“You’re tuned in to ‘Equestria at Large’! Your source of news from all across the nation!” a male pony said, his voice strong and confident. “Up next is our exclusive interview with Kira Feros, director of Apex, hosted by none other than News Flash! You’ve got the go!”

“Thank you,” a mare said. “This is News Flash, reporting in from the pinnacle of Apex! If you happen to miss this, we’re also doing a video recording that will reach the theaters tomorrow! The metallic floors are pristine, and the furniture’s definitely got what some would call a ‘Futuristic’ feel to it!

“And right with me is Divisional Commander Kira Feros! Welcome to the show, Commander!”

“The pleasure is mine,” another female voice said, filled with a commanding undertone.

“And,” News Flash continued. “We have guest Arcturus Minerva, representative of the NCR!”

The male voice of a changeling could be heard, “It is an utmost honour to take part in this, thank you.”

“Let’s get right down to the questions, shall we?” News said. “Particularly the one that has been on the minds of Equestrian citizens for days. Mister Arcturus: what is the objective of your people right now? The move you pulled was absolutely shocking, considering the attack on Canterlot less than a year ago.”

“Our sole objective, as an entire species, is to build relations with Equestria, and every other nation we know. We seek to do no harm; instead we look forth towards a brighter future, not only for us, but for everyone.”

“That much I can confirm,” Kira said. “They have provided vital support for us in almost every area.”

“But why appeal to the humans first? You stated that you wish to build relations with Equestria.”

“Ah,” Arcturus sighed. “During the attack on Canterlot, I was nothing more than a drone. My name was but a number. We rebelled afterwards, and set the basis for a new government. We tried different solutions, until the humans arrived. We learned from their own society and applied it to ours, which allowed for a rebirth, so to say.

“I gave myself a name, as most of us did. We began to carve symbols on our bodies as a sign of identity, because we learned from the humans that every being is special. Some of them look much the same, don’t have cutie marks, yet still consider themselves to be different.

“We look up to them, and not only did we want to express our gratitude by helping them, we also saw this as a way to reconnect ourselves with the rest of the world. You can clearly see that it has worked, after all.”

“That it has!” the mare exclaimed in a cheerful manner. “Now, Miss Feros, what are your thoughts on the revolts occurring across Equestria? I was caught in the middle of one a few days ago, and it would be a lie to say that it was pretty. Even now, there are protests taking place at the door of Apex due to the so called “brutality” of the Colonial Stabilization Forces. Celestia herself claimed that it was unnecessary, though Luna expressed otherwise.”

“Well,” Kira began, “it was a simple misunderstanding, to begin with. In the USC we are used to dealing with protests that consume planets, crippling not only themselves, but the government as a whole. Our protocol dictates to pacify all those that are involved in the most direct manner possible.”

“Is that what we should expect if we are to join the USC? My sides still hurt from the so called ‘stunsticks’.”

“We are a meritocracy, for the most part. If you wish for change, you earn it, just like everybody else. We offer protection, and you need that. These are the first steps towards your future, and we will make sure that nothing stand in your way.” She sighed, “That is, after all, why we are here.”

“What about those who do not earn their place in your society?”

“Everyone is free to do whatever they want with their lives, and know the risks of being a burden. We have several programs that help people who are either unable or unwilling to work with the meritocracy, should the latter wish to take part in the first place.” Kira cleared her throat.

“I see,” News continued. “What happens to the ones that do not wish to take part in these programs?”

“We give them every option available, and it is ultimately up to them.”

“Very well... Is it true?” the mare asked. “Have you enslaved the Gryphons?”

“My level of information is lacking when it comes to the happenings in Gryphos. I will be sure to let you know of what is happening once the information reaches me. For the meantime, I’m afraid that I cannot answer your question....”

The radio was turned off, and the pony listening to it sighed, deciding she had heard enough. She turned around, looking at the cowering Gryphon with a worried expression that was returned with a pleading look.

“D-Dash... please.”

“I’ll... I’ll help you... Let’s get to Canterlot.”