If you can...could you please save us?

by Crunchbiter

Chapters

• Chapter 1: Sister you were friends with these monsters?
• Chapter 2: History repeats itself
• Chapter 3: When words fail...
• Chapter 4: So I take it you're not busy if your here.
• Chapter 5: A midnight stroll
• Chapter 6: We could use your kind of...discretion.
• Chapter 7: A new threat(s)
• Chapter 8: Bumpy starts..

Chapter 1: Sister you were friends with these monsters?

Chapter 1: Sister you were friends with these monsters?

"We bid thee farewell; we have been requested by our sister and must leave. It has been most pleasant to meet you again, Star Strike," Luna bellowed out using her Royal Canterlot voice. She was pleased with how a young earth pony was taking interest in the stars. It was a nice excuse to use the Royal Canterlot voice given that he was already half deaf, and he could hear her perfectly when she spoke in such a way.

"Good bye, Princess Luna, I hope my designs have given you inspiration," he replied in a normal tone. All of his friends in the royal guards all thought he was the only pony able to withstand the sonic blast of the Princess’ Royal Canterlot voice.

"Farewell, and know that thou has permission to call us Luna." She trotted away happily. Ever since Nightmare Night, with thanks to Twilight sparkle, she found it easier to make friends with more ponies. However, she was struggling to get past 14 at the moment, 8 if you didn’t count the Elements of Harmony.

She had reached Celestia's chambers and was hoping to see her getting ready for bed or sitting happily. Instead, she found a weeping angel staring at a mirror. She was sobbing uncontrollably, placing her hoof onto the reflective plane. Luna was downright stunned by what she saw. Her sister was pouring her heart out to this mirror. Is she so upset about her age? But there is not a single wrinkle on her. She was about to ask her sister what on Equestria was going on, when a voice interrupted her process.

"If you can...could you please save us?" a young voice pleaded, in such a way it could be considered for the sound to be everywhere at once.

Celestia launched herself at the mirror, pressing her face against it.

"Yes, I would! Yes, I would! Yes, I would!" she began thumping against the wall each time, slowly choking on her tears until she could only squeak, "I just need more time."

Luna approached until another voice spoke. It sent shivers down her spine as she realised who was speaking.

"No, your kind brought this upon itself and shall suffer the consequence! I shall keep these memoirs in the name of this world you destroy, but remove you from all of its history!"

It was Celestia; she turned to see her sister seething in the mirror and walking off into the light. She turned back to see the real one curling up and crying beneath the large mirror. She returned the mirror to see another creature. It stood in black torn armour on two legs, held a strange long object. It appeared to be of a military background but she could not tell. Its face was bloodied and dripping with sanguine. It had cuts and a bandage on its arm and another across its eye.

She was shocked to hear it speak. "I don't blame you. You don't know the whole story; there was never enough time to explain. It's too much. Goodbye, but please know this. It is never too late to forgive and save a life. Good bye, Princess Celestia." The being turned and advanced towards a burnt doorway merging with the shadows.

The image became hazy and shifted scenes. A new world emerged and more of these creatures appeared in formation. Luna watched as they hid behind debris of a shattered building. The place was surrounded by fire and the sound of small cracks of thunder.

"They’re going to fight," Celestia finally spoke, still shaking.

"Tia... I don't understand. What's going on? What are they? Why do you know them but I have never heard of them?"

"Neither did I Luna. They are creatures so complex. They contain the spirit of chaos and the elements of harmony inside them simultaneously." She sniffled pulling Luna closer. "They can perform amazing feats; they lack magic but are more advanced than what we could possibly hope to be. Now watch they are going to battle. These 6 humans are fighting against an entire army."

"Why are they fighting?" She was watching an eerie sight. She could not see them appearing to be attacking or defending. Only in positions that signalled preparation for a final stand. It was completely silent, as the six things hid behind solid barriers. "Tia, what did this have to do with you?" her worry for her sister was starting to take its toll.

"They are going to fight and... And..." She couldn't finish, and began sobbing again.

Luna looked back and grabbed her sister, tightly, as if her life depended on it.

"They’re going to kill... to save us...They thought they were going to buy me enough time stop the army from invading," she wailed. "I didn't tell them I could close the path before the army arrived.”

"Tia... what happened? Please, tell me what's going on..." She was cut off by more thunderous sounds. She looked and saw each one had a device that created rapid outbursts. Some humans had larger ones than others; some had ones that crackled faster than others. One had a long barrel with a small telescope on it, another had a black object slightly bigger than its black claw.

The one from before appeared to be shouting, whilst having its device blazing off past the side of the mirror. They were all aiming at the same side of the mirror. Luna and Celestia watched as fire burned and mounds of dirty was tossed into the air. Eventually the mirror turned to show what they were 'attacking'. It was an entire battalion of more of these things.

One of the humans by the building crouched down, It was very big, and cradled a small green box. It had something sticking out and when pressed resulted in an explosion along the horizon, decimating those on the offence.

Luna gasped. Never had she seen so much carnage.

The mirror changed images, again, to show darkened rooms overlooking the battlefield. A small human with a mask spoke to the bandaged one.

"Snake. You may be younger than me, but it's good to meet someone with decent taste in music. It's been an honour to serve, even if you’re a Brit," he chuckled.

"Same 'ere. You yanks aren't so bad. Thanks for getting me out back there, wanna swig?" He extended a small flask.

"I don't normally drink on the job." He declined moving his gloved hand side to side.

"Ever? 30 years of service and never a single drink. Fucking hell." He took a final taste before neatly tucking it away.

The big one from before was busy setting up another large device at the window.

"So vwat happens now?"

"Keep shooting till we have to throw cases at them." the one called Snake ordered the others.

"Why do they want to kill each other? Why do they want to invade us?" Luna asked, still in shell shock.

"Their planet was dying; remember when I told you I left for around 3 days about a century ago?" Celestia responded, still gazing into the image.

"Yes, you came back covered in injuries. You wouldn't say why though." Her mind made the connections. "You went to there! With those monsters?"

Celestia stood up and glared at her sister. "THEY ARE NOT ALL MONSTERS! THEY JUST MADE MISTAKES!" She collapsed immediately. "I MADE MISTAKES! I'M STILL PAYING FOR IT, WITH THESE MEMORIES THAT TAUNT ME YEAR AFTER YEAR!" she sobbed into her sister’s shoulders. "They’re not only my memories, but theirs as well.

They looked back into the memory that played out. It would only get worse.

Soldiers encased the building as the five made way to the final floor. They had made quite a dent until 2 strange machines approached. They looked like desert beetles, without legs and a long straight trunk. Each one looked at the building and fire exploded out. It was a measly fire, but the effects on the building were devastating. Entire walls were removed. One of the 6 returned fire with a long pipe that shot a firework out. One of the beetles ceased to move shortly after a second shot.

"It will happen soon," Celestia said morbidly.

"Wh-wh-what will?" Luna asked now afraid.

"They all die," She answered.

The image was now refocusing. Many dead humans and blazing machine beetles remained still, in the funnelled valley. The image then focused on the six. They were all injured if not extremely tired. One of them started beeping.

"Snake!" yelled a human with glowing squares on his body. They were all holed, trapped on the top floor, when he revealed the bad news from behind a flipped table. Down the hall 2 staircases spewed out slowly creeping soldiers, only for them to be cut down. Those who advanced returned fire creating a stalemate between both parties. Neither one gained the land or lost it.

"What is it Specks?" He replied still firing his device down the hall.

“Missile inbound. Sir! Orders?" He asked launching another green ball towards the door. Between explosions Snake was heard.

"HOW LONG!"

"5 minutes sir!"

"Alright listen up. We are S.A.S, Marines, MI6 and Spetsnaz, protectors of the innocent from the highest threat, each other.  We got five minutes left. We saved one world from those sick bastards back at their HQ, now we go for one thing and one thing only."

"What's that?" asked a woman. "Don't hold out on us." demanded another who looked exactly like the previous. Both fired out of a window by a nearby wall.

Snake smiled. "We go for Glory, we go for pride, and we determine the best. We go for a high score. Unless a way out shows up we kill every last fucking bastard that lines up in sight. Are you with me?"

"Fuck yeah!"

"OORAH!"

"It's abvout time."

"4 minutes."

"Fuck, I get a penalty of 10, not that it matters."

What soon followed was carnage and pain. The group stayed strong, some taking to the windows, others taking to the doorway.  In the end it did not matter. Snake watched as a missile hurtled towards them. He said one last thing beneath the sound of battle.

"I am not sorry for what I am; only what I have done. I do not regret the cost I paid for those I have saved, but those who I have lost. Celestia...I hope you can see the beauty of what this planet once was. Please, just look at the book."

Luna watched as the missile struck the building, bringing it down. It was engulfed in flame and smoke. When the dust settled there was only the sight of a clenched fist, holding a small sheet of metal attached to a chain. The inscription wrote ' Captain Mark Jones - Secret Air Service, air school Id 101994 Alliance uniform.

The image returned to normal reflecting a pair of shivering alicorns.

Celestia broke the silence. "I could have saved them. I didn't know that they were willing to sacrifice themselves for Equestria. I didn't think they could give up everything for a world they did not know existed." She lowered her head. “I didn't know Snake would save me."

They stayed there huddling and talking. Celestia retold her accounts of the history that refused to let go. She talked about how it played annually in any mirror, and repeated for 3 days. She talked about the guilt she still has for leaving them. She tried to convince Luna about how there world was once a nice place, and why these humans were her friends. Luna could not believe her.

So she showed her the book.

It was thick, full of information, and was stored in a hidden safe under Celestia's portrait. She wiped a tear from her eye as she presented her younger sister with a profile of Earth.

"I didn't ask for that picture because I was being vain," she mused, still maintaining a slightly morbid tone.

"Tia... what is this?" she asked, opening the cover page titled ‘Earth’. The first page was an unusual planet, similar to Equestria but with different pieces of land. It had lush blue oceans and seas, orange patched lands, signifying great deserts. It was white tipped at each pole, meaning huge landscaped of pure snow and ice. There was, thankfully more green than the last 2, but significantly less than the seas.

"That is their world. It is called Earth, just a humble name. It does look beautiful, doesn't it? I doubt ours could measure up to such a majestic sight," she sniffed.

As an hour passed, the book revealed all their culture. From likes to dislikes, beliefs and theories, to facts about the solar system to fictional stories, many a subject filled each page. Whenever there was an opinion to be written, there were always six. Luna figured that each one of the humans wrote about the planet. There was a list of social taboos and rules to never break.

The next interesting sights were the pictures of the humans. All together, separately, and with other friends Celestia did not know.  The funny sounding one with the small green box was standing amongst knee-high snow. It had a woolly jacket covering his large arms. This time it had longer hair above its beady eyes. Behind him were more of these creatures, like him, holding a bottle with their gloved hands. His small smile emphasised the girth of his jaw, yet seemed so natural. Almost like an artist adding the final touch to define his work and give it life.

The nearly identical twins seemed younger as well. From both duplicate pictures she assumed they each owned this image for keepsake. Leaning head to head one had an appendage reaching out just of the side. The pony-tailed female wore a cyan shirt and her sister was engulfed by a thick hot magenta jumper. They smiled, tongues hanging out to reveal teeth. Although she took note of the incisors what struck her the most was the strange railroad tracks across said teeth. A thin wire tethered by small tinted squares. The one with the hair tied back seemed to have her in a shade of dirty gold whilst the other wore a platinum hue to her metal stamp.

Now came the one in the mask. Well she assumed it was him because she didn’t recognise this particular human or humans to be correct. Beneath an oak tree, there stood the foreign creature with his arms around another. A female; based upon the similar features of the twins and the long red hair she wore down her back. From a distance the picture had managed to make them the main focus but capture moments of nature as well. The small bird became slightly smudged due to the high speed; the glory of the sunlight almost turning them into a pure darkened silhouette, but still capturing their early aged smiles. Only a faint tone of gold was seen in his hair. She had buried her head between his shoulder and head signifying there was a strong romance between them.

Another one was alone this time, but she concluded that some human must have taken the picture.  The one with the goggles, that seemed to be added from birth. The youthful expression amongst the silver and oil stained background summarised his past time of inventing. The pigment of sky in his eyes remained focused on his new creation whilst the lock of his frizzy hair stretched towards whatever they pleased. A few black smears across his cheeks and forehead showed the hours of effort put into the object he cradled. He held what appeared to be replica arm of his species. Only more skeletal, pipes and wires seemed to form an elaborate web inside a half uncovered exterior. One end was another claw like finishing, only it appeared not as sharp as a claw but rather blunt instead. The grin on his face caused Luna to think this was a monumental achievement for the creature. On the underside it read the following.

2020-October 19.

At 2250 hours, my software and hardware merged with the mechanical properties and allows a natural movement of the arm. It requires stimulus matching that of the nerve impulse to configure each tendon and ‘cyber fibre’. We have done it! I did it. An artificial limb that is capable of merging with the central nervous system of the human and acting accordingly. I did it! We can restore normality to so many lives now. We can save so many dreams.

Celestia levitated the last picture of the one called Snake, before Luna could, and looked at it tearing up. He was standing there, out of uniform, on a hill. His brown eyes didn’t seem as dark as the mirror made them out to be. However, he seemed to still have a similar smile he gave her once, joyful. He was underneath a tree with a smaller female; blonde hair with a black streak, blue bottoms and a grey jacket with a hood flung over. Anything above the wide laughing mouth was not seen, but a small speck of her nose. On the back it wrote.

'Celestia, meet Sarah my little sister. She was 16 when this picture was taken, and I was 22. Still looking good huh? She would have liked to meet you. She loved hor...ponies.' The word horse had been scribbled out. It brought back memories of how she had to convince them not to call her that.

Eventually they came to the last page. It was the planet...but dead. Little patches of green against a grey and orange background, more dark clouds over the planet. The final statement was written by Snake.

' This is what became of our world. It is now a former shell of a planet that once teemed with life. Now it is a husk of what it once was. Our leaders were desperate. They wanted to save the human race, but mostly, the people they ruled. When you arrived, you let a way through to another world, filled with life and resources we have not seen in 5 years. One leader wanted to invade and conquer your planet. He was quickly dismissed and we were going to opt for a more peaceful solution. He already had you, however, and was collecting data to use against your species. Our leaders opted for a search and rescue of you, which many declined. I was not going to let something suffer by his hands and let another world burn because of him. As you know, a small band of us volunteered and we set off to rescue you. After getting you out and running to the hills, I will say you know the rest. Remember us not for our sins, but because we had a misunderstanding. If you have read this far, you can see we are not all bad humans. We just made the wrong choices.

Luna didn't know what to say. She had seen killers and murderers slaughtering each other moments ago, and yet here was proof that they were good on the inside. Celestia broke the silence.

"You’re lucky you came when you did, Luna. Now you can see what I went through those many decades ago. The events will replay the important parts each night, and I want you to see them." said Celestia, finally composed.

"But why, Tia? Sister, why would you want me to see this?" she replied fearfully.

"Because for 100 years, I have watched them die. Almost 300 times, I have heard him say ‘if you can...could you please save us?' Well, now with you by my side, we can."

"Celestia, you surely don't mean?" Luna responded wide eyed.

"Yes, sister. Soon, we will save them and bring them here, somehow."

Chapter 2: History repeats itself

Chapter 2: History repeats itself

The next night after Luna raised the moon, she made haste towards her sister’s chamber. She travelled down the empty corridors that were no longer the workplace of the guards and staff, until the approaching morning that is. The Princess made her way through the grand hall and past the many portraits. All had the royal family and old friends smiling and looking pleased. It brought back memories of how happy her sister seemed the past year, and yet she felt ill when she realised, all along, she hid this burden in her room.

She entered the chamber to find Celestia sitting on her bed, facing the mirror preparing for the movie that was to be played.

"Sister, are you well?"

"Yes, please take a seat next to me." Luna sat next to her elder and they both wrapped a wing around each other. It was took what seemed like eternity before anything happened in the mirror. The reflection blurred and rearranged itself to show a couple of darkly dressed humans, on a hillside, overlooking a concrete research facility.

"That's where they kept me for 2 weeks. They did tests on me, they hurt me, no matter what I said they simply ignored me." she said with a bitter venom.

"Tia, they tortured you?" she gave her sister a bear hug.

"No, they did tests. They did not do it out of pleasure. Now here are my heroes; the archangels who rescued me by blood. The one on the left, with the short brown mane, strong appearance is called Snake. He was tactical and very courageous; they all were, but he stood out the most. Snake practised the art of stealth. For a creature with no wings, he said he was trained in air to ground entrances. Apparently, he would be flown over his destination and fall towards the target. That attire is designed to allow him to descend slowly and safely without attracting attention. He was incredibly quiet, and lethal. He could always think on his, erm...feet. He was remarkably tough. He survived an accident that none of our guards would have."

She pointed at the other.

"The one on the right is called Specks. He had large goggles that seemed to have the ability to analyse everything, calculate anything and be obscured by nothing. He could see in the dark a mile away and through thin walls with them. He was an engineer and made a breakthrough in mechanical limbs. The book said he was a child prodigy, and finished university before he was 17, during that time he had advanced their medical abilities tenfold, before enlisting as an elite soldier. He never said why," she paused for a bit.

"Pray tell. What are feet?" Luna said, pondering over that word.

"Oh, that's what they have instead of hooves," Celestia said, watching as the humans discussed plans.

"Okay... why are we here?" Specks asked. He had a scouse accent.

"Because in there is an alien being treated like a lab rat and holds the key for them to cross over, that's why ya muppet," he replied in a Bristol accent.

"I gathered that, but why this hill?"

"Were waiting for the girls from MI6 to give us a way in. Can you see that tree line?" He said pointing to a nearby ridge.

"Yeah." He switched to night vision and saw 2 flashing strobes.

"There's our sniper support and medic. Get this: the medic was a doctor and he specialises in demolition, and every support weapon as well."

"Who the heck learns that?"

"Spetsnaz. The Sniper is a marine. He’s the one who shot the leader who replaced Bin laden 12 years ago."

"Fuck. He's an old bastard. What's stopping the hip replacement from screwing the mission?"

"Military life. You don't get to be a fat prick afterwards."

"True that. Wait I can see something."

The mirror focused on 2 soldiers patrolling the fence. They were in green camouflage suits and had heavy Australian accents.

"Didya see the twins back in the transport depot. Fwwoaargh. A lovely pair of knockers on the both of them." one man spoke to another. The males had become lustfully longing for the new additions. Twins, picture perfect. Both had raven hair that either framed the delicate features of one, or was bundled into a lovely ponytail. Jade eyed with killer smiles they quickly became favourites amongst the men and the focal point of jealousy with the women.

"Too right, mate. I'd let them ride me into the ground..."

"That can be arranged." Two silenced shots fired from a hidden position and killed the guard near the fence. Before the other could react, a knife was dragged across his throat by another assassin.

"I always preferred the strong silent type." Abbiegale spoke. She sheathed her knife under her disguise; black Jumper, camouflage pants and a truck driver cap.

"You mean like that Russian?" Amber teased, holstering her silenced M9 in similar clothing.

"Don't start that whilst we're on the job." Abbiegale hissed in a London accent.

"I'd hate to interrupt ladies but I'm afraid we have work to do." Snake spoke through a headset.

"Right. We got you a way in; we'll prep a way out."

"Sergi Danil, Joshua O'Mally, do you read?" Snake said creeping his way to the fence along with Specks.

"Da, but call me Ursa Major in field, help concentrate," The tank of a man replied.

"Yeah, call me Dead eye," the New Jersey man added.

"You boys and your names." Amber joked, casually strolling back into enemy territory.

"Stick to the plan. We wait till there are fewer guards about to minimize damage. When we get the package, the alarm will go off. Dead Eye; pick off stragglers in the towers as us and the girls escape, Ursa your job will be to make sure the alien stays alive."

"How do I do that? It is not simple human."

"Figure it out. Out."

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The mirror displayed images of the 2 figures ducking under trucks, weaving between guards and clinging to shadows. Unfortunately, for Luna, a lot of guards died on the way. 5 were killed and hidden in bins in the courtyard, 12 were hunted in the corridors. Each shot placed right in the back of the head, both in synch when it came to taking on paired guards. In the tighter corners of the labs there were less shadows and a lot of white coats. They were losing cover.

"It is true. The one called snake seems to excel in the shadows. I wonder. Is the human called Specks his protégé?" Luna asked.

"Not officially, but it did seem that way." answered Celestia.

The S.A.S hid in a closet and waited for there to be less staff around. In the meantime they made assumptions about the creature. Specks went ahead and basically named most of the species from star wars. Snake was quick to point out that it was a pile of media bullshit. "Why does every alien walk on 2 legs? Why are they more advanced than us? I'll bet you a tenner that it's not like those from those films."

"You’re on."

"Films?" Luna asked curiously.

"Oh yes, they are wonderful format storytelling. It's like a moving picture that can tell a story in the same way theatre could. The humans could show millions of the same play on large canvases at the same time, across the world. It's in the book under the one called Deadeye." She perked up a bit.

"Fascinating," Luna remarked.

Back in the memory, the intruders glided almost silently between doorways. Any room they could not get past was emptied. There was one more room before the cell containing the 'package’. Specks took the left side of a window. Craning his neck around, he left just enough space to get his eyes ready to make a visual assessment. Quickly glancing from the window, the room revealed it to be full of soldiers watching the scientists.

"I'll scope the room out." with that he toggled his goggles to sonar. Through a door he could see 5 heavily equipped guards and six scientists. They were walking between microscopes and a white board. He spied another door opposite and signalled for Snake to reach the other side. They both equipped their silenced sub-machine guns and prepared to breach.

Snake whispered down the headset "MP-5 ready, toss a flash bang on my signal and give an even spread. Ok...3....2...1."

The door didn't budge. It rattled and alerted the guards who made their way towards the door Snake was behind.

"Fuck! Hang on." Specks tossed a flash bang in and drilled bullet into the soldiers. He needed to reload. He turned to face a scientist swinging a microscope at him. He grabbed it and drove a knife through his rib cage and tossed it at another scientist. Using the microscope, he batted away a pistol the third was holding before ramming the tool into his temple. He fell dead and Specks was on the receiving end of another scientist with a gun, when Snake appeared and blasted the remaining researchers with his pistol.

“Nice job, but remember switching to the pistol is always faster than reloading."

"God, you sound like CoD 26."

"Please! What do those pieces of shit know? It's all about Medal of Honour: Vanguard 3." He glanced around and saw a bolted door. “Amber, Abbiegale, I think we found it, standby, do you read?"

"Loud and clear, be at the transport depot in 20 minutes. Out."

"Come on; let’s have a look at this thing." Specks added as he walked impatiently to the door’s keypad. He whipped out a little brown box and attached it to the electronic lock. "Looks like it will take five minutes."

"Ahem," Snake cleared his throat and held up a bloody key card. "You kids and your toys."

"Dude, you’re like 4 years older than me."

"Yet I am still smarter than you, not much progress, I guess." He swiped the card and the door hissed.

“Oh, yeah! Of course, my degrees in engineering and medical advancement count for shit, yet you didn't check if the door was locked." Specks mumbled.

The 2 weren't prepared for the sight. Inside was a horse, not just any horse, it had wings, and a horn. It wore golden jewellery in the form of a necklace, horse shoes and a tiara. The multi-coloured mane flowed without any wind. She had her eyes closed and was resting against the padded wall. A fucking alicorn Snake thought. The sound of his thought sounded like he spoke under water at the Princesses who watched. She's beautiful. Celestia smiled at this. It always made her a little bit happier whenever he said that line.

"Bollocks, I guess I owe you ten pounds," Specks added.

Celestia's image turned faced the new humans. She could see the blood on Specks, and the rugged face of Snake.

"You are not one of those who wish to take more blood, are you? I don't think you’re even meant to be here."

Specks froze. Not only could this alien speak English, but she could do it better than he could. Snake was mentally preparing himself for such a thing. Why come here if you can't speak the language?

"That is true, but neither should you." Snake said. "I am here to get you out safely and return you back to where you came from."

"How do I know you don't plan to keep me and hurt me yourself?" She asked slowly raising to her tall height. They were equal in size, a sight that took them both by surprise. He took note of the cuts and bruises.

"You don't. But if we had planned on taking you, we would have killed you already. We have the technology to clone cells in your body. Look, you can either stay and die or escape and be free. It will be dangerous but if we can keep you out of sight were likely to get you out." Snake explained. "Can you walk? Does your species have special requirements?" He was thinking about space age breathing tablets or batteries in the form of rare crystals.

"Yes, I can walk; I do not have any other requirement." She sighed. “I do not wish to remain here any longer; it appears I have no choice. Very well I shall...follow." She took notice of a scientist crawling towards the exit; unfortunately for her, so did Specks.

"Snake." His superior turned and also saw the man leaving a bloody trail.

"Finish him off. Out of sight."

He nodded in reply and grabbed the man by his neck and dragged him out. The grip was tight enough so that the human and alicorn could hear him choke. There was a thud and a shout.

"Please! No no no, I won't..."

ptew

"Yeah, you won't," Specks said harshly, entering the room and spinning his gun, before sliding it into his holster.

Celestia was shocked. "How could you just kill him? He was defenceless!"

"You have to learn some humans are tricky. He was trying to alert others. We cannot risk compromising the mission. He was never really defenceless; he could have killed us all by sounding the alarm." Snake explained.

She was still disgusted. "How can you just kill somepo-body like that, it's just unnatural."

Specks looked at the white board. "I see you’re an herbivore. Well, humans are omnivores. We have that instinct to kill. I couldn't expect you to have such an urge even when threatened. What is unnatural for your species comes naturally to an omnivore."

Celestia, reluctantly, agreed with the logic behind it. She wanted to know what digestion has to do with killing the same species, when they left for the exit.

They then began to make their way towards the transport depot. They crept in the shadows. Occasionally Celestia had to stay behind whilst the soldiers wiped out enemies in each of the rooms. She found it difficult at first but got slowly was used to the dead. She hated that this was the only option and vowed to always find an alternative.

The trio eventually reached the transport depot. Rows upon rows of armoured trucks were parked next to each other. Snake was about to do a clean sweep when Specks pointed out a couple of dead bodies in a skip. "The girls are good. Amber, Abbiegale? Do you copy over?"

An engine started next to the Princess. She was scared right out of her mind. "What is that?!"

"It's a vehicle. It is designed to move large amount of troops across dangerous terrain, quickly. This one is called a truck," Specks explained.

"I don't recall such a thing when I was imprisoned here."

"You were probably tired or something, now let’s get you on board." Snake added.

"We read you Snake, let’s load her up." The back door opened and there stood Amber with her black hair tied back. She stared at the pony, blinked a couple of times, then back at Snake. "Erm, Snake, is the alien a horse?"

The Princess looked completely mortified. "HOW DARE YOU USE SUCH A DEROGATORY TERM WITH ROYALTY?”

"SHHHHHHHHHH." Snake shushed. "Don't blow our element of surprise."  Stupid fucking horse!

"I think it came from in here," another Australian spoke.

"Everybody, get in and keep quiet." Snake leapt in pulling Specks with him. With that, Celestia stumbled into the truck and the soldiers followed suit. Specks monitored the outside with his goggles. He had thermal, night, sonar and analytical vision. The latter would deconstruct and display parts of machinery, or aid in his new tinkerings. To anybody else, he was just studying the inside of truck; he was actually tracking enemy movement.

"What is this one doing?" whispered Celestia whilst pointing towards Specks.

"He can see through the truck with sonar vision. Like echolocation for a bat, but he can see through the thin canopy of the truck. He's trying to watch the bad guys," Abbiegale spoke before cutting the engine.

It was tense, especially when Specks raised his weapon at the door. It was about half an hour before he confirmed no one was there. Snake radioed Ursa Major and Dead eye to give them heads up about leaving. Snake and Specks left to plant charges on neighbouring trucks, giving the girls time to talk.

"Look, I'm sorry if I insulted you. If it makes you feel any better, you can call us apes; chimps in Specks case. I didn't know what to call you." Amber apologised.

“I will not stoop to such level," the Princess harrumphed. “I do accept your apology, this must be as strange for you as it is for me," she admitted.  She was not one to hold a grudge of minor mistakes; being captured on the other hand...

"Hey, can I see the alien? Wow, you weren't kidding she look exactly like mrmrmrm." Amber pressed her hand over her sister's mouth.

"She does not like being called that." Amber said, smiling at Celestia. "But what would we call your species?" she asked lowering her hand from her siblings maw.

"I am an alicorn, a type of pony " She stressed that last part.

"Really, we can't call you a horse, but a pony is acceptable? Strange world of yours." Abbiegale commented.

"It would be similar to me calling you ape when you are...erm, forgive me, but in my time here I never learned of your species." She was less angered about the situation now that there was a chance of escaping.

"No need to apologize, we are humans; we should be getting them to apologize to you," Abbiegale answered.

"We are not all bad, just looking for a way to save our world," Amber finished.

"Why? What is happening to-" Celestia was cut off by the returning soldiers.

"Figures. Both females of our species just talk whilst the males do the work," Snake spoke earning death glances from the girls.

"How dare he speak in such a manner! Sister, how could you be friends with such a sexist brute?" Luna interjected. She drowned out the orders Snake gave to leave the base, and to warn the sniper and medic.

Celestia chuckled. "He was joking, Luna; their sense of humour allows them to be more,” she paused whilst rotating a hoof, “creative at times. They can be witty, offensive, ironic, silly or just vulgar. He often slipped between the set to keep everypo-body calm," She corrected. It had been a long time since she had to use that term.

"These creatures don't mind being insulted at such a level?" Luna asked, interested. The truck was making its way through when they came to the second-to-last checkpoint. "Strange."

"Sometimes, you just have to be careful of what you say, Specks had yet to learn this."

"License and ID number, please," a guard requested.

"Sure hold on a sec, sugar," Amber spoke in a fake Australian accent. She was checking underneath the driver seat, the glove compartment and the overhead blind when she was interrupted.

"You sound like you’re from Sydney, what part?" the guard asked.

"That's right, sweetie, good ear." Abbiegale batted an eyelash; making it known she was checking him out.

Being male, he straightened up.

"We're from Darlinghurst. Now I want to know where you’re from, big guy."

Amber and Abbiegale flirted. After 5 minutes of swapping stories, the girls were let out without a problem.

"Is that how they engage the opposite sex? It seems both inviting to a true romance, and yet was slightly provocative," Luna summarised.

"I thought so, too. Unfortunately, their partnering rituals are not listed in the book."

"I have an idea. Why don't you just sit on the bonnet with your tits out?"

Slap. Amber struck.

Slap. Abbiegale agreed.

Punch. Something else did too.

"Why did you hit me?" Specks glared at Snake.

"Don't talk that way about the ladies."

"But you just-"

"Made a general statement, not specifically aimed at the women and mare here. As long as it's not meaning their tarts, I don't mind," Snake finished.

"My, my. What a knight in shining armour," Amber spoke in a thankful tone as she turned to head towards a gate.

"Pleasure’s all mine, ma'am," he responded. Celestia smiled: both the mirror image and the real one.

“Chivalry does exist here after all."

"Of course, we just choose when and how to exercise it. There can be problems with always being a gentleman."

"Man? Is that your version of a stallion or colt?"

"Are they your versions of man?" he responded.

"Guys, we lost the ID cards. If we approach, we can get our cover blown."

"Fucking idiots," Snake said squeezing the bridge of his nose.

"How can he go from being polite and sincere to and rude?" Luna asked.

"Very easily, apparently," Celestia shrugged.

"Wow, thanks for that. You were a true gentleman back there." Amber was now slowing down, prolonging the inevitable.

"We need to get through no matter what. I want you to floor it."

"What?" Abbiegale asked.

Snake was not listening. "Ursa Major, Deadeye, get ready, we’re no longer leaving stealthily."

"Affirmative, we'll start picking off stragglers." The sound of a silenced sniper was heard down the headset.

"That thing has got pick up," Specks commented.

"Should do. You designed it." Snake complemented Specks, who gave a smirk to show his pride.

"I am going to have to ask you to keep down, love, and hold on tight. Amber, run those bastards down." He switched from being polite to the alicorn to being commanding to the driver. The truck accelerated, Celestia felt the truck jerk forward and she slid to the side due to the inertia. Snake was stopping her sliding down any further, by just sitting there and giving her something to grab onto. "I told you to hold on tight, not to me." The Princess released her grasp and chuckled nervously.

There were a couple of shouts, before the truck barged through a gate. Snake and Specks took a seat by the back door. They opened it slightly and tossed out grenades. They waited for explosions before sliding the slit windows open on the doors. They fired their weapons out the back. Snake nodded towards Specks who brought up the detonator. He waited a while to maximise damage before flicking the switch.

The image changed to show the Russian and the American examining the escape.

"Looks like the shit hit the fan; I'll bet it was the girls," the American spoke sniping guards in the towers.

"I think it vwas goggled boy," the Russian replied, looking at the erupting flames. His crew cut edged out his small forehead. A wide jaw seemed proportional to his shoulders and the small ears complemented his narrow eyes. His behemoth of a body sprawled out behind the marine in his standard woodland suit.

"You mean Specks? Nah, he's got Snake with him. I doubt that smart S.O.B would let him screw up." Deadeye refused to look away from the sight, lest he lose focus. That beady eye trained on not just where a target was, but where they were going. The mental image of points A and B pinpointed his kill zone.

"S.O.B?" Both Luna and the Russian asked at the same time.

"Oh, yeah. Son Of a Bitch." Explaining this brought unison of ‘O’s’ from both the human soldier and the alicorn princess.

"Oh, da, good point." The Russian replied, raising binoculars to his eyes. The truck was weaving between the barriers and made a serpentine pattern along the road. The fire from the base spread to the outside. The demoman took a second to admire the use of his well-crafted utilities as more guards burned trying to douse the flames. He had no doubt that the entire vehicle storage depot would be in ruins along with its contents.

"Are they always using those words to emphasise points, Celestia? What does Fu..."

"Only when stressed, and, NO, you cannot use them. They are a form of profanity the humans use to allow them to keep in control. Quite interesting really, it seems to be a more of a psychological release than a physical one."

"What do they mean?"

Celestia smirked "Keep watching and you will find out." She remembered a part of future events and how she reacted. She also remembered the delicious contents of that flask that Snake was now sipping on.

"Really? Whilst on the job?" Abbiegale interrogated.

"I need my Dutch courage." With that, he sealed it up and placed it back in his upper right pocket.

The truck was now heading for the hill, as it got closer two men stood up. One was a giant with black hair and the other wore a balaclava, with an oval to reveal his old blue eyes. The marine raised his weapon above his head. The Ghillie suit shrouded the rest of his body.  The Russian called them over waving a flare he had stored in his support bag. Amber stopped by the red illuminated men and motioned for the men to get in quickly. They followed the suggestion and climbed into the back. Both just stared at the Princess a she stared back.

"It's a horse," Dead eye stated flatly. I just risked my life, saving a space horse. His mental thought echoed in Celestia's bedroom. Before the replica Celestia could answer the Russian spoke.

"No, is big pony. No again is Pegacorn." He said pointing to the wings and horn.

"Close, but my breed is called an alicorn. I would prefer it if you called me by my name. I am Princess Celestia, Diarch of Equestria, ruler of the sun."

After looking at each other the group made their best efforts to bow, the Russian was the last due to slow translation. Snake however extended a hand to greet her.

"Snake, a captain of Her Royal Majesty's Special Air Service. It is an honour to meet you, impressive titles, by the way."

She looked at him confused; this was the first time anypony approached her in such a way other than those now bowing. She raised her hoof for him to lock his digits around gently. She felt how he carefully cradled her hoof by the precision of his fingers. The glove hand felt smooth and tipped with a rubbery grip. Normally, she would have all four horseshoes, but lost one entering the world.

"It is pleasant to meet you, Snake. You have strange name, I must say."

Luna was also confused. "Is that actually his name? Why does he approach in such a way?"

"No, it is not. He was given it because he could move and strike silently, as you saw. He could remove enemies in large groups without others noticing. I believe he was trying to be friendly, without suggesting that my heritage and royal duties meant nothing there."

"This is Specks: brainchild, techno guy and my partner also from the S.A.S." He pointed to the one with the huge goggles.

"I am Amber," the driver stated still focused on the road.

"I am Abbiegale," she added turning back. The only noticeable difference was that Amber had her hair tied back, whilst the other had her hair flowing to her shoulders. "We’re spies," they said in unison.

"Pleased to meet you, I am glad I will have female company on this trip. Too many hot headed males, as usual." Celestia commented smirking at Snake. He returned an amused exhale and smirked back.

"I am Deadeye. Best damn sniper in Seal Team 6." He said proudly under his mask. The moss helmet had been removed and was on the end of his weapon.

"Celestia, I am Ursa Major; Medicine, demolition and support man. Itvis nice to meet you." The Russian added in broken English.

"Why do they all have unusual names? Are they named after their talents?" Luna asked. "Why does the one who goes by Ursa Major speak in such a way?"

"These are names given to them, sister. He is named for his size and power, but the bear it means stands for strength and protection. He speaks in this broken language because it is not his native tongue. You should really re-read that book on his homeland."

Celestia studied the man. She noticed he did fit the qualifications of a 'Great Bear'. He was large and did seem to have animal like movement. Perhaps it was because he looked like a bear fidgeting about in such a small space.

"I am going to heal you. I need to know where it hurts," he spoke softly, reaching for his medical kit.

After a while, Celestia was covered in plasters and a bandage around her hoof. She had to take off some of her jewelry, resulting in a sight no pony has seen in 500 years. The truck was still racing the pre-planned escape route whilst the research facility burned to the ground. On the way the group had begun discussing about their worlds. What Earth used to be like and what Equestria was like. Celestia found herself to have mixed emotions for these creatures. They described such horrible events; terrorists in Manchester and London, riots in America, a brutal winter in Moscow. This world seemed to be full of destruction, all caused by the humans, and yet they told beautiful stories during the journey. That one Christmas Snake got drunk and glided into a giant 'Christmas' tree, while Specks spoke of his achievement in biotechnology creating artificial limbs. The sisters spoke of the time they sneaked into an opera and almost got caught. Ursa Major recalled his pet dog, Dusha, who was so wolf-like he had to get her tested. Dead ye told the group about the time he helped get a labouring mother to the closest hospital which was 4 miles away, during his tour of Afghanistan.

"You were right, they are complex. They’re capable of great harm and good," Luna narrated.

"Specks, can you rig this truck to head towards that town? We gotta leave for the next part of the plan."

"Um... sure, let me get my gear." Specks reached into his bags and started rooting around.

"Okay, Amber, pull over by the tree that touches the rock."

"I don't see...Oh, right, gotcha."

"I guess we are vwalking," the Russian stated.

"I see what you’re doing. They’re looking for the truck. If the Princess is seen, the town will freak out and draw more attention," Deadeye spoke.

"Where are we going?" Celestia asked.

"We are walking from here, towards where you came from. There's a settlement for us to resupply before the final push in between."

The truck pulled over and everybody, and pony, got out. Specks was soon rigging the truck like a remote control car, whilst the others hid on the edge of the tree line. They all discovered 6 bags for long hikes. The dead bark camouflage would blend perfectly against the dying trees. 4 had an extra folded canopy labelled ‘quick release tent’. They had found random survival gear, as if it was all set up. "Just where I left 'em," Snake said.

"Okay, I'm done with the truck. Let’s light it up." The group began to trek into the woods, all the while, Specks was still playing with his new toy. They scuttled under trees when something big flew overhead. Two bright lights were seen following the road in pursuit of the truck. "They fell for it."

The truck was weaving in and out, avoiding fire from the choppers. It had entered the town at tremendous speed; it broke to safely turn a corner and shortly sped up afterwards. The streets were nearly completely empty and Specks did well to avoid civilian casualties. Eventually, the chase came to a halt when the truck travelled to a bridge. Specks made the Truck swerve into oncoming traffic; he narrowly missed cars and vans, before flying off the edge before a turn off. Or turn in, in this case. The bridge was over land, and the Truck was now falling towards an abandoned apartment complex.  It broke through the roof and must have stopped 3 stories up. The helicopters guarded the area waiting for reinforcements or signs of life.

Meanwhile the group had made its way deeper into the dying woodland. Snake noticed Celestia was tense and needed to calm her down. It was against protocol but he was certain they were safe, for now at least.

"It's going to be a long walk before first camp. Who knows a good song?" Snake asked.

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The image blurred and refocused showing the group making their way to their destination.

"I SAID A GOOD SONG!" he yelled at Abbiegale.

"What? Justin Bieber’s a classic. Baby, baby, baby ooooh," the woman sang at surprisingly the same pitch as the young boy. The raven hair slowly drifted side to side as she gracefully bobbed her head side to side during the chorus. Ursa couldn’t understand a word of English music. He thought the feminine voice was only slightly irritating. Specks was happy with the movie playing through his goggles: Die Hard, his favourite. He kept more than 100 films to keep himself occupied on long flights. The elders of the group were left to maintain security, but being fans of rock and roll the song was taking its toll.

"He still sounds as bad now as he did then, turn it off!" Dead demanded

Celestia was new to the human music but still had preferences. "I agree with Snake. I preferred his taste in music or at least Amber's. Hers reminds me of home." But Celestia would not admit it was an improvement of her kind attempts at orchestra. Perhaps I could bring the instrumental designs and musical structure back to Equestria?

"See, even the alien thinks he's a pile of crap."

"Could you play the one before please Snake?" Celestia turned to face the navigator at the front. The short brown hair intensified his dark eyes. The night sky had robbed half his face whilst the moon illuminated the other. Thin bristles grew along his jaw like maroon grass. A sharp grin revealed his joy to hear such a merciful release; in the form of his favourite music, which removed a small portion of what Luna knew of her sister.

"Certainly." With that he proceeded to play Bon Jovi's 'Have A Nice Day.' His iPod was plucked out of his centre chest pocket and with a sudden flick of the wrist guitar strings screamed into the night. Celestia closed her eyes and embraced the passion behind the lyrics.

Luna was listening to the music and looked back at her sister in astonishment.

"I thought you hated the rock and roll."

"No, I do not like what our ponies called rock and roll. Too short, not enough meaningful lyrics. He let me sleep with the music playing device that night. There were so many, Nerve Anar, Cold Plane, The Link in a Park, more Bon Jovi, Black Sabbath and Metal Cart. Although, the last one was too much for me." She could never recall the names of the bands well.

"They were wonderful songs. Oh, and Amber's 'classical symphonies' would put our new ones to shame." She sniffed. "I didn't realise they could teach us so much when I left them behind. I secretly kept thinking they were all killers, they were just being nice to help themselves."

The image later came to a small camp. There was a long log on one side of a camp-fire, and another on the opposite side. 4 tents were set up, in camouflage, with 2 one behind each log. On one log sat Snake, Celestia, Ursa Major, who faced Specks, the twins, and Deadeye.

"Okay, tents are up." He turned to face Celestia and chuckled. "Since you are our guest you can have first pick of luxury beds."

"Thank you, the one by the flowers will be perfect."

"Okay, lights out in an hour, we need to leave by 0700 and its 2200 now. Okay, equipment check. Specks, still got all your gadgets? Oh, and Ursa, check ammo and charges. Deadeye, giz a hand in checking to see if my suit still works."

"Alright."

"Da, good idea."

"Sure, bro."

Snake and Deadeye confirmed his wing suit still worked. The re-usable parachute was operational but took a while to repack. Ursa and the girls did an ammo check. After about five minutes, Celestia and Snake were studying the remaining devices Specks had on him. The rest of the group were talking about the old days, before the world started dying.

"Let's see; my private hologram display unit, with a single daily recharge. Stun grenade, Flares and flare gun, hacking panel, and a survey drone. I have command for an air strike and I can feed all the data through by heads up display. We just lost a few parts I was saving for a project back home, but a few strings and the GPS won’t be missed.

"Bloody hell, when I started it was painting lasers and radios, now we got holograms and hand held robots."

"Times change, old man, besides ain’t that a prototype?" Speck said jabbing Snake's chute storage compartment. "Still you only 4 years older than me, it's your birthday soon isn't it?"

"Soon yeah, I'm still not telling you when."

The survey bot was much like a mini helicopter that was about as big as Ursa’s hands. It had a small camera underneath and was being inspected by Celestia.

"What is this contraption?"

"It's a survey drone. It can fly and scan the area for us. It can give us information without us needing to be in dangerous territory."

"That device can fly without the use of magic? More importantly, how do those creatures get high altitudes without it?" Luna asked. Her answer came shortly after.

Specks jabbed a screen on his wrist and it gently took off. He made it hover in front of Celestia, who poked it, causing it to wobble. She stared at it, completely fascinated. She heard its small shutter close and then land by her hooves.

"Look at this, still good looking." He showed her a picture of herself staring straight into the camera with an investigatory look.

"Amazing, and you did not need to handle the machine directly?"

"Nope, no wire, just signals."

"Fascinating. We have cameras but we have no method of making machines work at distances, without direct intervention."

"We have larger ones, too, some capable of taking a picture of the entire land, others used to carry humans. I noticed you were wondering about how Snake fulfills his occupation without wings. He is carried by a bigger, similar, version of this and he flies over his target and lands safely."

"It's just falling with style, really."

"You remember too many films. Anyway, this contraption works by signals from my wrist pad..." He pointed to the screen. “...to the survey drone. Allowing me to control it without being attached to it, or even able to see it." Once again, he activated the small device. He showed great control when the machine orbited Celestia before traveling underneath her. It assumed its final position on his back after his well-practiced docking procedure.

"Perhaps we can tell you about the way these signals work. For now, I think you should get some shut eye," Snake suggested.

“Are you sure it's safe? Besides, I wish to stay up and hear more of your kind's music." She was opposed to the idea. She did enjoy the pleasant cultural exchange between species. Although, the griffins were rough, to say the least, they could produce fantastic traditional statues; in fact many of the garden exhibitions come from griffins.

"Oh, really?" He yawned directly at the Princess.

"Yes....really." She yawned back. Her eyes sagged and closed briefly. She smacked her lips in a most unPrincess like fashion. She wide eyed and smirked. "You did that on purpose."

Snake shrugged and smiled. The real Celestia smiled, too. Luna turned and faced Celestia with a frown. "So that's where you got the trick from. Remind me to thank him later in the Royal Canterlot voice." Celestia giggled before having a dark face strike her.

"If we can save them," she whispered to herself morbidly.

Celestia was making her way back to her tent. "Hey one more thing." Snake reached into his left pocket and pulled out an iPod. "You can sleep with this tonight, put the end of those strings in your ears, and press this button." He began to explain the functions of the buttons on the little music maker. She thanked him and trotted off to her tent, eager to hear the new music.

"I still have the device. I have a lot of their world’s technology, but they require power, I have yet to determine how to give them that." She said pointing to the safe in the wall. It was his iPod and an assortment of other things. There were seeds are of a rare plant, kept only in the royal gardens, there was also a flashlight, and a Swiss army knife. Many other things were hidden under a black cloth. Luna could just see them poking out.

"So your favourite flower came from their world. The ones you are sleeping next to."

"Correct. Now look, morning arrives soon."

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Soon enough, it did. The mirror glowed, radiating Earth's sun into the dark room of Celestia's room. For the night, both the light of the moon and sun entered the room. Through the dead trees birds could be heard singing to each other in a soothing fashion. The leaves on the floor were swept up by a cooling breeze, departing when they reached the tents.

In the decrepit forest, Celestia woke up with the buds still attached to her ears. She had not even managed to listen to half of the songs, but was thankful to wake to the Verve's 'Bittersweet Symphony.' She like how it combined parts of classical music with a more modern theme. Though given the fact this song fell under 'Oldie goldies', she was aware that modern may be the wrong word.

She came outside her tent and stretched her wings. She looked for the others. The twins were in the tent next to her. Ursa and Dead eye opposite them and Specks was on his own. She heard them eating inside their tents. She was about approach the twins’ tent when Snake cut her off.

"I wouldn't do that."

"Why not?" she asked curiously

"Remember you’re a herbivore and we’re omnivores,” he clued her in.

"Yes. Your point is?" She thought it could be threat but she realised: Who steals an alien just to eat it?

"Well, it's breakfast time. Don't worry, we haven’t killed anything recently, it was already prepared. Now I didn't know what to get you," he admitted scratching his head.

Celestia returned the iPod and walked towards the flowers near the tent. They were more distinguishable in the morning light. Each petal blended from a rose red to a violet/blue colour. "That will be quite all right, thank you for the warning." She began to nibble on the flower to test it. "Oh, my." She paused for about 5 seconds then began to ravish the bush greedily, Snake plucked one before she could get to it.

"I see you have a liking for these." He glanced over to see her about to take another bite. She stopped, looked at him and blushed before smiling. He chuckled. "How about we get you the seeds of these things so that you can take them home?"

She gulped the remaining petals down. "That would be lovely, thanks, erm, please don't mention this to anyone," she pleaded

"I won't if you don't." She returned to eating at a normal pace.

Luna was tittering to herself; she had never seen that side of her sister before.

"I can see why they are rare. At that rate, I would not be surprised if you wiped them out." She continued to fill the room with sharp squeaks. Celestia smiled and shrugged whilst craning her neck to her sister.

"Yes, they are rather delectable, I do plant them every few years or so and dine on them." She could only describe them as sweet with a bitter finish.  Sort of honey like ending with a spicy zest, not too hot to burn just enough to be known and leave an even sweeter warmth to the tongue.

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A new image emerged of the group walking deeper into the forest. Celestia told her that this was the 3rd day of walking. In that time, she had covered magic, cutie marks, pony species of her world and the technology they use. Specks face-palmed at the sudden fact of ponies weren't even as advanced as humans. Luckily his goggles were resting above his azure eyes. Celestia was confused; Snake simply said he won a bet. The Russian was intrigued by the concept of winter wrap up. Removing Snow and bringing in spring seemed useful in his motherland. To Celestia's annoyance, the group would constantly wave off anything Celestia said about moving the sun. Dead eye and Snake constantly wanted proof. Proof she could not provide in this world.

Shortly after the sixth attempt at explaining how Celestia raises the sun, they came to a clearing where a small settlement rested square in the middle. It looked like it was made out of scrap metal and burnt cars. "Perfect! Right in the middle of the bloody open. Best place to hide a V.I.P." Snake stated his snide comment sarcastically at nobody in particular.

"You mean you didn't know about this?" Abbiegale commented.

"I didn't know it was wide open, there were more trees when I was here last time."

"This is where we will stay?" the alicorn added as they made their way to the main gate. "Are you sure it could hold out against our hunters?"

"Yep. It's heavily armoured, has good men from our allies and can supply us for the rest of our journey. There should be no more problems if I planned this right."

"DO NOT MOVE, YOU ARE TRESPASSING. LEAVE NOW OR YOU WILL BE SHOT."

"Well, soon there won't be any problems. Okay, everybody, arms up. Celestia, try to look like you're surrendering."

The group complied; everybody threw their weapons down and raised their arms. Celestia looked lost, and lay on the ground.

"JACOB! IT'S SNAKE!"

There was an eerily cold breeze followed by a deafening silence. No noise, not even from the forest.

"WELL, WHY DIDN'T YOU SAY SO! Open the door, Spencer.”

The group walked into a courtyard with large metal walls. There was a single grey building in the middle and improvised extensions surrounding it. There were board walks with men and women just staring the Princess as she readjusted her crown. The spider web of rust and steel was complex, routes crossed over, many led to the same point whilst others remained parallel.

"Snake, it has been too long, mate," cried an Australian man, making his way towards the group. "Stand down, lads, they’re alright." The mercenaries lowered their weapons and just gawked at the Princess.

"Too right, Jacob. How you been?" The men grabbed hands and pulled each other closer and bashed shoulders.

"Good, good. I understand you're still working to save everybody, huh?" he joked, jabbing him in the shoulder.

"Always, now I think I should introduce you to my lovely friend." Snake turned and pointed towards Celestia. She slowly approached and introduced herself. Jacob was taken back by her appearance. Despite the few plasters and the clinging filth she still displayed her royal aura. The gold and jewel encrusted sparkled in the light of a dying day. Even if she was missing one horse shoe, Jacob couldn’t say it lowered her magnificence. One thing about her became the feature that he wanted an answer for.

"I am Princess Celestia. Your friends rescued me days ago and we wish to seek refuge here."

Jacob bowed. After this, it was clear about the control he had over his men as each one followed suit. It was like a ripple effect across multiple levels. “It’s an honour to meet cha, ma'am. Yes, you are more than welcome to stay. I have just one question, if you don't mind me asking."

"Not at all, what do you wish to know?" She was expecting 'What are you? What are you doing here?'

"What shampoo do you use?"

"Really? These humans are on the run from a threat, meet a new being, and they still joke?" Luna asked to no pony slightly annoyed.

Celestia laughed at her sister’s response, drowning out the ingredients to her shampoo that gave them both such an ethereal mane. Amber and Abbiegale tried to remember the combination until she said phoenix feathers. "I told you they were complex. I did like Jacob." She paused, her eyes were about to leak tears again. “I still can't believe what happened." She began to sob into her sister’s shoulders.

Chapter 3: When words fail...

Chapter 3: When words fail...

Celestia continued to watch from the chest of the Princess of the night. She slowly stopped crying and had eyes fixated on the mirror.

"It was looking like it was going to end so well. I was hoping to leave without further bloodshed. I was foalish to think so."

"Tia what happened?"

"You will know soon enough Luna. This is where I made up my mind to not save them. I just didn't know what really happened."

The group had settled down inside the building. Few of the guns were put aside, bullet proof jackets were removed. Well Specks and Snake kept theirs on. They knew from experience that you are most vulnerable when you felt safest. Jacob introduced himself properly this time. He had a fake leather jacket, at least that's what he told Celestia, dark green jeans, a holster on his belt holding a revolver, and blue shirt to counter the tanned Jacket. He had a withered face and hazel eyes.

He used to work alongside Snake before he moved to the S.A.S. Thick as thieves they were, one would not leave without the other. They toured the final years of the second Afghan war, rescued hostages from pirates out at sea, and destroyed enemy weapons. They were 2 peas in a pod. Jacob saw that others were suffering and needed his guidance, whilst Snake decided to move on to become Special Forces and aid around the world. Much like Specks he had his own reasons.

Celestia was starting to see that this was a dark world. She understood that in order to be good you must do the bad. I don't think even the elements of harmony could restore this world. Pity, I'm starting to like these humans. Her thought echoes through the mirror, as Jacob explained that they steal from the gluttonous rich and the power hungry drug Lords to feed the few seeking refuge.

The settlement had big food storages at the back, alongside an improvised water purification plant. There were trucks similar to those that were destroyed days ago. The entire place was composed of recycled parts, even the over watches that sunk where they weren't reinforced. The sun was setting as they ate a vegan meal, just so they don't upset their guest. The men, Ursa mainly, were not too pleased but complied and ate most of the protein supplement.

Snake had an idea. He wanted to give Celestia a going away present. He left dinner and gathered as much paper he could. He whispered into the headset to each of his team members individually. One by one they were asked to contribute to the book. Each one had their on space one each page, and even had 2 pages of their own. They wrote about the world and their lives at home before they started being soldiers adding more joyful stories and memories. The twins wrote about how they used to be thieves and could confuse security guards. They would often steal food and give it to the poor. They mostly stuck to the pranks they pulled pretending to be each other. Dead eye wrote about being in scouts. He wrote about all the badges to commend his time when he assisted the needy. Ursa wrote about his homeland and all the treats he found travelling on holiday once.

Specks wrote about how he managed to create artificial joints to move in synch with the nervous system. From ball and socket joint's in the arm to the finer well-crafted replacement hands, he always listed who he had helped. He first; Dennis, a 7 year old boy who lost his hand during an attack on Buckingham palace. He was able to paint again and sent Specks a picture of him with comically large glasses. He added it to the book. He wrote of Shannon a 28 year old mother, still able to run with her kids through the park thanks to a new knee.

Snake entered his life before his enlistment. Mentioning all his friends and the parties from when he was 6-9. He wrote what was traditional and what was sometimes added for fun. He wrote about bouncy castles and playhouses, his favourite cake, and games he played. He also wrote about the UK and England and about the queen. He wrote about his sister. Who she was and how they were the best of friends. He didn't mention her death but instead mentioned the time they broke out of primary school to get ice cream. Despite it being her idea he still took the blame. The story of when she was walking across a bridge. The sign clearly said no jumping, even Snake pointed it out, and she fell right through after a giant leap. She was thrashing and screaming as she drifted down the river. Snake didn't hesitate and leapt in after her. It took both of them to stay afloat. Eventually they reached land, after Snake grabbed a tree branch and pulled them in, then they had to hike to the nearest house to get help and heat.

Snake was hiding the book in Jacobs’s truck so that it wouldn't be seen. "Hey, I bet you ain't seen the stars since you were a kid." Jacob asked Snake.

Snake and the squad pondered over this statement. The guys each took turns remembering the last time they appreciated the celestial objects.

The Russian broke the silence.To Ursa he last recalled the stars when his grandfather died. He was always protective of the weak; he was the strongest in his town. One time, as Ursa claimed, his granddad single handily defeated 8 teens who were mugging a woman, who later became his girlfriend at the hospital. Soon after became his wife. Ursa was so upset and so young he ran outside into the cold. He wept under a tree and looked up to see a bright glowing star. Not the North Star, but a star under a certain constellation. During his Army life he would always see that constellation, it never shined like the first time but it stuck with him. "That vis vwhy I am Ursa Major, I am great bear like grandfather." he concluded.

"My story begins when I lost a part of me too." Snake added. The group turned to face him. He retold events to the group, at the time they could only imagine. He told them that he lost his friends securing a nuclear power station that was taken over by terrorists. When he got out, the first thing he saw was the night sky with all its glittering glory. Celestia and Luna got to watch the real reason he never looked to the sky again.

"Hey mummy, I want to be an Astronanaught when I'm older. I'll be the first man to travel to the end of the universe and protect earth from aliens!"

The scene shifted and displayed the image of a much younger Snake. He was in blue pyjama bottoms and green shirt and was eagerly rushing towards a telescope in his blue room. The 7 year old scanned the stars, for about 3 minutes before a black cloud blocked out the sky.

"MARK! How many times have I told you! You can't be a space man. The world can't afford to send people to space." growled a taller male. He looked exactly like Snake, but had longer hair.

"Honey, don't say that." A more soothing voice added. "Please stay quiet, Sarah is finally sleeping." In entered his mother, blonde with long hair. About 5 foot 6 and had a smile that could melt any cold heart.

"Is that his mother?" Luna asked.

"Yes. He got his father’s looks, but his mother’s heart." Celestia replied.

"Mark. Look. I know you really, really want to be a space man." she said hugging her son. She eased back out, still holding his shoulders. "But you have to know that the world can't afford another space man."

"Why not?" Snake sniffled.

"The planet is sick, people have been hurting it. They didn't know they would hurt themselves too. We get the petrol for rockets from the planet, and soon we won't be able to find it."

"Well why don't we stop hurting it?" Snake spoke as if he had the answer.

She sighed and paused. The sisters could see she was about to do something she never wanted to do. "We need it to live. Look. Without these lights we can't see, this television, without it we cannot watch the news. You see the buses? They need petrol to get mummy and daddy to work. I'm sorry but you can't be an astronaut Mark. The world won’t let you choose to be. Don't dream to be an astronaut."

Luna was stunned that she just blatantly said those words. She killed his dream. "I see. They both made hard choices. How can a mother tell her son to not have ambitions?" It was a rhetorical question.

"No! I can be whatever I choose to be and I want to be a hero!" he yelled at his mother.

She scooped him up and tucked him in. "You still can Mark. The world always needs heroes." She kissed him on his forehead and left. He turned over to face the window. He could only see the clouds that would block his stars for a long time.

The image turned to a dark sombre outside. It was raining and ill lit. The girls could see a figure standing by 2 stone tablets. Later it became apparent that it was Snake in graveyard, wearing his old S.A.S gear. It was before the updated version of the wing suit. He had stitches in his cheek and a fat lip. He was speaking to someone, or someone who once was.

"Hi mum. Hi Sarah. I did it. I go the job and a few broken bones but hey I can help now. Dads not to happy and he has kicked me out, but Jacob will look after me for a while. I wanted to say so much at the funeral, but I couldn't. I just sat there and cried. I’d only do it for you mum and little sis." He chuckled then started sniffing. "I'll swear I'll get the bastards," he winced and his eyes leaked a single drop. "sorry mum I know you don't like swearing. I'll get them. They killed too many that day. We were supposed to go to Buckingham palace weren't we? Dad was so happy, and you too. Remember when Sarah dropped her Ice cream on the guard’s uniform. We posted the picture straight away and nearly got arrested for harassment. Dad was about to lamp the guard...then the bus came and... I'm so sorry!" He sobbed. "I wish they found you Sarah. I could have at least seen you one last time." He rested his hand one Sarah's gravestone, hoping to find a way to feel her warmth again. The cold marble greeted his touch instead.

After five minutes he got up and whispered. "If this is what I should do then give me a sign. I know this is what I'm good at, so try to prove me wrong."

He turned to the clouds in the sky, tears still streaming.

" Is this the way I can still be a hero!?"

Shortly after the clouds parted and revealed the stars. He had missed them. They sparkled in such a warm soothing way. He was no longer angry. He smiled. He felt the same way he did when he was seven. He was getting ready to save the world.

"Thanks mum." He wiped his tears and looked at them "Only for you two. Say hi to nan for me."

Celestia wept into her hooves, even Luna started tearing up.

The scene shifted back to Snake who was marching uphill with his squad. The group were heading out to find the best spot to stay the night and watch the stars. He was looking at the ground, no taking notice of Celestia walking alongside.

"Are you okay Snake?"

"Yeah, just sad memories you know?"

"Yes. I have lost many friends." She was remembering her only true friend from her school years. "It has been a long time since I lost them to battle though."

Snake reached into his pocket and pulled out his silver flask. Unscrewing the cap and quickly took big gulp before putting it back. “I envy you for that. You get to have happy days. The ones that left here are full of battles for me so that others can have theirs." He was feeling the warmth of the gin push him forwards.

"It must be a hard life." Celestia felt the need to change subject. "What is in that container? I noticed the others don't approve of it."

He whipped it back out "I doubt they don't approve of it, just when, and how frequently, I choose to drink from it. Besides you said you were magical. I thought you'd be able to figure this out." he added smirking.

"I can't use my magic here. Otherwise I would not need your help to escape. With my magic I would fly away" she remarked fluttering her wings.

"True, but I am still waiting for you to prove it. Anyway think of it as liquid fire. It warms you up and gives me a bit more courage. Wanna try some?" he asked shaking it in front of her.

"Is it safe?" she asked wondering about the biological aspects of consumption.

“There’s only one way to find out."

She was tempted. She saw how it did not affect him, and it did seem to induce confidence. Eventually she gave in. He had offered nothing but safety and the wonders of his world. Could he be so wrong?

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What later transpired was 2 drunken British girls, a tipsy Russian, a staggering American, a slightly intoxicated Aussi and finally a wobbly 5'10 pony. Celestia had become infatuated with the liquid branded 'Old Raj gin' and her cheeks turned red. Jacob had to go back for more beer. Specks and Snake watched on amused. He may have a partnership with alcohol, be even he paced himself. Snake took pictures to pester her with the next morning. The real Celestia still had no idea about the additional function of the iPod.

The group wondered about, ignoring the stars they went to see. They came to a hill side and parked for the night.

Celestia side winded towards Snake. "I can’t believe we don't have alcohol! This stuff is amazing!" she toppled over and giggled on her back. Snake took another picture and sat next to her.

"I can't imagine why your kind have never invented it Sunny. More importantly why Princesses don't drink it." he remarked sarcastically. Bloody light weight. The real Celestia smirked as if to say 'I'll do better next time just you watch.'

"We can think of a couple good reasons." Luna said slyly smirking at Celestia.

She face hoofed. "This is not my finest moment sister. Please turn away as it is irrelevant."

"Oh we don't think so Sunny."

"I know right *hic I think I will get somebody-pony to fix that. You know it's weird."

"What is?"

"How we say somepony but not somebody. You humans don't say somehuman but somebody which makes more sense."

"It does?" both Snake and Luna asked.

"Yes I mean we all have bodies and sometimes I don't talk to ponies. I told you about the griffins you...you... oh what's that word you use." she lazily rotated her hoof and mumbled something.

"Fucking!"

Snake spat out his beer

"Oh filly" The real Celestia grumbled.

"CELESTIA!" both the indigo Alicorn and the black armoured man responded.

"Did you just say one of those bad human words?"

"What? Did I say something wrong? I heard you call it the girls before and Dead eye say it when he talked about females."

"You don't know what it means and you say it?" he said raising an eyebrow whilst wiping his gob.

"Well," she lowered her ears.”I just want to fit in." she pouted. It was obviously fake because she smiled afterwards.

"Yeah the giant horse...” she glared at him. “Pony... walking around humans is going to blend in perfectly. If that was the case I would have been a gentleman and walked you home."

She still glared at him "What?" he asked raising his hands.

"I am not a giant!" she barked from the ground, inches away.

“Your right, you’re the perfect Equine. It's a shame you’re a pony or I'd be tempted to take you out for a night to remember." This was his attempt to remain on her good side.

"Oh...well your kind of cute...Hey! Don't change the subject! You just insulted royalty" she tried to reach around for her tiara that fell off but remembered she was defending her honour.

“I meant it in proportion to our ponies."

She edged closer and stared into his eyes, he really wanted to reach for a gun right now. Unluckily, he left them back at the settlement. "You better not be lying. I can tell if you’re lying, and you won't like me to know if you’re lying. Are you lying? And don't try to lie about lying!"

"I'm not sugar coat, calm down. Let’s drink a bit more, come on, I sneaked out some vino ." He revealed a bottle of red wine.

"Yeah!” the mare chirped. “I have a favourite *hic  human now!" She exclaimed hugging him, similarly to how she did back in the truck.

"Aaaw look at this, the gentlecolt still treats his lady." Luna teased.

"We did nothing Luna. Keep watching." the solar Princess spoke through grinding teeth.

The night went with both the mirror image of Celestia and Luna learning the meaning a lot of swear words. Luna eventually covered her ears as did replica Celestia to which point Snake stopped explaining what fucking meant and could mean. Celestia laughed at how Luna had reacted similarly. The night was still young and the group were lying there appreciating the stars. Jacob had left to get more supplies to stay warm.

"Hey cel-cle-est- Princess sunny." The American eventually said.

"Yeah?" she said rotating her head, in the grass, to answer to her nickname.

"Do you have star signs?"

"What are those?"

"There meant to be able to determine the destiny of us humans, I was just wondering what you ponies had and if you had one." Dead eye added.

"How can the stars do that?"

"Well they're meant to be able to decide what type of person a human is going to be." A sober Speck added.

“Intershting, no we do not. Do you have star signs?"

"Yepsh. Me an' Amber are Gemini; twins quite fittshing ain't it?" Abbiegale slurred

"I am Leo, Strong lion, but not bear." Ursa commented.

"Scorpio." Dead Eye added.

"Cancer" Specks inserted.

“I am Libra." Snake finalised

"Wow. Luna would love to learn about your stars. Can you tell me what I am?"

"Sure. When were you born?"

"Oh I know this one! The erm,”She paused as she searched the sky for the answer. “,he first day of summer; during the beginning of Discord’s rule."

The humans thought it meant something similar to a Chinese calendar. After explaining that they had different months they couldn't tell her exactly what her star sign was. Snake picked up on the fact she had been separated from her sister. She looked miserable. She was about to tell them about her evil deed, when he promised to give her the chance to see Luna again. Dead Eye revealed he was married, 25 years and still going strong, they met in the hospital and took off. Specks said he had a brother who was 5 and wanted to be just like him. The rest were sibling less, besides the twins of course. One had a sister removed from him, so Snake was more than determined to get her back to her sister.

Yet another reason to get her back home. Don't worry Sunny. You’re in good hands. Echoed Snake’s thought. Luna was hugging her sister.

"He is very determined Sister, I can see why he was your friend." She said looking up to here sister.

"Yes, he was...till the end." Celestia gripped her sister even tighter.

The group slowly drifted off to sleep under blankets Jacob had provided. Only Snake and Jacob remained awake for hours discussing the past. It was starting to turn to morning.

"It's all downhill from here." Celestia said towards her sister. She took in a deep breath. "I was now considering helping them. I was going to forgive them, after seeing how desperate they were. Then this happened."

"What do you mean?"

Celestia just kept watching. "These are the parts I did not know."

"So where are you taking it?" Jacob asked leaning against the truck. The morning light was starting to blind him a bit, and he could barely see Snake. He was perched on a rock between Specks and Amber.

"We are taking her home so that she can seal the pathway to her world. The general want's to invade and conquer rather than seek diplomacy, and I'll be damned if I just let him kill thousands of innocents."

"I see you have grown attached to it."

"She has a name you know. She is sentient after all and ruler of her world. They need her back, safe and unharmed."

"Why are you talking like this creature is your friend?"

"Because she sort of is. I could have just gagged her and transported her there but that would be too much hassle. I was actually curios about her world too so that's more or less the reason for walking freely."

"You are not trying to convince her too save earth? That does not seem like you Mr Hero."

"How do you convince someone that another group are worth saving after they tortured you for 2 weeks? Back in training it took me 2 years just to talk to the people who put me through interrogation training for 36 hours. I don't think she will forgive us, but at least I can show her were not all bad."

"Oh yeah. You’re a fantastic ambassador for our species, to prove were not always evil you had to kill to get her out. To prove humans are charitable you bring her to the place the hopeless wonder to when no one helps them." He began to chuckle. "You then teach it swear words and get it pissed off its tits!"

"Okay maybe that last one was a bad idea. I still want to get her home safely." Snake turned to see Celestia sleeping peacefully with the empty wine in her hooves, tiara covering her eyes.

There was a sharp click of a walky-talky. “Send 'em in."

"What?"

"I'm sorry Mark; if it is the only way to save our world then it has to stay."

"Jacob what are you do... you struck a deal didn't you?" It was more of statement than a question.

“I’m truly sorry, but how can you choose them over your own kind? It's just a stupid horse!"

Specks awoke to the shout but pretended to be asleep. He reached for his knives he kept hidden behind his wrist pads.

“How can you think killing her will solve anything at all? What happens when they gut her huh? We get a key? A new weapon? There is no need for this bloodshed. We come in contact with an alien species and we decided to invade their planet? What does that say about us? We don't need this and if we are going to kill our planet then so be it!"

"That's dangerous talk Mark. Why do you hate humans?"

Specks got ready to fling his knives at either of them. The stranger was threatening to ruin the mission and kill royalty, and his leader; his partner, his friend who was talking about treason.

"I don't hate humans, just the stupid ones who need to be scrubbed out of the gene pool. Like: the lazy, the violent, the racist, the cruel and the radicals. I would gladly spend my remaining days with my family."

"That can be arranged. You have 5 minutes. You and only you can walk free. The rest need to go, we can't trust them."

"Why would I agree to that? Jacob, they may have promised you everything, but if their cleaning house, how can you be sure you’re safe?"

“You’re words are meaningless. I am one of their own Mark."

Snake digested the information. “Since the beginning?"

"Yes."

"Since we parted years back?"

"After a while yes. We didn't steal because we had to. We were following orders; the people who joined were a nice bonus. Don't worry. I convinced the HQ they weren't expendable."

"So you’re still human after all."

"At least I can still tell. You’re going to return it and condemn us all just because you see fit. You know we can change."

"It's too late. We had a good run, but we fucked up. I am not saying the good deserve it, and it is not necessarily anyone's fault. We just made a mistake and refused to fix it until it was too late. We have the technology to start a new and keep the world clean, but it was too late. We have about 10 years before we burn to death in less than a split second." He made an aggressive stance causing Jacob to pull out his revolver. “If your leader was not stupid enough to think war would solve this then we would be okay. Hell the Princess may have made space for civilians whilst we cleaned up, but no your boss had to fuck it up. I will stand between you and them to stop two worlds from being destroyed!"

"Is that your final answer?"

"No." He raised his middle finger.

"I see, can't say the words because they would be a poor choice. I always liked the way you worked around problems." He cocked his gun and took aim.

"Good bye Mark."

"Only my friends call me that."

"Is he going to kill him?" Luna asked leaning away from the mirror.

"Then goodbye Sna... blargh...glglgllargh!" he gurgled, grasping his chest and throat. He slumped down with the knife in his chest and the one that landed beside him, after slitting his throat and bouncing of the truck. He gazed up at Snake.

“Tell dad I'll see him soon."

Surprisingly, Jacob nodded and cracked a smile revealing blood stained teeth. Specks got up and watched as the life slowly drained from his eyes. Snake looked away as the head fell forwards.

"Get everybody into the truck."

Specks collected his knife that cut his throat and the gun on Jacobs lap. "Sir, what is happening?" Snake was already in the driver’s seat. "We gotta move; they've found us!" He started banging on the horn, which awoke everyone. Ursa rolled onto his front, ready to pounce; Dead eye quickly searched for his mask and rose to his feet. The twins leapt into the air, landing side by side. Celestia had a less active awakening, she was about to complain when Ursa picked her up and carried her to the back of the truck.

"Put me down....Jacob?" She saw him lying there, blood on his jacket, and Specks claiming his knife from his lungs.

"What's going on?"

Nobody would answer as they all got into the truck.

"Why is Jacob dead?" she asked with the haunting memory in her mind.

"He made the wrong choice to piss me off." Snake quickly ignited the engine and took off at blinding speeds. He knew where to go: Ground zero.

Celestia looked mortified. There it was again. That side of humans she hated. If he was willing to kill his lifelong friend then what could she possibly mean to him? What about her ponies? He does not want to save Equestria. He wants to lead an army in. His leader’s army! Oh goodness an army of...Snakes would wipe out all ponies! She glared at the back of his head. Snake...how fitting.

The real Celestia was now crying. "I didn't know why he did that until it was too late. It was not even him."

Luna was speechless. She could understand why Celestia got the wrong impression. The group refused to comment on Jacobs’s death, due to the respect of Snake. They knew he wasn't handling it well as he carelessly turned dusty corners and sped down the small straight paths. She heard each of their thoughts.

Damn... I'm sorry Snake. It was him or you, in which case it was them or us.

Fuck. Jacob what did you do?

I hope he had a good reason. Jacob must have threatened Celestia or something big for him to die. I think me and Amber have his blood in our hair.

He killed Comrade from youth to save pony's world. Impressive, I could not do that. He needs to be alone, not easy decision for such a man. More than soldier of orders, more like Warrior of burden.

"Tia. I am so sorry."

"It gets worse." Celestia said morbidly. She wiped her nose in such an un-Princess like fashion. Her eyes were now bloodshot from all the tears that stained both hers and Luna's coat.

"Oh no." Luna whispered. How could it get worse? "Is it when they...die?" She didn't want to ask but she had too.

"No, it’s the bit before."

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"The guy practically brought a mini armoury." Dead eye said inspecting the weapons hidden in a trunk just behind the driving pit of the truck. It blocked the little pathway between the front and the back and contained a lot of weapons. AK's, MP-5s, an RPD even an RPG. There was a draganov and 2 pistols and a few frag grenades. Dead eye took notice of the book, hidden away.

"Hey look, it's our gear. Well we ain't got most of the weapons but we got the gadgets." Specks chirped being reunited with his electronics. He passed some C4 to Ursa.

Celestia was not taking well to the hangover, the bumps in the path and the death of Jacob, which was still unanswered.

The squad suited up. Specks put the revolver into Snake's holster and rested a hand on his shoulder. Snake rested his hand on his for a bit before nodding and removing it. They just had a silent conversation; Specks had explained what needed to be done, and that he was sorry. Snake gave him forgiveness and understood.

Snake kept the pace up, and darted towards his goal. Celestia stopped asking questions and just gave a disgusted look toward Snake. Amber and Abbiegale pulled up a blind to see the outside. They wished they hadn't.

Celestia's eyes widened and so did Luna's. The image showed them heading towards a tower off in the distance along the road. However to the right they saw...

"It’s a wasteland. Is this what your world has become?" Celestia asked.

There were stumps amongst the sand that was once soil. There were patches of yellow grass blotted around. The entire ground looked like vomit, justifying the term 'a sick planet'. There was fire burning and old machines rusting, one had a claw and was grasping a tree trunk like a twig. Nearby water had turned a brownish yellow, littered with corpses and skeletons of the animals that drank from it. The land was in this state for what appeared to be miles and miles.

"YOU DID THIS?" Celestia yelled.

"No. We tried to," Amber protested.

"Silence I will hear no more." Celestia ordered.

"She was trying to tell you that they were trying to clean up the mess! You fool they were trying to help the animals! It was a natural disaster!" The real Princess insulted her own image.

Luna was deeply disturbed by the land she had saw. Compared to the beautiful landscape of the book this was a nightmare.

Snake was still hurdling towards his destination, he was about to arrive when something went wrong. He turned too fast and wound up trying to correct himself. He veered slightly of track and, again, tried to correct himself. The walls to the tower were tipped with thin spears to stop people from climbing over not to stop them ploughing through.

Crash

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The mirror went dark. Slowly a light appeared. It illuminated a man lying in bandages. Half his face was covered up, mostly over the left eye, and he had a bandage wrapped around his arm. He turned his head and the mirror followed too. The room was grey and stripped of any colour and life it once held. There were beds, but the mattresses had become spring carcasses.

"Good your awake, we thought we lost you." Dead eye and Ursa walked in.

"Da, took damage to eye and a spike through arm. Cuts on face will slowly heal, but will continue to bleed. No nerves in eye, but around will be hurting. Lucky small amount went through, head would split like melon otherwise."

"Thanks guys." He inhaled slowly at the slowly building pain. "I feel like shit. Will my eye heal?"

Dead eye was about to answer but closed his mouth. How do we tell him?

"No, you will be blind now in left eye."

I suppose that is one way to go ahead.

"So I see." Snake chuckled; the 2 slowly joined in and shook heads until Snake started wheezing.

"How can he laugh after such an accident?" Luna asked bamboozled by the injured humans response.

"I think I'll change my alias to Dead eye."

"Can't. If there are two dead eyes we'll be blind."

"Right then. Let's get Celestia out of here before Jacob’s goons turns up, you got weapons?"

"Yeah, Specks also got Ursa to line the Valley entrance up with explosives."

"Good lad. How's Celestia?" He leant forward and clutched his gut. "Is she hurt? Can she get home? Her people need her, I want her safe you hear me!"

"You see, Luna, He still believes he has a mission to do." Celestia looked like she was about to cry again. "He didn't care that he was hurt, he just wanted me safe and returned to my subjects."

"Relax she is fine. She is working on a way back with Specks. Apparently they’re close to finishing." The American reassured from under his mask.

"Phew. Thank god. when this is over I'll by you all a pint of Carlsberg."

"I think after last night we can wait."

"Da, my face still hurts."

Snake and Dead eye looked at him.

"Sorry. I meant head."

"No problem bro. you got damn good English on you."

"Guys, Giz a hand getting me out, If we were being followed you’re going to need every man you have."

The pair supported Snake until he could walk on his feet.  He wobbled for a bit whilst getting used to his new type of depth perception but eventually got the hang of it. "Has he told you about Jacob?" Snake asked leaning against a desk.

"Yes. Hey man we're sorry."

"For what?"

"That he had to die."

"That's nothing to be sorry for. My best friend was a traitor and succumbs to his urges of survival, much like his General. I would not allow him to let more civilians die." He turned and faced the Medic and the Sniper. "What about you guys? I'll give you one chance to leave."

"We know what we’re doing. I hate condemning our planet, but you’re right. We made a mistake and it's time to own up to it like men. Do you think Celestia might save us?"

"Yes, Yes, YES!" screamed Celestia at the image.

"No." Snake answered flatly. "Not since Jacob. He smiled at me you know, right before he died. I think he knew we lost any chance of redeeming earth through Celestia. It was always his way or the hard way. He hated it when I chose the hard way, which was a lot."

"Do you think we can live?" The Russian asked

"I don't see why not. We have survived a lot."

"What about a weak atmosphere, flash floods and lethal sunburns?"

Snake shrugged. "A bit of factor 50 and some armbands and we'll be set. Now lets focus on the near future."

There was a bemused snort about how they could tackle the apocalypse. Then Snake had to ask one last question.

"Does Celestia understand the situation?"

There was an awkward silence.

"We did try to explain it but she would never listen. In fact Celestia only talks to Specks she needs something, even then it's just for food or water."

“I’ll go talk to her. Did you get that book?"

"Da, we went back to truck for it. Is with goggled boy."

"Right, thanks pal."

"Not a problem."

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Celestia was inspecting her entrance to the world. It was exactly how she left it. The room was slightly burned and charred, there was a single door leading to the corridor towards the exit. She remembers the path between Equestria and Earth closing. She could now remember wondering through the forest, away from the desolate wasteland. For a whole day she wondered before collapsing and waking up in a prison. She could barely remember the spell that brought her there. It was a written incantation with archaic wording. Very old magic, the kind ancient earth ponies practised to fight unicorns. It can be said to not be magic at all but still does not stop it's effects.

Monsters. Every last one of them. Why would they choose to do this? They cannot be trusted. Celestia's thought echoed.

Luna hugged her sister. She didn't know what to say.

Celestia welcomed the hug.

Specks strolled in. "Hey I got you more of those flowers. I even got seeds for you to take home." He said hoping to elevate her mood. He moved over and put the flowers and seeds on a nearby table, full of his tools. The engineer could see her still unfazed and inspecting a burnt wall, with only a circle large enough to fit her through.

"Look I don't know what to do. If you want to know why Jacob had to be killed I'll tell you. If you don't want to know, then you won't understand."

She turned to face him. "I understand perfectly. Is Snake still sore? It was quite an injury his sustained." Celestia said, loving every sound of the syllables.

What were those words? Oh yes. That fucking prick deserves it if he thinks he can kill his old friend, and invade my world. He is the worst of these creatures.

"TIA!" Luna was shocked to hear such foul language, especially since she learnt their meanings.

"I...I...didn't mean it. I didn't know what had happened." She said weeping shamefully.

"T'is just a flesh wound love. A couple of plasters will fix it." A shadowy figure stumbled in, drinking from a trade mark flask. Snake looked up and saw the two looking back. Specks was happy, Celestia had a small frown.

Guess it takes more than a couple of fatal gashes to slay the beast.

A new image played out. From Celestia's perspective she woke up on top of Ursa. The group stumbled up to their feet. The twins got up off the middle of the road, and Dead eye and Specks staggered out of the bushes. Ursa helped Celestia out of the ditch and they all searched for the missing one.

"Where's Snake?" Ursa asked.

Nobody could see him, until Dead eye got the revelation.

"Check the front. Ursa we might need a medical kit!"

The group made their way to the compacted front. It was quite a sight.

"Oh God!" Amber exclaimed covering her mouth.

There was a body in the blood stained, makeshift, coffin. The window was smashed and there was a railing through the window. The evenly spaced spikes had in bedded in Snakes arm and left a spike in his eye. His face was oozing with blood. The group was silent, both Luna and mirror Celestia vomited. There was a silence as they were paying their respects.

Until a long, pained, breathe was heard. This was shortly followed by rapid breathing.

"Snake your alive!"

Luna wiped her maw and looked up surprised. She and mirror Celestia was amazed by the fact he was still alive.

"Pain... Need..."

"Don't worry, URSA GET YOUR ASS HERE RIGHT NOW!"

"No need...got gin...hehehe...prefer a cuppa' tea..." he chuckled slightly agitating the spikes that had just punctured his eye and arm.

"He is insane to laugh at such a lethal problem!" Luna yelled in annoyance.

“Maybe. He thinks he is trying to lighten the mood my changing subject. He does not want them to panic otherwise they can't help him."

"When you get out you can drink till your liver gives up. Specks! Help me get this door open!" The pair tried to open the door, it eventually gave. They were able to see the glass that shattered. Most of it was embedded in his jacket but there were scratches on his face.

Back in the room Specks was ecstatic to see him. "SNAKE! Ya tough bastard." His smile dropped a touch when he inspected the damage. "How bad is the damage?"

"I'm half blind. My arm will be out, but I still got a shooting arm. How are you?"

"I fell into nettles. Nothing quite as serious." The act of rubbing the back of his head revealed the shame in those words.

"And you my dear?"

"Fine." The Princess spoke flatly. "I will need something to mark the walls and floor."

"I see. Specks go find something that will fulfil her wishes. I need to talk to her."

"Yes sir." Specks left to give her and Snake private time.

"Did you visit whilst I was out?"

"I had work to do. I was busy."

"I see. Have you made any process?" He said slightly disheartened.

"Yes I will need time to prepare my leave." She turned away. “Thank you for saving me." She said through her teeth whilst looking away.

“I just did what I had to do ma'am." And what every other person should have volunteered for. Selfish arseholes.

Celestia sniffled at this part. She was not informed of how people volunteered to save her, or the lack of because they secretly sided with the general.

"Of course. Just another soldier who is his following orders. I require time to prepare."

"How long?"

"Between 20 to 40 minutes."

"You got it." Snake edged forward and also inspected the wall. They both turned and faced each other at equal height. "Now about Jacob."

"Save your breath, I do not wish to know."

"You mean you do not wish to know about how he was going to betray us?"

You mean how he was going to betray your leaders plan to claim my world as his own? Then Yes I already know. "So I cannot trust any human? Especially those who are hospitable?"

"What about..."

"Snake we need to talk." Specks interjected. He strolled over and gave Celestia some chalk.

"This will suffice, go. Leave. I need time."

"This is not over."

Actually human it will be soon enough.

"I wish it wasn’t” Celestia wept to the sound of her reflections voice.

Specks and snake walked out towards a large room. On the left was another room with all the weapons and ammo. The girls were doing weapon checks. To the right was a smaller room with a Dead eye polishing the sniper.

"What is it Specks?"

"Sir I did a fly over with the drone and found something." He showed him the picture on his wrist. "They’re coming with an entire battalion and 2 tanks." Everyone turned and focused on Snake. He had to give a life changing order. Leave or stay.

"We set up fortifications and give Celestia enough time to leave. Then we get the fuck out of here." He turned to see Ursa walking down the stairs. "Thanks for patching me up, do you still have the charges on you?"

"I have detonator. Who are we attacking?"

"Defending. Specks how long?"

"30 minutes ago I took this picture, we have about 20 minutes."

Snake sighed. "Get us the book."

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Celestia had finished place the marking against a burnt black wall. The taste of chalk reminded her of her school days, when she was punished and had to write with her mouth using chalk. Earth ponies and pegasi are immune to the taste, amongst over things, of chalk. She was remembering her time there. It was her first day of being the new filly. Being a Princess made others quite nervous around her, except one. He was just like Snake; tried to make the situation better, tried to minimise fights but was too good at fighting. He joked about the fire that Discord caused in the canteen one evening.

Later on in her high school years they became good friends. He was really nervous around the castle. He often got glared at by guards and studied by the staff. He just joked that they were jealous of his looks. Reflection Celestia smirked.

He stood by Celestia, even during her hardest time. When she had a crush on a Pegasus stallion everypony else said was a jerk. Of course he dated her. He saw a way into the royal family. Her best friend kept a beady eye on him, eventually they scrapped and he left the couple alone. Celestia screamed that he was being stupid and was trying to destroy everything, but he wasn't. She soon learnt of her colt friend's antics without her protector. She was mortified and he changed. He stopped pretending to be nice and started playing the ' If you leave me you will have nopony else to go to.' She didn't cope with that; she couldn't, not after losing her only friend.

In the final days of high school, after Celestia gave a speech to commemorate everypony’s achievements, the thug thought it would be a good Idea to follow an old tradition all the other couples did. He took her behind the high school where no pony could see them. He tried convincing her, didn't work so it didn't sit well with. She would have blasted him to the sun but she was still scared of being lonely. If he had realised they were being followed he would of stopped.

A fight broke out between two stallions. This time the thug lost and scampered away, badly beaten. He had broken his wings and hoof. His career as a wonder bolt stopped there and then. Celestia tried to look at her hero, but he too was badly hurt. She remembers gasping when she recognised who it was.

"Hey sunny... I would say I told you so but it's really bad taste."

“Hard hoof! Are you okay?"

Hard hoof gave a dead panned look, and chuckled afterwards.

"Okay maybe not the best question." She made circles with her hoof. "Why did you come back? Why did you hurt him so badly?"

He turned to meet her gaze. "Why should I let the villain have a dream when he takes them away from the good ponies?"

He stood up, and wobbled. "As for you my friend, you were always trouble. I wanted one last adventure before I left. I understood why you were mad. I couldn't explain in time, you probably thought I was jealous. Now somepony does think highly of herself."

Celestia arched an eyebrow and smirked.

"Not to say you’re not attractive, heck that's a nice flank you got, but you’re not my type. Think you can give me a hoof sunny?"

"Always." she cast a spell and restored him to fit condition.

"That's better. Now I'll be ready for tomorrow." They started walking back towards the high school.

"Why what happens tomorrow?"

"I've joined your army to fight Discord."

Celestia stopped dead in her tracks. She argued about the stupidity in it, he said it needed to be done. She couldn't understand why he wanted to kill; he said it was because it was the only option. They eventually agreed to put it aside. They spent the night in the castle and were welcomed by the guards and staff. He was missed considering the last friend Celestia brought back.

After a night of fun and games Celestia fell asleep on him, hugging him tightly. In the morning he was gone. He left a note saying how whenever the sun rose it would remind him when of her. Not just as the Princess, but his best friend. She still keeps that note to this day. He was never seen again but a decade later he had a message to be delivered by another guard.

'Hey, don’t forget me. Don't blame yourself. Remember it took me time to find a way back to you. I finally forgave you for what you said and we had a great night after I saved you, even if you did cheat. If you could, I know you would have saved me too. In fact you already did. Goodbye Sunny. From the damn best Stallion you were ever lucky enough to ever meet:

       Hard Hoof.'

It had a small blood splatter in the corner.

This was when the Elements of harmony were to be discovered.

Her memory was interrupted by Snake walking in.

"Are you nearly done?"

"Yes."

She started talking in incantations. The lines lit up and a portal opened. Her room was visible and spotless. It was still daylight in her world. Perhaps time is faster here. Otherwise it has been day for almost 3 weeks. That or the maids broke in to clean my room, but leave the teapot by the bed.

"Okay I'll bite maybe magic is possible, but there's still no way you move the sun."

Celestia didn't answer. She no longer cared about what he thought.

"I brought you something. It’s a little going away present." He handed her a tome, along with small trinkets and devices.

"What is it?"

"Read it and you will find out."

"Later, for now I must work on getting across."

"It is open though."

"My body is not ready."

"Fair enough, you know magic better than I do."

"Indeed."

"I want to talk to you about Jacob..."

There was a crackle from the headset. "Snake we have Five minutes their picking up the pace!"

"Get ready for the assault; I'll be with you shortly."

"What is happening?" Celestia asked.

"The army is approaching. They want to get through. They think you have the portal open."

You mean your Army. I can see your plan creature. You wanted me to open the portal so your army could enter and secure a foothold. A clever plan.

"Look Celestia you know we are good people and I don't want my men to die." He took a deep breath.

Go ahead human ask me.

"No you don't understand! He does not want to hurt us!"

Luna was shocked by her sisters past actions and thoughts.

"If you can...could you please save us?" his voice pleaded. This time though, Luna was well aware of the situation. For a brief moment of complete silence this time. It was not as quick as the first time she heard this part, a deathly silence for a man about to die.

"No, your kind brought this upon itself and shall suffer the consequence! I shall keep these memoirs in the name of this world you destroy, but remove you from all of its history!" Celestia barked.

Snake just stood there. He wanted to persuade her but he didn't know how. He eventually decided to leave it and focus on the upcoming battle.

"I don't blame you. You don't know the whole story; there was never enough time to explain. It's too much. Goodbye, but please know this. It is never too late to forgive and save a life. Good bye Princess Celestia." He turned and left for his squad. He thought Celestia would leave soon, he was unaware the portal was already closed. He sealed her in, so that the soldiers wouldn't get her if they got in.

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Celestia was now sobbing whilst Luna just watched the same battle take place. It all clicked into place. Who they were, why they were fighting. It got to the point where they were struggling to hold ground and retreated into the building. Snake asked Specks for an air strike and got one better: a missile strike. They realised they were trapped, so they could only take the building, and therefore the pathway to Equestria with them. Everybody agreed.

Luna started tearing up at how they all in unison chose to give their lives for the safety of ponies, who would never knew of them. Celestia couldn't watch this time she felt the shame of another seeing her actions. Her sins and secret were exposed, to her family no less and she just sobbed to herself.

The squad was moving higher and higher when the tanks arrived. Ursa decided it would be best to remove it properly: with an RPG. They made a small fort on the top floor. They were thinning out the battalion. They were opposite the side the tanks were on when Specks started beeping.

"Snake!" yelled Specks with glowing squares on his body. They were all trapped on the top floor when he revealed the bad news from behind a flipped table.

"What is it Specks." He replied still firing his device down the hall.

“Missile inbound. Sir orders?" He asked launching another grenade towards the door. Between explosions Snake was heard.

"HOW LONG!"

"5 minutes sir!"

"All right listen up. We are S.A.S, Marines, MI6 and Spetsnaz, protectors of the innocent from the highest threat, each other.  We got five minutes left. We saved one world from those sick bastards back at their HQ, now we go for one thing and one thing only."

"What’s that?" asked Amber. "Don't hold out on us." demanded Abbiegale who was reloading her MP-5.

Luna knew where this was going and charged at the Mirror, she landed a heavy back hoof on it.

Snake smiled. "We go for Glory, we go for pride, and we determine the best. We go for a high score. Unless a way out shows up...wait what the heck was that?"

Celestia's head shot up, her ears twitched. He had never said that in the past 300 times he repeated this scenario.

Unfortunately, he was distracted and took a bullet to the right shoulder. Again that never happened before. Neither did the moment when Ursa turned and fired all his bullets down the stair case, ripping apart the soldier down the hall and the rest on the staircase. He had given enough time for Snake to roll out of the way, and looked towards a glowing crack in the wall.

"What to fuck is that!" Specks yelled blind firing down another corridor.

“AAAAARGH! I have no FUCKING clue." Snake said clutching his wound.

"Luna? WHAT THE HAVE YOU DONE ?" Celestia yelled in the royal Canterlot voice, which had not been used by her in centuries. The Princess of the night had changed history and broke through to the other side.

"2 minutes!" Specks yelled.

Celestia stood up. "Move out of the way! We don't have time!"

Chapter 4: So I take it you're not busy if your here.

Chapter 4: So I take it you’re not busy if your here.

There was another thud against the strange cracks in the wall. More bullets flew out of an enraged Russian who seemed to stand there for an eternity.

"Увидимся в аду!" He yelled at the confused, angry or dead soldiers.

"2 minutes!" Specks yelled.

"FUUUUCK!" Dead eye yelled drilling holes through more distant solders.

"Amber, help me get Snake away form...."

Another hard thud was heard. It boomed and the cracks widened. A recognisable voice could be heard, but violated everyone else's sense of perception.

Impossible. If she was on the other side, why isn't she being shot? Or falling? There's nothing out there but open sky. Specks wondered.

"Luna! When I break through, you use your magic to pull them across."

"Yes sister ready when you are."

Snake had a feeling about what was going on. Evac? Celestia must be saving us!

"Guys get over near the wall, get ready to get out."

"Are you crazy!?" Abbiegale and Specks screamed, but of course they followed orders.

"Trust me on this. Sunny's coming. HAHAHA that bitch is finally pulling her own weight!"

He heard another boom on the wall, followed by a very pissed of growl.

"One minute!" Specks yelled, perched on in the corner shooting at the only way in or out. The group took shots whenever they could. Ursa was the last to join the group.

"Vwat happens now?"

"We wait...CUTTING IT CLOSE CELESTIA!" He glared towards the window shortly afterwards. He could see the trail of the missile approaching. "Throw all your grenades down the hall!" Shuffling amongst the discharged bullet casings he managed to throw a flash bang with his better arm, which unfortunately had a hole in it.

Back in Equestria, the Alicorns were slowly breaking the mirror, Celestia landing mighty bucks and Luna using her magic to expand the cracks.

"CUTTING IT CLOSE CELESTIA!"

"Hold on one more!" Get ready Luna." She instructed the princess of the night.

She paced to the bed and her hind legs, backed up with immense speed and made contact.

SMASH

Time slowed as shards of glass and debris swapped worlds. The dusty old walls belonging to earth flew about Celestia's royal chambers, breaking the bed, wardrobe, shutting the safe and even drilling through the closed double doors. Celestia and Luna were blessed with being at the right positions at the right time. On the other side; razors flew past the unguarded backs of the squad. The mirror fragments glistened as they saw one human lose a slither of blood. The giant reached up to cradle his bleeding hearing appendage, only to find his missing ear on his lap. He picked it up and  tried to squash it back into place.

"Now pull Luna!"

The indigo unicorn' eyes glowed a white colour as her horn strained to pick them up. The missile was getting closer, not stopping for anything. Focused and built for a kamikaze mission. He had his target, he had no mercy.

Snake turned to see the pair of princesses trying to reach for them, horns a glow. Their magic couldn't reach past the invisible barrier bonding both realms of existence.

"Everybody get to Celestia. Go!" Everybody rushed. Snake stayed to pull others through: Specks, the twins, Ursa and Dead eye. It was his turn when the missile hit, and Luna was right by the entrance. The entire squad was flung against the opposite wall of Celestia's room. The blast caused smoke to fill the room as has Snakes body tackled the younger sister to the ground. The fire and flames erupted over him, scolding his exposed elbows.

The wall holding the Mirror started to rumble and began collapse in on itself. The portal grabbed and tore pieces of the wall until there was nothing else left. When the entire wall was demolished the passage imploded. The remaining rubble fell unceremoniously.

There was more smoke and coughs. The wall had led way to another room; it seemed to serve as a stationary cupboard for the cleaning staff. How fitting.

Celestia got to her hooves. Groggily she looked around at the ordeal behind them. 5 humans were discarded where ever the portal was pleased to throw them. Specks made his way through her portrait near the balcony, Dead eye was sat, legs spread apart, back against the wardrobe, The twins were on both sides of the rock that now occupies the bed, Ursa was lying outside the room, still clutching his right ear. All passed out, but what worried Celestia the most was that Luna was missing.

"Luna?" She searched frantically.

"Down here Sister." a small squeak was heard under rubble and a hand.

"LUNA!" Celestia immediately lifted the rubble up, and tossed them into the cleaning closet, with her magic.

"Snake." she saw that on top of her sister, spreading out to maximise coverage, was Snake. Bruised and beaten; bleeding and breathing. He kept all of the wall remains off her but he couldn't stop his blood from leaking into her coat.

"He saved me, we need to help them." She gazed at what was left of the human. A slow oozing or rose from his bandaged eye, a badly torn front of his suit revealed a bruised left chest, a small hole in his right shoulder displayed a dark sanguine ditch. Luna could only describe his slowly breathing body as Broken.

"Yes, we must take him to the infirmary." She collected the bodies and when they were together, Ursa mumbled something in Russian, before there was a blinding light.

The bitter scent of aesthetic camped inside his nose. Twitching and flinching against a warm breath by his bare uninjured arm, slowly inhaling and exhaling to the more pulsating chirps of the heart monitor. The mind returned to his body gradually as Snake awoke from the fatigue induced slumber. From his good, and only, eye he could squint at faint shapes. A white blob with a moving blur made of 'cool winter' colours, 3 square fuzzy shapes past his feet on the other side. He tilted his head and gritted his teeth against the pain as he screwed his head to the other side. His new blind spot held a blue wall. He closed his eye, embraced the pain a little while longer before opening them again. His vision focused; he could see the aqua blue curtain in more detail, the shadows between the folds, and the highlights on the hills. He scanned back to the sight opposite his bare feet. 3 more beds containing Specks, Abbiegale, and Dead eye by the window currently closed. They were stripped down to vests and pants. From the heart beat monitors he could tell they were all stable.

The final sight came back to the blob resting next to him. She had her mane slowly flowing, the colours of candy pink, ice blue, moss green and a faint sliver of deep river blue framed the tired Alicorn. She wore her tiara behind the horn and on the brink of her ethereal mane. Her single eye was closed, as she quietly slept near him. From her cushioned seat she rested her head on the bed, just before his arm. A hoof was just out of reach for his hand.

He tried to move his hand. Just a little bit, just a nudge, to wake her up. He had something he wanted to say. After a slight tap, and another and another strained prod, she eventually returned. Fluttering a bit, the pink iris was seen underneath a half open eye. It eventually tracked to the source of the prod, leading to her eye shooting open and switching to focus on his sly grin.

“So I take it you’re not busy if your here." He stated.

Celestia shot up and smiled. She leaned over and hugged him. He was scared to say the least. The monitor spiked and revealed his suppressed shock.

"I'll take that as: you had a lot of time then." He concluded she had waited for him, for what must have seemed like months.

"Too much time Snake." She chuckled. It was good to hear him again. His warm chest contained a strong pulse, which the monitor did no justice to represent. To say that was his heart beat was to say blowing a raspberry was equal to thunder. She looked back at him almost tearing up. “You’re an idiot for not running!"

"Well I had to make sure you and your world was safe." He crossed his arms, one freshly bandaged, the other bare of uniform. "A gentleman always walks a lady home ma'am."

"I thought you said being a gentle man isn't always a good thing?" she said, still holding a tear but smirking.

"I also said how we choose to exercise it. It was a good thing I did." He said smirking in reply. She hugged him one last time.

"Just...don't do it again, and tell me everything next time. No more lies."

" I'm sorry, but I'd do it a hundred times over." He brought enough strength to hug back, weaving his hand through her mane. He could feel the hairs, but they were like liquid, they were possessed and all move in unison unless disturbed. She accepted the massage as it came.

"I know you would. I'm glad you don't have to any more than the once anymore." she retracted from the patient and he stored that last statement in his mind for a later date. This was not the time or place, they were happy to be alive. The best missions were when none of the good guys died after nearly dying.

What does she mean 'more than the once any more'? He was going to ask but he realised he had more pressing matters involving his international squad, or the lack of two people from said squad.

"Wait, where's Ursa and Amber?"

"Here."

The curtain opened to reveal Ursa pulling it in one hand and stethoscope in the other. Amber was lowering her vest as she looked over. "We were worried about you. Been in this room for about 3 days. Everybody else has gotten up. Ursa here was actually a doctor before he became a medic."

"I know. I read his profile. Good Job Sergi danil." He gave a salute, lifting his hand from Celestia's mane.

"Thank you, comrade. It was how you say 'touch and go'. If you did not get medical help soon eye would be infected. Your eye is still not going to be healed I'm afraid. Cuts around eye will scar, but rest should heal. Pony magic is useful."

When he finished Snake turned to Celestia.

"Pony magic eh Sunny?"

She grinned and arched an eyebrow.

"Yes, I used my healing magic to do my best to repair the damage. I'm afraid I had limited results, I can only heal what I know about your physiology. Only the surface wounds and a few bruises I am afraid." She smiled at him before focusing on his eyes "I do hope you don't spread that ridiculous nickname around."

"Well thank you for your help, you two may have saved my life. Oh and I can't promise that ma'am." He grinned back.

Celestia was too happy to even care. He was alive, after hundred years, 299 deaths and hours of sobbing, he had been saved.

"Wait. Have we even left this room?" he asked Ursa.

"No, Princess Celestia does not wish us to be focus of other ponies."

"Good move. We're Spec ops anyway. My you’re a little miracle worker aren't you?" He said turning his head to the Diarch.

She stood up and smiled warmly at the compliment.

"I try."

Snake noticed something different. She appeared more slender, more toned, had a whiter coat and moved more delicately.

"Princes...you look different." Snake eyed suspiciously.

"Oh well... your world does change a pony." she responded, slightly panicky at first before returning to her calm composure.

"I see. It is a far better improvement my dear. You’re definitely slimmer and have a shinier coat. My, my. What an improvement indeed." He said smiling. She blushed and he leant back satisfied that his compliment had taken effect. Amber arched an eyebrow and smiled to Ursa. He returned the same gesture.

"Why...thank you Snake." She blinked and beamed before grinning evilly. "So I was giant back that night?"

His eye shot open, and then he remembered what he said. "In proportion to our ponies."

Satisfied she left the bed side and headed to the exit.  "Now that you are all awake I can introduce you to my sister. Then we can move on to my trusted ponies, before reaching the general population." She gave Snake one last tear filled smile before leaving.

The doors opened and she made her way out down the empty corridor. Ursa and Amber could see a smaller familiar Alicorn heading towards them. After conversing with Celestia she sped up and trotted her way towards the infirmary. Celestia seemed to have a merry skip in her step too.

"Heads up Snake you have a fan. For the record you’re a shit spec ops solder. Apparently your name is going around the entire castle."

"Da, we suspect it is because you dropped knife with your name on." he handed Snake a branded blade, his first knife. Remembered for his first 'justice' kill; Abdul Immazan, terrorist. He made sure he knew who Snake was and why he was the one who had to die. He was one responsible for his mother and sister's death. He had his nickname on one side professionally inscribed. Used in close quarters with his pistol, the serrated blade had never failed him. His old squad called it his fang, which he later scratched on along with a tally chart.

"Ah thanks."

"Da Night Pony has been eager to meet you. Almost like sister."

"Greeting Ursa Major, how art thou?" A young voice chirped. On the first day Ursa could not translate her at all. Day two he finally got used to some archaic English. It was still a slow process to solve her slightly foreign words.

"Fine, Princess of night. How are you feeling?"

The princess was slightly perplexed. "Why does thou ask? Do we look ill?"

"No, it's just a phrase he learned. It can mean are you healthy? Or how are you?" Amber explained.

"Oh yes, forgive us, we forget this is not your native tongue. Yes we are fine Ursa Major, thank you. How art thou Amber?"

"I am Fine princess Luna, thank you. Before you ask yes he is awake. You can go see him now." She smiled and trotted around eyes closed. "Be gentle!"

Snake looked at her with a small smile as she treated herself to a peek with a small flash of teal.

"You know...I won't disappear if you open your eyes." He chuckled.

She giggled. "We were just not prepared. We have visited because we have wished to thank thou multiple times for different noble purposes; alas you were always asleep from your ordeal."

"Just catching up on my beauty sleep." he chuckled.

She giggled again. "Thou would still laugh after all thou hath been through? Even with his body broken he still rescued my sister from the wicked. Thou hath my eternal favour. More so thou did save us from the fire and rubble, truly an amazing creature of action."

“My body may be broken, but the human spirit is unstoppable, just look at my friends." He moved his hand around pointing out the resting and the awake. "I take it you are Celestia's sister. She spoke highly of you, I am glad I got you two back together."

"True, you performed a well-planned assault and survived a gruesome accident. We are aware of your commitment to our sister’s return. We thank thou, for thou hath no idea what it means to us that she is safe." Luna winced as she recalled his memory of the grave yard.

"I wouldn't want you to find out the other alternative." He said morbidly under his breath.

She inspected the damage; the bandage around his shoulder, wrapped arm and covered eye. "How is the eye? If thou does not mind answering."

Snake sighed. "Not good I'm afraid. It's gone. But I'm human I'll survive with a grin on my face, it's what we do."

"Yes I am aware, although your antics are often quite serious if need be." She straightened up, and walked over to the seat bedside the one her sister occupied. The seat was plush unlike the wooden one next to it, which was hers. "She did not leave you, you know. My sister was determined to stay by thou's side. Even when raising the sun, she would use that window over yonder." she pointed to the window next to the resting Dead Eye. "Know this Snake. She was truly sorry for not rescuing thou first. You have no idea how long she felt guilty for."

"Nor do I want to. It must have felt like an eternity to her." Luna desperately wanted to tell him the hidden secret. He had a right to know that he had died nearly 300 times in her world. "She made the right choice in the end." He pointed to the plushy. "Take a seat, nopony will tell." She smiled and sat in her sister's plushy. "So I guess it's true about raising the sun. I still won't believe it till I see it."

"Thou could wait till we raise the moon soon. That will certainly prove the truth in her words." Snake snorted to her disbelief.

"Yeah, of course. One gets the sun the other gets the moon."

She grinned. "Just wait and see. Thou will be most surprised."

In the royal canteen, the cook was making Celestia's favourite treat:  cakes. Not just any cakes, but mixed cakes that offer sweet variety with each slice. Such as: chocolate, sponge, lemon, butter, Battenberg and more in one cylindrical form. Each slice was so that royalty did not get bored.  Celestia decided to make a quick visit.

"Good evening, Golden Veiner. I have come to make a request about future deserts on my plates."

"Oh. Good evening your majesty." She quickly bowed, and looked up from the floor. "Whatever you desire your highness."

"I wish for you to decrease the number of cakes you bring to me."

She looked up a bit confused. "Reduce ma'am?"

Celestia was tempted to ask her if she was thinking about her flank size, but digressed.

"Yes. Oh and could you please add a bowl of mixed salad. Thank you, good bye." She walked out with a beaming grin.

"What's got her in a good mood?" She looked at the new finished cake, then to the meal section of the kitchen. She eyed the vegetables and returned back to the cake. "Must be a crazy, weird new trend.... like mixed cakes."

Celestia made sure nopony was looking. When she was certain about being alone, she posed in a mirror in one of the rooms.  It is a far better improvement my dear You’re definitely slimmer and have a shinier coat .My, my what an improvement indeed.

"Well he certainly did have an eye for detail in the forest. He definitely could not be wrong about me. I guess I can keep this figure....even if I have to sacrifice the love of my life" She chuckled.

"And that is how the Nightmare Night celebration ended, it was most successful. I have so many plans for next year." Luna had spent the evening explaining so many crazy things. Ursa and Amber smiled as Snake gave the same response as the rest once did, Disbelief.  Nightmare moon, discord, nightmare night and the elements of harmony became the topics to ruin his understanding of the world. His world anyway, so here he figured it was the norm. Well, not the whole chocolate rain part. He hated chocolate.

“I could imagine. So tell me, you are meant to be the sneakiest pony around, correct?"

She pondered for a moment. "Yes, we believe so. Why doth thou ask?" She asked cocking her head to the side.

"Just thought I'd give you a heads up that me and my friends are going to steal that title."

She grinned "Truly you cannot believe such a thing. It would be foalish to try and beat the princess of the night. I am aware of your skills but you do not have the agility or stealth to pull of any... “She stopped dead in her tracks as Snake had her tiara hanging on his index finger.

"You were saying... Princess of the night?" He grinned handing back the royal crown.

"That was not fair; we were not expecting such an act." She said repositioning the crown.

Snake sniggered and looked at Amber who looked amused. "Is that not the definition of stealth?"

They laughed eventually Luna stopped looking angry and joined in.

"Hey how about this." he brought his knife out. "If you can take this without me noticing, then you gain a point. If I take that tiara of your lovely mane then I get a point. First to 10 points wins."

She considered the proposal, smirked and held out a hoof. "We accept your challenge; we also assume the prize is the title of the master of the night and shadow?"

"And one request, can't back out now."

"We were about to inform thou the same." She took note of how his fingers slowly wrapped around the horseshoe. She felt a bit snobbish, given that Celestia was not wearing any at the time she met. She was tempted to remove them and start again but the verbal contract had been sealed.

"We shall leave..." He had her tiara again.

"That’s one for the human and zero for the equine." He handed her back the black tiara which she levitated back into place.

"Very well, thou hath won this round." She pulled herself out of the plushy." We will see thou later when we wish to perform our nightly ritual. Your friend Dead eye will support Celestia's claim of raising the sun. Farewell."

"Good bye, my fare mare." She smiled at the compliment.

When she left she closed the door; she tried to keep Snake in her view between the closing passages. After it shut Amber piped up.

"You’re a flirty bastard! I bet you’re a proper man-whore when you’re off duty." She chuckled.

"No, I just know how to please a woman, or mare in this case."

"You’re going to get yourself into trouble with that you know."

"Is broken hearted princess ever helpful?" Ursa asked.

"Look I won't play to close to the heart strings, why would you even think a pony would go for a human?"

"She did spend the whole time by your bed ONLY."

"Da, she made Luna to get food, and only went to that window to do her sun rising magic."

"Not you guys too." He face palmed, unfortunately it was with his sore arm. He hissed and they chuckled.

"Well done numb nuts, it's true she does raise the sun."  He ignored the comment. He looked towards the rest of the squad who were sleeping.

"What have you guys done whilst you were stuck here?" He asked. They both shrugged.

"Sleep, eat, drink, talk, eat, heal and sleep." This came from the Russian and it actually counted as a perfect sentence. He pointed to his ear. It had a black dotted line at the base that appeared to reach around. "Will fully heal in 4 days with pony magic, is quite useful. Best part is that this is sewing thread."

"Wow you’re good, I'm glad it's you who patched me up doc. Thank you again."

"не стоит благодарности" he gave a wave of his hand.

"I suppose I should get some shut eye. Wake me when the others get up." Snake rolled over and closed his eyes but had one last question. From his side he asked. "By the way, how long before I can take these off?"

"Soon. Tomorrow, if not next day morning."

"Thanks Ursa. Get ready were doing equipment check when I get up. See you soon. Oh and one more thing..."

They turned to face the back of his wrapped head.

"We are not staying; we all have missions to do back home. Perhaps we can get Celestia's to help our world; if not then we still leave. We have each promised to serve our homeland and so we shall."

"But wait this place is perfect. We can remain safe here..."

"What of Dead Eyes wife? What about Specks’ little brother? How about you tell them they can't be seen again. They will believe we died and suffer for the rest of their lives, whilst we live here. Get a fucking grip. Don't get blinded. Earth needs us, as soon as we can, we're out ‘a here." He turned to face them looking stern with a look of pure authority,

"We will return home. That's the new mission. Are we clear?" He stressed.

There was a silence. Then Amber and Ursa grunted in agreement.

"Good, now don't forget to wake me." Resting in his bed, on his good side, it took about ten minutes before he drifted off into a sleep.

Amber turned to Ursa who was readying more medical supplies. Her thoughts weighed heavily on the last command, it made sense to stay. Heck it was crazy to leave. Yet could she leave her sworn duty? Fail to serve her country? She and Amber had saved hundreds of lives gaining intelligence on weapon shipments and planed attacks. They did swear to protect their country after they dropped the ball with one mission. They failed to collect Intel on an attack on a capital, an attack that killed those close to Snake. This was not to be thought over in the space of a minute. For now she needed a distraction.  

"So, is there a Mrs Ursa Major?"

He turned and arched an eyebrow. "No, vwhy do you ask?"

"What do you think of Abbiegale?"

Celestia was nibbling on some steamed carrot wrapped in lettuce, her tea cup hovering nearby for liquid refreshment, as she wrote a letter to her best student, Twilight Sparkle. She brought the quill to her lips, which she mistook for lettuce and bit on the ink end. After rinsing her tongue out, she returned to her desk. Needless to say, the cake was gone. She looked over at the crumbs and bit her lip. Thankfully more salad brought her back on track.

What followed was the quill scrawling across scrolls parchment. The letters communicated calculated thought as she invited her student and friends over to meet her guests.

Dear Twilight Sparkle

I have known you have had an interest into my disappearance 100 years ago and now maybe the time to explain it to you. You see I was in terrible danger from strange creatures seeking to invade this world. They were not evil but scared, their planet was dying. I was rescued by creatures of the same species, and now they are here to stay.

Permanently it seems.

They showed me that they are not all evil; one was half blinded and almost killed twice trying to save me. I would like you and the elements of harmony to meet them, and aid me in bringing them into our society. These ones have so much to show us, they have a lot of technology they are willing to part with, and Twilight they’re more advanced than you could possibly imagine. I have a feeling that one of them will become an instant favourite of yours. He too is intellectual and highly inquisitive about our world.

They have so many stories and ideas. Please hurry, it is late so I shall send a chariot for you at midday tomorrow.

From your mentor,

                            Princess Celestia.

Chapter 5: A midnight stroll

Chapter 5:  A midnight stroll

Yet again, the mind had to drag itself back to its host. His mind told him that moments ago he had closed his eyes, but his disoriented body told him he had only just awakened after a long sleep. He already knew why it seemed that way. Dreams would once occupy the human's mind until he lost that ability. Cherished memories of the past, and images of what could have been, filled the innocent souls mind when he rested as a child. Those days had come and gone. If he was lucky, Snake might get a wink of rest before either training or accepting another mission. The few dreams he has are murky and diluted. They have been covered over by a shadowy veil that obscures whatever dreams he is fortunate enough to get.

He remained silent and still,paralysed by the comfort of a good sleep. Even with the chatter of his comrades and irritable disinfection smell, he was too relaxed and calm to budge. It is a rare break for a soldier like himself to get any sort of R&R; he usually goes from one mission to another as soon as accomplishes them. The cotton  duvet remained only at his waist and the bed lining had been plucked by the fierce grasp of his hand. He recoiled at the slight pain as he eased his grip on the lining . Freeing himself from the bed lining, he let out an inaudible yawn so as to not alert those who were awake. It gave Snake a boost to his spirit to hear five familiar voices conversing, but he was in an elusive euphoric state for a soldier. After choosing to drift back into sleep, he increased the depth his head burrowed into his feathered pillow.

"Good night Captain Snake. We do wish for you to see our lunar ritual. Wake up soldier!" The sudden force from the sonic boom threw Snake off the bed. A slight reflex in his hand caused him make a fist and engulf the bed sheet again, as he cocooned himself whilst rapidly descending to the unforgiving floor. Tearing himself free he grabbed the nearest object and pointed it menacingly towards his assaulter.

A midnight blue alicorn wearing her signature starlight mane was grinning as if she had claimed a long overdue act of revenge. Floating to her left, inches from her face, was his modern dagger encased in a sparkling pale sky hue. After grinning she turned to face the weapon and inspected it further.

"I can see why you would prefer this weapon in close quarters." She said, still inspecting the blade by rotating it she remarked his instinctive selection of a weapon. In a threatening manner he clutched a small beam of green. The deadly end tipped by a sprouting faded blue star with cerulean outreaching spikes. He frowned as Princess Luna brought the knife dangerously close to her eye.

“Princess, I would highly advise you not to bring such a sharp object that close to your eye, you might just end up in my situation.” Snake warned.

“We appreciate your concerns Captain, but thou is most experienced in-”

She turned to face him and he wasn't there. Looking back to the group she received a light tap across the nose from him. She wiggled her nose before sneezing in a sharp squeak. She frowned and yanked the flower out of his hand and he returned the favour of grasping the knife. The small tingle, similar to the sense of pins and needles, chilled him to the bone as he wrapped his digits around the handle.

"If I was on a mission you'd be dead right now." Snake spoke, clearly not amused as he wore a scowl on his face. Field training taught him that there was always trouble if you woke up earlier than expected. The Princess looked at him with a guilty expression but hid her fear.

"We are sorry. We did not expect you would react as you have. We meant no harm." lowering her head in shame she desperately wanted to escape. Since Nightmare Night a month ago she had been making friends, this was the first time the alicorn had alienated someone. She was about to speak when she felt a small weight quickly depart from her head.

"Too easy." holding her signature tiara up to his head he inspected the black jagged object. Returning the same smug grin she once held he handed it back over. She smirked back and met his warm gaze. She was expecting an easy release until she had to use more magic. Staring into his eyes she noticed he lost that warmth for the next sentence. "You can play your little tricks, but do not ever scare me like that. I wouldn't want to hurt you. Now I'm all for fun and games, but things like that are usually taken as a bad sign in my line of work love." He released his locked grasp on the sparkling piece of jewellery. Snake expected another apology attempt and raised his hand to silence her. "Don't worry, no harm no foul, sorry for scaring you like that, I'm deadly serious though. Anyway isn't that 2 to 1 now?"

Sighing with relief the Princess of the night was more than amused by the fact he regained the lead. She looked up at him and she saw the back of his vest top, covering a bandage. She also spied what appeared to be the faint looks of a dark cutie mark. He walked towards the sound of an in depth conversation. She looked over the weapon that had toy-fully bludgeoned her nose. Her favourite flower was lifted and gracefully planted amongst its companions in a new vase.

"I can see his point, we should leave. My wife would kill me if I scare her like this. Once I forgot to tell her about a 2 month mission and she flipped out. I lost a good Foo fighters’ CD that day and the right to sleep inside the house." Deadeye was sitting on his bed next to the window, which Specks occupied. Opposite him sat Abbiegale and next to her, on the foot of the bed, was Amber. The titan was still rummaging through clinical tools. The masked man turned to a ninety degree angle to face Specks expectantly.

"I know, I understand. I was just thinking that this place is perfect. Have you seen the view? It’s paradise!” Abbiegale was pointing to Specks back meaning to be pointing to the view he was inspecting.

Through the telescopic zoom of his goggles he had observed the city below in great detail. From the race tracks he noticed different breed of ponies, that when combined made an alicorn. He had barely managed to digest the fact that mythical creatures were the indigenous population here. Whether he wanted to or not he had to accept this truth.

Though he was tempted to consider the very real possibility that he had died and gone to some sort of freakish Hell, the minor concussion he gotten earlier made it hurt to think at the moment, so he threw that possibility right out the window, content with the idea that he and his squad had indeed survived.

"He is right. My little brother needs me. I'm going back for him. I did also swear to my country that I would protect it and so did you two." Specks pointed out.

He turned to face both of them and aimed a finger between them. He caught a glimpse of Amber’s double C cups through his magnified sight; he zoomed out nonchalantly without her noticing his current viewpoint.

"As much as I want to stay I can't leave him there knowing that he'll die without me." Specks was always thinking the worst of what could happen to his brother. It would be only half the reason he enlisted for the armed forces.

"He won't."

Strolling over feeling fresh as a daisy, Snake kept an emotionless face when dealing with the doubt in his orders. It wasn't that he doubted their loyalty nor was it his ego that branched from his tactical commands. He could see when the seeds of doubt were sown and they could lead to major hiccups in any mission; in this case returning to Earth with aid.

"We do not belong here. I know it must be tempting to stay here but think about our homes. Deadeyes' wife could be involved in an attack we could have prevented. Many other civilians could be at the risk from greater harm. I know we're not the last line of defence, for God's sake we are not the only members of our branches. So should that justify our leave, that we are expendable? No. Is it because we have left our loved ones safely behind? No, we all have our reasons for becoming hidden from public knowledge. So should we abandon that reason because we can stay safe for the rest of our lives?"

There was a short pause. Ursa and Luna had walked over to listen to the speech.

"Well?" He interrogated further. Only one eyebrow was seen slanting inwards and that was all it took.

"No." The twins sighed in unison. This was followed by a group of mumbles and general agreement.

Snake needed to hear conviction. He could tell that they still had small doubts.

"NO WHAT?" he bellowed to the group. Immediately they all shot up. The vest tops clung to the skin and the jeans rattled as belts were dragged by the inertia of the jerk. Deadeye twisted his mask back to the appropriate position.

"No Sir!" They all shouted. Even Ursa was posed with a straight back and a salute across his brow.

"What was that you pieces of shit?" Needless to say the false anger and profanity shocked Luna. She knew of his tendency to swear but never thought she would hear it.

"Never Sir!” They all returned. They even kept a disciplined pose as he smiled. The evening sun shone past Specks shoulder. The faint illumination of orange was resting on side of the squads faces, but mostly on the back of Specks.

"Good, at ease. I want you all to think of a reason to return home. Make a good one too. As for now I suppose we can indulge ourselves with a bit of R 'n' R. Don't get complacent." The squad returned to their separate groups after welcoming the Captain back. Ursa and Deadeye moved towards the bed which Amber had slept in and began to talk about reasons for going home.

Ursa said there was a woman he got the phone number of, and he was considering following up on. Now given recent life changing events that was his plan of action. The girls sat on the bed legs crossed and talked about mundane things. Often they would pretend to be normal adults to take the edge of things. This time Amber had some juicy information about a certain Russian she wanted to share..

Specks shook hands tightly with his friend who was brought back from the depths of his short lived coma. Raising his goggles he inspected the gruff man in front of him.

He easily noted the cuts on his cheeks; the scrape across the clean side of his forehead which reached down past the working eye, the 'fuck it I'm alive ain't I?' smirk he carried after each successful mission. It reminded him of the many other completed assignments he toured with the veteran. Being a rookie meant few wanted to have him covering their backs. Snake knew he had potential, especially after he designed the flight suit he wore. He chose his words wisely to welcome his friend and his boss back to reality.

"You look like shit." the flat tone and expression got an amused flare of an eyebrow. Luna would normally be appalled by such language of anypony, but she realised they are not ponies.

"And I can still put you on your arse." he replied casually. That was a new word for Luna to decipher at a later date. Putting the curiosity to ask aside she walked past the window and asked Snake to watch.

Specks chuckled at the unfortunate truth; he had a lot to learn from his unofficial mentor and how to keep standing was one of them. “Thanks for the pep talk.”

“Anytime, there’s no better talk than an army pep talk.”

"Come Snake, it is time for us to perform our royal duty." halting before the window she rotated her head towards the bandaged soldier and he soon followed her.

"Oh this will be good." he spoke attempting to shake off the mirth. He was stopped by an overconfident smirk of the Princess who looked back at Specks who shared the exact same smile. A sense of unease and misjudgement filled the man who stepped next to the alicorn. He finally got a look at the metropolis below.

The stone and wood brought images of a medieval aged England to his mind. The sterner buildings and towers stood defiantly as opposed to the meeker wooden structures hidden by their feet. The fast moving dots invited images of space aged hovercrafts that moved elegantly and full of purpose. The distant specks of blurred colours roamed about; between alleyways, in and out of shops and across what Snake assumed would be cobbled roads.

A boundary of green on the horizon eased Snake into a sense of familiarity, albeit of a more painful time but one he was happy to recall. Survival training was one of his trials that he gladly overcome. The tall trees and fifty shades of green brought back to time he was dumped in a jungle and told to arrive at a destination. Refusing to be caught in painful nostalgia he turned to face Luna who was suspiciously close.

"T'is a fantastic sight is it not?  It has been this way for a thousand years, slowly expanding and becoming a great capital."

"Spectacular. It reminds me of an ancient time long ago in our history. Roughly a thousand years ago." He replied scratching his head. Luna was slightly disappointed. For over 2000 years Canterlot has remained in a cultural stalemate. Not many new discoveries technology wise, but plenty of overlooked cuisines and art. Still that warm smile on his face was contagious.

"We are glad you enjoy the sight, but we must change the backdrop to this view." she planted her hooves on the windowsill and gently nudged Snake aside. It took a while but he had eventually understood what Luna was talking about.

"So you’re going to raise the moon. You got an anchor somewhere or a piece string." sniggering slightly he had to ask the next part "A royal saddle and some lace reins for to you pull on?" The Princess was about to point out that, culturally, that combination was considered to be somewhat a raunchy attire; instead chose to silence the man with a glow from her horn.

The teal eyes of the Princess of the moon became orbs of pure white light. Snake’s expression dropped from smug grin to a shocked jaw drop. Specks had been praying to not miss this moment and was recording the whole ordeal. Slowly the group converged behind Luna. As the camera in Specks goggles recorded history the veil of night slowly dawned upon the sky. The darkening horizon overshadowed the capital below; soon yellow squares lit up in small wooden homes.

The increasing number of lights generated awe amongst the foreigners. Even those who had previously seen the spectacle could not keep from admiring the sight. A white pearl, traditionally associated with the night, began to climb into its rightful place. Snake continued to watch as the moon seemed to park at its destination for the night.

"Well?" Amber forced Snake out of his state of disbelief. Thankfully for him he was able to reset back to his stable mind, before it blew apart. Luna looked up beaming at her unfinished work.

Snake took time to collect his thoughts before posing two questions.

"How do I know that this is not well planned? What did you actually do? I saw your horn and eyes glow and that's about it." He thought he pointed out the gimmick behind how the magician performed her trick. To her annoyance he still did not believe her.

Groaning, she looked back out and her starlight mane glistened as the tiny lights in her mane started to glow. Outside he saw the stars come into view; more importantly a constellation that clearly spelt 'Art thou happy now Snake?' Gulping and collecting the pieces of his mind he had only one thing to say to the still suspiciously close mistress of the moon.

"Nice try." he spoke resting a finger on the base of his knife. It was about an inch out when Luna was caught. After almost throwing a tantrum by huffing, squealing and trotting on the spot, the Princess faced the focal point of her anger.

"Uh, first your insufferable and now deny me my reward." She grinned and looked him in the eyes “Mark our words, we SHALL win this challenge." The emphasis on the future tensed word did not even put him off in the slightest.

"Don't worry sweetheart we got a long time yet." She smiled happily at the format he had addressed her, whilst Specks and the group were still containing the laughter due to Ursa impersonating their leader's reaction. "Now I don't suppose there are any guards on this side of the castle are there?"

The Princess was confused "No. Why doth thou ask?" Curiosity had ensnared the rest of the group's interest too.

"I just feel like stretching my legs is all."

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Roughly a 2 hour train ride away there is a quiet village. Thatched houses, built in what appeared to be a structurally unstable way, were each deposited parallel to each other. The cobble stone road, which separated cottage homes, was worn down by the steps of each passing hoof. The market place was once filled with stalls and vendors; who were now gathering the remaining produce and product, that were not sold to customers. Wooden clanks and squeaking wheels slowly departed the trading grounds as the sun set on another working day. To the west of the market was the town square, home to the central hub: Town hall.

The wooden structure resembled two carousels built upon each other with a chocolate drop roof. The middle floor formed a skinny waist and seemed to model for the surrounding houses. The ring of space between the cottages and the Hall was filled with streamers and banners to signify the title of the Village, Ponyville. Two bridges ran over the flowing river just behind Hall, one lead to another home built into the earth on the edge of a forest and the other lead to the pride of the small town: Sweet Apple Acres.

West of the town hall stood a thick gigantic oak tree. The still living tree held new adaptations for it to bear such as: many balconies, windows, an arched doorway, and on the highest balcony stood some basic astronomy equipment. The larger eye of a telescope pointed to a dying day sky, expecting Luna's work to become present soon enough, whilst the tinier eye pointed towards the inside.

The metallic cone pointed past some of the more advanced equipment as well as the hanging star charts. The spacious room kept the tree's natural timber tone and many bookshelves were full of up-to-date stargazing techniques and physics theorems. Still the beady eye of the telescope gazed past the doorway and into a much larger room at the base of the tree. The sign outside the naturally occurring building simplified its function with a symbol of an open book.

Inside the library, on the ground floor, the walls were hollowed out to allow the books space to occupy. Each bit of frame had a decorative etching to give a sense of the room belonging to the art as well as literature of many ponies. On a large stump, which had been transformed into a table, rested 3 books and a knight carving from a chess game. The dirty jade green pony was condemned to face a small pedestal for all eternity, and look upon a small lavender unicorn caught in a deep study.

The purple bangs hanging just above her deep violet eyes contained a strong magenta stripe that stopped just passed the ears. The eyes remained focused on a copy of 'The history of Ponyville and its founders' which was resting upon another book entitled 'How to find a good colt.' The fading light of Celestia's work was becoming more and more irritating on her eyes. Lighting a candle next to her books she happily returned to the pre-planned study of the village's history.

"Twilight! I just got a letter from the Princess. I think you’re gonna want to read it." crowed her number one assistant from the top of the stairs. The small purple lizard hopped down every second step, green spikes moving with the momentum. Upon arriving at the bottom floor Twilight was already giving him her full attention.

"Then hurry up and give me the letter Spike." encasing the scroll in a purple aura she plucked the letter from the young dragon's claw and pulled it closer to inspect. Immediately her eyes expanded to the size of dinner plates, which could be heard breaking somewhere, as she continued downloading the information.

"Oh my goodness! Spike do you remember when I used to study Princess Celestia's disappearance?" her eyes sparkled with excitement and hope for the dragon to follow her trail of thought.

"Twilight you had me balance 23 of the same books for a week, a new batch of 27 the next and then back to the 23 the week after. I also still had to do chores. How could I forget?" Spike recalled the memory with slight anguish but kept a morbid tone.

She face hoofed, sighed slightly and began to lecture the young one. "Spike this is serious. One hundred years ago Celestia just vanished without a trace. For three days the sun was out and many ponies were severely affected by droughts and heat stroke. A large portion developed cases of insomnia from lack of sleep."

"Isomniant?" asked the assistant in a confused state, scratching the scales to the side of his head.

"In-som-nia. It's a sleep disorder where it is really hard for a pony to sleep. For most of the ponies it was caused by the stress of too much sun on their crops."

"So they can't sleep?" he shuddered at the thought of never being able to sleep, especially with his warm basket just a floor above. "Wait do you have insumnutia? Because you stay up really late Twi, in fact if I don't tell you to sleep then you just stay awake the whole night." he was slightly worried for her health but the repeated face hoof flattened that caring look on his reptilian face.

"IN-SOM-NIA" she stressed each part of the word out to make sure he could remember it correctly "I don't have it anyway, I can just stay awake all night happily reading my books." smiling and pointing towards the hundreds of books ranging from nonfiction to fiction comprised between 'how to build a successful business' to 'Daring Do and the temple of the night thief.'

Shaking her head she returned to her lecture. "Anyway, Celestia has never explained her disappearance to anypony. Ever! The likes of Cerebral the Thinker couldn't even come up with a half decent explanation and he had solved many of Equestria's mysteries in magic." She was hopping up and down around the slightly anxious dragon. "And we're going to be the first to know, EVER, about where she went and..." She froze on the panelled floor. She was just staring into the empty space between the pony carving and the door.

"Erm...Twilight?" Spike was waving a hand in front of his guardian as she slowly brought a smile to her lips. The pupils in her eyes dilated and Spike could see excitement in the form of sparks and twinkling lights in them.

"We’re going to visit new UNDISCOVERED creatures! This is going to be amazing. Look spike." she pressed the letter against his emerald eyes. "More advanced!" she quoted. "They are more intelligent than us and want to share their technology." She began once again bounding around the room.

A sudden gasp got Spike's attention; he turned to see twilight by the door, writing a check-list.  "I need you to get these whilst I round up the girls and tell them about tomorrow. See you soon." The door slammed shut and out of the window the ecstatic mare was galloping towards the gingerbread house being used as a bakery. Spike saw her hesitate and she decided to return to that one at a later time. The stars were beginning to shine when Spike made his way through the checklist. He grumbled and mumbled angrily at all of the required items due to being apart from his blanket and pillow.

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Celestia had decided to resign herself to her bed for the night. The rose silk curtains parted to reveal a queen sized bed. Relative to a normal pony; it could probably fit 2 in length wise but a human might have their heels hanging over. The mattress was both soft and perfectly able to support the spine. The stuffed feathers from hundreds of doves made it perfect for royalty. The alabaster duvet was always inviting for the solar Princess. The soft touch almost felt like the massage Snake gave her earlier. Removing the symbols of her royalty; the polished gold chest plate, studded with a deep purple gemstone; the similarly designed horseshoes, a complete set this time, were placed in line with the bed. After depositing the chest plate in an ornate jewellery box, she sealed it shut and levitated her tiara onto a bust of herself. The past 3 days the room had been restored to its former glory and now she could finally get a good night’s rest. For one hundred years she would cry silently whilst looking into the stars. Over the many things she had lost; her loving parents, the temperal loss of Luna and more recently Snake. This time from lying side on she started to giggle at the sight.

Reading from the stars "Art thou happy now Snake?" she continued to laugh until she broke out into hysterics. How he managed to get his own constellation she would never know, but she embraced the change from weeping into the night to laughing herself to sleep. For the first time she was happy with hearing his name. Knowing Luna was happy. No more guilt, no more sorrow. She could confirm the knowledge of being able to keep her close and him safe and away from his world.

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With the reassurance of no guards on duty, the Princess of the night eventually led the squad through the castle corridors. Despite Luna's best efforts the group refused to leave the shadows. What impressed her was how when she took her eyes off them and looked back it would take a minute for them to come into focus, even with white vests and peachy skin. Ursa was a hard find, when he was behind a curtain.

"For the thousandth time there is nopony present in this section of the castle. We have scanned the rooms and found no sign of life. Please hurry, we wish to get you to the private garden before sunrise."

"You could always postpone dawn." Deadeye added. He was the first to stride into the light emanating from hanging diamond chandeliers. The group soon followed at the back; Deadeye and Ursa monitored the different armour pieces on display, the twins took note of the elegant décor; from the lush red carpet river, the marble tiles coating alongside and the statues to honour past ponies.

They also spotted above, in the darkened shadows, stone support beams inter-crossed and led to windows, providing an alternate route to each hallway; given that someone could get up there. Specks and Snake, although believed Luna's word, still scanned for surprises. Specks sometimes spotted warm hoof prints left behind by ponies with his thermal vision. After quickly analysing the forgotten hoof steps he had determined they left 20 minutes ago after Luna had instructed them to.

"Although we could, we do not wish to." She recalled the night of her return and how she wanted eternal night. "Let us make haste I wish to make the most of this night." As soon as it was said the group picked up the pace. Passing many portraits of the Princesses and noble ponies as they made their way to the garden.

Unlike the one open to guests, this garden was for the few selected individuals. There was yet to be a statue to commemorate a single pony, but the Princess often felt them to be an eyesore. She did not believe so out of disrespect but she had already dedicated some grounds for tributes.

Once Luna opened the glass doors a cooling breeze rushed in to greet the strangers of the land. It caressed the strange features of each soldier as they embarked on a small investigation of both the local and exotic flora. Luna strolled along the rainbow of flowers, categorically assigned by species and colour. Daisies and tulips, roses and carnations were scattered in a flowing spectrum.

For the most part, exotic plants were in bloom even Luna's favourite. Perched on a bench, in a circular space, she began to nibble upon a straying flower. Amber and Abbiegale investigated the vines that grew upon the trees captured by the beauty of the black and white flowers blossoming in the moonlight. Ursa was looking up through the trees for fruit and came across bananas. He checked with Luna to see if he could have one and she questioned why.

After displaying that the strange hanging items were actually fruit the Princess was more than eager to try one. As she enjoyed the bite of the potassium rich food, she knew that if they discovered this within 5 minutes of being in the garden they would greatly help her kingdom. Specks, Snake and Amber were trying not to laugh when Luna mentioned that for over a thousand years nopony has ever tried to open a banana. Specks pointed out that you would probably need fingers for such a task.

The pair of S.A.S soldiers kept to their investigation to see any similarity between this worlds flowers and the ones back home. One flower in particular caught both their eyes.

"Hey Snake ain't that the flower we gave to Sunny?" Specks plucked one of the plants out the ground and investigated the rose coloured petals. He recognised the violet tips and began to analyse it. From experience Snake knew he had spotted something. Back at the base if he flicked his visor down to study something it was good or, more commonly, bad news.

"What's the matter Specks? It's good to see that Sunny has put those seeds to use." he too plucked a flower from its stem and analysed the anthers.

"That's the problem Snake. My analysis shows that germination alone takes about 504 hours." He looked back at Snake, remembering it had been a long since he studied any form of plant science. After mentally facepalming he stood up and gave a slightly suspicious look at Luna.

She was hoping no one could see, even when she was looking in their general direction they remained unexposed, as she began munching on more flowers. "It means it takes the plant three weeks to sprout. Snake it would probably take months for it to even develop a bud. It cycles through one winter and blossoms at the end of the next spring."

"What's your point?" He had a gut wrenching feeling but needed a genius to confirm it.

"These flowers take almost a year and a half to bloom. The Princess told us we had only been here for three days and yet here we have a fully grown flower. I gave her the seeds the day she rescued us." he explained pointing to the species of flora by his feet.

"I see what you’re getting at. I want you to try and get a seed from this plant and perform an experiment to test if in three days the plant will grow. If not I will check with Celestia. Perhaps things work differently, Sunny did seem different."

"How so?"

"Slimmer, toner and she had a slightly brighter coat." Specks arched an eyebrow.

"Did you check out her arse whilst you were at it?" This received a burning stare from his superior, like it or not if he said jump he would have to ask how high. Given that the ledge was nearby, and the ground was hundreds of meters below, he immediately began apologising.

He knew it wasn’t a threat, Snake had thrown Specks out of a plane. During his training, and when they once had a disagreement over a football game.

"All right I was just kidding. I think I have some seeds still lose in my pocket. I'll find a patch of dirt somewhere and begin the experiment." He started heading off to find ideal conditions when another thought struck him. "If we have been away for a year and a half what will have happened to Dean?"

Snake was tempted to remind him about the safety procedure he told Specks to follow. He had instructed him to leave his little brother in the hands of the trustworthy every mission, just in case.

"You know he is good hands right, besides uncle snake ain't gonna pussy out on you." That was a quote from the young child. He often thought of Snake as an uncle, distant but caring. He thought he always kept Specks safe, which was often true, but would always state 'Don't pussy out'.

The profanity at such a young age was likely due to the 18 age rated games he played. Reassured by the statement Specks set of to find an inconspicuous spot to begin the experiment.

Snake saw another chance to score a point. He crept up behind some shrubbery. Crouching down he began to slowly edge towards the unsuspecting alicorn. From the shadows he could still see her eating flowers in a similar fashion to how Romans ate grapes. Each well placed step brought him a little closer until the Princess was within reach. She was happily dining on her chosen treats with her eyes closed and her horn aglow. Reaching out he was about a millimetre away when she openly spoke.

"I suppose I should return his knife by now. I wonder if he knows he lost it yet." She looked up to the sky tilting her head slightly. He didn't breath, only moved his hand to the sheath attached to his chest. No handle means no knife. Clever girl. he thought. He once again reached towards the tiara when she sat up on the bench. She repositioned herself according to how a pony should sit. With his chance of gaining the lead gone he decided he might as well regain his property. "Where is he anyway? Great I have lost him. I knew I should have got a leash or simply tied him to the others. I could have gotten back at him for that rein comment. He would have been easier to control."

"Lets save that for the bedroom." leaping over the bench he casually leant back into the seat. Crossing one leg over the other he held out his hand out expectantly towards the blushing pony. With a slight shake of the hand he got her attention as she handed over the knife.

"wha-what? You- thou heard us? No, no, no we wouldn't." She protested. He looked on with a bemused look in his eye.

"Drop the 'we' stuff. As cute as it is, now that you've been caught it doesn't have the same effect any more." he said, sheathing his blade.

She still blushed at the compliment but asked a question. "Where were you?" He simply shrugged. She sighed and stared at him not accepting the previous answer. "Where were YOU?" she stressed coming face to face with him. He tapped his nose to signal the answer's secrecy. Again she leant closer. "Tell me now." the commanding tone signalled her annoyance.

The wrath of magic was not something he wanted to face, especially after waking up this morning. He was silent as he pointed to a knee imprint behind the bench. Looking it over she knew what he was attempting to do.

"Why did you stop?" the mare grinned and asked the man to tell her what she already knew.

"You got me, you equalised well done, I had to stop and reclaim my piece when I realised what had happened." She smiled at her actions. She peeked at a set of her favourite flowers and levitated them close enough for inspection. She rarely treated herself to these but she gave into the temptation to have one. As she was about to bite into the stem, she was interrupted by a voice prohibiting her early celebration. "You were equalised until you slipped up."

She was jerked out her state of pride and swiftly turned to face him wearing her tiara. The moonlight highlighted that fanged grin. "Three to two. You almost had me sweet heart." He chucked the tiara in the air and departed to meet the rest of the group. Luna caught the noire head piece before it could touch earth. She was about to stare daggers at him and ask how would he feel if she threw his knife about, alas he was gone.

"How does he do that?"

Amongst the group, Ursa was still chomping through bananas whilst Deadeye was inspecting the landscape from the trees to the quiet streets of Canterlot. Had he looked down he would have seen a couple of guard ponies changing shifts. Amber was happily perched in a tree amongst the five birds that were almost as big as her. The vulture seemed reluctant to even get close to her, but the hawks and what she could only describe as a fiery coloured parrot seemed content with her presence.

Abbiegale was more amused by Ursa's appetite than to join her sister in the branches. Specks had returned, hands dusted with dirt, and noticed Snake approaching. Although he waved him over, Snake had already had the intention of joining them.

"How's everybody doing?" he asked, giving Specks a silent message to not inform the group of their suspicion.

"Da, I am happy. Banana reminds me of favourite ice cream treat. Hot fudge, banana and vanilla Ice cream. I like the caramel sauce we made." This immediately got Abbiegale's attention. Curiosity got the better of her. When she was about to inquire about his skills, Amber beat her to it.

"You can cook?" Amber recalled Abbiegale’s appetite. How she could eat so much and still remain in a healthy form was unknown and seemed to only belong to the one sister. As Abbiegale questioned him on what sort of dishes he cooked.

Specks joined in and they shared recipes. Amber was also impressed by some of his knowledge, especially vegetarian meals. Apparently it’s healthier so it's his food choice, but out in the field he won't hesitate to kill a rabbit for food. He does have meat but his meals are dominated by the green stuff, which might explain his shorter size.

Luna walked in, as Ursa began describing how to make his grandmother's three flavoured ice cream with a hot fudge base with caramel coated bananas. Luna's mouth was watering from the delectable delicacy. As much as Snake wanted to continue to listen to the delicious desserts, he had one more thing to check.

"Princess Luna, could you please take us to our equipment. I think we should collect, since none were present in the infirmary."

"I do not believe that would be wise. Why would you need them?" she asked cautiously remembering that they had brought weapons with them.

"I think we should check to see if they are still in working order. Some of those items can be dangerous if unchecked by expert hands." he warned.

The Princess took time to consider this. Quick flash back of the destruction caused without the humans being near the devices persuaded her to side with him. "All right, we don't have a lot of time so everpo-body come close together."

After looking at each other, in a confused sense, Amber was the first to step close to Princess. Leaping down she met the ground with a soft thud and took place next to the Indigo Princess. Soon everybody else got relatively close. Before long there was a flash of blue light and in the blink of an eye the group was in a different room without warning. Snake, Specks and Deadeye remained standing after the ordeal; the rest fell on to their backsides.

The disorientating effects were slowly wearing off. They no longer felt the cool breeze of the outside but the heat of the indoors. It had waited for their return and eagerly wrapped its warm arms around them all. The confused and lost barely managed to look around.

It was a dark room. The walls moved in an ethereal fashion similar to that of Luna's mane. A moving black blanket, with the odd pulse of navy blue, circulated the round room. On one side was a wardrobe on another a chest. Between the two sat another queen sized bed similar to Celestia's, but with colours associated with the night.

With the moonlight, the violet veil either failed to keep the bed a secret or was letting enough light through to allow anyone resting to be seen but unrecognisable. Luna walked towards the chest, turning to see that most of the squad were still gathering their senses. Specks was examining the ceiling; the tiny glows seemed to represent the many stars outside. Proof of this was the last added constellation of 'Art thou happy now Snake?'

As the group’s sight adjusted to the dark room Luna spoke up. "Sorry, I forgot your kind do not use magic. Are you aware of teleportation?"

"Yes, but we do not have that ability. Yet." Specks answered, still struggling with keeping his psyche together, as well as his half-digested dinner.

"Can we just get the equipment and return to the Infirmary?" Abbiegale added, hoisting her sister up.

"I agree, although it is uh," Snake paused as him and Deadeye lifted Ursa to his feet, "a good trick, we could do with a heads up next time." The Princess nodded in agreement. "Can we get our things and leave now?"

"Yes, hold on." Yet again there was another blinding flash and the infirmary was now the new setting. With a heavy thud, the chest and Ursa collapsed on the floor. The motion sickness was getting to them.

Deadeye staggered over to the window, beside his bed, and lifted his mask to show his mouth panting. There was a slight gash running alongside the left of his lips that seemed to widen as it headed towards his nose. Eventually Snake stumbled towards the chest and Luna was looking slightly concerned.

"How are you feeling?"

"Like a million quid." He instantly remarked sarcastically. The word was foreign until she remembered from the book that it was slang for his currency.

Rolling her eyes she pressed on. "Well that is good news. Now that I now you can handle teleports I will practise them more often."

"NO!" the squad yelled in unison. She was a little startled and flinched in defence. Bringing it back down she began to titter as the ,still nauseated, squad tried to retain their dinner.

Specks eventually joined Snake by the chest Luna stood beside, who had an amused look on her face. Both humans flicked the latches and the Princess lifted the lid. Assorted into gadgets and guns on the left was mostly Specks' gear, whilst on the right were the weapons. Taking out the equipment and placing them on different beds the group took ownership of what was theirs. At the bottom of the chest were the rest of the uniforms they had worn.

Ursa had claimed his machine gun, cradling the smooth wooden body between the barrel and metal stock. He went about checking the ammo in the drum whilst Deadeye passed him the explosive kit, field medical kit and spare ammo packs. He had claimed the SVD that aided him in his final minutes on earth. He found six other magazines containing eight bullets each, in addition to the three remaining in the current magazine.

At the same time the Twins claimed the MP-5's still retaining the silencers. Also Abbiegale collected one of the glocks found in Jacobs’s truck. Specks was reunited with his silenced M9 and the stolen AK-47. During the time Specks was sorting through his pride and joys, his gadgets, Snake was reunited with the prototype wing suit. He put it aside and began searching for his weapons. He found a few knives and an emergency flare. He paused when his hand bumped into Jacob's revolver.

Sudden flashbacks of his friend’s voice cancelled out external noise. He and Jacob were friends through the tough times. He recalled the face of a blooded Australian after both of them were against a couple of thugs that thought they ran the school. High school was just like Jacob's face. Bloody ugly. He thought.

Luna realised what was happening as he still stroked the barrel. She moved next to him and inspected the item in question.

"What is it?" She asked, although she already knew of its purpose she felt he needed to be talking. He grabbed the handle tossed it up into the air before snatching it by the barrel. He began spinning it as he explained its function.

"This is a Colt Python .357 magnum. The metal is carbon burnt to prevent any reflection of light; the handle is a custom groove of the previous owner but can be changed. Semi-automatic; this thing can put a hole through any of the bricks in this castle. All six bullets can be fired in less than ten seconds, six with the fastest trigger fingers. Both accurate and reliable, the only downsides are the inability to silence it and the amount of ammo that can be used. I have only six shots."

He returned to view the chest and found the other glock. He was pleased to see that at least soon enough, maybe, Specks can create a suppressor for his new primary weapon.

"There was a previous owner?" She asked, again she knew the painful truth. The indigo alicorn saw a faint glimpse of tragedy to that eye. Regret, she knew that feeling. She was slightly scared to see the split second flare of anger as mouth twitched menacingly.

"Someone who made a wrong choice, I forgive it however." There was truth in those words.

"What happened to him was beyond my control. He had a choice and he made the wrong one." He was referring to how Jacob had once pointed the same black revolver at Snake's head.

That creeping urge to tell him she knew about Jacob returned, it was a stronger impulse than before and she almost let it slip, when she and Snake was distracted by a sudden outburst from Specks.

"Yes! It still works!" he exclaimed waving 2 pairs of headsets in the air. "They can all still work on radio waves rather than satellite uplink."

"Brilliant." Snake spoke, holstering the revolver into his newly attached holster. "Anything else?" he asked eyeing up the scattered gizmos. Specks nodded slowly and pressed a button on his wrist pad. The sentry drone deployed its wings and slowly took off from the bed. Hovering in front of Snake, Specks tested the camera out. A quick tap and the camera took a picture and then he moved it in front of Luna.

"Smile." he stated. Given that Luna had already seen this scenario she was already arranging her mane and posing elegantly. A small smile and a raised hoof, facing side on, was how she remembered to pose a thousand years ago. Eyes closed she waited for any sign to finish posing, it came not in the direction she thought it would. Opening her eyes she saw the hovering contraption about a foot away from her horn.

It gracefully flew away and landed amongst the hologram projector, flare gun and a stun grenade. “The hacking panel is bust and after what I have seen I doubt I'll need." He was about to toss it away when a thought struck him.

"Maybe I can get the videos in my goggles to be sent to the hologram via wireless link. The picture quality might get distorted by rain and cloud coverage but most days we can see a clear video." He leant closer to Snake so that Luna was out of earshot. "I could check on any strange events whilst we were unconscious for a day, if I was even out for a day."

Snake nodded before inquiring about another benefit "Yes that is a good idea. Also you could get a couple of movies up right?"

"Yeah."

"Good." Snake turned to the missing piece of his uniform. He was in the middle of searching for something when he started speaking to his brothers and sisters in arms "Okay everybody we should turn in for the night, the time is...well fuck I have lost my watch." He looked at his wrist disappointedly.

"Do you mean these?" Luna whisked out 6 identical mechanical watches, all black and showed signs of still functioning, despite one having a crack shooting across the glass.

"Yes, thank you. Right it is apparently 0110 hours I think we should hit the hay." Snake gave a sly grin towards Luna who rolled her eyes before smiling at the poor joke. He wrapped the watch around its home on his wrist. The fact that underneath was the colour of his original un-tanned skin only amplified the time the watch spent on his wrist. Luna began to walk out of the medical room. She craned her head around and smiled warmly.

"Pleasant dreams soldiers, until tomorrow."

"Goodnight Luna, have a good night love." Snake directed at the Princess before climbing into bed. He clutched the desired items he was looking for firmly as he changed his mind and looked at Specks.

"Goodnight Princess." Specks warmly said, before facing his leader.

"Goodbye Night pony." Ursa had forgotten the English word that was Princess, but she waved back at his attempt.

"See you soon, just don't wake me like you did for Snake." he chuckled pointing to Captain.

"Good night Princess Luna." Both the twins said in unison as they climbed into separate beds.

"Farewell." Luna gave one last smile to the group before the door shut. Only the light of the moon joined the resting squad. Specks and Snake wanted a private conversation so they went to bed with the still functioning headsets.

Snake had put his Dog tag back around his neck, folded his experimental suit up and was about to climb into bed. Tossing the upper half of his stealth attire onto the plush chair belonging to Celestia, he swung his legs over and began to rest. A short hiss of static down his ear stopped him from unscrewing a cap belonging to a silver flask.

"So what do you think?" Specks whispered. The genius altered the traditional headset to be lighter and less noticeable. More importantly it could pick up the faintest whisper. Perfect for communicating when the enemy is a meter away.

"Well it's good to see our gear still works. You got everything?"

"Yeah, even the knives. 'Bout you?"

"I got my gin that's all I need."

"Huh. Figured as much. But really what you got?"

"I think the suit still works, no holes besides the one on my chest. I can still function, my nipples will just fucking freeze after I jump though. Bullet nips aside I got: the glock which needs a silencer, Jacob's gun with six rounds, four knives and a cracked watch. I'm all set."

"Good, now 'bout this conspiracy. I think I'm right."

"Pray tell. I got about five minutes before I need to turn in."

"I think we have been here longer than we have been told. That is based on the flowers, but then you get Ursa's ear; how do you something like that fresh without modern technology. I can't see either one of the Princess' keeping it clean and Ursa claimed to wake up shortly after going through the portal. It doesn't make sense. How can Celestia find time to plant those seeds, have them grow to full size, and still have Ursa reattach his ear? Either Celestia had a lot of time between when we last saw her or your right about the world working differently. Snake... to be honest I think it was the first option."

"I was afraid you'd say that. I want to know what happened too. At least we are alive now, right? I suppose we should thank Sunny for that."

"Yeah. I could really do fer a cuppa tea now though."

"Me too, mate, me too. I'll settle with my fire juice though." With that, Snake took a long sip of the delicious alcohol. As the warmth slivered down to his stomach, he took the time to fully appreciate the taste of the gin. Smacking his lips, he removed the headset and drifted off into a deep slumber.

Chapter 6: We could use your kind of...discretion.

Chapter 6: We could use your kind of...discretion.

With the wind blowing furiously, sweeping her rainbow mane, a cyan pegasus simply overlooked the railing. Unfazed by the blasting breeze, she sighed and looked upon the blurry green woodlands below. Through woolly clouds, a couple of kilometres below, she saw the plain old boring earth. To her it was mere stokes of dull greens and the occasional brown blots. From the heavens she took a moment to look at the horizon.

The metropolis was a testament to well over 2000 years of equine culture. Canterlot, the very symbol of hope and cultural strive, was to be this azure pegasus' destination. Smooth bleached walls would not reveal that the ancient Capital's history dated past 100. Yet the faded purple décor revealed the true age of the city.

Still the merciless cyclone persisted and threatened the equine with its great speed. She sighed and looked back to the rest of the occupants with her magenta eyes. Ignoring the winds, she looked up to seven other ponies, varying from party pink to ivory white, sitting in the golden chariot. She spied a dove white unicorn attempting to hide her royal purple hairdo from the wind, and a jittery yellow pegasus with a warm pink mane.

There was an orange apple farmer owning the blonde mane and Stetson hat, a vibrating candy pink bundle of joy who was giggling as her mane was windswept. Finally, sitting closest to the bored mare, another purple unicorn; who was only slightly concerned for her darker shaded mane. Stuffed saddle bags lay in the middle of the large chariot.

The group of mares had escorts on this journey to the palace. The two guards, who were on pick up duty for discussing and spreading rumours, stood opposite the ponies at the back. Overlooking the edge and silently scanning for dangers. Not that any were to be expected on this route, hence the reason it was deemed a punishment. Still, what their 'priorities' were discussing was actually the most interesting topic they had heard recently, and highly relevant to why they were punished.

"Can you believe, we're going to actually meet a new INTELLIGENT species?! Apparently they are as curious about us as we are of them." the lilac one announced. She had brought her mentor's letter and had passed it around. Everypony had each read the message, and had each taken a piece of information they were eager to discuss.

"I do say, if these creatures are as brave as Princess Celestia says they are it shall be an interesting cultural exchange Twilight." said the other, more poised, unicorn. With a flick of her head the rest of her curled mane soon followed. “I do hope the courageous stallions are okay."

The look on her face made Twilight giggle and snort as she fantasised about masculine knights and dapper colts.

"Oh...I do hope they're okay too. The Princess said one of them is half blind. The poor dear must be scared and in need of help." the yellow shivering wreck pointed out in a motherly tone. She would occasionally look over the edge before squeaking and hiding behind her rose mane. Now that she was talking however the urge to look over seemed to dissipate, for time being.

"Ahm sure their fine sugar cube. The Princess would have said if any critter was in trouble, and yer know yer the best for lookin' after animals Fluttershy. Ahm sure they're alright." The cowpony reassured her pegasus friend by resting her hoof on her shoulder.

"R-r-really?" she asked, reclaiming her trail of thought from the sudden grasp of vertigo.

"Applejack's right. Celestia would have told me if they were in trouble," she paused as she recalled the written text: 'and nearly died twice ', “since she didn't we can assume that these ponies--Pinkie Pie why are you still doing that?"

All eyes, including the bored blue pegasus, darted to see an energetic pink blur. The mare in question had not stopped shaking since she read the message.

"Is it another doozy?" Twilight asked with a concerned tone.

"What? No silly filly. That's much different. I shake up and down, not down and up, for a doozy." the mare explained. She beamed, teeth chattering, as the group all rolled their eyes.

"Pinkie Pie, You are so random." The sporty one finally spoke flatly, looked back at the rapidly approaching city, and groaned. Whilst flinging her hooves in the air, she turned back the group.

"This is taking forever! I could have made it there and back by now, in ten seconds flat." folding her arms she slumped against the rail.

"Rainbow Dash, be patient dear," the alabaster unicorn spoke slightly annoyed, "We will get there when we get there. Shouldn't you be excited that there are new ponies in Equestria?" she pointed out before imagining a brilliant white colt in a tuxedo. She likes the look of a well-kept beard, given that it didn't look like a random assortment of wires, so he had to have a little stubble.

A lady can have preferences too. she thought, ignoring Dash's rant on why she was not wanting to be patient, she could only recall the something along the lines of 'Fastest flyer in all of Equestria.'

"Rarity did you even read the letter? Creatures, not ponies." the cyan speedster pointed out.

Needless to say the unicorns dream sequence ended like a burst bubble. Shame too, she had reached the kissing scene.

"Why do you guys wanna see these things so badly?" she asked, genuinely curious.

"New technology and ways of thinking, oh and books!" squealed the Librarian.

"I for one am looking forward to the rich cultural exchange. Perhaps even ideas for a new breakthrough in clothing designs." The fashionista's eyes sparkled at the prospect of bringing in a new era of fashion.

"It said new ideas and stories." chirped the vibrating pink mare. She stopped shaking and gasped. "What if they have new ideas for parties, or how to party or...or...even new types of cakes!" squealed the Pinkie pie, returning to her bouncing.

"Oh...I just want to help..." She finished the last part, whatever it was, with a small 'eep'.

"They seem like nice critters RD, if they can save the Princess they're good in mah books." Applejack was quick to defend the strangers.

Rainbow Dash quickly took off, swiping the letter from in front of the cotton candy coloured space hopper. Landing in front of the Orange mare she pointed to one of the sentences.

"Seeking to INVADE our world. INVADE!" she emphasised. "How can you think their good if it says right here that they want to attack us?" She was interrogating the cowpony viscously, but the apple farmer stood her ground.

"If y'all kept on reading, rather than mouthing off, yer would have seen it say that they were scared. It also says right here that she knows that they ain't all evil. If it’s good enough for her, it’s good enough for you." She was jabbing at her rival’s chest when she caught a glimpse of one of the guards.

He was quick to try and inspect the fascinating speck of dirt on the golden chariot, before realising he was still inviting suspicion. Applejack the Element of Honesty's suspicion, to be exact.

"Ah don't suppose you two know anything about these critters?" she asked, closing the already small gap between the armoured colt and her. Although he kept a stern look, once all eyes were on him he broke out into a sweat.

The other's guard’s ear shot up and faced the colt. Although he didn't need to see him he could tell his partner was not standing in protocol format.

"Well?" pressed Applejack. Not only was the rookie embarrassing himself but also his brother next to him.

"Well, there's..." he was about to continue when he was interrupted.

"No. Don't. You. Dare!" The elder stated fiercely. Now the younger was stuck looking between two different ponies.

"Don't you dare what?" The cyan pegasus was hovering close to the armoured unicorn, whilst the apricot one was looking into the eyes of the other.

"Do y'all know anything 'bout these things that saved the Princess?" she asked leaning towards the younger sibling. He gulped sharply, but remained silent.

"Wait, do you guys know something about these creatures?" Twilight rushed over and began bombarding the defenceless colt with question after question. He could only look at his brother who was trying to convince him to do his duty. Alas, Rainbow dash refused to let him get a word in edgewise. After mere seconds of constant queries he gave in.

"We don't know WHAT they are!" he yelled. He started panting, heart racing after the sudden outburst.

"Then why were y'all actin funny?" Applejack asked.

The guards exchanged a glance. After a silent dispute, known only to the brothers, the elder growled.

"Fine," He turned and looked at the pastel coloured mares and he said, "but you didn't hear it from me." With that he resigned himself to the small corner, where he had been stationed for the trip.

"Hear what dear?" Rarity piped up.

"Look. Three days ago there was a huge explosion from the Princess' room. We were all tempted to rush in but were under strict orders to not enter Celestia's wing. That entire part of the castle was cut off. Whatever had happened...it was big." The group backed up and sat down around the storyteller. Twilight was slowly growing more worried for her teacher's sake. Once everypony was listening intently he continued.

"For three days nopony saw anything of Celestia. Only Princess Luna attended to her needs. She would collect her food for her, handle the courts and so on. We were beginning to think that she might be...you know," he rolled his hoof around whilst the ponies looked confused, "turning back into Nightmare moon." The group gasped in shock. Before they could protest he pressed on.

"Well yesterday, we saw Celestia looking as cheerful as ever. Heck I'd say she was as happy as when Princess Luna had returned." The Elements of Harmony were immediately relieved.

"Now here's the weird thing. Her room was destroyed. Just obliterated, a whole wall removed, her bed had a rock sleeping in it, and debris was everywhere. We were asked to watch over the construction workers. There's a lot of interesting things up for grabs in her room."

Twilight remembered such things; there was the recipe to her unique shampoo, the crown jewels, and a few spells Twilight remembers being called 'forbidden'.

"So why was she gone?" Rainbow dash quizzed.

"Nopony knows. Although we think it has something to do with what the builders found." As he leant forward, so did the others including his brother.

"They found a dagger."

The group looked at each other with slight confusion.

"A dagger?" Twilight asked, she knew that was not amongst her mentor’s possessions. Truth be told she couldn’t imagine why the Princess would need a weapon, being the most powerful being in Equestria.

"Yeah. It was not a pony dagger or a griffin's or even a diamond dogs. No weapon design matched it and the handle was about the size of one hoof but too thin for it to be used by us. I tried, it didn’t feel right. Whatever made it, it was not from Equestria." As he stated his conclusion the group looked even more bewildered, except Rainbow Dash who made the connection.

"You think it belong to the things Celestia wants us to meet, don't you?" Twilight was about to argue that the weapon didn't belong to these things, but she could see no alternative. If nopony was meant to use the weapon they who could? After giving it some thought she reluctantly agreed with that hypothesis.

"Yes. But there was something else too. The dagger had teeth on one side, patterned like dragon fangs, and the other was sharper than any sword known to our kind. It didn't reflect the light, I brought it to the guy working in the armoury and he said it was the way the metal was manufactured."

Rarity gasped and so did Twilight, the others didn't understand. After explaining that it meant that there were more knives on a much larger scale they all looked mortified.

"Anyway it gets weirder. It was black and on one side it had an inscription." The wind seemed to die down. It was the final run before they would land and meet these 'friendly beings' who the serrated blade belonged to.

"It said ‘Snake’, but on the other side the word 'fang' was scratched in. Then there was a small tally chart at the top of the handle. And blood, dried blood. That wasn't WASHED away. Whatever drew blood, did not want it to be known." The key word meaning that these things choose to wash away some creature’s life force. Needless to say it did not settle well; especially for the already petrified canary yellow pony, and the suspicious pegasus.

The group looked at each other after the grisly story. Never had they ever been more fearful of Celestia’s friends. That's counting some of the rich ponies of Canterlot and the celebrities such as 'the Wonder Bolts'. Compared to fighting Discord this seemed almost like a suicide mission, or an execution given who invited them.

"I told you!" Of course the sky blue wonder would point that out. As much as they wanted to side with the Princess, this story seemed almost believable.

"Now look here RD. They SAVED-THE-PRINCESS!" Applejack stressed out each word by not only yelling, but by also pressing her head against her friend’s floating close by.

“How do we know it hurt anypony? Maybe it's a cuttin' knife, and it cut itself bah accident and didn't want to leave...blood on it." The word sounded, and tasted, vile. "Besides that's just a rumour." she added, the rest seemed to follow that logic.

"You're right Applejack. Rainbow Dash there is no reason to scare." Twilight was cut off, when Rainbow Dash darted over to the story teller.

"How big was the knife?"

"The metal part of the dagger? About...7 inches. Again, too big for a normal pony or even a stallion. It could be classed as a small short sword." Rainbow didn't care. She was, repeatedly, pointing both of her fore hooves at the guard; as she did this she gave them all an expectant look. Applejack only sighed and walked past. The rest soon trotted, flew, and hopped to catch up to her.

"Hey miss." Rainbow turned to face, not the younger, but the elder sibling. "You should keep your guard up. Don't let them see it, at least if it does go south you'll be ready."

She looked at her friends. A fire burned in her eyes, he noticed this and backed away slowly. To her these ponies were more than her friends. They were her chosen family. A bond she would defend, fight for, die for even.

If these things even tried to hurt a hair on Fluttershy's head there will be Tartarus to pay.

The morning did not go to Snake's liking. It wasn't the early rise; he had hundreds in and out the field. The 20 minute wait for the bathroom? It was a minor inconvenience for someone who was used to withholding release, inside an enemy compound, for four hours. It wasn't the vegan oriented food restriction; he was fine, as long as he got enough protein supplements. It wasn't that he wasn't allowed to hunt any meat, although it took time to get over that one. No, it was that until the doctor or Celestia deemed it worthy, he had nothing to do. Soon he would have to meet these ‘Elements of Harmony’ and the least he could do was look his best.

"Hurry up Specks! I want to trim this rat's nest on my chin!" Snake pounded on a door leading to the only bathroom in the infirmary. "What are you doing in there?" He was genuinely curious.

"I'm shaving, piss off!" he replied politely.

"You haven't even hit puberty yet, what you doing? Shaving your legs?" He mocked. He was starting to get annoyed, as were the girls. Whilst Amber looked more tidied and cleaned up, Abbiegale looked like death. Her bed hair loosely framed her agitated expression. Ursa didn't seem bothered by that fact about her appearance, until she glared at him.

"Very funny smart guy, I swear that's the last time I get bladdered with you." The voice of the 28 year old engineer seemed to be drowned out by a running tap.

"Not my fault you didn't start till you were 15." Snake remarked to himself, caught up in the memory of the last time him and Specks got wasted. Snake departed with a woman dressed in scarlet and left Specks to get a tattoo. Prior to this, they had been discussing football scores, then started rating the female company, before long they were talking about regrets when that secret popped up.

This was two weeks before the mission. Specks still has '100% British beef’ permanently labelled on his left cheek

Finally it was Snake’s turn, after 36 minutes of 'it’s my turn' and 'I claimed it' he finally got it. The last one to use it was Deadeye; he used the insult 'age before beauty' to worm his way past Snake, who had barely put his foot in the door. He had enough and the only other person left was Ursa. They had met eyes and agreed to a showdown.

They camped out on the beds by sitting beside the door. They merely stared at each other, challenging each other. Both were forging a tension ready to snap. It almost did when Snake removed his crimson stained vest top. He wanted no distractions, but he was more than happy to give Ursa one.

A soon as Deadeye began to whistle a merry tune, they readied themselves. Still silent, and holding a rival's grin, they waited for the locks to shift.

There was the merry tune again.

3

The sharp slide of a lock.

2

A slow twist of the door knob.

1

Snake shot up; he had a fairly strong build but was well balanced, as opposed to the behemoth before him. Ursa was built for support and frontal assaults, not agile movement. He rose slightly slower, giving Snake time to reach for the handle. The medic received a blood stained vest top to the face. Irritated and disgusted, he ripped off the space invading cloth.

Too late, a freshly cleaned Deadeye stood bewildered. No one could tell if he had washed his face, due to the mask, but his arms and shoulders seemed to be a polished colour of flesh. No bruising or dirt, only a pair of confused blue eyes.

"What just happened?" He asked the Russian, who was seething.

"Nothing, lost to slippery Snake."

After a couple of minutes washing his body, scrubbing dried blood splatters and grit from the building, Snake eventually came to wet shaving. Dragging his finger along the elongated bristles, he had chosen his desired style of beard. Running his 7 inch blade under hot water, he dabbed the cleansing liquid onto his cheeks then he got to work. With smooth practised strokes, the occasional quick flick, no punctures or slits, he looked back at the newly crafted facial fur.

Grabbing a towel to brush up remaining hairs, he looked back to his injured form. He wasn't a bodybuilder, but he gave signs of a precise training regime. The bandage around his chest, although he tried to avoid that area, was soaked with the water.

After resting his hand on his wounded shoulder, he focused on the bandage eye. Ursa had removed the head bandage, but had left a smaller strip across the eye to hold a small padded cloth. The scarred line was making an appearance, running from top of his eyebrow to the tip of his cheek.

He sighed consulted with his thoughts.

See what happens when you get complacent. If Captain Mickey saw this he would blow a gasket. You didn't become Captain by being over emotional. Stupid fool! You nearly killed your team, your best friend and Celestia. The mission was nearly compromised because you couldn't control yourself properly. No more emotions. Do not bond to this world. You might just fuck up again, you idiot.

Shortly after grilling himself, he began to breathe harder as his rage built up. To him he was right. He did nearly kill everybody, and he nearly robbed another world of its ruler. He had almost succeeded in what his enemies had tried to do. Regardless he knew the scar would forever remind him to stay on track. He normally would grieve later at the loss of a soldier, but Jacob was a special case. This time, it was like he had killed him. This time it was like he killed a brother, but worse. He witnessed it.

He shook the thought away and studied the groomed stubble. He heard voices outside, as he caressed the crafted 5 O'clock shadow. Lightly shaded and not to heavily bristly, exactly the way he liked it. He began to recognise the voice now. It was no longer an inaudible noise when the tap wasn't running.

"Sir we got ten minutes. Make a move or something." Specks suggested, knocking on the door. In the background he could hear Russian spout curse words and a lot of references to being slow, along with Snake's cheating ability. Calmly approaching the door, the Captain told the youngest to calm down and get ready.

Once he opened it he found Luna yawning before gawking at him. He let her study his naked upper body and regarded it as a brief lesson in male human physiology. He was searching for his vest as she took notice into the strange markings on his back.

She was about to interview him about it until he glanced at Ursa and began an interrogation of his own.

"Hey what did you do with the vest?" he questioned the giant. He replied by saying he threw it at Specks, who passed it to Amber who passed it to Deadeye. He claimed to chuck it on the bed behind him. There was no bed behind him.

Only the window.

Massaging the bridge of his scrubbed nose, he told Deadeye to check the 'bed' behind him. Spinning around, he took note of the lack of said bed and instead peered out of the window. Looking down, he couldn't even see the ground under the thick shrubbery; if there was no bushes or trees, they were still hundreds of feet above the ground. He had hoped that it was blown onto a neighbouring platform, roughly a few hundred feet to the right, alas that was not the case.

"Oh." was the only thing he could say. The Captain assumed the veteran was only half as sorry as he was trying to be, given that he seemed completely unfazed at losing the item of clothing. Truth be told Snake was not particularly attached to the vest, and simply shrugged the incident off.

"I suppose I'll be fine, just close the window I can feel a draft. Besides, I assume it would be interesting for these ponies to see what I truly look like, given that Luna has still not taken her eyes of my chest." He turned to face a slightly startled Princess. She had rosy cheeks burning through that indigo coat. She was attempting to explain her reason for the observation but found it difficult under his smug look. Abbiegale had to rescue the poor alicorn as she was stuttering up a storm.

"Didn't you get a good look at Celestia when you found her? Heck, I didn't understand why a hor-pony was in gold chains. We normally wear clothes, I am sure she is just interested in what we look like." The Mistress of the night nodded vigorously after this.  

Still arching an eyebrow he looked away, as he did this Luna mouthed ‘thank you’ to the woman. Snake was tempted to look back as the twins giggled.

"Ahem, Snake I must inform you that the Elements will be arriving shortly. Perhaps you should cover yourself?" Luna suggested looking around for anything to cover him with. He was confused; it was not as if his manhood was out for the world to see. Furthermore, they don't exactly cover themselves in the right places either.

"Hang on a sec, you don't even wear proper clothing. I am not wearing the rest of the suit; I need the vest or something to stop the little pointy bits from digging into my wounds. I think they will be fine, I don't see what the problem is not wearing clothing."

"You are naked." she pointed out.

"Half naked." he gestured to the exposed area before pointing to his pants. After reading the book, and the section about human taboos, she thought that being any form of naked would be considered inappropriate.  After altering the mental note she asked why they wear clothing.

Specks stated it could be for survival purposes, to stay warm and dry, after using Snake's body as tool to point out where he had little hair. Immediately snake lifted his arms and spun around to display the little patches of hair on his upper body. He explained that there are certain levels of nakedness and contexts that are appropriate.

He made it clear that the crotch area could never be exposed and she stared towards the spot. The lecturer did not indicate to do so, so Snake snapped his fingers and she looked up with another burning blush on her face.

He chuckled at her expense and queried into how long they had to wait. She said not long but Ursa wanted to shave quickly. Having the sharpest knife, Snake passed his blade to Ursa and he went onto his male grooming.

Specks was now in his bed, and was aligning his gadgets up for show and tell, whilst Deadeye was storing the weapons away under Snake's direct orders. The Captain had given Amber and Abbiegale a mission to see if they could retrieve Luna's crown.

Once completed, they passed it over to Snake as he casually walked by, and Luna continued to talk about the fascinating subject of how to move the stars. The topic actually put the mission on hold for a while as the twins put forward the idea of star signs. Luna was excited to finally hear more about these constellations in greater detail. So much so, that she did not notice her tiara vanish.

The women and man smiled innocently as she left the room, not aware of the stolen symbol of authority hiding behind Snake. She stated she would return half way through meeting between the humans and her subjects, if not it would be after dealing with the last of her duties.

After finally navigating the ancient halls, Twilight and the gang had reached the corridor where Celestia waited to greet them. Trotting along the cardinal carpet, Twilight reached her mentor and greeted her with an affectionate nuzzle. The rest of the group smiled and the display when the Princess returned the sweet embrace.

"Princess it's really good to see you again! How have you been?" Twilight asked happily to the ruler, as she retracted from the friendly act. Once the group gave a bow they followed Celestia to the meeting point.

"I have been fine my dear, thank you for asking. How are you girls?" The soothing voice was a welcomed sound for the group. The ruler of the sun was walking towards the end of the corridor before turning to face another corner.

The group all chirped their joyful responses as Celestia waited for them. Twilight said she was ecstatic to meet new beings, and asked about the one she would take a liking to. She was genuinely curious about why she would have a favourite already. Celestia smiled and said “You'll see.” This became the answer to most of the group’s questions. Such as; "what do they look like?", "Do they have clothes?”, "Should we throw a big party, or a surprise one?" Pinkie's question activated the automated response as they were walking down the final corridor.

One last question stopped them dead in her dead in her tracks, merely meters away from the door.

"Princess, are they dangerous?" The cyan mare asked. That question had been in her head for the past couple of minutes, burning its way deep into her mind. The thoughts of something potentially evil behind those doors were voiced, and confirmed, when the journey came to a halt.

"They mean us no harm, and are my friends, so long as we keep peace with them. To answer your question Rainbow Dash it is both yes and no. Do not worry," she said dismissively, waving a hoof as if to bat away concerns for safety, "they are friendly and even if they do retaliate they will not cause great harm. If such an event occurs I will intervene, however it is highly unlikely. I think you will all enjoy their company." For some this brought back the cheerful mood, for one this enforced her preconceived notions.

Opening the doors, a cool breeze glided through the infirmary window. The girls, except the butterscotch pegasus, eagerly stepped in and looked for these creatures. As soon as they stepped in, all of them spied what they were looking for.

There were five of these things. Each one was facing the group, as the mares studied them. Three were sitting patiently on the beds, two of which looked exactly alike. They had long fore and back hooves, but the upper pair appeared to end with blunt claws. The one sitting by the window seemed to have a mask covering his face, allowing only his sky blue eyes to inspect the girls. There was another one with large goggles, standing on its back hooves. She could see the lenses move like irises and whir as they focused solely on Twilight.

Finally there was the one she assumed was injured and nearly died twice. The folded  arms and the way he sat in his seat seemed to irradiate authority. Despite the bandaged eye and wrapped up arms and chest, he still seemed threatening.

“Hello Celestia. Please do come in, you’re always welcome into our humble abode my good friend.” He joked at the fact that she could kick him out in a moment’s notice. Also days ago, to him, they had met so it brought a warm smile to her face.

“Thank you. Girls, there is no need to fear them. They wish to talk and to get to know our world, since they will be staying.”

Yeah about that Sunny. We need to talk. Which reminds me, I gotta get Specks to check on that flower. I’ll get him to do it tomorrow. he was tempted to ask her if they could leave once they were fully healed, but something purple was bouncing in front of him.

“Hello I am Twilight Sparkle. Oh this is amazing. Let me get my notes.” Immediately her saddle bags glowed with a purple hue and opened up. Shortly after, scrolls and a quill were hovering before her and she still had that painful smile on her face. “This is going to be incredible.  Ahem.” she cleared her throat,

Snake was looking at Celestia with an arched eyebrow. She smiled back happily as the rest of the group gingerly tip toed in, meanwhile the nervous pegasus tried to remain in the middle of her friends.

Snake still remained quiet with an amused look on his face; he turned to the rest of the squad, minus Ursa, who looked back grinning. Well, he imagined even Deadeye was at least taken by the cute bouncing pink blur.

“Question one: What are you?

Question two: Where did you come from?

Question three: How did you get here?

Question four: What are your intentions here?

Questi…” The interviewer/ interrogator stopped her bombardment when Snake raised his hand and answered each question.

“Classified, classified, classified and fun.” He replied earning a chuckle from the rest of the humans and the Princess. Meanwhile the ponies looked at each other, with the exception Fluttershy, with a bamboozled expression.

“Err…okay?” Twilight didn’t understand but noted down each answer anyway. Snake had to stop her there and then. He stated that he was joking and began to introduce himself properly this time.

“Sorry my pretty purple pony,” she blushed as he continued to talk, “but I was expecting introductions before we began this cultural get together.” She snapped out of the state he had left her in and smiled sheepishly before chuckling.

“Hehe, yeah sorry about that. I guess I got carried away; I was just so excited to meet a new intelligent life form.”

“I know how you feel. Now then let me introduce my team. ATTENTION!” he swiftly shifted from a warm inviting voice to a more commanding tone. The girls were all shocked, Fluttershy squeaked before hiding under her mane. The soldiers and spies moved to their beds and assumed a straightened stance. Except Ursa who was still in the bathroom.

Twilight was startled and edged back, Rainbow looked ready to fly in a take out his other eye but he reassured them it was what happens in the military life.

“Lieutenant Deadeye; best sniper in seal team six, can stop a target over a mile and a half away from here.” He walked past the eldest human as he greeted the ponies with a nod.

Moving on to the twins he introduced them by the code names they were given at the beginning of the mission.

“This is Widow,” he pointed to Amber, “and this is Vixen.” he pointed to Abbiegale. They looked at him with an unimpressed expression.  Unlike the men, they didn’t care for these call signs. They corrected this and reintroduced themselves as Amber and Abbiegale, much to Snakes annoyance.

“Moving on.” He did exactly that and arrived to Specks who was sitting on the edge of his bed, goggles whirring and clicking. “This is Private Specks, mobile trooper of her Royal Majesty's secret air service; S.A.S for short.” The Elements of Harmony looked to the Princess who shook her head, and stated that he was on about the queen on his world.

“Now we come to…Where is Ursa?” Snake asked Specks who pointed to the bathroom. Twilight looked terrified when she assumed he was on about an Ursa Minor, similar to one she had fought when Trixie showed up.

“U-U-Ursa?” Twilight muttered. Rainbow Dash and Applejack were preparing to attack an actual Ursa, not what appeared next.

The door to the bathroom opened and out stepped a man of incredible size. The mare’s eyes narrowed as he cast a shadow over them. The light of the bathroom silhouetted his form. Whilst the ponies were shaking and hugging each other he took the time to voice his confusion.

“Vwat is going on? Did I miss something?” The Russian asked, the girls were still worried by the behemoth. Shortly after, Celestia explained what was happening to Ursa. Terror still gripped the Elements until a new name was mentioned. A familiar title.

“Oh okay, erm…Snake?” The group immediately looked at who he was addressing, recognising the name. Now they were searching for one thing: the dagger. It was the weapon that Rainbow Dash was hoping to find and prove their hidden danger, and yet hoped not to be on the receiving end of.

“Yeah? What is it? Get in line soldier.” Instantly the lower ranking soldier stepped by the foot of his bed. He held out the item everypony was searching for, the black blade. They could only stare at it as its tip was covered in a small speck of blood.

The ruler of the land caught sight of this, but before she could inquire about the sanguine tipped blade the Element of loyalty bolted straight for the giant. Instinctively the blade slid into his grasp and the giant prepared to puncture her ribcage with it. He managed to restrain the urge to take a jab and allowed her to get at eye level with him.

“Why does that knife have blood on it? Huh? Did you hurt a pony!?” As tempted as it was defend himself, either by throwing her through the floor or by talking back, he was still bound by the previous order of his superior.

“Ursa Major, you better explain yourself. Otherwise that pony’s going to kick your arse.” Once Snake said this, the giant couldn’t help but laugh; right in the face of the azure pegasus, who was flustered with rage as steam escaped with every snort.

“Little pony does not need to worry,” he turned his face to show a leaking slit of crimson, “an accident. Did not have razor so used knife.” He put the dagger on display. The description the guard gave was very accurate, jagged teeth on one side and a finer side on the other. The inscription of 'Snake' was imprinted into the darkened metal.

“You mean you cut yourself shaving?” she asked, feeling slightly guilty.

“Da, not used to sharp knife.” Applejack held a smug look, and directed it at the rest of the Elements. They all recalled what she said after listening to the rumour. Rainbow Dash wouldn’t dare face her rival knowing she was actually right. As much as Equestria’s fastest flyer would gloat about anything and everything, the speedster couldn’t handle being proved wrong.

“Give it ‘ere then. You could have washed it.” Snake complained as he sheathed the blade in its home around his leg. Given that his vest was gone, he moved the leather strap to his shin. When it was time for the group to be introduced to the Captain, Fluttershy finally chose to at least peek at him.

“I am Captain Snake of the S.A.S. Air trooper and leader of this band of international misfits. It’s a pleasure to meet you all, now may we ask who are you?”

“I am Twilight Sparkle and--”  was interrupted by a voice nopony expected to hear.

“Fluttershy!” blurted the butter coated pony. The socially awkward mare was not one to shout without a good reason, or ever yell in general. “Oh sorry was I too loud? It’s just your eye…erm…eep!” she squeaked, hiding behind her mane.

“No, it’s okay.  Do you want to speak? You can if you want to.” She was all too familiar with that sentence and looked back at the smiling man. She edged forward and was more concerned about him than her own safety. Not that he could harm anything with those turquoise eyes. Floating to his head level, he and Celestia watched as Fluttershy made her analysis.

“Are you okay? Does it hurt anywhere, oh you poor thing. Can you see?” her soothing voice was almost hypnotic.  Fluttering around his head she looked into the small functioning eye. His chocolate iris followed her as she brought his head closer for inspection.

“Yes, I do have minor pains but I’m a big guy. No need to worry love,” he leant out of her grasp and looked at Twilight, “I am human.” She quickly took note of this by scribbling it down frantically on a floating scroll, whilst he leant back into Fluttershy’s soft grasp.

“Unfortunately I will never see out of that eye again. Then again I only need one. I’ll survive my dear, we humans can take quite a punishment.” He said, raising his arms to give the girls a full display of his bare chest.  

The ponies, including Celestia, were shocked by wounds. The old fading scars and the new wounds almost caused Rarity to faint. Before he didn’t seem to have many wounds, but as he pointed this out it became apparent that he had been through Tartarus.

“What in tarnation happened to you?” The tangerine coloured one asked slightly disgusted. The sight was not appalling, but she was trying to imagine what had happened to him.

Lowering his arms, he pointed to the old scars and simply said ‘Classified’ until he reached the new wounds. Nonchalantly he pointed to his wounded eye and stated he took a spike to the face and lived.

Moving on to the left arm he said that another spike punctured through his arm. Despite the reassurance of an incredibly rapid recover due to magic, the girls were still grimacing at how he earned that wound. The group could only wince, and then he highlighted his shoulder. Circling his around the wound, he said a small shard of metal burrowed into his shoulder.

“How did this happen?” Twilight asked feeling sorry for his ordeal. The squad members looked at their feet; he had suffered the most and they had little to show for the last mission, other than, a few cuts and bruises, the nettle stings on Specks arm, and Ursa's reattached ear.

“Saving Sunny.” He said, smiling happily at the solar Diarch. She was tempted to roll her eyes at the use of that name but gave a warm hearted smile back. He saw the slight ping of guilt in her pained eyes and he regretted bringing the topic up.  He looked back at everyone; they all felt sorry for him.

“Hey, ain’t we supposed to be having a meet and greet? My lovely lady in white what is your name?” Swiftly bringing the purpose of the meeting back on track, and causing Rarity to beam at the compliment.

After Rarity introduced herself the group eventually followed suit. Learning each of the Elements by name led to friendlier conversations. Rarity enjoyed Snake’s gentleman’s approach and offered to give him some casual attire whilst he stayed. He said how her beauty must relate to her work, to keep in her good books, and accepted.

He realised he had forgotten the order he gave the other soldiers and spies, and released them. Soon the room was full of in depth discussions.

The exchange in culture left Twilight burning through scrolls as she chatted with Specks. He couldn’t help but laugh when he gave her a pen to write with. She was so in awe at such a simple and yet greatly beneficial tool. Her eyes lit up due to the amazing device Specks took for granted every day. He was considering revealing his other gadgets he had built, but instead confided to her a private showing of his technology at another time. She took the offer up in a heartbeat.

Pinkie was discussing parties with Amber and Abbiegale. The twins were occupied with talking about the type of parties there were. After listing the different types of get social events they have been to, from the classic birthday parties all the way up to the upper-class charity events. That idea left Ponyville’s premium party hostess feeling upbeat and with a new idea: a party to help others.

Ursa was talking to Fluttershy about his pet dog, Dusha. She was amazed to find out he was looking after a wolf. She rarely treated wolves, given that timber wolves keep to themselves. He talked about how they were the best of friends and how she learnt this cute trick of raising a paw to give him a high five. She mentioned that she cared for the animals around Ponyville, and how many she looked after. He was impressed by how well the caretaker could manage all of those creatures.

Applejack and Rarity questioned the masked man. Things like ‘why do you wear such a tasteless mask?’ and ‘how do yer manage to catch a pony from a mile and half away?’ were met with ‘classified information.’ Eventually they got talking when he mentioned home.

After describing his wife, Amy, and how he felt about her; he showed them the ring. Underneath his glove was a solid gold ring, inscribed with when two became one. After explaining it meant they lived for each other the girls’ d’aawwed’ at this, causing his cheeks to burn.

Rainbow was talking to Snake about what the mark on in his back, at which point Celestia also stepped in. Inspecting the mark, she asked if it was a cutie mark. Refusing to let her call it that, ever, he corrected her by saying it was a tattoo. He explained what one was, and what this one meant, and why he got one.

It was the S.A.S badge, he and Specks had one. It was an Excalibur sword with fire shooting out in a wing like fashion. Celestia asked what the foreign symbols were in the banner beneath the blade. He translated the Latin inscription as ‘who dares wins.’ The cyan pegasus admitted it was a pretty cool motto to go by. He looked at Celestia and said it was one he lives by.

Again she felt the ping of guilt and sympathy for him.

As the evening sun died down, the group all settled down for dinner. A delicious meal, courtesy of the finest chefs in Canterlot became the topic for the ambassadors. Specks also suggested a new recipe based on the ingredients he had found on his plate. He scribbled it down on a scroll, an act which caught everypony’s attention, and passed it over to Celestia. He twirled the spare pen around, across his index finger, before deciding to let Twilight keep it.

Unfortunately, they had to part ways for the night. Although the promise of their return did heighten spirits, their departure seemed to leave the room empty.

“You got some good ponies there Sunny. I can see you’re as wise as you are cute.” Every time he called her Sunny, she remembered Hard Hoof. Every time he complimented her, although he did lift her mood, she would soon feel guilty for not saving him sooner.

How could I believe he was the monster?

“Yes, Twilight is a powerful mage and good friend. My star pupil too, did you know she turned her parents into potted plants as a filly?” He stopped walking towards the window and faced her. She looked back with merry smile. He shook his head and pulled out the half empty flask of gin. He marvelled at how he had managed to make it last for so long. He sniggered and offered Celestia a drink. She was about to accept, anticipating the heat filled taste of the alcohol, only to have it taken away.

“Actually we don’t want you to get sunny side up again.” He laughed at her expense and she soon followed. The sun was starting to set as the two said their goodbyes.

He extended the flask again and offered a drink. She eyed him up before accepting the genuine offer. Levitating her glass from the serving table she made the vessel hover in front of him. He filled it half way then warned her not to drink it too fast.

She grinned at him, before mentioning the last of the guests who should be arriving soon; Her General and Captain of her guards. They had apparently wished to see the humans and talk about the security of Equestria, despite the Princess' promise that the humans mean no harm. Rather than waste one more breath on the matter, she allowed them to visit.

“Goodnight Snake.” She said before drinking from the cup.

“I think if you keep that up you will have a good night too. See you tomorrow Princess.” He jested, again she tittered and slowed down the drinking pace. The group was lounging around waiting for the second meeting of the day, Celestia had left moments ago, and they were once again off duty.

Climbing into his bed, Snake sighed. Moments before drinking from the container he heard Ursa ask everyone a question.

“Who is favourite pony?” There was a moment of silence as everybody thought about the unusual question. Assuming he was being ignored he turned over.

“Applejack. She seems honest enough and a hard worker. She said she would try to bring an apple pie or some cider next time. Rainbow didn’t seem so bad, suspicious, but she had her reasons. Especially after the whole knife thing. ” Deadeye replied.

“I thought Twilight was good to talk to. She had a level head about physics and maths. I could actually talk to her about some theorems.” Specks said, already missing the intelligent conversations.

“I think Pinkie Pie is my kinda girl. She knows how to party.” Abbiegale added. She was also hiding a secret from the group. A party she and Pinkie were plotting.

“Fluttershy is nice, reminds me of me in high school. Always shy.” Abbiegale squee’d at this thought of the timid Russian. “She is also good caretaker. Did you know she has hawks and mice in same area? They do not attack each other. Amazing.” he finished.

“I liked Rarity. She was really interested in fashion. We talked about different styles and she offered to give me a dress, free of charge.” The group all replied with ‘same here.’ They paused before laughing at the once special offer. “She has nice taste in music too. She can listen to party music and appreciates the finer symphonies.“ Amber had finished picking her favourite.

“I think don’t think I have a favourite.” Snake added to the conversation.

Sniggering, Specks barely managed to say, “Oh we know who your favourite pony is. Kinda aiming high huh Snake?” before he suddenly erupted into a fit of laughter. The others soon joined in. Snake frowned and pulled the curtain shut. He spent the time waiting by drinking from the flask with a scowl on his face.

“Have you read Celestia’s report on these things Captain?” The elder Pegasus questioned the young Captain of the Celestia’s guards. Everypony on duty straightened up as they proceeded towards the no go zone; the infirmary. The stone corridors became thinner and thinner in terms of guards on duty, until there was one posted in ever corridor.

“Yeah, hard to believe that only six of them stormed in and rescue the Princess from over a hundred more.” Shining Armour then recalled her sister and her friends defeating the spirit of chaos. “Then again, Twi has saved the world twice.”

“True, but your sister had the Elements of Harmony and magic, these creatures do not. Celestia stated they also managed to almost sneak her out, if not for a minor hiccup, they would have escaped over a hundred guards. No magic or greater powers, only their normal selves.”

“I know. I can’t imagine anyone of our guards doing that. I'm more worried about what they did afterwards.” The ivory pony faced the General, his navy blue and cyan hair parted past the horn.

“They destroyed the entire compound and escaped without a trace. I think we’re dealing with more than any normal soldiers. These guys…go beyond what I know.” The Captain sighed and straightened his uniform.

“That’s exactly why we need them. We can learn so much, especially those weapons. One of them can kill a target almost two miles away with his. Another can remove others without being heard and another can wipe out entire platoons before they can get close enough. How they managed to sneak in is a mystery to me.” The veteran General dusted his green jacket and shined his medals. Finally they made it to restricted area, void of all other pony guards. They took a deep breath before opening the doors.

It was dark, Luna had raised her moon and the window was shut. No light was here to welcome them, only a hidden voice.

“Evening gentlemen, my you pick you timings.” The male voice welcomed them in. They edged in and went into high alert. To their best abilities, they tried to scan the room for anything.

They saw nothing.

Vague shadows that blended into everything else. It wasn’t until the door shut, and they were plunged into complete darkness, that they began to feel the dread that came with expecting an ambush.  A candle was lit and a pair of hands was seen.

“Now what did you want to see us about?” Snakes face fell out of the shadow and rested on his knuckles. The ponies took note of the bandaged eye and the wounded chest. Gingerly they took a seat, but kept a brave face.

“We have come to discuss the security of Equestria with you. We would like to know if you are a threat.” Shining Armour replied. The General nodded, as Snake eyed them both up.

“No. No you haven’t,” he leant back and smiled at them, “you’ve come to offer us a job.” The pair looked at each other and looked back, before they could ask Snake answered them.

“How do I know? You don’t ask a superior officer about the attack and go check out the damage yourself. In this case, you knew us humans meant no harm to this land because Celestia told you so. You believed her, what you want to know is can we aid you in safeguarding Equestria.”

The military officials were stunned. He had sussed them out in minutes of seeing them. Although Shining Armour was creeped out, the General was impressed.

“I see you are very observant. I would also like to say thank you for saving Celestia, we read the report. Fascinating work. No evidence left behind. Care to explain the details?” he was testing him for something.

“That is classified, if I tell you I would have to kill you.” That was what he was looking for, sort of. The General took in the threat with a nod of his head whilst the Captain scowled at Snake.

“I thought there were more of you…humans.” The Captain of the guards was quick to point out.  Snake grinned menacingly. They were focusing on his incisors when he snapped his fingers.

Catching the General's attention, Specks stepped in from the shadows, and stood next to Snake holding his silenced pistol. Deadeye crept into view by opening the window and brandishing his sniper. The twins stood by either side of the ponies, holding their silenced weapons. Next to make his appearance was Ursa standing behind them and cracking his knuckles.

Never have these two soldiers ever felt so intimidated.

“We can be everywhere, gentlemen, if you want someone gone or rescued,” he snuffed the light out. There was a faint sound of scuttling, “you get a human to do it.” The ponies jumped as he reappeared between them, face illuminated by a match. Everyone else was hidden.

“Now our skills vary, but know this. We will never hurt a civilian or innocent bystander intentionally. That is not what we do, or why we fight. We perform search and rescue, prevent attacks, and acquire intelligence. We are formidable in direct assaults and can always defend a position.” He returned to the seat. After relighting the candle they stared into his dark eye.

“We work in secret, we exist in shadow, we would walk among our people and be ghosts, and we could end empires with a single strike. Now, what do you want from us gentlemen?”

Soon the room was filled with light emanating from the five other candles. The humans held a candle each and, rather than have the face of predator, wore natural smiles to calm the military officials. The one with the mask still seemed a mystery.

“Don’t worry; we wanted to show off a few skills and this was the perfect time to practise. You don’t get to be lazy in the military life, right?”

The two ponies smiled and nodded. The veil of fear the humans wore was starting to wear off slightly. Snake outstretched a hand and the blue maned equine had no idea what to do with it. The General rolled his eyes and shook hands with the human. After realising his intention the unicorn copied his superior.

“Name’s Shining Armour. Captain Shining Armour of Princess Celestia’s royal guards.” He smiled back after having his hoof released from the firm grip of the man.

“Snake. Captain Snake. Air trooper of her Royal Majesty's secret air service, or S.A.S for short.”

There was a strong sense of measuring each other’s worth. It always happened when equal ranked soldiers met; given the damage Snake had sustained Shining Armour gave him his respect.

“General Storm Twist, good to hear you’re willing to work with us. But what do you mean secret air service?” Snake was glad he had asked. Looking over at the withered old prune he began to explain concept of areal drops and landings. They were amazed by how such a system worked. The squad members were now turning in for the night as the conversation carried on.

He pulled out his blade and tossed it up and down, casually, by his side. They couldn’t help but eye the large knife.

“So I am called in to fall into enemy territory,” he dangled the blade by the handle above the table, “and have to continue my mission from wherever I land. I sometimes have to make my own way back.” He grabbed the firmly this time by the metal tip.

“More often or not it is to eliminate a target.” He launched the knife at the table, startling the pair. The side with ‘Fang’ scratched on faced them, as it stood up and slanted towards it origin.

“Nobody knows where we are, but more often than not we are rescuing someone or preventing an attack. We leave no trace of our existence.” He stated, the General was pleased with his code of conduct; this creature seemed to already be capable of becoming a valuable asset.

“I think you and your squad have put on a fantastic display of your abilities, back to the matter at hoof." He leant forward, resting both hooves on the table. Snake rested his chin on his hand, a habit he had during any briefing from those assigning him a mission.

"Now we have a problem and we could use your kind of...discretion.”

Chapter 7: A new threat(s)

Chapter 7: A new threat(s)

Time: 2356 hours.

Date: unknown...Recorded date: 5 days since Ursa’s awakening.

Current Location: Canterlot castle/ infirmary. (?) No coordinates available.

Region: Equestria.

Personnel Present: Capt.Snake,  Capt. Sh.Armour, Gen. St.Twist

Squad: Dormant.

[new mission acquired: Operation: Bad dogs].

Mission uninitiated: Foil plot to seize control of Airship(?) in 20 hours

Primary objective: Rescue captives aboard SS. Adventure

Secondary objectives: Reduce civilian casualties.

                                       Remain undetected

Personal directives: Attain roster of staff on duty.

                                   Interrogate the leader

                                      Find Gin.

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Last night’s meeting became Snake’s first thought of the morning. Another dreamless night, perhaps for the best. This new mission needed his focus, not some meaningless imaginings of his mind. Still, he’d like just one mental movie, to escort him from dusk to dawn whilst he slept.

Similar to when he was once happy, so, so long ago.

Sitting upright, he felt a throbbing headache burn his mind. Grimacing, he swung his legs over the side and felt a dizziness overwhelm him. Collapsing to the floor, he heard similar thuds around him. The five other groans confirmed he was not the only one suffering from the disorientation.

“Sound off!” Snake yelled, bewildered by the sudden mental assault. He used the bed to steady himself, and pulled apart the curtains. The pain soon became unbearable and he fell back onto the bed.

“Not too good sir, you guys feel that too?” Specks answered, on his hands and knees by his bed.

“Da, strange to all feel same migraine. Not due to injuries.” The giant was the only one standing. He picked both of the girls up, but Abbiegale slumped into his chest. Snake saw Deadeye by the window.

“Damn. The fuck was that?” he asked, resting the back of his hand on his forehead.

“I have no idea. Ursa what could do that, at the same time?” Snake turned to face the medic, and noticed how Abbiegale still clung to him; Amber was already climbing into her bed.

“Possible virus, unlikely contracted in infirmary. Perhaps some flowers in garden? No, effects would be sudden. Not banana, I only one to eat, not food poisoning either. Would be stomach pains not searing headache.” He sighed, and Abbiegale slowly released him.

“I may need blood tests. I have no equipment.” The pain had stopped, releasing the group of their mental torment.

“Well it seemed to have died down at the same time, so whatever it was we were exposed to it at the same time.” Amber added. Ursa pondered over this and nodded.

“Will help narrow down source. Still would like to do blood tests.”

“Here you can use my Goggles.” Everyone cocked an eyebrow and faced Specks.

“It does have analytical properties. How else was I able to see how cells reacted to the robo-arms?” He shrugged. The rest took in the knowledge with a nod.

“Thank you goggled boy.” The Russian responded, grinning slightly.

“That’s Specks you twat.” The short man responded, voice laced with irritation.

Choosing to avoid a potential bloodbath, due to the...less admirable quality of his padawan, Snake stepped towards the center of the group. After recalling a few incidents back at base, due to Specks temper, he had no hesitation in being prepared to restrain the man.

After earning their attention, he calmly said “ Let’s not gain more injuries than what we already have. Last thing I wanna do is break both of your legs. Let’s get some blood samples sooner...” he paused when he heard a set of thunderous hooves. marching down the corridor beyond the doorway, “than later. Scrap that, Ursa gets the blood tonight when we won’t be disturbed.”

Suddenly the door burst open. The bright light of the morning sun, burned their eyes as it entered from the hallway. He heard the slow steps of a pony edge closer. When he was finally able to look, he was thrown to the back of the room by a familiar verbal blast. He heard the anger in her tone, as an indigo alicorn stepped closer. Peeling himself away from the wall, he sought what she was looking for.

“Here you go, mind not doing that again...ever?” He massaged his temple and handed over the tiara. She smirked and levitated the tiara onto her head. She appeared different this time, recognisable but different.

“Very well, that does make the score 4-2 does it not? I am merely allowing you to feel as if you stand a chance.” she replied, inspecting her horse shoes. Snake rolled his eyes before focusing on her new form.

“New look? It suit you.” He added, standing up straight. He noted her baby blue mane, smaller stature, the way her hair also covered half of her face, as opposed to flowing in the starlight colour it was before. She beamed at the compliment.

“Tis my original form,  before adulthood. Well that would be a lie, It is the form I as an alicorn had for my first one-hundred years. After, we can change into our more powerful form, once our bodies are prepared to hold the vast amount of magic. It allows us to be able to move the moon easier, but I like to get out of it from time to time.” She explained, still smiling.

“Wait? One hundred years? As in a century?” Deadeye added, both confused and interested.

“Yes, Did Celestia not explain? We are both over 2000 years old. Well she is 2028 years old, I am 2025.” she added the last sentence with a bit of spite in her tongue. She recalled the amount of times her elder played the ‘I’m older, I get the cake’ or even the ‘ I’m older, you do what I say’ cards.

There was a stunned silence, Specks lifted his goggles and eyed her up, as did Amber and Abbiegale. Amber broke the silence.

“Well I hope I look half as good as you do when I’m 100, let alone 2000.” she chuckled. Everyone was brought back from their stupor.

Luna asked how old can humans live up to, to which point Abbiegale said only to around 80-ish. Snake then informed her of the ages of the group. Ursa was 30, Amber and Abbiegale both 25, Specks was 28, Snake was 32. When he arrived to Deadeye he had to ask for his age.

“46, still kicking ass.” He replied, a mirthful smile plastered his face. Not that anyone could tell.

“Bloody hell. I was expecting 56 with that aim of yours.” mocked the Captain. Deadeye took no offense; his skill had saved the team’s life numerous times.

“Now, besides claiming what was rightfully mine...” the Princess turned and scolded the man, before continuing calmly, “You have been requested to join us for a meal, in the garden. Celestia wishes for you to get some fresh air, seeing as you haven’t left the room.” She winked at Snake who got the hint.

“Put on your best poker face guys. Try not to give away too much. Ursa I think you should do that banana thing again.”

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“Good morning Snake. How are you this morning?” The soft voice of Celestia soothed the man as he stepped into the light. The others shortly followed. Giving a minute formulate a response he looked around. He held a small smile, as did the rest and looked impressed with the scenery before them; they did have to act as if it was their first time in the garden.

“I’m great thanks, this is quite a garden. Didn’t know you had such a green thumb.” He responded. The group headed towards a large table, filled with a smorgasbord fit for any vegetarian. Ursa monitored the plants, as did the twins, having a slight belief that they caused the headaches this morning. Specks and Snake noticed the table was set up away from the Australian plant.

Around the table sat the six ponies from before, and six empty seats opposite. There was a spare plushy next to Celestia, black and star speckled; no doubt it belonged to Luna.

Given that this was meant to be a casual breakfast with royalty, Snake decided to improvise a something to cover his chest. Amber stepped forward and offered to make him a toga to cover his chest, made from the torn curtain.

“I take it you mean do I tend to the garden? If so then yes, in my spare time I do maintain my flowers. I find it a nice relaxing hobby, with the benefits of a few treats.” she chuckled warmly, and levitated a daisy. Snake watched as she gave it a tentative sniff, before consuming a single petal.

“Marvellous work sunny, I don’t suppose you cheat at times and give your crop more sunlight do you?” His response was met with a small guilty smile, but rather than admit to her crimes in front of the now curious orange farmer, she turned the tables.

“So you do believe I can move the sun? What happened to I’ll believe it when I see it? hmmm?” she asked wearing a smug grin that annoyed him, never the less it made him feel like smiling.

“Princess Luna made sure to leave the man gob smacked. Best reaction ever. I have the video recording of it.” Specks added, strolling closer to the table. The group let out a small chuckle as they sat down, coincidentally opposite the ponies they had favoured last night.

Ursa sat across from Fluttershy, both sharing a pleasant greeting. Deadeye sat opposite Rainbow Dash, who was half way through a bowl of oats. Rarity gave a lady like ‘Darling it is wonderful to meet you again.’ to Amber, who was pulling back the well-crafted chair. Pinkie Pie waved to  Abbiegale, who couldn’t help but giggle as she returned the gesture. Specks, knowing Twilight’s curiosity and thirst for knowledge, decided to bring the recon drone. That was beneficial in both ways; he gets to impress the mare and also check on the flower at the same time. He sat opposite the merry unicorn, which  was beside her mentor, and prepared for another bombardment of questions.

Luna took her seat, just as Specks did, and graciously levitated a spoon full of peach yogurt.

Leaving Snake to be paired up with Applejack. He didn’t get to speak to her much besides telling her about the wounds.

“Howdy. Yer the one called Snake righ’?” she asked, hoping not to offend him.

“Yes ma’am. Nice to meet you,  Applejack is it?” She nodded in response. He took as seat and looked upon the meal before him. Apples, a bowl of porridge and more fruit. He was surprised by how little the royal cook had to offer, until he gazed upon the rest of the banquet. Fruit salads, apricot flapjacks, pancakes with a thin drizzle of syrup and a few smoothies and much more.

He looked back at the meal, hovered his hand over the spoon, but found the red delicious to be a temptation he couldn’t ignore. Applejack caught sight of this and grinned, she stopped eating her apple fritters and watched him take a bite.

I think I'm about to dribble. This...is fucking good. He mouth was consumed with both a bitter and sweet conflict. At first the surgery juices massaged his tongue, before the blitz of sour engulf his maw. With each chew he found his mind slowly drift off into a bliss like state. That was one heck of an apple.

“Ahm glad yer like it. hehe, I can tell you want another bite. That belongs to mah family’s orchard, we grow the best apples in the whole of Equestria.” after chuckling to his response, she soon beamed with pride.

“That’s true, that was a mighty fine apple, but I think someone’s tooting their own horn a bit too much.” He remarked, catching her eye.

“Oh yeah? Wait till Ah cook you a pie, or give you some Apple family cider. That’ll change yer tune.”

“Keep the pie, I’m more of a cider man myself.”

Down the other end of the table, Twilight had been dying to ask more questions. She was fit to burst, but her manners stopped her from asking as Specks was still eating his breakfast. He knew this and was painstakingly eating slowly to toy with her. She was starting to fidget when he looked at the Princess of the sun. She Smiled back and nodded, signalling him to stop torturing the curious mare.

“You know, I’m not much one for manners. You think moving from mission to mission gives me chance to brush up on my table manners? I think asking me questions is far better than being polite. I don’t mind.” The Liverpudlian man asked, earning a sigh from the unicorn opposite.

“Thanks, you are a slow eater. I thought I’d burst.” she responded, smirking at her insult.

“I’m not. I’m just messing with you love.” He smirked back, they narrowed eyes before sharing a small chuckle.

“Alright fine. So the Princess tells me you’re omnivores, are you okay with being vegetarians whilst you’re here?” She asked, slight concern hidden in her voice.

“Yeah we’ll be fine. Evolution has gifted us with the ability to survive on both meat and flora. We’ll be fine, might need more protein supplements, but we’ll survive.” he responded, noticing the faint lavender glow of her horn.

“Twilight? Are you writing notes at the table? I thought you learnt not to do that when you were a filly.” The Princess gave an ‘I’ve told you over a million times’ look that only a mother could pull.  The student grinned nervously, before quickly changing subject.

“So what do you think of Equestria?” She quickly stated, giving a pleading grin to the human.

“I don’t know, but from here it looks beautiful. Both in day and night. Although this new perspective is better than the infirmary window. We haven't left the room since we got here 5 days ago.” Luckily he remembered not to say he had already visited the night before, thanks to the reminder form the worried Princess Luna.

“That reminds me, I wish to introduce you to our society soon. Tomorrow to be exact.” Celestia then brought a small cup of tea to her lips, drank a small amount before lowering the beverage down.

“I’m sorry could you repeat that?” Specks casually rested his hand against his ear, turning on the earpiece and mike.”

Snake heard the crackle of his own earpiece. An emergency line he and Specks kept in place, should the headsets fail. As Applejack was naming her entire family, who appeared to make up one quarter of the population, he heard Celestia repeat her plans to make them public knowledge. This would upset the mission later on tonight. He turned it off and let the apple farmer continue. He was about to talk about his family when something floated in front of him.

An eye patch.

“Captain Snake, I do believe you will appreciate this little gift. I made it this morning, I hope you like it.” Rarity had spent the night and morning creating the black patch. Despite its shadowy colour it had a few diamonds dotted around. Small things, not big enough to catch any amount of light if he was sneaking around.

“Of course. This is a wonderful gift, thank you I truly appreciate it Miss Rarity.” he was tempted to put it on there and then, but felt he should wait for Ursa's command.

“Oh it’s fine dear, the least I could do for a gentlecolt who saved the Princess. Please just call me Rarity.” she beamed.

“Hey Ursa, think I can put this on now?” Snake asked. Not usually one to care for appearance, but the diamonds made it the most expensive piece of attire he had ever owned. Barring the prototype suit he wore on missions of course.

“Da, do you need me to un...un...” He paused, searching his memory banks for that missing word.

“Untie?” Fluttershy asked softly. She had just finished a daisy sandwich.

“Da, need me to untie bandage?” he asked, happy to have found the words.

After being told that it would not be necessary, he faced the pegasus opposite and thanked her. She smiled back merrily and they continued their conversation about his native tongue. She was interested, so much so she learnt to say a small phrase.

“приятный” The titan spoke clearly whilst Fluttershy was listening intently.

“Tree-ag-nay,” she spoke slowly, forging the new word on the tip of her tongue, “ приятный.” she repeated more confidently.

“Da, perfect.” He smiled merrily, pulling an apple smoothie to his lips.

“Yay.” she chirped, quietly however, Ursa mentally noted how adorable the tiny shout was. She blinked before asking “What does it mean?”

“Nice.” He replied wiping some of the blended fruit from his mouth. Fully understanding the word left a smile on her face, before she elegantly lifted a small splodge of porridge to her lips.  

Pinkie Pie and Abbiegale, to others, talked about different cakes and preferences. Unbeknownst to the rest, they were selecting the catering of their surprise party.

"Well I like Chocolate cake I could eat...SIX... before feeling full." Abbiegale noted how terrible Ponyville's party hostess is at any secret code, but never the less communed in the same way.

"Well I know three HUMANS who would like toffee." she replied. Pinkie Pie nodded happily.

Meanwhile Rarity and Amber were talking about Snakes new appeal.

"Well it is a practical piece, did you do that yourself? It is very unique and stylish on a human." she asked, admiring how the strange assortment of cloth suited the Captain.

"Well yes, if I had a sowing machine and some cloth then maybe I could fix him something up. That was a wonderful eye patch by the way, I can't imagine how you could afford such diamonds." responded Amber, still amazed by the tin diamons she had studded onto the eye patch.

"Oh that is nothing dear. The are easy to come by, but difficult to apply. The right shade, the right size, it all requires years of practice and know how. Besides it's the least I would do for such a gentle colt, let alone a brave stallion such as him. Why I could fix you up something if you like. I do hope those are...working clothes." Rarity finished, examining the disguise Amber still wore.

"Yes. These were a disguise, rather tasteless I'll agree. I would love some new clothes, but please, I'll be fine in these for now."

Returning back to the man undressing his wound, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Dead eye turned to face him, pausing their conversation to see his scarred eye. After tucking the bandage away, he faced each one.

“Huh. I was expecting something ugly like. It don’t look so bad.” The cyan wonder responded, avoiding the glance she was given by the cowpony.

“Still didn’t stop the spear blinding me; the fact it doesn’t look bad.” he remarked, dragging a finger along the scarred line. “How bad’s the eye?”

“It’s kind of glazed over. You can see the brown pupil, but it’s sealed over the iris. The scars pretty awesome.” Deadeye was impressed by the permanent slash from the tip of his eyebrow to the top of his cheek.

“Truth be told partner, you ain't got much to worry about without that eye. Ain't like its missing and there’s a hole there. Looks a little funny, but not off-puttin'.” Applejack added, peering into the blind eye. Snake brought the eye patch to dysfunctional eyeball. After wrapping the patch around the back of his head he returned a look to those before him.

“Well? What do you think?” He was met with a few slowly bobbing heads, trying to formulate an opinion, before they all nodded.

“Looks pretty good. Kind of adventure like.” Applejack added, before picking up another fritter.

“Yeah, kinda dangerous looking too.” Rainbow commented, smiling at the man.

“You’re like one of those old heroes from the movies. The ones who survive anything and walk away from say, being stabbed in the eye and arm, a crash, and being shot.” he said, rolling around his hand. Both shared a small chuckle before realising the mares were grimacing before them.

“I wish I had a mirror.” he said, after coughing into his hand.

“I can help with that.” He looked up to see Specks leaning across the table on the other side, blocking Celestia view.

“Tis a fashionable piece of eyewear Snake, it is complementary to a veteran such as yourself.” Luna spoke, looking down the table. Celestia finally got a look when Specks leant back. Despite everyone else trying to view the man with the patch, Specks maintained Twilight’s attention when he started messing with the sheet of glass on his wrist.

“Yes Snake, it is quite a suitable bit of attire.” Celestia added.

He does look more intimidating with that little eye patch, quite daring too. Celestia mused to herself.

“Wow you can be Captain Snake the soldier AND Captain Snake of the SS. Human. Plundering treasures from the edges of the Equestria and having sword fights with fifty ponies!” chirped Pinkie Pie, before using her spoon to imitate an epic duel. The group laughed, especially when Abbiegale had to defend herself with her own spoon.

There was a small whirring sound which caught everyone's attention.

The group watched in awe as a small floating device made its way along the table. Its single blade rotating at high speeds, as It creeped up to Snake.

“Now keep watching. If I do this...” he jabbed his wrist pad, causing the little drone to take a picture, “I can permanently store a photograph, and continue using it.” He finished, showing it to a jaw dropped librarian.

“That is incredible, miniature flying cameras. You say you can use it to scout the land? This is amazing.” She replied, voice dripping with awe.

“Yes. We have even built similar designed aircraft to carry around twenty of us at a time. Even have a few unmanned drones, such as this one, reach the edge of the atmosphere.” He added, rubbing his ego as she continued to marvel at his work.

“Really?! Wow. I suppose you were working on space travel as well?” She asked, hastily scribbling down notes on her scroll.

“Oh we’ve already done that. Didn’t work on it, but I’ve heard we have a space station in orbit around our planet.” He added, eyeing up the cyan pegasus stalking his drone.

“Amazing, so what do you work on?”

“I worked on bio-technology. I designed functioning limbs for amputees. I was successful too.”

“I remember you saying, that must have taken a lot research time.”

“Yeah…but as you can imagine, my social life paid for it hehe.” He chuckled before sighing. Twilight knew how he felt, even if he did tried to hide it with a laugh. Before meeting the other girls she was quite a social recluse.

“But still, it was worth seeing the smile on a little boy. He could finally paint again. It was worth it in the end.” He stopped, and smiled to himself,  moving chopped fruits around with his fork.

“Anyway, wanna know how I get this thing to fly?”

She smiled warmly. What he had just said made her recall the greats who sacrificed many years, to better improve the way the world works; Starswirled the Bearded, spending a whole three years in his home studying time altering spells, Blindeye the all seeker, responsible for developing magic to track down criminals.

“I’d like that.” she replied, peering over to the wrist pad on his arm.

Whilst he was explaining the mechanics behind the device, much to his annoyance, Dash was following it. He used this as a moment to investigate the seeds he planted.

He noted the no sign of a flower, a growing stem, or even a sprout.

Still the cyan mare persisted, it wasn’t until she started prodding the underside that he started concentrating on it solely.

He cause it the dive and zip around, to which point the rainbow speedster had no problem following. He skilfully dipped through trees and under bushes, and even under the table. Still she followed, until it landed perfectly on his back. He turned around and crossed his arms. She gave a sheepish smile and rubbed the back of her head, before returning to her seat.

Soon though came the banana scenario. Much to everypony’s surprise, including the ruler of the sun, Ursa asked if he could have a banana. The reactions of eating one was priceless. Ursa willingly peeled more and passed them around. They were a huge hit amongst the equines. Each soft bite was welcomed, and the next eagerly anticipated.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------.

Soon though breakfast came to an end and, once again, the group felt sombre about departing. As the squad returned the infirmary, their little nest in the castle, Celestia and Snake spent more time talking.

“So what did think of a humble banana, I can’t believe after 400 hundred years of having these around, you haven’t thought to peel one.” mocked Snake, before removing the bandage on his arm. To his amazement his wounds had completely healed over.

“Well I did not...wait you know I am 400?” she asked worried. He returned an arched eyebrow, not one to say ‘you mean you’re 400?’ but one to say ‘I know you’re older than that.’

“How did you find out?” she demanded, refusing looking at him.

“Classified information I’m afraid. If it’s any consolation, we have a saying back home about females, worried about their age. Like it or not I find it to be true.” he added, chuckling at the frown she gave him. The burning stare was soon intimidating enough for his flight or fight response to almost kick in.

“Go on...tread lightly.” she warned, arching an eyebrow. The pair were walking down the royal halls, one turn away from the infirmary.

“Women age like fine wine. So being 2000 years old HAS done wonders on you, but I’m sure you don’t need me to tell you that. You must catch every stallion’s eye.” He mentally sighed in relief. He thanked his stars he recovered from that trap. He had met women worried about their age before, and those who aggressively abuse him for it. He didn’t even want to imagine what an insulted sun goddess could do.

He knew he was in the clear when he saw a faint layer of crimson on her cheeks.

“You’re lucky you got yourself out of that one. I was reserving a special place in my dungeon for you.” she said darkly, smirking as well.

As tempting as it was to say “Kinkie” he chose to laugh it off. The two continued talking as she mentioned that they had discovered wine whilst she was away. To avoid suspicion, she stated she knew how to increase the age of most wines, which is why her own selection may appear strong. He bought yet another lie, not willing to question if that was possible for even magic, and asked to sample some. She agreed and stated that she would tomorrow after unveiling the humans to her subjects.

“Are you sure you wish to do so, so soon? You do realise what secret air service actually means right?” she turned to face him, stopping in her tracks.

“Yes, I think I know how to handle interspecies diplomacy, living 2000 years and all.” she smiled smugly, to which point he returned a smirk.

“You mean, 2028 years old.” Again she frowned.

“Can we move on from my age, before I forget that lovely phrase you said?” He nodded, grinning.

“I just don’t like the idea of it.” He continued walking on, turning the corner. He was anticipating the mission tonight, he was going to put the squad through a small exercise program to prepare until then, but now he had to worry about being made public knowledge.

“It will be fine. If you are going to stay here, you need free access around the castle. A conference will quickly allow just that.” she replied, walking alongside him.

“What do we get out of this? We could already sneak around. I do hope you don’t intend to let this infirmary be our home.” he remarked. They soon faced each other, he wore a cheeky grin whilst she gave a small smile.

“I suppose separate rooms would be provided, as well as travel rights outside the city.” she responded. They had reached the infirmary, the sound of shuffling and whispers brought a smile to his face. At least he knew his team was preparing themselves already.

“That’ll do. Right then, goodbye Sunny.” He responded, turning to face the alicorn. “By the way, you don’t look past one hundred one.” He gave another small grin and departed without seeing her reaction. Not that he had to.

Opening the doors and stepping in, he tightened his eye patch, and looked upon his squad. Each had their equipment laid upon the beds, standing beside them vigilantly awaiting orders.

“So sir what about this conference?” Snake looked at him, confused to how the engineer could have possibly known that.

“How did you...” he was cut off when Specks tapped the earpiece.

“Ah. Well I guess we’re going public. I managed to get Sunny to upgrade us each to a five star suite. I guess it’s a fair trade, now we get to actually move around too. Plus I’m sick of waiting to use the bathroom.” He walked through, heading for his bed.

“That’s not all you got though.” The Captain froze in the spot. He slowly turned around and stared at his grinning team mate.

“You also got yourself a date. I guess you weren’t aiming high after all.”

He would soon regret being born.

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“So what do yer think Rainbow? Still monsters wanting to invade and cut us up?” Applejack remarked. She had been waiting for the perfect moment to rub her face in the fact she was right.

“Okay, so their cool. That guy called Deadeye seemed alright. He talked about these, like, flying machines that could break the sound barrier. I told him I could do that, he didn’t believe me.” she recalled, folding her hooves and scowling. She drifted along before looking over to Fluttershy.

“What about you Shy. What’s Ursa like?” The butter pegasus looked up and smiled.

“He’s very приятный.” She said, blinking at the sudden slip into Russian. The rest looked at her as if she had spoken a new language, which was true.

“Bless you darling.” Rarity inserted, still walking back to her room.

“Oh no. приятный is Russian for nice. Ursa is very nice.” She nodded agreeing with herself.

“That’s pretty good Fluttershy. I forgot to get around asking about where they’re from. They all have funny accents.” Twilight added, tittering to herself. The girls giggled, until the farmer cleared her throat.

“Well, I didn’t think y‘all cared for accents.” a disgruntled farmer said, trotting along ahead of the group.

“Oh come on Applejack. You gotta admit Specks does sound funny.” Dash commented, keeping up with the orange mare. She was flying backwards, lying down and appearing to be in a sleeping position, when she was neck and neck with her. She impersonated his scouse accent, terribly, and laughed wildly. The cowpony glared at her.

“Ain’t no reason to make fun of nopony!” she barked, stopping in her tracks.

“Girls can we get back to discussing the pleasant sides of these humans?” Rarity added, as the group remerged together.

“Yeah, like how Abbiegale knows how to paaarrrtty! Not just party, but also Party, with a capitol P. Paaaarty, with a lot of a’s, and pa-rt-y!” Pinkie Pie sat there grinning. Rainbow Dash and Apple jack shot her a look. Both of them thought ‘Pinkie Pie, you’re so random.’

“So who’s your favourite human.” Pinkie Pie added, causing the group to ponder if this question.

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“Oh Lulu!” Princess Celestia sung down an empty corridor. She was heading towards her siblings room with one thing in mind.

“I know what you did, come out. Let’s have a chat, sister to sister.” she suggested calmly. She had been hunting her Luna ever since she left Snake.

“I’m not here, go away!” a voice cried out. A sinister grin crept across the solar Princess’ mouth. She honed onto the source of the noise, a small room. She peered inside , spying a small servant bed, a wardrobe, a cabinet with a mirror above, and a single window.

“Come on out dear sister. I know you you’re the reason Snake knows how old I am.” she responded, stepping into the center of the room.

There was a constrained sneezed, followed by a small bit of earthen profanity, coming from the wardrobe.

“Oh sister must we always play these games?” The elder alicorn encased the wardrobe doors in a golden aura before opening them. The act revealed another member of the royal family: Princess Luna, sheepishly smiling to her sister. Shame the pure white alicorn didn’t return a similar smile. Or any to be precise.

“So tell me, LITTLE SISTER, what else did you say about me?” chided Princess Celestia.

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“123, 124, 124, 125, and hold.” Snake walked amongst the squad, each holding the painful press up position midway. The previous seventy-five press ups had been fine, if you count searing pain with each movement fine.

“Totally worth it.” grunted Specs, arms wobbling as Snake eased his weight onto his back. Sometimes he made Specks redo the procedure by bringing foot down harder. This had happened twice already.

“It is just a casual drink, to celebrate her rescue, the conference, and between the rescuer and the hostage. That’s all.” He rested his foot on the square of his back, awaiting results.

“If you say so...Sir.” Specs managed to speak, sweat dripping from his brow.

Snake looked to the rest of the group, each one tired and in a similar position.

“And...relax.” The room was filled with a loud sigh, and a cry of pain when Snake brought his foot down.

“Well done, now rest and get ready for tonight. I hope none of you like small spaces.”

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[ Operation: Bad Dogs].

Mission initiated: Foil plot to seize control of Airship(Zeppelin) in 1 hour

Squad Statue: Alert and prepped.

Primary objective: Rescue captives aboard SS. Adventure.

                                Remain undetected

                                  Avoid leaving human traces behind.

                                    Leave questioning to the guards in Canterlot.

Secondary objectives: Reduce civilian casualties.

Personal directives: Keep tactics taught to a minimum.

                                 Attain roster of staff on duty.

                                   Interrogate the leader

                                      Find Gin.

Long after their final meal for the day, and the ponies had finally left for good, the group of soldiers were picked up by a method they had not yet encountered. Creeping through a window to floating chariot. Not as nerve wracking as jumping into the back of a Chinook helicopter, from the fifth floor, but still it was quite an adventure.

Amber made it clear how much she hated flying, when she refused to let Deadeye go for the entire journey. At least the conversation was relevant for to be distracted her long enough to arrive at their destination. Although, she would occasionally glance over the side to see the darkened stone city miles below. With the sun setting half an hour ago, the world had become engulfed in shadow.

“So General, I understand you and Shining Armour will send guards in as soon as we finish.” Snake stated, checking the ammo in his glock. Six bullets, seemed to be his new number given that he also had six magazines on him.

“That is correct Captain. We need you to work your way down to the hold, which is where we believe the attackers are lurking.” The General replied, lighting a cigar. The group also did a weapon check, for the umpteenth time.

“Could you give us more information on these raiders. I think we should know the motive and appearance at least.” Abbiegale asked, tightening the silencer on her submachine gun.

“They’re Diamond dogs. Like normal dogs, but walk much like you do. I doubt they are as smart though. As for motive, we know they are pony-napping ponies and selling them off. We have a feeling it’s to the same buyer. We don’t know why they're so desperate though. Might be due to the break they had. Last pony-napping was three months ago.” Armour added, venom pouring out at the crimes.

“So they are trying to meet a quota? Permission to alter plan sir.” Specks added, testing his thermal vision.

“Input.” Snake responded.

“We kill the sons of bitches.”

“Only if we have to. We need them alive for interrogation. Then we may dispose of them.” Snake commanded. The Captain of the guard was not happy.

“We need them alive! You can’t kill them all.” he responded, passionately defending his moral code.

“The hostages come first. We will track down the Alpha, and thin out, the amount of dogs in the hold. However, if there is any face to face contact, or risk of being exposed, or any impassable route...they will be killed. Shining, the reason we are successful and because we saved Celestia days ago, is because we choose the lesser evil.”  Snake stopped, and pulled out his knife. The sheath had been moved back up to his chest, and he was using his gloves to clean the blade.

“So here are the options. Risk losing more ponies, because we have to waste time finding an alternate route where no dog dies, or we MERCIFULLY kill any, allowing a quick route to the Alpha.” Snake continued, eye narrowing down on Shining. His scowl was irritated by the eye patch so he raised it. The unicorn noted the scar and blind eye and sighed.

“Fine. Keep it to a minimum.” he reluctantly sided with the Captain. Snake put the knife back in its home.

“We’ll be arriving shortly, there’s the harbour.” The group turned to look in the same direction as the general. When the thick smoke cleared from Deadeye’s view he was first to spot the stone structures.

They appeared to be at the edge of Canterlot, a zeppelin docking station would be a close choice of words. They were not zeppelins per say, but close. Large ships, the sort to sail the seas, tethered to large balloons. No masts however. There was currently three, two appeared empty, stationed and docked, whereas one appeared to be taking off.

Leaving the water, the squad noticed the abundance of lights amongst the SS. Adventure. This appeared to be a colossal cruise liner; navy blue, appearing almost black in the moonlight, trimmed with gold edgings. A high society ship to be sure. Regardless, they wouldn’t be welcomed through the front door, despite the amount of waltzing carefree ponies, and had to break into a window close to the hold.

“Just to be clear, make your way to the back of the ship. See those windows?” Storm Twist pointed his cigar to the back of the ship, the lit end circling the four dark windows close to the rudder. “There’s the extraction. Once you're out, the guards will be ‘tipped off’ and sent in to retrieve the dogs. The citizens can believe it was raid busted by our finest, and you will have proved you can aid us.” He finished.

The chariot soon pulled close to the slowly leaving airship. Low enough not to be spotted by those on deck. They searched for a suitable window, the decided on the last one, one floor above the hold. Pulling closer, they found it to be locked. Amber claimed to have an easy way in, but as she was about to pull a hair pin out, Ursa found a quicker way.

He simply used the butt of his machine gun to break through.

“Vwat?” he asked, shrugging at the looks he was getting. Soon as everyone climbed through, they began sweeping the immediate area whilst Snake turned back to talk to the ponies.

“Okay, you recall what I said about the signal?” The duo nodded, confused by being told to watch for a burning light, but at least they knew they couldn’t miss it. “Good. Stay close.” With that the ponies watched him disappear into the darkness.

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

“There’s two on the left heading your way girls.” Specks whispered down his headpiece.

The hounds were patrolling one half of corridor, separated by a large map of the ship and the events available throughout the week. On one half, two mutant Rottweilers walked with spears in one hand and an oversized helmet on top. Similar story on the other side, but they were walking in opposite directions. Amber had her back against the map, whilst Abbiegale took to the hallway wall. They were waiting for the moment to strike.

“Thanks.” They readied their knives, both poised like praying mantises.

“Did you see tail on Tia? Woof!” One guard asked the other.

“I know, I’d bitch slap hind until fur came off.” He replied, before giving a wolf whistle.

They shared a laugh, their last, when two blades swung around and connected with the juggler. The twins pressed forward as the fur balls grasped their throats, resulting in them falling back. With a loud thump, both bodies hit the hallway floor. When the fur collided with the hardwood, the other pair of guards became alerted.

At this moment Specks stepped out of the shadows, fired one shot at the guard far off, before throwing his knife at the other. By the time the knife punctured the hound’s diaphragm the other was already dead. He collapsed behind the other dog, a hole in his eye, as the other attempted to yelp.

Without functioning lungs he was mute. The squad emerge from the shadows; Ursa and Deadeye got to work hiding the bodies, seeing as they were strong enough to carry them. Specs and Snake strolled up to the terrified hound. He shuffled into one of the storage cupboards, and before he could attempt to yell, he found a bullet in his forehead. Once specks lowered his weapon, he plucked the knife from the body. Snake had finished dragging the other canine in.

“Keep moving. Good job Specks.” Complemented the Captain. They finished storing the bodies before moving to the stairs. Both of the Twins were recalling a similar incident the guards had back in Australia and agreed that most males were just sex driven maniacs. Whilst Deadeye nodded sagely, the rest did not. A quiet debate was held until they reached the staircase. The final verdict was Abbiegale reassuring that Ursa was not like most men, whilst Snake is just ‘chasing tail’. Snake already knew how to get his own back on the engineer.

Slowly the door opened, a revealing metal framed staircase. It was clear that the guest were not meant to venture this far, when the paint on the wall was peeling, and the group felt the rust through their gloves. Specks swept the dark descent with his thermal vision. A few fading paw prints, but they goggles pointed out they belonged to the now dead dogs.

The finally arrived to their destination: the hull. They expected a vast amount of raiders, hence the reason Ursa brought his weapon of choice, so they planned to locate their target before any attempt to engage with the slavers.

An Alpha. The name conjured images of a brute the size of Ursa, given the height of these mutts. He was to be subdued, but snake had other plans; interrogation and possible torture.

They reached the door, Specks scanned the other side, nodded and opened it. They spewed out, searching for enemies and was met with an impressive sight. Down below, Amber estimated around forty slavers, eating, sleeping, playing poker or sparing. Large crates, organised by colour, were stacked high reaching towards the ceiling. The musty smell filtered through the humans’ noses, as did the scent of wet dog.

The entire place was lit by candle light, many torches hanging from support beams or dangling from the ceiling. It wasn’t too bright, luckily for the silent hunters, and so they continued along the catwalk. It seemed that the entire journey down the three flights of stairs was so that there would be enough room for all of these supplies.

Snake spotted a cabinet at the end. He determined it must lead to the living quarters of the staff. Unfortunately that might mean civilians, in turn meaning witnesses. Not that he planned on killing them that would be last thing he’d ever do.

The squad split up into three groups. Ursa and Deadeye kept watch of those below; whilst Amber and Snake took the right side of the staff’s sleeping quarters, Abbiegale and Specks took the left. The needed information on the whereabouts of the Alpha, so there would be a little talk involved for the first mutt to cross their paths.

“Ready, Specks?”

“Ready to breach, I spy two hounds sleeping in a double bed. Who do we kill?”

“Bottom, we can use the fall to soften the guy on top.”

“We’re ready, check if the doors locked this time.” remarked Specs, causing his leader to growl.

“Abbiegale you good to go?”

“Yes, on your count.”

“Perfect. 3, 2, 1, breach and clear.” Snake let Amber lead with her MP-5, poking it through the gap of the opening door.

She looked across, past the knocked over cabinets, broken mirrors, sleeping hounds, and saw the door on the far side wobble. It was locked.

“Damn it.”

The hounds stirred, slowly reaching for their helmets, at which point Snake ran in. Whilst Amber added new bloody orifices to the hound on the bottom bunk, the Captain yanked the hound out of the top bed. With a sickening crack his arm fell out of place, but before he could yelp he had a knife to his throat. He looked up, his tiny eyes focusing on the scowling man before him.

“You yell you die. When you yell they all die. Do you understand?” The dog responded by nodding slowly, wincing as the blade pressed against his windpipe.

“You are going to answer some questions okay?” as he asked this calmly, the locked door received three shots to the lock. The hound watched as two more of these creatures stepped in, both drawing large knives.

“Yes, Buster will answer questions.” He finally responded.

“Where is the Alpha?” He asked fiercely.

“Down through door by bed. I think is in far room.” He replied, pain creeping into his tone.

“Where are the staff?”

“Attending biggest ships party. None to return until two hours.”

“How did you get on board the ship?” Specks asked. Despite the knife against his throat, he remained silent.

“Answer the question.” Snake got no response. Still holding the dagger to his jugular he brought his other hand on the broken arm.

“Now let's remember the first thing I said. If you yell you die.” He grinned and twisted the contorted arm slowly. The dog fought to restrain his yelp, luckily for him he gave a strained whimper. Tears started flowing as Snake applied more pressure.

“Dark pony let is in.” He responded, tears leaving his snout. Snake eased up, but didn’t release the arm.

“Who is dark pony? Is he still here?” He waited for a response, registering that the silence was the dog regaining his thoughts from the searing pain.

“Yes, Dark pony is with Alpha. Always is before raid. Is strange pony, wings and horn, small thing.” He replied, before Snake let go of the arm.

“Thank you. Specks, Amber get some rope.” The hound was confused, but it didn’t last long. Snake brought a left hook into the canine’s temple, rendering him unconscious. The two returned with the rope, just as Abbiegale finished  disguising the bloody body as a still sleeping hound.

“Need a hand getting him up there?” Amber added, tying the injured dog. She had finished gagging him, when Snake spoke up.

“Go on then, we need to move. Nice job Abbiegale. Specks... I am disappointed.” He remarked, shaking his head before smirking.

“Alright, we can’t all be as perfect as you.”

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

After sparing the mutant mongrel, they found the door they were looking for. The group followed Snake's lead, walking amongst thin and ill lit corridors. Maintaining radio contact with the sniper and medic, eased the tension of expecting trouble. Which was with every slow step.

“Deadeye, update.”

“We’ve moved along the catwalk, we’re outside the staff dorm entrance. Still no sign of trouble.”

“Thanks for the update. Keep us posted.”

The squad of four came to more hallways, each with between ten to fourteen doors. Choosing not to let surprises hinder them, they searched the rooms. Each room was similar; two bunk beds, single bathroom, mirror, and twin cabinets. Often empty.

Occasionally, there would be the odd hound, searching through the cabinets. One was caught cross-dressing, much to Specks delight. After capturing the image, he raised his pistol and executed the bewildered mutt. The plan was working without a hitch. Snake was slightly proud to once again being able to craft plans that seemed flawless.

Then they stumbled across the complication.

“Abbiegale you’re with me. I can hear two in here. You two move ahead. That doorway should lead to the Alpha. Keep us posted.” Specks and Amber nodded before moving down the corridor. Whilst Specks was using sonar to scope the final room, Snake radioed for Ursa and Deadeye to regroup.

Taking position beside the doors, they heard the whimpers and sniffles of distressed individuals. Abbiegale looked to the Captain, swaying her shoulder length hair to the side, wondering if it would be wise to risk detection. The leader noted this, he agreed that the guards could handle it, but he didn't want to risk a casualty.

“Get in, get out.” he stated firmly. She nodded and switched the silence weapon to burst fire.

“Pl-ease...let us go.” A female voice sobbed.

“Please. Is it money you want? Take it, just let Fleur go.” another more masculine voice added.

“Stupid ponies. We take you and sell ponies. We get rare gems from bug ponies.” The familiar gruff tone told them this new voice belonged to a dog.

“Yes. More diamonds.” Another fiendishly spoke.

“I’m scared Fancy Pants.” The mare whimpered.

“No fire, we can’t kill in front of the witnesses. Takedowns, you got that?” Snake commanded, moving to stand in front of the door. Abbiegale grinned.

“Sure, more fun that way.”

The Captain stepped back, knocked on the door and waited.

“Who is it?”

“Room service, something about Tia finding a mate or something.”

There was a pause, before two pairs of paws were heard scrambling to the door. The door opened, and there stood two small diamond dogs. Small in comparison to the other dogs the squad had faced. The sight for both humans and hounds was a confusing one. To Snake he was face to face with a dog his actual size, to the mongrels they have never seen such strange bipeds before. Never the less the man and woman struck first.

Swiftly tackling the hound to the ground, the pair rolled around in the room. He managed to catch glimpses of the scenery. Slightly larger, proper bed instead of a bunk one, single cabinet. Meanwhile Abbiegale brought a boot to the chest of the other dog, winding him. As she pounce on him, he brought his hind legs up and kicked her to the  side. The ponies watched, not comprehending the little skirmish took place before them. From the bed they watched Snake land a few punches to the hound’s chest, whilst Amber was choke holding the other dog.

“I say...good form dear chap.” Fancy pants commented on Snakes fighting style. He would have picked up his monocle had his hooves not been bound.

“Thanks.” the Captain replied, halfway through a 1-2-3-4 combo. Bringing a right hook onto the temple of the dog, he managed to remove the helmet, before giving a powerful uppercut. The dazed hound stumbled back, whilst the other slowly lost consciousness.

“What are these creatures?” The other white unicorn asked, wincing at the sound of a twisted neck.

She didn’t get a reply, but she and the well groomed colt flinched as Snake slammed the dog into the cabinet. After seeing the mutt cease to move, he focused on the ponies.

He approached, much to their concern, and knelt down. At eye level he reached out and loosely grasped the hanging monocle.

“I think this would look better where it belongs.” he spoke calmly, bringing the small glass piece up to the colts eye. The pony smiled, wiggling that small blue French moustache of his.

“Why thank you old bean. That was quite a fight you put up with that ruffian. Could you give me your name so I, and my lovely mare here, can thank you properly?” The captain turned to face the elegant equine. He noticed her faded pink mane and the small smile she gave.

“Yes, stranger I would like your name please, or what you even are.” she asked.

“I’m sorry but mine and her names are classified information. We’d appreciate if you didn’t mention us to anyone. By order of Celestia.” He lied, Celestia had no idea this mission was taken place, let alone the plans to thwart a slave raid on one of her ships.

“Ah, I see. All hush hush. Very well, thank you my hero. I don’t suppose you could untie us?”

“Sorry no. When the guards arrive, say these two had a falling out with the leader, and they left you here. Soon you will be rescued,” he got up and walked with Abbiegale to the door, “and if any journalist asks, you say the guard ponies rescued you. Why are you here anyway?”

“Oh, the captain is a good friend of mine. He sometimes brought us down here get first selection of the wine on offer. They have Merlot past 20 years you know. You can take one, I’ll say the hounds were guzzling it down.” Once again, the sophisticated colt offered his thanks. Snake paused. Now he had to ask.

“By use of magic are they rapidly aged, or are they naturally aged?” he asked curiously, resting his hand on the door handle.

“I don’t think you can age wine faster with magic. In its 80 years it has been produced, no one has sought to do so. My friend, I don’t know who told you that, but you have been misinformed.”

There as a long pause as Snake complemented what that meant. From this, Celestia had lied to him. In which case they had been here longer than five days, but also recalling the fact that she also told the squad Equestria had no alcohol worried him. How could he be gone for eighty years, and still be 32?

“Thank you for clearing that up. Goodbye.” He closed the door and headed for Specks, Amber, and Abbiegale. He turned back to see Ursa and Deadeye finally arrive. He beckoned them over, whilst still walking down the corridor. He was still brooding to himself.

Why would Celestia lie about the alcohol? Perhaps she’s not allowed it, she did react funnily to the gin and beer. Perhaps that’s why, so she can’t get smashed. No, surely she would have known about a new drink, no doubt sweeping a place like Canterlot. 80 years? Have we been away for so long? he pondered, before looking up to Specks. How do I tell him Dean might have grown old?

“Sir there’s three dogs, one is shorter. I guess he’s the Alpha, the other two appear to obey him. There’ something else too.” Specks lifted his goggles up and shot Snake a worried glance. “They’re talking to a funny looking pony.” he finished, with concern in his tone.

“Vwat is funny about pony?” Ursa asked; he, Deadeye, and Snake finally reached the double doors.

“It looks like a smaller alicorn, same height as Shining Armour but...” he trailed off, trying to find the right word.

“But what?” Deadeye asked, using his sniper as a cane to rest on.

“More bug like.”

“Excuse me?” Amber asked, making her confusion known by arching an eyebrow.

“It looks like it has, like, dragonfly wings, holes its hooves. It has fangs, from what I can make out. He doesn’t sound friendly either.” He stood up and the group converged outside the door. Specks took off his headset, and placed the mike under the door. The rest listened intently to the conversation.

“Are preparations complete?” the voice did not match one of a canine variety.

“Yes, we will take sky ship soon. Now payment yes?” The group assumed this belonged to the Alpha.

“When we have captured the ponies. My Queen was starting to lose faith in your abilities, Tyson.”

“We promised ponies, we give ponies. You give gems when we land yes?”

“As usual yes.”

“Rover is confused. Why do bug ponies need normal little ponies?” a second voice added.

“We did not promise to explain our reasons, that was not part of the bargain, but rest assured...my Queen has plans for everypony in Equestria. Big plans indeed.” The stranger gave a small diabolic chuckle. Specks retracted the mike, and put his headset back on. The group heard every word of the meeting.

“He sounds like the dealer.” he replied, reloading his pistol. “Orders?”

“Standard breach and clear. Don’t kill the small one, and grab the strange looking pony. Ursa, don’t crush it. If it has a horn, it might be able to use magic. Tackle and subdue.”

There was a nod of agreement from the rest of the squad. They stacked up along the doors. Amber and Abbiegale took the front, on both sides. The smallest man and the titan took the left side, ready to seize this strange equine. Snake and the sniper were on the right, preparing to seize the dog.

“On my mark...3...2...1...go.”

Chapter 8: Bumpy starts..

Chapter 8: Bumpy starts..

The three dogs stood opposite the insectoid, feeling the pre-operation jitters wash over them. A small fear, nothing too drastic, it was routine to feel the slight jolt of adrenaline, as was the case for the abnormal pony. His wings twitched as the air shifted.

Not something he was accustomed to.

The wooden room was illuminated by the four port holes, making it difficult for his pale blue eyes to search the room. Nothing but old timber closets, a single worn wardrobe and a small table. The decrepit wooden floor was separated by a thin black gaps, following the edge of each thick wooden panel.

"I believe that concludes our meeting. The Queen will be most pleased with this transaction, given there are no-" before he could finish, his wings gave off one final twitch.

"Is this room secure?"

Before either of the large thugs, or the cunning hound, could respond a sudden bang, followed by a toppled door erupted behind them. Two barely audible whizzes ended with a sickening squelch. Furious footsteps followed as the giants descended towards the floor. Before they reached their knees, four figures emerged out of the doorway.

The instant charge took the black equine by surprise, especially seeing another pair tackled the equally dumbfounded mutt the ground. By the now the larger canines were on the floor, blood escaping from their necks. A sudden roar brought him from his stupor as he turned to face the smallest one. A swift boot against his snout caused the jaw the fracture, before another strike landed in his eye.

The Alpha on the other hand had been gripped by both arms, hoisted up by a pair of these strange creatures, before being brought down by the might of gravity and their muscle. He fell partially through the floor, wooden splinters sprouting out as his spluttered for breath.

Immediately climbing to his feet, he retaliated by trying to rip off Deadeye’s mask. He tried to slam a paw into the side of his head, only for it to be blocked by the elder’s arm. As the paw was batted away, the man brought a swift upper cut to his stomach.

He reached over to the dogs other arm, grabbed it, and spun him around. Back against the man, Snake stepped in, delivering repeated blows to his chest, before landing a right hook into his side. The hound collapsed, writhing around on his back.

Deadeye brought his boot against his neck, immobilising the hound until further notice, whilst Ursa hooked his arms under the dazed pony and ploughed through. The shatter of a cabinet caused Specks to flinch at the sight. The twins walked in to the finished work; a winded mongrel, squirming underneath an unforgiving man, and a strange dragonfly-unicorn who was passed out beneath the herculean man.

"Sound off." Snake spoke, getting his bearings of the room. Upon locating the windows he spied a problem.

"Me and the twins can hold down the mutt, girls give us a hand." The girls complied, raising their weapons in unison and standing side by side. The hound stopped squirming when they pointed out the devices in their hands was the reason his friends had a new hole in their necks.

"What are you?" He asked, expecting an answer. He got one, in the form of more pressure being applied to his oesophagus.

"Under paid." Amber retorted, earning a slight chuckle form Deadeye.

"Ursa? Specks?" Snake asked, frowning at the size of the windows.

"I'm fine, just a bit put off." The engineer responded, wiping off a small platter of green blood.

"I think bug pony is gone." Ursa added, too soon as he found out.

He looked down upon, what he assumed, was an unconscious body. It wasn't until the creatures eyes swiftly lit up and focused on him, did he finally understand he was in danger. A beam of light erupted from the horn of the bleeding beast, moments before the giant was thrown backwards. All eye focused upon the titan on the floor, green smoke smouldering from his black shoulder. Instinctively everyone focused upon the now staggering bug next.

He wobbled upon leaving the wreckage, blood seeping from his snout, chest where splinters had punctured the gaps in his exoskeleton, and the slight tear on the tips of his wings. He planned to promise a pain the attackers had never felt before, where as Specks quickly made it possible.

Still being mere feet away, he lunged towards his throat, winding a tight grip around his neck. The repeated beatings, followed by the splitting of his bottom jaw, left the beast exhausted and incapacitated. He brought a knife close to the bug's chest, pressing the pony against the wall.

"Bit much." Abbiegale whispered to her sister.

"You alright Ursa?" he asked, not removing his gaze from the sleepy look of the creature.

"Da, only burn on suit. No damage." The man rose up, tested his right shoulder, and looked to the back of the Specks short frizzy hair. "Thank you Specks."

"Don't get soft on me, we're still on mission." he responded coldly, watching as the creature's head drooped. He rested a hand on where he assumed an artery would be in the neck of the pony. He felt a slow pulse, bringing some reassurance he was not dead. Not that he cared.

"Everyone okay? No more complications?" Snake asked, rotating to meet everyone eye to eyes.

"What about lassie here?" Abbiegale remarked, still focusing her weapon at the chest of the beast.

"Is called Tyson monsters! Why you here?" the dog asked, shortly before receiving a quick slap from a squatting Snake.

"We ask the questions here mate. Now if you don't want to slowly, painfully, wind up like your friends," he paused to summon his knife, sliding the blade steadily across the hound's cheek, "you better start talking. Who do you work for?"

The dog took the hint, and quickly said "Bug ponies. They offer gems for normal ponies yes. Only ponies near Canterlot. Bonus for guards and castle staff yes."

Everyone crowded round, avoiding the path the twins' gun was facing, and Ursa also took the strange creature from Specks. It was dumped beside the hound; once the sniper fully removed his foot, the dog took a glance at the bloody body.

"What is it? Why does it look like an alicorn?" Specks added, coming down to the Captain's level.

"Is what it is. Is not royal pony. No, is scout bug pony, collector of hive." he added, rubbing his neck. As soon as he slowly started to rise up, he was met with a quick slash across his cheek. Once he finished yelping like a new born pup, his face was grasped by his attacker.

"Lie down." Snake spoke calmly. The hound complied after hearing no emotion in his voice.

"Good boy, who is this queen you mentioned?" He pressed on, lazily bringing the blade to the other cheek.

"Never met bug queen, only ever met this one scout." the hound replied, covering his slashed cheek with his paw. The interrogator knew he wasn't lying; seemed best to work at a distance and let others do the heavy lifting.

"I believe you. Now, tell me what you know about her plans. Everything, even what you think you know." He pointed out, pulling the dagger above Tyson's face.

"We were not told. Tyson not told of plans but thinks he knows why, yes. Bug ponies change and look like normal ponies. They want to look like Canterlot ponies, yes." he admitted, earning a confused look amongst the group, the swapped glances before Snake refocused.

"Why? Why do they need to look like Canterlot ponies?"

"To get in."

"Why?" he inquired, grabbing the paw of the Diamond dog.

"Tyson not told why the want in. Tyson only knows why they need normal ponies." Another statement that seemed true, at least he was co-operative. Alas, it did not cause any feeling of guilt for what the man did next.

"Thank you," he said merrily, extending the paw out and laying it against the floor, "you have been helpful," he asked, pausing to ready his knife, "but you're still enslaving ponies..." He brought the blade down with a mighty thud. Bone parted, flesh shifted and skin was cut like paper, as his 'fang' impaled the paw.

Whilst Tyson screamed, he nodded for the sniper to knock out the hound. The combination of the immense pain, followed by a sudden boot to the temple, sent Tyson into an instant shock induced slumber. Retrieving his knife, the leader ordered the demolition man to fix the problem with the small windows.

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Maintaining altitude behind the airship, hidden beneath dark cloud, the General and the Captain of the guards waited vigilantly. Their part of the mission was only half over, now they had to wait for a mysterious red light. Much to their annoyance the humans had been vague, and described it as a flaring red glow, followed by a pillar of smoke.

"Sir, do you think they made it? We don't exactly know how many dogs are in there." Shining replied, waving a hoof to signal for the pegasi pulling the cart to edge closer.

"I got a feeling they're nearly done actually. Won't be long before we have to send the guards in. Either way, if this messes up we have five squads ready to seize the raiders." Storm Twist responded, pulling out his third cigar of the night.

"Yeah, but what about the humans? They'll be caught and the mission compromised. I hate all this sneaking. I still say we should have gone in there ourselves. I don't exactly trust these guys." the unicorn replied, taking a seat by the side of the chariot.

"You don't trust them because you don't control them, Captain. You don't know how to do this quietly. Neither do any of our troops. We need a division like this. The know how to tske a prisoner without alerting the rest. You heard Snake; they are a special task force. What did they call themselves again?" he pondered, bringing the cigar to his lips.

"United Nations Black Ops. Or as he said to put it UNBO." Shining added, smirking at the humorous sounding accronym.

"You may find it funny, Captain, but you can't argue with the results. Like I was saying, this division is separate from the regular army. They are trained differently, work differently, and the sole purpose is aid said army. They can just be denied in the most 'sensitive of missions' as Specks put it."

"Who wants to work like that? Knowing your country won't rescue you if you are caught."

"Those willing to do what's necessary, Shining. I'm thinking we need a division like this ourselves." Instantly the Captain faced his superior, a hint of horror on his slightly open maw.

"That's crazy!" he responded passionately, earning an arched eyebrow from Storm Twist, "Sir, with all due respect we don't need this sort of method. They kill. That is already violation of Equestrian law! You can't say you want to a division of murderers amongst our ranks?" he continued, in a more respectful tone.

The general took a long drag, letting the flavour engulf him before blowing out a smoke ring. He took a moment to admire the crafted puff of smoke before facing Armour.

"We won't, remember what he said. It was only when there was no other option that they would kill a dog. These ponies will be taught everything they know. About combat, the technology the use and the mechanics behind it. Think about it Captain, earth pony strength, or even unicorn magic, combined with Snake 'flight suit.' That would increase our army's strength tenfold.”

"True, true." Shining Armour sighed; he was currently fighting a losing battle to dissuade the General.

"And let’s not forget the most important part: espionage-" he spoke, pointing the lit cigar to the stern of the ship, only to be interrupted by Snake's 'signal.'

A thunderous blast, launching chunks of timber and smouldering furniture in tot the cold waters, caught both their attentions and no doubt that of the passengers. Quickly accelerating towards the singed back room.

"You were saying, General?"

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The flight home consisted of mixed emotions. Both species had something to be pleased about, such as the capture of the ring leader and the dealer, and both were equally upset about the 'improvised-only-a-decibel-less-than-inconspicuous exit' as Specks put it. Whilst the ponies argued they had failed the mission on the humans’ behalf, the human Captain quickly pointed out the agreed exfiltration point was the General's idea. As was the fact he overlooked the small windows.

However, the mood lightened when they started talking about the new passengers.

"What in Celestia's name happened to him?" the General asked, inspecting the remaining unbandaged wounds. He spied both prisoners tied up together, the duo also appeared to have suffered severe trauma. Had there been no first aid upon the flying chariot they would have likely succumb to infection.

"Complications. We managed to subdue them both, but they put up more of a struggle." the one eyed man explained, pointing the Ursa's shoulder. His suite had begun to peel, and now his pink skin was exposed, similar to how Snake's suite had a tear on his chest. Still feeling the freezing wind on his nipple, he leant forward to reduce exposure and continue talking. "We made sure that we minimised casualties, Shining, only those who need to go died today."

"Thanks, you've made my conscious so much clearer." he remarked, sarcasm oozing from his lips. The humans took no notice; Ursa was too busy inspecting for developing blisters, the twins were resting and attempting to get in the mood for sleeping tonight, Deadeye was cleaning the fur off his boot, and specks was standing by the railing with a flare in his hand.

He was asked to stand there by his superior, but couldn't fathom why. He grew worried when the flying carriage began to descend and maintain altitudes close to the lake below. His training had told him he was high enough to survive the fall, and the freezing waters below, but it was that thought that worried him.

As Storm Twist introduced the changeling, the group quickly became amazed by such a natural ability these creatures possessed. The twin spies in particular found the idea of quickly shifting to and fro between disguises to be an envious trait. Snake began to repeat what Tyson had said, claiming they had walked into that information.

If killing was horrific to Shining, my way of extracting information would certainly not be his cup of tea Snake thought, watching said pony's expression sour slightly.

"Bonus pay for castle guards and staff? Why would the changelings want to infiltrate the castle of all places?" Armour asked, disgusted by how his men were seen as extra pay. Never the less he didn't let his emotions get the better of him, and still kept a neutral expression.

"They could be after something." Specks pointed out. He earned the attention of the group as he started flipping the flare in mid-air. "They are probably either going to steal something really big, spy on your guard patterns and even Celestia, or worse," he paused, catching the flare in one hand and raising his goggles with the other, "they want to assassinate the Princesses."

Whilst the humans believed the latter was more believable, the ponies argued a coup d’état could be more likely. However, both would require much more than sheer numbers to best the goddesses.

"Then we must be missing something. Perhaps they need to steal something to even harm the Princesses?" Deadeye put forward. The General did believe this could be at least plausible, but could not bring about any object capable of hurting his rulers.

Eventually the discussion came to a close, the chariot still above the freezing lake. Specks was now using his thermal vision to check the actually temperature below. Upon confirming his suspicion of how much he would hate to be in there, he felt a force quickly remove the flare that was suppose the signal their pick up.

"Not afraid of heights are you lad?" Snake spoke, calmly resting a hand on his shoulder.

"No. Remember I have done a few jumps with you, or have you gone senile already?" Specks responded, turning to face the man. Both Armour and Storm gave a curious glance at the formality before them.

"Good. Now don't lose those, we need them and I don't think they are water proof." The elder S.A.S member added, tapping the goggles.

"You now they are." the young man replied, eyes narrowing in suspicion.

"I guess you're right. I do tend to forget things," Snake replied, innocently smiling and bring his hand to his head, "like that comment about chasing tails." he continued, growing a grin to make the Cheshire cat feel jealous. Both ponies were now confused by the response, whilst the other humans began to chuckle to themselves.

However, Specks was overwhelmed by a sudden fear inducing epiphany. Why he was standing there, why he was asked if his signature specks were water resistant, and why Snake brought up his previous comment, it all made sense.

"No. No no no. NO! OOF!" Before he could continue his one worded protest, his chest met Snake's boot. Whilst clutching his gut, the inertia of the kick sent him flying backwards.

"Man over board." The veteran spoke coldly, earning a mortified expression from the unicorn and the pegasus. Having been on missions with the Captain before, the rest of the squad laughed in knowing that Specks was in no immediate danger.

Even as he screamed for several seconds, using every curse word he knew, before being silenced by a tremendous splash.

[Operation: Bad dogs... completed.]

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5/10

4/10

Front row, fifth from the right: 5

Very moderate for not appealing, sister. 3/10

Here's another, three to the right of Fancy Pants, 5/10

6/10

The unicorn taking a seat by the pillar: 6/10

4/10 Interesting. I see you have become lonesome on the moon Luna.

I would have scored him that before my banishment, thank you very much.

Oh calm down sister, I was only teasing. Mr Stone may possibly become a 6...if he just did something else with that mane.

Both Celestia and Luna were participating, telepathically, in one of the pairs previous past times. Shared between the sisters, they did what they often have done, ever since reading those romance novels back in their teens. However, it was now more of a warm up exercise, to help prepare for any speech.

Hehehe. Very picky aren't we. Oh I think he's a 5. Yes...wait, he has a marefriend. 2.

Actually I am not so judgemental...she says rating the colts walking into the hall.

They both smiled at each other, mentally sharing a giggle as the grand hall was beginning to fill up. By royal decree, many citizens were expected to be present. Celestia made sure at least one photographer from ever newspaper was present, in hopes that they will spread the news of her guests.

The soft grey stone, the kind found amongst the clouds waiting to unleash their payload, watched as the sea of pastel coloured ponies entered the room. Tapestries hung between stain glassed windows, one side dedicated the solar Diarch, whilst the other aligning the Luna goddess. Both of which were seated at the front.

Wow. He's a 7. Does he work in the kitchen? I may pay a visit. Luna spied a rather tall stallion. Cream coloured, with blonde hair, conversing and playfully nudging the colt next to him. She was recalling when exactly she had seen him before when her sister burst into a fit of laughter, concealed by a merry smile and the mental link.

What is the matter Tia? He is an exceptional example of his breed.

Sorry, but does he seem as if he is interested?

Well no, but what ever could you mean? I wouldn't just trot over there and begin flirting.

Hehehe...not that it would matter if you tried sister.

What...what do you mean? she asked, caught between being insulted and confused.

Doesn't he seem rather close to that colt of his?

Well, yes but they are clearly friends.

Oh Lulu, you have been away far  too long.

You don't need to remind me Celestia.

I mean...he's not into mares. Celestia remarked, her cheeks slowly dragging a smirk towards her single magenta eye.

So...Wait. The younger sibling’s eyes widened.

Oh very funny TIa! There are no gay couples in this land!

Times change sister. Whilst you were away, many other old taboos have been lifted under my reign to make Equestria a better place. Let's look at Mr Spooner, he is in a long term relationship with Professor Fancy Quill there. They couldn't any happier. Unfortunately for you eh, Lulu? Her comment was met with a fierce glance from her younger sibling.

As I was saying, many other laws have been removed; wearing those ghastly royal sashes went before I even started ruling as you know, the platinum bit exchange tax was abolished first, inter-species couples are still are rare thing but it still exists, the tradition of giving the royal family one twentieth of your total wealth. That one immediately aided many struggling ponies.

I see. Well I can see the importance of removing the high tax, wasn't the provinces east having trouble? Anyway why did you mention inter-species couples?

You see the '5' walking with a limp?

Err... the blue pegasus with the grey mane?

Close, try next to him.

The mare? As the crowd slowly took their seats, each bowing no matter what distance between them and the Diarchs, the indigo alicorn gave a bewildered look as her jaw dropped.

5? Tia... do you? she mentally asked, subtly nodding towards the mare.

No no. Hehehe, I'm more into a colt like Brave heart from my favourite book. I have just learnt how to...think that way. No, what I am referring to is that her partner is a gryphon.

Is that why she...

No. Oh goodness Luna, I wouldn't let that happen inside our castle. She's staying whilst her home is being repaired in Canterlot.  The lovely mare was injured so that's why she has the limp. A good friend of Mr Fancy Pants I believe.

Oh. So do you rate different species as well?

When they're present. It's not fun unless you're here.

Don't worry sister. I won't be leaving. The duo shared a sisterly loving gaze at each other, before refocusing on the crowd. This time everyone was seated and they were in a more  professional mind set.

"Greetings my little ponies. It is a wonderful day, I would like to take a moment to thank today's weather patrol for blessing us with clear skies and a rainbow just over Crystal lake." Celestia started, causing said group of pegasi to beam with pride. Her voice was carried gracefully from one side of the room to the other, still maintaining its motherly tone. No sound lost or distorted, to everypony it was as if she spoke mere feet away.

"I would also like to commemorate the brave heroic ponies whose actions prevented a raid upon the SS. Adventure last night. Truly exceptional guardsmen who have been rewarded appropriately. Please give an around of an applause for guards who are with us today." Shortly after, the room was filled with a thunderous stomping of hooves. The echo took time to silence.

"Now as you all know, I have summoned a majority of you who are capable of spreading today's events to the rest of Equestria and its many towns and cities." Celestia continued, monitoring the ponies already cleaning camera lenses.

"Tis an important event in our history. We would like to make sure that cities on the border, such as Bombhay, are informed of what you are about to see today." Luna added, eyeing up the entrance.

Six individuals, despite their protest that today of all days was not a good day to be revealed, were told to wait in one of the side rooms until everypony else was seated.  The guards were also warned not to panic or show aggression, as it may worry the subjects.

"Thank you sister. Yes, today we will be introducing creatures from a very distant land." she announced, recalling the state of said land. Avoiding the urge to grimace she continued on. "These creatures may appear...different and intimidating, but please, do not fear. They mean us no harm and have an abundance of knowledge to share with us." The hall was filled with the soft murmurs of curious ponies, the imaginings strange beings, and the hopes of perhaps a land filled with strong stallions and voluptuous mares.

However, on the other side of the closed cardinal doors were six not so equine creatures. All suffering from yet another biological onslaught.

"Ursa, you gotta find out what that was. I think my stomach rung itself out." Amber remarked, treading across the carpet with a hand on her stomach and forehead.

"Blood tests will show. After 9 hours." Ursa replied, shrugging his shoulders. The group were all wearing their military uniform, partially due to the lack of other attire, but Specks was without his trademark goggles and Dead eye was out of his ghillie suit. All the weapons were left behind.

The man wore a grey suit, almost identical to a wetsuit barring the implanted patches of Kevlar on his vital organs. The upper half ended at the waist, whilst on the bottom he wore the durable army pants which over lapped suit. This had been his sneaking suite of last night, and still had small traces of rust where he rested his elbows on the railings.

"Great, nice job Ursa. Now let's just get past this meeting." Snake stated, walking with Dead eye upfront. He made sure to wear his new eye patch, leave behind his customised blade, remove Jacob's pistol form his holster, and to attach a piece of cloth under the tear on his chest. The  blue cloth, once part of the useless curtain, was barely hanging on by the surgical stitches he used. Much to Amber's constant suggestion of some type of stitching, he simply used whatever format kept the cloth to the suit.

They were feet away from the door, Shining armour waiting for them, when Specks stared at the back of Ursa's head.

"Hey Ursa, you hair seems longer."

"Is natural for hair to grow. Goggled boy not know this?" The Russian replied, grinning as the he turned to face the rear man.

"I mean, your hair is growing down your neck." Specks pointed out, restraining his anger. He had spotted that since this morning, after 'the bug' struck, Ursa's had more hair on his neck. Not a tremendous amount, but enough to become visible as it trailed down the center towards his back.

"Yeah, and Deadeye," Abbiegale stated, causing the masked man to face her, "your eyes seem...bigger."

The squad continued marching, silencing upon being greeted by Armour, and stopping before the door. The sniper was silent, He didn't admit it, but his eyes were starting to ache. Even closing them did nothing for them, so he cancelled the light as the source of irritation.

"Okay, before you go in there... I guess I owe you guys an apology." He said, keeping his head up high, and facing Snake. The sound of both Diarch were still heard, but as a muffled noise through the wood.

"What for?"

"You guys did save the ship. You also got us closer to finding out who is stealing the ponies and what reasons they may have. You also managed not to kill everything that moved, despite the amount of bodies we found." he continued, spitting the word kill out.

"No problem, we can discuss what to do with the prisoners later." Shining Armour nodded and faced the doorway. He opened  the doors with a glow of his horn, leaving enough space for him to fit through and entered the next room. He poked his head back around and explained that each one would be called out, before he departed. He was too head into the banquet hall, and make to join the guests later on.

"Did anyone hear him actually use the word sorry?" Specks added, glancing between the team.

"He didn't mean it that's why." Snake looked over his shoulder, and added "He's a pony. They don't kill remember." with a scowl.

"They probably don't throw their own men into sub-zero waters too." mumbled specks, making sure his leader didn't hear him. He recalled the mortified expressions of the General and Captain as he climbed back into the carriage. His boots still squelched as he walks.

Back in the grand hall, the Princesses were now up to the anticipated introductions. Minor worry engulfed them, as they pondered over possible responses. A certain noble pony was all too keen to have the squad removed, without even bothering to meet them.

However it soon evaporated as Celestia recalled the meeting with the Elements of Harmony, who were happily sitting in the first row pew adjacent to the photographers. Luna spied Shining Armour creeping along the back, before entering another set of large doors.

"Now it is time to introduce our new friends." The solar Princess spoke, causing every pony to glance around for anything out of the ordinary.

"Lieutenant Deadeye." Shortly after the announcement, the door parted, skewing all viewpoints until he chose to step out.

He walked out, maintaining a military composure, as he headed towards the far side. As he spied the destination, elevated platform before the Princesses, he was overwhelmed by the amount of flashing lights. The crowd gasped at his form, talking amongst themselves about the unusual length of his arms and legs.

The black 'blunted claws, drew the attention of the in the aisle seat, whilst those on closest to the window didn't know what to make of his noire mask. He eventually arrived, stepped up a small flight of stairs, and stood on the platform situated to the side of the rulers.

More flash photography irritated him, but did not move him from his stance.

Fucking cameras. he thought, preventing himself from looking directly towards the pulsating contraptions.

"Next we have Amber and Abbiegale." Luna introduced the twins, who were barely out of the door when all focus shifted away from the elder.

The pair walked in unison, close together, and mimicking each other's stride. The ponies could only separate the two by hair style and which side of the aisle they were on. Amber's hair remained tied back, by a rubber band seeing as her navy blue scrunchie snapped, whilst Abbiegale's hair maintained its freedom and rested on her shoulders.

A few ponies picked up a female vibe by the way they walked, the way the hips occasionally swayed, but it was mostly the soft features of their faces that reminded them of a mare's. The chest bumps also seemed different compared to the other who had none, who was now assumed to be male by the time the duo were halfway along the carpet.

As pre-planned, three quarters of the way they turned their heads slightly and faced the crowd, gave a cheeky wink to a colt, before continuing marching on. The results confused a few ponies, whilst others smiled at the display, whilst two members blushed, a small fraction found it strange and just chalked off as an awkward quirk these creatures had.

They took stand, separating to stand either side of the veteran. Still wearing the disguises of mission catapulted them into this world, they took a moment to perfect their hair styles as the cameras went into a frenzy of blinding lights.

The Elements of Harmony waved started waving, shortly after Pinkie started hopping up and down to get Abbiegale's attention, to which point  the twins waved back. Deadeye maintained folded his arms.

"Now we would like to ask Ursa Major to join us." Celestia continued, pleased by how the ponies were reacting. Until she said the words Ursa Major. The crowd gasped and worriedly looked towards their only exit. The trio of humans gave a worried look between the royals and the Elements, who returned a reassuring glance.

The entrance parted with the large Russian resting both hands on each door. The crowd seemed more at ease, but still were intimidated by his much larger size. This was clearly male; he matched the physique of the masked one, albeit more swollen with what they assumed was muscle. Again those at the far side could only spot his short 'mane' whist those closest assessed the arms.

He continued walking, ignoring the comments that described him as a bold ugly ape. It got to such a point he even tuned out the compliments of the fillies and stallions amazed by his size.

Once he reached the platform, his heavy footsteps led him beside Abbiegale, much to Amber's silent amusement.

"Private Specks, of the...." the mistress of the night was interrupted by her sister, mentally reminding them what the S of S.A.S meant.

The younger soldier stepped in, closing the door slightly to conceal his Captain. He continued walking, pressing his tongue against his cheek to quell his anger, as they crowd compared his height to the giant before him.  He continued on, his uniform only missing the assortment of knives that would hang there.

Once he was in the second half of the hall, he spied his favourite unicorn in the front row to his right. He gave a smile and a nod to give her acknowledgement as they met eye to eye, moments before being hit by a barrage of dazzling lights.

To see these creatures show some form of friendly gesture softened the tension, but the ranks, the attire, and that shiny thing on his back only reinforced the foundations of their fears.

He took a stand next to Amber, grasping each hand behind his back and pushing his chest slightly out.

"And finally Captain Snake." Celestia finished, watching as the doors were already opening before she had finished. The ponies took a final glance back and spotted the final human.

He was walking much slowly than his predecessors, and in a way similar to how Specks was; arms behind his back but this time looking around. He was scanning the ponies, slowly shifting from one side to the other. He was hoping to meet the scrutinizing glances of those already not taking liking to his form, which he did only three times, but found many of them merely looking back with curiosity written on their faces.

His eye patch caught their attention, especially how the diamonds didn't shine. Those closest knew it had something to do with the scar rolling from his eyebrow to his cheek. The blue patch on his chest showed his amateurish skills on sowing, so many fashion designers didn't regard him too highly.

However, upon reaching half way a little foal spat out her pacifier. It landed before him, and she giggled and reached out to him. Her tangerine shade, rosy mane, and amber eyes earned the baby a small smile from the man. He spied the worried mother, sheepishly grinning, as he picked up the dummy.

The crowd silenced, all watching to see what he did next. With one hand he wiped the rubber piece on his suit, whilst the other he edge closer to the foal. Upon tickling the baby, causing her to erupt with laughter, the crowd sighed and smiled merrily at the display. He plugged the foal with the dummy, gave her one last pat on the head, and resume walking onwards.

The paparazzi were sure to capture the moment, one photo each of the spectacle, before continuing with their jobs. Snake reached the podium and was standing next to Luna. She gave a devilish smirk to him and he returned a momentary mistrusting stare, before turning to face the crowd. He leant over towards Celestia and caught her attention.

"I hate cameras." He said, resentment laced in the way he pronounced the word hate.

"It is only to aid us in spreading the news of your presence. I would like to have only one meeting about your presence here. I am rather busy you know." she replied. She grinned earning an exasperated sigh from the man. He didn't bother to argue further and resumed a military pose.

"Ladies and gentlecolts, these creatures are called humans. They have travelled a great distance to be here today. They are noble warriors and soldiers of a great cause. They mean no harm to us, and serve to protect the helpless." she continued addressing the crowd, whose chatter quickly vanished at the sound of her voice.

"I am sure you would like to know more about them, so feel free to ask questions at this time. For many of you, you will be joining us later at a banquet to talk further with our new friends." She finished and sat back, watching as the uproar of the crowd began. Each member slinging questions, hoping to get an answer. Not a simple human did. They didn't know what to do. They just stood there, waiting for something to calm the crowd down.

It came when Luna used her magic to give Snake a nudge. He didn't turn around, but checked his back pocket to feel what poked him.

His knife.

Clever girl.

Hands behind his back, he shooed away the hilt of the blade, and stepped forward. He raised a hand, slowly silencing the spectrum of colours before him.

"I believe I will be correct in saying that, perhaps if we select ponies to question us things will get along much smoother?" He faced the Applejack, before slowly moving his head along the rest of the girls saying "wouldn't you agree?" He was met with slow nodding, before watching Twilight whip out more blank scrolls. Specks smiled seeing his pen being brought into action, which she made sure he saw by shaking it in the air.

"So...who has a question?" He smirked as he picked a purple unicorn, amongst the hundreds whose hooves flew into the sky. "Yes, and what is your name?" he feigned his lack of knowledge, replacing his calm tone of voice with a curious one.

"Twilight Sparkle." She grinned back. "So where do you come from?"

"We are all from a distant land, in turn, from different parts of that land. Me and my good friend Specks here are from the United Kingdom." there was low scratching sound amongst the crowd. Mainly from the journalists and Twilight.

"As are the lovely ladies here," he pointed to the twins, who gave a small smile to the crowd, "they are from the same region as well."

"Moving onto our more distant friends; the masked marksman," Snake continued, moving his hand towards Deadeye, "is from America."

"Is that one R or two?" and blonde equine asked.

"Just the one love. Moving on to the giant cuddly teddy bear over here." As he spoke, he leant forward to catch Ursa growling. "Ursa is from a place called Russia. R-U-S-S-I-A." he spelt out, causing a few ponies to put a line across their note pads. "Also we have different languages where we're from. This is not Ursa's first, but you should have no problem talking with him." he added. Ursa nodded in agreement.

"You there, in the back."

"Why they call him Specks?" A voice cried out, too far for him to make acquire any form of identification. Specks whispered he would explain this one so the Captain stepped back, whilst he moved forward.

"They call me Specks because normally I have a pair of highly advanced goggles. My own design." he heard a few chuckles at the sound of his own voice, especially from the sniggering rainbow maned one at the front row, but quickly silenced them as he explained the main functions of the goggles. Those working in the technological department took note of his impressive invention.

"By the way, this is my accent. Back home we have thousands of different, some completely different to mine and Snake's." He finished and returned to his place a little disgruntled.

"You, what's your name?" the captain asked, focusing on a little filly near the windows.

"Little Spot. Are you monsters, who want to eat us?" he asked innocently.

The group chuckled before Snake continued with "No. we’re not kid. We are omnivores, but we are will happily cope with a vegetarian diet. No need for alarm. Heck, Specks here found a new recipe he wants to add to the vegan cook book, and Ursa can't wait to get cooking his deserts."

"See I told you dad!" the boy yelled, loud enough for everyone to face the blamed parent.

For three hours they stood there. Informing the crowd, putting on their nicest appearance. Truth be told they just wanted their names said and to leave, no questions asked. Everything was going well, the journalists seemed pleased, and Celestia and Luna began to partake in explaining how they arrived.

A cover story of how they got lost, survived weeks in the Everfree forest, before Celestia took them in.

Soon enough the crowd were asked to leave, much to the human's legs saving grace. The room was content with departing, in fact it was almost empty, until an alabaster unicorn barged in through a closer side entrance. The ponies who were invited to stay afterwards were slowly making their way to the front. The humans each leant forward, attempting to get a look at the intruder coming from their right.

He was a stallion, around Deadeye's chest height. His golden locks were parted to reveal his disgusted stare, He walked forward, his jacket and bow tie being straightened by a ghostly aura. He harrumphed, revealing his nautical compass cutie mark.

"Auntie, what are these creatures? Are these the same creatures who have been roaming around the castle?" he asked, giving Deadeye a dirty look. He responded by frowning slightly.

"Yes Blueblood. These are going to be guests, who will be treated with respect." Celestia responded, in a calm tone but giving a split second fierce glance.

"Aunt Celly, you surely can't have these," once again he gave a scrutinizing look of disapproval, this time at Specks, "things running about on the same floor as us." he finished, turning to face Snake.

"You got problem? Why don't you just spit it out rather than dancing around it." Specks asked, earning a death glance from Blueblood. The squad, the princesses, and the guards all swiftly focused on the man.

"How dare you talk to me creature. I will ask to hear of you when it pleases me. Even then, it will only be after you lose that despicable way of pronouncing your words. Were you not properly educated?" he retorted, oblivious to the past conversation with the crowd. Specks was about to blow a fuse, until he reminded himself he was amongst others.

“Me? Under educated? Funny you should say that actually. In my brief time in one the of the world’s most respected universities, I was able to research how to construct artificial limbs.” Upon finishing this, the few who remained edged forward; those interested in furthering Equestrian technology wormed their way to the front.

“I secured the hopes and dreams of my kind. Those who could not walk can now run. Those who sacrificed an arm in combat had one returned.” He started walking off the pedestal, all eyes watching him. Both Captains were present; Shining gave Snake a look, to which he responded by nodding.

Reluctantly, the pony returned to his post back in the in other room. He was suppose to be equally 'surprised' by these creatures.

“I gave father’s arms to hold their new born sons, mother’s chances to play with their daughters.” He stopped, and gave Blueblood a disgusted look.  “What have you done with your education?” he asked, locking furious eyes with the noble.

“Why should I bother, when there are other ponies that can do that work for me? I would not care about those foolish enough to become harmed in such a way.” he responded, earning a mixed response amongst the crowd.

Those like Fancy Pants, the squad, and the Diarchs were horrified by his response, whilst other aristocrats agreed with his logic. The room was divided, some siding with the Prince since he could help them attain a higher social status. All kept quiet as he inspected his hoof, whilst Specks, on the other hand, was willing to show his opinion.

He slowly composed himself, tapped the unicorn to get his attention, and then spat right into those large blue eyes. Whilst the crowd gasped, Snake exploded, ordering Specks to return to the infirmary. Twilight shortly followed the 28 year old, of her own free will. Snake was willing to make an apology attempt to the still shell shocked pony.

However, when Blueblood’s horn started glowing, as his fury built up and faced the engineer, the Captain removed an expensive looking hat of one of the crowd members and slammed it on the Prince.

“Don’t even think about it you prick. You even try anything, and I’ll make sure to leave you worse off.” He remarked sternly, grabbing the colt by the ear. “Princess Celestia, could you kindly ask your nephew to leave. I believe if he pursues my comrade they will come into conflict. I will make sure he calms down, I doubt he’ll hurt anypony, but the same can’t be said about any portrait of the Prince.”

Much to the noble pony’s resentment, he complied with the order given by his auntie. Celestia also seemed enraged. By Specks for being so disrespectful, by Snake who humiliated the unicorn further, but mostly Blueblood for still requesting the humans’ removal.

It had not been the first day he wished the creatures gone.

Whilst the pair separated, Celestia escorting the disgruntled Prince and the Captain hunting Specks, they both shared a ‘we will talk about this later tonight’ glance.

Meanwhile, Luna and the rest of the team had been left to handle those remaining. The dumbfounded crowd were now judging the humans before them. Some respected the other two’s responses, a few guards and nobles wishing to be frizzy haired man who embarrassed the brat. Fancy Pants was pleased to see how his rescuer resorted to a non-violent option, although perhaps ruining the hat in the process was far too much.

Then there were those who were leaving, appalled by how the S.A.S members had reacted. A few were tabloid journalists who were already concocting slanderous articles in their mind.

The Mistress of the night decided to ask for those present, and still willing to converse with the humans, to wait until further notice whilst current events are rectified. She led the squad past through the crowd, the twins giving sheepish grins and apologising occasionally.

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“Specks!” the librarian yelled for the small human, still chasing him. He was marching at a brisk pace, and occasionally hid away from the persistent mare. Alas, he eventually concluded it would be better just to ignore her.

It wasn't working.

“Twilight, go away. I am not in the mood for questioning, even if it is to try and calm me down.” He responded harshly, heading towards the infirmary.

“Look, I just want to talk to you. What was that all about? You didn’t have to spit at him.” she explained, trotting alongside him. She gave him a worried look as he growled at one of the guards who seemed to read to pounce.

“I don’t answer to you Twilight.” He was feet away from the doors, when another voice stopped him.

“But you answer to me. Stand down and turn this way.” The voice held a familiar authority, one saved for such a turn of events.

He complied with the order, seeing his Captain walking towards him. Both held a scowl as they watched each other.

“Private, you have five seconds to explain yourself, or so help me, you’ll need the goggles to help you do more than see in the dark.” he threatened, standing a meter away and under the supervision of the guards. Twilight back off slowly, switching her focus between the two.

“You heard him. He was trying to kick us out; we need Celestia to get back home. Then the little shit had the gall to fucking take the piss out of me.” the man explained to his superior officer, before sighing. “Sorry you had to hear that Twilight.”

“Hear what? Do you mean those words? I don’t know what the mean.” She scratched her skull, attempting to decipher what they meant. "What does fu-" she was cut of a Specks  clamped her mouth shut.

“Curse words. Profanity. Don’t repeat them. They are normally reserved for intense moments; being scared and angry counts towards them.” Specks replied, removing his hand before rubbing the back of his head.

“So you’re upset that he wants you out of the castle. Big deal; do you really think Sunny will kick us out because he says so?”

With that he summoned a silence, followed by a slight exasperated sigh of the interrogated.

“Well?” the human continued.

“No, I suppose not.” Specks admitted.

“Is this what it’s about? Are you worried you can’t get home?” Twilight asked, creeping forward between the two. Snake had to take a step back, allowing her to become the younger soldier’s focus point.

“Twilight, you don’t know what has really happened. You don’t know the story. For all we know, we can’t go home. We need her help, without it we are stuck here.” He replied, softening his gaze. Although the frown remained, the rage in his eyes faded.

“I’m sure if you tell her you want to go home, she’ll more than happily find a way. I mean you got here some way right? She can always send you back the same way.” The mare looked at him with a sympathetic smile.

“She will help you, trust me.” Coming to around waist height, all she could do was rest a hoof on his still drying boot and say, “And I’ll help you too.” Although she gave a reassuring look, he still remained emotionless.

“Thanks Twilight.” he finally said, before facing the Captain. “I guess I’m under more stress than normal, given this is a whole new thing for me.” He gestured to the unicorn before him, tapped the tan line where his goggles had been, and earned a slow nod from his superior.

“I’ll go speak to Sunny now; I have to speak to a man about a couple of horses now it seems.” the higher ranking officer remarked. The expression flew straight over every equines head whilst the humans gave a sign of agreement. As did the nickname for Princess Celestia, although the intelligent equine was slow to catch on to whom he was referring to.

"Get some rest, I want you to keep a level head whilst we're here. I see if Celestia can send a bottle over at some point. Ain't exactly Fosters, but it'll do." Snake commented, already backing away.

“Sounds good Captain, but lay off the wine will you. I can’t carry your sorry arse if you’re plastered, especially, if she has anything to say about it.” Specks added, earning a shake in the head from Snake as he walked away. Twilight only understood the conversation after searching for that name, and listening to the light hearted chortle of the man.

As they entered the infirmary, Twilight had to ask one more question.

“Well now that we have some alone time,” she asked, leaning her head towards him slightly, “perhaps you could show me some more of those gadgets? You said you would.” she finished in a sing song voice. She was hoping to bring his mind from the thoughts of his brother, which were now coursing through his mind like the blood in his veins. Every second, of every day, he spent with Dean was interrupted by the mare.

“Sure. I try to be a man of my word. Colt if you’d prefer.” He remarked, eyeing up the whirring goggles on a white trolley. A small green light pulsated on the side.

Results are in. I guess all I have to do is wait for Ursa. Soon we can fix this bloody bug and work on getting home.

His moment of thought was abruptly halted as the curious mare raced around the room. She wore a merry grin as she collected a few items in her lavender aura. The flare, the headset, and the hacking panel were brought to him. He sighed, looked over to her and realised how long she had been waiting for this moment.

His anger was long gone as he viewed the adorable sight; her inquisitive eyes were wide as dish plates, her large smile reminded him of his brother’s when he asked for a present every Christmas Eve, and the way she sat on her rump reminded him of the days he used to sit at the front of the class in primary school.

“Let me guess; you never wanted me for me, just my toys.” Both shared a merry chuckle. He suggested she joined him in sitting on the bed, to make it more comfortable, whilst he explained his technology. She happily obliged, hopped on next to him, brought the flare over, and left it hovering in front of the man.

“Could you explain what this is? Rainbow Dash thinks it’s a baton for a relay race. It’s not is it?” she asked, scrutinizing the word ‘flare’ on the side.

“Can you snuff out the lights; you’re going to wanna see this.” He smirked, slowly taking hold of the signalling tool.

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“Hand it over my mysterious mare.” Snake remarked, approaching the squad and the mistress of the night.

Whilst both parties came closer, he watched as a few of the members shifted slightly and Luna beamed a smug grin.

“Oh you mean this?” To the guard’s amazement, she revealed a long knife. To one certain guard, now relieved of escort duty, he found himself viewing a certain blade he held days ago.

As the half blind man reached for the blade, he found himself smirking back.

He should have been confused, perplexed by how she even managed to get hold of the hidden blade, but instead was in marvel to the mystery behind it.

“How?” he asked, handing the blade over to Amber and not taking his eyes off the Mistress of the night. “Take that back to my bed; leave it where she found it.” He said, referring to how it was hidden amongst the metal frame of the bed.

She accepted, bearing a small smile.

“It was not I who found it, as it was not you who acquired my tiara.” That statement only made his grin wider.

“I see we have both upped the ante, so who was it?” he inquired, giving an analytical glance over each team mate. Everyone defensively raised their arms, although Deadeye was the slowest. However, upon glancing past the twins he noticed the slight pull of a smirk before it dissipated immediately.

“I cannot say.”

“You don’t have to.” He switched back to Princess, and merrily continued with “Anyway, I’m off to see Celestia, Specks is cooling off so you guys shouldn’t go in there.” Ursa stepped forward, about to argue his case to check on the results.

“Let me rephrase that,” the captain spoke, raising a hand to halt the giant, “You are under direct orders to give the lad an hour to calm down and simmer. Twilight is with him to keep him under control.” The squad nodded, before he faced Luna.

“Perhaps you can give them a tour? Let them get to know the staff around here?” The Diarch agreed, and returned to collect the rest of the Elements of Harmony. The squad followed suit, the girls giving a playful grin before turning away. He rolled his eyes and asked a guard for directions.

Unfortunately, even if he and the Princess could get past today’s incident, he still had a couple of topics to discuss.

It would not be a pleasant conversation.

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