PonyHammer 40,000: Magic of War II

by Dragon Heart

First published 1st of June, 2013

It is the forty-first millenium, and there is no more friendship, only... WAR!

Sub-Sector Arctika. This cluster of worlds stands on the very edge of the Equestrium of Ponies. From this frontier came the Blood Phoenixes, a Chapter of the Empress's own Pony Marines. Now savage animals seek to overrun the sector, and break the Blood Phoenixes once and for all. Captain Goliath Nule and a hoofful of Pony Marines lead the raw recruits defending these worlds.

Now, another Pony Marine joins this desperate battle. A newly promoted Commander, ready to lead in our darkest hour. His name is Hammerheart. And he will tip the balance towards victory.

First expansion

(WarHammer 40,000 belongs to Games Workshop)

Stand with Your Siblings

"Dolmaska."

A drop pod fell through the clouds.

"We Blood Phoenixes select our initiates from this world's fierce warriors."

The pod's exterior was beginning to sear as it penetrated the planet's atmosphere and continued to fall.

"Dolmaska is the cradle and the future of our Chapter."

The drop pod smashed into the ground, sending dirt and sand up in the air.

"Now, the Hogs would take it from us. This, we cannot allow."

Captain Goliath Nule stood atop a hill firing a heavy bolter against a vile pack of Hogs that dared to charge at him. One by one, every Hog that got near was torn up by the bolter's missile-like bullets.

"Scouts, stay in cover." said Goliath. "Kill the Hogs that are out in the open." He opened fire upon even more Hogs that attacked him. The bullet-riddled Hog bodies piled up quickly.

"Welcome, Commander Hammerheart." Nule addressed. "This is Captain Goliath Nule, in command here on Dolmaska. We are battling the Hogs that threaten this world." Not too far off, Pony Marines were engaging Hogs as they advanced on their position. "You have dropped right into the combat zone. I am north of you with squads of our initiates. We are under heavy fire and losing control of our flanks. Move north and provide support."

Author's Notes:

Behold... THE SEQUEL!!! Dunn, dunn, DUNN!!! It's here, it's now, and it's gonna tear this site a new one! See any errors? Let me know through means other than comments, please and thanks. Empress be with you as you make your way.

Retake the Hamlet

After the rescue battle with the Hogs, Commander Hammerheart and Captain Nule headed to the space ship that flew over the planet, joining with a Tactical Pony Marine Sergeant with orange fur and a blonde mane; Sergeant Applejack.

"Welcome aboard Strike Cruiser Ponigeddon, Commander Hammerheart." said Goliath. "Dolmaska is currently facing a massive Hog invasion that threatens to spill over to the entire sector. Urgent distress signals are coming from other nearby sectors, but we must concentrate our efforts here. I need you to take charge of an assault that's stalled on the surface below. Drop to the point marked on the planet map and start pushing into the Hog's flank."

With that said, Hammerheart brought up the planet relay system and concentrated the mainframe's focus on the outskirts of a vital area called Angus Settlement.

"The Pigskins have taken over a hamlet outside Angus." said Nule. "This hamlet sits on a vital supply route, and all of Dolmaska could fall if we do not dislodge them. Sergeant Hoovitus and his squad of Devastator Pony Marines held the hamlet alone, but they were finally overwhelmed. You must retake the hamlet and drive the Hogs back. To aid in this, I am assigning Sergeant Pinkie Pie and her squad of Scouts in your command. Her infiltration expertise should prove invaluable."

Dis is Naff

In an area of the outskirts, two Hogs were sitting around with nothing to do. The boredom crystal clear on their faces.

"Ah, dis call a dooty stuff is naff." said one of the Hogs. "We should be out shtompin' poniez again, like we did ta da town." The Hog's ears perked as he heard something. "Wait, d'you 'ear somefin'?" the Hog asked before the Pony Scout Marines came out of stealth and shot the Hogs.

One of the scouts, with bright pink fur and a dark pink mane, brought her hoof to her comm link. "Pinkie Pie to Ponigeddon. In position." She whispered.

A whistle broke the silence and a drop pod smashed into the ground. Out came Commander Hammerheart and Sergeant Applejack.

"Pony Marines, heartening news." said Goliath. "Hoovitus, the squad leader who defended the hamlet, is still alive. The Hogs incapacitated him but apparently could not finish the job."

Pinkie gave a little smirk. "Hoovitus is too stubborn to die." She said.

"So it would seem, Pinkie." said Nule. "A Hog guard position stands between you and Sergeant Hoovitus. Approach with stealth and eliminate the Pigskins."

Pinkie nodded. "Understood."

Cloudbeata's Raid

After saving Sergeant Hoovitus and the hamlet from the Hogs, the Pony Marines returned to the Strike Cruiser.

"Well done, Commander Hammerheart." Goliath complimented. "With the hamlet cleared we can secure the main route into the capital."

"The Pigskins knew to strike where we were most vulnerable, Captain Nule." said Pinkie.

Goliath raised an eyebrow in agreement. "Pinkie is correct. Someone is agitating the Hogs and pointing them at valuable targets. If we are going to win this war, we need to find out who is using the Pigskins against us."

Hammerheart brought up the orbital relay and focused on Angus Settlement, where another raid of Hogs have been striking.

"Commander Hammerheart," said Nule, "the Hogs have struck another critical target. The Hog raiding parties are led by a Nob named Cloudbasha. This Nob leads a squad of Stormboars, Hogs equipped with primitive jump packs. Stormboars are especially ruthless Hogs that can strike quickly, and escape before reinforcements arrive. Eliminate Cloudbasha. This will buy us valuable time, and uncover who is guiding these Hogs."

Target: Buttkicka

Hammerheart and the Blood Phoenixes had succeeded in killing Cloudbasha, and returned to the Ponigeddon.

"Well done, Commander Hammerheart." said Goliath. "We will find who is strengthening this Hog horde yet. I am deploying a team to search the Hog remains for clues as to who is agitating them."

"Have we received any additional word from the neighboring sector, Cap'n?" Applejack asked.

"No." said Nule, "We have lost all contact with them."

"What could possibly take out the communications network of an entire sector in a few days?" Applejack asked.

"We will have to investigate," said Goliath, "but the defense of Dolmaska must come first. Commander Hammerheart, deploy to the surface as soon as your squads are ready."

Hammerheart's squads were more than ready as he brought up the orbital map of Tangerine High Pass, where more Hogs were roaming about.

"Commander Hammerheart, the Hogs have struck another valuable target." said Nule. "A powerful Hog Chieftain named Buttkicka is leading the assault, but someone must have pointed him at this target, likely without his even knowing it. Take your squads and eliminate this beast before he does more damage. Keep on the lookout for clues as to who may be manipulating him."

The True Enemy

Hammerheart managed to slay the large Hog boss. Following Buttkicka's death, they headed back aboard the Ponigeddon.

"Good work, Commander Hammerheart." said Goliath. "Buttkicka's death has scattered his Hog band. We have found crucial evidence among the remains of Cloudbasha and Buttkicka's Hogs. Both had recently visited Diamonglen Mine in the mountains outside Angus. Whoever is stirring up the Hogs must be using Diamonglen as a base of operations."

Hammerheart brought up the map of the Angus outskirts again, where the Diamonglen Mines are located. The answers as to why the Hogs are attacking important locations instead of with reckless abandon should be there somewhere.

"Commander Hammerheart, the time has come to strike at our true enemy." said Nule. "Whoever has been provoking and guiding the Pigskins is holed up at Diamonglen Mine on the outskirts of Angus. We believe that Mek Bangshocka, the Hog who escaped us when you first arrived on Dolmaska, is also headed for the mine. You and your squads will drop south of Diamonglen and push north. Strength and firepower will pay greater dividends than stealth. For this reason Sergeant Pinkie Pie will remain aboard the Ponigeddon and provide mission support."

Rant all you Wish

In the southern valley near Diamonglen Mines, Hammerheart, Applejack, and Hoovitus fought their way through bands of Pigskins. The Hogs were starting to get more aggressive as they advanced. The Blood Phoenixes killed a group of Hog scouts, and then received a call from Captain Nule.

"Move north up the valley, Commander Hammerheart." said Goliath. "Get to Diamonglen Mine and find out who is stirring up the Hogs."

Hammerheart and his squad headed northward, but spotted something atop a cliff. Four animal-figures stood watching them like hawks.

"Movement on that ridge!" said Applejack. In a flash, the figures disappeared without a trace. "Gone, but those were not Hogs."

They continued to advance to the mines, and came across the smoldering remains of Pony Marines and vehicles.

"Here is the convoy." said Hoovitus. "The Hogs slaughtered them."

"We will avenge them." said Applejack. "Keep moving."

Applejack looked up to her right to see Hogs carrying automatic guns approaching them. "Hog gunners on the ridge!" She yelled. "Get to cover!" The Hogs opened fire and the Blood Phoenixes quickly retaliated.

"Fury from the sky!" a voice shouted. "Cut them down!" Pegasus Marines crashed into the Hogs, crushing them into a bloody mess beneath their mighty hooves. Any Hogs that fell off the edge were shot and killed by the squad below. After that, the Pegasus Marines flew down to Hammerheart and his Pony Marines.

"Sergeant Rainbow Dash reporting for duty, Commander Hammerheart." said the rainbow maned Pegasus.

Hoovitus gave a smug look to the Mare. "Did you have a pleasant rest, waiting for the most dramatic moment to strike?" He asked.

"Good to see you too, Hoovitus." Rainbow Dash said sarcastically.

They continued their march to the mines, gunning and striking down any Hogs that crossed their path. They came to an area where a bunch of Hog bodies lay scattered around on the dirt.

"Trouble." said Hoovitus, "These are the Hog guards, killed where they stood. Someone else has gone through here."

"Swiftly, before the Ponies arrive." said a voice with a melodious tone.

"We cannot allow one obstinate Hog to derail the Farseer's plan." said another musical voice.

The Blood Phoenixes came to a bridge. On the other side, Bangshocka and his Hogs shot at Eldeer warriors.

"You gitz fooled Cloudbasha an' Buttkicka..." said Bangshocka, "but me cyborg eye sez you ain't even Hogs at all!"

"And now the Ponies join the fray, I see." an Eldeer Warlock sighed. "The fools cannot see the true threat facing us all."

The Pony Marines crossed the bridge, but the Hog saw them coming.

"Grottin' slack fest! Not Ponie Marinez too!" Bangshocka yelled in disbelief. "TIME TA LEG IT!!" They waddled away as fast as their stubby legs could move.

"Eldeer!" said Applejack, "And a Warlock leads them."

"Commander Hammerheart," Goliath called, "the Eldeer must be the ones who have been stirring up the Hogs. Kill those Eldeer before they escape."

Hammerheart and the Blood Phoenixes charged at the Eldeer forces, striking and shooting at them. Rainbow Dash and her Pegasus Marines took to the sky, and slammed into the Eldeer from above. Soon, the only Eldeer left was the Warlock, who proved to be a force to be reckoned with. Hammerheart slashed at the Eldeer with all his might. The Warlock blocked his attack and held.

"You, Hammerheart." He said, looking the Commander in the face. "Suffer in measure to your authority." In a surprise move, Hammerheart spun around and kicked the Warlock in the side of his head, and then thrusted his blade through the Eldeer's chest.

"Foolish, blind Ponies..." the Warlock struggled to speak with his dying breath, "The Hogs could have slowed them down... given us time." Hammerheart pulled out his sword, and the Eldeer fell to the ground and looked at him. "You... you have... doomed us all..." The Warlock's body went limp.

"Rant all you wish, Eldeer." said Applejack as she came up from behind Hammerheart. "We stand, and you have fallen."

A Stag Among the Trees

With the Warlock's death, Hammerheart and the Blood Phoenixes returned aboard the Ponigeddon.

"This is a grave development, Commander Hammerheart." said Goliath. "The Eldeer are evidently provoking and influencing the Hogs. Their involvement is hardly good news."

"They claimed to be stirring up the Hogs to combat a common threat." said Rainbow Dash. "What could that be?"

"I would not put much stock in what the Eldeer say." said Applejack. "They are deceitful and manipulative by nature."

"That they are, Applejack." Nule said in agreement. "But the Eldeer aren't fools. The Warlock you defeated may have been guiding the Hogs here on Dolmaska, but he was only one part of a larger plan. We are receiving reports that the Eldeer are stirring up the Hogs on the nearby Salika system. The Ponigeddon will take you to Salika so you can engage the enemy there. I will relay all distress signals we receive from Salika back to you."

With that, the Ponigeddon prepared for Warp Travel to the planet Salika. A great hole opened up and sucked the Strike Cruiser through to the destined system.

After the relatively bumpy ride, the Ponigeddon arrived at the planet Salika, and already there was trouble on the surface below.

"Commander Hammerheart," said Goliath, "we have located a substantial Eldeer strike force. This force appears to be led by one of their so-called Warp Stags. Warp Stags are capable of rapid teleportation, which may explain how the Eldeer are monitoring the Hogs on Salika without being seen. Eliminate him and uncover what you can of the Eldeer plans on Salika."

Defend the Array

The Blood Phoenixes defeated the Warp Stag and his Eldeer strike force on Salika, and returned to the Ponigeddon.

"Excellent work, Commander Hammerheart." said Goliath. "Without Warp Stags stirring up the Hogs, Salika is far more secure. It still remains unclear what the Eldeer hope to gain by provoking the Hogs. Whatever their purpose, the Eldeer are using all their trickery to disrupt communications outside the sector. We are uncertain how they are managing this, but our Zebras described their interference as a shadow across the warp."

"A shadow across the warp?" Pinkie asked. "Those were their exact words?"

"Yes." Nule answered, "Those were their exact words Pinkie. We have more immediate problems, however. Mek Bangshocka is mounting another offensive on the capital, and I need to see to our defenses. Secure Salika quickly, I could use you back here soon. Nule out." The transmission ended, leaving Hammerheart's squad to talk amongst themselves.

"Why so concerned with the ravings of Zebras, Pinkie?" Hoovitus asked.

"No reason." said Pinkie, lowering her voice. "I just hope that casting a shadow across the warp is an ability the Eldeer truly have... For all our sakes."

Hammerheart brought up the map of Mount Icarus on Salika, where another vulnerable target of great value stood defenseless against the ever growing Hog horde.

"Commander Hammerheart," said a TechDrake by the name of Spike, "the Pigskins continue to attack vulnerable targets. A communications array has come under attack from a Hog horde. They seek to loot and destroy this important structure. These arrays improve our communications across the sub-sector and allow us to monitor enemy movements. We cannot afford to lose that advantage."

Dolmaska Must Not Fall

Hammerheart and the Blood Phoenixes manage to defend the array from Hog Bandits, and they headed back aboard the Ponigeddon.

"Excellent work, Commander Hammerheart." said Spike. "Losing that array would have been a devastating blow in our fight to save the sector. Losing it to the Hogs would have been particularly painful since their plan was to loot it for parts."

"That would have been a blow." Applejack said in agreement. "No arrays of this type have been made in two millennia."

"That is correct, Sergeant." said Spike. "We no longer have the technology to make these arrays. Losing one is a blow the Equestrium never fully recovers from."

"Your victories against the Hogs and Eldeer have stabilized the situation on Salika for the time being." said Goliath. "Not all news is good, however. We are receiving numerous reports of local vegetation mutating and attacks by hordes of leaping animal creatures."

The last sentence grabbed Pinkie's attention. "These creatures... What do they look like?" She asked.

"Most of the reports are from citizens, Pinkie," said Nule, "and their fear makes for unreliable descriptions. I need you to return to Dolmaska as soon as possible. Bangshocka's Hogs have gathered for another major strike against the planetary capital. Without your support, I fear Dolmaska will fall."

The Ponigeddon made its return to Dolmaska, and received more information of the Hog attack from Captain Nule.

"Commander Hammerheart," said Goliath, "Mek Bangshocka and his Hogs are set to overrun Angus, the planetary capital. If they do so, all of Dolmaska will fall. I have set up a defense, but the initiates and Pony Marines there need your support. You will drop south of their position and drive to secure the gates. I have taken a few Pony Marines to the east, and have cut off the Hogs' main approach. Dolmaska must not fall, Commander."

The Fall of Captain Nule

On the planet surface, south of Angus, Bangshocka and some Hogs were moving to attack the capital with one of their Wartrukks following them.

"Gah, move any slowa?" one of the Hogs said impatiently. The trukk suddenly stalled out and stopped dead.

"Uh, B-Boss?" the driver called, "I fink we frew a geary fing."

"WOT?!" Bangshocka yelled in angry disbelief. "You gitz can't do anyfing right! I'll haff ta fix it meself!" He went to the trukk and checked for the problem. A whistle echoed in the air, and a drop pod smashed the trukk into scrap, sending Bangshocka flying and killing the driver. Hammerheart and the Pony Marines emerged from the pod and shot at the other Hogs.

"Eliminate those Hogs!" said Applejack.

"Poniez!" one of the Hogs yelled, "Let'z get shootin'!"

Bangshocka turned and waddled away from the Pony Marines. "Get dese grass-munchas offa me backside!" Bangshocka yelled as he left the Hogs for dead to the Pony Marines.

"The Hog leader, he's getting away!" said Pinkie as they finished off the other Hogs. They started galloping after the Hog Boss, who was standing behind some cacti.

"Meet me Stormboarz." said Bangshocka. "Dey're nashty."

Stormboarz jumped off the cliff nearby with their crudely-made rocketpacks, and landed in front of the Blood Phoenixes. The Pony Marines instantly began to opened fire on the Hogs.

"Kill dese gitz, boarz!" said Bangshocka as he boarded another trukk. "I'm headin' fer da ponie base."

The Pony Marines killed every last Hog and continued up the road.

"Commander Hammerheart," said Spike, "that Hog is heading to lead an attack on the town gates. Pursue and eliminate him."

More Hogs appeared, and the Blood Phoenixes shot at every single one as they hurried up the road. They eventually spotted the trukk that Bangshocka rode.

"Let'z shoot da camp now, ya gitz!" said a Hog. The trukk shot at the walls, but a Hunter Tank appeared through the gates and fired at the trukk, blowing it to scrap metal and scattering Hog parts. Hammerheart and his squads joined in as well, and shot at the assaulting Hogs.

"Commander Hammerheart," said Spike, "if Angus falls, all of Dolmaska goes with it. You must prevent the Hogs from breaching the city gates. Drive the Hogs back."

Hammerheart and the Pony Marines moved in front of the gates and shot at the Hogs, so far managing to hold their own. Bangshocka waddled up with more Hogs following behind.

"You lot 'ave made a mess of all me planz!" Bangshocka yelled. "I don't appreciate dat!"

Hammerheart charged at the Hog and they clashed, while the others took care of the Shoota Boarz. Though Bangshocka was a tough Hog, his big knife was no match against the Commander's blade. In a quick move, Hammerheart slashed at the Hog, cutting open his belly and spilling his guts on the ground.

"Oh, dat'z much too big an 'ole ta be in a Hog like me..." said Bangshocka before he dropped dead to the dirt.

The Hog was finished, but then the Pony Marines received a call from Captain Nule.

"Nule to all Blood Phoenixes:" said Goliath, "Prepare for emergency extraction to the Ponigeddon. We are facing far more than Hogs or Eldeer." The Pony Marines looked at each other in confusion.

"Commander Hammerheart," said Spike, "Captain Nule needs your aid. Deploy to his position immediately."

Hammerheart and the Blood Phoenixes quickly headed to Nule's position, but halfway there, they were attacked by large bug-like creatures the size of foals. They struck and opened fire at the animals. There seemed to be endless amounts of them, but they soon turned and headed off somewhere else.

"What were those things?!" Rainbow Dash asked.

Pinkie scowled and bared her teeth. "A foe far deadlier than Hogs and Eldeer, Rainbow Dash." She said.

They passed a barricade, and more of the beasts promptly crawled after them.

"More xenos!" Applejack yelled. "Fight through to Cap'n Nule!" Hammerheart slashed at the animals while the others shot at them. When the coast was clear, they continued through until they found Goliath and his squads being swarmed by the monsters.

"There he is!" Applejack shouted.

"Hammerheart!" Nule yelled, "I ordered all of you to extract, not to run to your deaths!"

Hammerheart and the others quickly engaged the strange animals, slashing at them and putting bullets through them. The swarm of beasts was massive, but their numbers were soon dwindling.

"Keep fighting, we're pushing them back!" Applejack shouted.

"We will kill every last one of them!" said Hoovitus as he tore through the xenos with waves of heavy bolter rounds. The blood of both Pony Marines and the animals splattered everywhere as the fight continued to grow intense.

"Meteorite, inbound on your position." Spike warned.

"Not a meteorite, Spike." said Pinkie as she looked up at the incoming object. "That is a Paranid spore!"

The spore hit the ground and splattered to pieces, revealing a Paranid larger and more dangerous than the others.

"Paranid Warrior!" Pinkie yelled.

The Paranid Warrior lunged at a small squad of Tactical Pony Marines and began its brutal attack.

"Kill the large warrior beast!" Pinkie shouted. "It is directing the others!"

They opened fire on the large Paranid, but the creature's endurance was formidable. The Paranid Warrior then lunged at Goliath, and started to slash at the Captain. It spat vile fluids onto Nule, and then shoved him to the ground.

"No!" Nule yelled before the warrior pierced him with its scythe-like claws. "GAUGH!!! Gack!"

"Captain Nule!" Rainbow Dash yelled. The Pony Marines began shooting at the Paranids that surrounded the fallen Captain.

"Get to Cap'n Nule!" said Applejack.

Hammerheart charged at the swarm and smashed through the small ones, but the Paranid Warrior jumped over him and took off away from the Blood Phoenixes.

"The warrior beast is getting away!" Applejack yelled.

"Captain Nule!" said Spike, "Get to Captain Nule!"

Hammerheart slashed at the Paranids surrounding Goliath and picked up the fallen Captain.

"We have Cap'n Nule!" said Applejack.

"Lightningeagle One. Emergency extraction at relay coordinates." said Spike. "Lightningeagle Three and Four. Follow with bombing run purification spread."

A Lightningeagle landed at the Blood Phoenixes' position, while two others dropped explosives and utterly annihilated any Paranid that was within their blast radius.

"Purge the animal." said Spike. "And may the Empress be with us all."

Our Darkest Hour

"We face our darkest hour. Cap'n Nule has fallen to animals who have escaped retribution. A massive Hive Fleet looms over our recruiting worlds. But this battle is not over."

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Aboard the Ponigeddon, the mortally wounded Captain Goliath Nule was placed on a medical cart and rushed for emergency treatment.

"Get Captain Nule to the Apothecary!" Rainbow Dash cried urgently. "Hurry!"

Applejack placed a hoof on Rainbow Dash's armored shoulder. "Calm yourself, Rainbow Dash." She said. "Rashet is already at work."

"Commander Hammerheart, I am Apothecary Rashet, chief of geno-medicine aboard the Ponigeddon." said Rashet. "Captain Nule still lives, but he is in grave condition. Many of his vital organs and implants were destroyed, and an animal poison is attacking surviving tissues. I have placed Captain Nule in stasis to halt the poison's progress, but as of now I have no means to counteract its effects."

"Rashet had better prepare himself for more of us to require his tending." Pinkie said grimly.

Hoovitus raised an eyebrow to Pinkie. "You fear the animal, Pinkie?"

"I know no fear, Hoovitus," Pinkie said gruffly, "but I am no fool. Those were Paranids, animal monsters who strip worlds of all life. There are billions of them and only a hoofful of us."

"Have you faced these things before, Pinkie?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"Once," Pinkie answered, "a long time ago when I served in the Lifewatch. We are going to need all the help we can get to face this infestation. Even then, we will probably fail."

"Commander Hammerheart," said Spike, "with your permission I will attempt to raise the nearest of our Chapter Fleets. This may take some time, however. In the meantime, we need to secure Salika before the rest of the Paranid swarm arrives, otherwise our supply lines will be devastated. There is an Eldeer raiding party that continues to wreak havoc on our defenses on Salika. We should return to Salika and eliminate those Eldeer."

Eyes of the Eldeer

The Ponigeddon headed back to Salika, and Eldeer forces were spotted right away.

"Commander Hammerheart," said Spike, "we have located the Eldeer raiding party that threatens our supply lines between Salika and Dolmaska. We have identified their leader as the dangerous Ranger Lumiere. He is apparently coming from an operation in Hog territory. This is our chance to cripple Eldeer operations on Salika. We may also uncover more of the Eldeer's plans. I suggest we neutralize them immediately, Commander."

Hammerheart and the Pony Marines descended on Salika and quickly dealt with all Hog and Eldeer alike throughout the jungle. They eventually reached the Ranger Lumiere himself.

"No wonder the Farseer chose the Hogs as our instrument instead of you." said the Ranger.

The Blood Phoenixes unleashed their holy fury upon the Eldeer, and in no time at all defeated him.

"And all this time... you might have been killing Paranids." Lumiere said with his dying breath. "You deserve... everything that's coming to you..."

"The Eldeer know the Paranids are coming." said Pinkie. "That explains their actions among the Hogs."

"What do Paranids have to do with Eldeer helping Hogs?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"A full fledged Hog uprising could actually slow the Paranids, Rainbow Dash." Pinkie explained. "If the Eldeer were not doing this on our own recruiting worlds, we could use the situation to our advantage."

"Using Hogs and Eldeer to stop an enemy?" Hoovitus asked. "Why would we waste our time with that? We are Pony Marines! We fear nothing because we are fear incarnate!"

"We may be fear incarnate, Hoovitus," said Pinkie, "but we face an enemy that knows no fear. We will need every advantage we can get if we want to save the sector."

A Single Terrifying Mind

Back aboard the Ponigeddon, TechDrake Spike is informed of everything behind the Hogs actions and Eldeer presence in the sector.

"So the Eldeer were uniting the Hogs to slow down the Paranids." said Spike.

"Yes." said Pinkie, "Lumiere clearly knew of the Paranids."

"This explains much," said Spike, "but we have been getting reports of other Eldeer activity in the sector that is not related to the Hogs. Clearly the Eldeer have other plans in motion, none of which can be good for us. I will keep you apprised of any further developments, Commander."

"What can you tell us about the Paranids, Pinkie?" Applejack asked.

"The Paranids are unlike any other threat we have faced, Applejack." Pinkie explained. "Hogs may operate in vast hordes, but they still have individual chieftains that unite them. Kill these chieftains and the Hog horde is weakened and scattered." Pinkie's tone grew more serious. "A Paranid Hive Fleet, however, is a single massive organism. Every creature in the swarm is simply one part of a single terrifying mind. We cannot break the Paranids' morale, or take advantage of their pride. We cannot make them see reason. And for every beast we kill, a million more are ready to take its place."

"But what do they want?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"The Hive devours entire worlds." Pinkie continued explaining. "Its goal is to feed itself and grow, and it will not stop until the entire galaxy is consumed."

"Commander Hammerheart," said Spike, "the Hogs continue to undermine our defenses on Dolmaska. We need to shore up these defenses if we are to have any hope of stopping the Paranids."

Vengeance for Goliath Nule

The Ponigeddon arrived at Dolmaska, and the Strike Cruiser received an Equestrial message.

"A message is coming from Chapter Command." said Spike. He tuned in to the vox frequencies and a voice of great fame came through, followed by his face on screen.

"Commander Hammerheart, this is Michael Pegalos aboard the Battle Barge Stampede of Fury." said Pegalos. "I have received word of the Paranid threat facing sub-sector Arctika, and of Captain Nule's grave condition. The Paranids are a threat of unimaginable proportions, Commander. They are endless in number and intent on consuming whole worlds. The Stampede of Fury is now making for Arctika at all speed, but we are weeks away. I will relay all distress signals to you while we devise a plan of attack."

Hammerheart brought up the Swalak Ruins on screen, and discovered information of much desired value.

"Commander Hammerheart," said Pegalos, "we have located Captain Nule's attacker. The warrior beast that you drove into the Badlands has resurfaced, leading a swarm of lesser Paranids. This is our first chance to strike back at the Paranid enemy, and we cannot pass it up. Collecting samples from this creature's corpse may also lead to a cure for Captain Nule, and could give us valuable information on how to defeat the Hive Fleet. This area is heavily infested, Commander, so be prepared for heavy resistance."

A Terrible Agenda

"Paranids have a simple and terrible agenda, Hammerheart. Left unchecked, they will kill and consume every living thing on the planet. Our only hope of stopping the Paranids is to strike at the heart of the Hive Fleet itself. For us to do this, you must first accomplish three critical tasks. You must locate and secure the Astronomic Array hidden on Salika. Only its precise scans will allow us to analyze the Hive Fleet and locate its weaknesses. You must also obtain a sample of the Hive Fleet's bio-toxins. Only a pure gene-sample will allow us to develop a poison to strike at the Hive Fleet. And you must secure access to Alicorn Forge on Planet Galantius. Only this ancient forge's vast manufacturing capabilities will allow us to produce weapons with which to deliver our poison. Each of these tasks pits your hoofful against untold billions. But failure means the utter annihilation of our worlds, and a death sentence for our Chapter."

"Commander Hammerheart," said Pegalos, "we need to take direct control of Alicorn Forge. I am authorizing you to travel to Galantius. The Planetary Governor has been less than cooperative thus far. So be prepared for bureaucratic resistance. Pegalos out."

With that said, the Ponigeddon made the flight to the forge world of Galantius.

"Galantius stands at the very heart of Sub-Sector Arctika. Billions call its cities home. Its factories and forges are keys to victory against the Paranids."

A Lightningeagle flew in and landed on a platform in the city. The front hatch opened and Pony Marines nonchalantly stepped out.

"We must not allow Galantius to fall."

Pyro Prism Assault

A call came to the Strike Cruiser, and Hammerheart responded. Up on screen came an Administrator of Galantius. She was a Pegasus with yellow fur and a light pink mane.

"Commander Hammerheart," She said, "welcome to Galantius. My name is Fluttershy. Governor Brae Tyre has assigned me to be your liaison while in system. This is not the hinterlands of Dolmaska or Salika, Commander, so a certain amount of discretion would be appreciated."

"It is imperative that we secure access to Alicorn Forge, Administrator Fluttershy." said Applejack.

"Yes, so your Captain Pegalos has said." said Fluttershy. "Alicorn Forge is the most important manufacturing facility in the sector, however, its use follows a strict schedule set by Governor Brae Tyre and his Privy Council years in advance. Nevertheless, there may be a way to arrange special access to Alicorn Forge. Galantius has recently come under repeated attack from Eldeer raiders. They have already inflicted substantial damage to parts of our communication and supply infrastructure. The Equestrial Guard forces stationed on Galantius are already tied down suppressing food riots in the lower city. They do not have the horsepower to deal with the Eldeer as well. Were you to employ your special expertise in such matters and repel these raids, Governor Brae Tyre believes he could arrange limited access to Alicorn Forge. Eldeer sightings will be transmitted to your planetary display. Fluttershy out."

"Commander Hammerheart," said Rainbow Dash, "I left Galantius decades ago, but this is typical behavior. The nobility has always closed its eyes to problems in the under-city. The Eldeer must have raided wealthy spires for the noble houses to even acknowledge a problem."

"They will acknowledge it when the sky darkens with Paranid spores and Hive Ships." said Hoovitus.

"On that subject, Commander," said Spike, "initial scans indicate no Paranid activity whatsoever on Galantius."

"No activity at all?" Pinkie asked. "No mutated plants or slaughtered wildlife? No atmospheric changes?"

"None that we can detect." said Spike.

"Check your sensors again, Spike." said Pinkie. "Hive Fleets do not ignore worlds in their paths."

Hammerheart brought up Hub Spire Nimbus on screen. Eldeer forces deliberately attacking Pony cities was not very common of the animals to do.

"Commander Hammerheart." Fluttershy addressed, "The Eldeer seem intent on crippling Galantius's infrastructure. They have just silenced a major communications array used by Galantius's noble houses. Valuable items were also pilfered from nearby storage vaults. A powerful Eldeer Hovertank is leading these attacks, and the Equestrial Guard has thus far been unable to stop it. If these raids continue, planetary defenses could be seriously compromised."

Claw of the Hive Mind

Hammerheart and the Blood Phoenixes succeeded in destroying the Pyro Prism that was leading the Eldeer attacks on the spire, and returned back to the Ponigeddon.

"Barley Dixon of House Tolrant passes on his thanks, Commander Hammerheart." said Fluttershy. "He looks forward to the recovery of his stolen goods and the repair of the damaged array."

"Is this liaison unaware that a Paranid Hive Fleet is descending upon this sector?" Hoovitus asked.

"We are currently reviewing the full extent of the Paranid threat, Sergeant." said Fluttershy. "We have yet to find evidence that Galantius is in any real danger. Fluttershy out."

"Equestrium TechDonkeys have been working to restore an ancient astronomical array deep in the jungles of Salika." said Spike. "If reports are accurate, this array is capable of detailed scans of an entire sub-sector. This data could allow us to uncover a critical weakness in the Hive Fleet. We will have to make contact with the TechDonkeys at their base camp on Salika, and ask for the location."

A call came up on screen from the Stampede of Fury. "Commander Hammerheart, Captain Pegalos here." said Pegalos. "You must defend the capital world and secure Alicorn Forge. It will all be for naught, however, if we cannot develop weapons with which to attack the Hive Mind itself. You must locate and secure the Astronomic Array hidden on Planet Salika. You must also obtain a sample of the Hive Fleet's bio-toxins. Pegalos out."

The Ponigeddon left Galantius and returned to Dolmaska to carry out a crippling strike to the Paranid swarm. Hammerheart brought up the map of Angus Settlement, where Paranid activity has been brewing strongly.

"Commander Hammerheart," said Pegalos, "orbital sensors have located a powerful Paranid target. This creature of the Mantodea genus exists to channel the voracious might of the Hive Mind. Victory here will help us on all fronts, Commander. We will push the infesting swarm back a step, gaining us precious time. We will also gain valuable information that could help us locate a primary hive."

The Killer Mantis

The Pony Marines slew the fell Paranid beast and headed back aboard the Ponigeddon.

"A great victory, Commander Hammerheart." said Pegalos. "Our Unicorns report the Hive Fleet shuddered and screamed when you dealt the killing blow. And we are even closer to obtaining the bio-toxin we need to execute our plan of attack."

"This Mantodea was frustratingly close to giving us a pure genetic sample," said Rashet, "but it has undergone small mutations. We did gather valuable data, though. And we are getting close to isolating the primary hive's genetic template."

"Why must we find a primary hive?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"Paranids mutate rapidly, Sergeant." Pegalos explained. "This is what makes them such deadly opponents. They are constantly evolving to counter our weaponry. A primary hive contains the original genetic template for a Hive Fleet. If you can find that, you can predict several generations of mutations."

"Yes," said Rashet, "finding a primary hive will allow us to develop a poison that will kill all Paranid variants quickly. They will not have time to adapt a resistance."

Hammerheart brought up the orbital map of Swalak Ruins and quickly spotted another Paranid problem.

"A powerful Paranid creature has been spotted, Commander Hammerheart." said Pegalos. "This insidious beast is an especially powerful Ravager. It has burrowed through multiple Equestrial Guard outposts, wreaking havoc with morale. The beast's power means it likely spawned from a primary hive, one that could provide us with a valuable genetic sample. Killing this Ravager will bring us one step closer to finding a primary hive."

Nule and the Necrony Lord

Having killed the troublesome monster, and once again ridding the swarm of a major beast, Hammerheart and the Blood Phoenixes returned to the Ponigeddon.

"Congratulations on your victory, Commander Hammerheart." said Pegalos. "You are now a step closer to obtaining the bio-toxin sample we need. Pegalos out."

Applejack had a hoof over her right eye, blood trickling down her face from her wound of the battle. "This cut is deep..." She said, "any deeper and I would've lost an eye like Cap'n Nule."

"How did Captain Nule lose his eye?" Rainbow Dash asked. "He would never answer when we asked him."

"Modesty on his part." said Hoovitus. "He lost it on Cronus when he fought the Necrony Lord. The blow should have killed him. Sheer stubbornness was the only thing that could explain how he survived."

"He never did take credit for defeating the Necrony Lord." said Applejack. "He always attributed it to Aries. But those of us close to the fight saw that Aries had already gone down to wounds."

"Captain Nule liked to see his Siblings succeed." Pinkie added. "I think that was what he liked most about command."

The Ponigeddon was set to travel back to Planet Salika, and it made the rough jump to the system.

Pigskin Armor

"Planet Salika orbits a star on the outer edge of Sub-Sector Arctika. Its lush jungle canopy shrouded it in mystery. Among this beauty lie the keys to our salvation. And the roots of our destruction."

_____________________________________________________________________________________

The Ponigeddon arrived to Salika, and a spot on the relay map of the planet started blinking. Hammerheart brought up the location, called Green Fang Gorge, and it was the place the TechDonkeys are camped at.

"Commander Hammerheart," said Pegalos, "we have located the TechDonkey base camp, but it is in grave danger. A Hog mob is heading straight for their location. These Pigskins have just cut a swath through several small communities and outposts. Their leader is called Borwazza, and he commands from a powerful looted tank. We cannot let the Hogs reach the TechDonkey base camp. If the TechDonkeys are killed, we may never find the astronomic array. Stop Borwazza before he gets to the base camp."

The Foundry

Too late to save the TechDonkeys, the Blood Phoenixes dealt with the Hogs and then headed back aboard the Strike Cruiser, where they received a message from Michael Pegalos.

"This is grave news, Commander Hammerheart." said Pegalos. "We cannot stop the Paranids without the astronomic array. Do we have any leads on what happened to the TechDonkeys' reports?"

"It seems the array has attracted the attention of a Hog named Rippa-Shredda." said Spike. "He has stolen the dataslate giving the array's location, and vanished into the deep jungle."

"Do we have Rippa-Shredda's location?" Pegalos asked.

"Not yet," said Spike, "but we have found one of his lieutenants. I am uploading his last known position to your map display."

"Find and eliminate that Hog, Commander." said Pegalos. "We cannot let him escape."

The Ponigeddon returned to Dolmaska to search for the Hog lieutenant, but another Hog attack on an important area came up that needed to be dealt with first.

"The Hogs are preparing to assault one of our automated foundries, Commander Hammerheart." said Spike. "It is these foundries that allow us to rapidly redeploy and launch multiple strikes. You must repel the Hog attack or the foundry will fall."

Pigskin Weaponsmith

The Pony Marines succeeded in defending the foundry and returned to the Ponigeddon.

"Well done, Commander Hammerheart." said Spike. "Fortunately the Hogs did not manage to damage the foundry itself. These foundries are based on ancient technology that we do not fully understand. If they are damaged too badly, we cannot repair them and they are lost forever."

Afterwards, Hammerheart brought up Tangerine High Pass on screen, where the Hog lieutenant was last found. Michael Pegalos appeared on screen, as well, with more insight on the Hog.

"Commander Hammerheart," said Pegalos, "we have located one of Rippa-Shredda's lieutenants. His lieutenant is a Hog Mek that has been supplying Rippa-Shredda's horde with heavy weapons. This Mek has made a fatal mistake, however, and has revealed his position. Find him and extract Rippa-Shredda's location from him. This is our only hope of finding the astronomic array."

Thundering Horror

The Pony Marines bested the Hog Mek, and obtained enough information on Rippa-Shredda's whereabouts. They returned to the Ponigeddon, and Pegalos appeared on screen.

"We finally have Rippa-Shredda's location." said Pegalos. "Review the mission briefing on your map display and then recover that dataslate. This will allow us to finally pinpoint the astronomic array's location."

"These Hog attacks are taking their toll, Cap'n," said Applejack, "and drawing our attention away from the Paranids. Is there any way we can deal a decisive blow that will stop them once and for all?"

"Hogs are like the many-headed hydra, Sergeant." said Pegalos. "Cut off one head, and two more will often appear. But if we keep eliminating their chieftains, the true Warboss will eventually appear. And when he does we will deal the killing blow. Pegalos out."

Rippa-Shredda was to be found back on Salika, and the Ponigeddon made the jump back to the feral world, but a nasty mission concerning the Paranids needed to be accomplished on Mount Icarus.

"Commander Hammerheart," said Pegalos, "a massive Paranid beast is on the rampage. This great Scorpnox is a thundering horror that has destroyed anything that stood against it. The surviving Equestrial Guard forces are powerless to stop it. You must destroy it, or our planetary defenses will buckle. Bringing down the beast will also cause the swarm to slow while it replaces the loss. This will buy us critical time, and slow down the Paranid infestation."

Heartening News

The Scorpnox was an incredible force to be reckoned with, but the fearless Blood Phoenixes slew the hulking beast and headed back aboard the Ponigeddon.

"Well done, Commander Hammerheart." said Pegalos. "You have blunted the Paranid assault on this region and cost the hive dearly. Pegalos out."

"Commander Hammerheart, some heartening news." said Spike.

"Yes," said Rashet, "we were able to isolate the final pieces of genetic information we needed. We should be able to locate a primary hive now."

"Preliminary scans show a hive on Salika that could be an exact match." said Spike. "I've uploaded the hive's location to your map display."

The location blinked on the map, and Hammerheart brought focus upon the area, called the Snukk Swamplands.

"Commander Hammerheart," said Pegalos, "we have finally located a primary hive in the swamps of Salika. We believe this hive houses a toxin pool that can supply us with the pure genetic sample we have been searching for. If you can secure a sample from this toxin pool, we will be able to produce the weapon we need to destroy the Hive Fleet. This toxin sample may also allow us to counteract the poisons that are killing Captain Nule. Secure the toxin sample immediately, Commander. The fate of the entire sector depends on it."

The Return of Goliath Nule

"At the heart of the Paranid hive lies the reclamation pool. We must have a sample of this purified essence. With it, we may revive Captain Nule. With it, we may develop weapons against the Hive Fleet itself."

_____________________________________________________________________________________

A lone Paranid was slithering through the muck of the swamp. Then a quiet noise broke the natural silence, and the Paranid burrowed into the mud before a drop pod smashed into the ground. Out of the pod came Commander Hammerheart, the Sergeants, and a small but well armed squad of Pony Marines.

"Your target is on your map display." said Spike. "Collect the sample there."

"Understood." said Applejack.

The Pony Marines began their trek through the muck as they headed towards the pool's location. The Paranid that hid in the ground surfaced to attack, but was quickly gunned down before it could make a move. They continued to traverse through the swamp's waters and mud, shooting at any Paranid that lunged at them. They eventually found a small array that stood on hardened ground. They approached the array, and a swarm of Paranids skittered towards them from all directions.

"Ambush!" said Pinkie.

The Blood Phoenixes aimed their guns and fired away at the animals, but while they were distracted, Paranid Ravagers bursted from the dirt and sent any Pony Marine who was standing over them flying. Hammerheart and Rainbow Dash slashed at the big beasts while the others continued to shoot at the smaller ones that swarmed them. Two Ravagers fell to Hammerheart's and Rainbow Dash's blades, and the other two tried to flee.

"Do NOT let them escape!" Applejack yelled as she aimed at the Paranids. Hoovitus and the Devastator Marines unloaded their barrage of bullets at the fleeing Ravagers and tore them to shreds.

"That was the last of them." said Rainbow Dash.

"Expect more attacks." said Applejack.

The Pony Marines resumed their march to the pools, still shooting at Paranids that appeared from the decaying foliage. After walking for hours through thick mud, treacherous waters, and Paranid bodies, they finally reached the rank, rancid toxic pools.

Hoovitus brought his hoof to his comm link. "We have reached the toxin pool."

"Commander Hammerheart," said Spike, "gather the sample at the pool's edge. This will allow us to prepare an antitoxin for Captain Nule."

Hammerheart approached the edge of the putrid pool and began the slow gathering process. A Paranid Warrior appeared and charged at them.

"Paranid Warrior!" Applejack yelled. "Keep it off Commander Hammerheart!"

Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, and Hoovitus opened fire and quickly dispatched the warrior beast, but more Paranids began a swarming assault on their position. The Sergeants and recruits unloaded their weapons upon the swarm. After minutes of progress, Hammerheart finished the collecting process.

"Well done." said Spike. "Sample collected. Apothecary Rashet is analyzing the data to prepare the cure."

"We have the sample." said Applejack. "Our work is done. Make for the extraction point marked on the map."

Hammerheart and the other Pony Marines regrouped and headed for the designated location. They were still being assaulted by random Paranids that lunged from the trees, but the Blood Phoenixes were unfazed as they shot at the monsters.

"Beginning revival." said Spike as they were curing Nule of his poisonings.

The Blood Phoenixes finally reached the extraction point, but the ground beneath them started to crack. The dirt began to swell. Then, a large Paranid monster burst from the ground, sending the Pony Marines flying.

"Hive Alpha!" Applejack shouted. "Concentrate fire!"

Pinkie, Applejack, Hoovitus, and the recruits quickly galloped to cover and opened fire at the beast, while Hammerheart, Rainbow Dash, and the Pegasus Marines slashed at the creature. The monster's tough hide and high endurance made it an even more deadly foe than the Scorpnox. Pegasus Marines fell to the animal's claws, and Pony Marines were blasted and killed by the venom cannon that stuck out of its mouth as it opened wide.

"Die, xeno, DIE!" Hoovitus yelled.

"Keep fighting!" Applejack yelled.

The beast then lowered its head and started scratching the dirt with its hind claws.

"It's going to charge!" said Hoovitus.

Hammerheart, Rainbow Dash, and the remaining Pegasus Marines quickly got out of its way as it ran and smashed its head and claws into a large downed tree. It pulled itself free and turned to face the Pony Marines again, but a drop pod landed near the battle, and out came a Harmonaught that slowly marched towards them. It stood twenty feet tall with four legs, had a nice golden trim, a grappling limb with a flamethrower on the left, and an assault cannon on the right. It went to engage the Hive Alpha.

"I am Goliath Nule." the Harmonaught said with a deep, metallic voice. "And I shall be your death!"

Goliath swung at the beast, dealing great amounts of damage to it. The monster struck back with its claws, but did nothing but scratch Nule's armor. It opened its jaws and stuck out its venom cannon, a point-blank shot would most likely do damage against Goliath's vehicle armor, but Nule grabbed the slimy projectile weapon and tore it off. The Hive Alpha roared in immense pain.

"Your weapon has died." said Goliath. "You are next!"

The Hive Alpha slammed its claws into the Harmonaught's shoulders, but still didn't pierce the thick metal. Nule then grabbed the monster by the throat and activated his flamethrower. The beast screeched with absolute agony as it was virtually cooked alive. Hammerheart and the Pony Marines watched in awe the whole time as their awakened Captain combated against the Paranid. Goliath released his grip, and the beast took a few steps back before falling to the ground. Nule fired some assault cannon bullets into the animal's burnt hide before lifting his front-right leg and crushing its head with a tremulous stomp.

"The beast is gone." said Goliath.

The ground started to quake, and large, fleshy spikes rose from the dirt. The Pony Marines dodged the growth spurts and regrouped with Captain Nule.

"Well done." said Spike. "This hive will wither without its alpha."

"And Captain Nule is with us again!" Rainbow Dash said with relieved happiness.

"Is that you... Michael?" Goliath asked.

Rainbow Dash's smile vanished as she raised an eyebrow and cocked her head back in confusion. "It is Rainbow Dash, Captain..." She said, "Do you not recognize me?"

"The secrets of Cronus shall not pass my lips." said Nule.

"Captain Nule must rest now." said Spike. "His revival was a long and difficult process."

The Pony Marines and Captain Nule were brought back aboard the Ponigeddon to recover from the ugly battle that was one of the greatest in the history of the Blood Phoenix Chapter.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

"Administering the anti-toxin..." said Rashet.

"Powering the armature..." said Spike as he pressed buttons and pulled levers. "Captain Nule... can you hear us?"

Goliath's mechanical grappling appendage spun slowly before he raised his limb up and slammed it on the floor of the Strike Cruiser's docking bay.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

"Excellent work, Commander Hammerheart." said Pegalos. "Captain Nule's return could be the difference in our fight to save the sector." Pegalos closed his eyes and smiled. "It is good to see such a close friend and such a fierce warrior back from the dead..." His smile vanished. "even if he is confined to a Harmonaught. Most importantly, the bio-toxin sample you collected will allow us to develop a weapon with which to deal a killing blow against the Hive Fleet. But this weapon will avail us nothing if we cannot locate a critical weakness in the Hive Fleet itself. Continue your efforts to recover data from the TechDonkeys' Astronomic Array on Salika. We must also secure a manufacturing facility advanced enough to produce these new weapons. The only such facility in the sector is Alicorn Forge on Galantius. Pegalos out."

Rippa-Shredda

Hammerheart brought up the map of the Salika Arena, where a swarm of Paranids have been running about.

"Commander Hammerheart," said Pegalos, "the Paranid swarm continues to strike at vulnerable targets. A powerful Paranid Warrior has led its brood into shelters and other areas previously thought safe. The consequences on morale have been disastrous. Worse still, this outbreak, if not stamped out quickly, could destabilize the entire region. Eliminate this beast quickly to keep our holdings secure, and drive the swarm back."

The drop pod landed near a stone tower, and Hammerheart and his fellow Siblings emerged onto the stone walk.

Hoovitus was not very pleased with the mission. "We are to tend to the fears of the masses now?" He asked.

"No." said Applejack, "We fight the enemy, wherever they hide. Be wary of ambushes."

The Blood Phoenixes crossed the bridge to the shelters and traveled another few miles before finding the Paranid warrior beasts with swarms of other Paranids. They opened fire upon the swarm and left them a bloody mess on the ground. The three warrior beasts went in to attack. Hammerheart took up his power sword and charged at the monsters, knocking them down to the ground. Rainbow Dash revved up her chainsword and took to the sky. Hammerheart dive-rolled out of the way before the Pegasus Marine slammed into the ground, sending the Paranids flying. One was caught in Goliath's mighty grip and was crushed like the insect it was before he threw it off the cliff. Applejack and Hoovitus aimed their guns and killed another beast with combined fire. The last beast got back up after a moment of disorientation, but a blade through its heart said otherwise. With a couple plasma rounds to the head, the creature went limp and slid off of Hammerheart's sword.

"Those who fear death can emerge from beneath their beds now." said Hoovitus.

The Pony Marines were brought back aboard the Ponigeddon after a brief mission that left Hoovitus sighing with disappointment.

"I have been studying Chapter records," said Rainbow Dash, "and these look to be the same Paranids the Aquamarines faced on Tuscis."

"They may very well be from that Hive Fleet, Rainbow Dash." said Pinkie. "This is what makes the Paranids so deadly. Only a few hive ships need to escape a battle for the Hive Fleet to survive. These hive ships will go on to devour a few poorly defended worlds. This provides the biomass needed to replenish the Hive Fleet, and make it even larger given enough time. Every Hive Fleet we have encountered has had the potential to topple the Equestrium. And each one has the potential to spawn any number of splinter fleets if they escape to weaker sectors. Mark my words, Rainbow Dash. The Equestrium has no shortage of deadly enemies, but they all pale in comparison to the Paranids."

Green Fang Gorge started blinking, and Hammerheart brought it up to scale. Captain Pegalos came up on screen.

"Commander Hammerheart," said Pegalos, "we have finally located the Hog who knows the location of the astronomic array. This Hog is a rabid animal who has been infused into one of their obscene war machines. This Pigskin calls himself Rippa-Shredda, and is obsessed with technology. Destroy this animal walker, and recover the location of the astronomic array. This is our only hope of finding a critical weakness in the Hive Fleet, Commander."

Remnants of the Dark Age

The Blood Phoenixes fought hard against the can-shaped walking mech. Its slicing claws, buzzsaw, and side-mounted guns made Rippa-Shredda a very tough opponent. But with the aid of Captain Nule, and the use of missile launchers, the "Killa Kan" was reduced to a scrapheap. The Pony Marines returned to the Ponigeddon.

"Good work, Commander Hammerheart." said Pegalos. "We have recovered the stolen dataslate, and eliminated a major Hog threat."

"But was the recovered data of any use?" Pinkie asked.

"It was, Pinkie." said Spike. "I have determined the location of the astronomic array and uploaded it onto the planetary map display. In order to recover any data on the Hive Fleet, you will need to align the array from the ground, Commander."

The location on the map blinked, and Hammerheart brought it into focus; the TechDonkey Station. Pegalos came up on screen.

"Commander Hammerheart," said Pegalos, "we finally have the location of the astronomic array. The array is powered, but we cannot establish a clear communications link with it. You must get to the array and manually upload its data on the Paranid swarm. This will allow us to locate a critical weakness in the Hive Fleet."

The Astronomic Array stood tall and lost outside the jungles on Salika.

"This ancient Astronomic Array holds one of the keys to victory against the Paranids. With its data we can uncover weaknesses of the Hive Fleet."

In the jungles, sticks were breaking and animals shrieked. Their was definitely something else stalking through the foliage, something hiding in the shadows of the forest.

"We must secure the array before others do."

Lord of Trees

Hammerheart had managed to connect the Astronomic Array to the Ponigeddon, and collect information on the Paranid Hive Fleet, while the other Pony Marines fended off any Paranids that hunted them. With the array found and connected, the Blood Phoenixes returned to the Strike Cruiser.

"Commander Hammerheart," said Pegalos, "the data you recovered from the Astronomic Array has allowed us to find a critical weakness in the Hive Fleet. The Hive Fleet is controlled by a single massive creature that sits at the center of the fleet. If we manage to destroy it the rest of the Hive Fleet will scatter, and will be an easy target for our own fleet. With the source of the Hive Mind identified, and a sample of their bio-toxin in our hooves, we can finally develop weapons and strategies targeted at the source of the Hive Mind itself. It will all be for naught, however, if we lose planet Galantius to the animal. Without the manufacturing capabilities of Alicorn Forge, we will never be able to produce our new weapons. The Chapter, the sector and the Equestrium itself are counting on you, Commander."

The Ponigeddon received a distress call from Galantius itself. The Strike Cruiser made the jump to the planet, and the Capital Spire location was blinking. Hammerheart brought up the Spire, and Administrator Fluttershy came on screen.

"Commander Hammerheart, we have detected a major Eldeer incursion." said Fluttershy. "A large animal force has struck a series of Equestrial Guard positions and civilian transport hubs in rapid succession. A powerful Treelord walker reportedly led the attack. The animal host is retreating, but we have managed to keep sight of them. We need you to strike before the Treelord escapes."

Now She Wakes to the Threat

The streets of the Capital Spire were quiet, too quiet. Not a single Eldeer, Equestrial Guardpony, or civilian was in sight. The silence was soon broken by the sound of a drop pod roaring out of the sky and landing on the street. Hammerheart and his fellow Battle Siblings emerged from the pod.

"The animal walker's location is flagged on your map display, Commander Hammerheart." said Spike. "This giant wields bizarre and dangerous technologies."

"Our weapons will find their mark." said Hoovitus.

The Blood Phoenixes trotted through the desolate streets to the flagged point in search for the Eldeer mech. When they found it, they were quickly attacked by Eldeer warriors. The Treelord stood thirty feet tall on four skinny but stable legs. Its head was pearl white and faceless, with a big glowing symbol in the center. It wielded a large, curved sword and a big Splinter Pistol in its magical grip. When the Pony Marines killed off the Eldeer, they then turned their attention to the Treelord. Captain Nule engaged the animal alongside Hammerheart. The Treelord slashed at Goliath and shot at Hammerheart, but Nule blocked and Hammerheart dodge rolled. Goliath swung his grappling limb and slammed the Treelord in the side, making it fall to the ground. Hammerheart then flipped his sword, raised it high, and pierced its head. The Treelord wailed, flailed, and twitched until it went limp.

"Prancayla feared you ponies would be the death of us." said a dying Warlock. "As ever, fate proves her right." His head dropped, and life escaped his corpse.

Applejack raised an eyebrow at what the Eldeer said. "The Warlock mentioned another Eldeer, Prancayla." She said. "This could be the Eldeer leading operations in the sector."

"I will contact the fleet, Commander Hammerheart." said Spike. "Chapter records may hold information on her."

Hammerheart and the Pony Marines were soon extracted back aboard the Ponigeddon.

"Commander Hammerheart, Applejack was correct." said Spike. "I have finished an analysis of additional data recovered from our recent battles against the Eldeer on Galantius. They somehow manage to interfere with our scans of the Galantius system. I have compensated, and I fear there is far more evidence of Paranid infestation on Galantius than I believed. What's more, long range scans show the Hive Fleet is accelerating toward the capital world. I have transferred protocols for counteracting the Eldeer sensor baffling to key stations across Galantius."

Administrator Fluttershy came up on screen, with a worried look on her face.

"Commander Hammerheart, this is Fluttershy." She said. "the skies... I mean... This animal swarm is filling the skies over Galantius."

Hoovitus rolled his eyes. "Now she wakes to the threat."

Fluttershy looked down in shame. "I... I apologize for my rudeness earlier, Sergeant Hoovitus, was it? The Eldeer's sabotage campaign has crippled our defenses. Your help in keeping Galantius secure is critical."

Rainbow Dash leered her eyes. "Where is Governor Brae Tyre in all this?" She asked.

"Governor Brae Tyre and the Privy Council have withdrawn to... strategize." Fluttershy said in minor anger. "My failure to heed your warnings has already cost hundreds of thousands of lives in the Hub Spires. Commander Hammerheart, I implore you. Help us keep Galantius from falling."

The Ghostly Killer

The Pony Marines went to the surface to protect another ancient foundry from destruction against the Paranids and returned victorious.

"Well done, Commander Hammerheart." said Spike. "Losing the foundry would have been a devastating blow to our supply lines."

"Chapter records make reference to some sort of synapse link among the Paranids." said Rainbow Dash. "What is that?"

"The entire Hive Fleet is connected through some sort of intellectual network." said Pinkie. "The larger beasts act as relays of a sort. So long as they are nearby, the countless drones and other beasts all act with a unified purpose. Without this link, the lesser creatures revert to a more feral state."

"We could use this to our advantage." Applejack suggested.

"Yes, somewhat." said Pinkie. "Killing one of these Syncritters can cause backlash among surrounding Paranids. The problem is that there is always another Syncritter ready to fill the gap, but killing a Syncritter does buy us time."

The Capital Spire started blinking, and Hammerheart brought it into view. Captain Pegalos's face appeared on screen.

"Commander Hammerheart," said Pegalos, "we have a priority target. A Specter has been spotted in a critical area and must be eliminated. This creature is a camouflage expert and has likely been preying on the population, and weakening our defenses for several weeks. And be on your guard, Commander. Specters are ferocious predators. Do not underestimate this opponent."

Nule and the Cronus Campaign

The Specter was a deadly beast, indeed. Many Pony Marines fell to the invisible beast's claws, but Hammerheart and his squad exterminated the monster like the insect it was, and headed back aboard the Ponigeddon.

"Well done, Commander Hammerheart." said Pegalos. "These infiltrators destroy morale and make a stable defense impossible. Pegalos out."

Rainbow Dash looked to Applejack and Hoovitus. "What was it like serving under Captain Nule in the Cronus Campaign?" She asked.

"Cap'n Nule was probably the best tactician I have ever seen." said Applejack. "Victory was usually a certainty when he was in charge, and very few Blood Phoenixes died under his command."

"Agreed." Hoovitus said, seconding the fact. "There were no fool's errands or pointless suicide missions when Captain Nule was in command. And few others could have brought together such a strong defense on Dolmaska with what he had to work with."

Rainbow Dash sighed. "It weighs heavy on my conscience that we failed him on Dolmaska."

"It weighs on all of us, Rainbow Dash." said Pinkie. "More heavily than you can know."

Farseer Prancayla

Pegalos's face appeared on screen with some good news on the Eldeer.

"Commander Hammerheart," said Pegalos, "your efforts on Galantius have finally driven Farseer Prancayla into the open. The Paranid invasion continues all about the sector, but this is our opportunity to put an end to the Eldeer efforts to destabilize the sub-sector. I have relayed the signal from Administrator Fluttershy to your map display."

Hammerheart and the Blood Phoenixes descended onto the streets of Galantius, and began their hunt for the Eldeer witch. They knew very well what kind of animal being they were up against, but they had to stop the Eldeer attacks once and for all. They soon found her in a desolate district, and attacked with everything they had.

The Farseer's antlers began glowing a bright white, and she was lifted a few feet into the air as a whirlwind of deadly magic was conjured before the Pony Marines.

"She summons the powers of the Warp itself!" Rainbow Dash yelled.

"Target in sight!" Applejack called as she fired her plasma gun.

"I have foreseen all your meddling," said Prancayla, "but I will not allow you to bring ruination upon our Woodworld. It is time you learned what it is to face a Seer of Boisees the Damned!"

Her eyes went white as she unleashed her spell, sending any Pony Marine within a ten foot area flying. She took up her spear and blocked Hammerheart's power axe. They clashed for what seemed like days, until the Farseer jumped away from Hammerheart.

"We have battled enough for now, I think." said Prancayla as she pranced onto a building. "I have other tasks to attend to on this doomed planet." She turned and retreated.

"She's escaping!" cried Rainbow Dash.

"I admit I have enjoyed this dalliance, ponies." the words of Prancayla said in their minds. "I may even miss you when you are ash and cinders." And her voice faded away to silence.

Pinkie scrunched her face in confusion to the Farseer's last few words. "Ash and cinders? Paranids drain worlds of life, they do not burn them."

To Decapitate the Hive

Back on board the Ponigeddon, Hoovitus stomped his hoof in outrage.

"The animal witch escaped!" He growled. "She laughs at us while our worlds die!"

On screen, Administrator Fluttershy appeared. "Commander Hammerheart, I share your Sergeant's frustration, but I have far graver news. I have finally obtained the master control codes for Alicorn Forge and have transmitted them to your ship, and to Captain Pegalos's fleet. I fear it may be too late to do you any good, however. Another Paranid swarm is driving into the forge area. Massive defensive walls guard the approach to the forge, but the Equestrial Guard forces stationed there are being overrun."

"Your delaying and politicking has doomed us all, Fluttershy!" Rainbow Dash said angrily.

Fluttershy's demeanor turned serious. "If so, I'm sure my end will be suitably horrific, Sergeant. I only wish I could say the same of Governor Brae Tyre."

"What do you mean?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"I make no excuses for my mistakes," said Fluttershy, "but I have been fighting to get those codes for you for days. The Governor simply ordered me to continue delaying you and then stopped answering me altogether. When I finally dealt with the House Tyre soldiers guarding his residence, I found that he had left the Galantius system for some private retreat three sectors away. I did find the codes for Alicorn Forge, however."

"You took a real risk, Administrator." said Applejack. "They could hang you for treason if the Governor returns."

"Governor Brae Tyre turned tail and left the sector to die." Fluttershy stated. "Your Commander is here fighting to save it. If anything, I was far too slow to see where my loyalties belonged."

Hoovitus raised an eyebrow and smirked at Fluttershy's words. "I think she missed her calling. She should have been a Filly of Battle."

The orbital map of the Hub Spire Nimbus started blinking. Hammerheart brought focus onto the location.

"We have located the ruling creature of a major hive, Commander Hammerheart." said Pegalos. "The Hive Alpha is the vital link between the Hive Fleet in space and the organisms on the planet's surface. Eliminating the Alpha will leave the Paranid forces in dismay for a time, compelling them to withdraw. These are the vulnerabilities you must exploit if the sub-sector is to hold long enough for the Chapter Fleet to arrive. Bring this beast down."

The Legacy of Commander Poneale

The battle against the Hive Alpha on Galantius was even more challenging than the one on Salika, but the Pony Marine's vigorous courage and tireless strength brought down the horrendous monster, and they returned aboard the Ponigeddon.

"You have struck a telling blow, Commander Hammerheart!" said Pegalos. "Legions of Paranids are directionless without their Alpha."

"The hive will eventually produce another Hive Alpha," Pinkie stated, "but it will take time."

"That it will, Sergeant," said Pegalos, "and we can make good use of the time before it does. Pegalos out."

Rainbow Dash looked to the Scout Sergeant. "Hoovitus and Applejack served on Cronus, but not you Pinkie."

"No." said Pinkie, "I was assigned to train scouts for Commander Poneale's campaign in the Pandora System."

Hoovitus looked down and gave a gruff humph. "A blight on our history."

"Why so?" Rainbow Dash asked. "Obviously you all know something. What happened to Commander Poneale?"

"The Pandora Campaign did not go well." Pinkie explained. "Poneale and many others died there, including most of my Scouts."

"Pandora left the Chapter dangerously underponied." said Applejack. "If we lose our recruiting worlds now, the Blood Phoenixes will not survive."

"Pandora was a huge mistake." Pinkie stated. "I will not speak of it again."