//------------------------------// // Chapter Ten: Losses // Story: Another Kind of Humanity // by SPkon107 //------------------------------// Losses Closing his eyes tighter than what the had them when sleeping. Alex moved his head around and repositioned his head and slowly opens his eyes. He flinched back when he noticed the woman beside him on the same bed. Twilight had her back against him. He rubbed his forehead and said. “God I hope I didn’t do anything I will regret.” Twilight yawned and said. “Trust me if you did then you would have been out that window three stories below.” “Are you sure?” “Yes Alex I’m sure.” Alex pushed himself away from Twilight and sat on the ledge of the bed. He rubbed his head and taste the foul aftertaste from the night before. “What happened last night?” “Nothing really. You just returned to the room all drunk. Next time try not to drink while on duty.” Twilight sat up and and stretched her back and arms. Alex took a deep breath. “I’m sorry for what I said back in Ponyville. I was mad... but, that doesn’t mean that I had the right to…” he was stopped by the hugging force of the Princess. “Don’t worry about Alex. I already forgave you.” “Thank you.” “You’re welcome. And not to ruin the moment or anything but, what do we do now?” “We find a way to the Empire. Any ideas how?” “Well...above this city is a forest but…” The ODST looked at the Princess she rubbed her left arm. “But what?” “The Winter Forest is under Griffin Control.” “Fuck.” Alex rubbed his chin. “Going through the blizzard is not a choice.” “Of course not we will freeze before we reach the Empire. Of course dealing with the Griffin Knights is no better.” “Yes but, is there any form of transportation?” “Well… there is a small town called Condar Town. If we are lucky the town may have a car or a truck. Let’s just hope the town is left alone.” “So the forest it is then.” “I guess so.” “Scared?” “Well of course I am aren’t you!?” “Not really.” “Why NOT!?” “Hey you try to fall into a planet and charge at the enemy with a hell of a lot of brutes firing at you and plasma bolts nearly hitting you. In fact I was hit on the leg on that assault.” “Oh my goodness.” Alex give her a smile. “Don’t worry. I’ll be beside you the whole time.” “Don’t make a girl a promise you can’t keep.” Alex’s smile fade. The ODST looked away in silence. Twilight placed her hand on his shoulder. “Alex...are you ok?” “Yeah…I’ll be fine. Gear up… the faster we leave the faster we arrive at the Empire. And the faster I get you to safety.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- On the first line of defense of the Crystal Empire the guards were positioned and ready to defend the Empire. Less than a mile of the main land the Crystal Guards fail to keep the enemy away. The Griffins will be one step closer to victory if they fail today. WIthin the palace the Spartan contacted the ODST. “Let’s just hope the number of Griffins are low. The Princess’s big brother is getting tired of waiting.” “We’ll try to move as fast as we can sir.” The Spartan turned back towards Princess Cadence. She said to him. “What did Alex, said?” “He said that they will take the Winter Forest. If the nearby town has any form of transport they should be here by evening.” “I hope so. If any happens to her I don’t know what I’ll do?” “Alex, will bring her here in one piece.” the doors of the throne room opened with a guard rushing towards the princess. “Your highness…” he tried to catch his breath. “...your husband is back. Griffins are nearby.” “Thank you. Lieutenant If you would join me to the defense line.” “If you wish but...not that it bothers me but, it wouldn’t it be safe that you go into battle.” “Please Spartan.” She removed her dress revealing her suit of armor. The only piece of dress left was the skirt that she used as a cape. She drew her sword out. “I may be a princess but, mess with me and you’ll get the worse.” “Nice sword.” Spartan-254 pulled out his energy sword. Cadence’s eyes widen. “But my sword is better.” The Princess of love cleared her throat and led the path towards the first line of defense. The duo walked down the street as the final truck carrying civilians left the Empire. The Spartan looked around as they passed the second line of defense. Guards took their positions waiting for orders. He soon past by multiple abandoned shops that have been transformed to barricades. The ground rumbled when a dozen tanks drove pass the Princess and the Spartan. “You guys are giving your all aren’t ya’.” “Believe or not the Crystal Empire is actually closer to the Griffin Kingdoms than Canterlot. If it weren’t for the Northern Winter the Empire would have fallen long ago.” “Good thing you aren’t facing a nuclear winter. Would have make the situation harsh for both side.” Princess Cadence and Lieutenant Spartan walked for another mile and hitched a ride for the rest of the way. There were a few things that the Spartan has never seen. Only in movies or in history books. A whole line of Crystal Guards pulled out their swords from the sheaths and waited for the order. Captain Shining Armor rode in front of the Guards on a white stallion horse with a moderate sapphire blue mane with cerulean and dark phthalo blue. “Alright Crystal Guards the enemy is approaching the Empire! They are on full charging Melee assault! Today we force the enemy back to the holes the crawled out from! Today we will be victorious!” the Crystalians shouted as they supported their leader. 254 stood next to Cadence. “Looks like you have it settled.” “Yes but, we still need you here... if you were implying to leave.” “I have to find my comrade Princess. But if any I don’t leave the battlefield for any reason.” “And we need you here. Alex is not alone.” She kept looking up at him. “Please.” “You better push these bastards back.” “Thank you.” From behind them Shining Armor shouted. “CHARGE!” the captain and the entire line of Guards left the defenses and charged towards Griffins. The Knights ran towards the city out of a cloud of snow. Something about the attack was not setting right for the Spartan. Compare to the size of the Crystal Guard. The Griffin assault was not as large and were not running as fast as the Crystalians. The Spartan used his visor scope to zoom on the Griffins. He tried to look behind. He noticed large shadows. "Cadence!" "What?" "It's a trap!" The Princess looked towards her husband who was in the middle of the field. He kept his attention on the enemy. As soon as the enemy stopped so did he. He looked at the Griffins confused. He failed to realize his mistake. A group of tank emerged from the winter cloud and fired at the Crystal Guards. The first tank missile flew by the Captain and struck about 15 feet from him. The explosion killed seven of Shining Armor’s troops. "RETREAT!" The entire Guard turned back to regroup with the rest of the line of defense. Sadly the tank's machine gun fired. Shining, looked around as his men fell. One guard's arm was ripped off his torso. Another the head was splattered into pieces. Finally the Captain was launched off his horse by a tank missile. He landed on his belly. Shining Armor, was breathing heavily as he picked himself. He turned as a Griffin tried to strike him with his sword. Shining Armor, rolled to the side. The Knight thrust his sword to the ground. Trying to pull it out of the ground the Captain, picked up his sword and decapitated both of the hands of the Griffin. He then severed the head off the body. He continued to run as fast as he could but, suddenly stop when he felt the pain of bone and muscle being ripped apart. The Captain fell to the ground as he held his right shoulder with his left hand. He turned back to see the enemy tank about to crush him. He waited for the worst but, it never came. Instead he heard an explosion and felt intense heat in front of him. He opened his eyes only to find the heavily armored vehicle smoldering in front of him. Shining Armor, was then picked up by the familiar tall super- soldier. Spartan- 254 carried the Captain to the first line of defense. Shining Armor, was shocked of the speed the soldier. The Lieutenant moved side to side trying to avoid the missiles of the tanks. Towards the barricade Princess Cadence kept her attention on her husband fearing the worse. A tank missile hit the Lieutenant and the Captain's position. Cadence shouted. "SHINING!" a cloud of dust,dirt,and snow emerge from the ground. The Spartan evaded out of the cloud and rolled. He continue to run. The tank's barrel raise into the air and fired once more. This time 254 stop and turned around. He looked at the missile as it closed in. The soldier grabbed a device from the side of his armor. On the last second he threw the device on the ground and activated it. A bubble shield spread open and protected them from the missile. He placed the Captain on the ground and charged out of the shield. Keeping focus on the enemy. The tank fired once again. As the metal projectile flew toward him the Spartan spun to the side and punched the barrel and dented it. He then jumped on the tank struck the door on the top. As he rip the door off the body he threw a grenade inside and jumped backwards. He landed and witnessed the vehicle exploding on the inside. The soldier felt enemy bullets hitting his armor. The Lieutenant grabbed his assault rifle from his left and fired at the ground troopers. The remaining of the Crystal Guards finally made it to the barricade. He saw two of the Guards carrying their Captain to safety. The Spartan then grabbed his Spartan Laser and aimed at the Tanks. The infrared laser locked onto the armored vehicle and fired a crimson laser. The tank lost instantly against the Spartan Laser. The Lieutenant walked backwards as he kept firing. On the last ten percent of ammo. Spartan-254 press the fail/safe on the gun and threw it. The weapon then detonated and took out a large amount of troops. The Spartan heard another blast of a tank barrel. He jumped behind wall trying to avoid the projectile. The missile hit the wall causing parts of the wall to fall on the Spartan Super soldier. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Alex and Twilight snuck around the cave city trying to avoid the locals. The ODST noticed that the support of the princesses was not friendly. Mostly directed to Princess Celestia. ‘Down with Celestia’ ‘Fall of the Solar Empire’ ‘Hail the Revolution’ ‘Death to the Elements of Harmony’ ‘Demand Change’ All of this made Twilight feel like vomiting. She knew that there were people who wanted the Princesses out. But this was a whole other story. Twilight was now a target as the rest. The two walked up a staircase that led above the city Alex, opened a door. The door revealed a forest and the snowy winter in which they escape the day before. The details about the city was true but, it has been time since this town was visited. Another town has been built smaller than the size of Ponyville even smaller Appleloosa. The town was known as Settle Frost a small place for residents and, traders. Now it was a small resistance fort. For a forest that was in Griffin control it was quiet too quiet. The only signs of life were a few birds and, squirrels . Alex, kept point and asked Twilight. “Hey Twi?” “Yes.” “How is it that this forest is in Griffin control?” “Well ...remember when you picked up Cadence, for your Manehatten Mission.” “Yeah.” “The enemy has already attacked. The Empire has taken a beating. When the battle was over a survivors managed to escape into the forest. Cadence, has tried to find them but, the blizzards made it difficult.” “And know we are stuck doing the clean up.” “I hope we don’t need to spread any blood. I also don’t want to cross that traders town.” “If we have to we will Twilight. We need to reach the Empire before the battle starts.” Twilight, nodded as the two continued on their path. Even though they might have to fight their way to Condar Town Twilight, felt more comfortable being with Alex. Not far from them Alex and Twilight found a wall. The ODST said to the Princess. “Looks like we found Settle Frost.” The Princess felt chills on her spine. She pulled out a hood hidden under her battle armor trying to hide her face. Alex, saw two civilian guard on the top of the wall they aimed their weapons at them. He raised his gun sideways trying to show that he was not a threat. The Guards lowered their weapons and opened the gates. Twilight, looked at Alex, nervously and followed him into the town. As soon as the two entered they were surrounded. One civilian holding an assault rifle walked towards them. Alex, assumed he was in charge. He then shouted. “How dare you come into our town! What don’t you understand when we say we don’t want the Equestrian army here!” The ODST looked at him and responded. “I’m not part of the Equestria Army. I’m Corporal Garcia ODST Special Forces of the UNSC.” the civilians looked at him. The angry glares were not so convincing. “If you are part of this UNS...whatever.” he walk towards them. “Then why do you have. A PRINCESS!” he pulled down Twilight’s hood. “Twilight!” Shouted Alex. He rushed towards her but another guard tackled him. Alex kicked him off and stood up. As the other man tried to get on his feet the ODST elbowed the man. He fell to the ground unconscious. Alex grabbed his BR55HB SR from behind and aimed at the men who had Twilight’s arms pinned behind her. “Let her go!” “Why so you could report us to you superior Celestia?!” “Celestia, can burn in hell for all I care for. I want Twilight released NOW!” “And if we don’t?” “I’ll pull the trigger.” “You’re such a fool!” “Am I? Have you hear about what happened in Canterlot a few nights ago?” “You mean about the behemoth metal monster?” “Exactly. If you kill me. He will literally break your defenses and turn this town into a shit stone before you know it... you’re already dead.” “Your bluffing!” “Try me!” the two kept their weapons up and their fingers on the trigger. One move was all it took to spread blood around. The Leader finally sighed and said. “How do I know you're not lying?” “Trust me. I give you my word.” Alex lowered his rifle and moved his finger away from the trigger. “Let the Princess go.” the two other men behind flinched. They looked at each other and slowly released Twilight. She quickly rushed Alex and pulled out her pistol. “Why are you two here?” “We need to reach Condar Town.” “Condar Town? But the town is in Griffin control.” “We know but, they have transportation. We need their vehicles to reach the Crystal Empire.” “And how will you do that?” ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- One hour later Alex and Twilight and the town leader also known as Steel Hill were positioned on top of a hill. On the other side a group of the rebels took their position. Steel asked. “Are you sure this will work Corporal?” “Yes the mines up the hill will not only kill the Griffins but will also cause an avalanche onto the town. Sadly that means…” “No need to say Corporal. We just want them Griffin bastards off our land.” Alex nodded he raised his BR and slowly approached to the town trying to keep a low profile. Twilight said through the radio. “Please be careful Alex.” “I will Twilight.” the ODST slide down the hill and leaned against a wall. He looked around the corner and found two Knights sitting on crates and drinking. Alex rushed to the next house and walked into an ally. He found a Knight taking care of business. Alex rolled his eyes and approached the Griffin. He grabbed the helmet and slammed the Knight to the wall. The Knight fell to the ground. The ODST dragged the Knight and hid him behind a box Alex continued to his target. The soldier snuck to the tallest building in the town, Town hall. Alex looked at the building to find a place to sneak in but, the place was surrounded by guards. The closest entrance was a window on the side. “It’s now or never.” Alex charged at the wall and ran on the wall and grabbed onto a piece of wood that was sticking out. He pulled himself up and swung to the side and grabbed onto a pipe. Then he pulled himself to the open window. “Twilight I’m inside the building.” “Oh thank goodness.” “Worry much?” “Oh thank goodness.” “Alright hold your horses Princess.” Alex grabbed his battle rifle and aimed it at the first Griffin on sight. “Fire...fire...fire.” ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Lieutenant threw the large pieces of crystal off him. He picked himself up and looked to the sides as the Crystal Guards tried to defend the first line of deference. There were not as many Griffin Knights as when the battle began but, they kept coming. The Lieutenant grabbed his weapon from the ground and looked for the princess. “Princess! Captain!” “Over here!” she coughed under the rubble. The Spartan placed his weapon on his back and gripped onto the large piece of crystal. He lifted the crystallized rock and threw it behind him. He crouched down to help the princess up. “You two okay?” “Yes we are fine. The left side needs your help.” “What about you two?” “We’ll be fine. GO!” the soldier nodded and ran towards the west side of the line of defense. A lone building still stood after the first attack. Rainbow Dash and Applejack aided with heavy fire power. Armed with a .50 caliber machine gun the two did their best to keep the enemy away. “Hey AJ!” the farmer ducked down barely avoiding the enemy bullets. “WHAT!?” “Just what the hell was that red beam that destroyed the tanks!” Applejack reloaded her Assault rifle and returned fire. “How the hell am I suppose to know!” “Look out.” AJ turned back to see a Griffin knight charging at her. She grabbed her sword and swung at the knight. The blade made contact with his throat; the knight grabbed his throat trying to stop the blood from gushing out but, he fell to his death. Another Griffin appeared and attack both swords collided. Applejack’s strength was failing her; the knight punched the woman forcing her to fall. “HEY!” the Griffin turned back only to witness a fist hitting his face. “You ok Applejack?” “Ah’ll be fine. Thank you Rainbow.” four knights entered the room at once. AJ picked herself up and grabbed her sword. The Elements readied themselves for an attack but, it never came. A random Griffin Knight crashed through the crystal wall. A large dark figure appeared. Unfamiliar to the Knight but, was quickly recognized by Applejack and Rainbow Dash. The soldier quickly kicked one of the knights outside of the building and then spun to grabbed another by the neck. The knight tried to free himself but it was too late. Spartan-254 crushed his neck; he turned to feel a sword break on his helmet. The Spartan grabbed the knight’s arm and tore it off the body with his bare arm. He beat the knight to death and threw it to the last knight. Applejack and Rainbow Dash stared at him. Fear was all they felt. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Alex slowly opened his eye. His vision was foggy and he felt pain all over his body. His eyesight returned he saw multiple dead bodies on the ground. Both Rebel but, the majority Griffin. He looked to his side to see the Town hall town on the ground smoldering. Heavy snow and rain fell from the sky. “T-t…Twilight.” The Helljumper tried to pick himself up. His H.U.D showed injured areas of his body none of them seemed to cut through the under skin or his own skin or broken bones. Alex finally lifted himself onto his knees. “T...Twilight?!” Alex got on his feet and grabbed his rifle. “AHH!” he tried to stand up straight but a jabbing pain on his side stopped him. He held his side with his left hand and advanced forward. “Twilight!” he looked around for his companion. “TWILIGHT!” Alex kept moving, strong wings slightly pushed him to the side but he continued. He reached the top of the hill and looked down. “Twilight!” Alex saw a lone body. The ODST slid down. “Twilight!” he rushed to her and noticed a dark red substance on the snow. “No! No-no-no-no-no! Please...not again!” he wiped off the snow on the wound. He removed a piece of Twilights armor and grabbed his life-pack from his back. He pulled out a can of biofoam and applied on the injured area. After the procedure he lifted Twilight up and carried her regardless of his own aching body. It seemed like hours since he has been walking around looking for shelter; restless, hungry and thirst came to the ODST’s head. But more importantly him was the state the princess was. He wasn’t sure how serious Twilight’s injury but, leaving her as a last choice was not an option. The Helljumper finally found a cave reacting fast he rushed inside. Large enough for the two of them Alex laid the Princess on the ground. Alex grabbed two thermal blankets from his life-pack. One was for Twilight and the second was for something else. The ODST pulled out two climbing nails and placed one corner of the blanket to one end of the entrance and hit the nail with a rock. He did the same with the other side. Lucky the entrance of the cave was smaller so it easier to block out the cold. Alex also used stones to weight the bottom of the blanket and two large rocks were placed between Alex and Twilight and the entrance in case of unwanted guests. The ODST sat beside the librarian and looked at her. Memories flashed from the back of his head. He should have never left her. Twilight get of the there KNOW!” the ODST fired another round attempting to protect the princess. The princess ran for cover up the hill. She turned around. A strong forced her body to fall back. “TWILIGHT!” the building began to crack as the fire weakened the wood. The tower soon fell to the ground. “I shouldn't have left you alone.” Alex removed his armor. He had also removed Twilight’s armor so she may be able to rest more soothingly. Alex placed his hand on his eyes. ‘Why? I...I couldn't protect you. I...I failed.’ Not knowing Twilight has been awake for the last fifteen minutes. She kept her attention on the ODST’s reaction. She had the feeling that Alex felt useless. Yes she was injured but there was nothing he could of done. Alex sat beside her still keeping his hand on his eyes. She slowly extended her hand and placed it on his lap. “Alex?” Alex slowly removed his hand from his eye. “Twilight?” “It’s ok.” “Ok? How can you…” the princess placed her hand over Alex’s mouth.” “Please don’t fight me ok.” the soldier just stared at her. Twilight pulled her hand away and tried to get up. “No. Twilight. You need to rest. The bullet pierced through your armor and hit your bone. It doesn’t seem to be too broken but you need to rest.” “Oh...okay. Um...why did you undressed me?” Alex face flushed to red and looked away. “I’m just going to assume you need to get to the wound.” “Don’t worry I just needed to treat your wound... nothing happen... I promise.” “Okay...I trust you. What happen after I fell?” “The Rebels managed to push the Griffins out of the city and but the storm turned ugly and they ran off.” “Why did you shouted...not again...when you found me?” Alex stood quiet for a long time. The entire cave stood quiet for five minutes. “I’m sorry that I ever asked.” “I lost someone I loved.” he looked at her. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The year was 2549 on a human colony world known as Paris IV. Sadly the city can’t be named. The UNSC Army was scattered all over the city trying to keep the Covenant away from a certain building. Inside was a valuable item of the UNSC. Three soldiers were on a Warthog making their towards the ONI building. Two ODSTs and an Army personnel. The driver said to the ODST next to him. “Private Garcia! How far to Foxtrot!” “Not far! The next street to the left and straight down!” Three violet plasma bolts hit the ground followed by a green large plasma bolt which toppled the Warthog on its side. The gun operator jumped off to avoid injury. The car slid for another twenty feet and stopped. “Alex!” the female ODST ran to the car. The ODST fell from the passenger seat the Army trooper exited the Warthog. “We’re ok Lucy.” Four Spiker rounds hit the car’s armor. The three looked back to see a pair of Brute Minors jumping over a jersey barricade. The Army Sergeant shouted. “We have contacts! Take them down!” the three humans opened fire. Lucy took cover behind a car and provided covering fire as Alex and the Sergeant tried to remove the turret from the Hog. The two finally manage to pulled the gun off the mount. “Lucy come on!” Alex fired his DMR and forced three bullets into a Brute’s skull. The alien fell as it kept it’s finger on it’s weapon’s trigger. The Spiker kept fire and one spikes hit the Brute’s comrade. The ODST and the Sergeant kept advancing and came across the familiar pair of tall concrete walls. One of them had the upper part destroyed with parts of it still on the ground smoldering. Lucy inspected the wall. “A battle just took place.” the three heard gunfire straight ahead. “And it looks like it’s still going on.” The sergeant looked at the direction and discovered the battle was taking place at the ONI building. “Damn it! If the Covenant reaches that building we are done for!” The Sergeant charged towards the battle. Lucy was about to follow but, Alex, held her arm. “Wait.” “No Alex. We have to help the Army with this! Our mission never even began due to the ambush I’m not going to quit!” “I never said we weren’t going to help the Army. I suggest we take the second floor. We have a big gun and I intend on using it.” the female ODST smiled under her helmet. “Then what are we waiting for?” ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Alex and Lucy rushed up on a ramp above the floor from the streets the two pass by a body shop by the name Axillary Body Shop and an advertisement terminal. The gunfire grew louder as they closed in. Alex walked to a bridge and place the Machine Gun on the concrete handrail. The ODST then walked away from the gun and fired his DMR. The Army was fighting the enemy on a large parking lot. The cars were rather blown to pieces, on fire, covered with bullets holes, covered with purple or green glowing holes, or on it’s side or upside down. A soldier threw a grenade at a pair of Jackals and Grunts. The explosive device exploded and killed the two Grunts and a Jackal. The remaining Jackal’s shield deactivated and the alien fell to the ground. As it tried to get it the Jackal’s life ended as bullets entered its torso and head. A lone Air Force pilot was firing his DMR when an Elite Ultra jumped on the car and swung it’s Energy Sword at him. The rife was sliced in half and the Airman made a run for it. The alien swung once more and cut off a car’s door. The Elite kicked the human to the ground and thrust it’s blade into his back. The Elite was soon tackled by a Marine but, he was quickly pushed off by the Sangheili. As the Elite went for the kill an Army soldier jumped on the alien’s back and stab it on the neck. Alex and Lucy provided covering fire from the top trying to help their brother in arms below. “Hey Lucy!” “Yeah!” “I thought the Marines were off the planet already?” “They’re supposed to.” she duck trying to avoid being hit. “I see Marines and Air Force down there!” “Air force is providing aerial support. Marines well a few were shot down from their ships.” the two ducked as a large hovering sound flew over the two ODSTs. A Phantom hovered over the battleground and fire it’s plasma guns. The soldiers below ran to avoid being hit but, few weren’t so lucky. The gravity field activated from the belly of the dropship, two pairs of Hunters drop to battle. Alex quickly returned his weapon on the holder and returned to the turret. He pressed one trigger to spin the barrels and then fired at the behemoth aliens. The Hunters raised their shield to protect themselve. The trooper kept firing the weapon; one Hunter’s blood splattered on the floor and then fell to the ground. Seeing it’s fallen comrade the remaining Hunters open fire on the two ODSTs. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hours later The roads destroyed, cars demolished, and buildings burning. Squads of ODST’s were protecting the door of a building while the UNSC Army was ramparting the Covenant outside the building. Inside deep in the building was Spartan-065 protecting Dr. Halsey. The main door opened and then closed as Human troops were forced inside. As two ODSTs closed and barricaded the door the remaining soldiers were taking cover. The Covenant was banging on the door. After a minute of attacking the door it suddenly stopped the soldiers looked at each other. One soldier said. “What’s going on?” A large slam threw the heavy alloy door across the room. A pair of hunters Hunters were the first to enter. The soldiers panicked and the opened fire trying to hit the openings on their backs. The alien behemoth swung its heavy alloy shield at a barricade with two army soldiers behind it. The impact instantly killed them. On the upper level three ODSTs have been providing aerial support. A nearby trooper said to his companion in his left. “Garcia. You have two on you left!” “On it.” He fired at the pair of Jackals. As one fell it fired three random shot into the air. One hit Garcia’s shoulder pad. “Fuck! How long do we have to hold this position?!” “I don’t know!” a Plasma Grenade hit the rail. The three ODSTs barely had enough time to escape the radius kill zone. Alex stood up and he ran into a barricade. Two Marines were taking on a Chieftain but, the force of the hammer overpowered the bullets of the rifles. Alex charged at the alien and he jumped on its back. As the Brute tried to throw the ODST off he plunged his knife in its neck. Screaming in pain the Brute was only able to throw Alex off of him before he collapsed. Alex was picking himself up when he looked up an Elite Ultra kicked his helmet off and then punched him unconscious. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Alex ran through the hallways attempting to reach the last line of defense. Dr. Hasley was being boarded on the last ship to leave the planet. In attempt to repel as many Covenant Troops away from the building. UNSC ships fired around the building with M.A.C rounds. Alex was in pain. His leg has been shot by a Jackal Marksman and he has been pummeled down by an Elite. He reached the door and discovered Human Military entering the ship. The ODST quickly rushed towards the ship. A Marine shouted. “LOOK OUT!” without turning Alex increased his speed despite of his injury. Both Sangheili and Jiralhanae entered the room and opened fire. Alex noticed the familiar ODST trying to protect him. “ALEX!” she fired her Battle Rifle. The Trooper finally reached behind the line of fire. He turned to look at Lucy she turned slowly. Alex’s eyes widen. Looking at the purple crystal in the ODST’s chest. The rock burst and Lucy shout in pain. “LUCY!” he rushed towards her and caught her before she fell. “MEDIC! BIOFOAM I NEED BIOFOAM!” he gave his attention to Lucy. “No. Please god. Don’t leave me Lucy.” Alex removed her helmet and his own. He felt tears forming. “A-Alex?” “Stay with me. Yo-you’re going to make it.” “Alex...w-we both know that’s not true.” “No...don’t say that!” Lucy leaned forward and pressed her lip against Alex’s. The kiss ended with the ODST’s head dropping. “NO! LUCY...LUCY NO!” A Marine from behind shouted. “We have to leave trooper! Hurry!” “I’m not leaving her!” “Damn it Helljumper.” the Soldier grabbed his dead comrade and helped the ODST bring Lucy’s corpse on the ship. The doors closed and the ship began to leave the building. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The cave was silent for almost ten minutes tears fell from Twilight’s eyes and traveled down on her cheeks. She knew the Helljumper has suffered but, the level of pain he had experience was too much for her. The pain that has haunted Humanity was too much for the ODST. Twilight has seen countless lives of civilians and Guard fall before here but, Alex, his colony has suffered billions. “I loved her Twilight. I seen the person I cared so much die in front of me. Die in my arms. When I saw your blood...I...I…” “It’s okay Alex. To be honest...I never had anyone cared for me as much as my friends but, you…” she kept quiet for a second. “...you...you never stop taking care of me since the day you rescued me from the Griffin Knights in the Everfree Forest.” “You know it’s my…” “Please don’t tell me that. Please.” the ODST sat beside the Princess. Twilight slowly lifted her body to Alex’s level. The ODST wrapped his right arm round the Princess and over her shoulder. Alex took a deep breath and said. “If only you knew how much I care for you.” “I figured. I care for you too. See you almost died in Canterlot and Manehatten. I just...I don’t even know what to say.” Twilight blushed and looked with a smile and giggle. Alex chuckled along with Twilight. The Princess held tightly on the soldier. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Lieutenant sat impatiently as three choppers transported the Spartan, Princess Cadence, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash into the Winter Forest. “This is Chopper three engaging on the west side of the forest. Searching for Princess Twilight Sparkle.” “Chopper two engaging North.” Cadence looked below in search for any activity. Sadly only a few deer and rabbit. Cadence said to herself. “Where are you Twilight?” The pilot shouted to the back. “Princess there’s a town below!” the four passengers looked below them. Multiple bodies and fallen buildings remained. The Super- Soldier noticed the Princess when she place hand over her mouth. “Pilot!” shouted the princess. “Hold this position and lower the ropes!” four ropes fell from the sides of the aircraft. The three female troopers lowered to the ground. Rainbow Dash looked around. “Hey ...wheres the…” she was cut off by a large falling object. Snow and dirt flew around them. To her surprise she noticed the Spartan standing above them as if it was a simply hop. “B...b-but...that was like a seventy foot drop! How…” Spartan- 254 turned and simply said. “Super-Human remember.” The Lieutenant grabbed his rifle and began his search. Applejack and Rainbow kept their distance from him. The Princess noticed their behavior. She approached them and asked. “Rainbow Dash? Applejack? A...Are you two okay?” the two bearers of the Elements shared a glance to each other and back to the Princess. Rainbow turned away and kept walking, Applejack slowly began. “P...ya’ highness...we...we saw the...Spartan...he-he...he literally...I…” She took a breath. “He ripped an arm off a Knight and beat the rest of his allies with the arm...It’s like he has no emotions or...his humanity. It like he’s not even human no more.” Cadence looked down. Many of the remaining guard forces spoke of the Spartan’s fighting methods. “I will speak with him later...n-now we need to find Twilight.” The Princess was not sure how to feel safe or terrified with the Super- Human. Alex has told them about how three Spartans were able to defeat a large group of Elites at Apex Site’s. An Elite was capable to kill a human with a single strike the same followed to the Spartan strength. Like Alex said. ‘A Spartan can rip my arms off with both of his limbs tied behind his back.’ Stories of the Elites being ruthless warriors in the UNSC’s war with the Covenant. Maybe the reason why Alex was so paranoid and the Spartan being so brutal. Still for Cadence her people were not use to his kind of fighting and she will not tolerate it. The four finally reached the hill. “Stop.” the three women stopped and look at the Spartan. He slid down to the bottom and rushed to a familiar dark red substance. “Blood.” Cadence met with the soldier. “Is ...that... blood?” “Yes… more fresh than the blood in the small town. The men...other than the knights...they weren’t guards.” “No. These men are Rebels. Not just to the Knights but, us as well. They do not follow the Monarch way and they choose their leaders. Just like a Democracy.” “I see. Come on the foot trail is still visible. If we hurry we might find out who this blood belongs to.” That made Cadence worry more. She now feared the worst possible thing. “Come on we have to hurry.” The Princess nodded and followed the Lieutenant. After a few minutes of running the four stopped at a narrow rocky trail. The soldier raised his rifle and scouted the area. “Found you.” the Super-Soldier walked to the wall flat rock and gripped on the side. A thermal blanket. The helmet side lamps turned on, lighting into the cave. Cadence, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash soon follow and stare into the cave. The Princess was stunned on what she found. She gave a smile on the fact that her sister in law looked so adorable hugging the ODST. The Spartan hit the ODST with the butt of his rifle. “AHHH!” Twilight jumped and shouted as well. “AHHH!” the two look to the left. “Sir!” he stood up quickly and saluted.” “At ease Alex. Go back to sleep with your girlfriend.” “It’s not what you think!” “I know. Relax. I need to to gear up.” “Yes sir.” The turned to Twilight. “I’ll be gone for a bit.” “Okay.” Cadence rushed to Twilight when she noticed the bandages. “Twilight!” “I’m fine Cadence. I promise. Alex’s took care of me.” “Are you sure Twilight?” “Yes.” Cadence hugged Twilight and was follow by the hugs of Rainbow and Applejack. The Corporal met the Lieutenant outside the cave. “How’s the situation in the Crystal Empire sir?” “Bad. The enemy kept coming in and jets began to drop bombs on us. Heavy casualties at least 70% of the guard was taken down. I had Lilly fire a Matos Nonlinear Pulse Cannon round from orbit. Scared the hell out of the Griffin Knights but, they still kept coming. Sadly to say the Prowler’s life support was about 57% but, with the blast it at least dropped to 50.” “So what know?” “Canterlot is next. They have the Crystal Empire under their control but the harsh blizzard is holding them back. The griffins keep pushing. If we want to win them then we have to begin fighting on their land as well “You mean behind enemy lines?” “It’s a Helljumper’s specialty right?” “Yes sir.” the Spartan looked into the cave and said. “Girls we have to get going.” Alex walked to Twilight and helped her up and out of the cave. “Come out Twilight. Let’s get you home.”