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.

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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.

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“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.”

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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.”

Next Chapter: Chapter 8: Bumpy starts.. Estimated time remaining: 39 Minutes