> Xenophage: Part 1
>  by slayer792
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Prologe
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	After getting thrown in the Galaxy Nexus, Orion was greeted by The Guardian Angel. She tasked him with the duty of gods. Help each dimension with the largest and smallest problems of their time. If he were to die, he would be returned to the Nexus for the next dimension. At first Orion was going to accept without question, but he asked her three questions:

The first was if he was gone for a hundred years would he return home a hundred years in the future. The Angel answered with ‘no’.

The second was to be expected would he get any help? The Angel answered ‘yes’ but only when he compelled some of his tasks.

The last was what everyone would have asked in the first place. Why could you not do this? The Angel’s reply was delayed as she broke down crying. She had done this for six hundred years. She did what the previous had done. Track down and summon two replacements. Orion happened to be one of them. She said the other killed her self five hundred years ago. She just disappeared from her home and ended up in the “Underworld”. 

Orion agreed to help. But only on one condition, he was to receive his two younger brothers, James and John, as well as his friends Nathan and his younger sister with Zach. The Angel agreed and summoned all five. Oddly James and John both were as tall as Orion. Zach seemed to have grown a few inches. Nathan was still the same height. Nathan’s sister was much taller than before. She was now up to Nathan’s chin. The Guardian Angel gave all her power and more to Orion and Nathan, seeing as they were the oldest and smartest. Nathan was tasked with the creation of general chaos. His sister and Zack were tasked to help him. Orion questioned why? The Angel replied with the symbol of Yin and Yang. Nothing more was said. The Angel returned to her home and left Orion and Nathan in charge. All of them were given new names. Orion was give The names Life and Order. Nathan Death and Chaos. Both ruled Time and Space. James Justice and Truth. Zach Crime and lies. John Peace and Love. Layla War and Heartache. Each was given the task of the other’s opposite. Orion and Nathan looked at each other. A single thought worked it’s way into both their heads, Equestria.
> Calm before the storm
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Xenophage
Equestria
Chapter I
Calm before the Storm

The land of Equestria is one of most peaceful worlds in the multi-vers. But due to the new Guardian’s intervention, Equestria was blessed with a bright new mind, Silver Shard. He was fascinated with weapon and war. The wars of old and the causes of them were his favorites, the weapons Ponies, Griffins, Hippogrifs, Diamond Dog, and Dragons were also high on his level of interest. Silver published several books on the subjects. He also made and designed many. But his work was cut short due to the Solar princess’s orders. He had committed several none public laws. Many came to his aid, however he refused their help and accepted his punishment. He was executed the following day. Silver’s legacy lives on, once again due to the Guardian’s intervention. His weapon designs were blow out his office window as he was being executed. Most made their was in to a blacksmith’s forge, some were burned. However many of those were saved and stored by the master’s apprentice. In his desk they lay, waiting for the day they will be built, by unknowing hooves, who are unaware of the curse laced with the designs.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~	


“Fine job with that sword! It looks as if it were meant for a king!” Yelled a small Pixie as she looked over the grey glowing sword.

“Thanks, Tix. But this is just for display. You know the laws. Can’t believe I forgot about Silver’s papers. Did you know he meant to give this sword to Prince Blueblood?” beamed the grey eyed stallion. True Blueblood the tenth was meant to be given the sword, but that day was taken due to Silver’s execution. 

“No, wasn't Blueblood a bit of an ass?” asked Tix. The stallion raised one eye brow.

“Yeah, IX was, X was the dashing knight in shining armor.” said the stallion as he placed the sword in the sheath display case. “And when did you start swearing, Tix?” asked the stallion.

“A few hundred years ago, Iron, back in the Hippogriff kingdom.” said Tix to the stallion who’s name is apparently Iron.

“Fare enough, so what’s the work order look like today?” asked Iron as he picked up a wet cloth with his magic and began to whip away the soot to reveal his bright white coat, and black mane.

“Well, Miss Apple Bloom has ordered a few more barrel rings, she said a few barrels need new one, Little McIntosh will be here around six thirty for seven of them, Twisted Spells needs some..... two parts iron and one part copper heat coil? Here’s a picture of one.” Tix made a picture of the coil with her magic.

“I know what they look like, he’s been burning through them for weeks.” said Iron as he walked in to the storage section and started to retrieve seven barrel rings.

“Oh!, and the Cakes need one of those giant cake holders.” said Tix as she slowly flew to the weapon case. “When did you finish the cross bow?” asked Tix as she picked up one of it’s darts.

“I don’t think I’ll finish the Cake’s order today, and I finished the cross bow a few hours ago as I wait for the oven heat up and for you to get up.” called out Iron as he came out of storage with a round box, no doubt containing seven barrel rings. I’ll start work on the coil, you get some breakfast, and I want you to go out and make a few new friends.”

“I’m okay with the first part but not the last.”

“Too bad, make some friends. I need some where to kick you out to.”

“Okay, but you are NOT kicking me out.” that was the end of the conversation. Iron just let out a small chuckle as Tix ‘walked’ off to the kitchen. KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK came Iron’s door.

“One moment!” yelled Iron was he ran to his station and opened up the shop. “How can I help you sir or madam?” asked Iron in his best sales pony voice he could conger up.

“Hello, I would like to perches some display weapons. Do you have any I can choose from?” asked a rather imposing stallion.

“Uh, yes, I do have some, but I would have to make new ones. Come with me to the back a we can dicuss this in private. Tix please watch the store.” With that a Pixie covered with toast crumbs flew out of a hole in the wall. The tall stallion followed Iron into the back of the shop. “Now sir, what would you like to see?” the stallion was quick to reply.

“I would like to see all you have to offer, as long as it is legal.” The stallion seemed quite real yet some thing about him made Iron feel uneasy.

“Very well mister, uh?” Once again he was quick

“Order. My name is Order.” replied Order. Iron raised an eye brow but brushed off every thought that told him to run.
“Very well, Mister Order, come with me I have already made almost all the designs I have.” Iron lead Order to a iron door, almost glowing with shielding spells. Iron unlocked the heavy lock and let it fall to the ground. The sound of the lock hitting the ground made all the shield spells drop. Both stallions walked into the room filled with weapons. Order looked around his eye widened as he took in all the weapons.

“My, how long did it take you to make all of these?” asked Order as he surveyed the vast arrangement of weapons. Almost every type of sword, mace, flayl, spear, axe, dagger, and shield.

“About six weeks, but that’s when I’m on my time, if it were a project I would have finished them sooner.” This made a wicked smile cross Order’s face.

“Very good. What else is there?” Iron was almost insulted when he asked that, almost.

“I have two more, a shield and sword. Both were said to have come th Silver Shard in a dream.”“I’ll am very impressed, I would love one of each. I’ll pay one thousand bits for each. I expect they will be delivered to Cotton Cove in one month, no sooner.” with that Order slowly walked out. Iron was arrangement , one thousand bit for even a dagger? He was going to take great care with each if her were to meet the dead line of one month.

“Tix, tell the Cakes their order is being pushed back. But before you do it make sure it’s not urgent.” said Iron as he sat on the floor of the weapon storage room. Only one question remained in his mind after seven minutes of waiting. Why did Order order weapons?
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
One profile of each or the characters will be put up at the end of each chapter.

\/ Chapter I Profile \/

Name: Orion D. Wilder [Officer]
Age: 20
Eye color: Brown
Hair color: Black
Height: 6‘1
Weight: 215.6
Race: Human, Native American
Affiliation: Brotherhood of Steel, New Brotherhood of Steel, Enclave, and Common Wealth of Great Britain
Rank: High General of the Brotherhood / Star Palidian of the New Brotherhood/ 4 Star General/ High Praetorian
Karma: Neutral
S: 10 P: 9 E: 10 C: 9 I: 10 A: 9 L: 9
Perks: Rad Resistance [25% more resistance], and Rad Requiem [75% more resistance], Grim Reaper’s Sprint, Action Boy, Solar Powered, Night Person, Infiltrator, Computer Whiz, Robotics Expert, Cyborg, Adamantium Skeleton, Animal Friend [Rank 2], Silent Running, Light Step, Strong Back [Rank 5], Commando, Sniper, Toughness, Bloody Mess, Iron Fist, Child at Heart, Nerves of Steel, Almost Perfect, Nuclear Anomaly. 
Master Perks: Hematophage, Wired Reflexes, Rad Regeneration, Auto Expert, Ghoul Ecology, Xenotech Expert, Covert Ops., Power Armour Training, Ant Might, Survival Expert, Booster Shot, Pitt Fight, Punga Power, and Superior Defender.
> Brewing of the Storm
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Xenophage
Equestria
Chapter II
Brewing of the Storm


_________________________________________________________________________________________________


“So, is it set?”asked one of the five cloaked figures in the holo-screen

“Yes, he’ll deliver the weapons and we’ll emerge with full power, I fear the Solar Princess is on to us, Silver Shard was killed some time ago.” said the sixth cloaked figure.

“I see, Luna is you main concern. Celestia is old and misguided. Luna had over a thousand years to rest. Add the seven hundred years Celestia was alive before Luna’s birth. Luna could even be listening as we speak. Be careful little brother, she is quite clever, for a pony.” finished the largest one.

“Remember John, we must place the protection fields once we all regain full power.” said the tall slender figure.

“Boys, let us finish our talk once John has returned. As you said Orion, Luna could be watching and listening. John return at once and will pick form, armor, and weapons for the verse.” With that the holo-screen flickered and died. John closed his eye, extended his wings, and jumped. He shot a bolt of magic and it created a portal. On the other side were five figures, two were still in the robes.

“Well, my time a pony was fun, kinda, not really, it sucked.” said John as he touched down and began to glow, brighter and brighter until all had to look away, when the light dimmed all that stood in front of the five was a short, tough looking, brown haired teen. “Miss me much?”

“Not really.” came the third tallest, who looked just as strong as Orion.

“Aw, I missed you too, James, It warms my heart to know you care.” came a very Orion comment from John. 

“Yeah, yeah, so how long?” asked the the forth boy.

“About seven inches.” Came the deathly voice of Nathan. Zed physically groaned as his mind registered the comment.

“No, I mean how much longer?” asked Zed as he walked over to a tower of light.

“About six inches longer than you.” came Orion’s soothing, yet poisonous voice.

“God damn it!! Never mind!” boomed Zed as he walked off and turned to smoke as he did so.

“To answer Zed’s question, about a month. The Equestrian Equinox is due then. We’ll be more powerful than one any other day.” replied John.

“Good, let’s suit up, grab our gear and play a few games of Texas Hold ’em!” squeaked Layla. Nathan gave her an odd look but shrugged it off.

The gear they chose was no surprise. Orion and Nathan picked matching suits power amour for all. The armour is a mix of Brotherhood of Steel, Enclave, NCR, Legion, and Big Mt. Sneaky Suit. The shoulders is T-51b, with exception of Orion and Nathan, who adore the Warrior left shoulder plate. Hellfire leggings, T-45d helmets for John and James and T-51b for Layla and Zed, once again Orion and Nathan were the exceptions, both wore Legate Lanius’s mask. NCR Ranger Riot gear and Big Mt. Sneaky Suit guts fill the suits for full A.I. interface, added sneak, blast resistance, active camouflage, radar, HUD and low light vision. Over all the armor adds:

+25% Fire Resistance
+75% Sneak
+35% Blast Resistance
and +15% Rad Resistance

“Nathan, what do you think?” asked Layla as she spun around wearing her power armor. Nathan made a slight nod in approval. “So, will this? Is it right? Bit evil don’t you think?” asked Layla as she watched Nathan strap on his boots.

“Yeah, but Orion and I have mixed opinions. Talk to him, but don’t worry.” Nathan finished with a wink. Layla rolled her eyes and she walked over to John who was busy his Sneaky Suit A.I. He looked up from his work to greet his guest.

“Yeah, hey cool mix right, looks great doesn't. Mind asking Zed about the low light optics?” Layla just responded with a small nod. She walked over to a struggling James who happened to forget how to set up the A.I. systems. He glanced up, gave her a weak smile and made a gesture to Zed. Layla accepted the gesture and walked over to Zed.

“So, did you out fit everyone with low light optics?” asked Layla as Zed picked up his T-51b helmet and placed it in his head.

“Yeah I did, Orion asked me to. Nathan agreed, said ‘We all need to able to kill shit in the dark.’” Layla, who’s helmet is now in her left hand, made and ‘O’ with her mouth. She finished her short trip by stopping by the Sprite Of Order himself. 
“So, what do you think of the plan?”

“I think it may or may not be the evilest fucking thing I have ever done. Discord might even turn to the ‘good’ side.” said Orion as he placed his helmet on his head. “How’s that armor fitting?” Orion gestured to her armor.

“Oh, you, Zed, and Nathan did a great job.” said Layla as he typed in a few words into her APB. 

“Did you pick any weapons yet?” asked Orion and he add a few touches to his armor.

“No, I have no clue what to pick, feel like helping me?” asked Layla as he walked past Orion, he glanced over to Nathan and John who were helping each other with their armor. Then to Zed and James who were doing the same. With a shrug Orion followed Layla to the weapon bench. ‘Funny’ Orion thought. ‘We’re gods and we still use things that mortals use.’

“Okay, let’s grab the basics. Pistol, SMG, Assault Rifle, Shotgun, LMG, and Sniper Rifle.” commanded Orion, and Layla obeyed, even among these god like figues he held a strong sway. For a pistol she picked the most famous pistol of all time, the 44. Magnum Sliding Pistol. Orion made the same choice. She then reached for a 9mm SMG, Orion reached for a 10mm SMG. Layla reached for a M8 Avenger Assault Rifle, Orion reached for a MA5B Assault Rifle. Layla reach for an AA-12 Full-auto Shotgun, Orion reached for a COG Gnasher Shotgun. Layla skipped the LMG, Orion reached for an old German MG-42. Layla reached for a 50 caliber Anti-mater Rifle, Orion reached for a COG Longshot Sniper Rifle. “Okay, add what you will to your weapons, just make sure you can still use them.” said Orion as he walked away with all his weapons strapped on to is back and both legs. Layla felt odd to see some who looks up to her brother and who her brother looks up to, seeming to be extremely intimidating and extremely caring at the same time. Orion and Celestia have much in common thought Layla as she loaded her weapons. A navy esk alarm went off. Orion’s voice came over the silents of the temple. “It’s time, load up, gear up, and fall in!” boomed Orion’s voice as a bright began to shine at the back of the temple. Everyone said good bye to their new home.

The bright light nearly blinded Iron and Tix. But what came next, Tix wished she died in the light.





_________________________________________________________________________________________________

\/ Chapter II Profile \/		
Name: Nathan [Slayer]
Age: 21
Eye color: Light Grey
Hair color: Black/ Brown
Height: 6‘1 
Weight: 180.7
Race: Human, Caucasian
Affiliation: Brotherhood of Steel [Mojave & D.C. Chapters], Boomers, Enclave Remnants, Big Mt., The Divide, Rockwell, Gun Runners, and The New California Republic, headhunters, The Reapers, and The People.
Rank: Plebeian 
Karma: Neutral
S: 10 P: 10 E: 10 C: 4 I: 9 A: 9 L: 10
Perks: Commando, Center of Mass, Explorer, Jury rigging, Mad Bomber, Wheres My Pants??, Night Person, Infiltrator, Computer Whiz, Robotics Expert, Cyborg, Adamantium Skeleton, Xenophobic, Pipboy Upgrade, Run Like the  Winds, Power Armour Training, Sniper, Strongback [rank 4], bloody mess, Unexpected Happiness,and Wild Wasteland.
Master Perks: Fading Fingerprints,  Destiny Gambler, Chaos-Master, and Inner Beast.
> Thundering Storm
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Xenophage
Equestria
Chapter III
Thundering Storm
Cotton Cove
__________________________________________________________________________________

As Iron shielded his eyes from the intense light, the question that he asked himself over a month ago, was answered. This is what Order wanted the weapons for. Silver and his work were cursed.

“Iron, I don’t think this was meant to happen!” Yelled Tix as she hid behind Iron’s mane.

“No, I think this is what Order wanted. He wanted this to happen!” Yelled Iron.

“Indeed, this is what I sent by younger brother to do. Made him use my name, and do my will!” Boomed a voice from the ring of weapons.

“That is fucking cheesy!!” Came a grim and threatening one.

“So what? It’s true. I don’t lie.” Came the first voice again. Iron knew both were male, but who were they?

“You are wondering who we are.” Came a very feminine voice. “And you shall know. We are the new Guardians of the Universe!” Boomed the feminine voice. Iron now knew what they wanted, or did he?

“We have come to help restore order, peace, and justice in Equestria.” Came the second voice. With his eyes still shielded.

“Why did you need the weapons then, Couldn’t you just enter?” Asked Iron as he took a few steps back.

“Could you enter you home with no door?” Asked a new voice, this one deep and strong. Iron shock his head in response. As he did the light dimmed. Only to reveal six massive Titans. The tallest appeared taller than Princess Celestia herself. The shortest looked to be just a bit taller than Princess Luna.

“Take us to the castle of Princess Celestia and Princess Luna, we have business to discuss.” Came the first voice, Order’s voice. Iron weighed his options, run and get struck down within moments, or obey and take them to the castle.
“Iron, take them to the castle, the princess will know what to do.” whispered Tix behind Iron's mane.

“We can hear you, Pixie.” spat a new voice. Tix revealed her self in hopes they would ignore her. Her hopes were not false. “Good, now lead on Iron Hooves. We don’t want to be late to the party.” sneered the voice once again. Iron slowly turned and started to walk. The door of weapon fell to the ground and became nothing more than a pile of steel.

__________________________________________________________________________________

Canterlot Castle.

“Sister, this year’s Equinox went off without a hitch! Usually it’s a mess without Miss. Sparkle.” Beamed Luna as she and Celestia walk down the halls of the castle.

“Yes, Twilight is a major help to most festivals. The Wonderbolts were grand as well.” said Celestia and they turned a corner.

“Yes, Miss. Dash has really improved their performance. And the dresses Miss. Rarity made for you and I are simply exquisite!” cheered Luna.

“Sister, do you fell, weak some times?” asked Celestia as she dropped her head towards the floor.

“No, what do you mean sister?” ask Luna as she helped her sister up.

“Nightmare Moon, Discord, Queen Chrysalis, King Somber, and The Griffin Horde. All defeated by the Elements of Harmony, not by our armies or us, by six fillies.” Luna now understood why Celestia was so gloomy for the past few days. She felt weak.

“Don’t worry sister, soon you will like feel yourself, when you do you’ll feel silly for ever thinking you’re weak.” Mused Luna.

“I hope you’re right sister, anyway let’s get to the court.” said Celestia as she started a brisk trot.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

Canterlot main gate.

“Hey, ever wonder why we’re here?” asked one of the two grey stallions beside the gate.

“No, we have a job to do. Even with the slim chance an enemy would attack Equestria, crush the army and the Elements of Harmony, we still need to stand guard.” said the second stallion.

“What? No I mean why are we here, breathing and talking? Is this all just a cosmic-" "Halt!” the first stallion was unable to continue talking thanks to six approaching creatures lead by a lone pony.

“Easy, You their what is you business creature?!” asked the second guard. The stallion stopped but the other six kept walking. Both guards looked at each other and nodded. The gate became engulfed in white magic and both guards approached the approaching creature, spears drawn.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Guardian point of view

“Should we stop?” asked William.

“No draw your weapons, but hold fire until I say so.” said Orion as he pull's out his Lancer. The rest did the same. 
“Remember Nathan. Gain their trust, help them, then we crush them.”

“No need to tell me, as long as we fix it.” said Nathan as he cycled his Riot Shotgun.

“Of course, no need to leave a broken world in our wake.” Said Layla as she readied her Anti-material rifle.
“Agreed,” said both William and Gaz in sync. Orion looked back to see Zed slowly nod in agreement.

“Okay, just walk past the guard, if they fire, keep walking, you’ll be fine.”

“Halt, state you business in Canterlot."

“None of your concern, step a side.”

“Not going to happen, we don’t let animals walk around freely in this city." This sent Nathan over the edge. He rusted ahead and picked the stallion up by the horn with his left hand and broke it. 

“You feel like calling me an animal? I’ll show you an animal!” Boomed the angry man. Nathan reached for his knife only to be stopped by Orion's hand.

“We have more pressing matters. Layla, fix him up.” said Orion as he held the handle of Nathan knife. Nathan was ready to kill the guard, but he decided to wait and come back later.

“Fine, you win. We’ll settle this later.” Said Nathan as he pointed at the stallion who’s horn he'd broken off.

“Halt! You are under arrest for the beating of a Canterlot Royal Guard, put your hooves where I can see them and get on you knees!” yelled the second guard. Orion raised his Lancer.

“Do you want to find out what happens to a pony’s skull when six 7.62mm rounds hit it?” Asked Orion as he took a step closer, this made the guard shake with fear.

“Do you feel lucky punk, do you?” asked Zed as he joined Orion. 

“You will take us to both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna now. Or we can just march through this city, mowing down anyone or thing how resists.” said Orion as he lowered his weapon and gestured to the gate. “We know they will both be in the court at the same time today and today alone.” The guard swallowed as he tried to make a decision. As he was doing this the first guard got to his feet and readied him self. 

“Fine, do not harm anyone else, we will lead you to them.” With that comment everyone could hear Nathan rolling his eyes. James looked towards the gate, what he saw was odd, the street up to the beta ring of the castle was filled with apartment and shops that sold all, he saw signs that sold three cherries for two bits. Another sold a box of potatoes for one. Ones who sold solid gold necklaces encrusted with Rubies, Diamonds, Emeralds, and other gems for only 100, ‘Most people would lose their minds looking at this. Half of this stuff is so out of order.’ thought James.

“Hurry up, or we’ll leave you for the wolves!” Yelled Zed as the group walked up to the wide road. As they did so, only few stared, maybe seeing odd creatures in Canterlot was normal for them. The thoughts were quickly replaced with ones of being on one of the many battle field's he had to fight through to help others to get to his brother’s side. James tried to forget about the battles, however the harder he tried to suppress them, the harder they tried to get out.

“Gaz, stop day dreaming. I know this is your life long dream, but come on, we got work to do.” Yelled Orion from the top of the hill next to the beta gate. James shrugged off most of his thoughts and began to focus on the matter at hand offering a helping hand to Celestia and Luna, with the encounter with the guards the chances of having it dropped drastically.

“Hey, Orion we need to talk.” Whispered Nathan. Orion looked up from the small bits of paper he was looking over and signing.

“Let’s continue this later, we’ll go in, in a few.” Said Orion as he walked over to Nathan who was leaning against the stone wall. “What’s on your mind?” Asked Orion as he joined Nathan. 

“It’s Layla. We made it so she’ll only remember this on her 20th birthday, but she has been looking at James and John alot in the past month. I feel uneasy. Should I feel happy or sad for her? When she remembers she's more than likely to have a boy friend.” Said Nathan as he looked down the hill at James.

“Nathan, you do know girls usually have a boyfriend or two in high school and collage right? She’ll just think of it as flirting or the boy she used to know.” Said Orion as he congered up an apple and took a bite.

“You’re right, I’m just being stupid.” Said Nathan as he took the apple from Orion and pulled out his knife to cut Orion’s bite off and took a bite from it.

“No, you’re just being a big brother. It’s natural to be protective of her.” Said Orion as he took the apple back.

“Um, sorry to disturb you, but uh, could I perhaps ask if your a human?” Came a light, sweet voice that seemed to crack up.

“Yes Lyra, we are humans. We’ll stop by and you can do SOME tests, only if the princesses say we can stay and d our tasks.” Said Orion without looking down or look away from the skyline.

“How, how do you know my name?” Asked Lyra, Orion stopped dead. He just made a mistake. He need to think of something fast. Great!, think think think think! Oh got! thought Orion.

“I can read people’s thoughts, well in this case ponie’s thoughts. I read your mind quickly and learned you name. It only happens every now and then." This wasn’t a lie. Orion could ‘read’ someone’s mind from time to time.

“Oh, can all humans do that?” Asked Lyra. 

“No, and I would think you would be acting like Pinkie Pie right now.” Said Orion right before he took another bite.

“No, my mother, Lyra would be.” Once again Orion stopped dead. 'This is Lyra’s daughter? Is Bon Bon the ‘father’? If so magic works wonders.' He thought.

“Really, who’s your father?” Asked Orion.

“oh, I have two mothers. Lyra and Bon Bon, they used magic so Bon Bon could, uh, you know.” Said Lyra with the biggest blush on her face.

“Do you all ways talk about your parent's in the bedroom?” Asked Nathan as he types some thing into his Pipboy pulling out two dice, rolling them across the ground getting a three on one and a four on the other. the familiar sound meaning 'prepare for the consequences' coming from his pipboy.

“No, I don’t. Well, stop by the Ponyville Hospital, my mother and I treat non-ponies out of a quarter of the hospital. She be thrilled six humans have come to Equestria, to help us none the less! Bye!” Said Lyra in a rather cheerful tone. 
“Come on let’s get in this castle.” Barked Zed as he unloaded and reloaded is revolver.

“Right, pass the pen and paper” Said Orion as he walked over and began to sign

__________________________________________________________________________________

Name: Zak P. [Z/Zed]
Age: 20
Eye color: Blue
Hair color: Black
Height: 5‘11
Weight: 198.3
Race: Human, Caucasian
Affiliation: Brotherhood of Steel [Mojave Chapter], Boomers, Big Mt., The Divide, and The New California Republic.
Rank: N/A
Karma: Neutral
S: 9 P: 9 E: 10 C: 8 I: 9 A: 8 L: 7
Perks: Commando, Center of Mass, Explorer, Jury rigging, Mad Bomber, Wheres My Pants, Pipboy Upgrade, Run Like Winds, Sniper, Strongback, Unexpected Happiness, Wild Wasteland, and Power Armour Training.
> Eye of the Storm
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Xenophage
Equestria
Eye of the Storm
__________________________________________________________________________________
Ponyville General Hospital
__________________________________________________________________________________

“A. Real. Live. HUMAN?!?!” Boomed Lyra.

“Yes, apposed to a fake dead one.” Dead panned Bon-Bon. “Lyra said the humans would come and see you and let you do test and what not.” This made Lyra’s eye huge.

“R-really? They’re coming? YES! This is going to be my big break!” Screamed Lyra as he hopped up and down on her desk.

“Okay calm down, you have an appointment in five minutes. A Griffin named.... Gilda. She wants to talk to you about a few things, mainly child birth.” Said Bon Bon as she walked back to the lobby of the hospital. 'Right. Gilda, Gilda is the princess of the Rainclaw family, right? What ever as long as it’s not too creepy I’ll tell her about it, now where are those muffins Ditzy gave me?' Thought Lyra as she looked through he desk for her not so deserved treat.

“Hey, mom. I’m heading back to Canterlot now. I’ll see you when school ends?” Asked Lyra as she walked into her mother’s office.

“Oh, that’s right you’re heading off the high school today, sorry got rapped up in work.” Said Lyra as she walked over to her daughter.

“Don’t worry mom, I know what you’re like. I’ll see you in a few months?” Asked Lyra as she hugged her mother.

“Yeah, have fun, a word of advice, don’t drink too much punch. It’s always, always! Spiked.” Said Lyra as she trotted back to her desk.

“Yeah, mother told me the same thing.” Said Lyra as she walked out the door. Be safe, don’t drink the punch. Thought Lyra as she looked out her window to watch her daughter get on the school carriage. Knock, knock, knock sounded the door.

“Hey, ugh, Doctor Lyra Heartstrings? Yeah, the receptionist told me to come in.” Said the voice of no doubt, Gilda.

“Yes, have a seat. What can I help you with?” Asked Lyra as she sat down in her odd pose.

“I am really embarrassed talking about this. Me and my girlfriend want a kid. But she’s a pony, normally I would just talk to a Griffin doctor about this but that’s too far away for me right now.”

“Well” started Lyra.
__________________________________________________________________________________
Canterlot alpha gate. Two hours prior to the interaction with Lyra and Orion.

“Did you see that?” Asked Iron.

“No, but I heard it.” Replied Tix. True, both were staring at the group and only saw one bolt to the one of the two guards and snap his horn off without effort.

“He broke the guards horn off, he didn’t even try. He just did it!” Said Iron with a squeak in his voice. Rightfully so too, a Unicorn’s horn is one of the strongest bones of any creature. It needs to be because of all the magic that courses through it.

“Looks like you made the right call, we for us anyway. Let’s head back to the shop. I still need breakfast.” Said Tix as she tugged on Iron’s mane.

“Yeah, let’s see if a train at the station. I’d hate if I had to walk back.” Replied Iron as he slowly walked back towards the train station.
__________________________________________________________________________________
Ponyville Blacksmith shop.

“So, how do you think the princesses are going to react to the creatures?” Asked Tix as she hefted the salt shaker to her plate of eggs.

“No, clue, try to have them hung? Be-headed? Or let free to do their business. Who knows, either way we’re going to pay for it.” Said Iron as he made his way to the front of the shop to open it. Just then his friend, Buck, came half walking and half trotting in due to a gust of wind.

“Hey, Iron. A lot of people are talking about the creatures that are going to see the princesses. They say you met ‘em. Care the fill me in?” Asked the southern accented colt.

“Yeah, guess I could tell you. You want the long version or the short?” Asked Iron as he pulled out his chair. 
“The long one brony!” Said Buck. Iron sighed.

“Well my day started normal enough, until this stallion walked in, you could easily mistaken him for Celestia, if he had wings.” Said Iron as he began to tell Buck about the story.

__________________________________________________________________________________
Apple family orchard

“Little Mac, mind getting the plow out for me? Buck ran off to ponyville.” Said an elderly, pale green mare who sat on an old rocking chair.

“Yes granny!” Replied a spry young voice of a colt. This colt took after his father in many ways. He had his father’s red coat, his pale orange mane, his dark green eyes, and even his height and strength. But he had his mother’s ideals, attitude, and brains. Yeah, Little McIntosh got the best parts of his parents, only if his mother was still around to admire them. His father was around but he’s almost always at Canterlot thanks to the war. “Buck if I ever get my hooves on you, you’ll regret ever skipping out on work.” Whispered Little Mac as he pulled out the old heavy plow. Buck is the son of Applejack and Clad Steel, he takes after his mother’s attitude and laziness, true he works in the fields for hours, but he slacks off every time one of his friends come by. True he does his work, but Applebloom, Little McIntosh, and Babs do the extra work that has piled up thanks to Big McIntosh and Applejack being in Canterlot helping the military with the war effort. “Babs, mind giving me a hoof?” Asked Little Mac as he came to a slow stop.

“Don’t worry little colt, Babs in on the case!” Said Babs in her very Manehatten voice as he pushed the plow.

“Thanks, Buck really dropped the apple when he left, I’m not use to doing this.” Said Little Mac as he made his way to the farm house. 

“Don’t worry ‘bout it! Best cousin Applebloom did this by her self for some time when ya dad was really sick.”

“Ture, but come on, this is really hard!” Yelled Little Mac as he made one last tug.

“If you kept calm and quite you could have done this by ya self. Ya, know, conserving energy and all that.” Said Babs as she walked in the farm house. “Eh!, Applebloom, your turn to oil the plow. Keep him nice and clean!” Yelled Babs. 
“Don’t yell so laud. You could scare Granny Smith.” Said Little Mac as he unhooked him self.

“You and I both know Granny Smith can’t hear too well, she probably never even hear me.” Said Babs in a low tone.
“Oh, I can hear you just fine, Babs.” Babs’s face went pale. Just then Granny Smith started to laugh lightly. 

“Well, Babs, looks like I’m right.” Said Little Mac as he past her to enter the farm house. No doubt to get a glass of water. Babs stood there for a few moments longer, but then shrugged it off to feed Waunona. Before she could Applebloom came flying around the corner and slammed in to her.

“Sorry, can’t stop, gotta go!" Yelled Applebloom as she ran to the barn. Now what in the hay was that about? wondered Babs, then she smelled it, the brewer was backing up, and sending yeast everywhere. Looks like the Apple Elixir is out of commission for a while.
__________________________________________________________________________________
Ponyville Common goods store

“What? Oh, okay, That’s not good, well okay, bye.” Said as Pink maned Unicorn mare who was on the phone.
“What happened?” Asked another mare.

“The Apple Family brewer has shot the hay, mixed the Mead with the Wine, Elixer, Coffee beans and messed up the furnace. And Big MacIntosh is away in Canterlot for the next week, so no one can fix it, but we’ll still get the shipments from the Flim & Flam soda factory.” Replied the pink maned Unicorn. Ring ring ring. The near silence of the room was quickly squashed.

“Hello, Ponyville Commons goods store at your serves, you need wood, steel, or tools we have them, need some junks food for a big game we got that too.” Said the Unicorn as she answered the phone, the other mare was still adjusting to the new invention. “Oh, Tix it’s you, come to tell us our order is backed up? Oh I'll send some one over to get it now.” Said the Unicorn as she got up and walked around her desk. ”Tell, Iron thanks, and his payment will be delivered when the pony who is meant to pick it up arrives at your shop.”

__________________________________________________________________________________
Ponyville Blacksmith Shop

“I’ll tell him, have a good day. Bye.” Said Tix as he lowered the phone. She started to fly to the front of the store to tell Iron about the shipment.

“And then Tix and I got back and got back to work.” Finished Iron. He spent almost two hours on his story.

“Cool brony, oh hey Tix, looking fly today.” Said Buck as he got up and took a drink of water.

“Yeah yeah, Buck. Iron, Shopper is sending someone to get their order. Oh, right. What would I do with out you, Tix?” Asked Iron as he got up and started to open the back door of the store to his forge.

“Your business would crash and burn, and you would be homeless.” Said Tix as she flew to the loading gate.
“True, Buck aren't you meant to be work?” Asked Iron, Bucks eyes widened.

“Oh hay, that’s what I forgot.” Said Buck right before he bolted for the door. Iron gave Tix an ‘oh well’ look and began to pull out a pallet for the shipment.

__________________________________________________________________________________
Canterlot Royal Hall.

Nathan and Celestia locked eyes as soon as he stepped in the Thron Room.

“So, you’re the one who broke off one of my guard’s horns?”
__________________________________________________________________________________


Name: C. James Wesley [Gaz]
Age: 18
Eye color: Brown
Hair color: Dark Brown
Height: 6‘
Weight: 204.2
Race: Human, Native American
Affiliation: Brotherhood of Steel and Common Wealth of Great Britian
Rank: High General of the New Brotherhood of Steel
Karma: Good
S: 10 P: 9 E: 9 C: 8 I: 9 A: 9 L: 7
Perks: Rad Resistance [25% more resistance] and Rad Requiem [75% more resistance], Action Boy, Solar Powered, Night Person, Infiltrator, Computer Whiz, Robotics Expert, Cyborg, Adamantium Skeleton, Animal Friend [Rank 3], Silent Running, Light Step, Strong Back [Rank 5], Commando, Sniper, Toughness, Bloody Mess, Iron Fist, Child at Heart, Nerves of Steel, Almost Perfect, Nuclear Anomaly. 
Master Perks: Hematophage, Wired Reflexes, Rad Regeneration, Auto Axpert, Ghoul Ecology, Xenotech Expert, Covert Ops., Power Armour Training, Ant Might, Survival Expert, Booster Shot, Pitt Fighter, Superior Defender.

> The Storm
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Xenophage
Equestria
Chapter V
The Storm
__________________________________________________________________________________
Canterlot Royal Hall.

“So, you’re the one who broke off one of my guard’s horns?” Asked Princess Celestia. Nathan and her had locked eyes ever since Nathan stepped in the room. Orion whispered some thing to James and John. Nathan, Zed, and Layla couldn’t hear what he said. Celestia jumped off her throne and and landed a few feet in front of Nathan, this made both Zed and Layla tense. “Are you the one? Animal?” Asked Celestia. Orion was glad he told James and John what he told them. In the blink of an eye Nathan had grabbed Celestia by the neck and slammed her into the marble wall then tossed her on the floor. He raised his fist to deliver a killing blow, however it was stopped by Orion once again. Zed and Layla were also attacking the guards, however John overpowered Layla and James overpowered Zed ever so slightly.

“That is quite enough, Nathan!” Boomed Orion, true they held the same power, Orion had more knowledge than Nathan, and with knowledge comes power. “You have just made the biggest mistake you could ever make. I’ll fix it but, DO NOT DO IT AGAIN!” Boomed Orion as he snapped his fingers. With a flash, Nathan was standing behind the door, heard a guard call some thing out.
__________________________________________________________________________________
Canterlot Royal Throne Room.

“What?! What just happened?!?!” screamed Celestia as she felt her jaw.

“Sister what is wrong?!” Asked Luna in the most alarmed voice. The flow of Celestia’s mane had left her, this only happened when she was truly scared. Her eyes widened as the six bipeds walked into to her thoron room, tall and prouder than, Blueblood the IX.

“First rule, never, ever, under any circumstances call me an animal!” Yelled Nathan as he place his weapon on his back with his left hand and pointed at Celestia with the other. Celestia was shivering with fear, only moments ago this, ‘thing’ nearly killed her. Now it making sure she knew her place. 

“You will speak only when spoken to!” Boomed Luna in the ‘Royal Canterlot Voice’. This made Orion grin. He sent a message to all in their HUD. 

“Don’t respond to her. She dosen’t know our names, let’s mess with her” Read Orion’s message. True he is the spirt of Order, but that dosen’t mean he can’t have fun. 

“What are you creatures doing here?” Asked Luna in her royal Canterlot voice. No one responded. This made Luna’s blood boil, just a moment ago her sister became extremely scared, the six bipeds walk in, one yells at her, and now they are playing games. “As the Princess of the night I command you to respond!!” Boomed Luna, what came next alarmed her, one of the two middle ones pulled his helmet off and took a step forwards.

“I am the Spirit of Order and Life! You shall not command me!” Boomed Orion, matching and exceeding Luna’s voice as he looked up at her. Luna’s face now matched Celestia’s face. Both were fearing what the saw. Orion had placed his helmet back on and took a step back.

“Okay, stop with the dick measuring contest. Tell them why we’re here. Or we can leave and never come back.” Said Layla as she walked in front of Orion and glared at him, the glare pierced his helmet and met his eyes. 

“Very well.” Said Orion as he walked back and turned around. “We are here because we were tasked with helping Equestria in any way possible, Equestria as a whole, not just Canterlot. This includes the Griffin, Hippogriffs, Diamond Dogs, Dragons, and all other life.” Finished Orion as he returned to his place.

“May I speak?” Asked a blue mare in gold and purple armor.

“Yes Captain Lunamoon, you can speak.” Replied Celestia in a shaky voice.

“Thank you Princess, if you are here to help us why the display?” Asked Trixie.

“We had to do good deeds to become the new Guardians, some of us have deep scares, some of them never healed.” Replied Orion as he looked over to James and Nathan.

“Ah, I see, what kind of deeds?” Asked Trixie. Zed shrugged and replied for Orion.

“Medical care, front line combat, some of us even made and lost great friends.” Said Zed who looked over to Layla was holding six old dog tags, all different. One a gear, one glowing blue, one small and thin, one gold, one blowing red and green. Each meant some thing to her. Celestia noticed this.

“How many did you lose?”Asked Celestia. Layla’s response was a shake of the head.

“Medical care? How so?” Asked Trixie.

“Field medical, hospital, heart trance-plants. You know the stuff that messes with people, you remember most of it.” Said James as he looked to the ground. 'This is turning around, but how do we know they are telling the truth?' Thought Luna.

“May I read your minds, just to see if you speak the truth?” Asked Luna. Nathan immediately looked at Orion and opened a COMM.

“Should we? I could mess her up.” Said Nathan.

“Not use, let her read Zed’s and John’s. Their experiences are not that bad.” Said Orion

“Zed had to eat another person to survive on the side of a mountain, under a god damned tree!" Said Nathan, who was feeling very sympathetic towards Luna.

“Right, that. Well, John did have that one plasma accident.” Said Orion

“Right, when he was finding bits of his coworker in his hair for weeks?” Asked Nathan as he let out a light chuckle. 
“Yeah, that’s the one. It doesn't matter, she knows now, you didn't mute your helmet.” With that Orion closed the COMM, Nathan turned to see a stoic Luna and a mortified Celestia.

“Very well, I shall not read your minds.” Said Luna rather quietly

“Very well why don’t you tell us what we can do. We would like to get to work as soon as possible. If it were possible I would like it if, Layla here.” Orion gestured to Layla. “Would stay here and help with the Canterlot problems, she will update us on any Equestrian problems you tell her.” Finished Orion. Celestia swallowed and replied.

“Very well, Lunamoon, take Miss. Layla with you to your office and tell her about the big problems, guards, take the rest to the CIC and have the general tell them about the big problems, the rest of you, the court is now adjourned.” Said Celestia in a more stable voice. John could hear the voices of ponies talking about them, the princess, who they are new threats that must be crushed, how Celestia is losing it, and how Luna is now at the top. Most of it sicken him, but some of it was true. They were a threat.
__________________________________________________________________________________
Canterlot Combat Intelligence Center (CIC)

“So who is this general?” Asked Zed as he looked around the dimly lit room.

“Don’t worry, you’ll know soon enough, Zed. Try to clam down.” Replied Layla.

“I’ve been the calmest of out of all of us.” Replied Zed as picked up a cup and drank out of it and quickly put it back. The pony who it belonged to never even noticed. 

“True, but you are also the less damaged. Orion, I’m surprised YOU’RE the voice of reason most of the time.” Said Layla
“And why is that?” Asked Orion, he knew, he just wanted to hear what she thinks.

“Well, you fought an entire campign against the Covenant, only to die by the hands of your own men, because the Lord Admarile lost his shit. To add to that, you did most of it alone, only more or less half way in you summoned James, then some time later, John. It’s they were waiting and watching in the Nexus, while you were still fighting, plus it was the Covenant, and before that you and Nathan took on the post-apocalyptic Earth of Fallout, you spent a whole year in the role if ‘The Lone Wonderer’. The you jumped to Canada to see how you home turned out, apparently as the bombs were falling Canada, made the pact with Russia and China, didn’t what’s left of Nazi Germany make it in?” Asked Layla.

“Yeah, Japan also, the rest of the world was baked in radiation. Well, we didn’t have time to set up that many GAURDIAN towers for China, but we saved most of it.” Replied Orion, there was no quiver, no skip, he acted as if it never phased him.

“What type of power armor did they have?” Asked John

“Lots, most of the stuff we’re wearing was Co developed in, Canada, T45d, T51b, T82g, and T13, they even had Enclave armor, Mk I through X. Even were making some Russian models. Z0c looks alot like COG armor, everything but it’s helmet.” Nathan looked over at Orion, he could tell what he was doing. Nathan loved reading about, working with, and in the loosest sense playing with old Russian tech, if it was Soivet, Nathan had used or recreated it.

“So.” Came a deep, strong, southern voice. “You’re the bipeds who made a fool of Celestia and Luna.” Layla had began to walk off with the Captain.

“That we are McIntosh. That we are.” Replied James in his best southern voice he had, which wasn’t that good. Big Mac snorted.

“Fine, I’m a stallion of few words so let get down to business. The main problem right now is the food, apple, oranges, ect. Then is drinks of all sorts. Coffee, tea, soda, milk that sort of thing. Most of it is low priority and low cast, adding a new wing to the castle is higher up.” Said McIntosh.

“What the biggest food problem?” Asked John

“Apples, the main apple farm in Ponyville's a bit underhooved, they could really use you to take of the stress so they could hire some more workers. Some of the workers could have some sense talked into them, mainly Applejack and Buck, mother and child. Both work hard, but run off ‘to save Equestria’.” McIntosh made air quotes with his hooves. “ Oranges could use more trees, the war destroyed and it taking lots to keep in troops healthy, the rest like cabbage, carrots are mainly grown in towns by every day ponies. How ever the reason the Apple Family Orchard is so high on the list is because they’re in partnership with the Flim & Flam soda factory, who make the many types of soda with apple in it. Most of this is for citizen and troop moral. The Apple Family also make the mead, elixir, and some of the coffee sold in the area. The other areas of Equestria are better off than Canterlot or Manehatten. Who needs lots of food daily just to keep running smoothly. Cities and towns like Ponyville and Applelusa are self sufficient. Most don’t relies most of the food they eat some from the ground and earth pony hooves.” Finished McIntosh.

“Stallion of few words eh? Okay we’ll start with the apple orchard and move to the orange orchard, take this and keep us updated.” Said Nathan as he handed McIntosh a two way radio.

“What is this, and how do I use it?” Asked McIntosh.

“It’s a two way radio, it works like your phones only without the land lines. However these are linked to our helmets. Hold the button down, wait a second and talk, finish talking and let go.” Explained Orion. Big McIntosh took to it almost 
immediately. 'He’s a lot smarter than Applejack makes him out to be.' Thought Orion. “Okay, let’s get to work Alpha!” As soon as he said that his heart dropped.

“Bro?, you okay?” Asked James. Orion only looked down and shock his head.

“As I was saying let move out.” Said Orion as he began to talk. James and John looked at each other, both knew what Alpha meant to Orion. Zed and Nathan on the other hand had not clue.

“Hey, John, what’s with Orion?” Asked Zed as he walked beside John.
__________________________________________________________________________________

Name: Layla A. [Steel]
Age: 18
Eye color: Silver
Hair color: Brown
Height: 5‘9
Weight: 145.2
Race: Human, Caucasian
Affiliation: Brotherhood of Steel [Mojave Chapter], Boomers, Enclave Remnants, Big Mt., The Divide, Gun Runners, and The New California Republic.
Rank: N/A
Karma: Neutral
S: 8 P: 10 E: 9 C: 10 I: 10 A: 10 L: 9
Perks: Commando, Center of Mass, Explorer, Fadding Fingerprints, Jury rigging, Pipboy Upgrade, Pipboy Expert, Run Like Hell, Explosives Expert, Tinkerer, Sniper, Strongback, Unexpected Happiness, Wild Wasteland
Master Perks: Power Armour Training
> Echoes of the past
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Xenophage
Euqestira
Chapter VI
Echoes of the past
___________________________________________________________________________________________

“Dimension: Earth V, Year: 2576, Location: Harvest, Mission: Search for life on the glassed planet.

“Hey, Orion? Ready for some sweet jumps?” Asked an unseen voice.

“Hell yeah, Baker! You ready for some intense speeds?” Asked a younger, happier Orion.

“Pipe down Alpha! “ Barked an old grizzly voice. “We’re here to look for life, Harvest was our beach-head, this was hit first, so it’s more than likely life as clawed it’s way back. Maybe we’ll find humans.” Finished the Voice.

“Or Sangheili.” Came a deep, echoing voice.

“Or Sangheili yes, odds are the monkey sons a bitches left some behind. If so, Jhachs Von Sheal will talk to them, order them on the ship, take them home as war heros.” Said the grizzly voice.

“Ura, this is going to be so fun.” Came a very sarcastic Russian voice.

“You didn’t need to sign up for this mission.” Replied Orion.

“REALLY!? I seem to remember some Native Canadian asshole saying ‘Oh, you need to go on this mission. It’ll be fun, just like patrols back home’. Except for the fact Harmony was a warm planet!! We’re being dropped back in the middle of the arctic circle!!” Yelled the angry Russian

“Well, you were raised in Russia, and I was born in the northern part of Canada, so I was telling the truth.” Replied Orion ever so calmly

“Hahahahaha!!! So fucking true! Victor you were burned!!” Called the very enthusiastic voice Baker.

“Shut the fuck up! Calm the fuck down and strap in! Hard drop in thirty! Once we hit and that door opens, we’re on our own for a whole week, we lose you in the snow, we leave you!” Boomed the captain. The whole room went silent.

“Ah!, nice and quiet, just like a proper drop ship.” Commented Jhachs.

“Yeah, that’s the one thing I admired about the Covenant, they knew how to play soldier boy.” Replied the grizzly voiced captain.

“Yes captain Edwards, that is one of the many things the Covenant did right. We’ll continue this conversation later, we’re touching down.” And a if he timed it, the ship slammed into the ground and the bay doors opened, letting icy wind in, cutting Orion’s face, well what he left uncovered.

“Alright men, and Elite, we’re heading to the nearest cave, it’s two clicks that was!” Shouted the Edwards as he pointed to the north. “Activate your thermal and metal vision and set the so they alternate. You need to see the man in front of you at all times! I’ll go first, then Jhachs, Orion you next, Victor, and followed up by Baker! Sound off every ten seconds, I don’t want any loses on this easy mission, got it?!” Asked Edwards, their was a short pause, but all three men and one Sangheili sounded off 

“Sir, yes sir!!” With that they ran off in to the howling wind. True these were the best of the best, Helljumpers of the 105th airborne, but the dangers of the icy weather can kill even the best easily.

“So, Jhachs? How are you holding up, Sangheili aren't really the best snow troops.” Asked Orion as he looked at the hulking creature, who was wearing a fur pelt.

“ Extremely well, I may be a ‘lizard’ but I am warmed blooded, the cold is a moinor annoyance, how about you?” Asked Jhachs.

“Great, been a long time since I've been in a real snow storm. Wish I could do it more.”

“I have to ask, is you file correct?” Asked Jhachs. “It said you were ‘Native American’, but Victor called you ‘Canadian’. And through my research, Native Americans had a darker skin color. Yet you are so pale.”

“Well, two reasons, the first, everyone who is descended from the original inhabits of North America are called ‘Native Americans’. Even thou I’m an Ojibwa, I’m called Native American, much like how a English or a German are often called European. It’s just habit. The second, I hate the sun, don’t know why, but that fucker in the sky? No, just no.”Replied Orion as he looked around.

“Ah, even with the war of the Covenant, you still refer to your self in such a certain way. Your kind is truly odd.” Replied Jhachs.

“The same could be side for you, willing to give your life for your people at the age of 15? Most humans would never even think of that. Also, death or victory? I believe the Romans were like that.” Replied Orion. As Jhachs as about to reply he was cut off by an ear splitting sound.

“AHHHH!!” Screamed Baker, Baker as the COMMs officer so is was his job to kept everyone connected, however his radio overloaded and exploded. When Orion and Edwards got to Baker thanks to the wind, he was already dead, he lost his right arm and most of his right side. His head was almost ripped clean off, however it was only torn and burnt on the right side and back.

“He coughed up some blood and said he would meet us up in heave, then he died from his wounds, sorry Captain.”Replied Victor as he handed Edwards Baker’s dog tags.

“Leave him, but set a beacon, we’ll get him when we’re done, let’s move Alpha!” Barked Edwards as he turned and started walking. Victor had already closed his eyes and said a short prayer for Baker.

“You are religious?” Asked Jhachs as they began walking,

“No, Baker was, thought is was appropriate.” Said Victor as he followed Jhachs,

“How the fuck did this even happen?!” Asked Orion a he looked back to his fallen comrade.

“His radio equipment overloaded, how I have no clue, the cold should have prevented that, however, it happened. Are you well, Victor?”Asked Jhachs

“No, just lost a friend, he may have been an asshole, but his was still a friend I talked to.” Replied Victor in a very defeated tone, Jhachs knew Victor might snap.

Ice Cave 1-00-G
_________________________________________________________________________________________________

“This is were we make camp, Orion and Jachs you’ll look throughout the cave for life, if you find it come to us, if not keep looking until you either hit a dead end or get called back.” Said Edwards as he throw down a heating stick, the snow around it began to melt, Both nodded and were off,

“Jhachs?, Do you think Victor will be okay for the rest of the mission? I mean losing a friend less than ten minutes in is hard, trust me I know.” Said Orion as he looked over the deep shaft that layed in front of the two.

“I know what losing a brother in arms his like, from what I read, Victor and Baker were squad mates for quite some time, both hated and loved each other like brothers, in a way the were.” Replied Jhachs as he shot a harpoon into the ground and tied a rope to is.

“Ah, so, is he going to snap?” Asked Orion as he picked up the rope to Jhachs, who tied it to his safety harness
“ I do not know.” Replied Jhachs as he jumped into to the obyess of the dark black, Orion looked down and watched for around ten minutes, no doubt Jhachs was going slowly. However Orion soon saw the light of a Covenant Energy Sword illuminating the deep shaft. Without hesitation Orion jumped down the shaft and grabbed the rope when he was about half was down and slowed his descent. He could now hear Jhachs screaming ‘die’ and swinging his sword vilontly, Orion quickly turned on his thermal goggles and looked around, the shaft opened up in to a large cavern, a few monds of snow were warm, warm enough to sport life. Orion looked down only to see a snarling Sangheili with half of his face ripped off stabbing a giant corps.

“JHACHS!!” Yelled Orion as he descended deeper, Jhachs kept slicing and stabbing. “Jhachs! Caml down! I’m comming down!” Yelled Orion, but the closer he got the more he could see, Jhachs face was life less, yes his face was pure rage, but it didn’t move. As soon as Orion hit the bottom he saw Jhachs very clearly. He was missing three of his four mandables, his left eye was missing and his right eye was blood shot, he was gone. “Jhachs! Don’t make me do this!” Yelled Orion as he raised his gun, Jhachs responded with a yell and a lunge. Orion quickly pulled the trigger and killed the raging Sangheili. Orion quickly holstered his weapon and ran to his side and popped a flare. Jhachs’s skin was ripped and oozing this gold gunk. Orion quickly rolled him over only to reveal seven large spikes in his back. “No, no, no, no, no, no! This can’t be happening! Not the Flood! No, no, no! Fuck! Okay, Flood prodocal! Set charges and blow them to hell, call for Sangheili war ships, glass the planet. Set beacons telling all that it is a Flood infested planet! Good, now to find the main cell.”Said Orion as he looked around in panic, he’d fought the Flood before, but not like this, he was alone, in the dark, and had UNSC weapons. Well one Covenant Energy Sword. In the other times, he had Covenant plasma weapons, hundreds of troops at his side and it was still day light. “Okay, the largest mount shoold be the main cell, blow that mother fucker to hell and get up the rope and run, call for pick up, alert them of the Flood, blow those mother fuckers to hell with hundreds of plasma ships. Okay this should go great! Unless.... I fail. NO! I can’t think about that now, I never failed the Enclave or Brotherhood, so I’m not failing now, not while I have my race on the line.” Said Orion as he readied his chest plate for nuclear detonation, overcharged his shield, and got ready to sprint.

“Orion, Jhachs. Report.” Barked Edwards over Jhachs’s COMM, the entire cave started to shake. Something had awoken. Orion was about to run after the mound when he was pulled back, into a portal and returned to the Nexus.”

Canterlot Main Gate.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________

“That happened? But only two soldiers died? How could it change him?” Asked Zed.

“Let’s just say the mission changed Orion, and not in a good way, it’s the reason the way’s he his now.” Finished John as they walked down the dusty path. Zed nodded and kept walking. John looked at Orion and wondered.

“Hey, Nathan, Orion. What do you think of us getting wings?” Asked James as he watched a pegasas move a cloud.
“Us? Anthroes? Don’t know, Nathan?” Asked Orion as he thought over the idea.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________


Name: L. John Wilder [Willam]
Age: 15
Eye color: Light Brown
Hair color: Brown
Height: 5‘11
Weight: 152.3
Race: Human, Native American
Affiliation: New Brotherhood of Steel/ Enclave/ NCR
Rank: High General of the New Brotherhood of Steel
Karma: Evil
S: 8 P: 10 E: 9 C: 10 I: 9 A: 10 L: 10
Perks: Rad Resistance [25% more resistance], and Rad Requiem [75% more resistance], Grim Reaper’s Sprint, Action Boy, Solar Powered, Night Person, Infiltrator, Computer Whiz, Robotics Expert, Cyborg, Adamantium Skeleton, Animal Friend [Rank 3], Silent Running, Light Step, Strong Back [Rank 4], Commando, Sniper, Toughness, Bloody Mess, Iron Fist, Child at Heart, Nerves of Steel, Almost Perfect, Nuclear Anomaly. 
Master Perks: Hematophage, Wired Reflexes, Rad Regeneration, Ghoul Ecology, Xenotech Expert, Covert Ops., Power Armour Training, Ant Might, Survival Expert, Booster Shot, Pitt Fight, Punga Power, Superior Defender.
> The Storm II
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Xenophage
Euqestira
Chapter VII
The Storm II


Captain of the Royal Guard office

“So, you’re the new Captain? I thought Orion said Shining Armour was the Captain of the Guard.” Said Layla as she sat down on a Griffin’s chair.

“Yes, Shining Armour was the Royal Guard’s Captain, however, he left some time ago, around 16 years ago. I was his lieutenant, I was the obvious choice, he’s now the loving husband of Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, and the Duke of The Crystal Empire.” Replied Trixie as she sat down and began digging through her desk.

“Ah, is the Crystal Empire part of the war?” Asked Layla as he was handed papers.

“No, Mi Amore says the Crystal Ponies arn’t ready for war. Even though a single Quarts Armored Guard can kick the hay out of seven Royal Guards, well, the veterans can.” Replied Trixie. Layla looked over Trixie’s desk and saw a picture of a filly and a stallion with Trixie. 

“Who are they?” Asked Layla as she picked up the picture.
“Some of the first to fall in this war.” Replied Trixie, who was a bit chocked up talking about it.
“Oh, I see, sorry. Didn’t mean to bring up bad memories.” Replied Layla as she placed the picture back.
“You didn’t know.”
“But now I do.”

“Yes, well as you see, we have only a few problems, well ones you can handle, the stuff you can’t will be pasted on to the Commanding Officers of the CRA, mostly training and other things of the short.” Layla raised an eye brow, Ones you can handle? What a load of bullshit, if Zed can hold off an entire army, I can do this.

“No, I’ll handle the training as well, and anything you think I can’t do, just because I’m a gir- Mare, dosen’t mean I’m useless, and if you think I am under qualified, I lead an entire rebellion to victory from the boot of an empire.” Trixie slowly turned to Layla, she wore no emotion, no hint of surprise.

“No, it’s what you are, a ‘Human’. I’ll be very straight with you. I am no bigot. However, I do not trust you or your friends. Something about you is off. You seem evil.” Said Trixie as she walked to her officer window and looked over the courtyard.
“True, I AM evil, Zed IS evil, and Nathan is TRULY evil, however, John, James, and Orion are not pure of heart, they have sinned and paid for them just as much as we did good deeds, hell Orion brought on the destruction of the Avian race. We all have scares, we all have a streak of good and evil, however some of use let one side rule and the other lay dormant, the rest of us, wear a mask. To hid what we are, so that we can help the other Guardians without the people or ponies rather questioning it. I must admit, you are the first to see through our masks, and we have been around for over three hundred years, some have written stories, legends, and myths of us, but all are the same. They tell a false story. Orion and Nathan want the ponies and other creatures of Equestria to write true ones, ones that tell all what we are.” Trixie nearly yelled for back up. However she heard Layla out, Trixie thought over her options, the first, accept the fact not all are truly good, and not all are truly evil, and move on, or the second, call for the guards and try to kill six creatures who sent shivers down Celestia’s spine.

“Very well, I’ll see to it you over see the training of the soldiers. Now let’s work on the paper work.” Said Trixie as she sat down on her chair and began writing down note and reviewing documents. Layla let her heart beat again as she watched Trixie work, true Layla didn’t lie to her, but she still felt like she was betraying her. 

Canterlot Main Gate

“Anthros? Really? You really think I’m going to become some kind of furry!!”Yelled Nathan as he loaded his weapon and unloaded it.

“Yeah, you know. Angel of Death needs to look like the Angel of Death.” Replied John.
“No, god no!” Said Zed as he walked off down the road.
“Come on, James back me up!” 

“Wings sound kind of sweet, ever see that portrait of the Angel of Life swooping down and floating in the middle of a battle? Sweet.” Replied James as he spun a knife on his finger. Zed looked at James, a small look of horror escaped on to Zed’s face. James noticed this and decided to play a trick, James made the knife spin faster and blood soon came leaking out of his finger, it didn’t hurt, Zed just looked away. “What’s the matter, Zed? Can’t stand the sight of blood?” Asked James as he started to fling blood at him.

“Okay stop that, so no wings? Too bad.”Said Orion as he snapped his fingers, Nathan opened his mouth to object but pain started coursing through his body, same for John, Zed, and James. Orion was ready for the pain, their armor started to split, creating room for the newly formed wings. Orion adored white wings, Nathan black with a few white feathers, John grew bright white wings, Zed earned deep black ones, James white with streaks of black. Each flared their wings to check the span of their wings, Orion and Nathan reached the furthest, both reaching roughly eight meters, next was James he reached six and a half, Zed reached six and a quarter, John came in last with six meters. Nathan looked over his new wings, even with the helmet on Orion knew he liked what he saw.

“Let me add on thing.” Said Nathan as he snapped his fingers, as soon as he did that the bones and joint of the wings were covered in black metal, once Nathan’s were done Zed’s soon adored the metal too, as well as James and John, Orion watched as his friends and brothers received the armor, soon it was Orion’s turn, he allowed the metal to cover the important parts of his wings. “Now were are ‘Armored Angels’, come to help those who can’t help them selves.” Said Nathan, this made Orion chuckle, ture ‘armored angels’ were a distant memory, but that’s all they were memories to him.

“So? Can we go? We got wings, and they look badass!” Yelled James from high in the air. Orion looked up at James, and a soon as he did memories of his failed past came flowing in. Orion dropped to one knee, this made John and James blot to his side.

“No, you go ahead, I just need a minute. I’ll be fine go.” Said Orion as he looked to the ground, James looked at John, John shrugged and began to follow Nathan and Zed who were already on their way to ponyville. James patted Orion on the shoulder and went on his way.

“GOD DAMN IT! I’m sorry Taiya, I so, so sorry, I failed you.” Tears were now running down his face. Orion’s heart fell, he truly failed one of the few people he loved, or Avian rather. Orion slowly composed himself and got to his feet. And went on his way.
Canterlot Castle

Twilight sat in her room, reading, as she always as done. But today she was sick. She was sick with the flu, very uncommon for her to get the flu, she usually stayed in side all day. Well when she and the girls weren't saving Equestria that is, or going on a picknick, or going for a camping trip, to be honest Twilight never stayed in anymore, she was always out and about. KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK sounded her door,

“Come in.” Said Twilight very weakly.

“You sound terrible, well sucks to be you, Celestia asked me to get you.” Called a very scratchy voice, Rainbow Dash’s voice. “Coming.” Replied Twilight with a stuff noise

“Cool, met us in the CIG, or what ever.” Came Rainbow’s voice again, even with 10 years of work, she was still one to forget. Twilight just made a weak smile and got to her hooves and started walking down to the CIC.
Canterlot Combat Intelligence Center (CIC)

“Many of you are wondering why you are here. The answer? Six creatures called “Humans” have come to Equestria, they claim they are here to help, but something about them is off, Celestia is scared of them.”Said Luna as she looked over the small crowd.

“Sister is you had seen what I have seen, you would be scared too, they nearly killed my in seconds.” Replied a shaky Celestia. 

“Really, well this is why I’m holding this meeting, these creatures are very smart, very strong, and very powerful. I want you to keep an eye on them, they could be here to kill us, all of us.”Luna looked around the room, what she saw displeased her. “You will drop all war duties and replace them with watching these things, I do not care how you do it, just make sure they are in sight at all times.”

“Wouldn't guards be better suited for this?” Asked McIntosh.

“No, guards would mess up and get caught and more than likely killed, you have can make up fake reasons why you are there. McIntosh and Miss. Applejack, head back to Sweet Apple Achers and help them with the farm, Twilight I need you back in Ponyville, Captain Trixie, I am assigning you as this “Layla”’s assistant, help her and get to know her. Find out about them, report back in one month.” Finished Luna, as she did so she lit up her horn and teleported all of them to their needed locations. Celestia sighed as she looked at the empty room, to think, this is what her world looked like 100 years ago. 
Sweet Apple Acres

“But Princ- Gosh darn it, Luna you are a odd mare.” Said Applejack as she looked around and started to walk to the farm house. Big Mac looked around and sighed, Well AppleBloom always wanted to see my dress blues. Thought Big Mac as he walked to the farm house. 

“Applejack?! You’re back!” Cheered Granny Smith as she got up and hugged Applejack. “Big Mac you too, aw you look so nice in those cloths, Big Mac.” Commented Granny Smith, Big Mac went red, well redder, this was the first time his family besides Applejack saw his dress blues. On the bright side he would see Little Mac again. 

“Say, where’s Buck?”Asked Applejack. Granny Smith just pointed her hoof towards the Ponyville road, sure enough a colt was bolting down the path, Buck. “BUCK!” Yelled Applejack as she ran to him, she and he met half way, “Great to see ya, Buck! Been good?” Asked Applejack as she messed up his mane.

“Kinda, been hanging with Iron lately.” Replied Buck as they walked back to the farm house. “ Uncle McIntosh! That your dress blues?” Asked Buck as he walked around Big Mac.

“Eeyup, been wearing these for a while, need to get rid of them, Little Mac about?”

“Yeah, he’s trying to fix the brewer. It was a backing up.” Replied Babs. Big Mac turned to face her but she had already gone back inside. No doubt with a blush on her face, Big Mac knew Babs had a deep crush on him for years, hay, when Babs went trough her first heat cycal, Big Mac was almost raped, luckily AppleBloom was able to stop her. Big Mac kinda wished she didn’t stop her. But thinking back, Blazing Shards would have beaten him good. Big Mac shrugged off his memories and walked inside to remove his uniform. After removing his uniform he trotted over to the brewer.

“Step aside, let the wise show you how it’s done.” Said Big Mac, Little Mac quickly smashed his head into the door as he tried to look around for the voice’s owner. Damn, that went better than I though it would. Thought Big Mac.
“Dad?! You’re home!” Yelled Little Mac as he bolted for his father.	

“Yeah, Celestia says I need to be around you more.” This was not a lie, Celestia indeed tell him he needed to spend more time with his son.

“Really? Well I guess you want your room back.” Replied Little Mac.
“Nah, I’ll get the barn, you know I love sleeping in the quite.”

“Oh, cool. Oh and I need to talk to you about a few things later, okay?” Asked the young colt, Big Mac mearly nodded.
“Well, time to show you how this thing works and how to fix it.” Said Big Mac as he went for a wrench.

Some where over Equestria

As Orion flew through the skys, he felt as if he left part of him self on the ground, it didn’t hold much joy. Not as much as it used to hold, the feeling of the wind in your hair, the rush of a dive, the joy of be truly free. All this was take from Orion long ago, true Layla was at his side when it happened, but she never felt the same things as Orion did, he helped them, and he failed them. As if on cue, his brothers joined him just as the memories were wiped away, James on his right and John on his left.

“Orion!, Nathan says he want to talk to you. He says he is going to kill you if you mess up his plan for Miss. C. I don’t fucking know what he means by that but you should talk to him sooner rather than later.” Said James as he followed Orion. Great, more plans for this god damned Miss. C. Thought Orion as he flapped his mighty wings to catch up to Nathan.
“Nathan! You wanted to talk?!” Yelled Orion as he got close to Nathan. Nathan Looked back and flapped his wings back once to slow down and flapped them again to regain speed.

“Yeah, do you think, Zed will hold up? He’s been acting kind of weird, always watching out, but I don’t know what for.” Said Nathan as he dived down into some apple trees and picked two. He tossed one at Orion.

“He’ll hold, the last time he snapped was a few hundred years ago. Don’t know if you remember but he and James were out in Texas in the wild west, you were the the city of New Primm when that happened. He went on a killing spree, killed over six hundred people, had a price of 10 000 dollars on his head, now he’s a legend in E2.”

“Yeah, James told be about that, damn.” Nathan and Orion said nothing for the few remaining minutes of the flight.
Sweet Apple Acres

“Man, Sweet Apple Massacre took place here right?” Asked John as he looked around, the farm looked a lot different since the last time they saw it, the farm house was bigger, the barn was much bigger, and a few new buildings were set up. Zed looked around, his gut told him to run, but he didn't want a reason for Orion to exploit.

“Getting dark, only a few minutes of light left, better talk to who ever his in charge now.” Said James, the rest nodded and followed Nathan to the farm house. KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK sounded the Nathan, he wait for a about half a minute until he was greeted but a small white coated colt with a yellow mane. The colt looked at him with awe filling his light green eyes, Nathan just stared back, the yellow glowing eye kicked in as the sun went down, the Legate’s mask looked like a sight found in hell, the colt stared a bit longer before screaming at the top of his lungs.

“HELP!! AUNTIE BABS!! AUNTIE APPLEBLOOM, AUNITE APPLEJACK!! ANYONE HELP! A MONSTER IS AT THE DOOR!!” With that the colt bolted off into the house. Nathan looked back at Orion and the rest, Orion shock his head slowly, but Nathan ignored it and ran after the colt screaming:

“RUN YOU LITTLE MOTHERFUCKER! I’M GOING TO EAT YOUR BONES AND DRINK YOU BRAINS THROUGH A STRAW!!” Boomed Nathan as he ran through the house. His joy was short lived as he was bucked in the chest by a pair of hooves attached to a pair of mighty red legs. Nathan was thrown back six feet as he slammed into another pair of hooves, sending him back at the other pair, however he was not bucked a third time, thus he landed in the middle of the floor.
“NATHAN?!?!?!” Screamed a southern voice, no doubt Applejack’s. “What in the hay you doin’ screaming and runnin’ after little ol’ Apple Spite? We thought you were a monster, and did ya mean what ya said about eating him?!” Barked Applejack.
“Good to see you to..” Replied Nathan weakly, as he started to get up, you could hear bones snapping backing into place, each of his ribs were broken into pieces, his spine was almost dented. “Damn....... You two are strong as hell...... Never been kicked so hard in my life, well there was that one time with Cass and Veronica.....” Said Nathan as he looked into space.
“Veronica? She, you, what, how?!?” Asked Zed as he looked at the broken man.
“Whiskey, and lots of it.” Replied Nathan.

“You still didn’t answer my question! Why were you runnin’ after Apple Spite?!” Barked Applejack once again.
“Saw the opportunity, could resist, plus, I need to blow off some steam.” Replied Nathan as he sat against the wall and removed his helmet.

“Fine, don’t do it again. I’m warning you.”Said Applejack as she walked over to the table. 
“That is the second time someone said that to me today...”
“Yeah, wonder why?” Asked Orion as he helped Nathan off the ground.
“Don’t know, usually I do shit right all the time.” Said Nathan as he pulled out his two favorite dice.
“You need new die. Those are over 275 years old.”
“Hey, these have been with me for years!”
“Yeah about 275 years.”

“So? These motherfuckers are pure gold with diamond buds!” Yelled Nathan as he pulled out two gold die with diamonds numbering two to six on each one, the side that was meant to have a ‘one’ on it had a radiation insignia made of emerald on it and the other had a Brotherhood of Steel insignia made of silver on it. 

“Yeah sure, oh. McIntosh, as you know we’ll be working here until you have some more work hands, or hooves rather. Any idea of where we can stay?” Asked Orion. Big Mac just raised an and slowly walked out the dining room and on to the porch, he turned back a made a ‘follow me’ gesture with his hoof, all the bipeds followed him, they walked out side to the old barn, once in side Big Mac turned around and began to speak;

“You and I will sleep in here, we have about ten pairs of blankets and ten pillows, you should use about two each, I’ll take the last two.” James looked at Zed and spoke;

“Zed needs about ten alone.” This made Zed send a small bolt of lightning at James, who in turn jumped from the shock. John let off a small chuckle. Orion just smiled, Nathan looked as if he just saw an old movie, unimpressed. Big Mac just stared in stoic manner.

After about about a half an hour of watching idiots try to fix three beds Orion and Nathan flew up to the roof the watch the stars and talk about the next day, while smoking hobbit style pipes.

“So, how do you think tomorrow is going to play out?”Asked Orion as he took a drag.

“I.” Said Nathan as he exhaled. “Don’t know, we’re going to clear a field and, rest a bit, talk, and head back unscathed.” Said Nathan as he took another drag. “Well almost unscathed.” Orion let out a small chuckle at the last bit.

“Yeah, after this job, feel like heading to the Ponyville hospital? And Talking to Lyra, Bon Bon, and Lyra?” Asked Orion. Nathan took a deep breath and slowly exhaled before he answered.

“Well, that sound good and all but I have one thing on my mind about that.” Orion knew what was coming. Nathan inhaled and exhaled before finishing.

“WHY THE HELL DID THEY NAME HER, LYRA?! AND WHY THE HELL DID SHE KNOW WE WERE HUMANS?!?!” Yelled Nathan as he throw up his arms, unfortunately this made him lose this balance, he fell of the barn and landed on his ass. After a few seconds of looking down, Orion burst out laughing,

“You. Fucking. Idiot!” Said Orion in between laughing and trying not to repeat what Nathan did. Nathan just sat on the ground and said:

“I’ll just sit here.” This only made Orion laugh harder. After about a solid minute of laughing Orion jumped down and helped up the broken ego-ed soldier, they entered the barn to find Zed, James, and John had already removed their armor and fell a sleep, all three sets were on display as if they were Samurai armor, Nathan shrugged and stared to remove his, one down side to having wings, you need two people to get out of the armor. As Nathan laid down in his makeshift bed, he heard Zed sleep talking and as soon as he heard him say ‘right on’ he started recording.

“Oh yeah.... Right there Rarity....... man I going to fuck that perfect flack.... all night long.....you better be......” Was all he could hear, and that was enough to send Nathan into a laugh attack, he quickly slammed his head into his pillow to keep him self from waking Zed or John who were sleeping next to him. Tomorrow is going to be fun. Thought Nathan as he stopped recording.
> The Aftermath
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Xenophage
Equestria
Chapter VIII
Aftermath I

Apple Family Orchard Two Hours Before Sunrise

Orion awoke to Nathan doing push ups, Zed and John were still asleep, James was just getting up, Big Mac was half asleep still. All was right, except Big Mac was in Layla’s place.

“Four AM? A little early to being working out, don’t you think?” Asked Orion as he stood up and stretched. Nathan lightly laughed.

“Nah, even being gods, we need to workout. Using our powers on our selves or each other is not something I like seeing or doing.” Replied Nathan as he continued working out. Orion created a sink filled with water and began to wash his face. Once he was done, he destroyed it with a snap of his fingers. Nathan finished up after Orion did so.

“So, feeling lucky?” Asked Orion, Nathan smiled as he looked in Orion’s hand. In it were two golden coins, both had the side of Nathan’s head on one side, and on the other, Hover Dam.

“A game of Jynx? Sure, let’s do it.” Said Nathan as he cracked his knuckles.
“Grand.” With that Orion tossed both up in the air, Nathan watched as both flew up and dived down.

“Heads.” Said Nathan right before they hit the ground. The coins hit the soft hay filled ground and made a ‘clanking’ sound as they smashed into each other and landed. Both coins landed in the same spot, and facing the same way, heads up.

“Damn..” Said Orion as Nathan scooped up the two coins. Nathan smiled as he flipped the coins in his hand.
“You lose.”

“Really? I thought I won!!” Said Orion as he went for his armor. But he stopped, and thought about something for a second. “Feel like losing the power armor?” Asked Orion as he turned to face Nathan.

“Sure, I’ll dress in my work wear.” Replied Nathan as he snapped his fingers and a small pile of folded cloths landed in front of him. Nathan’s new outfit consisted of a grey tee-shirt under black vest, dark grey jeans, a black belt with a silver gear with a sword running through it, brown work boots, and a black duster over top. Orion’s new outfit was a light blue jacket with a brown belt and gold buckle over top a lighter blue button up, light brown work boots, and light grey pants. Orion made James, Zed, and John new outfits as well. John’s outfit consists of a white tee-shirt and brown cargo pants with a dark brown belt with a silver buckle, and shin-high boots. James’s outfit consisted of a button-down black flannel shirt with white trim squares and rolled up sleeves, a pair of grey jeans, black belt with a buckle with a sword through a gear, black work boots and a large-brimmed black hat. Zed’s was like James’s, a red flannel shirt with white and blue trim squares, dark blue jeans with a black belt with a bronze buckle, and brown work boots.

“Really? A duster?” Asked Orion as he tied his laces.

“Yeah, this is my work wear, the Mojave is a hot place, need the duster and light clothing.” Said Nathan a he placed his new coins in a pocket.

“Okay.” Said Orion as he stood up. “WAKE THE FUCK UP!” Yelled Orion John quickly jumped up a pulled out his combat knife, he looked around, looked at Orion and looked at his new cloths on the ground and shook his head and laid back down, Zed and James woke up about the same way, both opened their eyes and looked around for about ten minutes. In this time Orion had lost ten more coins.

Apple Family Orchard Sunrise

“Soups on everypony!!” Yelled Applejack, Nathan made a cock comment but Orion told him to knock it off. “So, you boy's will be helping us in the field I take it?” Asked Applejack

“No, we’ll just watch you and admire your flanks...” Said John as he took a bite of his jury rigged sandwich.
“Beg your pardon?” Asked Applejack, a little confused.

“Yeah, while you work up sweat, we’ll just watch that flank of yours..” Said Zed as he took a drink of coffee.
“Ahhh....” Was a Applejack could utter, a deep blush overtook her face. Buck and Spite rolled their eyes. Little Mac tried hard not to laugh, Big Mac just let out a small smile at the clever display, Babs had the creepiest grin as she thought about, what Orion guessed was Applejack‘s flank.

“Their pulling your leg auntie.” Said Apple Spite as he took a spoonful of soup. Applejack’s eye widened and the blush grew bigger.

“Oh.... Right, so you are going to help?” Asked Applejack as she tried to eat. 

“Yes, until you get some more work hooves, or till the war ends, or starts or what ever.” Replied Nathan as he took a spoonful of soup. Applejack made an ‘O’ motion with her mouth.

Apple Family Orchard One Hour After Sunrise

After almost an hour of working the rag tag crew of the south field took a break. 

“Hey, pass the water.” Said Nathan as he walked up the hill with two baskets full of apples in one hand, Zed tossed him a bottle of water.

“So, one hour down, 17 more to go, eh?” Said James as he sat down a took a bite out of his apple, Big Mac was working the North field with Applejack, AppleBloom, Buck, Little Mac, Spite and Babs. Orion, Nathan, John, Zed and James were stuck with the South field.

“So, how do you think they’re holding up?” Asked Zed as he pointed in the general direction of the North field.
“Fine, Big M. and Little M. are more than likely holding up the fort. Applejack and Buck ran off, Babs and AppleBloom are talking, Spite is picking up any lost apples.” Said Nathan as he took another big bite.
“Really?” Asked Zed

“No clue, but that’s my guess.” Replied Nathan as he tossed the core of his apple into the North field.
The rest of the day was plain, nothing other than Zed bitching to the sun about being so hot happened.

Apple Family Orchard Dusk

After supper Nathan and Orion left to Ponyville to talk to Lyra about humans. They said that they’ll be back for breakfast. The barn was quiet, all were sitting around a small makeshift barrel table. A single light flickered of it, all had each other’s eyes on everyone else’s. All held red and white cards, all wear a poker face, each had a sum of chips in front of them, each eyed the pot in the middle. The rest of the night consisted of Zed and John losing more and more chips, and James’s and Big Mac’s getting bigger and bigger.

Ponyville Hospital

Lyra looked at the two imposing creatures who not stood in her office, both had deep scares, burns, bullet wounds, spots were arrows left their mark, slashes, even names cut into their flesh, Lyra had a mixed look, part of in awe, part in horror, and a part in odd lust.

“You. You really are humans. Humans! Humans are in my office!!” Screamed Lyra after the long silents.
“Yeah, ‘real’ humans, not that fake shit you see in the store holding clothes.” Said Nathan as he adjusted his stance.
“You don’t understand, most people think Humans were just myth.”

“Unicorns, Pegasis, Alicorns, Griffins, Hippogriffs, Dragons, and other creatures are myth in our world, many of the ancient, some older than speech.” Replied Orion as he looked around the large office.

“No, you don’t understand, Humans were always portrayed as invading murders from over the sea, monster who keep slaves of every kind, even their own, monsters who eat the flesh of their fallen enemies, creatures of stealth, creatures of brute force, never of mercy or joy.” Said Lyra as she looked down. Nathan looked at Orion with a look that said ‘What the fuck do we say?’. Orion waved it off and spoke.

“Yeah, that is all true but the last two things, many of our old splintered customs are both evil and graceful, in the Southern part of the New World it was common knowledge that eating the heart of you enemy would give you their strength, in the Eastern nations of the Old World, thieves were very common, some even became assassins, the the Western nations of the Old World, bezerkers were men who cut them shelve to get what was know as ‘Blood Rage’, these people were hard to kill, the ‘Blood Rage’ was just an adrenalin rush, adrenalin acts like a super fuel for humans, adrenalin can replace oxygen for a short time, however, your vision will go black and white due to the lack of oxygen. And slaves were common in the Western nations of the Old World, mainly used for servants, however in the new world, slaves worked hard long hours and often died of exhaustion, Most creatures you see around here are stupid in our world, deer, moose, elk, and caraboe are hunted for sport and food, creatures like cows, pigs, and chickens are farmed and killed by the thousands to feed our race of over 7 billion people. So yes, our race is quite savage, but hey? Who else will rule the world?” Asked Orion as he picked up a pen on her desk.

“Oh.” Was all Lyra could muster.

“Hey feel like hearing a song about man kind?” Asked Nathan as he leaned on Orion. Lyra’s ears perked up.
“Sure.” Was all she could reply with. Nathan’s smile grew wider as he whispered into Orion’s ear, as he did so Orion began to smile. Both Orion and Nathan cleared their throught and began to sing:
“ Our whole universe was in a hot dense state,

Then nearly fourteen billion years ago expansion started. Wait...
The Earth began to cool,
The autotrophs began to drool,
Neanderthals developed tools,
We built a wall.
We built the pyramids
Math, science, history, unraveling the mysteries,
That all started with the big bang!

"Since the dawn of man" is really not that long,

As every galaxy was formed in less time than it takes to sing this song.
A fraction of a second and the elements were made.
The bipeds stood up straight,
The dinosaurs all met their fate,
They tried to leap but they were late
And they all died."
They froze their asses off.
The oceans and pangea
See ya, wouldn't wanna be ya
Set in motion by the same big bang!
It all started with the big BANG!
It's expanding ever outward but one day
It will cause the stars to go the other way,
Collapsing ever inward, we won't be here, it wont be hurt
Our best and brightest figure that it'll make an even bigger bang!
Australopithecus would really have been sick of us
Debating out while here they're catching deer.
We're catching viruses.
Religion or astronomy, Encarta, Deuteronomy
It all started with the big bang!
Music and mythology, Einstein and astrology
It all started with the big bang!
It all started with the big BANG!” Song Nathan and Orion in unison.

By the end Lyra was clapping her hooves together.
“Where did you learn that song? And what’s it called?” Asked Lyra as she stopped clapping.
“It’s called The Big Bang Theory, by The Bear Naked Ladies.” Replied Orion as he caught his breath. Orion was in shape, but he always needed to catch his breath after a song.

“Cool, a whole story in only a minute. How awesome!” Replied Lyra as she walked over to a typewriter, “So, what type of government system to you have?” Asked Lyra as she started to type.
“Every kind, at some point we used them all.” Replied Nathan.

“Really?!” Asked Lyra as she looked back at the two humans.

“Yeah.” Replied Nathan.
“How, how is that even posable?!” 
“It’s human nature to rebel and destroy, kill and pillage, create and build.” Said Orion as he took the pen from Nathan.
“Oh.... Okay, so most things said about humans are true?” Asked Lyra.

“No, all things about humans said in Equestria is more or less true.” Replied as he pulled out a knife and started to flip the knife.

“Well, can you give me the full story of humanity?” Asked Lyra.
“How much paper do you have?” Asked Nathan as he leaned back and pointed.

Apple Family Orchard

James looked at his ever growing moutina of chips, then at his oppenens, all of them were dripping with sweat, Big Mac’s tower of chips were also going to, Zed and John were on their last legs, each only had 10 left. As Big Mac delt a new round, a whicked smile crept on James’s face, both Zed and John folted before they even got their cards, however Big Mac didn’t buy the story James was telling, this set James off, he started sweating as Big Mac put all his chips in and looked at him, Big Mac had two more chips than James, sweat now flowing freely over James, as he looked at the red stallion only one thing came to his mind. ‘YOLO’ James when all in with hopes of victory, however they were quickly stomped out with two aces. James looked at the two cards and at his own, his Jacks seemed to cry as he looked at them. Big Mac’s smile was quickly widened as he gazed apon the two Jacks. The silence was quickly ended with James burst out laughing. Both Zed and Big Mac looked at each other, John just smiled as slapped James, he quickly stopped laughing and walked off the his bed in defeat. The night was growing old. And the sun began to rise, Big Mac looked at the door, the sun was cutting through the smallest cracks. Maybe today is a good day for a day off.

Canterlot, Main Battle Yard.

As Luna looked over her hundreds of Night Guards, she was filled with a feeling of pride, these were the first warriors to be trained in the old combat style for over 900 years. Yell guilt filled her, the Solar Guards were much tougher than the Night Guards because they are a mix, the Night Guard only uses the ‘Bat-Ponies’. Bigot was the last thing somepony would label Luna, but she still felt like one, Orion watched the Lunar Princess as she over looked her brave troops, tears ran down his face at the sight, he had seen this scene many times, almost all of them ended with him killing the overseer, two of them he loved, many of them the same person. But only one looked the way Luna did so now, the Nazi Commander known as Hitler. Luna looked so much like him now, an army of soldiers who never asked for this war, all of them nearly the same, all of them willing to die for what they believe. 

“Look to your Horn and it will protect you.
We guard it with our lives.
As your armor guards your life.
As it has fallen Stallions.
Honor the craft of death.
We serve only Luna.
Honor the wings of the dead.
We ask only to serve.
Without the Dark, there can be no Light,
We have purpose
Without the Lie, there can be no Truth,
We have purpose
Without the War, there can be no Victory,
We have purpose
Without the Death, there can be no Sacrifice,
We have purpose
Without the Hope there can be no Future,
We have purpose
Without the Loyalty there can be no Friendship,
We have purpose
Without Luna or Celestia, there is nothing,...
And we would have no purpose
Where there is uncertainty, I shall bring light
Where there is doubt, I shall sow faith
Where there is shame, I shall point atonement
Where there is rage, I shall show its course
My word in the soul shall be as my horn in the field.
What is your life?
My honor is my life.
What is your fate?
My duty is my fate.
What is your fear?
My fear is to fail.
What is your reward?
My salvation is my reward.
What is your craft?
My craft is death.
What is your pledge?
My pledge is eternal service.
What is your Duty? To serve Luna’s Will.
What is Luna’s Will? That we fight and die.
What is Death? It is our duty.
What is your Duty...?
For Canterlot and for duty,
For past and for future,
For Luna and Celestia,
No Stallion falls forgotten.

Look to your Horn and it will protect you.” Boomed a voice, the voice of the Captain of The Night Guard. Nathan’s eyes widened as he looked around, he could see snipers taking positions, two in each team, one a Pegasus and one a Unicorn. Nathan looked around and made a decisions, Time to fuck with them. Thought Nathan as he fell back and started to fly off, is what he was doing worked, the teams would leave and return to training or what even they do at this time of night. As he got about a kilometer away he stopped and turned into a changeling, he looked over his insect body, at first it seemed small, but as he looked he noticed he was almost has tall as when he was human, he decided to use this to his advantage.

Royal Guard Barracks Sunrise

The busy guards filled the room, all of them were doing something, talking, drinking, or cleaning. All worked hard, even the lazy looking ones. As Nathan walked among them he felt at home, his time with the UNSC made him love the early mornings of the soldier’s life. But he was playing a game, walk by a changeling light, reveal him self as changeling, and let anarchy run lose. He sighted his target, a blue maned stallion working on a broken changeling lamp, he walked up to to the stallion and asked:

“Need some help?” The stallion looked up and smiled.

“Sure, I need a break anyway.” Replied the stallion as he whipped his brow. Nathan smiled and took the lamp in his magic, the lamp was quite simple, a glass and tin cage, six wires holding a small green Crystals, the Crystal was missing, it need a new one, Nathan turned on the lamp and then looked over the work bench for a replacement, he found one a placed it in, as he closed the gate of the lamp the Crystal jumped to life, shining bright green light all around, as the stallion looked at the bright light he glanced at Nathan, who’s changeling form was reviled. The stallion looked and then looked away and looked again to make sure he wasn’t going crazy, there stood a giant Changeling, taller than Celestia or Discord. His green eyes looked on the lamp, a single thought came the stallion’s mind, scream.

A thunderous scream erupted from the Solar Guards’ barracks, Trixie jumped up from her seat and looked down from her office window, the scream belonged to a stallion. Just as Trixie thought it was nothing, a second scream erupted, this time saying something

“CHANGELING!!!!!!” Came the voice from the barracks, bolts of magic started spewing from the barracks in every direction. Trixie’s eyes widened, a Changeling? They haven’t been seen for years, they attack now? Great just what she needed, Changelings attacking.

“This is Captain Trixie! A Changeling is in the Solar Guards’ barracks! Bring down that Changeling, deadly force is authorized, all troops report!” Boomed Trixie as she leaned out the window with a megaphone.

Nathan rolled on the laughing at what he was seeing, Ponies running around shooting at random objects for no reason. The only reason he was laughing so hard is because he had nothing else to do. Nathan decided to leave and let the chaos run it’s course. So he left.

Apple Family Farmhouse

“Say AppleBloom, did you see them soldiers? The ones who came to see Big Mac?” Asked Babs as she ate her toast.
“Yeah, they stopped by the house and talked to Applejack about something, she ain't talking, best keep it that way.” Replied AppleBloom as she sat down.

“Yeah, just between you and me, what do you think about the aliens?” Asked Babs in a whisper.
“I’m kinda scared of ‘em, we don’t know what they can do. Best to stay on their good side.” Babs made an ‘O’ with her mouth as she looked at the ticking clock. Over in the barn Applejack was brewing up a storm with her guests, and her brother.
“What do you mean you can’t work today?!” Boomed Applejack, Big Mac grunted as he slid down the stairs and hit the ground.

“I’m saying we can’t work, too tired.” Replied a lazy sounding Big Mac.Applejack snorted

“You don’t see me running off to have fun rather than working!” Barked Applejack as she turned and trotted out.
“Yeah right, you fucking banshee.” Replied Big Mac in a whisper. Both Zed and John were trying to sleep, James WAS sleeping, He some how slept through Applejack’s hour long bitch-fest. Orion had arrived a few minutes into it, Nathan was still away. Orion hopped down from his hiding place and walked into the barn and asked:

“Hey, anyone awake?” All he received were three groans in unison. A small smirk made it’s way on to his face as he sat down and pulled out a pipe and a grey book. Time for some reading. Thought Orion as he leaned back and started to read.
Nathan flew over the bright green trees, he was wide awake, even thought he stayed up all night talking and playing small pranks on ponies, he was still wide awake. Hmmmmmm, I could talk to the Princesses, nah, they might think we aren't working, I could visit the main six. Oh HELL yes, let’s go visit Rarity as Zed and play a few games. Nah, I’ll just play the recording!! Thought Nathan as he turned around and headed for Ponyville, and the Carousel Boutique. The trip was short, he long since removed the Changeling look and replaced his work out fit with his UNSC dress blues, and three of his highest metals pined upon his chest. The Metal of Honor, which he received for his actions in WWII, The Golden Branch, which he received from the NCR for his actions in the Second Battle for Hover Dam, and The Iron Seal which he got from the UNSC for his actions on Harvest. All of them he earn with the same actions, hold off an overwhelming enemy from an icon of power for the NCR, UNSC, or United States of America. As he landed a strange felling overtook him, joy. He was standing in front an object that only existed in fiction. But he quickly reminded him self of his mission. He walked up and walked in, it was a store after all. The bell ringed as he open and closed the door. A voice came from the upper floor of the Boutique. It’s was a mare’s voice, but not Rarity’s.

“	Oh, sorry. First time running the store by my self, how can I help you?” Asked a white mare with a vilote and pink mane as she slid down the stairs and bolted for the counter. She was oddly calm as she ran. Nathan quickly whipped his mind of thought and asked:

“Yes, I’m looking for one Rarity, I need to talk to her, do you know where to find her?” Asked Nathan as he walked to the mare slowly and leaned on the counter, he was much taller than her but some who he came to eye level with her. She swallowed deeply and replied.

“Y-yes, she’s at the Spa, she should be back in a few minutes.” This made Nathan smile. 
“Okay mind showing me what you have for sale? I need something to take my mind off matters for a few minutes until Rarity arrives.” Replied Nathan, Sweetie Belle smiled and spook.

“Sure, If you want, I’ll have a suit made for you.” Replied Sweetie Belle as she walked around and pulled out a long rack of clothing labeled ‘Colts’

Royal Canterlot Garden

“Sister? What is wrong now?” Asked Luna as she sat beside her crying sister.
“Nothing, just looking over old memories, the good and bad.” Said Celestia as she turned the page
“And the ugly.” Replied Luna as she turned the page and pointed out two fillies covered in cake mix. A small chuckle escaped Celestia as she remembered that day. “Remember what mother and father said? ‘You fillies need to grow up!’ ‘No colt wants a mare who always plays games’” Mocked Luna in a deep voice. This made Celestai laugh.
“Father said that after the second Grand Galaping Gala right?” Asked Celestia as she looked at Luna.
“Yeah, after you and I splattered Fire Heart with that paint” Mused Luna as she tried to hold in a laugh.
“Oh!, remember the time Fire Heart’s brother asked you out?!” Luna’s eyes went wide. “When you earned your cutie mark when you were kissing him!?” Asked Celestia as she broke out in laughter.

“Sister?! Why!?” Asked Luna as she covered her face with her hooves.
“Sorry! Couldn‘t. Help. My. Self.” Replied Celestia as she rolled on her back.
“Oh really? How about your’s?” Asked Luna, this made Celestia stop.
“Oh no you don’t!”Yelled Celestia as she rolled off her back. “That must never be mentioned.” 
“Okay, WE wont talk about it.” Replied Luna.
“Don’t you dare.” Said Celestia.
“Dare I do.” Replied Luna.
“What” Replied Celestia.
“Wait” Replied Luna.
“Stop” Replied Celestia.
“Stomp” Replied Luna.
“Okay” Replied Celestia.
“Cheese cake.” Replied Luna.
“Why?” Asked Celestia.

“CHEESE CAKE!” Screamed Luna as she threw the cake at Celestia. Celestia quickly reacted and threw back the cake, Luna was not as quick as her elder sister and was hit in the face with her own weapon. “HEY! You can’t do that!” Screamed Luna as she licked and whipped away the cheese. What followed was a castle wide food war, there were many casualties, priceless paitings, statues, and even a Prince and Captain were used as cover.

West Wing of Canterlot Castle Midnight

Layla layed on her bed facing the ceiling, thoughts of war and battle filled her mind, the many memories of her wounderous trioups, her grand victories, her commanding power, and her cruelty, always cruelty, the one word that any person described her as, from her most hated enemies to her own husband. All said she was cruel, the world of Thesal both song of her glory and her cruelty. All knew of her, all feared and respected her in different ways, all but one group of people, the Southern Guards of Justice, they were the first to fall to her might, they were the ones who held out the longest, they dared to show at her wedding, they were also her. They were her family, they were the family she was born with, they were now and always will be part of her. As thoughts of her lost lover filled her mind, tears filled her eyes, she failed him when he neede her most, she was too weak to defeat the dragons, and for the first time, the people of Thesal saw their mighty queen fall to her knees and beg. The thoughts were quickly scrubbed from her mind as she looked to the moon, even thou it’s a different one, it still looked a if she looked at Thesal’s broken moon. Tears were still running down her face, just as she was about to get up and look over the night landscape, a knock at the door sounded. Layla quickly tried to compose herself:
“Come in.” Said Layla as she walked to her bed.

“Hello, it’s Luna, may we talk?” Asked Luna as she slowly opened the door.

“I did say ‘come in’. But yeah, we can talk.” Replied Layla as she got up and walked over to a small kitchen, and started to make a pot of tea. Luna opened the door and her eyes widened at the four different outfits, on a deadly looking power armor, a dusty farm hand outfit, a sleek and expensive looking business outfit, and a black uniform with white trim, gold stars and striped, and a matching hat. Luna looked around the room, it oddly reminded her of a mix of Celestia’s, Cadence’s and her own room, a large mess on one side, a giant bed in the middle of the room, and complete order and the other side. Layla was in the orderly side brewing a small pot of tea. “Cream or lemon?” Asked Layla as she picked up a bottle of cream.
“Oh, Cream.”Answered Luna as she looked about the large room.

“Honey, syrup, or sugar?” Asked Layla as she held up a bottle of honey with a bee in the front.
“Honey.” Replied Luna as she picked up a folder of papers labeled ‘important shit’. Luna raised an eye brow at the odd wording. She looked through the folder and found for the Royal Solar Guard barracks.“What does ‘important shit’ mean?” Asked Luna.

“Just an old human saying, it just means important, ‘shit’ is just slang for stuff or an object. Don’t use it, the nobles will harass you and call you an ‘anti-equestrian monster’, believe me, nobles are the roots to all evil..... Wait that’s me.” Replied Layla as she handed Luna a cup of tea.

“Ah, very well, I came to talk to you about a matter regarding you and your companions, Prince Blueblood would like to get to know the ones who wish to help us in ‘our time of need’” Said Luna as she looked out the window and took a small sip of the hot tea. “He has planed a party for you and your brothers, the Captain has also suggested a test of skill, to see whom is the most powerful, a tournament of sorts, an old game played by the kings of old, I still hold the crown, none have even dared to challenge me.” Said Luna with a light chuckle, as did Layla the thought of Luna besting the mightiest of warriors for the crown.

“I’m sure Zed and Nathan would love that, Orion might argue it is a waste of time, but I’m sure Nathan will talk to him, tell me what are the rules?” Asked Layla as she took a sip of tea.

“Light amour only, a type of bladed weapon, and who draws first blood from the Torso wins. It used to be to the death.” With the mention of a battle to the death reminded her of her old ways once again, tears started to form in her eyes.
“Ah, can the blades move?” Asked Layla as she placed her tea on the floor and walked over to her weapons and pulled out her assault rifle and told Luna about Orion’s Lancer.

“Oh, oh my. I don’t think so, only swords will be used in this tournament.” Said Luna finished her tea.
“I thought so, well if you’ll excuse me, I need to tell Orion and Nathan, will the General be returning for the tournament?” Asked Layla as she pulled out a small, pen sized, microphone.

“Yes, so will the Elements of Harmony, they all would like to meet you, I believe on Lyra Bon and her mothers will be joining at the request of the Captain of the Guard. She wishes for this to be recorded. Odd usually she is quite dossal when it comes to the Elements, well it’s time I left and let you sleep.” Said Luna as she placed the cup on the far side of the room and walked out. As soon as she did tears began to flow freely. The memories of the past were too great tonight best to sleep them off.

Unknown Location Midnight

The cloaked figure watched the motionless body of Imperial Solar Guard Unicorn stallion. The stallion who followed him, now lay dead at his feet.

“Josaia, what is this! You were only meant to maim him, not kill him! The Lord will be displeased with this, never the less, he will have to do, come bring him.” Said a deadly, swift and weak voice of the cloaked figure, the tall armored dog faced creature shrugged and picked up the limp body of the stallion, and followed the the unnamed cloaked figure.

Unknown Location Two Hours After Midnight

“A dead one?! Bakk!! He will need to do! Josaia! Fetch Dosail, Krimpter! retrieve your spell book and be ready for Dosail!” Quite literally barked a crowned dog sitting on a throne made of a mix of gold, silver, rock, crystal, steel, and skulls of his fallen enemies. Josaia quickly bowed and ran off the find Dosail. Krimpter grunted in disgust at how Josaia obeyed ever order without question. The ‘Lord’ raised an eye brow and asked:

“What are you doing?! Get the BOOK!!” Roared the Lord as he stood up and barked, dust and small rocks fell from the ceiling. Krimpter quickly ran of in fear to search for the book, the Lord slowly sat down and called for a ‘Maria.‘
“Maria!, please come.” Barked the Lord in a tough yet soft tone. As she did so a slender female dog walked out and stood in front of him with her head down.

“What can I do for my Lord?” Asked Maria, this brought a sad look to the Lord’s face.
“Daughter please, I am your father not your king. You must never address me as ‘my Lord’” Said the Lord as he tried to get up and place his hand on her shoulder, she slowly looked up and spook.

“Father, mother told me to address you as my Lord because it’s proper.” Questioned the Princess.
“Yes, but I’m asking my daughter to call me her father, not her ruler.” Said the Lord in a fatherly voice. Soft, kind, and strong.
“Yes, father.” Said Princess Maria.

“Now go, I’m sure the Captain would like to talk with you.” Said the Lord as he turned around and sat down on his throne. Maria smiled and turned around and walked away. Nearly getting run over by Josaia and Dosail, who both bowed and continued to the Lord’s throne. Krimpter was not far behind, the guards at the door walked out and locked the doors. “Let us begin.”

Apple Family Orchard Sunrise

“What in tarnation?! We need to go back to Canterlot? This taint making a lick of sense!” Barked Applejack as she read the gold and crimson sealed letter.

“Pipe down!” Said Zed as he laid back in the chair. Orion quickly pulled back the chair and Zed landed on the floor.
“It’s not that bad, we’ll just work through the night when we get back, don’t worry, we’ll make it up in a few days, calm down.” Said Nathan as he spun a coin of the table.

“Fine, we’ll go, but I still don’t like it.” Grunted Applejack as she finished her food.
“So a diner party with the Elements?! A prime time to show Rare this.” Said Nathan as he pulled out a recorder. A deadly smile made it’s way on to Orion’s face as he looked at the recorder and imagined what was on it. Zed’s face went pale.
“So Nathan, I hear you were spending time with Sweetie Belle. How did it go?” Asked Orion with the giant smile still on his face, Nathan’s went away when he figured out what Orion was suggesting.

“God damn it Orion!!” Yelled Nathan as he threw the recorder at Orion, scoring a hit to the face. Orion began to laugher at Nathan’s outburst.

“What? Did you two do something?! Something that Zed wants to do to her sister?!” Asked Orion as he rolled on the floor, in great pain I might add. Nathan’s face went pale, Orion wanted him to react, he wanted him to set up the joke for him.
“God damn it, you set a god damned bear trap and go skipping right into it.” Said Nathan as he got up and walked away. “Do you know what we’re meant to wear? I have a habit of wearing the wrong outfit for things.” Said Nathan as he started to drink the whole pot of coffee that was boiling on the stove.

“Yeah, I think we should wear our dress blues. What do you think Orion?”

“I’ll where a nice pink dress to Nathan and Sweetie Belle’s wedding.” Replied Orion on the floor, Nathan stopped drinking and started to pour it on the unknowing soldier who lay helpless on the floor. “Ahhhhhhh! Shit, shit, shit, shit, hot, hot, hot, hot, fire, fire, pain!” Yelled Orion as he got up in seconds and ran to the nearest lake in full sprint.
“I’ll get the mop.” Said Spite as he got up to retrieve the mop.

“Thank you.” Said Nathan as Tpite walk off to find the mop.

Canterlot Captain of the Solar Guard office

Steel Spitter looked over the paper work the Captain had left for her, new armor is being asigned to the Solar Guards, new weapons, new combat, old combat. All of it junk in the eyes of an untrained soldier, even in the eyes of trained soldier it’s still junk. Rather than combat reports or intel in the enemy, she is receiving hundreds of notes about what’s going on in Canterlot, maybe being promoted to Captain of the Solar Guard has it’s down sides for a 21 years old mare.
“Steel, Trixie wants to talk to you, says it’s ‘of great importance the you meet her within a minute’ or some thing, so go.” Said a husky voice a grey stallion Pegasus.

“Oh, right. I’ll go then, thanks for the message.” Said Steel Spitter as she got up and began her short journey to the Captain’s office. Steel knocked twice and received a “Come in” from Trixie. “You needed to spea- Captain Knight Wings? Captain what’s going on?” Asked Steel as she stood in the door way.

“If you calm down and sit down I may tell you.” Replied Trixie in an irritated tone. Knight’s face was calm, not unlike the old Captain’s in meetings and other events. Steel however was rigged, ready to run or fight. “Now that you are calm, I’ll tell you why you are here. Prince Blueblood is throwing a party, you two are invited, in this party you are tasked with two things.” Said Trixie as she used her magic to draw a small picture, “You are too have fun, enjoy the night and spend time with the creatures, I don’t care if you like it or not, just spend time with them.” Said Trixie as she scratched out her drawing and started a new one. Steel shifted and asked:

“Why?” Trixie looked up at the mare and spoke:

“Because your commanding officer is telling you to do so. And both your Princesses are also telling you. So shut your traps and go find something to do for the next six hours.” With that Trixie used her magic to slide the chairs they were sitting on out of her office and into the hall. The door closed and the two captains were left in the hall. Steel looked to the Lunar Captain and asked: “Who are you going with?” The Lunar Captain shrugged and asked the same. Steel also shrugged and asked him if he were to go with her.

“Why not, I have nothing else to do, besides file reports on how the flowers in the night garden are blooming.” Steel smiled and trotted off in search of a dress, Knight Wing went to his home and tried to fix his dress blues.

Unknown Location Midday

The Lord walked around the stallion that now stood in front of his throne, a look of approval and respect was on his face when he looked at Krimpter.

“Well done, they wont even know what hit them when Dosail enters their kingdom and destroys it from within, Dosail! You know your mission, correct?” Asked the Lord.

“Yes. Join the guard, follow order’s clam the spot of Captain, corrupt data on our forces, eliminate high ranking enemies, raise the flag of the Gober clan over their city.”

“Good, now who are you?” Asked the Lord

“I am Twisted Words, I am going to become the Captain of the Royal Guard.”
“Very good, Dosail. Now come, it’s time.” Said the Lord as he started to walk to the nearest door, “Josaia, place Dosail’s body somewhere safe until he returns.” The large dog bowed and picked up the limp body of Dosail and took it. The Lord lead to the main rocky gate of the fortress, and placed his hand on his shoulder and spook. “Do not fail me my son. Now go!” Commander the Lord, Twisted Words began to talk into the Everfree forest and in the direction of Canterlot in hopes of crushing a mighty enemy. Maria watched as her elder brother walked into the forest she was forbidden from entering, the Everfree forest, a place a wonder and fear from the stories she was told. Maria nearly screamed as she was pulled as was from the railing and into a kiss.

“Hello, Princess.” Said a lean voice as she slowly pulled away from him.
“Captain, what did I tell you? Don’t do that in public, mother has forbidden me from getting in a relationship with any one until I’m old enough. She would lose her mind if she caught or was told about me and you.” Said Maria as she walked back to the railing.

“And how is not kissing you going to get me to third base?” Asked her ‘attacker’.
“You’ll need to wait a year, then I’ll be eight teen and we can marry.” Said Maria as she turned to face him.
“Great, a whole year. Why must I wait?” 

“If I marry before my brother his kingship is revoked. That’s why Tarence.” Said Maria as she took one of his many knives and started to cut the air.

“Well then, I’ll need to wait, speaking of Dosail, were did he go?” Asked Tarence as he took back the knife.
“He left, father said he wont be coming back for a while. Hope he stays safe.” Said Maria as she looked into the deep forest.
“Don’t worry, he’ll come back, owes me six gems.” Said Tarence jokingly. Maria made a small smile and turned to him.
“WHAT IS GOING ON HERE?!?!” Boomed the voice of Queen Medea. Tarence didn’t even flinch, however Maria nearly fell of the balcony in fear. “CAPTAIN TARENCE!, WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE?!” Barked Medea as she pulled out her sword.
“Just asking the Princess where her Brother went, not else is important enough to bring up.” Replied Tarence in a calm tone.
“I AM NOT FOOL CAPTAIN!” Barked Medea.

“Then you know pointing a sword at the Captain of the Guard is a very bad idea, only the Lord has that right, and you know the punishment for doing so?” Asked Tarence as he pulled out his sword and forced her’s down.

“Very well, Captain. You win, leave. I must talk to my daughter alone.” Said Medea in a dark tone. Tarence bowed and walked away with sword in hand. “I hate that mutt. He has no right to marry you!” Barked Medea in a more humble tone.
“Mother, it was your idea to have a fight to the death tournament for Captain of the Guard and my hand in marriage, I have no one else to marry, tanks to you.” Said Maria as she looked at her mother.

“True, but I still don’t like him. He’s arrogant, foolish, and thick headed.” Said Medea as she leaned on the railing.
“Just like father when he was you!” Said Maria in a cheerful tone. Medea let lose no smile nor any hint of joy.
“Yes, your father was arrogant, and now he dooming his only son to death.” Said Medea as she turned around and walked away. Maria ignored her mother’s words.

Canterlot Castle Royal Dining Room Dusk

“Odd to see you here Blueblood, I would have thought would run off to the North.” Said a lean voice.
“Could say the same for you, Shining Armor.” Said Blueblood as he turned to see Shining Armor give him a hug. 
“Good to see you.”

“Good to see you too.” Blueblood and Shining talked for a while, the table was being set up in an odd arrangement, Celestia and Luna side by side at one end, Discord on Luna’s right, Cadence on Discord’s right, Shining Armor on her right, Blueblood beside him, Captain Trixie on his right, General McIntosh on her right, Applejack on his right, and Rainbow Dash beside her, Gilda sat beside her, and Lyra sat beside Gilda. Chrysalis on Celestia’s left, Twilight beside her, Twilight’s date on her left, the Captain of the Solar Guard on his left, and the Captain of the Lunar Guard on her left, Lyra and Bon Bon sat between them, Pinkie Pie on their left, Fluttershy on her left and Rarity beside her. On the other end sat Orion facing Celestia and Nathan facing Luna. Layla and Zed on Nathan’s right, James and John on Orion’s left. Rarity and Zed were sitting beside each other, so was Rainbow Dash and John.

The group of 22 People, Ponies, Draconequus, and Changelings poured into the room and took their seats and began talking, many of them gave odd looks to each other, but all were happy, all except the six humans at the end of the table. Oddly only John wait for the food, the other five sat there bitter waiting for the food, Nathan resorted to gnawing at the table.
“Mares and Gentle Colts, diner is served.” Spook a very British voice. Everyone but the humans nearly ignored him. As Celestia and Luna were served, the six humans at the end of the table were drooling like dogs. However a thought hit Orion. They don’t know that they are omnivores.

“Hey, Nathan. I think we’re being served fruit and veg.” Nathan’s face quickly turned to panic. Fruit? He needed meat!! Anything but fruit. thought Nathan as his mind filled with thoughts of meat. As one of the last two trays were placed the waiter all took hold of the lids and readied for a reveal. All in unison they lifted the tray lids.
> Aftermath II
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Xenophage

Equestria

Chapter IX

Aftermath II 

Canterlot Castle Royal Dining Room: Dusk

Nathan stared at his meal with a mix of anger and disappointment, he we served a small green salad, he spotted small cherries and other berries, he glanced at Orion and the rest of his fellow gods, each had the same, as he looked down the table, even one had the same, except Discord and Pinkie, they both had chocolate and cream. Nathan looked at this tiny plate and shrugged, he picked up the tiny fork and tried to eat the small plate of green. As Celestia looked at Orion and Nathan, looks of doubt on their faces, Celestia tried to change that.

“Um, Lord Orion?” Asked Celestia as she looked at him, in turn Orion slowly looked up and asked:
“What are you on about? ‘Lord’? I haven’t been called that in years, just call me Orion, alright?” Said Orion with a seemingly caring smile, Celestia took it as a true one.

“Oh, well, Orion, why are you truly here? I mean, all of you, Order and Chaos, Justice and Crime, Peace and War? Why did you three come?” Asked Celestia as she stopped eating.

“Well, even here of a Yin and Yang? Yin is the light, safety, hope. Yang darkness, danger, despair. If only the ‘good’ gods come, the light shale over whelm the darkness, and light shale rule all, same goes for darkness, one can not survive without the other, it’s the reason life goes on, life and death are the same and much different at the same time, both are needed.” Replied Orion as he also stopped eating to talk, much of the other chatter died down.

“YOU ARE NOT THE GOD OF CHAOS!! I AM!” Boomed Discord as he jumped up and started to walk after Orion, Orion merely waved his hand and Discord stopped. “I can’t move. Help”

“I am not the god of Chaos, I am the god of Order, the Yin to Nathan, the god of Chaos, my Yang. You are this world’s sprite of Chaos, you are powerful, but Nathan’s power spans the entire multiverse.” Replied Orion as he effortlessly lifted Discord up and placed him back in his seat. Discord’s face was a mix of hate and acceptance.

“Oh, well then, what is your real reason, you are here? Equestria can fend off it’s own enemies, it’s strong, it ponies are strong, everything about it is strong.” Asked Shining Armour.

“If that’s true, why is the city of Las Pegasus a pile of ashes, why is half you army dead or seriously injured? Why are you worried? Why are you calling for help?” Asked Orion in response to Shining Armour’s question. Shining Armor’s face drooped, defeat.

“Because they have fallen from grace, because they think them selves gods, because they know that now.” Replied Nathan as he bit off the points of his fork and started to chew them. The sound of steel twisting and snipping came scratching from his mouth. Half the table cringed with slight pain. Orion quickly slapped Nathan in the back of the head, causing him to spit out the metal.

“You have no right to speak of Equestria like that, we've fought dragons and hundreds of creatures to keep our selves safe!” Barked Rainbow Dash, Gilda put her talon on her shoulder and spook:

“Don’t.” Rainbow Dash ignored this, however Orion didn't.

“Earth had Dragons, Hydras, and all the creatures that are common in Equestria, however, now they are gone, hunted to the last, killed, and more than likely eaten. Humans are the strongest creature we have even faced, most creatures die out when food runs out, disaster, or war sticks. But humanity gets stronger.” Replied Orion, this oddly made Rainbow Dash even madder.

“What?! You killed and ate them!? You’re the real monsters!” Boomed Rainbow Dash as she walked over to Orion, who raised to the challenge.

“Really, humans monster?! Who would have thought, a race where slaving, murder, rape, and other barbaric things are common with out laws, are monsters, you must be the smartest of the whole bunch!” Mocked Orion.

“Are you mocking me?!” Asked Rainbow Dash as she started to fly to reach eye level. This made Orion smile, he raised his left hand and snapped his fingers, Rainbow Dash soddenly wrenched in pain.

“Ahhh! Hel-- Ahhh!” Suddenly light filled the room and so did heat, in an instant, it was over, Rainbow Dash laid on the floor, except not Rainbow Dash. There laying on the floor was a slim, athletic looking, rainbow haired naked girl with a pair of small wings folded on her back. Gilda quickly got her bearings and rusted over the her lover’s side, Celestia jumped out of her seat by just stood there, everyone was dumbstruck, even Luna.

“H-how did you do this?” Asked Gilda, slowly trying to wake up the very much human Rainbow Dash.
“And more importantly, why?” Asked Luna in an irritated tone.

“Just a lesson, and to answer your question, Gilda, just a simple swap spell. She’ll be fine, well, once the pain of your body shifting wheres off. She’ll come to in a few minutes, the pain will be long gone before that, should I shift her back?” Asked Nathan, Gilda froze, it should be an easy chose, but Gilda thought it over.

“No, not yet, leave her be. I’ll try and explain to her.” Replied Gilda as she motioned for the guards to come over, they didn't move. Orion snapped his fingers and Gilda and the human Rainbow Dash were gone, just then half the table flew out of their seats, the other half nearly slammed their head on the table.

“What just happened?!” Boomed Luna, the guards were at Orion’s neck in seconds.

“Nathan, what did you do?” Asked Orion as he pushed the spear heads away from himself.
“I stopped time for them, but kept it going for us and Gilda. Don’t worry, they’re in Gilda’s room.” “Great, please go back to your posts, and stop trying to kill me.”

“Right, go back to your posts, on second thought, go for an Ale in town, I’m sure the Guardians are more than enough to stop any more incidences, right?” Asked Luna to Nathan in a very sly and seductive voice. Nathan froze, the spot light was on him; “Y-yeah, we’re more than e-enough. Go on we’ll. Yeah head out.” Replied Nathan in a stumbling tone.

“Right away, thanks sir and madam.” Replied one of the six guards as they slowly walked out.4

“Now, who is ready for a bit more action?” Asked Blueblood as he got up and walked into a small door behind him. Orion knew where this was going, and he whispered something to John, who in turn grinned like a mad man, this was not going to be good for Zed or Nathan. Or was it? When Blueblood returned a red wall like curtain lifted up and revealed seven ponies, two the six humans recognized as Vinyl Scratch and Octavia, the other five were more than likely Octavia’s band, but something was off about them, but was this a battle or a duet?

“What’s up Ponies, Changeling, and what ever you are!” Yelled the blue maned mare with the massive headphones as she pointed at the table. “Octavia and I are going to be playing some songs from our album, Songs from the Heart! Now let’s get it on!!” Boomed Vinyl as she throw a record on the turn table, Octavia and the small band started playing Spring. The rest of the hour was filled with mixes of Classical and Dubstep, straight Dubstep or straight Classical. After an hour of listening to music, Blueblood stood up and spook:

“Right, time for the duels, I trust you all enjoyed your meals?” Asked Blueblood as he walked out through the door behind him.

“Mine didn’t have enough nails in it.” Replied John as he leaned back and started a small chat with Rarity and Zed.
“I’m sorry, but I don’t think ya can eat nails.” Replied Applejack in a semi-pissed off tone.

“Nah, the NCR Ranger Vets. chew nails and spit napalm.” Replied Nathan as he picked his teeth.
“Need to meet these Rangers.” Replied Trixie as her plate was removed by a waiter.

“No, most are kinda racist, plus they would faint just but looking at you, the bright of colours.” Replied Layla as she got up a streched.

“Please sit down, all of you. I have something to say.” Said Celestia as she sat up slightly. She sat down once all, execpt Blueblood sat down, just then Celestia spoke:

“On behalf of Prince Blueblood, I would like to welcome you to Canterlot Castle, Orion, Nathan, Zed, James, Layla, and John. I hope this party will open your eyes to our way of life.” Said Celestia as she raised a silver and glass cup filled with a red wine, all down the length of the table did the same, even Chrysailis. “Hail!” Layla’s eyes quickly went black and her vision went also black. Time stopped for everyone except the five other humans.

“Hail to our mighty queen, Layla!!” Boomed a mighty voice, a blush filled Layla’s face as she looked down the table of faces, many she had known for years, some new, some blurred, some missing, spots remained empty. A small sliver of sadness filled her eyes, but pride quickly crushed her feelings for her lost friends, the time for remembering them will come latter, now is the time to celebrate the living and the victory over the Dragon Horde.

“Hail, Layla! For saving me from the Dragon, Tocumsa! Hail!” Boomed a marry voice of a one eyed warrior, the room erupted into a single word. Hail.

“Hail to Layla, for saving the city of Fresh Water!” Once again the room filled with the word, Hail.

“Hail to Layla for bringing an end to the tyranny of King Lucian!!” Once again but this time much louder the room filled with the word, Hail. Layla was known as a hero among the “Savage’ nations of the north, many feel they have both power and cunning, but many others think they are barbarians whom must be destroyed without mercy, one such person was King Lucian, and another was High Mage Faither, whom called upon the dang King known as Tocumsa. The Dragon whom all other dragon are born from. The memories of her first life quickly faded, leaving only the blurry image of a man, standing proud and tall. As her eye brightened up she found her self in her bed, with Nathan sleeping half on the bed and half on a chair Zed as in a large arm chair in the far side of the room, around the room were a a mix of Lunar and Solar Guards, one saw her get slowly up and ran out the door. Nathan twitched as he heard the clanking of the metal hooves on the stone floor. The doors quickly opened as Orion, James, and John ran into room. A mix of joy and relief when they looked at the slowly waking, Layla. Orion quickly kicked Nathan awake and Nathan’s eyes widened and hugged her.

“Almost lost you Layla, the power started to rip apart your mental state, we striped you and the rest of use of power, we’re just a bit stronger than Luna, but don’t tell her that, oh and Rainbow Dash just woke up too, Blueblood thinks it’s time for the duels, oh and Trixie was at your side for a few hours, her duties pulled her away, she asked me to say, ‘Hope you get better, Luna says you’re invited to a small ‘party’ for friends, see you.’.” With that Orion left.
> Aftermath III
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Xenophage

Equestria

Chapter X

Aftermath III

West Wing of Canterlot Castle

Layla started to get up as she heard a very familiar voice call for her.
“Where are you going? It’s been weeks since we seen any threat from Tocumsa, best to use.” The voice yawned. “Use this time to rest.” Said the voice in playful tone.

“Or train and toughen your troops, need I remind you this fortress is only one fortress? Tocumsa could have thousands , and we wouldn’t even know about them.” Replied Layla in a sharp tone as she tightened her Gauntlet.
“So?” Asked the voice in a even more playful tone.

“So, I’m not getting back in that bed until nightfall, even then I’ll sleep on the floor.” Replied Layla sharply, yet with a hint of playfulness.

“Aw, well the floors a good place too.” Layla was about to turn around and smack the living shit out of the voice until the door flew open and a body slammed on the floor before her feet. The body was one of the guards, it had a knife stabbed in his back with a note crudely fixed on the blade. Without missing a beat, Layla bolted through the door to face the attackers. The hall was empty, she quickly ran to the window at one of the ends of the hall and yelled:

“The castle is under attack! Lock the castle down!!” As her words rang out across the castle, she could see the drew bridge fall the ground and lock in the attackers, the shouts of Paladins filling the cool morning air, the tale tale clanking of the Knight’s armor, the cries of the Farrell Wolves, and the whines of the war horses. The door at the bottom of the stair case smashed open and the clanking of steel and stone filled the halls, the Knights and Paladins were coming.

“Dimore!, get your armor!” Yelled Layla as she ran into the room to grab her swords. Looking to the bed she found it empty and the rest of the room also empty, Dimore was gone. “Dimore?! Dimore!” Yelled Layla as she ran to the nearest window, the hinges were broken off, she looked around the small court yard, a small pool of blood formed where they would have landed, Dimore’s blood.

“My Lady!! We are here!!” Yelled a Paladin in gold and silver armor. “Lady Layla! What is wrong?!” Asked the Paladin as he pulled her away from the window.

“Dimore has been kidnaped, ready a search party and find him, they can’t have gone far. Move!!” Barked Layla as she pushed the Paladin.

“My Lady, I don’t think that’s a good idea.” Said one of the Knights, Layla nearly attacked him. “With all due respect, this note says not to attack or send the search party. Or Dimore will be executed. Singed, Lord Eskar.” Layla’s face went pale, Eskar was Tocumsa’s second in command, if he’s making threats, Tocumsa mush be ready for war.
“Send this to the Northern Nations, tell them Tocumsa is ready for war.”

“What? How’s Tocumsa?” Asked a femin voice. The room quickly fade to black the light grey walls darkening, the bright welcoming light of morning turning into the chilly and playful night sky. The shapes of two Alicorns comming into view, ones of the Knight and Paladin fading.

“Who is Tocumsa?” Echoed a second voice.

“An enemy who made Nathan look like Orion.” Replied Layla as she took another small step towards Luna and Celestia.
“Is that so? Well, I need to step up my game if I’m going to compete with Tocumsa.” Said Nathan in a fatherly voice as he placed a light blanket on his sister’s shoulders.	

“Thanks, but no.” Said Layla as she pushed it of and place it on the bed. “I can look like that when I’m fighting can I?” Asked Layla as she walked out. Nathan let out a weak smile and followed. Luna and Celestia struck up a conversation with Layla about her dreams. It ended with a few with Layla scaring the daylights out of Luna.

“Welcome, everyone who is taking part in the duel please make your way to the changing room. Grab a sword you like and know how to use and get ready for a random match. As you know, Luna holds the title of Champion, and with Orion and Nathan removing much of their power, Luna may still hold it. Now if you please, get ready.” Boomed Blueblood as he held up a mega phone and spook into it. Gilda, Rainbow Dash, Trixie, Applejack, Big McIntosh, Shining Armor, Discord, Chrysalis, The Lunar Captain and the Solar Captain all walked into the small room filled with swords and armor. The Guardians wearing the New Vegas Reinforced Leather Armor. Orion chose the Sword of the West, which was given to him by Nathan from the Divide, Nathan chose the Sword of the East, which he got from Legate Lanuis, for his skill and honor in combat. James chose a none Vegas weapon, a heavy Claymore, which he named Blade of Justice, Zed a flaming Shishkebab named Blazing Crime, John a Roman Gladius named Peace Maker, and Layla chose a Japanese Katana named War’s Bane.
“Compensating for something?” Asked Zed as he looked at Orion and Nathan’s swords. Nathan quickly made a disgusted look.

“Fine, fuck you then.” Replied Nathan as he snapped his fingers and the Sword of the East was replaced with two Shuang Gou or Hooked Swords. “Better?” Asked Nathan as he held them at arm’s reach, Zed shrugged at the sight of the Hooked blades.

“How about you?” Asked Zed as he looked at Orion’s imposing weapon.

“I’m not bending to your will.” Replied Orion as he tured his head in a low angle. Zed practically snorted at the look Orion was giving him. “Fine, be a bitch.” Was all Orion said as he throw his sword into the air and a Golden Sabre fell into ground, the words “Cum misericordia et iustitia” Carved into the golden steel blade.

“With Justice and Compassion? Really?, you used that sword to whip out an entire empire!” Orion ignored this comment and began whipping the razor sharp blade with his leather glove.

“We are ready for the draw, please come and grab a flag from the crate!” Barked Blueblood as he held up a small stick with a red flag on the end. One by on they grabbed their flags, as each held up their flags names were written on a massive black board. 18 empty boxes were soon filled, Nathan would be facing Blueblood in the first round of the match, Chrysalis and Big McIntosh in the second, Layla and Shining Armor in the third, James and Zed in the fourth, Trixie and The Lunar Captain in the fifth, Celestia and Discord in the sixth, John and the Solar Captain in the seventh, Luna automatically advancing her to the next match, Gilda and Applejack eighth, Rainbow Dash and Orion in the final. Rainbow Dash was returned in Pony form when the Guardian’s power was taken away. With a few more minutes prep, Nathan and Blublood stepped into the ring and got ready for battle.

Nathan and Blueblood stared at each other for only a few seconds, but the those who were watching, it felt like hours, Blueblood’s Sabre twitched in his magic as he tried to circle around Nathan, every time it did, Nathan’s did the same, the near motionless stage was removed when Blueblood lunged at Nathan and Nathan kicked the blade and brought his blade bearing down upon the helpless stallion, the sharp blade hit true and swift, as soon as the blade made contact with Blueblood’s armor he was teleported off the ring and Nathan won in a flat forty five seconds. Blueblood congratulated him on his victory and began chatting up a storm with him, Nathan was going to be gone for the next six rounds.

Next up is Queen Chrysalis and Big McIntosh, both are great fighters, both ‘liked’ each other. But the honor and internment was forcing them to fight, so fight they must. Big Mac wheeled a heavy Claymore and Chrysalis a jet black Rapier with a silver blade.

“So, hows Little Mac?” Asked Chrysalis as she lunged at McIntoch, who deflected it away with ease,

“Good, hes dohing fine, he misses hiz motha.” Replied Big Mac in a gagged tone. The sword in him mouth didn't help him talking.

“Shame.” Replied Chrysalis as she quickly attacked Big Mac with her light sword, however big Mac was faster and landed a blow to the ribs with the hilt of the sword. “Ahh!, For the love of- Land a killing blow, don't just tease me!” Said Chrysalis as she attacked and dogged a few slow attacks by Big Mac.

“I’ll try, but no promiziez.” Replied McIntosh as he ran at her with full speed and landed a light blow to the neck, but was too slow to dug the sharp blade touching his fur coat and sending him the the waiting area, Chrysalis stood victorious, tall and proud, not many could beat the old farm boy. Then again, none really stole his heart. But she did. In the waiting room Blueblood lost his shit and hit the floor laughing, tears were clearly flowing, both from pain and the news the high general had found a mare. 

“QUEEN CHRYSALIS!! Chrysalis, that’s who won your heart? Out of all the ponies. Guh, need oxygen. I’m going to pass out before the next round.” Said a teary eyed Blueblood, the pain of laughter still wearing off. Big McIntosh took it better than most ponies would, he just blushed cleaned his sword, not that it NEEDED cleaning.

“Yeah, laugh it up, don’t suppose YOU have a mare, do you?” Asked Big McIntosh as he whipped down the blade of the weapon, paying close attention to detail.

“Nah, when I’m older I’ll get a mare friend, a colt needs his freedom. Besides, Celestia would have me wed in a heart beat. So not looking for a mare.” Replied Blueblood as he soothed a small wound, falling on the ground from a heavy lung gives scrapes.

“You make it sound like Celestia wants to marry you.” Replied McIntosh as he started the clean the hilt.

“Oh hay no! Celestia is my auntie, or so she says.” Replied Blueblood is surprise, this jumpy behavior made McIntosh smile.

“But you do spend time at a small tavern in Canterlot.” Replied McIntosh as he blew on the hilt and whipped it down again.

“I do, it’s a nice place, the drinks are great, the entertainment is good, the food on par with the common baker, and the place looks like it’s over a hundred years old, the place still uses art from a hundred years ago.” Replied Bluelood as he watched the next round set up.

“But it must have a real reason, a pretty mare?” Asked McIntosh as he slid the blade into a sheath.
“Never looked, but I know I get eyed up a lot, mostly from eyes who despise the crown, nothing new.” Replied Blueblood as he left, not allowing McIntosh replied with another question that would put him in a awkward place. Big McIntosh didn’t wast any time and followed Blueblood to the “ring”, seriously, it’s a box stage! Layla’s Katana was held in an iron grip, her knuckles where bright white from the strain she was putting on them, Shining Armor’s Rapier held in his light blue aurora, it also appeared in an iron tight grip.

“Begin!” Barked Blueblood, the names of Nathan and Chrysalis were placed for the next match’s first round.
Sweat dripped from Layla’s face, she was used to people attacking her, not the other way around, and it was clear so way Shining Armor, however, his sweat was for a different reason. Cadence watched in both fear and joy, fear that he will lose, and joy is he wins, Orion had told her about Layla’s adventures and triumph. But never her defeats, maybe she didn’t have any. She looked at Layla and then at Shining Armor, both were sweating, both were on par with each other. Finally Cadence snapped and started shouting:

“Come on Shiny! You can do it!” After she said that Shining Armor lunged at Layla, who sloppily deflected it away, this made Nathan and Zed start shouting too:

“Go Layla, kick his flank into the next castle!” Yelled Zed as he stood up. Nathan yelled:

“Yo, Shining Armor!, you suck!” This set off the whole match. Cadence, Twilight, Luna, Celestia, and Chrysalis all started yelling at the same time:

“Go Shining, go shining! Beat her, beat her!” Orion, John, and James joined Nathan and Zed in berating Shining Armor. The sweat stopped flowing when he heard his wife cheer him on, however Nathan’s comment started it back up again, but it was stopped when his wife, sister, and both of the princesses cheered him on, even Chrysalis brought pride. Layla stared down Shining Armor, the cheers and insults from the crowd did nothing for her, she focused on the moment. Just then Shining Armor lunged and began slashing with all his might, the stabbing weapon became a slasher, time to show him who’s boss, thought Layla as she blocked all his brutal attacks and returned them just as hard. Once she finished block she quickly jumped back and readied her self for his next attack, but it never came, he was gone. Layla stood up and looked around, suddenly a bright orange light flashed and she hit the ground, the waiting room. She had lost, defeat never tasted so bitter. She could hear a mix of ‘Yah’ and ‘Boo’ filling the area above the waiting room.

“And the winner is Shining Armor!” Said Blueblood, he was more than likely having her name struck from the board and his name moved up, 'damn luck shots.' Thought Layla as she picked up War’s Bane and walked out. The steps were dark but not too dark, oddly she felt at home in the dark stair case, but the feeling was whipped away with the bright light of the ring, James was already at Zed’s neck, Nathan and Orion were yelling back and forth at each other, John was on the ground laughing with Discord both in extreme pain, and half were watching the fight and half the four idiots on the side lines. This is going to be bloody.
> update/note/stuff
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	So hey guys its me the editor, story is on hiatus because the author broke his computer.
anywho come chill with us on xbox live:

author- officer 141

editor- xBUTT STALLIONx