//Begin Personal Log
//
//May 9th, 2559
//
//23:51 Local Time
Well here I am, writing another log. Today was quite exciting, mainly with alicorns, gryphons, and modern medicine. We managed to fly across the country to rescue Celestia and Luna from a mob of angry insurrectionists in the gryphon capital. We ended up retrieving both Princess’s, a dozen pegasi guards, the gryphon emperor, and his two bodyguards. A little more than we expected.
...
...
...
Unfortunately I need to keep this brief. I need to head to medical to check on our patients.
I’ll make sure to go into more detail at a later date. However, a detailed account will be available in After Action Report 5959-06-EQ.
//End Log
Captain Ryan stood at the bridge as the ship began to bank left. The sounds of the engines increased as the ship picked up speed. Daniel turned around and walked back to the table, standing across from Commander Zerom.
“Commander Dior, are we all secured in the launch bay?” The Captain asked over the radio..
“Negative sir! We have multiple casualties down here, some critical.”
“Understood. I’m on my way down. Are the bay doors secured?”
“Negative, Petty Officer Jung in down. We’re trying to get someone to close the doors.”
“Copy that.” Daniel quickly called out for the AI. “Tommy! I need you to override the bay door controls.”
“Aye sir. Sealing bay doors.”
The Captain ran down the hallway to the closest lift. “Dior, are the doors closed yet?”
“Yes sir, they just did.”
“Good. Do medics have a number of casualties?”
“Yes sir, we have thirteen casualties. Five of them are cat alphas, including Jung.”
“Alright, I’m almost there.”
The lift came to a stop and the doors opened. He ran down the hallway and eventually came to the launch bay doors. Once the doors opened, a scene of pure chaos was revealed.
Medical staff were hurriedly moving to various injured ponies, assessing injuries and giving first aid. Daniel quickly spotted the Chief Medical Officer among the chaos. He was in the process of examining a heavily injured pegasus. Celestia was standing over one of her wounded guards, while Luna was sitting on the deck breathing heavily after her short, but hard flight.
“Doctor Tetrow, tell me you have good news?” Daniel asked.
The doctor looked up from his most recent patient as the Captain called his name. “Well, I can tell you we haven’t had any fatalities.”
“That’s good I suppose.”
“Indeed, we are getting ready to move the cat alphas to medical for emergency treatment.”
“Has the entire deck been decontaminated?”
“Yes sir. Everyone here is clean.”
“Very good.” The Captain’s attention was soon drawn to a horrible coughing noise. He turned to see Luna coughing incredibly hard as she seemed to fight for every breath. Daniel was the first one at her side. He grabbed a stethoscope from a nearby cart as he moved to aid the lunar Princess. She was still coughing and wheezing as she fought for oxygen.
“Luna, look at me.” The Princess kept sitting with her head facing down. Daniel pressed the stethoscope against her chest, listening to her labored breathing. After a few seconds he was confident he had found the cause of her trouble. Celestia had now quickly made her way to Luna’s side. The solar Princess looked to the Captain with worry.
“Is she alright?” Celestia asked with deep concern.
Daniel just rolled his eyes. It was a very cliche question that every concerned person asked, even when there was an obvious answer.
“No, she has severe smoke inhalation and possible respiratory damage.” Luna proceeded to cough up a mix of phlegm and black specks of soot onto the Captain’s greaves. “That’s just lovely.”
Daniel grabbed the nearest medical cart and pulled it next to him. He took a medical tag from a drawer and quickly wrote down her condition. He then took the tag and slipped it around her neck. She was classified as a category bravo; serious, but not the most serious. The Chief Medical Officer made his way around Celestia and kneeled next to the Captain.
“I can take care of her, Tetrow. Go take care of the alphas.”
“Alright, let me know if you need assistance.” The doctor then got up and went back to moving the most injured personnel.
“Alright Luna, I need you to try and take a deep breath for me.” The Captain asked calmly.
“Can’t... hurts... too much...” The Princess said between labored breaths. Her eyes were filled with a look of panic as she fought for air. The Captain looked around the room, noticing that all the alphas had already been moved.
“Alright, we need to get you to medical.” Luna only nodded, and with the help of the Captain and her sister, got to her hooves before taking a few shaky steps. It didn’t last long as her front hooves gave out from under her. Daniel and Celestia both reacted quickly and caught the falling Princess before she could hit the deck.
“I need a stretcher over here!” The Captain called out. Two medics quickly ran over with a stretcher before setting it on the ground. The two crew members then looked at the fallen Princess and then back at the stretcher.
“I don’t think she’s gonna fit, sir.” One of the men said.
“We just need to get her to medical.”
“I could just teleport us there.” Celestia said.
Daniel just shook his head. “I’d rather not. Medical is only two decks up.” He then looked to the two medics. “Ready?”
The two men sighed. “Yes sir.” The two medics with the help of the Captain and Celestia managed to get Luna onto the board. She was still coughing up black particles and mucus. It took all three men and Celestia to get Luna into the nearest lift and then onto the medical deck.
The medical deck was busy as doctors and medics moved about, tending to the wounds of various ponies and the one injured human. The four deposited Luna on the closest available bed before removing the stretcher from beneath her. She was still coughing and her breathing was erratic and shallow.
“I need some assistance in here!” Daniel called out over his shoulder. Two nurses quickly moved to the Captain’s side and awaited his orders.
“What do we have sir?” One of the nurses asked.
“Female, alicorn, age irrelevant. Severe smoke inhalation and possible bronchial damage.” Daniel stated in a matter of fact tone. Celestia stood a few feet away as the three humans began treating her sister. Luna once again coughing loudly as her chest heaved with each convulsion. It was getting harder for her to breathe. “You,” Daniel pointed to the medic across from him, “we need to do a lung rinse. Get me a sedative and prep her for a tracheal tube.”
“Yes sir!” The young nurse quickly moved to carry out his orders.
It didn’t take long for him to return with the necessary equipment. Luna was now beginning to physically panic. She was still having trouble breathing, and was now physically struggling. Her breathing was coming faster and was still shallow, she was on the verge of hyperventilating as Daniel put an oxygen mask over the Princess’s face. She seemed to relax a bit, but was still panicked.
“Alright, ketamine?” Daniel asked with an outstretched hand. The nurse handed a single loaded syringe to the Captain.
“Sir,” one of the nurses asked, “will Ketamine work on her? She isn’t exactly human.”
“Yeah, it will.” Daniel then moved to Luna’s neck and readied the drug. Luna, at the sight of the syringe, began panicking even harder. Her eyes turned to pinpricks as Daniel approached her neck. She reared her head back in fear, nearly stabbing the nurse behind her. The man was able to duck, avoiding being impaled by her fourteen inch horn.
“Hold her down!” Daniel said as he grabbed Luna by the base of her horn, preventing her from stabbing anyone. She began struggling harder as her head was held down by Daniel. Unfortunately, the Captain did not know just how strong she was. To his surprise, Luna was plenty strong enough, even in her weakened state, to pull him around as she tried to free her horn. “I need some more help in here!”
More nurses and doctors rushed to help restrain the Princess. Celestia could only watch as the medical staff did their best to restrain Luna from hurting herself or others. Daniel was finding it incredibly hard to hold on to Luna’s horn with just his arm strength. Deciding that a more direct approach was needed, the fully armored ODST jumped onto the gurney, straddling the Princess’s neck with his thighs while keeping her head in place with his knees.
With five other people holding down the rest of Luna’s body, Daniel was finally able to slide the syringe into Luna’s jugular vein. He pulled back on the plunger to confirm he had hit his mark. As the syringe contents turned red with blood, Daniel pushed the plunger down quickly. Luna’s body suddenly went rigid as the drug quickly took effect. Seconds later she was relaxed and unconscious. Daniel waited for a moment before dismounting with a sigh of relief.
Daniel then looked to the other staff. “Help me get her on her stomach. Then we’re going to turn the whole gurney.” Daniel set about tucking Luna’s legs close to her body as the others moved to Luna’s back. The lunar Princess did not resist as the men worked quickly. Her breaths were still shallow and she occasionally coughed.
“Can we get something to put on her horn? I don’t want it doing through anyone's face.” Daniel called out. A nearby nurse ducked into the chief medical officer’s office and came back with a green tennis ball. Daniel quickly took the ball and impaled it on the tip of Luna’s horn.
“Alright, roll her on three. One, two, three.” With the help of the nurse and Celestia’s magic, they were able to roll the Princess onto her stomach. With Luna now properly oriented, the Captain moved to her head. “Tube?”
The closest doctor brought the tracheal tube before taking a place next to the alicorn’s face. “Ready?” The Captain asked.
“Yes sir.” Daniel then used his thumb and index finger to manually open the Princess’s mouth, allowing the other doctor to insert two tubes. Now that she wasn’t fighting the medical staff, both were quite easy to insert. One tube would supply oxygen directly to one lung while the other tube would rinse the other lung. Then the process would be reversed. The tracheal tubes had a small fiber optic cameras at the end, allowing the doctors to see into each lung. Daniel then plugged the other end of one fiber optic into the nearby monitor.
As the screen came to life, a view of Luna’s throat filled the screen. Celestia was slightly disgusted, but at the same time incredibly intrigued at what she was seeing. The tube slowly moved forward, and an inside view of one of Luna’s lungs came into view. Her lung was filled with soot and other burned material. Daniel cringed slightly, he looked over to Celestia who looked horrified. He then turned to the doctor next to him.
“Alright, let’s start the rinse.” The other doctor nodded as he plugged the other end of the tracheal tube into a canister. The doctor then pulled a small green lever on the canister valve. On the screen a clear fluid began to flow from the tube, slowly filling Luna’s lung and effectively washing away all the material inside. After a few seconds, fluid began to spill out of her mouth and onto the deck; a nearby nurse quickly moved a bucket under her head.
Daniel was pleased to see the fluid coming from her mouth was consistently black, showing that it was indeed working. Eventually the fluid turned clear again and the camera showed no signs of contaminants. They then repeated the procedure on the other lung. After another fifteen minutes, the tracheal tube was removed and the extra fluid was cleaned up. Daniel removed his latex gloves and walked over to Celestia to give her an update.
“Well, that should do it. She’ll be able to breath normally again.”
Celestia sighed and bowed her head. “Thank you Daniel. Thank you for... everything you are doing.”
Daniel placed a hand on the Princess’s shoulder. “Hey, you helped me with my problem a few nights ago. It’s only fair I return the favor.” He said with a chuckle. Celestia lifted her head and laughed as well.
“I suppose that’s true. So, when will she wake up?” Celestia said, motioning toward Luna.
“I’ll give her something to take the edge off. She should be conscious again in about fifteen to twenty minutes. Just to let you know, she is going to feel horrible when she wakes up. There was a lot of adrenaline going through her. The thing about Ketamine is that it reacts very badly to adrenaline.”
Celestia once again looked worried. “What kind of reaction?”
“Well, she’s probably going to spend a lot of time puking into a trashcan.”
“I’m just glad that she’s okay.” Celestia said with a yawn.
“Hey, why don’t you go get some sleep. We’ll be in Canterlot in a few hours.”
“You’re flying straight into Canterlot?” Celestia asked with surprise.
“Yeah. We’ll come in under stealth as to not scare everyone. They’ll only be able to hear us.”
“I see.”
“No you won’t.” Daniel said with a cheesy grin.
Celestia facehoofed with a sigh and a smile. “Well then, you should be able to land in the gardens behind the castle. I’ll send Twilight a letter to inform her of what’s happening.”
“Alright.” Daniel motioned for one of the marines at the door to approach. “Lance Corporal, I want you to show the Princess where the crew lounge is.”
“Yes sir.” The marine said with a salute. Celestia and her guide then silently made their way off the medical deck.
Daniel then turned his attention back to the unconscious Luna. With the help of another person they were able to wheel the gurney into one of the empty recovery rooms. The door to the room automatically slid shut as the group moved in. As the other doctor locked the gurney wheels, Daniel pulled out a small syringe of yellow liquid. With one swift movement, he slid the small needle into Luna’s neck before pushing the plunger down.
“Alright then. Give her fifteen minutes then notify me.”
“Aye sir.” The doctor replied.
~~~
The first thing Luna could sense was that she lying on her side. She then opened her eyes and noticed was the room was quite dim. She was unsure of where she was, but could hear voices and movement just on the other side of the door. Daniel then walked in through the door, silently closing it behind him.
“Hey there sunshine. How ya feelin?” Daniel asked quietly. He pulled a chair and trashcan over and sat next to her bed. Luna just rolled her eyes at his greeting. Just as she was about to answer, her eyes went wide and she audibly gulped. Daniel gently grabbed ahold her mane and pulled it away from her mouth. She then quickly moved her head to the side of the bed and vomited into the trashcan.
She continued to vomit for a few minutes before finally stopping.
“Yeah, about what I expected.” Daniel said calmly as he used a nearby washcloth to wipe her muzzle.
“Thanks...” she said weakly. “So, what happened?”
“Well, we got you to the infirmary when you started having respiratory trouble. However, you kinda started to panic once we tried to sedate you.”
“Really? I don’t remember any of that.”
“I’m not surprised. You were really worked up. Took four doctors and an ODST to hold you down. Nearly killed a guy with that sword on your forehead.”
Luna then looked up at her horn and noticed a green ball on the end. “What is that...?”
“That,” Daniel reached over and pulled off the green ball, “is a tennis ball. I put it there so you couldn’t spear someone by accident.”
Luna chuckled. “Ah, makes sense.” She then vomited again into the trashcan. “How long is this going to last?”
“Well, considering how much adrenaline you had in your blood when we sedated you... I would say about a day. Ketamine doesn’t react well with adrenaline. It leaves you feeling really sick.”
“All this because I freaked out?”
“Yup. Sucks doesn’t it.”
Luna then threw up again. “I’ll say.” Daniel wiped her muzzle clean. “Is Tia okay?”
“Yeah, she’s fine. She’s sleeping in the crew lounge.”
“Was anyone else hurt?”
Daniel paused for a moment. “Yeah, a few of your guards were really banged up. They’re in surgery right now. I know for sure that one of them had to have a leg amputated.”
Luna began to tear up at this. “Did... did anypony die?”
“No. Everyone survived. Three are in critical condition though. Two of your guards and one sailor.”
“One of your crew was hurt?”
“Yeah, the gryphon emperor flew into him going very fast. It knocked him off the catwalk and onto the deck, forty feet below.”
“But... he survived...”
“Yeah, both did. Though the Petty Officer suffered a broken back, multiple broken ribs, two broken legs, collapsed lung, and a number of other injuries.”
“I’m sorry.”
“Luna, you have nothing to be sorry for. It was an accident, a terrible accident but an accident nonetheless.”
A small stream of tears was flowing from her eyes. “I know... but it’s still horrible...”
“I know Luna. And thankfully we can do something to fix this mess.” Daniel gently patted Luna’s neck before standing up with the trash can in hand. “I’m just going to step out for a minute and grab another can.”
“Alright, I’m...” Luna yawned wide, “I’m going to sleep... really... tired.” Her eyes closed as she finished the sentence. Daniel pulled a blanket over her sleeping form before quietly stepping out of her room.
~~~
Captain Ryan stood on the bridge with both Commanders, all looking at the holographic display table. They were only twenty minutes away from Canterlot, the lights of which were visible against the night sky.
“Alright Tommy, make sure optical cloak is online. I don’t care if they hear us, just so long as they don’t see us.”
“Aye sir. Optical cloak is online.”
“Dior, are all your boys okay after our little scuffle?”
“Yeah, they’re fine. How are our guests on the medical deck?”
“They’re doing well. One pegasus lost a leg, the other is still in surgery.”
“And Jung?”
“He’s also still in surgery. Doctor Tetrow is recommending we medevac him to Reach for proper medical care.”
“Don’t we have a full surgical suite?”
“Yeah, but he’s going to need specialized treatment.”
“Damn.”
“Yup. Kid has a long way to go.”
There was a pause at the table.
“How’s Princess Celestia taking all this?” Zerom asked.
“Quite well. She’s a bit stressed and a bit anxious, but still sane.”
“And Luna?”
“Asleep. I had a little talk with her when she woke up briefly. Her breathing sounds good, now she just needs to sleep off the sedative.”
“That’s good to hear. How’s the emperor?”
“Sedated with a fractured skull.”
“Any good news?”
Daniel laughed. “No one died. Does that count?”
“I suppose it does.” Zerom said, still looking at the holographic display.
“Tommy, how long until touchdown?” The Captain asked.
“Fifteen minutes at our current rate.”
“Mr. Vezina, bring us to ahead half.”
“You got it Cap’n!” The helmsman said happily.
“At our new velocity, we will arrive in thirty seven minutes.” Tommy reported as their speed decreased.
“Alright Tommy. When we get to five miles out, go to ahead slow. Keep the engine noise as low as possible.”
“Aye sir.” Both the AI and helmsman responded in unison.
Daniel could see the lights of the city growing in the distance. He then turned and walked off the bridge and began heading to the crew lounge. Upon arrival he noticed there were seven pegasus guards sitting at a table without their armor. Four of them were bandaged on various areas of their bodies. The Captain then spotted Celestia’s multi-hue tail flowing off the edge of a couch.
To Daniel’s surprise, Andrew was sitting across from Celestia with a sketchbook and pencil. He would occasionally glance at the sleeping Princess before making adjustments to his sketchbook. Daniel, perplexed by this, moved next to Andrew to get a better look at his work. He was absolutely stunned by what he saw.
“Uh, Andrew?”
“Hm?” Andrew looked up from his drawing, meeting the Captain’s gaze.
“What is that?”
“This? Just an idea I had.” Andrew couldn’t keep a wide grin off his face. He was clearly excited about his latest idea.
“Are you seriously thinking about building that?”
“Maybe. I mean look at this, tell me this wouldn’t look fucking amazing.” Andrew then turned the sketchbook so Daniel could see every detail.
It was a drawing of Princess Celestia in a full set of MJOLNIR Mark VII armor. An M6 G/GNR laser was levitating next to her as she appeared to be charging the weapon at some unseen enemy. Andrew just smiled, much like a small child on Christmas morning.
“That’s... wow... that’s terrifying.” Daniel stammered as he tried to process what the engineer had designed.
“Well, it would take a long time to make. I would need pinpoint measurements to even begin. It’s more of just an idea.”
“Yeah, an insane one.”
“Are you saying my other ideas are any less insane?”
Daniel thought for a moment. “Nope.”
“Good, thought I might be losing my touch.”
“If you were to have this made, do you really think you could get Misriah Armory to build it?”
Andrew laughed. “As if they have a choice. I own them.”
“You what...?”
“I bought them out a year and a half ago. Just after New Phoenix.”
“And how the hell did you manage that?”
“Well, the president of Misriah Armory was in New Phoenix at the time, and...well... ya know. Anyway, their board of directors got together and eventually asked me if I would be willing to buy the company for two hundred and fifty billion credits”
“Damn, so you now own the Misriah Armory and all it’s property?”
“Yup, including the contracts to build the new Mark VII armor.”
“Holy shit, so you really could have armor made for ponies?”
“It would seem so.”
“Wow...”
Daniel then turned his attention back to a sleeping Celestia. He slowly made his way to the sleeping solar Princess. He then gently shook her shoulder in an effort to wake the sleeping alicorn.
Celestia’s head jolted up at the sudden disturbance. “Oh, Daniel. I must have fallen asleep.”
“You’ve been asleep for about two hours. You seemed like you really needed the nap.”
Celestia chuckled. “No argument there.”
“I just wanted to update you that Luna is doing fine and we are getting close to Canterlot. Should be there in about thirty minutes or so.”
“Oh, wonderful. And what about my other guards? The ones who were more seriously injured.”
“One had to have a front leg amputated. The other one’s status is unknown. Last I heard he was still in surgery.”
The other guards at the nearby table turned to the nearby human. One of the pegasi with a bandage over his eye spoke up.
“Excuse me sir, but do you know who it was?”
“I believe his name was Storm Shroud.” The guards face dropped as his ears went flat against his head.
“Is he okay though?”
“He’s still in critical condition, but he is stable. Some of the best medical staff in the fleet are looking after him.”
“Oh, that’s good...”
“How’s your eye, trooper?”
“Oh, uh... docs said I still might lose it. Said something about the cornea and nerves being damaged.”
“Sorry to hear that.”
“Yeah, me too.”
Celestia felt a pang of sadness as she listened to the guard. They had been hurt trying to protect her and Luna. While they all knew the risks associated with their jobs, it was still hard for her. They were all special in her eyes. Each one had a family, friends, loved ones, and a life. She saw them more like her own children than her protectors.
The injures among the guard varied from broken bones, burns, and amputated limbs. Some had been lucky enough to escape without a scratch. Others hadn’t been as fortunate. Daniel looked to Celestia and saw regret. She seemed to regret not being able to personally fix each of her ponies. They had lost pieces of themselves and she couldn’t do anything about it except offer them support in the future.
Daniel, however, did have an idea. And it was just a phone call away. He said goodbye to Celestia and quickly made his way to his quarters. Once inside he opened his computer and began looking for a name and a number. After a quick search, he found the name he wanted; Michael Optikanner.
Michael was a long time friend of his, as well as the CEO of a medical supply company. He was essentially the Traxus of the medical world; even Andrew agreed with that analogy. Daniel pressed the call button, and waited.
Seconds passed as the screen lit up, showing Michael sitting at his desk with a labcoat across his chair. Michael was a bit older than Daniel at the age of fifty one. However, he looked like he was in his mid thirties. He spoke with a thick German accent and always wore a bow tie.
“Well, if it isn’t Captain Daniel Ryan. How have you been my friend?”
“I’ve been better.”
“I can tell. You look exhausted. Are those ponies giving you a hard time?”
Daniel’s face paled and he looked at Michael in dumbfound confusion. “H-how the hell do you know about that?”
Michael heartily laughed. “I had dinner with Kyle Burr last night. He told me all about your little adventure.”
“Oh... well do you know if he read my recent report?”
“The one you sent yesterday?”
“Yes.”
“He has. We spoke about it at great length. He also told me about the friendship reports you are having to send.”
“Yeah, I’m going to need to do that tomorrow.”
“So then, I take it you are calling for a specific reason. Tell me, has something developed?”
Daniel then took the time to explain the rescue mission and the resulting injuries.
“I’m sorry to hear that. You said that there were no allied fatalities?”
“No, we dodged a bullet there.”
“Hmmm. Perhaps there is something we could do.”
‘Like what?”
“I might be able to provide some of the more advanced pieces of technology. Things like prosthetic limbs and specialized treatments.”
“You can?”
“I can.”
“Can you fix eyes?”
Michael thought for a moment. “Well, what I am about to say is a company secret. Got it?
“Of course. What is it?”
“There is a prototype ocular replacement, designed to replace a lost eye. Be it from injury or disease.”
“I’m listening.”
“Well, there have been setbacks. Mainly in getting the technology small enough for humans. However, these ponies of yours have larger eyes than humans. Building an ocular replacement for their size would allow us to practice shrinking the technology while still refining and improving it.”
“I’m not sure I am comfortable with using them as test subjects. Does the implant work?”
“Yes. The only issue is making it work in a smaller unit.”
“So what you really want is to practice the procedure?”
“Precisely. We know the implant works, the only issue is that we can’t see how well it works. These ponies could be the perfect candidates to help us achieve that goal.”
“Okay, you have me interested. How much would this cost them?”
“Cost them? Nein my friend, this would cost them nothing. It is still considered experimental technology. We would give them the eye free of charge, all we ask is that they give us feedback. We’ll even make any future adjustments for free.”
“If you can clear this with the Director, I can try to clear it with the Princess. Although, I’m sure she would want to talk to you in person for this.”
“A Princess would want to talk to me? How could I possibly say no.”
“Good answer.” Daniel said with a chuckle.
“Well then, I have another call to make now. Say ‘hi’ to Andrew for me.”
“If I can get him out of the engine room I will. Did you know he set up a hammock between two reactor coolant pipes?”
“Are you honestly surprised?”
“...No.”
Michael laughed. “Well then don’t worry. He’s having fun and the ship is still flying.”
“Yeah. I’ll talk at you later Michael.”
“You too Daniel. Stay safe.”
With that, the screen went dark. However, Tommy quickly appeared on the desk corner.
“Sir, we are five minutes out and are preparing to land.”
“Great, I’ll be right up.”
The city of Canterlot came into view as Captain Ryan took his seat on the bridge. It was late at night, so very few ponies were out. The roar of the engines had been reduced to a light hum as the ship moved ever so slowly over the cityscape below.
For the first time in history, humanity was going to land a warship in an alien capital. Soon the castle gardens came into view. The sounds of the landing gear extending could be heard through all seven decks before making a loud clang, signaling they were locked in place and ready to take the ships weight.
“Sir, we are directly above our target landing zone.”
“Thanks Tommy, Vezina, bring us in nice and slow.”
“On it Captain.” Slowly the ship descended toward the ground, kicking up a small windstorm underneath the massive engines.
“Fifty feet.” The AI announced.
A second passed. “Forty feet.”
Another. “Twenty feet.”
Then finally, the ship gave a slight bounce as it made contact with the ground. The shocks in the landing gear compensating and dampening the impact.
Daniel looked at the castle through the bridge window. “Touchdown.”
100th like. There. You're welcome.
2577799
I think I love you.
2577812 I couldn't help with that, already liked it.
Wow, you have the owner of the biggest armour making company on your ship, a connection with someone with highly advanced medical technology. What next, Dr. C Halsey?
In all seriousness though, this is a well rounded chapter in my opinion. Keep it up.
Sorry I already hit like.
2577825
Daniel wouldn't touch Halsey with a thirty foot pole, let alone be stuck in a spaceship with her.
Crew minimum: 43 (or 3 spartans)
2578093 Me too, except if they did get MJOLNIR armor they would need to somehow have their reflexes and muscle control increased, or the armor would tear the pony apart. That's why only spartans use them, regular humans have been killed testing it without augmentations.
2578202
some humans were killed during testing.
2577837 I realize Halsey has done a lot of bad things, but despite this I don't at all dislike her. However I don't think she has a place in a pony fic. They'd probably banish her to the moon hahaha.
ONI would probably kill him before he gives a new race they are just meeting the best armor humanity has.
I mean, what's next? Will they give them an Infinity-Class ship? This crew is way to lax for a first contact UNSC scenario. I know you do your best to explain it, but a captain that breaks down just thinking about the war and a crazy scientist that wants to just give away top human armor to a pre spaceflight species? One thing is being polite and diplomaic, other being BFF with a new species just after the Covenant War.
This is why Star Trek has the Prime Directive. As we have seen this world is not as peaceful, as there are insurrectionists too. Would a pony that gets his hand on human tech would not abuse it? would other kingdoms be happy with the ponies being the one that are representing them and ripping the benefits?
2578465
It was only a fantastical drawing of Andrew's. Plus, Andrew is not a member of the crew. He is a civilian contractor.
Just want to point out: The UNSC has flash cloning technology. They don't need prosthetics or cybernetics, they can just grow new limbs and organs.
Heck, they can flash clone BRAINS (which if you recall is how Cortana was made) and even entire individuals (which is how they kidnapped and replaced the original Spartans without their families noticing).
EDIT: I remembered that Kat has a prosthetic arm, so I looked into things a bit more.
So they've got the ability to quickly replace limbs as I thought, which makes me wonder why Kat didn't have that done instead. I suppose, as a Spartan, even the short time needed for a flash clone was too much for her and/or the mechanical arm provides some benefit in combat.
Also, as 2578465 has pointed out: MJOLNIR armor is one of the most advanced pieces of technology the UNSC has. There is no damn way they'd be willing to let another race get a hold of it, even if they are allies (especially considering said alliance is only a few days old at most). Besides, said armor takes training and... significant augmentation. There is a REASON that only Spartans wear them, and that reason is that they kill anyone else.
Basically, MJOLNIR for the ponies is a terrible idea for everyone involved, no matter how "cool" it might seem from an outside perspective.
EDIT: Ah, okay, so it is just Andrew being whimsical. Nevermind then.
2578741
I was aware flash cloning could be used for growing organs. I wasn't sure if they could use it for limbs as well. Good to know.
2578808
Actually, on further review of the wiki it doesn't specifically mention limbs. It mentions organs, and it mentions entire bodies, so I kind of just assumed... Hm. I mean, it makes sense to me that you would be able to clone entire limbs since, well... you can see where I'd get that idea.
Damn you sci-fi future-tech, why can't you be consistent?
(Theoretically, even if you are limited to either organs or full-clones, you could make a brain-dead full-clone and just harvest the limbs you need).
I thought I remembered seeing/hearing/reading flash-cloning used to grow limbs before, but on further investigation it turned out that was actually from a really damn good fanfic. Ah well.
EDIT: Found this:
So... who the hell even knows?
So in conclusion, it looks like the canonical rules and limitations of flash cloning are poorly defined and so it is completely up to you as the author.
2578572 Well, I mean they are getting medical tech. Not bad per se, but still. Stuff is just happening...too nicely for the ponies. They are getting tech, super duper friendly humans that are fixing them up
I doubt being a civilian contractor would stop ONI from making him dissappear if he were to jeopardize human security by giving stuff away. I mean, they are willing to finance the Sangheili Civil War.
2579042
Again, it was just Andrew fantasizing.
I really like it, but I have always wondered why the halo humans seem so behind in tech.... I've been following the technological progress over the past 20 years and experimental research is progressing at an expenential rate. By the year 2100 we will have all the halo tech and more (not the starships though, problly). In the year 2500 eyes will be replaced with nanotechnology covered steem cell sludge that cost only a few dollars to make per gallon.
Awesome story, regular updates...
Far as I can tell you're doing everything right.
2579061 Ok. Still, why didn't they just clone the parts? Clone tech is pretty common on the UNSC.
2580058
They don't have that kind of facility on a Prowler. I'm not even sure the Hopeful would have that kind of gear. Someplace like New Alexandria would though.
2580063 Would make more sense to ask for that as a gesture of good faith than to ask for advanced prostetics. According to this they are more advanced with cloning than prostetics, and that way they can regulate technology in equestria a bit easier. Like in Deus Ex, some people are shunned for having robotics and are even killed for their parts. A cloned part presents not such risk, and flash clones can't be exploided for like soldiers and such.
2580080
True, thankfully I have time to decide which route to take. But yes, this is a very valid point. The problem with flash cloning goes back to this point. 2578925
Flash cloning would fit perfectly for things like organs, blood, and bone marrow. I would nee to find evidence that limbs could be transplanted with this method before integrating it into the story.
And yes, there are ethical dilemmas surrounding helping the ponies with prosthetic medical technology.
2580099 Well some people say that its because arms and legs are more complex than a single organ. Still they can clone a whole body, without sentience, and transplant it. We can reattach body parts this days, so I would guess in Halo's time that wouldn't be a problem. Plus we don't see much of the medical progress in games and books so you got some room there. Mass Effect is less advanced than Halo and they clone limbs and whole bodies.
And well there is the whole thing with human and ponies not being the same anatomically, so a cloned limb would have less trouble than a robotic limb. Then there is maintenance, etc.
2580177
True, however, for the sake of this story I am going to rule that transplanting entire limbs via flash cloning is not a viable option.
DM Ruling:
Limb transplants would have been attempted in the early 22nd century, but the use of advanced prosthetic limbs was more cost effective and safer than trying to grow and attach a new limb. The research has been ongoing and new trials are happening to see if a flash cloned limb can perform just as well as a robotic prosthetic. Currently the cost to flash clone someone is much higher than buying a robotic prosthetic.
They want to make armour for the ponies? What happened to First Contact protocol? I thought they weren't allowed to give or tell about such advanced technology to a race with inferior tech.
Poor humans, have been with magical ponies for almost a week and they still didn't get to know anything about magic and how it works.
Great chapter like usual keep up the good work! Although I'm a 'lil bit concerned that the ponies are doing a bit too good.
2580617
See 2579061
2582044
I'm glad someone noticed the horrible joke there.
Nice but one thing, Humanity wouldn't be so comfortable giving an alien race they just met their technology. I'd develop the friendship between them a good amount before you go there.
Great story so far!Hopefully you won´t add the Covenant into it.
Also remember that even though the Ponies could be considered primitive,they can still have something valuable to offer-even an ordinary item for them can be invaluable to UNSC.
Perhaps a material or something that they can create with the help of magic,like magical....crystals?
I really have to wonder if we will see the beginning of magic based technology.
This goes nicely so far. Now have a few pictures.
Couldnt find a proper "Spartan Celestia" so have Luna instead.
fc01.deviantart.net/fs71/i/2012/311/d/1/gamer_luna_is_ready_for_halo_4_by_johnjoseco-d5kbj7c.jpg
German CEO of a medical company? I hope its not this guy.
th08.deviantart.net/fs70/PRE/f/2010/365/0/1/01f5f35e1b98a3881d9a5db4aa0cc5a4-d363urn.jpg
how...
fc06.deviantart.net/fs70/i/2013/096/9/f/shiny_kaylee_by_nonsensical_thinks-d60p01n.jpg
2598839
I actually have that Luna pic as my phone screen saver.
WTF is Daniel an doctor now? Either that or he was the medic for his ODST squad, which could work!
Edit: Ok so now he knows everyone important in the UNSC?
I love it but human rules one O one never give an ally access to technology that you hold dear. This is why even now our nations will not share secret projects/ weapon testing
My god all mighty, this guy. KILL HIM, EXTERMINATE THE WHOLE CREW, ALL OF THEM ARE SCUM!
I know you are rewriting the story at the moment, but I wanted to post a few things. I haven't finished the chapter yet, but here's what I noticed. Just some talking points and you don't have to take em. Trying to help though.
-Your triage system is wrong. Military and hospitals are color coded by status. I attached a photo of the bands we use at the hospital for triage.
0-Deceased/soon to be deceased
1-Critical
2-Injured, not critical
3-Light injury/walking wounded
-Why is the Captain giving medical treatment? Combat treatment is not actual medical care. Capt would need (at minimum) a nursing degree before he's handed a needle.
Also injecting ANYTHING into the jugular/carotid is pretty much insta death. You are wanting an intramuscular injection with a 25ga 1.5" needle with aspiration. AKA long as needle jammed into the meat of a leg or butt. Pull back on plunger. IF blood enters the syringe, it means you struck a vein and have to restick. If not, slow and steady push. Standard treatment for smoke inhalation is O2. IF severe, they check for damage with a scope and possibly use a hyperbaric chamber. Sure as hell wouldn't intubate a patient, let alone a conscious one. Liquids + lungs is also very bad. Lungs heal remarkably well, so it is largely just clearing the crud out naturally or with an expectorant.
For the record, I was admin at the hospital but picked up everything I could as I would like to go clinical at some point. The injection bit is from personal experience as I have to give myself IM shots every week, and sub q shots several times a day. Not fun.
mcitrailers.com/images/wristbands.jpg
3324803 How about artificial limbs and eyes? That is the advance technology he is giving, unless I misread something.
going, not doing
Wonder what the reaction of the nobles will be...
I don't think I like the idea of Celestia having a Spartan laser. She already has the power of the sun what more does she need
7142962
A laser is basically focused energy right, and the sun gives off a near infinite amount. So imagine that Celly used a bit of her power on said S.L to use her energy instead, Now imagine a fraction of the sun's power focused so much that it escapes from the S.L with only a foot of diameter for the Laser heading towards whatever it was shot at. Instantaneous Disintegration!!!
Ok, so our ODST captain that can do no wrong is now also a doctor, and another uber-ceo joins the cast as a close friend of his. Oh, and the princesses are basically helpless puppies so far. This is getting so far out there it hurts. I'm going to finish reading anyway, we'll see if anything changes.
I know you want to rewrite this, so have a recommendation: more characters. This entire thing revolves around just Daniel and what he does could, and should, be split between more characters. Keep Daniel as a captain, but allow him to delegate more. Leave fieldwork to the Spartans, and develop Dior as a character. You have a engineer, though he is also a bit out there. Add a doctor who gets to study these new beings, and maybe even a scientist that gets to freak out about magic, and you could get a far more interesting cast. And don't forget, characters without flaws are incomplete.
Edit: coming back a few chapters later to say that other characters do start to appear in the story. The writing does develop a bit more as this goes on, we'll see how it finishes.
Spartans neeed special procedures to even use the armor
Yep, Captain boy running around treating injured horsies is as far as I get.
Hope you at least had fun writing this.
what. was. that?