//------------------------------// // 11 - Forward March! // Story: An Extended Holiday // by Commander_Pensword //------------------------------// An Extended Holiday Chapter 011: Forward March! The room that the humans had called their temporary home was now practically empty. Their personal belongings, old and new, had been carefully packed in luggage cases to be transported to the train for their long trip. Mutatio kept his supply of love crystals in a pair of saddle bags that had been strapped around his torso. He’d assumed the shape of a Mule, a species that, strangely enough, seemed to be among the most unnoticed of the many tribes in the kingdom. “So Mules really don’t get noticed at all?” Matthew asked incredulously. “Not so much they don’t get noticed as most Ponies don’t think about them until they say something that could be taken as insulting toward them,” Moonshade said. “Hence the, ‘no offense,’ that we’ve heard from time to time in our outings?” Moonshade nodded. “Ponies consider mules close enough to the three tribes that insulting them is in bad taste. This courtesy doesn’t extend to Thestrals or Zebras, mind you.” “Are there any other tribes you haven’t told us about yet?” Matthew asked. “I’m going to guess that if you have Mules, you must have Donkeys, too, right?” “Oh, Ponies only consider Unicorns, Earth Ponies, and Pegasi to be tribes. We Thestrals are barely considered equines half the time, and the less said about Zebras, the better.” “But aren’t you all equines, anyway?” Matthew asked as he cocked his head in confusion. “You’d think, but Ponies are quite frankly xenaphobic on a fundamental level.” Moonshade shrugged. “The way you Thestrals speak, sounds like you take that kinda personally,” Taze noted. “Wouldn’t you?” Moonshade asked. “From a military standpoint and a strategic one, after everything that the Changelings did, I suppose that they’ll have to start noticing and acknowledging these others more now. Otherwise, Chrysalis will just do the same thing all over again. It’s a pretty gaping hole, in my opinion,” Matthew said. “Unfortunately, Ponies are slow to change.” Moonshade shrugged. The journey to the train station was a large affair as citizens lined the streets to catch a glimpse of the newest Friends of Equestria. The loud cry of the steam engine’s whistle helped to calm Matthew as thoughts of the model and type of propulsion helped to shove out any anxieties that might rise from the sheer number of watchers. A detachment of Earth Pony and Unicorn guards assisted with carrying the many chests that contained the humans’ gifts and rewards, including the vast store of treasure that would help provide their housing and assist them in achieving their other necessities. Along with the escort, a large influx of Ponies in varying states of dress and armor stood in organized lines. Were it not for their knowledge of the mission ahead, the humans might well have considered them to be prisoners. “Well, this is comfortable,” Taze said sarcastically. “It’s work.” Shawn sighed as he looked through a series of documents in his hands. “But, we’ll be out of here soon enough.” “At least we’ll have a chance to chart out a course for how to deal with all of these troops,” Matthew said. “And it’s not like we’ll be entirely alone. I’m sure the princesses will allow us to have at least a few other experienced hands to help.” “We have some individuals of note that will be assisting, yes,” Shawn commented as he flipped to a different page. “Including two smiths, for now. A third will be arriving at a later day.” “Great. So we’re going to have people around to tell us what we’re doing wrong.” Taze chuckled. “Well, we could always look at it from the half full perspective and end up showing them up after the criticism,” Matthew noted. Shawn hummed. “We’ll see how things go.” “Probably be best if we split them up into three smaller groups, just to make life easier,” Taze noted. “We’ll look into that when we have the full unit. Right now, we’re only looking at the first batch being sent our way.” Shawn sighed. “Twenty currently, not counting the additional assistance, being roughly five individuals, and our two smiths.” “Given the manpower we have at the moment, that’s probably a good thing,” Matthew said. “It’ll make it a lot easier to keep them under control and train for leadership when the next batch of soldiers comes.” “We’re going to have to really think about this moving into the Everfree. Probably our best bet would be in the spring, given the size of the group we’re trying to move,” Taze noted. “That is the plan.” Shawn nodded. “Moving into uncertain territory in late fall to winter alone would overly complicate things.” “It would definitely be difficult to get to the castle, let alone repair it in those conditions, especially if we can’t control the weather there,” Matthew agreed. Then he frowned. “Is it just me or does it look like we’re getting the stink eye over there?” he asked as he looked toward the recruits. “We were given the dropouts,” Shawn remarked softly with a sigh. “Handful of nobles, new recruits, and miscellaneous units.” “Think we should put our feet down, then, show them we mean business?” “You're the military one,” Taze said. “Show us what you’ve got.” Matthew frowned and stroked his chin for a time as he pondered the situation, then turned to face Moonshade. “Do we have a meal planned for the new arrivals when we get to Ponyville?” “Did we get rations?” Taze asked. Matthew smirked. “I’m guessing you’re thinking what I’m thinking.” He turned back to their main guard. “Well, Moonshade?” “Apparently the town is going to be taking care of it,” Moonshade answered. “And the rations? Do they each have some?” “I imagine they were provided with them when they got their basic gear. Beyond that, we’ll probably have to arrange something,” Moonshade noted. Matthew nodded. “Good. In that case, Taze, would you care to join me to inspect our new recruits? I’m sure they must be anxious to meet us.” He winked deviously at his friend. “You talk. I'll just observe.” Taze said before the two advanced on the group. “Attention!” Matthew barked as he gazed over the troops. Only a few of the Ponies actually responded. The rest either murmured among themselves or glared. Matthew returned the stares with a flinty gaze of his own. “Did I mumble, cadets?” “I’m not a cadet,” one of the colts retorted. Matthew glared at him. “Well, you are now, soldier. And until you learn some proper respect, I’ll have to keep reminding you of that fact.” He gazed over all the cadets. “Let me make one thing clear. We outrank you. You were put into our care for a reason. Your noble rank doesn’t matter here. Your previous posts don’t matter here. I don’t care what your breeding is or how long you’ve been a part of the Guard. If you expect respect from us, then you’d better earn it. And until you stop acting like a bunch of spoiled brats, we’re going to treat each and every one of you like one, starting with your first military exercise.” He straightened. “Congratulations, cadets. You get to learn the wonders of rationing. For the next twenty-four hours, you are to subsist on the ration kit that you received before this transfer.” The uproar that rose from that announcement sounded as if it had come from a hundred troops, rather than the twenty that had gathered there. “Do you want me to double that, soldiers?” Matthew bellowed over the group. “Like you would,” another colt retorted. Matthew lowered to his knees and whispered in the cadet’s ear. “Let me make one thing very painfully clear, cadet. We humans have made war for millennia. We know strategies and skills that would make your head spin. And much like the Gryphons, we also eat meat. We’re not afraid to follow any strategy if it will ensure the best odds for our survival. And while we may not kill you or your fellows in this training, I can guarantee that if that attitude is kept up, you will wish that we had. And if you’re a noble, here’s a newsflash. Mommy and Daddy aren’t going to be able to bail you out of this.” He rose and patted the colt’s cheek. To the cadet’s credit, the only sign of fear that he showed was his coat standing on end. “I’m glad we had this talk.” Then Matthew gazed over the rest of the cadets. “We’ll see you all at Ponyville, cadets. Now fall out and settle in. We’ve got a long ride ahead of us, and you have some meal planning to do.” With that said, he turned and strode back toward Shawn, Moonshade, and Mutatio while the guards that were acting as escort herded the cadets into their cart. “I hate it when they’re smart Alecs,” he grumbled. “That always brings out the worst in me.” “They’re young, and they believe they know everything.” Taze chuckled. “Here’s hoping they won’t all be like that,” Matthew said. “We need leaders, not snark.” “It’ll take time.” Shawn sighed. “But, we’ll do what we can.” “All aboard!” the conductor shouted over the platform. “I suppose that’s our cue,” Matthew said as he smiled at his friends. “Ready to meet some new Ponies?” “From one location to another,” Shawn replied, pulling his papers together neatly. “At least we’re all still here,” Taze noted. “Could be a lot worse.” As the boarding continued, a breathless mare bolted toward the conductor with a stallion and very familiar brown colt trailing behind. Button Mash panted as the stallion patted him consolingly on the back with an apologetic smile. “Excuse me,” the mare began. “Sir, we need to purchase some emergency tickets. My son isn’t allowed to travel long distances on hoof right now, and my husband simply must be at work by tomorrow morning. We don’t need a seat. We just need to be allowed to board.” The stallion shook his head. “I’m sorry, Ma’am, we’re full up. This here’s a designated military transport. We’re not allowed to let civilians on board.” “But we need to get home.” “So do a lot of the other folks who came for the wedding. Doesn’t change the fact the schedule’s been altered by royal decree. I’m afraid you’ll have to wait for the next train tomorrow. It’s the best I can do.” “What's going on here?” Taze approached the conductor quickly. Button Mash’s face lit up at the sight of the human. “Taze!” he greeted and ran forward. He stumbled partway in his advance and had to be caught by the human to prevent a faceplant. Button chuckled awkwardly. “Thanks for that.” The conductor looked from the colt to the human, then to the parents. “Policy says I can’t let civilians aboard this transport, Sir.” “So, what you're saying is that if these two were considered part of the royal party departing for Ponyville today, they’d be allowed to board?” “Certainly, Sir.” “Then what seems to be the problem? Get these good people boarded,” Taze said. “Sir?” the conductor asked in confusion. “This is Button Mash, my personal friend and guide to Ponyville and the surrounding area. Was his name not on the list?” Taze asked in mock confusion. “No, Sir, I’m afraid it wasn’t.” The conductor frowned at the colt, then his parents as he struggled to process what Taze had just said. “The princesses appointed a foal to be your guide?” “No, I appointed him. You may not remember, but kids often know the fastest routes to anywhere.” Taze smirked. “I’m … not sure if I’m authorized for this, but the train needs to depart. I … guess you three are free to join their party?” he said to the Ponies. “Come on, you two. Try not to get separated again.” Taze shot Button’s mother a quick wink. A flummoxed conductor watched the four depart for the royal car and the other two humans that stood by its doors. “Thank you for that.” The mare’s eyes shone with gratitude as Taze held open the door for them. Matthew grinned. “Well, there’s a friendly face. Welcome aboard, Button Mash.” Button Mash beamed giddily. “I can’t believe I’m gonna ride in the royal carriage!” “Honestly kinda surprised Celestia would inconvenience so many with this.” Taze shrugged. “Maybe it has to do with a national security policy,” Matthew suggested as he followed the parents on board. “Still seems poorly thought out.” Taze shrugged. “You coming, Shawn?” Matthew asked. “Nah. I figured I’d just stay here,” Shawn replied with a faint grin before joining the group. A few minutes later, the train had started, and the heroes of Canterlot, along with their guests, were on their way to Ponyville. Button Mash smiled as he looked up at Taze from his cushion on the cart. “I never knew that there were so many games you could play where you come from! Do you think we can make them that fast one day?” “I’m sure you guys will get it eventually.” Taze laughed. “Though it may take a while. It took us a long time to move from arcades to home consoles.” “So, as your personal friend and guide to Ponyville, did you have any questions you wanted to ask me before we begin the tour?” “You're actually going through with that?” Taze laughed. “I was just trying to get you guys on the train.” “Yeah, but you’re right.” Button winked. “I know a lot about Ponyville. Sweetie Belle used to drag me all over the place with the rest of the Cutie Mark Crusaders.” “Oh. Sweetie Belle your girlfriend?” Taze chuckled. Button Mash cocked his head in confusion. “What’s a girlfriend?” “Ah. Sorry. Uh, marefriend? Fillyfriend?” Taze tried. “He means a special somepony, dear, like me and your father,” Mrs. Mash explained. “What? Ewww!” Button Mash stuck out his tongue. “I don’t like her that way.” Taze looked to Button’s mother with a questioning smile. The mare returned the smile with one of her own as they passed that silent knowing communication that adults always seem to be able to use in moments such as this. The cart lurched forward as the brakes engaged and the train began to screech. “We’re almost home,” Button Mash said. “Do you have somewhere to stay yet?” “Is there an inn in town?” Taze asked. “We’ve got a place,” Shawn spoke up as he looked through his papers. “The Punch Bowl Inn, run by Berry Punch.” “Oh, you’ll be in good hooves, then,” Mrs. Mash said. “Berry’s a gruff sort on the outside, but she’s a sweetheart on the inside.” She chuckled. “Just watch out for her drinks.” “That bad?” Matthew asked. “One cup of a new brew she made, and I keeled over,” Button’s father said, then chuckled. “That was a nasty headache in the morning, let me tell you.” “Guessing she samples what she sells?” Taze asked. “How else would you know if it’s good?” “This should be fun.” Taze chuckled. At last, the train came to a full stop, and the doors came open. As the Button family rose to their hooves, the mare smiled appreciatively to Taze once more. “You’re welcome under our roof any time, Sir Taze. Thank you for everything you and your friends have done.” “Ma’am, you have a fine son, and you should be very proud of him. Just keep up the good work, okay?” Taze asked. The mare smirked. “Consider it done. Oh, and the name’s Joy Stick. Please, call me Joy.” “Only if you return the favor and just call me Taze,” Taze returned. “Are you really expecting me to let you play on easy mode, Sir Taze?” Joy asked mischievously. “Join us for a family game night. Then we’ll see.” “Very well then, Mrs.Stick.” Taze gave a short bow and a grin. “I look forward to the challenge.” “I’ll stop by tomorrow after school to give you the tour!” Button Mash promised. “I’ll make sure to keep an eye out for you.” Taze gave him a wink and flicked a bit in an arc toward Button Mash. Taze could almost hear the sound effects going off as Button clasped the coin and his eyes lit up. Then the family trotted off the train, leaving Button to wave his last goodbye as they strode onto the platform and out of sight. “Taze, I think you’ve made a friend for life,” Matthew said with a smile. “Good.” Taze chuckled. “Because god knows we have enough enemies.” “Indeed.” Shawn chuckled. “All right, now on to the fun part…” He turned toward the other end of the train platform, where the Guard was disembarking or unloading the cargo meant for the unit. “Taze, Matthew, would you both mind dealing with the Guard while I look for our smiths?” “Sure. Go ahead,” Taze said. Matthew smiled. “We’ll meet up with you later.” As he stepped out onto the platform, he took a deep breath and sighed contentedly. “I never thought I’d be able to see this kind of setting and live it. No hucksters, no angles, just plain honest everyday folk living from day to day and looking out for one another. Dad would have loved to see this.” He sighed and blinked rapidly to force the tears back before they could have a chance to fall. After all, he had to keep up a firm face for the cadets. “Hey, don’t think about it. Make yourself busy. It will help,” Taze offered comfortingly as he noticed his friend's expression. Matthew nodded. “Right. We still have some recruits to whip into shape, don’t we?” A wry smile pulled at his lips. “I took the turn bringing them to task in Canterlot. I’d say it’s your turn now, wouldn’t you?” “Not sure I'd know where to start,” Taze admitted as they walked. “Probably giving them instructions about where they’ll be camping. Maybe remind them of the fact that it’s thanks to the Ponies in the town that they actually have a place to sleep, so any nobles can know that this isn’t Canterlot anymore, and they’re here to serve, not be served.” He shrugged. “You’ll have to deal with leading them eventually, anyway, so you might as well start now.” The recruits stood near their cart on the platform with surly expressions on their faces. Their packs had been laid on their backs again, and they looked almost like a mountain climber ready to spend the night by a cliff. Four Lunar guards eyed them carefully to ensure no funny business would start. Moonshade looked from the humans to the recruits, then back again as she kept her peace. This was the humans’ command, after all, and she wanted to see just how they would lead. “Attention, all of you,” Taze projected. At the very least, this time, they all focused on the humans, though discontent still roiled beneath the faces of those who had less composure than their fellows. “Okay, so let's start off with the basics,” Taze said. “As of this moment, lineage doesn’t matter, class doesn’t matter. The only thing that matters is how hard you work. I don’t care who your father is or who you’re descended from. You are all equally low on the totem pole. Let me elaborate for you, for those who aren’t familiar with the concept. The totem pole starts with you. Then, at ground level, we have the citizens of this fair town. Then above that, we have Captain Moonshade over here. After her is me and Matthew on the same level. Above us lies Lord Shawn. And after him lies the princesses. That is the only chain of command that matters until you are told otherwise by someone directly mentioned in the totem pole. If you did not hear said impotent family member who you planned to hide behind, that is because they do not matter. Are there any questions about this?” Nopony raised their hooves or spoke out. “Now, I have been informed that some of you were in the reserve because your parents couldn’t buy you a rank and didn’t want you to see actual danger. Some of you are more lowly stock who angered the wrong noble and, since they couldn’t have you washed out, they had you moved here. With the exception of a few extreme cases, this no longer applies. Your lives are now equally worthless and equally valuable. If someone writes home to mommy and your parents manage to get you out of our care, it will be with a dishonorable discharge, not a convenient excuse. So you all had better start getting along. You will be waking up early to train your bodies. You will spend specific times training your minds. We’ve been given you washouts, and we will turn you into the true defenders of Equestria. Do I make myself clear?” The murmur that followed was less than exuberant. A loud deep clap reverberated through the air, followed by a mild vibration and the distinctive spreading of cracks from the source of the disturbance. They were small, but they were noticeable. When those present on the platform tracked the source of the noise, they found Shawn facing away from them. “I’m sorry,” he started, slowly turning his head in the direction of the cadets. “For a moment there, I thought I just drowned you out with a stomp of my boot. Let’s try that again. Are, we, clear?” he projected his voice at the end, ensuring it rang clearly through the air to his intended targets’ ears. The Ponies’ eyes were wide as a fearful, “Yes, Sir!” reverberated back. “Good. Now, do not make that mistake again,” Shawn ended as he turned back toward the direction of the smiths and continued on his way. “Now you're going to be shown where your going to set up your tents. Once we have everything sorted out, we’ll be dividing you into groups, and one of these groups will be helping construct the barracks at all times in shifts. These are good Ponies, and they’ve kindly lent us their land and aid, so you will make sure to treat them with respect. For now, follow Moonshade. She’ll lead you to where you’ll be bunking. She will also inform the Ponies that planned to cater your dinner that you won’t be able to partake tonight.” Taze turned to Moonshade and gave her a nod. She returned the gesture before turning to the group and shouting orders. In less than a minute, they were ready to move out, leaving the humans ready and able to attend to their other responsibility. Mutatio approached slowly and timidly from behind. “Must you always shout when speaking to your drones?” He shuddered. “I find it … unpleasant to hear.” Matthew chuckled and shook his head ruefully. “Sadly, in the military, it’s often expected. We don’t have hive connections. That means we need other ways to get the attention of the people we want to listen to us. Shouting is often one of the faster ways, so it is employed often in the military. At least in basic training.” He frowned. “Are you all right, Mutatio? You’re not feeling too hungry, I hope.” “My hunger is sated,” Mutatio assured. “It is my hope that the anxiety will pass as I get to know these other Ponies. They … will not also shout, will they?” Matthew smiled as he patted the Changeling on the shoulder consolingly. “Not nearly so often,” he promised. “Good. So what do we do now?” “Let’s go look at our hotel,” Taze suggested. “Once we get our things delivered, we can see about checking up on the campsite.” Matthew smiled. “Sounds like a plan.” Meanwhile, Shawn had finally found the smiths near the rear of the train unloading their personal cargo. Thankfully, due to the report he read over, he knew exactly who would be coming with. “When I getta ‘old of those shite for brains, I’m gonna tear ’em a new one,” Storm Hammer’s voice carried through the hustle and bustle. “They sent the wrong coal!” “Which variant did they send?” Shawn questioned as he walked over towards Storm Hammer. “Lignite!” Storm hammer growled. “Bloody ‘ell am I supposed to do with this?” Shawn frowned. “Given that we’re working with steel on top of other things, that’s not going to reach the temperature needed. You’d need bituminous coal at least, if you’re not using other magic-based properties for increasing the temperature,” he hummed in thought. “We can always send them a request for some sea-coal later.” Steel Weaver shrugged as he approached Storm Hammer. “Not like we’re getting those forges roarin’ within the next week.” “They have to have a local forge or something we can use, right? I’m not putting work off that long.” Shawn pulled out his report once again. “Yeah,” he flipped through some pages. “It looks like it’s just a little tool repair shop, but the owner, Brass Tacks, has agreed to open his workshop to our group.” “Well, thank Celestia's flaming arse for that,” Storm Hammer said. “Agreed,” Steel Weaver chuckled. “I’m just waitin’ on those forges in the old castle grounds. Can you imagine it, lass? A forge of the old capital, lying dormant for a thousand years.” “And no snotty nobles demanding fancy wall ’angers and ’ip decorations.” Storm hammer smirked. “Oh, lass, I thought you enjoyed the complicated works.” Steel Weaver chuckled. “Yes, when ponies are going to be using them, not just ‘anging around to look pretty.” Storm hammer said. “There's a difference.” “That there is,” Steel Weaver agreed as he looked at Shawn. “So, on to a different topic for you, do we have a timetable for how long we’ll be here?” Shawn shook his head. “There’s too many variables that can change things. Right now, we were also tasked with making an outpost for Ponyville, that way the town can have an actual guard for after we leave.” “If we’re here long enough, are we going to set up shop for ourselves?” “Probably, but it all depends on how long we’re here.” Shawn shrugged. “If we’re here long enough, I can send a request up.” “We know we’re here till at least spring,” Storm Hammer commented. “No point in trying anything in the winter.” “Indeed,” Shawn nodded. “We’ll see how it all goes, until then, we should get going. The unit should be moving towards the site we’re using. Everything unloaded from the train?” “Everything except the gods damned coal we need,” Storm Hammer growled. “Useless, all of em.” “I’ll send the order up with the first report,” Shawn replied. “I know it’s important. So don’t worry. I’ll make sure of it.” “Well then, let's go see what we can do,” Storm Hammer said. “Least we’re not trapped camping out like the troops.” “Staying in the same inn, yeah?” Shawn asked as he put his report away. Storm Hammer nodded. “Me and ‘im are. The apprentices are less fortunate, of course.” “Well, they’ve got to start somewhere, I suppose.” Shawn shrugged as he turned. “Let’s get to it, then.” She nodded. “Yes. Let's.” The fields outside the town were long and sprawling with a fence on either side of the road to ensure that travelers could see the way. The long grass was cool and the breeze blowing over the surface peaceful. A large patch of land had been carefully marked in four rows of five to ensure equal distribution and uniformity between the tents. The recruits were already pulling open their packs to claim their patches of land. The cadets eyed Shawn warily as they began hammering their spikes into the turf. “Hello, Lord Shawn,” Moonshade spoke as she approached. “As you can see, the encampment is coming along well.” “Looks like it. While the others are checking on the inn, I figured I would come here to ensure everything stays on track,” Shawn replied as the two began walking the grounds together. “Well, things are. They're not happy, but I think they're not brave enough to try anything yet,” she noted. “Good. This isn’t a daycare. We aren’t here to keep them happy. If they want to try something, we respond appropriately.” Moonshade nodded. “I think some of them have figured that out. The others will take time.” “A sad truth.” Shawn shrugged. “But, one we’ll manage.” As the group continued their work, one black Earth Pony with a gray mane and tail passed through the rows, giving pointers to those who were struggling, and even going so far as to demonstrate proper technique before inviting them to try for themselves. Some accepted this help graciously. Others were not so humble, nor were they grateful. A few others followed his example, and within the next half hour, the tents were finally standing and ready to go. Shawn hummed as he looked over the scene. “Looks like we’ll have to keep track of some of them in a more positive light,” he commented quietly to Moonshade. “A lot of the reserve had talent but made the wrong enemies,” she replied as she checked over a clipboard. “The black one is Black Rook. Apparently, he got benched after he punched a fellow cadet.” She looked up. “No details given, which likely means there was more to it and they didn’t want the details made public.” “Given the nature of Canterlot’s guard, it’s certainly hard to tell what the situation might have been.” Shawn sighed. “Not likely. He’s an Earth Pony with no name or status, grew up in the lower end, probably got talked down to by a noble who was waiting for daddy to buy him a rank and responded. It happens more often than you think.” “That’s what I mean. We’re unlikely to know the full situation because one side, as mentioned, likely the cadet or family, had enough money.” Shawn sighed. “It’s something that will definitely need to be worked on.” “Something to consider.” She nodded. “Still, as I said before, he’s one to keep an eye on.” “Indeed.” Shawn nodded. “I’ve had word sent to the mayor for places to set up outhouses and sectioned off cooking fires.” Moon shade noted as they past said areas. “We should hopefully leave a very small footprint on the area before we leave.” Shawn nodded. “That’s good, I’d like to ensure the only thing that we leave behind is the outpost and potential worksites for the guard that will be stationed here. Stay in good graces, you know?” “That is wise. We’ll need to run a tight ship, though. I'm sure most of these already believe themselves higher than the others.” “Of course,” Shawn sighed as he scanned over the grounds once again. After a moment he took notice of four members setting up to sleep under the stars. “That’s something to investigate,” he sighed, turning to move toward the four. “All right, whoever’s bed rolls these are, present yourselves!” Moon Shade shouted. It took a minute before four Ponies could clearly be seen heading toward the spot. One looked familiar. “Come on, hurry up! At attention, you four!” The cadets in question trotted into place and awaited the mare’s next words. There was no salute in this case, but the four did at least have the sense to draw themselves up into an alert post with their heads high as they gazed at their commanding officer. “You were all instructed to set up your tents in the designated areas. By this time, you should have been mostly set up and getting ready for chow time. So why are your spots empty?” she asked in an even but no-nonsense tone. “Did you want us to speak individually or together, Ma’am?” Black Rook asked. “One of you can start. If another needs to speak, they can take over. Since you spoke first, Black Rook, let’s start with you. The Earth Pony nodded. “Well, Ma’am, to put it simply, I gave my tent to someone else, since theirs was torn beyond the ability to use. Don’t know whether it was sabotage or just a lack of supplies, but it didn’t seem right making one of the others suffer for it.” He shrugged. “I’m used to sleeping outside, so it’s no skin off my back.” “I take it that’s the reason you were dedicating your time to assisting others with setting their tents up?” Shawn questioned. Black Rook nodded. “Yes, Sir.” “And you?” she asked, pointing to a Thestral next. “You know how it is, Ma’am. We’re used to camping on a hunt. Better to ensure the rest learn how to do it right.” “That goes for the rest of you?” she asked. The other two nodded silently. “Four damaged tents, then.” Shawn frowned. “Right? It’s just you four?” “Yes, Sir.” Shawn turned to Moonshade. “You think Ponyville’s likely to have tents, even if they will be civilian grade?” “I’m sure they’d have a few for sale.” She nodded. “Have our reserve funds been cleared for use, or are we still waiting on Canterlot’s side of things?” “We have some funds, but not everything,” She said. “I supposed tents should be affordable.” Shawn shook his head. “Take the funds out of my chests. We’ll save what we do have for any emergencies. We should be able to have these tents within the next hour, yeah?” “I’ll send a runner immediately.” “As for you four.” Shawn turned to face the cadets. “You will continue to follow the schedule as ordered. Before it becomes late, you should have replacement tents to work with.” The four saluted and bellowed a united, “Yes, Sir!” The Punch Bowl Inn was a simple two-story structure. A wooden sign protruding from the porch and painted to look like a punch bowl with a ladle protruding from one side loudly proclaimed the establishment’s name. The interior opened immediately into what equated to a pub. Tables dotted the wood-floored chamber, and a large counter divided by a swing door separated the bar and kitchen from the check-in counter. A light purple mare laid snoring on the counter with a spilled glass at her side. Her mane was a darker purplish shade of magenta, and seemed to flow like a cartoon rendering of wind pouring out a bottle. The ice had long since melted, diluting the dregs of her drink even further before dribbling over the counter’s edge. Matthew frowned as he gazed at the Pony. “Well, this looks like a problem,” he stated plainly. “How are we supposed to get our room keys now?” “Uh hello?” Taze called. “Is someone here?” Nobody answered until the doors creaked behind them, and a tiny sigh carried through with the two figures that stood in the doorway. A smaller Pony with a pink coat that was almost the same shade as Pinkie Pie eyed the customers as she set her saddle bags to the side. Her mane and tail were two-toned and seemed almost faded, as if age had set in early to work over that fertile field. Her green eyes were alert as she gazed over the customers to size them up. The filly sighed again and shook her head as she approached the counter. “Hi. I’m Ruby Pinch. Have you been waiting for very long?” she asked. “No.” Matthew shook his head and smiled. “We only arrived recently. It’s nice to meet you, Ruby Pinch.” The filly smiled tiredly. “Thank you. It’s nice to meet you, too.” She strode under the flip portion of the counter and pulled a stool toward the cubbies that held the room keys for the inn. Then she seized one with her teeth and tossed it onto the counter. To the barkeep's credit, or perhaps her detriment, she didn’t stir, despite the din. Ruby Pinch righted the glass and pulled out a thick leather-bound book, then swung open the cover to reveal the dried parchment. “I’ll need you to sign your names here. Payment needs to be up front before sleeping for the night. If you don’t pay by closing time, you’ll be forcefully evicted from the premises,” she warned. “I think payment was arranged by the palace?” Taze said as he walked over to sign. Ruby nodded. “We have the rooms they asked us to make up. Are you the special party, then?” “Yes, we are,” Matthew said. “It’s the three of us, a fourth who isn’t with us currently, and a guard. Possibly multiple if we have to divide up into each room.” Ruby nodded. “It should be, but you can tell us whether you like it or not after I show it to you. Follow me.” She picked up a pair of keys, hopped down from the stool she’d used to prop herself up above the counter, then pranced under the counter entrance again and strode toward a wooden staircase that ascended to the upper floor landing. A hall stretched beyond to the many rooms the inn had, and she tossed the keys to both humans. “Sorry, but I’m still not tall enough to reach the locks. You’ll be neighbors to make things easier on you and the guards.” She bowed her head. “I hope you enjoy your stay!” The two friends looked at one another, and Taze motioned toward the first door. “After you.” The room was far from the palatial arrangements they had before. The furnishings were simple and functional, including two side tables complete with drawers by a pair of human-sized beds, two wardrobes, a chest at the foot of each bed, and that was about it. A small cloth pouch was laid on each bed by the pillow. “Well, it has everything we need.” Taze smiled. “We aim to please,” Ruby said with a smile. Taze nodded as he held up a closed hand. With a single movement, he spread the fingers in the middle, and a single bit appeared in between them. He flicked it to her. “And a tip for you.” Ruby caught it between her teeth and grinned, then placed it in a hoof before nodding her appreciation to the human. “Thanks!” Matthew smiled. “So, who should take each room? Looks like we’ll be doubling up for a while.” Taze nodded. “That seems reasonable.” “Do we wait for Shawn, then?” Mutatio asked. “I guess we kind of have to.” Taze shrugged. “No point deciding things without him.” “Then what do we do until then?” “Wait, I guess.” Taze shrugged. “Unless you're hungry, there isn’t much else to do.” “We do make meals and serve patrons drinks,” Ruby said. “But it’s not time for dinner yet, and it’s probably going to take an hour before Mom wakes up.” “So, yeah, pretty much waiting.” Taze shrugged as he set the bag he’d gotten down and picked out a book. It took about an hour before Shawn finally arrived with Moonshade in tow. This time, a bloodshot-eyed Berry Punch led him to the rooms. “We don’t have meat here, so I hope you’re good with salad, she slurred as she rubbed her eyes and yawned.” “That’s fine. We’ll find a way to deal with that side of things,” Shawn replied. Berry nodded. “Ruby gave you your keys. Breakfast is from sunrise to nine. Bathroom’s down the hall.” She yawned and turned tiredly toward the stairs. “If you get locked out of the inn when we close, that’s your problem. I’m not responsible.” She gave a half wave and descended out of sight. “We’ll keep that in mind.” Shawn turned towards the others. “So, what did we miss?” “Rooms need to be divided, two to a room.” Taze shrugged. “Other than that, not much.” “Since you’re a heavier sleeper than the others, it’s probably best you and I share a room, Taze,” Shawn replied after a moment. “I am not opposed to this arrangement. Matthew has been very … tolerant of me as I have learned what is acceptable,” Mutatio replied. “I agree. I can keep an eye on Mutatio as well,” Matthew answered. “Works for me.” Taze nodded. “All right. Let’s get our items sorted and put everything away.” Shawn sighed. “Afterwards, we can figure out the rest of the day.” “Sounds—” Matthew stopped. “Uh, where will you be staying, Moonshade?” “I guess she gets a room to herself?” Taze asked. “I’ll stay with Matthew and Mutatio,” Moonshade said. “With his condition, we should have somebody in there who will know how to act if something goes wrong.” Matthew coughed a little, but nodded. “That makes sense.” He paused before chuckling. “Woah. We can call our room Club M.” Mutatio cocked his head in confusion. “Club … M?” “Matthew, Mutatio, and Moonshade.” Matthew pointed to each as they named them. “We all have the letter M starting in our names, at least in English or Draconic.” “And this makes us a … weapon?” Matthew chuckled, “No, no. A club, in this sense, is like an organization, a group, like how there are dance halls. At least back home we used to call things Club Penguin or the like.” “I’m going to let you explain this.” Taze chuckled. “And meanwhile, I’m going to go see if this town has a sweet shop or something.” He waved as he made his way toward the stairs and began his descent. “Sounds good. Now, let’s see if I can fully explain this.” He led Mutatio into the room with Moonshade chuckling as she followed behind. “That’s going to be a lengthy conversation,” Shawn remarked as he turned towards his shared room. “All right,” Taze said as he looked over the troops. Surprisingly, many of them seemed more awake than he did, but the majority did not. Some grumbled in unintelligible slurries of words as they stood on the road outside Ponyville. “Now then, as you’ve been told, we’re going to be working on physical training every morning. Fortunately, we’ll be doing that together. I need to catch up, and you need to catch up.” He looked at the group. “Now then, for this exercise, I'll be assigning temporary supervisor roles to some of you. These are not permanent, and they do not make you special. Your job will be to make sure those under you complete the course. For the next week, we’ll be taking it easy, but after that, failure to complete the jog means an additional five hundred meters for everyone in the group. Let me restate that. If one of you fails, you all get the extra. Is that understood?” The response was more akin to a groan than a proper acknowledgement, though there were a few who seemed more alert and sincere than the others. Taze looked carefully through the ranks and immediately disqualified anybody who seemed barely functioning. That left him picking mostly from Earth Ponies or Pegasi. There were a lot more Earth Ponies here than he remembered in the guard units. One unit, however, managed to catch his eye as he stopped before a surprisingly awake Unicorn with a silvery coat and a cutie mark of a spear. “Well now, you seem up and at ’em.” Taze nodded. “You prepared to look after those under you?” “Yes, Sir,” the Pony answered crisply. “You got something to say, you say it. I may not like it, but I won’t punish you for it,” Taze told him. “Advice, Sir,” the Unicorn answered. “When you approach a Pony, ask their name as well. You lead us. You should know our names.” “Fair enough,” Taze acknowledged. “What's your name, then?” “Silver Spear, Sir!” he answered crisply. “Who are those that I will be watching over?” Taze looked at the group and picked out three Earth Ponies, a Pegasus, and a Unicorn from the sleepies to stand under the colt’s leadership. Silver Spear nodded and walked over to his designated group, then started to rouse them so they would be prepared to keep in time for the exercise ahead. Well, at least he tried to rouse them. Taze grimaced a bit as he moved on. He didn’t necessarily like the tone Silver Spear had used, but he couldn’t fault him for it either.  When everyone was set, he looked around. “Now, we’ll be taking it easy today, a simple jog around Ponyville. Don’t get used to it. We'll be pushing harder over time. If any of you feel like pushing harder earlier, I’ll be working out myself after each run, and you can join me if you want.” Once they were ready, he ordered them to start. By the end of it, many of the cadets and he himself were cursing him as their legs burned from the effort. Still, Taze chuckled to himself. After all, he knew the truth of the old saying. No pain, no gain. And after everything that had happened in Canterlot, he knew there was no choice but to gain. Matthew stepped out into the chilly morning air dressed in full jungle camouflage. He took a breath while Moonshade stretched at his side. “Well, thank you for being at my side, Moonshade. I may call this jogging, but I know that in reality, I’m only speed walking. I want to be able to do more, though.” He stretched slowly as he prepped for the exercise to come. “No problem,” Moonshade said. “Taze figured it would be better to let you go at your own pace.” “Makes sense. They had to give a few exceptions for my health back in ROTC.” He stood up with a grunt. “Still, thank you for hanging back with me. But if you need to up your routine, please don’t let me hold you back. Lord knows I’m primarily going to be serving in the classroom, anyway.” Moonshade shrugged. “I did my rounds long before the troops set out.” Matthew couldn’t help but smile. “That’s good to hear. And thank you for being my battle buddy. How about we start just once around the town? If I get tuckered out, we can start back early.” “That seems like a fine start.” She nodded. “I don’t believe Taze was pushing the trainees beyond that point, anyway.” Matthew chuckled. “Well, I’m in worse shape than they are, so we’ll have to see how it goes. Shall we begin?” She nodded. Matthew stepped off the porch and began to walk very quickly. It wasn’t a jog, but neither was it the leisurely pace of the typical observer. It was steady, it was purposeful, and it was quick. In short, it was a proper speed walk. Moonshade kept pace easily, having the added advantage of being an equine with anatomy designed for running on all fours anyway. Matthew slowly got a rhythm alternating between speed walking, Jogging, and slowing down to what he called a normal walk, which was still brisk and purposeful. He paused and leaned against the clock tower as he took the canteen at his side, uncapped it, and took a deep swig. The vessel barely sloshed when he returned it to his side, an indication of how very low he was running both on water and on steam. Then he heard the sound of hooves and shouted voices coming his way. Given the time of day and the supposed point where Taze set out, he deduced these were likely the recruits and moved to stand at attention to watch them pass. “You okay, Matthew?” A familiar voice asked. Matthew frowned as he watched the herd pass by. “They’re not acknowledging me. Troops acknowledge the officers if they pass them in formation. They need to respect the offices we hold, if not just us,” he muttered to Taze. “Also, I am not going to make my goal of a lap around the town like I hoped.” “Hey, take it slow,” Taze said as he passed Matthew an extra water bottle. “I’ll make sure to address them about that when this is over.” “Sounds good.” Matthew sighed and took a deep swig of water from the new water bottle, then offered it back. Taze refused it politely, and Matthew sighed again. “I’d better let you get back to herding this gaggle of cadets. I’m going to go back.” “Yeah, they’ll be your cats after lunch.” Taze chuckled before he went to catch up with the rest. Matthew chuckled in return. “I look forward to that!” he shouted back. Then he looked back at Moonshade. “Come on. We’d better get back to the officers’ quarters and get the papers for class.” “No,” Moonshade objected. “First, we’ll get breakfast. Then we can worry about that.” “Sounds good. Well, you know the layout better than I do. Where would you recommend we go for food?” “Well, there’s the inn, Sugar Cube Corner, and I believe there are also some restaurants.” “What do you suggest? I might say the inn, myself, but I’ll leave it in your care where you think is best.” “The inn it is, then.” Moon Shade nodded. “Sounds good.” Matthew turned and began the long slow walk back toward the inn, his legs shaking every few steps. The two made their way silently back to the Punch Bowl to let Matthew regain his strength. They sat down at a table closer to the bar counter, where a grumpy Berry Punch waited to take their orders with the same bloodshot eyes as before. Once the order was placed and filled, Matthew and Moonshade began to eat a good hearty breakfast. Shawn yawned as he made his way out of the inn. The moon was still in the sky, but he assumed it wouldn’t be long before that was to change. Even after departing Canterlot, his waking nightmares didn’t stop, leaving him awake earlier than considered reasonable. But he wouldn’t let that stop him. He would keep himself active, one way or another. And rather than risking the chance of waking up the others, he decided to go for a walk or run depending on how he felt. The cool morning air and the smell of fresh dew flowed through his nostrils as he strode out the inn door and onto the low-lying porch. Crickets chirped loudly in the distance, and he could hear the occasional hoots of owls and the calls of the early morning birds that always seemed to cry out in herald to the coming dawn. There were no lamps or lanterns burning at this strange hour before the twilight, but the moon and stars provided sufficient illumination to guide his path, and so he began. What better way to learn of the town and its surroundings in person than to perform a little personal reconnaissance on the layout? That, and his nagging sense of paranoia demanded that he keep moving. Jewelers, carpenters, rug shops, sweet stores, and so much more slept silently as they waited for the morning call of the rising sun to pull them out of bed and bring in the new day. The Golden Oak library stood near the center of town and sprouted high into the air with its lush crown. Its leaves seemed almost bejeweled with silver as he jogged past it and the town square. His feet kept churning, his lungs kept puffing, and the familiar meditative beat of a runner’s steps rang in his ears to provide at least a brief distraction from the uneasiness. He wasn’t sure exactly when it was that he left the town’s limits. A brief glance toward the campsite greeted him with salutes from the troops who had been posted there to ensure the cadets remained where they belonged. Finally, it was just rough fencing and the endless darkness undulating among the green grass of the fields as he ran. Slowly, that darkness began to recede into shadow, and color seeped over the sky with the rising of the sun. Stars winked out, and with the ascension of that blazing orb came the sight of what he thought at first might have been the Everfree Forest. That is, until he noticed the sheer uniformity of the trees and the bright colorful fruits that bedecked their branches. The sun’s rays fell on a beautiful red barn, and Shawn could hear the snorting of hogs as his legs altered course almost before he could think, drawing him toward the orchard and the farm that lay just beyond it. The familiar creak that all farmhouse doors seem to carry with them reverberated through the air as Shawn strode onto the property, and the imposing shape of a large red Pony with a blond mane and deep expressive eyes stepped off the porch to peer at the human inquiringly. “Hey. Out wandering. If I’m trespassing or something, just tell me and I’ll get going,” Shawn commented, taking a moment to crack his back. The big Pony shrugged. “Nnnnope,” he said simply. “All right, Big Mac, I’ll stack the soil if you’ll cart the wagon this—” The comment died in Applejack’s throat as she emerged from the farmhouse to behold the human. “Lord Shawn,” she said with some surprise. “I, uh … wasn’t expecting you to be coming for a visit. Anything we can help y’all with?” “Just wandering around. Got nothing else to be doing at the moment, honestly,” Shawn replied dismissively. “Mostly tied my stuff to paperwork, which is … dull, and quickly dealt with.” “So you’re just looking for something to fill up your spare time?” “I’ve literally just been on a jog around town for the last hour and a half because I didn’t want to risk waking the others. I just happened to stop here as you all stepped out from the looks of it.” He shrugged. “I mean, if you’re in need of a spare pair of hands, I can offer physical labor. Got nothing better to do.” Applejack raised a brow, then shrugged. “If you want. But we Apples don’t believe in taking freebies. If you work with us, we’re gonna repay you for it. Don’t gotta be in bits if you don’t want ’em, but it’ll be in something.” “Conversation will do for now.” Shawn chuckled. “Something different from being idle, you know?” Applejack grinned. “Say no more. I feel the same way any time I have to sit around in Rarity’s for one of her fittings. How about we start with you helping me load up the cart with some soil for the trees. Then we’ll see how things go from there.” She motioned toward the red stallion. “This here’s my brother Big Mac.” “Pleasure to meet you.” Shawn gave a nod in Big Mac’s direction. Big Mac nodded in return. “Eeeeeyup.” Applejack shrugged. “He don’t like talking much, but most folk don’t really need him to say much to understand him anyway.” Big Mac motioned toward the barn, and Applejack nodded. “Yeah. Let’s get to work.” By the time they had loaded up the cart and packed the shovel and other tools and buckets, the sun had well and truly risen, and the morning dew had dissipated. Apple Bloom, the youngest Apple, darted up for a swift introduction and farewell before running off to school for the day. The sight of the acreage involved with the orchard made the whole property look like a rolling sea of foliage that billowed and crested like so many waves driven by the wind. Once the soil had been properly spread, the mare nodded to her brother. “You might wanna take a break here, Shawn. It’s time for us to harvest some of the riper trees, and applebuckin’ don’t strike me as the kind of thing y’all were built for.” “I’m afraid I don’t know the term,” Shawn replied with an uncertain look. “Like, apple pickin’ or something, I assume?” Applejack laughed. “Picking. Hooey! That’s a good one. If we tried picking our crop, we’d never get it done before the fruit fell and started wasting away. Here. Let me show you how it’s done.” She picked up some of the buckets and laid them out in a circle at the base of one of the trees. Then she turned and leaned forward on her front hooves, bringing her face low to the ground before she raised both rear hooves together to collide against the tree with a solid thump. Instantly, the branches released their bounty, and every last apple on the tree fell in perfect order into the buckets, filling them to the brim. “And that’s how you do it.” “Yeah, … I may have some muscle on me, but I don’t think I could pull that off. I could probably get some if they’re ripe enough, but that’d probably be the limit.” Shawn hummed as he looked at the tree. Applejack shrugged. “Well, if you wanna give it a shot for a laugh, it’s no sweat off our backs. It’ll only take a minute or so anyway.” She motioned to a neighboring tree where Big Mac was already laying the next set of buckets. “Go ahead.” Shawn thought it over for a moment before shrugging. “Ah, screw it, I’ll give it at least one go.” He turned toward the tree and looked it over for a moment, finding a good spot for himself. Once he had placed an appropriate distance between him and the tree, he widened his stance. Taking a second, he brought his right foot up before thrusting it forward against the tree with a loud clunk. The tree shook like an arrow vibrating in a wooden target. It shuddered as the vibration carried up through the canopy, then down to the roots before it finally grew still. The apples remained in place for a few seconds, and then the air rang with the haillike thumps of the boughs unburdening themselves. Applejack gaped at the sight as her mouth dropped and her brain stopped working out of sheer shock. Shawn blinked a few times as he looked at the results of his kick. After a moment he turned toward Applejack. “Your world’s physics are questionable at best.” Big Mac chuckled. “Eeeeeeeyup.” Matthew and Moonshade were a little late getting back for breakfast this morning, since Matthew’s path led through the morning market. It was inevitable that he would slow down to browse the stall owners’ wares. Fortunately for him, he wasn’t alone. Taze approached down a side street, and Matthew waved him over. As soon as his friend got within hearing distance, he offered an explanation like a school boy confessing a sin to his classmates. “I ended up browsing at the market.” “Find anything good?” Taze asked, stretching lightly, and feeling no urge whatsoever to moderate his voice.. “A few things, but I’m going to wait till after my class to do any real shopping.” “Fair enough.” Taze nodded. “Glad to see you made it through okay either way.”’ “Yeah. Still, I’m going to see how the students handle the first class this afternoon.” “Well, I’d warn you to not go easy on them, but we both know you won’t.” Taze smirked. “There is one Pony named Silver Spear. He’s got a bit of an attitude but doesn’t seem like a total waste. Keep an eye on him.” “Thanks for the heads up.” He chuckled. “I wasn’t easy on my fellow cadets when I was in ROTC either, so I think I can figure out how to deal with him.” “I figure you will. Hopefully, you can get his attitude underwraps. Because after the week of grace is over, if he’s still got it, I'm going to punch him,” Taze said honestly. “I’ll see what I can do.” Matthew glanced at Moonshade. “You’re part of the cadre, Moonshade, and you know the laws of this land better than we do. What are acceptable forms of punishment in your military?” “Well, that's kind of difficult to answer,” she admitted. “We don’t officially have a military, so the only standards are several thousand years old.” “Can I have a writeup then for this evening? I prefer to have a framework to work on. And if these guards are ever going to get up to snuff, we need to train and treat them like the soldiers they need to be.” “I’ll see what I can do for you.” She nodded. “Interesting to run into you all together,” Shawn called out as he moved toward the group. No one seemed to notice his approach, but they were all engaged in conversation, so that was only natural. “Good to see you, Shawn. Exploring the town, too?” Taze asked. “I did that earlier. I was actually heading back to the tavern. Spent most of the morning helping out at Sweet Apple Acres, since they were the only ones up.” “Did you get to eat any of the apples?” Matthew asked. “And did they actually accept your help?” “Yes to both. Though there were certainly some confusing parts, especially when it comes to the trees.” “Trees?” Taze asked. “Confusion? What’s so confusing about picking apples?” Matthew asked. “You see, applebuckin’ is already an interesting concept, since they’re kicking the trees to have the apples drop into awaiting baskets. Turns out it doesn’t seem to be a magic-oriented thing? I say that because they convinced me to give it a go, just once, and it worked.” Everyone but Moonshade seemed surprised. “Wait, you kicked a tree and it worked?” Taze asked. “Yeah. Knocked all the apples down off one kick. I mean, it put force into the trunk, but … that’s still not a lot in comparison to standard apple trees.” Shawn frowned. “And you're walking, so your ankle didn’t shatter on impact,” Taze noted. “It’s hard to explain, but I’ve got the feeling that some things in this world don’t abide by the same physics or structure that our world does. I mean, to be fair, magic is a point as well.” “But I’m shocked it’s working on us as well,” Matthew said. “Well, if it’s the physics here, I suppose ours wouldn’t really apply to it in the end.” Shawn shrugged. “In any case, I should head back to the inn. Need to sort through paperwork and probably figure out finances for everything, since we need to learn the economy here.” “I’m going to get some reading done,” Taze said. “Still a lot of catching up to do.” “I should get back and finish prepping my classwork for this afternoon as well.” Matthew nodded, then smiled. “I suppose that means we’re all bound for the same place. Isn’t that nice, getting to walk together as a group?” Shawn gave a brief chuckle. “Indeed. Let’s get moving.” The first warning was the angry glare and folded forelegs of Berry Punch. “It’s one thing to have you stay here as guests, but it’s another to have guards barging in here without permission.” She stomped up to them and jabbed an accusatory hoof at Shawn. “What the flaming Tartarus do you think gives your guards the right to break through my doors and search my guestrooms? I told them you were away. I told them there wasn’t any threat, and they still forced their way through! Are you trying to drive me under?” Shawn frowned. “That doesn’t sound right.” He looked to the others. “Go check it out. Quickly.” Taze didn’t need any further urging. He surged through the entrance and up the stairwell three stairs at a time. Matthew was close behind while Shawn turned to address Berry Punch directly. Moonshade had already taken wing and sped toward the landing. The doors were all flung open. Furniture was strewn aside, beds pulled away, and towels and bedding flung over the floor like so many rags. A loud hissing emanated from the final rooms where the humans had been staying. “I will not go quietly!” Mutatio growled. That was confirmation enough for Taze as he jerked round the opening, using a hand to adjust his trajectory and use his momentum to rocket into the bedroom, followed closely by Moonshade. Mutatio was buzzing in the air, the crystallized love hovering around him as green flame licked around his body in an aura of concentrated magical power. His horn pulsed angrily as his eyes glowed and he fired between a pair of solar guards, leaving behind a charred black patch as each dodged to the side. “What's going on here?” Taze shouted. Moonshade placed herself between Mutatio and the guards, doing her best to keep the Changeling from getting off another shot. “Danger! Move!” Mutatio spat as he glared at the guards. “Killers! Murderers! Assassins!”