Teana sat quietly in the front row of the empty chapel, looking silently at the coffin. The TSAB’s flag was draped over it, the three-colored shield resting on a field of dark blue. Flower displays flanked the casket, artfully arranged and brightly-colored despite the solemn occasion.
She was the only one there. The officers had already left, as had Tiida’s peers and friends. She couldn’t bring herself to get up, however. She didn’t want to leave.
The chapel doors slammed open. “The body’s right over there, gentlecolts,” a disembodied voice stated matter-of-factly.
Teana sat up with a start and turned as four stallions marched in. Their faces were hidden in silhouette and the golden armor they wore was tarnished and splotched with rust. They marched along the aisle two-by-two, seemingly unaware of Teana’s presence.
Teana sprang to her feet and stood in their path. “Go away! You already took him from me once! I won’t let you do it again!” Her hand went to her side holster, ready to pull out her Device.
She didn’t pull out Cross Mirage. She pulled out a child’s toy; a blocky green piece of plastic that chirped and beeped when she pulled the trigger. She looked down in shock as the ponies marched past her and up to the casket.
“No!” She flung herself at the ponies. One expertly placed kick of the hind leg sent her flying, crashing into the lines of folding chairs. Teana groaned as the four ponies lifted the casket into the air and began marching towards the door, the Bureau’s flag falling limply to the ground as they went.
“No…give… give him back.” She staggered after the procession as they made their way through the door and into the light beyond. “Don’t take… him away…”
The doors slammed shut in her face.
---
The Next Morning
Teana’s eyes slowly opened. Her head pounded in time with her heartbeat as she sat up and rubbed her eyes.
Just a dream… She exhaled slowly as she slung her legs off the side of the bed and pushed herself to her feet. It’s just a dream, Teana.
She glanced at the desk she shared with Subaru, then reached over and pulled open one of the drawers. Inside was the little toy pistol from her dream. She slowly picked it up, cradling it gently as she took a seat in the chair.
She gave it an experimental pull of the trigger. Its little lights came on as it made ray-gun noises.
“Looks like the battery’s still good,” she muttered to herself as she slowly turned it over and over in her hands as she remembered…
---
“Pew! Pew! I gotcha, Tiida! I gotcha this time!”
“Haha! Oh no, I’m hit!”
“Now stay down! You’re under arrest!”
“Oof! Curses, foiled again! Please, have mercy, Enforcer Lanster! Spare me! Isn’t there some rule against using bad guys as seats?”
“I warned ya, you baddy, nobody escapes the Lansters!”
“Oh, really? Not even if I do… this?”
“Eeek! Tiida, stoppit! That tickles! Hehehe! Hahaha!”
“Nothing can stop Tiida the Terrible’s evil tickle spell! Not even the brave Enforcer Lanster can withstand it!”
“Tiiidaaaaa!”
“Alright, alright… whew. I think it’s time for someone to go to bed. Some of us have to get up early… Aw, what’s with the pout? Don’t tell me you don’t want to go to sleep yet.”
“Tiida… do you really have to leave?”
“Yeah. But don’t worry; it’s just for a few days. You’ll be fine on your own. Besides, I’ll make sure to bring you a souvenir from Manehatten. How’s that sound?”
“It better be nice.”
“Oh, it will. Anything for my trigger-happy little sister.”
---
Teana looked up as the door hissed open. Subaru paused at the threshold, looking at her awkwardly before fixing her eyes downward and walking in. “Morning, Tea…”
“Um… good morning, Subaru…” Teana opened the drawer again and set the toy inside, then quickly glanced at the clock. “You… let me sleep in?”
Subaru nodded as she dropped her damp towel onto the ground and opened the closet. She started changing into her clothes, not even looking in Teana’s direction as she did so.
“Thanks…” Teana shuffled slightly in the chair as she looked at Subaru. “Um… look. About yesterday, I…”
Subaru stiffened up.
“I… I didn’t mean to hurt you,” Teana turned and rested her arms on the desk, then rested her chin on her folded arms. “I just…”
“You wanted to hurt Scootaloo.” It wasn’t an accusation; it was a statement of fact.
Teana winced, then sighed. “I guess so. Look, I’m sorry… I just…”
The closet door clicked shut. “You should probably get dressed, Tea. We don’t want to be late.”
“Subaru, I-“ Teana turned towards her, only to fall silent as Subaru opened the door and walked out.
---
Twilight was waiting for them at the bridge that led out to the S4. She stood in the middle of the causeway, her eyes narrow and her expression neutral. She was dressed in her uniform, rather than her Barrier Jacket, which only made Teana more nervous.
“Good morning, Forwards,” Twilight said calmly as the group gathered. “I hate to do this to you, but there’s been a change in schedule.”
“Lightning Squad will proceed to the S4 as per usual,” she continued as the members of Lightning Squad looked amongst each other. “Stars Squad, however, will be coming with me. Understood?”
“Yes, ma’am,” Teana said in tandem with the others.
Twilight nodded as the members of Lightning Squad filed past her. Teana saw Spike give Scootaloo a worried look before he scurried along afterwards. She then turned her attention to Twilight. The purple unicorn’s expression slowly shifted from neutral to carefully-controlled anger.
“You three, come with me. Now.”
Teana didn’t reply. She promptly fell into step behind Scootaloo and Subaru.
“Privates Nakajima and Scootaloo,” Twilight said as she trotted along without looking back at them, “you will come with me to Captain Harlaown’s office. Private Lanster, you will report to Shamal for physical examination. Understood?”
“Yes, ma’am,” Teana said softly.
“Good.”
---
“You know,” Shamal said as she ran her hand-scanner over Teana’s back, “you’re lucky Twilight sent you here. From the looks of things you’re starting to show the beginning stages of energy overextension.”
Teana squirmed slightly as she felt the scanner’s beam run down her spine. “I am?”
“Mhmm. I assume you know what that is, yes?”
“It’s when a mage channels too much power without resting or eating properly,” Teana replied. “The body’s natural recuperative abilities become overwhelmed, and the resulting stresses cause the body to slowly break down while aggravating injuries. Our teachers taught us about it at the Academy.”
“Good, good.” Shamal walked around as she produced a tongue depressor from a lab coat pocket. “Say ‘ah?’”
“Ahhh…” Teana opened wide and stuck out her tongue.
“Thankfully,” Shamal continued as she inspected Teana’s mouth, “your case is relatively mild. A day or two of rest should bring you back up to fighting shape.” She removed the tongue depressor and flicked on the hand-scanner’s light, slowly sliding it across Teana’s eyes.
“A day or two?” Teana swallowed and rubbed her throat.
“Mhmm.” Shamal swept her hand to the side and summoned a small holographic display and keyboard. “With plenty of rest, water, food and minimal magic usage. That means no training.”
“Great, as if I needed to fall any further behind,” Teana muttered, then squirmed on the bed as Shamal gave her a flat look. “Sorry, ma’am. I just… can’t you just use a healing spell on me?”
“I could; that’d fix the damage you’ve already sustained. However, it’d be much better for you to recover naturally. Think of it as taking your medicine.”
“Yes, ma’am…” Teana slumped slightly and scratched at one arm. “Um… Dr. Shamal… did Subaru come in?”
Shamal busied herself with typing away at the keyboard. “Hm? Oh, yes. Last night, actually. Twilight insisted. She had a busted nose, but by the time she arrived she’d fixed it herself. Not bad for an amateur at healing magic.”
“Oh.” Teana looked over at the clock on the wall. “Am… I free to go?”
“Mmm… no.” Shamal tapped a button on the display and turned back to Teana. “Not yet, at least.”
“Right.” Twilight probably sent me here while the others talk to Captain Harlaown. Makes sense.
“You know, you’re not the only one who had trouble with her squad mates.” Shamal took a seat on the bed beside her.
“Oh?”
Shamal nodded. “Indeed. We… by which I mean, we Altenritter, didn’t exactly work well together at the start.”
“You mean… back when you four were known as the Wolkenritter?”
Shamal winced slightly at the name. “Correct. For a very long time, we hated each other. Of course, it was probably more due to circumstances than anything else. Yes, we worked together, but we weren’t exactly friendly with each other. Vita especially, poor thing…”
“How… long? I mean, how long did it take you four to start getting along?”
“Oh, a few decades,” Shamal said breezily. “I think it was at least a century. Maybe more. My memory’s a bit fuzzy.”
Teana stared up at Shamal, her jaw agape as Shamal giggled. “Of course, when you’re my age the memory’s the first thing to go.”
“Right… memory…”
“But look at it like this,” Shamal smiled as she folded her hands in her lap, her rings glinting as their gems caught the light. “It probably won’t take the three of you that long, right?”
“I… I don’t know.” Teana pulled her feet up onto the bed, curling her knees against her chest and hugging her legs. “Scootaloo hates me, and Subaru probably doesn’t want anything to do with me anymore. And that’s not even the start of things.”
“It’s not that bad…”
“With all due respect, ma’am,” Teana replied, “I know what’s coming. This isn’t the first time I’ve been called for a disciplinary hearing, after all. I’ll be lucky if they just kick me out of RIOT Force… and I probably deserve it.”
“Well, that’s entirely up to Captain Harlaown.” Shamal glanced up as the door chimed softly. “Come in!”
The door hissed open, allowing Twilight to enter. She nodded to Teana, then looked over at Shamal. “How is she?”
“She’ll be fine with a day or two of rest. I take it he’s ready for her?”
Twilight nodded again, then looked over at Teana. “Ready, Private Lanster?”
“Yes, ma’am.” Teana got to her feet and brushed her pants off. “Thank you, Dr. Shamal.”
“It was no problem, really. Good luck, Teana.”
---
Twilight said nothing as they rode the elevator up. Teana didn’t say anything either; she knew how this sort of thing went.
There was a soft chime as the elevator came to a stop and the doors slid open. Twilight exited first, flicking her horn for Teana to follow. Teana did so, doing her best to stamp down her nerves as she followed Twilight down the hall towards Captain Harlaown’s office.
To her surprise, she saw Scootaloo and Subaru standing in the hall. Neither of them looked particularly happy. Teana nodded quietly to them in passing. Only Scootaloo responded with a similar nod.
Twilight came to a halt in front of Captain Harlaown’s door, then gestured at it with a hoof. “I’ll be waiting here. He’s expecting you.”
Teana nodded, then slowly reached up and knocked on the door.
“Enter,” came the muffled reply. Teana pressed the open button and stepped through, letting it shut behind her.
Captain Harlaown was seated behind his desk, quietly looking at an open folder with papers spread out before him. A holographic monitor hovered before him, but Teana couldn’t make out what he was looking at. A lone chair sat before the desk, seated directly across from him.
“P-Private Lanster reporting, sir,” she managed to say, her body stiff as she assumed parade rest.
“Have a seat,” Captain Harlaown said with a distracted wave of his hand, not looking up from his papers.
Teana quickly moved and took a seat in the chair, her legs pressed together and her hands in her lap. The room was quiet save for the rustle of paper and the soft hum of the monitor.
Minutes passed. Teana couldn’t help but fidget. Captain Harlaown’s eye never left the papers before him. He almost seemed unaware of her presence.
“Sir, I-“
His hand snapped up, his index finger raised. Teana’s mouth shut with an audible ‘click.’ He then sighed and slowly gathered up the papers, slid them into the folder, then shut it. A wave of his hand dismissed the monitor before he looked up at her, his good hand resting on the top of the desk.
“We have a problem, Private Lanster,” he said calmly, his fingers drumming on the ink blotter as he spoke. “Or, rather, you have a problem. Normally, I wouldn’t get involved with other people’s business, but your recent actions have made your problem my problem. And I’m not particularly happy with that. Am I clear?”
“Yes, sir.”
“Good.” Captain Harlaown exhaled through his nose. “I assume you know why you’re here, Private Lanster.”
“I do, sir.”
“Do you have anything to say in your defense?”
Teana shook her head. “No, sir. I can’t make any excuses for my behavior. What I did was wrong.”
Captain Harlaown nodded. “That’s commendable. However, assaulting your squad-mates is a pretty big issue. Are you familiar with the Bureau’s Code of Conduct, Private Lanster?”
Teana swallowed, then nodded. “Y-yes, sir. I am.”
“And what’s the punishment for assaulting a member of your squad?”
“Depending on the severity of the infraction,” she said as she tried not to stammer, “punishment can range from docking of pay to… to dismissal and discharge, sir.”
Captain Harlaown nodded. “Indeed.” He paused, slowly turning to one side in his chair. “Private Lanster, what is your goal?”
“Sir?”
“Your ambition. What do you hope to accomplish? What did you join the Bureau to become?”
Teana swallowed. “An… An Enforcer, sir.”
“Is that right?”
“Yes, sir. That’s part of the reason why I joined RIOT Force, sir.”
Captain Harlaown swiveled back to face her. “I assume you’re aware of the standards that Enforcers are held to then?”
“Yes, sir.”
Captain Harlaown nodded. “Private Lanster, do you think your recent behavior is befitting of an Enforcer of the Bureau?”
Teana looked down. “N-no, sir.”
“Do you think that the Bureau wants an Enforcer with a pattern of anti-social and insubordinate behavior? Who can’t get along with her squad mates? Who can’t be around our allies, the Equestrians, without sticking her foot in her mouth?”
Teana shrank inwards. “No, sir.”
“Good. Eyes forward, Lanster.”
Teana looked up as Chrono sighed. “Normally, I wouldn’t hesitate to bring the hammer down on you, Private Lanster. However, there are certain… mitigating factors.” He gestured towards the door. “I’ve spoken with your squad-mates and heard their side of the story. Quite frankly, I think all three of you are idiots for letting the problem get this far.
“Furthermore,” he tapped his fingers on the desk, “I spoke with Special Instructor Sparkle, and she’s asked me to show leniency on you.”
Teana’s eyes widened. “She-“
“She believes that your recent behavior stems from the amount of stress you’ve been under, which exacerbated previous issues and caused the incident last night. I’m inclined to agree with her. Do you disagree, Private Lanster?”
“N-no, sir. Special Instructor Sparkle is correct in her assessment of my behavior. I take full responsibility for my actions.”
Captain Harlaown nodded. “Duly noted.” He leaned back slowly in his chair and pinched the bridge of his nose, his eye closing in consideration. Teana felt her heart pound in her chest.
“In light of the current evidence and your own contrition, you will not be court martialed.” Captain Harlaown sat up, his single eye drilling into her. “I won’t be wasting a tribunal’s time with this, so I’ll be brief and pronounce judgement based on Article Fifteen of the Bureau Code of Conduct. Do you object?”
“No, sir.”
“Noted. You will be confined to base for one week without pay. In addition, you will be attending mandatory weekly counseling sessions with Dr. Shamal until she sees fit to release you. Understood?”
Teana nodded. “Yes, sir.”
“Good. But let me make one thing absolutely clear, Private Lanster,” he said, stabbing his index finger onto the desk as he leaned forward. “This will not happen again. Do you understand me?”
Teana nodded quickly, her eyes wide with fear.
“Good.” He swiveled his chair around until he faced away from her. “You’re dismissed.”
Teana slowly got to her feet, saluted to the back of Captain Harlaown’s chair, then turned and walked towards the door.
---
Twilight, Subaru and Scootaloo were waiting outside for her when she left Captain Harlaown’s office. Twilight’s expression was unreadable, while Scootaloo and Subaru weren’t looking at her or each other.
Twilight exhaled. “I take it Captain Harlaown’s handed down his judgement?”
“Yes, ma’am,” Teana replied softly.
Twilight nodded, then turned and glanced at Subaru and Scootaloo. “Stars Squad will not be taking part in class today,” she said, turning back to look at Teana. “For now, I suggest you all return to the barracks and think about what you’ve done. I’ll come by later tonight to see if you’ve made any progress. Clear?”
“Yes, ma’am,” all three of them replied.
“Good.” Twilight turned and began to trot off. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m needed elsewhere.
“Um, Special Instructor Sparkle?”
Twilight paused as Teana called out to her, but didn’t look back. “Yes?”
“Um… thank you. For what you did, ma’am.”
Twilight stood there for a moment before nodding quietly and resuming her trot, leaving the three members of Stars Squad alone.
“So,” Scootaloo said after a minute or two of silence, “maybe we should, I dunno, get moving?”
Teana nodded and started walking. She heard footsteps as the other two fell in behind her.
“So… uh…” Scootaloo continued as they reached the elevators, “what’d you get?”
“Huh? Oh… um… confined to base and docked a week’s pay, plus mandatory counseling.” Teana reached out and pushed the button.
“You too, huh?”
“Yeah, I guess- wait, what?” Teana turned and looked at Scootaloo in confusion. “What do you mean ‘you too?’”
Scootaloo shrugged. “Yeah, Captain Harlaown kinda read us the riot act when we met with him…”
---
“You know, I should’ve expected this from you, Scootaloo,” Chrono said as he fixed the petite pegasus with a one-eyed glare. “From what I’ve heard from Twilight, you haven’t exactly been the spitting image of professionalism. Did you honestly think you could just keep poking away at Private Lanster without any issue?”
Scootaloo did her best to look contrite, scuffing the carpet with her front hoof as her tail hung limply, her eyes downcast.
“It’s not her fault, sir,” Subaru objected softly, only to find herself under Chrono’s glare.
“You’re not helping matters much either, Miss Nakajima. Honestly, I expect Scootaloo to be a bit of a trouble-maker. You, however, aren’t helping anybody by enabling them the way you are. I know you want everyone to get along and be friends, but you seriously need to get your act together.”
“S-sorry, sir.”
Chrono pinched the bridge of his nose. “I know, for a fact, that the two of you are smarter than this. You’d have to be, otherwise you wouldn’t be here. The fact that I even have to get involved in this little drama makes me wonder how you three would manage to survive in the field, much less in a life-or-death situation. Both of you need to put on your big girl pants and grow up.”
---
“He continued on like that for a while, then hit us with NJP,” Scootaloo said as the elevator chimed. She trotted in through the open doors, letting Teana and Subaru follow. “So yeah, we’re all in the same boat. Welcome to Buck Up City, population us.”
Teana nodded numbly as Subaru hit the button for the ground floor. The doors slid shut with a click. I’m not sure if that’s entirely within the regs, but I honestly can’t blame him. I’d probably do the same thing.
The three of them continued on in silence as the elevator carried them downwards and opened up to the ground floor. They remained silent on the long walk back to the barracks, and even once they went inside. Teana sighed softly, then walked over to the couch in the lounge area and took a seat.
“Uh… girls… could you come over here for a second?” Teana glanced back over her shoulder, watching the others pause as they began climbing up the stairs.
“Uh, no offence,” Scootaloo said nervously as she glanced up at Subaru, “but maybe we should-“
“Please?” Teana tried not to sound too desperate. “I just… I just want to say my piece, and then you can go do whatever it is you need. I won’t take long.”
Scootaloo looked up at Subaru. Subaru shrugged, then turned around and slowly walked down the stairs and over toward the lounge area, followed closely by Scootaloo. The blue-haired mage took a seat on a chair across from Teana, while Scootaloo had a seat on the floor.
Teana took a deep breath. “I’m just going to come right out and say this. What I did was wrong. A lot of this was my fault, and I’m not just talking about last night.”
“Uh-huh.” Scootaloo arched an eyebrow. Subaru was still looking down at the ground.
Teana sighed. “I’m sorry.”
Scootaloo nodded. “Apology accepted.”
Teana blinked. “What? Really?”
“What? Were you expecting something else?”
“Um…” Teana rubbed the back of her neck. “Maybe?”
Scootaloo fluffed her wings and gave a Gallic shrug from her seated position. It was odd seeing a pony make such a human gesture. “You’re not the only filly here that screwed up, carrot top. I didn’t exactly make things any easier. Way I figure, we can just say we’re both really rutting stupid and call it square.”
Teana blinked again, then nodded. “I… didn’t expect that, honestly. That’s actually pretty nice of you…”
“Yeah, but I’m not the one you really need to apologize to.” Scootaloo gestured a hoof to Subaru.
Teana looked over at Subaru, then sighed and closed her eyes. “Subaru, I…”
“Tea…” Subaru’s voice was soft and pitiable, “are we… really not friends anymore?”
“What? No, we’re still… Subaru, I wasn’t… Ugh!” Teana pressed her hands over her eyes and sighed. “Subaru, you’re still my friend. I just had a bad day yesterday and… well, I took it out on both of you.”
“Like always.”
Teana paused at that reply. She heard Subaru’s knuckles pop as she clenched her hands into fists.
“It’s…” Subaru’s voice shook slightly, though she kept her eyes lowered. Her shoulders were trembling. Scootaloo scooted back a little bit. “It’s always the same with you, Tea. Whenever anyone tries to get close, you always push them back! And whenever anyone tries to get close to me, you always get mad! It’s always been that way, even when we were in the Academy together! It’s… it’s like you don’t even know how to make friends! I’ve tried and tried and tried, but you never seem to want to open up!”
Teana recoiled as Subaru looked up, her teeth clenched and gaze angry as tears leaked down her cheeks. “Why can’t you just be nice? Why do you always have to take things out on everyone else?! Why… why do you have to take things out on me when I just want to help you?”
Teana looked at Subaru, then looked down. “Because… because I never had anyone else other than Tiida before you came along.”
Subaru blinked as Teana pulled her feet up onto the couch. “After Tiida died, I was alone. My parents were already only children, so I didn’t have relatives or cousins or anyone other than Tiida. When he died I didn’t have anybody else. I never was much for socializing or making friends anyway, so I just… locked up. Before the Academy I spent most of my time alone. If I’d had my way, I would’ve been happy to just stay alone; then I wouldn’t have to lose anyone else.
“And then… you came along.”
---
Teana stared at the girl sharing her bunk, all bright blue eyes and messy blue hair with an enormous, infectious grin. She’d already unloaded her duffle bag onto the desk, dozens of books and notepads scattered across the surface. Half of them were thicker than some of the dictionaries Teana’d seen.
“Hi! I guess we’re roommates!” The girl stuck out her hand. “I’m Subaru. Subaru Nakajima! It’s nice to meet you!”
“Uh, nice to meet you too, I guess.” Teana looked at the hand, then gently grasped it, only to find herself jostled around as the girl began shaking her arm so hard it almost yanked her off her feet.
“This is so exciting! I’ve never roomed with a stranger before! I was always with my sister, but now I have a new roommate! This is so cool! Do you wanna be friends?! Please say you wanna be friends because I really-”
“Arm… hurts!”
“Eek!” Subaru promptly released her hand. “Sorry. I sometimes forget about my own strength. Are you okay? Did I hurt you? I’m sorry…”
Teana flexed her fingers and winced. She started to reply with a snap when she saw Subaru’s sad, almost puppy-like eyes. “Yeah,” she said instead. “I’m fine. Just… try not to break my arm next time.”
“Okay. Uh, so, do you wanna be friends?”
“Why would you want to be friends with me?” Teana walked over to the closet and began putting her things away. “We don’t even know each other.”
“So?” Subaru walked over and reached into Teana’s bag. “That’s easy to fi-“
“Hey!” Teana swatted Subaru’s arm. “That’s my stuff. No touching!”
“I just wanna help…”
“You want to help? Go… over there or something.” Teana gestured off to the side. “And just stay out of the way.”
“‘Kay!”
Teana sighed as Subaru walked off and stood off to the side. She could feel the girl’s intense gaze on her. She paused, then looked back. “Okay, look, if I say we can be friends, will you stop looking at me like that?”
Subaru nodded quickly. “Sure!”
“Fine, we’re friends then.”
“Yay!” Subaru quickly scrambled over to the desk and picked up a book. Teana spotted the title; Essays on Harmony and Magic by Twilight Sparkle.
“Great, a pony-loving weirdo…” Teana muttered under her breath.
---
“You came along and basically forced yourself into my life,” Teana continued. “And at first, I hated you for it. I hated that you liked ponies. I hated that you never left me alone. I hated that you always got better grades than me. Part of me regretted ever saying yes to you when we first met.
“But… you never left me,” Teana said as she pressed her face into her legs. “You never abandoned me. Never left me alone. You helped me with my studies, you always had a kind word or a bit of encouragement, and you never seemed to stop smiling. So I made an exception. You were my only friend, Subaru. And to tell the truth… I don’t know what I’d do without you around.
“I’m sorry. I’m sorry I’ve been such a bitch. I’m sorry I’m such a lousy friend.” Teana looked up at Subaru, her own tears starting to drip down. “I’m so… so sorry I hurt you, Subaru.”
Subaru didn’t reply. She stood up, walked over, and pulled Teana off the couch and into a bear hug.
“Uh… there… there…” Teana managed to squeak out as she tried to return the embrace.
“I’m sorry too, Tea,” Subaru sobbed as she squeezed Teana tighter. “I’m sorry! I should’ve tried harder!”
“Subaru…” Teana’s voice came out in a gasp.
“Huh?”
“Can’t… breathe?”
“Eeep!” Subaru released her. Teana landed on the couch with an ’oof’ and a gasp.
---
Twilight smiled slightly as she listened in, the invisible audio sensor picking up the entire conversation. Raising Heart, save the current recording to my personal records and continue recording.
Of course, Master, the Device replied as Twilight tuned back in to reality.
“Alright,” she turned back to Caro with a smile. “Where were we?”
---
“Anyway…” Teana said as she rubbed her side, a contrite-looking Subaru seated beside her, “that’s my piece. I’m not sure if I can make up for my bad behavior, but… well, no harm in trying, right?”
Scootaloo snorted. “Hey, at least you’re trying. That puts you ahead in my book.”
“What do you mean?” Teana tilted her head as Scootaloo climbed up onto the chair Subaru had vacated and curled her legs beneath her. “You got something to add?”
“I figured since we’re all airing our damage, I might as well join in.” Scootaloo chuckled weakly as she reached up and flicked her mane out of the way, her Device catching the light as it fluttered. “I mean, I should at least explain myself too.”
“You don’t-“
Scootaloo shook her head. “I know, but I want to.”
“Uh… okay.” Teana settled back against the couch. “Go ahead, I guess?”
Scootaloo nodded and closed her eyes. “I think you two’ve probably figured this out by now, but… I can’t fly.”
“Well, I had my suspicions,” Teana replied before looking over at Subaru. “I don’t know about you Su-“
“Actually,” Subaru said as her cheeks turned pink, “I already knew because Spike-“
Subaru promptly froze mid-sentence and clapped a hand over her mouth.
Scootaloo stared at Subaru, then face-hoofed. “I should’ve known. No wonder you were so eager to teach me your Wing Road spell. I’m going to smack that chatty little lizard square in the nose for this.”
“Real smooth, Subaru,” Teana said gently.
“Anyway,” Scootaloo coughed before continuing. “I can’t fly. I’m pretty sure you can figure out that that isn’t exactly good for a pegasus. Shuts out a lot of opportunities. When I was younger I tried lots of stuff; I did courier work around town, even tried my hoof at extreme sports for a while. That didn’t last long; kinda hard to compete against something like the Wonderbolts, especially with Rainbow Dash in charge.”
“That’s the Element of Loyalty,” Subaru said to Teana, eliciting a snort from Scootaloo.
“Yeah. Loyalty. Anyway, I was running out of options. Then Princess Luna put the Guard Reforms through and opened recruitment up to mares. I figured, what the hay? Couldn’t hurt. Besides, I was tough, I was athletic, I was fast. I could handle myself. Plus, I’m kinda a tomfilly, so I figured I’d fit right in.
“Turns out,” Scootaloo continued, her expression darkening, “that wasn’t exactly the case. Since I couldn’t fly, they stuck me in with the other ground forces. And let’s just say they weren’t exactly welcoming.”
“Let me guess,” Teana leaned forward, “hazing?”
“Yup. Pranks, mean jokes, nasty comments, the works. I knew I was gonna get some pushback, but sheesh.” Scootaloo grimaced. “Of course, that all calmed down after a while and some of the other mares got weeded out but it wasn’t exactly a pleasant place to be, even by the standards of Basic. And then I met him.”
“Him?”
“His name was Hotshot. He was a pegasus, a lieutenant. I must’ve caught his attention or something, because he invited me out with his buddies. They were all Cloudsdale upper class kids; you know, long and storied lineages and grand-daddies in the Royal Guard and blah blah blah.” Scootaloo waved a hoof, then sighed. “At first, it was kinda nice. I mean, he wasn’t much older than me, and all his pals were cool and rich and we could do all sorts of neat stuff. Heck, they didn’t even seem to mind me not being able to fly. So I started hanging out with them. Big mistake.”
“What happened?”
“Well, we’d all finished training and we were on leave when Hotshot invited me out to celebrate at Cloudsdale with his buddies. You know, like ‘real pegasi.’ I hadn’t been to Cloudsdale in… well, a pretty long time, so I jump for the chance. So we go up there and we got drunk off our asses (no offense to donkeys) and hung out at his dad’s huge cloud mansion when…”
---
“Come on, Scooty! Jump already!” Hotshot laughed from his spot on the cloud-stuff below as Scootaloo stood at the edge of the second story balcony.
“You… You sure this is a good idea, Hotshot?” Scootaloo peered down from her perch, blinking blearily at the soft pile of cloud below. “I mean, we’re pretty high up…”
“Sure! It’s cool!” Hotshot leaned over and smooshed a hoof through the cloud. “The cloudcrete’s nice and soft right now! It’ll be like jumping onto a big slice of cloudcake!”
“I dunno…”
“Come on, don’t wuss out! Jump! Jump!”
Scootaloo swallowed as the other stallions joined in, chanting ‘jump, jump’ as Hotshot flew up to her, his bright orange coat almost glowing in the lamp-light. ‘Come on, chicken,” he cooed with that playful smirk he always had. “You wanna prove you’re a REAL pegasus, don’t you?”
“Well yeah, but…”
“Come on then, Scooty!” Hotshot flitted over and pulled her into a noogie, pressing his hoof into her mane. “I know you got it in you!”
“Hehe! Stoppit! Alright!”
“That’s the spirit! Come on, don’t keep the fellas waiting!”
Scootaloo swallowed, then took a few steps back. “Promise it’s safe?”
“Totally. You trust me, right?”
“Yeah… yeah, sure! Alright you featherheads, here I come!”
There was a loud cheer as Scootaloo took a running jump off the balcony, curling up into a ball as she fell.
FOOMP!
She hit the cloud layer… and kept going.
She let out a scream as she fell, the wind whooshing up around her as she plummeted.
---
“Turns out,” Scootaloo said flatly as her wings bristled, “it wasn’t rutting cloudcrete at all! It was just regular old clouds.”
Teana’s face went pale as she covered her mouth with both hands. Subaru swallowed. “M-maybe,” she said nervously, “it was just a mistake? I mean, you were all drunk-“
“Yeah, everypony was drunk. Everypony except Hotshot.” Scootaloo’s tail twitched as she breathed in deeply. “The bastard planned it. I was just lucky my wings were strong enough that I could break my fall a little bit. Still wound up with a broken leg and a few busted ribs when I landed.”
“What happened?”
“Well, I was found the next day. The Guard brought Hotshot and his crew in for questioning. He claimed it was an accident. That I’d gotten drunk and taken a tumble off the edge of the cloud.” Scootaloo snorted, her nostrils flaring as she ground her teeth. “The bastard was smiling when I fell. Anyway, he comes by one day while I’m still laid up in the hospital…”
---
“Oh, Scooty, how’re you feeling?”
Scootaloo opened her eyes, then glared at Hotshot. “What the buck’re you doing here, you vulture?”
Hotshot was still smirking as he leaned onto the side of her bed. “I’m just checking in on my bestest bud, that’s all. Totally sorry about that whole falling thing. Really am.”
“Horseapples! You tricked me!”
“Tsk, poor thing. You must’ve hit your head when you landed.” Hotshot reached over and gave her a patronizing pat on the head. “Don’t worry, though. I’m sure you’ll get a nice medical discharge.”
“Don’t bucking touch me,” Scootaloo snapped. “When I get out of this cast, I’m going to feed you your own teeth, you hear me!?”
“Hey now, no need to get violent,” Hotshot cooed, the smirk spreading into a devious smile. “It was just an accident. No need to blame me for your own recklessness.”
“My-“
“Shhh.” He reached over and pressed a hoof over her lips. “Now, let me explain. I’ve already told the CO that it was your fault so I suggest you do the same. After all, we don’t want any messy inconsistencies. If you do, I promise I’ll make sure you get a nice cushy desk job instead of getting kicked OWW!”
Scootaloo pulled her mouth back from the bite-mark she’d left on his frog. “Buck off, you mother-rutting sack of ponyfeathers. I thought you were my friend!”
“You really shouldn’t have done that,” Hotshot hissed before he leaned in, almost nose-to-nose with her. “You don’t get it, you brainless little penguin; I’m trying to do you a favor! A cripple like you doesn’t deserve to be in the guard, much less an active member! You just got in because the Princesses felt sorry for you and your kind. So if you know what’s good for you, you’ll play nice. Got it?”
“What am I, some tame showpony for you to advance your career? Oh, look at Hotshot, caring for the flightless pegasus. Go piss in a thunderstorm, fog-for-brains.”
Hotshot glared at her, then straightened up with a huff. “Fine. You clearly need some time to think about this, so I’ll leave you be. Just remember; I’ve got powerful friends. You don’t.”
---
“That was the last I heard from him,” Scootaloo concluded.
“Sweet merciful Celestia,” Subaru whispered.
“What happened to him?” Teana leaned in, eyes intense. “He didn’t get away with it, did he?”
Scootaloo shrugged. “No clue. Like I said, I never heard from him again. After I got better, I got transferred over to Twilight and Fate’s little side project testing pegasus magic and Devices and stuff. Then I ended up here.”
There was a moment of silence before Subaru slid off the couch, knelt down before Scootaloo, and gently hugged her around the neck.
“H-hey… it’s alright, Subs,” Scootaloo gently patted her on the back. “I’m fine.”
“So that’s why you were so nasty towards me when Subaru and I were roughhousing,” Teana said thoughtfully.
“Yeah… truth be told, I figured you were like Hotshot; nice on the outside but mean as a snake on the inside.” Scootaloo sighed. “Sorry about that, by the way.”
“No, it’s fine.” Teana shook her head. “I guess I kinda deserved it. I’m not exactly the cheerful sort as you can tell.”
Scootaloo nodded. “So, do you mind if we start over?”
“Sure.” Teana extended a hand to Scootaloo. “Teana Lanster, Private First Class, Ground Forces.”
Scootaloo thumped a front hoof into her hand. “Scootaloo, Private, Equestrian Royal Guard.”
“Nice to meet you.”
“Likewise.”
Teana blinked as she heard a soft sniffle, then turned and looked over at Subaru. The blue-haired girl had tears in her eyes before she pulled both Scootaloo and Teana in for a group hug.
“S-sorry,” Subaru muttered as she pulled the pair close. “I’m just happy that you two are finally getting along…”
“Hate to break the mood,” Scootaloo said as she squirmed, “but I think I’ve reached my limit for sappy stuff for today. Can we, I dunno, break for something else? Like punching each other?”
“Oh, uh, sure…” Subaru let go, then blushed. “Right. Sorry.”
“Nah, it’s cool.” Scootaloo pulled away. “Might as well do something other than sit around.”
“Agreed,” Teana replied. “I suppose we could do something productive. Unfortunately, I’m not allowed to use magic for a while until I recover.”
“Bummer,” Scootaloo said as Subaru rested a hand on Teana’s shoulder.
“It’s okay Tea,” Subaru smiled and gave her a thumbs up. “You can still help us out.”
Teana shrugged. “Not sure how. You two seem to handle things pretty well. If anything, I’ll just slow you down…”
Subaru pouted. “You don’t slow anybody down, Tea…”
“Well, not physically at least,” Scootaloo quipped, then blushed as Subaru shot her a look. “Sorry, couldn’t resist. Shutting up now.”
“It’s okay. I know I’m not quite as mobile as you two even with Cross Mirage’s wires.” Teana gently brushed Subaru’s hand away and sighed. “Honestly, I’ve accepted the fact that I’m the least powerful member out of all of us, Stars and Lightning both…”
“But Tea, you’re smart!” Subaru leaned in, eyes wide. “You’re the one that always came up with all the strategies and stuff when we’re in trouble. You’re super important!”
“Yeah, but all the strategy in the world can’t change the fact that I’m not as good as you guys…”
“Ugh!” Scootaloo face-hoofed. “Sweet Luna’s starry mane, you’re giving me a headache with all this self-pity.”
“Scootaloo!” Subaru frowned as the pegasus shrugged.
“Hey, I’m just telling the truth. Tell you what, how about you let us be the judge?” Scootaloo smirked up at Teana. “Let’s do this whole strategy meeting…planning… thing. Or are you really incapable of coming up with something that can use all three of us in a way that can kick Twilight’s purple plot up and down the S4?”
Teana grimaced. “That may be a bit much…”
“Are you saying you can’t?”
Teana shook her head. “No, I’m just saying it’s difficult. Just give me a minute to think. And could one of you set up a monitor or something so I can plan properly?”
---
It was evening when Twilight arrived, having escorted Lightning Squad back to the barracks after a long day of training. Thankfully, she knew what was going on when she entered the barracks.
“…and assuming that the projectiles are guided, then the formation should optimize defense while allowing the three of us to close the gap,” Teana said as she gestured to the hovering hologram. “Plus, the projectile spread will let us maintain pressure as we advance, which means it should be effective as an offensive tactic.”
Scootaloo let out a soft grunt. “Okay, I’ve gotta admit, it makes sense. Though it’ll probably be a bit difficult with us weaving around like that…”
“That’s what practice is for, Scootaloo…”
“Well,” Twilight said cheerfully, “this is certainly an improvement.”
Stars Squad sat up in surprise as the members of Lightning Squad filed in behind Twilight. “W-well, ma’am, I… uh…” Teana blushed as Twilight waved a hoof.
“At ease, girls. I’m just glad you three seem to be getting along.”
“Wait.” Spike sounded curious. “They’re actually being nice? Really?” He glanced over at Erio and Caro. “Looks like I owe Caro a soda.”
“You and me both,” Erio muttered.
Twilight shook her head. “Tsk, tsk. Shame on you three…”
“It wasn’t my idea,” Caro objected as she blushed.
“I know. Now go on.” Twilight made a gentle shooing motion with one hoof, then turned back to her squad. “I take it you three have made up?”
They nodded with varying degrees of enthusiasm. “Yes, ma’am.”
“Good to hear.” Twilight then looked over at Teana. “Teana, could I speak with you in private for a bit?”
Teana nodded and slowly got to her feet. Twilight turned and gestured for her to follow before trotting out the doors into the warm evening air.
“Hey, Spike,” she heard Scootaloo say as the doors started to close behind her, “come ‘ere…”
---
The light of the setting sun spread across Oured Bay, creating a streak of brilliant, molten-metal orange across the water. Twilight came to a stop near the water’s edge, slowly settling down on the edge of the pier. She glanced up at Teana, then nodded. “Have a seat, if you don’t mind.”
Teana glanced at her nervously, then took a seat as well.
“I suppose you’re expecting me to lecture you, right?” Twilight glanced at her with a small smile.
“Would you blame me if I did?” Teana said as she kicked her legs gently.
“Not really. However, I think you’ve probably had your fill of lectures for today, right?” Twilight smirked a little as Teana nodded. “I don’t really see the reason in berating you any further. At this point, it’d just be rude. So, let’s just talk.”
“About what?” Teana looked at Twilight curiously.
“Anything you want.” Twilight looked out at the water. “Ask me whatever’s on your mind. You’ve got my express permission to speak freely. Trust me, I won’t be offended.”
Teana seemed to digest this information, then looked out at the water. “Special Instructor Sparkle…”
“Just Twilight for now, Teana.”
Teana grimaced, then nodded. “Earlier, when you were talking to Captain Harlaown… why did you stick up for me?”
“Because you’re my student and my responsibility.” Twilight sighed. “True, what you did was wrong, but I should have stopped you before you reached that point. Really, I should’ve stepped in long before now.”
“Why… why didn’t you?”
Twilight shook her head. “I figured the problem would fix itself, or one of you would do it and clear the air. But it didn’t. And for that, I sincerely apologize.”
Teana looked a little surprised. “I forgive you, I guess.”
Twilight giggled. “Not used to a superior officer apologizing?”
“Not really… but still, why did you stick up for me? Was it just that you felt responsible?”
“Partly. The other part is that despite for all your flaws, you’re a fantastic mage, Teana. I’d be foolish to lose someone of your talent without a fight.” Twilight paused as Teana looked down. “You disagree?”
“Kind of… I just don’t get it. I’m nothing special…”
Twilight frowned. “Why do you say that?”
Teana clenched her hands into fists and steadfastly stared out into the bay. “Because it’s true. Compared to everyone else here I’m… average. I don’t have unique skills like Erio or Caro. I don’t have Scootaloo and Subaru’s physicality and power. I’m not something exotic or unique like Spike. And then there’s you and the instructors. Every single one of them is at least an Ace in their own right, or are well respected experts in their field. I’m just a girl that can shoot things and cast a few illusion spells…”
“So?”
Teana blinked and looked at Twilight as she sighed. “That’s all correct, Teana. If you’re look at it strictly in terms of uniqueness and magical talent, you don’t really stand out. But if you do that, you’re missing the bigger picture.”
“The bigger picture?”
Twilight nodded. “Teana, I’m twice as old as you. I was trained by some of the finest unicorn mages in Equestria and tutored by Princess Celestia herself since I was a filly. I’ve faced down giant monsters, insane quasi-deities, megalomaniacs and worse with my friends on a weekly basis. I’m considered one of the most powerful unicorns in Equestria, and one of the most powerful and skilled Contract Mages licensed by the Bureau. I’m best friends with three Princesses, one of whom I’m related to by marriage. I run my own training and research academy in Equestria in between lecturing on behalf of the Bureau. My special talent is magic for pony’s sakes! Not to brag, but I tend to overshadow a lot of people.”
“Gee, thanks,” Teana replied flatly. "I feel so much better now."
Twilight paused, then face-hoofed. "Ugh. Yeah, that did sound kind of terrible..."
"Yeah, it kind of did. And I understand that you're way outside my league." Teana let out a soft huff and shook her head. "I just... I feel like I'm useless compared to some... pony like you."
"Teana, you're not useless. None of you are useless." Twilight frowned at her. "Let me ask you a question; what were you doing when I came in?"
Teana frowned. “Nothing important. I was just discussing combat strategies with Subaru and Scootaloo. We were going over how I could adjust some of the attack patterns Subaru and I used to use to include Scootaloo…”
“And do you think the pair of them would’ve been able to come up with something better than you could?”
“Well… no. But-“
“Teana, your strength doesn’t rely on magical or physical power,” Twilight interrupted. “Your talents lie in your ability to think on the fly and your accuracy. Trixie won't admit it, but I think your illusions have hers beat in terms of staying power and accuracy. And trust me, I wish I could shoot as accurately as you could; there's a reason I let Raising Heart handle targeting in battle. Not only that, but you're an excellent field leader. You’re a strategist. You’re a tactician. Why else do you think I put you at the top of Stars Squad?”
Teana bit her lower lip as Twilight continued. “You’re an excellent mage, Teana. You’re smart, you’re versatile, and you’re good at adapting. Remember the mock battle? Who was it that rallied the others and put together battle strategies almost on the fly? You did.”
“But I failed…”
“And yet you tried again. That’s the important part. And honestly, I’d rather have someone who’s clever and determined but weak instead of someone who’s powerful but dumb.”
“Like Subaru?”
Twilight paused, then giggled softly. “Maybe, but be nice. Subaru’s a lot smarter than most people give her credit for.”
“I know,” Teana blushed, then sighed. “I’m sorry ma’am… it’s just when I compare myself to you and the others…”
“Why’re you comparing yourself to me, of all ponies? Is it because Subaru’s a fan of mine?”
Teana glanced away. “Maybe…”
“Teana,” Twilight stood up and rested a hoof on her shoulder, “the only person you should compare yourself to is you. The ‘you’ of the past wasn’t as good as you are now, and the ‘you’ you are now isn’t as good as the ‘you’ in the future. You’ll improve. You’ll get better, and stronger, and maybe one day you’ll be famous in only way you can be. The way only a Lanster can be. You’re very special, Teana, and it breaks my heart a bit that you can’t see how much potential you have.”
Teana looked at Twilight, then slowly turned to face her. Twilight gave her a smile, then let out an ‘oof’ as Teana hugged her around the neck. She reached around and gently rested a hoof on Teana’s back, letting the girl bury her face in her mane.
Teana hugged her for several minutes, then slowly let go and wiped her eyes with a soft sniffle. “Sorry, ma’am…”
“No problem. I’ve been told we ponies are eminently huggable. I’ll have to test that sometime.”
Teana laughed weakly. “I guess ponies aren’t quite as bad as I thought.”
Twilight snorted. “Oh, we’re alright. We’re no better or worse than humans, aside from walking on all fours and eating grass. You should’ve read some of the news stories after first contact. Equestria is many things, but an idyllic utopia is not one of them. Believe me, I know that from experience.”
Teana nodded. “Thanks… Twilight.”
“It was a pleasure. Feel any better?”
“A little.” Teana slowly clambered to her feet and dusted off the seat of her pants. “I’m sorry all this happened.”
“These things happen. But you learn and you move on.” Twilight extended a hoof to her. “Next time, try not to bottle things up, alright?”
“Sure.” Teana reached down and shook Twilight’s hoof. “Is there anything else, ma’am?”
“No. Go get some rest, Teana. I’ll talk with Zafira about you doing some training tomorrow while your magic recovers.”
“Thank you, ma’am.”
---
Chrono groaned as he leaned back in his desk chair, fingers pinching the bridge of his nose as he closed his eyes. “I’m starting to think the guys in Cranagan are just sending paperwork to spite me at this point. I’m starting to get sick of reports.”
He glanced up as he heard a chime come from the door. “Come in.”
The door hissed open, and Trixie stepped through with a smirk. “Looks like someone’s had a rough day.”
“Hello to you too, Trixie.” Chrono let out a grunt as he stretched his legs out beneath the desk. “To what do I owe the pleasure?”
“I’ve come to appease our CO with offerings of caffeine and sugar.” Trixie smirked as she levitated a tray supporting a mug of coffee and cookies off her back.
“Your captain is pleased by this offering.” Chrono reached up and plucked the mug from the tray before it hit the table and took a drink. “Mmm… I’m surprised Griffith let you slip by. He does say I drink way too much coffee…”
“Griffith is dealing with something else right now. Besides, you look like you could use a friendly face.” Trixie trotted over and plopped down onto the chair in front of the desk. “And Trixie is nothing if not friendly.”
“True.” Chrono took another drink. “If you’re here to ask about the visit to Equestria for Zafira, I’m still working on it.”
“Good.” Trixie replied. She pulled her hat off with a flourish of telekinesis, settling it onto the desk before plucking a cookie from the tray with her magic. “The poor puppy does deserve a bit of a break.”
“He’s not the only one.” Chrono set his mug down with a sigh. “How’re the rest of your kids? I assume Signum and Vita still haven’t come back yet.”
“Mhmm. Lady Gracia probably has them safeguarding one of the transports. I’ll give you an update once they contact me.”
“Much appreciated.”
Trixie popped the rest of her cookie into her mouth and chewed thoughtfully. “I have to wonder, though,” Trixie muttered as she dusted a few crumbs off her muzzle, “is the timeline still set? I’m not doubting Carim’s prediction, but shouldn’t there be bigger signs by now?”
“There probably are, but we’re just not seeing them. Yet.” Chrono shook his head. “All we can do is keep preparing…”
A chime interrupted Chrono. “Hold that thought,” he said as he reached over, tapping a button. “Yes?”
“Call for you, sir,” a female voice said in reply. “Direct line from HQ’s SAR section. Says it’s urgent.”
“About time,” Chrono muttered softly before he cleared his throat. “Thank you, Alto. Put it through.”
There was a soft hum as a view-screen sprang into existence above Chrono’s monitor. The image showed an older man with a stork-like nose, his hair and eyebrows pale green and heavily feathered, his almond-shaped brown eyes behind a pair of pince-nez glasses.
“Lt. Commander Ravfore,” Chrono inclined his head politely.
“Captain Harlaown,” Ravfore replied politely. “I hope I’m not interrupting anything. You asked to be notified immediately once we found any relevant information.”
“You’re fine, Ravfore. I was just taking a break with an associate of mine.”
“Associate?” Ravfore paused as Chrono waved his hand and spun the monitor about. He then nodded to Trixie. “Zauberer Lulamoon, my apologies.”
“It’s hardly a problem,” Trixie waved a dismissive hoof before quirking an eyebrow and rubbing her chin. “Though I must admit, I’ve yet to make your acquaintance, sir.”
“Trixie, this is Lt. Commander Toyodai Ravfore, TSAB Spell Archival and Research Branch.” Chrono turned the holographic monitor with another wave of his hand. “I asked him to do a little searching after we ran into that summoner at the Hotel Augusta.”
“Ah. Good to see you have friends other than us, Captain,” Trixie teased.
“We’re hardly friends,” Ravfore replied brusquely as he adjusted his glasses.
“He’s still miffed that I didn’t give him exclusive access to Twilight,” Chrono explained, eliciting a snort from Ravfore. “Anyway, our little squabbles aside, I assume you’ve found something?”
“Was there any doubt?” Ravfore tapped his glasses, the lenses glowing as script flashed around the edges. “I’m sending the information to your monitor right now.”
There was a soft hum as several images winked into existence on Chrono’s monitor. All of them depicted an anthropomorphic, black-armored insect creature wearing a purple scarf.
“Well,” Chrono said as Trixie trotted around to look at the images, “this certainly matches the descriptions Lightning Squad gave us. So, what is he?”
“It’s a Kabuto-Family Insectoid-Pattern Summoned Creature,” Ravfore explained. “According to our records, this particular specimen was designated ‘Garyu.’ It’s a Belkan-system summon.”
“The name doesn’t sound Belkan,” Trixie said as her eyes narrowed.
“It was likely from a different magical system that was subsumed by the Belka during their Expansionist Period,” Ravfore replied. “A lot of unique magic systems were overtaken or outright absorbed when the cultures that used them were conquered. That, however, is beside the point. This particular summon is a Class A+ Assassin/Protector Type, which explains why your team had problems with it.”
“Assassin, huh?” Chrono drummed his fingers on the desk as he thought.
“Indeed.” Ravfore tapped his glasses again and brought up an image of one of the creature’s forearms. “Garyu’s primary weapons are a pair of natural-material high-frequency blades that possess a continuous Decline-class enchantment designed to easily pierce defensive spells. Combined with its ability to blend into shadows and its speed, it would likely be able to take down any target lower than its class with a single strike.”
“Which would also make it an effective bodyguard,” Chrono added. “So, you have this thing in the archives. I assume you also have the person it’s registered to?”
Ravfore nodded as his expression soured. “I do, but you’re not going to like it.”
“I’m used to it by now. Who is it?”
Ravfore brought up an image of a woman with long lavender hair and red eyes. “According to our records, the last registered summoner that was linked to Garyu was First Lieutenant Megane Alpine, Ground Forces Investigation Unit 108. Unfortunately, Lieutenant Alpine was reportedly KIA during a mission, along with the rest of her team.”
“Could someone else summon this Garyu?” Trixie rose up on her hind legs and rested her hooves on the desk.
Ravfore shook his head. “Most summoning spells are linked to specific bloodlines or lineages. Even if someone knew the formula and matrix for the spell, they wouldn’t have the last piece of the puzzle, as it were. That’s why summoners are so rare. As far as we’re aware, only the Alpine family had the necessary genetic key to use the Kabuto summoning family.”
Chrono’s brow furrowed. “Did Lieutenant Alpine have any children?”
“Not that we know of,” Ravfore replied, “but that’s a bit outside my area.”
“Fine, I guess…” Chrono paused, then flicked through the records. “Wait. You said her team was KIA during a mission, right? Who ordered the mission?”
“According to the records, the mission was ordered by Lieutenant General Gais.”
It could’ve been the caffeine, but Chrono could have sworn his heart skipped a beat.
“Chrono? You alright?”
“Fine, Ravfore,” Chrono replied as he tried to smile. “Thanks for the information. I owe you one.”
“You owe me more than just one, Chrono,” Ravfore groused. “But we can settle that later. Anything else you need?”
“No. That should be all. Thanks.”
“Have a good night, Captain.”
Chrono grew still as the communication window winked out. “Trixie,” he said slowly, “I think things are starting to get a bit clearer now.”
“I’m guessing you’ve got another piece of the puzzle, as it were?” Trixie levitated a cookie over and nibbled on it.
“Yeah, and I’m not liking the picture it’s making.”
---
TSAB Central Command Building
Cranagan, Mid-Childa
Gais glanced up from the sheaf of papers in his hands. “Is this everything, Auris?”
“Yes, sir,” Auris replied, the open folder laying across her palm. “Everything I’ve managed to pull together thus far. While there’s little we can do to put pressure on Captain Harlaown’s native friends…”
“Mmf, I see your point.” Gais carefully stacked the papers together before reaching up and handing them back to Auris. “Send the records to my station when you have the time.”
“Of course, sir.” Auris tucked the folder neatly beneath one arm. “Is that all for now?”
“For now. I have a private teleconference tonight, so please make sure I’m not disturbed.”
“Of course, sir.” Auris bowed slightly before walking off. “Make sure you go to bed early, sir. You have that press conference tomorrow.”
Gais waved her off gently. “Of course, Auris. Good night.”
“Good night, sir.”
Gais waited for the hiss of the shutting door before pulling up his monitor. A few taps on the solid-light surface brought up the privacy spells woven into the magitech device, followed by a gently glowing, opaque dome that surrounded him and the desk.
“Open channel DLHC-001,” Gais said firmly. “Authorization code, Warlock-Phantom-Draco-Seven-Two-Nine-Nine-One.”
“Acknowledged,” replied a mechanical, monotone voice. There was a soft hum as the monitor was quickly filled with three view screens, each one depicting a different red sigil.
“Greetings, members of the High Council,” Gais said respectfully as he folded his hands on his desks ink blotter. “How may I be of service?”
“Lieutenant General Gais,” the center sigil, I, replied. “Report. What is the status of Project Einherjar?”
“Construction is on schedule,” Gais replied. “Stations Five and Six will be completed in less than a month, and Station Seven will be completed in less than two. If necessary, Einherjar will be able to function at approximately eighty percent power with only the current stations active.”
“And you are certain of this?” The left-hand sigil, III, blinked as it spoke, its voice slightly higher in tone than I’s. “We are investing a great deal into this project. We are expecting results. Your ‘legacy’ had better deliver.”
“I can assure you, Einherjar will be fully functional soon enough.”
“And what of the public reaction to this?” The right-hand sigil, II, was slightly lower in pitch than the center member.
“Public opinion is mostly supportive of the project. Of course, that’s understandable given the fiasco surrounding Admiral Graham’s handling of the Equestrian incident. The CDC is maintaining the party line on the project’s necessity.”
“Excellent.” I paused, then continued. “We approve of your handling of this situation.”
“However, we have other issues to attend to,” II interjected. “Issues such as Scaglietti.”
“I can assure you,” Gais said smoothly, “the issue with Scaglietti is being handled. The Bureau is hunting him down even as we speak.”
“Do not presume he will be easily reigned in,” III chided firmly. “Scaglietti is not a common criminal. He is a rogue element that threatens the very stability of our order.”
“I’m well aware of how dangerous he is, sirs.” Gais steepled his fingers. “Once he has been contained, he will cease to be a threat.”
“And what of the other rogue element,” II snapped. “What of the Harlaown child?”
“Captain Harlaown is still an issue,” Gais admitted.
“Indeed,” I said flatly. “His investigation into our business is intolerable. Our previous attempts to… dissuade him have failed thus far.”
“If anything,” III added, “they have emboldened him.”
“The issue with Harlaown is complicated,” Gais interrupted. “He’s well connected and respected. He’s got friends in high places, some of which are unfeasible to deal with. I can only do so much. However, I may have a way to eliminate at least one or two of his Equestrian supporters.”
“Excellent,” II said excitedly.
“The fewer of those things he has currency with, the better,” I agreed. “The Equestrians remain beyond our current sphere of influence. We cannot predict what effect they will have.”
“Continue your observation of him,” III commanded. “The Harlaown child cannot be allowed to discover the full extent of our influence. Nor must he be allowed to gain evidence to use against us.”
“I am ever the High Council’s servant,” Gais bowed his head.
“See to it that you continue to be,” I concluded. “This meeting is adjourned.”
There was a soft hum as the view screens winked out. Gais exhaled and rubbed his temples. “One down,” he muttered. “Now all that’s left is-“
A soft chime from his monitor interrupted him.
“Speak of the Belka, and they shall arrive,” he muttered as he tapped the un-labeled window. A familiar, fox-like face appeared in view. “Good evening, Scaglietti,” Gais said gruffly.
“Good evening to you too,” Scaglietti said cheerfully, his smile just a little too broad for Gais’ comfort. “I assume you’ve spoken with the council of idiots?”
“I have,” Gais replied. “The High Council remains unaware of our dealings, for now.”
“Marvelous.” Scaglietti chuckled softly. “I knew I could count on a fellow visionary such as yourself.”
“Don’t get too comfortable, Scaglietti,” Gais growled. “We have a deal, remember?”
“Of course, of course.” Scaglietti waved him off flippantly. “You have nothing to worry about, friend. I’ll uphold my part of the deal so long as you do the same.”
“Good.” Gais exhaled slowly, then closed his eyes. “I’ve arranged for the resources you need to be allocated. They should be available for… pickup in a day or two. Just make sure your toys don’t cause any more damage than necessary.”
“Of course. And here is your payment as usual.” There was a soft chirp as a file popped up on the window. “A few scraps to whet the appetites of your ignorant masters.”
“I’ll see that it gets to the necessary people,” Gais replied. “However, I’m confused. At the rate you’re disposing of research bases, you should be running out…”
“My current resources are sufficient to achieve my goals, Lieutenant General.” Scaglietti smiled smugly. “However, your concern is touching.”
“My concern is whether or not you can deliver as promised, Scaglietti,” Gais replied. “That and maintaining the secrecy of this relationship. I’ve invested more than enough in you as it is. I expect results.”
Scaglietti frowned, which sent a chill running up Gais’ spine. “You’re reminding me an awful lot of the High Council, Gais. Always about the results…”
“I apologize,” Gais said quickly. “I’m just under a lot of stress. It’s impolite of me to take it out on… a friend.”
Scaglietti stared at him coolly for a few moments, then pulled the faux-cheerful smile back up. “Of course, Gais. No harm done. Good luck with your press conference tomorrow.”
Gais slumped in his chair as the window winked out. His heart was pounding heavily in his chest. I swear, he thought as he wiped his brow, that man will be the death of me.
---
Hidden Laboratory
Undisclosed Location
Jail chuckled to himself as he made his way into one of his many labs. Uno was waiting for him, her fingers tapping away on the keys as he inspected the quartet of bio-genesis chambers.
“How are they, Uno?” Jail let his fingers trail along the surface of one tube, the faint squeak of flesh on glass mixing with the beeping and chirping of the monitors.
“Zero rejection of physical augments detected,” Uno replied, her eyes flicking to one side as a window full of rapidly scrolling text appeared. “Neural augmentation is complete. Psychometric patterns all read green. Mental stability, also green. Metabolic processes are within expected standards. Linker Cores are stable.”
“Excellent.” Jail folded his hands behind his back. “I think it’s time for them to wake up, don’t you?”
“It’s your decision, Doctor,” Uno deferred, turning to face him.
“Of course, my number one assistant.” Jail smiled what he felt was a properly paternal smile. “However, I do appreciate your opinion.”
“Then in my opinion, I agree. I see no reason to keep them in stasis any longer.”
“Thank you.” Jail walked over and rested a hand on her shoulder. “This is a historic day for my experiments. Soon, you’ll have four brand new sisters to play with.”
“I am filled with joy,” Uno replied flatly.
“That’s the spirit, though the enthusiasm could use some work. That’s not important, however.” Jail gestured to the four tubes. “Wake them up, Uno.”
“At once, Doctor.” Uno turned back to her keyboard. “Initiating animation sequence. Disengaging stasis fields now.”
Jail watched as the machines went to work. The four figures floating in the tubes slowly stirred as blue-green arcs of energy leapt from the inner surface of the tube to their bodies. The translucent orange fluid supporting them slowly drained away, the faint scent of it reminding Jail of amniotic fluid. There was a soft hum as the tubes slowly rotated, then slid upwards into the ceiling.
Four sets of eyes opened, then looked at him with a mixture of curiosity, arrogance, calm and boredom.
“Good morning, Eins, Zwei, Drei, Viere,” Jail greeted them.
“Hehe, good morning doctor,” Zwei chirped as she stretched her legs.
“Good morning, sir,” Viere said placidly.
“Hmph, about time you let us out.” Drei hissed as she shook herself, sending some of the fluid flying.
Eins simply nodded.
“Aren’t they just adorable?” Jail said to Uno. He couldn’t help but feel a little bit excited. “Notify the other Numbers at once. I think introductions are in order.”
“Of course, sir,” Uno said as Jail knelt down and opened his arms.
“Come give me a hug,” he cooed, his smile turning into a wide, slightly manic grin, “my darling little ponies…”