Author's Notes:

From here on out if I do another characters POV its gonna say it. Otherwise it's always gonna be Ryder. By the by this is going to contain a little bit from the S5 Season finale with Cutie Remark. (I think that is what it was called....)

Okay... this is a weird one... and I'm not talking having your underlings take a syringe vial to your marefriends cum filled pussy just to drink it in a potion the next day. By the by that potion was an aphrodisiac for couples.... ooh I hope we get compensation for this.... lucky I'm not firing any of my underlings... I knew this was gonna happen.... But no this isnt what I'm here to talk about. What I'm here to gab on about is something that just... It's something I should just let Spike handle. It all started with me with Soarin outside the house at about... oh eight thirty in the morning. I was wearing my lunar guard service uniform. I was issued a new one by Luna because I asked for it. She even gave me one that supposed to be a costume kinda. It was a long duster with the sleeves cut off. Made me look like a character from that one post apocalyptic game Luna and I both play... Oh the next comic convention that happens out in Cloudsdale I am showing up wearing that AND the breathing mask that goes with it. Oh so excited... But yeah I was wearing a fresh uniform, jacket, boots and pants. I still have my cap in the house. Didnt wanna have it out but... This was a disgrace. Soarin was sitting up on a cloud in his wonderbolts jump suit and I wasnt even three feet off the ground afraid to go any higher. "C'mon rookie! You can get it!" He said. "You want that dinner with me dont ya?"

I huffed. "Are you teaching me or making a fool of me!?" I snapped getting a foot or two higher. He laughed a bit.

"Maybe a little bit of both. I think I saw Applejack snapping a few pics. Now if you get up here I might be able to convince her to delete those pictures before we head to what ever restaraunt you want. Just know nothing fancy. I'm not a princess you know!" I glanced at the house. And yes. I did think it was a trick but for the first time it isnt. There in her jean skirt and a white tank top holding per phone just recording what was happening here. I blushed hard and looked back.

"...she's lucky I love her... otherwise I'd wrestle that phone away doing anything I could...." I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. "....You can do this Ryder... just imagine Scootaloo is playing on this cloud and you need to get her down before a storm rolls in..." Just before I opened my eyes I heard a loud bang. I had a freak out moment and shot straight up latching onto Soarin thinking it was a gunshot. I didnt know I did that nor did I know that so-called gunshot was a vehicle backfiring.

"Okay okay.... just... you're good now dude!" Soarin said as he pried me off of him and dropping me onto a cloud. "I'm gonna chalk that up as a win... You got up here, maybe with a little help but it wasnt me that helped." He pointed towards the house. I looked and saw Big Mac's truck pulling up and Applejack just laughing her flank off. I blushed hiding my face. She knows the shit that happened over there and why I shit myself scared... I did actually shit myself there... I only realized it after I got off the cloud. Thank goodness nobody smelt it.... I had to dip into the bathroom, ditch my underwear in the trash, wipe my ass and rush into the bedroom to swap my pants out for jeans and get new underwear.

I came back down in jeans, my service shirt open revealing my white tee i had on under it. Applejack and Big Mac were just looking at a video of me that AJ took snickering. "Look get ready! Ya practically see his heart jump from his chest!" AJ said. I heard the video sound off with the backfire of the truck... Big Mac is replacing that air filter on his own. I tipped them off kinda stomping down the stairs. I had to change into my running shoes too. Boots do not go well with jeans unless they're work boots. AJ and Big Mac both look up at me snickering. "Hey sugarcube! Sorry about that scare! At least I got a good shot of you gettin' up too the cloud for proof! So happy you're doing this for your little sister."

I sighed hopping into the recliner. "...Well thanks for the fucking heads up on the truck!" I said. "Yeah I know that air filter needs replacement but I would love it if i'm not either having to change my pants, strip the bed or wake up from a dead sleep when ever that thing backfires!"

Big Mac huffed. "I told ya if I can find the model I'd replace it but until then we're stuck with this hunkajunk! Why cantcha just rig another filter to fit into it without replacing the engine?" He asked.

"If I could dont you think I would've made my car into a fucking monster truck by now? Just go on your phone and just search up the part number and you should find it!"

Applejack huffed. "Alright I'm gonna stop this here right now before ya start yellin' about it." She snapped. She looked to Big Mac. "You're gonna need to get that damn thing fixed yourself since you work on it more than Ry does and he aint gonna be a personal mechanic for us." She looked back to me. "And you better stop complainin' about this shit!" I sighed.

"AJ... Do you remember what happened some months ago while I was away? Do I need to drop my pants and show you the scar?" I saw Big Mac blush and wish I didnt put an image in his head. AJ huffed and shook her head.

"Right right my mistake sugarcube but seriously I dont want you two fighting about that stupid truck." She looked to Big Mac. "Just get it fixed big brother... if ya need just ask Ry for help but you're on your own for fixing it. You know papa's truck inside 'n out! Ry might like classics but this aint the kinda car that he'd drive."

Her brother sighed and looked to me. "Alright... I'll fix it ... Dont want ya having any flash backs that ends up hurting one of us...." He said. I didnt want that to happen either... First week after the surgery I slept over in Celestia's castle in Canterlot. I slept away from Scootaloo just to keep her from hurting me and keeping me from scaring her if I did freak... I only did twice. Once when Shining woke me up when he sneezed and another from a nightmare about what happened when I came back... If I need to go to a place like Fillydelphia or Manehattan from here.... I'm gonna drive or fly with Celestia if she needs to head there for some reason... I'd even suggest to her that I be her personal bodyguard for that day but who knows.

I took a deep breath and sighed hearing my phone ring upstairs. I got up and looked to AJ. "....Just wait for me down here... Gotta take this...." She nodded and just leaned on Big Mac. There was something on her mind but I noticed the ring tone. It was a pop song by sapphire shores. Who do I pair that ring tone with? Princess Twilight Sparkle. I hurried upstairs and darted into the room only to come a foot away and miss the call. I swore under my breath and picked up my phone only to try and return the call. Immediate voice mail. I waited a moment and there the ring tone was again.

I slid my thumb across the screen answering the phone I put the phone up to my ear and said nothing. "....C'mon c'mon..." I heard Twilight say. She sounded a bit worried. She hummed a second I think checking her phone. "Ryder? Hello? Are you there Ryder?" I huffed.

"Sorry Princess. Had a little argument with Big Mac that AJ had to break up. Not to mention it is my day off...." She huffed as I walked out of the room and leaned on the banister looking over Big Mac and AJ who were quietly whispering. I heard Twilight sigh.

"Yeah I know but I need to call in a favor... I did use you for potion making yes but... this one is something ENTIRELY different!" I rolled my eyes as I started down the steps. "What I need from you is just your time... You're the only one I can call because AJ doesnt like it when I use my magic to test on her, Spike is out sick, Fluttershy agreed to care for him until he's better, Dash would bitch about everything I did, not to mention fall asleep while I'm trying to explain something and Pinkie? Yeah not touching that with a ten foot pole there...."

"And let me guess... Rarity is busy." I heard the princess give a little 'mhm' as confirmation. "Well... What do you need me to do exactly... I'll come over but only if its a good reason. Otherwise I'm sorry I cant." And then she'd tell Celestia and Celestia would lay into me.

"Okay I get it its your day off, you wanted to enjoy it, and get that little problem worked out with Soarin but... Please general I need this and you're the only one I can trust with this simple task! I might not pay for your time but I can at least pay for a meal or what ever you want!" I sighed.

"...Alright let me think about this for a minute and talk it over with Applejack... see if we have anything planned later... I'll text you. If I dont text within ten minutes call me back. If I dont answer call AJ."

"Alright.... Just hurry and make a decision. I need someone and just some random guard wont do! But I will understand if you say no. I can always do it another time." I heard her give a sad sigh before hanging up the phone. She knows I dont like to let anypony down. Let alone a princess. I shoved my phone in my pocket walking back downstairs.

Applejack looked at me as I went and sat down where her brother once sat. Big Mac was now in the kitchen rummaging through the fridge. "Let me guess... Work called?" She asked. I nodded and cuddled up to her. "Did it sound like they really needed you?" I nodded a bit more hesitantly. She sighed. "...Just get. I love ya but I'd go if I were you. Who knows ya might just get a little sugar from me if ya get a few more bits to at least help pay for a new part for the truck. Need I remind you the one who busted it that time we had it brought into that shop?"

I sighed rolling my eyes. "Of course you had to pull that card..." I said sitting up. I looked to her. "...I thought you forgave me for that stupid mishap. The garage fired me and I was forced to live-" She put a hand over my mouth and shushed me.

"Now dont you say a thing about that sugarcube. I know I said I forgave ya but Big Mac wasnt so easy with that remember? At least pitch in to make it so we can just get the damn past all the way behind us!" I sighed as I got up.

"Fine fine... Can you at least text Twilight and tell her I'll be there? I'll leave my phone at home because I know she doesnt like me having it while around the castle... especially when I'm supposed to be helping her with her spells..." Yeah just maybe about a week or so after the surgery I had to help with a spell just outside my place before it burned down. I had my phone in my hand because I was texting AJ while Twilight was trying to explain it and was that the biggest mistake I've ever done. She took it, hid it with her magic and made me go through with the spell testing with ME being the target instead of spike... Took two days for me to stop burping fire.... She even had me in a room in the castle where I had to stay to not burn anyone or anything... fireproof cots are very uncomfortable...

Anyways I managed to change into my uniform in under ten minutes even with my shit wing. When they said it would act like a real one they really meant it.... well.. other than the occasional squeak when I open it sometimes... nothing a little oil cant fix. My armor was changed from the armor i had prewar- being a gold helmet and chest plate- and turned into some nice vintage yet strengthened riot gear and an old guard cap reading UFG. I didnt request this but Princess Celestia dug this out of the Canterlot storage depot for me. She knows I love vintage things such as cars, music and the occasional household item but clothing was really my number one. Got my eyes set on a varsity jacket sometime soon. But to something else entirely. Once I got to the castle I was met by Princess Twilight and a few other guards in the parking garage. The other guards just wore their normal armor. Both were unicorns wearing their gold armor. The princess wore jeans, black canvas sneakers and a white shirt with black sleeves. She looked to her guards and sent them away before looking to me. I bowed in respect as the others teleported away. "Thank you for coming General." She said. She sighed as I stood up. "Ryder I'm sorry I have to call you here on your day off but... Princess Celestia has tasked me with something that even I dont understand and with Spike sick in bed I dont have anyone else who would help willingly." I huffed.

"Some of the other guards told me they dont like to help with experiments involving spells. A few have actually told me about their academy days and I dont envy them one bit. The spells they had endured during said training just sucks... Would you ever use a taser spell on me? Supposedly depending on the user it can range from the slightest of tingles to the equivalent of a two thousand volt shock and some in rare occurrences can temporarily paralyze someone. Your magic? Probable chance to permanent paralysis for certain targets." She sighed and averted her gaze.

"...My magic is mostly passive in nature. If I do end up using magic that has a chance to shut down someone's body parts or kill them I'll have Celestia revoke my princesshood..." She really doesnt like it when someone says for her to use magic like that. Maybe a week after becoming General I was given a manual about the laws with magic. Turns out magically rupturing someones organs is illegal. Same with magical surgeries. Well... some are overlooked if its small and something is needed in extraction and they might be missing a doctor but any major surgeries such as limb replacement, organ transplants and certain shrapnel slash penetration injuries. If it is serious like almost where I was shot it might have been overlooked. Anyways the princess looked back to me. "Alright... so shall we head somewhere to practice these spells? I'd suggest my library but.... I've got guards trying to relax in there... some just recovered a body that just...." She stopped and shivered.

"...I think I might have an idea princess... no need to say anything." I took her hand and lead her to the elevator. "Mind if we actually get something to eat first? I was woken up by Soarin' arriving too early and never got to eat breakfast..." I saw her blush a bit as her stomach growled as I pushed the button.

"...Food doesnt sound bad right now... I havent eaten since lunch yesterday... I had to watch over spike for a couple hours last night and since he was the one that was supposed to cook dinner... or at least suggest something to eat... I didnt eat last night... not only because of worry he had me rub his back while he was losing his stomach in the toilet.... Too much info... I know but... it just stinks for him to be in such condition..." I sighed as the elevator doors opened up and we stepped inside.

"I understand how someone who's been in your life for so long seeing them so sick..." I sat down as she leaned against the wall. I honestly have a fear of these things stopping so i gotta crouch down and feel safe. "...I still remember when Scootaloo was around six or so.... I was at home with her and she got up from her bed so fast the night before I could swear Winona was just running around at high speed in my house. I hurried for the bathroom only to see Scoot just hugging the toilet bowl with a little mess in her pajamas... Now that might be a little too much but nobody let her out of the house let alone out of her bed for a while. Mom and dad even had to put her in diapers... and me one night just because I had an accident earlier that day...." I blushed a bit and tensed up slightly as the elevator rose.

"I admit it isnt that bad to where he had an accident... and I hope it doesnt come to that..." Lets just skip the elevator ride and the meal... just a quick hayburger. Nothing special. When we finished we went into an empty room right around the corner. It was honestly supposed to be a lounge room but having an empty room might be easier to hide in if any attacks come along. Twilight can use a cloaking spell that hides the door and make it disappear into the wall and hide us, while simultaneously cast a spell that cancels noise and if the attackers do end up finding it guards would be there guns trained at the door and unless a certain knock is given.... you get it. Anyways the room wasnt padded, it echoed like hell, and the only thing that I had was my uniform, a pen and a notebook. The princess looked to me as I sat down against the wall. "Alright... Guards tell me Spike is stable, he's still asleep from last night and while we're here the other guards are gonna check on him and when he wakes up they're gonna feed him some soup.... granted he doesnt like being fed but I'm not gonna let him feed himself... last time i did when he was sick he needed a bath and where he was eating at the treebrary a while ago needed a good cleaning... Had to replace two books coated in cheese sauce and sniffle goo.... Lucky his fire breath is only when he burps... When he does when he's sick its like a natural safety switch to keep everything around him from burning down." I huffed.

"Okay Princess I'm being nice here when I say we have something to do and worrying about Spike is gonna throw you off more than he will throw up. You get what I'm saying?" She thought for a moment and hesitantly nodded. "...Good... now just take a deep breath, focus on what you're doing. Dont wanna use the wrong spell and accidentally freeze us in time now do you?" She shook her head again and just came over and sat against the wall with me. I set the pen and the notebook aside and just put my arm around her. "Something else besides Spike hitting ya?" She nodded.

"... I just... Ever since you came back from the war its just... I miss my brother like Scootaloo did you....I dont get to see him as often as Scootaloo does you and she's even seen more than i have of him..." I sighed. Felt bad for her.

"Alright... here's what's gonna happen... after we're done here, we're gonna call Celestia, tell her you need a break from what she has you doing and then we call your brother to schedule a little get together with him. I know there might be a chance he's busy but I know he's gonna drop what ever it is and spend time with you... If you want I'll let you go do what ever with him while I watch Spike for you. Sound good?"

"....Well... I guess that sounds good but... I'd need to leave a list for you to do for him to make sure he recovers, things to watch out for and some stuff for you guys to do that wont make him mad or sad and just..."

"I get it... Keep him entertained, happy and healthy. Lets just get this over with. Faster we get this done with faster we can relax. Got me?" She nodded and got up using her magic to give me the pen and notebook back. I grabbed it and opened it starting to scrawl out a little title. 'Ex-spell- iment number one.' ....Yeah fail title but cant just start off with anything. My mind makes me do these kinds of things... Almost like OCD but... weirder. Not really gonna explain much of what was going on but she got up and walked towards the center of the room. She took a deep breath and huffed.

"Alright... Just give me some quiet and let me concentrate here.... Just make sure you write anything you notice happening with me please and the spell once its cast."

"Understood. When ever you're ready." To be honest I had no clue what I was supposed to be looking out for or what but I just kept the pen ready. She stood there for a moment before putting one hand to her temple just lightly touching it with her fingers. Her horn started to glow a light purple. I saw sparks of magic in the air. I just watched it for a few minutes, my mind being mostly simple as hell being entertained with little lights I spaced out a bit not even writing anything down. But when shit hit the fan everything went into slow motion. A concussive blast came from center room where a portal opened up. Dust and dirt from corners, above and below flew around the room, what ever force it was just pulled the pen and notebook from my hand and sucked it into the portal but my guard action had to set in. My cap flew off into the portal as I got up and rushed Twilight seeing her struggle to get away from the portal.... probably the worst thing I could've done. I grabbed Twilight and threw her to the ground but I managed to fall off balance and there I go flying into the portal and I get just enough of a glimpse of Twilight screaming for me just before it closes and I hit something hard dazing myself silly.

I groaned a bit crawling around having the wind knocked out of me. I coughed a bit before grabbing my cap again. I sat against a rock... I barely could tell what it was but it felt lumpy and uneven. Only reason why I couldnt tell what it was was because of a sand storm. All I could do was keep my head down and just curl up waiting. It felt like forever while I waited there. Everything hurt... even my lungs when I tried to breathe. Dusty fucking air messed with me something bad... I heard the sound of armor clanging... I couldnt tell where it was coming from. But who ever it was... they saw me easily. "You there!" I heard a metallic voice say. "State your name and what the hell you're doing out in this sand storm!" I coughed and hacked almost unable to answer. Then I heard a little metal kinda click and jangle around. Not armor. Something a little lighter. "Here! Take this, put it on and just follow me! Do anything to try and harm me... You're done you hear me?" I nodded and felt around in my blinded state. When I felt it i rubbed it a bit to feel what it was. Felt like a gas mask. I quickly flipped my hat around, stretched out the head straps and put it on. Took me a moment to catch my breath and look around. This mask was enchanted with some kind of night vision enchant. I saw everything in a greenish hue and looked brighter. I saw my notebook fluttering in the wind and grabbed it before looking around. I saw a large pony clad in armor... almost medieval like in stature and color with the eyes glowing. Though it looked as such it was motorized. I heard pistons fire with each step as I followed.

"Wh-Where the hell am I?!" I asked the armored pony. They stopped and looked to me.

"...Not from around here are you? Just hit your head or something?"

"I... I dont know... Yes? No? Look can you just tell me where I am?" They turned back the way they were facing and started walking.

"You were where a town called Ponyville once stood. Now razed by an army that Equestria has been feuding with for years. You just got caught up in a major dust storm and I'm surprised your clothes look as good as they do considering the weather and how long this war has been running."

"Wait war?! War what war are you talking about?" They looked back at me and then around us. Then back at me.

"Let's move. Follow me and dont get left behind! Come on lets go!" They turned right around and started to run.... That bulky of armor and they run still pretty fast... I kept up but I was freaking out. The only thing keeping me on my feet was my guard training and this gas mask. We soon stopped just at the base of a mountain. It was very steep but we walked for what felt like an hour. I was freaking out but kept my shit together... just until it hit me moments after we stopped. I screamed for a second and then just blacked out.

I only woke up maybe hours later but I had no clue where I was... again... I was stripped of my uniform having everything set to the side. Even the gas mask. I was only in my boxers in a cot. This thing was uncomfortable but... at least it wasnt stone floor. The room I was in was lit with a few candles... They were bright but about as bright as a very dim lamp that hadnt had its bulb changed since it was put in four years prior. The room I was in was stone with one door leading out. I could tell where it was because of a little light coming from under it and a hole about two thirds of the way up. "...Good... you're awake..." I hear a monotone voice say. "I was instructed to put you in here.... Our commander found you outside in the middle of that sandstorm and you freaked out before passing out. Put your clothes on now. Our leader wishes to speak with you..."

I didnt answer the voice. Just did as I was told. Put my clothes on and clipped the gas mask to my pants. I didnt even bother looking for the notebook. Just readied myself at the door and knocked a bit. Took a moment to open after I hear a lock click and a chain drop to the floor. It opened slightly and I carefully pushed it open. I looked out and saw door after door with torches in between a few spaced four doors per torch. There was a mare across from me wearing some badass looking black armor... It wasnt like anything I've seen. She had a dark grey mane... looking almost purple but her coat was just a bland grey that.... seemed familiar somehow in color. The style was uniform but intimidating... "...Uh... Who are you?" I asked. She looked to me and rolled her eyes.

"I'm Corpral Maud Pie of The Equestrian Resistance army. Might I ask your name as well?"

"I'm uh..." I hesitated on who I was. Do I tell the truth? Do I hide it and make a fake Identity? I just bucked up and stood in attention as if I were addressing Celestia during crisis. "I am General Ryder of the Equestrian Royal guard... I know it doesnt sound right but trust me... I have my badge." I reached in to one of the pockets on my uniform and pulled it out. Had it in a little carrying case that was made of leather. Flipped it and showed it to her. She hummed as she took it in her hand.

"...I havent seen one of these for years... last I saw was during the massacre near Manehattan when the war first started with Sombra..." She handed it back to me. "...How you've kept it in such condition is amazing to me. Your uniform still in good condition too looking back from... 1967?" Her face remained emotionless as well as her voice.

"1970. And... this uniform was a gift from someone... now about what you needed to do?" She nodded and started walking down the hall. I followed just looking around. Soon we came to an atrium just covered in ponies clad in the same armor. Most of which had the same style as Maud did. Others just shaved theirs completely and some were even tattered parts. Might've even seen one mohawk or two. There was a network of walk ways over us mostly wooden bridges. We came to a large wooden door with ponies crowding it.

"Everyone move! Back out of the way!" Ponies dispersed after hearing Maud raise her voice slightly. Monotone still. She opened up the door and we slipped in to a large room lit by goblets of fire. There was an ornate red carpet leading down the middle and four ponies all in that heavy medieval looking armor.

There was a familiar looking mare sitting in a large throne just ahead of me... That mare was Celestia looking war torn and stressed to shit. Her mane was tied in a pony tail flowing ever so slightly. Her horn was broken a bit and covered in black crystals and a scar over her left eye... No eye patch or anything or any damage to the eye itself. I shuttered as we approached and stopped just short. Two armored ponies came to her side. Maud knelt down as Celestia stood. "Thank you Maud... You may go now!" She said. Maud stood up, saluted and just started away. Celestia approached me and looked to me. "...Uniform is spotless... not a scratch of damage anywhere... Where did you come from?" I hesitated just staring at the armored ponies. She looked back to them. "At ease you two. Cut the intimidation tactic!"

They then stood in attention just before their eyes went dark and the sound of pressure being released like when a truck stops sounded off. They opened up at the back and out step two... insanely familiar ponies and I just wanted to scream when I saw them. The ponies who stepped out were Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie. Pinkie... She looked pissed off like someone broke a pinkie promise. She wore the same armor Maud did. I KNEW THAT FUCKING NAME SOUNDED FAMILIAR! Maud is Pinkie's sister if you havent put that together by now. Pinkie never shuts up about her when someone mentions rocks. Her mane and Dash's looked the same as some of the other ponies. Except she was wearing a blue and yellow jumpsuit almost wonderbolt like. Pinkie approached me and got close. "We're watching you.... Dont get any smart ideas..." She said.

Rainbow Dash pushed her away. "Captain Pie, leave at once!" She snapped. Pinkie didnt say a word before growling at me and leaving us. Dash looked to me and huffed. "Apologies for her actions. Commander Dash of the Resistance. This is our leader Celestia."

I hesitantly saluted. "I am G-General Ryder." I said. I went to try and reach into my pocket but stopped. High leader, someone who can order an attack on me if threatened.... I just went and put my hands back at my sides. "I am a royal guard.... If you will I have a badge in my chest pocket, my right side your left... You may take it out and verify." Dash came around to the back and forced my hands as if she were going to cuff me before Celestia patted my chest feeling for the badge. Found it right where I said it would be.

Celestia opened it and gasped. "...By my mothers light... Stainless steel and silver combination, untouched by elements and with my verification...." She said running her fingers over a little CF on the combined cutie marks in the middle. Her's and Luna's of course. She sighed running her fingers over Luna's side of her cutie mark. "...Oh sister... why hast thou refused to come back...."

Dash released me and pushed me back getting in between us. "Celestia do you need a moment to be alone?" She asked. Celestia looked up at her and reached past her handing my badge back to me.

"...No but... I want to have a talk with the stallion here... You may leave though. I trust him..." Dash's wings ruffled up. She looked at me and back to Celestia.

"B-But Celestia he's just some rouge element! He could just be holding back until you two are alone! HE COULD HURT YOU!"

"Enough lip Dash! I know what I'm doing! Now go before I have the Pie's drag you out!"

Dash hesitated before just pushing me aside leaving the room. I watched as Dash stormed out with the other armored ponies leaving the room. "...Jeez... I understand being protective but... that was harsh..." I said. Celestia sighed turning me around before she walked back to her throne. "...So uh... may I check out that armor? I've never seen anything like that where I'm from."

"Go ahead... Just be careful some of these are malfunctioning a bit with the joints. Once they get stuck it has to be replaced." She pointed to the right side. The one that Dash was in. "This one is more of a problem than any of the others... Legs lock up, arm joints disengage mid punch, and the helmet sensors mess up as well." I went to Dash's armor and started to look at it up close. "I just want to say I know you arent one of us.... You arent a changeling either or an enemy at all. Otherwise you would have revealed yourself.... Though... You remind me of a recruit we lost long ago.... Can you tell me who you are and how you got here?" I huffed looking through the little cracks of where the armor plates connected.

"...I'm General Ryder, I'm a Royal guard who just got back from a war, amputated my wing after a plane crash, managed to get called in by someone on my day off only to get sucked into a fucking portal where one of your armored warriors found me and when I got to the door it all hit me at once knowing I would be stuck here..." I looked around the armor at her. "Do you have a tool I can get these armor plates off with? I need a better look and i cant really tell what's wrong but.... I feel this shin guard a little loose...." She got up from her throne and approached me pulling my arm and helping me up.

"It's going to be better if we get this to a work station. Granted you do not have the proper training here I might as well tell you how to use this." She set me at the back of it and turned a valve having it just pop open letting out that steam-pressure sound. "Just place your arms and legs where they need to be and keep your wings pinned down to your back." I did as such. Stuck my head into a hole that was attached to the helmet. I stuck my arms and legs in their places before folding my wings tightly on my back. Not even a second later I felt everything close around me and a UI brighten up in my eyes. I was amazed at what I saw.

"No way! This thing has a neural interface and an ammo counter? How do I look at the stats of this thing?" I heard Celestia give a giggle.

"Wow not even five minute into the armor and you're already noticing these tidbits. By the way if you want to check those statistics of the armor plates themselves just nod your head to the right just a bit. Dont worry you wont knock the helmet out of place." I nodded to the right and it showed the condition of all the armor pieces. Even little error notifications like a cars dashboard. Right side knee was a bit damaged.

"There definitely is something in there. Right knee looks a bit off color from the rest."

"Alright.... Professional Mechanic here are we? Now lets just do this real quick... Just slowly move your arms forward not even moving your feet. Do it like you're trying to force it it might move a bit slowly. Work with the pistons and actuators and not force them." I hummed a bit as I moved my arms and raised my legs ever so slightly. "Make sure the knee bends all the way otherwise it's not gonna go down easy." I kinda stumbled a bit before just slamming my foot back down.

"Okay! Maybe not a good idea to trust a newbie with high tech armor! Dont wanna hurt myself or you for that matter! How do I get out of this thing?!" Celestia got in front of me in my field of view. I could see the glow of the eye lights on her face.

"Alright relax! Don't panic! It's not the first time I've had a run in with someone who didnt know how to use Power Armor before. Deep breaths first to calm you down." I closed my eyes and took a few deep breaths. My heart rate slowed to just about normal. "Alright.... Now what I need you to do is go limp. These things are programmed to let who ever is inside out in an emergency. Fainting, loss of fuel for motion and even those worst case scenarios during battle but... These things arent going to see any action unless its direly needed." I went limp still having my eyes closed. Not even a few seconds after I hear the steam pressure just exhaust before I just fall flat on my back. I opened my eyes and sat up rubbing the back of my head which hurt a bit. Celestia came around to me. "Oops... Forgot to tell you to hold onto the hand grips... You're okay?" I nodded.

"Yeah... I'm fine... Can we go somewhere and talk? These armor pieces are awesome but... kinda creepy if nopony is in them..."

"Alright. I should take you to our barracks. There's a bed open after we lost someone during a recent battle but... dont let that get in your head." Like I havent seen enough death. "It's going to be right across from Commander Dash's room. Feel free to consult her about any information you need." I sighed getting back to my feet.

"....I'm surprised you havent asked me where I came from at least... My uniform and badge AND rank should've given you some questions about me havent they?" I looked to her as we started walking towards the door.

"I admit those questions crossed my mind when I saw... her cutie mark on your badge... You wouldnt mind if I asked would you?"

"Ask away Celestia. I am but your personal tap of information." She gave a hesitant smile as she opened the door.

As we left the room Dash confronted us. Stood in front of us and just stared me down. "...You're lucky to get a private audience with our leader outsider... not many do..." She said. She looked to Celestia. "What are your orders oh faithful leader?"

Celestia looked to her. "I want you and everypony else to return the power armor to their work bays please." She replied. "Our guest here has offered to help in our cause with a little added benefit. We give him a room to stay in, benefits of anyone else in this bunker and access to power armor at any time." Dash pushed me out of the way.

"But Celestia how can we trust him with such things? He could kill one of us with just a few punches!"

"You were the one who brought him in. Why think he's such a danger if you bring him inside our base! If he's a security risk what ever he does goes on your head! Understand me?" Dash sighed.

"Yes ma'am." She lowered her head looking regretful but her aura said something else.

"Good. Now show him to his quarters. The room right across from yours is what I'm giving him. Anything inside is now his property so that means weapons, tech and even valuables. He has the right to everything and is to report to me if anyone strongarms it away from him." She looked to me. "Alright... General... That's going to be your rank in my impromptu army. Dash still gives orders as well as me but if on a whim you need to take over I give you permission. That even means defying orders if necessary."

I smiled. "Thank you ma'am. I wont disappoint!" I said saluting. She saluted back.

"Alright you two I must rest. A short nap before the next ration distribution is going to suffice for me. Rest up if you need. Somepony will fetch you if you do fall asleep. Now go you two." Dash and I both saluted before she hurried off. Wings looking a bit.... dirtied and unpreened. Some was even bare...

Dash grabbed my shoulders and turned me around. "Okay she might've given you the damn rank of General but to me you're a fucking recruit! No way in hell are you getting power armor from me!" She snapped.

I shrugged her off and huffed. "Look, I know you dont like it but I was given a chance to use your armor in there! I was alone with Celestia and I had the chance to take her head off but I didnt know how to use it! She walked me through some basic things and I can tell you've been using that armor in battle! You've got a bullet or some fucking sand stuck in the right knee!" She sighed.

"You keep out of my armor! I'll fix it myself!" She shoved me in the direction of a doorway. "Now start moving. Faster we get to your quarters the faster I get to fix my damn armor." We started walking towards the door.

"...Not to pry but what's your story? You seem interesting.

"You first motherfucker. I'm not saying shit until you spill your story!" I just kept my mouth shut. "Not talking huh? Well you're not getting shit from me." I glanced back at her.

"I'm not saying anything because I want us to be alone when I do say something. I'll sit on my hands and you can cuff me if you need. I'm willing to submit before I speak." We walked down the corridor passing by multiple closed doors, torches and banners with a shield and Celestia's cutie mark... It almost resembled Shining Armor's... Not that I've seen it before....

"Your room should be up here on the right. Right across from the engraved door. You'll know it when you see it." I rolled my eyes and just kept walking until I came to a big red door. It was engraved with Dash's cutie mark and the words awesome, epic and legend all etched into it. Typical Dash. I looked across the hall at another door. Smaller door than Dash's. Blue but there was little stab marks in the wood. I opened the door and walked inside. A lot of stuff I recognized. Military cot, bullet reloading bench, ammo crates and even a rack of tools and such. Dash came up behind me and rest her hand on my shoulder. "The stallion who used to own this room tinkered a lot and you knowing I've been in battle with that armor without taking it apart might be promising. You might be good with what we have here. Now about who you are?" I looked up and down the hall.

"Your room maybe? I just.... I feel like nobody is bound to intrude upon your room right Commander?" She gave me a smug look.

"Right you are dork. Step into my office." She pulled me across the hall and put my hands behind my back gently but held them there firmly before opening the door. Inside her room was a large bed- Not even a cot- motivational posters, weights and even an old mural of Cloudsdale. I huffed.

"I'd hate to see what Cloudsdale looks like in this hell hole version of Equestria..." She sat me in a chair in the corner by her bed.

"What do you mean by that?" I huffed.

"...When you found me outside in that sandstorm I had just come out of a portal to an alternate universe where you and a few others defeat Nightmare moon, Discord, Tirek and even this Sombra... None of this ever happened where I'm from... Closest we've had to this was when Tirek attacked Ponyville..." I saw emotion just drain from her face.

"...No wonder your uniform is so clean and you have that badge... I mean you even were alone with someone extremely powerful, alone and not even trying anything to even hurt her.... My apologies for my rudeness..." I sighed.

"It's alright Commander... You didnt know... Can... Can you tell me about why you're in this resistance?" She sighed and lied back on her bed.

"...Revenge... I dont talk about this often and when I do its just... It's kinda my weakness.... I dont want to do this but... I guess I have to since you told me your story...." She took a deep breath and sighed. "...A few years ago when this thing started I was out with a filly who just loved me...." My heart dropped. "...She basically followed me everywhere I went until that day.... that day there was a massacre I was caught in with her..... Sombra's forces snuck in from the north and just..." Her voice got weak and I teared up slightly.

"...No need to finish.... I get it...." I got up and came to her bedside. "...You mind?" She scooted over and patted the bed next to her. "....In my universe... that filly is my sister.... she adores you and you just comfort her but... I just.... I dont wanna hurt you any more.... But... It's kinda surprising.... do you uh... do you wish to hear it or do you want me to leave it where it lies?"

"...Just tell me... I can take it..." I kinda curled up.

"...Well.... Its just that... you're cousins... very loving ones at that...." She turned over and just hugged me tight. She didnt whimper or cry but... her wings showed it. Carries on over universes... "...you two became very close after someone murdered our parents in cold blood.... Almost killed my marefriend too..." She looked me in the eyes.

"...Wh-what do you mean by that...?" I averted my gaze blushing.

"...in my universe.... you're my cousin and that filly you lost... that... that was my sister... she survived in the other universe because as I said.... No war with Sombra went on..." She blushed a bit.

"...Sweet fucking Celestia... I... I am so sorry about how I treated you thus far... Now I guess we both need to get revenge for her..." I nodded. "....Are you... are you willing to help us fight?"

"...Are Pinkie and Maud sisters?" She smiled a bit and gave a little laugh. "Why dont we just sit here, calm down and... maybe we could run a mission or something... Just get me started with something simple okay?" She nodded and sat up.

"I know the perfect thing for a guy like you. You still got that mask I gave you earlier?" I nodded grinning like a smug asshole. Maybe about an hour later, after our rations were given to us (A can of apple sauce and a cup of water...) we were sent back outside. The dust storm was raging but I couldnt give much of a fuck because you know what? I had that mask on but even better I was given a shotgun. Semi auto with explosive rounds. Celestia gave it to me thinking I need a 'proper welcome' after Dash told her about my predicament. Seems Celestia had a little idea of it because of what I was wearing. Anyways we were walking out in the dust storm and I had my shotgun just leaning on my shoulder, barrel in the air and hand on the butt of the gun. Dash was back in her power armor and carrying an auto rifle. And I gotta say... I was a little jealous but this one had the body of an assault rifle but it fed ammo like an LMG with a handle on top to hold it like a mini gun or something.

"Can I ask where we're headed?" I called out over the howling winds. Dash glanced at me... I think... hard to tell with that Power armor helmet.

"We're heading to an outpost that puts us resistance members up if we're a little too late for curfew. It's way out of the way of this storm but the air doesnt smell any better. Best keep that mask on unless you wanna smell like rotten apples and urine!" ...Winona used to go and just piss on a pile of rotten apples... A lot... Only thing that smelt worse was probably having me shit myself, puke and not bathe for a while before. Pit stink plus spicy food shits AND predigested soda is just.... fuck... that tasted bad AND stunk.... Long story short I had to be hosed down in the yard. I huffed aiming my gun out into the storm looking down the sights.

"...Ever get much action when on patrol like this?"

"Well there are the occasional attacks when trying to get up north. We've got some watch out towers that will alert us with morse code and just give us coordinates of where the enemy was last seen so we can dispatch them before they take another outpost. Hell some of our guys are in underground bunkers like we are just hidden away and they can barely go outside because they're so far into enemy territory. When they can they either have to be extremely silent or heavily armed. Most of the time its just silence because they dont wanna be found." She stopped and looked around. "...Get behind me.... I think we're in range...." I looked to her confused.

"...In range of what?" I got my answer when I heard a sniper shot ring out and the bullet just bounce on the ground at my feet. I jumped and just hid behind Dash still with my gun ready. This thing wouldnt have shit for range but its worth a shot in some situations.

"Keep your head down and stay close!" I nodded and followed still with my gun ready. Another shot rang out and it ricochet'd off Dash's armor. Saw a spark come from her shoulder. It was weird that it was only missing shots and grazing ones... I didnt question it. All I could think about was surviving. Every.... Oh twenty yards or what have you a shot was fired off. I head one whiz right under Dash's arm narrowly missing me. Not long we got to familiar territory... Familiar sights being trees. Apple trees. I looked around just as we approached a watch tower. "HEY! YOU WANNA WATCH WHERE YOU'RE SHOOTING?! I GOT A NEW GUY HERE!"

I heard someone climb down a ladder and toss a gun to the ground. "Well how the hell was I supposed to know that was you?" I heard a familiar voice say. I glanced around and saw a strong looking red stallion. Orange mane and he was wearing a dull grey camo jumpsuit with a bandanna wrapped around his forehead. Big Mac. "You guys are supposed to send a runner with a fucking flare gun!"

"I've already had two say you shot at them even after the flares. If we could figure out how to change the color of a flare it might be easier but can you just wait for the fucking person to show up?" He huffed.

"Hey we gotta protect the harvest somehow! What good is your damn rations if we get attacked by the enemy because I wasnt pickin' them off one by one!" Dash huffed.

"Just shut up and tell us where the damn problem is!" Big Mac huffed and picked up his rifle. Old hunting rifle. Barrel has seen some wear and tear, grip and stock definitely seen some work too. Masking tape on the stock and duct on the grip. Most likely keeping it held together from constant use.

"Alright. Follow me to the factory floor. Armored to hell in case of an attack but in case there is mine field is out there... surprised the new guy didnt trip any of em off.... Surprised I didnt hit any after having those shots ricochet off that damn armor of yours."

Neither me or Dash said anything before following Big Mac. I came out to the side of Dash now walking beside her. I even put my gun's safety on and rested it on my shoulder still holding the butt of the gun. Just looking around at everything made me miss home. Not only home but... Applejack, my sister... even the princess... But I just let that fuel me to keep going like it did when I was away. That tour was hell even though it was just me sitting around giving orders and placing attacks. If it werent for the rebels aiding us I'd've broken hard. Anyways we walked up to the barn looking like it had smoke stacks coming from the top of it and the whole thing covered in sheet metal, barbed wires and chains. Big Mac pounded on the door of it right in a spot where it was unarmored. Once it opened I saw another familiar face but... one I handnt seen for years.... The one and only Granny Smith. Lively old mare. Granny smith had her silver mane in a hair net and wore the same grey jumpsuit as Big Mac. She took one look at us as we hear a machine shut down. "About time you brought the cavalry. Where's the rest?" She asked.

Dash took her helmet off having the air be clear enough. "This is it. Just me and the new..." She said making a noise of disgust. "General... here... he's a bit of a newbie but has seen some combat experience hence his wing."

Big Mac looked at us as Granny went back in leaving the door open. "I thought you said he was a new guy. How does he have a rank just under you?" He asked.

I huffed. "I did my hard work elsewhere." I said "Word just traveled fast and the commander here found me after I was attacked in the middle of nowhere." The stallion hummed.

"Surprised word hadnt spread here at all." He looked at me closer. Kept my cool but deep down I was freaking out a bit.

Dash nudged Big Mac out of the way. "Back it up there. Word isnt gonna spread here much unless your fucking sniper jams when you're shooting at one of ours." She said. "Now just shut up and lets talk business here. Just tell us what the damn problem is before we just turn tail and leave." Big Mac huffed.

"Alright fine. Talk to The Boss. And make sure that gun stays on safety otherwise I aint gonna miss through the tight cracks of this here armor." He pointed to my shotgun with one hand and tapped the hull of the barn with the barrel of the sniper. I rolled my eyes after taking my gas mask off and clipping it to my belt.

Once we entered I set my gun on a shelf just off to the side. Looked to be just a shelf of scrap metal, circuitry and some other things. I just set my shotgun in the middle of a few piles of scrap metal right under a large sheet of sheet metal. Just around the shop was a large pile of tin cans, a large machine with connecting conveyor belts and crates packed tight with canned apple sauce and just a loading bay that was shut tight. The machines were stopped but something felt odd. I knew this wasnt empty but... I kept my guard up. Dash put her helmet back on and walked over to the wall where she just stepped out of her armor. I looked around trying to see where Granny smith went but as I turned around a corner I was just tackled from behind and had my arms shoved behind me and my face into the ground. "WHO THE HELL ARE YA AND WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU TRYIN' TO DO HERE?!" I hear a majestic yet pissed off sounding voice say. Mare's voice with a southern drawl. I turned my head a bit (as much as i could really) and looked up as best I could. Who i saw above me kinda shocked me. Applejack. Her mane was in a bun and covered by a hair net and the same grey jumpsuit with leather reinforcements here and there. I didnt dare fight her but I know where her weak spot is when she has me like this. Right at the back of the leg and she starts buckling down for me to get her off.

Dash booted Applejack off of me and grunted putting her boot on her neck. HER NECK. That pissed me off. I got up and pushed Dash off her before helping Applejack up. Dash looked to me. "WHAT THE HELL IS YOUR GOD DAMN PROBLEM GENERAL?!" She snapped.

I huffed. "I'll explain later but we have a fucking job to do here!" I snapped back. I looked back to AJ who rubbed at her neck blushing a bit. "You alright there?"

Applejack huffed. "...Yeah...All granny said was we had company and when I saw you I just attacked..." She said. She glared at Dash. "Never said it was the help I asked for a week ago!"

Dash pushed me out of the way. "You're lucky I even came here!" She said. "I would've been here sooner if we had someone to help with that fucking problem you have! Right after you asked we had to run a recon mission and we had to send our repair guy out into it! This was the best I could fucking do!" She pointed to me. I huffed as Applejack went behind some machinery and helped Granny smith to her feet. Almost could hear her bones crack.

"Well sorry for your fuckin' loss! You're lucky we didnt lose nothing but our machine to something being jammed in it and we have no fucking clue where it is jammed!"

I went and covered Dash's mouth the way i always do knowing she cant just bite me to get my hand off her face. "ENOUGH YOU TWO!" I snapped. I looked to Dash. "Commander I'm taking over here. Either give up control willingly or someone isnt going back with that suit of power armor protecting them! And you know damn well I can over power you!"

Dash shrugged me off and turned around slapping my hand away from her mouth. "Over power me? Like hell you can!" She snapped. Almost forgot that she doesnt know me very well. I grinned.

"Okay. Fine. You wanna spar? I can take your ass down right here right now!" I looked to Applejack. "Gonna need some space here." She nodded and backed up with Granny Smith just sitting her on a lower part of some machinery just as Dash and I faced each other. She cracked her neck not even breaking her gaze. I cracked my knuckles. Never even looked away either.

"So... who makes the first move...?"

"Your move commander!" I readied myself in my best 'I'm most likely gonna fucking get my ass kicked but not really' pose. Fists like I know how to fight but my stance just all off balance. Dash just looked at me like I was an idiot (like normal) but when she came at me with an over the head chop I crossed my arms and just stopped her dead before she hit me before I went and just put a boot dead center of her stomach sending her to the ground before I tackled her and pinned her. I got in her face. "I'M IN CHARGE UNTIL WE GET BACK TO THE COMPOUND! And dont think you're gonna go cry to someone because you're just being a little bit of a bitch when it comes to someone undermining you!" I turned away and unclipped the gas mask from my belt. "...You're going to need this once we leave here." I tossed it to her and she caught it begrudgingly. I looked back to Applejack. "Apologies for that miss...."

Applejack gave a little bit of a smile and approached holding her hand out. I took it and shook it. Felt a bit weird but... her contact made everything better. "Name's Applejack!" She said. "Usually called 'The Boss' or AJ. You just call me what ever you want there sugarcube. Nice one for showin' lil miss 'iron pony' a thing or two. She never wants to fight me without her armor. Must've thought you were weak but you definitely showed her!" I kinda laughed as Dash grunted and leaned against some of the machinery.

"Yeah well out there you learn somethings on your own. Especially when you have to deal with some unruly characters alone. Now about the problem you need fixed here?" She lost her smile and huffed.

"Bout a week an a half ago we were cannin' food to get out to the resistance. Problem is that someone brought a little keepsake for someone who we just... just had to say goodbye to and have them go off to keep them safe...." She averted her gaze. "...That keep sake fell onto the belt and when it went through the machine it got caught and stopped some parts from moving. We're only sending half the rations we usually do to keep everyone fed but to not tip them off that something's wrong. Otherwise we're gonna get a militia of ponies armored to shit stomping down the trees and ruining the crop." She looked back to me. "Any chance you can get everything back out of the machine without breaking it? You'll get whatever you need from us and I aint willin' to stop at all the food you need! It aint in my nature to say stuff like that but... This keepsake is just special to me and if you get it out i just... I..." She clenched her eyes shut. I just grabbed her hand and pulled her in close.

"...I get it... It's that important... Just take a breath, calm down and show me where it got stuck so you can resume operation. Those folks dont get fed we got ourselves a heap of lost ground." She nodded into my chest. I wiped her eyes away seeing tears build up. To be honest... this just made me miss my AJ on the other side of that portal. She opened her eyes after a moment and looked to me.

"...A-alright sugarcube... follow me..." She took my hand and led me around the machinery until we came to a big part with 'Mac's Masher'. "Right here... she's in there...." Okay dont ask me why I carry these things but... its more fitting if I have them. I pulled out a screwdriver from a pocket on my pants and brushed some of the dust off of the handle. As I unscrewed the screws Applejack sat next to me just holding my legs. I looked down at her.

"You alright?" She shook her head sighing.

"...I dont know anymore... I just start stressin' out sometimes and it just.... it makes me think of everything that could've been if this damn war hadnt started... we could've been happy, no problems to gripe about and not have to worry about going to sleep only to wake up to you tied to the bed and a stallion forcing his way into your trousers... either that or lookin' down the barrel of a gun before who ever's got their finger on the trigger demands what ever shit we got around the shop..." I opened the panel up and looked inside the machine. I didnt know what kinda stuff I was looking at but i saw it... A familiar looking bow chewed up and stained with rotten apples caught between a few pistons pointed towards the belt. I grabbed at the ribbon and slowly started to untangle it. I huffed.

"...How old was this filly?" She stood up again next to me.

"...Just about twelve or so... been a while so I cant remember.... We had to send her with some resistance members down south to get her away.... Some of them Crystal Empire Marauders have been raping foals and killin' the old that dont even have enough fight in em. Granny here survived because they couldnt keep a damn hold on her to get the gun into place. She ended up snatchin' the gun away and gettin' a few of em between the eyes and the rest fleein' to get away before they were picked off by me and Mac out there. Every now and then a courier comes along givin' us letters from her and a little friend of hers she met wherever they're hidin'." I managed to get the bow untangled and huffed handing it back to her.

"...At least she's still alive...." She took the bow looking to me as she held it to her chest. "...Lost my sister a long while ago... it just fucked me up... I couldnt trust anyone after that... well... until I was left to die out there...." I looked to Dash who just polished her power armor with a rag. "...Only reason I couldnt kill her is because I didnt have a gun and she would've kicked my ass in that power armor... I had to trust her and it just so happens that it was a good idea to... Someone close to her died as well and she and I make a pretty good team... well... Havent seen any action.. she just makes a good shield so far." AJ smiled a bit snickering.

"Well that's one way to say my brother's shit at shootin'. He should know not to shoot until he knows what the enemy looks like.... Maybe something there to fix that but that comes later.... for now why dont you two take a few cans for yourselves? I know I promised more but.... gotta be somethin' else you need doing...." I huffed. Knowing how I'd be we both would be walking funny... not sure how I'd be walking in power armor either. I closed up the panel and screwed the screws in tight before shoving the screw driver back into my pocket.

"Yeah... besides... theres a mare out there for me somewhere. Just gotta find her and help her out.... Settle down if this shit blows over.... Wouldnt even hesitate to build my own fucking house up if i needed to..." I averted my gaze and huffed. I almost didnt want to do this but I turned around before kissing Applejack on the lips almost by force... Almost meaning she didnt fight it. Just let it happen. I broke the kiss after a few seconds and hurried over to the power armor getting it opened up and hopping inside holding my wings to my back. As it sealed up onto me I felt my lip quiver. I looked to Dash as she got up and went for my shotgun taking it.

Nobody said anything as we left. No thank you, we didnt take the cans of food.... I just took my payment but... it hurt like i just drew my own blood by blade. Dash didnt even demand her armor back. Guess this one knows when she's beat. I had little to no trouble moving in the suit but... when we had arrived back at the compound I walked with Dash to her armor stand in her room. Circular base, silver pillars on either side with chains attached to each pillar. I relaxed once in place and got out of it. As I stepped out i looked to Dash who sat on her bed, head hung in shame. I sat next to her. Didnt say anything. She handed my mask back. Actually gave the gun to a guard who took it back to the armory. Dash looked to me. "...wha.... how did you manage to take me down....?" She asked. "....I've never been bested in a sparring match... always been out of power armor but... never bested...." I sighed.

"...Look if you're discouraged I'm sorry... I didnt mean to act that way but.... I was forced into it.... Remember when I said I'd explain something later...?" She hesitantly nodded. I looked down at the floor and just flopped back onto the bed. "...The Boss... AJ... Where I'm from she's my marefriend... seeing her just made me.... it hurt.... it hurt so bad i just... I kissed her...." I started to tear up a bit. "...and her little sister.... seeing that bow come from that fucking machine it just.... i swear something bad happened.... it hurts.... I just.... I wanna go home....."
Dash lied down and cuddled up to me.

"...I'm sorry this experience is so hard for you.... hearing about your sister.... seeing your marefriend.... I bet Pinkie and I kinda push you more towards insanity huh.....?" I nodded a bit. I'm not gonna lie here seeing Dash and Pinkie... even Celestia all war-torn and changed like this makes me hate this universe even more. "...Lets just stay here... calm ourselves down before Celestia throws us into our next operation... Okay....?" I nodded again. I was glad she was there for me.... I know she would've been there for me in my dimension but... She would've joked about something or given me shit for it.... Anyways I just nodded off cuddled up to her. Might be awkward but it was something.

To be continued...