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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