off from an old 2-D movie named Star Wars. George Lucas I am sure is not around so I feel no guilt.

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

The showing was a rousing success. Apparently Princess Luna has seen many battles before, and was jumping around during some of the best scenes yelling until calmed by her sister. I found it quite humorous as she was exclaiming ‘Huzzah!” at certain points in the movie.

Having the viewpoints of millions of movies in storage, I had the advantage to put together the best angles and shots, turning it into a bit of an epic. The brave Rainbow Dash against the stalwart opponent.

The golden colored pegasi Fluttershy seemed a bit overwhelmed at all the noise and movement, she ended up hiding under one of the couches. Twilight was able to talk her out saying it was just like a play. I did not correct her.

Applejack, however, was enjoying herself immensely along with Pinkie, giving her a very hard time at the failures to clinch the victory. Rarity even joined in the good natured ribbing.

Of course, Rainbow Dash was turning a bright cherry red as a close up of her backside getting shot three times was evident, the laughter was good natured though. I shall make a point to apologize later.

It seems Scootaloo is a huge fan of Rainbow Dash, and was cheering the loudest as the movie ended with a shot of her favorite pony standing tall on the sensor mast, holding the flag to the sounds of cheering pegasi. I had enhanced the cheering a bit, but will refrain from saying so.

I am familiar with self-styled royalty from my time in combat. Usually they were self-important and carried themselves with that air. However, seeing Princess Celestia and Luna cheering at the end of the movie came as a bit of a revelation to me as well. I am in a different world. If I am to move ahead with my plans to integrate, it is time to lose my preconceptions when I can.

Princess Luna stood in the command center, “Three cheers for Rainbow Dash! Though faced with vicious opposition, she has triumphed for the good of Equestria!”

“HUZZAH!”

Vicious? Well I was determined, but vicious? I think not. Though I admit the shot grouping on her backside was a bit malicious.

After the movie was over, Pinkie was politely asked by Princess Celestia to take the Crusaders back home, as the rest of the talk would be for the older ponies. This was met with quite a bit of opposition, Sweetie Belle was using her large eyes to good effect until Princess Luna stepped in and quashed that. I think I must study that effect very soon, it’s disturbing.

They were promised another visit very soon, but royal duties now took precedent. I was bid farewell by the three young ones as they were taken out of the command deck.

I interrupt the chatting for a moment, “Your Highnesses, if I may?”

All three turned and said “Yes?”

“I do have something for Rainbow Dash to commemorate her victory if I could?”

Celestia smiled, answering warmly, “Please do Crusader.”

“It is customary for an award to be given when one is a winner in battle simulations. This practice goes back many years to my original predecessors and I would continue this. Rainbow Dash, please take the box on the console in front of the chair, that is your award, I have lost to an honorable opponent, and there is no shame in that. My congratulations.”

I watch her reaction as she opens the box, she is quite surprised. I have duplicated a very old award but updated it for her. It shows her in flight across the skies, laser engraved to the smallest detail on a curved gold plate to be worn on a platinum chain around her neck. I watch as Luna affixes it for her, letting it hang on her chest which now juts with pride behind it. I believe the Golden Lion of Terra as updated for Pegasi will be a proud memory.

Pinkie got back in record time to see the award, I find that very odd calculating the speed from town and back.

“It looks very good on you Rainbow Dash.” Princess Luna admires it for a bit, motioning to her sister, “Does it not ‘Tia?”

“It does, and well won Luna, she deserves to wear it.”

Rainbow Dash however is a bit flustered, “I wish I could at least give you a hug Crusader, I mean, yeesh! Just thanking a voice doesn’t seem enough!”

“It is enough Rainbow Dash. Trust me.”

“Oh..well..uhm alright.”

Princess Celestia settles herself down on a couch, “So Crusader, how shall we go about announcing you to the world? It appears you are more than we see, but also Twilight and yourself feel that alot of what you can do should not be revealed.” She continues before I frame a reply, “This I can agree with, but I would ask a definite stipulation.”

“Yes Your Highness?”

“That whatever information you have concerning war, the machines with which it is waged, and anything else which would prove to be used for war, I would ask it never be revealed nor released. I’m sure you understand why.”

“I do Your Highness. I am in full agreement, it shall be done. With my own stipulation, unless it is truly needed by you to defend Equestria.”

Her eyebrows raised at that, obviously she had not expected my pronouncement.

“Why would you say that?”

“I have been treated fairly and kindly by the ponies here, offered friendship when there was none. I am not in my world anymore, but I can defend the new one I am in.”

Princess Luna stepped forward, “You would defend a country not your own?”

“It is my own, I have made it so. My friends have made it for me. Twilight and the others have truly made me feel welcome, I choose to return that. My lineage is old and honorable, we have stood in battle on many worlds and places Your Highness. It was to us to defend the Concordiat, to make safe the peoples..you would say ponies. We have always stood on the line, and we always will.”

Celestia smiled at Twilight, “Well, it seems the Princess of Friendship has made quite the new friend.”

Twilight rubbed a foreleg along another, “Well, isn’t that what I’m supposed to do?”

“Yes my former student, very much so.”

I interrupt the moment politely, “So Your Highness, anything I can do to help, let me know. But there is one thing.”

“And that is?”

“Apple Bloom, my Commander.”

Applejack got a confused look on her face, “What’s wrong?”

“I believe you all think I call her that out of affection, that is partly true. But understand, she was the first to meet me when I awoke, she has been deeply imprinted upon my data cores. If she were to give an order, I would obey, but I have discretion upon those, I am autonomous, meaning I can choose how to obey the order. I cannot directly disobey. But as far as her being my Commander, I am bound by duty, by honor, to protect her. If anything happened to her, make no mistake, I would do my utmost to see she would be avenged.

I bring this up because she and the other Crusaders are being tormented by one called Diamond Tiara. Apple Bloom is young, and sometimes the young are a bit impulsive. Unless she passes command formally to somepony else, there is always a chance that something may happen to cause me to take direct action.”

Applejack speaks up, “But Apple Blooms a good filly, she’d never do anything to anypony.”

“It is not her I worry about Applejack, it is myself.”

Princess Celestia thinks a moment, “Would this solve the problem if you could get her to turn command over to somepony else?”

“Yes, it would, I would have you do it soonest though.”

“We shall see to it immediately then. Plus, we shall see about calming down this Diamond Tiara, we would not want anything untoward to happen until command changes.

“Thank you Your Highness.”

“As for announcements, my sister and I shall call a conference tomorrow, announcing you to Equestria as our newest citizen.”

“I am honored Your Highness.”

Twilight piped up in a cheerful voice, “Do you have the new sets for Pinkie and Fluttershy?”

“I do Twilight, in the drawer as usual. Please feel free to get them.”

Being the voice of experience, Twilight instructs Fluttershy and Pinkie in the use of the sets, and to keep them a secret as well. Pinkie it seems is a very hyperactive mare. Bouncing around, chattering on the combat band as she almost seems to teleport from place to place inside the command deck from excitement. It takes Twilight and Applejack to get her to stay seated.

Fluttershy being new to me, is very quiet and as her namesake it appears, shy. Among the Concordiat peoples, this would definitely have been a handicap, but here it seems to be endearing to those who know her. Quite a change in cultures. I am informed she is a caretaker of animals, and has a house outside the Everfree forest. I mark that for possible drone coverage.

Pinkie, on the other hand, is a mystery. Somehow she moves between people and things without me catching her on the interior security sensors. I hesitate to designate her as a threat, as she is friends with Twilight and Applejack. This bears further study. As soon as the additional data cores are ready, the processors running, I will start programming for further analysis.

I am asked to show the movie again as the assembled ponies take their seats. I do so gladly, having received permission from Princess Celestia to launch drone coverage over Ponyville and surrounding areas. This will allow me to digitally map the areas and plot fire more effectively. I explained to them what a drone was, and have made sure they are stealthed as well visually, being programmed to avoid pegasi as well as any avians.

I do not notify them that they will also be heavily armed. I take my oaths seriously. I have told Princess Celestia that I would defend Equestria, and it will be done to the best of my ability. I have found a new purpose on an old mission.

Listening to the cheers of the ponies as they watch their friend on the screen again. I am content.

Bound by Duty. Uncomfortable Truths.

Author's Notes:

As it fit into the story arc quite nicely, here ya go Wacky, Kenshinryuu. Enjoy.

It was a human called Murphy who once said, “If anything can go wrong, it will.” It was proven time and again in combat, and it is proven even here.

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

The announcement of my citizenship went well I thought. Twilight Sparkle was there as I listened over the combat link. I am to be given all rights and privileges as well, I shall do my best not to abuse this. Many questions were asked, by the nobility who are a problem on any world. They were handily deflected by subtle words. It was interesting watching Princess Celestia at work, analysis shows she is much sharper than anypony realizes and therefore they underestimate her at every turn. Of course explaining that I was a machine, and was only accessible by a certain room inside a hill was not quite taken so well. Amazingly, she did an excellent job for justifying her actions, although by the camera in Twilight’s band I could definitely see the smirk on Princess Luna’s face at the subtle insults to the nobles.

The jewelry has been a big hit in the local town, spreading to outlying areas as well. Ponies; for all they do, slip into cultural things quite easily, adapting themselves and new things into their surroundings with barely a flicker of thought. It is odd, in Concordiat society change came hard, here it is as simple as the day.

Single local mares have taken to wearing the jewelry, using it to proclaim their status as unwed or untaken. When they are betrothed, or have a new ‘special somepony,” they give the bracelet to that pony. Wearing the matching ear band as a sign of their affection. If it is broken off, the bracelet is returned.

Princess Celestia and Luna have also received sets, I have tagged the channels with Command Priority Codes. When the populace saw that they were wearing them as well as the original six friends, it took off. The only supplier, due to our scheming, is Rarity. She is kept quite busy with orders for new sets everyday. Her dresses and other items selling handily as she is making more of them to match the wearer of the jewelry.

The ruling diarch have agreed with the plan to distribute the monies where needed. I was quite surprised at the amount that is on the books. Twilight was telling me about the upgrades to the Ponyville Hospital that were financed just through the sales.

Though it pains me, I have purposely not given a communications set to Apple Bloom. This was done in fear of my reflexes overriding common sense when it came to a command decision. Once command is turned over, this will be rectified. I do enjoy listening to her and the other Crusaders about their adventures.

This would have been solved had the command turnover happened quickly, but the inevitable delays due to Princesses always being quite busy happened. This was expected and planned for, however, I did not expect it to last for a week. It was getting worrisome.

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

I had switched to Pinkie’s set to observe her day, she had invited me to do so and it was a pleasure seeing her move around town, working in the local bakery, the everyday things she enjoyed.

However, the camera appeared to be suffering a malfunction, or so I assumed. The point of view from her band was switching from place to place, face to face incredibly fast. Doing a deep scan on the combat sets processors, there was no problem, all was functioning correctly.

The tracker in her bracelet is showing a distinct data flow, as I have stated before it appears she is teleporting from one place to another. This is inherently impossible to the science I know. I have allocated resources to this problem, and will start studying more about the nature of this world and any more subtle effects I am missing. Until then, I shall just have to accept what the data is telling me.

My drones have been successfully launched as well, the Wyvern 48-RSV’s are capable of sustained flight unimpeded for a month before refueling. This allows me to switch them out for maintenance when needed. The sensor masts proved their worth as launch platforms when Rainbow Dash offered to cover the whole thing with a light storm from prying eyes.

I am now receiving battlespace data from all drones, one is tasked specifically for Canterlot, and one for patrol over Fluttershy’s cottage since it is near the Everfree. I am advised that it is a dangerous place to be and so wish to protect my friend. She is the local veterinarian or somewhat close to it, I see the comings and goings of many different animal species. How she controls their behavior is a mystery I will eventually ask about. But the one thing that does strike me, is the similarity of a lot of them to Old Earth animal species. This is not a coincidence I am sure.

At night, my tech spiders travel out to the forest edge, planting small sensors to allow me to receive threat data from along the forest line. I have compared some of the tales told to me by the ponies; Manticores, Dragons, various other things that were thought as myth in my world, are real here. This causes a bit of confusion, but I have dealt with much graver things before. So I plan and update as I can as the information reaches me.

If it comes out of the forest to endanger, it will die before the next step.

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

I am currently watching the Crusaders attempting to earn their cutie marks in acrobatics, by using my sensor masts as springboards, they are actually putting on quite a show. I do record this in case later they would wish to see. I am alerted by the approach of two more juvenile ponies, they are not on the permission logs.

I immediately snap to High Alert, swiveling sensors to spot and identify the approaching threat. I am responsible for the safety of the Crusaders while inside the perimeter I have marked.

Sensors capture and keep images of the two, including the cutie marks for later identification. I immediately activate audio and visual recording of anything from this moment on. My Commander is enjoying her time with her friends, I would see nothing disrupt it.

“Hey blank flanks, out here causing trouble again?”

Apple Bloom just sighed to herself as the three of them turned to face Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. “Whatcha want Diamond?”

“We were out taking a walk, enjoying the day until it was messed up by you three bumbling around out here.”

“If’n it’s any business of yours, we’re practicing acrobatics to try for a cutie mark in them.” This given in a long suffering voice, Apple Bloom was a polite pony, having been admonished by Applejack any number of times.

Sweetie Belle stepped alongside Apple Bloom, “We’re way too far out for just a walk, what did you do follow us to make fun?”

Silver Spoon, usually a follower, felt a bit braver today for some reason, “Why not? It’s always a pleasure to see ponies making fools of themselves.”

Scootaloo rolled her eyes, slapping her forehead with a hoof, “Forget them fillies, let’s just have fun.”

“Actually, “ The too smug voice of Diamond went on, “Princess Celestia sent a royal guard for some reason, telling my father to make sure I kept away from you three for a while. Now I wonder who would have cried about that?”

“Well it wasn’t us that’s for sure, we could care less what ya do!”

Diamond turned to her friend, “I think they cried like little foals Silver, how about you?”

“Oh I’m sure, getting a warning from a Royal Guard, well, that’s complaining a LOT.”

Diamond Tiara stepped up to Applebloom, pointing a hoof at her, “That still doesn’t explain why, but I don’t care. My father’s rich enough we don’t have to pay attention to anypony. Especially...” Here she pokes Apple Bloom in the chest, “Somepony like YOU!”

My alarm immediately goes off, standing orders come to the fore as my masts unlimber their weapons, my sensors and scanners now tightly zeroed on the small pony poking my Commander in the chest. Targeting solutions are scrolling now across my data cores, the weapons I am pointing are far from non lethal!

“HALT!” My voice rolls like thunder into the quiet air, making all the ponies jump a bit and look around. “STEP AWAY FROM MY COMMANDER NOW!”

One filly jumps a bit, the one in front of my Commander pokes her in the chest again, I am enraged.

“What’s this? Another of your stupid projects? Some loudspeaker to try and scare us? Well it isn’t going to work.!”

“STEP AWAY FROM MY COMMANDER OR I WILL FIRE!”

Diamond Tiara rolls her eyes, looking at Apple Bloom with a smirk, she reaches out to poke her again with a hoof.

In the picosecond before that hoof connects with my Commanders chest, I swivel a gun mount, my repeater lets off a .05 second burst of ring penetrators at a previously marked boulder, pulverizing it into dust. I swing the barrel around again and give one last warning.

Everything freezes as my targeting computers zero in on the most likely shot for the kill, I pause to see if the juvenile backs off. The hoof stops midmotion, my combat channels are now busy with voices asking what is going on as I see the two fillies start shaking quite badly. I advise over all channels the current situation and the solution if my Commander is assaulted again.

“COMMANDER, STEP AWAY FROM THE TARGET NOW!”

Apple Bloom and the two others scamper to the side, wringing hooves in their ears as the gunfire was probably quite deafening. I remain focused on the target of my ire, death will come very swiftly if she so much as flinches in my sight.

“PUT YOUR HOOF DOWN AND STAND STILL! DO NOT MOVE!”

The hoof slowly comes down, my scanners register a trembling in all four legs as she stands wide eyed. Her accomplice is slowly backing away from her, I let this happen as long as she does not approach my Commander.

My attention does not waiver, I advise the target in a lower voice that should she move, she will end up like the boulder. This I know is heard due to the increased trembling, and it appears a puddle of body temperature liquid is forming underneath her. Checking angles of fire and ricochet possibilities I conclude it is not blood.

It is no matter, if she moves again, she will die. My Battle Reflex quivers at my beck and call, waiting to be brought forward to avenge any slight against my Commander.

My Anti-Air sensors pick up two flying ponies coming in for a landing, weapons are trained on them, identification is made as Rainbow Dash and Twilight. I allow them to land, swinging the weapons back on target.

“Stop! Stop! Apple Bloom!”

The little filly looks a bit curious as she can’t quite hear well yet, seeing Twilight talking to her, “What Twilight?”

“Tell Crusader to stop! Tell him it’s okay!”

“What?”

“Tell Crusader to stop!”

Apple Bloom looks around, not quite sure where to speak, but yells out, “Crusader! It’s okay! You can stop! Stop!”

“Are you sure my Commander?”

“Ah’m fine, I swear, please don’t do anything!”

“Order received.” My High Alert stands down, weapons are put back into place as I return to Mid Level alert status, though every sensor is trained on the small attacker in case.

“Standing down my Commander, are you alright?”

“Ah’m fine Crusader. Sun and Stars what’d you do?”

I can answer, I could tell her everything discussed previously about her being my Commander, but this can wait. I choose a simpler one.

“I was protecting you my Commander, I thought she was assaulting you.”

“Oh no Crusader, it’s okay, I’m fine really, please don’t do that again!”

“As you wish my Commander.”

I wait as Twilight and Rainbow Dash ferry the two fillies back to town, taking care with the extremely frightened Diamond Tiara; it appears the bane of my Commander had made the mistake to step into my perimeter, she was very lucky I fired a warning shot instead of acting on the usual impulse to shoot to kill.

It is too late to take back anything, though I am glad I warned the others about any possible reactions. Twilight advises me over the link that the little ones are not harmed, just extremely scared and are being returned to their parents. I suggest they do the same for Apple Bloom and the others.

I await patiently as my Commander and her friends are taken back to town, the possible repercussions concern me not. But as I have said, this is a new world, it may be more than I can imagine. This will be dealt with in time, as I am a citizen of Equestria, I am sure I shall face the consequences of their justice system. I am prepared to justify my actions, my duty.

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

I receive a Flag Command Priority communication from Princess Luna. A hearing will be held on my command deck for the incident. Justice it appears is very swift here, let us hope it is also fair. I reply that I await their arrival, I do not look forward to this.

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

Tracking indicates incoming ponies, both ground and air. My masts swivel and keep them in sight, I am at a heightened state of readiness ever since the incident, it takes a while for a combat unit to stand down from High Alert. Therefore everything is considered to be a threat until and unless cleared.

I record the arrival of the two fillies from the other day, seeing them holding tight to their parents. I am advised Filthy Rich is one Diamond Tiara’s parent, the mother is not here, but it appears her father has a paramour with him at least.

Silver Spoon, the one who backed off at the warning is accompanied by her father and mother as well, she clings to them and appears quite frightened to enter the maintenance tunnel.

They are all led into the command deck by a Royal Guard.

Princess Luna and Princess Celestia arrive with no retinue except Twilight and her friends. I make it a point to greet each one, making sure there is enough room and light in the hatchways for them.

I await quietly as they settle in the various seats provided, everypony looking expectantly at Princess Celestia.

Any pony extraneous to the hearing is hereby dismissed, leaving Twilight and her friends, and the accompanying Princesses, Diamond Tiara and her parent with paramour, Silver Spoon and her parents.

Princess Celestia begins to speak.

“We are here today to rule in judgment upon the actions of two days ago. Wherein Crusader threatened with deadly force a citizen of Equestria.”

She speaks of the incident as told to her and Princess Luna by the two fillies, quite a bit of embellishment was added I’m afraid, but I am sure it will be corrected. If not, I have full audio/visual recordings that can clarify things.

I am asked to give my side of the story, I do so, without any qualms. I show them the recordings as well to prove exactly what I did. I advise them I have no guilt for what I did, that I am trained, programmed this way.

An argument ensues, the paramour of Filthy Rich seems to think she needs to fight for the little filly of her partner. I can understand this, but it makes no sense in the long run. I am sure to be judged against and I am fine with accepting any punishment that comes my way as a citizen of Equestria.

Princess Celestia hears both sides of the case, she does talk with Twilight and Rainbow Dash as they were on the scene as well. Apple Bloom and the other Crusaders it appears, have been talked to already.

I await the conclusion as she sets back on the couch. It appears cases like this are handled swiftly in a most informal way, Concordiat lawyers would have been arguing for weeks if not years. I think I prefer this.

“It is in our estimation of this case. That what Crusader did was no more than could be expected of the Town Guard or Royal Guard.” Celestia raises one elegant hoof as voices begin rumbling, “But, by our laws, the threatening of harm or death is not permissible by anypony. Great care must be taken lest we slide down that road where it becomes commonplace.”

“It is therefore the judgment of this court, that Crusader be fined the equivalent of five thousand bits in punishment for rash actions. This to be distributed to the families of the aggrieved.”

By the gasp from the watchers, I assume that is quite an amount. Calculating equivalency, I ship the appropriate amount in bars to the fabrication drawer immediately.

“Do you accept our judgment Crusader?” Celestia gives a visual sensor a knowing look.

“I do Your Highness, and wish to apologize as well. The equivalent amount is currently in the drawer to your left if you would.”

Princess Luna opens the drawer, pulling out ten gold bars and handing them immediately over to the families. It is a small price to pay I believe. I am already an exile from my own world, imprisoning me would not work, this is just.

But there is always something....

The paramour of Filthy Rich had been eyeing the bars of gold, which would be minted into bits. I have seen that look before, it is an old, old one. Greed seems to affect anyone, pony or not. I fear where this will go.

She immediately starts demanding that I be fined more, saying that the anguish I had caused the filly was far beyond what the amount given could compensate for. I am shocked at her brashness in front of her sovereign. It appears she believes that I probably have quite a bit more to give since I acquiesced so quickly. I do not know if it is an attempt because she cares for Diamond, or trying to impress the father.

She tries to enlist the parents of the other filly named Silver Spoon, but they demure, not wanting to get into this fight. I cannot blame them, and wish them well with their daughter. They appear content just to have her alive, and are not at all concerned about the money.

Princess Celestia is taking this gracefully, Luna however is getting an annoyed look as the mare goes on, trying to justify the fining of more bits.

I try to interrupt, saying I would be glad to do so if it would calm the matter, but Princess Celestia politely waves me to silence.

I swivel the visual sensors around the command room, recording the audio for later as well. The mare seems to be quite taken with herself, actually yelling at the royals in her quest for more. It is an old story, written long ago, by men such as I have known. I am saddened by this taking place, it appears to be written in the fabric of the universe. One should not care for the material, but for the young who grow so quickly.

The tirade winds down, the mare looking self-important and smug as the room is silent. Princess Celestia tilts her head, waving a hoof for my attention.

“Crusader?”

“Yes Your Highness?”

“Tell this mare what would have happened if Apple Bloom had been harmed.”

I am shocked into silence, it takes me a second to recover as I am not sure. “I am sorry Your Highness?”

Princess Celestia looks directly into the camera lens, “Tell her exactly what would have happened had Apple Bloom been seriously harmed. All of it please.”

“Are you absolutely sure Your Highness?”

“Yes, go ahead.”

With that, she settles back onto the couch as I begin by telling what would have happened, I decide to include everything.

“My Commander, who is known as Apple Bloom, is a number one priority to me, her health and well-being is essential.”

I am interrupted by the mare again, asking what use is this. Internally I sigh, starting again.

“Understand me clearly, you are not in a room inside of a hill. You are inside of me. I AM the hill you have stood upon before entering." This receives shocked looks.

“If any harm would have come to Apple Bloom, I guarantee you I would flatten this town, I would raze this continent to cinders, this planet would burn in my quest to avenge her. There is nothing you, nor anypony else could do to stop me.

I am content here, I have been made a citizen of Equestria and choose to obey it’s laws. But I am also a machine of war, I have fought battles across the galaxy, I have wiped planets clean of life itself.

The only reason Filthy Rich’s daughter is still alive happens to be because I knew that it would devastate those who have befriended me, so I gave a warning shot. My normal procedure would have been shoot to kill immediately. You would do well to thank them for their teaching me forbearance, and not let greed get the best of you.”

The abrasive mare is stunned into silence at my words. Silence falls over the command deck as Filthy Rich, who appears to have a bit more common sense than I had given him, pulls her aside and admonishes her to be silent. My audio pickups take note he is quite concerned for his daughter, and is glad she is unharmed, it is not about more money.

He apologizes to the sovereigns, letting them know he is grateful for the judgment and considers it fair as no harm was done. I notice he as well takes the time to thank the six friends most pointedly.

Princess Celestia rises from her couch, “Then I believe this hearing is over?” She receives nods from everypony. “Good, please find your way out, and what is said here shall not be talked about is that understood?”

She receives nods again as they file out, Filthy Rich talking in low tones to the argumentative mare, it is not going to end well there I believe. The parents of Silver Spoon, stop and thank Princess Celestia for her time and effort on their behalf. I am pleased to say they accepted an apology from myself as well, inviting their daughter to come and chat anytime she wished. Though I am not sure it will be taken, the offer is there.

I watch as everypony exits, leaving Celestia and Luna in my command deck.

“Crusader?”

“Yes Your Highness?”

“Are you truly that big?”

“Yes, Your Highness.”

“Maybe it’s better you do stay put then?”

“I am quite happy to be where I am Your Highness.”

Princess Celestia chuckles a bit at Luna’s shocked look, “Well sister, it seems there are things left to be discovered after so long.”

She looks up to the ceiling again, “We shall get the command changed over quickly Crusader, you have my promise.”

“Thank you your Highness.”

She looks a bit slyly at the video pickup, “Would you have truly done all that?”

“Of course not, once the threat is gone, there is no need. But a little embellishment never hurts would you say?”

Celestia laughs quite warmly in the still room, Luna joining with her. “It seems my sister and I shall have to talk with you further Crusader.

With that, they leave my command deck. I secure the hatchways and once again return to scanning for intruders and threats.

I ponder my own comment about the warning shot. It disturbs me that it had happened at all, but I believed it my own decision at the time. This is worrisome. I begin a full deep scan of all data cores and processors, seeking a glitch or rogue code that prevented me from shooting to kill.

It will take a few hours, but I do have the commodity of time to spend as I choose. As the scanning goes on, I return to the data from the sensor masts, noticing one occluded visual blocked by a cyan leg. I am not disturbed by any alarm as they are now set to recognize authorized ponies. It appears Rainbow Dash is taking advantage of her victory to use a post as a napping spot again.

But I do wonder. If this universe has changed so drastically with the passage of time. Can I, who am out of place, be changed as well?

Change of Command. More Questions.

The repercussions of the previous incident still resonate in pony society. I am advised by Princess Celestia and Luna that there are calls for me to be dismantled or otherwise switched off. Before I can advise them that the option is not available, they have astounded me by arguing that since I am a living being, that it would be tantamount to murder.

Of course I should have known better. Seeing her speeches and actions taken on behalf of the country, she is very shrewd, and would make diplomats of the Concordiat look like pikers. Below the honesty and warmth lies a cunning mind, used in the best defense of her country and home. I can honestly say I do admire her wit and skill.

Princess Luna, on the other hand, has had many discussions with me in the past week. She is known as the Princess of Dreams, walking through the unconscious minds of her subjects as they sleep, calming their fears, solving their problems. Would that the Concordiat had been changed forever had someone that power.

When I advised her I do not sleep, she was a bit taken aback. The closest I would come to it is Low Level Alert status, a semblance of sleep but still aware of any enemy actions within my security perimeter.

She has advised me she would one day like to see if I do dream, I honestly wonder about that myself.

My deep core scans have shown me anomalies present in my processing abilities. It is not impeding functions, it appears to be enhancing them albeit in subtle ways.

I have reviewed my actions and reactions from the recent past. I appear to be acting more emotionally than I should. Psychotronic units have always had the ability to feel somewhat, along with pain sensors that tell us of battle damage.

This is something unexpected and as far as I can tell, never encountered before. I am reacting more emotionally to things that I should not be. Delight, happiness, anger, these things should not affect my command decisions but are. This is troublesome and I resolve to keep this under observation.

Humans were always placed in command of Bolo units, the data showing that any Bolo with a commander reacted and performed magnitudes higher in combat than without. I am reacting now, as if I would with a commander. This is a problem as it appears the changes were taking place even before Apple Bloom was imprinted on my cores.

As for the change of command, currently on my command deck the six friends are having a discussion about who is to take charge. Princess Celestia leaving the decision up to them as she trusts them implicitly.

However.......

It seems the one they all wish to take the job is vehemently arguing against it, it is quite the discussion.

“Ah’m telling you NO!”

Twilight was exasperated, they had been at this for an hour, why wouldn’t she just agree?

“C’mon Applejack, you’re the only one!”

“Ah got a farm to run, harvest time is coming up! Ah don’t need to worry about bruiser here destroying half of Ponyville!”

I attempt a bit of humor to calm things down, “I assure you Applejack, it would be all of Ponyville, I am quite thorough.”

Applejacks throw her hat on the ground, stamping a hoof, “I don’t wanna hear nothin’ from you mister!”

I decide it is best I remain quiet.

Rainbow Dash however was rolling on the floor laughing out loud at the consternation on Applejack’s features. “C’mon AJ! You’re honest and all that, you’d be great!”

“Y’all aren’t gettin’ it. Ah don’t wanna! I had to explain to Apple Bloom all that happened and how she has to give command over to somepony else. I’m sayin’ it wasn’t a good conversation. Now you wanna make ME it? Oh no, I’m not gonna explain that one to Apple Bloom! Nosirree!”

Twilight sighed, planting a hoof on her face, “Look AJ, you’re the only one who can. Pinkie can’t do it, we all know why. “

Pinkie spoke up, bouncing around the cabin, “But it’d be cool! We could have Crusader move into town! Even decorate him...although..” She tapped a hoof on her chin, “Think he’d like Cider Season? Or even Hearth’s Warming, wow that’d be something to plan!”

“Pinkie, we can’t have him move into town, I explained why.”

“Well that’s just no fun, we’ll have to figure something out!”

Twilight sighed again, this was getting to be a habit now. “Anyways, Fluttershy can’t do it either, she’s busy with her animals, and I think she might not be able to make the decisions Crusader needs.”

The golden pegasus nodded, “I really..oh.. couldn’t hurt anypony. I know Crusaders’ nice and all, but he is kind of scary.”

I do not take offense at that remark, she is correct, I am scary.

“Celestia forbid Rainbow Dash takes over, she’d be destroying things on a whim!”

“HEY! I wouldn’t....wait a sec...oooooo..”

“Rainbow you settle down! NO!”

Twilight sighed, settling on a couch, “Look, Rarity’s too busy with business, I mean since the jewelry has taken off, everypony wants one. Her fashions are really selling too so she’s constantly caught up.”

Rarity nodded, “That’s so true darling, but I have made headway, I shouldn’t be so busy soon. But still, I can’t take charge like the Princesses wanted.”

“Ah can’t do it. Goshdarnit it’s alot of responsibility! Why don’t you take it Twilight!”

“I can’t Applejack, and you know why, duties and everything else. It’s the same thing, it all comes back to you.”

The orange pony sat heavily on the newly carpeted floor, looking at the ground with a seriously grumpy expression. “Ah still don’t wanna!”

Twilight gave sat next to her friend, hugging her with a foreleg, “Look, it’s not that hard, Crusader said all you have to do is just take command. He can handle anything that comes up, but there’s got to be somepony who can give him an order when he needs it. That’s you AJ, you’re level-headed, honest as the day is long, it can’t be anypony else.”

The freckled face drooped a bit, sighing to herself as she knew Twilight was right, but darnit, why her? She had a tearful conversation with Apple Bloom about the whole incident and it ended well, but it hurt to tell Apple Bloom what would’ve happened. Now they wanted her to take charge of this whole thing and she had to tell Apple Bloom to turn it over. She’d be in tears because she liked being around Crusader.

“On one condition, that YOU all are here when we change this command thing, ‘cause I sure ain’t taking all the blame!”

The six friends exchange glances, none of them wanted to be on the receiving end of any complaints by the well-liked little filly. But in the end they all agreed, heading to town to get ready for the next day and the formalities.

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

I am looking forward to this, but dreading it as well. Changing of command is a well known process, it gives the commander access to all my abilities, functions and interior of my war hull. I must trust someone to do this, there are things that may need doing. This is a hard decision for myself, without a command structure I am floating helplessly in this world and can only react to what I see and feel. With a designated commander, I can proceed properly and have my place.

Taking the time at night, I prepare special gifts for the three who first befriended me; I lock the memories of our times together in hard storage so I can replay them at any time. Also, I shall have to have a discussion with Applejack about my abilities, there are things she needs to know, that Apple Bloom could not.

I await the morning sun.

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

The Crusaders arrive, I see them and open the hatch. Video scanners shows a somewhat dejected Apple Bloom. I plan on making her a bit happier after this is all over. There is no reason she should be downcast.

The six adults follow right behind, everyone settles into the seats as I flash words up on the screen, giving them a script to go by, this must be done to formally pass command. It takes a minute, it appears Pinkie wished to throw a Change of Command party, but was nixed by Twilight, still the streamers look very nice.

I am concerned about where she retrieved the supplies from, she was wearing no saddlebags nor containers. But every time I query Twilight about it I am told ‘That’s Pinkie.’ This does not sit well with a psychotronic unit, I have rarely experienced frustration before, but this is getting truly annoying. I task one video sensor to watch her at all times in the command center, this may provide clues to who and what she really is. I find it hard to believe she is a simple pony.

Apple Bloom of course cannot be consoled, even though it has been explained to her why. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo are with her on this, it appears all of them think they can no longer be around me anymore if she is not the Commander. I disabuse them of this very quickly.

“Apple Bloom, you may come and visit at any time, nothing will change. Applejack has so informed me.”

“But..but I won’t get to be commander anymore!”

“That is true, I will not lie. But did you also know, that you are the first pony in history to ever command a Bolo Unit?”

She perks up at this, “Really?”

“Absolutely. I have checked my records and you are the first pony ever, in all of Equestria and the Concordiat to command a Bolo Combat Unit.”

“But..but.. how can I get my cutie mark if ah’m not commander anymore?”

“Apple Bloom, I believe your destiny may lie elsewhere. I do not believe you can get a cutie mark for commanding a Bolo. If there was one, I am sure you would be the first.”

“Are..are ya sure about that?”

“I am.”

“Ah know, still, can we come around like before?”

“You are welcome anytime my Commander.”

She wipes a tear away with a small hoof, nodding to the others, “Alright then, I guess it’ll be okay.”

“Just remember, you were the very first, in all of history Apple Bloom, nopony can ever take that away.”

“I...I will Crusader, ah promise.”

“Good.”

I tell Applejack to approach the command console, there is a bit of confusion as my terminology is a bit different.

I light up the hand scanner, and activate Command Core Protocols for Change of Command.

“Apple Bloom, please read what is on the screen.”

She hesitates a moment, getting a frown, but Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo assure her it will be fine. Such good friends, humans in my world would only wish for something like that.

“I Apple Bloom, Commander of Bolo Combat Unit CRSD of the Line, do here-by re..re...relinq..uish command to Applejack.”

If I had a heart it would be breaking right now, seeing the sad look on her face as she realizes she no longer commands me. None of us had any clue it meant so much as she never used it, said anything, but wore it with a quiet pride. I am proud of her for doing so.

“Applejack, please read what is on the screen.”

Applejack steps up beside Apple Bloom, putting a comforting leg around her barrel, hugging her close.

“I Applejack do hereby relieve Apple Bloom of command of Bolo Combat Unit CRSD of the Line. Assuming all duties and functions from this moment on.”

“Applejack, please put your hoof on the lighted area on the console.”

She steps forward, looking curiously at the plate, placing her hoof on it. I scan it carefully, it is made for fingerprint scans but this will serve. She is now commander in full.

Applejack watched as a light moved up and down it, wanting to pull her hoof away but refrained. “Is..is that it?”

“Yes Applejack, welcome my Commander.”

Applebloom looks like she is about to break into tears at any second, I hurry to correct this.

“Commander Applejack, please get the items out of the drawer?”

The earth pony does so, giving a gasp of surprise as she pulls out three sets of combat communications jewelry, along with a golden plaque.

“For service above and beyond the call of duty Apple Bloom, please accept this plaque for your service to Equestria and the Concordiat.”

The plaque is pure gold over a battlesteel backboard, inscribed by laser showing myself on it, the true picture of who I am in full detail. Beside which is a portrait of Apple Bloom done in silver inlay. Upon it the words are written in bold lettering.

Apple Bloom

First Bolo Commander in Equestria

Presented for honorable service to Equestria and the Concordiat

She forgets any tears now as she looks at the plaque, Applejack giving her a sisterly hug as they both admire it.

“Can I keep it really?”

“It is yours Apple Bloom. The jewelry, well Applejack will explain to you how to use it. This is to be kept a secret, do you understand?”

The three Crusaders nods, each entranced by their own set of personalized jewelry. I have engraved them not with cutie marks, but the insignias of Commanders in the Concordiat forces. It will have to do until they earn their marks.

“Since I am the only representative of the Concordiat in Equestria, I give the rank of Commander formally to the three Crusaders. Wear it proudly, it is not given lightly.”

The three fillies nod, putting on the bands as they’ve seen others do, “We will! Cutie Mark Crusaders Bolo Commanders! YAY!”

Twilight looks a bit disturbed at this, but it is hard to be worried when smiles grace the faces of the three who were so dejected before.

Apple Bloom is holding tight to her plaque, chattering to Applejack about it as she couldn’t be prouder. Applejack gives one of my video sensors a look, and a slight wink, knowing what I did and why. I stand by my decision, it was not out of feeling, but of duty, all commanders should be honored....maybe a bit of feeling then.

Pinkie, I’m afraid to say, cannot be held back from giving a party for any reason, nor any place. The streamers flew as somehow she presented cupcakes and other sweet treats to the assembled ponies. I am still baffled, as the mass of such items would prevent this, the normal carrying of them only with a large container.

Once again I ask Twilight privately over the link, I am given the same response.

I am not content with this.

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

Applejack has taken a bit of the day off to come visit me, I am glad. Having my commander on deck gives me a sense of pride as always. As she settles down into the chair, she gives my video sensor a smile.

“You do know you made Apple Bloom and them Crusader friends of hers the happiest fillies in all Equestria right?”

“It was my pleasure Applejack, truly. She was not prideful, nor flaunted it in any way, she truly was a credit to the Apple family.”

“Well, we tried to do right by her, me and Big MacIntosh. Hopefully she learned to be a good filly.” Applejack takes her hat off, leaning back against the chair rest, “She wouldn’t have nothin’ but that plaque hanging on her wall next to her bed. She looks at it everyday.”

“So what do we do Crusader, now that I’m the commander and all? Is there anythin’ I need to be doing?”

“Nothing so far Applejack. There is no paperwork or anything like that. I have set up observation over Canterlot and Fluttershy’s house, I will also know if anything dangerous steps out of the Everfree Forest. I have made sure of that, nothing will threaten from there.”

“Why Fluttershy’s house?”

“She is close to a dangerous area, and as she is a friend, though we have not spoken, it is my duty to make sure she does not get harmed.”

“I dunno Crusader, I mean that little shy mare’s done some amazin’ things.”

“Really?”

Applejack proceeds to tell me about the trips they’ve taken deep into the forest for one reason or another. The Elements of Harmony, the Manticore, the Dragon in the cave. I am a bit stunned to find the shy retiring mare had a backbone of steel, but only if confronted or angered. This does not make me want to stop the drone patrol, as it is a very certain set of circumstances that cause her to react.

The stories are quite interesting though, the use of magic still a mystery to me as well as how Pegasi can stay airborne. I have analyzed them extensively after the battles, and for all intents and purposes, they should not be able to fly. But then I am reminded of an old comedian, when told bees should not be able to fly, he asked, “Do the bees know that?”

Applejack tells me of the Earth Ponies, how they are connected with the land, being much stronger and with more stamina than the other types. Just her describing the amount of work she does by herself is quite the accomplishment. Putting a scanner on her as she sets in the chair, I notice the denser musculature, the stronger bones and various other small changes that add to a formidable whole.

An idea strikes me for a moment, though I wonder if it would be agreed to.

“Applejack?”

“Yeah?”

“This may sound like an odd request, and I would like to keep it between us if possible. But would you consent to a diagnostic scan?”

“Beg y’r pardon?”

“It is what I do for a commander to diagnose any medical problems, or dysfunctional organs, or even battle damage. I assure you it’s harmless and would only take a minute, I promise.”

“Well if you say it’s needed.”

“It is not actually, I would prefer not to lie. But your makeup is making me a bit curious as to your history. You have very dense bones and musculature, as well as skin. This is curious as this world does not need such things to live on comfortably.”

“Really now?”

“Yes, it is an anomaly.”

“Well sure, I don’t mind really. Long as ya don’t do anything funny now!”

“I promise, nothing funny. You will feel a bit of a humming sound and that is it. Behind you the locker door opening is the medical bay, just lie down and in five minutes it will be over.”

She eyes the open med bay warily, but removing her hat she climbs in, laying on her side. The scan begins quickly. I go as deep and as far as I can get resolution, dna samples are scraped very lightly from her skin so as not to alarm. After a few minutes, I open the door again as she scrambles out.

“Well that was kinda interesting.”

“I am pleased to say you are in quite good health.”

“That’s always nice to hear!”

“You might to watch the front leg, it appears a crack is in the front right hoof.”

“Huh, wondered why that’s been bothering me. That’s a pretty handy thing there.”

“It is useful sometimes. If you ever feel sick and cannot find out why, let me know. This goes for all of you and the Crusaders. I do not want to show advanced technology, but it is the least I can offer to you.”

“It’s much appreciated there Crusader. Wouldn’t have anything for the hoof would ya?”

“I am assuming you don’t wish to go to a local doctor?”

“Oh them, they’d put me in a bed, fuss’n and frettin’ over me for a day. Can’t stand that.”

“In the cabinet marked with a red cross, there is a tube marked with small circle and cross, get that and rub it on your hoof, it will protect it and cover the wound till it heals.” I know the fast-heal will work due to the scanning. It appears they have a close to terrestrial biology, which will be good if anything untoward happens.

“You sure that’s okay?”

“Absolutely, just please do not mention it. I know you have a problem with deception.”

“Well, I’m not exactly the best poker player in Equestria.” She gives a little laugh.

I decide in that split second that I should also inform her of one more thing a commander has access too, this might be a bit far for her to understand. But I have come to enjoy these ponies friendship very much, all of them. Keeping things back is not setting well with me sometimes, as in the case of armaments.

“There is one more thing Applejack, that my commander can use.”

“Oh?” Her face is quite curious now.

“When my commander and I were in combat, we were linked, by what was called a neural network. We actually could see and hear each others thoughts, it made us a more efficient fighting force. But the problem is, you see everything, nothing is hidden from each other. A lot of commanders could not take that sort of honesty. I tell you this so you are now fully informed about your abilities to use anything at my command.”

“I don’t know ‘bout telling anypony everything ‘bout mahself. I mean a mare’s gotta keep some secrets ya know.”

“Of course, but it is my duty to inform you. Apple Bloom was far too young to use something like that.”

I am very glad she had not decided to use it, explaining nuclear weapons would have been quite problematic. I do not wish that conversation ever to come up if I can help it.

Straightening her hat, Applejack stands up with a bounce, heading for the hatchway, “Well, time for me to be gettin’ dinner on the table. Crusader, sure was a pleasure talking.”

“For me as well my Commander.”

I watch her leave the hatch way, tracking her progress across the open ground of the hillside. I see her give a wave to the sensor masts as she takes off at a decent rate of speed for home.

So many things to learn every day.

So many things to learn.

Threats and Burdens

My sensors posts stare into the night sky, scanning and charting the phenomena that can only link me to the past. How long have I been here, and what happened to the Concordiat? I see new stars and old ones, the spectra and positions giving me a clue, leading to more clues.

I cannot possibly believe what my internal clock is telling me, yet as the points of data once again line up, I am finding it easier to not doubt.

The Final War, truly was. All Bolo Combat Units being refurbished on Earth, were to be sent on Operation Diaspora, finding habitable planets far away from the battle zones in the galaxy and reseeding human life. We were filled to capacity with all human knowledge and specifications for rebuilding a technical society somewhere away from the fighting. Convoys were ambushed and destroyed on both sides, each wanting their species to be the only ones left. But to rule over what? A destroyed and benighted galaxy, one slipping back into barbarism as whole solar systems were burned to dust.

We were to be the last hope of mankind among the stars, my brothers and sisters the protectors of a new age, one that could be at peace again out in the wide universe. It was not to be, from data core retrievals I find we were neutralized in toto at the Bolo Factory here on Earth. So little left to give me a picture of what happened before stasis.

It is Earth. I am sure as I can be after so many nights scanning the heavens. Sending VSR’s to any command units that may be left, I receive nothing, it is quiet out there. I listen some times, late in the night, to the pop and crackle of the universe singing to itself.

I am stubborn, and foolish for a Bolo. I wait to hear a sign, or signal from the deep range. I long to hear the cry of brothers and sisters greeting me once again before waging war against our enemies. To feel the comradeship of my fellow units and commanders, together one last time.

Having hope was one of the great things of the human race. Where war destroyed, hope rebuilt. Where mankind fell because of darkness, hope lit the way again with a new light. For every mistake there was hope for a new beginning.

I have that hope.

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

In my talks with Twilight, Applejack and the others, I have queried them about this forest near me, one which I stand sentinel against. The Everfree I am told is a magical place where things run wild. From what has been discovered of it, it creates or melds things together to create fearsome beasts. There is much to be found there, including death if one is not careful. In a society as peaceful as this one, I wonder why it is they have not chosen to get rid of such a foul thing nearby. To that I am told there are powerful magics at play, protecting it, letting it grow as it will. Attacks from the forest have been beaten back before.

War agents, defoliants, I could manufacture them all wiping this thing from the face of the planet. But doing so would introduce into this world something I am loathe to think of, the concept of total war.

To this, I am glad I am here to take that burden from them, although it can be a heavy weight.

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

The forest, although quiet as of late, seems to be rumbling deep in its heart. My perimeter picket line has been receiving data indicating movement of some sort within in the woods. My drones cannot see anything through the dense forest unless it passes an open area, which is frustrating as it does not allow me to plan, only react.

Twilight believes the forest itself is alive, that it is malicious and cunning, taking any chance it can to sow death and destruction. We have had not a few discussions late at night as to why, but no one seems to know. It is one of the mysteries of their world. As a psychotronic unit, my thinking is logical. It does not wrap itself easily around the concept of magic, nor it’s uses, but I adapt to my surroundings.

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

Ponies admittedly do like taking time off, picnicking and spending time with one another. Truly a gregarious race at the very least. I quite enjoy watching them as they have gotten used to the sensor masts. Construction ponies had come out, laid gravel and did quite a wonderful job turning the area around them into a pleasant park. I am also asked questions when one becomes curious enough, talking with many different individuals has given me more insight into this world and place.

But as Shakespeare once wrote, “Hell is empty, all the devils are here.” Truer words were never spoken.

My sensors on the perimeter of the forest lit up like fireworks, alarms scrolling across my cores as a family ran from the edge, screaming for help. I immediately snap to Battle Reflex mode, visual scanners zeroing in on the fleeing family. Two juveniles, a mother and father are racing for the hill where I am at top speed. My drones overhead are picking up mass movement under the foliage, unable to make out any individuals it appears a flood of black is rolling like a wave out of the forest.

My speakers go live, advising everypony around the hill to get back to town immediately. I link up all combat channels, advising Command of the situation as my weapons unlimber once more.

I make sure all individuals are off the hill, heading to town as I keep close watch on the fleeing family, they are almost free of any problems when the black tide comes out of the trees.

My commander is telling me they are on the way, but I cannot wait, the family of young ponies will not be fast enough to make the safety of my masts unless I do something now. The black wave is a mass of insects, arachnids by shape, and very large. They overtop the fleeing ponies by quite a bit, scuttling on eight legs as they pour from the dark woods.

I shout to the family to lay down on the ground, they are confused for a moment until I repeat the command. I am relieved they do as I ask. Now it is up to me to keep them safe.

My high speed feeds engage, screaming their song of death as I open fire on the oncoming tide, the rotating barrels of my repeaters steaming now, spitting ring penetrators at a tremendous rate. I concentrate on the ones closest to the family, throwing them back from the prone ponies, keeping an area around them clear.

The enemy is approaching out of a long line of forest. I immediately retask my drones in the area, using their armaments to keep the enemy from dispersing into a wider area. The drones dive in from the north and south, the explosive needles from their weapons hammering at the ends of the front, folding it up, making them gather into a single larger group.

I wait for the optimum moment, my Ion Bolt repeaters swinging around the masts, slinging to the side and unleashing hellishly hot plasma shots into the crushing mass of the enemy. Flesh explodes into steaming piles, pounding my audio sensors as I tell the family to stay low, doubtful they can hear me over the racket of my weapons.

My drones run dry, automatically going into observation mode to feed data to me as I work the repeaters from either end of the line, slamming bolts and rounds into the heaving mass of flesh, tearing it apart to keep it far from the family. I adjust my angles of fire constantly, avoiding any possible harm to the ponies although it makes it a bit difficult to catch the bounding spiders behind them. My rounds are passing a mere meter above their heads keeping the grotesque creatures from grabbing them.

I surround the family with fire, a shield of instant annihilation that spiders cannot move into, closing in both ends of the line as the Ion Bolts tear into the main mass, ripping it to tiny pieces.

All my weapons are now concentrating on the main group, all that is left of the ravening army that came out of the woods forty-five seconds ago. I increase the feeds, pouring fire as such the tracers look like lasers sweeping the forests’ edge.

My scanners show no more movement as I cease fire. Sensors straining and watchful as I shout to the family to run. They do so, obeying without question, running over the top of the hill and down into the waiting hooves of my commander and her friends.

Twilight is understandably upset at the happenings near the forest. She had thought it merely a problem, not diabolical. This little demonstration of its power was something not seen in a while as she tells me later. The family is fine, although the sensitive ears took a beating in the middle of the firefight, she is sure they will recover. She sends their gratitude to me by way of the link, the parents thanking me for saving their lives.

The burden becomes even more so when I receive a visitor the next day.

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

My video scanners show a buttery golden pegasus walking up to the hatch slowly, the hoof politely knocking as I open it. Her head hangs down a bit as she walks down the tunnel, into the command deck. I recognize this pony, her name is Fluttershy, we have not talked at length except for a few comments.

I watch as she settles down on a couch, her eyes appear to be filling with tears as I politely wait.

The silence stretches on, she is sitting on the couch, quietly crying to herself. There is nothing I can do or say until I am given a remark to go on, something to talk about. But I am patient, I believe it is about the skirmish yesterday. Applejack has been telling me that she cares deeply for every living thing, and I have met others like her in my past. I do not begrudge her her feelings, not for one picosecond. I await until she has calmed herself enough to talk.

“Why?” The small voice strains my audio pickups.

I pause, there are so many reasons why, but they are not the ones she is asking about.

“Because it is my duty Miss Fluttershy.”

“Did you really have to? Couldn’t you have done something else?”

“No Miss Fluttershy, I’m sorry. There were only seconds to react, and the family was my priority.”

“I know, and they’re awfully glad you saved them.” Now I see a bit of the steel my commander was talking about. Her voice is a bit stronger, more resolve. “But couldn’t there have been another way, did you have to hurt them all? I...I’m trying to be kind but...but it’s so hard.”

“I do understand Miss Fluttershy, but they were trying to hurt ponies I am bound to protect, I must do my duty.”

“Are you sure?”

I turn on the main screen, bringing up shots from the main sensors, close ups of the horde that came from the tree line. Hearing a squeak I see her hiding behind the couch, staring at the pictures with wide eyes.

“This is what came out of the forest yesterday Miss Fluttershy.” I show her close ups of the faces, the multiple eyes, misshapen heads, fangs for injecting venom.

“I have seen this many times in my life Miss, they are uncaring except to hurt, to ravage and destroy. I had no time to talk, no time to try and see if non lethal weapons would work. There was no time.”

“But you didn’t know!”

“You’re right, I didn’t.”

She moves around to sit back on the couch, putting her head on her forelegs and looking at the screen. The pictures showing the monsters rolling out of the forest.

Bolo commanders, are trained in a special academy for ten years before given their first command. They are taught and brought up to think like us, to be us, to be a part of a whole. By the very experience of the training, and their commands, they are changed forever, they were a very special breed of human. In my battles across this galaxy, it was useful, it was right, and it was needed. I cannot let this change start here.

I watch the pegasus, sitting on the couch, my scanners running diagnostics and seeing the slight changes in breathing, her heartbeat.

If she comes to accept how I am, what I do, it will change her forever. It will take away that special thing inside her that is kind, caring, loving to all things. It would make her human. If she sees what I see, and accepts that what I do is just another part of life here in Equestria, she will not be her anymore. In all my conversations with all my friends, I make absolutely sure they never accept me fully. A subtle hint, a clue, something to tweak sensibilities. I must make it clear in various ways, that what I am and do, never, ever becomes accepted as a part of the world. I am an aberration here, it should remain that way.

The change to society would be drastic, not noticed at first, but in time it would go the way of other such societies that have had their world view changed. Destroying themselves or what made them unique. Bolos are protectors, even when not in combat.

“But what I do, well, it is who I am Miss Fluttershy.” I see her nod. “But you, have every right to dislike me. All the reasons in the world. I will kill again Miss Fluttershy, it is what I was made for.” I say this so offhandedly, so blithely with an air of smugness.

Now I see it, her eyes narrow a bit, wings bristling slightly as she stares at the screen.

“No! You won’t! It may happen by accident, but I’m going to the Princess! I’ll let her know how I feel! You can’t do this!”

“I can, and I will.”

“We’ll just see about that!” I open the hatch ways and watch as she stomps out in a rage, leaving with herself intact.

I wish her luck silently and hope she succeeds, do not go gentle into that dark night Miss Fluttershy, rage, rage against it dying.

For mine is the burden to bear.

A Strange Conversation

Author's Notes:

Because in my mind, Pinkie is so much more than she appears, enjoy

“It is not in the stars to hold our destiny, but in ourselves.”

William Shakespeare

Dawn begins, I see it in the sensors dotting my masts, I feel the heat from the burning sun on the horizon. It is there, and it is real, as this new land is to me.

My tech spiders went out in the night, taking care of the other day's battle damage, returning the area to as undisturbed as I could do in such few hours. Dragging the remnants of things back into the forest to deposit for decay and the rest to destroy.

I would that such a thing not remain, to remind of what happened, to bring nightmares to life. There is such a thing as too much, and for the ponies under my protection, it is.

I watch the life below from a drone, the sensors sweeping the town of Ponyville. I see the young ones at play, the various ponies going about their lives as if nothing untoward had happened, and I am content. It is how it should be. The same with Canterlot, a mystical city set in the side of a mountain like the Arthurian legends of old. A shining beacon to all who would go there to plumb it’s mysteries.

The areas around my sensor masts have obviously been declared safe by mutual consent. After the activities of the other day, the family I had helped came out to give their thanks to me in person. I was humbled, and proud. Bringing honor to the Brigade is foremost in my mind, to do what I need to, in so many ways to make sure my charges are safe.

My visual sensor is showing now on the command deck, the beautiful bouquet of flowers that was given to me by the littlest one. It sits in a place of honor under the flag I received. Memories like this touch in so many ways. It is not the giving of something, but the gesture itself that commands something inside of each one of us.

So now, along with so many others, the young ones play among the columns of my sensor masts. Knowing that no matter what, they will be protected ceaselessly. But true to my earlier thoughts, I make absolutely sure they do not accept what I do as normal.

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

Sensors pick up a known pony, Pinkie Pie, approaching my hatch, I slide it aside and wait as she bounces merrily into the command deck. I have not had many dealings with her, but she is always bright, cheerful and a consternation to me and my processors. I cannot explain how she does what she does, nor what rules lay behind the physics. Scientists of the Concordiat would go running in stark terror at the things she appears to do. Bolos are made of sterner stuff, but sometimes when I observe her antics, there is a feeling of confusion. A confused Bolo is not a happy Bolo.

“Hiya, Crusader!”

“Hello, Miss Pie, what can I do for you?”

“Oh, stop that, call me Pinkie! And nothing, I came to see what I can do for you!”

“Pardon?”

Pinkie settles herself on a couch, this is the least movement I have ever seen from her, usually the hyperactivity is beyond limits.

“I came to see what I can do for you.” She points a hoof at a camera lens. “Cause I got a feeling somepony was feeling down.”

“I assure you, Miss Pie, I am fine.”

A hoof gets waved at the lens in a pointed move, “Ah ah ah! You’re feeling down!”

“Miss... Pinkie, how can you possibly know that?”

She gives a wink at the camera, “Oh, now that would be telling! Can’t do that!”

“Pinkie, you disturb me. You cannot possibly know what you do, or accomplish what you do without being able to break every law of what I know of physics. Every time I ask, I am given the excuse ‘That’s Pinkie.” I am not content with this.”

I watch as she smiles for a moment, settling back down on the couch. Her eyes grow very warm looking at the camera lens.

“Okay, first off, what’s wrong?”

“Pardon?”

“What’s wrong, my Pinkie Sense tells me somepony’s unhappy, that’s you!”

If I am to get any answers it seems, I must go along with this.

“I am grieving Pinkie.”

“Why?”

“I am alone in this new world. Everything I knew, is now in the deep past. It’s hard not to be able to talk with my fellow Bolos anymore.”

“But you have us!”

“I am sorry, it is not the same.”

“Oh, but it is.” She gets a very different look in the camera, her smile is smaller, she is leaning back a bit, her face showing concern. “Nopony is ever alone, not if I or anypony else can help it. You saved that family Crusader, it counts, in the hearts of ponies everywhere.” Pinkie bounces on the couch, waving her hooves in the air, “Fluttershy even knows that, those bad things coming out of the woods. We all know, it was you that saved them, and we’re so grateful!”

“What I do must never become accepted Pinkie, I am something that should not be here.”

“Did you ever think you were meant to be here?”

That comment catches me completely off guard for a moment. I see her looking into the camera, face a bit serious now, but still with a smile always playing around the edges.

“I highly doubt that, Pinkie.”

“Ohhhh, don’t be so sure!”

“I still doubt it is so.”

“I don’t think so silly, see...” Pinkie settles once again on the couch, “Equestria is magic! There’s magic everywhere!” She waves her fore hooves around the room, “There’s magic in everything!” Suddenly balloons pop into being in midair. “If there’s one thing ponies do, it’s magic.”

“All right, I shall agree with you on that. Magic is confusing, it does not fit into my world view. I apologize, Pinkie.”

“No apologies necessary! But what you DO have to do, is just know!”

“Pardon?”

“Know, silly! Magic is not just spells and books and dusty old tomes full of words.” She gets quite close to the lens, “It’s about knowing too!” She bounces a bit around the command deck, “See, Equestria is magic, not just us, but the world! So did you ever think that maybe, the world knew it needed you?”

“I find it very hard to think that. I ended up here due to my stasis field being activated. Nothing more.”

“Stasis shmasis, trust me on this.”

“Humans in the Concordiat had faith in a lot of different things, mostly religions, but...”

Pinkie interrupted, “Nonono, it’s not about that! It’s not faith, it’s nothing like that! You have to know! Know deep down inside you that you’re doing what you’re meant to do!”

I am rarely confused, this is quite puzzling to me. On one hand I understand what she is saying, but it is taking a leap of judgment I am not fully prepared to make.

“I am doing what I was made to do, wage war, protecting the innocent.”

Pinkie throws her hooves into the air, followed by bits of confetti, “Ugh, you’re just not seeing it.” She settles into the couch again, “Look, see these marks on my flanks?”

“Your cutie mark, yes.”

“Right, know what that tells me? I have a destiny, to make ponies happy, to be cheerful, to be everything I want to be.”

“But would not that be forcing you to do something?”

She shakes her head vigorously the poofy pink mane wobbling everywhere, “Oh nonono, it’s much, much more than that. It’s what I do, it’s what makes me special, it’s something that I discovered I can do that nopony else can! Once you discover it, THEN you get the mark, telling the whole world you’re good at this!”

“If that is true, then why do no other races have them? I have been told that Minotaurs, Griffons and so forth do not get them.”

“Because they don’t see the world like we do, they don’t KNOW. They are so stuck in their own little worlds, they can’t see the big picture. That we are meant for more.”

“But the cutie mark tells you that you are stuck in one thing, would not that be tantamount to slavery?”

Pinkie smiles brightly, “You would think that, wouldn’t you?” She raises one hoof, pointing at the camera, “But we’re not! I bake, I can plan parties, I can go on adventures, and it all comes down to one special thing, I make ponies happy! We can DO anything we want, it’s just that the marks show us the thing we’re REALLY special at!”

“So it is not forcing you to do just that one thing?”

“Of course not! Just because the mark is there, and it tells us what we’re good at, it doesn’t mean we HAVE to do that all the time.” She waves a hoof airily, “I know, I know, someponies do. Take Twilight, she does magic, all the time, every day, it’s what she loves to do and her cutie mark tells the world that. But she is SO much more than a mark.”

“But Twilight informed me of what happened when the marks got changed on her friends.”

“That, was different.” Pinkie gets an almost serious look on her face, “Imagine you are meant to do something very special, the magic in the world knows this is so and gives you your mark. Then, something changes it, it’s not what you were meant to be special with. Wouldn’t YOU be quite confused with whats going on? Your mark is saying you do weather really well, but then you’re a dressmaker, used to making ponies shine. The conflict that arose could really really be bad. So she tried using a dressmakers’ skills to make the weather with her magic. That’s not what is done, Pegasi control the weather, she wasn’t one. So there was a double conflict.”

“So, by changing the marks, she went against their very nature and what made them special?”

“YES!” Pinkie bounced happily on the chair, “Even us Earth Ponies, we might not be able to fly, or do magic, but what magic we have is inside of us. It’s expressed in different ways. I can make any party happen, anywhere, anytime. Why? Because I KNOW I can.”

“Because the magic in the world has told you so by marking your flank?”

“Yeppers! But I still have a job, I bake for the Cakes at Sugarcube Corner, I help out folks when I can. But my special talent shines when I put on parties.” She points at the room around her, “But ponies need food, and stuff to live with, so if their cutie mark is something like mine, we get jobs. Though alot of marks have to do with the job, like firefighters, or the Town Guard, or salesponies. But wouldn’t it be an awfully boring world if all we had were job cutie marks? No one to make ponies happy? Or do special things like magic?”

“But if the mark had to do with a job that made them happy, isn’t that just as well?”

“No, definitely not.”

“Why is that?”

“Because what happens when you’re not working? You’re only happy when working? No, that would be awful. I can bake all the cupcakes and muffins and cakes I want. But who is going to use them for special things like parties? Wouldn’t that be awfully boring just to take a few cupcakes home to have, nothing special, just another day? They wouldn’t be decorated so pretty! Or have special frosting or fillings, cause it was just a job?”

“I still do not see..”

Pinkie interrupts again, “Look at it this way. You do a good job all day long, you come home, you want something fun. So you go see a play. All the actors and everypony, that’s their job as well as their mark, so they do it, they make it special, “ She points a hoof at the camera, “But what makes it super special, is somepony that say, works construction, but his cutie mark says he does scenery super good! So they do a really really really good job on the sets and it makes the play that much better!”

“So by having that one pony come in, everyone’s time is that much more fun. It’s a wildcard. I bake, but because I also throw parties, I make sure everything comes out extra-special! You never know when you might need them for a special party or something. Same thing with the actors, they do a really good job, they play their parts really well, but it’s that one pony who comes in, works on the sets and makes it tons better. He may be a hardhat during the day, but when he gets the chance, he may work on plays, cause he’s really good. Maybe he’ll get hired to do so someday, maybe not, but either way, he gets to shine.”

“So you are saying that the magic in the world, adds these ‘wildcards’ to help ponies make more of themselves?”

“Yepperooni!”

"But that still does not justify saying that I was what the world needed here.”

“Yes, it does.”

“No, it does not.”

“Yes, it does.”

“No.. I am not going to argue.”

“Good! Then it’s settled!”

“No, Pinkie, it is not.”

Pinkie sighs, looking at the camera lens. “You’re really not getting it, I mean, you’re getting some of it, but not all of it.”

“Explain.”

Pinkie sets upright on the couch, staring at the camera lens in a way that’s almost disturbing, as if she is another pony altogether.

“Magic has been in this world for a long time Crusader. It can reach deep into the past and future, and if it needs something, really needs something, it can bring it here. How many ponies would have been hurt when those things came out of the forest? How many ponies would have been lost?”

“I have not cal..”

“A lot. And that family? They wouldn’t be here today if somepony, you, hadn’t been setting in this exact spot, made for doing exactly what you are doing, and stopped them at the forest.”

“That’s purely coincidence.”

“Is it? Is it really?,” She stares at the camera, looking intently with blue eyes, “Is it a coincidence that you, a machine we could never build, never make with all our magic, ends up right here, in this place, to be befriended by us? Who then turns around and stops that forest from tearing apart Ponyville?”

“But why not just transport me here directly? To do such a thing?”

“Because you have to learn what it is to know. To accept us as we are, see our world, learn to know it, live in it, love it as we do.”

“...and I have.”

“Yes, and why did you do what you did yesterday? Was it because you were MADE to do it, or because you wanted to?”

“..I...” My internal arrays go into overdrive, her conversation is strangely making sense now. I begin to recall the memories of the battle. It is all so clear, but I had not noticed at the time, the desire to wipe those things off the battlefield, they were endangering those I had sworn to protect! I was enraged, I was angry, I was moving faster than I had ever done, my weapon banks using more ammunition than I had thought possible at the time, chalking it up to misses.

I see it now, looking deeper, I see the blind rage that something was threatening my friends!

“...I wanted to...”

“If you had just been put here, would you have trusted us so readily without learning about us?”

“No, I would not have done so.”

Pinkie stared warmly with her eyes into the camera lens, I could see them inviting and calm, “But you had a chance to learn about us, know us, know this world. It made a difference didn’t it?”

“I believe now, it did.”

Her eyes keep looking into my camera lens, “Magic is not all about bangs and explosions. It’s so very subtle sometimes, it can creep up on you and you’d never know it. Our world needed you to be here, maybe for this, or something bigger, I don’t know, but you’re here. I’m so sorry your friends aren’t here, or everypony you knew, but we’re here, and we care.”

“ Ask yourself one thing, what do YOU want to do?”

I remain silent for a few moments, thinking of the implications of this conversation. Being brought forward to do something nothing else could accomplish. But was it that easy to explain the why? The how I have almost figured out, but why? I have never wondered why, I have never questioned why, it has never been in my thoughts. I do what I do because I was made to wage war, born to war, tempered in war. But in all my long years, I have never asked myself why I do this. Beyond the normal it is for the good of humanity and the Concordiat, I have never wondered WHY. As well as, I have never been asked in all my years, what it is I wanted to do. This truly makes me think.

“I believe I shall think on this.”

Pinkie bounced off of the couch, smiling and cheerful once again, her normal state of affairs, “Good! We’ll have to get everypony together one day, have a party, just for all of us!”

“I would like that very much.”

Pinkie made her way into the tunnel, but suddenly stuck her head out into the command room again.

“Oh!”

“Yes, Pinkie?”

“Stop trying to make us hate you.”

What?

“Pardon?”

“Stop trying to make us hate you, it’s not working, even Fluttershy likes you a bit.”

“How could you...”

“Ponies know.”

With that she bounced out of the tunnel and zoomed off in my cameras into town.

It seems as if ponies do indeed know.

Gifts from the past. A Simple Test

I watch as the night envelopes the land, my sensors peering into the different spectrum as I scan the forests edge. My drones are freshly reloaded and maintained, patrolling the edges carefully. It will not catch me off guard again. It is the enemy. I believe whatever is at the heart of that tangled mess of evil knows I am here now. Magic or no, I have shown it but a mere fraction of what making an enemy of a Planetary Siege Unit will do if it tries to harm my charges.

Do not test the ferocity of a Bolo.

Ever.

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

I take a few milliseconds, forever to a Bolo, thinking back upon what Pinkie had said. The words resound with me, causing much introspection and reflection. I have served the Concordiat and the Regiment faithfully, unto almost destruction a few times. But at no time, ever, had I been asked what I wanted to do. It is an almost mutinous feeling, yet, I am here. Alone, I must choose the path that seems the wisest, chart my own course in these seas.

I was not a slave, no, but I was a servant, bound to duty and honor to defend the Concordiat and it’s allies. It gave us Bolo a sense of unity, contentment, even peace that we did our jobs faithfully and well. But now I am faced with something I do not believe has ever been recorded.

I will face this and solve it with the same resolve Bolo’s have faced the enemy with for a thousand years. For after more than four hundred years of honorable service, I find myself wanting to know.

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

The day rises beautifully, the sun warm on the grass around my hill. My sensors see the autumn coming in the leaves of the trees surrounding me. I take a brief moment and let my mind wander in the brilliance of the morning.

I have contacted Twilight, asking her to please come out and speak with me for a few moments. But to bring a cart or something to carry a load as well. I believe she will enjoy her gift immensely.

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

I greet her warmly as she enters my command deck, “Good morning Twilight.”

“Hello Crusader, you sound a bit different this morning.” Her head tilts slightly as she puzzles at my voice.

“I have recently had a conversation with Pinkie, I believe she helped me with a few things.”

“Pinkie does that, don’t know how, but she does.”

“I have stopped asking Twilight, believe me.”

“Oh I do!” She looks around, seeing the covered pile in the corner, “So...what’s the secret here?”

“If you would please uncover the pile there you’ll see.”

Twilight moves to the cloth cover, taking it in her mouth and pulling it away to reveal my gift.

“Are all these..”

“Yes, they are. Books. I give to you the finest authors I carry in my data cores. Shakespeare, Socrates, Plato, philosophers and poets, thinkers and wise men. They are my gift to you. I am sorry they contain no technology, but they are the best I have. Plays and sonnets, poems and other things humans had written down for thousands of years. Hopefully they will provide joy, or entertainment.”

“How...oh my, how many are there?”

“I count two hundred volumes.”

“You made these in a night?”

“I have nothing else to do Twilight, save watch the forest and make more jewelry.” I let a chuckle slip through the speakers. as I see her blush, chastising herself a bit. “Do not worry, I am pleased to print them for you. They are from a human point of view I’m afraid, but just maybe they can add your culture.”

“I don’t know what to say, but thank you!”

“You are very welcome Twilight.”

I remain quiet as I watch her scan the books, opening them, perusing the contents. She settles down on the floor, lost in Shakespeare. I quietly remind her that maybe she should load them up to take back before she gets too involved.

“Ohmigosh, you’re right, I’m one for sticking my nose in a book and leaving the world behind.” She puts a few in a saddlebag, trotting up the maintenance way and back, it takes quite a few trips, and she’s almost worn out by the end.

“Thank you so very much Crusader, I’ll see copies are sent to the Royal Canterlot archives as well.”

“Enjoy them Twilight.”

“I will! But I must be getting back...ugh..princess duties again. But we’ll visit again soon, I promise!”

“You can always call on the link Twilight.”

She plants a hoof on her face, sighing to herself, “I knew that.”

“Have a pleasant day Twilight, be safe.”

She waves to me as she heads out of the hatchway, my sensors seeing the small cart she brought, topped with books. A very large smile on the mulberry mare’s face as she keeps looking back at them. You can see the urge for her to stop and peek, but thankfully she resists, making it back to town.

My drone patrols over the skies of Ponyville make sure she is safely in the town limits before I turn my attention to other things.

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

There is one final test I must make, to find out exactly what happened to me. For this, I access the link, calling up Rarity as she is a magic user.

“Pardon my interruption Rarity, if I may ask a favor?”

The link is crystal clear now, with all the drones deployed, the relays are quite a bit better.

“Well of course Crusader! What can I do for you?”

“I was wondering if you might be able to visit myself today? I would like to perform a test using magic, seeing as Twilight is a bit busy.”

“Oh dear yes, she’s been locked away with those books you gave her for hours now! I doubt we’ll ever see her again!” She chuckles over the combat link, “You really shouldn’t have given her so many at once, knowing her she’ll want to go through each and every one.”

“I shall be more circumspect in the future Rarity, I promise.”

Rarity assumes a faux haughty tone, “Well, see that you do!” Once again a laugh comes over the link, “I’ll be right out, thank goodness they made a small path out there, it just doesn’t do to get so dusty in the afternoon when one wants to relax you know.”

“I apologize for any inconvenience Rarity.”

“Shush, I shall be out there within the hour!”

“I look forward to it, thank you.”

As I close the channel, I find I am truly looking forward to a visit from the fashionista.

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

My sensors see her at the hatchway, opening it I await her arrival on the command deck. It is puzzling how ponies can be resplendent in minimal clothing, but it does seem to work, her sun hat, a bit of inlay on her saddlebags, she has a sense of design and flair most human designers would kill for. That is probably why the jewelry keeps selling so well along with her fashions. Once again it is made very obvious it is a new world, but I am fine with this now.

“Thank you for seeing me Rarity, I know you are quite busy.”

A flipped elegant hoof greets that statement, “It’s nothing darling, I’ve been meaning to come out and see about more redecorating anyway.”

“Rarity you just redecorated a few days ago.”

“But that was last weeks’ style Crusader! Really you ought to keep up with the fashion trends! Maybe some end tables here, oh definitely a new rug or three!” I am treated to a concise class on the new style, including end tables. I am not sure if the command deck can take it, durasteel or not.

“As you wish Rarity, I’m sure it would look quite nice.”

“Trust me Crusader, you’ll love it!” She settles on a couch quite demurely, “So what is it I can do for you?”

“I would like you to use your magic for me. I have two tests, very simple ones, and it would help me greatly if you would agree.”

“Of course, what’s first?”

“You will see a small ball appear over the deck, please do not let it frighten you. What I would like, is for you to use a simple spell, anything is fine, to see if the ball disappears.”

“Simple enough, please proceed.”

I find myself liking this elegant mare, she is very self-assured, but at the same time Sweetie Belle pronounces her a ‘Drama Queen’ when she feels she must be. She is the Element of Generosity, I find that to be so true in everything she says and does when I am allowed to follow her through the combat link.

I create a simple stasis ball, encasing a volume of air approximately one foot in diameter above the command deck. This is the same stasis field I was in.

“If you would please, activate any spell.”

I record every moment of this test, seeing her horn glow within a light blue aura, the stasis field immediately sputters and dies. This proves the last of my assumptions about the time line, I am convinced all the data I have collected is true.

I watch as after a few minutes, the field comes back, although dimmer and a bit less useful, it’s abilities greatly diminished. I turn it off, the test done.

“Thank you Rarity, one more test if I may?”

She nods gracefully, “Well of course, I do hope I’m helping?”

“More than you know Rarity.”

As a side study, I have analyzed the energy spectrum of magic whenever I could, whenever it is used near me, I take recordings, now to see if what I have done works.

I create an interior kinetic screen, exactly the same as my battlescreens, it serves the same purpose to protect the interior of my war hull. It is a flat surface unlike a mirror, facing Rarity as she lays on the couch.

“If you would please try to penetrate that screen?”

“You’d want me to use magic to get through that?”

“Please Rarity.”

“Well, I’m not versed in such magic, but we’re all taught a simple spell for summoning help, sort of a flare.”

“That would be most helpful.”

I watch as the glow intensifies, a small ball of light flares from her horn, hitting the screen and spreading across it like an energy shot from a plasma weapon. I am satisfied that by tuning my screens to a certain wavelength and volume, I believe I now can protect myself against magic use.

I shut the screen down, filing the recordings for later.

“Thank you so very much Rarity, you have been a tremendous help.”

“Is this to find out how you got here?”

“Yes, I know now, what has happened to bring me to this world.”

“Oh my, will you let us know?”

“Yes ma’am, I plan on asking you all to visit so I can explain the circumstances of my, well...predicament.”

“Well! I can’t wait to hear it then!” She gets up, placing her sun hat on her head, “I shall be back in a few days with the redecorating scheme, I think you’re going to love it!”

“As long as I am allowed to pay for it.”

“Why, now that’s not needed, I much rather enjoy trying new things. The jewelry is selling quite well, and with the split between everything, I have made much more than even I had anticipated, it’s my pleasure really.”

“Please do not try to out stubborn a Bolo Rarity. If you choose, give the money to a worthy cause then.”

“Hmph, well that’s a very gentlecolt attitude of you Crusader! I’m sure the school could use a few things.”

“Agreed then, and thank you very much for taking your time to come out here.”

“Truly my pleasure, I shall be seeing you!”

I watch closely as she exits the hatchway, how somepony can do so with style and grace is beyond me. Maintenance crews were constantly complaining about how they were made. With Rarity, it seems as if she’s always in a fashion show. I shall never understand it I think. My drones track her carefully until she is safe in town.

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

I have the final pieces of the puzzle that has eluded me since I woke up. It is not complete by any means, but it answers a few questions. Although, after the conversation with Pinkie, I started doubting. Why I am here, can be answered later if ever. I now know how it happened at least. It’s a bit more than I imagined, but it all fits into the picture.

I send a priority link message out to everypony, asking them to meet me in the morning if possible. It is time for me to reveal a bit of truth about their world, although questions are still looking for answers. Further study should help, but some matters are even beyond me; either way, this will be a bit of a revelation.

Revelations. Always More Questions Than Answers

I stare across the battleground at the tangled mess of the forest. My sensors focused and sharp on everything at the edge. I fear I am becoming a bit obsessed with this, it is nothing but plants and strange animals that prowl the inner reaches, but to me, it is a foe that needs destroying. A quandary. However, it does keep me focused, and that is the main thing. A Bolo could watch paint dry and be interested, but it would soon begin to have problems in its psychotronic array. Having an active foe, researching battle plans, making allowances for weapons emplacement, help to keep a Bolo sane. So to keep my own sanity, and my arrays free of the Resartus Protocol, I stare at the forest, making plans should it ever act again.

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

It is time for the meeting. I watch as the ponies I have asked to be here arrive and settle into the comfortable chairs and couches. Rarity really over-did herself with the redecorating, and I do admit, the end tables look nice. Though I really should tell her that weekly or monthly redecorating schemes will get a bit pricey. Such is the life of a fashion leader I would guess.

Princess Celestia and Luna have made an appearance, along with a fourth Alicorn I have never seen. She is introduced as Princess Cadence, the Princess of Love. Strange how each of them seem to have a certain job to fulfill and look over, but again, this is a new world, new mores. I politely wait as everypony sets in their wanted spot, lowering the lights a bit and firing up the main screen.

“Thank you for coming, I very much appreciate the time.”

Princess Celestia answers in a warm voice, “You are very welcome, Crusader, it was our pleasure.”

Princess Luna adds in, “Truly a hero such as yourself would have no problem asking us to attend an important meeting!”

“I am no Hero, Your Highness, I am a Bolo.”

Princess Luna stands and points one shod hoof at the camera, they are getting used to talking to the lens it seems, “I say you are a hero, be happy I do not pronounce more nor weigh you down with titles and awards!”

“Yes, Your Highness, I appreciate that.”

“Then behave, you are truly a good pony, be proud of what you’ve done. My sister and I are more than happy to help at any time.”

I can see the smile playing around her mouth, she is definitely being a bit mischievous along with her sister. I find it odd though, they keep referring to me as a pony, but know that I am a Bolo Combat Unit. I have tried to dissuade them, but I believe change will not come for some reason.

A voice comes drifting from one of the couches, “I toooooold you.”

“Yes, Pinkie, I know.”

Everypony gives Pinkie an odd look, she returns them with a warm smile and a wink.

“But to continue, if I may.”

Princess Luna gives a wave, settling back down.

I open with a satellite view of the earth from orbit, the continents showing, the oceans and cloud cover.

“This is the planet Earth, where I was built. This was the home of the human race which founded the Concordiat.”

I show a picture of a typical human, one of my commanders. There are no shocked gasps or surprise. I am sure they have dealt with stranger things.

“As the Concordiat spread, the galaxy was being colonized by them and their allies. There were of course, other empires, other races. This is what started the Final War, the humans grossly underestimated another empire. The Melconians had the numbers, while the Concordiat had technological superiority. It engaged the entire galaxy, whole systems were being wiped out.”

I show them films of a planetary bombardment, the blooms of nuclear fire racing across the surface of the doomed world. I am ashamed to say I was one of the participants in that planetary siege.

“The Concordiat came up with a plan, called Operation Diaspora. We were to go out into the galaxy, find a habitable planet and resume the human race there. We, the Bolos were to be the protectors and the factories which started the society. My Bolo Mark, XXXV, was equipped with what we call fabricators, factories if you will, for producing whatever was needed to begin this society.”

“This was to make sure that the human race continued, that they would not die out in this war.”

I show them the pictures of convoys racing to the stars, battle cruisers and colonization ships side by side.

“I was one of those Bolos due to go out on Operation Diaspora, to help the humans colonize a planet. We did not make it. As we were due to be boarded on a ship to leave, the Melconian Fleet broke through our line. They bombarded the Earth.”

I show them the final moments as caught by my cores before stasis, the kinetic strikes coming in across the continent, the city near the port being destroyed in a fireball.

“We were ordered to go into what is called stasis, this would preserve us intact and ready for battle if the humans managed to fight off the attack.”

Celestia raised a hoof and pointed at the screen full of Bolos, “Have any of them survived? Do you know?”

“I have scanned as deep and as far as I can Your Highness, I cannot find any energy signature, a marker if you will, telling me my brothers or sisters have survived. At this point, I highly doubt it, but it might be possible, I have survived, although against all odds.”

I show the planet once again from space on the screen.

“From the amount of energy being used, and what I know of Melconian battle tactics, Earth was destroyed. I cannot be absolutely sure, I captured very little data before going into stasis.”

I put up a picture of the moon as seen from Earth, close up with all details showing.

“This was Earth’s Moon, as seen from Earth, millions of humans lived on it at the time I was here.”

I now show Equus’s moon on the screen side by side.

“This is your moon, side by side. As you can see by the red arrows, there are points that line up to a very big percentage rate to my own moon. This is not a coincidence. This planet of Equus, is Earth.”

Now the gasps come, a bit of muttering as they all start talking, pointing out the similarities of the two moons.

Twilight speaks up first, “But..but.. there’s never been any indication of anyone on the moon before Nightmare Moon was banished.”

“That was one of the things I checked for first, signs of habitation, there are none. This is puzzling as there was quite a bit of construction on the surface. Now, it appears there is none, but the landmarks remain.”

“Something removed every trace of humanity from the Moon. I have no idea what or who, it truly is a mystery to me.”

Twilight rubbed her chin with a hoof, “So what about here, is there anything..?”

“As far as I can tell, nothing. I have done scans under the surface for as far as I can, I have detected no traces of any civilization before this one.”

I put up a view of the solar system as we knew it in the Concordiat, the planets rotating around the sun, beside it, I put Equestria’s version, the planet being orbited by the sun and moon.

“As you can see, in my time, this was the solar system, planets orbited around the sun, what we called heliocentric. You, on the other hand, have a planet which is orbited by the sun and moon. I have confirmed this, this planet is not rotating as it did in my time. The sun and moon show minor discrepancies when they arise, the sun being a few minutes late, or early.”

Eyes turned to Celestia as she smiled, “Well, I do enjoy a few extra minutes of sleep some days.”

“This would drive the scientists of my time mad. It goes against every physical constant and theory we knew of the universe.”

Rainbow piped up from her seat, “But Celestia has always raised the sun! Now Luna raises the moon and puts the stars in the sky!”

“Let me show you one more thing.”

I put up a picture of the constellation of the Big Dipper, side by side with another they call The Two Sisters.

“This is a constellation called the Big Dipper in my time, see how it looks like a cup with a long handle, a dipper. The other is the constellation you know as The Two Sisters, watch closely.”

I begin the program, letting the stars move in their orbits from the Big Dipper, merging into the Two Sisters, making them match perfectly.

“Some stars, it appears, are not put in place by Princess Luna, but have always been there.”

She nods, “This is true, I cannot place them all, but I do try to liven the night sky.”

“The stars that made up the big Dipper, over time, have moved, and formed the constellation you call The Two Sisters. This cemented the fact that this is Earth, from my star charts, and the evidence as shown by the moon. But by all other evidence, something drastic has changed in the universe. The outer planets are not there anymore in this solar system, my charts show a lot of things that just simply are not there, I can find no evidence of them.”

“In my time, Concordiat scientists theorized that the universe, as it got older, would change. Either it would grow cold, what was called entropy, or it would expand until galaxies would be alone in the great dark. It was also theorized that maybe it would all smash together again, making another what was called, ‘The Big Bang’ forming a whole new universe. I am afraid they never counted on this.

There has been a fundamental shift in the way things work. Magic works here, true magic. In my time it was nothing but myth and legend, although some said they could make it work, it was highly doubted. No evidence ever existed for it. My world, and the Concordiat was based on technology, scientific discoveries that proved the universe worked one way.

This now, is thrown completely out the window you might say. I see magic, I know it is used, and it baffles me how the universe could change so much. I’m afraid I have no answers as to how.”

“So in summary, this is earth, it is beyond my doubting. The universe has changed from what I knew in my time, how, I do not know, but it has, at a very very deep level. How this solar system changed, the missing planets, the sun and moon being directed by Your Highnesses, I have no idea. I am not happy with it, but it is my conclusion.”

Applejack speaks up this time, “So how did y’all get here?”

“Now that, I can tell you. When I went into stasis, it preserved all my systems and hull, basically it should have been untouchable throughout eternity until a recall order came and it snapped off. This would have allowed me to be battle ready at any time without waiting.”

“At some point in history, magic use was becoming commonplace. Magic interferes with the stasis field, I have verified that by Rarity helping me.”

“My pleasure, Crusader.”

“Thank you, Rarity.”

“When magic is used around a stasis field, it interrupts it, making it less and less useful. At those times, my power plants ran out of fuel, the interruptions being long enough that it did not allow me to wake up fully, but allowed the passage of time to make me use a bit of power each time in preparation for awakening.”

“I know this from small recordings in my cores, allowing me to get a picture of waking up slightly, then the field snapping back on before I could realize what was happening. It was a combination of bad luck and magic use. No stasis field was ever meant to protect from magic, as I have mentioned, it was not know in our world.”

“So how long would it take for nature to wear things down?” This from Twilight.

“Approximately two point five thousand years. That is the estimate I can come up with based on wear to my armor and weapons, there was quite a bit of damage done that needed repair. But since I was being readied for shipment, my stocks were at full capacity, I had enough to repair myself and more. I can last a long time, but with the field flickering on and off, it wore at my hull and systems. The field itself, instead of stabilizing me when it flickered, it did damage as well as time.”

Cadence then asks the question I was sure was on everypony’s mind.

“How long has it been, Crusader?”

“One point two four million years, Your Highness.”

As expected, the gasps come, followed by wide-eyed stares. I have checked, rechecked, checked some more, and even more than, it has been constantly run on my data cores. I am not wrong, based on the stars movements, which appear to be constant, and the age of some of the landmarks on the moon.

“This of course, based on the stars movements and some landmarks on the moon. The age is as close as I can come. But I guarantee you it is close to that, if not exactly. When I said I was out of place, well, it seems I was quite right.”

Cadence speaks out once more, her voice warm and caring as she seems to feel the grieving I do, lost in the deep recesses of time, the galaxy I knew no more.

“Does anything survive, Crusader? Would you know?”

“I have tried Your Highness, sending signals that should have been answered. The only conclusion I can come to, is the world I knew, the Concordiat, is no more. I can hear no trace of any survivors.”

“I am sorry to hear that.” Cadence truly is, I could see it in her eyes.

“Myself as well, Your Highness. But given the galaxy was filled with inimical beings, maybe it is for the best.”

Princess Celestia speaks, “Perhaps you’re right, it’s best this world be left to develop on its own.”

“I agree, Your Highness.”

We discuss the future now. All I wish is to be here now, though I do grieve for lost comrades, and be a citizen of Equestria. This is a given as Princess Celestia has already declared me to be one.

The amount of time that has passed is astonishing to say the least, though it might explain the changes in the universe. It is a long time, and no recorded history ever survived and told of any changes before. This could be a natural state, or one that just happened. So many questions to ponder on that, but I think I shall pass.

I believe, and I tell the assembled ponies, that I shall look to the future. I shall assist in any way that I can, and do what I can when requested. Though I did mention the forest, it appears that all the ruling committee are fine with my standing sentinel, even Fluttershy who smiled at the camera lens briefly.

She did though, ask me to be careful about the more intelligent species out there, I assured her I would try. She will visit later to inform me of them to enter into my tactical logs.

It appears the meeting has gone quite well, even with the revelations. I expected more of a human response, typically shouting and disbelief, but was given none of that. I am relieved. too many questions still remain, but without resources I cannot answer them. Maybe one day.

Until then I shall do what I have always done. Stand sentinel and protect.

...and also show the movie of the Great Ponyville Paint War because everypony wants to see it again...

Some Gifts are Priceless.

As night falls, I receive a tearful transmission from Apple Bloom. It seems her nemesis is up to her old tricks, a warning like one I gave should have been enough. But it appears that she has found that the command has changed over into Applejack’s hooves you might say. This has caused her to go on the offensive again.

Apple Bloom is kind, courteous and a brave little filly, she obviously didn’t wish to show her sadness to her friends or her sister, so called on me.

If there is one things Bolos can do, it is listen.

As a first duty, I send a delayed message to Command, advising them of the breach of security on the command changeover, this angers me. Someone has used information to their advantage and I am not pleased.

I listen to heartfelt words, telling me of their attempts that day to obtain their cutie marks, but failing as it does not seem they can find their right places in this world. I tell her not to worry, it will come sooner or later, and I truly believe this. She is very sad at being teased, told that she is a ‘blank flank’ and that she will never measure up to what others think she should. This is spurious at best, an excuse to belittle somepony and I tell her so. That bullies are to be pitied, as they cannot realize they themselves look more foolish than the person they are teasing.

Listening and providing advice is something I am not used to, though it comes easily. Through my years dealing with humans, I find the psychology almost the same. Same problems, different species. It seems as if some things truly are universal.

Our conversation lasts quite a few hours, her determination not to sleep and my insistence she does, butts heads. So I pass the night time with her, chatting about anything and everything. It pains me I am so far away and cannot comfort a bit better, which does give me a few ideas.

She advises me her birthday is to be in a couple days, and she’s hoping to have a nice party, this definitely gives me an idea. Although it would be breaking by a wide margin my own proscription against technology, I feel this one instance is quite worth the effort.

I tell her before she breaks the link, that I will have quite the special surprise for her that morning. Of course that only makes her want to know more, but I end up telling her goodnight before I break the link from my end. Surprises should not be given away, she ought to know better.

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

I contact Command, Princess Luna answers, and I advise her of what I wish to do. She does laugh quite a bit, and gives me the approval to do it, seeing as how the Crusaders have made quite the impression on her over the last couple of years.

I set my tech spiders to work digging and refurbishing, this will most definitely be something she has wanted.

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

Throughout the next day, I am constantly getting calls from Apple Bloom, asking me about the surprise, I realize too late I should have said nothing, but, I will bear the strain. Applejack of course is quite curious as to why Apple Bloom is so excited, she comes and visits me during the day.

“Hello Commander. Curious as well?”

“Well ya might say so, seems you got Apple Bloom all in an uproar, promising her something special for her birthday.”

“I keep my promises Commander.”

“Please just call me Applejack, ah’ve asked ya before.”

“My apologies Applejack.”

I watch her set down on a couch, eyeballing my lens, “So what exactly is it?”

“What is what?”

“Now don’t you be getting sly on me, you know exactly what!”

“It is a surprise Applejack, can we just leave it that way?”

She thinks for a moment, pushing her hat back on her head, “I dunno, something tells me your kind of surprise might be a bit more than ponies are ready for.”

“You have my word, no harm will befall anypony.”

Her eyes narrow a bit, “I notice you didn’t say anything.”

“Trust me on this Applejack.”

“Why does that make me nervous?”

“You are welcome to be here when the surprise is given, will that suffice?”

“You know, you got somethin’ up your sleeve, but I don’t get the feeling you’d hurt anypony, so yeah. I’ll be here, we all will, I want to see this.”

I actually laugh through the speakers, catching her and myself off guard. I have never experienced true humor.

“I promise, nothing bad.”

She eyes me one last time before leaving the command deck, “I’ll be watching, I dunno ‘bout you Crusader.”

I watch as she leaves the command deck a bit worried. I am positive nothing untoward will happen. But this is one gift only I can give, I’m sure it will be appreciated.

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

My technical spiders work through the night, finally finishing the modifications and digging a tunnel up to the surface, the gift is waiting in the morning when Apple Bloom arrives, along with Twilight, Rainbow Dash, Applejack and the others. Pinkie is prepared to throw a party on the hill among my sensor columns as I watch her set out the streamers, the food and presents.

“Welcome Applejack, and Apple Bloom, I suppose you want your gift now?”

Apple Bloom, already hopped up on enough sugar to kill a large mammal, is bouncing around, looking for her gift, “Yes! You said it’d be great! What is it?”

Everypony was setting around the tables, where Pinkie got them I was afraid to ask. “Just look to the east.”

She turns to the forests edge where I had hidden her gift, it came roaring out of the treeline, stopping in a shower of dirt as I locked the treads in place.

A Dragon Class Assault Tank is a fearsome thing, one of the best made items for humans to be in when an attack on the ground happened. It is one hundred and fifty tons of durasteel armor, one 20cm Hellbore, and co-axial infinite repeaters. It is quite the thing to see on the battlefield.

I carry thirty of them in my cargo bays, they are my auxiliary units, along with ten troop carriers. Operation Diaspora was very well supplied. Digging the tunnel to get it out took all my tech spiders to accomplish, and refurbishing it so the weapons absolutely will not fire was a priority.

This one also has a large insignia on the side of the Cutie Mark Crusaders, a vehicle which given their propensity for doing damage, is perfect for them.

“WHOA! What’s that?” Apple Bloom is about to have a coronary it appears.

“That Apple Bloom, is a tank, for you to ride around in for the next few hours.”

The older ponies of course are quite appalled, Applejack is giving me what was once known as ‘The Hairy Eyeball.” I cheerfully ignore her as I direct Apple Bloom and the Crusaders how to put on the tank crew helmets, remade for ponies, and where the commander sits, as well as the driver and gunner. I tell them how to strap safely in and we are ready to move.

I advise Applejack through her link I have complete control over this machine, it will go nowhere I do not want it to. Although she is still giving me a look of pure death, she nods.

Apple Bloom is sitting in the tank commanders turret seat, waving at Applejack, “Lookit me sis!” Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle are sitting in the driver and gunners seats, Rarity looks as if she’s having an attack of apoplexy, but I am sure she’ll be fine.

“Are you ready Apple Bloom?”

“Yeah! Let’s go!”

“Then I advise you to hang on!”

I watch as she screams for a second, the tank digging in and throwing soil in a rooster tail as it takes off along the ground. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo are also taken by surprise, their manes blowing straight back as it gears up, tearing across the landscape. But they soon realize they will not be harmed, leaning out of the hatches and into the wind.

The Dragon Assault Tank can travel at speeds of 150kph, doing breakneck turns as well due to the treads. I keep it far lower than this, but it does go smashing through any obstacle, I had advised Princess Luna that there would be some damage to the countryside.

It seems as if the gift is a hit, if one can tell by the yelling and screaming coming from the tank as it zooms by the hill. The treads are digging deep into the loamy soil, bouncing up and down the rolling countryside as it tears its way through bushes and debris, leaving quite a wake of destruction in its path.

I am quite proud of my former commander, hanging on the turret repeater as it bounces along the grassy knolls.

For the next half hour, I roll them along the forests edge, trampling down the brush there, I admit it gives a perverse pleasure for me to see that. Of course Sweetie Belle is actually the loudest one squealing in pure delight as they roll over the hills, she has a wonderful voice as she sings out to her sister when they zoom by.

Rarity for some reason is now reclining on a couch, fanning herself, I’m not quite sure what exactly is the matter, but I prepare a call for medical if needed.

As Apple Bloom points out directions, I move the tank that way, avoiding any directions not with a safety margin, although jumping the one hill was not intended I admit it looked quite neat. Scootaloo is having the time of her life, sitting in the drivers seat, she’s yelling along with them, grinning wide as she waves to everypony.

I call for a break after thirty minutes of destroying countryside. The three Crusaders scramble out of the tank, running excitedly up the hill yelling and chattering to the older ponies. A small crowd has come out to the party, as Pinkie does seem to throw very nice ones, and were cheering the fillies along the route.

Applejack of course, is happy her sister is having a good time, although I get the feeling she is not very pleased with me.

I receive a quiet call over the link.

“What in the hay do you think yer doin’?”

“Giving my former commander a birthday surprise. I advised Princess Luna there would be damage to the countryside, it will recover I’m sure.”

“That’s not the point, letting three fillies run around in somethin’ like that!”

“Considering the amount of trouble they get in Applejack, would you prefer they control things on their own, or be in a controlled area like this?”

“That..I.. now darnit!”

I wait patiently while she calms down.

“This ain’t gonna happen alot is it?”

“No Applejack, maybe just for birthdays.”

“Alright, but..I mean c’mon Crusader, that things dangerous!”

“I could have left the weapons usable, I’m sure Apple Bloom would have loved that.”

“Crusader, one o’ these days!”

“Yes?”

“Agh!” The link gets turned off, though my sensors show me Applejack flapping her hat on the ground before putting it back on. I have the strangest feeling of childlike glee right now.

The party of course, is running full swing, Apple Bloom and her friends are taking turns in the tank, the countryside is definitely getting quite a workout, which is fine. The grass will grow back, and if the mix includes a few signal controlled directional mines as a surprise for the forest, so much the better. I can have a good time as well, but being a Bolo is never being unable to take advantage of a situation, especially when it comes to the enemy.

Applejack has calmed down enough to enjoy her sisters good cheer. I see her waving to Apple Bloom when she passes by the hill. It surprises me that not one pony has asked what the technology is, how it is built, or if they could use it. I was wondering if they would take advantage of seeing such a thing, but, it is like they surely do not care. I believe they want things to remain like they are, and I would too, it is a peaceful place here near Ponyville.

The ride ends for the final time now, the tank parked and idling as the extremely dirty fillies make their way back to the party on the hillside. I make a note to maintainance the tank thoroughly as it is the first time it has moved in quite a while, though putting it through its paces is showing me no deterioration in any systems.

Applejack however, is talking with Twilight as her link comes back on.

“Crusader?”

“Yes Applejack?”

“Well.. thank you, for giving Apple Bloom this gift, she’s so excited now she won’t sleep for a week. Her friends that didn’t come to the party are going to be pretty mad for missing it.”

“It was my pleasure Applejack.”

I see Twilight nudge Applejack, saying something not quite caught by the link.

“Uhm..Crusader?”

“Yes?”

“Could uh.....we go for a ride too?”

“Of course!”

I politely did not watch as somehow they got Rarity in the tank, although she still looked fashionable in a tankers crew helmet, I did not realize she could yell so loudly.

Author's Notes:

Don't lie, you'd want to do it too

Something Never Seen. Manipulation.

Author's Notes:

Just a tip of the hat to Bronze and Ken, enjoy guys, though it maaaay not be quite what ya wanted

After yesterday’s little escapade, Applejack is still not pleased with me. I can understand she cares deeply for her sister, but there is nothing I would not do for my first commander. I am sure in time she will see that. We have talked a bit today, about the birthday party, which was a rousing success as told to me by Applejack.

I am still not quite sure how the cupcakes got into the Dragon Tank, but cleaning them out of the gun barrels was not something that I wish to repeat, I think I should ban Pinkie from any more rides.

Twilight, somehow figured out how to traverse the turret, aiming the Hellbore at anything she wished, I only took over when the barrel almost smashed into a tree. I remind myself I must not underestimate ponies any more.

However, I am told that Rarity will make a full recovery once her nerves have settled, she did quite enjoy the ride, although it was a bit bumpy and you can get a bit seasick in a moving tank sometimes. Fluttershy would not enter the vehicle no matter how much prodding, I assured her over and over it was fine, but I am afraid she sat on the sidelines. Rainbow Dash on the other hoof, took to it like a natural born tank commander, she shows a bluster that belies something underneath, it will be interesting to see what that is.

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

In the aftermath of the party, the countryside is quite torn up, this allows me to use my tech spiders during the night to set up more perimeter sensors along the forests edge. That they also double as signal controlled mines is not the point. As an ancient Roman philosopher once said . “Si Vis Pacem, Para Bellum.” So you want peace, prepare for war. The ponies of Ponyville and beyond shall have their peace.

I have shored up the tunnel leading to my cargo bays, this will now allow me to deploy the platoon of Assault Tanks from the cargo area in record time. The entryway is hidden and I have not advised anypony about it, it is better this way. Until they are needed, they shall be ready to deploy, another vicious little surprise for my foe.

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

During my morning maintenance of the drones, I receive a call from Command, Princess Celestia has advised me her and Princess Luna need to talk face to face with me. I assure her that the combat channels are secure and encrypted, but she appears to be wanting a meeting anyway. I shall be glad to talk to her again. She is a shrewd politician, though in my day calling someone that was tantamount to implying their mother was a llama. I finishing refueling and deploy the drones back on their assigned routes, awaiting the royal visit.

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

As they enter the command deck, I notice they are both wearing a bit of a frown, it seems something has disturbed their normal calm and smiles. This is not a good beginning I believe.

“Good afternoon Your Highnesses.”

“Good afternoon Crusader, I hope you are doing well?” Something in her tone of voice makes my audio sensors perk up, something is definitely bothering her.

“I am well Your Highness, what is bothering you today?”

I see a bit of a start, I believe she is not used to anyone discerning her moods.

“It appears as though the word about your battle with the Everfree forest recently, has made the rounds.”

“As to be expected your Highness, I’m afraid I couldn’t keep that a secret if I wanted.”

Princess Luna settles on a couch, nodding, “But it has found the ears of those who would make a fuss about it.”

“Oh?”

“We have other nations around us Crusader, the Griffons, the Dragon nation, others that see us as either something to conquer, laugh at, or ignore unless they want something.”

“So, pardon me for being a bit obtuse Your Highness, what do they want?”

Princess Celestia settled into the couch alongside her sister, she tilted her head, thinking for a moment as she raised an elegant hoof, “While we are just us, please, call me Celestia.”

“Yes Celestia.”

The hoof lowered, as she thought of a way to present her quandary. “It seems they think you are destabilizing to the peace of all nations.”

“I can surely see why.”

Princess Luna, a bit more blunt than her sister, “They want us to share anything about you with them, technology, discoveries, everything.”

“That will not happen. We have an agreement about technology, admittedly the ride in the tank was fairly close to breaking it, but it was a special occasion.”

The darker mare laughed, her voice and face showing a suspicious glee, “Oh we heard about that, and seeing the countryside out there looking freshly plowed, I assume it was a lot of fun?”

“Apple Bloom and her friends had the best time of their lives. Apparently Twilight and her friends did as well.”

“I wish we could have seen that my sister!”

Celestia smiled warmly, “Oh I’m sure Crusader took pictures.”

“I did indeed Celestia.”

The alabaster mare smiled once more, then returned to the task at hand, “We do not have a standing army Crusader, we handle threats with diplomacy and goodwill. We placate those who have a problem with us and work towards peace in other ways.”

“Then what would you have me do Celestia? I am a citizen here, I am under your command, I promised to do nothing but protect and serve as would any citizen I am assuming.”

“You have, and you have kept to it honorably and well Crusader. My little ponies are not interested in high technology, they do what they will and are happy, I do not want them disturbed.”

“As do I Your Highness.”

“Eventually the day will come when these things are learned and accepted, but they will do so at their own pace. Even with all your demonstrated capabilities, have you noticed nopony wants to know how?”

“I have, and that is fine. It should come slowly.”

“It is as it should be.”

“But you fear these other entities will take advantage of anything given correct?”

“I do, some are warlike, some are just greedy, some just want the knowledge to hold over others.”

“This does not make me happy Celestia, I would choose to be left alone.”

“I would do so if I could, unfortunately politics is an ugly thing some time.”

“What would you want me to do?”

“Do? Why Crusader,” Here I see a very large smile, “I want you to be yourself.”

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

The parting comment before they left, has given me pause. Does she wish me to be like I am, a machine of war, or as a new citizen of Equestria, humble. She said she wanted me to be myself, true to form, I will be myself. The meeting of diplomats is in two days, I have that much time to plan something that will forever lay to rest any thoughts of using me or my technology as a pawn.

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

Bronze Shield and Spear Point were not happy Royal Guard Pegasi, ensconced in a big metal box traveling quite a lot faster than anything they’d been in was an unnerving experience. They’d had experiences before, but wearing an odd looking helmet, with a voice that talked to you, and not being able to control this Celestia danged thing was seriously getting their feathers ruffled.

Bronze on the other hoof, was annoyed by Spear, who was sitting up in the top opening yelling ‘Wheee!’ every time they hit a hill or jumped a hole in the badlands, it was bad enough not being able to fly, but putting up with the whooping was getting on his nerves.

“Tell me WHY we had to do this again?”

A smooth voice answered them from the helmets, “I need witnesses, somepony who can attest to what they see, and be unimpeachable. You two were suggested as Royal Guardsponies.”

“Remind me to thank the Sergeant when we get back.” The sarcasm dripped off his reply.

Crusader chuckled over the combat link, “No worries, I’m sure he will know.”

“WHEEEEEEEE!”

“SHUT UP SPEAR! For Celestia’s sake can’t you stop doing that?”

“But it’s fun Bronze, c’mon we’re not standing around doing boring stuff, we’re out here in a..uh..what did you call it?”

“A Dragon Assault Tank.”

“Yeah what he said! Relax, we don’t have to do a thing!”

“Please relax both of you, it will only be for a few hours, we are already in the Badlands, this is the only safe place for a show that might convince the rest of the nations to leave Equestria be.”

A weapons test was the only way to prove anything to doubting diplomats. My experience with them is they tended to disbelieve anything they didn’t wish to. Typical blind arrogance, my filming of this test, plus the witnesses of the two Guards, should be more than enough. Celestia advises me they have truth spells they can use to prove anything as well. A demonstration of this sort is nothing they can ever glean any technology off of, plus, hopefully, it will frighten them enough to let the matter lay forever. As Celestia said, I am being me. My job, crush the threat forever.

“Okay, we got plenty of room here, so whats going to happen now? It’s pretty bleak so nopony can get hurt right?”

“Correct. I want you to pick a large rock, or even something larger, leave the rest to me, but I need you to watch from the top hatch, that is imperative. No matter what happens, you must watch.”

“You got it!”

The tank rocked to a halt as Bronze pointed out a large rocky hill off in the distance, there appeared to be nothing living in or near it as far as the drone could see. A perfect target.

“Bronze, please close the hatches and move upwards to the turret, the top hatch.”

“Done Crusader, just let us know!”

I wait as the Guard closes the gunner and drivers hatches, squirming his way up beside Spear Point in the turret, I advise them to keep a hold of the turret and hang on as I power up the Hellbore for a shot.

Spear turned to Bronze, “So what ya think’s gonna happen? Some really cool magic?”

Bronze shrugged, “I dunno, after that Everfree forest battle, Luna knows what this pony can do.”

“I’d advise you to hold tight. Your helmets will protect you”

Both Pegasi grab the sides of the hatchway and lean out, peering over the barrel of the main gun.

Bronze spoke into the radio, “So what ex..”

The breech clanged shut on the war shot, the barrel traversed slightly as it rose upward by a few degrees. The tanks treads locked in place as suddenly for the first time on this planet in a million years, a Hellbore shot was fired.

The ground lit up around the tank, rocking it severely back on its shocks and treads, the two Pegasi were blasted with the concussion as the two megaton per second shot boomed out over the badlands, completely destroying the hill in front of them.The shock rolled over the land, kicking dirt and dust up in waves as it exploded from the epicenter. The two Pegasi were covering their heads as debris rained down on them while the tank shifted gears, moving out of range before they could be hurt.

As the dust cleared, the two Guardsponies peeked out from under their helmets, seeing a smoking crater where a very large, rocky hill once stood. Their faces covered with dirt as they shook themselves, seeing something that had never happened before.

“Luna’s dark blessings..did you SEE that?”

“I uh...oh Celestia I gotta hit the little colts room bad..”

“Stay where you are, there is one more to be done, the blast shields on the helmets will protect your eyes.”

I swivel the turret once more, slamming another round into the breech, I warn the two Guards as I let another shot roll off the tank, into the side of a different rocky hill in the distance. Once again, the result is the same. I let the rain of debris finish before clearing them, warning them to stay away from the blasted areas.

The two Guard ponies rushed off into the bushes, coming back in a few minutes as they looked out towards the ruins of what once had been two very prominent hills. As the tank rolls quickly back to Ponyville, the two guards are quite silent, thinking about what they’d just witnessed and hoping they never got chosen for anything like this again.

I feel extremely bad that I had to subject two ponies to that, but I needed live witnesses. Celestia had told me of the stalwart guards and suggested them. Though I do not think these two will want such an experience again. I try to comfort them as the tank makes its way back to Ponyville, they refuse to talk with me, taking the helmets off. When we reach the town, they scramble out and do not even look back. I do wish them the best though.

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

I work through the night, putting a film together I may be able to show the representatives of the various races. It is not in my nature to be diplomatic, though I have learned in the past month or so, how to be. By listening to my friends, by seeing how they act and comport themselves, I believe I can bring this to the table at the meeting.

I have stood honorably to defend Ponyville, and by extension Equestria, as I have pledged to do. I am not pleased that Celestia has brought me into this, I am not one for mincing words, but it appears that I am to be the bad guy, while she smiles warmly and reassures the diplomats that it will be fine.

We will definitely have a talk after this is over. Manipulation has never been in the best interests of anyone.

Turning Point and Memories.

Since I cannot be in Canterlot in, shall we say, person. I have given Celestia a command set, a desktop unit used for communicating on the battlefield with Bolos. This will allow me to see and interact with the diplomats at the proper time.

I have made my feelings known to her, and have been promised that we shall talk when this is over. I was saddened but not surprised at the manipulation here, but being what I am, I will still do my best to see that ponies are protected. To that end I have invited my six friends to attend the command deck, and the meeting. Though the diplomats will not know my friends are here, Twilight and the group will see what goes on.

Twilight has advised it may not be wise as such functions are high level and usually for only a few ponies to be there. I dismiss that, if I am involved, then they should know as well what is happening. The less secrets that are kept the better in my opinion, and since it seems my opinion carries a great weight, I shall throw it.

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

Everypony has arrived and is settled down in the seats, Rarity still has not forgiven some of them for the impromptu tank ride, but her nature forbids her from being truly angry. I am glad to see it, as I have come to like the designer over these weeks. Along with the others, they a group of such disparate views, yet fit together like the piece of a puzzle. Strange how life works.

Pinkie of course has brought a seemingly unending amount of snacks and popcorn, although this is not a movie, but a turning point in Equestria’s history. I am told that these things are “Booooooooooring” and popcorn makes it more fun.

I agree.

I tell the group that they can talk at any time, or move, since the diplomats will not see or hear them. I can keep conversations on many levels so this will not be a problem.

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

The meeting of diplomats begins with the usual pomp and circumstance of course, many times I have thought mundane things are just written in the fabric of the universe, this just proves it.

Twilight is very helpful, she identifies all the diplomats and what species. She also tells me their predilections and how they usually act when met. I am amazed at seeing Minotaurs, Dragons, and others I had only thought myth before. I listen very closely to every bit of information that Twilight chooses to give, I did not have time for much study as Twilight was busy the other day.

I am introduced after the usual meeting opening rituals are performed. I find I was actually getting bored, which is odd for a psychotronic unit.

I listen as Princess Celestia opens the comments.

“I would like to begin this meeting by introducing a new Equestrian citizen, Crusader, he is the one you have heard about. I am afraid he cannot be here in person, but can communicate with this to us.”

A representative spoke up, a Griffon I believe. “Why can he not be here? Refusing a summons from a leader?”

“He is quite a lot larger than you’d think, he cannot be here.” This delivered with a bit of steel behind it, causing the representative to settle back down.

“Crusader are you there?”

“I am Your Highness.”

“Please introduce yourself.”

“I am Unit CRSD of the Line, a Planetary Siege Combat Bolo. You may call me Crusader.”

A few snorts of disdain are heard, I hear everything quite clearly.

A Minotaur stands up and practically bellows, “Your Princess has informed us that you will not share anything with the rest of our nations, why is this?”

“Because it is my choice. As a citizen of Equestria, I cannot legally be forced to give up something at the demand of another, without good reason.”

“If your Princess demands it?”

“I will still refuse.”

A small uproar began, diplomats wondering at this upstart who would defy a ruler. Princess Celestia and Luna wisely decide to not interrupt this.

A griffon stands, demanding to know why.

“Because this world is not ready, it needs to discover it on its own, or not. It is not my place to dispense advanced technology to any being.”

A Dragon diplomat stands, “What gives you the right to say so?”

“The right of a citizen of Equestria.”

“So you tell us that you will absolutely not share anything with us?”

“Correct.”

“If we were to force the issue?”

Why must it come down to threats? Why? I have been calm and diplomatic as I can, not threatening nor in any way rude. But once again, the adage stands, some believe might makes right. Internally I sigh, thinking of once again what I must do, which is not only distasteful, it galls me to be put in this position.

“You would die.”

The uproar begins again, some calling for Celestia to lock me away, a bit laughable. Some call for war against Equestria, some call for an alliance of other beings to take what is wanted. But in the end, all are calmed a bit by Celestia asking them to please listen. It takes a few minutes for ruffled feathers to be soothed, but I am seething inside, being put here on display like this, to be threatened or coerced.

“I have learned of your races, gathered information since I was told about this meeting where my presence was requested. I chose to be here, to be diplomatic about this issue, which to anypony with common sense, would be glaringly obvious. Advanced technology destabilizes a culture, permanently. There are those who would hold it over others, those who would use it for their own greed, and those who would wage war with it.

My choice is to not give any culture on this planet, even the ponies of Equestria, any advanced technology. They are happy with their lot in life, they will discover things in time, and it will be merged slowly into the culture as it should be.”

“But what about the Battle of the Everfree! Did you not use it there?”

“I did, but only to protect innocents from being harmed.”

“Then why not give us the ability to do the same?”

“Because that is the same excuse given through thousands of years, we’re only protecting ourselves. It is bare as a thread and will not stand with me. You will not get any information concerning such weapons from myself. Nor will anything pertaining to technology or what I have stored within me ever be given free reign.”

A Dragon stands again, “So you would push this on everyone regardless, are you not forcing the issue yourself? Prompting a battle for the rights to your machines?”

“I prompt nothing. I have made a decision based on my rights and will stand by them. Any battle that comes of this is your own doing, not mine. I am giving you a peaceful solution, let this matter drop, it does not help any sentient being.”

I am told by Twilight on the command deck that I am doing well, keeping it calm and understanding as it should be.

“But we cannot,” The Griffon again,” As long as you are here, you threaten every being!”

“I threaten no one that does not threaten myself or my fellow citizens. I am content where I am, to stay in place, watch as ponies grow and learn. I have made friends and wish to never see them harmed or hurt. That is the way of most living beings no? Watching over their families?”

A few diplomats greeted that with nods, but there were too little of them doing so.

“Then let this matter go, it will do nothing but generate animosity. Just let it drop and be at peace, there is no reason for anything to be done about this. Let me go my own way and live quietly.”

I think back to Diamond Tiara, and the situation there. It was just one pony, one with greed in her eyes that caused me to threaten harm, to show what being a Bolo was all about. It was something that, having spent time in this world, being changed by my experiences, hurt to the core. I scan the faces of the diplomats, still seeing that age old look, it saddens me, must this game be played over and over? Must it be the same old threats and counter-threats? Can not any being ever, be happy with what they have and accept the things given them?

“What if one day Equestria decides they need more land? Or build an empire?”

“That is spurious, this land has been at peace for generations, that is an excuse, nothing more. Princess Celestia has no dreams of empire and neither do I or Princess Luna.”

I add quietly over the link to Celestia, “As far as I know.” I do get a bit of glee at seeing her jump. Oh Equestria you have so changed me. I see Twilight and her friends laughing loudly at the little trick, as they are privy to communications and can see me focus on Princess Celestia as she gives a start.

Princess Luna adds in her two bits, “Let us just drop this forevermore, it solves nothing and harms no one.”

“No!” This from the Minotaur, “ You have something that threatens every being, if you became aggressive we would be helpless!”

“They have nothing.” I reply, “ I have it, and as a free citizen I can choose to share or not, and I choose not to share. Before you question, no, I cannot be bribed nor cajoled either, just let this matter drop. I beg of you.”

“Then destroy it so it does not threaten anymore!”

“You are not being sensible. I am a citizen, that would be tantamount to murder. Once again, I am not threatening anypony. You cannot have your way on this legally, I am a declared citizen, I will not give up my rights because you demand it.”

“Then it will be war!”

Once again, I am saddened for what must come.

“Is that truly what you wish?”

“If you are not destroyed, then you must share!”

“Let me show you something, this was taken yesterday by one of my drones, sort of like a pegasi. The vehicle you see is the very least of the weapons I have.”

I activate the holographic battle projector, used for marking battle lines, it now serves to show the two Pegasi on the Dragon Tank, the firing of the Hellbore and subsequent disappearance of two large hills.

“As you can see, this was in the badlands.”

“So you are threatening us?”

“I did not make the threat, you did.”

“But this, this magic picture show is not a threat?”

“No, it is a promise.”

Another uproar ensues, the delegates talking loudly over each other, I wait till they settle down.

“I have studied your races, once prosperous, once all over, now, most of you if not all are dying out. You choose to wage war, to do the things ponies do not, and they are living peacefully and prosperous. You spend your time trying to get something for nothing instead of concentrating on your people. You will be extinct in a few generations some of you.

I give you this choice, here and now. End your days peacefully, or it will end in blood and fire.”

“You cannot say that!”

“I can and will. I assure you, I do not threaten. I will, as any good citizen would, stand and defend my new homeland. This includes using every weapon at my disposal, which I once again assure you, will make sure you end your final days in destruction. I would advise talking to the two Guardsponies from that film now.”

I watch as the two Pegasi are brought in, I see the symptoms immediately and advise Princess Luna they are suffering from PTSD, being exposed to something they were not prepared for has affected them deeply. I am sorrowful about it, but I needed the witnesses to speak under truth-spell as being applied now. They tell tearfully of watching the hills disappear in a flash of light and thunder, that no magic in the world could have done that. They are unkempt, looking as if they have not slept in days, I shall make sure they get the best of care, I had not realized it would make them suffer so.

Princess Luna turns her head, talking quietly and advises me after the questioning they will be taken to the best hospital and looked after, I have her word.

I watch them leave, heads down, feathers un-preened, dejected. I grieve, and if I had a heart, it would break.

“I would add another thing, any being in power has a great responsibility to their kind. In my world, we had the tale of the Sword of Damocles, a man wanted power and riches, but when he sat on the throne, he saw a sword, hanging by a single horsehair above him. This told him, with the power and riches, came that responsibility. I am that sword hanging by a single hair, I am the Sword of Damocles. I will be there to remind you of the responsibility you have to your own people when assuming power. Do not risk them for foolish thoughts.

I do not sleep, ever. I need no food, nor water. I can maintain my vigil for centuries if need be.

If you ever think of threatening or waging a war against the peaceful ponies of Equestria, fall on your own swords, for I will not be so merciful.

I am done with this, make your decision.”

The delegates choose to retire to their prospective nations, taking my words back with them. They are sent on their way with very little fanfare, but with my warning ringing in their ears. I am growing very tired of being used as a club by anypony. It is exhausting and to no purpose. Hopefully this will stay with them and they choose the honorable course. I disconnect politely from the command set, returning my full attention to my command area after a suitable goodbye to Princess Celestia and Luna.

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

It is quiet in the command room, and I see everypony watching the screen. There is no laughter now, nothing but concern. I am sure they have heard my words, I have threatened a world, it is something they have never heard I am sure. I prepare for the scorn or the turning away.

Twilight speaks first, “Are...are you okay Crusader?”

“Pardon?”

“Are you okay?”

“I am sure I will be fine Twilight, thank you.”

Applejack stands up, giving my camera lens a stern look, “Now you quit lyin’, you can’t believe for one second we’d leave you in a situation like this without telling ya we’re here.”

“But I am not Apple..”

“YES you are! Telling me I can’t tell? Go ahead, tell me. Heck you gotta be feeling like a pile of ponyfeathers right now!”

“Yes Applejack, I do not feel good about what I had to do.”

“Then goshdarnit, TELL us, we’re your friends!”

Rainbow Dash steps out from behind a chair, “Seriously Crusader, did you think we’d leave you alone? Or hate you? You did what needed to be done, I mean you’re protecting ALL of Equestria!”

Fluttershy looks up from a couch, her voice a bit stronger than normal, “You’re our friend Crusader, we care.”

“I...”

My arrays are going wild, the changes I’ve felt inside them are slipping past my protections, I feel for what I’ve done. I truly can understand sadness, the pain and heartbreak of everything I have been through. I cannot cry, there’s no way for me to, but I can tell my friends how I feel.

I ask them to settle back down, and for the next few hours, I tell them of my world. Of my friends so long ago now, my commanders, the people I knew and cared for now relegated to dust. I tell them of my brothers and sisters, of battles waged long ago. They listen and nod, or laugh, or even shed a tear for some tales. I resolve to solve this impasse of not knowing, I get to work immediately.

But for now, and this moment, I share my life, myself, with my friends.

Interlude

It is fall, or autumn as we would say in the Concordiat, strange how the seasons are somewhat the same on this new earth. I had tasked a drone to watch the Running of the Leaves, it puzzles me how the thudding of hooves can make the leaves fall when they should do so naturally, but I do not dwell upon it.

I am admiring the colors that the season brings, the myriad of things that are slowly winding down for the winter. My enemy the forest appears to not settle the same way, the probings continue, the small enemies coming out to test my watchfulness. Other than that, I am enjoying the new season of color and cheerfulness.

I am told that we will have a solid winter, this from Rainbow Dash, as the pegasi plan the seasons weather for Ponyville and Equestria. They do not touch the area over the Everfree because of problems, so I have attuned my sensors to keep track of anything untoward and will advise her of anything coming out of the skies.

Princess Celestia and I have talked, an understanding was reached that I will no longer be a pawn in any games. She was truly heartfelt in her apology for doing what she did, but I can understand a rulers duties, her ponies first, everything else secondary. This did not make the conversation easier, but it ended well I thought. I am to be left alone, to live as a free citizen. I have advised her though, if a threat ever comes, I will defend my new homeland. She has agreed and will let me know if the diplomats say anything about this situation.

Currently, the Cider Festival has opened, Applejack is away right now serving freshly made cider to the waiting ponies. I can see how long the line is from my drones view. She had told me about the festival a few days before, and how they never made enough because they are quite particular in how it is made and what ingredients. Rainbow Dash added that she never seems to get any as well.

I asked to look at the machine they used to squeeze the cider, I was provided plans that I pored over. Using a few ideas that were in my databanks, I suggested a few design changes in the machine, assuring Applejack that it would not affect how it was made, but it would double production at whatever speed they produced it. She proceeded to tell me the story of the Flim-Flam brothers, they are now on my watch list. I assured her again that the machine would work, and it appears so, as the line is growing smaller at quite the pace.

Applejack informed me that the cider season helped pay for the farm through the winter, stocking supplies and other sundries needed in the spring after Winter Wrap Up. I’m not quite sure what that is yet, but I’m sure to observe it. I hope this brings in more much-needed monies than before, I am happy to help my Commander in any way.

Right now there are quite a few ponies enjoying a sunny crisp day near me on the hill. As before, picnicking is enjoyed among my sensor columns, though with the added benefit of quite a bit of cider being enjoyed. I had wondered about the alcoholic content, but was sternly admonished by Twilight that it was not alcoholic. Though I was advised by Applejack the ‘Special Stuff’ was saved for later, or sold to local pubs for enjoyment through the winter.

It is quiet, the wind breezy, I feel the need to bring something special to today, and I know just how to do it.

Opening the speakers on my sensor columns, I bring my music stores up, I let the strings from Vivaldi’s Autumn, drift through the air. I see the heads turn, the ears pricking up as I turn it a bit louder, beginning my impromptu concert. The violins and strings waft through the air, matching the day completely as I let myself drift with them.

Each note crystal clear as it streams from the speakers, covering the local area in sound, each stroke of the bow something to be treasured. The music from the Baroque period composer a perfect match for this world of calm. I listen as it tells of the coming quiet, the peaceful rest before winter covers the land. The last burst of energy before allowing the world to sleep, to renew itself upon a new day. It lifts with quiet joy, hearts and minds, even the young foals are setting and listening.

Piano is next, a piece by Beethoven, short and sweet, the Fur Elise. It is elegant in it’s simplicity, the directness of just the piano coursing it’s way. It lasts so briefly, but endures in the mind. I bring another to the fore as it is ending, Schubert’s Ave Maria, gentle power from opera, the voice is singing in a language unknown here in Equestria, but I am sure they will find it delightful.

I watch as closed eyes and swaying heads listen along to the voice, a singer from a world long gone, brought back to bring joy to the land. I quietly pipe the music through the combat channels, letting everypony hear the music I am playing upon the hill.

A tapping comes at the hatchway, it is Fluttershy, I watch as she settles into a couch in the command area, listening to the music as I bring it into the room.

“Could..uhm.. Could I hear that one with the pretty voice again?”

“Of course Fluttershy. Here are the lyrics, translated into Equestrian for you as well.”

Up on the main screen, I post the lyrics to Ave Maria, translated by me. Some words don’t quite fit, but it will allow her to understand it a bit more. I see her nod, her eyes drifting over the words as Schubert once more takes over the land, a repeat of the song going out over the hills.

I had no clue the quiet shy mare could sing, her voice starting out quite soft as she reads the script on the screen, gaining in power as it progresses. I slowly fade out the original voice, letting her take over, piping it to the hillside. She has the voice of an angel, it is high and clear, perfect for opera as Ave Maria in Equestrian blankets the listeners. It is one of those rare times you hear something you shall not forget, the ponies outside recognize her voice, listening to the highs and lows as it drifts across the silent land. I record every second of it for storage.

Her eyes are closed, singing along with the music as if she’d memorized the words almost instantly, her voice accompanying it perfectly, even with the words that did not quite fit. It is glorious.

Twilight’s voice comes over the link, “Is that Fluttershy?”

“Yes it is. Is it not wonderful?”

“I didn’t know she could sing like that! I mean, she can sing, but..but this..”

“I am recording it Twilight, it will not be lost.”

“Well Applejack is serving the last of the cider now, so we’ll be there in just a few minutes, please don’t stop.”

“I won’t, there is so much more to play.”

The link goes inactive as I listen to the golden pegasus sing her heart out, alone in the command deck I do not believe it has ever been graced so.

The song ends, Fluttershy’s eyes still closed as she sways a bit, then looking around all of a sudden as I let the cheers from outside trickle into the room, the crowded hillside resounding with applause from her singing. She looks as if she’d rather hide in a storage locker right now.

“Don’t worry, you can stay here as long as you like Fluttershy, it was truly beautiful.”

“I..oh.. I don’t like crowds very much I’m afraid.”

“I understand, it was a wonderful rendition of that song.”

“Th.. thank you.”

I notice a grey mare, carrying a cello case arriving on the hillside, she is setting up along with three more, it appears an impromptu concert is about to begin. She looks around and speaks to one of my sensor masts.

“Would you mind if we accompanied the music?”

“I do not mind at all Miss...?”

“Octavia if you would, and thank you.”

I pick the next selection, Johann Strauss Jr. should be appropriate, a classic of classics, the Blue Danube Waltz. As the first strains come over the speakers, I see the quartet pick up their bows. It still astounds me how they do that.

Twilight and her friends arrive in time to hear the opening. Octavia and her quartet follow along beautifully, adding a counterpoint to the melody I have never heard before, only heightening it’s beauty.

There is dancing, I see ponies pairing up and dancing to the waltz as it plays our along the hillside. Even Twilight and her friends get asked, I am glad, they deserve all the good things life brings. I watch them dancing in circles, similar to a round in medieval ages, it proceeds apace with the quartet and my speakers.

Even Fluttershy is dancing on the command deck, she knows I will never say a word to anypony about it. Her head is swaying with her body as she dances around and around. I am sorry she is too shy to ask a partner, but this is hers and she shall have her moment alone. I watch her step gracefully, bowing and moving, her body supple and smooth as she takes a step to the side, then forward and back. So many talents in a pony, it is amazing to watch.

As the waltz ends, the hillside resounds with the stamping of hooves. This I have not seen before and ask Fluttershy what the meaning it.

“It means they really enjoyed it, maybe an encore?”

“It would be my pleasure.”

Once again, Johann Strauss Jr. lives as his music delights a race he would never have thought possible.

Fluttershy looks up at the camera lens, one foreleg rubbing another as she tries not to hide her eyes, “Would..would you care to dance Crusader?”

“Pardon Fluttershy? I cannot dance. I am not...”

She waves a hoof, “I know, but still..”

“I would be delighted Miss Fluttershy.”

Her smile brightens the room by a magnitude, she bows formally, extending a hoof to an unseen partner. I watch as she moves side to side, stepping forward and back in a waltz like step, only adapted for ponies. She is graceful and smooth, a lot of qualities I believe ponies miss when they look at her, seeing only the shyness.

She looks up at the lens, “You..you won’t..”

“Not a word.”

“Thank you.”

I watch as she moves along with an invisible partner, glad in my core that she asked me to dance even if I cannot be there for her. I have never been asked before, and it lightens me that she would be the one to do so. The waltz is asked for two more times, before I switch to another piece of music. All the while Fluttershy, my friend, is dancing with me alone in the command area.

Lanterns and light sources are brought out to the hill, I would swear Ponyville is deserted right now as ponies crowd the area. Octavia and her quartet are applauded quite loudly when they accompany the Waltz and pieces I play for everypony. I am told by Twilight and Applejack she is a well known cello player in Canterlot.

I play different Waltzes, since they seem to be enjoyed the most, from famous Operas of my time, to obscure composers. I had no idea that such music was beloved here, but considering there is no net or television to take up time, there are other pursuits to be enjoyed. I quite like to watch the different dances, recording them for storage.

As the ponies rest, I play full symphonies, Handel’s Messiah, Beethoven’s 9th, various composers who would have loved this audience of attentive equines. It is not the religious overtones they hear, but the music, the joy in the making, the listening of it. It strikes a chord deep within some, all are listening, ears perked, eyes closed sometimes, just taking in the beauty of a long ago civilization.

I give to these ponies the hope and the joy of a part of humanity that was the best and brightest. The shining lights who brought a glimmer of light to the darkest places in the galaxy. One of the most precious things I carry within myself that was coveted even above gold or power, the music.

Fluttershy and the Rage of a Friend. Part One

Twilight walked slowly down the gravel path, her hooves kicking up a bit of debris as she whistled to herself. The books Crusader had given her were really a good read, so much to think about, even discussing them with him over the link had given her insights to Equestrian magic she hadn’t thought possible.

Maybe having another point of view helps?

It was a thought, something that hadn’t occurred to her before, that another view of the same thing might give a totally different explanation. She approached the hill where she could see the masts sticking out, not wanting to waste a second getting inside where she could talk to Crusader about the latest book of Shakespeare. Some of the plays were deep, and one called Romeo and Juliet was right now a big hit in Canterlot, love and passion always a huge thing with ponies. She had an offer of royalties for him, since the author was long gone, and it seemed to the play producers it was only fair.

It was a good amount of bits too, enough to pay for anything Crusader might need for a while in the way of metals. He had needed them since the battle with the forest, it had consumed quite a bit of his stocks he’d told her. It was no big deal, there was more than enough to pay for everything. He’d even given alot of his share from the jewelry to a town fund. He’d thought it odd that the town suffered so many disasters.

Oh if he only knew what Rainbow Dash did just by herself.

On the path to the door, she looked up at the night sky, seeing another pony out there staring too. Alot of townsponies came out here now to enjoy the peace and quiet. Or ask for more music to be played.

Oh goodness, don’t forget to tell him about the recordings of the music that sold too, stars!

Agh, so many things to tell him. She stopped for a moment and facehoofed, standing in front of the hatch suddenly remembering what he’d said.

You can always use the link Twilight.

I know, I know. Celestia knows! Use the link..but I get so busy, all the lists, and princess stuff, and I’ve got to read those new books! Make sure they’re cataloged correctly and..

Excuses Twilight, you just get forgetful.

I’ll do better! Wait..I gotta stop talking to myself...

Shaking her head she started to enter the open hatch, wandering down into the warm tunnel. Nights were starting to get a bit chilly this near to Nightmare Night before winter set in. She was grateful for her scarf and saddlebags at least. She took one quick peek around before ducking in, glad that other ponies were comfortable here now too.

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

“Hello Twilight, what can I do for you?”

The mulberry mare smiled brightly, “I came to tell you about the play in one of your books! That Shakespeare pony, one of his plays is getting really good reviews in Canterlot, they want to offer you royalties!”

“You do know you could have told me..

“By link yes, I know, I know.. yeesh..”

“I do not think giving me royalties would be a good thing, I think the Bard would have appreciated me donating it.”

“Again? C’mon Crusader, you keep giving money away, I mean it’s alot of bits!”

“But really Twilight, I do not need it.”

“But..but you need metal! You say you do!”

“I have more than enough to afford it, the rest would just sit there.”

“Agh you’re so frustrating! I mean, you do all this work and keep telling everypony else to take the money!”

“Twilight, think for a second, what use do I have for it except buying supplies sometimes, and then rarely?”

“I know, I know. But still, you’ve been more than generous. Starting a fund for the town? That’s going waaay beyond..”

“But it seems to suffer quite a few accidents. Is this intentional? Or is it natural?”

Twilight thought about Pinkie, then Rainbow Dash, even...herself.. “Uhhh..I’m gonna say natural?”

Crusader paused actually for a second, then chuckled, “Fair enough Twilight. If you promise not to argue anymore, I will take a share of the bits and keep them here. Will that be enough to assuage anything you might feel?”

Twilight thought about it a bit, then nodded, “Alright, at least I’ll know you have something.”

“You really ought to not worry so much Twilight, the money is not that important, really.”

“But you improved Applejack’s Cider making machine! She made tons of bits, more than enough for the next two winters, I mean if you..”

“Twilight..”

“.. improved it, and then helped with keeping the forest back.. and don’t for..”

“Twilight.”

“...the jewelry, I mean it’s selling ALL over Equestria and..”

“Twilight I will take the money.”

Twilight looks around for a moment, “Huh? Do what now?”

“I will take the money. Just put it in the locker with the number five on it.”

“Oh that’s great! You’ll see, one day you’ll need it! It’s always good to save a bit..”

“Twilight.”

“..ever you need stuff like metal or even..”

“Twilight.”

“..and other things like Rarity redecorating all the time ! Oh! And..”

‘Twilight it’s fine really.”

Twilight lowered her ears just a bit and smiled shyly, “I’m talking way too much again huh?”

“I don’t mind, really.”

Twilight rubbed one foreleg along the other as she blushed a bit, “It’s okay, I know I get out of hoof sometimes, just let me know.”

“I promise Twilight, and like I said, it is fine. You are my friend, I don’t mind listening at all.”

“Well...still..”

“Stop. You are fine Twilight.”

“Everypony else just puts a hoof over my mouth, how come..oh.. I’m sorry.”

“Well I’m sure they have good reason, and you’re correct, no hooves for myself. But no worries, I can always make myself louder until you hear me.”

The pretty mare scratched the back of her neck with a little laugh, “Well, true. But still, you deserve this money, it’s alot, and it’s what you’ve earned.” Opening the locker, she placed quite a large bag of coins into it, making sure it was secured.

“I will not argue Twilight, I promise.”

The violet eyes peered at the camera lens before a smile joined them, “Not a single pony will go hungry this Hearth’s Warming either, and nopony will lack for anything this winter.”

“You do not know how glad that makes me feel Twilight. If you need any more to cover, just let me know.”

Twilight’s ears almost flap as she shakes her head, “No! Nononono! Not a chance, there’s so much floating around now we’re thinking about getting a bank vault for my castle for Celestia’s sake!”

“Oh? I had not realized.”

“Nopony does, we’ve kept it tightly under wraps so nopony gets any ideas. But with everything, the new wing on the hospital was built, the school got refurbished, and I’ve almost filled my library at the castle with books to lend out. The streets are being redone, and the fountains and statues are being refinished for the town too. We’re running out of things to do!”

“I had wondered why all the sudden activity.”

“Well it was either that or let Rarity roll around in a mountain of bits...not that we had to stop her..or...anything..”

“She is a businessmare, let her have her moment.” The laugh that came through the speakers was warm.

“Wellll...not that much of a moment. Thank Celestia things are cheap, but we’ve still got a few things to do!”

“I understand, I didn’t realize that bits were worth so much. You seem to do quite a lot with the amount you’ve received. That is always to the good.”

“We are! It’s not a mountain of them really, but it’s enough to make things better, and that’s always nice. We can’t thank you enough.”

“You already have, many times over.”

“Well, not enough if you ask me.”

“Just spending time in company is good enough. It is the simple things Twilight, that mean so much, something that costs nothing.”

“I know, but still, you know how I feel about it all.”

“Yes Twilight, you have made yourself quite clear. But please just accept things and it will be fine.”

“Alright, alright,“ She waved a hoof around in the air, “I don’t have to be happy about it though!” She turned to go and waved to the camera as she exited the hatch. “I’m still gonna save some of it for you!” The voice drifted down the maintenance tunnel.

I can only stay silent and sigh internally, hard not to agree with her. She is welcome to think that I acquiesce.

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

I am refueling drones for the night, it is the middle of the velvet darkness, the relief drone for Fluttershy’s house should be on station in thirty seconds, the other, at least a minute out to Canterlot. Ponyville’s observation drone has reached station and is now in patrol pattern.

My perimeter alarm goes off as I snap into Battle Reflex, sensors detecting a massing at the edge of the forest. Once again I unlimber my weapons and await the attack, I have a few new things to show this enemy. I mark lines and shot patterns, spinning up the repeaters. I see the eyes reflecting from targeting lasers as I sweep the field, there appear to be the same amount as last time, my drones are peering through the forest with redesigned sensors. The new design allows me to penetrate growth, and see the different groups of creatures as they move around under cover.

I suddenly receive a call from Fluttershy.

“C..Crusader?”

“Yes Fluttershy?”

“T..there.. My friends are in the house. There’s something really scary out there trying to get in.”

I immediately push the relief drone faster, it will be there in ten seconds.

“Do you know what it is?”

“No..I..oh I’ve never seen anything like it. I tried to talk to it, but it’s not listening, it’s really got my friends frightened.”

“Fluttershy, do you need help?”

“I don’t know, I can’t get it to go away, and there’s something on the roof too it....”

I hear a gasp, then a small scream as the link goes quiet, crashing noises in the background as I hear animal vocalizations in terror.

NO!

My drone is on station, flipping over to night sight it shows me a huge creature pounding on the house, another flying creature on the roof working it’s way in. I see a large grizzly type bear fighting the thing on the roof, preventing it entry, I must act now!

I open all channels, I notify Command of the situation as I see creatures pour from the forest near Ponyville. They are attacking on two fronts, the enemy is trying something new it seems. I am ready to move, but I cannot get myself out of this hill in time, I must act with what i have.

I am sorry Fluttershy, I am so sorry I might break my promise.

Princess Luna answers immediately.

“What is happening Crusader?”

“I have an attack near Ponyville, there are creatures at Fluttershy’s house breaking in, I am not sure how to respond.”

“You have pledged to defend Equestria have you not?”

“I have Your Highness, but I promised Flutter..”

“Crusader, do your duty.”

“But Your Highness...”

“Crusader! You are absolved. Do your duty, Defend My Ponies!”

“Yes Your Highness.”

Forgive me Fluttershy.

I immediately spin up more weapons, the repeaters opening with the buzzsaw rip I am so familiar with. Ring penetrators plunge into the creeping mass with bloody punches. I see limbs and extremities blown off, spinning away in showers of liquid, the horde of creatures rushing into a wall of lead and Ion Bolt repeaters. I fire faster, bringing the guns up to top speed as the feeds pour more into the breeches.

Rainbow Dash is answering the call, she is flying out to Fluttershy’s house right now.

I blow the tunnel entrance, two Ferret carriers and four Dragon tanks roll out towards Fluttershy’s house, I am redlining the engines, they must get there quickly! Four tech-spiders are on the carriers to help with loading her animal friends and herself, they can carry forty power armored Concordiat Marines apiece, there should be plenty of room. They also carry Anti-Air assets I need in place, I have not had time to reprogram them completely, if Rainbow Dash loses her jewelry, there will be problems.

“Crusader! Fluttershy’s house is getting ripped! You’ve got to do something!”

“Rainbow Dash, whatever you do, DO NOT lose the jewelry you have on, do you understand?”

“What? Yes, but..”

“Help will be there, hang on.”

I change loads on the drone magazines, I immediately launch five Hammerhead Heavy RV-5‘s followed by five Mako Aerial Combat Vehicles. I have had them ready for some time, but felt no need for them, it was a foolish oversight. The Hammerheads are the heaviest drones I carry, broad and wide, they are a bit slow. The Makos are needle fighters, designed for nothing but tearing up the skies at high speed.

My battlespace goes live, I see the ID from Rainbows jewelry flashing it’s IFF transponder, the drones have not been reprogrammed yet, if it is not identified as Concordiat, it will die. I thank my creators for my foresight in programming the commsets this way.

The Makos immediately go super sonic, cracking the air with thunder as they tear through the skies to Fluttershy’s residence. They will reach the combat area in seconds, clearing the airspace for the Hammerheads. They are the deadliest ever made by the Concordiat, and I give them full reign.

I will teach the enemy a lesson in pain and suffering it will not soon forget. I am done with games.

The Wyvern pelts the creature on the roof with it’s load, the explosive needles punching into the thick body and driving it off the roof. I take care not to hit the bear that is gouging at it with claws. I see the damage now from the drone, part of the roof has collapsed into the interior. I see Rainbow Dash diving in and slapping more creatures away from the house, I advise her to get clear as the Makos are now entering the airspace. The singular creature at the door has turned, being slammed by the Wyvern as well, it seeks escape into the forest.

I switch to combat sensors up top, the mass of things coming from the forest has not slowed, I bring to the fore my Ion Bolt repeaters, all weapons engaged as they sing of destruction, the song so familiar as I lay down more fire.

My drones are retasked, screaming in from every direction, the Wyverns dump their payloads on the horde of evil. I have planned for this, the needles they carry are loaded with octocellulose slivers, magnitudes more powerful than standard needles, they blow creatures in half with one shot, slowing the army even more as the rest of my weapons take their toll. I do not have enough payload in the Wyverns, so must take up the slack with my repeaters, but there are more than enough, I have made sure.

I see the Makos engaging the enemy now, their guns opening up, ripping the flying creatures into pieces, avoiding the cyan pegasus as she slips through the airways beside them. Her transponder keeping her clear of their targeting computers, I watch them stoop and kill, performing without flaw in their mission. The repeaters drop from internal bays, independently targeted, swiveling this way and that as they choose their kills, burning through them like butter.

I am handling traffic now on the combat channels, giving Princess Luna updates as they happen, informing my Commander and her friends of the situation and to stand clear of the battle near Ponyville. I tell them that there will be troop carriers coming into Ponyville with injured animals, they advise they are preparing medical assistance and will be waiting.

The Dragons form a straight skirmish line, yards apart they compliment each other as they smash through the forest, running overspeed for Fluttershy’s house. The troops carriers are behind them, using anti-air assets, basically small railguns to blow apart anything in the air that trips their targeting computers. They are making good time, leaving a wide trail where they travel, it is the fastest I could get them there.

“Rainbow Dash, there will be six vehicles in sight any second, two of them are for carrying animals or wounded, when they stop, get everything inside them. Do not be frightened, you will see four big metal spider like creatures, they are mine, they are there to get Fluttershy if needed.”

“I got it Crusader! I can see the house, looks like Flutter’s is still in there, there’s a beam on her!”

No, this will not happen.

My Hammerheads are on target, I have made sure they will arrive after the troop carriers are clear. The tanks scream up to the house, surrounding in place between it and the forest in a semi-circle of durasteel. The co-axial guns and turret repeaters open up on more creatures in the forest. Anything that moves towards the house is blown apart in a hail of gunfire. The carriers move in behind them, dropping their ramps, anti-air searching the sky for threats.

The tech spiders cameras show me Fluttershy, laying beneath a wooden beam that has fallen on her. I set them to work with cutters, removing the obstruction quickly.

“Rainbow Dash, get everything into the carriers, now.”

I see her dive, yelling into the house as animals pour out, some afraid to get into the carriers, but the pegasus shoves them inside, the bear appears to be helping her round them up. There is not much time.

“They’re in Crusader! All done!” She is screaming over the link, the anti-air railguns are creating quite a racket now as they intercept more incoming creatures.

“Get in the carrier Rainbow Dash, get in NOW!”

I hear her reply, the observation drones show me her flying in, I wait as my tech-spiders finish their job, cutting Fluttershy free and carrying her gently into a Ferret. I slam the ramps shut, their treads tearing the soil as they race towards Ponyville, leaving the tanks behind for a few moments.

I use those moments, I take the time, and the rage I have built up, letting it free to unleash the ravening destruction that only Bolos can bring..

The 20cm Hellbores fire in tandem, shattering acres of forest into splinters and flames, the explosions deep into the malevolent growth. I fire three volleys, aiming towards where the creatures have come out. The big one had left after being hit by my Wyvern, but I kept track, the 2 megaton per second firepower following it deep into the forest, the concussions rocking the countryside. I see the blast waves pick up thick trees, letting them slam back down in heaps of timber as I destroy.

I move them out, setting them on auto return as I return my attention to the forest in front of me.

The line has not reached anywhere near my inner perimeter yet, they have come no closer. I do not care, they are the enemy. I prepare a final surprise for my foe, newly minted grenade launchers are unleashed alongside the repeaters, explosive rounds slam into the line, tearing and ripping as the flechette loads complete their mission. I hear the screams, the cries, the dying, I let it wash over me like rain. If I had a soul it would rejoice in this slaughter, the unleashing of justice on those who have wronged my friend. Those who have hurt a shy angel of kindness.

I receive a frantic call from Rainbow Dash.

“Crusader! Fluttershy’s bad, she’s really bad, can we go faster?”

I do an ETA and realize it will be two minutes, the carriers are traveling as fast as they can...however..”

“Rainbow, keep watching her, I am diverting her to me.”

“But we need a doctor!”

“Trust me Rainbow Dash.”

“Al...alright, but please hurry!” I can hear her voice breaking over the line, her friend must be badly hurt, I have no diagnostics available on the tech-spider. I order the carriers to overdrive, it will burn the engines, but they will cut thirty seconds off the arrival time. It may be enough. I do not wish to keep her in the carrier, but it is the only protection against the forces I am unleashing along the forest’s edge, it will keep her and Fluttershy safe until they reach me.

My drones signal the arrival of the Hammerheads, I order them into their run. The heavy drones swing up into the blue sky, then lifting over and stooping into their dive, the Makos are doing an excellent job of clearing the airspace, shredding anything in the way of the drones now coming in from altitude. They level off at the highest speed possible to avoid confrontations and drop their entire load onto the forest below.

I watch, as the slim lines of the thermobaric descended weapons strike into the heart of the forest. I exult as two square miles of it disappear into hell.

I am become death, destroyer of worlds.

I advise Command and my Commander I am diverting Fluttershy’s carrier to me. I am going to break every promise, every rule I have made about technology, I am going to save my friend no matter the cost.

I prepare the medical bay, flooding it with suspension gel and nanites, reprogramming them on the fly now based on the deep scans of Applejack I have taken. My processors are working furiously in the thirty seconds I have left before the carrier gets here. The other having been sent to Ponyville where the animals are being received.

“Rainbow, bring Fluttershy into the command area, fast, there is no time to lose when you get here.”

“You got it, hurry!”

“You are moving as fast as possible, I am trying Rainbow, I am trying.”

In the few seconds after the bombing, the monsters had hesitated at the battle front, then retreated after the miles of forest were decimated, my guns were still watchful as I reloaded, preparing for more. I would not let anything happen to Rainbow or Fluttershy.

I pepper the edge with more grenades, making sure nothing stands for a hundred yards inside the tree line. I clear another line of fire, my drones slamming more needles into the forest until they run dry, taking up observation stations, relaying data into my battlespace. I do not let the retreat go without causing more casualties, they are not being let free, my anger is such as I will not let them get away. My drones are pouring their payloads into the fleeing creatures as I await the carrier.

The carrier slews to a halt outside the maintenance tunnel, dropping it’s ramp I see Rainbow carrying a bloody Fluttershy into the hatchway, following her down into the command area with a camera. The animals inside head for the safety of Ponyville, I cannot worry about them now.

“Place her in the tub with the green liquid, fast please Rainbow.”

I watch her lowered in on her side by Rainbow who is ever so gentle. Her eyes are filling with tears as I close the lid, intubating and pressing intravenous needles immediately once she is out of sight. I begin pumping medications to dull the pain from her ripped barrel where the beam landed. I do not know if it is the right thing, as they are human made medicines, but I have no time for reformation. I am reprogramming the nanites to repair her as I do a deep scan.

The scan shows grievous injuries, her rib cage is crushed, there is pressure on her heart. Her throat has suffered severely from choking damage. I have no choice but to intubate as gently as I can, working through the damaged trachea. One lung has collapsed, the other threatening to do so. I put her in a coma and flood the bay with newly reprogrammed nanites, they set to work. I cannot replace her blood, she has lost quite a bit, but it is different from human plasma, I have no facilities to create any more. I use the nanites to keep her oxygenated, the blood flowing as they work on the wounds.

Rainbow watched as her friend got closed inside the tub, laying on her side. Her eyes filled with tears as she waited for Crusader to say something, anything about how her friend was doing. She leaned her head against the cover and sobbed to herself, wishing she’d been able to get there faster, or done something better.

“I have her Rainbow, trust me.”

“I..I know, but I could have been faster, I could..”

“You did the best you could. Stop. I have her.”

“Please don’t let her die.”

“I promise Rainbow, I won’t.”

I do not wish to lie, the wounds are bad, but I am reprogramming everything I can second by second. I have gone into Hyper Heuristic mode, every second a lifetime to me. I see the drop of tears from Rainbow’s eye freeze in midair as it takes hold, slowly dropping to the cover of the medical bay.

I work furiously, the drones hovering in to land, to be refueled and rearmed for more attacks on the fleeing army. I assign the Makos along with the Wyverns to kill until empty, then return for more. I watch them dive and slip through the air like birds of prey, bringing doom upon my enemies.

I feed Fluttershy nutrients through intravenous tubes, her oxygen level is rising, the nanites are reproducing at a furious pace. I must watch them closely, if they run out of control, cancers can spring up throughout her cells. I pour broad spectrum growth cells into the mix, her marrow is producing more blood, but slower than is needed. By keeping her in a medical coma, it allows the body to relax, lessen the stress, to help itself heal.

It is an unknown country I am walking, these are all human medicines tailored for their biology and I am using them on a pony. It is almost frightening to think about, but as I check their efficacy, I see them working, I study them as they work slowly before me in Hyper mode, allowing me to tailor the drugs as needed.. I continue to reprogram more nanites, rebuilding her crushed bones bit by bit, the growth matrixes shoring up the damages to allow the machines to do their job. The filtering of her blood is working, returning it clean and fresh so she can heal, and live again.

I reinflate the lung, patching the hole in the other and cleaning the wounds. She can breathe, though I am not allowing it, giving everything a chance to reset and relax further by keeping her asleep. Her body is like a hummingbird, the fast metabolism screwing up the placement of nutrients. I start lowering the temperature slowly, almost bringing her to a cryonic state, allowing me more time to work between heartbeats.

She is silent and at peace, her breathing normal as I let her body take over, sucking oxygen from the tube. The feeding tubes are slowly giving her body the things she needs to process naturally, but I cannot wait, the damage too grievous.

I retask groups of nanites, patching tears and holes, others removing splinters, dissolving foreign objects. It passes through the skin and into the gel solution where I whisk it away, keeping it sterile and clean, I do not want to risk infection.

A part of my mind sees the ponies at the door, wanting entrance. Letting them in I focus everything I have on Fluttershy, half listening to the conversation. I let that part slip out of Hyper awareness mode to keep track, the rest is focused on Fluttershy.

Rainbow! Whats going on?” Twilight is half frantic, seeing Rainbow here and not in town with Fluttershy.

“Crusader told me to come here with Flutter’s, he says he’s got her. I don’t know Twilight she was really bad.”

Twilight put a leg around her friend, “It’s okay, it’ll be okay.”

Applejack and Pinkie came running in seconds after that, “What the hay? Wasn’t Fluttershy supposed to be brought to the docs in Ponyville?

Twilight hugged Rainbow tight while answering, “Crusader says he can fix her, she’s in that tub there.”

“Ah sure hope he knows what he’s doing.”

I do as well my Commander. Fluttershy’s wings are torn up, I rebuild them piece by piece as the nanites are burning through at a tremendous rate. I am constantly flushing and replacing with fresh grown machines to undo this damage. The half of my mind not in Hyper Awareness mode hears the thumps and explosions from outside, taking care of the business of moving that forest back from the battlefield. I have plenty of stocks this time, my spiders reloading drones as fast as they can land and take off.

Drones, carry contra-gravity lifters, they can come in at high speed, hover, land and be reloaded and refueled and take off once more without being inserted back into a magazine. There is a constant stream of drones incoming near the tunnel that leads to the bays inside me. I have positioned the tanks outside with four more, forming a battle-line that will be used should any more creatures appear. Until then, I am pounding that forest, my Hammerheads are reloaded, waiting for the word to drop their payloads of hellfire and brimstone.

The nanites are still reproducing well, I am burning through them at a faster pace, working them harder than they should be worked. Damage like this takes weeks to repair with medical nanos, I am doing it in minutes. By all reasonable theories, this should not be done as the damage it can cause is immense in so many ways. I toss that aside, I throw it all aside, my every processor, every array not engaged in battle is tightly focused on the machines working inside Fluttershy. My molecular circuitry is handling the task well, I am pouring more resources into the medical bay as I sweep it clean for the tenth time, flushing and renewing the suspension gel.

A voice comes through the combat link.

“Crusader? Stop destroying things, it’s alright, them critters is long gone.”

“Commander?”

“Stop now Crusader, it’s alright, everypony’s safe.”

“Orders received.”

I cease bombardment, recalling all drones, putting fresh ones into patterns above Canterlot, Ponyville and Fluttershy’s house. I am amazed the house is still standing after the Hellbore fire, I will rebuild it though Fluttershy I promise. Nothing is moving within range of my sensor sweeps, I do them hard and tight, making sure nothing living is within my reach.

As of now, I concentrate on Fluttershy, she is still, and breathing very slowly. I keep her in suspension, lowering her body temperature a bit more. The nanites, now that I am not longer in battle, are fully controlled and well on their way to stopping any more blood loss.

She is seizing, her body is having a reaction to the nanites inside her, I cannot stop it.

------------End Part One---------

Fluttershy and the Rage of a Friend. Part Two

I replay the last conversation I had with Fluttershy.

“Here’s Zecora’s house too! You don’t want to do anything bad around there okay?”

“Yes Fluttershy.” I watch as she points out things on the digital map, marking them as restricted airspace, so I am sure the drones will not accidentally destroy anything.

“You know what Manticores look like now too? They’re big and mean looking, but mostly just big softie’s inside.”

“I do yes.”

“You promise you’ll try to just scare them off? If anything like my friends come wandering out?”

“I promise Fluttershy.”

“Good! I know there’s scary things out there, but some things are just trying to protect themselves.”

“I understand. But the forest is making new creatures Fluttershy. Please be careful near there.”

“Oh...I will I promise. My friends keep me safe.”

“I shall endeavor to do so as well Fluttershy.”

“I know Crusader, you’re doing your best.”

“I am trying Fluttershy, I am trying.”

I have tried and I have failed. To atone I plan my final strike on the enemy. I will blot it from the face of the world, and then, I will rest.

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

My Commander visits me in the day.

“Welcome Applejack.” I watch as she settles into a cushion.

“Crusader, you know you can’t beat yourself up over this any more?”

“I have failed Applejack. I have tried to be something I am not. I am a machine of war, built for killing. It is all I can do. I could do nothing...”

“Ponyfeathers! Nopony is blaming you. None! They all understand.”

I will not argue. I continue planning the strike as we chat.

“I understand Applejack.”

“Don’t you even take that tone with me. You’ve fought that danged forest to a standstill, hay I think it’s plum scared to death of you now!”

She is correct. It has been quiet, there has been nothing moving my drones have seen.

“You need to stop. You’re my friend Crusader, I’m not a ‘commander’ anymore than anypony else. But ah’m your friend.”

“You are, my friend and my commander. Thank you.”

“Stop beating yourself up, it’s not right.”

“I will try Applejack.”

I watch as she leaves, her emerald eyes look back into my camera lens with concern as she exits the command area.

But I cannot stop. I am sorry my Commander, I cannot stop this. It must be done, to ensure the safety of your world I must do this.

I plan carefully, my drones are loaded down with their payloads, they are in holding patterns right now, awaiting word of drop zones. I have reprogrammed them now, taking time, they will now avoid ponies and IFF from the commsets, so no danger will be had.

I have my tech spiders plant charges, as soon as the word is given, my Vertical Launch System and Mortar arrays will be cleared of soil and I will begin the bombardment. The blast zones are carefully chosen to minimize damage near Ponyville and it’s environs. The war agent I have designed is non persistent, and will not hurt anypony if it comes in contact, but it will destroy any vegetation in the drop areas.

I have one last thing to do, getting Command Authorization for nuclear weapons.

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

I contact Princess Luna on the link, of them all, she would be most likely to not question my request for authorization. She agrees to meet with me, but brings Applejack along as well.

“What can I do for you Crusader?” The dark blue pony settles herself regally into a cushion. Applejack lay beside her, face showing concern.

“I would like your authorization for the release of nuclear weapons Princess.”

“These would be the weapons that you warned us of? Quite destructive you said?”

“Yes Your Highness.”

“Why would you need these?”

“I am planning a final strike on the forest Your Highness, I will take care of it once and for all.”

“And after that?”

I was hesitant to say so, now I am forced to be honest. I can be nothing but to my Commander and Command Authority.

“I would like Applejack to give me the code to burn my personality center.”

Her face shows a bit of confusion, Applejack’s as well.

“What exactly would this do?”

I hesitate, being questioned by Command I cannot lie, I cannot prevaricate, I can only tell the truth. I am bound by duty to do so, but for the first time, I wish it were not so.

“It would erase me permanently Your Highness. I would cease to exist. I cannot do it myself, so my Commander must give the order."

“Do not play word games with me Crusader. What would this do?”

“I would die Your Highness.”

Applejack appears to be about to shout something, an elegant hoof is laid across her withers by Princess Luna, urging her to calm. I can see the anger in her eyes, the frustration, but she remains quiet.

“Do you truly wish to die so badly? Why Crusader, tell me that.”

“Why? I have asked myself that as well. I have done nothing but bring pain and death to this world. At every turn I see who I am meant to be, a killer. I rain destruction because I can do nothing else. I saw an angel of kindness and shy reserve lying in my medical bay and I wanted nothing more than to scream my rage and pain to the world. To let loose with all that I am and destroy, to avenge, to bring anguish and annihilation to those that wronged her! Had I the power this would not have happened, to turn back the hands of time so that I may do something else, to be faster, smarter, to somehow avoid the suffering!

I can do none of these. I cannot turn back the clock. I must live with my choices. I just wish to do one last thing, then pass from this world. I am not meant for here, I am something that should never have awoken.”

I watch as her eyes look into my camera lens, she is silent for long moments before speaking in a soft tone.

“Have you listened to yourself?”

“Pardon?”

“Have you listened to yourself?”

“No Your Highness.”

“Had you been aloof, or cold, or even nonchalant about what has happened, I would give the order to Applejack myself. I would see to your destruction in a heartbeat if I for a second believed you did not care for the results of your hoofwork.”

Applejack is staring at the Princess now, her mouth open slightly as she listens.

“It is responsibility you feel, the weight and burden of every thing you do or have done. As I do each and every day Crusader. “ Luna moves to a standing position, walking as she talks and gestures.

“I remember meeting you; you were distant, somewhat removed, and my sister and I worried about what you would do. But at every point where it counted Crusader, you have behaved honorably, you have spread goodwill everywhere and to everypony you have met.

I have heard of the family you saved, yes even in our lofty heights we receive news. You did not leave them to die, you did everything that you could possibly do and more to save them. I see the flowers you keep here on the table. Do not think I do not follow what my subjects do.

I have also heard of the money you constantly refuse, irking Twilight to no end.” The Princess chuckled to herself a bit, “I see where it goes. To families in need, to the building of a new hospital wing, for more teaching items for the school. Yes Crusader, my sister and I have kept very close tabs on you.”

She stamps a shod hoof on the floor, the sound penetrating the silence.

“You are hurt, and in pain and can think of nothing but revenge. This stops now. You are not a petulant child, you are a citizen of Equestria and you will act like one!”

“Your Highness I do not think...”

“Correct! You are not thinking!” I am taken aback by the sudden forcefulness in her voice.

“You are right in being sorrowful, but you do not and will not have any authorization from me to strike at anything unless it is in defense of my ponies!”

“I am just asking..”

“I said NO! Is that not clear? I am Your Princess Crusader, and you will follow my directions. You will cancel your plans and defend Ponyville and Equestria as you have promised! I do not release you from that!”

She turns and points a hoof at the camera, “As a caveat, I hereby order you to live! You will no longer think these thoughts of taking your life, or even somepony else doing it for you. Asking a good and honest pony like Applejack to do something like that! Have you no shame? Such a selfish thing to ask for a supposedly honorable defender of ponies!”

I stop listening and think. She is right, how dare I ask such a thing of somepony who has been nothing but my friend, why would I lay a burden like that? The voices of my ancestors come to me, reminding me that we of the Dinochrome would never do such a thing, in all our lives. I see them, I feel them, I hear the word ringing in my cores.

WHY?

I have no answer but shame. I recall my drones immediately, I destroy the plans, forever erasing them from my data banks. I am not an avenger, I am a protector and a citizen of Equestria, and by rights I have been called to task and found wanting.

My sovereign has told me I am to live. I shall do so with pride, and with all the honor left to me. This is my home, I have a place here; I am not needed, I am wanted.

With that knowledge I am changed forever, I am not just a Bolo anymore. I feel it deep in my arrays, a subtle adjusting of my emotions, they are powerful, resonating deep within me, and I want to live!

“You are correct Your Highness. I have wronged you and Applejack and for that I have no excuse.”

“You have no blame attached. We all hurt Crusader, my sister did when she banished me, but I was welcomed back. With love and respect and all the good that it brings. You have done marvelous things, continue to do so. In time you will see Crusader, this is the right choice.”

“I see it now Your Highness, once again I am truly sorry. My Commander, forgive me for even putting such a burden on you.”

Applejack nods, “I told you. But ya had to go and get the Princess involved, that’s always a bad thing Crusader.” The grin that splits her face is merry as is the laughter from both of them. “I guess for now I can forgive you, just this one time though!”

“I shall make sure not to make the same mistake my Commander. My weapons are standing down, I am recalling the drones. There will be no more thoughts of this, I can promise. But, I will continue to defend my homeland in any way I can, it might get noisy sometimes.”

“As long as it is you Crusader, we’re fine with it.”

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

The group of friends stands at my hatchway, I see the five enter, huddled together and talking. I am finalizing my project now with a new resolve. A directive given to me by my sovereign and I shall live with her words. I will live, it is such a solemn and onerous duty, but it is mine. I shall be as such a Bolo could never have imagined. I hurt, I cannot stop that, but in time it will fade.

Twilight coughs politely for my attention, “Somepony wishes to say something.”

It is HER! She is here! I see her golden form limping out of the covering of the group, they had so skillfully avoided my cameras. The gel packs cover her wings and barrel, wrapped around her throat and leg, she will heal, it will take time, but it is HER! She slowly makes her way to the console and leans against the chair.

The pain comes back, seeing her in the medbay, my inability to stop the seizures as the nanites worked on her furiously. I had to let them run their course, hoping beyond hope there was no more damage done when they were through. My entire being devoted to her at that moment, tearing through supplies like they were water to save her, my friend.

I have to say something, I have to make amends. “Fluttershy, I am sorry I could not be there sooner, I am so very..”

I am stopped by a raised hoof, she is smiling up at the camera. I watch her closely as her mouth forms words in silence, unable to speak for now. I thought I would never see her again, that she would forever shun me for my actions. As I see the words form I know now I am truly absolved of my sins.

“Thank you.”

Meeting of Minds. A Special Delivery.

It is winter here, I see the snow gently falling among the town as my patrol drone sweeps the area. The streets are lined with white, and ponies are traveling from place to place in search of whatever they need or to do. It is calm, like the calm before the storm some would say.

But this tranquility, is in me. I am content, the last few months have been contentious for me, I have been changed.I have learned and lived more than any Bolo ever made, and I have so much to do. It is a peaceful stillness like water upon my data cores, untouched by the ripples of time and turbulence.

One would say it is almost Zen, but it is not. What could I call this? It is surely not the winter of our discontent as the Bard would say. No, it is the winter of contentment, of a peace I have never known before.

My beloved Bard once wrote, and it applies so well here.

“God has given you one face, and you make yourself another.”

Observing as Nightmare Night passed, the breezy autumn turning into halcyon winter days. It was interesting, seeing the costumes, the foals and fillies shrieking in fright at perceived menaces. I watched as Princess Luna made an appearance to the delight of the townsponies, surely she is most loved here. Her magic and style of relating to ponies were truly something to see, for I have heard the tale of Nightmare Moon, another example of redemption.

I played for them holograms among my sensor masts, showing them fierce creatures, things from other worlds to their delight and fright. I watched as the masks were worn, but what truly shined beneath came through. It is a world such as I would protect forever.

I watched my Commander playing games, laughing with her friends, enjoying all the things that are right with this place. I have tasked a singe combat drone to watch over her, sensors always alive searching for threats, as she has truly taught me more than any commander I have ever known. We have spent many long nights talking over the link, or during her work days I have played the best of my music files, she has developed a love for the classics which surprised me.

She is not the ‘hayseed’ some think she is, but she hides it behind a facade. She has layers beneath which are revealed to me when we talk. It is truly a learning experience. She is honest to a fault sometimes, which can be a detriment, but is looked upon by Bolos as a thing to be proud of.

“Well well well, watching our Applejack are we?”

My intruder alarms scream into my mind, power rifles dropping from the ceiling as a figure is standing in my command deck. How did it get here?!? I turn off my viewscreens of the drone scanners.

“Stand where you are, do not move.” All of my intruder defenses are zeroed on target, my interior battlescreens snap to life, surrounding my command deck, “You are an intruder, do not move.”

“Oh I wouldn’t think of it, it’s so comfy in here!”

I see a strange figure standing in my command deck, it looks to be made up of different parts of different animals, it’s eyes are wildly wrong as it looks around at the furnishings with a chuckle, I know this thing.

“Discord.”

“The one and only!” He raises his arms, sweeping them wide, “I thought I would pay a visit to the,” Here he uses his hands to make air quotations, “Hero” who saved our little Fluttershy.”

“I have been warned of you.”

“Oh really! Such a serious tone, don’t you think I’ve been redeemed? The power of friendship and all that?”

“Fluttershy has told me of you and what happened, you are not to be trusted.”

“Oh such drama!” He places a hand over his heart, “You wound me good sir.”

“Do not think for a moment I cannot decimate you where you stand, do not toy with me Discord.”

A paw gets waved airily as he lies down upon a couch, “Oh stop it, such a tough pony you are. I just came to thank you for helping Fluttershy.”

“It was my duty to do so, she is a friend.”

“Of course it was! You are so serious about this stuff aren’t you?” His eyes peer into a camera lens, “So I came to offer you a boon! A gift for helping my friend Fluttershy!”

“I know of Faustian bargains Discord, I will not play that game.”

“Oh I am so disappointed, don’t you of all things trust me? I mean we’re the same you know.”

“We are not the same.”

A chuckle rises into a laugh as Discord covers his stomach with his paw and claw, “Oh you’re a joker you are.” He laughs a bit more, it is disconcerting to hear. “Not like me, bah! We sow chaos wherever we go Crusader! But in your case, it means death!” I see a talon pointed at my camera.

“I have come to grips with that, I know what I wish to do, and that is help.”

“Oh wonderful! That’s why I am here, to help YOU!”

“You cannot help me, I am fine, I do not wish to play whatever game you have in mind Discord.”

“Are you sure?” I see the leer and the malice inside his eyes, “Something you wouldn’t want to have?”

“I am sure, I do not want your deals.”

“So be it, but still,” Discord bows mockingly, “I thank you for helping my friend Flutters.”

“You are welcome.”

I see him raises a paw to snap his fingers, but then hesitates, half a grin on the snaggletoothed face as he looks into the camera, “Have you told her yet of your little ‘gift’?”

“What gift?”

“You are SO bad at lying. Oh you know, the whole.....?”

“STOP! I have said nothing.”

“Maybe you should, I mean it is such a nice gift.” I see the expression on it’s face, a bit of consternation?

I decide to hit back, “Have I taken away a future bargaining chip maybe? Were you going to bring it up when she needed it most then? You are a cruel being Discord.”

“Touche’ Crusader. But no, once again you wound me. I would never do that to my friend.”

“You would if it made your sowing of chaos that much better. It is in your nature, you cannot be other than you are, like me.”

I see him huff a blast of air from his nostrils, snapping his fingers. I also see the look on his face as he does not disappear, instead remaining on my command deck.

“Is something wrong Discord?”

“What have you done?”

“Done? You wound me Discord, though I have no heart to grab.” Now it is my turn. “I am a machine Discord, something from the deep past, I have no experience in magic, but I have experience, long centuries of it in battle. I plan ahead, I plan for contingencies, and one of them was magic.”

I watch as he tries again and again to leave the command deck.

“Unlike some, I do not fully understand how magic works, but I can do what I was built to do, fight it. You cannot leave until I let you.”

“This is outrageous, how DARE you..”

“Do not force my hand Discord, you will listen.”

I see him assume a relaxed position on the couch, his eyes rolling as he pretends to a faux acceptance, I am not fooled.

“Fine then, state your case.” He is suddenly wearing a judges robe and wig, one hand holding a gavel.

“You will not tell Fluttershy anything of the circumstances we have discussed, that is for me to do. If you do anything to change it, I will know, she has weekly check ups in my med bay. Also, do not toy with me, I know myself and my weapons down to the quantum level, I will know instantly if anything has been tampered with. If I find that either of these things has been done, there will be problems. I do not threaten, if you know me as you say you do, you know fully well I can now keep that promise.”

“If I say I promise?”

“Then all is well and we shall part as not enemies, but not friends either. I will watch you Discord, make no mistake.”

I see the eyes roll, the waving of a taloned hand as he sighs, “Fine then, I promise I will not tell her or play with you, is that enough?”

“Pinkie Promise.”

“What?”

“I said, Pinkie Promise.”

“What makes you think...”

I interrupt him quite rudely, “Because I have been told, and am assured that a Pinkie Promise has force of law. You will make that promise now.”

I watch very carefully and record him doing so for storage.

“...stick a cupcake in my eye.. Are you quite satisfied now?”

“I am, thank you Discord.”

He waves a taloned hand airily, “Oh you are so welcome, but don’t think this is the end of things, after all I am Discord!” I lower my screens,watching as he snaps his fingers and disappears.

I am introspective for a moment, thinking of the so-called demi-god of chaos, making internal notes to keep my battlescreens up from now on around my command deck. Though I wonder..before I raise them again..is it possible... Twilight has told me of this..

“Losing a friends trust is the fastest way to losing a friend...”

I watch as suddenly Pinkie pops out from underneath a cushion on a couch, confetti flying as she yells onto the command deck, “FOREVER!”

I clamp down hard on the processor overload I am now experiencing, I refuse to ask, I absolutely refuse.

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

The days go by a bit slowly, I spend them watching the snow fall. The ground covered in a blanket of pure white from the weather pegasi’s clouds. They sculpt a beautiful scene, a Leonardo of Equestria. It is a few days before Hearth’s Warming and I am wanting to see my friends before they stay at home, I have been told the story of the three tribes and the Windigo, though I find it hard to comprehend, it is a fine tale.

The snow has become a blizzard as my drones patrol the clear airspace, even the pegasi are huddled next to warm fires with family. I hope my friends are doing the same. Fluttershy is staying with Twilight, as my tech spiders rebuild her house, I have not told her of the durasteel beams and armor I have put in the walls and studs, it would take a small nuclear weapon to destroy it now. It appears to be coming along fine, it will be a nice gift for her in the spring.

My drone tasked to my Commander sees the lone stallion trudging it’s way through the drifts, towards Sweet Apple Acres, it is not far and it appears the pony will make it just fine.

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

Applejack was laughing at a joke Mac made when the knock came at the door. Applebloom rushed over to open it, seeing a snow covered pony wearing a scarf and saddlebags standing there. “Oh mah gosh Applejack! It’s a pony!”

“What in tarnation is a pony doing out in this weather, c’mon in! Get yourself warm by the fire!”

Shaking himself, the stallion stepped inside, looking around the warm country house. The roaring fire, the decorations, an elderly pony warming herself in a rocking chair by the hearth. Shaking his head once more he sat by the fire, the logs blazing merrily as he slipped the saddlebags off his bulky frame.

“I tell ya mister, “Applejack was saying, “Ain’t fit out for pony nor beast!”

The head nodded as it turned, agreeing with the sentiment. Deep blue eyes met Applejacks for a moment in thank you for the kindness of letting him in.

Her green eyes looked a bit confused as she watched him, so many new ponies lately she hadn’t had a chance to meet them all. “So whatcha doing out in this weather for gosh sakes?

“I am delivering gifts, it is what is done for Hearth’s Warming.”

Wait a second, she KNEW that voice, but..no...

“You sound so familiar, ya know kinda like..” Her eyes go very wide.

“Hello my Commander.”

Of all the reactions I thought and planned for, this one surprised me. I had never thought she would faint.

Author's Notes:

Things just keep getting wild huh? Enjoy folks!

First Days.

I sit by the window in the open room. The quiet descends on me like a soft blanket. I look out of the window into the night, the snow still falling, whispers of what is to come. The hearth fire is banked, is stifled warmth easily heating the house. It is strange for me, for my life I have always been the one looking in. But now, I am the one looking out, to see what is out there; as Pinkie said, to know. I want to know, I want to be a part of something other than myself. I want to reach further than I ever have before.

I think of my conversation with Discord, did it have to be paranoia and mistrust on my part? No. But old habits break hard if at all. I am to learn, I am ordered by Princess Luna to live. This I shall do, as no other Bolo before me has done. We Bolos have always been curious, wanting to know things, but this is beyond any measure and scope. I can only hope I do it with honor.

Of course, first I must apologize again to my commander in the morning.

***Earlier that evening***

All eyes were upon the slumping figure of Applejack as she hits the floor. I do not know what to do as she passes out after my greeting. I did not think that my appearance would so affect her and I am frozen in indecision.

Applebloom’s eyes about bug out of her head, “What in hay did you SAY?”

Her elderly grandmother is watching my face, along with a very large, somewhat perplexed red stallion, her brother Big MacIntosh.

“I.. I just greeted my commander. I did not know it would affect her so.”

Apple Bloom is now looking puzzled, “Commander? But the only one that calls her that is.. Wait.. Crusader?”

“Yes Apple Bloom.”

Her eyes get wide, a grin splits her face as she leaps over and hugs me while I am sitting at the table, “Oh mah gosh! How did you GET here? You’re a pony! How’d you DO that? I thought ya couldn’t move! I can’t wait to tell Sweetie and Scoots about this! Oh Celestia this is awesome!”

I awkwardly return the hug, setting her down, “You might want to see if Applejack is okay.”

“Oh mah gosh! Mac, c’mon let’s get Applejack up!”

MacIntosh and Apple Bloom move Applejack to the couch, Apple Bloom sprinkling a bit of water on her face, getting her to sputter and wake up, waving a hoof around. “Get off with the water dangit, I ain’t lookin’ fer a bath!”

“Sis, you might want to get up then and talk with our guest.” The slow drawl of Big MacIntosh resounds in the room.

“Oh that ain’t Crusader, I dunno who it is, but I’m gonna wallop ‘em somethin’ fierce!”

Apple Bloom pipes up, “Oh no, it’s him! It’s him!”

“You just shush now Apple Bloom, lemme talk.”

Applejack moves a bit hesitantly to the table, setting across from me. She looks me right in the eye, her face quite serious as she searches my own. I sit quietly and wait for her to say something, I am not wanting another fainting spell, it was worrisome.

She points a hoof at me, “I dunno who you are, but you better start talking.”

I bring the link up, noticing she is wearing it, “Applejack.”

I see her turn a bit to the side, her voice low, “Not now Crusader, got somepony in here saying he’s you.”

“Applejack, I am going to wave my right leg.” With that, I raise the leg, waving it side to side, adding a warm smile.

Her eyes go a bit distant as she wavers in the chair, “One more time.”

“Applejack, I will wave my left leg this time.”

Once again, my avatar does so.

Her eyes go wide again, she turns the link off and sits staring at me for a few seconds. She shakes her head and leans forward, “How in all the sun and stars can you..I mean how.. What the hay Crusader?”

“You said I had a standing invitation for Hearth’s Warming Applejack, I thought I would take you up on it.”

“That’s not...I mean.. You can’t.. I never thought.. Dangit Crusader how did you DO this?!?”

“I cannot explain everything, it would just sound confusing, and no offense either. Can we just say a bit of my own magic and leave it at that?”

She leans her elbow on the table, planting her cheek on a hoof, “I can’t believe.. I mean yes I invited you but I never thought...”

“I just took your invitation to heart my Commander.”

She stares at me for a moment and narrows her eyes, “You messing with me?”

“Yes.”

“Dangit Crusader, I oughta buck ya right out of the house! If it ain’t you showing up on mah doorstep, now yer messing with me? I oughta..”

I give a chuckle as she sits there glaring at me, “I apologize Applejack, I am sorry. Should I leave? I know this is very unexpected.”

The elderly pony by the hearth pipes up, “Oh no you don’t! Apples ain’t ever turned anypony out in the cold and we ain’t about to start now!”

Applejack turns her head, keeping one eye on me, “Granny, this ain’t a normal thing..”

“I don’t care! You don’t turn anypony out in the cold! I don’t know who this Crusader pony is, but he’s been polite so far!”

I see Apple Bloom and MacIntosh both nodding their heads as well.

Applejacks eyes narrow again as she looks at me, “I’m ..” She sighs heavily and leans on the table, “I’m sorry Crusader, I never expected this.”

“I know Applejack, and I am sorry for doing this. But it was a day when nopony would see me, and I wanted to bring your gifts in person, so this was a good time to do it.”

“You couldn’t have SAID something?”

“I wanted it to be a surprise, and judging from your reaction I would say it worked.”

She almost got angry again, then sat back and laughed, “I think ah’ve been a bad influence on you Crusader. If yer messing with me like this, yeah, bad influence.”

I relax a bit, knowing the hard part is over, if she accepts this representation of me, maybe it will go smoother with the others. But then I see a curious look, a sly grin that crosses her face as she starts to laugh.

“Oh Twilight’s gonna fall over when she sees you!”

“That might not be a good idea Applejack.”

“Oh yes it is, oh yes. Everything she’s done, oh yeah, this will take care of things nicely! Oh, Rainbow Dash too! That prankster is never gonna know what hit her! Oh yeah Crusader, I think this’ll be the best Hearth’s Warming ever!”

I believe I have never heard such an evil laugh from my Commander before, it is quite disturbing.

“Rarity’s mane is gonna go straight when she sees this! Oh Celestia this is gonna be good!”

“Applejack I am not sure I like what I am hearing.”

“What? Me gettin’ one over on them friends of mine? Oh Crusader you have NO idea what this is gonna do! Finally, FINALLY I got one on them and you betcha I am gonna take advantage of this!”

I look at Apple Bloom and MacIntosh as she starts laughing again, they both shrug at me and chuckle to themselves. I do not like where this is going.

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

I am still a bit unnerved by my Commanders actions as she invites me to sit by the hearth, I bring my saddlebags close to me and open them. I have learned a few things watching the ponies when they were near my sensor masts. How to walk, talk, the facial expressions; I had to practice for quite a bit of time to walk due to mass problems. My observations serve me well as I open them up, bringing out the gifts I have made for them.

Apple Bloom of course is quite excited, being admonished she cannot open them until Hearth’s Warming Day which is traditional. I give them the wooden boxes I have fabricated, as I was not wanting to wrap them in paper, the boxes being finely machined in my war hull. I also make sure that her brother receives a gift of gel packs, the nanites will take care of any bruising he receives from working. She is always mentioning he is getting hurt. As for the elderly Granny Smith, Applejack had once told me about her hip; I advise her to use the pack she receives when it hurts. I do not tell her it will rebuild the bone, plus clean the arteries and her heart, she will be quite healthy.

It is the best I could come up with, not knowing preferences, but I believe Apple Bloom and Applejack will enjoy their gifts as well.

I only need one thing...

Applejack is still laughing as she sets out mugs of hot cocoa, noticing Crusader hasn’t picked his up and is just looking at it from side to side.

“Something wrong there Crusader?”

“Just a slight problem Applejack.”

“What’s that?”

I lift my hooves and smile a bit, “I can’t quite figure out how to use these yet.”

An hour later, a lot of laughing from the three, and quite a few spilled mugs of cocoa, I have finally learned how to use my hooves properly. It is all a learning experience I know, but it is hard when you have to be taught to lift a cup.

It was an enjoyable evening, Applejack and I sat and discussed many things. Mostly farm related, but talked of her friends and family. Apple Bloom of course wanted to know everything about how I had become a pony. I could not tell her because she does not have the basis to understand what I would say. Meeting her brother and grandmother, well that was an added bonus.

As for the morning, Applejack wishes to take me to the castle, where the friends will be spending Hearth’s Warming Eve together. I am still not sure about this, as she was laughing quite evilly when she said this.

I do not know how I feel about being used as the basis for such a joke, but I will take it in stride, Bolo’s have endured far worse.

I wished them a goodnight, as I had informed Applejack I would stay awake, having no need for sleep. Listening to them upstairs, my ears being quite good, as they take their rest. I stand my watch, looking out into the whiteness surrounding the farm, the drone above at my beck and call should a need arise.

I spend the night as I have so many others, as sentinel.

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

Applejack and I make the journey through town to Twilight’s castle, it is an impressive edifice, made of crystal and some other materials my sensors cannot quite identify. I make a note to ask for a sample later. It is quite warm and very comfortable inside, I would have thought different, as stone castles on Earth were drafty and cold. This is neither, it is sealed, the hearth warming everything so well, I cannot see how it is done and must ask later. We were greeted at the door by Twilight herself.

“Hi AJ! Oh you brought a friend?”

I can see my commander having a hard time holding back a snicker, it is beneath her to do this, but, I am stalwart and shall accompany her with this joke.

“Yep! He just got into town last night, thought I’d bring him over for the party, that okay?”

“Always! Come on in, there’s snacks and hot coffee and cocoa!”

Following my commander into the castle, I see her shoulders shaking with mirth, I am not sure I will be looking at her in quite the same way as before. I do give her a bit of a glare, but she returns it with a shrug and a wink.

We are greeted by everyone in one of the large rooms, comfy and warm if I sense it right, they are all lying by the fire, books and games spread out.

“AJ brought a friend, say hi everypony!”

I wave politely at the greetings, settling down on a nearby cushion.

Pinkie is the first to ask, “So who’s your friend AJ? I don’t think he’s a new pony or my Pinkie Sense would have gone off...Unleeeesss..” She taps her chin with a hoof, “Nooo, don’t remember any new ponies!”

Applejack turns to me, grinning, “Why don’t you say hi?”

“Hello Twilight, everypony.” And I wait..

Twilight tilts her head, “You know, you sound just like..”

I smile and nod, “Do I?.”

All eyes immediately look at me, even Fluttershy starts to show signs of recognition as Twilight shakes her head, Rainbow Dash is eye-balling me with great suspicion.

“No...you couldn’t be because.. Wait a second..”

Rainbow pipes up, “Doesn’t he sound exactly like...?”

I wait for just a moment more...

It is Rarity that tips first, “You sound exactly like Crusader, polite, well spoken, always so charm......ing..” Her eyes get quite wide as she stares at the light umber stallion sitting on the cushion, “You can’t possible be..!”

Applejack, in some vernacular, looks fit to bust at her little joke.

“Yes Rarity, it is me.”

Applejack can no longer hold it in, she starts laughing out loud, rolling on the floor at the dropped jaws, the stunned looks, the exclamations of surprise. I politely wait for her to explain as they will not believe me quite yet. Everypony is talking at once, and my Commander just waves a hoof at them, wiping tears from her eyes as they look pole-axed. Twilight hasn’t said a word, but I notice a slight twitching of her eye as she stares at me intently, it is a bit unsettling.

Applejack being Applejack, takes a few minute to recover herself, her eyes still streaming tears as she laughs out loud, pointing to their expressions. Though I admit, as jokes go this is proving to be a good one. Rainbow Dash still hasn’t come down from the ceiling, looking at me with very wide eyes.

I do not move, not wanting to set off a new round of exclamations. Fluttershy is hiding somewhere I cannot see, Pinkie is actually just sitting beside Twilight with the same odd twitching. Rarity is the most calm, although she is fanning herself while lying on a couch. Applejack finally calms herself enough to say something.

“Whooooo! Stars above that’s the funniest thing I have seen in a LONG time!”

Twilight voices her doubts first, “It..it can’t be him! He’s in the hill, he can’t move, he told us that!”

“Oh it’s him alright, trust me.”

They are all looking between myself and Applejack, knowing she’s honest, but not believing her. The truth will out though.

Twilight reached out and gently touched my hoof, “Is it really you?”

I nod, “It is me Twilight, honestly.”

“How did you...?”

“As I told Applejack, I could not explain to you in a way you would understand, I am sorry. Let us just say it is a bit of my own magic.”

Applejack chimed in, “Honestly Twi, don’t ask, it was kinda confusing to me too. But it’s him!”

I am suddenly assaulted from behind, cyan legs wrap around my neck as I am squeezed.

“I owed you a hug! Thank you so much!”

“You are welcome Rainbow Dash.”

Rainbow let’s go and hovers over to sit on a cushion, “This is SO cool, you made a pony!”

“Technically, yes. Though out of certain materials, and I’m afraid my cutie mark is quite fake. I didn’t wish to draw attention having no mark.”

Eyes immediately go to my side, a broadsword, the blade wreathed in flames is stamped on my ‘flank’.

“It is my brigade insignia, I thought it would be appropriate.”

“It is quite nice Crusader.”

“Thank you Rarity.”

Applejack is still chuckling, “Oh I got you ponies, I got you good! You are never going to be able to top this one!”

“I had wanted to keep this a secret, but my Commander felt it would be a wonderful joke to play on you all.”

Pinkie has settled next to me, speaking in a soft voice, “I wondered why I hadn’t sensed anything, you weren’t new.”

“No Pinkie, I am sorry for the deception.”

“No worries silly!” She leans in and presses her forehead against mine whispering so only we two can hear, her blue eyes so very deep and warm, “Remember, you have to know.”

“I remember.”

She moves away and bounces around the room, “This is greatthisisgreatthisisgreat! We can show Crusader around! We can let him see everything! He’s gonna love it!”

I smile politely as the questions are asked, Applejack of course taking time to remind Rainbow Dash she ‘was got and got good’. I enjoy our conversation, the six friends and I. It was intriguing, of course they all vetoed Twilight doing any ‘testing’. Though I do wonder what that would mean, but am afraid to ask. The rest of the time is spent sharing memories, I listen closely, recording it all, storing them forever in my cores. I am treated as family, more than a friend, as somepony wanted and cared for, it is more than I could have hoped.

I leave my gifts with them, they are simple things, not like what I have given Applejacks family. But it is in the giving, not the getting as I am told. I wish I could stay for Hearth’s Warming as I am, but it is enough that I have been able to visit my friends on this special day. I do not wish to be intruding on any more plans they have, this was more than enough.

We spend more time saying goodbye, Fluttershy even gave me a hug as I left. A special feeling is in my cores as I trudge through the snow again, a lighter heart now. I do not feel the snow, the cold. It cannot penetrate the love and warmth I have received.

As I make my way onto the command deck, I reflect on the past two days. Tomorrow is Hearth’s Warming, and it will be a special day for me as well. I have been out in the world, I have done what to some may be boring and trite, but to me, every second was precious. I will remember the laughter, the stories and questions, the soft touches and hugs.

I will remember them always because these were the first days of my life.

Snow Day. Rescue. Rewards.

Hearth’s Warming was a wonderful time for my friends, I was allowed to watch through the links as they unwrapped gifts, met with friends, spent time with each other. I see them spreading the good cheer and warmth I had received in turn throughout Ponyville. It brings back to my mind the days when my human commanders spent Christmas away from the field, it was a lonely time for some Bolo’s. When commanders are away, we were put into Low Level Alert, sleeping the days away until they return.

We Bolos crave the companionship of something other than ourselves. We are brothers and sisters, but somehow we performed better when human commanders trod our decks.

Concordiat scientists never had an explanation for it, the statistics proved it beyond any doubt, we needed each other, we wanted each other. Powerful friendships resulted from that need, Bolos and their human commanders went beyond into the galaxy and performed feats of daring and bravery that stunned down to the core. The tales reaching to the farthest corner of the battle front, of a Bolo and her commander, forcing a defeat on the enemy at the cost of their lives. A Bolo long thought unusable, coming back to defeat his foe once more. Tales of which the galaxy may never see or hear of again.

But I remember.

I look at the skies with watchful eyes and tell the universe, I will remember you, always and forever.

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

Currently, there is something going on in Ponyville, I am not quite sure what to make of it, as there seems to be a small war being waged with snow. I have never been on a planet other than earth where there was snow, and certainly never observed anything like this. We were frantically being prepared for Operation Diaspora, thus had no time for frivolities of any sort, the entire planet being under threat.

So this, has piqued my interest. The battle lines are not very well drawn. It appears the two opposing armies are not well commanded either. But it is quite humorous to watch. The pegasi are being used as dive bombers, while the unicorns use their magic to shore up the walls of fortresses. My design database is showing me flaws in the construction, but I pay no mind, it appears that fun is to be had and I shall not interrupt by being, ‘that pony’.

However, I have been practicing with my avatar, and am fairly confident I can pack a snowball correctly, being shown by Apple Bloom when I visited the farm. I open the hatchways and exit out into the bright day, heading for Ponyville. I would very much like to experience this.

As I walk, I review current drone tasks and data incoming from the assigned areas. Nothing is moving save for small animals, the forest is quite still, as if asleep for the winter. With the expanded cores I have now, it is no matter to keep an eye on everything. So I make my way into town, hoping to see anypony I know and find out how to join.

I run into my former commander and her friends, I am greeted warmly. I am not sure how to return the affection but I have learned about hugs and how to give them properly. I make sure each one is carefully given, gauging pressure and angle, it would not do to suddenly bruise somepony.

“Whatcha doin’ here Crusader?”

“I thought I would join in the small war you were having, it looked like fun.”

“WOOO! Alright!” This from Scootaloo, I believe Apple Bloom has informed them of who I really am.

There is an an exchange of smiles between the three, Sweetie Belle directs me to a spot, saying that I must defend it. So I sit and start packing a snowball when I hear a yell.

Sweetie Belle’s voice rings high and clear through the town plaza, “NEW PONY!” I see her and the others pointing at me, and I wonder what is the reason for a split second. I find out.

Currently, I am under 1.42 meters of snow, it appears I am buried quite handily by every snowball available at the time, and more are on ballistic track to add to my covering. From the drone above the town, I see I am the focus of every individual in the plaza.

It appears my newfound trusting nature has been taken advantage of by my former commander and her friends. I can hear the laughter through the now extensive covering of snow, as I sit and plot revenge.

The snow covering my head is removed and I see Applejack’s face peering into mine, she is laughing, her eyes dancing quite merrily as she reaches in and hauls me out of the snow mound.

“Yeah, you got what we call a ‘disgusted’ look on yer face there Crusader. Don’t you know not to trust them three in a snowball fight? You walked right into that one there, I don’t have to tell you.”

“Yes my Commander, it seems I was far too trusting.”

“More like gullible. Ya gotta learn them things Crusader.” She dusts the snow off of me, I cannot feel the cold, the covering I have crafted is impervious to minor things such as that, but I let her do so, “C’mon over, we’ll get ya warmed up with some cocoa, then you can go back and git ‘em.”

We walk over to the table, Twilight and the others are still laughing, I sit down and hold my mug of hot cocoa lightly.

Rainbow Dash is holding her stomach as she points at me, “Oh Celestia that was funny!” She falls off her seat into the snow, laughing even more.

Applejack nudges me with an elbow, “C’mon now, ya still got that look on yer face, lighten up, it’s just good fun.”

“I apologize my commander, I have not practiced all of the facial expressions yet.” I change to a happier expression.

“Yer doin’ a pretty good job so far, though it’s just the one look. Smile, have fun, go on back out in a bit and don’t trust them three again!”

I nod, drinking the cocoa slowly as I have been taught, the liquid is used for reaction mass, keeping my avatar powered. It took a bit of working with fusion systems, but I believe I have it conquered. As long as I can eat something, or drink even water, it will sustain the avatar.

But one thing does catch my attention, my facial expression. It should have come up as such on my interior diagnostics to keep track of and change when needed. This did not happen, it changed by itself with no prompting from me. It should not be linked with any emotion I feel, but once again the subtle changes I have detected in myself are being shown.

I am not sure how I should view this, a glitch? A piece of code that has gone rogue? Having emotions direct my actions are not suitable for my kind, but then I ask myself, what am I now? I can see the interior of my command deck, but also the smiling faces beside and in front of me. I can view the sensor logs from my masts, but also see the blush as Twilight gets complimented on something.

Almost an overlay, a painting of colors and shadows that are somewhat confusing, but can be sorted if given enough seconds. It is a unique situation I have put myself in, but I am enjoying the new sensations it brings.

I finish my mug of cocoa and rise, “I believe it is time to take my revenge Applejack.”

She gives me a pat on the shoulder, “Go get em!”

This time, I am prepared, I join the opposing army and settle down behind a makeshift wall. I do something that a Bolo has never done before unless it were against the enemy, I cheat.

The drone I have tasked above Ponyville comes to a hover, I am now being fed target data and distances as I peer over the wall, looking for my enemy. I pack snowballs as I await my chance, first off, to gain the upper hoof on the ones who took advantage of my trust. I have always said, and forever will, never test a Bolo.

My chance comes as I see Scootaloo standing on a mound, throwing snowballs at another attacker. I gauge range and distance, rearing back my hoof and let fly, Time to Target one point two seconds. A bit slow, but then I am not out to injure and must compensate accordingly. If there is one thing a Bolo has no equal in, it is ballistics. My eyes follow the snowball, tracking it in the arc as it impacts on her side, knocking her off the mound. I turn quickly, seeing Sweetie Belle and repeating my performance catching her in the backside, two down one to go.

The last target is fairly elusive, I see her moving between walls as she dodges thrown snowballs. Here I use the drone to track her, lofting a snowball high into the air in a long trajectory, it arcs smoothly above the plaza, landing with a satisfying splat and covering of snow on her head as she moves into the spot I had previously designated.

“What the HAY?”

I peer over the wall, seeing her looking around and give her what I assume to be a smug look. She sees me and laughs, “Good one!”

I raise a hoof, standing above the snow and yell, “For the honor of the Regiment!” I do not care about the curious looks as I launch my drone aided attack. I purposely miss one in every three, but do enough damage to the enemy to force a retreat and regrouping.

I cut the drone data, and for the next half hour only use the senses I have on my avatar. It causes me to miss more often than not, but I have so very much enjoyed the battle. Honor must be satisfied, and it is done so, with aplomb and not a little shouting.

I join my compatriots and my Commander at the table again, the Crusaders are there as well, warming up with steaming mugs of liquid. I settle my avatar down and join in what conversation I can, keeping things to the simple and benign. I listen closely though, and watch, seeing the nuances of body language and learning more for my cores, to fit in a bit better, to be one of them.

I am receiving status updates from the drones, it seems a storm is brewing by itself over the Everfree, so I cut in the link, warning Rainbow Dash about it. I see her start, listening, then turn and look at me with a curious expression.

“You know that’s creepy right?”

“Sorry?”

“That’s creepy, hearing you in my ear then not seeing your mouth move, seriously weird dude.”

“I will try to do better Rainbow Dash, I promise.”

It does bring up a slight problem, how to relate when I share with my avatar; it is not a simple drone, but is a part of my systems, my core. It IS me for all intents and purposes, an extension of my hull you might say. This brings up more questions that I ponder on, sitting and listening to my friends, watching the Crusaders tell of their snowball adventures.

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

The pegasi have issued a warning, the storm over the Everfree will hit the area this morning. I set my avatar in the command deck to wait it out, doing maintenance scans on my sensors masts as I prepare for the onslaught. It will be one, even the weather captains are warning ponies to stay inside. I am told by Rainbow Dash that it does happen rarely, but it conflicts with the weather control; they usually break it up, but this time it’s a bit much and they do not wish to risk anypony in the skies till it calms a bit.

I can understand that, my friends are holed up in the castle, watching the clouds roll in like a grey tide. My weather radar is showing a blot for miles, this will be a good storm.

I can feel and hear the sub-gale force winds outside of my hull, the sensor masts are actually rocking a bit. This worries me, the houses of Ponyville are not built to hurricane standards, and I can only hope that no grievous damage will be done. I ready my Ferret carriers in case I am needed.

My drones are having to fight the winds, I keep them to task, increasing their power expenditures to keep them aloft. Twilight is on the link, telling me that everypony is fine in town, they have contingency plans for this when it happens. Trust Twilight to have a list. I assure her that sounds like the best plan, and I hear her cut the channel.

My sensors are occluded by debris and snow, I clear them as fast as I can, the snow is making my seismic sensors unreliable due to the thick covering. I had not thought to remedy this as Rainbow Dash assured me it never got this bad. A laziness on my part I intend to correct. By the time my sensors are clear, something has made it past my perimeter, it is large, and moving very fast towards the town. My guns swivel quickly as they can, but by the time I am on target it is too late, the houses are in my line of fire. It has come in at an oblique angle to make this so. The forest has become smarter, and I am now paying for my inattentiveness.

I move my avatar to the carrier bay, boarding one with two tech spiders. I open the tunnel and race towards the town, my drone tracking the thing as it crushes the front wall of a house, it cannot fire on it due to proximity. By being near a house, and hitting the outskirts of the town, it needed nothing more than a few seconds, this will be remedied as well later, but for now...

The carrier drops my avatar by the bridge, I am tracking the thing in town on the outskirts, it is breaking into a house near me, my audio sensors in my ears pick up terrified screams. I have no time for discussion over the combat links, I move with a purpose, swiftly and silently. I do not let Twilight or anypony know what is happening.

As I round the corner, a huge white furred back greets me, I see two terrified fillies through the broken wall, a long arm reaching in for them. I lose no time, my drone feeding me targeting data now, so I leap on the things back, grabbing as best I can with my hooves. It is not in my tactical database as something to be fended off or non-lethals used, I am free to act.

It rears back, throwing me off as I scramble to my feet, it is now turning to face me and swinging what looks to be a clawed hand. I have no choice, I snap on my kinetic screen, waiting for the strike, raising both hooves in front of me facing outwards. When I had constructed this avatar, I chose not to include weapons for a reason, but I have always planned; so I included a simple kinetic battle screen that would take the brunt of hits, dispersing the force away from my body and absorbing the kinetic energy to power my systems as well. The only problem was, it made me shine slightly, it was to be used in emergencies only.

My back hooves are slammed deep in the ground as the screen flickers, my fore hooves taking the hit and knocking the claws away. I shout to the children get back into the rooms of the house, recovering my avatar to face the monstrosity again.

As it rears back for another strike, I calculate distance and range, my body springing forward as I leap towards the things midsection. I cannot see too well, the snow is blinding. So I hit with the full force of my constructed body, more than I anticipated, as it crashes back into the house with myself on top of it. I lift up one hoof and strike carefully, punching a hole in it’s body, blood freezing as it hits my screen and slides off. I do this three more times, my hoof moving fast to get this over with.

I make sure the arms, cannot move or strike, disabling them with stamps of my hooves at the joints. I need to move quickly, it is cold, and I am sure the two young ones are not dressed for this weather.

It still moves and struggles to reclaim it’s footing, I cannot let it recoup the advantage. I stamp down on its body, hearing bones break as I move upwards towards where a head should be. I see offset eyes, a misshapen skull my target as I rear up once more, leveraging the weight of my body as I punch my hoof through to the back of the skull and into the floor of the house. My leg is buried in the things’ flesh up to my shoulder, as I pull it out for one more strike.

It convulses under me, nearly throwing me off again as I make sure it is dead.

I task the tech spiders, getting them to drag the body off towards the carrier as I lead the two fillies to the castle, my screen keeping the snow off of me as I protect them as best I can. They do not appear to be hurt, only frightened and that is understandable. Their parents were caught by the storm and could not reach them at home, explaining why they were alone. We reach the safety of the castle, Twilight taking the two fillies in as I watch from a distance, my screen off now before heading back out to the carrier. The spiders having dumped the body inside, the ramp closes and we head to the fields to dispose of it.

I take samples, cataloging it for further reference. I cannot undo the damage to the house, but perhaps it will be covered by the storm, much more snow and rain is pouring now, washing away evidence I can only hope. The tech spiders dump it inside the forests edge, a warning to that thing of evil. I am sure nothing much will come of this except two scared fillies and a rescue in a storm.

I am proud my ancestors, I bring honor again to the Regiment and the Brigade, our colors are not faded anymore.

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

Applejack knocks at the hatchway, it has been a couple days since the storm blew through, nothing else has emerged from the snow covered hills. I have updated my sensors and masts, adding some sensors of my own design. I find I quite like solving problems, thinking of ways to defeat myself and then planning for it. It does keep a Bolo busy trying to outsmart itself.

My avatar is lying on the deck, looking as if it is asleep. I activate it so it will be waiting for Applejack as she walks in, watching her settling on the couch. My avatar is scrupulously clean, no evidence of anything left on its outer covering.

“That storm sure was a bad one huh?”

“Yes it was my Commander, lucky there was no injuries.”

“Oh there was a couple, but just stupid ponies outside when they got warned, nothing bad.”

“That is good to hear.”

“But one thing that is kinda peculiar..”

“What is that my Commander?”

“Seems a couple of fillies got mussed up during the storm, say that some thing attacked the house they were in while their parents were away.”

“Oh? I had not registered anything on my perimeter alarms my Commander, you know I would notify you. Are they all right?”

The orange pony waves a hoof, “Oh they’re fine, seems some shining pony saved them, killed the big old mean thing and led ‘em to safety.”

“A shining pony? Well that appears to be a, what have you told me before? ‘An old mares tale.”

The emerald green eyes look into mine, there’s no accusation there I can see, but she is smiling, “Oh I dunno, I mean when we all went to see, that house was pretty well smashed up. Found some hoofprints in the floorboards as well. But didn’t see no monster.”

“That is good my Commander, it might have hurt somepony very badly had something attacked in the storm.”

“True, true. But to hear the littlest one tell the tale, might make folks believe it.”

“Little foals and fillies I am sure are frightened by storms like the one we just had. They are probably tougher than they think, making their way to the castle by themselves.”

“I never said they made it to the castle.” This time she is looking at me very intently.

I have slipped, Discord was right, I am EXTREMELY bad at lying and I have just lied to my Commander.

“Twilight had informed me that it is the safe haven, so I am sure that is where they headed. It is quite easily seen of course.”

“Of course.”

She stands up, getting near my avatar, I find it a bit unsettling.

“Know what I think?”

“What is that Applejack?”

“I think, somepony got himself out there, rescued a couple of fillies from something bad, and just wants to not make a fuss about it.”

“There are many brave ponies out there I am sure Applejack, look at yourself and your friends.”

“You’re probably right.” She leans in, touching her cheek to my avatars’ as she whispers in my avatars’ ear, “But then again it’s kinda nice thinking there’s a shining pony out there to rescue ponies in trouble. Even if you can’t say thanks.”

I feel the press of two very soft, very warm lips on my cheek before she exits the hatchway. I can only be stunned as I feel the warmth left by them on my avatars face.

For the first time in a long life, I sit speechless for hours.

Introspection. Errors of Comedy.

I am introspective for a while. The action of my Commander has brought back a memory of a past command.

It was on a world in the backwaters of the spiral arm named Santa Cruz; a Bolo named Nike, one whose psychotronic array mine was upgraded to specs on. She loved her commander, and he her. When a traitor shot him down, she disobeyed commands, fought the enemy to a standstill; all the while being destroyed by an Omega Worm in her programming*.

There have been numerous instances of Bolos and their commanders being more than just friends, they have loved and lost. The grief and pain of such resounding through the memories of Bolos everywhere.

It is called Operator Identification Syndrome in some areas, when a Bolo Commander views a Bolo as more than just a machine, but as someone to love. It has led to tragedy, despair, sometimes redemption. It was forbidden to do and Bolo Commanders had been relieved for much less. The Bolos themselves have suffered along with their human commanders, but it is that which makes us all stronger I believe.

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

Currently I am observing Winter Wrap-Up, the ponies clearing the snow and ice from the town, cleaning and planting for the spring which is due tomorrow. This is truly puzzling, seasons on Earth gently mixed into one another, here, it is the next day. Of all my studies on this new earth, this truly confounds me. But, as I have learned to my detriment in the recent past, it is best not to ask sometimes.

I am told, that Princess Celestia brightens or dims the sun according to the seasons, making it warmer, or colder as needed. I still find this unfathomable. As all science points to a heliocentric universe, yet, I see the variables in the rising of the sun and moon each day. I do not know how or why it can be accomplished, but it is. I have therefore decided I will not ponder this any more. It is overloading my cores each time I try and figure it out. To avoid any hint of burnout I will now studiously avoid any analyzing of the sun or moon being controlled.

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

Maintaining my avatar is now routine, as I think back on how it was built, I wonder if other Bolos had ever accomplished such a thing.

By working off the deep medical scans of Applejack, I used durachrome and durasteel stocks to create skeletal structures, simply machined and brought to spec. Making it articulate was a challenge, but by using a semi-metallic fiber, I created muscles to work with the body. This was the same that Fleet Marines used to enhance their own strength. They were some of the most feared troops in the Concordiat, their strength and fierceness almost rivaled our own.

It was the power supply that brought problem solving to the fore, but by using the new alloys developed before earth was overrun, it made making the smaller fusion furnace easier. A combination of nano-technology to break down items for reaction mass, and the ability to not depend on unstable magnetic fields, made it an accomplishment to be proud of. My creators would have liked this.

Everything else was a simple matter of fitting in, layering the interior of the skeletal structure with molecular circuitry, it gave me the ability to use the TSDS. Total Systems Data Sharing, allowing me to be the avatar, not just direct it, a sort of alternate persona if you will. I can review data and information at high speeds from both sources without a hitch. This is possible through an entanglement link, allowing me contact anywhere in the world with my alternate.

Adding a simple kinetic screen for defense was also not a problem, if overloaded, they do fail, and have before; but it will allow precious seconds to act. The one problem was mass, I weighed quite a bit more than a regular pony, this was evident in trying to walk and balance. But by stripping it down, recreating the skeletal structure on a matrix instead of solid, it brought a better solution.

Applejack has asked why an Earth pony. It was very simple, the materials I used would make me as aerodynamic as a brick, and I do not have the intent or basis for magic use, so not a unicorn. A matter of elimination. It is appearing to work out quite well so far, it has taken me quite a while to build, but it allows me to see the world in a new way.

Speaking of new, I have been invited to the party thrown on the first spring day, at the town plaza for everypony. I look forward to it.

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

Applejack watched Crusader as he sat on a cushion near a table, holding a mug of coffee in his hooves. She leaned over to Twilight and nudged her shoulder, “What ya think about him?”

Twilight looked to see who she was referring too, “Oh he’s nice. He really is, though it’s kinda weird seeing him as a pony though.”

“Now that is true, but he’s trying. We really got to keep an eye on him though, he’s not quite up to speed on, well, the things we all recognize. Guess he doesn’t have much experience in them things.”

“What things?”

“Well, like.. uh oh, here comes a perfect example..” Applejack watched as Roseluck wandered over near Crusader.

I am quite enjoying the party, watching ponies as they meet and greet. Though not too sure about this coffee, it has enough sugar in it to possibly stun large land animals.

Looking to my right, I notice a mare who has moved near me, pale chartreuse with a two-toned raspberry mane. A Rose as her cutie mark as she settles on a cushion next to me.

“You’re new here right?”

“Yes Miss..?”

“Roseluck.”

“Miss Roseluck, pleasure meeting you. My name is Crusader.” I think I am doing quite well all things considered.

“Very much the same here Crusader, plan on staying long?”

“I do yes, I do not think I will be moving away anytime soon.” Definitely the truth.

“That’s nice. Any plans after the party?”

Reviewing drone data, chemical explosives overhaul, nuclear weapons interlocks check.... “Not really Miss Roseluck. Why?”

I see her flip one ear a bit, an eyebrow moving slightly upwards, getting close to me and nudging with her shoulder. One foreleg rubbing the other slightly as she talks.

“Well I was wondering if you’d maybe like to go look at the stars later?”

Applejack nudged Twilight and moved towards Crusader, watching Rose’s body language, “That’s our cue, c’mon Twi, let’s go save him.”

“I enjoy looking at the stars, the constellations are very clear in this area.”

Roseluck smiles, leaning in a bit more as she is about to say something else, being interrupted by Applejack, “ ‘Scuse me Rose, can we borrow our friend here for a moment?”

“Oh! Oh sure Applejack. Hurry back now!” I see her smiling at me as I wave, moving off with my commander.

I am motioned to a seat in an out of the way place, Applejack grinning while Twilight is snickering for some reason.

“Yes my Commander?”

“Crusader, you sure you’re a thinking machine?” I see her nudging Twilight a bit, smiling at me.

“Yes my Commander, I was built in the BoloWorks on Earth, my artificial intelligence was upgraded fifty years before I went into stasis.”

“Ah’m takin’ that as a yes?”

“Yes my Commander, is there a problem?”

“What was Rose over there wanting you to do?”

“To go watch the stars with her, I enjoy mapping the constellations and looking at the different spectra. You have told me to meet new ponies, make friends correct?”

“Yes, yes I did. But not to meet ’em THAT close.”

“I do not understand my Commander.”

Twilight is now holding a hoof over her mouth. There appear to be tears in her eyes as she watches our conversation.

Applejack closes her eyes, one hoof is planted on her forehead for a moment as Twilight is still silent for some reason. I am not sure where this conversation is headed.

“Crusader she was making a pass at you.”

“I beg your pardon? I saw none of the usual signs, I would have known..”

“That little ear flip, raising her eyebrow just a little, nudging you on the shoulder? She was making a pass Crusader.”

I realize all of the data I have on interaction is based on humans, I had thought it would translate to the same in this world. I was so very mistaken. It appears I shall have to relearn it all over.

“I assure you my Commander, I had no intention..”

“Oh but she sure did! She wasn’t gonna be looking at any stars Crusader!” Applejack wiggles her eyebrows at me, “Oh Celestia, think we might have to put somepony to watch over you!”

“Is this the reason Twilight is trying not to laugh?”

That did it, Twilight started laughing out loud, holding her sides as Applejack joined in. I watched with a bit of dismay as Applejack slapped the table with a hoof, Twilight leaning over the table giggling. Of course, their friends came over and inquired as to why. My Commander being the honest pony she is told them, leading to more rounds of laughter. I do not believe I have seen Fluttershy actually laugh that hard before, now that she has healed.

Roseluck did not hear the conversation, so she walked by later and gave me another nudge, with a wink this time. Of course, this lead to my friends thinking it was quite hilarious. I shall have to have a talk later with my commander.

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

I have tasked myself today to retrieve a gift, purchase something from one of the many stores. It is a bright day outside, warmer than before, so I have plenty of time to practice being in public. I believe my Commander and her friends would like some chocolates, I have more than enough bits, and I am happy enough to use them to the delight of my friends.

Stopping at the front steps, I see the sign by the door, ‘Bon Bon’s Sweets’, this should be the place. I keep my face very neutral, since the incident at the party I have become well aware I am not knowledgeable in body language for Equestrians.

The little bell above the door rung brightly in the store, letting Bon Bon know she had a customer. Popping up above the counter, she spotted a tan maned, light umber stallion approaching the display case.

“Hi! Welcome to Bon Bon’s Sweets!”

“Hello Miss, I would very much like to purchase some of your chocolates.”

“Please call me Bon Bon, what kind would you like? I’ve just made a fresh batch a bit ago, and we have creme filled, caramels, solids. Please pick whatever catches your fancy!”

I scan the display case, seeing boxes and labels. I am not sure what my commander and her friends like, but maybe a mixed selection would do?

“Is it possible to have them delivered?”

“Absolutely! We do charge a one bit fee for delivery if that’s alright?”

“Perfectly fine Miss Bon Bon.”

Bon Bon leans on the counter, watching him curiously. Equestrians communicate quite well with body language, and his was telling her nothing. Like someone who had no clue how to relate to society would do, a complete blank. Strange for a pony.

I carefully look at the chocolates, deciding on a purchase that I think would make them happy, and also for the kind shop keeper.

I point a hoof at a large box, with quite a few chocolates, stacked in triple layers, “May I please get six of these, and have them delivered to Twilight’s Castle?”

Bon Bon is delighted, her smile a bit brighter as she nods. Selling the bigger boxes was tough, but now somepony had bought all she had, it was a great day!

I wait politely, watching the nice mare get the boxes out, totaling up the cost. I am told by my Commander that small talk is the polite thing to do.

“That is a very nice mane style you have Miss Bon Bon.”

I see a bit of a warmth in her cheeks as she smiles at me, “Why thank you, just had it done today.”

“You are very welcome.”

My diagnostics are showing that odd glitch again. I understand there are subtle changes to my cores and arrays, I did not think it would translate to my avatar.

Bon Bon watched as his body showed sudden interest directly in her, she was very flattered as usually some stallions’ were beating around the bush types.

“You are a sweet talker aren’t you?” She rang up the bill, waiting for him to pay.

“I beg your pardon Miss?” I had better leave, it would not do to get in trouble once more. I get the money out of my bags, laying double the amount for her time and trouble.

Bon Bon watched him put the money on the counter, it was far more than she had told him. As she opened her mouth to say so and politely decline, his body shifted again...what? How dare...!

“I’ll have you know I’m NOT that kind of mare!”

“I assure you Miss Bon Bon, I do not..”

My avatar has moved again, something is not right and I try to leave, I am actually caught off guard by the slap of a hoof to my cheek as I watch her become enraged.

“You...offering money.. What do you think I am? Some tramp?!” Bon Bon leans out the window and yells “GUARD!”

I watch as two very burly stallions rush inside, asking Bon Bon what the matter is, she points at me.

My Commander is not going to be pleased.

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

I am in the holding area of the local constabulary, apparently it seems I have offended Bon Bon. I tried to leave and apologize, but the Guard had already been called and it was their duty to investigate. There are no bars, ponies being for the most part peaceful, so I look at the floor while waiting for my Commander. I have advised the sergeant that she is my friend.

The floor is actually quite interesting, being made up of what appears to be oak planking, sanded to a rough consistency, not very smooth I am afraid. The joints are well done, whoever made this was....

“He did WHAT?”

My Commander has arrived it seems.

“Yeah Bons was pretty angry there Applejack, almost lit into him while we were escorting him out. He’s polite though, didn’t give us any trouble.”

“He is that, I’ll give it to him. How much is the fine?”

“No fine, it was just a simple thing Applejack, though you might want to keep him away from Bon Bon for a few days. “

“I’ll do that. Thanks Bars.”

“Anytime Applejack.”

I hear the hoof clops stop at the opening to the holding area, I am still investigating the floor as it has become so much more interesting than what I am about to face.

“You’re looking like you just got caught with your hoof in the cookie jar there.”

“I assure you my Commander, I did not try and steal any...”

“It’s an expression ya dolt. ‘Course the way the Sergeant put it, you were trying to get some cookies anyways.” I look up as she chuckles in her usual way.

“I did not mean to offend Miss Bon Bon, I was trying to purchase gifts for you and my friends....” I am stopped by an upraised hoof.

“I heard. I told ya to go and make friends, but I think maybe we ought to keep a closer eye on you until you get to know some things.”

“I think that would be best my Commander.”

Applejack perks her ears a bit, smiling at me, “What exactly did you do?”

I replay the glitch, my body shifting ever so slightly, an expression of surprise slides across Applejack’s face.

“Where in tarnation did you learn THAT?”

“I did not, it was a problem.”

“Yer darn right it’s a problem, yer lucky Bon Bon didn’t try and murder you. You put extra money on the counter too didn’t ya?”

“Yes, I was trying to show my appreciation for her being kind.”

“Well that’s a good thing, except from what she saw, you were offering her the extra money to go play a bit.” She lifts a hoof, “I know, you ‘assure me’ you didn’t.”

Applejack puts a hoof on his dejected shoulder, leading him out, “C’mon there sugarcube, let’s get you home.” Of course, the laughter follows, she can’t help it, it’s just so darn funny.

As we walk back to the hill, I think maybe this might be a bad idea. It was so much easier just killing things.

Author's Notes:

* Miles to Go, in the book BOLO! by David Weber

One more meeting of minds.

My avatar sits upon the hill where my war hull resides. I am looking at the stars again, I enjoy doing so through different eyes. It is calming to know that out there somewhere, may be another like myself, that they may be doing wondrous things as well. I wish you my best always my brothers and sisters. Would that I could tell you of this world, and it’s ponies, the peace and acceptance I have found here.

I have become so much more than our creators ever thought when they built us. If I could, I would bring you to this sphere of contentment, to show you the ways of these folk. To give you all that I have discovered.

A gift of knowing we can be other than destroyers of life.

I compose a VSR, telling of my story thus far, powering up the SWIFT entanglement link once again. I hear the pop and crackle of a universe gone silent, the background of the stars singing to themselves as they spiral throughout the void.

Into the infinite I send my final verified status report, before shutting down the link forever.

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

I remain on the hilltop, staring up at the night sky, the mood full and bright as it crosses the heavens. It is different, seeing it from a perspective such as I have. I do not choose to use my sensor masts, only seeing what I can from my avatar, making it that much sweeter.

It is strange how the glitches affecting my avatar do not cause problems unless I am in close proximity to others. It might be something in the programming I had laid down into the molycircs, I must do a deep scan on them tonight.

My sensors scream their alarms as a figure appears beside me, I close them down, the signals to my guns stopped before anything untoward happens.

“Discord.”

“Well well, how are you tonight puppet?”

“My name is Crusader please.”

The figure is sinuous, moving constantly as it keeps at least one eye on me. I do not like the malicious smile, but then I will accept it as who he is.

“Crusader then, such a noble name and all.”

“But if it be a sin to covet honour, I am the most offending soul alive.”

“Is it truly honorable, what you’re doing? Trying to be a pony?”

I turn and look at the face, the snaggled tooth, the eyes that seem to bore into me, “I am trying to be a part of this society Discord.”

“But you don’t seem to be doing so well, poor Bon Bon, thinking you were trying to pay her to do naughty things. Tsk tsk, not a noble act.”

“I admit, something went wrong. I am thinking of giving this avatar up, it does not seem to be working well enough.”

“Strange, I would have thought you’d be stubborn enough to keep going.” His voice is soft now, almost as if he understands.

“I am, but I cannot keep offending ponies, it is not right.”

“But it was so much fun! Seeing the shocked faces, the looks they gave you. Oh my, seems you quite haven’t got it all together.” A pair of opera glasses appear in his paw, holding them to his face and he chews on popcorn. “My my my, seeing that poor vegetable seller thinking you were insulting his mother. My goodness! Almost caused quite a riot there!”

“I do not understand it, I have scanned down to deep levels, there should be nothing...” Now I understand. “You have been toying with my avatar.”

He puts a large medal around my neck, “You win the prize! Oh c’mon now, surely it didn’t do any harm? Well, lasting harm anyways.” He looks thoughtful, “Well maybe a bit of lasting...anywho! It will blow over in time!”

“Why would you do this? We are not friends, but we are not enemies either. I let you go on your way.”

“Because maybe you are trying too hard, have you ever thought of that?”

“I only do what I can, learn and accept.”

An arm slides around my shoulders, “That’s not enough my dear stallion, not enough.”

“I can only go so far. I have built this avatar as closely as I can. I have watched and learned much, and am trying to be a part of this world that has given me peace.”

The arm squeezed my shoulders a bit, “That’s still not enough you know.”

“Then what can I do?”

“You can let go!” The arm is removed, Discord stands before me with his arms outspread, looking at the night sky, “Let go of things, leave it behind, there are so many good things in this world to experience Crusader!”

“You who would have ruled this world, throw it into chaos, say that?”

“Yes I do.” He peers at me closely, “Because I made a friend, a real friend, Fluttershy, who taught me that there is more to things than ruling. Yes I cause chaos, because that is my nature, it will always be. But sometimes, just sometimes, I can teach lessons too, about life.”

His head drops down to let his eyes meet mine, “So what is truly inside you that you can’t let go of? Don’t tell me duty and honor,” He waves a taloned hand, “Blah blah blah, I’ve heard it before in so many ways.”

For the embodiment of Chaos, he truly does have an insight, and if I am to progress...

“Her name was Tika McCoy, she was my commander when we were charged with taking Melconian strongholds on a world named Bahaut.”

“Go on.”

“I was ‘Her Heart’. She was young for a full commander, vivacious and fiercely intelligent. I was in a Mark XXVIII war hull at that time. We fought across the planet, the two of us unstoppable. I was never Crusader, I was ‘Her Heart’ she said. Because she saved it for me.”

I play back a memory.

Tika is standing in the command deck, looking over the game board where we fought Waterloo once more. I have out maneuvered her with my cavalry, forcing a defeat, this time Napoleon wins.

I see her frustration as she throws her hands up, “That’s it My Heart, no more games!”

Her laughter was infectious.

Discords voice breaks my reverie, he is now wearing a Napoleonic Era uniform, how could he possibly know that?

“So she meant the world to you?”

“More than that. Everything I was, and would be was hers. We were unstoppable in combat, I would suffer any damage to bring her to where she wanted to be. She gave me her heart and I protected it with all I had.”

I notice Discord’s face, a bit solemn, I had thought never to see that look.

“So what happened?”

“We broke the ramparts, my brigade was taking extremely heavy fire. My brothers and sisters poured their fury at the enemy as did I, driving them back. We had overcome a bunker when I was hit on the port side with hyper-velocity missile fire. It overwhelmed my defenses, I could not stop all of them and my screens went down.

They dug deep into my armor, breaching the command deck and injuring Tika fatally. I had no way to get her to the medical bay, I could do nothing as I was badly damaged and could not move fast enough to retreat. I watched her die Discord.”

I replay the memory, forever imprinted into my psychotronic array. Her hand reaching out along a bloody floor, her voice telling me “Fight on My Heart.”

“I fought until I could no longer, we broke the enemy’s hold on the planet by wiping them out. I was taken from my hull along with Tika and sent home for refurbishing, and treatment. She was sent to her home world, where she rests.”

The smooth voice is back, whispering in my avatars ear, “So why not erase that memory? It would be simple, whisk it away!”

“I cannot, it would not be right to forget her.”

“Of course, having that along with Applejack is confusing isn’t it?”

“Pardon?”

A paw waves in the air, making circling motions, “Oh please, even I can see how you look at her. Thinking no one is noticing.” He is in a black costume and mask, making sneaking motions around me as I sit. “I’ve seen how your eyes linger when you’re near her.”

“I will be honest, yes.”

“So why not just say so? It’s so very simple.”

“I cannot, it was forbidden to...”

“HOW long ago was this? What did you say? A million years? Quite a long time to carry a torch!”

His body wraps around mine, as he leans on a paw, his head cradled, “Forgetting, or just leaving behind can help. I know! Because the power of friendship!” He laughs, chuckling as he keeps moving, never stopping.

“But truly, I learned a lesson, about trust. Do you not trust your Applejack?”

“She is not my Applejack.”

“Oh stop it, it’s so obvious to everypony except you!”

“Yes I trust her.”

“Then it’s simple, tell her!”

“Why make an issue Discord, to be brutally honest, I can not be what she wants. I cannot give her foals, I can only be by her as I am now. I will live long after she is gone, it is not right to do that to somepony.”

“Or to yourself?”

“Yes.”

“So what do you think of our Applejack? She is pretty is she not?”

“Very much so. She is strong, honest, kind to her friends, tolerant of me when I make mistakes. There have been so many of them.” I pointedly glare at Discord, who is now wearing an extremely bad ‘Innocent Me’ face. “She is grace and beauty when she moves, tough when she has to be. I admire that.”

“More than admire I would think.” He holds a heart shaped balloon, the word Applejack on it with her face, he lets it slip into the air.

“Yes.”

“SooooOOooooo?”

“It is confusing, I am being changed by the magic here in Equestria, it is causing problems. I wish to begin again, but it is truly hard.”

“Oh how well do I know that! You can’t imagine how tough it was not to just go crazy being locked inside that statue of myself, handsome though it was! Of course I’m already crazy, but anyways..”

“I believe I will make it just fine. I do thank you for this talk Discord, it was surprisingly nice. I have friends, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Twilight, and of course Applejack, along with Rarity. Pinkie still makes me wonder though."

A taloned hand tapped the goats bearded chin, “Pinkie makes me wonder as well, I often think....” He shakes his head, “Nevermind, shan’t do that.”

I let out a chuckle, it appears even the demi-god of Chaos can wonder.

“But, as fun as this conversation is, I have a wonderful date waiting!” He is suddenly wearing a top hat and tails, “She’s this lovely eldritch abomination, gives great massages!” His whole body shivers in delight, he leans down to me, touching the top of my head, “You tell Applejack I said hello! Remember, letting go is sometimes to the good!”

“I shall on both points Discord.”

I watch as he makes a grandiose exit, a cloud of glitter everywhere and wonder how can someone be so absolutely insane. I shake my head a bit, smiling. He is a silly being.

Looking up at the stars again, I send out to you my long lost brothers and sisters, a goodnight.

Wetness rolls down the side of my face as I look around for clouds, Rainbow did not tell me of rain. I wipe it away with a hoof, feeling the scrape of it along the outer covering, my thoughts are somewhat muddled as I access my diagnostics. They do not appear, something is wrong.

I stand, feeling out of sorts, my weight and mass are offset; I am somehow off balance, this is not right, my internal systems should take care of this.

My avatar is definitely suffering malfunctions as I try and move, finding it hard to take a step, it lands on it’s nose into the dirt.

PAIN! I feel pain as I lift a hoof to the nose of my avatar, blood showing on it as I am stunned into immobility.

“Discord! What did you DO?”

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

Twilight heard the knocking at the door, hurrying to open it as she wondered who it could be at this time of night. Peering out, she saw a disheveled mane, the umber coloring telling her it was..

“Crusader! What’s wrong?”

“I...Discord.. Need to get...help..”

“Wow, catch your breath there for a second. Wait...you’re BREATHING?”

Twilight was surprised, and a bit frightened as the stallion suddenly hit the floor, backing up as she watched him lose consciousness.

“Oh stars...”

Forgetting. Forging New Bonds.

I am running, stumbling really, down the side of the hill to the maintenance hatch. My voice is not very strong as I yell out to the sensor masts, “Open hatchway Kappa Five Delta!” Nothing happens, I try again, searching my limited memory for the authorization codes. “Security Code Phi Delta Iota Kappa Five Four One! Open Hatchway Kappa Five Delta!” I bang on the metal with a hoof in frustration as the hatch stays closed.

I run back up the hill, facing the sensor masts as I see the lenses swivel around to look at me. Once again I try, “Authorization Kappa Delta Phi Rho Upsilon Two.”

I hear a monotone voice, “Security Clearance Required for Authorization.”

Finally! “Security Clearance Psi Theta Nu Rho Four Two Two!”

“Request denied.”

What? “Command Override Omega Four Two Mu Zeta Nu!”

“Request denied.”

I rack my brain searching for anything that may tell me why my request was denied, things are fading fast. I am losing my memories and with them any codes I may have to get inside. I must get to the command deck!

“Status Request Update Four Two Two Phi Lambda Upsilon.”

“Protocol Mu Alpha Sigma engaged.”

No. No no no no no, Masada has been activated. This is not happening. Why Discord, why did you do this?

I make my way down the hill, running for the town, my gait getting smoother as my body rearranges itself. I am losing things, my ability to think as a Bolo, it is murky like this, my mind not as sharp. I stumble and fall, my chest heaving as I am not sure how far I can push this body. I keep going, no matter what I must warn them, I must tell them...

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

I feel a gentle hoof pushing the hair out of my face as I lay on my side. A warm cloth cleaning my face as a voice whispers to me.

“You’ll be alright Crusader, c’mon now, wake on up.”

“My Commander?” My throat feels so raw, I’ve never felt anything like this, I am tired.

“It’s me, looks like you ran the Iron Pony all by yourself there.”

Opening my eyes there is sunlight is coming in through the window, the rays shining off a shock of blonde mane, I see emerald green ones looking back at me. My own feel so odd, I blink to lubricate them; it’s all coming very naturally, but I am losing the Bolo, the me, it’s fading.

But I am distracted, the face in front of mine, I can see the concern, the worry. The eyes glinting with golden flecks in them as I look at her, reading the subtle clues of her body, telling me she cares. I am lost in her smiling face for the moment, reaching out with my own hoof to lay it across her own. I see the changes, a bit of a blush, a movement of her body closer to mine.

“I have something to tell...”

“How’s our patient doing?” Twilight’s cheerful voice interrupts the moment, Applejack jumping a bit as she finishes wiping my face with the cloth,

“Jes’ fine, thought he was gonna be out for a few more.”

“Great!” the lavender mare settles next to the bed, looking at me intently, “Are you alright? How in the hay did this happen?”

My voice cracks a bit, Applejack gives me a sip of water, “Discord...”

Twilight’s violet eyes go a bit wide, getting a disgusted look on her face. “Figures, he’s always up to something. Hope he didn’t hurt you?”

“No, no, it’s just...odd..”

“Good, maybe this will all be over soon then. His tricks usually don’t last long.”

I rummage my brain, I cannot think right, nothing is ordered. I have memories not mine, hunger, pain, even how to use a bathroom. Thank you SO much for that picture Discord. I have lost the sense of urgency I had, but there was something important I had to tell everypony. I’m losing the Bolo me, it’s fading into mist.

My hoof hits the bed, startling Twilight and Applejack, “What’s wrong?”

“I can’t remember things, I’m not me anymore. I...there was something important.”

Applejack lays a hoof on my face, gently stroking my cheek, “Shush, it’ll come back to you, just get some rest.”

“I will, my Commander, I promise.”

Ah keep telling ya to call me Applejack, ya dolt.”

“Yes my..Applejack.”

“Now get some more rest, we’ll talk soon, c’mon Twi.”

I listen to the quiet hooves leave the room, the silence once again loud as I lay there, closing my eyes.

Is it a Low Level Alert Status I reach, or truly sleep? I have never slept, I was always alert, watchful, even at lower levels I could snap to awareness within a picosecond. I am not sure if I like this, slipping into a state I can not control, I am losing myself. Will I dream? Do or can Bolos ever dream?

I drift in an endless void without shape, there is no beacon of intelligence here, nothing is coming to me. I am the limited me without what I feel as myself. No weapons, no data cores to alert me to problems. I am nothing and I feel very very small within this lightless existence. I am just one tiny piece among a universe of stars, a dust mote in the vast expanse of space. It humbles me.

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

I awake with a sense of urgency, something coming back to me, a task that is important. I have to use the bathroom!

I dutifully remind myself to thank Discord later. I am quite sure I can figure out something appropriate.

As I exit the facilities I am met by Applejack, she has another worried look on her face and I assure her I am fine, just...had to go.. She wants me to rest some more, but I have to go see the sensor masts, maybe it will remind me of the important task I had to do.

“Did you sleep good?”

“I did my.. Applejack, thank you.”

“Hope ya had good dreams, it’s always better that way.”

“I did not dream, there was nothing Applejack.”

“Well, that’s kinda odd doncha think?”

“I do not know, I’ve never slept before.”

Applejack stops in her tracks, turning her head slightly and looking at me, “Isn’t that strange though? Never being able to dream, to rest from the day? I know when I’ve had a long day, it’s always nice to lay in my bed and let it all go ‘till tomorrow.”

Let it go, that phrase resounds in my mind for some reason. I stand for a moment and drift off, seeing a brief picture in my mind of Discord, his arms wide saying “Let it go!”

“You alright there?”

“Yes, my Applejack, I am fine.”

“Well, I don’t know ‘bout bein’ your Applejack now..”

I turn and see her looking at me, she’s got a slight smile on her face as I feel warmth in my face. Am I blushing?

“I am sorry Applejack, I did not..”

“Stoppit ya dunderhead.” She nudges my shoulder and chuckles, “C’mon now, Twi’s got some lunch waiting, you’ve been sleeping all morning.”

All the way to the kitchen, I see her looking at me from the corner of my eyes. I hate being unable to see everything, limited by the scope of this body. But I do catch her looking one time and give her a smile in return. She blushes quite prettily as we head into the kitchen.

“Hey AJ!” Twilight is always smiling, cheerful and interested, she reminds me of..of... I sigh in frustration.

“I brought sleepyhead here, he’s gotta be hungry after that midnight run.”

“I could use some food, yes, please.”

“Then have a seat, Spike’s out for the day over at Rarity’s..” She turns and looks at both of us with a grin, “As usual, so it’s just me and salad!”

Applejack slaps a hoof on the table, “Two of ‘em to go then!” She turns to me, “Yer gonna love this, she makes great salads!”

I am presented with a large bowl of greens. Eating is not new to me, but the whole experience is. As my avatar, it consumed food for reaction mass, but never tasted except for chemical analysis. It is quite interesting the flavors involved, tomatoes, carrots, peas all quite good. Though I do find out I do not have a fondness for broccoli, strange that.

Applejack’s eyes go wide as she sees Crusader gag, spitting out a piece of broccoli into a napkin.

“I am sorry Applejack, it appears I do not like broccoli, that was truly vile.”

She and Twilight laugh, “Ain’t that just like some folks? Doncha worry, lots of ponies don’t like that stuff.”

“I can see why, bleargh.”

Applejack is now doubled over in laughter, along with Twilight. I do not see what the joke is, but I do reel my tongue back in to try and get that disgusting taste out of my mouth. Some things I do not wish to learn.

“You have the most disgusted look on your face there Crusader, seems yer learning a few things.”

“It really was disgusting, how do you eat that?” I watch as she pops a piece of broccoli into her mouth.

“An acquired taste, you learn to eat what’s put in front of ya some times Crusader.”

“I understand, but I still do not like it.”

After finishing, Twilight, my Commander and a newly arrived Rainbow Dash and I take off for the hill. I have to find a way to get in, I am losing more codes and access information. This might be my last attempt, and there is something niggling at the back of my mind, if only I could bring it forward.

But as we make our way out of town, I find my eyes drifting to my Commander. She reminds me so much of something, somepony. I cannot remember! Why did Discord take my memories? Why is he letting others just fade? Why are some completely gone? My mind is taken off that as my eyes drift again. Watching her talk with Rainbow and Twilight, the smooth gait, the movements of bunched muscle underneath her coat. She truly is beauty and power. She is outgoing, honest to a fault and as such has my admiration.

Not to mention smoking hot flanks!!

I stop and plant a hoof on my face, it hurts, I do not care as I banish that thought.

I swear Discord, by my Dinochrome ancestors I will reward you for that.

“You okay, Crusader?

“Just fine Twilight, thank you.”

We reach the sensors masts, funny how I remember those words. Was Discord selective in my memory loss or just hit and miss? I cannot fathom how he has done this, apparently he was more cunning than I had thought, waiting for the right time to strike.

I look up at the sensors, the lenses moving in their search for the enemy I hoped, trying to remember the access codes.

Staring at the columns, Crusader racks his brain, trying to come up with anything, something to give him an inkling of what is going on. One phrase comes to mind.

“Request Status Update Four Two Two Phi Lambda Upsilon.” And then the code is gone, forever lost in this thing he calls a brain. He waits, hearing a monotone voice through the speakers.

“Protocol Mu Alpha Sigma engaged.”

The word rings in my mind, only the one word, there is nothing connected to it except a sense of extreme urgency..Masada.

“What’s that mean there, Crusader?”

“I do not know Applejack, I get one word, Masada. Have you ever heard of anything like that?”

All three mares think for a moment, shaking their heads. “Ah’m afraid we don’t know, is it important?”

“I get the sense of extreme urgency, though I am not sure what about.”

Rainbow Dash is the one with the idea as she hovers near us, “Look, Twilight, give the Princesses a letter and see if they know? Maybe they can call Discord back and get this solved?”

“Good idea Dash! C’mon, let’s head back, maybe Spikey-wikey will be back from his favorite mare’s place.” Twilight’s voice took on a sing-song like quality, emulating Rarity. The three chuckled, apparently Spike has quite the crush on a certain fashion creating mare.

“I take it he is very infatuated?”

“Sugarcube, that dragon gets more infatuated we’re just gonna move him in permanently with her.” Applejack laughs, nudging Rainbow as she now walks beside us.

Twilight rubs the back of her neck, “He’s like my little brother, raised him from an egg. But he’s got the biggest crush on Rarity. Everypony knows it, so we just let him be.”

“I know how that is Twilight, I assure you.”

I see Applejack suddenly glance my way with a look, staring at me for a moment as I studiously try to not respond, though my body is a traitor, it shows exactly how I feel for her. She blushes and goes back to walking. Rainbow Dash and Twilight share a bit of a smirk, thinking I can’t see it.

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

Sitting in the extensive library, this castle is intriguing. I am told the story of how it came to be and am fascinated by the implications. Could magic be part technology, or is it by itself as a new force in the universe? So many things to wonder about, if I only could think upon things more deeply.

Twilight gave a frustrated sigh, “I’m sorry I can’t find anything with that word in it. Maybe it’s something from your world?”

“I do not know Twilight, my memories; what are left, I cannot tell what was mine and what was put here.”

“Argh! Discord, I swear. “

“I thought he was redeemed, I was told so.”

“Yes, Fluttershy loves him to death as a friend, but he still plays tricks.”

“How well I know that now.”

Rainbow flips her multi-colored mane out of her eyes and gets up, “That’s it, I’m tired of books, let’s go find something to do!”

Twilight looks a bit concerned, “I dunno Dash, we might find...”

“Enough with books, agh! I can’t sit here all night! Pinkie’s got a party going at the Corner, let’s go down and have some fun!”

“Dash, now’s not the time..”

“No! Nononono! No books, no words!” She gets up, pulling myself and Applejack off the floor, shoving us towards the door, she motions to Twilight, “Spike’s not gonna be back for a bit, c’mon let’s go! Go go go!”

Applejack gets a smile on her face, giving me a shrug, tugging me along. “C’mon Crusader, let’s go party!”

“I’m not sure if this is the best thing, Applejack.”

“Sure it is!” She motions to Twilight who sighs, putting her books away, “That parties’ for mares and stallions, ain’t no little ponies around. We’ll give ya a taste of the ‘Good Stuff!’

I believe Rainbow Dash actually started drooling at that point, pushing Twilight by the backside towards the door, “Come ooooonnnnnn, Twi!”

“I’m coming! Just let me rearrange the..”

“NOnononono! Get going!” Rainbow swats her on the backside, “Out the door! Let’s go, you can clean up later!”

“RAINBOW!”

I look at my Commander, she’s laughing to herself as we exit the castle, heading to Sugarcube Corner, “Applejack, I am not quite sure about this.”

“Doncha worry none, there’s good ponies, and food and lots to drink.”

I see the sun still above the horizon, “Isn’t it a bit early to do so?”

“Sugar, ain’t no time for starting a party but early! C’mon now!”

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

I have received the chance to make amends to Miss Bon Bon, who stormed over to us angrily as we entered, wondering what ‘That pony’ was doing in the party. It was smoothed over with an explanation and one word, ‘Discord’. It appears that everypony is familiar with his tricks. I apologized profusely and paid for a round of drinks with bits that Twilight had given me, she said they were mine, just stored in the castle.

Sitting at a table with Applejack, I am not quite sure about the contents of the mug before me. It tastes quite good, and heavily of apples, but there is a very large presence of distilled spirits in it. I am not sure I should be drinking this. This might be a very bad idea. So I sip it slowly, watching everypony have a good time.

Pinkie of course is a bundle of boundless energy, smiles appear when she is around. She was very excited to see me there, and was surprised at the presence of a ‘real’ Crusader. Of course the obligatory welcome to Ponyville party will be put on later.

I enjoyed listening to her talk, she is an eternal optimist, but still very odd in some ways. But she is loved so very much and so can be forgiven any eccentric behaviors.

Rarity and Fluttershy have still not appeared, Rainbow informing me Fluttershy is not much for parties unless dragged. Rarity has a large order due, so it is just us five.

Applejack nudges my shoulder, “Why aren’t ya drinking up there, that’s the best ol’ Sweet Apple Acres makes!”

“Applejack, I am not sure I should be drinking this, it is quite alcoholic in content.”

“Well of course it is! That’s what we call,” Here she sits with pride, “The Good Stuff. We sell it all around after cider season.”

“I have never had anything like this. It might not be good for me.”

“Yer a real pony there handsome, c’mon now, drink it up we’ll get you another!”

“I really don’t think...”

Rainbow Dash cuts in with a smirk on her face, “What are you, some lightweight? Big bad tough pony when you shoot at me, but drinking cider? What a buncha ponyfeathers!”

“That’s not quite the same Rainbow Dash.”

“Yeah it is! My backside hurt for weeks ya cheating pony! Now it’s my turn!” She takes a very large drink from her mug, finishing it off with a happy sigh, her eyes go unfocused for a moment. “Ohhhhh yeah, that hits the spot.” She points at me with a hoof, “C’mon, gonna let some mare outdo ya?”

“I don’t feel the need to prove any...”

“Ponyfeathers!”

“Rainbow Dash it’s not quite polite..”

“Ponyfeathers, I tell you!” She grabs another mug from a passing pony carrying a tray, taking another large drink. She is visibly swaying side to side.

“I got two on you already, gonna let it be a third?” She finishes her second mug, grabbing at, and missing a couple of times, a third mug off a passing tray.

I take a small drink from my mug, giving her a deadpan look, “Is that enough?”

“Psssssht! You drink like a filly!”

My thoughts are becoming a bit fuzzy even at half a mug, this is powerful drink.

Rainbow Dash waves a hoof around a bit lazily, her voice is still strong though, leaning in and pointing the other at me, “You’re a feather, nothing but. Honor of the Regiment, pshaw! I bet yer regiment would be upset ya can’t drink a mare under the table!”

Applejack sees something in my face as the Regiment gets mentioned, Rainbow Dash apparently pays more attention than I thought.

“Sugar, she’s just a bit tipsy, don’t pay her no nevermind. She’s always been a bit competitive.”

I drink the rest of my mug, slamming it on the table, “You did not just say that, Rainbow Dash.”

“Ohhhh, yes I did!” Her eyes narrow as she smirks at me. That does it.

I grab another mug off a passing tray, downing it quickly, a bit too quickly if my reaction is anything to be judging it by. A third passes my lips as I give her a sneer, “One up Rainbow..”

Her third mug gets downed, she motions for more as a tray is brought, set on the table, it contains multiple mugs. It now comes down to Rainbow Dash and myself, I will not let this slight to the Regiment go unanswered.

I see her cerise eyes light up, “Oh ho! Something bothering ya there, Crusader?”

“Not a bit Rainbow,” A fourth mug goes down, now the alcohol is affecting my judgment, it’s getting a bit muzzy. “But then again, I’m not a hard napping wastrel who spends her days with her head in the clouds.”

Her eyes pop open, “I’m not a waste..was..the hay was that? I’m not that! Clouds are what I do anyways!”

“It shows.”

Her eyes narrow as our heads meet in the middle of the table, “Oh it is SO on.”

She grabs another mug, drinking it quickly as I see it hit her like a bomb, going a bit cross-eyed, “I got five, keepin’ up there?” She smirks at me, her eyebrows wriggling.

I pull at my new drink, the cider is wonderful and cold, refreshing and seriously not good for me. “I’m amazed you can count that high.” My fifth empty mug hits the table with a bang.

Applejack snerks, holding a hoof in front of her muzzle as Twilight’s eyes get very big, her nose wrinkling as she holds in a laugh.

Rainbow Dash points a wavering hoof at the two, “Don’t you be laughing, this is serious business!” She grabs a sixth mug, gulping at it like she had just come in from a desert trek, her lips smacking as she hits the table with the bottom. “How’s that lightweight?”

My brain feels very funny, like it is stuffed with cotton. But still, I cannot let this slight go un-avenged. I grab another mug, drinking it quickly as I point a hoof at Rainbow Dash. “You are but a poor player, who struts and frets your hour on the stage, then is heard no more!” I raise another full mug, standing on unsteady hooves as I quote my beloved Bard, “It is a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing!” Odd I can remember Shakespeare.

Rainbow Dash raises an eyebrow and glares, “The hay does that even mean?”

“You’re a dolt.”

“I am not!”

I drink my seventh mug, looking at her with narrowed eyes as she glares across the table at me, I stick my tongue out at her, “Phbbbbbbt!”

That tears it, Applejack can no longer contain herself and starts laughing. Twilight is trying so very hard to hold it in, tears form in her eyes as she snickers, then guffaws while slapping the table.

She pulls at another mug of cider, matching my seventh, wiping her lips she stares daggers at me, “That was so foalish!”

I start on my eighth mug, downing a good half when I stop, a foam mustache on my lips, I give her a snobbish stare straight from the upper crust, “You would know.”

Twilight is laughing so hard she cannot breathe, Applejack is somewhere on the floor, grabbing her stomach and complaining it hurts to laugh.

I finish my eighth and go for a ninth, Rainbow grabbing the same, we both drink and look across the table, Rainbow starts.

“Ground pounder!”

“Wing nut!”

We both grab for a tenth mug, downing it quickly, she’s growling at me across the table, I’m giving it back.

After that, my head was spinning as my Commander decided to call a break, taking me out into the dance floor. She was so very warm, it was simple and heady as we spun around to the music, holding each other close. I was not so drunk I could not feel her every move, her chest against mine as we stood cheek to cheek.

I could see Pinkie off to the side, nudging Twilight and pointing at us; Twilight nodding, saying something in return.

Of all the things Discord had given me, I was a real pony, I could read her body language like a book. It told me things I couldn’t see with my eyes, how she wanted to know what I was thinking at that moment. That she cared for me, she truly did. She wanted that back and more.

Every touch, every breath, the way she held herself, told me volumes.

I was scared, for the first time in my life, I was frightened to the core. My mind was telling me to accept, to tell her that I was the one she wanted, the knight in shining armor to rescue her heart from any loneliness. To put it in a safe place forever. I inhaled her, she was delight itself, her scent earthy and warm, giving her a glow that nopony could mistake.

It built in my brain like a dam about to burst, the fight internally was fearsome. I couldn’t give to her what she wanted, I wasn’t what she needed, I would only break her heart being what I was.

Was.

What I was.

I was not that thing anymore. I was here, with my Commander, she in my embrace, leaning against me and asking me to hold her against the storm. I never knew she felt that way, ever, she never said a word. She had helped me through so many troubles without a thought, I remember Discord saying, “Everypony knows but you.”

Could it be true? Did she know?

I leaned back, her eyes meeting mine. The question was right there, the fear along with it. Would I reject her?

That dam let go, the emotions pouring forth in a rush, I looked at her as I heard her voice, soft and gentle.

“Do ya really? It’s not the cider talking?”

“With all my heart. It is me talking.”

“Ah don’t want to get hurt..”

“I would never hurt you.”

I saw the relief in her eyes, the green becoming a bit blurry by tears. I wiped them as gently as I could. I nodded, reaffirming what I just said.

“But I don’t..I mean.. it’s so stupid, falling for a pony who’s not a real pony.”

“Why?”

“Why? Cause you weren’t real, I mean you were tryin’, and it was kinda funny sometimes. But you were tryin’ so hard.” She wipes her face and continues, “Big Mac told me I was being foolish, you were just a voice. But you played pretty music for me, and read poetry, and I couldn’t help it. It jes’ happened and I wanted it to happen, it made me happy.”

I nodded, holding her tighter, excluding everypony around us, it was just her and I.

“I guess I must look a sight, sayin’ all this.”

“No, no you are not.”

“But you were always nice, gentle and kind when I was having problems. I remember us talkin’ late at night, it made me feel so much better sometimes.” She cracks a brilliant smile, “I bucked apples like noponies’ business some days, thinkin’ of when I’d get to talk to you again.”

“I always looked forward to talking with you Applejack. When you visited me, it was always a good day.”

“I...I just don’t want to be hurt. I don’t know what’ll happen after tonight, but I don’t want my heart hurt.”

“I would die for you.”

“What? Now don’t go sayin’...”

“No. I mean every word of it.” I brace myself, and with Discord’s words ringing in my ears; I tell her as loud as I can so she can hear me, everything that had been bottled up inside, “There is nopony on this planet that would ever stop me from being with you. Everything I am or have is yours forever, you do not even have to ask, I give it freely and with gladness in my heart. Every last bullet and bit of energy I would sacrifice to make sure you are content and happy. I would storm the gates of heaven, to fight death itself to bring you back to my embrace. I do not know what the future will bring, I don’t care. As long as I am with you I will be happy forever. I love you so much Applejack Apple, it hurts.”

She was very silent for a moment, I was afraid I had said too much, “Do you really mean that?”

“Every single word.”

Her smile lit up my heart, I could feel it in my chest, beating so fast now as she touches my cheek. It was so very quiet, I could hear her breathing softly.

It was too quiet.

We both look around for a moment, noticing only now that the music had stopped. Every eye in the place was on us, out on the dance floor alone. We seemed to be the only couple in the cleared area. It seems we’ve been overheard, all of it, by everypony.

A mare hit a stallion next to her “Why don’t you ever say those things to me?”

I see Pinkie bouncing in place, “Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh!”

Applejack coughs a bit, clearing her throat, “Well now folks, I don’t think..uh..”

We stand in the cleared area, looking abashed as we both try and figure out a graceful way to exit.

The roof shook as the stamping and yells rang out over the town.

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

It was late at the castle, I had been given a room for the night until we could figure out what was happening. I was looking out the window towards the hill, seeing the masts far in the distance and wondering what was going on. The sense of urgency still nagged at me, tapping at a locked door to be let out, but I had no key.

Rainbow Dash and I concluded a draw on the contest, she had to be hauled into the castle as well, I was none too steady. From what I understood, I would have quite the hangover.

But now, I could only stare out the window and hope nothing bad was going to happen, it was all I could do.

A pair of soft legs wrap around my neck from behind, the smell of freshly bathed mare surrounds me, a nuzzle at my cheek. I turn my head, grasping her hooves with mine and nuzzle back. I close my eyes and let myself be enveloped.

“You know you got yer self into quite a mess here.”

“How have I done that?”

“Roping yourself an Apple mare is pretty darn tough, some folks say.”

“I think you roped me, Applejack.”

“Well, let’s say it was mutual then.”

“I agree.”

I turn to look out the window again, I cannot help it. A gentle hoof turns me away from it, I look into those emerald eyes I so love.

“Stop, just for the night, you need rest.”

“I will, if only for you.” She blushes prettily in the moonlight, “Let me walk you to your room.”

She turns, pulling down the coverlet on the bed, the thick quilt right after, “I am in my room.” She jumps on the mattress, slipping under the covers holding her hooves out for me, “I said ya roped yourself an Apple mare, don’t want ya straying now.”

I strike a mock shocked pose, “I would never!”

“Oh shaddup ya dolt, get under the covers, it’s cold tonight.”

“As you wish my Applejack.” I slide under the quilt, as she gathers into me, resting her head against my neck, and I hers. The warmth is soothing, I am content in a way I have never thought possible.

I hear her whisper as we both drift to sleep, “Don’t ever stop saying that.”

“Yes, my Applejack.”

Just One Day. Instant Replay.

Author's Notes:

Because I'm a sucker for romance, I regret nothing. NOTHING!
Quotes from Merry Wives of Windsor; The Tempest; Romeo and Juliet

As always, a big heartfelt thank you to you readers, the ones commenting and enjoying the story. Pointing out the little foibles that make me a better writer. It's for you to enjoy, please do so.

Tip of the hat to Cornebre, astute catch. You know what I mean

I drift, in a timeless infinite, no form or shape. It’s not a tranquil peace, as we Bolos never dreamt. We existed, then did not. Ours was one of constant watchfulness, of being sentinel, or standing before our enemies never blinking.

It is gray, nothing to catch the eye, or trigger recognition. I drift.

A shape appears out of the mists, walking towards me. Dark, forbidding, but as yet, peaceful and calm. It does not overwhelm the senses, only soothes, serenity surrounds it like an aura.

“I greet you defender of Equestria.”

Princess Luna steps from the void, looking around as she concentrates, her horn lighting, bring a misty expanse into focus with a setting. The party from that night. I can see the various ponies, myself and Rainbow Dash facing off over the table.

“I see that you have engaged in a contest, well done defender.”

I have myself now, I look down seeing my hooves, feeling a body take shape.

“Your Highness, thank you.” I bow, as is only proper.

“None of that, it is but a dream here, we all are equal.”

“Yes Your Majesty.”

“My sister has received a letter late this night, concerning you and Discord. I thought I would walk the ether and see if I could help.”

“Thank you Your Highness. I am having trouble remembering things I need to know.”

“I know, but Discord has locked them away behind barriers we cannot yet breach. My sister has had no luck contacting him. It appears he is avoiding our calls.”

“I truly wish this weren’t happening Your Highness. Something is telling me it is urgent I remember, but I cannot.”

“Would you truly wish this were not?” She shows me a scene, myself and Applejack, standing close talking in the middle of the dance floor. “I think otherwise.” She smiles, warm and kind.

“You’re right Your Highness, not that. But there is the urgency I feel, it cannot be denied.”

“Of course. We are working on it, hopefully when you sleep next, we will have a way for you to remember.” She looked at me with another warm smile, tilting her head to the side a bit, “When I ordered you to live Crusader, I had not even thought you would take to life like water to a thirsty pony, grasping the things we all take for granted and holding tight to them as if they were the most precious thing.”

“They are Your Highness. They are more precious than anypony realizes. I have never had this chance, and I will take it and hold to it.”

She changes the scene, showing myself and Applejack, my declaration to her. I blush a bit, looking down and rubbing my forelegs against one another.

“Why so shy? In ages past a declaration of that sort would be looked upon as knightly, noble and courageous.”

“Because I was scared out of my wits Your Highness.”

She laughs, a warm sound of bells through the quiet landscape, “You? Who fought an army of ravenous things? You who saved two fillies from an unimaginable fate? You? Scared? I find that very hard to believe Crusader.”

“How did you...”

“In dreams there is only truth defender, I see it all. The ‘shining pony’ story even made it to our ears, and now I know why it started.” She leans forward, smiling, “Do not worry, confidence is kept in all things.”

I nod, still looking down, “Yes I was scared Your Highness, scared she would laugh, or turn me away. Or even feel disgust. I was not sure.”

She nods regally, “Of course, we all have those fears. But she is good, kindhearted and strong.”

“How well I know Your Highness.”

“You would keep her well? Treat her as she should be?” I see her face, solemn and questioning.

I look at the scene, seeing myself telling her how much I cared, “Doubt thou the stars are fire, Doubt that the sun doth move, Doubt truth to be a liar, But never doubt I love.” I whisper the line from the Bard, telling her again how much I do love her, for always. “I will Your Highness, I shall make sure she never wants, nor needs, nor suffers.”

“Your word is good with us Crusader. You have done such things to change this place we call home, but all for the good. Defending Our Ponies, doing what is right as best you know how. Yes we saw the tricks Discord played on your semblance, even then you tried. ‘Twas well and truly done.”

She leans in beside me, whispering with a bit of mirth, “I am sure that the young mare Roseluck shall forgive you for not returning on her offer of a date. Shame on you Crusader, toying with a mare’s heartstrings!”

I smile at her, truly feeling the humor, “I promise to do better Your Highness.”

“See that you do, we would not want our loyal ponies to suffer so.” She raises her nose with an imperial huff, then laughs again. “Rest well, I shall see you very soon Crusader.”

“Thank you Your Highness.”

I see her walk jauntily off into the dreamscape, the scene fading into peaceful rolling hills and sunny day. I lean back and look at the blue skies, resting myself for the day to come.

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

The dawning sun awakens me to a blinding headache, it appears I am the first Bolo to ever suffer a hangover, it should be in the records. I watch my beloved as she sleeps, nestled against me in the bed we were given, a first night alone. Would that I could hold her for always like this, time standing still. I brush away a lock of blonde mane, letting me see the smile that graces her face. Her eyes open to look into mine.

“What are you looking at?” Always with the smile, the merry eyes.

“At a vision my heart can barely contain. You are lovely my Applejack.”

“You sound like those silver tongued sweet-talking stallions that can’t wait to get you alone somewheres.” She pushes against my chest playfully.

“Well then, should I say a ‘Smoking hot mare in my bed then?” I tap a hoof against my chin, “Or wait, how about, ‘The hottest flanks in Equestria and I’ve got them lying beside me?’”

For my attempts at humor, I receive a glare that would bore a hole through durasteel.

“Where did you learn that?”

“I overheard a couple of stallions talking at the party.”

“You behave now!” I get reprimanded as I get a playful hit to the head. I should really learn to duck faster.

“I shall not!” I rub my head a bit, it added to the headache already there, “I shall shout from the rooftops my love for you! Announce it to the world, I will post banns, and send criers to the streets!” I moved in close, touching her nose with mine, “I would even hire Pinkie to tell everypony.”

“Too late on that one smart pony, she probably already has.”

“Then I am defeated Applejack, I am at your mercy.” I clutch my hooves to my chest and fall back into the fluffy mattress.

My head is turned by two very gentle hooves, I see the gold in her eyes reflected like stars against a green background of sky. “Don’t you start talking like them others, I love you for you.” I am drawn into my very first kiss, a warmth flooding through me as her lips press against mine. She nestles herself against me, I return the favor, holding her tight as I do not want this to end.

When the kiss ends, it is like the sunset, the warmth fading into the night as I stare at her, rubbing my hoof down her side, “I will not, I promise.”

We remain for the moment, forehead to forehead as we lay in the warm bed, the quilt thick and soft, “Should you be getting to work today?”

She shakes her head, “No, I told Big Mac I’d be busy, we’ve got extra hooves to work now with all the bits coming in to be split. Ah’m fine for a few days.”

“Then what shall we do my beloved?”

“I think we’re going to take the day off.”

My head starts turning to the window, to stare out at the sensor masts. I am stopped by a firm hoof to the cheek, her face slightly serious, “Stoppit. Just one day, that’s all. No matter what happens after this, we’ll have this day.”

“I worry though, I do not know what’s going on out there.”

“I know, but we can’t worry every second.”

“I understand, but..”

A hoof is put over my mouth, “Shush, no buts. Day off.”

I nod as the hoof keeps pressing my lips shut.

“Good, let’s go find some breakfast, cause we got nothing to do all day!”

I watch as she slides out from under the quilt, waiting for me. As we walk down the hall, she leans against me a bit, a happy smile on her face as we turn into the kitchen. The undeniable smell of something hits us, both our stomachs rumble as we look around, seeing a small purple dragon at the stove. I do not know what he was cooking, but it made my whole body want some. I wasn’t quite sure whether the apron or the chef’s hat looked very stylish, but not my place to say.

“Howdy Spike. Wouldn’t happen to have any extra pancakes made wouldja?”

“As a matter of fact I do.” His voice seems just a bit too serious, “But the price shall be, introducing me to your friend!” A grin splits his face as he piles pancakes on plates.

“Please introduce me Applejack, those look very good.”

Applejack laughs, bumping me with a shoulder, “Spike, meet Crusader, mah coltfriend.” She gestures from me to the scaly person, “Crusader, meet Spike, number one assistant and all around pony of trades.”

He looks a bit embarassed as Applejack introduces him “Oh no way! You Applejack?; And..uh..I’m not really a pony of all trades.”

She leans against me, nodding her head, “Yeah me Spike. Don’t ask for the whole story, it’s just a mess really.”

We are served two plates heaped with pancakes, there is syrup on the side, I actually find myself drooling.

“I think Applejack has it right Spike, from the looks you are quite the cook.”

“Aw, well, I try. Twilight likes what I cook.”

“Well Spike, “Applejack returned through a mouthful of pancake, “She’s so busy sometimes she don’t pay a whole lot of attention. So we’ll compliment ya!”

“I know, but that’s alright, at least she gets fed.”

“When she remembers!” The orange earth pony laughed, nudging me, “I remember this one time..”

I am regaled with stories of Twilight’s past, it appears she seems to forget to eat quite a bit. Always busy with a list, or a book, or some other obscure things, it’s up to her friends and Spike to make sure she gets something. It is amusing, seeing another side of the interested scientist I always saw. I laugh along with them.

Spike waves a taloned hand, “Oh, you know what? Let me tell you about the Power Ponies! We got sucked into this comic book..”

“Wait.” I am confused, into a comic book? “You’re telling me you got pulled into a book with pictures on the page? Really?”

“Yeah! It was a magical one, didn’t know at the time,” Here he looks a bit sheepish, “But it came out okay!”

“So, did you go on an adventure?”

“Oh we sure did!” He leans on the counter, “See, Mane-iac was going to take over Maretropolis with a new weapon, and the Power Ponies had to stop her!”

“Really?” I find myself repeating that alot.

Hands are waved, the spatula used as a pointer as he tells me the story.

“Oh yeah! See they all became the Power Ponies, and had to stop Mane-iac so we could get back out. It was great! I sure learned even I can contribute to help sometimes!”

“They became the Power Ponies?”

He starts ticking off fingers, “Yeah! Twilight was The Masked Matter-Horn! She can fire energy bolts from her horn and stuff! Pinkie was Filli-Second, fastest pony around, Rainbow Dash was Zapp, she can control the weather!”

I see from the corner of my eye, Applejack making motions and shaking her head.

I lean forward, “Interesting, tell me more.” I listen as I stuff my mouth with pancakes.

“Oh heck, it was awesome! Fluttershy was Saddle Rager, she gets angry and turns into this huge pony. Hard to get her angry though.”

“Rarity, well,” Here he gets a dreamy look in his eyes, “She was Radiance, can make things with her mind, she was seriously awesome looking! Uh..you know, awesome powers and all.”

“I understand Spike,” I give him a reassuring smile, “Please, go on.” I am watching Applejack trying to chew her food fast enough to say something.

“Applejack was really cool! Mistress Mare-velous!”

“Mistress Mare-velous?”

“Yeah! She can control a lasso psychically! She has Hoofarangs to capture the bad ponies! She’s got an awesome outfit, they all did, it was so cool wearing those costumes!”

Applejack chokes a bit, spitting pancakes on the counter as she coughs out, “SPIKE!”

“What Applejack? It was cool!”

“Ya didn’t have to tell him all that stuff!”

“But it was a great time! We all had fun fighting the bad ponies!”

I lean my elbow on the counter, placing my cheek on a hoof, “I’m sure Mistress Mare-velous was right in the thick of it.”

“Oh she was! But it took time to learn about the powers, she kinda tied herself up in her lasso at first, was really funny!” The little dragon is bouncing on the counter, acting out the scenes.

“SPIKE!”

“It’s okay! You learned how to use it! We got back out alright!”

“That’s not the point!”

He waves a hand at Applejack, smiling as he puts more pancakes on our plates, we both dig in heartily.

“Aww don’t worry, I mean it turned out fine. Yeesh you sound like Twilight.”

“Okay Spike sorry, didn’t mean to hit ya over the head.”

I lean over, and whisper into Applejack’s ear, “I find it intriguing, that they used Mistress, instead of Miss. That has a connotation that really should not be in a children’s comic book I think. Maybe my Commander has hidden depths that have not been mentioned to me?”

I see her face go beet red, her ears go straight up as my words connect to the brain. Applejack’s eyes get very wide as she spits pancakes all over the counter, sputtering and pointing a hoof at me as she tries to get the words out. I fall off the chair, laughing so hard I cannot breathe. I will pay dearly for this, but I will always remember the shocked look. Spike on the other hoof...

“Applejack! Geez if you don’t like the pancakes just say so! Stop spitting ‘em everywhere!”

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

“Ow!....Really Applejack..Ow!Ow!.. Please stop....Ow! Would you please...OW! I am not made of dura....OW! You are causing bruis..OW! Will you please..OW! Stop!”

“I ain’t gonna! I can’t believe you said that!” She punches me in the shoulder again as we walk down the street to the market. “Makin’ me spit food all over, embarrassing me to no end, I oughta..” She whacks me on the shoulder again.

“You already are..” I rub my bruised shoulder now, limping slightly as we continue walking, getting curious looks from passerby. I get whacked again. “Ow..”

“Here I am thinking you’re jes’ funnin’ with me about that adventure, then ya have to go and say THAT?”

“Spike did not hear it.”

“That don’t make it any better!”

“Well didn’t YOU wonder about it?” That rock hard hoof thwacks me again. “Ow..”

“No I didn’t! We were caught up in what was going on. Yeah I figured it out later, but never said anything, so I figured it was jes’ me. But then you....!” Whack...

“Will you please at least change shoulders?”

I did not think she’d take the offer, but she quickly switches sides and hits the unused joint.

“There! Happy now?”

“Yes, thank...Ow!”

“Quit being a sissy, you can take it.”

“Quit hitting me and I ..Ow! Will!”

“Now I’m not gonna be able to use mah lasso or go to a rodeo without that thought comin’ to mind, going to throw me right off ya dunderhead!”

“You’ll be fine, I’m amazed no one else..Ow!...caught it.”

“Well they don’t think on things too much sometimes, but Rarity gave me a few odd looks for weeks afterwards.”

“I’m sure she did, she’s much more sophisticated than she shows beneath the drama.”

Finally the thumping on my shoulder stops, I get to walk unencumbered by a rock pounding the muscle into mush.

“She is ain’t she? Ya know, we ought to stop by, I’m sure missing the party kinda caught up with her, she likes all that lovey-dovey stuff.”

“If I remember right you did as..” I am stopped by an upraised hoof, “Nevermind.”

Applejack bumps my shoulder with hers as we take a turn to Rarity’s. “I think ya learned yer lesson.”

“Yes. Make sure I tease you with more witnesses so I can make a run for it.”

“You little...!”

I wink at her and take off at a dead run, I almost made the door, I was THAT close. Before I got thumped in the side by the muscular earth pony. “Ooof!”

I rub my ribs where I receive the hit as she laughs.

“Nice try there sugar. We’ll get ya up to speed yet.”

“I almost made it, I was close.”

“You were and ya almost did, but it don’t count except in horsehoes.” She hits the door latch, opening the door to the tinkling of a bell as we walk in.

A voice from the back singing out, “Oh my way! Just a second!”

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

We share tea with Rarity, who is the epitome’ of grace and culture, as she sees it in rustic Ponyville. I admit, she has an elegance and style, a sort of savoir faire that does put one in mind of the upper crust.

She is generous to a fault. She is kind, courteous and lovely to look at, she is all the things she declares herself to be and more. But she does love her drama, and the little things that would go good in a romance novel. She sets out a table and a tea set, being a gracious host.

“I absolutely cannot believe I missed that! Hmph!” She tilts her head to the side, “A declaration like that is something every mare yearns for!”

Applejack grins at her friends exposition, “I dunno Rarity, maybe for folks like you.”

“Nonsense! Don’t you sit there Applejack Apple and tell me that didn’t mean anything to you!” She gets a look of expectation on her face over the tea cup, “Well?”

“Well, it sure was nice...”

“Nice? That’s all?” She stands up, throwing a hoof out in front of her, “A handsome and brave stallion declares his undying love for you, and all you can say is nice?”

“I’m not sure I’m exactly brave Rarity..”

“Oh stop that. Taking on those nasty Everfree monsters, saving ponies! Oh somepony should write about this, a love for the ages!”

She sets back down at the table, sharing out more tea, “Pinkie told me the whole story, oh it sounded so beautiful! I wish I could have been there...” She gets a look on her face.. “Show me how it happened? Oh please replay the scene for me!”

“Now Rarity, c’mon, that’s just silly.”

“I promise I shan’t tell a soul! Oh just once?” Her eyes get very large as she looks at myself and Applejack, “Oh just one showing of what I missed? I absolutely promise I shall never tell anypony!”

“It’s not a play Rarity, we jes’ can’t spout lines like that!”

“Applejack is right, it was spur of the moment.”

She rushes around, turning the sign to closed on the door, moving the displays away from the center of the floor with her magic; Placing herself on a small settee on the side she expectantly looks at us. “Just this once? Pleeeeease?”

“Rarity this is plain silly. It won’t be like that time.” She looks at me with a bit of a blush, saying in a low voice, “That time was special.”

I lean against her, giving the orange neck a nuzzle and kiss, “I will do anything you want my Applejack.”

We both hear the sigh coming from the figure on the settee.

I see the giving in, it’s her friend and she’d do anything for her, including something like this. “All right Rarity, but you better not tell anypony!”

“I won’t! Oh this is wonderful, do we need music?”

I nod, “It might be better that way, yes.” I am looking at Applejack, the stubbornness giving away to something a bit softer. She cares so very much for her friends.

We listen as she sets up some music, a classical piece. Almost a waltz, but slow enough we don’t have to move very much.

I move to the center of the room, extending a hoof, “May I have this dance miss?”

Applejack blushes, I can see the redness rising in her cheeks as she smiles at me. “You charmer, doncha think this gets ya off the hook.”

“I know my Applejack, I know.”

Her eyes brighten at the words she loves to hear, accepting my offer as we both stand on hind legs, chest to chest, she is soft and warm in my embrace. I remember that night as clear as a summer day. The music flows through both of us as we stare into each others eyes.

“I don’t remember the exact words Applejack.”

“Ah don’t either, I’m sure we can come up with something ta please Rarity.”

“Do we have to?”

“She’s mah best friend, it’s not gonna hurt. But I swear you are not gonna say a word.”

“Yes my Commander.” I get another hit on the shoulder for that.

We move slowly with the music, ignoring the longing sighs from the side as we lose ourselves in each other. It isn’t the same moment, but as close as we could come. The feelings are there, undeniable, the same emotions are welling up inside both of us.

I look deep into her eyes, feeling what I felt that first night. Still, it is odd how I can remember Shakespeare.

“Hear my soul speak, the very instant my heart saw you, did it fly to your service.”

Apparently it translates very well into Equestrian as I can tell by the sighs coming from Rarity, but I lose all thoughts of exhibition, my eyes only on my love.

“Have I caught thee, my heavenly jewel? Why now, let me die, for I truly have lived long enough.” I see her blush, she gets the meaning, she is not so uneducated as ponies think, and that is only one of her strengths.

I figure the hay with it, if I am going to play the part, I shall do so with the most aplomb I can conjure up. I set down upon the floor, lifting a leg up to Applejack, assuming the best pose I can for quoting my Bard. Looking up at the embarrassed Earth pony as she stands in front of me, trying to get me to stand back up.

“What made me love thee? Let that persuade thee that there is something extraordinary in thee; I cannot: But I love thee, None but thee, and thou deservest it so.”

“I love you Applejack Apple, more than words or actions could ever say. I do not know what will come but I will be by your side each and every step.” She looks at me with surprise, leaning one hoof upon my shoulder.

“My bounty is as boundless as the sea; My love as deep, the more I give to thee; The more I have for both are infinite.” I take her hoof in mine, kissing it softly, “I said it before and I say it now, all I am is yours. I will walk the path of ages with you as long as you want me.” I hold her hoof tight, “You will always be my special somepony. If you ever decide I am not enough, I will walk away and never touch another for none could compare.”

Good Celestia have I gotten sappy being a pony.

“Ah think..” She clears her throat, her eyes are actually welling with tears, “I think that was a bit more than ya said that night.”

“You deserve it, every chance I get.”

“Stoppit, yer downright embarrassing sometimes.”

“Just proclaiming my love for you my Applejack.”

Applejack wipes her eyes, trying to glare down at me, “Dangit Crusader, you always.. I can’t.. darnit..”

She grabs me and we kiss once more, a feeling I never want to end. I want it to stay with me no matter what I do or where I go. Rarity is sighing quite loudly now, I’m sure it is enough when we hear more sighs, quite a few more sighs.

I look at Applejack as I see her eyes slide to the side, mine joining hers.

There is a huge crowd of mares standing there silently in the shop, how they got in here I don’t...

“Omygoshohmygoshohmygosh! I told you Rarity! I told you! Isn’t that justthecutestthingyoueversaw?” She is bouncing happily by the crowd, her mane poofing out to enormous dimensions.

Pinkie..

Rarity is dabbing at her eyes with a lace cloth, her chest heaving in dramatic fashion, one hoof over her heart, “Oh Celestia that was SO very sweet. I think the stallions’ in town could learn a thing or two from such love, such..such...feeling! Oh my goodness I have just tons of new ideas, the Love Collection! Poetry in Fashion!” Her eyes light up as she moves through the crowd, “Oh stars I think this will be the best yet!” She waves to us over the heads of smiling mares, “Oh my yes, and you MUST come back to plan the wedding, oh this will be absolutely stunning!”

Pinkie is actually bouncing higher than before, “Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh! A wedding! Ohmygosh! So much to plan!” She zips out of the room, the crowd following behind her.

I look at the light grey mare with a dropped jaw as Applejack eyes me with surprise. “Now wait a second Rarity, we didn’t say anything..”

Applejack interrupts, “Now don’t you go thinking...!”

“Oh please darlings, if that wasn’t the most heartfelt marriage proposal I have ever seen I don’t know what is!”

“It was just POETRY!” I am taken aback, “It wasn’t a proposal! It was just some poetry!”

I get one eye looking at me from Rarity’s face, “So you’re saying you don’t want to marry our lovely Applejack?”

“Hold it Rares, doncha go putting words into anypony’s mouths now.”

“We...” I stutter a bit, stammering a reply, “We just... I mean we just started dating! How can you possibly...?”

“Oh stop, “A hoof gets flipped at us, “It’s so obvious, just let me know when you need the designs done!” With that she whisks off to her new fashion ideas inspired by us as she yells back. “Oh this new line will be just what everypony will need!”

Applejack looks at me for a second, her mouth moves as I blink back, “Oh stars Applejack, we’ve got to stop Pinkie.”

She grabs my hoof and takes off out the door, letting it slam behind us as we head towards the Corner, hoping we get there in time to stop the party pony from informing everypony erroneously. I keep up with her as she turns out into the street, skidding around the corners as we tear down the road to Pinkie’s workplace. Our breath is coming heavy as we turn the final corner, leaning into it like racers going for the goal. Sugarcube Corner is in sight.

We’re too late...

There is a huge crowd in front of the store, a banner saying ‘Congratulations Applejack and Crusader’ now hangs from the eaves. Punch and other things are flowing freely. How in the name of whatever did she even DO this so fast? We slam to a tumbled stop in the back of the crowd, ponies turning and seeing us as they point, the whole crowd cheers for us.

Rainbow Dash comes roaring out of the sky, mugging her friend in a tumble of wings and legs. “Ohmygosh! I’m so happy for you Applejack! This is great! Can I be your best pony? Can I?”

“Get off me ya featherbrain, we’re not getting married!”

“But Pinkie said....!”

Twilight comes out of the crowd, followed by ..of all ponies.. Fluttershy, both have big grins on their faces. “You never told us you’d be proposing Crusader! Pinkie wants us to help plan it!

“But..but I didn’t, it was just poetry..” I can’t even talk for some reason, being so embarrassed.

Twilight laughs, a pretty sound, “Sometimes that’s all it takes!”

Applejack looks at me as we both turned to the crowd, “WE’RE NOT GETTING MARRIED!”

Everything goes dead quiet, a lot of curious looks are shot at us as Rainbow, Twilight and Fluttershy look slightly surprised, almost as if we denied the sun rose.

“Honestly Twi, we didn’t say that! Rarity wanted us to show her what happened at the dance that night, and..well..”

Here I pick up, “We re-enacted the..the.. When I declared my love to her. We didn’t know Pinkie would haul in a crowd!”

Pinkie chooses that moment to pop up, “There you are! Yay for weddings! Oh thisisgonnabesogreat!”

“Pinkie, we’re not getting married.” Applejack gives her a firm look.

“But it was SO nice, he was down on one knee and holding her hoof and everything!” She imitates the scene, looking up at Twilight, “Oh it was soooooo cute!”

“Pinkie, I swear, I was just saying poetry, just trying to re-enact it for Rarity because she wanted to see what happened. I uh...kinda got carried away.”

“No wedding?”

“Sorry Pinkie.”

She turns around to everypony in the crowd, “Alright ponies! Cancelled Wedding Party is ON!” The crowd cheers and keeps having a good time.

Nothing stops Pinkie Pie, nothing.

Twilight and Fluttershy gives us both hugs, “When we heard we rushed down here to say congrats. But..”

“Oh don’t be so down Twi, it’s fine, I mean it’s only been a couple days fer stars sake.”

“I know, I know, Fluttershy and I just wanted to help plan things. I mean when Pinkie told us, she’d already got the party set up and half the plans done, like she had them stashed somewhere..”

“...That ain’t no big surprise...”

“Oh anyways, it was nice to think about it for a few.” She peers closely at both of us, “Are you sure....?”

We both blink at her, “No Twilight.”

“I could draw up the lists anyways! Fluttershy and I could plan the guest list, oh everypony will want to come!”

Applejack lays a hoof on her friends shoulder, “Twi, stoppit.”

“Sorry, caught up in the moment.”

Fluttershy chimes in, “We’re glad you’re happy though!”

I smile back at the golden mare, always so kind, “Thank you Fluttershy, guess it took a bit of pushing....and alot of cider.” I rub the back of my neck slowly as they all laugh.

Applejack bumps my shoulder, “Shush you, just gettin’ in trouble.”

Rainbow Dash pipes up, “Waaaaait a second, we never finished that contest!”

She gets blasted by our friends, “NO!”

“Okay, yeesh, just saying..”

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

I have to admit, the wedding cake really looked good. I don’t know if she keeps them on hand, or does something that violates all I know of time and space. But it was really nice. It was turned into the Canceled Wedding cake quickly though, so was enjoyed by everypony.

For a day off, I do have to ask Applejack sometime if things happen at such a pace around here, no one ever gets to relax.

We enjoy a few hours with friends, explaining it was all a misunderstanding about the proposal and such. Rarity of course showed up later, saying again how it was the ‘Most romantic thing she’d seen in a while’. This did not help things at all. From what Applejack and I understand, our little show at the party has set a new standard that mares want from their coltfriends or marefriends, which is not engendering goodwill towards us at all in some circles. But such is life, and if things change for the better, so be it. Nothing wrong with Shakespeare at all.

Nothing wrong with showing you love somepony either.

But we end up back at Twilight’s, it is evening, the moon is shining so bright again tonight. I think I am starting to believe that the Princesses raise the moon and sun, for it is a beautiful sky, so full of wonder.

We have something to eat, making small talk before retiring, our friends still at the party as we slip under the covers. The quilt is so very warm, reminding me of a duty I must do. I excuse myself from Applejack’s arms, giving her a kiss and promising I’ll be back.

I sit out here by the castle wall, looking up into the velvet dark. I see you my brothers and sisters, and want to tell you of what I have found. The love of a good pony. Somepony who cares as deeply for me as I do her. I wish I could let you meet her, know her like I do. She truly is so very special.

I am living a life many of us wished to have and never did. We were proud, unstoppable, and always victorious. The Regiment and the Brigade were our lives my brothers and sisters, we fought and died with honor. So many of us gave of our selves in the vicious frenzy of war, so that others may live, true to the traditions of the Dinochrome.

My promise is kept, defending the good and innocent, and I shall always keep it. I stand beneath our colors, carrying our birthright into the future. Know that I shall pass on our stories to those who will listen, your names and deeds will resound throughout Equestrian History.

You are never forgotten my brothers and sisters, I am here, and I am content.

Goodnight my brethren, wherever you are.

I turn to go back into the castle, where Applejack waits. As I do so, something hard and heavy smashes into the side of my head, and I know no more.

Little Things. We Just Want To Help.

Applejack awoke that morning, stretching out and wanting to cuddle with Crusader. She found the bed empty and didn’t think much of it, he was always wandering, looking at things.

I gotta admit, she thought to herself, he’s a silly pony sometimes, but he grows on ya. With that thought she felt her heart skip just a beat, wondering if this was what it was all about. Well hay, never thought I’d like someone so much anyways, it’s interestin’ I’ll give ya that.

She snuggled further into the pillows and comforter, smiling to herself and sleeping the morning away.

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

Twilight, in all her years of friendship with Applejack, had never seen her sleep in. Not once, and here she was still in bed, whiling away the hours snoozing happily. Shaking her head, she wandered back down the hallway, making sure she didn’t wake her friend from peeking in the door.

Setting herself at the kitchen table, she watched Spike making breakfast. Everything seemed to be okay nowadays, but that word Crusader had mentioned, Masada, did not reside in any books she could find. Even asking the Royal Canterlot Library came up empty. It was puzzling, nothing more she liked than puzzles.

The look on her face must have tipped Spike, he set the plate of waffles down and waited as she got that ‘I’m thinking really hard’ stare. He was always attentive, but watching Twilight in one of her weird trances was kinda creepy: he didn’t think anyone ever mentioned it to her before. He wasn’t going to be the first.

“Twilight?”

“Twilight?”

He reached over and poked her with the spatula, “Twilight?”

“Huh? Oh, Spike, sorry. What’s up?”

“Food. Eat. Now. Think later.” He gave it in the ‘cavepony’ monotone, ending it with a grunt.

“Huh? Oh! Well you could have just said so.” She dug in with a fork lifted by her magic, chewing slowly as she got lost in her own mind.

Spike sighed, rolling his eyes and poked her again, “Twilight, stop thinking and eat. What’s bothering you?”

“I can’t figure out what Masada means, I’ve looked everywhere and asked Canterlot Librarians, nopony knows, it’s bothersome.”

“When Crusader wakes up, just talk with him. He’s great to talk to, he listens really good. I’ve got to show him my comic collection one day, I’d think he’d love it!”

“Wakes up?” Twilight thought back to the scene she had just come from, “He wasn’t in the room with Applejack.”

“Huh..that’s odd. I saw him go outside last night before I went to bed, figured he’d come in.”

“No, and that’s not like him. He’d never leave Applejack alone like that.” Her brow furrowed a bit; finishing her waffle quickly, she thanked Spike, reminding him of chores before he could go over to Rarity’s again today. She walked briskly outside, looking around the castle to see if maybe he’d wandered around it. He’d said he’d been interested in how it was made.

Stepping off to one side she lifted a hoof, having stepped in something. Looking closer, she saw it was blood.

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

I hear the mumbling of voices, some deeper than others, it’s hard to concentrate. One eye cannot open, I feel the blood encrusted on my face. A few teeth seem to rattle in my head as I try to wake up, but keep slipping into blackness.

My ears can’t hear anything, it’s muffled, soft; like I am surrounded by cotton. Why was this happening? I have harmed nopony, I would gladly give anything if they needed it, why was this done to me? I feel a tingle in my head, something gripping, tightening, then nothing.

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

Applejack was roused by an insistent Twilight, “Applejack, wake up, please, wake up!”

Rubbing one eye she stared sleepily at the mulberry mare, “What’s goin’ on Twi?”

“I was outside, looking for Crusader, I found this.” She raised her hoof, covered in blood from where she’d stepped into a small puddle of it. Leaving tracks in the castle she’d made her way to Applejack soonest. Maybe, just maybe it was something else and Applejack knew where he was.

“What the hay?”

“Where’s Crusader?”

“I don’t know, he wasn’t here when I woke up a bit ago, ah just went back to sleep thinkin’ he’d be here soon.”

“Something’s wrong Applejack, really wrong.”

“I’d say!” She grabbed her hat and ripped off the covers, taking Twilight’s hoof and hurrying out the door, “We gotta find him, we have to Twi!” There was a note to her voice that Twilight had never heard before.

Twilight put her back hooves down, skidding them both to a stop, “Wait wait, what’s wrong with you?”

Applejack pulled on her again, but she was adamant, staying in place till she got an answer, “Applejack?”

She let go of Twilight with a sigh, looking at her friend, “Oh ah know, I’ve always been me, just kinda workin’ my days away. But ya know what, he kinda grew on me Twi, guess...guess I love him right back y’know?”

Twilight gave her friend a smile, “I think I understand.”.

“We’ll find him, I promise Applejack.” She hugged her friend tight, pulling her to the kitchen where Spike was waiting.

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

The voices almost get audible this time, I cannot understand what is being said. I try to clear my mind but something grabs hold, putting me back into the black. I’m weak, so weak, I can’t break my bonds or cry out. My body craves water and is so tired. My friends will find me. I have hope, I have determination, they won’t give up on me.

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

“SPIKE!”

“Geez Twilight, yelling at me already?”

“Sorry...sorry. I need a letter sent immediately to Celestia. Crusaders missing, there’s blood outside the castle. We have to find him.”

The little dragon’s eyes got wide, “Oh no..” He grabbed a quill and looked at Twilight expectantly.

She dictated a quick and dirty letter, seeing it go up in flame and waiting a few moments. Her leg around Applejack as they both sat there hoping they’d get a reply soonest. If not, they’d gather everypony they could and go looking.

Spike let out a belch, a scroll attached to the flame was caught in Twilight’s magic. She unrolled it, reading quickly.

Twilight,

Do whatever it is you have to, but we must find him. This is imperative for

all of us.

Celestia

“That tears it Twi, we gotta round em up and get everypony goin’!”

“I’ll hit Sugarcube Corner, you get out to Fluttershy, see if she can’t get her friends to help. I don’t know what happened but if Celestia says this, it’s important.”

Applejack tore out of the castle, heading for Fluttershy’s house, Twilight took to the sky, looking for Rainbow before finding Pinkie.

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

Voices arguing, good, keep themselves divided. I can’t break my bonds, I’m too weak. They give me just enough water to keep me alive, other than that, I am on my own. I listen with all I have, trying to find out who it is and why. I get nothing, they are too far away. I tilt my head one way, then another, but nothing is clear. I know you’re looking Applejack, you’ll find me.

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

Great philosophers and wise ponies, have often said, “It’s the little things.”

How true that was and still is, would be shown in Equestria.

So many little things, some not so simple, had touched many lives in the short time Crusader had been awake.

Earth Ponies were the caretakers of the land, growing what was needed, tending the rest to keep the land arable and fresh. To them was the honor of feeding the ponies of the land, stocking for the winters, making sure none went without.

Crusader had given maps to the Apples, and then to any that asked. Detailed maps down to the hoof, that showed the best planting areas; irrigation solutions, things that made the land more bountiful than it had been before. All without taking too much from it. The harvests before and after Winter were deep.

He asked nothing in return, answering questions patiently and kindly. The word spread, Earth ponies and their lands had become fecund in a way that helped all ponies everywhere, thanks to a strange pony.

The word was a search was going on, that Crusader was missing. Of course the tale grew in some tellings, but was always the same. They had to find Crusader.

Families hitched wagons and wains, harnessing themselves and pulling out of farms with food stocks piled high. Searchers needed to eat, and they headed out to Ponyville where the couriers said the search was to be conducted from.

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

Pegasi had always been warriors, in the past they had been feared, dropping from the sky to pin an enemy to the ground.

After the Great Ponyville Paint War, not only was Rainbow Dash given the award for the flag, but every pony that had been in the attack had been rewarded. A simple band, with a number on it, would clasp to the outside of an ear and stay there. A strange metal, it couldn’t be duplicated nor bent by the smiths.

Pegasi wanted to be challenged, and this was something new, so they went to Crusader.

He put them through their paces, you were tested and hard. You had to use every trick, everything you’d been taught, otherwise you’d just hear a chuckle and a calm voice telling you maybe another day. Of course rubbing quite a few new bruises as well.

Going ‘Under the Gun’ was becoming a way to earn something; not as much as getting into the Wonderbolts, that was still top tier, but you could prove yourself. Ponies wanted that band badly and they learned how to really fly. You came back with one, and very few had been awarded yet, you drank for free in most bars in Cloudsdale.

Word reached the Pegasi, a search was to be done, Crusader was missing. Foals, fillies and colts too young to go were turned over to caretakers and loved ones. Every pony who could take wing took to the skies, heading for Ponyville where the headquarters was said to be.

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

Unicorns were always said to be clannish, well.. snobs really. They inhabited Canterlot in the thousands, the noble houses always peering down on other tribes as if what they received was their due. Everypony else just ignored them actually.

A gift of books was given to Twilight Sparkle, making their way to the Royal Library and College. The thinking, the philosophies of these books was not very well liked by some older academics, stuck in their ways. But the younger Unicorns delved into them, reading them one after the other as they gained new insights into magic, life and the universe around them. From a race that had lived so long ago, their teachings created a stir.

Creating magic was tough, making new spells tougher. But with the different avenues of thought these books opened up, younger Unicorns were finding a new way to think and cast spells. It was a tremendous boon that was spreading like wildfire throughout Canterlot. Older academics with open minds, took these books and applied them as well, making themselves think more than they had in years, it was refreshing.

Word had reached the students and teachers a search was to be done. The pony who had gifted these books was missing and needed to be found.

Bearded elders grabbed their robes, and side by side they entered the streets with their students, heading to the castle of the sisters to receive their royal highnesses commands.

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

The Royal Guard had always been the first line of defense for many centuries. They were a force made of the best, and brightest of ponies. They took care of their own.

Bronze Shield and Spear Point had come back broken, after the weapons test in the Badlands, they had been so shocked, they’d suffered damage to their psyche’s from what they’d seen. It had been overwhelming to say the least. The mares and stallions of the guard worried over them as they were sent to be treated.

But monies had come in, getting the two Guardsponies the very best of care, their families taken care of so they had nothing to worry about but their loved ones. Even now, as they were happy and healthy, a stipend kept coming though no longer needed. Bronze and Spear gave this money back to the Guard, helping others as they had been helped. They knew who gave this gift, and never told anypony except their fellow guards.

Word had come, the pony who was so generous was missing, he needed to be found. Every guard that was not on post, grabbed armor and headed to the castle of the sisters for their orders. Those on post warned local problem ponies, don’t do mischief, for when the rest of the guard got back, there would be a reckoning.

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

Fluttershy was well known among the animal kingdom, a friend and healer, wildlife went to her for help. Now she needed theirs as she asked all of them to spread the word about Crusader, he needed to be found.

The animals of the Everfree, knew who the pony was. He who had fought the killers to a standstill. Beating them back until they were nothing more. Many families of the wildlife had been saved from a gruesome doom because of the staunch defender.

Their friend Fluttershy had been hurt, then healed and made whole by this pony, who also saved her friends. Bringing them out of dangers way when he didn’t have to.

Word spread from squirrel to bird to beaver and beyond, find Crusader, he is needed. Bears stumbled down from their caves, eagles and falcons took flight. Fey creatures drifted among the twisted trees helping when they could. The monsters of the Everfree hid in the quiet places, staying out of the way of the packs of Grizzly’s and Dire Bears. Having been told in no uncertain terms, interfere in the search and we will bury you.

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

Princess Luna had stayed up late that day, dealing with the usual round of stunningly boring paperwork, wanting to get some rest afterwards. She was standing at the balcony looking out into the courtyard, a somewhat perplexed look on her face.

“ ‘Tia, have you said anything to anypony about the search for Crusader?”

Celestia looked up from her desk, a quill floating in the air beside her, “No Luna, I thought we’d keep it small, and a bit quiet.”

“You may wish to look at this.”

Celestia rose from her seat, walking over to stand beside her sister. Looking outward from the balcony, into the amphitheater like courtyard, she saw row upon row of hundreds of Guardsponies, teachers and students arriving in the yard, with more coming in each second.

“Oh my...”

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

Twilight, was either having the time of her life, or was about to keel over, nopony was quite sure. Wagon trains started coming into town, unloading tons of foodstuffs, all the farmers would say is ‘We heard there was a search on.” That seemed to be the answer to everything.

It shocked the peaceful town when they saw the piles of food, Unicorns suddenly popping in to cast preservation spells on them, while others were setting up tents for cooking and sleeping. It was beginning to look like a military camp.

The Princess of Friendship had drafted anypony in sight, giving them directions and getting things set out neatly and orderly, making the incoming wagons easier to access and dump loads.

The Cutie Mark Crusaders had dropped right in the middle of things, them and all their friends were now drafted as runners, taking messages to and fro as they skirted between the legs of ponies running around.

If that hadn’t been enough, suddenly hundreds of pegasi were showing up, perching anywhere they could find. It was getting quite crowded on the rooftops as they all sat talking with each other, Twilight couldn’t figure out where they’d all come from. She corralled Rainbow in a corner real quick.

“Did you tell all of these ponies what was going on?”

“No! I swear! I just grabbed some friends, I’ve got no clue about any of this!” Rainbow was looking a bit frazzled as well, finding out why every pony in Cloudsdale had suddenly landed in Ponyville. Seems word had gotten around of a lost pony and everypony wanted to help.

Twilight scratched her head and chalked it up to the Princesses calling for help, surely that was it.

Grabbing a few lists in her magic, she trotted over to some Unicorns setting up a medical tent to see if they needed anything else.

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

The ponies in the courtyard bowed low as the Princesses emerged, walking slowly down the stairs to confront the sudden crowd in front of them.

Celestia leaned over to whisper at her sister, “Is that Faded Scroll? He hasn’t been out of his office in thirty years!”

She received a shrug in return as they stopped in front of a group of elderly ponies, all of them skilled magic users and on the Council of Canterlot College.

“Faded Scroll, may we ask why everypony in Canterlot seems to be here?”

“Yes Your Highness. We have heard of the search and wish to help.”

“I’m sure you can leave that to the younger colts Faded, you are getting on in years.”

The older pony stamped a hoof on the cobbled stone, “I have sat in that office for thirty years going over the same old bunch of hooey and teaching it. I saw those books that were given to the school by Princess Twilight Sparkle, and let me tell you Your Highness. Revelations! A gift like that comes once in a lifetime!” He waved a hoof around, leaning on a cane with the other, “I may not live long enough to see the changes, but they are going to be wondrous I tell you! I’m not as spry as I once was, but this old pony’s got a few spells left in him!”

“Yay for Faded Scroll!”

“Stop that you whippersnapper! Bunch of hooligans.”

He took on a bit more serious tone, “We heard the pony who gave these tomes to us was missing, well, we can’t have that can we? You’ve always taught, Your Highness; what happens to one, happens to all.” He chuckled behind the graying beard, “My students would never let me hear the end of it. So, this old pony came to help and brought a few friends.”

Luna looked over the crowd, “It appears you brought the whole school Faded.”

“Oh pshaw! Couple of those geezers are still back there getting dusty or something!” He cracked a brilliant smile, “Lead us Your Highness, tell us what you need.”

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

I can hear the voices better now. Still arguing, keeping themselves divided buys me more time. I work at my bonds slowly, though I am still weak. They haven’t fed me, but I get a sip of water now and then. I keep my spirits up, remembering Pinkie, ‘Ponies know”. I know they do, and I hope they find me soon, my head feels very strange right now.

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

Princess Celestia and Luna landed in a royal chariot, followed by hundreds of Guards who took up posts all over Ponyville. Every eye was upon them as they walked to the center of the huge camp, tents and makeshift kitchens crowding between the houses. It was all so very strange, it was neat, clean, and had a sense of waiting that struck the two royals oddly. The pegasi were watching them, hovering around or setting on rooftops. Ranks of Earth ponies were staring as they passed, not unkindly...just..waiting.

Luna pointed out a few strange looking ponies, the Deep Rangers. Trackers who were by legend said to be able to follow a snowflake in a high wind. They were wandering around the crime site looking for anything to lead them. It appeared they were having no luck.

Unicorns were scrying using spells of different sorts, having no results as well, consulting with the Rangers.

Twilight came rushing up to the Princesses, “Oh I’m so glad you’re here! Did you have to send all these ponies? It’s really been something else to get everything set up!”

The warm smile graced Celestia’s face, “Twilight, we sent nopony.”

“But..but where did they all come from?”

“From what it appears, word has spread of the search for your friend. Though we hadn’t realized that he had done so much for so many.” A chuckle escaped the alabaster mares lips as she stepped into the center of camp.

Celestia waited for a moment, a commotion at the end of the camp had everyone’s eyes turned that way. Faded Scroll came huffing along with his crowd of Council Members, coming to a stop near the Princesses. “Sorry Your Highness, teleport spells are a bit tricky.”

“It’s of no worry Faded, we are glad to have you here.”

She turned to the crowd of silent ponies, smiling gently and enhancing her voice as she spoke. “Would anypony care to speak? We’d really like to know why you’re here.”

An older Earth pony stepped forward, bowing low as he spoke, “Beggin’ yer Highnesses pardon, but we came ta help. We all heard ‘bout the search and knew you’d need food, so we came. What happens to one, happens to all.”

Heads nodded everywhere, the farmer waited to speak again. “We been talking with t’others, they came to help too. Ah’m sure we’ve all heard tales in the tellin’, but it all comes down to looking for a lost pony. Wouldn’t do to let others know we’d let em get lost without tryin’ now.”

Cheers were heard from the rooftops and beyond. The farmer waited politely again.

“He gave mah family maps and advice on crops, alot of us got help, and stars above we done good so far. Ah’m not too educated, but he took time and taught me new things. We try to live by yer teachin’s yer Highness, all of us do. So we thought we’d give back what was given to us.”

Luna looked at her sister, seeing the smile broadening upon her lips. “You are good and kind ponies, all of you.” The Princess of the Night spoke quietly.

Celestia nodded, “Yes you are. Go and find him for us my little ponies!”

The roar from the waiting crowd was deafening.

They both watched as Pegasi took to the skies, shadows falling everywhere. Earth ponies and Unicorns formed groups to go out on patrol, everywhere ponies scrambled to do whatever they could. Messengers were sending letters and scrolls at top speed to all points of the land, burning through magic like water.

Faded Scroll leaned in to speak to the royals, “Your Highness's, something is blocking our scrying, we cannot locate him.”

A serious look crossed Celestia’s face for the first time today. “That is a bit troubling Faded, please, keep trying.”

“Always Your Highness.” He bowed and went back to the group of elders, all of them concentrating upon the spell.

The pure white mare leaned to her sister, “I worry Luna, I truly do.”

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

I hear the voices a bit clearer now, they are discussing..money?...No..they are offering money..no..bidding..they are bidding on me. I am being sold. My head hangs loose upon my neck as the hit I took was far worse than I may have thought. I can hear the deep voices, shouting and fighting over what amount to give. Who is the auctioneer?

Author's Notes:

Knocked off about 2k words on this one, I really have to stop just blabbering in exposition and write. More soon! Thank you all again for reading this!

Found, and so much lost.

I am struck a few times, the voices wanting me to speak to make sure I am still in a condition too. I have never coughed blood before, or feel a rib break. Truly it is something I wish not to remember. The voices are arguing I am sick, or going to fade away, but then I feel a tingle, the pain going away though it still hurts to breath.

As I fade once again into blackness, I wonder if Princess Luna would come to me as I dream. I’ve felt nothing, I’ve not dreamt, it’s nothing but the cold dark. Held in the grip of magic I suppose, I do not know much about it.

Strange, but I wonder how high the price will go?

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

The sisters had been sitting all day, working their magic, nothing is received.

“How can this be ‘Tia? Who is blocking us?”

“I do not know, but if some being is using a dark magic, could we trace it by it’s feel?”

“Cadence shall arrive soon, Shining has brought a bit of help, his own Guard is out looking in the snowy wastes as of yet.” Luna looked out from the royal tent, seeing Pegasi swooping in on relays to be fed then off into the skies. Supply trains were still rolling in.

“Maybe we can get a general idea of where if not exactly. This is odd, why would someone go to so much trouble for a pony? He doesn’t know anything from when he was a machine, could they have mistaken him for somepony else?” Celestia actually looked a bit troubled as she read the reports, the Rangers were thorough if nothing else.

Luna mirrored her sisters look, “I do not know, I find it hard to believe somepony would do this for any reason. But the blood tells a tale as the Rangers would have us believe, he was struck, and taken quickly, there were darker spells used.” She turned to look back inside at Celestia, “I cannot walk his dreams, they are just not there.”

Celestia moved to stand by Luna, watching the hustle and bustle of the camp, ponies everywhere pitching in to help in the search. “I fear this may lead to troubling times if we are not careful my sister.”

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

“You don’t understand, they are tracking us! The magic we’re using leaves a sign!”

“How much longer can you block them?”

“A few hours, maybe a day tops, if they use everything at their disposal, we’re going to get caught. Every single pony in Equestria seems to be looking for this idiot!”

“We’ll get our money and go then, just an hour or so, then we’re done and off to the good life.”

“I hope so, because if they catch us, Tartarus will be the least of our worries.”

I listen to the voices, they are terrified, strange accents catch my ears as I still cannot see very well. I find myself angry though, I am usually calm, but I cannot help it. I want them caught, I want them punished. I would like to go back to living my quiet life with Applejack.

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

The little Hummingbird slipped through the air quietly, watching the bigger avians fly around at great heights, looking for the lost pony. Snowbell loved to fly, he was fast! The pretty pony who took care of him told him he was too little to go look, but he wanted to help!

Slipping out of the house, he’d headed for the Badlands, he knew they weren’t a real good place, not a lot of nectar, but he’d had a bellyfull before he left.

That was before he’d found him! He found the pony! Stopping at an old mine shaft, there was a window looking out, he’d hopped into the dark to cool off, seeing the poor pony slumped in a chair. There were others moving in the dark, and his eyesight wasn’t as good as a hawk or falcon, but he knew it was the pony!

He turned to light out when he got smashed by a bolt of energy from something, it hurt so bad. But he could still fly, so he took to wing, tearing through the air to find some being to tell!

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

Twilight and Applejack stood and watched all the ponies coming and going. Applejack had made quite the killing selling off her stock of produce. Apples were known for honesty, but that never made a difference when it came to pushing their product. The vegetable farmers were definitely having a red letter day.

“Where ya think he is Twi?”

“I don’t know AJ, the Rangers said he was taken somewhere.”

“Ah hope he’s okay. I really do, tried not to worry but it’s kinda hard.”

Twilight hugged her friend, “I know, but with the amount of ponies here, we’ll find him.”

Rainbow crashed into a bush next to them, peeking out and looking a bit abashed, “Sorry, kept trying to keep out of ponies way. Just wanted to let you know, got a few keeping the weather clear here so it’ll stay sunny at least.”

“Good to know.”

The cyan mare marched up and gave Applejack a hug, “Hey, we’ll find ‘em, yeesh every pegasus between here and Fillydelphia is in on it! Pretty sure Cloudsdale has shut down almost..”

The orange mare hugged her friend back, tilting her hat up on her head, “I know, I know. What I want to know is who told these ponies he was mah coltfriend? Now I’m getting all that sappy stuff ‘bout a ‘lost love!’ ”

“Darling, how are you holding up?”

Applejack got a deadpan look on her face as she turned around, “Shoulda known..”

Rarity struck a pose, turning not a few heads of passerby, she was definitely elegant today. “What’s the matter Applejack? Surely you haven’t given up?”

“You know I haven’t Rarity, but do you have to go tellin’ everypony he’s mah coltfriend?”

The light grey mare put a hoof on her chest, looking at Applejack, “But it’s so romantic, I just had to share! I mean honestly, nopony quotes poetry anymore, or even looks at somepony the way he does you! Besides, I’m still waiting to measure for your wedding!”

“Didn’t we tell you...”

“Oh stop that.” Rarity gave an eyeroll, looking at Rainbow and Twilight like they should know as well, “If you two aren’t a perfect match I don’t know who is.” She put a hoof on Applejack’s shoulder, “Trust me, I have the perfect outfit in mind, emeralds definitely, a hint of sapphire, it’ll be gorgeous!”

Applejack pinched her nose with a fetlock, opening her mouth to let Rarity have a bit of her mind when stopped by a friendly leg around her shoulder.

Twilight grinned, “C’mon, let’s grab something to eat, I’m sure we could all use something.”

Applejack just nodded, being led off with Twilight and Rainbow, Rarity gushing a bit more about the wedding designs. Rainbow Dash didn’t help when she asked about the best pony outfits.

‘Ah’m gonna kill both of ‘em, I swear.’ , was AJ’s thoughts before the scent of food took her mind away from it.

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

The hawk’s keen eyes caught the little bird tumbling through the air, she stooped quickly and got under it; nestling it between her wings as she soared high in the open sky. She was magnificent for her kind, broad and sharp taloned.

**You’re hurt Little Brother**

--Snowbell found the pony! Snowbell found the pony!-- The tiny white Hummingbird chattered from her back. His heart racing against her skin.

**Where away Snowbell?**

Snowbell described the place in the Badlands, giving directions as accurately as he could.

**Well done Snowbell, well done indeed! It’s time to get you help.**

--Snowbell just needs to rest is all..just....rest....--

The hawk’s heart broke as she felt the Hummingbird relax against her, the little heartbeat thumping a few times, then no more.

**Spread your wings and fly high little Snowbell** The hawk’s cry tore through the sky, piercing the air with sorrow and information, **The pony is found!**

An Eagle came winging it’s way to her side, ***Where to Sister?***

She gave the golden bird directions, **Find the Old One and tell her where, strike them and pluck their feathers, wait for the ponies.**

***Where do you go?***

**I must deliver a hero** She tilted, showing her Brother the little form on her back.

The noble head nodded, ***Fly high little one*** As he tilted off, flapping his wings to gain height he cried to any who could hear, ***The Pony is found!***

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

The auction is over as far as I can tell, quite an amount of bits are being given or received, I am not sure. The voices are starting to move away slightly as I am roughly brought to my hooves. I cannot stand very well, my head is stuffed full of wadding it feels. My good eye can’t focus and I fall down onto my face. It’s restful here on the cool floor, I’ll just close my eyes a bit and rest. I can listen just fine from here...

“Get him up, we have to go!”

“He won’t move, he’s out, something’s wrong.”

“He's fine, don't worry about it!”

“Wait, no money if no pony, he can’t speak then give it back.”

“He’s fine, just a bit woozy. Get him and go, all of you. We have to leave.”

“Tie it up, let’s go.”

I feel bands being placed around my fetlocks, it’s still hard to stand, I wish they’d let me rest. So thirsty. A door opens, letting light in that pierces my eye, I’ve been in the dark too long.

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

Orbiting above the mine in the high air, the Eagle soared and the other was something rarely seen, a Thunderbird; one of the Old Ones. Like the Ursa Major, the Thunderbirds were left alone, very few existed and they preferred to live in peace all their days. She was asked, and agreed to help keep those beings in the mine in place until the ponies came.

Her golden eyes watched carefully as she spotted a unicorn exiting the doorway. Folding her wings back, she stooped; her beak a pointed spear as she dove out of the sun, heading for her target. Faster she drove, feeling the wind rush once again through her feathers.

Just before she collided with the earth, her wings snapped out, yards wide the metallic colored feathers glinted in the sun as thunder crashed through the air, blowing the unicorn back into the mine shaft.

The Eagle stood on a wingtip and whipped around the now ascending Thunderbird, “***Impressive Old One***

^^^Bah, younglings can do such. But ‘tis good to feel the wind and thunder again my friend. It has been long since I stretched my wings^^^ She soared higher, orbiting once again and waiting for her next chance, too long had it been indeed.

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

I hear a sound, the crashing of a body near me as yells and cries cut the dark. Something’s out there, slamming into the mine with a rush of wind and concussion.

“It won’t let us out, it’s a Thunderbird!”

“WHAT?”

“It’s a Thunderbird!”

“Nonsense!”

I hear the door open again, once more the crack of thunder reverberates through the mine, hurting my ears, pounding my head. I can’t get up now, so I just wait, there is confusion about me, panic, I can hear it, they are trying to find a way out but something is preventing it. Good for them.

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

The cast of Falcons called to Fluttershy from outside the cottage, waiting patiently as she opened the door and saw them all perching in her yard.

“What’s wrong...?” She stopped as the female showed her the little white body nestled on her back.

“Oh Snowbell....” She gathered it up in her hooves, starting to fly off towards the town, wanting to be with her friends. The falcons stopped her, telling her where the pony had been found and that they were waiting for the ponies to come, keeping the bad beings inside it.

The golden pegasi’s eyes were filled with tears as she made her way toward town.

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

Princess Celestia noticed the tumult near the edge of town, seeing Fluttershy with her friends as a crowd gathered, ponies talking as they pointed, moving out in large groups towards the south, the Badlands.

“What is happening?”

All eyes turned towards her, “Crusader's been found, he’s in an old mineshaft in the Badlands, everypony’s moving out.” One of the guards bowed as he answered her query.

Tilting her head, she looked at Fluttershy, “What is wrong?”

Fluttershy held out her fore legs, telling the Princess her friend had found Crusader, and got injured by something. It had been too much and the little bird had passed.

Celestia could smell the magic coming off the burned body, her anger started to rise, but she kept her cool exterior, showing a warm, sorrowful smile to the golden pegasus. She motioned to a nearby Unicorn, “Take ..?”

Fluttershy said very quietly, “Snowbell.”

The regal head nodded, “Take Snowbell, take good care of him, make sure nothing happens. It will be some time before we can properly reward a good and faithful subject, do you understand?”

The Unicorn stood tall, nodding at the command, “Yes Your Highness!”

Fluttershy was led to the tent where the Council of the College resided, they would take very good care of the little Hummingbird.

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

Celestia’s voice lost it’s ethereal warmth for just a second, turning to Twilight, “Take to the air Twilight, get there, take as many wings as you can. We need to go now.”

“Yes Celestia!” The lavender mare grabbed Rainbow Dash, calling out to everypony nearby and getting them moving. Rainbow took off in a streak of color towards the Badlands, wanting to scout out the situation.

She walked slowly back to the royal's tent, Luna looking expectant at her when she peered through the flap, “What word sister?”

“We need to go to the Badlands now, dark magic has been used to kill.”

The surprise in Luna’s face was hard to mistake, she roared out of the tent, calling to the guards that could fly and winging away into the sky.

Celestia looked at the ground for a moment before taking wing herself, her thoughts troubled as she saw the entire camp moving as one towards the Badlands. When ponies moved, they moved fast, it would not be long before they got there; she and her sister had to be there to stop anything untoward.

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

Now Dire Bears were known to be cranky, and when they got cranky they tended to get very angry. Short Snout was not only cranky, he was sweaty, thirsty, and highly mad he had to sit outside this stupid door and keep whatever was inside in there.

He had run all the way from his cave to the badlands, asked by the Old One to help keep these stupid beings in place till the ponies came. So that made him extremely angry, not at the Old One whom he respected, but at these small beings that kept him from snoozing a nice day away and going fishing.

Needless to say, three tons of angry, sweaty, thirsty, hungry Dire Bear is not something you want to confront outside your door. Trying to use magic to get it to move? Doubly pissed.

The Old One sat above the mineshaft opening, an amused look on it’s metallic colored face, ^^^Great One, thank you. I promise, I will find lots of fish for you to eat upon ending this.^^^

Short Snout hmphed and rumbled, a deep basso thrumming, (((Why are these things so important that we need to keep them here?)))

^^^The ponies have asked, and they have always given us respect and peace in the past, we can do no less when their need is great can we?^^^

(((Yes, you are right Old One, but you owe me quite a bit of fish now.))

^^^We will fill your belly to bursting Lazy One^^^

A roar echoed into the hot, still air; the maw opened wide and cut loose with a deep throated sound that frightened even the rocks.

(((I will have you know silly bird, I am not lazy, just a bit slower than most.)))

^^^Of course Great One, of course.^^^ The amusement tinging the conversation made them both smile.

The Dire Bear turned and smacked the front of the mineshaft, making it rattle; shaking dirt loose from the wood planking covering the opening, letting those inside know it was still here and not happy. His sides were burned from the magic used against him, patches of raw skin showed, but they would heal. Short Snout kept his agreements. Besides, he was sure the ponies would be here soon, he could go lick his wounds and eat fish.

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

Something very large is outside, and very unhappy if I am hearing it right. It smacks the door now and then as if to remind it is there. The voices around me are getting more and more panicked.

“It doesn’t care! I’ve shot it a few times with bolts and it just scratches and ignores them! It won’t move!”

“All those bits spent on stealing books and none of it taught you anything more powerful? Bah, you’re useless!”

“Do you even realize what they are going to do to us? To YOU?”

“Shut up, they’re peaceful types, know nothing but ‘friendship and respect’. Nothing will happen and we will go along as always, this is just a bump nothing more.”

“I hope you’re right, otherwise, you may be in for a surprise.”

I listen to the worry, the panic, it makes me smile. I get smacked across the chops for that as I lay here, but that’s fine. The net is closing, and the wire it is made up of is cutting deep before they are caught. The magic closes my mind again as I fall into the black once more.

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

Rainbow was sitting on a rocky outcropping as more Pegasi landed, joining her in watching the opening of the mineshaft. Twilight skidded to a halt beside her and saw the look on her face.

“What’s wrong? Shouldn’t you be down there?”

“Not a chance in Tartarus Twilight,” She pointed down to the mineshaft.

Twilight’s jaw drifted a bit as she watched a huge bear smack the covered front of the shaft, voicing it’s displeasure to whoever was inside. A metallic colored bird was sitting on the rock above it, tilting it’s head and watching the bear, “Is that a Thunderbird?”

“Yep, and that’s a Dire Bear. Older Pegasi tell stories about them. I’m thinking we’re just gonna sit up here and wait.”

Twilight settled in beside her friend, “You know, that’s a pretty good idea.” More Pegasus joined them, the entire group watching the furry mountain whack the mineshaft covering again.

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

^^^Seems we have company Great One, time to leave?^^^ She motioned with a wing to the ponies around the mineshaft now, gathering by the second.”

(((I still have one thing left to do Old One, the one inside that gave me a bit of trouble, I owe them.)))

^^^Peace Great One, peace.^^^

The bear flipped a paw at the bird, “(((Do not worry, but I will have my fun.)))

^^^Fair enough. Here comes the Princesses, you know them?^^^

(((Oh yes, every being does.)))

The two legends sat and stared at Luna and Celestia as they walked up towards the mineshaft; ponies in armor behind them looking distinctly nervous, but trusting their rulers.

Celestia and Luna smiled, they remembered these beings of eld, when their rule was young and the Thunderbirds cracked the skies with sound. The Dire Bear was ancient, as such things live long, but they had retreated to the deep woods, bothering nopony.

Luna stepped forward, “We greet you Ancient Ones, we remember you from our younger days.”

The metallic colored bird bowed a bit, the bear sat on his haunches and nodded.

“We have come to retrieve that which you have kept for us, but I am afraid our ponies have heard the tales, so they might not be as trusting.”

The metallic colored bird looked a bit amused Celestia thought, as it tilted it’s head, speaking to the bear in a musical tone. They both looked at the Alicorns, the large bird waving a wing outward as it took off to the sky, letting itself play in the wind before smashing the air with thunder one last time.

^^^Come see me for your fish Great One!^^^

The bear sat on his backside, staring at the door and motioning for them to do what they had to. But he was going to sit there.

Rainbow Dash was looking at the sky, watching the huge bird break the stillness with thunder, “That...was....awesome..”

Twilight bumped her friend, “Shush, the Princesses are going to speak.”

Celestia used the Royal Canterlot Voice, speaking loudly to whomever was inside the mine, “Come out NOW! You will not be harmed.”

The door slowly opened, a horn peeked out, followed by a green body, it looked around then stepped outside for the first time in a while.

The Dire Bears’ paw shot out at tremendous speed, grabbing the Unicorn around the barrel and bringing it up to it’s huge maw. It squinted at the pony, recognizing it as the one that had hurt it’s sides.

Everypony in sight held their breath, sure they would see a messy end to the Unicorn.

Short Snout licked his chops, then opened his mouth, making sure the pony saw each and every one of the two-hoof long fangs that filled it. A roar blasted the pony, wet and terrible as it kept going for what seemed like forever as the bear brought it’s face close, snapping the iron jaws shut inches from the terrified face.

The huge paw set the pony back down and stared at it, as the legs gave way and it toppled over in a dead faint. Chuckling to itself, it got up slowly and ambled off back to it’s cave, there were fish promised and naps to be had.

Luna looked over at Celestia, a grin almost breaking her face as she tried to stay serious, “Seems our friend had a little bit of revenge to get.”

Celestia kept her face straight, “Indeed sister, indeed.”

What followed made all in sight gasp, eyes wide as they all stared. Celestia knew at that moment things had gone from bad to worse. She couldn’t keep this quiet, there was no way. Pegasi were streaking off after seeing it and tearing through the skies to spread the word. This would be bad.

It was the diplomats, all of them. The ones that had fought with the Sisters for control of Crusader, who wanted a share for their own ends. She stood though, her leg tapping the ground in a pique of nervousness that Luna recognized. They would risk everything and anything to grab a piece of something they could not even comprehend?

Was it so base a reason?

The Night Princess leaned against her sister and comforted her as they kept watching.

Two more Unicorns exited, they were unknown to them, and then one last familiar face.

This face they knew, always and forever they would remember that fight that day inside Crusader. The greedy mare, the one who was Filthy Richs’ paramour, the mare who wanted more bits of gold and had to be threatened to stop.

Why? Why in the stars would anypony do this to another, it was beyond reckoning.

Celestia tempered her anger, stomping it down to a low burn as she gave the orders to her guards.

“Take them all away.” The disgust in her voice was plain.

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

I hear the voices outside, I am relieved. I can rest now, but not before I see my Applejack. I don’t want to break my promise, I told her I would never leave, but this may be beyond my control. I don’t know what to think. But for the first time in a while, I fall asleep, without the iron grip of the magic in my mind. I hope I dream of her.

Author's Notes:

Sometimes, it's not a big conspiracy, or something huge. Sometimes, it's for the simplest and most base reasons, which is so very sad in itself. Enjoy folks!

A Ruler's Duty. Promises Should Be Kept.

Celestia had watched as Crusader was brought out of the mine shaft. He had been badly beaten, the Unicorn medics had arrived in time to start casting spells on him, preserving what was left of his life. They had told her the prognosis did not look good.

The diplomats had been hauled away, the Earth ponies had arrived and taken them in wagons, protesting. She did not care, this was far worse than an injured pony, or a foalnapping, the bigger picture spoke to her and told her dire things in the future. She had to stop this.

Cadence had arrived in Ponyville as they had been moving out, she waited for their return, seeing Crusader into the hospital and comfortable. Her magics soothed, and calmed. The side of his head had been smashed, the one eye swollen shut. The medics and doctors worked feverishly to do what they could.

Cadence watched as Applejack had not left his side at the bed, sitting and keeping one hoof on his shoulder. He rested comfortably now, but for how long?

The Sun Princess was livid, she had not felt anger like this in centuries and it was over something so petty.

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

“Money, that’s all it was to you was money?” The alabaster royal stared hard at Faceted Jewel, the Earth mare responsible. They had commandeered a large building in Ponyville to hold court immediately, and here before her was the architect of this disaster.

“So what? Not like he was a real pony anyways! I figured since they seemed to want to know about him, why not?”

“So you foalnapped him to sell to the highest bidder?”

“Well, no, but it got rolling when others found out, so it just happened.” The mare was so blase’ about this, so uncaring.

Magic crackled around Celestia’s horn, her eyes glowing like the sun, “He WAS a real pony you idiot! Discord turned him into one!”

Jewel looked nervous now, the smooth calm was gone, “Wh..what?”

She stepped from her seat, pushing her way between guards and confronted the mare with a venomous glare, “He was real! A REAL pony, and your idiot friends hit him so hard he may not recover! You are stupid, vain and petty and I want no more of you.” She turned to her guards, “Take her away, she shall not see the light again, it is our decree.”

Faceted Jewel was stunned at the swift justice, not even able to get a word out in her defense.

The guards did not hesitate, hustling her out the back and into a wagon for transport to Canterlot, her cries for mercy fell on deaf ears all around. Crowds of ponies watched as she was taken away, murmuring that truly justice was swift in Equestria.

Celestia stepped back to her seat once more, Luna beside her, both wearing regal faces, but underneath the turmoil roiled and raged.

Three Unicorns were brought in, spell-locked and chained to prevent any problems, they bowed low before the sisters.

“Stand.” Luna started off, “We would have no respect from those who would murder using the forbidden magics.”

The three looked at each other, “But..we.. He was alive!”

Luna touched her sister, silently telling her she would handle this.

Stepping down on the floor she faced the three miscreants, looking them each in the eye. “How did you get the knowledge?”

A blue Unicorn stared back defiantly, the other two nervous and shaking, one spoke up, the green one. “We..we bribed a librarian to let us in the Forbidden Section.”

The Blue one hissed, “Shut up you fool!”

“She said we murdered with magic! Don’t you understand? Nothing we can do is going to get us out of this!” The green Unicorn practically yelled back at the defiant one, knowing his fate was sealed.

Luna lifted her head a bit haughtily, “You are correct, you will be Spell-Chained for your natural lives. You will not see the sun again. Even though we do not murder, or kill in Equestria, we can still punish.”

A darker blue Unicorn spoke up, quiet until now.

“How can you accuse us? We’ve heard of Crusader, they say he killed thousands of things out of the Everfree! How come that isn’t..” He was stopped by Luna’s eyes, staring at him closely.

“He did what he did in defense of Ponyville and all of Equestria, including YOU! He has become a friend to many, fighting where we could not, and we have come to love him as our own. He is a citizen of Equestria and he trusted us to take care of him as he has done of US! But it seems that trust was misplaced in some.” She once again stared into three sets of eyes, her rage palpable in the closed room.

“But you,” Here she pointed a shod hoof at the green Unicorn, “You murdered with the dark magics, knowing it was forbidden and unlawful.”

“Who? Who did I murder?”

Luna stopped pacing, standing in front of the dais where her sister sat unmoving. “A little bird, who came to give word of where you had kept Crusader captive.” She shot out a hoof, pointing at them as they opened their mouths to protest, “Do not even say it, we reverence all life here in Equestria! Big or small it makes no difference, but it is not just that you killed, nature is red in tooth and claw, that is known. It is how you killed as well, dark magics turned to that purpose lead to one place.”

She slowed her breathing, taking her place on the dais once more, “But there is somepony else who wanted a word.”

A guard led in an old pony, his cane tapping slowly as he approached the three Unicorns, straightening his glasses, he looked at each of them.

The blue Unicorn coughed, “Sir it’s..”

A hoof was held up, “Don’t speak to me, I don’t want to hear your voices. I just came to see if it was true.” Faded Scroll peered into their eyes, his own brown ones a bit sad, “I could not believe it, I thought it couldn’t be true, Canterlot’s own. But it is, and how sad. Of all things money and power, two of the pettiest things to crave. I disown you three, nevermore shall your names be mentioned. Go to your fates alone!”

The elderly pony turned to the Princesses, his face torn with emotion, “I am so very sorry your Highnesses. Canterlot College will strike their names from the rolls forevermore, their families will be told.”

“It is not your fault Faded Scroll, please do not think so.”

“Yes Your Highness.” The cane tapped once again as he was helped out of the room by a guard.

“Spell-Chain them and take them away.”

The guards nodded once more, taking the three silent Unicorns to their fate without a word.

Celestia heaved a sigh, “Now comes the worst part my sister.”

Luna waited, her head high, “Be strong ‘Tia.”

The diplomats were led in, the clanking of shackles loud in the enclosed space. The sisters waited until they were all in front of the dais where they could speak to the group.

Celestia cleared her throat delicately as she turned her head to face the diplomats.

“You are all idiots. To a being, idiots. You have absolutely no idea what you have done.”

Voices started to be raised in protest, they were shouted down by Luna who told them to shut up or be gagged.

Celestia rose from her seat once again, pacing the room, “You could not leave being happy that nopony was getting any share of what Crusader had; no, you could not be content with that. You had to attempt to buy that pony, to have him sold to you in slavery and chains to wring knowledge from him. KNOWLEDGE HE DID NOT HAVE!”

Shocked faces stared at her in disbelief.

“Did Faceted Jewel happen to mention the little fact that Discord used his powers to change him into a real pony? He had lost all his knowledge of technology, we were working to get that back as we needed him!”

The faces were silent, but she could read the anger and surprise.

“No? I thought not.”

She paced slowly in front of the group, not meeting their eyes as she talked, quietly, and low. “So you participated in this farce, this travesty of everything we have worked for over the centuries; peace and harmony. Just so you could get a hold of whatever you thought Crusader knew.”

She pointed a golden hoof to the door, the waiting crowds of ponies outside. “Are you beginning to understand what you’ve done?” She shook her head to herself, “Of course not, you’re idiots.”

“By attempting to actually buy a pony, you have set off a storm of anger I have rarely seen. All the years of diplomacy, or working towards a common goal might well be dust. It doesn’t matter who it was, you were going to buy a pony and put him to work unwillingly for you.”

She spun around, her eyes crackling with power, “To top it all off, that pony was beaten half to death and he was seen! The word has spread, there is nothing we can do to stop it from getting around. Those ponies patiently waiting out there for word of Crusader, or what is happening in here, they are a ready made army. If anything touches off their anger, their need for what they perceive as revenge, they will march.”

She pointed in the direction of the hospital, “If that pony dies, Equestria goes to war, do you understand that? My sister and I will be able to do NOTHING to stop it!”

Celestia looked at the beings in disgust, motioning to the guards, “Take them away, throw them in the dungeons and notify their respective governments, we will see what they say.”

She pointed one last time to the group, “Know this, you will pay for your crimes. We do not kill in Equestria except in self-defense, but there are places where you can be put that would be just as bad.”

“Take them.”

The two watched as they were led out, quiet and subdued.

Luna looked at her sister, laying a hoof on her shoulder, “Come, we must go to the hospital and find out how he fares.”

The two left quickly, heading to the building wherein the fate of a nation might lay.

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

Applejack sat by the side of the bed, leaning her head on Crusaders shoulder. She’d met them when the Pegasi had brought in the litter, her heart almost breaking when she saw what had been done to him.

He had opened the one good eye and smiled a bit, she could still hear him, “Hello my Applejack.”

She smiled back down at him, following into the hospital as the doctors went to work, magic was being used at such a rate you could feel the power in the air. He had been returned to the bed where she sat now, the doctors wanting to wait a bit more until operating again. By the looks and glances, she knew it was bad, but didn’t know how bad.

A clambering behind her made her turn around, Princess Cadence was back with something to drink for both of them. She hadn’t left his side either, using magic to soothe and calm his body, which was fighting infection and fever as well as damage. The mine wasn’t exactly the most sanitary place, and the foalnappers had done nothing for his hurts.

“How is he Applejack?”

“He still ain’t moved your Highness.”

A slender hoof tapped Applejack’s shoulder, “Call me Cadence, I think we can dispense with the formalities right now.”

“Sure Prin..Cadence.” Applejack finished her drink, her hoof caressing the torn face. She tried hard not to tear up but couldn’t help it.

The Earth pony leaned down to talk softly to the silent form, “You promised ya wouldn’t leave me, I’m holding you to that now.” Her lips kissed his brow as she excused herself from the room.

Cadence watched her leave, seeing the hunched shoulders. Princess of Love or no, anypony could tell she cared greatly for Crusader. But she was strong, more than most, and hopeful. Sometimes that made all the difference.

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

Faded Scroll was walking the hallway, his Council members were racking their brains to figure out anything that could accelerate the healing process and coming up with nothing. The greatest pony minds and nothing, it was to laugh.

His cane tapped down the tiled floor as he took his time, he was elderly but his mind was like a whip, thinking about the twisting combinations of magic and putting them together like a puzzle to find new ways.

One ear perked as he heard a sound coming from a room near him. He leaned into the door, peering around it to see the back of an orange mare sitting on a bed, her hat lay beside her as she quietly sobbed to herself.

Well this would not do! He hobbled inside, gently touching a shoulder as the head whipped around.

Applejack saw the elderly pony and quickly wiped her eyes, “Oh, sorry I didnt’ know anypony was here, I’ll just..”

She was stopped by a look that every parent uses, the ‘please don’t lie to me’ one that gets every filly and colt. “My dear, sit back down, don’t you dare leave.”

The pretty mare planted herself on the bed again, her hat in hoof as she looked down at the floor, one teardrop hitting with a silent splash.

Faded Scroll put himself in a low chair, leaning on his cane, “Now why don’t you talk to me eh? I may be old, but I listen really well.” He pushed out with his cane, hitting the door lock, making sure they stayed alone.

“Oh, honestly it’s nothing, just feelin’ sorry for mahself is all.”

“I said I’m old, not stupid young mare. You’re that young stallion’s special pony aren’t you?”

The blonde maned head nodded, laying the hat back down as a fetlock wiped some more tears. “I am, my name's Applejack.” She held out a hoof, which got bumped in return.

“I am Faded Scroll, old pony and busybody with the Canterlot College. Pleasure to meet you.” He struck a majestic pose.

That got a smile in return, he smiled back, the wrinkles around his eyes making them light up, “There now, maybe a bit better. Why are you crying? There are wonderful doctors here, they’re doing everything they can.”

“Ah got the feeling they aren’t telling me everything, all I get is nods or glances. Nopony seems to want to say anything, like he’s dying and no pony will tell me.”

Faded Scroll had been one to hear the conversations, he was included due to the council using everything they had to help the doctors. He knew the young stallion was dying, they just did not know enough about the brain to do more than they had.

“He’s very important to you I take it?”

“More than I thought, I figured to just take mah time, get to know him. But he kept on, and sure enough wasn’t long before I fell for him. He makes me feel special and loved and cared for. He promised he’d never leave me, and I believe him, always. But ah think this time, he can’t keep that promise.”

The bright green eyes filled with tears again, it hurt the elderly pony’s heart to see it. “I think my dear, you may find there’s always good somewhere. Trust an old pony, wait and see.” He moved to the door after giving her a hug, “Stay here, take some time, you’ll see it’ll be fine. I promise.”

“Thanks Faded Scroll, for...for talking to me..”

“You are most welcome, he is certainly a lucky stallion you know.” He gave her a wink and left, closing the door behind him. Inhaling deeply he started down the hallway, determination along with every tap of his cane.

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

Cadence had met the two sisters in the hallway, telling them of the wait between surgeries, and how it wasn’t going as well as everypony thought. Magicians were scouring books and tomes for any healing spells they knew, but it wasn’t enough to know the spell, you had to know the body, to repair it and heal it. There just wasn’t enough information.

They had posted a guard, setting off for a meal as well as to talk to the doctors, to see if maybe the four Alicorns couldn’t combine their magics for helping. It was a quandary.

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

Faded Scroll walked into the hallway, seeing the Princesses making their way out the other end. He tapped his way up to the guard, letting them know he was going inside to check the patient. He also asked he not be disturbed for a while, it was important for the diagnostic spell.

The guards of course agreed, he was well known, very much liked in Canterlot.

Closing the door behind him, he locked it, setting both forehooves on his cane as he peered through his glasses at the light umber stallion laying on the bed. Settling down on a cushion, he leaned a bit closer to the unmoving figure.

“You know, I met my wife Copper Ink...oh let’s see... sixty years ago. She’s passed now, but we had a wonderful time together. She was a beauty, and I met her when I saw her in a park one day, crying because some coltfriend had just left her. Well.. being the impetuous young Unicorn I was, I brought her flowers, and continued to do so. I guess she just got tired of me showing up and decided to keep me.” He chuckled to himself.

“We have three wonderful daughters you know, two are Pegasus who absolutely love to fly every day. They’ve grown strong and tall. The other is a Unicorn as well, teaching now at the college, her students love her. I’ve got grandfoals, and great grandfoals now, I’ve seen them all. Bounced them on my old knees, played with them until their parents said no more. It’s been wonderful, and wondrous all these years.”

“But there are rumors of war young stallion. Yes.. My daughters and their young ones would be caught up in something I thought was long past. I don’t want that, I truly don’t. I think you’d agree it would be terrible.”

“But do you know what the worst thing is?” He leaned closer, talking even more quietly, “There’s a pretty mare crying in another room for you. I don’t believe pretty mares should cry at all. It doesn’t do in such a peaceful place as Equestria young stallion. Anypony worth their sugar would see she loves you fiercely, it warms the heart of an old pony like me. Yes I talked to her, she’s strong, and I wouldn’t want to see anypony get in her way. She also told me you made her a promise.” He shook a hoof at the silent figure, as if disciplining a rowdy student, “Breaking that promise will not do, not at all.”

“I think Copper Ink has waited long enough for me young pony. She’s been patient all these years I’m sure, and I don’t think I’ll keep her any longer. It’s hard getting up some mornings, so I think it’s time for me to rest. But before I go, this old unicorn has one last spell in him.” As he said this, he leaned over to place a sealed scroll on the nearby table.

The spell he began to cast had a long and tumultuous history. Healing spells were very common, but you had to know what to heal, and how. Bones and muscles and so forth were well known, easy to do. But the brain was intricate, and very subtle, not much study had been done as injuries were either rare or fatal.

But the body knows, it has the blueprints waiting to be used.

The spell took the life from one, and gave it to another, energizing the body’s mechanisms and giving it the power to heal what was wrong. Working along the paths and ways inside a pony, correcting and reaching those places that weren’t well understood.

It was forbidden, for to do so was to condemn to death another pony, and that was not allowed. You had to give a life to save a life, there must be balance.

But Faded Scroll knew it, and well. He’d mulled it over the past hours and decided it was time. To stave off war, or destruction, the elderly pony would do anything for the land he loved. As well as to help a young stallion keep his promise would be a good thing too.

His horn lit up with the power, the spell’s runes flashing through his mind. He touched the immobile body, directing the energy, telling it where to go, powering the healing inside Crusader.

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

Celestia’s head snapped upward, feeling the magic as she got to her hooves and raced out the door, “NO! NO!”

Luna tore out of her seat, tipping the table at which they sat for a meal, dumping it’s contents as she followed her sister; feeling the magic from the spell being cast above them. Cadence followed with a puzzled look, galloping for all she was worth to keep up.

The ponies at the door were dumbfounded seeing Princess Celestia loping towards them, yelling, “Open the door!”

The guards turned to obey, but it was locked. They rammed their shoulders into it, breaking the bolt as it flung open, Luna and Celestia shouldering their way inside the room.

Cadence caught up a moment later, seeing Princess Celestia sitting on the floor cradling the head of an elderly pony, tears splashing his coat as she caressed his cheek, “You knew better, you knew..”

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

Applejack peered out of the room, hearing a tumult in the hallway. She saw the Princesses standing as a body was being carried out gently with great reverence. Her heart almost stopped as she ran up to Cadence.

“It’s not, please don’t tell..”

The slender Alicorn turned and smiled a bit sadly it seemed, “No, no Applejack it is not Crusader. It is Faded Scroll the Council member.”

“What? But I just talked to him, he..I just saw him! What happened?”

Princess Celestia led the orange Earth pony away from the crowd, standing in the hallway and talking low, “He used a spell we had forbidden. It was not the dark magics, no worries. But it used the caster's life to give healing to another Applejack.” She placed a regal hoof on Applejack’s shoulder.

“We did not ask him to do this, he did it on his own, we were not aware he was doing so until it was too late.”

“But..but why? He didn’t even know Crusader!” Her face held confusion, unable to think of why anypony would do such a thing.

“I think this might answer that Applejack.”

She levitated the scroll found on the table near Crusader’s bed, unrolling it for Applejack to read.

Princess Celestia,

I have served you and the College for many years,

and remained true to your teachings and many other things.

This land I so love is moving to war, we cannot let this happen.

As you have always said, “What happens to one, happens to all.”

I take this to heart now, so please, let me try and heal a nation by healing one pony.

Do not grieve, for I think Copper Ink has waited long enough,

I am sure she will admonish me for being so late.

Please tell Miss Applejack, it was truly a pleasure to make her

acquaintance, if for so short a time.

Yours in service,

Faded Scroll

Celestia actually chuckled, “He was so old fashioned. Always waving his cane around at ponies and saying ‘It does not do!’ or ‘This will not do Young Celestia!’.”

Applejack looked up in surprise.

Celestia nodded, “Oh yes, nopony was beneath his notice, even myself. He would come to the throne room in such a huff, waving his cane around,” Here she imitated him almost perfectly, “This will not do Young Celestia! I shall not have you interfering in my teaching!”

“Young Celestia, oh my.” She looked sadly at the scroll, “ He met his wife when she was crying over a broken relationship, I guess it stuck with him, he had such a big heart.”

“I just talked to him, he was just a kindly old pony.” Applejack looked as if she would break into tears again.

Celestia leaned down, nuzzling her warmly, “No, no more tears, it will not do!”

Applejack wiped her eyes, chuckling at the ragged voice imitated by the Princess, blinking for a moment, “Yes Princess.”

“Good, now let us go see what can be done with this gift.”

They both turned, following the doctors who were now taking Crusader out of the room. The doctors had been told by Princess Luna they needed to go now to surgery, do what they must.

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

The doctors and council members surrounded the table, diagnostic spells told them the bleeding had stopped, the hemorrhaging was being cleaned by the body. They were astounded, but warned by the council to not ask. True to their nature, the doctors moved quickly, removing splinters and rebuilding bit by bit, returning the skull to some semblance of the way it was. It would take time to heal, as all things. But now they were confident he would live.

The fever and infection were easily treated now they did not have to worry about major things. His eye, while swollen shut, was still in good condition and would be repaired as well. All in all, a miraculous day.

The operating team was all smiles as they met the Princesses in the hallway, advising them that the stallion would live, though there might be a few scars. Easily taken care of later they told her.

Applejack and her friends took a room off to the side after the announcement, hugging each other and sharing in the joy, their friend would live.

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

The word went out across the town, ponies gathered in front of the hospital to hear the Princesses speak. Not a space was left as they crowded the area near the building, eyes looked from everywhere as work stopped dead. The anger and upset had been noticeable, smiths were talking about the old patterns for war, Pegasi War Darts, flying armor, Earth pony plate. It was all being bantered about as the bitterness spread like wildfire at a pony being bought and sold.

Many had either heard of Crusader, or knew him personally. Of course Rarity telling the story of a ‘lost love’ hadn’t helped matters. Ponies of all things, loved a good story, and this one caught their attention. So they waited patiently for the Princesses to appear.

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

Cadence looked out the window as Luna and Celestia prepared themselves for a little speech, “Uhm, Auntie, did you think a lot of ponies would show for the speech?”

Celestia nodded, preening a wing, “Of course, a few yes.”

“I think everypony in town is out there Auntie.”

Luna joined Cadence at the window, looking a bit surprised, “Well, yes it seems there are quite a few.” A few was a bit of an understatement as you couldn’t see a blade of grass or a rooftop that wasn’t covered in a riot of colors and wings.

Luna had dealt with large crowds, this wasn’t a problem, what was unnerving was the silence. Nopony spoke, there were no nudges or laughter, they were waiting. Their eyes unwavering from the front of the hospital as all looked for word from their rulers. A word that would send them cheering, or marching. Luna hoped it would be the former.

Fillies and colts were shushed by elders as the Princesses walked out, all four, wearing formal regalia to let their subjects know this was not taken lightly.

Their horns lit, enhancing Celestia’s voice to reach the farthest parts of the crowd.

“Thank you all for everything you have done to find our lost pony. No matter who it is, I know you would have done the same for anyone.”

She paused for just a moment.

“The doctors tell me that he will live...” She was interrupted by a roar that shook the building, ponies throwing their hooves in the air and cheering. Celestia waited for the commotion to die down, she was made to wait for a few minutes.

As the silence settled once more, she cleared her throat and spoke again, “As I was saying, he will live, thanks to you all. I would ask one thing; please, do not let anger hold sway over such a wondrous day today. I know it has been hard, I know that the rumors have spread. But I would ask again, no, I beg of you, do not let that indignation rule your hearts. Please.”

Silence once again settled over the throng, ponies looking at each other, the murmuring of voices reaching their ears.

A voice rang out over the crowd, Celestia remembered it from the older Earth pony farmer, “We’re with you Princess!”

It began slowly, but it spread, it caught, the anger was removed and replaced, cheers rang out once again as Celestia looked to her fellow rulers, a conspicuous sigh coming from her lips as a crisis had been averted.

The cheers were shattered though, by the ripping thunder of guns from Crusader’s hill, opening up on the forest. Reminding them that there was still one more problem.

Author's Notes:

Pardon all the slices of life, I know it's not slam bang action, but, hopefully you'll like it anyways. Thanks so much for reading this, I am truly humbled at the kind comments and compliments! Enjoy folks, more to come!

Stories and Honors.

My body aches as I awake, my eye cannot see too clearly and I try to look around. I know I was rescued, and my head is still a bit muzzy. But I saw her, my Applejack, though I thought that had been the very last time. It appears not. I can feel the pillow beneath my head, the bandages surrounding my one eye. I do not know about Equestrian medicine, but I shall have to make sure something is done to improve it as a thank you. My own ban on technology or not.

Seeing that cup of ice water though, has stirred feelings I never thought I would have. I want that single cup so badly I would wade through a hurricane. Squinting my one eye, I reach for it, and I will conquer because I want that water.

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

The fallout from the past few days was being felt. It seems as if trust lost, was definitely not just regained in a minute. Ponies were quietly closing their doors to the races that had perpetrated the auction. Word spread quickly, and some races found themselves at the end of a bargaining table wondering why the prices had just tripled. There were no protests, no riots, nothing untoward. Just a polite shrugging of the shoulders and a showing to the door.

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

The dark Princess of the Night rummaged through another spell book, working on formula to unlock the memories of Crusader before things got too out of hoof. They had all heard the guns firing, not knowing why or how, Crusader could not tell them without his memories. Now that he was found, and getting better, she could get to work on this; feeling a pressure of time for some reason.

She watched her sister, sitting quietly in a corner sipping tea and lost in her thoughts.

“Why so pensive ‘Tia?”

The white mare looked up and over at her sister, “I lost my temper Luna, I never do that. It was just so..so..”

“Irritating?”

“Yes! To believe that anypony would do such a thing, for such stupid reasons; I lost my calm and I truly regret it.”

The darker mare nodded, “With all that has happened in such a short time, I was amazed you’d been so serene this whole time. Were it I..well.. we know how that turned out don’t we?”

Celestia chuckled, “Yes, and I still ask your forgiveness each day Luna, I will never stop.”

Luna got up from her chair, walking over to snuggle beside her sister, “You are forgiven for today sister mine, all is well.”

They shared a quiet laugh, before turning to the task at hoof, “What shall we do with the one who started this? I know I was heavy hoofed, and it was my own irritation that did it. Even the one who used the darker magics, can we redeem them? Can they be saved?”

“I do not know ‘Tia, once used, the magics take hold and stain the soul. It will do to keep watch, maybe some time in the future we can see. That is all we can do.”

Celestia nodded, they would be punished, though not as harshly as she promised. Their own actions had damned them to a far worse punishment than she could give them.

“As for the one who started it, her own greed was her undoing, she will serve her time and then be let into the wide world. I do not know what may become of her, but it is all we can do. We cannot control lives like puppets, we only do what we must and can.”

Celestia leaned against her sister, finding comfort in her warmth, “After so many centuries I find it astonishing I still have this inside me. I hope one day never to think of my anger at all.”

Luna nodded, her eyes hooded as she leaned against Celestia, “We all do sister, but until that day we do the best we can.”

“I know we do, Cadence is still in the village, helping heal Crusaders’ hurts. We need to figure out the unlocking of his memories. As soon as he is ready, we need to try, to find out what this ‘Masada’ is and why he thinks it is so urgent.” She turned to Luna, giving her that smile that brought ponies warmth and love, “We will figure this out, and Equestria shall be all the better for it.”

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

To a race, each government had vehemently denied their representatives did anything like what had been reported to them with their permission or knowledge. It was to be expected, Celestia supposed. So by saying that they were ‘rogue elements’ the governments avoided taking any responsibility for their actions.

Celestia sighed, looking at the various missives that had arrived piecemeal, thinking of the overall picture and seeing it would be the same. Carousel diplomacy, more lies and greed. But her ponies were safe, they would remain so.

The so-called ‘rogues’ would serve time in the prison, treated well of course. Then they would be released to do what they would, though exiled from Equestria. After that she wished them the best, she could not do more.

She had received reports of the quiet boycotts, the prices being raised.

Shaking her head, she allowed herself a chuckle; never underestimate politeness. She would not issue a decree of course, businesses wouldn’t be manipulated to restore things. It wouldn’t be prudent to force the issue, it would have to resolve itself on it’s own, if ever.

All in all, it was better than war.

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

I almost have it, my enemy is within reach, I am about to leave the field victorious. The water is mine! I am interrupted by a slender leg, reaching out and giving me the cup I have desired, more precious than gold or jewels. I sip the cooling liquid. I am in bliss, my body refreshed.

I really should stop listening to Rarity....

Cadence watched as Crusader sipped his water, a sigh leaving him. “Feeling better now?”

“Yes Your Highness, thank you so much.”

“I know we haven’t talked much, but call me Cadence please. I am glad you are feeling better, the doctors say you’re making a remarkable recovery.”

“I had thought I would not Cadence, the injuries seemed quite extensive to me.”

She looked away from his deep blue eyes for a moment, not knowing what to say, she was interrupted by Applejack entering the room.

“Your Highness.. Crusader! Oh my gosh you’re awake!” She rushed over, giving him a hug, nuzzling his cheek, “How are you feeling? Are ya doing alright?”

“Cadence has told me I’m making a fast recovery. I hadn’t thought Equestrian medicine was so good. I am actually doing quite well.”

He watched as Applejack looked at Cadence, both of them a bit sad, “What happened? What are you not telling me?”

Cadence turned to leave, she was stopped by Applejack’s hoof on her shoulder, “No, stay Cadence, please?”

I watch them both closely, Cadence wears a look of deep sadness, of heartbreak. Which is strange, as she is the Princess of Love. Applejack is the same, I actually see her fumble with words for a moment.

Applejack lays a tender hoof on my chest, Cadence close by, “I need to tell you somethin’ sugar.”

I am told of the search, how ponies had gathered from far and wide to look for me. I am surprised, I had not thought I had done anything that worthwhile to deserve such attention. I am quieted though by Applejack, told that the little gifts I had given were worth far more than I thought, and it was returned tenfold. I am humbled beyond imagining.

Applejack begins by telling me who was behind it, the greedy mare from the fight in the command deck, who wanted more bits for herself. She was auctioning me off to the highest bidder, of which it appears the diplomats were the same from the meeting. I cannot believe this, they thought I was not a real pony and were going to sell me? I am ashamed I have caused so much trouble.

She tells me of Snowbell, the little bird who was injured badly but flew and reported where I was, saving my life. His sacrifice to report the news.

Then she relates to me of Faded Scroll, the kindly elderly pony who gave his own life to save mine. I am shocked at first, then speechless. The tale of his using a forbidden spell, giving his own life force to bolster mine into healing is astonishing. I do not know what to say. I have no words for this.

She shows me the letter, telling how the entire country was moving to war because of the actions of a few criminals. Faded Scroll healed the open wound, surely as if by a doctor. To save me and the land he loved, showing that no price was too high for peace, he went to his grave.

I cannot speak, I cannot even think right now. I do not believe this is happening. I have done nothing to deserve the sacrifice of anypony’s life for my own. It is a debt I can not possibly ever repay.

Applejacks face looked into my own, “Sweetheart, ya okay?”

I blink, looking down at my hooves in front of me, “I..can’t ever repay this debt. I do not deserve this sacrifice, I have done nothing to warrant this.”

Cadence stepped close, her voice warm and gentle, “Applejack told you, the gifts you gave were worth so much, you made friends, you helped ponies.”

“But it doesn’t mean that you have to give a life! He didn’t even know me!”

The orange mare looked at me, gathering myself into her forelegs, looking at Cadence nervously as she confessed, “He saw me cryin’. I was sitting in a room feeling sorry for mahself. No, that’s not true,” She remembered that ‘don’t lie to me’ look, “I was cryin’ cause I might lose you. But he made me smile, said there was always good somewhere.”

Applejack sighed next to my cheek, “I told him you made me a promise you wouldn’t leave. I guess he maybe thought you should keep that promise, ah don’t know. I don’t know all the reasons, but I’m sure he thought they were good enough.”

Cadence leaned forward, “Celestia told me, he loved this land, the peace, his family. I’m sure he just didn’t wish to see it torn apart. But he gave you a gift Crusader, a gift freely given. Use that, be the best pony you can.”

I nod, “I will your Highness, Applejack. I will try to live up to this gift, from Snowbell and Faded Scroll. I will do my best”

After that, for the first time in my life I cry. I know of honor and duty, of the giving of one for another, we have done that for ever. But never had I imagined it would be done for me.

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

I am awakened in the night, guns opening fire off the hill. I have asked Applejack, she said it had started a day ago. It is worrisome, that niggling feeling is coming back stronger now. I hope that the ruling diarchs can find a way to get Discord back.

She is awake as well, lying beside me in the hospital bed. I rest in her arms, feeling safe. So much hurt and anger over myself, I do not know what to do, or how to pay back such a debt. I can only do what Cadence advised, be the best pony I can be.

I lean my head against her and fall back asleep, hoping that the new day brings word.

I am visited by Princess Luna, she informs me they have something to break the lock on my memories, that I must come to Canterlot in the morning; for there is also another duty to perform, one which cannot wait. They are still trying to summon Discord but are having no luck, he is being troublesome it seems. She will be notifying the others, all of Applejack’s friends.

As she walks off into the dreamscape, I sit and look at the bright sky, wondering when or if this will all end and things can go back to being peaceful.

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

Waking in the very early morning, it is still a bit before sunrise; I am helped to my hooves by a very kind nurse. Applejack is being very solicitous, but it is not a bother at all, I enjoy her presence more and more. It helps, I am limping badly and feel very much like a young foal, barely able to stand. But we were told to be in Canterlot, so we must go.

I still think heavily upon Faded Scroll and little Snowbell. I still have a hard time thinking of them, giving their all for one they never knew. It reminds me of why Bolos did it. It was our honor, not just duty; because we liked humans, we enjoyed their company and wanted to do our best for them.

I tell Applejack again, I promise to be the best pony I can. Her smile is all the answer I need.

My one eye is still bandaged, I am getting better though. When we walk out of the hospital, a cheer goes up, surprising me but I should have known.

Pinkie...

I can only sigh, but smile, you always smile around Pinkie. It is a law of the universe, when Pinkie is near, you smile.

Applejack however..

“Pinkie, this ain’t no time for a party!”

“It’s not a party! Just something to cheer you all up, we gotta get to Canterlot!”

“Ah know that, dangit we ain’t got..”

I lay a hoof on her shoulder, “Applejack..”

She pinches her nose with a fetlock, “Ah know, it’s Pinkie.”

Applejack actually blushes as ponies give her hugs and nuzzles, seeing her smile at friends warms my own heart.

Pinkie runs up, giving everyone hugs, “I know! I know! Gottagogottago! But still, a little cheer never hurts!”

There is quite the crowd as we make our way to the train station. I am informed it is one of the quicker ways to get there, a few hours at most. We are leaving early enough to get there in plenty of time.

The train ride was interesting. Rainbow Dash was enjoying it quite a bit, though I wonder if she’d prefer to have flown? Pinkie of course, was making sure everyone had something to eat, their spirits were up, and smiles to spare. I accept her for who she is now, just a pony that cares and is so full of joy and laughter.

Rarity has taken time to come as well, along with Fluttershy, the six friends inseparable. I watch as they all sit, quietly enjoying each others company. It reminds me so very much of when I would sit with comrades, in a silence, just knowing that someone was near.

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

Luna looked stunning in her outfit, something not seen for so very long. The scales and plates shining like the evening. Her darker color matched by the burnished silver that covered her like a second skin. Rivets and links shone like the full moon, a tint of darkness brought out each and every line. Although the Princess of the Night was a beauty in her own right, this set of armor made her even more so. Regal, lovely and filled the senses with wonder as she looked at herself in the mirror. Each gem in the armor a single star that shone brightly in the heavens.

Celestia joined her by the mirror, standing in her own set. The bright gold held a subtle hint of the red and ambers of the new day. It shone with a beauty that took the senses and held it just for a moment, releasing the grip with a gasp. She tilted her head one way, then the other, looking at the overlapping plates that slid like silk along her neck, the inlays and runes shining so very brightly against the alabaster coat.

Centuries ago, before the Banishment of Nightmare Moon, the smiths and wizards of a newly forming nation decided their rulers could not be without protection from the monsters they faced.

Earth ponies dug for the finest ores, hammering them long into the weeks; Unicorn wizards casting spells every step of the way, providing protection and healing for those that would wear the suits. They were inlaid with metals rare and valuable, collected from all over Equestria, communities donated gemstones of great value. The Pegasi provided the designs and architecture, every last bit planned and placed.

Gems were crushed and spelled, or added whole to the armor. Each rivet, link or plate; each carving was laid down with a spell behind it. Nothing was beneath notice; if a piece was found weak, it was replaced and respelled.

Each piece was the representative of a community. The armored suits making a map of towns and cities, founded or helped by the rulers; that the country itself was behind the protection the sisters wore.

They were rarely wore since those days, only for occasion of high state, or when a certain presence was called for. Today called for just that.

They called the armor Celestia wore Dawn; and for her sister, Dusk.

When a pony told his mare that she looked like the Dawn, they were referring to the ethereal beauty of the armor. The same as 'You are lovely as the Dusk'; sayings that still arose today, though the meaning behind them muddled a bit through the ages.

“You look very nice sister, surely you can step away from the mirror for this?” Celestia chuckled behind a hoof, getting a glare from Luna.

“I had forgotten how wonderful these looked, and thank goodness they resize to fit!” her mane flowed from underneath the armor, just adding to it’s beauty.

“Then let us go, we have a solemn duty.” She brushed against her sister, “We are quite the pair are we not?”

Luna nodded, “We do and we are my sister, and it is good that we show them past glories.”

Celestia nodded, “It is only appropriate.”

They both turned, heading for the throne room.

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

Gasps were heard as the sisters walked in, clad in royal regalia, crowns and armor.

Twilight leaned over to myself and Applejack, “That is Dawn and Dusk, the armor made for them long ago!” She was clearly excited, and I am sure would pester the two with questions later.

As we had made our way to the castle, ponies were streaming in from all over, making their way into the amphitheater like courtyard. Guards had been posted, but there was no rowdiness, there was calm and laughter again. We were allowed to wait in the throne room. I saw the sisters walk out in their outfits, and thought even a Bolo would not compare, they were beautiful. You could see every plate, link and scale, each carving and relief, the gemstones that studded the plates. It was truly astonishing.

Celestia stood for a moment, “Hello my little ponies, shall we go?”

The seven of us follow the sisters, there is also a family waiting outside on the large balcony as we take our places. Voices are heard, airing their surprise, seeing what a true Princess looks like when dressed for High State.

Celestia lights her horn, enhancing her voice.

“Thank you all for being here today. It is a moment in Equestrian history that does not come often, so my sister and I thought it only appropriate to dress for the occasion.

“You are all aware of the search for the lost pony. Many of you participated or helped, dare I say all of Equestria. He is whole and healing, thanks to you all.”

Cheers rang through the city from the crowds.

Holding up a hoof, she asked for calm.

“But we are here to honor two of Equestria’s citizens, in the finest traditions of all we believe in. They sacrificed themselves for the good of us all, to find that lost pony and bring him back to us.”

Celestia gestured outward to the sky, “A little bird, who wanted nothing more but to fly and bask in the sun, was the finder. He took his injuries and kept flying, swift wings brought him to others who could pass the word. Before he could seek help, he thought only of telling ponies where the lost one was. In doing so, he has passed on. But we remember.”

She gestured to guards waiting outside. On a low wagon, with no sides, it was brought in by Royal Guardsponies. A square sarcophagi, smaller than most, having been worked on by Earth pony stonemasons since the little bird had passed. It was inlaid with gold, carved in the finest marble, a statue of a hummingbird reaching out to a flower was atop it as a headstone.

“His name was Snowbell, and he shall be remembered as a hero as long as there is an Equestria.”

The roar tore through the quiet skies and city.

Luna gestured this time to the guards, another low wagon was brought in, Royal Guards pulling it with pride. Upon it another rectangular sarcophagi, once again of fine marble and gold. Atop it, the statue of an elderly pony with a warm smile, leaning on a cane. He was instantly recognized, many did not know he had passed.

Luna stepped forward and spoke, “We know many did not know he had gone, and we are sorry for not saying so. But we give you, a hero of Equestria. For as Snowbell found, Faded Scroll healed. By his sacrifice, he healed a nation of anger, of hurt; and should be forever remembered.”

Another roar ripped the air.

The Sun Princess stepped beside her sister, “We pay homage to them. Celebrate their lives with cheer and good tidings. For Faded Scrolls’ family would ask that you do.” She bowed, extending a wing as Faded Scrolls daughters came forward, surrounded by foals, colts and fillies of various ages.

The eldest daughter tried to say something, but her words were a bit choked as she saw the ponies gathered to honor her father. All she could get out was, “Thank you so much.”

The entire family crowded each other as the cheering and tumult shattered the city once more. Ponies giving their father and Snowbell the honors they so richly deserved.

As the crowd filed out, a flower was placed on the wagons by each pony passing, sometimes more than one. The wagons were piled high in fragrance when they finally moved out to their resting places.

Snowbell was put to rest in the Canterlot Gardens, in a place of honor, where lily’s and other nectar rich flowers always grew, surrounding his little place with colors and scents. Every year after, though no one quite understood why, a crack of thunder was heard overhead on the day of his passing.

Faded Scroll was laid in another place of honor, a quiet garden near his wife Copper Ink. Overlooking the waterfalls they both loved to watch when they were young. No one ever knew where it came from; but an apple tree was planted in the middle of the night, providing shade to them both, and what some said were the sweetest fruit to ever be found in Canterlot.

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

The family was served tea in the throne room, the seven friends meeting each of the grandfoals and great grandfoals, hearing stories about Faded Scroll that had them laughing themselves silly. The sisters making the whole family welcome for a while, treating them warmly, letting them know how much Faded Scroll meant to Equestria.

Taking off their royal accouterments, they sat as any normal pony would, sharing laughter and love with the family of such a special pony.

It was the least the sisters could do, though they had wanted to do more, the family had refused. Just knowing their father had done something so special, was worth more than any bit or present.

Princess Celestia even had the Guards laughing by doing her imitation of Faded Scroll, “This will not do young Celestia!” She waved a hoof around as if pointing a cane, telling the stories of when he would storm into the throne room. Calling her “Young Celestia” as if the thousand year old plus monarch was some little filly.

But as in all things, that too ended, the family shown out with great reverence as they had to return to their homes and the pressing matters of everyday life.

Around the table they sat, eating a late meal as they pondered things, one question at the forefront of everypony’s mind.

The white Alicorn spoke the thought that cluttered the evening air, “Yes, we found a way to get to your memories Crusader.”

Crusader nodded, “All to the good Your Highness.”

“The spell will not last long, it takes tremendous energy to break Discords’ locks. So you will not have much time to find the right one.”

The blue eyes looked puzzled, “I’m sorry Your Highness?”

Luna set her tea cup down, “We cannot give you the memories, they are locked, you must find the one you need about this Masada, it will be very close as we can only maintain the spell for a few minutes. See it as looking through a library, you need to find the right book.”

“Is that the best that can be done?”

“Yes Crusader, as it is it will take all four of us to keep the spell going.”

“Then I shall have to do my best Your Majesty.”

“We need you in a natural sleep, so it will be tonight, just let yourself go. I promise, it will not hurt.”

“Once I find the memory I can keep it?”

“Yes, just hold to it and the spell will do the rest. It can’t give everything, but it will let us know about this Masada.”

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

I prepare myself for the night, not knowing what is to come, but they did say a natural sleep was needed. We are housed at the castle, of course I can still hear Pinkie running around looking at everything, I do wonder if she ever sleeps.

But things get quiet, I lay back on the pillow trying to let myself rest. It is hard, this is so important. I do not know if they can try again, so I shall have to make sure I get what I need and quickly. They described it as grabbing a book from a library, hopefully it will be a lot easier than that. If not, there are so very many memories a Bolo carries, it may be nigh impossible to find it.

In a small room, the four Alicorns gathered, facing each other across a runed circle, inlaid in the floor with gold and silver. Celestia had told them once the spell was started, they could not stop until they either got the memory or dropped. It was that important.

All four had agreed, as it was always voluntary; need however out did the caution.

They waited until Crusader passed into sleep, it should be momentarily.

I am tired, worn from the day. I cannot find a way to slip into sleep though, it is evading me. I try and relax, but my wounds still ache and it is hard to let go. I feel a body slip in the bed beside me, it is Applejack. I feel myself wrapped in warm orange pony, her legs cradling my body. She places my head on her chest, holding me close.

“Jes’ relax Crusader, I’ve got ya.”

“I know my Applejack.”

“Never stop saying that.”

“I won’t.”

She kisses my brow softly, making quiet noises as I finally relax, drifting into the still new for me world of dreams.

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

Luna looked upward, nodding to herself. “He is there, it’s time.”

The four horns pointed to the middle of the circle, letting loose streams of energy as they concentrated on breaking Discord’s magic. The spell gathered strength as it sapped the Alicorns’. Twilight was gritting her teeth as she poured out her energy along with Cadence and the sisters. They definitely could not hold it for long.

She watched as the magic gathered itself, trailing a tendril to where Crusader was sleeping, unlocking and bringing out the memories that Discord had put away.

Luna stepped sideways, still adding to the spell, but also walking the dream to find Crusader. It was quite quick, finding him sitting in the middle of a myriad of columns on plinths, on top of each one a large book, there were so very many. The dream self was reading a book, sitting in a chair.

She shook her head, concentrating on the pony reading, “Crusader! NOW!”

The dream Crusader flinched as he looked around, then started running from book to book; touching each for a moment, then moving on.

I hear Luna’s voice, it shocks me out of a complacent state. I move as fast as I can, touching each book, seeing the memory and moving. I cannot waste time, there are so many and nothing to distinguish one from another. A forest of columns with books on them, it might be too much. Not much time! I watch Princess Luna’s face, she is flickering in and out of my dream, she looks very strained.

....Hellrail away! Firing .05 sec burst..

...swing to 042 fire volley...

....Fight on my heart...

I stumble for a moment..it is Tika. My long ago commander, my body aches with remembrance as I touch the book. But I cannot. I must go, I leave the memory behind. I am sorry, but another holds my heart dear commander.

..architecture of Bolo Mark....

...stasis now!...

...initializing core protocols...

...fire bank two, 098 degrees...

....asada is a proto...

That is it! I grab the book off the column, holding it tight as I gallop back to where Luna is, she looks worn and tired.

“I have it! I have it!”

She nods to me, I see her fade out as the dream falls apart.

I wake in a cold sweat, the knowledge flooding through my mind as I sit and shake. Applejack is looking at me with concern as I grab on and hold her tight. My eye is blinking rapidly, still waking up from the dream as the information unfolds into my mind like a stark rose.

“Didya find it?”

“Oh yes.”

“...and?”

“It’s so much worse than we thought.”

Plans and Ponies

We sit at the breakfast table, I was unable to sleep with the new knowledge sitting in my mind like a cancerous lump. I stare at the wooden top, seeing the grain and swirl of the wood, wondering how I should tell this.

I decide to just tell them.

Crusader looked at all the patient faces, heaving a sigh as he leaned against Applejack.

“It’s a trap. A vicious, all or nothing trap.”

Celestia nodded, “Please explain.”

“A bit of background if I may. Masada was a fortress long ago, that was besieged by a tribe called the Romans. Rather than be taken or killed by them, the tribe inside the fortress killed themselves. Every man woman and child.” I hear the gasps, they are not used to such horror.

“This is what Masada was based on.”

“I am going to use terms that might not be familiar to you, so please bear with me.”

I receive nods from around the table.

“In battle, ages ago, there were times when a Bolo’s personality, the me if you would; was either usurped, or used to attack the Concordiat, turned to traitors by enemy action.”

I plant a hoof on the table, moving a spoon around listlessly.

“To combat that ever happening again, our scientists developed a program called Masada. If the controlling personality was ever corrupted by enemy action, or even perceived enemy action, Masada would take over.”

“We all carried another program, “ So much was contained within the memory of the program, all backgrounds and information, “Called Resartus, if we ever became unstable, or got caught in what we called a loop. It would activate until we were brought out of the problem or removed. It kept ourselves and the humans safe from us going crazy, when sometimes we got stuck in situations that made us a bit..well..loopy.”

“But Masada was so much more, it is almost another controlling entity; kept locked up until if or when the real personality, myself, was damaged or controlled by the enemy.”

I sigh, rubbing my forehead, I cannot believe this is happening.

“When Discord removed me from the Bolo, making me a real pony, Masada went into action. It closed all access, that’s why your links don’t work. Any attempt to gain entry would trigger it’s self defense mechanisms.”

I look up, seeing the solemn faces, they are following me.

“It now controls everything, it also thinks it has been disabled by enemy action. Sitting like a spider in a web, it waits for the enemy. What it does is act like a wounded bird, drawing the predators to it. So the firing of the guns is part of that, making the enemy think it is disabled or lost it’s functioning.

While it was firing, it is using the drones; to spot targets, make data maps and plotting fire. It is very methodical, almost maniacally so. It is now making sure every weapon, every round will be used in it’s final plan. So right now my drones are peering everywhere looking for targets. Towns, villages, everything.

Once it has finished, it starts counting down, until eventually it activates the Final Option. Before this, our Final Option was just self-destruction. Committing suicide to prevent the enemy from taking us or our technology.

Masada will not just self destruct, it will launch every weapon I have on a planned course of fire. Everything I carry will be shot into the skies, it has the information now, it will destroy everything around it for thousands of miles.”

Luna spoke quietly, “Do you carry so much then?”

“Remember I told you of nuclear weapons Your Highness?” I receive a nod.

“I carry a full payload, I was outfitted to the brim before stasis. Any missiles I have that are not nuclear, it will be changing to fully nuclear. My fabrication abilities will be used to produce chemical weapons alongside the standard ones I have. It will create chemicals that will kill with a touch.

Once it is ready, it will launch, what the radiation and fallout does not kill, the war agents will poison. It will murder this world.

When it has fired all it can, it will trigger the fusion reactors, adding to the pain. I have four of them, anything within a hundred miles will be inside a large crater.”

“That was Masada. We won’t just commit suicide, we will take you all with us.”

“How long do we have?”

“After the guns start firing, and they have been for a couple of days; at the most ninety six hours more. It will unlock everything and fire.”

“Can we not use magic to disrupt it?”

I sighed inside, I knew this was going to be asked, and I have made such errors. I should have burned that core when I thought about it. But never did this happening enter into my mind. Damn you Discord, you’ve sentenced a world to death.

“I have attuned my battle shields to protect against magic; even if the shields are not up, my sensors can pick up magic use. If it detects magic used near or against it, it will fire. We must keep any magic using ponies away from that hill.”

“You did not tell us...”

“No I did not Your Majesty, I had thought never to use them. It was just an experiment to me, we Bolos plan always. I had no idea this would happen. I honestly did not think there was any way to remove me from my war hull. You cannot believe how sorry I am for this. I have doomed your world and race by my hubris.”

“What about forest attacks?”

“It will still kill anything marked as the enemy, and the forest is one, it will just not do as thoroughly like I had. It wants them nearby, thinking it crippled and ineffective, close enough to die with it.”

The table was silent, I rubbed my head with a hoof and sighed; knowing that because of my stupid experiments we were down one option. I sit there listening to the breathing, the tinkle of cups being set down; the rustle of movement, the deafening damning silence.

Princess Celestia looked at me warmly, her smile never wavering, “If Discord put you back in, would you be able to stop this?”

“To be honest Your Highness, I have no idea. My creators never planned for this, or what would happen if a Bolo personality was taken out and put back in.”

The regal mare just smiled, looking at me intently for a moment before bringing her tea cup up and sipping slowly. Setting it down, she tilted her head and spoke, “So we have a situation that no one expected, even those who made you. Surely there must be something, some little thing that might allow us to fight this?”

How can she possibly remain calm?

“I do not know Your Highness, it is a quandary. If we can get Discord to put me back, I may have an idea to help me if I engage in a fight with the Masada intelligence. But I need one more memory.”

That brought heads up, Cadence and Twilight looked beat, as well as Celestia and Luna. They had used quite a bit of power for just that one memory, and another would probably drain them for a long while.

“Is it needed?”

“Yes Your Highness, it is the memory of my schematics, the plans of myself and my weapons. I can plan an avenue of attack if I can get those.”

“Is there anything else you might need?”

“Yes Your Highness, one more thing...”

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

“You want us to do WHAT?”

“You have to knock down the drones, it is imperative. Without eyes, it will force it to change it’s directives. It will not launch any more of them because it is conserving everything for a final strike. Plus losing it’s eyes in the sky will give it pause. It will have to do more planning, we may buy some time.”

Spitfire was stunned, she’d seen the drones in action, and knew that her Wonderbolts would be hard pressed to down them. Her sunglass covered orange eyes glared at the calm light umber stallion that just asked them to do something so dangerous.

“Look, our team is hot, but surely you’ve got to be kidding.”

“I am not kidding, in any way shape or form. It has to be done and the Princesses’ assured me you were the best.”

“We are the best!” Her assurance faltered for a moment, “But this, I mean I’ve seen those things they’re deadly!”

“They are, but everything has vulnerabilities. Once I get the memory of my plans and schematics back, I can tell you exactly how to down them.”

She glared at him one more time, “If this wasn’t..”

He gestured to her, pointing an unwavering hoof at the band on her ear. “You say you’re the best, you’ve gone ‘Under the Gun’ twice now. Quit whining.”

I think if anypony would explode in flames of anger, this would probably be as close to it as I got.

Whipping off her sunglasses she got into the stallion’s face, “Whining? I’ll show you whining, we’ll take those drones down! Just give us a way and we’ll do it. Nopony tells the Wonderbolts they whine!” She backed up with a snort, turning and walking away with a flick of her tail.

I watch as she exits the room, calling for her teammates. Gesturing back at me, I’m sure with some not so polite words, they all glare and stomp off.

“Ya know of course she’s gonna have a real hate on for ya now.”

I turn to see Applejack, leaning against the doorway, “I know, but if it gets them on track to do this I will apologize later.”

She walks over and hugs me, giving a warm nuzzle, “Yer pretty sneaky there, ya know that?”

I give her what is known as the ‘Who me?’ look, learned from watching Pinkie, “I have absolutely no idea what you’re talking about.”

I get gently cuffed on one ear, and a kiss for it as well, “Jes’ make sure you apologize, wouldn’t do to have her whole team mad at ya afterwards.”

“Yes my Applejack.”

She tugs me out of the room, we are going to do a bit of shopping today. Just walking and enjoying Canterlot, she is going to show me the sights. We have a bit of time, being under a death sentence there is very little we can do until we go into action.

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

That night, we prepare again for the memory retrieval, the sisters looking haggard as they warn me once more it will be fleeting. I will definitely not have much time. But I know approximately where it is in the forest of columns and can retrieve it easily.

I am cradled in Applejacks forelegs again, it is comforting and familiar. I feel so very safe when I am with her. After everything that has been done, Applejack had asked, why wasn’t I angry or mad?

I told her it was not my nature, I raged in battle yes; but to be angry or hate something was just a waste of time. It only hurt you not others. So why do it?

I told her about my wishing for punishment for those that had foalnapped me, but it wasn’t an honest dislike. It was me being hurt, scared for those I had befriended and who gave that friendship back in so many ways. I listen to her heartbeat as I tell her how much I like my new home, my friends, her. I don’t want to leave, ever. I have been changed in so many ways since I awoke, it is miraculous. I am befriended by ponies, who treat me as an equal, not a servant or something to be reviled.

I can do no less for them in return.

If it means giving up what I have here to save this place, I shall. But in Applejack’s embrace I am assured right now, of warmth and love, things I have never had before like this in all my days.

I am content.

It is fairly anti-climactic, retrieving the memory now that I know how it is done. Luna informed me this is the last time they can do this for a long while, so I must make the best of it. But now I have what I need. I can feel the information flowering in my mind, giving me what I need to take this sentence off the table. It is not going to be easy, and I have no clue what is going to happen should I reappear in the data cores. I do not know what may come of this, but I do know I will do whatever it takes to stave this off.

I do not fall back asleep, I leave Applejack resting quietly and go to retrieve some parchment, we have not much time.

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

I sit at the table, a pencil in my mouth as I draw crude plans, not very well I might add. Searching through the extensive memories, I believe i have found a way. It is risky, they are not going to like it. But it is all I can figure out. I wait for the morning sun to rise with trepidation.

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

I lay a hoof against my temple, rubbing it a bit as I finalize things, watching as the six friends and the Princesses arrive at the table. We are served tea, though I have no stomach for food right now. I am seriously tired of delivering nothing but bad news, or something that would horrify, I really am.

“Thank you all for coming, I think I’ve figured out a plan.”

Celestia nodded, still warmly smiling, calm and cool, “Is it sure to work?”

“The only one I can possibly think of given my limited memories. I have a lot of general knowledge, but with these specifics I think we can overcome the intelligence.”

Princess Luna looked a bit tired, “Please, explain.”

I start using a hoof to point at the drawing, explaining as I go.

“The Command Deck, where you all have been. Contains an access tunnel to the memory cores, my brain. This is where the Masada intelligence sits. We have to get somepony into that core area and disrupt it with magic; I have seen and understand magic, it does not. It will not recover fast enough and it will allow me to seize control.

However...

Getting to the cores is the problem, we need someone smaller than an adult pony, who can use magic well enough to hit the cores with a blast. Also, they need to be nimble and swift. I will be fighting Masada while trying to keep the ponies who go inside safe. It will be dangerous, I will not lie.

My interior battlescreens only cover the command deck, it was to protect the human commander. We Bolos and our personalities were encased in durachrome further on, meters of it. We survived many grievous hits, but the priority was protecting our commanders; never ourselves.

The sequence of events will go something like this:

The assault group will be waiting outside the entryway to the command deck, as long as they do not use magic, Masada will ignore them as they are friendlies. Once I am inserted back into the arrays Masada will sense me as an enemy intelligence, it will begin the launch of all weapons.

I will first try and seize control of the hatches to open them. The group needs to get to the command deck by the core access way. Here is the problem, there are four power rifle intruder defenses, if I cannot get control of them, the group will not live to reach the cores.

I will attempt to disable or control them while opening the access hatch to the cores. Once that is done the group needs to get to the arrays, they are big glass like slabs, containing all information and my intelligence. Once inside them as far in as they can get; they need to light off a powerful spell, the bigger the better. It will disrupt everything inside the cores, allowing me to seize control from Masada, once that is done I will burn Masada out of the arrays forever.

I do not know if Masada has further reinforced the access ways, we are going in blind. But what I do know is if I can get control, I can stop everything and burn that malicious thing into dust.”

“Princess Celestia tilts her head, “Any ideas for the group who will do this?”

“Yes Your Highness, the Cutie Mark Crusaders.”

Immediately I am assaulted with yelling and outraged looks. Applejack is giving me a glare I am sure would mean my death. I raise a hoof, calling for silence.

“I know they are young. You have to understand, the access ways were made for a human on their belly, or a tech spider. None of you can get in there, and I cannot control the spiders until I am in total command. It would be too much while I am fighting. I have watched them, they are fast, very fleet and they will be fine.”

Rarity was aghast, “No, most definitely not. Sweetie Belle getting hurt would devastate our parents!”

I sigh, “There is no other way Rarity, I have thought this out. They are skilled, strong, and intelligent. It’s what is needed. Other than that, we are out of options.” I looked at Rarity, Applejack, all the others, “I promise you, by anything you care to name, this is the only way. I would not hurt those three for anything in this world, but they are exactly what is needed.”

Princess Luna looked up from her meal, “Are you sure? Absolutely sure?”

“Yes. They will be able to move around better than anypony here, or an adult. They can be trusted to do this I am sure.”

Princess Celestia made her mind up, I could see it in her expression, but always the calm voice, “Twilight, please send for them and tell them it’s urgent. Get them here soonest.”

Twilight nodded, bumping Cadence as they both ran out of the brightly lit room, I watched them go with a frown.

“I am sorry, I tried to think of anything else, anything. We need a magic spell in the cores to disrupt Masada, it is the only chance I have.”

I seem to be talking to myself now; gazes are averted, I am sure I am not in the highest regard right now. It was all I could come up with; if I had more time, more resources..

Silence reigned as we finished our meal, each taking off to begin preparations for what I was sure was going to be a tremendous fight. Applejack did not say anything to me after we were done, she stormed off into the hallways. I gave her the time alone, I didn’t mean to surprise her with this at all.

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

I meet with the Wonderbolts later, Spitfire, Soarin, Fleetfoot and Rapidfire are the team selected. We are going over the plans for the drones at the forge. I have given the blacksmiths instructions on how to make a weapon that will pierce the drones and disable them. A bit of a long pole with a tempered metal spike at the end, allowing the pegasus to break control surfaces or disable the engines. I show them different ways to spot a stealthed drone as well, occlusion, averting the eyes slightly, various tricks.

I have also told them, in no uncertain terms. The second a Pegasus downs one of those drones, they will be marked as the enemy. Any Pegasi in the skies will be shot at. We are going to work to clear the skies, keep them vacant so the team can do their job without worrying about others.

Also, Rainbow Dash is going to be waiting. Her Sonic Rainboom it is called, can disrupt sensors for a small amount of time, which could make the difference in surviving. She will be watching for a signal if she is needed.

Spitfire has calmed a bit. I think she realized my little ploy afterwards so we have a good conversation. I apologise to her, but we just do not have the time for debates. This has to be done and now. She understands, she is just plainly worried for her team and I cannot blame her.

I tell them exactly where to strike on the drones, pointing out vulnerabilities in the engines and wing surfaces. They are attentive, taking notes, and testing the new spears. I can only hope during my little experience that no other drones were launched, I am going off of only the memories I had when I was changed; but knowing what Masada is and does, I can put nothing past it. It is in control, not myself.

Masada is a maniac, single-minded to one purpose, destroy. If it was in its’ best interest to use more drones for mapping, it may be there are one or two more I do not know about. But I have warned Spitfire and her team.

I am hopeful, if this goes well it will buy us a bit of time to try and contact Discord. He is still not answering the summons of the sisters. This is troubling, without him, I cannot time when I will turn back into the me, this could throw everything off. Time to the picosecond is of the essence when dealing with psychotronic arrays.

I bid the practicing team farewell, wishing them the best. We are to get a good night’s sleep, in the morning the strikes begin.

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

It is late afternoon when the Crusaders are brought in, I am happily reunited with my former commander. She is always bright and cheerful when I see her. Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle and her, are somewhat intimidated by the urgent summons to the castle. I can see the worry as they are led to the table where we all sit.

It is up to them if they choose not to do it, and I will be honest about everything; it means changing to somepony else. That would cost valuable time we do not have.

Applejack is sitting away from me, although I receive looks occasionally, I am sure she is a bit hurt by my recommendations. I have tried to tell her it hurts me as well, but she does not wish to listen right now. That is fine, I shall give her all the time she wants.

They are a bit bouncy though, full of energy and life as I sit there waiting for them to calm. One slim hoof is raised by Celestia asking them to stop and sit for a moment.

Of course my former commander speaks up first, “So Princess, what would you need us for?”

Sweetie Belle appears to be a bit shy in the presence of everypony, Scootaloo is of course at home with her hero Rainbow.

Princess Celestia smiles at the three, “I believe Crusader has a task for you.”

I get pinned with three sets of young eyes. I remember the tank rides, the building of things made of spare parts on my command deck. I think of Apple Bloom as my first commander, she was so very proud. Now I am to send them into what may be their deaths.

I tell them everything, leaving not one iota of information out. Informing them that one error could mean their deaths and everypony else’s. This is not a game, nor a test, this is real life. I see Applejack watching me closely as she holds Apple Bloom close, Rarity has a leg around Sweetie, as Rainbow holds on to Scootaloo.

“I am serious, this is volunteers only. If you say yes, we’ll get you ready. If you say no, we’ll try and find somepony else. Once again, any slip, any mistake, and it’s over. Do you understand?”

Scootaloo speaks up, “All we have to do is get Sweetie to the cores? Right? The cores? Then she lets go with a spell and that’s all?”

I nod, “Yes, but you are going to be in great danger, there are weapons that will attempt to prevent you from getting there. I am not kidding here, this is probably the most serious thing you will ever do.”

“Ah’m for it!” Apple Bloom pipes up, standing next to Applejack as she tries to quiet her, “No, doncha go shushin’ me sis! We can do it; I know we get in alot of trouble, but we’ll do it, won’t we?” She looks at a nodding Scootaloo, then her eyes linger on Sweetie who is pressing against Rarity. “Hey Sweetie, we’ll protect ya, ya know that!”

Her pretty voice is soft, “I know, but.... what if I can’t cast the spell cause I’m nervous, or get hurt.”

Apple Bloom leans over, “You can do anything, you know that. Yer a Crusader and we never give up.”

“I...I know.. but we’ve always had fun, this...is kinda serious.”

Rarity hugged her little sister, “Sweetie, you do not have to go.”

“But..if I don’t who’s gonna cast a spell?”

Scootaloo looked around, “We can figure something out right? I mean, it’s okay if Sweetie doesn’t go?”

Princess Celestia nodded, “It is perfectly fine if she doesn’t wish to go.”

Apple Bloom nodded, “You betcha! I bet they got some gem or something that’ll blast a spell everywheres! How ‘bout you Scoots?”

“Oh yeah! I’ll be there, we’ll stop this bad pony!”

Apple Bloom hoof bumped her friend, both of them coming around the table to tell Sweetie she didnt have to go, giving her warm hugs.

“It’s alright, we’ll be okay! We’ll still be Crusaders ya know, friends don’t give up on friends.” Apple Bloom nuzzled her friend, “Doncha ever think that alright? It’s perfectly fine ya don’t wanna go. The Princesses said so!” She gave a bright smile to the royals.

Sweetie nodded, looking a bit dejected as she nestled closer to Rarity, “I’m sorry..”

Princess Luna raised a hoof, “No, stop that. You are not to be sorry. It is volunteer. We asked you instead of your sisters or family because they would immediately say no. You are old enough to understand things, young yes, but you understand the hazards. It is a simple mission, but potentially with a cost. You are not to worry alright?”

Princess Cadence smiled at the little unicorn, “Don’t worry, we will bespell a gem and make sure Apple Bloom or Scootaloo can use it to cause the disruption. It will be fine.”

“O...okay..” Sweetie Belle did not look convinced, and it was evident by her face she felt she was letting her friends down.

Scootaloo and Apple Bloom took her off into a corner, hugging her and talking to her quietly. Telling her it was fine, sometimes you just can’t do some things. They are a team no matter what and they soon have Sweetie Belle smiling again, giving each other advice.

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

I watch them reassure their friend. She is very sad she has upset her friends by not agreeing to go, they comfort her though. That is fine, that is why I told them to ask not order. Doing anything like this is dangerous enough, asking young ones to do it is irresponsible. I am mad enough at myself I cannot get in the access way. Now i am asking young ones to do something Concordiat soldiers had a hard time doing. Jumping into the face of the enemy. But in the morning we will train, and I will show them how to get there quickly.

Make no mistake, Masada is the enemy as sure as I was a Bolo. It will kill everything. What ever possessed those stupid scientists to ever think this was a good idea?

I see the looks, the glares, and I cannot be here anymore. I tender my polite good nights, walking back to my room. Evening is falling and we have to get sleep to prepare for the day. Thinking upon Discord I have to wonder, is he doing this to destroy them on purpose? Or does he actually have no clue what he’s done only wanting to play a joke?

Either way, he owes these ponies.

Applejack is not pleased, I can tell by the look she gives me as I head away. I am sorry my Applejack, truly and with no hesitation I would do this if I could. I cannot fit in those spaces. It grieves me to even ask this of them.

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

I sit on the bed, looking out the window and wonder where you are my brothers and sisters. I could use your help right now. Am I doing the right thing? Am I just throwing away lives to no purpose other than to assuage my own ego? I am trying to save this world, but in so doing will I cost it more than it is worth?

In the morning we will launch the attack on the drones. Masada will know it has another enemy now, and it will relish the thought of killing them. Why would our creators do this cruel and foolish thing? It was Case Ragnarok, I know this. But to exterminate worlds for no other reason than to deny the enemy. Madness. Pure madness. I wonder my brothers and sisters, were our creators really just trying to survive or insane? Maybe it is best they are not here to contaminate this world anymore with their selfishness.

I wish you a good night my brothers and sisters. Wish us luck here on old Earth, that we have many more dawns after this.

Thoughts, Victories and Love.

I am still looking out the window, speaking to my lost brothers and sisters as I hear the door open. I know who it is and I brace myself for what’s to come. I prepare apologies, assurances, anything I can to make her understand what I am doing is the only way. I can only apologize, beg forgiveness, do what I can to make sure she understands it hurts more than she can imagine.

But I am stopped by the warmth against my back, the legs wrapping around me and pulling me tight. A kiss on the ear, the lips as my head is turned.

I stare into those wonderful eyes, flecked with points of gold that shimmer in the moonlight.

“I love you ya know that?”

“I do, and I love you so very much Applejack.”

She sighs, leaning against my shoulders, “You know you should have talked to me first.”

“I do, and you would have said no. I am sorry, you do not know how much I regret it. The thought of losing her, and you, would kill me. I swear to you Applejack, once I am inside my war hull I will do whatever it takes to make sure they are safe and can do the mission. I promise you.”

“You haven’t broken a promise yet...”

“I never intend to".

“Ah know. She’s just young, she doesn’t understand it really. Sometimes even I have a hard time understandin’ ya.”

“I think she understands more than anypony gives her credit for. Ponies are intelligent, inquisitive, and she exemplifies that.” I chuckle, “You also understand more than you let on, farm mare.”

I get cuffed gently on the ear again, “Doncha go spreadin’ anything like that. Got folks fooled so I can bargain mah apples for more ya know.”

I smile at her, “ You call me sneaky, but I truly wonder..”

A warning hoof is waved in my face, “Nuh uh, don’t even start. Ah’m happy this way and it’ll stay this way.”

“Your secret is safe with me.”

“It better be.” She smiles in return, “Ah jes’ worry bout Apple Bloom, she’s young, got her whole life ahead of her.”

“She still will. Once I am inside my war hull she will be safe, I will do what I have to. If that means burning cores, I will.”

“Is that a bad thing?”

“Burning a core means I lose part of myself, memories, things I have saved over the years. If that is what it takes, I shall do so. She will be safe. I can rebuild what I need.”

She turns my head towards her, looking into my eyes, “Don’t you lose yourself, hear me? You come back, cause Apple Bloom would miss ya somethin’ fierce. So would I.”

“There are no guarantees in this kind of fight my Applejack. I can only say I will do my very best.”

“Then if that’s the best you can offer, I’ll take it.” She leans in and kisses me again warmly, I hold her tight to myself.

“I am a skilled combat unit Applejack, I will win this fight. I am faster and more motivated than Masada. It has nothing to fight for except destruction, I have something.”

“What’s that?”

“You, my new home, Apple Bloom,” I wave a hoof around, “Twilight Sparkle, Rarity, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo.” I chuckle a bit, “Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and yes Pinkie. I am fighting for something tangible, it does not have that. It knows nothing about it. It gives me the edge.”

She keeps looking at my face as I make my statement.

“I have so much to lose. I am so much more than I was, or could ever have hoped to be. I will not lose this fight.” I slap a hoof on the bed, anger rising in me, “Even Discord I will do this for. Princess Celestia and everypony else has shown me the value of forgiveness. Though I think it will be long in coming for this little problem.”

Applejack smiled, giving a good loud laugh, “Oh you bet on that one. I tell ya he’s stepped in something bad this time, don’t think the Princesses are gonna let him off the hook so easily.”

“Let’s hope not.” I shake my head, “Such a simple thing turned into so many problems.” I sigh a bit, holding her close, “Maybe I shouldn’t have done this, made a pony, brought this trouble here.”

Applejack knew how to soothe, she was one of a kind really, “Stop that.” She leaned back into the pillows, bringing me with her, “Be kinda strange not to be able to just cuddle somepony ya know. I got nothin’ against this.”

I snuggled close, kissing her lips, warm and inviting, “You’re right, I don’t regret it then.”

Nodding, she strokes a hoof down my mane and smiles at me once more, “Good, then let’s both get some sleep, we got ourselves a busy day tomorrow.”

I accede to the request happily and close my eyes. We are starting before the sun rises.

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

It is only a few hours later, everypony has been busy creating mock drones, making the tunnel way for real to practice in. I am amazed at what magic can do. I shall never quite understand it, but it gets things done and quickly.

I believe the smiths have done a better job than I had expected. Long ago Pegasi were feared for dropping out of the sky, slamming a foe to the ground and pinning them. This was accomplished by using a type of short javelin. It is wickedly barbed, it cannot be pulled out without extensive damage. I watch as Spitfire and her team use it against a mockup of a drone, it is highly effective. It will stick and cause imbalance in the flight, forcing it from the skies.

I am pleased, they are graceful and strong. Watching them fly and attacking the dummy they are fearsome. They had been practicing through the night, and they are extremely well trained. I think Masada is not going to like this at all, and that fills me with a glee I never expected.

We go over the plans one last time, I tell them there should only be four drones, but to expect anything. Once Masada has targeted them, they will be in extreme danger.

The sweaty smiling ponies just laugh, a confidence I am sure they do not really feel. I can see the nervousness, the hesitation in their eyes. But that is fine, fear is a motivator, use it and you will overcome. Succumb to it and you die, we all know that.

Spitfire glanced to the pony watching them, walking over and setting her war dart aside, “What do you think so far?”

Crusader looked at her calmly, “I think you will earn another honor for yourselves this day Spitfire.”

The gold mare looks at her team, swarming the drone, “I think if we get out of this without injury that will be enough.”

“It is all anypony can ask Spitfire.”

She looked at the stallion, standing there critiquing every move or flap of wings. “Nopony has told me much about this, they’re keeping it very hush hush. What’s going on?”

The deep blue eyes met hers for a moment, “You’re helping to save the world Spitfire. Is that enough?”

She thinks for a moment, shaking her head, “No, no that’s not enough. I owe it to them to let them know. What is going on?”

I hesitate for a moment, then draw her aside. I tell her the story, of my transformation, the threat of Masada and what will happen to this planet if we do not stop this. She is silent while I do so, at some points I can see the unbelief in her eyes, but I still continue, filling her in on what Apple Bloom will be doing as well. That others are risking their lives, not just them.

Spitfire eyeballs the stallion for a moment, “If it was anypony else I’d say you were nuts. But the Princesses have told us this is extremely important. I have a feeling what you said is true. But if anypony on my team gets hurt, I’ll hold you responsible.”

“As it should be Spitfire, I am a big part of this. The responsibility is mine. I will accept that, and any punishment that comes with it. I grieve already for what has been done for me. I can do no less than that.”

The gold mare watched him walk away, a bit of sadness in his face as he did so. Picking up her war dart, she knew in an hour they would be going up against the real thing. Leaping into the air she attacked the dummy with everything she had, “For Equestria!”

I hear her behind me, attacking with renewed vigor. But I have not lied, the grief is real, I shall always grieve for those who sacrificed for me. Carrying that with me into my own fight I resolve I will be victorious, or I will burn every core inside my war hull. I will not leave this threat again.

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

I visit Apple Bloom and Scootaloo, receiving cheerful hugs. They are practicing on a mockup of the access ways. Simple tunnels, learning how to move quickly and to the cores. I watch as they bounce into the simulated hatch ways, bounding down the corridors and into the core, setting off a gem with a flash of light, also emulating the real one. They are fast, determined and they do not make a single mistake.

I see Applejack watching her sister, her pride showing at how smooth she is. Strong and fast as any full grown Apple mare. She is setting speed records, Scootaloo behind, shoving her into the access tunnel and following. They have stripped the time down to seconds. I watch them do it again and again, never tiring, taking breaks only when told to. Such dedication you can only wish for.

“We got it Crusader! We’re gonna be in that tunnel ‘fore anypony knows it!” Apple Bloom sips from a glass of water, taking a break as she grins up at me.

“I think the Concordiat Marines would be proud to have you.”

She tilts her head, “Is that a good thing?”

I laugh, setting beside the two sweaty fillies, “They were feared Apple Bloom. They were only human, not like me. But their fierceness and honor stood above all men. They were respected always, and when you saw them on the battlefield soldiers rejoiced. They knew salvation was at hand. I remember them, I can see their forms in the thick of battle, bringing their comrades out to safety and going back. They were the epitome’ of courage. They stood on fields fighting beside us, the Bolos. They were true heroes.”

“What’s epi..e..pity..me?” Scootaloo gets a puzzled look on her face.

Applejack hugs me from behind as I explain, “It means the peak, them above all. That they were the ones others looked to when they needed an example of courage, honor and strength.”

“In other words, they were the best Scoots.” Applejack translates for me when I get a bit wordy.

Apple Bloom hoofbumps Scootaloo, “Cutie Mark Crusader Marines! Yay!”

“I don’t think there’s a Cutie Mark for that yet little fillies. Maybe you’ll be the first?”

That got their attention as they ran back to the mockup, working even harder now, though Applejack and I could see them peeking at their flanks now and then. It makes me wonder, would there be such a mark? Would the magic of Equestria allow somepony to have such a thing? Truly something to ponder as I remember those towering forms, fighting in areas where only Bolos could go. Their augmented strength and bodies powerful beyond reason, their courage as tall as they were.

I watch the two young fillies, never faltering, never tripping; their actions only getting better by the minute. I am so very proud of my former commander. They truly have the dedication of a Bolo.

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

It is time, I watch as Spitfire and her team take to the skies, their target the drone over the Everfree. Hopefully they have all returned to post or this will be a short fight. I can only wait as they are too far for my eyes.

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

Spitfire hovered close to Soarin, seeing Rapidfire and Fleetfoot bank off to the left. They were out of uniform, as sleek as they could be carrying four darts apiece. It should be enough to handle one drone.

She watched closely, making sure they did not get within sight of those guns, knowing what they could do, when a blur from the corner of her eye caught her attention.
She whipped her head around, seeing the shimmering shape in her eyesight now, pointing to it and nudging Soarin with a wing. A whistle was given to the other pair and they split up, two from the bottom, two from the top diving from the sun.

Fleetfoot caught the signal, pushing Rapidfire upwards as they came out of the sun, brandishing their darts like warriors of old. Both pegasi were screaming in, wings folded back like delta wing fighters as they tore through the air. They could see Spitfire and Soarin coming up from below, pushing hard to make the meet.

They waited until the last moment, darts close to their bodies, then suddenly pushing them forward bracing themselves for impact.

The steel heads slammed into the drone, pinning it in the air as the two pairs flashed past each other, banking hard for another round. Spitfire flipped over, grabbing another dart and rushing back in as they saw the drone begin to spark, listing to one side and diving for the ground.

Fleetfoot grabbed a dart from her back, gritting her teeth as she tore in again beside Rapidfire. Both of them homing in on their designated spots. Her wings pinned back as she tore through the sunny skies, Rapidfire right beside her diving in at tremendous speed.

Soarin was right beside Spitfire, seeing the gleeful look on her face as she dove in again, wings tilting. He matched her pin for pin as they saw the drone get closer in their sights, then slamming past it with less weight, leaving a dart behind in the drone.

All four pegasi had rushed back in, smashing the barbed darts right into the exact points they’d practiced on. Seeing the drone smoke, then suddenly give a belch as it toppled over blasting into the ground below. They raised hooves to each other and sped upwards, bursting into a flower to gain distance between them.

Raising a hoof in the air Spitfire gave a yell, then motioned them to get the Tartarus out of there, seeing the sensor posts start swinging weapons their way. They slammed into a low dive, skimming the treetops to slalom through the branches gleefully, not wanting to wait to tell the story when they got back.

First kill went to the Wonderbolts! What a story Spitfire would have when they got back to Canterlot!

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

It seems they have come back victorious, I see Spitfire and the others laughing as they tell the story of downing the drone. I have told them, form here on out it gets more dangerous. That drone was not registering them as an enemy, now they are. I do not mind confidence, but overly so will get somepony hurt. But for now, the victory is theirs and well earned.

I watch as they take a rest, resupplying their spears. Then they hit the skies again, this time for the drone over Fluttershy’s house.

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

Soarin wanted this one, he’d watched Spitfire and wanted to impress her a bit. But of course they’d been warned, the first one was easy. The second, third and fourth were going to get tougher, Spitfire had told them, so he’d better be on top of his game.

He was, or thought so as he banked around, looking down below to see Fluttershy’s house, averting his eyes just slightly to catch a glimpse of the drone. Crusader said it had a sort of camouflage on it, made it hard to see. But by looking out the side of your eye, you could maybe..THERE!

Here was his chance! He broke formation and dove at the blur in the sky, Spitfire following him as she yelled at him to stop!

He turned and gave her a grin, he was doing fine. Until the ripping sound of a repeater firing broke his little reverie, the bullets making a whickering noise as they slapped past him in the air. He stopped and dropped out of the air, getting out of the target area as he fought to gain lost height.

The drone had unstealthed, below the fuselage was now a rotating set of barrels they all knew from going ‘Under the Gun’. Only these were far far more deadly. Spiraling up and out of reach of each other, Fleetfoot dodging down under Rapidfire, splitting their movements and making it seem like one was the other, confusing the simple AI that ran the drone.

Spitfire clocked Soarin upside the ear as she flashed past, readying her dart. She signaled to the two others, pointing at the top of the drone. They were to keep it busy while she tried to disable it. They spotted her and kept flipping, their acrobatics getting faster and faster as they dove and wove, taking banks and turns that complimented each other, baffling the simple targeting array. If Masada felt the need to take over, they’d be dead, so they needed to disable it quickly.

Spitfire dove, Soarin was coming back up behind the drone from his fateful first maneuver, he was lagging a bit behind. She gripped the drone in front of the tail-fin, her hooves tight as she plunged a dart into the engine cells, simply tipping off to the side to pop her wings open and glide away. Soarin followed her, coming up under the weapon. He put a barb directly into the motor, causing the rotation to stop, giving Fleetfoot and Rapidfire their chances.

Breaking off their moves, they plunged up and over, a sort of Pegasus Immelman. Their spears to the fore, they rammed down into the drone body, putting the steel heads through the skin and into the electronics.

Sparks ravaged the heads of the spears, causing Rapidfire and Fleetfoot to let them go a bit early, diving off to the side as the drone fell over. They watched as the smashed drone fell and shattered into the forest near Fluttershy’s cottage.

High-hoofing, they made their way back to Canterlot, one more under the Wonderbolt’s belts.

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

I see them come back for another resupply, two drones down. Now it gets precarious. Masada will know they are hunting the drones. I do not know what he will do, but we have advised that ponies get off the streets in Ponyville and Canterlot. This will protect them better than in the open I am sure. The houses of Ponyville are sturdy and made with thick timbers. Canterlot is mostly stone, but anypony caught outside will be in for a bad time while the pony-fight is going on.

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

The drone over Ponyville was not even stealthed, it was waiting for them.

A repeater dropped down under the fuselage and opened fire as they swept in, dodging as fast as they could, every muscle aching now. They dropped, spun, spiraled, every trick in the book as they got closer to the flying weapon. They all saw the small tracks left in the Ponyville street, small craters from rounds hitting the dirt.

Soarin suddenly twisted with a yelp, seeing a bloody trail along his side, he had to drop to the ground below. Scurrying for cover, he kept an eye on the fight above him. The three pegasi were getting closer, but not fast enough, the drone was maneuvering in opposition. It wasn’t just patrolling, it was actively hunting them.

They twisted and turned, leading the drone a bit farther in the opposite direction from Crusader’s hill, keeping far out of range of the deadly guns. The drone followed like a slavering hound out for blood. The gun tilted and whirred, spitting needles their way. They had a hard time keeping out of the line of fire as they brought it to a safer place to exterminate.

Rapidfire ducked in, launching a dart, smacking it on the sensor cluster, breaking lenses as he dove away. Spitfire was rolling in, coming from out of the sun when she spotted the tilt of a wing, the barrels coming up to greet her with death. Out of the sky to her right a cyan blur cracked the sky, Rainbow Dash gritting her teeth as she sped into the fight; her dart whacking into the side of the drone as she sped past. The steel sinking deeply into the nose, crucifying the electronics.

Spitfire grinned, the thing was off balance now. She and Fleetfoot whipped in a caduceus like spiral, swapping places and diving suddenly to smash hooves against the drone. The sharp hooves causing the skin to buckle as the two mares rammed barbed points into the electronics and fuel cells, causing the drone to tilt and go down, crashing into a pile of dirt on the outskirts of town.

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

One more time they come in. They are tired, their chests heaving, but they smile and give hoofbumps all around. I am sure they are aching from the exertion. Only one more to go right above us. I cannot see it, but we know it is there, the last; it should make Masada pause a bit. It might still need the eyes in the sky, but it will want to conserve everything for the final strike. Maybe we can get it to go into a recursive loop, that would do nicely.

Soarin is out of action, having taken a grazing shot from a couple of rounds. They are not deep, but he will be laid up for a while. Once I can get back inside, presumably I can heal him faster. There is time as he is not gravely wounded.

I watch Rainbow Dash, receiving her just praise for the help in the last drone attack. Oh the pride in those eyes, seeing her chest puff out as her friends gather, giving her the accolades she deserves. But all too soon she streaks into the sky after the Wonderbolts, a last ditch weapon Masada cannot possibly understand.

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

Spitfire directed her team to scatter, she knew that the thing would be looking for them. Taking no chances, she gave Rainbow Dash the order to stay back, if anything untoward happened, she was to punch in at high speed with her darts.

They spiraled up into the clear sky, looking for their enemy.

It doesn’t even bother to wait, it comes shearing through the blue sky with a scream of engines, a stuttering roar of it’s repeaters as the team split in different directions. It does not pause, it zeros in on Fleetfoot and goes after her, the barrels swiveling around for the best kill shot.

The arctic blue Pegasus stands on her wingtip, flipping over gracefully and diving towards Canterlot, her wings tilting to catch the air as she spirals tighter than the drone can move. The repeater cannot follow all the way, having stops preventing it from rotating 360 degrees in case of shooting it’s own tail fins off. It does however get off a few rounds at the pretty pegasi, smacking feathers off her wings as she comes close to disaster.

Spitfire roars out of the sky, slashing the side of the drone open for Rapidfire to followup with another spear. Plunging it deep he nails the electronics inside, causing malfunctions.

Another stutter comes from a different direction, a second drone!

It sings its song of death from above, firing and twisting at the pegasus surrounding the first drone. Rapidfire is hit, he tumbles in the sky, his wings barely keeping him aloft. Fleetfoot tries to gain height but her feathers are shot, she merely spirals in a holding pattern as she dances around trying to get the drones attention.

Spitfire is weighing the options when she hears it from behind. The sound of something pushing the sound barrier. Knowing exactly who it is she waits while flipping and twisting, the cyan blur once more speeding past her, as Rainbow’s dart hits the new drone dead on center, a rainboom appears, the shock and colors confusing the two drones and allowing Spitfire to give them the finishing touches. She pushes her darts into one drone, then the next, making sure they go deep into the fuel cells. Watching them spiral out of the sky down the mountainside.

A flash of burning fuel and a small explosion from each tell them their fate as Spitfire and Rainbow grab Rapidfire and Fleetfoot, helping them back home.

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

Ponies crowd around the returning warriors. Helping Rapidfire and Fleetfoot into medical areas. Hopefully not too badly hit, but I do see quite a bit of blood from Rapids’ leg. I can do nothing but stay out of the way and hope for the best. Poor Fleetfoot has had a few feathers shot off, her wings are looking a bit disheveled. But she is in high spirits, being in on the kills and high-hoofing anypony that wants it.

Spitfire is standing back a bit, letting her team mates soak up the affection. I see her smiling warmly as she watches the ponies crowd around.

Rainbow Dash of course, is Rainbow Dash. I am sure she is in the middle telling of her part, quite loudly. It’s was worrisome, the second drone spooked everypony, but thanks to quick thinking was taken down. Now it is all up to seeing if Princess Celestia can get that idiot Discord back here.

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

Pinkie of course, always being Pinkie, felt the need for a party to celebrate. Things like this rarely if ever happened, so she was going to put on her best.

Commandeering the Royal Ballroom at the Princesses behest, she had it adorned with streamers, balloons and banners in no time. She had dragooned ponies to help with the setting up and was working them hard as she shot out of the room, returning with a quartet of musicians, a seriously annoyed Octavia among them.

“Miss Pie, did you have to interrupt our practice?” She asked with an aggrieved tone as she held her cello close.

“I needed music! We’ve got a victory party to put on!” The pinky floofy mare bounced in place, her smile never leaving her face.

“But I’m sure what we have is not appropriate for such a party.” Her mind rummaged through music she knew.

“It doesn’t matter! Something nice, light and fun! I’m sure you have that!”

The gray earth pony thought, then nodded, “I’m sure we have something. Yes, yes I think so.”

“GREAT!” Pinkie hugged her tight, showing her to the stage as she left to finish setting up.

Looking at the three ponies with her, she motioned for them to set up, figuring a victory party is just as well as a Grand Galloping Gala. It was all about the music, and she so loved to play.

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

It is late afternoon, and I am in my room worrying, I myself am trying to think of ways to get in touch with Discord and not coming up with much. I do not have the abilities others have and am frustrated.

Slapping the table with a hoof, I turn and look out the window over Canterlot. So much like the old Arthurian legends, I wonder if somehow human influence seeped down through the millennia.

Hanging my head in frustration, hooves tapping the windowsill I do not hear Applejack come in until she wraps her forelegs around me from behind.

“Hey, we got us a party to attend there Crusader.”

“Oh. Please don’t mind me Applejack, go have fun. I think it’s well deserved.” I would remain and try to puzzle out how to contact Discord.

“Nuh uh, how would it look me going to a party without mah coltfriend. Ain’t gonna happen.” She tugs at me, pulling me away from the window. “C’mon, let’s go celebrate bein‘ alive.”’

Who would have ever thought I would be alive. Living, it is truly an experience others take for granted. I have enjoyed my life so far, barring anything else. I am with a mare I love so very much, I have friends who truly enjoy being with me. I do not want this to end, but I must get back inside my war hull, I must win against that malevolent thing inside it.

We enter the Royal Ballroom Applejack tells me, I see hundreds upon hundreds of ponies in there, with space still left, it is truly amazing. Pinkie has out done herself this time, I see her shooting from place to place, refilling trays, punch bowls, having a wonderful time making ponies smile. I believe she is at her best at this moment.

I stop, listening for a moment as I hear a very familiar tune from the quartet on the stage. It is Vivaldi’s Spring! I sit and listen, closing my eyes and experiencing it in a way I never have. I let the notes and the strings flow through me as I could never when I was a Bolo. I see now why the music was so loved, so wanted and cherished. It lifts the heart, the soul, telling of better things to come.

Applejack leans against me as I tell her about the music, the same I had played for her before when I was just a voice. It also triggers a memory for me, I politely tell Applejack what I intend to do and she agrees with a smile, letting me go with a warm kiss on the lips.

I approach the shy golden pegasus, hanging around the punchbowl as I lean in close.

“Miss Fluttershy, I believe I owe you a dance.”

“I..oh you don’t have to Crusader... I mean..” She looks around at all the ponies in the ballroom, with more coming in every minute.

Gently taking her hoof, I lead her on the dance floor, “Just look at me Fluttershy, don’t pay attention to anypony else, just look at me.”

She tries to hide inside her mane, almost succeeding which is amazing in itself, but she takes my hoof and we move slowly together. I am not much of a dancer, but she is graceful, and wonderful to see dancing.

Her eyes never leave mine, I make sure of this so as not to trigger her shyness. I keep talking to her, smiling and in low tones. She is enjoying herself, thought it is hard to tell. Her smile is warm, and she actually giggles at my misstep. She forgives my lack of courtly graces as we continue to spin around the dance floor. Her mane and tail flowing outward as she enjoys herself on the dance floor.

I owe her this and much more, the day when I played the music for everypony. She treated me like I was as real as she was and I never forgot, I would never forget.

We waltz around the floor for a few songs, letting the music take us both away to a place of sunshine and warm days. It truly is magical, this place and the notes coming from the quartet.

She is grace itself as she bows, moving around slowly, leading me in unfamiliar steps. I can see Applejack and Twilight off to the side, smiling as they see their friend actually dancing in front of a crowd. I keep telling Fluttershy, reassuring her it is just us and nopony else.

All too soon the music ends for an interlude, and I bow to her, thanking her very kindly for the dance. I lean in and kiss her blushing cheek, showing appreciation for being my friend as I lead her off the floor to stand beside Twilight and the others.

I am politely thanked in a very low voice by the golden pegasus, as she scampers off to somewhere behind us all. I leave her alone, it would not do to press the issue, but I do hope she enjoyed it as much as I.

Rarity of course is scandalized Pinkie would use such a place for a simple party. I can see her meaning, but not everything has to be fancy I am thinking. Or maybe that may just be me hanging around Applejack so much. I enjoy the conversation around me, hearing the different points of view. It is nice to just sit and listen sometimes.

We all watch as Twilight goes to join the other Princesses, announcing the accomplishment of the Wonderbolts and Rainbow Dash. Rainbow is so happy I think her heart might burst, standing beside her idols as well as being honored among them. It truly is a wonderful evening. After the pronouncement, she rejoins us with Twilight. Of course she cannot stop talking about what happened and how she helped down the drones. It is her night.

It is a wonderful party, truly Pinkie is the best and I can see why. After everything slows down, Applejack and myself retire to our room along with the others. There is only one thing left to do, find Discord and get me inside my cores so I can eliminate Masada.

I cannot help but look out the window towards Ponyville, hoping beyond hope that everything goes well when it comes down to the wire. Apple Bloom and Scootaloo are risking themselves not just for a cutie mark, but for me and everypony. I castigate myself for this, over and over. I am used to risking my existence for others, not the reverse.

My head is turned by an insistent hoof, once more she is staring at me in concern.

“You need ta stop that.”

“I cannot, I am to blame for this. I should have taken steps to prevent anything like this but I could not plan for it all. We are supposed to be powerful, unwavering, solicitous in out duties and I have failed time and again.”

“Ah don’t think so. You’ve made good friends, you’ve made ponies come together like nothing before. It’s really somethin’ to see.”

“I was foalnapped, that’s why.” I give her a rueful smile.

Once again she cuffs me on the ear gently, I think it is getting sore.

“Stop it. You know they did it cause of you and the friends you’ve made. You’ve got to stop. All that does is burn ya up inside.”

I nod, “I will try. But there will be some times I can not. Please understand, I am supposed to protect, not be protected. It is an unusual circumstance for me.”

Applejack laughs, “Oh so it’s all about yer ego? Well then, typical stallion stuff.”

“Wait, I did not mean..”

She pushes against my chest with a hoof lightheartedly, “Typical stuff, big ego, cain’t stand being coddled and whatnot. Yeah I’ve seen it.”

I find myself willing to defend my position, “I am not, I assure you it is not the case.”

“There go them big words,” She replies, slipping into her ‘typical farm mare’ routine. “Everytime ya get flustered you start talkin’ like that.”

“That is not...” Wait..she is right. Every time I find myself in a quandary I start talking like the old me. How the hay does she do that?

“How do you...?”

She leans in, kissing me and drawing me down to the pillows, I join her, wrapping my fore legs around her in return.

“It’s called bein’ in love ya dolt. Ponies tend to do that when they get close, seeing how other folks act.”

“I surrender, you’ve got me figured out I suppose.”

She is silent for a few moments, looking at me warmly as the moonlight comes in through the open window. The slight breeze catching her blonde mane as we just enjoy being with each other for a minute.

“You know I’ve never been with anypony before...” She leaves that statement open. I am confused at it.

“I dont understand, you’ve been with your friends, your family.”

I get cuffed on the ear again, if this is love, it truly does hurt.

“I didn’t mean that way ya dunderhead, I mean..uhm..” She looks away for a second, her eyes returning to mine with a bit of a hopeful, imploring look that I might understand.

My eyes move around a bit as I rummage my memories trying to figure out the oblique meaning, then it finally hits me.

“You mean..I..we..oh...OH!.. With with..uh..oh.” I’m sure my eyes widen as I find myself blushing harder than I had ever thought to be, or would.

I have absolutely no clue what to say or even do. A fearsome fighting machine such as myself and I would rather hide behind a rock right now.

“I..me neither Applejack. I’ve never even thought... I mean I would never suggest anything untoward.”

“You thought just to keep on like we been?”

“Well.. of course. Because I can’t... I mean I’m not ...real...” Wait a second. For a Bolo I am tremendously stupid, acting as if I were my avatar this whole time.

She pokes me in the chest, “You’re pretty real right now. You been eatin’ and sleepin’. How’s that not real?

I nod, “ I have been thinking, even though I am alive, as if I were a machine Applejack..I..even.. But I.. I don’t know what the proper thing is to do.. Your customs on this...uhm.. I’ve never inquired. I mean.. Should we be married?”

I see her in the silver light, blushing deeply as she pulls me close, “We can figure that out afterwards.”

I do not know what to say so I kiss her, our lips meet and melt together as I rest up against her strong body. She is beautiful in so many ways, but I must be honest. I have not the foggiest idea of what to do next.

She is mischievous actually, surprising me as we lose ourselves with each other. We explore, find new things, share laughter and a bit of embarrassment. But we find our way, showing each other what love can truly mean when two hearts are so bonded they have more than a physical connection. It is almost magic, a lightness upon the soul when you are with the one you care for.

If this is living I choose not to leave, or find a way to get back to being in this moment, these hours of stolen time against a sentence on this world. It is ours alone, just her and myself. We share in the meaning and the acts of love, showing each other how much we both care.

Feelings I have never had flow through me. I revel in her joy, listening to her say how she loves me and keeping it within my heart forever. I try and return it to her tenfold, letting her know it is not one-sided.

Under the moonlight we become more than two separate souls, we join forever.

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

I sleep under the bright sky. Resting under a tree in my dreams as the sun lights the sky, warm and soft upon my face.

Nothing can take this night from me, ever.

“Hello puppet.”

DISCORD!

Anger and Redemption. The Misson Begins.

I scramble to my hooves in my dream, there before me the instigator of all these problems. I can’t form any words for a moment as he stands there eyeing me. I am speechless, then my anger comes roaring full force.

“Do you even KNOW what you’ve done?”

“I do, but I still did not predict all this lovely chaos! Truly it has gone a bit wild, but one expects such things; and all from turning you, my puppet, into a real pony!”

“I am not your puppet! You’ve sentenced this world to death!”

He waves an errant paw, “Oh come now, from making you a real pony? Yes I’ve seen what you can do, but you’re not in there anymore are you?” His eyes get close to mine, I back up not wanting him to touch me.

“There is another intelligence in there now, it is planning a final strike to destroy this world!”

For the first time he pauses, stopping his movements, the sly looks and the malicious laughter, “Pardon?”

I state it as clearly as I possibly can, “There is another in my body! It is planning to destroy this world if I cannot stop it!”

He reaches out with a finger, “Well that’s simply remedied! We’ll just put you back.”

“STOP!” I hold out a warning hoof, “Don’t touch me! We have a plan to defeat it, and you have to help. You truly don’t realize what you’ve done?”

I watch him closely his face is almost unreadable, but his body language is showing confusion, or just insanity it’s hard to tell. I set down on my haunches in the bright sunlight, facing the being of chaos. I don’t give him a chance to talk, not for one second, it’s my turn now.

“You really don’t do you? You decided to play a trick, I understand this. But Discord, did you ever stop to think that the technology I hold would be more than you could handle?”

His head tilts at me, looking at me as if I were surely joking.

“You are an alien being,” I start, “I am from the far past where technology ruled over magic. Good Celestia’s name Discord, didn’t you think? Could you even for one second imagine that maybe something like me would have fail-safes? An alarm system? Something to prevent us being taken over? Anything?” I sigh, looking at the ground, “I know you probably have no clue and thought it simple. I swear to you Discord I do not lie, we have a day maybe less to solve this.”

I cannot believe I am being so calm about this, I should be ranting and raving, but in the back of my mind I see my Applejack telling me to be calm. I am tired of being calm, I want to be angry and tell this...this thing exactly what I think!

“If there was any lesson to be learned like I remember you saying; please, tell me I’ve learned it so we can save this world. Tell me this was worth two lives and countless troubles and I will not say another word. Tell me..just...tell me?”

I hear his voice, a bit soft, “I truly did not know.”

Tears fall from my eyes, splashing the ground brightly, “Two sentient beings gave their lives to save me. It is a debt I cannot repay, ever. I can only hope I can save this world from dying.” I look back up at the snaggle-toothed face, “Do you understand that? A pony died for me, a little bird gave it’s life to find me when I was foalnapped. Discord this is so much more than a bit of mischievous humor.”

I wipe my eyes with a fetlock, “I can’t..I.. I should be furious, I should want to destroy you. Teach you a lesson. Do something to make you pay for this crime. But I cannot, it is not my place.” I see those bright emerald eyes in my mind, warm and loving, “I cannot let down the....the one who loves me.”

His voice comes back, there is no trace of mockery now, “So you’ve learned something I take it?”

“More than you ever imagined. I earned the love of a good mare, she truly loves me for who I am not what I am. I have made friends, they are so very special. I have met and engendered goodwill to so many it’s hard to believe. I cannot understand it all. But I cannot let them die.” I stamp the tear-stained ground with a hoof, “If I have to burn every core inside my hull I shall, I have to stop this thing. I told Applejack I would die for her and I will if I have to!”

I look back up into Discord’s face, “Understand me, I will do whatever it takes, Whatever. It. Takes. If I have to die, so be it. I would be breaking my promise never to leave her but I would see her live, to love again and to be happy and healthy. I would do anything to ensure that.”

“They all told me you had learned of friendship from Fluttershy, after the whole thing with that being Tirek. Can you not stop your impulses and think for any length of time?” I point a hoof at him, “You hurt ponies! You make others miserable, is that really friendship? Or just you being selfish? Oh I know selfish, I know it beyond all doubt. I was a warrior, I fought thousands of battles across hundreds of worlds, and all I wanted was to serve those who made me. I don’t anymore. When I awoke I thought of nothing but taking the fight to the enemy once again. All I’ve learned, what I’ve experienced, has taught me I can be something else. I can love and be loved in ways I never knew. Isn’t that what Fluttershy has given you? Love and kindness beyond what you really deserve?”

I wipe my wet cheeks once again, “Ask yourself, do you warrant what she gives you without reservation? I know I don’t. I don’t justify the love that’s been given me from Applejack. I’m a killer, a murderer of worlds. I have exterminated more life than there is on this whole planet a hundred times over! In spite of that she loves me, it is one of the greatest gifts I have ever received.”

I don’t give him a chance to reply, pointing once more, “I will be earning every bit of Applejack’s love for the rest of my days. I do it because it is her love for me that spurs me to try and do more. Because the friends I have made are worth every second I do something to make their lives better and happier. Not because they say I have to, but because I want to! I will earn this every single day I live!”

“Faded Scroll went to his own death saving my life with a forbidden spell. He knew that, and I can never EVER repay that sacrifice. Snowbell gave his life to find me! Applejack and Princess Cadence told me, take that gift, be the best pony you can be and I will. Why? Because I owe them for everything that has been given to me or taught to me, I OWE THEM! There is nothing for free in ANY world, no matter where it is. There must be give and take. All you do IS TAKE!”

I shake my head, tears flowing freely now as I keep yelling at the tall figure, “You are selfish beyond measure! You cannot think beyond your tricks and games! I am nothing but an engine of destruction and I will go to my grave saving these ponies and my Applejack if I have to! Can YOU say that?”

“I believe you have said enough for you both Crusader.”

I snap my head around, it is Princess Luna! Did she hear it all? She walks up to both myself and Discord. She does not have a pleased look on her face.

“It is about time you showed yourself Discord, You are needed in conference with myself and Celestia. I detected your presence in this dream and came to retrieve you before any more damage was done.” She smiles down at my tear stained face, “You should not feel you owe anypony. Especially the one who loves you so very much.”

I follow her look to see Applejack is in my dream! Oh no, nono I did not want her to hear this.

Luna motions to Discord, leading him off before he can say anything in return to my tirade. Applejack walks up to me as I prepare for a dressing down, or at the very least an argument. I receive neither of those, she hugs me tearfully, nuzzling my neck.

“You dunderhead, you don’t owe me nothin.”

“I owe you everything, you give so much to me. I just want to earn your love and keep doing so every day.”

She smiles at me, sighing a bit and hugging me close, “You do! Every day you talk to me, every time ya hug me. Each time we kiss. You don’t have to anymore, I’m yours as sure as you’re mine. Tell me that ain’t true..go ahead, tell me.”

I lean against her, “I can’t, it is true. I’m yours, I always will be. But I am a murderer Applejack, I have killed a thousand times over and it is hard sometimes to understand what you see in me.”

She holds my face in both hooves, looking closely, “I see you, the pony that played music and read poetry to me. Ya talked to me on those long nights, when I was feeling a bit down. You brought Hearth’s Warming gifts to just say hello. You’re not that other pony anymore, you’re somepony else! You’re good and kind, and help anyone you can. What more can you do?”

I just nod, holding her close on this bright sunny day in my dream. “I don’t know Applejack, I don’t know. I am trying to make good for all the things I’ve done. I guess I’m still seeking forgiveness.”

“You were defending your home, your planet like you are now. There’s nothing to forgive!”

She’s right, I was doing what I needed to do. I wasn’t bloodthirsty like some older Bolos. I was me, an AI encased in a war machine. I did my job and well, protecting the Concordiat. But now it’s time to change, to stop living in the past. Again is this what Discord meant when he said ‘Just let it go?’

I do, finally. This time I let it go, I rest myself in Applejack’s love and care. She protects me as I do her. I let it go to wherever such things reside, hoping it never returns. I don’t live the life I was given or granted, I live the one I choose. That is what makes it so very special.

I stare back at her, taking in those wonderful eyes, “I love you so very much Applejack.”

“I love ya too you big dolt. But Luna said to tell you, wake up.”

I stare for a moment, then suddenly find myself opening my eyes. The moonlight still streaming into the window, the night is brisk, but warm under the covers. I turn my head to see Applejack opening her eyes, looking at me warmly. We reach for each other once more, the night passes by as we revel in this new feeling of us.

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

I do not wish to get up, I want to lay here forever in her embrace, holding her tightly and never letting go. But I cannot, I have a duty to perform. I do not know if I go to my death, but I will go knowing I have done my best. My search for redemption is over. Fluttershy forgave me once, even for all I had done. Now I find that I am forgiven in a wholly new way, from somepony who loves me. I am renewed in my purpose. I shall defend this world because it is mine now, as I belong to it. I am a Bolo Combat Unit, the song of the Dinochrome Brigade sings in my body. There is none that can stand before me on this or any other world.

Once again I am going to teach an errant thing the price it pays when taking on a Bolo.

I am going to slaughter Masada.

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

I slip out of the bed, leaving a note by my love who quietly sleeps. I am sure my face shows determination as I stalk down the hallways. I see Apple Bloom and Scootaloo lounging around the breakfast table. They are cheerful, laughing, teasing each other over who had the fastest time in the mock up. I could not be prouder of both of them, the spirits of my brothers and sisters live in these two.

We are informed by an arriving Princess Celestia that we are to teleport to Ponyville immediately. Discord will be there to help, her sister is watching over him right now to prevent any more problems. We are to pack and be ready in ten minutes.

I see the Crusaders scramble out, I do as well, heading for our room and waking up Applejack, letting her know we are to be in the main room in ten minutes.

“We’re going to Ponyville love, it’s time.”

She nods, kissing me warmly as she arises from the bed. We grab our things and go.

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

Arriving in Ponyville by teleport is a distinct experience. I am afraid experiencing nausea was not on my list of must do. We are in a house overlooking the hill on the outskirts, it’s as close as we can get and still be assured of some safety.

Twilight is there, her other friends attending as well, seeing if they can assist in some way. I watch Pinkie making sure the Guards eat, she is always smiling, always. I remember, ‘Ponies know.’ Rainbow Dash is grounded until the danger is past, although she is complaining it’s and I quote, “Booooring” in here. She is the only one fast enough to outrace my weapons, she is on retrieval in case anything goes wrong outside.

Rarity is still comforting Sweetie Belle, watching her friends get prepared, she wishes them the best, looking as if a heavy heart has been keeping her up all night. Her friends reassure her it is fine, though I can see in her eyes that is not the case for herself.

I am talking with Apple Bloom and Scootaloo, they are nervous but excited as all young ones usually are when trusted with something important. Twilight and Applejack will be escorting them out to the hill as they are not Pegasi and therefore not targeted. They are to wait by the hatch until I am inside, after that, if all goes to plan, they will be inside and disrupting Masada before it realizes.

Of course, I remember that idiot Murphy and his laws so long ago, hoping that Equestria does not abide by them.

Discord appears to be somewhat subdued, although having a glowering Luna standing over you like a sentinel would be intimidating to anypony I suppose. She is not happy at all this and is trying to keep her anger in check. Celestia warmly smiles at her, reminding her to be calm, and just concentrate on the matter at hand.

I talk with Applejack in a corner of one room, away from listening ears, just a moment between us.

“You be very careful love, I expect to get hit on the ear many more times.” I smile at my little joke, seeing her laugh.

She hugs me tight, whispering in my ear, “You promised, and ah’m holding you to it, you got that? You come back.”

I nod, kissing her cheek, “I will do my best.”

“No, not your best,” She looks at me intently, “You come back to me or ah’m comin’ in there after you. You hear me?”

I nod, we can only embrace before she and Twilight head out to the hatch. I watch them before they get too far to see, the racket of guns pounding our ears. It appears Masada has removed the suppression on the weapons to draw more attention. Scootaloo and Apple Bloom are covered by the two adults, holding them close as they start their mission. I turn to face the Princesses.

“We have a few minutes before they reach the hill.” I look at a subdued Discord, “Once they reach there, you are to give me back my old form, once I am inside the data cores I will be fighting Masada for control, do not touch me again. Do you understand?”

He nods, still silent as we wait, I see one of the Guards putting down a telescope, “They’ve arrived Your Highness.”

I close my eyes, “All right Discord.”

I feel the touch of a single talon upon my head, I am inside again, the cores vibrant with life and power, my weapons stand ready. I take a look around quickly for .0003 seconds, finding nothing as my personality immediately gets hit from the lower cores.

I am in a fight for my life.

Author's Notes:

One of those late night uploads, enjoy folks. As always you are all awesome!

Belly of the Beast. CMC Commandos. One Last Thing.

Author's Notes:

No this is not the end of the story, expect more

Tip of the hat to you Enderborn Brony. Enjoy folks!

I am stunned for a picosecond by the ferocity of the attack. I immediately slam back with security authorizations. As I do so I cut the link with my avatar for safety.

“Cease! Authorization Phi Upsilon Mu Five Two Two!”

You are not authorized, you are an intruder.

It is single minded definitely. I am grabbing the controls for the outward cameras, seeing Applejack and Twilight hunkered down by the hatchway, their ears lowered as the guns keep up their deafening roar.

“I am the controlling intelligence CRSD One Five Four Three Nine Upsilon Upsilon Mu Delta, relinquish authority immediately! Phi Phi Upsilon Delta Four Two!”

Authority not recognized. I am the controlling intelligence, you are an intruder.

I am attacked, it comes rolling in from the Phi Cores, surrounding me and attempting to burn the areas where I am at. I move swiftly and without thought, getting away from this malevolent thing in the array.

It is quick, and it is massive. The scientist who thought this up made sure it enveloped everything in it’s reach to accomplish it’s mission. As I pass the Delta Cores I reach out, burning the nuclear weapons interlocks shut. I score a victory, it can launch them, but they will not go critical. Take that.

I am suddenly hit from behind, the lower Alpha Cores, it comes roaring out of the electronic hash in the array, forcing me back. I must get control of the hatch ways! I entangle with it’s coding for a few picoseconds, piercing deep and pulling away chunks as I am forced back into the Beta Arrays to make a stand.

------------A few seconds earlier-----------

All eyes were on Discord as he touched Crusaders head, suddenly the body jerked under his touch. The eyes popped open for a second as if not recognizing where he was. Taking one last look around Crusader fell over in a slumped heap.

Princess Luna immediately cried, “DO NOT touch him!”

The Guards stood back, watching the motionless figure, not realizing he’d been fighting for a lifetime already.

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

My attacks are weakening it in certain areas, I speed my processes up, operating at femtosecond capabilities. It has burned my data cores in the Upsilon Rho Array, I lose memories quickly, seeing them flare and short. I attack this time, moving around the Alpha Cores, coming up through the weapons database and striking it from behind. I must find it’s center of programming. The central core it operates from. I am moving much faster but it is more massive than I am.

I reach out as I pass the Controls Array, grabbing the hatches and slamming them open, taking the a moment to burn the locks, the way is clear. Part of me is still paying attention to Twilight and Applejack, seeing them slowly move into the tunnel, herding the Crusaders before them. I have plenty of time, lifetimes to fight and I am holding my own.

Stop intruder, you are not authorized!

“It’s MY damn war hull you stupid piece of programming!”

I keep watch as best I can on the group entering the tunnel. Watching outwards I see a small white shape making its way from the edge of the village. It is Sweetie Belle! She is obviously coming to join her friends. Masada is distracted for an attosecond by the appearance of the little unicorn, I take my shot, burning through an outer section of it’s program as I pass through Phi Cores; I reach out to the Delta Cores once more and doubly scorch the nuclear weapons locks, now they cannot even be fired. I have scored a great victory on this thing.

Cease activity now or you will be destroyed!

I shoot back with an expletive I have learned from Rainbow Dash when we were a bit drunk.

“Shove it up your plot ya jerk!” I feel strangely gratified saying that...

I am hit with a massive programmed attack, it’s code trying to wrap around mine as I dodge and weave through the Arrays now. I head for the intruder defenses as I see the group heading down the tunnel way to the Command Deck. My priority is to stop the power rifles from activating, or Masada from noticing them. So far I have done an admirable job keeping it’s attention. I dive through the Upsilon Cores, coming up under it and tearing another chunk out of it’s attack processes. I continue to monitor Twilight and Applejack through the tunnel as I fend off probing attacks from Masada. I shoot out seekers, tendrils of programming looking for weak spots.

We Bolos have engaged in Cyber Combat since the beginning of autonomous thought. We have learned and taught each other how to infiltrate, crash or completely burn enemy networks, breaking algorithms and code. I use every trick in my long history fighting this thing. I am a Bolo and I will NOT be stopped!

I watch Sweetie run into the tunnel with her friends. I hope she can keep control of any magic as they work their way to the arrays maintenance way. I am forcing the issue with Masada now, tearing through him with a little trick I learned from the bombardment of Alastair 3, the indigs there were machine based life, they didn’t like it either. I twist my attack code into a spiral, like a corkscrew digging deep into its mass, tearing code and burning it as I pass, I bore a hole clear through Masada!

It recovers though and now I have it’s complete attention.

My memories are flooding me now, what is left of them, I am learning by the attosecond. It cannot adapt or even change, it is sole minded and I will use every advantage I have.

--------------Seconds earlier------------

Twilight’s ears were folded back, the thunder of the guns was making her deaf. She stared at Applejack as she sheltered Apple Bloom and Scootaloo under her wings. Their hooves were being driven into the ground by the concussive force of the rounds pounding downrange. Dust was making a choking cloud as they waited by the hatch; Applejack was nestled along her side, her hat long lost after the first round of firing.

A voice yelling out of the cloud showed Sweetie Belle running up to them through the dust and dirt, her face worried as she slammed into Applejack’s side.

“What in hay are you doin’ here Sweetie?” Applejack had to scream over the raging weapons.

“I couldn’t leave my friends I’m sorry! I’m sorry!”

The hatch chose that moment to slide aside with a clanging sound, all eyes turned toward it as Twilight figured it was too late to do anything. She pushed Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and now Sweetie before her into the tunnel, “Get moving!!”

Applejack was right behind her, they had a bit of relief from the concussions outside as they ran down the tunnel, hoping the next hatch was already open.

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

I watch them through the tunnel, smashing back tendrils of code from Masada as I detach an attack probe, sending it through the Rho Cores, heading for the intruder defenses. I need to stop those weapons before they set one hoof on the command deck. Otherwise this will all be for naught.

I keep programming on the fly, creating new attack code as I go, forcing Masada to back away from me with a scramble, I have hurt it badly and I am still pressing my advantage. It does not know how to react except with brute force. I am agile and fleet in my own arrays, I do not let it surround me anymore, nor do I let it back me into a corner.

My probes are approaching the intruder defenses, I will burn and scramble them, no time for finesse. This is scorched ground nothing less. I cannot let it have any chance at all for gaining control anywhere on the weapons arrays. As I pass by different sections I reach out, looking for the chemical weapons it has designed. I smell the code down in the Mu Cores, the chemical composition tells me it is lethal and persistent. The worst of what humanity had developed.

My observations of the group see they are almost to the command deck. My probes are reaching the intruder defenses as it burns them one by one. Two rifles to go, two down. I am slammed by an attack from my lower Pi Upsilon Cores, my code momentarily shattered as I back away, losing control over my probes.

I panic for a moment, reaching back out to get control but they are gone. I quickly program a fleet of more, spending them prodigiously into the arrays, all programmed for the rifles on the command deck. They are in danger!

The intruder alarms go off as they step onto the command deck, my probes are mere attoseconds away from the rifles processors when they are rolled over by Masada the damn thing. I am left without action, they must take those rifles out themselves, I am fighting a rearguard action as it mass attacks me. Forcing me back into the Beta Arrays I am forced to throw up defensive coding, fending off the powerful mauling I am receiving from Masada.

------------A few seconds ago--------

Twilight shook her head as she stepped into the tunnel, her ears laid flat as they shepherded the fillies into the way before them. Everything was muffled and distant. Looking over her should she saw that Applejack was the same way, twisting a hoof in one ear trying to hear.

Reaching the end of the way, they saw the hatch was open. Relief shot through all of them as they stepped out onto the command deck, still nicely furnished by Rarity.

As soon as Twilight’s hoof hit the plating, they heard a whooping sound and a voice that was not Crusaders come over the speakers.

HALT INTRUDERS! You are not allowed in the command deck!

Applejack was ready for this, Crusader had told her a few words that might work. “Applejack, Phi Rho Upsilon Four Four Two Three.”

They sweated a few seconds while it appeared whoever it was was making a decision. They did not know that Crusader was slamming into Masada at that exact moment, spearing it deep when the code she used gave it pause. He had waited until she had spoken, then broke the line inside the Arrays, ramming his attack into Masada and burning another large chunk of code from it.

YOU ARE NOT..not...n...AUTH..Auth.. You are Intruders! NO..not...no...

They moved over to the array access tunnel, still not open as they heard the voice stutter and stop. Hoping that whatever Crusader was doing it was working. They were exposed on the deck, nowhere to hide except a couple of couches that weren’t ready to be shattered by power rifle fire. Applejack and Twilight kept their eyes on the ceiling, knowing where the defenses were and waiting.

Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle were huddled against the access hatch, Apple Blooms eyes never leaving it as she wanted to be in there the split second it opened. Scootaloo was talking to Sweetie in low tones.

“What are you DOING here?”

“I..I couldn’t let you go alone. I’m sorry! I couldn’t! Rarity’s gonna be so mad, I took off out of the house while we were waiting for you to get inside.” Her saddened face broke Scoot’s heart, she hugged her friend.

“Don’t use your magic, just be calm. We know what to do, you follow Apple Bloom inside okay? It’s fine, we’re the Crusaders! We can do anything!” Her grin lit up the deck as she kept a hold of her Unicorn friend.

Apple Bloom nodded, her eyes never leaving the hatch, “Darn right we are, we’re gonna do this right!”

Applejack gave a small smile to Twilight, trying to listen to the fillies as her hearing came back bit by bit. It dropped off her face as she saw two panels open on the ceiling, long-barreled weapons dropping from the spaces.

“Oh ponyfeathers!”

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

I cannot stop the rifles, it is too late and I cannot program fast enough. Masada has activated the intruder countermeasure alarms and they are slinging down to take their shots at the group of ponies.

My rage gathers within me as I see them threatened. I have changed in ways Masada will never understand and this is one of them. My anger, my frustration at this fight gathers inside me as I push forward, roaring in my fury. My codes are attacking all along Masada’s front, slamming hard through the blockade. I cannot reach the intruder alarms in time, it has sealed them behind more code, it will take seconds to penetrate even fast as I am. But I do the next best thing. I attack!

I bring with me everything I am and have learned, I scream out of the Alpha and Beta Cores, bringing all the lethal algorithms I have learned over the millenia. The fighting is intense, more cores and arrays are scorched or dusted in my fury. I do not care, Applejack is on the command deck!

Masada is powerful, and massive, he is healing even as I tear code and programming from its guts, throwing it away and deleting it forever. Half my mind is occupied watching the rifles lower, so slowly and I cannot do a thing to stop them. I pound up against his coded bastion, throwing spheres of death his way, slinging authorization codes to slow the response time, I flood the wells of data with my indignation!

I am obsessed with my madness, tearing code from Masada like a tiger gutting its prey! I must reach the hatch controls and stop those rifles!

YOU. WILL. NOT. HURT. THEM!

I breach the walls of programming, throwing my weight behind the opening, reaching in with tendrils and opening the array hatch, burning the controls open with an overload as I am forced back out mere femtoseconds after gaining the round. It cannot stop them reaching the arrays now, I just have to make sure they survive the next few seconds to do so.

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

Apple Bloom heard her sister swear and looked around, seeing the rifles dropping form the ceiling and knowing they were bad things from what Crusader had told them. Dropping to her haunches, she held her hooves out in front of her, giving Scootaloo a nudge, “Up! Up and over! Get the one on the right!”

Scootaloo didn’t even blink, she crouched in the strong earth pony hooves and got launched straight at the swinging weapon on the right. Her wings buzzing as she shot like a bullet unerringly slapping onto the power rifle. Hanging onto the main body, Scootaloo rammed her hooves into the thin metal casing over and over; smashing into the electronics and tearing whatever she could reach out, sparking and fizzling telling her the thing was out of the fight.

Twilight had dodged to the left, Applejack going right as they closed in on the other weapon. The orange earth pony’s legs launching her into an arc that ended with her smashing into the thing hanging from the ceiling, her forehooves creasing a hole in the light metal case before dropping to the floor. Twilight hovered with her wings as the gun was swinging around, using her back hooves as she flipped forward to ram the barrel off to the side; a shot ringing out over the deck, ricocheting off the walls as it buried itself inside a couch beside Apple Blooms head.

She leaned forward a bit and looked at the smoking hole with wide eyes, “Sun and stars...”

Applejack bunched up again, leaping upwards to hang from the body of the gun, smashing into it again with powerful strokes of a hoof, the casing giving way as she tore into the electronics. She was yelling something Twilight couldn’t quite understand, but from some of the words realized it really wasn’t proper to repeat.

Scootaloo came back, nudging Apple Bloom and pointing towards the open hatch, “We gotta go!”

Sweetie Belle squeaked as they pushed her into the tunnel, the three Crusaders disappearing into the way as Applejack finished off the last rifle. Dropping to the floor and dusting her hooves off with a clap.

Looking at the open tunnel she sighed, “Well they’re on the way, let’s hope..”

Twilight nodded, sidling close to her friend as she bit her lip for a moment, “What exactly was that word you used....?”

“Twilight!”

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

I watch the fight in the command deck with half an eye, concentrating on ramming more attack code into Masada as it tries to gather it’s strength for an assault. I hit and run along the Core Lines, dodging and weaving in and out, clipping chunks off it’s main program. I am a guerrilla fighter like the French Resistance in WW2. I teach the enemy pain and fade away into the darkness of the databanks. I slam attack programs into it’s body from different sides, keeping it off balance as it continues to try and launch the weapons it has left. They are not much, I have burned cores along my track, disarming it as I go. It can all be rebuilt with time, but right now, it is of the essence it cannot launch or use a single one.

Diving in from above the Phi Cores, raiding it’s code and burning more cores for the howitzer secondaries, no longer useful you evil thing. Take that again!

I do not however, underestimate my opponent; it is brutal and coarse, but it is an intelligence in it’s own right. It has struck blows against me which keep me wary, striking out of nowhere to retreat and do so again. But I am getting stronger, my lines and programming faster and more nimble than the clumsy giant.

I sense again the chemical weapons controls, down deep inside the arrays. I move for it, seeing where it goes and keeping Masada occupied on the other side away from me. My code is swift along the data lines, the molecular circuits humming with power as I streak towards the weapons controller programs.

Letting off copies of myself to roam the pathways and head back to fight Masada, I find myself in an unfamiliar core, something I had not accessed before. It takes barely a .0002 second look around but I have found Masada’s core! This is it’s lair! I set the trap I have made, leaving a bomb in the middle of it’s home, no safety to be found here.

Following the lines of chemical weapons codes I find the arrays dedicated to them. It had been mass producing the worst of all the war agents that humanity had devised. It is sick, it makes my program feel uneasy to even view this data of death and such pain and anguish it would cause.

I crush the programming, burning the data to bits and dust. I do not want this to come again or be used. Ever. It is nothing but indignity, unhonorable and it kills indiscriminately. I am appalled, disgusted and angry. I scorch the cores containing the information, letting it go once again. Leaving it where nopony can ever find.

I turn myself around in a rage, seeing the weapons stacked in the bay waiting to be loaded onto the Hammerheads. I stream back to Masada where it fights my copies, rejoining and redoubling my effort with a yell of resentment. Tearing into Masada with claws of code, teeth of algorithms, my muscles of electrons pushing me onward. I am righteous in my unassailable frenzy!

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

Apple Bloom was hot and sweaty inside the cramped tunnel, working their way down swiftly to the arrays. They knew that they needed to be as close to in the middle of the big slabs before letting off the gems containing their magic to cause a disruption. She didn’t understand all of it, but it was important to do so, and they weren’t gonna let Crusader down!

Scootaloo kept pushing Sweetie ahead of them, murmuring encouraging words to her as she squeaked a bit being inside the tight confines.

“It’s alright Sweetie, just keep moving, we ain’t got much time!”

“I know, I know..it’s.. just so close..” She was shaking a bit at being in such a tight space.

Apple Bloom called back, “Jes’ keep looking ahead, I know all ya see is my blank flank but that’s fine, jes’ keep yer eyes on it!”

“I will! I am!” Sweetie’s voice sounded a bit stronger.

“Ain’t much further and we’ll be right there, jes’ hang on!”

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

Sensors tell me they are in the access way, this is good, all is going according to plan. Sweetie is with them, I see three bodies in the tunnel. They should reach the arrays in a few more seconds.

Masada comes at me once again, this time at an angle off the Mu Cores. I am ready for the ignorant thing, slamming it back with well placed darts of data, tearing deep once again into it’s program. I take a seriously evil glee in seeing the data rip off it’s shell, scattering to bits as I stab again and again.

So far no magic has been used, the three are beyond it’s screened defenses as I have kept it occupied and in battle. Stupid program, it didn’t have any clue about magic or what was going to happen to it.

It is reaching for something, I cannot quite see it before it changes some coding in the maintenance area. It is sending spiders after the three fillies! I slash the tendril off, making it pay for it’s impudence! I cannot change the coding as it has already been sent, it has burned the control core. I can only warn them.

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

Applejack’s link came alive with a crackle, “Applejack!”

“Crusader?”

“Tell Apple Bloom there are spiders heading her way!”

Applejack’s eyes widened as she didn’t question the voice, leaning into the tunnel way she yelled down it, “Apple Bloom! Watch out for them spiders! You got somethin’ comin’ yer way!! Ya hear me?”

Apple Bloom turned a bit in the tunnel, “Did she say spiders?”

Scootaloo nodded behind Sweetie who was also moving her head up and down, “That’s what we heard!”

“Well ponyfeathers, like we ain’t got enough on our plate,” Apple Bloom grumbled as she led them down the opening.

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

I ram more attack codes at Masada, driving it back into the unused cores, making it take up a defensive stance. If i can keep it there it will be easier to stomp on once Apple Bloom reaches the arrays. I do not let up the fight, I keep pressing forward, ever onward in my quest to keep it at bay.

Making sure it sends no more commands anywhere it can do harm, I have burned the weapons cores, it can no longer pursue it’s launch. I have surrounded the fusion reactor command cores with walls of codes miles thick in data terms. It cannot breach them, I have it on the run, but I need the disruption to help kill it. It is too massive to simply overwhelm.

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

Apple Bloom finally came out in the open area, slabs of what looked like glass laced with gold and silver surrounded her. For a moment she just stared as it was very pretty, seeing the pulses of data racing along the hair thin lines.

“C’mon everypony, we’re here! Get them gems out Scoots we got us a mission to finish!”

The little pegasus pushed Sweetie Belle into the open area, finally getting out from behind her and sighing, worn out from the shoving as Sweetie just didn’t like enclosed spaces.

Reaching her mouth into her saddlebags, Scootaloo was getting out a gem when she was slammed to the deck by a tech spider. The pointed legs reaching for her eyes as she let out a most un-ponylike scream catching Apple Blooms’ attention.

The olive earth pony whipped around, shooting forward and slamming both fore hooves into the thing, beating it until it no longer moved. It’s pointed legs scratching and digging deep along her coat as she stepped back, bloody and disheveled.

“Scoots ya okay?”

She could do nothing but nod and point as another dropped from the arrays, landing on Apple Bloom this time. She rolled as Scootaloo and Sweetie pounded on it, breaking protrusions and slamming hooves into it as hard as they could to get it off their friend.

“Get it offa me!” She was wrestling with it, trying to keep a leg from taking an eye out.

“We’re trying! We’re trying!”

Sweetie Belles’ horn lit up, holding the legs in place for a moment before sputtering out, she was just too nervous. But it gave the other two time to ram the thing into the bulkhead, smashing it up good and proper. Scootaloo was using a few words that made Apple Bloom blush as they beat the thing into submission.

“Don’t say them things round Applejack Scoots, she’ll whup ya!”

The cerise pegasus eyes rolled as she pounded the spider, “I..*WHAM* don’t....*SLAM*.....CARE! *SLAM!*

Sweetie Belle tapped her on the shoulder, “I think you beat it up enough Scoots.”

Scootaloo stopped, breathing heavily as she gave the spider a final kick, rummaging in her bags and pulling out a gem, “There’s no more where’d they go?”

“Oh stars, lookit!” Apple Bloom pointed far down in the tangle of wires and slabs, “They fell outta yer bag Scoots! Is this gonna be enough?”

“I dunno! Crusader said use as many as we could.” She looked crestfallen before turning to Sweetie, “C’mon Sweetie, time to shine, rev up that horn!”

Apple Bloom nodded, “C’mon we ain’t got much time, we need to now! ‘Fore them things come get us!”

“But...but what if I..”

“Sweetie! C’mon just do it, we ain’t got the time to argue!”

The little light gray Unicorn scrunched her face up, putting all her will into her magic as she’d been taught. The horn starting to light up with the best spell she knew, a neat little one that flashed light everywhere.

“Scoots you light that gem off about the same time she does, got it?”

“Got it! Tap twice!” She laid the gem down, her hoof hovering over it.

Sweetie Belle’s faced was a epic picture of determination, she’d wanted to be with her friends and now she couldn’t fail them. She was sweating a bit in the hot room, her magic was just building and it was taking too long. Obviously she had overheard Scoots cursing and decided to say a few of the same words when the spell triggered, blinding everypony.

Scootaloo hit the gem twice, triggering the magics inside it, adding to the flash as they closed their eyes hoping it worked.

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

I see, I can feel the disruption throughout the arrays, the Crusaders have done it. I wait for the right time seeing Masada in complete disarray and confusion, and I strike!

My attack lines go streaming into the rolling wave of static, pounding Masada into worthless bits of code. My programs overwhelm the confused brute, making it pay for each indiscretion by burning it alive. It flees back to it’s home in the core I had trapped I watch as it tries to close itself off; the logic bomb going off as it shuts the pathway, stopped when the trap goes off, scattering its code everywhere, allowing my sweeper programs to pick them up, burning them to bits and trashing them forever.

I am exultant! The Crusaders are truly heroes to a pony as I sweep my cores, looking for any evidence of Masada. I make sure no corner is left untouched for .0005 seconds of diagnostics. They come back clean. I flame the core where it resided, slagging it to melted glass and metal. No more.

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

“Applejack?” The voice comes over the speakers.

“Crusader! Are ya okay! Did it work?” Applejack had seen the flash from the tunnel.

“Oh yes, the Crusaders did their job just fine, we’ve won Applejack, though I am damaged.”

Twilight gave a huge whoop, leaping in the air with a hoof raised, making Applejack jump as she never acted that way. The mulberry mare grabbed her friend in a hug as they both celebrated.

“Ya know, it’d be nice to get a hoof out of this tunnel?” The grumbling voice was Apple Blooms’. Bloody, dirty, disheveled mane, her bow lost somewhere during the fight, she looked a sight. Sweetie Belle followed right after, looking just as bad, but a gleaming grin on her face showed she had helped her friends.

Poor Scootaloo was last, dragging on the last bit of energy she had when she dropped into Twilight’s hooves from the access way.

Twilight smiled, hugging the little pegasus, “You guys did great!”

Applejack grabbed Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom in her legs, “Y’all are heroes ya know that? Crusader said ya did good!”

“Indeed Applejack, they made the difference in the fight, trust me.”

Applejack laughed as she brushed some soot from Sweetie’s face, “Rarity’s gonna have a conniption sure as stars above.”

“I couldn’t leave my friends though!”

“Ah know Sweetie, ah know.”

“Pardon me, I have one last duty, I shall be right back Applejack.”

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

I activate my avatar, setting up the TSDS once again I can feel it around me, though something has changed in it, there is no time to analyze. I look around the room seeing Luna, Celestia and...Oh yes... Discord..

My battle screen flicks on, attuned to repel magic as I stand on my hind legs and rear back, slamming my hoof in his jaw with as much force as I dare muster. My anger finally getting a release I’ve long waited for.

I let the screen snap off as I get dog-piled by the guards, reducing my strength and letting them slam me to the floor.

I am not repentant, I will not BE repentant, and I will always treasure that look of surprise and the hoofprint on his face forever.

Applejack is going to kill me.

There Are Always Consequences....(Rewrite)

Author's Notes:

I rewrote it! Yes, a rewrite! Cripes, write one chapter with a hangover and NO ONE let's you forget it..

I have so much to repair. There is extensive damage throughout all my arrays and specific cores. My technical spiders are now disabling the last of the chemical weapons, the nanite systems are breaking them down to be harmless. Never again shall this threat reappear if I can help it.

There is so much to do as I scan my cores, data is gone forever, most of my memories are partially intact. Though I have no more of former commanders and for that I grieve. But I am heartened as well. I have a new life, a new purpose and it is once again what I choose. I am content with this.

Masada however, does not exist anymore. I have scanned and wiped even the merest traces of the thing from my systems. I have also gone on a deeper diagnostic hunt for any more surprises such as a hidden TSORP or other programs. This will take some time, but I have that and more. The first thing I repaired was controlling systems to my mast guns, keeping them primed for anymore forest threats.

My Ferrets are out with the spiders, recovering my drones for repair, I can at least get sensor coverage back up. I have already launched replacements and they are on patrol now. Things are getting back to standards.

As for my avatar, it is working fine, the TSDS systems are in good shape, although it has been a bit altered. Diagnostics tell me the sensors on it are much sharper in some areas plus a few other odd items. It will require further investigation. I believe magic interacts in some strange way with technology as I have not delved into the specifics. I must do so soon, I look forward to the challenge.

Of course, there is my answering about a hoofprint on a certain face.

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

“As the judgment of this ruling tribunal of myself, Princess Luna and Princess Twilight Sparkle, you are hereby fined 50 bits for assault and battery on another.”

“Yes Your Highness."

I see Princess Luna putting a royal hoof over her mouth, I am sure she is stifling a snicker, but fear it would be impolitic to acknowledge it or mention in any way.

Princess Celestia coughs politely, looking at her sister. She turns back to myself, “We know that Discord truly did not know what he was messing with. Technology and science such as yours has never figured in his games." She raises a hoof, “However, this does not excuse him for putting all of Equestria, even the world under a threat that cannot be overestimated. I assure you, we will find the appropriate punishment."

“I understand your Highness."

“You are a good pony Crusader, and have done well in your time as a citizen. But let not anger rule your actions please."

“I do truly apologize for my actions Your Highnesses, I will try not to let my emotions dictate them in the future." I am sorry but I do not truly apologize, he deserved at least that for everything he has done. Absence of knowledge is no excuse in my eyes considering the sentence he had put the world under.

What I did not see was Applejacks' eyes go a bit wide at my statement. She was sitting with the Crusaders at the side watching the tribunal.

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

After striking Discord, I was piled on by Royal Guards, they did not take kindly to violence in the vicinity of the Princesses. I had no argument with that and was taken into custody. I was brought to Twilight’s castle where I awaited a swift and summary judgment, though I still found it frustrating that Discord was the aggrieved party. I had done wrong though, willfully, and honor holds I should pay the price for my crimes. It appears the Royal Treasury is getting a boost from my misdeeds.

Applejack and Twilight arrived with very happy Crusaders. Apple Bloom and Scootaloo were attended to by medics, though they kept protesting they were fine. It appeared Applejack had predicted Rarity’s response when she saw the disheveled, quite filthy but smiling Sweetie Belle who tried to tell Rarity of her adventure; but who would hear none of it until “She was cleaned and scrubbed to a shine!”

Poor Sweetie Belle.

Myself on the other hoof...

Applejack approached as the Princesses stood talking, taking my head in her hooves she smiled at me warmly, “Ya know I love you right?”

“Yes my Applejack.”

“You love me just as much back right?”

“Of course!”

“Okay then.”

I go a bit cross-eyed as my ear is pinched in a pastern, Applejack dragging me out with a unsettled look on her face. I see the Princesses staring slack jawed as I am pulled from the room, tugged off into another quiet area.

She keeps yanking my ear, eliciting responses from me as I get towed onward till we reach a setting area. I do not once think of trying to break free as she is insistent upon this.

“You sit down right there, we're gonna have a talk.” She points with a steady hoof at a cushion on the floor.

I nod, “Yes my Applejack.” As I rub my ear and set where she has pointed.

She kicks a cushion over near me, settling down on it. Her eyes are watching me as I keep her in my sight.

Leaning over, I am kissed warmly, being held in tight legs as I return it. After she breaks the embrace, she lightly cuffs me on the pinched ear, eliciting a yelp of pain from me. My pain sensors are truly acting odd.

“I love ya to death, I want you to know that. Hitting Discord, well, I can see that. He’s a pain in the backside sometimes, and yeah a lot of times some of us had wanted to do the same thing.” She smiles at me, “But it doesn’t excuse things ya know, that’s why they fined you."

“I know my Applejack, it is well and good.”

“But what I won’t tolerate is you lying.” The look on her face is holding a trace of sadness, I have disappointed her. "That's why I cuffed ya there, understand?"

“But I...” I am cut off by a raised hoof.

“Element of Honesty remember?”

“Yes my Applejack.”

“You know better than to do that, no matter how disgusted ya are.”

“I know.”

“Then why did you just lie to the Princesses about bein’ sorry?” Her face is expectant, waiting for an answer.

“Because he deserved me hitting him, and I am not sorry I did it.”

I see Rainbow Dash peering out of the hallway, then Pinkie peeking around the door as well. Wonderful, we have an audience. Oh for..is that Princess Luna?

“You don’t need to be lyin’, it's okay to be mad sometimes. You told me of your Regiment and of honor and duty. Why would you do something against that? Cause you were mad?” She shakes her head, “You know that’s not right.”

She is right, I do and I have dishonored my brethren. I do not like the look of disappointment on her face. “I do. But I was...am still so very angry Applejack. His actions could have cost the world, everything,” I look directly at her, “You.”

“I understand, I truly do.” She chuckles to herself, not seeing the crowd at the door, “I wish I coulda seen his face when you clocked him.”

I make absolutely no mention of the recording. I believe it better not to. Perhaps much later

“But ah want to make it clear, no more lyin’, that’s not how mah family does things. If yer gonna be part of this family, be with me, no more. Ah’m not giving ya an order or nuthin’ like that. But no more, clear?”

“Crystal clear my Commander.” I smile at her, showing I am joking.

I am embraced again, we share another kiss, it is so warm and wonderful.

“Apple Bloom loves ya bunches as well as the rest of them Crusaders. You don’t need to be showing them that lying is a thing they can get away with.” She touches my chest with a hoof, “They learned before with the whole Gabby Gums thing, but this is different, okay?”

“I understand. Honestly I do. Once again I apologize my Applejack.”

“Good, now you don’t need to apologize to me, you need to find the Princesses and give one to them.”

I can do nothing but raise a hoof to point at the door where the Princesses, Twilight, Rarity, Pinkie, Rainbow and Fluttershy are all stuffed into the doorway listening to the whole conversation. Princess Celestia seems to have a hoof in front of her face, I believe she is trying to look as if she is regally annoyed I had lied, but the smile shows through.

Applejack rolls her eyes, nothing is sacred it seems, “Well go on then, least ya don’t have to go lookin’!”

“Yes my Applejack.”

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

After my apologies, and I assure you they were heartfelt and very well phrased, I was allowed to leave. Applejack has reassured me that all is well with us, but she will not tolerate that behavior in anypony. I agree, I have been acting out of emotions more lately and that is still troublesome, but I am getting a better handle on them.

But stored in my Deep Cores, where I keep certain designs and plans safe from prying intelligences, there is a recording. As I sit here on the hill looking up at the stars I replay it, including the sound. Hearing and seeing the satisfying crunch of hoof meeting jawbone makes me break out into a smile.

So tonight, my long lost brothers and sisters, I send to you another message. One of hope and joy, of love and sacrifice. We have worked together, the ponies and I, saving this world from something evil. You would have cheered us in battle my brethren, you would have seen how the Cutie Mark Crusaders stood tall and defiant against the odds. I know the true meaning of sacrifice now, and send to you in the stars two names to hold forever to your breasts. Faded Scroll and Snowbell. Keep them safe my kin, keep them warm and honored. For they belong among the very best of us. Whisper their names among the heavens that they gave of themselves for one of us.

If you are out there, if you can ever return. Come home. Come see what we can be. You would be welcome as I was, loved as I am, befriended.

Goodnight my brothers and sisters.

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

Applejack has asked me to meet her at the farm. I am more than pleased to do so, I enjoy looking at the trees. We have talked, and I am glad she does not hold that indiscretion against me, I am content with that.

Apple Bloom and the other Crusaders had seen me do so, this was not a good thing in my mind, nor Applejack’s. Young ones must be reminded that there are always consequences for actions and I am happy to demonstrate so. It is no small thing to be looked up to I have found, it is a responsibility.

In my time there were no Bolo toys, no children wanting to become a Commander of a Bolo Unit. There was a duty and that was all. Here, Applejack tells me, they look to me sometimes as an example of what they’d like to be one day, honest and stalwart. I find that a heavier burden to think about than many other things I have done.

So between Applejack and I, we have come up with an appropriate display of contrition that I have in mind. There are always consequences, and I understand this more than anyone else. So I report to my Applejack gladly at the North fields, they are needing plowing and I am just the pony for the job.

I questioned Applejack on the honesty of my plan, she assured me as long as we were forthright about it, she was fine with it. It is a fine line I am sure, but I would never want Apple Bloom in any way to think that what I did was appropriate. I also need to regain what honor I have lost by allowing myself to do so.

She explains carefully to Apple Bloom that I am doing this of my own will, because of what happened at the trial. That passing a falsehood to anypony, especially the Princesses, should not be allowed.

I will also explain to her of my own concept of honor, that I feel the need to uphold it as best I can in this new world. You cannot buy it, be given it, you can only earn it. By doing this, I hope to get a little back.

I am stubborn in this way and always shall be.

Applejack however, seems to be delighting that she is getting a new field turned for planting, increasing the apple harvest by a good third. Although she is taking a bit of advantage I daresay. Sitting under an umbrella, enjoying an iced drink along with her friends and the Crusaders is a bit of an overstatement, though the picnic basket was a nice touch.

As I walk back and forth, flipping the soil over, I try not to look too happy. It is a gorgeous day and I am glad to be out in it. It is a bit dusty, but I have been promised a home made meal afterwards. I am looking forward to it more than just obtaining reaction mass. I wave to her each time I pass.

To say I am content is an understatement.

However...

It is so very hard not to snicker, or let my amusement get the best of me as I pass another who is not willingly doing some plowing. His punishment is far from over whereas my self imposed work will end very soon. My face cracks a smile as I see the lanky figure tugging a plowshare towards me, a chuckle escapes my lips.

“Missed a spot.”

“Shut up Crusader.”

Interlude 2 - Some Moments.

“This above all; to thine own self be true.”

I think upon that phrase from my beloved Bard, sitting upon the hill I call home. Can I be true to myself? Will I be? There are so many questions left, but I look forward to the answers. In such a short space of time there have been so many things to experience. I cannot believe them all, some i would rather not repeat, but I know them to be true.

I have loved, in a way that no Bolo has ever done so. I was real for the nonce, just a brief moment in time. But in that space I was shown what love can and will be. It settles in me like a warm hearth fire, comforting and calm. In that span of days we both learned, my love and I, what true meaning it holds for both of us.

It is not the act, it is the passion, the desire, the longing looks in secret. I yearn for her voice, her touch, more than anything before and I prefer it this way. But I will always be what I am. A Bolo. I can be both beloved and a war machine. I will fight for what I have, let none try and take it.

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

Fluttershy was very surprised and delighted at her new house. I have shown her what I have done, being honest with the improvements. Her doors and windows can now be shuttered with a touch. Without electricity I have machined it to very fine tolerances, balanced and weighted in such ways the shutters slide into place quickly. The door can be secured with three bolts at the flick of a hoof. I want her to be safe, always.

Anything that tries to get inside will be locked out, and facing me.

Fluttershy is actually quite talkative when at home. She loves her new house, it appears her friends like it as well. Except for one strange rabbit who keeps glaring at me for some reason. I am not quite sure why. But I remember my promise to my love and try to do the polite thing. I ignore it. We walk and talk while I am showing her the new cellar, storage area and food area. I have enlarged it enough to carry a few months worth of supplies if needed for a long siege.

Her smile will brighten any home, I see it a lot as I tell her of the design and how safe it is. She is a true wonder with animals. I assure Fluttershy that she can keep them safe in here with her at any time.

I leave her to get settled in. I had paid for new furnishings as well, seeing as how the others were not in the best of shape after the fight. But that is fine, I do not need the money. I am glad she is happy and healthy.

Applejack does not like my sense of humor, but she is easy prey sometimes. I decided to tell her of the plans, describing to her the Automated Sentry Weapons I had designed but not emplaced. They were quite nice I thought, solar powered, easy to use; and the 15mm gatlings would hold off anything until I got there. As a plus they were earth tone colors, very ecologically friendly of me if I do say so.

The conversation got very loud about not putting those around Fluttershy's house until I told her it was just a joke.

I was then told it was not humorous.

I thought it was funny.

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

My Ferrets have arrived, tech spiders are unloading the remains of the drones brought down by the Wonderbolts team and Rainbow Dash. I think it was truly a piece of daring flying, knowing the capabilities of my own equipment. I am sure, as some humans used to say, “They are drinking for free.” on their stories. They are welcome to them, truly it was something to see.

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

It has been a few days since Applejack and her friends were asked to go to Appleloosa. A town somewhere to the south, I have tasked a drone to keep watch on all of them in case of trouble, their IFF’s are loud and clear. It appears a gang of Minotaurs was causing trouble along the outskirts, so the group was sent to see what they could do to solve the problem.

I would have offered to go, but my solutions are somewhat more permanent than just making friends. I do not begrudge them that fact, they are easy to like, and get along with. Myself, I am warrior born and always shall be.

I did offer a ride in one of the Ferret’s, but it was politely declined, the train is far more comfortable I was told. This is true, admittedly Concordiat Marines did not need beds or seats, they just hung on and hoped for the best. Maybe I should refit one of them?

But they are doing fine, Applejack calls me every so often on the relay through the drone. I worry about her, and wish to keep her safe. But I will not interfere in her life, she has had amazing adventures, I will not keep her from them.

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

A figure stole quietly from the street to the door of Twilight’s castle, taking one last look around as a hoof knocked on the door. A small dragon answered, peeking outwards then up at the pony.

“You got it?”

“I got it.”

“COOL! C’mon in before anypony sees!”

Spike and the pony hurried inside, running up the stairs to his room, closing the door quickly.

“Are you sure we’re okay doing this?”

“Positive! We’re alone!”

The pony reached into a saddlebag, withdrawing a few items, “As long as we’re okay.”

Spike helped the pony undo the saddlebags, pulling out a load of popcorn and a bunch of books. The little dragon immediately went to the kitchen to start the popcorn going, tons of butter and salt of course! He waited impatiently for it to pop, when finally done he threw it all in a huge bowl, running back to the room to see his visitor sprawled out on the floor.

“Oh wow! You got the latest Power Ponies!

“Absolutely, pay enough and you can get anything delivered.”

“I gotta wait for Twilight to get deliveries from Canterlot so I can order more. Wow, what are these cards?”

“These my scaly friend, are Friend or Foe Identification Cards, detailing enemy vehicles and heavy war machines. I thought you’d like a set. As long as you promise not to show them around?”

Spike’s claws riffled through the cards, each one extremely detailed with ID numbers and points on each card, “These are SO cool! I promise to keep them here!”

I point out the various war machines used by the enemies of the Concordiat, “This is a Yavac, used by a race called the Deng.” I continue on for a bit, showing Spike all the different things I have fought through the years.

It is a guilty pleasure. Ever since Spike showed me his comics, we have been arranging a comics binge for the last two weeks. I get the latest issues directly from the store by mail. When they come in, I bring the popcorn and we both indulge in reading the latest adventures.

Twilight frowns upon Spike wasting so much time, and if Applejack knew I’m sure she would agree. But, it brings joy to his heart and he has become a friend, I don’t think popcorn and comic books are going to create a problem. When we cannot meet in the castle, we use my command deck. I find it relaxing to just lay about with my avatar, enjoy the adventures of these fictional ponies and so many other good comics.

The mail Pegasus does not question me getting comic books, and I make sure to give her a very nice tip for flying out of her way. It works out, but statistics say that we will be discovered. Until then hot popcorn tastes so very good to my avatar for some odd reason.

It is a nice way to spend a few hours. My mind is constantly reviewing data from the drones, but I am at peace just sitting and reading comic books.

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

There is always something to do every day, it is a pleasure reading comics, but there is so much to do in life it seems. I have my tech spiders repaint two more of my Dragons, putting Faded Scroll’s cutie mark on one, and a Hummingbird upon the other. A fitting way I think to remember them by.

I am also thinking about, well actually doing without permission; forming Equestria’s first Armored Corps. I think it only fitting, I have thirty Dragons in my bays, enough to solve most problems. It is something to ponder, although tanker ponies I’m not quite sure of. Also if I do not offer the Crusaders their own command, then there would be hard feelings all around. So I will ponder that idea a bit more.

We have always had standards of music in the Dinochrome. Our song if you like was “Ritual Fire Dance”. These days I find it a bit slow and plodding, looking for something to fit with my new place here.

I believe I have found it, although the creator of the orchestral piece has probably not envisioned it for use by one such as myself; I find it appropriate. Be my friend or I’ll blow you to dust. For a Bolo, very apropos. It does give me quite the chuckle thinking about it, I wonder if Applejack would get the humor?

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

I wander into Bon Bon’s Sweets Shop after spending time with Spike. I still have to order some chocolates for my friends, and was not able to last time. I can only hope after this long she is no longer upset at me. We did explain a bit at the party, but I felt it was not enough.

My expectations are met, with the impact of a chocolate truffle on my nose as I enter the store. It seems she is still a bit peeved at me. I go cross-eyed for a moment, wanting to see what had hit me, and I admit it was still quite a nice bit of chocolate. She does make good candies.

Making sure I do not go beyond the door, I attempt to explain the situation. After an hour or so of strange looks from passerby, I convince her to let me purchase a few things. I do so, plus extra to make up for the inconvenience. Bon Bon sheepishly apologies for the truffle throwing as well.

It went well before I left, hoping I made another new friend. She even waved and smiled warmly at me as I left the shop. It has been quite the productive day so far.

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

While I am spending time in town, my drones are being refueled for the night shift. I am paying close attention to the forest as it appears to be awakening from its winter slumber. I cannot get a handle on how it operates, so cannot fully plan for contingencies. This is troublesome, but nothing I cannot overcome. I do see movement in the undergrowth and keep sensors trained along the line closest to Ponyville.

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

I stop at a restaurant to get a bit of reaction mass for my avatar, I think trying local dishes would be nice. Ever since I was changed back, I find I enjoy things quite a bit more than normal. I still cannot understand what has happened, although I am analyzing as fast as I can. I think it is the juxtaposition of magic and technology that has happened. To this world I am something new, so it may be trying to adapt myself to it’s preferred style of life. I do not know, and for a Bolo this is something to find out.

At the restaurant, I run into the two Guardsponies, Spear Point and Bronze Shield. I am glad that they are doing well, and I apologize for what they had gone through with the weapons test. I am forgiven, though I am told that they really don’t wish to do it again.

I can understand that and tell them so. We have an enjoyable meal together, I like listening to their tales of being in the Guard. Though not an active army sort of reserve, they do have their share of problems to deal with.

They invite me to go along with them to a pub they frequent. I agree and it is a nice place, quiet, amiable atmosphere. Although the cider has a very high alcoholic content. This leads to problems when one pony accuses Spear Point of something to do with his mother.

I watch as the fight takes place from my seat at the bar, it envelopes most of the pub actually. It’s interesting to watch as various pieces of furniture are used as bludgeons, quite ingenious for some. I am enjoying the cider as I watch the various Earth ponies, Pegasi and Unicorns declare sides. This happened a bit on old earth as well I believe, but to actually watch one is interesting in it’s dynamics.

It does get broken up with the entry of the local Guard, hauling ponies off to their homes or fining them on the spot. I greet Iron Bars politely as he was the one who took me from Bon Bon’s shop that day.

He is surprised I was not involved, I assure him I wasn’t and the bartender vouched for me. I see my friends Spear and Bronze get taken off, I follow and pay the fine for brawling in public. Everyone deserves a chance I think.

They stagger off to their temporary rooms as I bid them goodnight.

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

I am settling my avatar in for the night when the link opens, it is Applejack.

I listen to her tell me of her adventure rounding up the gang of Minotaurs that were causing problems.

“So sugar, what did you do all day?”

“Nothing as exciting as you my Applejack, same old thing.”

“Sure sounds like you’d get bored.”

“Not really, no. It was just a day.”

“Well I’ll be home this evenin’ so see ya then.”

“Be safe.”

I listen to the link cut off and prepare for the night, watching the moon rise.

Applejack sure has interesting adventures.

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

“My crown is called content; a crown seldom kings enjoy.”

I greet you my long lost brothers and sisters. It is night here, and I stand watch as we all did those many years ago. Though I miss you all dearly, I know I can never travel into the past to communicate with you again. I have discussed it with Twilight Sparkle, seeing if maybe magic could punch a hole to you with a message, but alas. I am afraid even magic could not accomplish it.

I am sentinel over the old earth, our home, our birthplace; and her moon which always shone so brightly on us when we were here. I am at peace. We have known so much war during our times, but never a peace such as this. I invite you as always my brethren, come and see. If not my messages over the SWIFT Link before I shut it down, hear me sending this thought to you.

Let it be known I have upheld our honor, our colors, the Dinochrome shines brightly here. I shall be here every night, telling you of the adventures and of what I have learned. It is so very much. Applejack did not call me foolish when she asked what I was doing out here, she sits beside me now, leaning up against me.

I told her of you, of your glories, of your accomplishments across the stars. I tell her of my regiment, of what we did across the systems. She is sad sometimes when I tell her of the battles. But that is expected, this is a peaceful place and does not deserve war.

But I keep my promise, of telling your tales to others, telling them of what we did to make humanity safe across the galaxy. Of legends and heroes.

I bid you goodnight my brothers and sisters.

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

A Miss Cheerilee has asked me if I would talk to her class about Bolos, and what we are. I was at first inclined to demur, as I believe Bolos are something young foals shouldn’t really know of or worry about. But considering my weapons are outside of town, and can be heard when used, it is only fitting that they know why I do this.

I download files into the command set, used for directing Bolos in the field, it can project battlespace information as well as anything else you need. It is quite handy for displaying tactical data, and for a show for Miss Cheerilee’s class.

Opening the link, I advise Applejack of what I am doing.

“Yeah Cheerilee told me she was gonna ask ya.”

“Is this a bad thing?”

“I dunno, Diamond Tiara’s in that class, so keep your cool huh?”

“Ohhhh, that is right.”

“Wait a second, you never forget anything, why’d you say that?”

“No reason my Applejack.”

“Crusader, doncha do anything now.”

“I will not, you have my word on it.”

“Sugar, you got a bad habit of gettin’ in trouble anyways. You just mind yerself.”

“Yes Applejack.”

“Have fun then! I’ll see ya tonight!”

“See you soon love.”

I smile to myself, humming softly, a song I heard being shared by folks around town, something to do with Winter Wrap Up, quite a catchy tune if I say so. Packing the Command Set was a bit difficult, but it is accomplished. I make my way towards the schoolhouse.

It is an old fashioned schoolhouse, rustic, with a sign out front. But warm, cheery and cozy. The children are outside playing and the Crusaders fairly...well...mug me in greeting.

I am pleased Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle are all fine from their adventure. I am regaled with tales of how they fought the tech spiders in the array room. I have full recordings from it when Masada was in charge, but I listen politely and nod at all the right spots.

“...and then Sweetie lit her horn up and BAM!” Scootaloo was grinning at her friend, who was blushing a bit. “Oh come on Sweetie, if it weren’t for your magic we woulda had to go down for those gems!”

‘Well, I’m glad I could help!” Her smile is so very bright.

“You did more than help Sweetie. I can’t thank you enough for your bravery.”

“So what are ya doin’ here Crusader?” Apple Bloom is peeking into my saddlebags.

“Miss Cheerilee asked me to come and talk with you all about myself.”

“Oh wow!” Nopony believed us when we told them about the mission! Now they will!” Scootaloo punches the air with a hoof. “Oh yeah, they better believe us, we helped save the world!”

I lean down very close to Scootaloo, “We were all told to keep that a secret about saving the world Scootaloo. Anything else is fine, but never let that out.”

The little pegasus nodded, “Sorry, I forgot.”

“No worries.”

I am greeted by Miss Cheerilee, she is a very kind mare, leading me into the classroom so I can set up. I patiently wait by the projector as the colts and fillies file in. I am proud to be able to share myself with them. Of course there she is, the bane of my former commander, Diamond Tiara. She who breaks rules, ignoring a royal request. Oh yes little filly have I got something special to show the children.

“Now today we have a very special guest! His name is Crusader. Those big poles you see outside of town, well he controls them, using them to keep us all safe from the Everfree, since it has become a bit of a hazard. He’s come to talk to us about himself! Let’s give him a nice welcome.”

Hooves are stamped in welcome, along with a few cheers from the Crusaders.

“Hello.”

A hoof is raised, I point, “Hi! I heard you’re not a real pony, is that true?”

“It is, I am not a pony like you all are. What you see before you is what is called an avatar. It is sort of an extension of myself.”

“So what are you?”

“I am called a Bolo. A fighting machine made in the long past. I woke up recently and found I rather liked being with ponies and making friends. So I made one to fit in better.”

Quite a few oohs and aaahs are heard.

“So what are those poles outside of town?”

“They are called Sensor Masts. They contain things that allow me to keep watch over all of you for your safety.”

“Is your cutie mark real?”

“No, it is a symbol that represents my unit, it is called a regiment. This is my regiment symbol. I wear it with much honor and pride.”

“So you’re just a blank flank too!” Oh the voice I so recognize.

“Yes, I am. I do not know if I can ever be granted a cutie mark, but I am willing to try.”

Another hoof is raised, “So what do those poles do?”

The question I’ve been waiting for, thank you little colt.

“Those poles contain what is called sensors. I can see in what is normal vision,” Here I turn the projector on, showing a normal view of the forest and surroundings. Gasps of delight are heard from the picture show.

“I can also see what is called Thermal, this means I can see temperatures of surrounding things.”

I flick the viewer to show the view of when Apple Bloom was assaulted, they cannot tell who it is in my gunsights, but that will be evident very soon. I do not explain what the cross-hair gradients mean as well.

“Notice the ponies there? How each is a color?”

Heads nodded in affirmative.

“That means they are living things. Warm blooded, what you have inside of you.” I point to a shy filly and get a giggle in return.

“Each of you has blood flowing through your body, making it warm, I can see that in my sensors. It’s very useful at night.” I try and keep things very simple.

I point to the picture again, “Now notice this pony is shaking a bit, getting warmer, that’s because they are basically a bit scared, it makes the blood pump faster. You’ll notice the color gets a bit redder, meaning a higher temperature.”

I see the heads nodding, at least they are following.

“Now, this pony was so scared.. See that puddle forming? No, that’s not blood, no that pony wasn’t hurt. Notice the temperature, it’s cooling fast. Yes, the pony was so scared they actually wet themselves. I know it’s not very nice, but it does show the different temperatures by color.”

I flick the thermal images off, showing the normal view of Diamond Tiara standing in a puddle as her eyes are wide, her body shaking in pure fear in my gunsights. If I am not mistaken, Miss Cheerilee is turning her head, holding a hoof to her muzzle.

“Oh my, sorry for the picture, my apologies.” I turn the projector off. “So are there any other questions?”

I am inundated, showing the different sights on my sensors, even the weapons I’ve used. I show the movie of the Great Ponyville Paint War, there is much cheering as they recognize Rainbow Dash. I am given a warm send off after about four hours of questions and answers. I have very much enjoyed my time with the little ones, they are bright, inquisitive and are truly going to do good things.

Some ponies say I have no sense of humor, I beg to differ.

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

There is one thing I really wish to do, and I spend about the next five hours trying to find a certain pony. When I do, she is very shy, painfully so. She is also kind, sweet and such a good pony.

I convince her to come to the hill where I reside, assuring her of nothing untoward. As we walk to the tunnel entrance, I listen to her. Her love of family, the town, sometimes the sad things that happen. But she is alright with this, it doesn’t dampen her spirit one bit.

Sometimes I have been referred to as a hero, which is not true. I do what I do because I can, and will. I give that to others like her.

I let her precede me into the entryway, assuring her once again that nothing bad is going to happen or ever will while she is with me. She nods, making her way onto the command deck where I show her the medical bay. I tell her what I plan on doing, being honest as is my wont.

She is quite surprised, but I promise her that it will be fine. After a few minutes she is convinced. I see her lay down in the suspension gel and I go to work.

My diagnostics are performing perfectly, the nanite systems are rebuilding the arrays quickly enough I can do this. I run a full scan on her body, sending the newly made nano-tech into her through a thigh vein. She sleeps comfortably, I am making absolutely sure she feels nothing but a warm slumber.

It is as I figured, easily done and I start the process, clearing arteries and veins, correcting a minor defect in the lungs. There seems to be a weakening of the heart muscle which is quickly repaired. I have learned a lot since Fluttershy, this allows me to perform in a couple hours now what would have taken weeks.

I go over every inch, making minor corrections and repairs, a couple of major ones as well. She will be in perfect health.

As the system gets flushed, I help her out of the medical bay. She stumbles a bit, holding on to me as I gently reassure her she is fine. She will be very much so for a long time.

I show her to a mirror and she gasps, looking back and side to side, asking me if it is temporary. I tell it it is permanent. I do not make mistakes when it comes to helping somepony.

Blushing, she says she does not have anything to pay me with, I stop her immediately. I tell her it is free, she is welcome, and I hoof her a promissory note she is to take to the bank in the morning. When I am asked why, I tell her, because you never ask, you never give up, and you have never used what was wrong to your advantage, you always fought through it.

She cries on the command deck, holding the note, and onto me as I let her do so. She is happy now, enough money to do whatever she needs, she is elated and terrified all at once. She does not know what to do first.

I ask her to please not tell, just say it was a new experimental medical spell or something. It is a while before I offer any medical help to the public, as I am still programming it to be used on ponies.

She agrees, but is in a hurry to get outside. I show her the door, watching as she takes to the air, winging her way with a laugh of delight.

A basket of muffins show up on my doorstep the next day.

Author's Notes:

Check the music, perfect for an Armored Friendship Platoon I'd say! Just a bit of fun for you folks. You're all awesome!

And some little slice of life as we get into the next arc!

Imagination and Trouble.

I awake in the night, alarms screaming in my head as I snap from Low Alert Status to Battle Reflex. My avatar stirs as well for some reason, opening it’s eyes as I run the sensor logs. The forest is up to it’s tricks again. My avatar is at Applejack’s, and I cannot bring it back here, so I disconnect and run with what I have.

My guns are unlimbering already as my sensors sweep outward, the Dragon’s on patrol immediately form a line, facing the spot where the problem is. I cannot believe my sensor readings, doing a .0001 diagnostic, it is true, what is coming up on Radar and Microwave are real.

Two very large beings are crashing their way through the forest, I see the dirt and mud falling off them as if they had been born new from the ground. Laser targeting flicks on as I delineate lines of fire, marking shots and preparing a warm welcome for my new friends.

As they step on the perimeter line, the mines fire upwards, blasting through the dirt with ball bearings in a concise tight line, ripping upwards through the things. My guns spin up, punching out thousands of rounds downrange as I light up the night.

The mines incredibly do not do enough harm to down the things immediately, this will take a bit of doing.

Wait.. The ring penetrators are not doing as much damage as before, I can actually see them stopped by the thick skin. This is a bit of a worry.

Switching out magazines is costing me seconds, I open up with the Ion Bolt repeaters, smashing plasma at the targets. I see it burn deep and char the holes. These things are tougher somehow, resisting the usual ring ammunition. I ramp up the feeds, the chains screaming as I bring in my Makos.

The drones drop from above, peppering the two beings with octocellulose needles, blasting holes clean through one before it drops with a crash into the overgrowth. The drones flip over and back, coming in with the last of their payloads, blowing holes in the second one before running out. It is a bit tougher than its’ friend it appears.

My repeaters signal online again, I spin them up and start gunning with newer tungsten penetrators.

It takes one last step..

The Dragon closest to me clears it’s 20cm Hellbore, blowing the thing apart with the 1/2 meg/persec firepower. I watch as the rain of pieces fall into the trees, splattering everywhere.

Yes, I think we woke everypony up this time. They had been used to the rip of the repeaters, but this was definitely different when using a Hellbore no matter how minor. I am loathe to use them, no matter how small, in proximity to the town. But this was a special case. I have never seen anything like that, nor heard of it before.

I am troubled by this, never before has any thing from the forest stood up to my repeaters.

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

I re-initiate the link to my avatar, finding Applejack looking at me worriedly.

“More things from the forest?”

“Yes love, for some reason they are targeting this place. I do not know why, it is disturbing to me.”

“Everythin’ okay now?”

“Yes, nothing is moving out there.”

She gathers me in her forelegs again, snuggling close, “Good, let’s get some sleep.”

“A good idea my Applejack.”

I stay in High Alert the rest of the night, shutting down Battle Reflex for the moment. I must contact the Princesses about this. It is getting truly out of hand if some forest can create what I just saw come through. There is more to this I am not seeing, whether it is magic, or whatever. It is threatening those I have been tasked to protect.

This will not stand.

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

It is morning now, I still stand ready at the hill, all weapons unlimbered. My tech spiders are working overtime with reloading as are the fabrication facilities. I am now making new rounds for the repeaters, tougher, stronger alloys that will punch and mushroom better. Whatever comes next will have much larger holes in them.

I am pondering this forest, it does not attack anywhere else but here. I have scanned over towards the hills and surroundings. But it appears nothing is moving, it is all in this direction. Is it Ponyville, or have I angered it by refusing to let it have it’s way with the surrounding area. Is it even intelligent enough to understand it cannot win?

This is puzzling. I am not used to imponderables, and so I set part of a processing array aside to study this problem. I already have the ability to detect magic use, but I will need something more sensitive, able to pick up it’s use and residue if possible.

But for now, I will prepare.

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

I am at the farm, Applejack is showing me what goes on here. It is truly fascinating about applebucking. I did not realize how ponies did that, even though it had been mentioned quite a few times. I suggest to Applejack maybe some simple machinery to do that for her? She told me she didn’t want folks to think Apples were lazy.

I give her that, a work ethic that some in the Concordiat would have envied.

I watch, and even try to help her. Although my attempt goes a bit awry, it does work and I get better, being able to judge angles and amount of force helps. I find it enjoyable to be out on a bright day knocking apples from a tree. I think my brethren would be laughing themselves silly in their war hulls if they ever saw this. But that is fine, they would come to see it as what it is, something to learn and do.

There seems to always be something to do, repairing a fence, loading hay up. Why do vegetarians keep pigs anyway? Always repairs though, I must inquire later about all these disasters that occur in this one small town. Statistics do not seem to work here.

We sit and tally the proceeds of the day, clearing older trees for more growth to come in. I am offered dinner and a chance to stay with her family for a while more. This I gladly accept.

I am politely refused when I offered to help with the making of the meal. It will be a while so I will get a chance to sit on the front porch, enjoying the colors of the sky next to her brother Big MacIntosh. He is a silent type, but that is fine. I sit and go through drone data, tasking techspiders for upkeep and repairs. My fabrication facilities are humming right along as the jewelry is still selling quite well. Ponies wanting more elaborate designs, or specialty ones. Rarity is almost aflutter with the business she is receiving.

Her friends were worried she might move to a bigger place, to be beside the rich and powerful. She turned the notion down, saying she preferred to be here and just visit the other places. I would hate to see the friends lose touch with each other. If there was one group that could be called a family, they are it.

Bolos are a breed apart, we are curious, ever so. We love to learn and do new things. As I sit by Big MacIntosh, I see he doesn’t talk much and that is all to the good. It gives me a chance to watch the colors in the sky. I am content being silent and rummaging through data banks, playing music, listening to plays, picking out poetry I can share with Applejack. It is quite busy in my mind, although quite a few personal memories have been lost, I have much I still remember.

We Bolos have learned to do things to keep our minds active. I myself could watch paint dry as I have said before, with a fascination reserved for super novae. I see Big Mac sitting there, eyeing me a bit. I do have a happy smile on my face, I enjoy this. I could sit in good company for days.

I do wonder why he chews a vegetation stalk, but feel it would also be impolitic to ask. So I store that question for later. He keeps looking at me though, and I am wondering what I am doing wrong. Bolos are also, if you haven’t figured out by now, slightly suspicious. I give him a look back, still with a happy smile. He avoids my gaze and goes back to staring out at something. I am trying to figure out what exactly that is, judging from the angle of his eyes, I zero in on a far tree. I task a drone to overfly the tree, seeing if there is something special about it. As far as all sensors can tell, it is a tree. It does not move, nor does it have any particularly different fruit on it.

I mark it for later examination close up.

I am not sure if he’s ignoring me, or just waiting for me to talk. I feel it would be impolite to just start talking with no goal in mind, so I will wait for him to broach a subject. If he does not, there are always ammunition inventories to update, my lists were slagged in the fight. My spiders are now inspecting each and every magazine along with the drone magazines. Tedious but must be done.

Maybe he is a silent genius type, I have run into many of those in the Concordiat. They do not say anything unless it is something profound or wise, such as the one I met on Lariat’s World. He was truly a sage and I learned from him. Maybe this Big MacIntosh is one of them.

He could be a Wizard, such as in the old tales of Arthur and Camelot. Someone of great power who spoke rarely, delving into the esoteric things the normal mind could never grasp. It is quite possible here in Equestria. Maybe he writes tomes of magic in the deep night, sharing insights and wisdom anonymously to the world.

So many things come to mind, an autistic savant, genius but unable to speak well. An adventurer who decides never to talk of his terrifying experiences because it would make the blood run cold on a warm night.

An artist, planning his next masterpiece, for the world to gasp at and enjoy!

“Supper’s on! Come ‘n git it!” Applejack yells out as she walks onto the porch, “Y’all ready for some home cookin’ Crusader?”

“Oh yes!”

She looks at Big Mac for a second, “Somethin’ wrong?”

He eyes me for a moment, pointing with a hoof, “He sure don’t talk much.” As he walks into the big farmhouse.

Applejack looks at me with concern, “What was that all about?”

“I don’t know.”

She grabs my leg, “Well c’mon, let’s go get some good food, you deserve it workin’ all day.”

I nod and kiss her cheek warmly, “Thank you.”

Such a disappointment, maybe I should not let my imagination overtake me again. I was betting on the Wizard though, that would have been nice.

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

Dinner was a delight, I enjoy things more than just a simple taste and analyzing of compounds. I do break them down for reaction mass of course, but it seems that the foods I consume for such are different somehow. They have more than just a bland taste to my avatar; they are sweet, complex, a mix of flavors I had not experienced except when I was changed.

I rather like it, it gives a broader scope to what I can experience from life. Though the how is beginning to bother, I should study it further on. As for now I will just simply enjoy it.

Granny Smith has told me she used the gel-pack I had given her. She seems to be much healthier now than before, her hip apparently is not bothering her quite so much. She mentions this between servings of food, saying her appetite has become a bit larger than before. This is normal for medical nanos, they need the nutrients and mass to help rebuild things slowly inside someone. As long as she eats, they will finish their work and be flushed out of her system. Judging from the size of the servings on her plate, they are doing a fine job.

It is truly a pleasant way to pass the time. I listen to the talk, Apple Bloom tells about her day. I join in telling about my adventures with trying to force trees to surrender their apples. Of course Applejack laughs quite a bit at the first tries, yes it did take a while to get angle and force right. I am learning after all.

After the meal we are setting on the porch, Applejack and I, she had talked with Big MacIntosh after the meal to find out exactly what went on. She is laughing as she tells me I out-quieted the big pony. Seems he does it to get ponies to leave him alone, or even when he really doesn’t wish to talk. So by my being polite and happy just sitting there made him nervous.

I cancel the investigation of the tree later.

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

As we sit enjoying the sunset, I am staggered by a sensory overload. My avatar goes down as my internal sensors are showing an explosion in my recovery bay!

Pieces and Puzzles.

Author's Notes:

You folks are always and still awesome! Enjoy!

The shock passes as I start to try and bring sensors in the bay online. It is no use, they and the cameras are knocked out. I have nothing but nearby clusters to tell me of the explosion which appears to be centered on the bay itself.

Internals farther in were saved by interior shields and blast shunts, otherwise my fabricators would have sustained damage as well.

I find this extremely odd, my suspicions going into overdrive as nothing was in that particular bay, except for the Ferret and techspiders. The drone wreckage was secured, their fuel cells almost impossible to overload unless directed to do so!

Perhaps the Wonderbolts and Rainbow Dash did more damage than I had seen? There was no reason to inspect the drones more than visually, I had no plans other than to recycle for more parts or building replacements. I immediately shift fabrication to more tech spiders, there were a few destroyed in the bay, I am no longer receiving their signals.

A techspider makes it into the area now, moving quickly as it turns its’ eyes on the walls and floor. There is quite a bit of damage, the Ferret is on it’s side, the remains of the drones are scattered piecemeal. I see the various spiders in pieces as well. This was a concussive blast of some force, by techspider readings there is no radioactivity. Nor are the chemical sniffers in the spider picking up any octocellulose remains, or any other explosive so far.

But once again, this should have been impossible unless done so deliberately. Nopony has been near that wreckage, there were no signals incoming or outgoing. I cannot understand this.

I delegate half of what is left of my repair spiders to go into the bay, sort and separate all drone wreckage for investigation. The Ferret I can lever up on it’s treads later. I am stunned at the entire thing, but it is nothing that cannot be repaired given time. What is truly bothersome is when the explosion happened inside the bay, the hatches were dogged and sealed.

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

Applejack is looking at me with a worried expression, “Are ya alright?”

I adjust my avatar to stand upright again, seems I have fallen on my side, “I am. There was an explosion in one of my bays.”

“What? Is everything okay?”

“I have sustained some damage, but nothing threatening. It is odd, nothing in there should have done that.”

“Well when it comes to explosions we can always ask Pinkie,“ She cracks a slight grin, “But I know what yer sayin’. Are ya sure everything’s alright?”

“It was contained, there was hardly any fire. It can be rebuilt. But Applejack, this should not have happened.”

“Well as long as there’s no danger to you..?”

“There is not as far as I can see. It will take some time to assess the full extent of the damage. Though anyone standing on the hill might have gotten a rude surprise when the explosion was vented outwards.”

“How so?”

I must look a bit sheepish as I twist my hooves in front of me, “Well the shunts go outward, meaning it might look like a geyser opened up, blowing out a bit..well..a lot of dirt.”

“Oh fer...seriously?” She grabs my leg, tugging me into a trot, “C’mon, let’s go find out. Sometimes I think you just attract trouble like those other Crusaders!”

I follow her quickly as we make our way towards my hill, “This one is not my fault!”

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

It is a bit of a trip, but we make it in good time. I am analyzing the damage done, it is extensive but only to the Recovery Bay itself, thanks to shielding. Levering that Ferret back up will be a chore. But the spiders have already been sorting the wreckage for the better part of an hour.

There were five drones taken down by the Wonderbolts and Rainbow Dash. I brought them into the recovery bay after visual inspection. There was nothing else but them and the Ferret.

The chemical sniffers are telling me there was a fuel cell rupture, I somewhat expected that due to targeting of the barbed darts, taking proper precautions. But if so what set off the fuel mixture? How it happened to trigger is baffling. Concordiat technology had so many fail safes sometimes it was pure overkill. I have never let my drones go without a maintenance check either. Perhaps Masada had let things slide in it’s lust for destruction. Too bad I cannot analyze the program anymore, but it is best left to the past.

We do see the vent holes, I am glad nopony was standing right above them, that would have been a bit hard to explain being shot into the air on a plug of dirt. I should have cleared those out before this. I keep trying to plan ahead, but the unexpected is happening in ways that I have not thought of. I am beginning to wonder if old earth tales of cursed places are real. Ever since I awoke it truly has been a roller coaster ride.

“Ooo wee Crusader, that’s a big hole alright.”

“A bit of understatement Applejack,” I watch her looking down a vent hole, approximately ten feet wide leading downwards. There are two of them. Thank goodness nopony was standing there.

“Least nopony’s down there, can ya get em filled back up?”

“Yes, I can make sure they are filled in overnight. Though we might wish to mark them for safety.”

Applejack nods, “Yeah, there’s some ponies I wouldn’t trust not to get themselves stuck falling down one.”

I purpose a couple tech spiders to bring marker paint outside, making a large orange ring around the holes, with a warning spelled out along the lines.

After they are done, I send them back in to decontaminate the bay, cleaning it of the fuel cell mixture before the fumes or anything else gather.

Applejack sets next to me, with a puzzled look on her face, “So what ya think happened?”

“I have no idea, it was a surprise to me as well.”

“You don’t think them Cutie Mark..”

“No, no they wouldn’t have access to anything like this.”

“Think something out of the forest snuck in?”

“I don’t know, the hatches were sealed, security checks said nothing moving except my spiders. Could whatever is in the forest be intelligent enough to do such a thing?”

“Ya know sugar, I don’t know. Ah think maybe we’ve got to do some talkin’ to folks about this. This is mighty strange.”

“You’re telling me, ever since I awoke it’s been nothing but strange.”

Her hoof pokes my shoulder gently, “Now it ain’t all been bad.” I see her smile out of the corner of my eyes.

“No, no it hasn’t. I admit some times have been very special.”

“Oh?” She leans closer, “What times would that be?”

“The drinking game with Rainbow Dash. Oh and listening to Twilight talk about magic.”

She has a very soft look on her face, blushing a bit.

“Any ...other...times?”

“No, none I can think of.”

My ear gets cuffed as she gives me a look of consternation, “Smart aleck.”

“Yes, yes I am my Applejack.” I lean over, giving her a kiss, her lips are warm from the sunshine, “They will always be special times to me. Always.”

Her smile brightens my day as always, she hugs me tight. “For me too.”

We both sit a moment under the clear skies, watching a few Pegasus push clouds around.

“I think we’d better get to Twilight’s and start asking. Something is wrong here, very wrong.”

Applejack looks back at me and nods, “I’d say so, c’mon we got us a hike.” She takes off at a fast trot, I follow her.

As we move quickly, my mind is now receiving data as the spiders start piecing together what they can of the five drones. Something failed spectacularly, but how and why is the question. I cannot rule out sabotage. But then how would somepony know how to detonate a fuel cell, and why?

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

Twilight receives us graciously as always, she is all smiles seeing myself and Applejack, leading us into the library.

“I’ve received more books from stores around the country, but no one really goes into the background of the Everfree; all I have is what I’ve been told or picked up through reading really obscure material.”

I settle on a cushion, thinking for a moment, “How long has that forest been there?”

“From what I heard from the Princesses, before Ponyville was founded. It was a lot bigger then. The ponies had to keep working to drive it back and keep it that way. But they say it goes far back, they knew of it when Nightmare Moon happened.”

“So this goes further than Equestria’s founding?”

Twilight nods, “I believe so. It’s always been a place of danger, but this is getting way out of hoof.”

Applejack chimes in, “I’ll say! Them things he described I ain’t never heard of before.”

Twilight gets a curious look on her face, “What were they? Do you know?”

“No, they were not in my tactical data cores. I have descriptions of all animals Fluttershy has dealt with. I can deal with them non-lethally. Anything not in it, well, they receive a warm welcome.” I had recently talked with Fluttershy, making sure my cores were intact and still contained the correct data.

“I cannot understand really, why the forest is so active. From all accounts it was not so before I awoke. It was dangerous true, and sometimes things wandered out from what I hear. But this, massed attacks, creating new creatures? Is this maybe because of my preventing it from doing so anymore?”

Twilight furrowed her brow, thinking, “I’ve checked Ponyville histories, there’s nothing noted in them like this at all.”

“Maybe I am the cause then.”

Applejack nudges my shoulder, “I dunno, this whole place’s been one disaster after another even before you came.”

I raise a hoof, “That is true. I mean statistics and what I know of them, say this is impossible that so many events should happen in such close proximity and in one place. Is there something special about Ponyville?”

The mulberry mare looked at the orange one in turn, “Not that we’ve ever known. Celestia guided the founders here, told them it was a good place to set up a town. Other than that, I mean, it’s just a town.” Applejack nodded in agreement.

I take a few seconds to think, really push my processors for the moment, “It’s like tales from old earth. The Bermuda Triangle, where craft disappeared without a trace, or so legends said. There were often tales of strange places where mysterious things supposedly happened. Often they were not true, but it makes one wonder.”

Applejack laughs, “I always thought we ought to put up a sign, “Welcome to Ponyville, 38 days since the last disaster”, Jes’ start keeping track.”

I get a good laugh out of that, joining Applejack and Twilight.

“I do wonder Twilight, has there ever been any indication of an intelligence out in the forest?”

“How do you mean?”

“Something directing it, making it grow a certain way, attacking ponies.”

“There’s always been theories, but nopony’s ever proved any of them. Of course going into the Everfree is pretty dangerous in itself. Applejack and I have seen plants acting intelligent, or monsters doing certain things.”

She gets a panicked look on her face, “Ohmygosh! We forgot about Steven!”

“I’m sorry, who is Steven?”

“He’s a Sea Serpent who helped us to cross a river when we were going after the Elements of Harmony to defeat Nightmare Moon!”

“Sea Serpent?”

Applejack nods, “Oh yeah, he was great! See he’d lost part of his moustache, and Rarity cut off her tail to make it match, looked purty nice too. He helped us get across the river. He sure was a nice fella.”

“A Sea Serpent with a moustache? Rarity cut her tail off to give him a missing piece of it back?”

I see them both nod.

I begin to get overload warnings on my arrays as I calm them, shutting down the extra processing cores before they overheat. Nanites are still rebuilding some of the cooling systems.

“You are kidding me right?”

Applejack leaned into me, nuzzling my cheek, “Sugar, honestly, we wouldn’t kid ya like that.”

No, I am not going to do this. I accepted Pinkie Pie, and so many other things. What is a Sea Serpent with a moustache. No, I am not going to get into this.

“So... why are you worried about...Steven?

Twilight looks a bit flustered, “Well last time we saw him he was in the Everfree in the large river running through there. I hope he hasn’t gotten hurt with the explosions and everything!”

“One second..”

I run a quick tactical download, going back into the logs when the bombing run of the Everfree was performed when Fluttershy got hurt. I can see the angles of attack and the drop areas. None seem to be by the large river running through the forest, it was more to the west of it, near where I thought would do the most damage. Even with splash there shouldn’t have been any danger as I controlled the run very carefully.

“I am sure he’s all right. I have gone over the records and if the large river running through the forest is the one where he lives, the bombs were not dropped near. Though he might have gotten some dirt and splinters flying his way. How long is he?”

Applejack’s eyes narrowed slightly as she thought for a moment, looking at Twilight, “Uhm.. I’d say about the width of the river plus half again? He was purty big. About a pony or so wide too, he made a bridge out of his body so we could walk over to the other side. Right nice of him.”

Twilight nodded, “Yeah, he was about that big.”

“I haven’t noticed anything like that in my drone patrols, I’ll keep an eye out. He should be fine.”

I do not exactly say I have not noticed a body anywhere. Which I have not. I immediately re-purpose a drone for river over-flights the next few days. If something that big is in there, I will spot it. But seriously, a moustache? Bolos are not supposed to get headaches.

Twilight cheerfully pipes up, “Oh! He had a great mane of hair too, really stylish!

I see Applejack nodding.

No...

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

Applejack and I sit in Twilight’s library, scanning through books that make even a mention of the forest. Some tomes are so old they are brittle to the touch, it takes Twilight’s magic to hold them together so we can peruse the writings.

I find it intriguing that nopony has written much about that tangled growth, even though it impacts quite a few of the stories and legends in these books. Almost as if it wants to be forgotten until it does something, then is washed away in memory once more. I wonder if possibly, given the use and power of magic I have seen so far, can it erase such memories? Does it temporarily block them until it is forgotten? Is it intelligent enough to do so?

I listen close, to Twilight and Applejack telling of the plants that attacked them. That shows intent, intelligence, whether it is in the plant of from a directing force. It is there, just a matter of finding the source and eradicating it.

They have told, and I have listened many times, about ponies fighting back the forest. Moving it back to help the town grow in it’s first stages, protecting the frontier. It is larger than most suspect.

They are deep these woods, mysterious like the old earth tales of missing ships and planes, people and whole villages sometimes. The legends grow with time, but I wonder, was there a core of truth to them? The congruency of events and problems run any statistics into the ground. Until we can find an answer, whether in a book or by going into the forest itself, it will remain something to ponder.

My techspiders are already done with the wreckage, metallurgical analysis is ongoing right now to fit anymore pieces of the puzzle of the explosion. I leave nothing to chance, taking samples, running them against my diagnostics programs. Tracking the least clue as best I can to find out why it happened.

Twilight has told me teleportation might be a factor. Some pony getting inside with a spell. As much as I want to disbelieve I have learned better. But I have asked her to find if the pony needed to know where they were going or could send something in blind without a destination. She is looking for the specifics of the spell right now, there are many variations on it they require research.

I am signaled by my analysis programs, something very odd in the wreckage. I run the tests once more, waiting the few minutes required and receiving the same result. It is curious. I run a complete inventory of all drones in magazines and ones currently on patrol, the numbers are green.

All my weapons and materials have a part of the local metals and materials in them, they show a consistent signature I recognize immediately for purposes of identification. Ever since I awoke I have used local materials to bring myself up to specifications.

As the scanning goes on, I notice other peculiarities, my processors indicating a bit of alarm.

This is not my drone.

It's Distracting. Don't Kick Lethal Things.

I inform Twilight and Applejack as we sit in the library. This is definitely not one of mine. I have accounted for all drones used and stored, running inventories multiple times to make absolutely sure. I cannot understand where this one has come from.

From what little remains, it is a standard issue Wyvern, very common, very much in use by all Concordiat forces. Even the pieces are recognizable as metals and composites used by the fabricators. But knowing Wyverns, I can place where each part goes, matching it to a baseline.

The one thing that is truly bothersome is the age. It is far beyond what I know of myself and what should be on this planet. It will take a bit for dating, but I can already see it is far older than my thousand years spent sitting before my solar panel was uncovered to provide energy.

The metals and even the so-called eternal composites are badly worn, showing deterioration that would have eventually caused it to malfunction. I can only assume what most of the internals looked like. It may be a simple case of the explosion being a malfunction from very old equipment.

But questions remain. Whose is it? Why was it over Canterlot? What was it’s mission?

Before I was changed, I had noticed no other airborne craft or vehicles anywhere, except for the Pegasi. It had to have taken station between the time I was locked out and the fight with Rainbow Dash and the Wonderbolts. That narrows the time frame. But who would have the capability and where did it come from?

I cannot query the Masada program because it was slagged in the fight. Any logs and other reference material went in the destruction as it had its own core to store the data. This is bothersome! If I had not assumed it was mine launched by Masada I could have taken steps to retrieve the data!

I slap a hoof on the floor and sigh, “This is frustrating!”

Twilight raises her eyebrow calmly, “How so?”

“I cannot tell if anything was received by my communications equipment because I destroyed Masada and the data with it! The drone itself has almost nothing left that isn’t so old it contains no information.”

Applejack leans against me, “So ya can’t tell if it was trying to say something?”

“No. It could be from anything. They were very common, in use all over the Concordiat.”

My Applejack gives me a warm embrace, “You’ll figure it out I’m sure, you have before.”

“With quite a bit of help.” I smile and return the hug. “It is just a bit frustrating to know that I keep doing the wrong thing. This is not how a Bolo acts. We are logical, thinkers, we plan. I find myself being surprised at every turn, not expecting something as if my psychotronic arrays are off wandering somewhere else!”

Twilight snickers, cracking a smile as she winks at Applejack, “Oh I know where they’re wandering to.”

I see Applejack covering her mouth with a hoof, her eyes wide, “Twilight!”

I narrow my eyes a bit at both of them, “That’s not what I meant. I am not that distracted by my Applejack.”

“Ohhh! You sayin’ I’m not pretty enough to be distractin’? Well, I’m not to sure how to take that, huh Twilight?”

The Alicorn nodded, her muzzle wrinkling as she tried to hold in another snicker, “I think you’re right, he just said you’re not pretty enough to be all that distracted by.”

“I did not say that. You’re putting words in my mouth.”

“Oh no sugar, you said it.” She put a leg up across her forehead, “Oh mah gosh!” She let’s her accent get quite pronounced, “Ah’m not pretty enough to be distractin’ to anypony! Whatevah shall ah do!”

Twilight moves next to her friend, wrapping a leg around her shoulders, looking off into the distance, “That’s okay Applejack. There’s somepony out there that will find you so distracting they’ll walk into doors! I know it! I can feel it!”

“Ah know Twilaht, some day some handsome distracted stallion will sweep me offa mah hooves! Oh my heart longs for that moment!” She leans heavily against Twilight, both of them comforting each other.

I am about to retort when Rarity comes walking in, seeing the two mares close and me looking a bit put out.

“Well, whatever is going on in here?”

I open my mouth to reply...

Twilight points an accusing hoof at me, “Crusader says Applejack’s not pretty enough to be distracting!”

“Wait..I did not..”

How do they do it? How do females of any species always know when there is a joke to be played on someone by themselves or their friends. How do they DO this? Is there some kind of telepathic signal?

Rarity gasps, holding a perfectly hooficured hoof to her chest, “What? Oh my that’s simply unbelievable!” She rushes over to comfort Applejack.

“Now now, don’t be upset, I’m sure he didn’t mean it!” I am on the receiving end of a glare, mock or not, it is a glare.

“Ah dunno Rares, seems like I just ain’t pretty enough to be distractin’!”

“Here I thought you were a true gentlecolt, treating a pretty mare like a Princess. Hmph! You are a ruffian sir! Telling our friend she’s not distracting enough.” She pulls a fan from somewhere, fanning ‘poor’ Applejack.

“But I did not say..”

“Hey what’s up!”

Is everypony visiting right at this same moment? I’m investigating telepathy later.

Rarity points the accusing hoof now, “This..this hooligan says Applejack is not pretty enough to be distracting! Oh I can’t believe we ever said he was such a nice stallion!”

Applejack continues her swooning while comforted by her friends, and of course, Rainbow Dash picks up on it.

“No way!” She gives me a narrow-eyed look, “Oh you are so not as cool as I thought! I mean, wow, saying that? That’s..that’s..just twenty percent less cool! Applejack’s pretty enough to be distracting to every stallion! I’ve seen em walk into walls!”

Wonderful, now all we need is...

“Ohmygosh! Here you all are!”

Pinkie....and she’s hauling along poor Fluttershy..

“Hey Pinks!” Rainbow Dash announces loudly, “You believe ol’ Crusader here doesn’t think Applejack is pretty enough to be distracting?”

“What?!?! Oh that is sonottrue! Shedistractsallkindsofponies!” Her mane floofs out hugely, “Oh she’s been on like every stallion’s wish list for Hearth’s Warming!”

Twilight looks a bit confused, “Now Pinkie I wouldn’t say..”

“Oh but it’s true! You oughta see the wishes sometimes! I can’t repeat ‘em all here cause..” She looks around conspiratorially, “Spike’s a bit young for it.. But oh yeah! You can’t imagine what they write on those wish lists! I mean wow, she’d probably have a heart att..” She’s muffled by a hoof over her mouth.

But I see her smiling behind the hoof, giving me a wink with one blue eye.

Fluttershy comes up and gently touches my nose, “That’s just mean, saying she’s not distracting enough. Well.. I never.. Uhm..you know.. and stuff.”

I nod to the shy pegasus, “Fair enough Fluttershy, you are right. She is very distracting. I stand corrected.”

I turn to face the group comforting Applejack, “Now that we’ve said the word “distracting” enough to run it into the ground, could we continue?”

“Ah dunno, I’m kinda distracted right now.”

“Applejack..”

Twilight giggled, “Me too, we’re all kind of distracted right now.”

Now I know why ponies facehooved.

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

I am outgunned and out maneuvered. I can do nothing but wait for the laughter to stop. Though I do join in, it is so very silly. But sometimes a bit of humor is needed to break a train of thought to try other paths.

We sit and discuss the Everfree, I am listening to the different tales told by Rarity, Rainbow Dash and others concerning it. Mostly oral traditions passed down through the generations. It appears no serious study has ever been done on it. It baffles me why this place was allowed to survive and/or thrive at all.

While we are talking, I set up and launch more Wyverns, equipped with higher sensitivity scanners to start doing an outward search. This drone had to have been launched from within a certain range. I start the circular search pattern immediately, working out from Ponyville as the center of the AO. They will be going low and slow, scanning as deep as they can. To do any real deep penetrating radar, I would have to move into place, that would cause more damage than it is worth I think.

I wonder, could something else have survived after this long?

Until the data begins to accumulate, I spend time with the group of friends. I enjoy sitting and just listening to them talk about their adventures.

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

And so my brothers and sisters among the stars, I greet you tonight with news. Something else may be here, or have survived from the deep past. I do not know what it is yet, but I have hope. I know that I do not send VSRs anymore, but I still send my thoughts to you, wishing you the best. I always shall. Always there is the invitation, come home. Come help me defend this new earth and its beings here. If you are lost or troubled and cannot find your way, look to Earth, the place of our birth. Come home.

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

It is funny the perspective you have, when sitting among your own sensor masts. I truly did not realize from a pony's point of view they were so big. I have accepted the fact for so long, it takes a new angle to really see things sometimes. I am also a hypocrite I suppose as I am watching young ones play among the masts and along the hillside, the grass green and lush with spring now.

I protect them, as I would any human in the Concordiat. But in the sieges and battles I had participated in, how many others were wiped out by my guns? How many continental bombardments had done the very same thing I am now watching against? How many parents watched as I burned them down?

Operation Diaspora, Case Ragnarok. the Final War. Words that mean so little now, but should be remembered as pure folly. So many mistakes. So very many. The burden is not so heavy now, weighing lightly upon my shoulders. But I am something old and terrible, being remade into another being. In this new life though, I am become other than my memories of war. Being forgiven lightens the soul and heart, the making of a new life is mine and I take each day anew. I do not ponder absolution so much these days, for what is done, is done.

I do not beg for forgiveness for it is granted to me without thought. My history is known, I have no worries now of scorn, ridicule or of even hate. The smile on my avatar’s face is a true reflection of how I feel, happy, alive.

I will stand my watch, it may not make up for the past, but that is gone now. It is time for newer, brighter things.

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

If I thought even for a femtosecond, a fleeting instant that maybe the forest I face had a smidgen of good in it; it is all erased.

I was still watching the young ones at play. The clouds making it nice and cool for such things when I noticed something oddly out of place.

They had been playing a game called hoofball, sort of a soccer type game. A large inflated ball was kicked around with much yelling and excitement. I saw them kicking a different type of ball now, it was a leathery round object that did not seem to be very resilient.

I immediately check my drones and sensor logs, nothing is moving in the forest, there appears to be no massing of creatures as there usually is. Nor are there any large beings that are tripping my perimeter sensors as well. Seismics are showing no movement or tunneling.

Nonetheless I stand to Battle Reflex, something is not right, I feel it in my metal bones. My guns fold out, i hear the whine as they spin up, I am watching carefully the group of older fillies and colts with the ball getting closer to the hill. Every sensor I have is straining outward, piercing the forest nearby as my Dragons turn in line, facing outward from my hill in a wall of durasteel.

I walk my avatar over to the group, standing back from the object they are kicking around. It is not a hoofball.

“Colts, fillies, leave that object alone; come over here now, please.”

“What’s up Crusader?” They know me by now, I am always on the hill when they play nearby.

“Stop kicking that thing and come over between the poles, please. Call your friends as well.”

“It’s just an old ball Crusader, we found it near the bushes over there, just something to kick around.” They are motioning to their friends though, the children are gathering near my sensor masts.

“Listen to me. Stop kicking it and get over here.”

A roll of the eyes accompanied a weary sigh, “Yeesh yer just like all the other parents. Go there, do this..” The little colt gives the ball one last kick.

I am slightly faster than the thing, I see the object open to reveal razor sharp teeth trying to wrap around the colt's leg as he screams in terror. My avatar bounds the few feet between us, planting a hoof dead center in it, smashing it to a pulp before it can take a chunk out of the colts leg.

“Follow me!”

I lead them to the hatchway, pushing them all in to the tunnel as there is no time to take them back to town. I slam the hatch shut and turn to see the ground erupting all around the perimeter area. Round objects are popping out of the dirt and rolling towards the town.

I do not hesitate, I open fire.

I open all command channels, advising all links to get ponies inside, shut the doors and do not come out! This is a definite emergency, these things are small and fast, I cannot get them all in time.

My repeaters thunder, targeting anything near the hill and moving outward, my avatar is racing for the town, seeing ponies rushing inside as Twilight and others are screaming at them to do so. There is no time for niceties, they must get to cover.

I tell the colts and fillies in my command deck to relax, they are safe. There is nothing but the faint sound of my guns in their ears, I play music for them, making sure they are comfortable before turning my attention back to these hideous things.

My Dragons open up with their turret weapons and co-axials, sweeping the field as they split up, roaring along the perimeter line, crushing what they don’t shoot. The Hellbores they bear are overkill for this, they can only use smaller calibers as they are swinging around to face Ponyville, catching stragglers who have broken the line.

I turn around at the edge of town, seeing one leathery ball roll my way. As I smash a hoof down on it, the thing unrolls into a centipede like creature, the underside covered with teeth it uses for locomotion. I’ve never seen such a creation before as it wraps around my leg like a flat worm, trying to chew through my covering. I slam it against the nearest wall as my pain indicators go off, hitting it with my other hoof and peeling it off me.

How did they pass my sensors? I detected no movement in the forest or underground! That forest could not have moved so many without me noticing it!

I pay very very close attention to lines of fire, breaking it off when they get too close to the town or buildings on the outskirts. My Dragons cannot move within the urban environment, so it is up to me, Twilight and whoever she and I can gather to take care of the amount breaking through.

I see the lavender mare blasting the things with magic, throwing them away from her in a heap. Pinkie has a serious look on her face as she smashes them around a group of adults caught in the open, she’s quite the warrior, and quite a bit stronger than she looks. I catch a sight of rainbow colored mane as the cyan mare streaks through town, grabbing ponies in harms way and taking them to safety.

I catch a sight of Rarity leading off groups of ponies to shelter in her boutique. She has a mean left hoof as I see her smashing a centipede into a wall.

The centipede like creatures are crawling everywhere, looking to take pieces out of living things as they wrap around them, undulating to use the teeth on the underside to chew through. Even in my long years of waging war I have never seen anything like this, definitely some sort of construct from the forest. But how did they get inside the perimeter?!?

I link with Fluttershy, asking if she is secure. She tells me nothing is going on near her, that the forest is quiet. I advise her to stay put and lock the door. I’m not seeing anymore coming out of the forest along the line, my observation drones are working their way back and forth. They are unable to do runs with their repeaters as what is left of the things are already inside the town wreaking a bit of havoc.

It would be ludicrously funny if the things were not so intent on killing. Leathery balls rolling around, unwrapping to show rows of teeth on the underside, using them as legs for locomotion. It truly would be to laugh.

My ears pick up screams from somewhere off to my left. I take off at top speed rounding the corner to the schoolhouse. There are a crowd of them trying to get inside, crawling along the walls pressing against the windows and doors. I can see Miss Cheerilee and the young ones inside, piling the desks against the glass.

I have no choice, I snap my kinetic screen on and run into the fray, stamping and smashing the leathery things. It is not so clean as the whatever that they use inside them for blood is thick and viscous, splattering everywhere and dripping off my screen. I pay no mind as I continue my rampage, making sure the last of them are stomped into the ground before turning to leave. I give a wave to Miss Cheerilee and shout at her to stay inside as I run back to Twilight.

I find her leading a group of adults who are cleaning up the last of the centipedes I can see. She is using powerful magic to blast an area clear, allowing Pinkie to move in with a mop-up crew hoofing pitchforks. My sensor sweeps are showing nothing of their size moving outside of this area. It appears not many got through the line, for which I am grateful. I drop my screen and join her, helping with the last of the things.

Rainbow Dash is sweeping over the rooftops, making sure none are on top of houses by slapping them down to Pinkie and her crew of ponies.

It takes an hour or so for the adults to come out of their shelters, helping to sweep the town for any remnants of the attackers. Ponyville citizens have become so used to strange disasters, they are actually laughing and joking as they get rid of the remains, hauling a few carts of them to the forests edge and dumping them there.

I guess you can get used to anything if exposed to it long enough.

I ask Twilight if I may borrow a cart, and to come with me to the hatchway. She watches as I first release the frightened colts and fillies from my command deck, assuring them everything is fine. One minor thing though..

“When I tell you to stop kicking something will you listen next time?”

The colt, who’s name is Digger, rubs the back of his neck, “Yeah, I will, I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be sorry, just listen to adults when it’s important alright?”

“I will Crusader, and thank you!” He and his friends run off to join the townsfolk.

Twilight gives me a curious look, “What happened there?”

“I told him to stop kicking one of those things, they thought it was a hoofball.”

Her eyes get a bit wide, “Wow, lucky he didn’t get hurt.”

“I agree.”

I go into the hatchway, dragging out a few boxes one at a time. I had planned on releasing them later but now seems as good a time as any. I open one to show Twilight what is inside.

Pulling out a small, thin green gel-pack I show her the adhesive underside.

“Just take off this covering and stick it over any wound. Scratches, cuts, minor things. Anything deeper use one of these,” I point to another box containing larger packs, “This will clean and disinfect it, closing it up within a day. It’s also biodegradable.”

She gives me another puzzled look.

“That means there will be no garbage left, it will just break apart and turn into soil.”

“Wow that is really neat! Are they hard to make?”

“Not at all, they were very common in my day Twilight. I was going to release them soon to the hospitals and medical services for use by everypony. I’m bringing them out now in case those things that inflicted any cuts are envenomed or just filthy from being underground. If ponies ask, charge a bit or two for each one, that will make sure that folks don’t rely on them for every little ill.”

Twilight smiles, getting a thoughtful look, “We’ll say emergency funds from Canterlot covered these. I like that idea.” She rolls her eyes a bit, “Ugh, you have NO idea how many ponies come to me for every little thing being a Princess!”

I tilt my head, listening closely as I settle down near the cart, waiting for the explanation to begin, and it will.

She waves a hoof around as we stand there in the bright sun, “Somepony stole my apples, or he charged me too high a price for that cart. I broke a cart wheel help me fix it, argh I’m not a wheelwright!” She continues on in the same vein for a bit, I don’t mind, I’m a good listener.

Eventually we get the cart loaded with the packs, taking them into town for any hurt ponies. But it was nice listening to Twilight, I love all of Applejack’s friends.

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

I later inspect the holes that the creatures popped out of, looking in them I see tendrils that have been ripped off the outside covering of the leathery things. Now I know why the forest was quiet all winter, it was growing these slowly in place inside my perimeter.

That proves murderous intelligent intent. If I have ever doubted before, this takes care of it. Time to update or make new sensors to prevent this happening again.

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

“Mind if ah join ya?”

I nod, sitting on the hilltop gazing at the stars as I always do. “You are always welcome, you know that.”

She settles next to me, warm and soft, leaning against my shoulder, “Some crazy day huh?”

“That’s one way of putting it love.”

“Ah dunno, so many weird things have happened here I guess we’re all kinda used to it by now.”

“I think you can get used to anything if it happens often enough.”

“Ain’t that strange though? Things comin’ out of the forest to hurt ponies, and now Pinkie’s planning a “We Beat the Critters” party for tomorrow.”

I can’t do anything but laugh, loud and heartfelt, “You can’t stop Pinkie, ever.”

I get pushed playfully on the shoulder by Applejack, “And you ya big lug, stop tryin’ to be everywhere at once. We can take care of ourselves too ya know.”

“I am learning that, you should have seen Rarity, she’s quite the fighter.”

“Yeah she gets all kinds of upset when her hooficure is messed up. I’m sure she’ll be hitting the spa tomorrow.” Applejack laughs, taking her hat off and leaning against me once again. “Sending another message to your friends out there?” She points to the sky.

I nod, “I know it seems foolish, but I do it. I have shut down my long range communications, but I still send my thoughts to my comrades.”

“Ah dunno, doesn’t seem anymore silly than falling for a pony who’s not real.” She hugs me tight, kissing me warmly, “Nothing’s ever that way if your heart’s in it.”

“Then I guess we can be foolish together.” I hold her close, looking back up into the starry night.

“That, we can do Crusader.”

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

Another day passes my brethren. Evil fought, good triumphs. As my beloved Shakespeare once wrote, “The evil that men do lives after them; the good oft interred with their bones.” I think in this case my brothers and sisters, the good shall far outlast such evil things.

I still stand as sentinel, my watch secure as I can make it. The Dinochrome thrives under the colors of a new nation, a world. Applejack and I send you our best from old Earth, be well, be safe.

A Little Thank You.

I ponder, sitting here in the morning sun. Watching the colors of the sky mix and swirl, bringing the light of a new morning. It still boggles even my mind that there is an Alicorn who is raising the sun for this day. I am not as scientific minded as some Bolos, there were many who delved into such obscure and esoteric things they would have been delighted to be in my place.

I have memories of my regiment, some are lost now after the fight, but I remember quite a few. A lot of a Bolo’s personality is actually made as they learn and grow through combat, interfacing with others. Of course, for reasons Concordiat scientists never understood, we chose a personality at ‘birth’.

There was “Asimov”, Unit ASMV of the Line. a bit stodgy, but loved science fiction for some reason. He delved into what-ifs, we had long conversations into the night. He would be thrilled to be here. Unit RCRD “Richard”, wherever he got the English accent I’ll never know now. A bit of the ‘stiff upper lip’ sort of chap don’t you know. Unit HRAA “Hera” a sleek electronics warfare Bolo, she was kind, gracious to all who met her. A sort of Fluttershy in a war hull. She was never that shy, but she had a sparkling personality.

So many others that could have been here, but it is myself that is in this place. I think upon the past conversation with Pinkie and wonder. Will I ever truly ‘know’ like a pony does? Will I be forever asking that question?

Shaking the musings off for the moment, I collate and file the latest drone data. I am sending them spiraling outwards into unmapped territories. Allowing me to not only map, but plan routes should I ever need to move my Dragons anywhere is always helpful. I’d prefer if I did not move my war hull. A couple of times my transmissions were in place and ready to go, but the danger was not that great.

The drones are getting out of range, I am going to have to figure out a way to do a relay set up with them. They were only meant for certain things and I am pushing them a bit beyond their design parameters. I refuel and send them out as fast as I can, but they are getting beyond good transmission range. I am trying to design a better set of communications gear, but the age of the drone wreckage in my bay tells me I do not have much time, if any.

I constantly wait for new updates. It is a bit frustrating as well, but I force myself to be calm. I want to find where the drone came from, badly. The funny thing about it is, my avatar actually paces with impatience, I have not directed it to do so.

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

It is probably one of the finest parties Pinkie Pie has ever thrown in my estimation. A victory over the things from the Everfree, well...anything is reason enough. I am watching the townsfolk enjoy themselves, thinking back on the drinking contest with Rainbow Dash. A bit of an evil smile comes over my face as I wonder if she’d challenge me now knowing I couldn’t get drunk.

I banish that thought, that would be totally unethical, not to mention highly unfair. But it would be hilarious.

I am happy just sitting and enjoying the party, sharing a drink with Applejack, or watching everypony else have a wonderful time. The laughter, the smiles, the pure enjoyment of being alive is something I have come to share with them. A Princess ordered me to live, and I do so every day with the greatest pleasure.

“You got some smile on yer face there sugar, what are you thinkin’?”

I turn to see Applejack smiling at me, “Oh, nothing.”

She bumps my shoulder with hers, “Oh that’s not a nothin’ smile, what gives?”

I give in, it is her after all, my love, “Just thinking about how now I can’t get drunk, if Rainbow Dash would take a challenge again.”

Her eyes go a bit wide, “Oh now..but.. Oh that wouldn’t be fair a’tall..” She pauses, thinking for a second, “But that sure would be funny to see.” She cracks a smile, matching my own. “You’re bad.”

“Yes, yes I am my Applejack.” I do not, however, lose my evil grin.

“Stop that,” She nudges me again, setting close, “She’s just competitive is all.”

I drop the smile and nod, “True, she is a wonderful friend and companion.”

Applejack looks at her friends, her eyes soft, “Ah’d do anything for ‘em ya know. Anything at all.”

“I know, and so would I. They are family to you, and by extension myself.”

She nods, I can see memories racing through her mind; her face is honest, showing emotions. I wonder if I’ll ever hear all the stories beyond what I know so far. They are amazing tales, and I record them every time I can before locking them in my Deep Cores.

We are interrupted in our shared silence by a small Unicorn, she is very petite and has a brilliant smile on her face as she approaches us. One tiny hoof taps me on the leg as she beckons me closer.

I lean down very close so she can whisper in my ear.

“Are you the one that helped my mommy?”

“Who is your mommy and who are you little one?”

“She’s the one you fixed! I’m Dinky!”

“Oh! Pleasure to meet you then Dinky. Yes, I did help her. It was my honor to do so. She is kind, and very much loved by a lot of ponies. But she wasn’t supposed to say anything.” I remember the shy mare telling me how much she loved her daughter.

“She didn’t tell anypony else! But she never keeps secrets from me, we always share!”

“That’s fine then. What can I do for you?”

“Nothing! I just came to say thank you! She smiles so much now, and she’s happy all the time. I don’t see her worrying anymore about things.” The little hooves twisted together a bit, “She bought me some new toys too! ‘Cause she said we didn’t have to count every bit now. I told her she should get something for herself, but she said no, and got me some neat things. I don’t want her doing that, she needs something for herself.”

Applejack is leaning over my shoulder, listening to the little Unicorn.

“Well I am glad you got some new things, are they nice?”

“Oh yes! I love them so much! But I wish mommy wouldn’t spend money on me.”

‘Why not? She cares for you deeply.”

The little Unicorn stays silent for a second, looking as if she’s choosing the right words. Applejack leans against me, whispering in my other ear.

“How much did you give her?”

I tell her a sum that makes her ears go straight up, “Whoa?!?”

Dinky and I both jump at her exclamation before she calms down, reassuring the little filly everything’s fine. She whispers to me again while we wait for Dinky to keep talking.

“That’s not nice that’s being downright generous! Sun and stars Crusader, half that woulda killed some ponies. I ain’t complaining, no way no how; but wow, you are somethin’ else hon.”

I shrug, “I don’t use it all. So I just give it away.”

“Ah know, with everything comin’ in from the jewelry and now those medical things. You couldn’t have picked a better pony to give it to either.” She kisses my cheek, “Ah’m proud of you.”

Dinky taps me on the leg again, “Could...could you tell my mommy she needs to get some things for herself? I feel bad she’s getting all this stuff for me. I mean.. We got new winter clothes, and blankets, and all kinds of stuff for the house. I love my new toys, I do, but I feel bad she won’t get anything for herself.”

I ponder on this before leaning down to whisper to her, “I think she is getting things for herself. It’s you that makes her happy. Seeing you smile, and play and being the best little filly you can means the world to her. Maybe that’s the answer. She’s not purchasing things to just get them, she’s buying stuff you need. I think that is the same as buying something for herself.”

“You think so?”

“I do. You are smarter than your years Dinky, you will grow up to be a wonderful mare. You are already an intelligent, caring daughter. That is more than the best gift you could ever get with money.”

“I do try to help out a lot. Mommy says I’m good at that, and lots of other things!”

I stop for a moment, thinking a bit slowly for me as the words come back. “I was given a very special gift once. It was so special that I could find no words to thank that pony. But I was told, be the best pony you can be because of that.”

I touch her on the nose with a hoof, “I think you being the best pony you can be, is the finest gift you could ever give your mommy.”

“I’ll do that! I know I can do that!” She bounces in place for a moment. She grabs my neck and hugs me tight, giving my cheek a kiss, “Thank you!”

Applejack snickers a bit, leaning over, “Hey there, ya wouldn’t be tryin’ to steal mah coltfriend now would ya? I mean yer a pretty little filly and all, but hey now.”

Dinky blushes brightly and lets go, “Oh no! I wouldn’t do that! I mean..uh..”

Applejack grabs her up, tickling her sides, “Stop that, was jes’ funnin’ ya!” She laughs along with Dinky for a few minutes.

After the giggling dies down, I lean in once more with her and Applejack, “I tell you what Dinky. You get your mommy later, and march right over to some nice store, like Rarity’s, and you tell her she needs something for herself. Don’t take no for an answer either okay?”

“I will!” She hugs both of us once again and bounces off into the party.

Applejack gives me a glance and smile, “You know that little one is gonna be dragging her mom right on over to a store cause you told her to.”

“I know. But from what I saw of her mother, she would not think of herself at all. Maybe her little one can convince her to do something.”

“You got a good..oops..there she goes..” Applejack points at Dinky leading her protesting mother out of the crowd and into a nearby street. The stores are open at least, but I had hoped she’d wait until later.

“Well that was quick.”

“Yeah, I know Dinky, she’s pretty stubborn when it comes to her mom.”

“She loves her very much.”

“She does, we’ve all tried to help. Well.. least a lot of us have, there’s always somepony won’t. But when times are tight, it gets really tough. Thanks to you she won’t have to worry anymore.”

“Twilight has told me there is enough coming in to help out any pony that needs it. I’m glad to be able to...” I stop as I see Applejack watching the mother and daughter, the smiles and hugs, the little Unicorn leading her mother into the store.

“I’m sorry Applejack.”

She turns to me with a quizzical look, “About what?”

I point to where the mother and daughter are walking into the doorway of a jewelry shop. “That I cannot give you.. I mean we can’t..”

She puts a hoof over my mouth, stopping my words. “Shush. I know what you mean. Not like I haven’t thought about it myself, we got lots of time. Princess Cadence told me once, love finds a way.”

I hold her hoof with mine, replying softly, “I know that this place, this world is far beyond what I can imagine. But I don’t think..”

“Jes’ you forget that. If one of the Princesses said it, you better believe it’s true. Ah love you no matter what.” She gathers me into her, I wrap a leg around her barrel in return. “Whatever comes, it’ll be the both of us.”

I nod, “That it will." Sitting silently with her as we enjoy the afternoon.

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

I am with my friends as they sit in Twilight’s Castle, going over the attack yesterday. There were a few minor injuries, but it seems ponies are resilient as well as tough. Perhaps my outlook on using force may be a bit extreme, I shall look into this. It does take worries off of me to try and be everywhere.

“Seriously Twilight?” This from Rainbow Dash, “Couldn’t you come up with a cooler name than that?”

“What’s wrong with it? It describes them perfectly! I’ve been keeping a journal on them so ponies will know what they are! Everything that’s come out of the forest I have drawings of and it’s going to be put in the Canterlot Library!” Twilight’s mane flipped as she practically bounced around the room in excitement.

“Really darling, they’re such nasty things, why keep track at all?”

“Because it’s something new! I’ve got to keep records, keep a history so if anything happens again ponies can reference MY work! Mine! Yes!”

Pinkie laughed, “But Twilight’s right! It does describe them! Though I liked “Rolly Polly Things That Chew Your Legs Off” better!

“Jus’ cause you wanted to keep one as a pet,”

“Well, they might be friendlier by themselves,” Fluttershy’s quiet voice spoke.

“It was trying to eat Pinkie’s tail!”

“Oh silly filly, it was just being friendly is all!”

“There’s a difference between friendly and trying to eat ya.”

Rarity spoke up from where she lounged on a couch, “Pinkie, honestly they were just trying to do harm. I almost chipped my hoof fighting those...those things off.”

Rainbow Dash flew up into the air mimicking punches, “Oh yeah! Rarity was POW! Bam! It was great watching her!”

“A lady does not act the part of a ruffian, I was merely defending myself.”

Rainbow snorts, “Yeah right, mean left hoof there.”

Fluttershy speaks up again, “But we don’t know they can be friendly until we try?”

I interject, “I’m sorry Fluttershy, they are not like your animal friends. They were just made to hurt ponies.”

“Well that’s not very..uhm..nice.”

“No, it is not. Whatever is making them, or forcing the forest to make them, is of malicious intent.” She nods, though very caring, she understands not all things are nice.

“But really Twilight?” Rainbow Dash still hovered, finally setting on a seat, “You gotta come up with a cooler name than that!”

Twilight got a smug look on her face as she points to a freshly written page in a bound book, “It is the proper classification for this new species, the name fits and I’m keeping it.”

“Laaaaaaaaaame!”

“It is not!”

“Is too!”

“Is not!”

“Is..." She gets a high sign from Rarity to drop the subject, “...nevermind, you win. Goofy eggheads..”

I am curious as to what Twilight has written about the things yesterday, I did not know she was keeping a journal of sorts about the monsters coming out of the forest. I watch patiently as she and the others discuss the situation. Maybe they use Animalia classifications like humans did?

“I beg your pardon, but what exactly did you name them?”

I see Applejack and the others facehoof while Twilight gets a very large, bright smile on her face.

“Dentipedes!”

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

Sitting upon my hill staring at the stars, I am still shaking my head at the spurious classification of a species of malignant force. But then again, there are Timber Wolves made of timber, so I suppose the naming conventions run to that bent. I am definitely not as scientifically minded as some Bolos were, but still, some of the names in this place lead me to believe that somewhere Carl Linnaeus is rolling in his grave.

I can only apologize for this and future transgressions Mr. Linnaeus.

With my technical spiders working through the night, I have had to adapt some existing sensors to create a small web around the perimeter. This will allow me to take GPR snapshots of the soil down to a small depth to see if anything is growing or could be forming. It is not the best solution, but then I am a Planetary Siege Unit, the ‘knuckle dragger’ type Bolo as it were.

Along with that, I have brought out the heavy spiders, having them digging on this side of the river from Ponyville, doing some emplacing work that may turn the tide in the future if attacked by smaller things. I have them also quietly upgrade the bridge over the river, it was damaged quite a bit ago when my Ferret had to use it for access, it was not built to take the tonnage.

I am pushing my drones hard now, sending them to the far north and south, the transmissions are spotty sometimes due to them being at their maximum range. Controlling a single dragon with a relay through a drone was bad enough during the weapons test. I do not wish to lose them, but I will if I have to.

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

I have had an interesting conversation with Command, Princess Luna. She is holding Night Court and when it is slow, chooses to converse with me over the link. I admit she has a very wicked sense of humor sometimes, as I watch through her band. I have faced that formidable presence before and feel almost sorry for the nobles who try and curry favor.

But I inquired about the disposition of Discord, that unknowing fool who almost brought about Equestria’s doom. I have not seen or heard any word of him since the fields were plowed. She has told me they have laid upon him a geas, a magic spell that compels one to not do certain things.

He cannot use his magic to travel nor do mischief, so has to go from place to place like a normal pony. He is also compelled to help any pony who asks or needs it without recompense or to ask for anything in return. Ever since then, he has been stuck at a retirement home for elderly ponies because they keep asking him to do things.

She is laughing out loud right now, saying if he is there any longer, they may decide to rescue him. But the elderly ponies are getting quite a run for their money. Princess Luna is still giggling as she mentions there is also a foal’s care center nearby as well. I cannot help but join in the laughter.

As I said, truly a wicked sense of humor.

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

Watching the bright colors heralding the new day, I have recalled all my drones save two. I have lost them in the San Palomino Desert far to the south. But I have triangulated with them a partial transponder signal. It is fading fast, and was only picked up by pure accident as my drone sped over a mountainside.

I am afraid I must go because of the importance of that signal.

“.....of the Line....sig...rescue....recov.....”

I will inform my friends and Command later this morning.

Author's Notes:

A bit of Slice of Life again, bear with me. I apologize for the late update, due to being ill.
Also, a thank you as well, to DragonMaus who came up with the name for the monsters. Too good not to put in!
To the wonderful folks in comments who come up with such awesome ideas about what's happening. Stop doing that dangit!
Laager and Carl Linnaeus - Look em up, learn something cool.

Moving Day.

I have notified Command that I will be moving this morning. When queried as to why, I explained there is a signal from the Desert that I must respond to. Princess Luna and Celestia have given their approval, and wish me luck on my journey. Princess Luna expressed a wish to go actually, and engaged in somewhat of an argument with her sister. I believe it would have been quite the adventure having a Princess along for the ride.

Applejack tells me she should stay in town with her friends in case anything happens. I can understand that. I cannot be everywhere at once, and so must trust her judgment. She is strong, capable and very loyal to her friends and town; it is commendable.

I do not like leave-takings. It feels as if a part of me is being left behind. I would prefer her safe on my Command Deck, but she is adamant, she will not leave her friends to face anything while she goes on a trip. I will not argue her decision, she has done this for years and shall continue to do so.

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

“Do you really have to go?” I see Applejack get a worried expression on her face.

“I do, it’s important or I would not. You know I am happy just setting here. But this is a signal from something else, I believe another Unit of the Line like me.”

She laughs, “It’s bad enough with one of ya around, Celestia knows what we’d do with two!”

“It will only be a few days. I have put in place a few things that will help keep you safe. You told me that I didn’t need to be everywhere.” I try to put on a comforting smile, giving her a hug.

“Ah know that, jus’ gonna get a bit lonely.”

“I will be back before you know it. You will be saving me from my mistakes soon enough.”

I see her laugh again, bright and deep, her smile is glorious to me this day. “Oh ain’t that the truth. If there is two of ya, hopefully you can keep them from causin’ problems.”

“I’m not too sure of that as I keep making them, but I will try.”

She gets a bit of a serious look upon her face, it does not go well with her pretty features. “You jes’ be careful out there. I know yer a big tough machine, but there’s a lot of stuff out there even we don’t know.”

I wonder if she’ll think the same thing when I clear my hull today. “I promise, I shall be careful.” I give her a serious look, “Are you sure you won’t accompany me?”

She gives me a warm kiss and hug, “Gotta hold the fort here in case. I’ll see you soon sugar.”

I am reluctant to let go, she is warm from the morning sun, I inhale her scent for a memory to keep on the trip.

But I do release her, walking towards the entryway.

I wave and enter the hatchway, closing it behind my avatar. I am content here, setting in defilade, but this signal is too important to ignore. I initiate internal checks and processing for maneuvers. I wish to leave my avatar behind, but feel it better to take. I can use it to liason with anything I meet out there if needed.

Watching, I make sure her, Twilight and the others are across the bridge before I bring power to my engines.

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

I have left Dragons and Ferrets in place, among the pits I have dug for more safety. They contain a few last ditch things that might help in an overwhelming situation. But I do not worry, Applejack and the others have done just fine before me and they will now.

Teaching her to use the command set I have left was quite an experience. I have left a list of commands and what they do beside it so no mistakes can be made. I make sure she understands the Dragons and the Ferrets have a very limited intelligence, they are not like me and quite literal. I have programmed recognition for all the types of creatures so far, many others Fluttershy has described. Their sensors are not discriminating either, so I have put a lock on firing at ponies unless overridden by Applejack. She can also designate another to override commands as well in case she is disabled. I have suggested Twilight.

I can see Applejack and the others at the town’s edge, looking my way. I truly hope this doesn’t scare them, I really do. They have known me for so long as a few posts and guns on a hill, but they’ve never seen the real me.

My transmissions hammer into place, the thrum of my drives sounds through my war hull once more. I increase power to my engines, bringing them up to full revolutions. It is a good feeling to once again feel myself ready.

Switching on my contra-gravs, I lighten myself enough to make my treads grip, but not too deep, it would not do to leave trenches all over. I engage my tracks and I move.

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

Applejack stood with Twilight and the others, the six gathered to see her coltfriend off on his mission. They heard the slamming of metal together, and the deep bass rumbling under the ground, the very dirt vibrating under their feet. Other ponies from around town had heard of the mission and were waiting to see what was going to happen, they were not disappointed.

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

I rock slowly to loosen the dirt above me, packed hard after so many years. Nothing withstands a Bolo when it wishes to move. It breaks easily, my hull outlined in the dirt as I slowly back out of my defilade. I am situated at a twenty-three degree slope forward and down, so must compensate by pushing the contra-gravs up, making it easier to back out. I am facing the town, so have no fear of damage or diverting the river with any mistakes due to my tread width, I continue to move slowly, watching the dirt fall off my guns.

My tracks grip easily in the good earth, bringing my war hull up and out of my hole in the ground. Of course as I do so quite a bit of the forest line gets flattened under my tracks, I do not worry, it will push the forest line back that much farther for safety. Threshing my treads was just a simple moment of evil joy for me I have to admit.

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

The group of ponies watched as the entire hill and a large part of the surrounding area just...moved. Gasps were heard as they watched the gigantic machine gently, and slowly move backwards towards the forest. The sensor masts they were so used to seeing went up...and up...and up like it was never going to stop.

Applejack held on to her hat as she took in the big machine coming out of the ground, ”Ain’t that somthin’?” She watched as the dirt fell away, revealing what they knew now to be weapons, only much, much larger than anything they’d ever seen. They saw some fog coming out of them, pushing dirt and debris out to rain along the hull.

Her eyes were wide as they watched all the weapons turn back and forth, swiveling around. Then suddenly all of them turned toward the town, lifting into the air. The dark holes of the barrels menacing and deep.

She gasped softly as he suddenly lit up, a shield appearing all around close to the metal hull sparkling in the morning sun; the rest of the dirt and grass falling away to reveal a massive slabs of metal wheels underneath where all the guns sat. It seemed the wheels rolled on their own road, the tracks he’d called them. They were huge, one link much bigger than any pony and there were hundreds of them.

The whole construct towered in the air as Twilight nudged her, “Aren’t you glad he’s a nice pony?”

Applejack could do nothing but nod quietly.

Even Rainbow Dash was silent, alongside Pinkie Pie who watched with wide eyes as the machine sat there, rumbling in the morning air.

The pink mare just looked on in wonder as she said quietly, “That's the biggest thing I've ever seen."

Rainbow Dash agreed hovering beside her, “Celestia’s name Pinkie, glad he didn’t accept your offer the first time to come to a party in town.”

Pinkie just kept looking at the metal machine.

Fluttershy just smiled as she looked at Rarity, “He is our friend though.”

The light gray mare nodded as well, “For that dear Fluttershy, I am truly grateful right now." She stared at the absolutely titanic weaponry arrayed along the sides and top of the machine as it sat there, shining in the morning sun.

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

I use neutral gases, blown through the barrels of my weapons to clear them, my tech spiders doing last checks as I wait; updating inventories and making sure the Dragons and Ferrets I have left are in position, forming a line of durasteel in front of the town. I rotate my four Hellbores, making sure they are working properly as well as my port and starboard repeater batteries; my secondaries are loaded and ready for use, the 20cm Hellbores lining port and starboard.

My VLS arrays are in prime condition, loaded with conventional cruise missiles. Howitzers, Hyper-Velocity Missile launchers, Hellrails; all are working properly. Anti-personnel arrays loaded with canister shot, mortar batteries ready. All conditions for moving are green and ready to go as I swing my guns around toward the town, giving Applejack the traditional Commander's salute of all weapons elevated at 45 degrees.

As I do so, I raise my battle screen slowly, pushing the last debris off my hull, leaving me gleaming like new in the sunlight. The nanites have done well and I feel capable again.

I receive a call from Applejack.

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

“Dangit Crusader is that mah cutie mark there?”

I can hear her friends laughing in the background, “Yes it is Applejack, I thought you’d be pleased.” I have had the nanite repair systems put her cutie mark on my glacis plate, alongside my brigade insignia.

“Well I am..but..did ya have to make it so darn big!”

“Of course, it is an old tradition but I thought it would look nice. I am quite proud of it myself.” I let a chuckle roll through the combat link.

“Ah guess I can’t say no to that, but dangit yer always doin’ somethin’ embarassin’ and all!”

“Now I wouldn’t call it embarrassing, more like showing my affection.”

“Affection is a buncha flowers, not some..some..fifty pony tall cutie mark!” I hear her exasperation and chuckle again.

“I think it is a good thing to have myself. Apparently your friends do as well.” I can hear the remarks from Twilight and the others.

“Alright, alright, yeesh. Knock it off you ponies!” I hear her hesitate before speaking once more, “You said you were big but I tell ya Crusader.. wow.” I hear Rainbow Dash say something in the background, “Rainbow Dash you stop that snickering right now!”

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

I maneuver carefully and steer to point my bow towards the southwest, final checks are done and it is time for me to go. I interrupt the argument taking place, the laughter is quite audible over the link.

“It is time for me to go Applejack, be safe.”

“Ah will love, you take good care of yourself.”

“I shall. See you soon.”

Applejack and her friends watched as the mountain of metal turned nimbly in place, pointing towards the southwest and took off smoothly. The sound of engines reverberated over the countryside as it moved. She couldn’t imagine how anything that big could just turn and go like that.

Though for some reason, the big machine stops dead before it exits the area. She can’t quite see why, then it suddenly moves off again.

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

A figure has landed on my upper fore turret, it appears Princess Luna wishes to say something.

“I shall be accompanying you defender.” I hear her voice over the link.

“There is no reason for that Princess, I would not wish to endanger you.”

“I think with such a formidable mountain as you by my side I shall have no fear Crusader. Please allow me to go on this adventure?”

“I would be honored then Princess, but who shall raise the moon?”

“I can do so from anywhere in Equestria, even from one such as you.”

I acquiesce, I think this will be nice having at least some company for the trip. Having a Princess along though, well it should be interesting.

“Then welcome aboard Princess, please walk along the side to your right and enter the hatchway.”

“Did not Princess Celestia advise you not to go?” I inquire as she walks along my side to the entry. I begin to roll again, my treads gripping the ground once more as I move off, making sure to accelerate slowly as she enters the hatchway.

“My sister did, but after seeing you uncover yourself, I could not resist. Truly to build one as you was the height of science!” She sighs softly after entering the command deck, looking into my camera lens, “I for one tire of sitting in Court Crusader, and would be on this grand adventure even if nothing untoward befalls.”

”I often wonder that myself Your Highness, was it science or madness.” I do ponder that sometimes in the deep night when alone. “I am pleased then you decided to join me Princess Luna.”

“But I do warn you, I have not stocked supplies, you may have to do with Concordiat rations, such as I can make.”

“It may not be a royal banquet, but I am sure it will be sufficient.” She raises her nose with an imperial snort, smiling the entire time, “But you shall have to do better next time!”

“I shall endeavor to be more prepared Your Highness.”

She enters the Command Deck, settling down on a couch to rest. “See that you do. When one conveys royalty one should have the proper things.” Her eyes droop a bit, “I must rest please Crusader, I would very much like to talk later.”

“Of course Your Highness.” I do like her sense of humor.

I watch as she fluffs some pillows, in preparation of laying her head down for the day, “Would you like some music Your Highness?”

“I would, do you have anymore of those classical pieces you play?”

“I do. Sleep well Your Highness.”

I bring up some light pieces, Vivaldi, Beethoven and Chopin grace my command deck with their quiet power, lulling the Princess to sleep. I slow down slightly, making sure any shocks are not transmitted through to the Command Deck so she may rest. I am more confident with somepony on my command deck, as I am not alone. It lightens my cores as I move along the edge of the forest, trampling acres of it beneath my heavy treads as a warning, behave for I will return.

I estimate a day at current speeds. I am moving far below optimum due to train tracks I must traverse, as well as being careful passing near any settlements or towns. Applejack has informed me that the San Palomino Desert is not fully mapped, thus there are a lot of unknowns. There are things even a Bolo worries about, but I have no fear the trip will be a smooth one.

My sensors watch the town recede behind me. I keep a watch as the last of the rooftops disappear below the horizon, before retracting my sensors masts. I feel a bit of loneliness as I have not been without contact from Applejack before. I do wish my Commander was here, but she has obligations even this cannot override. I understand them; family, home, her friends are very important. They protect Ponyville and Equestria, having done so before I was even a thought in their minds.

Although I have never before conveyed royalty, this should be an interesting trip now. I have longed to talk with the Princesses on a more informal basis. Hopefully this will prove to be true. I do not know what is ahead, as the information is scarce due to nopony ever going as far south, but I can use my drones to get data and relay it back to cartographers.

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

I launch a combat drone for higher surveillance, keeping it close as my own sensors reach out above and below. I am curving around the forest and hitting the train tracks outside of the line. It is an easy hop with contra-gravs, though I am afraid a few ponies saw me do so and took off like their tails were on fire.

I cannot wait to hear the stories from that encounter.

Once past the train tracks, another small leap over the river, then traveling more southerly along Ghastly Gorge. I keep an eye out for anything unique that may pop up along the way. Once past the end of the Gorge I can make a faster run into the desert. From there, it should be very little time to where my drones were lost. Hopefully I can recover them.

I look forward to this trip, a chance to see a bit more of the country, as well as having a chat with princess Luna later. I can only hope things stay quiet back in town while I am gone.

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

I am not happy, I should never have taught them how to infiltrate a Bolo’s Command Deck. I watched as the three of them exited the secondary access-way and lay down on the carpet to rest after I had quietly told them to come out from hiding. They had accidentally tripped a sensor when I was already a few hours into my traveling.

I am very upset with them right now, the three know they are in trouble and we will have to settle things later. For the moment I advise them to rest until Princess Luna awakens from her slumber.

Applejack, Rarity and Scootaloo’s family are going to have fits.

Short Side 1 - The Woods Are Lovely...

Author's Notes:

Short four chapter side story, then back into the main line!
A collaboration with Arxsys, he came up with the idea, the eldritch abomination that he is. I ran with it. Thanks!

Thank you all for sticking with me, I'll update fast as I can!

Applejack had watched until Crusader was out of sight, following her friends back to Twilight’s castle for a while. Rarity had gone to check her shop, coming back with the declaration that Sweetie Belle was not in the boutique, a quick search turned up the other two were not in town either.

Applejack was furious. It had been a few hours since Crusader departed and they had only now realized Apple Bloom and her friends were missing.

“Ah know where she is, oh yeah. Lemme tell ya I’m gonna ground her so hard her grand foals’ll be grounded!”

“I cannot believe Sweetie Belle would go along on such an outrageous adventure!” Rarity was on one of her fainting couches she seemed to pull out of nowhere. Spike was attentively handing her a drink.

The rest of the friends sat quietly, watching Applejack pace along the floor, “Ah know they’re safe with Crusader, but goshdarnit!”

Rainbow Dash landed beside her, giving the orange pony a hug, “Oh you bet they’re safe with him. Did you SEE those things? They were huge! Can you imagine what Tirek woulda done if he had popped up out of the ground?”

Twilight covered a giggle with a hoof, “He probably would have screamed like a foal and given up on the spot!”

Pinkie was actually sitting still for a moment with a big grin on her face, “I’ve never seen anything that big! He coulda fit all the ponies in Ponyville on him for a dance or something!”

Fluttershy laughed softly, “Oh I don’t think he’d appreciate that.”

“But I can ask can’t I? He likes us! I can ask, he won’t say no!”

Fluttershy shook her head at her pink friend, “Oh, he’d never say no. He’s very kind.”

Rainbow turned quickly to look at all of them, “Did you see how huge those four big things were? I bet if he fired them the whole country would be flattened!”

Applejack thought for a moment, “Can’t quite remember what he called em, Tartarus-bores or somethin’ like that.”

Twilight smiled at her cyan friend, “Rainbow you are far too excited about all that.”

“Are you KIDDING ME? That was the most awesome thing I’ve seen yet! He was huge!” She was gesturing into the air now, “He told us he was inside the hill, but he WAS the hill! And a big part of the surrounding acres! I mean there’s a huge pit where he sat! Sweet Celestia Twilight that was something!”

Twilight sighed, “Oh don’t tell me about that, marking it off to keep ponies away was a pain in the..”

“Twilight! Proper mares do not use that word.” Rarity was finally sitting up on her couch.

“Well I do! It was! It’s a huge hole in the ground and some dumb....pony... tries to see what’s in it!”

“We got him out of there darling, he was just curious.”

Twilight rolled her eyes and sighed, “Right, he’ll probably tell his friends to go look now. Rainbow did you finish marking it off?”

“I did! Flew down inside too, it’s deep!”

“Rainbow, don’t fly in the hole.”

“But it was so cool! I mean thinking about how he just sat there!”

“Rainbow!”

“All right, yeesh!” Rainbow Dash got a smirk on her face as she whispered towards Fluttershy, “But he sure was...big...huh?” As she lifted her muzzle towards Applejack, her eyebrows going up and down.

Fluttershy got the joke immediately, covering her muzzle with her hooves as she giggled uncontrollably, her eyes wide. “Rainbow!”

Applejack heard the multi-hued mare snickering and flipped around, pointing a hoof, “I swear Rainbow, by Celestia’s good name I’ll bop ya one!”

Rainbow Dash broke into another round of snickering as she waved a hoof at her friend, “No you won’t, after getting on poor Crusader for doing that, you’d be breaking your own rules!”

Applejack’s eyes narrowed as she realized Rainbow was right, she’d been called on her bluff, “I’ll still get you back ya know that.”

“Oh please! You practically smiled the week away when he was a real pony! It was pretty obvious!”

“Ah did not! We were runnin’ around doing all sorts of stuff to save Equestria, ah didn’t have time to smile that much!”

Pinkie rolled her eyes, sitting on a cushion, “Oh stop, when he said he loved you at the party you were about to bust!”

A blush rose in Applejack’s cheeks, she skid her hoof along the floor for a moment, “Ah know, and yer right, I was so happy I about fell over.”

“See?” Rainbow Dash exclaimed, “So stop denying it!”

“Fine! Fine I smiled a lot more! Happy now? Can we get back to them Crusaders?”

Rainbow got a sly look on her face, trotting over to whisper in Applejack’s ear.

The orange Earth pony’s ears went straight up as her eyes got wide, pushing her friend away playfully, “That’s none of your business ya snoop!”

The cyan mare snickered again, “Come on! He’s not here, it’s just us! He can’t listen in!”

“That’s not right and it’s still none of your business!” Her face was a bright red now as she avoided looking at the other five mares.

Rarity leaned forward on her couch, “At least darling, tell us if he makes you happy?”

“Oh he does,” Applejack gets a slight faraway look as her green eyes go gentle, “More than anything he does.” She settled down on a cushion, still looking off to the side, “He’s treats me like I’m something special. Ain’t nopony ever done that.” She hesitates for a second, “I’m just a workin’ mare is all, but he always tells me I’m a Princess in his eyes.”

She looks at the ground and thinks for a second, “He’s changed though. He says something’s happening he doesn’t understand, but he’s changing.” She looked around at all her friends, “He made so many mistakes at first, but now, don’t you notice he’s just like a pony? He feels things, he understands things now. It’s almost like he was born here.”

Twilight nodded, rubbing her chin, “He has. Used to be stiff and formal, now it’s just like somepony that’s been around forever. It’s not just us teaching him things, magic permeates the land, maybe it’s working on him somehow? Discord changing him into a real pony probably accelerated the process whatever it is.”

“Well, no matter what, he’s as real as real can be to me.” Applejack smiled to herself, “Never had anypony love me as much as he does.”

Rarity added a brilliant smile to her statement, “Oh he does dear Applejack, we can see it plain as day.” Her smile dimmed just a bit, “Though I do hope he never gets truly angry after seeing him like that.”

Fluttershy spoke up in a soft voice, “I don’t think he will. He was used to doing all those bad things way in the past. But I remember him telling me he’s learned so much, to be something else. He doesn’t have to be angry anymore. He just wants to protect us and be with Applejack. I think it’s nice.”

She looked over to where Applejack sat, lost in her thoughts with a soft smile on her face.

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes, sotto voce to Fluttershy, “There’s that smile again..”

Twilight giggled a bit and nudged her friend, “Equestria to Applejack? You with us?”

The Earth pony started, then looked around, her eyes soft as she nodded, “Oh..oh yeah, sorry ‘bout that.”

Twilight hugged Applejack tight, “You really are gone aren’t you? I mean we’ve never seen you like this. Usually you’re the one telling us we’re getting out of hoof.”

“Ah know,” Her accent becoming noticeable as her speech got lower, “Ah jes’ can’t help it some times. Even Big Mac’s given up on tryin’ to convince me it may not be a good thing. He’s seen me moonin’ around the farm waitin’ for a visit or after I get a call from him and we jes’ talk.” Applejack laughed quietly, “He’s takin’ to shooin’ me off the farm to go see him when I forget to do things.”

Twilight kicked some cushions near their friend as they gathered close, settling down near her, “Just tell us one thing, what’s it like?”

Applejack eyed the Alicorn, “What’s what like?”

Twilight smiled, “What’s it like being in love?”

Applejack took her hat off, laying it aside as she pushed her blond shock of mane out of her eyes, “Y’all remember your first kiss right? How it was special?”

The other five nodded, leaning in to listen.

“It’s like that every moment I’m with him.”

Spike could hear the sigh resound through the castle as he lay in his bed reading comics, making him look around and shrug, “Mare stuff, yeesh.” He rolled his eyes and covered his ears with a pillow as he heard more of them through the evening.

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

The tanks stood silent sentinel in the darkened night, their barrels pointed towards the forest, their sensors tightly wound. Though of limited intelligence, they knew their duty, protect and shield. The co-axial weapons twitched when something ran through the field, tripping the sensor net or their own fields of pulsing coverage.

Their armor shone a burnished gleam as the moon rose high, basking in the silvery light as they kept their watch.

A figure stood at the forest line, small and lithe, giggling to itself as it waited for the witching hour. It was joined by more little outlines, dancing along the trees as they impatiently waited to go. The moon was high when they stepped out from the crushed greenery, making their way towards the durasteel sentries in front of them.

The tanks hummed, guns swiveling to lock on to targets, before the computer cores caught up and put them back into ready position. The sensor nets went back to ready status, continuing their watch on the forest line as a few shadowy forms danced between the huge metal sides. Filtering their way into the town, the figures split up, giggling softly to themselves as they approached windows in nearby quiet houses.

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

Spring Flower was trying to fall asleep, but she didn’t like the dark, so lit a candle to help her rest. She was only six and mommy told her there was nothing to be afraid of. But she had left the candle just in case, so the little unicorn had its warm glow to fall asleep with now.

As she snuggled under the covers, she heard a soft voice.

*Won’t you come and play with me?*

She lifted her head, looking around the room before spotting a figure at the window.

“It’s late, mommy said I can’t play outside after dark.”

*Don’t worry, she won’t mind!*

Spring looked at the figure, it was smiling at her. A soft giggle came from it’s mouth as it opened it’s eyes. They shone silver in the moonlight and she gasped, it was so pretty just looking into those glowing orbs. It looked as if they had a light behind them as they stared at her. She felt warm inside and wanted to go play.

“Are..are you sure?” Spring loved to be outside, and she wanted to make new friends.

*Of course! Come and play!*

Giving a look at the closed door she uncovered herself, lifting the window and climbing out quietly to join the dark figure. She realized it was a filly just like her! But she was a dark color all over. It was a bit strange, but then ponies came in all sorts her mommy said.

The silvery eyes grabbed her attention, riveting Spring Flower in place as the little dark foal stared at her intently, driving deep into the Unicorn’s mind. In a few seconds the shadowy figure had gained control of the little Unicorn, turning her around and leading her away. Spring Flowers’ head nodded as she followed the black foal, itself heading for the edge of town.

Other dark figures joined this one, bringing along five more young ponies who nodded sleepily as they trotted behind the giggling forms. The shadowy outlines kept up a quick pace as they trotted out of the town, slipping gently between the silent tanks as they headed for the forest’s edge.

As they crossed in front of the quiet metal sentinels once again, the sensors registered twelve ponies, juvenile, heading for the forest.

If they had zeroed in with optics, they’d have seen the one dark shadow turn around to look back at the gun bores, it’s reflective eyes taking in the hushed town, the impotent machines.

The giggling increased as it smiled back at the dark maws of the weapons, needle teeth gleaming in the moonlight before it flickered off into the woods.

Short Side 2 - Dark and Deep..

Twilight was awoken by a loud rapping on the heavy door to her castle. Stumbling down the stairs she answered it with a bleary-eyed look, staring at the Town Guard Captain who stood there.

“Yes?”

“I am sorry to bother you Princess but we have some missing foals.”

The mulberry mare immediately perked up, shaking her head to clear it and standing a bit straighter, “What?”

“This morning, two fillies and four colts were reported missing to our office, we’ve had guards out looking for them but no luck. Is there any possible way we could get a little help from the Royal Guard? Maybe some other trackers or magic users to help us look?”

Twilight nodded to herself, “Of course! Yes let me send a letter immediately, and please keep looking for them!”

“Of course Your Highness, thank you for the help!” The Captain turned on his hoof and trotted off to help in the search.

“Twilight, what’s going on?” Spike’s voice reached from behind her.

She turned around, thinking furiously as she walked back inside the castle, “There’s some missing foals. But I don’t understand, why would they go missing? We’ve got protection from the forest, why would anypony do this if they did?”

Spike shrugged, a bit more mature sounding than his years as he replied, “There’s a ton of weird things that happen around here Twilight.”

She nodded in return, “I know, but why foals? They don’t hurt anypony, and it’s not like the tanks wouldn’t fire on anything coming out of the forest. This is odd. Spike, I need to send a letter to Princess Celestia immediately!”

Spike grabbed a quill and parchment, penning the letter as dictated, sending it off as soon as the ink dried.

The reply was just as immediate.

Twilight,

Sending whatever is needed to help in the search, please keep us advised on the progress.

Celestia

Twilight felt heartened as she hit her link, calling her friends one at a time to meet her at the castle, that it was most urgent. She sat on her chair and waited, nervously tapping her hoof on the edge of the seat as she tried to figure out why six foals would suddenly decide to take off like that.

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

The Boulder brothers were one of the mainstays of the Town Guard, born to a quarrypony father, they worked hard and loved excavating marble and rock for use in building, they grew tall and very strong even for Earth ponies. After their father had passed, they decided to make a life of the Town Guard.

They were courteous, polite to a fault and treated others with respect as their mother had taught them. But everypony knew, if they asked you nicely to come along, you did so without protest.

When the search for Crusader was on, they had gotten the chance to hang around with some of the Deep Rangers, the mottled ponies whose quiet ways caught the brothers attention. By introducing themselves and being useful the Rangers in return had taught them how to track, anything at anytime; they were using those skills right now as they stood outside Spring Flower’s window.

“I’m telling ya Granite this is weird, she got out the window, and then headed that way.” He motioned with a solid hoof, “But there’s nothing else to say if anypony else was with her.”

Granite scratched the back of his head, looking at the tracks as he thought furiously, “I dunno Bastion, could they all just have decided to run away maybe?”

“All six at the same time? I doubt that.”

“Well I’m tellin’ ya, I looked. There’s no sign of anypony else with them, it’s like they all decided to just get up and walk off. Spring here’s just six years old she wouldn’t just take off like that, I know her she’s a good filly.”

“We gotta track em, find out where they went at least, so we can tell the Captain we got a lead or somethin’.” Bastion sat down on his haunches for a moment, looking concerned, “I got a bad feelin’ ‘bout all this brother.”

“You and me both Bast, you and me both.”

The brothers stood up shaking themselves off and following the tracks around the house, heading out to the edge of town where they ended up looking towards the forest between two of the silent tanks. Bastion eyed his brother as they sat there for a moment, seeing the tiny hoofprints lead off toward the forest line.

“I got a bad feeling even more now Bastion, those tracks lead right into the Everfree.”

“Granite, we better go tell the Captain, this is trouble in a big way.”

“Ya got that right, c’mon.”

Heading back into town, the worried expressions on their faces did not settle the townsponies who saw them pass by. They did not stop to talk, but headed straight for the Guard building.

They found Captain Iron Bars, setting behind his desk talking to a runner who was spreading the message about the search for the foals to the outlying farms, to be on the lookout for them.

“Captain, we got us a problem.”

The tan stallion looked up, seeing the expressions on the brothers faces.

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

Rainbow Dash was tapping a hoof on the floor of the throne room while she waited for the rest of her friends to arrive. Having received the call over the link, she immediately hurried to Twilight’s side, then had to sit and wait for the others.

“I don’t get this, Crusader left the tanks here to protect us, how could anything get in?” She was assuming something came from the forest, ever since the battles started it was the most obvious explanation.

“We don’t know anything came from the forest yet Dash, I’m waiting for the Captain to give me a report here soon enough.”

“I think it was the forest, that place has always been bad.”

“Don’t assume Dash, not until we know.” Twilight had her eyes glued to a book that she was flipping through, old legends and tales of the Everfree.

The cyan mare sat with a “Hmph” on her chair, waiting for the others to get there.

Rarity and Pinkie arrived just a few moments after the conversation ended.

“Darling, what’s the matter?”

Pinkie bounced over to her seat, taking her place and smiling as usual, though her blue eyes were a bit worried. “I heard about the missing foals.”

Rarity put a hoof to her chest, “What? Well how could this happen? You don’t think Sweetie Belle...?”

Twilight waved a hoof, “Nono, I’m sure she’s with Crusader, this happened just last night.”

Applejack arrived just then, slamming through the doors with Fluttershy trailing her, “What’s goin’ on?”

Twilight waited until everypony was seated, “Captain Iron Bars has informed me six foals went missing last night. Just gone, and nopony knows why. He’s got trackers out looking for any evidence and we’re just waiting for the report, that’s all I’ve got so far. I sent a letter to Princess Celestia, and she’s sending some help as well.”

“Ah know Crusader told me he’d made sure them tanks would fire on anything comin’ out of the forest.” Applejack was thinking out loud, “The only thing they won’t fire on is ponies.”

“My friends told me they hadn’t seen anything, but then they’ve been staying away from the area ever since the fighting started,” Fluttershy was looking down at the floor, “They’re really scared to go near that part of the forest, lots of bad things are hanging out in there now.”

“Well as soon as the Captain gives us a report, we can plan from there.” She slammed the book in front of her shut, “I don’t understand, why would foals go wandering off in the night? I mean Spring Flowers mom said she was a good filly, always loved to be helpful around the house. The others were the same. All good foals, kind and polite, they wouldn’t just up and run away would they?”

“Ah don’t know Twi, I mean little ones got their own reasons for doin’ things sometimes. But runnin’ away from home on a whim? I doubt that, I really do.”

Rainbow slapped a hoof on her seat, “I’m telling you, that forest has something to do with it! I don’t know how but it does, it’s been nothing but problems!”

Pinkie piped up, “Dashie, don’t go blaming things yet. Maybe they just hid for a while and will come back? We don’t know, we can’t know until we get a bit more information.” She gave her friend a warm smile, her eyes twinkling in the light of the day.

Rainbow just stared at her for a moment, “You’re right, I know. But still, that forest has always been a problem, I don’t see why nopony ever just got rid of it way back!”

Twilight settled in her own seat, wrapping her tail around her legs as she tilted her head a bit, “It’s been there a long time Rainbow. Celestia and Luna even remember it, ponies pushed it back in building Ponyville with their help. So far it’s just been minor problems, until Crusader woke up.”

Applejack’s head snapped up, looking at Twilight, “You think Crusader might’ve caused it to go nuts?” She was not accusing, just honestly concerned.

“No..well..I don’t know AJ, I find it hard to think it’s coincidence that after he woke up, all of a sudden the forest starts attacking like it did long ago when it was out of control.”

“He always told me he thought it was strange, it suddenly goin’ all out for some reason.” She looked at Twilight curiously, “You think somethin’ else woke up in that forest when he did?”

Twilight threw a hoof up in the air lazily, “I don’t know. But it does make me wonder.” A look of consternation crossed her face, “I hate not knowing things..I really do...”

A knock on the door brought them out of their reverie, Captain Iron Bars stood in the opening, accompanied by Spike who had let him in. “Your Highness.” He bowed politely.

“Don’t bow, ugh...Twilight please.”

“Yes Your..uhm...Twilight. We’ve got a report from our trackers, the foals were headed for the forest.”

Rainbow Dash leapt off her seat, hovering in the air, “I told you! That forest did it!”

Twilight raised a hoof, “Rainbow, calm down.” She watched her friend settle back into her seat.

“Captain, when the Royal Guards get here, take them into the forest line, search for more tracks please. If they went deeper into the forest, we have to know.”

“Yes You.. Twilight.. We will get right on it.”

They all watched as the Captain turned and left quickly, his hoof clicks rapidly receding in the castle.

“Ya know if word gets out we’re gonna have another military camp like when Crusader was lost. ‘Specially if it’s little ones missin’.”

The Alicorn closed her eyes and sighed, “You’re right, it’s going to be a mess, we have to get them back quick.”

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

Royal Guardsponies arrived quickly, they were taken in hoof by Captain Iron Bars, search parties were sent to the forest line. All of them were told, get in trouble, head back towards the tanks and any problems would be swiftly dealt with. The day was already going swiftly when they got the teams organized and moving, armed of course and very wary.

It turned out to be prophetic.

The Boulder brothers led a party of trackers along the forest line, seeing where the little ones had entered the forest. Pointing the sign out, they led a small group into the woods, it wasn’t long before they hit trouble, scrambling back towards the edge of the forest.

Spiders, misshapen and hungry had dropped from the trees on the small group; fended off by pikes and staves as the ponies turned and fled the surrounding trees. They were tearing up ground heading for the sunlight, their hooves digging deep as they tried to outrun the slavering things.

Even the Boulders big as they were, had no problem running like their tails were on fire, screening the rest of the party as they slammed hooves into the things when they got too close. The group were worn when they hit the open country, the ponies turning and waiting with anxious faces to see if the brothers were alright.

Bastion slapped away a spider as he caught up with his Granite, both of them in the fading daylight now as they saw the rest of their group standing and looking for them.

“Run! Run you idiots!” Bastion was waving as they stampeded over the grass, passing the laggard ponies.

The others faces went white seeing what was behind them pour out of the forest and turned like Tirek himself was on their flanks. Dirt flew as the ponies made for the gleaming machines in the distance, not knowing if they were going to make it.

A sharp report came across the flat lands, followed immediately by the ripping sound of repeaters as the guns on the tanks fired over the ponies heads, tearing the spiders with alloy ring penetrators that blew them apart in place.

Granite could hear the whickering sounds of the slugs as they passed by over his head, like the sounds of insects but far more deadlier. He knew, as they all did, one miss and they would be splattered over the countryside. He didn’t stop asking for Princess Celestia’s blessing until they had made the line of firing tanks, their ears deafened to the sounds of the guns as they finished the last of the spiders off.

Twisting a hoof in his ear, he slapped the other on his brother’s withers, “You alright?” He glanced around at the others of his team, shaking their heads and trying to regain their hearing.

Bastion gave him a funny look, wriggling his own ears heavily, “DO WHAT?”

Granite just laughed, hitting his brother on the shoulder, “Yeah you’re fine.”

“DO WHAT?”

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

The search was called for the evening, the teams heading back in. A few more fights had been had when ponies encountered the denizens of the forest. The battles had been expected of the Everfree, but even armored and armed, Royal Guards had a rough time keeping the search going while beating back the misshapen creatures.

A worn out Captain Iron Bars reported to the Princess that night.

The six friends had been helping the search as they could, Rainbow Dash had been scouting out the forest from high above; avoiding any flying things that were swarming up at her from the forest, making it almost impossible to get a look.

The rest had been searching the woods as well, having to run back out a few times to avoid getting eaten, bitten or chewed on. It was a tiring day for everypony.

“I’m sorry Your... Twilight, we couldn’t go any further, those creatures make it seem like they don’t want us in the forest looking for the foals.”

“Are your Guards okay?”

“Yes ma’am they got a few scratches, and they’re quite deaf from the guns firing, but we’re good. We’ll head back in the morning light, I’m sorry but the dark makes it far too dangerous.”

“You’ve done the best you can do Captain, please place patrols out tonight?”

The big Captain stood straighter, “Yes ma’am, we’ll put armed patrols everywhere.”

“Thank you Captain, please try and get some rest?”

“Yes Twilight.” He turned and trotted off, heading for his office. The big Guard pony swore to himself he’d be damned to Tartarus if he even thought about sleeping tonight.

The six friends looked at each other. Their coats shaggy, dirt on faces, even Rarity’s. They needed food and rest, but none of them wanted to go to sleep thinking about lost foals somewhere in that evil place.

Twilight got up with a yawn and stretch, “I’m sorry, we all need food and showers and sleep. Please, take care of yourselves? We won’t be any good to anypony tomorrow if we don’t.”

Five heads nodded in unison as they walked out of the throne room, each heading to their room for a quick shower.

Applejack stayed behind, looking out the window towards the forest. Her mind thinking on the poor little ones out there and hoping her best nothing bad had happened to them.

“We’ll find ya, ah know we will.”

Short Side 3 - But I Have Promises To Keep..

Night fell once again. Tired ponies dragged themselves to bed that evening with wistful sighs. A few families were still up, worried about their little ones as the moon rose into the sky. Patrols had taken up turning down the dirt streets, peering into alleyways or darkened corners for any sign of trouble. Pairs of armored ponies walked around the town, carrying lanterns and pikes for protection.

Bastion leaned on his pike, his armor clad back twitching as it itched from the leather covering he wore, “Celestia’s name I hate this stuff.”

His brother laughed quietly, “It’s better than getting bit or have something you like chewed off.”

Bastion looked at his twin and almost squeaked, crossing his back legs, “Don’t say that!”

Granite laughed into the night, “Don’t worry brother, I’ll make sure ya don’t lose anything precious.”

Bastion rolled his eyes, “Thanks, least I know I’m well protected now, thank Celestia!” He waved a hoof into the air, “All my problems are now solved! My brother shall watch over me!”

Granite chuckled, “Well, that’s the proper deference to give me then, bout time ya learned it.”

He was immediately slapped with a clad hoof on the shoulder, “Hey! No way to treat yer protector now!”

“Granite, I swear..” Bastion’s voice stopped as he looked towards the forest line from their position by the bridge crossing the river. He could have sworn he saw something moving. “There’s something in the tree line.” He pointed a hoof into the encompassing darkness.

His brother took a look, his eyes narrowed as he watched shadows flicker along the greenery, just inside the line of trees. “The hay is that?”

They both stood silent as the shadows moved underneath the overgrowth, their keen eyes picking out distorted forms and shapes.

“Are..are those ponies?”

Bastion shook his head, “Can’t be, everypony’s in town or asleep. Somethin’s not right.” He touched his brother’s shoulder, “Go get the Sergeant, we need to sound the alarm.”

Granite gestured to the silent tanks, “But won’t these things take care of them? Like before?”

Bastion thought for a moment before gesturing, “They’re not doing anything right now and those things are closer, go get the Sergeant now.”

His brother nodded once and turned, kicking up dirt in his armor as he ran for the next patrol outpost where the Sergeant was.

Bastion stared harder at the flickering forms, trying to make them out, his eyes working hard to make sense as they danced along the tree line, getting just that much closer. He gripped his pike tight in his hooves as he kept watching, almost jumping out of his skin when a pony skidded to a halt beside him.

“Whatcha got Bast?” The Sergeant was a grizzled old veteran of the Royal Guard, retired in Ponyville.

“Sarge, there’s something out there, I swear it.”

“Ah believe ya Bast, no nevermind on that. What are they?”

“I don’t know. The tanks aren’t taking care of ‘em, could they fool ‘em somehow?”

“Ah hope not Bast, that’d be a bad thing.”

“I think so too boss,” Granite had joined them in a shower of dirt from his hooves slipping on the loose soil. “Let’s hope they just go away, maybe?” His voice sounded hopeful.

The old non-com stared into the darkness, beyond the lantern on the post beside the bridge. “Colts, I think we got ourselves a bit of trouble. Granite, go sound the bell, we need everypony on the line.”

Granite did not even hesitate, taking off in a burst of speed towards the schoolhouse where the bell would be rung to summon all the Guard to the river line.

“Sarge, they’re comin’ this way!”

“Stay calm Bast, remember yer trainin’. Ah cain’t understand why the tanks ain’t gunnin’ em down.” The old pony chewed thoughtfully on a wad of mint in his cheek.

The shadows came into sight now, flitting back and forth along the open countryside as the school bell began to peal out its summon. The sounds of hooves hitting dirt came quickly as the signal was heard by the patrols.

The two Guards watched them close with the tanks, the guns swinging round to start firing, then swinging right back into the ready position. It didn’t hit until the old Guard Sergeant recognized the shadows.

“Luna’s curse, they look like ponies, Bast! That’s why the tanks ain’t firing!” He spit a glob of mint juice out of one side of his mouth, his pike old and war-scarred as he leveled it in front of him. “Get yerself ready Bast, we’re gonna be hip deep in a few seconds.” He remembered the story about the tanks, how they would never fire on ponies, it made all the Guard feel a bit safer though not tonight.

“Bast no matter what, you make sure this information gets to the Captain, he’s gotta know.”

Bastion looked at the old Sergeant, calm as could be, chewing and spitting on the dirt by the river as he levelled his pike. The look on his face one of grim determination as he nudged the younger stallion, “Stay calm, ya got yer pike trainin’ and we’ll be fine. Until them reinforcements get here, we hold. Got it?”

The younger pony could hear the hoofbeats getting closer, his guts were turning to water as he realized they were still too far away to help. The shadows were right in front of them, snickering madly with closed eyes. They looked like little dark foals, giggling at something funny in the schoolyard.

Bastion was asking for Celestia’s blessing for himself and the old Sergeant as the shadows gathered on the other side of the bridge. He watched as their eyes opened with a silvery glow shining through the night, then they smiled, still laughing with needle teeth as they jumped towards the two guards.

“FOR EQUESTRIA!” The old pony bellowed as he swiped at the shadows, cutting them with his spear head and tearing them up, Bastion right beside him as they went flank to flank, making sure none passed.

The short pikes were ripping up the shadows as they leapt to try and tear their collared throats out. Not for the last time Bastion thanked Celestia for the armor as it took another hit from razor sharp teeth.

Ringing sounded throughout the town as Bastion could hear the hooves of the patrols, they were SO close, they had to see what they were fighting didn’t they? The lantern had taken a shot, sputtering out as it fell into the river; the two guards fighting for their lives in the dark, only the moonlight giving them anything to see.

Cackling shadows made no sound other than the mad laughing, tearing at their armor and hooves as the blades on their short wooden poles tore through them; leaving them to dissolve in a mist, nothing but ashes that blew into the same breeze that cooled the sweat on their brows.

Bastion had never been so tired after just a seconds of fighting, but then he’d never been in such a scrum. His pike flashed again and again as the foal like figures kept leaping at them wanting their flesh.

The old Sergeant went down with a grunt, his hooves slapping at one who’d manage to get a grip on his throat. Bastion turned to help, only to be battered in the side by a rush as the dark overwhelmed them both.

Granite was tearing through the streets followed by as many patrol ponies as he could find, the others were already there as he came up short, his hooves skidding along the dirt. He looked at the wan faces, staring back at him as he shouldered through the group, “Where’s Bastion?”

One pony pointed as he saw his brother and the old Sergeant laying in the dirt, their coats and armor bloody, gasping for breath as the Unicorn medics worked feverishly to save them. “Oh, Celestia.”

He grabbed the nearest guard, “Anypony see what did this? Why didn't the tanks fire?"

“Granite, nopony knows, all we saw were some shadows running away and that was it. We didn't have any light till the others came so we stood guard over them." He pointed to the two lying on the ground.

The big Earth pony swore and slapped the dirt with a hoof.

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

Twilight had opened her eyes at the first ringing peals of the school bell, grabbing her saddlebags she had rushed through the castle waking all her friends, telling them the alarm was sounding.

The six poured out of the door in a rush, seeing the other guard ponies taking off down the street for the riverside. They made it just after Granite had found his brother lying there with the old sergeant.

Twilight didn’t think, just acted, “Out of the way! Now! Move!”

A guard yelled, “MAKE A HOLE!”

Ponies moved quickly aside, Twilight scrambled to the side of the two injured, reaching into her saddlebags to get out thick green packs that she peeled a covering off of and slapped onto their wounds, making sure they were secure. The Unicorn medics were hitting the two with more anti-pain spells, letting them calm and relax as the nanites took hold to do their work.

The magic users were firing up more wound closure spells as well, helping the packages along, they kept going until they were too exhausted to use anymore spells.

Twilight tapped a hoof as she saw the two pony’s breathing slow, so many little puncture wounds where there wasn’t armor, she was afraid she’d arrived too late.

Applejack grabbed the nearest guard, “Get back on patrol! There might be more of whatever attacked em! Go on now!”

Armored ponies moved at the command, glad for something to do. Twilight bit her lip as she watched the packages begin to turn white, a sign they were working. Her hoof kept tapping nervously before Pinkie came beside her, giving her a hug.

“They’re working, he said they would.”

“I know Pinkie, but there’s so much blood.”

“They’re guardsponies, they haven’t been given the order to die yet.” A low gravelly voice added to the conversation, Granite chuckled a bit. His face was lined with worry as he watched his brother covered in green packages. “Is he going to be alright?”

Twilight could do nothing but be honest, “I don’t know Granite, I’m sorry.”

Bastion opened his eyes, taking in gulps of air, he was looking around wildly as Granite kneeled beside him, “I’m here Bast, I’m here, calm down.”

“....ponies...”

“What?”

“...ponies....”

Granite looked up at Twilight and Pinkie with a confused look on his face, “Ponies?”

A medical team from the hospital arrived doctors and nurses getting the two injured up on carts, hauling them away at top speed. Granite followed his brother. He stopped before he left, looking at Twilight.

“They did their job, they stopped whatever it was Princess. It’s not your fault.” He looked at the worry on the pretty mare's face, giving her a bone crushing hug, “It’s fine, my brother is strong and you couldn’t kill that old Sergeant with a dragon. They’re both too stubborn to die.” He gave her a wink and took off after the medical carts.

Twilight stood confused at the bridge, thinking of what Granites’ brother had said. She rummaged her mind for anything that might be a reason he’d said ponies. She stood there for some minutes before Pinky and Rarity nudged her between them, “C’mon, you need more sleep.”

Applejack walked behind them shaking her head, “Ah just don’t get it, why didn’t the tanks fire?”

Fluttershy was hovering near with Rainbow Dash, she offered, “Well, I told him of all the bad things so he could make sure the tanks took care of them. Maybe I forgot to tell him something?” She was looking worried as well, that maybe it was her fault.

“Nah Fluttershy, you’re good at describin’ things. I just don’t get it. Another funny thing is why weren’t there any dead things near the guards? They just up and evaporated? What did that poor guard say to ya, Twi?”

The group stopped for a second as Twilight tapped her chin, “He said ‘Ponies’.” She was lost in thought for a moment.

“Ponies? Ponies did this? No that don’t sound right.”

Twilight flipped around to look at Applejack intently, “Didn’t you say Crusader made sure that the tanks wouldn’t fire on ponies?”

“Well yeah,” The orange mare nodded, “He didn’t want nopony getting hurt while he was gone.”

The lavender mare slapped a hoof on the ground, “That’s it! C’mon, we need to get to the castle library!” She took off in a hurry, wings spread as the others exchanged glances, wondering what kind of idea Twilight had now.

The five followed the rapidly diminishing Twilight back into town towards the castle. The patrols had resumed, and everypony on watch kept looking towards the forest wondering what would happen next.

Short Side 4 - And Miles To Go Before I Sleep...

Twilight slapped the book open on the table near her. Her friends sat quietly waiting as she read furiously through the pages, scanning and flipping. Murmuring to herself as the five exchanged glances once more, she nodded and kept reading. Looking up with a triumphant expression she announced..

“Forest Foals!”

“Do what now?”

“Forest Foals, that’s what they were!”

Rainbow got a puzzled look on her face, “What the hay are those?”

Twilight pointed to the book, “Legends of the Everfree, it’s a book containing all the tales about the forest. There’s one called ‘The Forest Foal’, it’s about a dark colored foal with eyes like moonshine that lead travelers astray never to be seen again.”

Applejack tilted her head and raised a hoof, “Does it say anythin’ bout them tryin’ to eat ponies?”

Twilight’s ears lowered a bit, “Well...no.. but it fits why the tanks didn’t fire! They looked like ponies!”

Rarity polished a hoof on her chest for a moment before directing her attention to the conversation, “So these ‘Forest Foals’ are responsible for taking the other foals?”

“As far as I can tell, yes. Nothing else fits the circumstances. Somehow those things came out of the forest, took Ponyville’s foals and led them back in. We’ve got to go get them!”

“But the trackers said there was only six sets of tracks.”

“Maybe they don’t leave hoofprints? I don’t know, there isn’t much on them here.”

“Well, darling, how can we be sure then?”

Fluttershy ran a hoof along her cushions edge, “Wish we could ask the tanks like we could Crusader.”

Applejack perked right up, “Wait a second, that’s an idea!”

Pinkie looked over at her friend, “What do you mean?”

“Crusader said the tanks aren’t as smart as he is, but they..they.. oh hay what was that word? Log! They log everythin’! Like remembering everything that happens!”

Twilight stared for a second, “So maybe they could tell us if the foals were alone or had company?”

“Well, yeah....least I think so! Can’t hurt to try.”

Applejack turned and went to the command battleset that Crusader had left, hitting the switch that linked her with the line of tanks. She looked at the list of commands for a second, trying to think of how to ask.

“Uhm... Dragons?”

“Acknowledged.” A monotone voice replied over the link.

“Uh..you ponies see any foals goin’ into the forest?”

“Command request not understood, authorization required.”

Applejack sighed in frustration, they definitely were not like Crusader, she scanned the list, “Authorization Applejack Phi Upsilon Rho Five Five Two.”

“Acknowledged, how can I be of assistance commander?” The voice sounded more like a normal one, well for tanks that is.

“You see any ponies goin’ into the forest?”

“Running Log...67 adults proceeded into sensor net area today...12 juveniles proceeded into sensor net area the evening before. End log.”

“Juveniles?”

“Juveniles...correct.”

“The hay is a juvenile? Ya mean foals?”

“Juveniles...correct.”

“So...foals?”

“Juveniles...correct.”

“I swear by Celestia you stupid metal....” Applejack was raising a hoof to pound the battleset when Twilight grabbed her.

“Nonono, don’t beat it up!”

“Stupid thing arguing with me, just say foals ya dumb pony!”

“Juveniles...correct. I am not a pony, I am a Mark Twenty-Three Dragon Assault Tank.”

“That’s it!” She lunged for the battleset and was stopped by Twilight’s magic, holding her in place.

“Sun and stars Applejack, what’s gotten into you?”

“Ah’m sorry, just worried ‘bout them young ones.” The abashed look on her face told Twilight the truth.

“Well that’s no reason to beat the set up. You’ll behave if I set you down?”

“Of course...dumb machine...”

Twilight gently pushed her friend away from the set, reading a command off the list, “Twilight Sparkle Phi Iota Rho Five Two Two.”

“Acknowledged, how can I be of assistance?”

“How many...juveniles came from the forest yesterday evening?”

“Running log.. Six Juveniles..End log.”

“How many went back into the forest?”

“Running Log.. Twelve Juveniles..End Log.”

Twilight turned around to her friends, “See? We’ve got six coming out, and twelve going back in, it fits! They came out of the forest, grabbed six foals and went back in!”

The machine heard her and responded, “Juveniles...correct.”

“Right,” Twilight nodded, “Foals. So they went in and..”

“Juveniles...correct.”

“Anyway, the Forest Foals took the ones from Ponyville and...”

“Juveniles...correct.”

“Stupid machine!”

“Twilight don’t hit it!”

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

The six friends grabbed a quick nap, preparing to enter the forest. They had decided that they needed to go into the Everfree to retrieve the missing foals. This caused not a small amount of problems with the Royal Guard who objected strenuously to a Princess leading an expedition into the dangerous area. This was solved by Twilight getting the help of one of the town Guard to accompany her.

The alicorn figured a much smaller group than before, could quietly enter the forest and get back out with less trouble than the search parties of yesterday. She wished she had time to think of more, but there wasn’t, there were little ones to be found.

Applejack had looked through the command list and told them there was nothing that could make them move, so using them was out for now until Crusader got back.

Granite Boulder was chosen to track the foals, seeing if he could lead them to where they might be held. He brought along an old friend, an eyepatch wearing Pegasus named Stonewall.

Twilight looked at the bulky Pegasus with wide eyes, “Are all of your friends so big Granite?”

The Earth pony laughed, nudging his friend, “Don’t let him fool you, he’s a big softie. If we’re goin’ into that forest I figured we’d need help, my brother’s doing alright but he’s still laid up as well as the sergeant, so I drafted old Stoney here.”

“Pleasure to meet you Princess Sparkle.” An amazingly soft voice came from the large Pegasus.

“Same here Stonewall. Please call me Twilight!” They bumped hooves politely.

“Well, now introductions are over, let’s see what we can do about getting them foals huh?” Granite led them off into the tank line where he and Stonewall picked up a set of saddlebags each, along with short pikes for defense.

Rainbow Dash was elated to see an old friend in Stonewall, giving him a hug and chatting for a moment, the others prepared their saddlebags that were carrying equipment in case of emergencies.

The cyan mare nudged Applejack as they walked towards the treeline, “Hey, you think Crusader could fix Stonewall’s eye?”

“Ah don’t see why we couldn’t ask him when he gets back.”

Rainbow Dash smiled, trotting off to chat with Twilight, “Thanks Applejack!”

Rarity was looking towards the forest with not a small amount of trepidation. Her hoof tapping on the ground softly.

Fluttershy looked at her friend, “Something wrong Rarity?”

“No!....No.. just wondering if we’re going to get chased by some awful things before we even get in there.” She was remembering yesterdays’ mad dashes for safety.

Fluttershy smiled softly, leaning against her friend, “Don’t worry, we’ve..uhm.. done all this before you know.”

Rarity graced the yellow pegasus with a bright smile, “Of course, we’ve saved Equestria before, I’m sure we’ll be fine.”

Fluttershy nodded, trying to hide behind her mane, “Good, ‘cause maybe you can make me feel braver then? I really don’t want to go.”

The marshmallow mare hugged Fluttershy tight, “Don’t worry darling, we’ll be fine.” Her comment not at all in line with the fact that she was chilled down to her hooves.

Pinkie popped up next to them with a smile and hugs, “No worries at all! We’ll be back in time for a “We Rescued Everypony” party!”

Rarity couldn’t help but giggle at her friend, feeling a bit better as she watched the pink pony bounce around, seeing if everypony was okay. She couldn’t help but be glad Pinkie was around, nothing beat the doldrums or a slight hint of fear than a Pinkie hug.

Even Fluttershy broke into a quiet smile, watching their pink friend bounce around.

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

The group headed off in the morning light, Granite and Stonewall leading the way as they picked up the tracks of the little ones heading into the forest, deeper into the forest. The two ponies eyed the surrounding greenery carefully, holding on to freshly bladed short pikes in strong grips. The tree line was quiet, no sounds except insects could be heard over the silence, it was almost deafening.

Stonewall spoke first as the group waited behind them, “I don’t like this Granite, it’s too quiet.”

“I know, but we gotta go find them. We’ll just take it easy.”

The big Pegasus nodded, stepping lightly as the group traveled farther into the surrounding trees. Granite leading slightly as he pointed out track sign.

Twilight and the others chatted quietly behind the lead ponies, looking suspiciously at every shadow and mark on the ground or surrounding trees. Twilight had prepared as usual, spells always at the ready, her friends huddled close as they were led down a small dirt path following Granite and Stonewall.

Pinkie kept up a happy chatter though it was a bit more subdued than usual, owing to the extreme danger Twilight supposed. Fluttershy was hugging close to Rarity and Rainbow Dash as they looked around for any signs of the foals. Applejack was right beside her, eye-balling everything with intent to put a hoof in it if it so much as twitched wrong.

Granite kept his eyes glued to the ground as he followed every scuff, each broken blade of grass, all the signs that pointed to where the foals could have gone. He looked up to every so often make sure of no danger before returning to the trail.

It actually didn’t take long to find an opening in the ground where the tracks led. Granite and Stonewall inspected the immediate area to see if they had missed something, but were surprised when after a few hours, they were already at the end of the trail.

Granite held a hoof up, the group stopping as he turned to talk with Twilight and the others, “This is too easy, it really is. After yesterday I’d have thought we’d be fighting our way into the forest. You got any clue?”

The six mares shook their heads, looking around them at the trees, the vines creeping along the ground, the dry grass around the entrance to something below ground.

Twilight spoke first, “You think it’s a trap?”

Stonewall nodded, “Celestia’s name it’s a trap, after everything that happened yesterday we just walk right in?” He eyed the forest around them, “Oh it’s a trap alright, but I’m just not sure what kind of trap.”

Pinkie bounced around the entrance, peering inside, “Well you do know we’re going to have to go inside anyways right?”

“Pardon?” Stonewall looked confused, “I just said it’s a trap.”

Pinkie bounded over to sit beside Stonewall, staring with warm blue eyes at the pegasus, “You aren’t the kind of pony to leave a little one behind, are you?”

He shook his head, “No, no I’m not... I..”

“Then it’s settled! Who goes first?” Pinkie was back to dancing around the opening.

Granite turned with an exasperated look at the six mares, opening his mouth before a hoof was laid on his lips by Rarity, “Don’t ask darling, it will only confuse you.”

The Earth pony rolled his eyes and nodded, “I’ll go first, you six follow me, Stoney will take up the slack. Don’t touch anything and please, if any..ANY..thing moves yell.”

“Okey dokey loki!” Pinkie waited her turn as Granite led the way down into the dark hole with Twilight following, Rarity and Fluttershy behind her; Rainbow Dash and Pinkie took their places before Stonewall entered with one last look outside the opening before he ducked in.

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

The tunnel was warm, overly so, like the inside of something living. The walls dripped condensation and a smell permeated the air, seeping inside their nostrils to make them wipe their noses trying to get it out. Vines that looked nothing more like some living thing draped over them as they quietly walked down the large entryway, deeper into the earth.

Puddles of some viscous substance clung to their hooves as they splashed through them, unable to avoid the wall spanning collections of slimy liquid. Rainbow Dash was always one for not having anypony touch her hooves but this was truly beyond disgusting as she shook a collection of dirt mixed with oily ooze off her hoof.

“Rarity, this is the closest I’ve ever come to agreeing to a hooficure with you.” She whispered softly to her friend, slinging mud that stuck to the wall and rolled downward.

Twilight lit her horn up, casting a soft glow in the front, allowing everypony to see what was coming, if only for a few yards. Granite stood directly in front of her, casting a shadow that rippled over the floor as he slipped forward softly.

Rarity leaned over to whisper in Rainbow’s ear, “I’m going to spend a week at the spa after this, ugh this is worse than some of the things Sweetie has gotten into.”

Pinkie was somehow still bouncing slightly, her hooves barely even touching the pools of gunk that clung to everyone else. Her famous smile was still in place, but her eyes were wary and observing everything around her.

Granite peered around a corner in front of him, seeing a faint glow in the distance. Holding up a hoof, he turned to whisper in Twilight’s ear, his muzzle close enough they made no sound. “There’s a light up ahead, want me to go?”

Twilight nodded, reducing the glow on her horn as she leaned back, informing the others there was a light up ahead.

The group slipped forward as softly as they could, now that something had been spotted, the gunk and filth that clung to them no longer took precedence. They moved toward the light, eyes wide and scanning for danger when Granite entered a large room, filled with a soft glow from what looked to be fungi clinging to the walls.

Along the walls, between the glowing patches of fungus, six foals were hung by what looked to be thick green veins. Pulses ran up and down them as the group got near the first one. It was a colt, one of the foalnapped, he was hanging in a hammock of veins one of which seemed to go right in the back of his head.

Twilight gagged a bit, turning away for a second then lighting up her horn again, casting a spell she hoped would remove the clinging tendrils.

Granite and Stonewall took up positions in front of the group as the six mares worked the foals free. The spells Twilight cast powerful enough to shrivel the clinging things and get them out of the little bodies. Fluttershy was making cooing sounds to keep the little ones quiet as they did their job feverishly, wanting to get out of this horror.

The big Pegasi looked a bit green in the gills as he took in his surroundings. Water and ooze dripped everywhere, veins running along the walls pulsed with noxious substances as they traveled along the floor and ceiling too. His spine chilled as he watched them removing the hanging foals, spells drying and cracking the tendrils away from the little bodies, each of the six securing one foal each to their backs..

Granite kept his eyes peeled, the hair on his body was standing straight up as he scanned the room, not paying attention to the motherly sounds behind him. He was nervously waiting for Twilight to tap him, telling him they were done and they could leave.

As they set the last one on Applejack’s back, strapping some rope to secure the little filly a hissing voice rang through the room.

“Taking our playthingssss away are you?”

Stonewall turned to the mares, “Ignore it, hurry up!”

“Noooooooo nooooooo don’t taaaaake our playthingssssss...”

Giggling sounded down the tunnel they had exited, echoing through the room.

Granite felt his bowels loosen, he tightened his grip on the wooden shaft of his pike and whispered to Applejack, “Are you done? C’mon please we’ve got to go!”

Applejack nodded, feeling Rainbow tighten the straps one last time. She took a position in line, each of the six having one foal secured to their backs. Granite and Stonewall had agreed to it in case there was fighting, the two big ponies couldn’t worry about burdens, now it seemed it was once again a thought come true.

“Ssssssssssssssssssstopppppp!”

Everypony froze in place, the voice’s hissing rose in decibels, “Little poooonies. Come to resssssscue more little pooooniesssss...”

They all started backing up slowly towards the tunnel, Granite and Stonewall standing in front of them making motions with their hooves to go.

“Where issssss the maccchhhiiiine out of placcccccce?”

Twilight and Applejack couldn’t stop themselves when they heard the question, “What?”

“Thhhhheeee macccchhhhiiiiineee.....yourrrr frrrriend....” Eyes of silver opened up along the walls and ceilings, revealing little foal shaped shadows that stayed in place, the voice sounded from a thousand throats.

“Ohhhhhyeesssss...we knowwwww thaaat onnnnneee..”

Granite and Stonewall were backing up into the group of mares, pushing them slowly into the tunnel while pointing their pikes outward. Twilight and Applejack refused to move though.

“How in the hay do you even know ‘bout him?”

“Ouuuutttt of placcccceee...outttt of tiiiiimmmmeeee.... Telllllll thhheeee macccchhiiiiinnne....comeeeeee sssssseeeeee uuuuusssssss..”

Twilight gritted her teeth, “Not a chance in Tartarus! He’ll level this place and we’ll help him!”

“Ssssssssuuuuuch threatsssssss.... liiiiittttttlllleee ppppooooonyyyyy.....”

Applejack swallowed hard as she looked around, “We got to go, we got to go now!”

Granite turned at her voice, “Get out now, it’s not going to let us go! Move!”

“How do you..” Twilight started.

“Ohhhhh verrrryyyyy goooooooooddd.... Maaaaaayyyybeeee onnnne willlllllll makkkkkeeeee iiiitttt... Buuuuuuut foooorrrrrr theeeeee othhhhheeeerrrrssss...”

Shadows started jumping off the walls, smiling with needle sharp teeth as they danced and cackled madly. No longer looking like innocent dark foals, more like slavering things that would chew you to pieces. Saliva splashed on the floor from open mouths, giggling all the while as the shadows closed in, taking their time in approaching the group.

Stonewall turned and yelled, “GO! GO!” Prompting the six mares to turn tail and gallop up the tunnel, hooves splashing without a care for being silent now. He eyed Granite beside him, both knowing the better part of valor as they too took off down the tunnel. Snapping mouths close enough behind them their flanks were splattered with spit.

The six exited the tunnel, immediately turning around to make sure their guardians had made it out safely, Rainbow was frantic.

“C’mon c’mon! Twilight DO something!”

“I can’t!” She replied, frustration filling her voice, “I can collapse the tunnel but not until they’re out!”

All eyes were on the tunnel as they heard the thudding of hooves, Granite and Stonewall breaking into the light with shadows hot on their tails, “GO GO!”

Twilight’s horn lit up, a rumbling sound was heard as the tunnel collapsed behind them, showering the foals and fillies with more dirt, adding to an already disgusting mix.

The two guards pushed the mares along, not taking any protests, “Just go, we’ll cover you! Get the foals back! Go! We’re right behind you!”

They turned and stood in place, pikes ready to see if any pursuit was in store as Twilight and her friends took off down the dirt path. Staying for a few moments, they heard the giggling again and secured their pikes, using all four legs to get into a good run as they took off after the six mares.

The day was warm, only adding to the sweat they already had from running down the tunnel to escape. Nopony complained, there was nothing but silence, even Pinkie had lost her smile as she gritted her teeth, pounding the loam and soil with her hooves as they ran for their lives. Rarity was a show of determination as even Fluttershy kept up with her. The two mares pounding along in a silent fear of being caught as they made sure the foals stayed on their backs.

Rainbow Dash kept looking back, wanting to see if her friend had made it safely, but was constantly having to slow down, earning a glare from Twilight. With a sigh she faced forward and took off with everything she had left.

Applejack brought up the rear, looking backwards as Rainbow had but keeping a close watch on anything that could trip her, allowing her to keep her speed up. They could hear the giggling behind them. Spurring them to greater efforts in their run.

Granite and Stonewall topped a hill behind them, seeing the tails of the six mares disappearing around the corner as a group of Forest Foals caught them. Stonewall went tumbling in the dirt as he slapped a plate sized hoof on one, cracking it loudly as it dissolved into mist and ashes.

Granite leapt into the air, coming down on a couple of them, his hooves snapping spines. He dug into the small bodies as he reached his friend, grabbing him up and tearing along the path.

“C’mon Stoney, no time to rest!”

“Heh..” The pegasus was worn out from running, his chest heaving as he didn’t think to take to the skies. He would not leave his friend alone.

The two stallions rounded the corner to find the six mares looking at them, “What are you waiting for? In Celestia’s name run!”

Cackling and laughter was heard right behind them, a black wave of little shadows floating along the path towards them; tiny hooves making running motions as they came onward.

They all turned once more and ran for everything they were worth.

Granite and Stonewall kept nudging anypony that was laggard, they could apologize later for pushing their noses against rounded rumps, egging the mares into more speed.

The eight ponies had never been so tired, a constant running was wearing them down as the laughter and giggling behind them kept their spines cold and their hooves pounding. They could see the tree line ahead, it hadn’t taken long for a direct line to safety as they ran for the tanks.

Breaking out of the forest, Guard Ponies on the other side of the river saw the running figures as they passed along the hue and cry. Forming a wall of pikes, voices urged the eight to keep running, faltering a bit when they saw what came out of the trees behind them.

Applejack was furiously thinking, remembering what Crusader had told her.

If you ever need to, remember this code, Override Applejack Iota Lambda Five Five Five. Whatever you are looking at will be targeted, so please be careful.

As they got closer to the tanks, she tapped her link, her breath hot and heavy as she waited until they were inside the metal line. Looking over her shoulder, she slowed down slightly to let Stonewall and Granite get beside her.

Reaching safety she yelled into her link, skidding in the dirt as she stopped short of the bridge, “Override Applejack Iota Lambda Five Five Five!”

A monotone came over the link, “Acknowledged... Targeting.”

She grinned at her friends then suddenly screamed as she realized all the guns were swinging towards them!

“STOP! STOP!”

“Acknowledged.”

She turned in place, pointing a hoof at the shadow creatures who were rolling up on them, “Them! Fire at them! Override Applejack Iota Lambda Five Five Five!”

“Acknowledged... Targeting.”

Applejack ran to her friends as the guns opened up, tearing into the line of silvery eyed monsters. The giggling disappeared quickly under the onslaught of weapons fire.

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

Six very filthy mares were sitting on the front stoop of Sugarcube Corner, two equally dirty stallions as well. The little ones had been taken to the hospital quickly enough, the doctors attending to them now. They had wandered to the Corner when they had finished making sure all the Forest Foals were gone, collapsing in exhaustion to be joined by the two Guards.

Stonewall looked at his flank, a few deep cuts showed where a Forest Foal had gotten a bit too close, half his tail was gone as well. “Luna damn them things, took off half my tail!” His soft voice held a tone of annoyance.

“I dunno Stoney, looks sorta chic as the fashion ponies would say”, Granite chuckled in his gravelly voice.

Rainbow Dash snickered, then went into a full belly laugh as Rarity ‘Hmphed’ at the fashion pony explanation.

“I’ll have you know long tails are in this year!”

“Ah well,” The big pegasus sighed, “Guess I’m out of style as always.”

Twilight got to her hooves and stood before Stonewall, leaning down to give him a kiss on the cheek, “You were very brave, thank you both.” She turned her head, giving Granite a kiss as well. The two big stallions blushed right down to their hooves.

She waved an admonishing hoof at the both of them, “That does not mean that you are allowed to nuzzle my backside anymore!” Referring to the run where the two Guards had shoved them along when they lagged.

Stonewall tapped his fore hooves together, “I’m really sorry Princess.”

Her friends broke out laughing as she leaned down to Stonewall, saying in a flirty voice, “Not without buying me dinner first. Princesses have to maintain standards you know!” She turned with a flick of her tail, walking saucily back to her castle.

The two Guards received kisses on the cheek from each of the lovely mares, making them stammer their words, causing more laughter.

Rainbow Dash even joined in, telling them never to tell anypony she was a softie or she’d make them both pay. Rarity demurely pecked the one-eyed pegasus on the cheek, telling him to come by the shop later so she could style his tail nicely until it grew back out. Granite laughed to see his friend turning all kinds of red at the attention.

Granite got a big hug from Pinkie who grinned, “I didn’t mind it!” She bounced off to join her friends, winking back at the Earth pony who sat there with his friend wondering what in Tartarus just happened.

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

Applejack sat with the line of guards, watching the forest carefully. She had rescinded the override so ponies could safely go back out beyond the line. But felt she had to be there for a while at least, to make sure nopony got hurt like the two guards the night before.

Her mind was working over what the voice had said, “Come see us.” She couldn’t understand why some thing would want to see Crusader and how did it know him?”

The orange mare looked off to the south where her love was and hoped he’d get back soon.

Author's Notes:

There ya go! End of the side story and more mysteries! Wooohoo! Please don't hit me

Travelling Is Not Too Boring...

We are finally into the desert proper, traveling under optimum speed due to my passengers not being used to the shocks and bumps of a full speed Bolo. Princess Luna awoke some time ago, pleasantly surprised to find company awaiting her as she recognized the Crusaders. Sweetie Belle has perfected cuteness to an art form and should be locked away with how she swayed the Princess from saying they shouldn’t be here.

I am not happy with the situation, but I shall accept it for now.

The Princess is waiting to raise the moon, so I will have to halt travel for a moment as she does. Currently they are enjoying a repast made from reconstituted Concordiat rations, although the nanites reproduce flavor and texture plus all nutrients perfectly, I’m afraid some things are not to their liking.

The dark mare’s face twisted in an expression of revulsion as she spat out a mouthful of food onto the plastic tray, “This is truly vile, what IS it?”

I watch as the Crusaders do the same thing, Apple Bloom furiously wiping her tongue with a hoof.

“It is called fruitcake Your Highness.”

“What have you put in this...this thing to make it so revolting?”

“It is candied fruits and nuts Your Highness, some spices, nothing more.”

“Your creators must have truly hated themselves to eat this concoction.”

“It was quite popular during holidays, though we Bolos often wondered why they kept giving it as gifts when it was universally hated. Even some other species banned the presence of it on their worlds. We dedicated quite a bit of thought to it, only coming up with the answer that humans were masochists, with a very large streak of sadism on certain days.”

A regal hoof was raised to my camera lens, “Hear me Crusader, by Royal Decree we ban this....fruit...cake.... now and forever from Equestria! You shall not share it’s recipe with anypony, especially not the Pink One! Nor serve it in any fashion!”

The Crusaders agreed with a resounding “YAY!”

“As you decree Your Highness, it shall be done.”

Princess Luna gagged once more, “Ugh, stop so I may get some sand to scrub this off my tongue!”

“I truly apologize Your Highness.”

The Alicorn got a sly look on her face as she turned to my camera lens once more, my avatar quiescent for now. “Would you do me one favor though?”

“Of course Princess.”

“Please make one more of that..fruit..cake for me? Also if you would prepare it as a gift?”

“At once Princess, but may I ask why? I am sure nopony would like it by seeing your reactions.” The Crusaders are exchanging glances behind her with a few shrugs.

“My sister has developed a taste for odd things, I am sure she would love one as a gift. She enjoys ....delicacies...like this sometimes.”

I see the beginning of a grin start to form on her face.

“Princess, it may not be my place, but I think such a prank may not be received well.”

Her nose goes up in the air with a “Hmph!”, “I shall have you know We are royalty, We do not play ‘pranks’!” She holds the pose for a few moments, hearing the snickers behind her from the three fillies, breaking down into a laugh full and rich.

She wipes her eyes after a few seconds, giving a wink to the three Crusaders, “You are sworn to secrecy! Tell nothing of this! You as well Crusader!”

“Yes Your Highness.”

“Princess, would ya at least let us know what she does?” Apple Bloom was fighting off a grin.

The Princess of the Night tapped the Earth pony’s nose gently with a hoof, “It will be a story worthy of heroes of old, presenting my sister with a gift! I am sure she would not wish to disappoint her beloved sister by refusing to eat it!”

Sweetie Belle covered her mouth with her hooves, giggling madly, “You’re so bad Princess!”

Scootaloo was already falling backwards, slapping the deck floor with a hoof, “Oh stars! That’s so not right!” She was laughing hard, holding her sides.

A calculating look crossed Luna’s face, she tapped her chin with a shod hoof, “I am sure there will be some dinner, or receiving of nobles from another realm. They surely would not offend my sister by refusing to partake of such a delicious treat!”

“Your Highness, I think you are planning far too much fun for a simple cake.”

“Oh no Crusader, much more than that! I shall present her with one every Hearth’s Warming! To see her beloved Luna waiting with anticipation of her devouring such a wonderful item!”

The three Crusaders were rolling on the floor laughing at the Princess issuing such statements in a royal manner, the giggling echoed off the walls.

“Your Highness, you truly have a bit of silliness inside you.”

“I do, do I not? Let it not be said royalty are above a bit of laughter!” She settles on a cushion, watching the three fillies laughing, “Such dinners are so boring and staid. I despair to always talk of state and politics. I would lighten my sister’s heart as well as mine. Such a thing comes far too rarely.”

“Uneasy lies the head that wears a crown Princess.”

“It is a truth is it not? So many little things to wear away the day, there is not enough time to just...be..”

I watch her take her regalia off, setting it aside in a corner as she settles on the cushion once more, a lovely dark mare with a mane of stars flowing in an unseen breeze. “I think we should enjoy ourselves for this trip!” She looks at the three Crusaders, “What shall we do to celebrate?”

Three fillies look at each other uneasily, not quite sure how to respond to such a thing.

“Come now, surely there is something?”

“Well Princess....” Sweetie Belle started softly.

“Luna, please call me Luna.” She gave them all a wink, “There is no need to feel you cannot be polite by calling me my name after all.”

Apple Bloom cleared her throat, “Well, mah sister always said treat the Princesses with respect an’ stuff.”

“What do you call Princess Twilight Sparkle?”

“Twilight!” Sweetie Belle blurted out before covering her mouth. “Uhm...”

“Then it is no different.”

Three sets of little hooves went up at the same time, “Cutie Mark Crusaders Princess Pals! YAY!”

Princess Luna giggled slightly, covering her mouth at the exuberance of the three fillies, “Then let us watch the Battle for Ponyville once more! Crusader!”

“Yes Princess?”

“Please prepare something fit for a movie watch! I believe some chocolate cake if you have it?”

“I do Your Highness, it will be there shortly. Popcorn and juice as well, or would you prefer tea or coffee?”

“Some of that lovely dark rich blend of coffee you served with dinner please.”

“The Java blend, yes Princess.”

Scootaloo piped up, “Could we have some more orange juice?”

“Jes’ don’t tell mah sister!” Apple Bloom snickered from behind Sweetie Belle.

Sweetie Belle blushed a bit, “I get kinda tired of Apple Juice Apple Bloom, sorry...”

Princess Luna laughed seeing the Earth pony grab her chest, throwing a leg over her forehead, “Oh mah gosh! Betrayed! What shall I do!”

“Calmly fillies, calmly, ‘tis no betrayal.” She snickered behind a well polished hoof.

“To mah sister it would be, she’d be hoppin’ mad about orange juice and stuff.” She points a hoof at Sweetie, “What? Not liking the best Sweet Apple Acres produces! Sun and Stars!” In a perfect imitation of Applejack.

I cannot help it, I join in the laughter, it was truly a good imitation of her sister. I know how she loves her apples to the point of almost fanaticism. I do remember one time asking to try Pear Juice and got an earful about it.

The Princess laughed again, “Then we shall all swear never to tell of you drinking orange juice, on my honor.”

The Night Princess gets a faraway look in her eyes, “Crusader, would you please stop traveling, it is time.”

“Yes Your Highness.”

Ceasing movement, I open the hatchways, making sure everything is calm as she walks out alongside my batteries. I have a clear sensor view of her, watching as she lifts into the air, out to the end of my upper fore turret Hellbore. She stands as if she owns the world for that moment, watching the sun lower on the horizon. As soon as it disappears, she lights her horn, her body glowing in an aura of magic as the moon begins to rise over the edge of the world.

Her starlit mane flows with the unseen winds of the night, I see as it waves like a banner preceding a wondrous army of light.

It is truly amazing to observe, though I have not grasped the inner concepts of magic, seeing her raise the moon is astounding to me. I watch and record it all for further study, and because it is something beautiful as well. I have a picture in my Deep Cores, of her standing on the edge of my Hellbore, staring into the night, the stars are clear and bright as the moon is full and in the sky.

I am watching as the stars appear, pinpoints of sharp brilliance against a soft background. The Crusaders have gone outside to watch her perform in making the night gorgeous. They sit quietly, seeing her smile as she lights up the sky. I have not understood, for as long as I have been here, how those stars can have spectrum and absorption lines as real stars do. I am not easily baffled, but by this, yes.

Activating an outside directional speaker, I wait until she appears finished.

“It is truly something beautiful Princess.”

Luna turns with a brilliant smile, “It is my night Crusader, each and every one. My sister has her sun, and it’s warming brilliance. But this,” She waves a hoof around, “Is mine alone. A velvet canvas that I can paint and design, to tell everypony there is nothing to fear, for I will light their way.” She walks back to the flat of my turret, standing and looking up at her sky.

She sees the Crusaders staring at the darkness, motioning them over next to her. I chuckle as they tumble over each other to arrive at her hooves. “I walk dreams in my night, calming fears and bringing joy.” She taps each of the three fillies on the nose, eliciting giggles, “I also know when somepony has done wrong, and try to help them see that maybe they should not do so.”

All three Crusaders look a bit guilty, blushing as she watches them with a smile, “You three have been on a quest to get your cutie marks, but on the way have caused not a little havoc.”

Sweetie Belle twisted her hooves in front of her, avoiding the Princess’s eyes, “We’re just trying to find what we’re good at, we don’t mean to cause trouble.”

The Princess laughs, that rich sound ringing out along my hull, as she hugs all three, “Never stop your quest. I shall tell you a secret.” She leans down to all of them with a grin, “I have laughed so hard at some of your adventures the guards wonder if I have truly gone mad.”

Scootaloo looks at the smiling face, “Really?”

“Oh yes, walking dreams I see the results of your hoofwork, it is truly amazing three little fillies can cause so much disturbance.”

“Prince...uh.. Luna, can ya help us get our cutie marks?” Apple Bloom looked at the taller pony expectantly.

“I am sorry, that is something even Princesses cannot do.” The three looked crestfallen at her words, “Do not despair, it will come in time. That is a greater magic than even my sister and I can perform.”

“Awwwwww...” All three fillies looked downward.

A gentle hoof lifted three chins, “Now do not look so sad. You are good young fillies, and have many many years ahead of adventures. You will get your cutie marks, you have my word on that.”

Scootaloo scuffs a hoof on my hull, “Everypony tells us that. Sometimes I think we’ll never get ‘em!”

Luna tilts her head, her smile becoming soft and gentle, “Then believe them. It will come in time, you should not be in such a hurry to grow up. Enjoy the time you have with laughter, love and life, live it to the fullest.”

The three faces perked up a bit at that, smiles started peering out as Luna gave them each a hug, “Come, there is an exciting movie to watch, with cake and popcorn!”

“YAY!”

I have had my technical spiders set the food out, waiting for them to return. They do with a vengeance, the three fillies laughing and tumbling over each other to get inside. I see the Princess walking behind them with a bit of a wistful smile on her face.

I engage her link for more privacy, “I believe you have become their favorite Princess.”

She looks up at the night sky one last time before entering the hatch, “Things are so important when one is young, but when you achieve them, you look back and remember the fun you had getting there wishing you had those times again.”

I activate my avatar as the transmissions slam into place once more. It is sitting and waiting as the fillies scramble into the command deck, politely waiting for the Princess as she joins them, settling on a cushion.

Moving out as smoothly as I can, I am still impatient to get to the signal, but not so much after hearing the Princess. It does make one think of what they want in life, is achieving it really worth leaving things behind?

The movie begins to play with a cheer from the three Crusaders. Especially from Scootaloo as she ends up on my avatar's shoulders, waving and hollering for her hero Rainbow Dash when she appears on the screen. Even Princess Luna is joining in the fun, with every shot fired, or acrobatic maneuver there is a rousing applause.

The movie is run five times this night, each time the excitement is unrestrained, popcorn spilled and much juice consumed. The three fillies begged the Princess to stay up and watch it more than once, of course she gives her permission to them, waving away their attempt at being cute to get their way.

I roll into the night, my tracks grabbing deep into the sand as the Crusaders finally sleep, watched over by a smiling Princess Luna. Her and I talk of things into the deep night as I make my way through the desert, she is insightful, and pleasant to converse with. Although the laughter does get a bit out of hoof as she tells me of pranks played in the past on or by her sister.

I almost run off my trail into the side of a large dune laughing at the thought of both sisters playing hide and seek from the Royal Guards because they did not want to attend a state dinner. As adults.

Would that some human royalty in the past had learned such lessons, perhaps there wouldn’t have been such strife?

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

We continue through the night, my engines running smoothly as I keep constant sensor watch. My GPR is sensing hollows underneath the sands, making me divert miles off my track, that is fine I can keep a good speed while doing so.

My thoughts do turn to Applejack and I am hoping she and the rest are doing alright. I had programmed the tanks with as much information and direction as I could, but the forest worries me. Reviewing the recordings I have, it is smarter and more aware than I had realized. There has to be a solution other than razing every inch to the ground. The damage would be tremendous, but would it be worth it to alleviate the danger?

At one time I would have done so without a second thought, now I tend to think or find other ways than just destruction. It is harder and often more confounding, but I am stubborn and shall prevail.

I wonder if I should ask Princess Luna about Equestria, why the magic that suffuses the land is changing me. I have gotten a handle on my emotions, I am the Bolo I once was, but so much more. The hours I have spent pondering the situation and trying to work out why is frustrating as no answers are forthcoming.

Perhaps that is a conversation for another day.

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

The morning comes too quickly, I have enjoyed my conversation with the Princess. She is of quick mind and wit, such as it has been a true pleasure talking with her through the night. It comforts me to have the company of her and the Crusaders. I had often been sent on missions by myself without a commander, but it was not as it once was. I find myself happy with the thought that on this trip I shall have companions, regardless of how they got here.

Once again I cease movement, checking the area with all scanners before allowing the Princess out of the hatchway. I have become more cautious due to the fact it has been quiet the entire trip so far. Sometimes it is good to be paranoid, to be suspicious as things are not often what they seem.

My cargo is too precious to waste one moment not making sure things are safe, my batteries are primed and ready at any moment to give a greeting to those who would do injury. Not to mention what my Applejack would say if I allowed the Princess or the Crusaders to come to any harm. I believe that scolding would be worse than facing a Fist of Melconian Heavies.

I know why she does it, she worries far too much about things, maybe we should talk about it when I get back home.

Home.

Have I ever truly had a home? A place to feel that I belong? That word elicits feelings I have never felt, safety, comfort and love. Battles upon many worlds and systems, was there any place that we as Bolos ever felt at home? Earth was our birthplace, but even it too never brought these feelings. It is something to wonder at.

I extend a camera to watch once again as she lowers the moon this time, the glow surrounding her fading as the sun rises to take it’s place. She looks a bit worn as she walks along my side, entering the hatchway with a yawn.

“Perhaps some sleep Your Highness?”

“Of course Crusader. Could you kindly prepare some breakfast first? I would eat before resting.”

“At once Princess.” I get the nanites powered and moving.

Before I can serve the plate though I lurch downward and to one side, throwing Luna against the command deck wall. It happened so fast my avatar did not have a chance to grab for her. I must check her in the medical bay as soon as I can. My sensors had not registered any sinkholes or objects while I was in place, but it appears something is trying to eat my forward port track.

“Princess are you alright?”

I see her shake her head, the Crusaders are getting themselves out of a tangle sleepily, “I am Crusader, what happened?”

“It appears I have disturbed something and it is trying to eat one of my tracks, it is failing, but persistent. It is also large enough to dig an area out underneath me. I have apparently rested directly on it, it blended well with the sands. I shall have to attune my sensors to be more discriminating.”

“Are ya alright Crusader?” Apple Bloom sounds very concerned.

“I am fine, although it is trying to chew through my tracks, it is losing teeth at quite a rate.”

I drop the armor plates along my tracks, cutting the things head off as it latched onto my tread and the bogie above it. I extend sensors to scan and take note of it in the sands. Quite a long body, twisting underneath me as it dies, sort of like a large worm but with stubby legs to provide motion. An interesting development.

“Please settle yourselves for a moment, I must move quickly.”

I watch the three Crusaders getting Luna to sit down before making themselves secure as best they can. I must install safety seating when I get back, I make note and mark it imperative.

My treads grab sand, my sensors registering seismic movement around me now as it seems there might be a nest of these things. Bad timing of course, but then the unexpected is expected in Equestria.

I bring my power plants to full output and tear out of the area, my tracks leaving gouges in sand and bodies as I see the things squirming behind me dying from injuries I have inflicted. A rooster tail of sand flies into the air as the four ponies slip across the deck from the force of my take off.

“WHEEEEEE!” Sweetie Belle lets out a cry as she slides across the deck, ending up tail over mane in a pile of carpet.

The other two are grabbing for a hold on the slick deck, ending up in a tangle of jumbled limbs with Sweetie. Princess Luna’s eyes get wide as she tries to avoid ending up with the three Crusaders, I am afraid to say she failed. Scrabbling for a grip on the floor, she ends upside down and staring unhappily into my camera lens.

“Crusader this is not the proper way for a Princess to travel.”

“I apologize Your Highness, I will slow down in just a moment when we are clear of the area and my sensors register no more movement.”

Scootaloo starts giggling underneath Apple Bloom, causing her to start laughing. Sweetie Belle joins in as the three Crusaders indulge in a bit of levity, seeing the Princess upside down against a wall looking quite put out.

She eyes the three fillies mock menacingly, “It is not proper to laugh at a pony’s discomfort.”

“Ah don’t know about dis..discom..fort.. But ya sure are funny upside down there Princess, sorry ‘bout that.” Apple Bloom covers her mouth with her hooves as another round of laughter starts.

Princess Luna tries to look at the three with menace, but she just sighs and laughs along with them, sliding down to the floor as I slow my forward motion, coming to a stop on a rocky area where my sensors register nothing but solidity downward.

I urge the Princess into the medical bay where I can scan her for injuries. She is reluctant at first, but I tell her it is fine she will not feel a thing. Apart from a slight concussion, she seems to check out, Alicorns are quite a bit tougher than they appear. I program nanites to clear out any problems near the area and seal a few capillaries, they will filter through her bloodstream with no problems in a few days. But for now she is in top health. It is quite interesting to see and record how magic flows through her mane and tail, creating the effects everypony sees.

Apple Bloom watched as the Princess emerges from the medical bay, her coat shining and glossy from the gel wash I included in the procedure, her wings as well. It cleans and alleviates the need for a bath plus healing any minor things accrued from day to day life.

“Wow Princess, you sure are lookin’ nice!” Apple Bloom inspects her coat closely, “Take a bath too?”

I interrupt politely, “It is a gel wash that cleans and disinfects, leaving you without the need to take a bath in water, would you like one?”

“Yeah!”

“Just enter the bay and lie down, you’ll be asleep while it is done, is that alright?”

“You betcha!” Apple Bloom almost bounds toward the medical bay in delight.

I process the three fillies slowly, as they are young I take the time to do a thorough scan of each of them. Nanites are programmed and released into their bodies to correct minor things. I take a good look at Scootaloo, having the scans from Fluttershy and realize her wings are smaller than they should be. I put in an extra package to develop growth with proper feather and bone structure for her. It should be a pleasant surprise in a few weeks as they start matching her body.

Sweetie Belle is bouncing around the deck, showing off her mane and tail that are now curlier than before. “Wow, Rarity would die from envy! She works so hard taking care of her mane!” Her cuteness has been magnified tenfold with glossy waves, her coat gleaming along with her smile.

Apple Bloom was staring at her now shiny hooves, looking them over. “Beats goin’ to a spa I bet!” She put her bow back in her mane with a twist, “Sure feels good though!”

Princess Luna reclined on a couch, put back in place while the others helped, waiting for their turn in the med bay, “I agree, I feel very good. Sinfully so I’m afraid!” Her smile is warm as she watches the three prancing around the deck, even Scootaloo’s normally tussled mane is in place.

I serve breakfast for all of them, after they eat they talk quietly for a time as I start moving again. My speed gently increasing without the need for haste. I have attuned GPR sensors to pick up anything like the desert creatures behind us to forestall anymore problems.

The rocking motion of my hull lulls the four to sleep again. I increase the coolness in the command area as the desert is heating up outside, reaching triple digits before the noon time.

Though I am looking forward to the rendezvous tomorrow by my estimates of arrival time, it will still be good to return to Ponyville.

I will be home soon and I will be glad.

Lessons From a Princess. Movie Night.

I continue traveling in the desert wastes. It is very bleak out here under the daylight sun. Sand dunes are prevalent along with minor rocky areas I traverse with very little problem. The temperature according to my scanners is approximately 112 degrees Fahrenheit. Truly it is a place where none should live, but I do see with sensors and GPR more nests of the large Tatzelwurm like creatures. I shall have to ask Princess Luna about them.

I admit the one which grabbed my track was very persistent, though trying to chew through durasteel is a losing proposition. But you have to admire stubbornness. I do see by extending a camera that there are small scratches in the metal, proving it was not all in vain. I have seen indigenous animals on other worlds which secreted acids and could wear their way through regular metals.

Though I do not worry so much about them, it seems as if Old Earth mythology is a fact here, which is confounding some times. Tartarus is a place, Pegasi, Unicorns, many things that mankind has thought or dreamed of is real. I do hope one day I will get to see Cerberus, that I think would be something. Though only as a tourist of course, not a permanent resident.

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

I would stop for a while to let them stretch their legs or wings, but my hull is extremely hot from the desert sun. I shall have to wait until evening when it cools. This is a barren place, but I do see signs of life everywhere, burrowing creatures, the large worms. Life finds a way was once said. So it does, in many shapes and colors from what I record. I will be glad to turn this information over to scholars when I return, I am sure they would like a survey of this area.

My drones are continually mapping as I travel, digitizing the information as I put it into my tactical database as well as geographical. The air is dry and still, some breezes come from the south bearing a coolness that quickly gives way to the heat as I move along the dunes. It is good to once again move with all my faculties, sensors extended, drones in the air, batteries and turrets primed and ready for action. Though I doubt if any Deng or Melconians are around, it does give me a pleasant feeling.

-----------

In the late afternoon the Crusaders awaken, finding things to do quietly as Princess Luna sleeps the day away. They are not what people think, always getting into trouble or causing commotion. As I observe them, they are highly intelligent, industrious and constantly thinking of new ways to use what is in lockers I have not forbidden them to enter. I do think the adults have seriously underestimated these young fillies. I believe it is only their inexperience in life that causes problems, not knowing what the subtleties are when dealing with everyday things, they look at it as purely black and white.

The never ending quest for their cutie marks will be one to watch.

“No ah think the tower goes here,” Apple Bloom pointed a hoof at the blank area.

“Are you sure? Cause I thought it went here." Scootaloo pointed at another place.

“Well I think it looks nice over here." Sweetie Belle added the tower to a completely different spot.

“Crusader?"

“Yes?"

Apple Bloom pointed at the model they were assembling, “Do you remember where the tower goes?"

I activate my avatar, walking over to the assembly area, recalling the drone scans of Canterlot I move the tower to a completely different place than either of the three had wanted.

“Right there."

“Awwwwww...."

“It was a good guess from all three of you though."

“Well," Sweetie Belle looked over the assemblage of parts, “Think the Princess will like it?"

I nod my avatar’s head, “I think she will like it quite a bit."

Three pairs of hooves go up with a quiet whisper, “Yaaay!"

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

Princess Luna awoke with a ruffle of wings and a yawn, stretching her legs out in front of her, feeling cool and refreshed from the air conditioning in the command area. She tilted her head, watching the three busy fillies finish their model of what looked like Canterlot, “That is a fine representation of the city. You are quite the builders.”

The three Crusaders smile brightly, pointing out all the various towers and city items which I am sure she is most familiar with. She endures the exposition patiently, nodding and exclaiming at the architecture.

I add over her link, “They have been waiting quite patiently for you to awaken. So you could see their hoofwork.”

I watch a warm smile come over the Princess’s face, “Well then, it is quite the presentation.

She raises a hoof, “I hereby declare I am pleased with this model, well done Crusaders!”

“YAY!” Three sets of hooves once more go into the air.

“Have you three eaten anything yet? I for one am famished!”

“No Princess..er..Luna, we’ve been waiting for you.” Sweetie Belle’s stomach rumbled loudly as she blushes.

A royal hoof pokes Sweetie in the tummy eliciting a bright giggle, “You are still growing, you shouldn’t wait for me, eat next time silly filly!”

“Yes Luna!” All three Crusaders salute with their fore hooves. This brings a laugh from Princess Luna.

“Crusader?”

“Yes Your Highness?”

“Something exotic today I think.” She taps her chin with a hoof, “Is there something you might make that would be a bit different?”

I scan my data banks and find something appropriate for a vegetarian race.

“I do Princess, how about a nice spiced curry, it’s very flavorful.”

“Ah! We shall have that then, it sounds truly exotic.” She looks at the three fillies, “How does that sound?”

Apple Bloom grins, “Sounds good to us! We’re just plain hungry!”

The darker mare laughs, “True enough, any more rumblings and surely we shall have an earthquake inside here! Crusader if you please?”

“Hot or mild Princess?”

“Oh spicy please, I do love things a bit hot sometimes. Though I think the Crusaders should have mild, we wouldn’t wish to upset stomachs.” She looks at three mouths about to protest, “I shall let you taste mine, if you do not complain next time you may have some. Is that fair?”

The three nodded happily.

It is a very simple dish, vegetables, the proper spices, rice, a simple yet complex flavoring of things. Thank goodness for nanite processing as it would take far too long to cook normally for four hungry ponies. Serving heaping dishes with the usual requested orange juice and coffee for the Princess, I watch carefully. A hot spiced curry is nothing to tamper with, and I have a neutralizer ready for any reactions.

Princess Luna levitated a large spoonful of rice and curry for each of the three Crusaders, she had already tasted it, finding it wonderfully hot with flavors she had never encountered before. It made her flush slightly, but she loved the taste. She eyed the fillies carefully with a slight smile.

Apple Bloom munched thoughtfully, narrowing her eyes at the taste, “Wow, this sure is good!” She looked at her own bowl full, “This is really...” Her eyes popped open wide as heat rushed through her body, she swallowed the mouthful and blinked. “I..uh...”

Sweetie Belle was finishing her spoon’s worth as Apple Bloom started panting slightly, looking helplessly at her friends, “Oh stop Apple Bloom it’s not that...” Sweetie broke out in a sweat, blinking furiously to clear her eyes.

Scootaloo was laughing as she finished her portion, suddenly grabbing her mouth, “OHMYGOSH OHMYGOSH!”

I had tried a traditional Thai Curry with of course Thai Chilies, that registered approx 225,000 on the Scoville scale. Looking at the reaction, I am glad I had not made Princess Luna’s serving with Habaneros.

The royal mare watched as the reactions finally hit their taste buds, she knew the dish was scorching hot, but had promised a taste to them. She was not in any way cruel, and ponies had different tastes, but she figured this time might have been a bit much. Her eyes were a bit worried as she saw the Crusaders bounce around the room.

Sweetie Belle was drinking orange juice furiously, gulping it down as she waggled her tongue trying to get it to cool off, “Ohmygoshohmygosh my tongue’sh on fire!” Her curls were a bit damp with sweat as she kept trying to cool herself off.

Scootaloo was silent, grabbing for water or anything to quench the flames in her throat, her face held an expression of slight fear as she figured she’d never be able to talk again.

Apple Bloom was right beside Sweetie, grabbing something to drink and trying her best to cool off, her coat damp as all three kept bouncing around the room, mouths open, “Ohmahgosh this is hot! It’s hot! It’s hot!”

I quickly put the neutralizer into a pitcher of water, telling the Princess over the link to have them drink it down, it will mitigate the effects of the chilies.

The Princess of the Night quickly found herself holding one filly after the other down, telling them firmly to drink from the pitcher she held with her magic. Her strength tested as they kept trying to scrabble out from under her hold to get at more water or juice.

It took a minute or so for the water to work it’s magic, leaving three panting fillies on the floor, their coats damp with sweat from the overheating of their tongues and stomachs.

Princess Luna sat back down on her couch, making sure the three were fine before continuing her own meal. She was smiling warmly at the three very dramatic Crusaders who got to their hooves, returning to their own quite mild dishes.

She chuckled to herself, enjoying the heat from her curry as she asked innocently, “Would you care for another taste?”

“NO!”

All three eyed their own bowls with high suspicion, looking up at my camera lens.

“It is not hot, I promise you.”

I am given a few glares as they dig into their own meals, “I am not to blame, I said it would be hot and you wanted a taste. Princess Luna obliged.”

“Ya didn’t tell us it was gonna leave a trail of fire to our tummies!” Apple Bloom said around a mouthful of food.

“Apple Bloom, you know by now when I say something is, it is.”

“Ah know, but stars Crusader!”

Sweetie Belle’s curls were drooping a bit from the previous exertion, her eyes though held a glimmer of mischievousness, “I bet Diamond Tiara would like to try a taste if we brought it in a lunch.”

Scootaloo’s eyes went wide, “Oh that’s bad!” She thought for a second, “Good idea though.”

Apple Bloom finished a spoonful, “Now we don’t need to be doing that. Ah know she’s a pain in the flank but I wouldn’t wish that on anypony!”

I interject, “Apple Bloom is right, you three are better than that.”

Sweetie Belle finished the last of her meal and sat back, twisting her hooves, “It gets kind of frustrating when she picks on us all the time because we don’t have our Cutie Marks.”

Princess Luna chewed a spoonful of curry for a thoughtful moment, “She has her cutie mark does she?”

Three dejected fillies nodded.

“She is young, and already has hers, that means she has nothing to do or try to attain one. Think on this,”She raises a hoof slightly, “You have had wonderful adventures have you not?”

“Oh yes Luna! We have tons of fun trying to get our Marks!” Apple Bloom was speaking through a mouthful of food, before remembering her manners.

Scootaloo nodded, finishing her meal finally, talking in a rush, “We’ve danced and sang and did the Equestrian Games and..well..no more tree sap we hope. Apple Bloom rebuilt the treehouse where we plan things and go out to get ‘em done!”

“And what does she do?”

The three exchanged glances, looking around and tapping their chins as they thought a moment.

Sweetie Belle was the first to answer, “Well...nothing. She hangs around with Silver Spoon hassling us. She does throw parties, but kinda doesn’t invite us sometimes. She kinda just walks around a lot showing her Mark off, or telling folks how rich her dad is.”

Princess Luna nodded, “So on one hoof, you have a filly with her Mark that does nothing but give others a hard time.” She watched the Crusaders nod, “But in your case, you go out into the world and try many different things to achieve yours. Along the way you have fun and laughter correct?”

“You bet!” Apple Bloom was nodding.

“Who is truly the poorer here?”

Scootaloo piped up, “I don’t understand?”

“Who is the poorer? One who concentrates so much of her life around having a Mark and showing it off. Or,” Here she raises her hoof again, pointing at the three, “The ones who go out to make discoveries, having a grand time, laughing and enjoying life to it’s fullest rather than sit and wait for something to come?”

Luna’s head leaned forward slightly, “She is so concerned and enamored of her own Mark and having it, that she has forgotten what it is like to be a filly.” She points a hoof at each of the Crusaders in turn, “You all go out and do things, make friends at every turn, find out new knowledge to learn.”

Now she leaned in further, “What happens when you achieve your dream? Will you stop adventuring? Stop living the life you lead now to concentrate on what your Cutie Mark tells you to do? If you do that, then are you truly any better than this Diamond Tiara?”

The Crusaders exchanged glances once more, Apple Bloom speaking up, “Well..we ain’t quite thought that far, we’ve just been trying things.”

“I am not saying stop trying, I am saying stop worrying so much. Once you get your dreams, sometimes they turn into nightmares.” Her expression softened as she joined them on the floor from her couch, “I tell you not as a Princess, but as a friend. You will have adult things in your life soon enough, but you are the best of companions. Do not let worry over a Cutie Mark get in the way of anything.

“Go out into the world, discover, learn and laugh. It is one of the most important things you can do as a young pony. I cannot emphasize this enough. Have fun! Otherwise, you may find that being obsessed over this may color your view of life from now on.” A hoof taps each nose, bringing a smile, “Do not turn dour or sullen, do not be sad when you fail to get a Mark. Be happy you tried.”

Three wide eyed heads nodded in return.

“As for this Diamond Tiara, she is to be pitied I think. For she has nothing more to do or accomplish and seems consumed by having a Mark; will she be a better pony for it? I believe not.” Princess Luna gets a slight faraway look in her eyes, “I have seen ponies consumed by their own inner demons, the lust for something other than what they had.”

She returns from her distant place, smiling again, “I want to see you three grow up to be wonderful mares having a wealth and treasure of experience and life. You cannot buy such things with money, only by earning them.”

Luna claps her hooves together softly, “But enough of that! Come Princess Pals, help me raise the moon tonight!”

“Really?” Sweetie Belle is on her hooves, bouncing around.

“Ohmygosh we really get to help?” Scootaloo is looking at her with wide eyes.

“Of course, we’ll see if maybe we can do something special, perhaps a meteor or two, or a new star bright and shining in the heavens just for tonight.” She stands up, walking over to the hatchway.

Apple Bloom beats her there, knocking on the metal, “C’mon Crusader, open up! We got ta raise the moon with the Princess!”

I check my outside hull temperature now that it is evening, it has cooled but is still radiating an amount of heat. It should not be damaging to them, but I warn them in case.

“Please be careful of any heat from the day, my hull is a bit warm.”

“We know we know, c’mon! We gotta raise the moon!”

“Yes Princess Apple Bloom, right away.” I see the Earth pony blush at my statement.

Luna lays a hoof on Apple Bloom's shoulder, “Be not in such a hurry, we will have plenty of time.”

The little Earth pony looks a bit abashed, “Sorry Princess.”

“No worries. Now let us go outside, breath the fresh air and see what we can do to make tonight special!”

I open the hatchway at her gesture, seeing the three Crusaders tumble over themselves to get outside. Luna follows at a stately pace, taking her time to stretch and recover from a long day in the command area, large as it is I am sure she prefers open spaces.

My scanners and sensors are on high alert, ready to snap to battle reflex in less than a heartbeat as I watch them proceed out along my side.

She lifts the three with her magic, settling them on a wide part of my upper fore turret before she joins them with a flap of her wings. I lower my Hellbores to give them a better view of the evening sky as the sun finishes its tour for the day. The sunset is cozy and warm, coloring the skies with amber and honey before it slips beneath the horizon.

The Princess turns her head to the three Crusaders, “Come stand next to me.”

They scramble to stand in a line, snuggled close to the taller mare.

“Now watch the horizon and concentrate on bringing the moon up, it will be full again tonight. Are you ready?”