//------------------------------// // Walls // Story: Fight As One // by Bluecatcinema //------------------------------// A few days later, the new team was off on another mission. This time, they were staking out a bank, having received a tip that it was going to be attacked by Forefather agents. Black was wearing his armor, while Fletcher, Caboose and Sterling were wearing black stealth outfits. Fury's black feathers meant he didn't have to rely on outfits for stealth. For equipments, Armory opted to switch out mirrors for walkie-talkies of his own design to use to communicate with each other. "So the Forefathers are robbing banks now?" Sterling asked from his vantage point in a nearby empty building, watching from the windows, "Hmm, makes sense. Hard to get support nowadays when everypony knows you exist.” “They must need the money to fund their latest twisted scheme." Fletcher declared, sitting on a bench, his face hidden by a newspaper. "You wouldn't know anything about that, would you, Cross?" “Why would I?” Sterling frowned, “I've been away for a long while. It's not like I am subscribed to their newsletters anymore or something." "Heh-heh-heh." Caboose chuckled, his vantage point being a seat at an outdoor cafe, drinking some coffee. “What’s so funny, Caboose?” Fletcher frowned. “Oh, nothing. Sterling was just funny.” Caboose smiled. “Don’t encourage him.” Fletcher growled dismissively. “Hey, if Caboose finds me funny, it’s his business.” Sterling sneered, relishing a bit in Caboose’s support, “You would too if you loosen up a bit.” "I'm loose enough, thank you." Fletcher scowled. "But at least I'm not completely lacksadaisical like you-" "Why don't all of ya just button it?" Fury growled. He was perched on a high-rise building, hidden behind a gargoyle. "This is already tedious enough without listening to you all chatterin' away." "Hate to say it, but he has a point." Black admitted, hidden behind a large tree in the adjacent park. "Let's put a lid on the chatter. According to our source, the attack should be happening any time now." As Black said this, a group of ponies in trenchcoats walked down the street, making a beeline for the bank. "How's that for timing?" Caboose declared. "Finally." Fury smirked. "Hold it, Fury." Black declared. "Let's not rush in like idiots. Let them make the first move." "Black is correct." Fletcher admitted. "We can't exactly leave them for the authorities if we attack them before they commit a crime." "Spoilsports..." Fury scowled. As they continued watching, the group witnessed the Forefather agents enter the crowded bank, watching them through the large reinforced glass walls. The second they were all inside, the agents produced crossbows from inside their trenchcoats. "Alright, everypony!" The largest among them (no doubt the leader) announced. "This is a hold up! We want all the money you got! Anypony tries to be a hero, they're gonna get it!" Customers and employees alike shrank in fear, terrified by the criminal thugs in their midst. "O-okay." The bank manager, a yellow-coated pegasus stallion with a blue mane, green eyes and a suit, stood up nervously. "There's no need for violence. We'll comply." "But sir-!" A blue-coated, silver-maned, similarly suited Unicorn hissed. "But nothing." The manager frowned. "We're insured against losses. The safety of our customers is what's important here." "Well, aren't you the smart one." The leader nodded. "Now, keep up the smart moves, and open the vault, right now." "Of course." The manager nodded. "That's our cue." Black declared. "Let's move!" "I hadn't even finished my coffee." Caboose pouted, throwing the half-empty cup into the nearest trash can. "And I had just started a wonderful article on a new theatre tour." Fletcher mused, putting the newspaper aside. "Finally!" Fury took flight, diving toward the bank. "He means with stealth and precision." Fletcher pointed out. "All those customers and staff are possible hostages. So we do this using stealth." “That means ‘not rushing in’ by the way.” Sterling spoke, as he walked out his building, “Just so you know.” "You'd be surprised what I know, Cross..." Fury muttered. The group arrived at the street opposite the bank at roughly the same time. "Remember to watch out for the civilians." Black ordered. "Elite won't be happy if there's any collateral damage." "Yeah, yeah." Fury scowled, slowly descending. "You're worse than my mother." "We move in slowly, and stealthily." Black instructed, ignoring Fury. "I passed my stealth course at the academy with flying colors." Fletcher boasted. "Whoop-dee-doo..." Sterling snorted. The group started sneaking towards the bank, sticking to the shadows so they could get the drop on the robbers, while not attracting attention to themselves. “We oughta be careful still. To get into that bank without anypony seeing us is going to take a portion of our cunning- no!” Caboose lit up, narrowing his eyes, “No. All our cunning.” As the group crept between the shadows, Caboose started doing exaggerated "sneaky" maneuvers, hugging a wall, as he slid across it, then tumbling under a carriage "Dun-dun-dun-dun" He muttered, as he suddenly poked out of a nearby trashcan. "Dun-dun-dah-dah-dah..." He went back in the trashcan, then suddenly emerged from behind a fire hydrant, and rolled over to the others. "Dun-dun-dun..." “Okay, seriously, what are you even doing?” Black hissed, more confused than angry. "What?" Caboose said defensively. "It's my stealth theme." “It’s annoying and stupid, and it’s gonna get us caught.” Fury seethed, “If not that, all this sneaky-sneaky crap you’re doing.” “Hey, let him have his fun. There’s no one around to see us anyways.” Sterling frowned. “That doesn’t mean we can afford to be careless.” Fletcher glared, “Caboose should know better than to provide a soundtrack at a time like this.” “Well, say what you will, I kinda like it.” Sterling huffed. "Thanks, Sterling." Caboose smiled. "Nice to know somepony appreciates my musical talents..." Fletcher didn't respond verbally, but grimaced at the sudden camaraderie between them. Seconds later, they arrived outside the bank, and took their places by the bank’s entrances. "Dun-dun-dun-dunnnn!" Caboose sang, as he crept up to the emergency exit. "Okay, so can we finally attack now?" Fury asked impatiently. “Yes.” Black nodded. Fury quickly made to move, causing Black’s hoof to shoot out, “But we do it quietly and quickly. One false move, and they’ll have hostages.” "Whatever." Fury scowled. "As long as I get to crack some skulls..." "And another thing: we stay in constant contact the whole time." Black added. "That way, we can be sure to reduce any problems we might have." While Black didn't name names, Sterling was sure he was thinking of him. 'You make one mistake, and you never hear the last of it...' He growled. They crept into the bank, hiding behind cubicles and under desks. The leader of the agents was overseeing the manager as he was opening the safe. The rest of them were standing guard over the staff and customers. "You're up first, Sterling." Black instructed. "Take out the one nearest to us, without alerting the others." "That is, if you can handle it without freezing up this time." Fletcher frowned haughtily. "Just watch me." Sterling scowled. Sticking close to the wall, Sterling crept up on the agent, and struck him on the neck, knocking him out. "Ugh!" The agent grunted as he collapsed. The noise caught the attention of one of the others. "Did you hear that?" He frowned. "Hear what?" Another asked. "I don't know." The first shrugged. "Way to almost blow our cover, Cross." Fletcher whispered. "Is it my fault the guy was a wimp?" Sterling hissed. "Alright, knock it off." Black scowled. "Fletcher, Caboose, run some interference." "What about me?" Fury growled. "I wanna bust some skulls already!" "You'll get your chance." Black said flatly. "Just be patient." "You're just doin' this to mess with me, aren't you?" Fury growled. "Less talk, more work." Black ordered. "Fletcher, Caboose?" Fletcher and Caboose quietly made their way over to the next closest agents. But along the way, Caboose stepped in a trash can. "Whoops!" Caboose yelped. "Seriously?" Fletcher groaned. "Where did that even come from?" At that moment, one of the agents rounded the corner. He was the one who had heard his comrade fall. "Hey, who are-?" He started. "Nopony!" Caboose yelped, raising his hoof, sending the trash can on it flying. The landed right on the agent's head, obstructing his view and speech. "Mmmph!" He grunted, flailing as he tried to get it off, “Mmmm!” Taking advantage of the moment, Fletcher rushed over and struck the can, knocking the agent out. "That was a close one." Caboose noted. "Perhaps it would have been less close if Sterling hadn't made such a racket." Fletcher declared. “For Faust’s sake, shut up.” Sterling growled. “Again, knock it off.” Black said irritably, “Okay, the rest of those agents are grouped together. We need to act fast. Fury-" "Finally!" Fury scowled. "-Move in quick and use your winds to surprise them." Black continued. "While they're dealing with that, the rest of us will go for the weapons. Once they're out of the way, we can move in close and take them out. How's that for a plan?" "Honestly, I've heard better." Sterling admitted. "Just get to it." Black growled. "Don't have to tell me twice." Fury smirked. Fury charged into the room where the agents were holding their hostages captive, and unleashed a powerful gust of wind before they could react. "What is this?" One yelped. "What's going on?" Another cried, covering his eyes. The others rushed into the room. Sterling and Caboose used their crossbows to knock their enemies' weapons out of their hooves. As one agent raised his crossbow, Fletcher fired an arrow, catching his sleeve and pinning him to the wall, the force knocking his crossbow out of his hoof. Black did the same using his Homer. "No more toys." Fury smirked. "Now the fun can begin!" Without their weapons, the agents were completely outclassed. Fury grabbed two as they attempted to flee and struck their heads together. Caboose knocked another out using a punch his brother had taught him. Fletcher struck down another, while Sterling tripped one who was also trying to escape. In his suit, Black was easily able to overcome any foolish enough to challenge him. "Nighty-night." He headbutted one. "Okay, now where's the boss?" "Right here." The team turned around to see the lead agent holding the manager hostage, pointing his crossbow at him. "Nocreature move, or he's dead." The leader growled. "Okay, relax." Black stepped back. "Just take it easy..." “Wait, so you had a plan for all his guys, but not him?” Sterling asked. "Quiet." Black snarled. "Here's what's gonna happen." The leader declared. "I'm gonna take the money, and my hostage, and get on outta here." "Wanna bet?!" Fury snarled, “‘Cause I got a spear with your name on-” "Back off, Fury." Black ordered. "We can't just let him-!" Fury started. "Do you really want to risk the life of an innocent?" Fletcher demanded. "And his nice suit?" Caboose added. "We don't have a choice." Black declared. "Stand down." "That's right, birdy." The leader smirked. "Stand down, like a good little pet." As the leader began to drag the manager out, Fury suddenly flung a talon forward, bringing one of his spears into existence, which struck the leader's hoof, impaling it. "Arrrgh!" The leader roared. In agony, he let go of the manager, who rushed to freedom "Fury!" Black yelled. Taking advantage of the situation, Sterling rushed forward and punched the leader, knocking him out. "Gotcha." He smiled. Using rope from his suit, Black had the others tie up the agents for the police, and they left the bank quickly. Once they were out of earshot, Black rounded on Fury. "What was that?!" He growled. "I told you to back off!" "And let that clown win?" Fury snorted. "No way!" "If something had gone wrong, the bank manager could have died!" Black declared. "And then Elite would be on all of our backs!" "Yes, that was far too risky a move." Fletcher declared. "Looked cool, though, didn't it?" Caboose smiled. “Cool and stupid.” Sterling added, earning a glare from Fury, “Then again, we revealed ourselves too early. Someone forgot about that guy when he made his plan.” "Don't you start, Cross." Black snarled, incensed, “It was a small error in judgment. I’m sure Elite will note it in the report.” “Speaking of notes…” Fletcher stepped in, “If memory serves, you almost blew our cover with that first move. I can't help but wonder why it was such a problem..." “And I can’t help but wonder why you’re so hung up on that.” Sterling growled, “Maybe you're just tryin' to make me look bad because you know I'm better than you, even with all your fancy training?" "In your dreams!" Fletcher yelled, incensed. "As if a former traitor could ever be my superior!” “Come on, take it easy.” Caboose soothed, “It was an accident. I got my hoof stuck in a trash can, remember?" "Yes, but that's you, Caboose." Fletcher shrugged. "You always have little accidents. But for Cross here to suffer two major slip-ups in a row? I find that suspicious." "Why? Because you don't think I'm trustworthy?" Sterling growled. "And you're surprised... why, exactly?" Fletcher shot back. "Heh, heh... take that, Cross!" Fury chuckled. "Shut it, bird-brain!" Sterling yelled. “Enough, all of you!” Black roared, tapping his helm to lower his mouthpiece, “At this point, it doesn’t matter! We stopped the robbery and there were mistakes made… by all of us! We can stand here all night, pointing hooves, or we can just get back to HQ and give our debriefings, and let Elite and the others deal with it. Okay?!” "The sooner, the better." Fletcher glared at Sterling. "Especially since it means spending time away from this fool..." "Right back at ya, pretty boy." Sterling spat. "The sooner I get time away from you guys, the better." Fury sneered. "Especially Cross." "The feeling's mutual, feathers." Sterling scowled. "Easy, guys." Caboose stepped in, trying to ease the tension. "Let's all just relax, and enjoy each others' company..." "I think not." Fletcher dragged Caboose away. "You'll stay as far away from him as possible..." They spent the trip back to the headquarters in complete silence, none of the team members so much as looking at each other. 'I can't believe Elite ever thought this team would work...' Sterling thought sadly. Meanwhile, Elite and Ballista were making their way to Elite’s office, discussing the group's latest mission. "How do you think they're doing?" Ballista asked. "I can only hope they're performing well enough to get the job done." Elite replied. "Individually, they may be skilled, but they still have much to learn about working together. Very, very much..." "Hey, don't be so gloomy." Ballista urged. "You gotta admit, they have made some improvements…" "I know." Elite nodded. "But I can't help but worry that all of their issues may end up destroying them from within." "I'm sure they'll get it together." Ballista said positively. "They just need time. Every great team is built through struggle and adversity, you know." "I suppose you have a point there." Elite admitted. "They probably will return with good news. Until then, there's some paperwork that needs to be done." "Great..." Ballista rolled his eyes. As Elite and Ballista entered the former’s office, they immediately noticed somepony was already in there: a short, stocky Earth Pony stallion with a pale green coat, brown mane, orange eyes and a Cutie Mark of a clipboard, decked out in a black suit and tie. The stallion faced the two with the smile. “Hello, Elite. Ballista.” The stallion greeted. “Oswald Consul!” Elite smiled, shaking hooves with him, “As I live and breathe.” “How ya been, mate?” Ballista smirked, “I pray you’ve been doin’ well down at the Senate?” "Can't complain." Consul shrugged. "How about you guys? Still savin' the world?" "In a manner of speaking." Elite nodded. "In fact, you would not believe the adventures we've been through lately. Have a seat, and I'll be happy to tell you..." “Yeah… I’m afraid this isn’t a social visit, Elite.” Consul admitted. “...What do you mean?” Elite’s smile began to fade. “Well, I assume you haven’t been checking your messages, or you’ve been very busy.” Consul suggested, “But Wall has been wanting to speak with you.” “Wall?” Elite gave a hard grimace, “Oh, no…” “Did she say what about?” Ballista frowned. “No, but she said it was very urgent.” Consul explained, “We’ve tried calling ahead but…” “Look, whatever it is, it can wait.” Elite scowled, “Could you tell her that I’m not here, that I’m out doing something?” “Doing what exactly?” A rather stern, yet feminine voice rang out, surprising Ballista… while Elite closed his eyes in frustration. “You have her on the mirror, don’t you?” Elite deadpanned. “Sorry…” Consul cringed, as he pulled out and held up a mirror. In the mirror was an image of a rather heavyset female zebra, with a short black mane, clad in a light blue business suit and a simple gold necklace. She was Z. Brickette "Brick" Wall, a senator, much like Barbossa Wheatley, and by the way she held herself, and the glare she possessed, a rather important one. She also happened to be one of Elite's superiors… something Elite clearly didn’t enjoy. “Hello, Everest.” She said flatly, “Did I catch you at a bad time?” “No, not at all, ma’am.” Elite replied stiffly. “Are you sure? I’ve been trying to reach you over the past week.” Wall revealed, “I have a feeling that either your answering machine is broken, or you’ve been trying to avoid me.” “I assure you, Senator, that isn’t the case.” Elite gave a false smile. He eyed his desk, where his answering machine lied… unplugged. Ballista noted his glance, and rolled his eyes, “I’ve just been very busy.” “So I’ve heard.” Wall huffed. She noticed Ballista, “Ah, Ballista. You’re looking well.” “Thank you, ma’am.” Ballista nodded politely. “So, what is it that you wanted to talk about, Wall?” Elite crossed his hooves, “I reckon it’s important?” “Oh, yes. Your recent operations over the past month and a half has been brought to my attention.” Wall mused. "My, er... recent operations?" Elite asked. “Yes. Something about plans to blackmail Senator Crystal Cross, interfering with his and the Haygptian government’s attempts to aid in finding Sterling Cross, and working with known mafia associates to locate Sterling Cross. Mind explaining to me what all of that is about?” "Well, it's not quite as major as you think it is." Elite retorted. "Crystal was threatening our operation as a whole, so I had to do something about him. As for trying to locate Sterling, well, I'm sorry to say that those reports are incorrect-" “Elite. I know you have him.” Wall growled. “...Have who?” Elite frowned. “Don’t waste my time with lies and deceptions.” Wall sneered, “I am well aware that you have Sterling Cross hiding out in your base. A terrorist and a member of the Forefathers.” "...Oh, you do, do you?" Elite challenged. "That's right." Wall growled. "And I also know that you have ‘recruited’ him into yours and Ballista’s new team, and even sent him out on a few missions… all without even consulting me on the matter.” “I’m sorry. I wasn’t aware that I, the director, needed your permission, let alone needed to tell you everything that goes on ‘round here.” Elite glared. “Well, when you go and recruit a former terrorist into a government-sanctioned organization, you have to forgive me for being more than a little concerned.” Wall sneered, “Especially considering that a Haygyptian senator was killed on Equestrian soil by one of his ‘friends’.” “It wasn’t Sterling’s fault.” Elite retorted, “Crystal was only on Equestrian soil to begin with because he was going to kill Sterling and an innocent family. As for that griffon being there… well, that was just really bad timing and luck there. But either way, Crystal himself was unhinged and dangerous, even without Sterling or Lunard being there.” “Oh, I’m not arguing that.” Wall shrugged, “Crystal Cross was a liability if I ever saw one. A problem that would had needed dealt with sooner or later. Having him killed is not what I had in mind.” “Really? I figure with your history, it sounded like it would be right down your alley.” Elite huffed. “Elite.” Ballista chided, nudging his shoulder. “Make fun if you will, Everest.” Wall scowled, “But that is not the point. I’m a bit shocked that you would allow a member of the Forefathers, ponies that I swore I heard you said were ‘scums of Equestria’ at one point, into your ranks and into a RDL facility just like that. It’s disconcerting.” "I happen to know for a fact that Sterling regrets his past actions, and wants to make amends for them." Elite retorted. "Besides, as a former Ouroboros, he has knowledge on the Forefathers' operations and methods that could prove invaluable." “That’s peachy and all.” Wall deadpanned, “But can you truly be certain of Sterling’s loyalties? I heard he returned to the Forefathers once before. What’s to say he won’t do it again?” “I’d say you have little faith.” Elite snarked, “But I believe Sterling is with us for the long haul.” “I see…” Wall grumbled, as she faced Ballista, “And what says you, Ballista? You agree with him?” “Yes, I do, ma’am.” Ballista nodded, “Elite and I both were on board with recruiting Sterling the moment we learned he had gone rogue. And from what I seen so far of the stallion, he’s more than willing to make amends for his actions.” "How touching..." Wall retorted. "But no offense to you and the Director, but it'll take more than your words to convince me and others." "Then let Sterling's actions speak for him." Elite urged. "I have faith that with time, Sterling will more than prove himself to be an ally to good. And unless he gives me reason otherwise, that won’t change." “Yeah, sure…” Wall said sarcastically, “...But while we’re on the subject, how about we talk about the other recent additions that you ‘neglected’ to run by me.” "So you know about them, too?" Elite frowned, “What, do you have the base bugged?” “No. Just lots of ears.” Wall retorted, “I must say, it’s quite the motley crew you’ve assembled for Project: Freedom. Aside from the ‘former’ terrorist, you have a mob loon who somehow wormed his way into the ranks of Royal Guard, and that admittingly attractive young Captain…” "They have names, you know." Elite growled. "Yes, I do." Wall said bluntly. "After all, how can I forget Black and Fury? Fury, Barbossa’s loose cannon with the freak powers and issues in anger management. And then there’s Black, the soldier that pretended to be a traitor, only to become a real traitor and nearly took over Equestria because you and Ballista couldn’t do your job.” Ballista winced, the subject of Project: Argo still sore for him. “Well, at least you don’t hold any grudges, senator.” Elite sneered with venom. “I don’t hold grudges. Only well-placed reservation.” Wall huffed, “After all, according to my sources, I hear that there are some issues with this team.” "There's nothing wrong with them that can't be fixed." Elite said firmly. "We'll soon see about that." Wall retorted. "You see, I've sent Oswald here to your headquarters not just so I could finally speak to you, but so that he can observe and analyze the members of your 'Project: Freedom'. For the next two weeks, he, hopefully with your and the Taskforce’s co-operation, will conduct a few tests and exercises to see if these five creatures you had recruited are fit to serve the RDL.” “What?!” Elite sputtered. “Are you sure that’s necessary, ma’am?” Ballista frowned, “Black has been with us for many years. Caboose and Fletcher are both in the Royal Guards. And Fury and Sterling have amassed plenty of experiences that should make them fit to be RDL.” “It’s not about whether or not they are fit to serve RDL.” Wall declared, “It’s the matter of if they can be depended on to defend Equestria should all other defense fail. If it turns out that they’re not, then I’ll have no choice but to step in myself and find creatures that can.” “Excuse me? In case you’ve forgotten, Project: Freedom is headed by me and Ballista.” Elite crossed his hooves defiantly, “I thought your job only amounts to observing and dealing with diplomatic issues regarding the RDL.” “Oh, it was… but if your answering machine was working, you would had known that I have recently been made the new Secretary of Defense, to replace the now deceased Gridlock Irons.” Wall revealed. "You?" Elite gaped. "Seriously?!" Ballista frowned. “That’s right. And as Secretary, I now have the authority to step in, should the Director be difficult, and make sure the RDL is ran properly.” Wall nodded. “That may be so, but I hardly think we need to resort to such methods so soon-" Elite began. "Well, I do." Wall interrupted him. "And the rest of the council agrees with me. Now, I’m being nice, having sent Oswald here. I know he gets on better with the two of you. Of course, if you'd rather I send over my other associate, I’m sure she..." "No, no, that won't be necessary." Elite said firmly, hiding his disgust. "If this must be done, I'd rather it be by Oswald, not that hag." “You can say that again.” Ballista shuddered. "Good to see you've seen sense." Wall smirked, as she glanced to her side, notably at Oswald, "Good luck, Oswald. I’ll expect to hear from you later, and I’m sure the results will be... illuminating." With that, Wall's face vanished from the mirror. Elite could only see his own reflection, which bore a scowl. “Well… that could had gone worse.” Ballista admitted. “Look, I just want to say for the record that I had no say in this either.” Consul admitted, “But you know how Wall is. I’m real sorry, Elite.” "It's alright, Oswald." Elite sighed. "You’re just doing your job. Who knows, maybe Wall's ridiculous 'analysis' may have some benefit in the long run. It might even get her off my back for a while..." Consul took note of Elite's sour disposition, and decided to steer the conversation in a more pleasant direction. “Anywho…” Consul began, “It is really good to see you two again.” “Likewise, Oswald.” Elite gave a small smile, “How are those two brothers of yours? Still look exactly like you?” “Last time I checked, yeah.” Consul chuckled, “Of course, they're stationed at these remote bases." “Remind me, whose is at which base again?” Ballista frowned, “Was it Mickey at Altar One and Bugsy at North Tower?” "No, Mickey is at Peak Base." Oswald clarified. "Bugsy moved to Altar One. I know it's hard to get things straight, especially since we don’t see each other often." “That is a shame.” Elite noted, “But at least you guys at least keep in touch. I can imagine worse family situations to be in.” “Oh, I know.” Consul nodded, “I believe our fellow ex-Forefather would attest to that.” “Speaking of him, what do you say that we get things started?” Elite offered. "No time like the present." Consul smiled. “Then come this way, mate.” Ballista gestured, “There’s five guys we like you to meet.” Shortly afterward, Sterling and his new teammates were gathered in the conference room. As they entered, Caboose gave Sterling a smile, which Sterling returned with a nod. Fletcher was quick to notice, frowning at Caboose as they sat down. He didn't have time to say anything about it, as Elite, Ballista, and Consul entered the room seconds later. “Good morning, everycreature.” Elite smiled, “I hope you had a good rest from last night.” "It was... satisfactory." Fletcher nodded. "I slept like a log!" Caboose smiled. "Eh, I've had worse." Sterling shrugged. "Whatever." Fury scowled. "Hold up, who's the new guy?" Black pointed at Consul. “This here is our friend, Oswald Consul.” Elite indicated the stallion, “He has been sent here by the Senate to observe you all and provide analysis.” “Analysis? Of what?” Sterling frowned. “Of Project: Freedom.” Consul spoke up, “My boss, the new Secretary of Defense, wants me to observe and note your efficiency as a team, and how you all operate within one another.” "Like I need to hear some suit's opinion." Fury scoffed, glaring at the stallion, “Especially from the errand boy for that fat-ass zebra.” “Fury…” Ballista admonished. “It’s fine, Ballista.” Consul held up his hoof, as he glanced at the griffon. “It’s been a while, Mr. Xaldin. How is Barbossa doing nowadays?” "He's doin' okay." Fury said curtly. "Just okay?" Consul asked. "Yeah." Fury nodded. "That's all you need to know." "Okay, then..." Consul shrugged. He then turned to face Black. "And I know full well who you are." He smiled. "Black Knight Paladin. It's an honor to finally meet you." "...It is?" Black asked, bemused. "Oh, yes." Consul nodded. "I've been looking forward to this day for a long time." "Uh... thanks, I guess?" Black shrugged. "No, thank you." Consul grinned. He moved on to Fletcher. "Captain Ulysses. I've heard a lot about your accomplishments. Top of your class, Captain of the Royal Guard... very impressive for a stallion your age." "Why, thank you." Fletcher smiled. "Not that I like to brag about my accomplishments." "And you must be Caboose." Consul continued. "You're the fun one, right?" "Well, I do have my moments." Caboose tried to lean against the wall, but misjudged the distance, and fell. "I'm okay!" Consul chuckled, then turned to Sterling. "Sterling Cross, I presume." He announced. "I've heard a lot about you, too." "Really?" Sterling frowned. "Like what?" "Like you've had a pretty rough life." Consul replied. "And I can sympathize with that. I hope your being here means you're ready to turn things around." "Depends on who you ask." Sterling said flatly. “Okay... So, what exactly does this ‘analysis’ of yours entail?” Black frowned. “Oh, nothing much.” Consul declared, “I’ll just be observing and recording you five for the next two weeks.” “And while he does that, me, Ballista, and the Taskforce will be devising a few special training exercises that I believe will help you work through the teething problems with your team." Elite declared. "Team-building exercises?" Black glared at Elite. "Really?" "It couldn't hurt to try, could it?" Ballista asked. "That all depends on who we're performing the exercises with." Fletcher said flatly. "I get it." Elite declared. "You're all kind of new to this, having trouble getting on the same page. But what I have in mind will be able to help you overcome that. You'll be working as a cohesive unit in no time. Doesn't that sound good?" "That sounds great!" Caboose cheered. "Loving the enthusiasm there, Mr. Napoleon." Consul grinned. "A lot of ponies do." Caboose said proudly. "With that in mind, let's get started." Elite declared. "Oh, goody." Sterling rolled his eyes. "So what do you have in mind? Trust falls?" “Actually, I have something a little more… unique.” Consul declared. The group were led to another room, a dark, square room which housed a chair linked to a machine. The chair had cuffs, and a headset attached. "Alright, just gonna need you guys to answer a few questions." Consul announced, as he spun the chair to face them. "A few psychoanalytic non-sequitur questions." "So basically, you'll be putting us in a lie detector." Black surmised. "The ultimate lie detector, Mr. Paladin." Consul retorted. "This baby here measures galvanic skin response, oxygen consumption, micro-expressions, biofeedback brain waves, pupil dilation, voice biometrics. 96 variables in all!” “Uhhh…” Caboose began, understandably confused, “Could you repeat that, beginning at ‘Galvatron’?” “Oh, right.” Consul said sheepishly, “To put simply, it can detect the slightest mistruths. Not even our best undercover agents can beat it.” “I didn’t even think we had this in our base.” Black muttered. “Oh, you don’t.” Consul clarified, “I had some of my guys come and set this up while I spoke to you guys. We’re ‘borrowing’ it from another base over in Oatario.” “How will this help with team-building, if you don’t mind me asking?" Fletcher asked. "Well… It doesn't." Consul admitted. "But it does help with the analysis of each of you as individual. Some of mine and Elite's superiors are concerned some of you may be less than... trustworthy." "I wonder who?" Fury smirked at Sterling. "At least I can be trusted not to throw a tantrum." Sterling retorted. "Why, you-!" Fury snarled. “Now, now, no need to get rowdy.” Consul soothed, “The sooner we get this done, the sooner we move onto other things…” He gestured to the seat. “Now then, who wants to go first?” The rest of the group were sent outside, with Caboose going first. “Okay, so we’re going to start with some easy questions and establish a baseline.” Consul explained, “Can I have your full name?” "Caboose James Napoleon." Caboose answered. “Eye color?” “Green.” “Ever been married?” “Yes. You might've read her books.” “I have. Enjoyed them.” Consul smirked knowingly, “Please list your immediate family.” “Ooh boy.” Caboose murmured, “Well, there’s my seven brothers, Grim, Murray, Sonny, Salt, Lars, Vinny, and Slot...” “Okay, good.” Consul murmured, studying the polygraph lines. "Then there's my kids, Hurricane and Michael." Caboose continued. My nieces, Lightning and Dusty. My nephew Arkham, my uncles Hannibal, Jigsaw and John 'Seven' Doe-" “Alright, Caboose, just the immediate family.” Consul spoke up. “Are you sure? I haven’t even begun my relatives on my mom’s side.” Caboose pouted. “I know, but we have four other creatures to get to.” Consul explained, “What’s the difference between an egg and a rock?” “Hmm, that is a toughie.” Caboose pondered, “I mean, I would say you can eat an egg, not a rock… but I did eat a rock, and it wasn’t bad. A bit gravelly for my taste, but… I’d say an egg tastes a lot better.” Consul looked at the readings. Caboose wasn’t lying. “Okay, I’ll take that…” Consul nodded, “...Have you ever killed in anger before?” “Whoa, that’s kinda out of left field, isn’t it?” Caboose cringed. “Please answer the question.” Consul insisted. “...Well, I guess I have, yes.” Caboose nodded, a bit uncomfortable, “But it was only when this bad pony hurt somepony I loved. I don’t enjoy it, but I don’t want them around to hurt them anymore, or anything!” Consul noted his answers and looked at the lines. They were still steady. He nodded in approval. “Okay, you’re alone on a desert island, and you find a box." Consul posited. "What do you expect to find in there?" “Oh, that’s easy.” Caboose answered gleefully, his discomfort gone immediately, “A book on the best origami shapes. Gives me something to do.” “Don’t blame you. I do love some origami.” Consul chuckled, “Last question… why are you here?” “Because you wanted us to take a seat on this lie detector thingie?” Caboose asked in confusion. “I mean, why are you here, wanting to be a part of Project: Freedom?” Consul clarified. “Ah…” Caboose murmured, before smiling, “Well, I’m here cause I wanna help ponies. Help them by beating up bad guys that threaten them. Like a superhero!” He then shrugged, “Or an agent of something that’s shaped like a protective piece of metal. You take your pick.” “I see. Well, Caboose, that’s all I needed to hear.” Consul smiled. After Caboose had finished and left the room, Fletcher was up next. “Full name?” Consul began. “Fletcher Baldur Ulysses.” Fletcher answered, keeping up a stoic front. “Eye color?” “Light green.” “Are you married?” “Yes.” "Do you have any immediate family?" "Just my parents, a sister, and a brother." Fletcher admitted. “What’s the difference between an egg and a rock.” “Edible. Not edible.” Fletcher answered swiftly. “Hmm, so far so good…” Consul mused, “Do you consider yourself RDL material?” “Um, what?” Fletcher’s stoicness faded, “What do you mean?” “Do you consider yourself good enough to be a RDL agent?” Consul repeated. "Well... yes." Fletcher nodded. "What do you mean by that?" Consul asked, noticing that the readings had stirred up a little bit. "I... well..." Fletcher said awkwardly. "It's okay." Consul urged. "Whatever you say won't leave this room. I promise." "I... I want to think I'm good enough." Fletcher sighed. "I've spent my whole life training to be the best I can be. But I've always been afraid that my best just isn't good enough." "I see." Consul nodded. "But it's gotten you pretty far along so far, right?" "Right." Fletcher nodded, emboldened by Consul's words. "And I'm going to keep doing my best, because it's the only way to be sure." “Okay then.” Consul nodded, “Here’s a easy one: you wash up on a deserted island alone. Sitting on the sand is a box. What is in that box?” “A bow.” Fletcher answered curtly, trying to recover from the previous questions, “My father taught me how to make arrows. I can use them both to forage.” “Resourceful. I like it.” Consul smiled, “Why are you here?” “I’m a Royal Guard. It is my duty to protect Equestria.” Fletcher declared fiercely. Consul scanned his readings… and gave a nod of approval. Soon, Black had taken Fletcher’s place in the lie detector. “Name?” Consul began once more. “Black Knight Paladin.” “Eye color?” “Gold.” "Do you have any immediate family?" “A son. A nephew. And a niece.” Black answered firmly. “Have you ever been married?" Consul asked. Black paused for a moment… “...No.” Black answered. “Really? ...Have you ever hoped to marry somepony?” Consul continued. Sadness crept onto Black’s face, his thoughts going to a mare he left back in a small town of Prairieville. “...Once.” Black admitted. "A long time ago..." “I see. Did you ever hold the Taskforce or the RDL in contempt for it?” Consul questioned. “What?” Black lit up, “Why would I?” “Because they’re the reason you had to leave.” Consul explained, “I read your files. Do you or did you ever resent Elite or the Taskforce for being the reason for not being able to see that mare, your son, or your brother? Is that why you decided to defect and carry out the ‘Crystal Sun’ incident?” Black glanced at Consul, a scowl growing on his face… only for it to soften… “I did at one point… but they only made me leave because it was best for them and best for me.” Black admitted truthfully, “As for the Crystal Sun… they were only a part of the straw that broke the camel’s back. I’ve lost my brother, one of my comrades was killed while the other left because I nearly got him killed, and I believed that I was recruited to be nothing more than a killing machine. But in the end, the Crystal Sun was my fault and my fault alone. And all I can do now is move forward.” Consul looked at the readings, and all of it indicated it was truth. “Well spoken.” Consul declared, “I apologize if I hit a sore spot.” “No, you’re just doing your job.” Black shook his head, “What else you got?” “Well, if you were on a deserted island, and there was a box, what would be in that box?” Consul asked. “Well, that’s a no brainer. It would be Armory.” Black smirked, “If anypony could help get me off an island, it’s him.” “And what would you say is your reason for being here today in the RDL?” Consul questioned. “To protect Equestria. It’s why I joined the fight all those years ago, and it’s why I’m still here today.” Black said proudly. With Black out of the way, Fury soon came in. "Can we make this quick?" He asked. "This chair is messing up my wings!" “As long as you stop fidgeting. It messes with the results.” Consul explained, “Now, what is your full name?” “It’s Fury Xaldin.” Fury grunted. “Eye color?” “Red!” “Have you ever been marred?” “No!” “Have you any immediate fam-” “No! “No? But according to your file, you have a nephew-” Consul protested. “I said no! Next question!” Fury seethed. “...Difference between an egg and a rock?” “Well, a rock would bring an end to all these stupid questions. An egg wouldn’t.” Fury scowled. “Okay then…” Consul gave a firm frown, “Tell me, Fury. Have you always had these anger issues?” “Well, you try living my life and not end up a little testy.” Fury challenged. “Really? Then how do you explain your recklessness?” Consul asked. “The others say recklessness, I say getting the job done.” Fury sneered, “Just point me to a hideout, an operation, or even a birthday party, and I’d come in spears a flying. Ask Elite or Ballista, I’ve been cleaning house!” “You get results. No one can argue that.” Consul admitted, “But you also have been fortunate.” "Whaddaya mean?" Fury frowned, confused. "Tell me, do you care about the well-being of your teammates." Consul asked. "Please." Fury scoffed. "I'm serious." Consul insisted. "Do you actually care whether or not any of them up dying because of ?" Fury didn't answer. He just sat there, speechless. There were little beeps in the readings, as Fury remained silent… before glaring at Consul. “I choose to not answer that.” Fury grunted. “Fury, this is a lie detection test. You can’t-” Consul protested. “I said, I’m not answering. And unless you want a express trip back to the Senate, you will leave it at that. Okay?” Fury seethed. “...Duly noted.” Consul cringed, “So… if you were on a deserted island, and there was a box, what would be in it?” “A boat. I ain’t staying on some stupid island.” Fury answered bluntly, “I bet the others didn’t think of htat.” “...I guess they didn’t.” Consul frowned, “...Why are you here, in the RDL?” “Because Barbossa asked me to be here.” Fury growled, “Said it would be a better application of my skills. Too bad I have to be here with the rest of those numbskulls…” “I see…” Consul examined the readings, as they had returned to a steady pace, “That will be all, Fury.” As Fury left the room, he passed Sterling, who couldn't help but notice how peeved Fury looked. 'Looks like feathers had a pretty tough time in there.' Sterling though. 'How harsh must these tests be?' Soon, Sterling found himself in the lie detector’s seat. “Okay, Sterling, are you ready?” Consul asked. “Ready as I’ll ever be.” Sterling gave a smirk, “Ask me whatever questions you can think of.” “That is the plan.” Consul nodded, “But first… full name?” “Sterling Grant Cross.” Sterling answered. “Eye color?” “Light blue.” “Have you ever been married?” “No.” “List your immediate family.” “Two parents, two brothers…” Sterling listed… before shaking his head, “But only my father is left.” “Yes, I’ve heard all about your home life.” Consul frowned, “You have my condolences.” “...Thank you.” Sterling sighed. “What’s the difference between a rock and an egg?” “Rock is a weapon. Egg is food.” Sterling answered, trying to regain focus on the test. “You wash up on a deserted island alone. Sitting on the sand is a box. What’s in that box?” Consul suggested. “What kind of island are we talking? Is it big? What kind of terrain? Where is it? Is there fresh-water?” Sterling frowned. “No need to overthink it. Just think of the first thing that comes to mind.” Consul advised. Sterling paused for a moment… before giving a small smile. “...A dog.” Sterling answered. “A dog?” Consul repeated. “Yeah. Had one back at the Forefathers.” Sterling reminisced, his mind going to Ward, the dog he left behind, “In fact, if it wasn’t for him, I probably would had never got in.” “Ah, a dog lover.” Consul smirked, “More of a cat pony myself. But I’d be pretty heartless to say no to a corgi… but I digress. Just one more question, and we’re done.” “Really? Thought it would be a bit harder.” Sterling mused. “I guess you get off easy this time.” Consul declared, “Okay, here is the question: why are you here, wishing to be a part of the RDL and Project: Freedom?” “The same as the others, I guess. To serve and protect Equestria.” Sterling answered. Consul glanced at the results… and frowned. “Um… would you care to repeat that again, Sterling?” Consul asked. “...To serve and protect Equestria.” Sterling murmured, “...Is something wrong?” “No… at least not yet.” Consul admitted, “But I’m gonna have to ask you a few follow-ups. You don’t mind a bonus round, do you?” “No, not at all.” Sterling scoffed, “Hit me with whatever you got.” “Gladly.” Consul nodded, as he then approached Sterling, glancing at him firmly, “...Sterling, do you still hold allegiance to the Forefathers?” Sterling’s eyes darted for a moment. If the seated stallion was surprised by such a question, he clearly didn’t show it. “Well, me being here in the RDL would answer that for you, wouldn’t it?” Sterling asked, giving a small smile. “Answer the question, Sterling.” Consul urged, his voice becoming oddly stern, “Do you… or do you not still hold allegiance to the Forefathers?” Sterling’s smile faded, glancing at Consul for a moment… “Yes.” He answered, without any hesitation. “Yes?” Consul repeated, his brow perked in surprise. "I may not be a Forefather anymore, but a part of me always will be." Sterling clarified. "Being with them was the first time in my life I felt like I really belonged somewhere. They gave me a purpose. They taught me how to survive. I know now that they are not the good guys… but I'd be a liar if I didn’t say a part of me would always think back on those times fondly…” “I see.” Consul mused, glancing at the polygraph lines, “...But let’s focus on the present. You say you… or rather a part of you, still hold allegiance to the Forefathers… but what of your current loyalties? Where do they lie?” “...They lie with Equestria.” Sterling answered, “With the world. With justice and righteousness. All I wanted to do with my life was to do the right thing, to be a hero that my young brother wanted me to be. That’s why I agreed to join Elite and his team, because it’s the right thing to do. Because it's way past time I started acting like that." Consul took note of the results, which told him Sterling was speaking the truth. Consul’s stern expression faded away with a smile. “Okay then.” He smirked, “Thank you for your honesty.” "Isn't that what this test is all about?" Sterling asked smugly, "Good point." Consul admitted. Shortly afterwards, the teammates were gathered in the conference room once more, awaiting the results. "That was a tricky test." Caboose declared. "I hope I get at least a 'C'." "That's... not how it works." Sterling pointed out. "Oh, so it's extra credit?" Caboose asked. "Neat!" "Don't talk to him, Caboose." Fletcher growled. "For the record, I talked to him." Sterling stepped in. "Caboose didn’t promise you that." “Well, he’s not wrong. I really didn’t.” Caboose added. “That’s not the p-” Fletcher was soon cut off, when Elite and Consul returned. "Okay, Consul has shared the results." Elite declared. "And I'm pleased to report that you all passed the test with flying colors." "Even Cross?" Fletcher asked. "Don't act so surprised." Sterling sneered. "Whatever." Fury scowled, still incensed over the questions he was asked, “It was a stupid test anyways.” “Not bad, considering none of us studied." Caboose noted. "Good for us." Black nodded. "Now, are we gonna move on to the 'team-building' exercises?" "Indeed we are." Elite smiled. "If you'll all follow me to the gym, we can get started on the next exercise." "And I'll be tagging along to observe." Consul added. "How fitting." Fletcher smirked. "To start our first 'exercise' in a gym." “...Was that supposed to be a joke, Fletcher?” Black grimaced. “A little bit.” Fletcher shrugged. “Yeah, stick to being second-rate.” Fury sneered, “You’re not as funny as you think are, 'Cap'." "Like your opinion matters." Fletcher retorted. "Caboose, you liked the joke, didn't you?" "What joke?" Caboose asked. "Never mind." Fletcher sighed. 'This oughta be fun.' Sterling thought sarcastically. 'A bunch of phony activities to try and build this team up. Where's a lunatic Griffon when you need one? Present company excluded, of course...' Soon after, they were all gathered in the gym. "Okay, now we can begin the next exercise." Elite announced. "Now, there'll be a little friendly competition." Elite smiled, indicating the circle of the area used for combat practice. "A round robin style combat tournament." “Wait, you want us to fight like small ‘fat’ Midwestern frail birds?” Caboose asked. “No, Caboose.” Consul spoke up, “You five will go up against one another, starting with one pony against another, and that pony will go against the next pony, circling back to the first pony.” "And how exactly is beating each other up supposed to build up our teamwork?" Sterling asked. "It'll help you get a handle on each other." Consul pointed out. "If you know how each other fight, you'll be able to incorporate that into your missions. It'll help you work together better in the midst of battle." "That makes sense." Fletcher nodded. "I used to spar with my fellow students over at the Norhay academy. And the Royal Guard often duel with each other in order to both hone their skills, and strengthen their bonds." "And it was fun, too." Caboose added. "When is fighting never fun?" Fury scoffed. “I can name a few instances.” Black muttered. "What are they doing here?" Caboose pointed out Ballista and the Taskforce sitting to the side. "We're here to observe your little tournament." Ballista answered. "Y'know, so we keep track of your progress." Armory added. "I just wanted to watch Fury get his butt kicked." Incognito smirked. "But mostly, we are just here to observe." Master Mind added. "With that in mind, you should probably get started." "Okay then, let's get to it." Black urged. "Very well then. First round: Black versus Fletcher!" Elite announced. Black and Fletcher took their places in the sparring ring. "No weapons, no special abilities." Elite instructed. "Just hoof to hoof (or in Fury's case, talon) combat. Whoever goes down for the count, or is out of the ring for longer than ten seconds, loses. And... Go!" With that, Black and Fletcher began to circle each other. "Let's see how well that fancy guard training works for you." Black declared. "Yes, let's." Fletcher nodded. The two pounced on each other. Fletcher swung his right hoof at Black. Black dodged the attack, and responded with a haymaker. Fletcher parried the blow, and retaliated with a quick jab, catching Black with a glancing blow across the nose. “Not bad, Captain.” Black admitted. "Oh, I'm just getting started." Fletcher smirked. "So am I." Black grinned. he suddenly fired a lightning-fast punch that made Fletcher stumble back. "Oof!" Fletcher grunted. "Impressive..." The battle continued. Both sides threw powerful hits, landing many painful strikes. But in the end, Black was the more experienced fighter. He had the stamina to take Fletcher's best and keep going. As Fletcher tired, Black saw an opening. "Take this!" Fletcher threw a clearly sluggish punch. "Whatever you say." Black caught the punch. "What?!" Fletcher gaped. Black punched back, knocking Fletcher down. He then pinned him. "One! Two! Three!" Consul counted. "He's out!" Black raised a hoof in victory. 'Not bad.' Sterling thought. “Way to go, Black!” Armory cheered. “Rooo!” Titan howled. After getting up, Fletcher shook Black's hoof. "Well fought, Black." He said gracefully. Though the look on his face indicated he was taking it harder than his words made it seem. "The best stallion won, it seems." "You did pretty good yourself, Fletcher." Black admitted. "You just gotta work on your endurance, that's all." "I'll keep that in mind." Fletcher nodded. "Next up, Black versus Fury!" Elite announced. “Good.” Fury smiled, cracking his talons as he stepped into the ring, “I’ve been achin’ for a rematch.” "This time, it won't be so easy." Black declared. “Kick his ass, Black!” Incognito yelled. "And... begin!" Elite declared. Black and Fury charged at each other. Even without his powers, Fury was tough. He punched and kicked and pecked with brutal force. But Black gave as good as he got. "You've gotten better since last time." Fury noted. "Can't say the same for you." Black smirked. "Okay, now you're gonna get it!" Fury snarled. Fury tackled Black, who took the energy of the attack, and used it to throw him out of the ring. "It won't be that easy!" Fury flew back in. "Wasn't expecting it to." Black returned. The battle continued. Both combatants were clearly taking out some of their resentment towards each other, but not enough to cause permanent damage. As Fury swiped his talons, Black grabbed and pinned him. "Gotcha now." He smirked. "No, got you!" In one swift move, Fury reversed the position, so that he was the one pinning Black. Black struggled, but was unable to free himself in time. "One! Two! Three!" Consul counted. "Fury wins!" “Oh, come on!” Incognito groaned. “Incognito, he won fair and square.” Master Mind admonished. “But he’s an asshole…” Incognito growled. "That's another one for me." Fury smirked as he let Black back up. "At least you lasted a little longer than you did the first time. Guess it wasn’t just lack of practice." "Just wait until round three, Fury." Black glared, as he left the ring. "Then you'll see what I'm really made of." "I'd better." Fury snorted. "Kicking your tail's starting to get boring." "Next, Fury versus Caboose." Elite announced. "Oh, this is gonna be easy." Fury smirked, as Caboose soon stepped into the ring. "It is?" Caboose frowned. "Sure it is." Fury nodded. "I just took out Paladin. A brainless clown should be no trouble at all." "You're not fighting a brainless clown, silly." Caboose chuckled. "You're fighting me." "I rest my case." Fury sneered. "I'll try to make it quick..." "You don't have to do that." Caboose replied. "I'm not in any rush." "But I am." Fury growled. "A rush to win this thing..." The bell rang, and the battle began. "Come and get me, Napoleon!" Fury dared him. "Give it everything you've got, and don't hold back!" "Well, if you insist... Here I come!" Caboose charged. Fury grabbed Caboose by the midsection, stopping his charge. "And here you go!" He taunted. Fury spun around, intent on throwing Caboose out of the ring... But ended up being thrown out himself. Much to everypony’s surprise. "What the-?!" He gaped. "How'd you do that?" "How'd I do what?" Caboose shrugged. "Better get back in the ring, Fury." Black chided. "You're already at the four count." Fury jumped back into the ring. "Let's see you do that again..." He snarled. Once again, Fury grabbed Caboose, making to throw him out of the ring... only to somehow be thrown out himself once more. "No way!" He snarled. "I don't know what kind of craziness this is, but I won't let you beat me!" "Easy, there." Caboose frowned. "It's just a friendly competition." "Not any more!" Fury roared. Fury took flight, grabbing Caboose and lifting him up to the ceiling. "Wheee!" Caboose cheered. "This is fun!" "Glad you're enjoying the flight." Fury sneered. "Happy landings!" Fury dived downwards, intending to release Caboose just a few feet above the ground. But, inexplicably, he ended up crashing instead. Caboose, equally inexplicably, landing softly on all four hooves. "You gotta be kiddin' me..." Fury groaned. "You wanna call it a draw?" Caboose asked. "Never!" Fury spat. "I'll throw you out of this ring if it's the last thing I do!" Fury tried to throw Caboose out of the ring several more times, only to end up out himself. Before long, he was completely exhausted. "Okay, I am really confused." Armory frowned. "Yeah." Incognito added. "How is he doing this?" "I have no idea." Master Mind scratched his head. "He's breaking every law of reality." “I’m… not done… yet!” Fury panted, as he stubbornly (yet weakly) approached Caboose yet again. "You sure you don't want to throw in the towel?" Caboose offered, “No pony won’t mind if you do.” “I certainly wouldn’t mind!” Incognito smirked. “Oh, shut up!” Fury snarled at Incognito, clamming him up, as he glared at Caboose, “As for you, I’m taking you out! RARRRGH!” Fury charged Caboose with a speed that betrayed his exhaustion. "Whoa!" Caboose threw up his hooves in defense, just in time for them to hit Fury in the head. “Ugh…” Fury’s head reeled back, as he teetered back a bit… before falling to the ground unconscious. "Uh... Caboose wins?" Consul said awkwardly. "Yay!" Caboose cheered. "Oh, Fury is not gonna be happy when he wakes up." Black suppressed a chuckle. “Who cares about him? I got what I want!” Incognito smirked. “So, are we not going to question how Caboose was able to do all that?” Master Mind frowned. “Master, I think it’s best that we just don’t question it.” Ballista declared, “That bloke is just crazy, end of story.” The next match was Caboose against Sterling. "I don’t want you to hold back, Sterling." Caboose urged. "You saw what happened to Fury, right?" "You bet I did." Sterling smirked in the direction of the recovered (and embarrassed) Fury. "He just got lucky!" Fury pouted. "Sure he did." Sterling smirked. "And... go!" Consul declared. "Get a load of this!" Caboose hopped around Sterling. "Float like a bee, sting like a butterfly!" "Those are some... interesting moves you've got there." Sterling noted. "What can I say?" Caboose smirked. "I've got my own style!" "I can see that." Sterling grinned. "Reminds me of a hyperactive bunny I once knew..." Caboose continued moving around, making random, unpredictable movements. "You can't see me!" He taunted. "You're one crazy hombre, Caboose." Sterling admitted. "And I can respect that. But if you think you're the first crazy guy I've fought, you're wrong." "Then let's see what you've got!" Caboose danced around some more, then launched a random attack. However, it wasn't so random for Sterling, who deflected the strike. "Hey, how'd you...?" Caboose frowned. "I told you." Sterling smirked. "I know crazy." "Well, do you know this?" Caboose suddenly leapt over Sterling. Landing behind him, he launched another attack. "Nice try." Sterling grabbed Caboose and flipped him onto the floor. "Yikes!" Caboose yelped. "Had enough yet?" Sterling asked. "Nuh-uh!" Caboose grabbed Sterling by the leg and pulled him down to the floor. "Gotcha now!" "It won't be that be that easy!" Sterling pounced. "The two struggled, temporarily trapping each other in different holds (Caboose's making them look like they were ballet partners), until finally, Sterling had Caboose pinned. "One, two, three... Sterling wins!" Consul declared. "Awesome match, Sterling." Caboose smiled as Sterling let him up. "It's not often I face somepony who can handle my wacky hijinks." "Thanks." Sterling beamed. "And let me tell you: when it comes to crazy, you're a genius." "Aw, stop!" Caboose gushed. "Yes, please do." Fletcher muttered under his breath. “Son of a-” Fury hissed, “How did he do that?!” “I guess some ponies are just capable of dealing with unique individuals.” Black smirked. “Ruh-huh!” Titan nodded. "And now for the final round: Fletcher versus Sterling!" Elite announced. "Oh, this is going to be deeply satisfying..." Fletcher smirked as he entered the ring. "Don't take it so hard if you lose." Sterling told him. "This is just a friendly little contest. Not like we're going at full speed, or anything..." "Speak for yourself." Fletcher said quietly. "And... Go!" Consul called. "Allow me to show you what the best military academy in Norhay has to offer!" Fletcher yelled as he made the first move: a lightning-fast roundhouse kick. "Whoa!" Sterling barely dodged in time. "Nice move. Now let me show you what the mean streets of Cairode has to offer!" Sterling responded with a right cross, which Fletcher parried, and returned with a left hook. This time, the attack hit it's mark. "Ugh!" Sterling stumbled back. "Okay, so we're moving past the warm-ups. Good to know..." Sterling hit back with a kick, knocking Fletcher back. "Impressive." Fletcher mused. "Especially for somepony without any formal training..." "I had training, you know." Sterling retorted. "From a very good teacher." "Is that so?" Fletcher asked. "Then let's see how good a teacher you had." "And how good your fancy training was." Sterling smirked. The two fought head to head, exchanging multiple blows and attacks. "Go, Fletcher!" Caboose cheered." Go, Sterling!" "You're on both sides?" Black asked. "Sure, why not?" Caboose shrugged. "Gotta admit, you're not half bad, Ulysses." Sterling declared, as both he and Fletcher stopped to catch their breath. "But you're not good enough to beat me. Not just yet." "I beg to differ!" Fletcher growled. Fletcher charged forward, launching attack after at Sterling. Sterling gave as good as he got. He refrained from using his stronger hoof, but he was still inflicting more damage to Fletcher than Fletcher was to him. Like Black, Sterling had the benefit of being more experienced than his foe, and it started to show. They were both growing slower and weaker, but Sterling a little less so. "Oof!" Fletcher grunted, following a kick to the stomach. "Had enough yet?" Sterling asked. "Not even close." Fletcher stood up straight. "You're a glutton for punishment." Sterling noted. "I thought a smart guy like you would know when to call it quits." "Well, I'm happy to disappoint you." Fletcher sneered. “Look, not to sound arrogant, but you do remember how our last fight went, right?” Sterling asked, “I had you beat before Caboose stepped in when he did. And it looks like I have you beat right now.” “Looks can be deceiving, Cross!” Fletcher snarled, “I will not yield! Especially to somepony like you!” ’I gotta put an end to this.’ Sterling thought, as Fletcher prepare to charge at him, ’Fletcher seems determined to push his luck, and I'm not going to look like the bad guy for fighting back until he's a pile of broken bones...' As Fletcher charged again, Sterling caught his punch, twisted his hoof around, and pinned Fletcher on the ground. Fletcher struggled, but was too tired to break free. "One, two, three... Sterling wins again!" Consul announced. “Wow… out of all of you guys, the terrorist won both his fights.” Incognito grimaced, “Don’t know if that’s scary or just sad.” “Hey, I would have won both my fights if it wasn’t for that lucky numbskull!” Fury defended. "Yeah, right." Black scoffed. "You never had a chance against him." "Yes, I did!" Fury retorted. "From a logical standpoint, you really didn't." Master Mind smirked. "Whatever, brainiac." Fury pouted. “Okay, that’s the end of that.” Sterling nodded, as he let Fletcher up, “Good hustle, Ulysses.” “Well fought, Cross.” Fletcher said grudgingly. His face showing a struggle to hide the anger and disappointment he felt within, “Very well fought indeed…” "That's the spirit, Fletcher." Caboose patted him on the back. "Nopony likes a sore loser, after all." "Thank you, Caboose." Fletcher said through gritted teeth. "I think that will do for today." Elite stated. "Tomorrow, we'll move on to a new exercise. Consul, I trust you gained some viable information for your analysis?" "I certainly did." Consul nodded, with a smile "I look forward to seeing what tomorrow brings." "As for the rest of you, you can take the rest of the day off." Elite announced. "You've earned it." "Thanks, chief." Black nodded. The Taskforce and Ballista left first. "That was quite a show, wasn't it, mates?" Ballista noted. "The results were... intriguing." Master Mind admitted. "And kinda fun." Armory nodded. "I'm just glad Fury got put in his place." Incognito smirked. Fury overheard Incognito's words, and stifled a growl. "Okay, time to get some much-needed downtime." Black smiled. "I do have some bruises that need tending to." Fletcher muttered. "I think I'll get me a snack." Caboose added. As the other group left the gym, Sterling noticed Fury avoiding the others (clearly out of fear of being ridiculed). Caboose smiled at him, while Fletcher looked away. Black seemed somewhat satisfied with day's events. And Sterling found himself thinking the same thing. 'So that was team-building, huh?' Sterling thought. 'Not as dull as I thought it would be… maybe there might be a chance for us, after all...