Chapter 7- War has crossed the Horizon
As any wizard like Marasmus will tell you, Soul Fusion is an advanced level of magic with the potential to rival the power of gods. Of course there is quite some complication involved as a price. Like a married couple, the pair of host and soul must be able to tolerate one another. This is because you basically have a intellectual ghost living within your body, with access to your consciousness, and actual Fusion will only occur if the soul agrees to do so. Ultimately, the soul will decides who to fuse with and when.
The finished necklace was built of material from Engineer's buildings. The gem had a hexagonal shape and was therefore given a red hexagonal frame with a purple plated backing. The matter that made up the lace was composed of rope made of woven copper wires with a single black insulator for comfort. Given the materials available and a lack of experience as a jeweler, the end result was quite impressive.
The team stood in a congregational circle around the flaming fire, however, Demo was the only one exempt from trying the necklace on because of the power (and potential jealousy) Eyelander possesed. The conflict created by two intelligent artifacts could be dangerous. Heavy was chosen to go first, as it made the most sense to give him even more durability than before. Puting the somewhat weighted accessory around his large neck, he waited for something to happen… “Heavy,” Suggested Soldier, “Try closing your eyes and think thoughts to yourself.” The fat russian did as told.
“Hello?”
“H-Hello?”
“Is this Redwood?”
“That thine be. Who is thou?”
“I am Heavy Weapons Guy.”
“Thats thy title name, I can see your real name, but it can't be pronounced.”
“Its foreign language.”
“I see...The more I’m looking yonder here, the more I see that we aren't compatible. Your strength is unparalleled as it is. You need not my help.”
“The men before me are available.”
“I see that, hand me to the one you know as: Soldier.”
“Very well.”
Opening his eyes, nine other pairs stared at him. “He is polite, voice of Thor from hollywood movie. He wants to see Soldier.” The necklace was passed around the circle until the hands of Soldier possessed it. He put it on, although no one could tell whether his eyes were closed or not.
“Hello?”
“You are more suitable.”
“Ha, you do sound like Thor!”
“..I won’t ask.”
“So Redwood, are we compatible?”
“So far it looks that way from what I can see from here. Fiery spirit, good combat experience... Come night time we can talk some more in your dreams.”
“Works for me!”
“I must rest, I haven't made contact in...who knows how long.”
“Ok Red, you make yourself comfortable in there, I think there's some room over by my knowledge of dentistry.”
“No, I found spare space large enough to be my quarters, but thank you.”
“Talk to you later then.”
“See you soon.”
“I like him! He says he needs to rest but so far he likes what he sees!” Multiple sighs gave way from once hopeful members. “The hard part will be to convince him to help us.” Team members then looked at each other with uncertainty, Soldier wasn't going to be gentle about betrayal of Equestria, the land Redwood had probably swore to protect so long ago. There was a good chance that all this would ultimately be for nothing.
That night Solly went to bed early. With a mind full of anticipation of meeting a historic hero, sleep did not come easily. However, the subconscious instinct to sleep eventually took hold and, much as promised, Soldier's dreams quickly morphed into a catalyst for the first proper meeting of the two souls.
The scene created was of a friendly wooden tavern, one resembling that of Redwood's time. The windows were closed and shuttered by drapes concealing the outside world. Light was provided by small torches and candle decor, the furniture was worn wooden tables and chairs, with stacks of hay in one corner towards the back. The customers were calm and gave an air of relaxation. The beings themselves were both ponies and humans dressed up in medieval styles happily interacting with one another.
At the bar, Soldier found himself sitting next to the mighty earth pony known as Redwood Heart with a bottle of honey ale in his hoof resting on the counter. Redwood’s fur was of the iconic wood he was named after and it was dashed with darker spots and lines like the real wood itself. His mane was a glimmering bronze hue with a simple unkempt style. His eyes were hard but malleable in a black color. Lastly the mark upon his flank was of a steel sword overlaying a bronze shield, plus both objects seemed to be made of real metal as the soft light within the tavern appeared to reflect off of the marks.
Looking over, Soldier also saw that his hand held a bottle of ale of the same flavor. “Quite a humble place.” Redwood felt inclined to agree, “Yes, humble.” Soldier had never tasted genuine ale before, so he eagerly took a quick swig from his bottle. The flavor was unique, unlike any alcohol he has ever tasted. “I saw that you had never had this kind of drink, so I instilled the flavor into your head.” After the first swig, Soldier softly gulped a few more pints down before answering. “Thats good stuff!” Looking around him again, Redwood began to talk once more. “You probably have a few questions to ask.”
“Mm-hum.” His throat was full of more booze.
“I don’t know who put me in that gem, or why I was abandoned on that alter, but I can say that your species and mine have a similar past. Thats how I was able to piece this place together,” Somewhere, a small group at a table began laughing aloud in mirthful waves. “By piecing your historical knowledge with my memories. It is also how I am talking to you in modern language.” Looking back over to his mind pal, he simply saw the man looking at him with attention he actually started giving ten seconds ago. “You seem to have a sense of pride Mr.Wood.” Red smiled, “Of course, like you say.. it is patriotism or nationalism toward my nation and home, like you have for this ‘America’ of yours” Soldier pointed a finger at him in a playful fashion, “So thats why you chose me, we share passions.” Redwood shrugged, “That and we think alike in that we both are warriors of different trades, I believe we can learn from one another.”
“Times have changed Redwood, I am going to be asking a lot of you, and I understand if you refuse.” The warm feeling of the tavern got cold. “I feared that, I ask that you do not sweeten the truth.” Taking one last chug, Soldier began to explain, “Your world has appeared on our world by your people. We seemed to get along, but the ruler Princess Celestia, put into place a law that required all humans to become ponies in order to enter the kingdom. She began to enforce this law, and also commissioned charter ships with settlers to claim land on what was already our turf.” Redwood held up a hoof, “I already know what this is, your asking me to betray my country, and my fellow kin.” Soldier nodded with no sign of pity or sympathy. Redwood shook his head solemnly, “Times have not changed, like so many that tried before her, the power of the throne turned to be too much for even her legendary ‘purest’ heart!.” Redwood tone was turning sour, and the tavern froze in time. “I predicted it, I so wish it were not true, but I cannot deny what I have seen from your mind… I will raise my sword in your favor!” Solly then stood tall and straight, quickly followed by Redwood, both having risen from their chair. Then the pair gave one another the manliest hand/hoof shake each of them could muster. “I am honored to have you by my side Redwood!”
“As am I Soldier.”
“I will hear from you tomorrow morning at breakfast.”
“That you will.”
“DISMISSED!”
-Canterlot-
The two sisters of the castle stood alone in the throne room, even the guards were sent out. Luna for one was handling the death of her nephew like any person would, now over the feeling of grief, the emotion of sadness was converged unto anger. “They killed our nephew sister! The human influence has gone too far!” Her voice was borderline booming. Celestia, however, was hoping to sight reason into Luna. “This was the work of the PHR, not humanity. We must hold on to neutrality as long as possible.” Luna was visibly frustrated at her sister’s diplomatic approach. “You talk of neutrality while our stallions train outside, slashing their swords at human dummies!? Your refusal to act is appalling!” Celestia knew this was hurting her sister, even if her nephew was snobbish, a thousand years on the moon makes you appreciate and love all within your family.
Luna continued, “The news of Blueblood’s death has spurred a cruel sense of satisfaction from our enemy! They don't send any condolences at all!”
“Luna! Please, we must at least consult this with the UN before taking full action! We will insult them if we reject democratic diplomacy.” Luna seemed to tense up and talk in a quieter tone, and got increasingly loud as she spoke. “Democracy is a disgusting practice. We have promoted our monarchy for thousands of years, and leave any democracy to major elections and the like! The Americans joke of their power and diplomatic carelessness; they make an example to how this will end, with one side shooting the crap out of the other!”
“Luna!”
“If there is one thing I can admire about them is their lack of innocence and dark humor. It is seldom you see a pony like that anymore.”
“But look at the French, the British, the Russians, Chinese, and the Italians! They have just as much rich culture as we do. Even the Americans have sophisticated arts.”
“Those Germans have an impressive history of warfare, sister.”
“So do we.”
"Then we take action."
"We must wait!"
"YOUR NEPHEW IS DEAD!"
The hall echoed those sickening words. The tense air was cool but it retained a stiff consistency as both sisters paused for a breath. There was a knock at the door. “Enter” Celestia replied. A guard entered and bowed before announcing the reason behind the interruption. “Reports from the colonies say that human forces are mobilizing toward them.” The two sisters looked at each other, both with concern for their ponies. the weight of the situation just got five times heavier. “If I may add your highness, at this point, you need to show your ponies that you are not afraid of them. We are ready.”
Luna flashed a smug smile at her sister. Giving in, Celestia saw herself ironically out voted by a random guard. “Fine, I will call the UN.” A new guard suddenly entered. “We revived a message from the UN, requesting an immediate conference!” Her expression becoming stern, she continued, looking at her sister. “We will propose war, and sign the document.” Luna met this with a noble nod. The recent guard rubbed his neck, “They're.. actually calling for you to sign a document...” Guard A quietly exited the room, leaving guard B alone to his peril. Celestia quietly muttered under her breath, “I’m also assuming everyone else has sighed it then?” Because of the room’s flawless acoustics, the guard heard her. “Well… it is impli-”
“Silence.” She started toward the door loudly. “Let’s get it over with then, it would be best not to keep them waiting.”
-Ponyville-
“The GALL I-no-HE had! If I ever see that two faced bucker again, he WILL regret ever siding against the crown! BY my HOOVES!”
“Holy daffodils Rarity, this is why were here, ya’ll need ta calm down.”
The main six took the opportunity of Twilight’s brief return to gather together for a relaxing day at the spa. However, Rarity was clearly still upset from the train incident. Most speculate her rage was anger for being played like a saxophone, mixed with the PHR vandalism upon her figure. The group sat inside the large hot tub. “(Sigh) I know. Still doesn't mean I can't occasionally vent my feelings.” Fluttershy tipped in her measly two cents, “Venting is good, but like all things...moderation.” Rainbow Dash still was quite keen to stay on that topic, unfortunately. “Twilight? Did Clue find anything from Rarity’s ‘tail paper’ “ Glaring in disapproval, she politely replied. “No, nothing that points in a definite direction.” It was then that Fluttershy noticed a strikingly docile Pinkie Pie. “What's wrong Pinkie?” The mare looked to be in a realm of space located at the ceiling, but was quickly brought back down with a shake of the noggin. “I.. I’m just sad that they didn’t want to become friends. Why did they suddenly become so mean?” The rest of the group glanced at one another in worry, a sad Pinkie, is a troubling one. Twilight though, ever nosey in her innocent way, had to ask, “Are you referring to the PHR?” Still looking blue and with a mane of worn pillows, she could only muster, “No.”
Everyone knew who she was now referring to. The race of the bipedal apes.
Applejack softly but quickly shook her head, waving her golden mane wafting through the water. “Them humans are cruel but genius, have you read the article about how they spray gallons of acids on crops jus ta keep critters away? I didn't think you could ever find a way to industrialize farming, but they did.”
Rarity jumped in at the chance of spreading gossip, “I heard that all of their clothes are... manufactured,” That last word seemed to hesitate before leaping out of her mouth. “And that some types of their clothes are made of, animal leather!”
Fluttershy for one, was appalled “What! Animal leather! W-Why would they do that!?” Her protest was no more than a loud whisper, and Rarity answered in a most vague manner, “Beats me.”
Twilight choose to step in. “Humans are intellectually, brilliant and terrifying, and a bit stupid. I’ve read the stories of World war one and two, its horrifyingly fascinating!”
Rainbow did not seem to care, “We don’t need their technology! Were better of on magic alone!”
Pinkie perked up a little at a memory, drawing attention from her mood change. “They have some of the best jokes,(giggle), I’m always left on the ground laughing.”
“Excuse me?” Twilight looked over the side of the tub at the welcome interruption known as Spike below. “I hate to burst any bubbles you have left, but Celestia just mailed in…” Twilight took the parchment from his loose claw. “Its very, bad news.” The princess almost dropped the message in the water as she then read the message to her friends. “Prince BlueBlood is dead. Killed by the PHR in morning light. War is also to start today, and I’m supposed to attend the official signing of the war conformation!”
The group sat there frightened and amazed. Rarity for one, felt mixed feelings, “BlueBlood was a sorry excuse for a stallion, but even he didn’t deserve that.” Applejack narrowed her eyes toward the marshmallow. “Part of you is lying.”
“J-Just a small part.”
Fluttershy on the other hoof, was more keen to focus on the fear frozen princess in the steaming water. “Oh Twilight, I’m sorry you have to go through a horrible thing like that…” Pinkie took the news even harder than most realize, “Humans, I wanted to be friends with a whole knew species, the ones I met in New York were..surprisingly nice...” Rainbow Dash refused to allow sympathy to enter her mind, “Pinkie, this is a different kind of living being altogether, they don’t want to be our friends? Fine. By. Me.”
-The cave-
“So, this is what rehydrated American ravioli taste like.” Redwood could only comment on the taste as Soldier ate his breakfast the next morning. “Glad you like it, I should eat some French cheese burgers and see if you like that as well.” Slightly annoyed, Scout turned to the chatting rocket man, “Soldier, you’ve been talking to Redwood out loud all morning. Keep it in your thick head!”
“I’ve been talking aloud?”
“Yes, you have.”
“Oh, my bad.”
“Thats better…”
Off to the side, Derpy was having an odd intervention with Engineer, who was leaning against a dispenser. “You put poop in your crops?!” Engie had his paper on his lap and his head in one hand. “Mam’, we call it manure, and yes we do. It ain't our poop, just poop from things that strictly eat greens. It helps the plants grow.”
“That makes some sense, but still...gross.”
“Look,” Engie looked up. “What is it that you want?”
Derpy hesitated and started shuffling her hooves, “I’ve seen how much stuff your bags and pockets can hold, can I have one for my mail deliveries?” His finger made contact with his chin as he thought the idea over. “I can git one custom ordered from Mann. Co but that migh’ be expensive.” Derpy saw this coming, and had an offer already in her head, “I know of a magician and herbalist that has books on magical alchemy-” Medic appeared suddenly from behind the dispenser, frightening the duo. “Get me zose books, and I vill pay for your bag!” Derpy had her hoof on her chest from the jump scare, “Ok, ok, I’ll get you those books.
The doc’s massive smile expanded a millimeter. “Excellent!”
“Doc?”
“Yes?”
“Please don’t go off and scare me like that again. Or else we’re gonna have ourselves a problem.” Engie didn't even look at the doctor as he slowly disappeared back behind the dispenser.
Demo had finished breakfast and was clean his sword to pass the time. “How are ye feeling Eyelander?” The soul sword replied in a honest tone. “Can’t complain. I’m loving the unicorn souls, they carry a lot of spare juice.” Demo paused for a moment and stared into his reflection on the blade. “I was wonder’in mate, if we could try to expand on our soul powers.”
“Pal, if I gain enough heads, you and I will be able to do some crazy cool shit.”
The reflection smiled at Demoman. “Sounds like we need ta get out more often then.”
“Why don't you ‘get out’ the fresh orders from the envelope Derpy gave you?”
“Good idea, Hey lads! Round up! We got new orders!”
"Its a good day for the soldier boys to stretch their limbs. War is now a reality and we have our forces moving forward to kick out those four legged basters out of their settlements, and off human land. I have no doubt that they will give us more trouble than we think, plus we still have to fight our way across the ocean, so the United Forces won't hit homeland for month or more. As for the ones wandering city streets, we will be enforcing a similar program upon them like America did to the Japanese during WW2, but not nearly as harsh.” He stopped for a moment, and the sound of a fresh mug hitting the table was heard.
“In the meantime, this message came with a list of ancient castles and forts, built in the early age of Equestrian civilization, and their approximate locations. I want them demolished by the time my foot hits enemy soil. However, given the time frame of this task, you can go through the list at your own leisure. Periodically we will send you specific missions, but remember, these forts were built to defend Equestrian country against invaders. When I get there I want to move forward knowing that I have less hell to push through to the end of this war-.” The ending of this message was oddly abrupt as the audio cut off before the man could finish the ‘r’ in war.
Rifleman picked up the recorder, it was his turn to dispose of the device. Walking to a dispencer and typing in a few numbers from the button console at the top, he reached inside and pulled out a Demo granade and some copper cable. He took the granade and recorder and tied them together with the cable whilst whistling a merry tune. Once finished, he put it on the ground facing the cave exit. He stared at it and took a few paces back, leaned down like a marathon racer, and sprinted for a short distance, and football kicked the object out of the cave. The foce of the impact armed the explosive which exploded mid air. He laughed to himself and said, "I wish highschool football was like that, you could kill of rivals real quick."
This was a big deal to be given some more free reign. The team was filled with a sense of freedom, and decided to celebrate with the first defensive fort bash. Soldier felt an unpleasant swell in his chest, because Redwood was having a similar reaction. "Hey, are you alright?" His response was distressed.
"I know of those castles, and I lived in those forts. I am going to witness and partake in the destruction of, what is effectively, the remains of my home. Forgive me if I withhold any enthusiasm."
Soldier tried to be somewhat understanding. "I would be upset too...but these are our orders."
"Do not fret yourself over my troubles. It is not time that changes with me, but it is I that must change with time."
"I should get you a device we call a watch."