Life in Equestria is at its peak of tranquility, but how long will this peace last. Darkness once again borders on the edges of existence, and when the Elements of Harmony are destroyed who will be able to save them from the Apocalypse to come? Will peace return...or will the Reign of Fire take hold over all.
Von- Credit to ToyaOctaviusDiscord
DISCLAIMER: All products of Hasbro are theirs and not mine.
Personality: Tough, sometimes an asshole, Calm, Fierce when agitated, overly brave to the point of endangering himself, has a dark side to himself.
Appearance- (Gortoss): Light brown hair with streaks of darker brown through it. Bipedal, humanoid, has two hearts, wings similar to that of a drake, 6’5”, blue eyes, and a fair complexion. His right eye was horribly wounded during a fight and as a result he constantly wears an eyepatch over it. (Pegasus): Blue eyes, Short hair, fur is the color of tanned peaches, has large pegasi wings. Mane is the same as fur but with brown in the back, tail is tan with brown streaks.
Abilities- Like all Gortoss, he can command a psychic ability like no other, When unsealed, his power is so great that he could wipe out entire mega-cities (mega-cities are the size of Beijing, NYC, and Tokyo combined) in seconds. Can bend wind, lightning, and darkness. Has a fallback ability that when activated, grants him [DATA REMOVED], he will die shortly afterwards. From 1-10 his average fighting ability is 7.5 but when he is fully battle driven it becomes a 9.8. However, if he is unsealed no number could hold his power level.
Strength: 9.8 out of 10 when battle driven (normally around 8)
Speed: 8.9 out of 10 when battle driven (normally around 6)
Awareness: 9.9 out of 10 in general (due to being psychic)
Agility: 9.7 out of 10 in general (agility is the ability to control your body while in motion)
Intelligence: 10 out of 10 in general (Intelligence is the ability to learn and to figure out solutions to problems)
??? Form= Power level is 9001 out of 10
Age- Says he is 24, but is really 28,934 years old, his race is NEAR immortal, but can be killed in battle.
Description- He was born on the Gortoss homeworld of Berenia during the Annexation War; a long, brutal, and devastating conflict to unite the planet under one flag. His father was the ruler of Runon, the largest of all the countries and the eventual victor. Out of the war came the Berenian Alliance, which lasted for 27,892 years and was led by his cousin. Eventually though, his brother and grandfather started a successful coup which led to the downfall of the Alliance and the death of millions, including his cousin Itero. His eldest brother then killed their grandfather and became the new Emperor. Soon after, the Lugolavians appeared and another great war ensued. During the early years of the Alliance, a battle took place far from any Berenian outposts. Oddly, not much is known about this engagement, but it was said that something horrible happened to Zephyr, changing his normally happy demeanor into that of someone who had seen too much death. His face would forever be plagued with that of the thousand yard stare.
He is the overall military leader of the Empire, with those directly beneath him being Kael Taylor, his younger brother Hugh, and Alston Mirkado. Zephyr was one of the first Gortoss to be injected with the Spectre serum, which was a successful military project to create super soldiers. He has a deep hatred of humanity in general; many speculate that this conspired because his sister was killed by human bounty hunters. He tracked down the killers, and swiftly but brutally killed three of the four although he was horribly wounded by the last one, with his right eye being permanently blinded. The fourth escaped and to this day he continues to hunt down the killer.
Von- Race: Kirin Gender: Male Personality: Playful, loyal, won't give-up, brave, smart, protective. Appearance: Turquoise colored skin, orange mane, draconic wings and tail, three dragon legs and one pony, purple-pink eyes.
Abilities: Can use his breath as a powerful weapon by controlling the elements and shooting them out his mouth (dragon's breath). Has a unique ability that covers him in fire and propels him towards an enemy. Like Zephyr, he has a fallback ability, called Ascension. It allows him to transform into a full dragon with enormous power. Age: 20
Description: His father was a stallion and his mother a dragoness. Due to this combination he was teased constantly his whole life. He strives to make his dream of coexistence on Equestria a reality and has struggled to achieve this nearly his whole life. He loved a mare named Storm Front but she died protecting him from a fatal attack. This hurt him greatly and he went into a near comatose state. Eventually he regained his composure and resumed his quest to make his dream true. He is widely known due to the fact that he defeated Orcus, the lord of darkness. (Or so we thought… in reality Orcus was not the real threat but only a puppet.)
Year: 2340-Humans Location: In orbit over Equus; Locale population refers to as Equestria
-Two Hours before the Crash Landing-
“...Admiral. Admi ral!”
Zephyr jumped out of his daydream with a fright.
“Yes, EO? What do you need?” Zephyr asked while gritting his teeth.
“We are approaching the designated coordinates now sir.” The Executive Officer replied.
“Excellent, put shields on half power and focus them on our front. I want Yellow Alert.”
“Right away, sir.”
The ship jumped out of hyperspace to the planet known as Equus. It was a lush planet, filled with many different species and foliage. According to data and long range scanners, the planet was home to several sentient species, an odd situation for the relatively small celestial body. The Gortoss homeworld was about half that of Sol’s gas giant, Jupiter. Due to the large size of their planet, the Gortoss developed hollow bones and wings to help them cope with their extreme gravity.
“Sir, our scouts have detected odd energy readings up ahead. They say a large number of ships are heading our way.”
“This is not supposed to happen It’s a setup!” As soon as Zephyr said this, twenty-eight Lugolavian Heavy Cruisers came out of Hyperspace.
The Lugolavians, who had been at war with the Gortoss for twelve years now were desperate for victory. They were an invading force from outside the Milky Way galaxy whose goal was to conquer the whole universe. An average Lugolavian was like a bipedal reptilian. They rarely showed mercy and never surrendered.
“Put shields to full frontal power!” Zephyr fell as he said this, the ship rocking violently after being hit by an incredibly powerful shot.
“Sir, our ship can’t hold up against this much firepower! We only have an escort of six frigates!” The EO shouted over the blaring sirens and loudspeakers.
“Shields at 40% and barely holding!” An Ensign yelled.
The lights flickered overhead.
“Sir, all systems are failing! We can’t hold out much longer or we will all die!” The EO shouted.
“...Abandon ship. I want all personnel to abandon ship.” Zephyr said in an angry undertone. The EO picked up a mic and shouted “All personnel, abandon ship! I repeat, all personnel, abandon ship!”
Zephyr turned and walked out of the bridge then began heading to the Escape Pod bay. No sooner than the blast door closed behind him did he hear a loud explosion and was literally thrown to the other side of the room. He slammed into the wall, and heard an audible crack only seconds before his arm flared with unbearable pain.
“Shit… My arm…”
*Warning, the ship has been breached. Air levels are dropping fast. Immediate evacuation is advised.* The ship’s Artificial Intelligence spoke over the audio system.
“The bridge… they hit the damned bridge…”
Zephyr slowly pushed himself up with his non-injured arm.
Once he was back-up on his feet he doubled his pace. He could literally feel the ship’s destruction around him.
“Tana, how long until the ship goes critical?” Zephyr asked hurriedly.
“At this rate of destruction, total system failure will occur in five minutes. I suggest you hurry.” His AI, Tana replied.
“Understood. Oh, and can you get me the quickest route to Bay A-86-1.”
“The escape pods? I guess so. Uploading to your datapad now, SCL.”
“Thank you, I’m heading there now.”
Zephyr followed the path he was given as the ship deteriorated around him. After about two minutes of full out running, well, as fast as someone with a broken arm can run, he eventually arrived.
“Tana, how many survived the initial attack?”
“Around forty, Commander. But now I only detect twenty-eight signatures onboard. Seventeen of them are heading your way. The others are trapped I’m afraid.”
“...Damn. How long until they arrive?”
“Momentarily, sir.”
Right after she said this, the aforementioned marines burst from around the corner. Upon seeing Zephyr one saluted quickly and then said “Sir, a Lugo boarding party just landed in our main hanger bay. They overwhelmed us, I’m sorry sir.”
“Don’t be. Right now we must focus on getting off the-” Zephyr was cut-off by an explosion that rocked the ship. He suddenly felt himself sliding as the ship was literally ripped in half. In an instant ,eight of the marines were sucked into the vacuum of space, the others barely managing to get a handhold just in time. The ship was now completely vertical and losing altitude fast.
“Everyone, climb up to the escape pods! They should be directly above us!” Zephyr shouted to his men.
They all began to work their way up to the top of the rapidly descending ship, the escape pods only feet away. Zephyr managed to get his hand on the hatch to one of the escape pods when a he heard a loud metallic groan above him. He turned his head upward right before he was-
Zephyr woke up. It was dark outside, the moon hanging in the sky with the thousands of stars dancing around it.
For a moment Zephyr thought he was at home. But after a quick look around him, he realized that he was in the guest room at Twilight’s house.
Just a dream. Zephyr thought.
After his eyes eventually grew accustomed to the darkness, he climbed out of bed. When he tried to stand up however he soon fell back down, only to realize he was still a pony.
Oh.
He walked over to the mirror.
Time to change back. This coverup won’t last forever. Gods, I hate cooldowns.
He closed his eyes and the same oddly shaped symbol appeared on his forehead. A dark mist surrounded him and after about a minute he emerged as his Gortoss self.
Hmm. Maybe I need a haircut.
Zephyr was wearing casual clothes. His brown hair hung loose and covered his one good eye. He had lost his right eye in a fight, and now he wore an eyepatch to cover the horrible wound. His aging body showed the signs of wear and tear.
Rubbing his eye , Zephyr took off everything except his undergarments and then crawled back into the now much smaller bed. Closing his eyes, he fell into his waking dreams.
***
The Music Box emitted a low moan, causing the unicorn to exhale in relief. The three horses turned to leave when one of them heard a slight creak behind them.
“Um, sir? Did you hear tha-” One of the unicorn’s guards began.
“Shh! Quietly head towards the door.” The Unicorn told them.
They slowly backed towards the door, trying their hardest not to make a sound. When they were only about three yards away however, one of the guards stepped on a broken piece of glass. The other two turned to the pony in question.
“You idiot! Now we’re in-” The unicorn started.
All of them jumped when the room started to shake. In an instant every single statue turned to look at the trio. Slowly but surely they began to move towards them, the horses now noticing for the first time the enormous swords and shields the statues were carrying.
“Now what, Shadow Caller?” one of the earth ponies guards queried.
“We run!!” Shadow Caller replied.
On his command, all of them began to run, with the statues surprisingly close behind.
“We just need to get the box safely out!”
“Sir, take the left tunne-” One of the guards was hit by a statue’s longsword, killing him almost instantly. They continued to gallop full-out trying desperately to escape the horrors behind them.
“I can see the exit!” The surviving earth pony shouted.
“Sprint!” Shadow Caller yelled.
They sprinted as fast as they could up the stairs, making it only seconds before the tunnel entrance collapsed behind them.
“We made it…” Shadow Caller huffed.
“Barely. Where are we supposed to meet up with the Hierophant?” the guard asked.
“Anvale, to the east. Run ahead, I have some things to finish up here. Oh, and tell him, He has arrived.” Shadow Caller grinned.
A unicorn garbed in a black cloak trotted towards the entrance to an old looking temple. Flanking him were two Earth ponies, each covered in heavy armor and wearing the same black cloaks. They stopped in front of the entrance and the unicorn slowly pulled an odd looking staff out of a satchel on his back. He turned the staff upside down and placed it in a grooved pedestal in front of him. After twisting it to the right, a resonating click sounded. A slab of stone in front of the unicorn slid to the right, revealing a long descending stairway. Pulling out a torch from his satchel, he motioned for his guards to follow him after lighting it.
The descent was long and arduous, but eventually they arrived at an enormous dimly lit cavern. The first thing they noticed were the multitude of statues, all of them still but appeared as if they had been fighting each other. There seemed to be two “factions”, both of which the ponies had never seen before. One side was that of horrific looking monsters, and the other were odd creatures that stood on two legs and had avian wings.
After studying the statues for a few minutes, the trio approached a large door. Carved in the bottom part of the door were engravings of battle and strife, but at the top a large dragon loomed and below it was a single being, who was garbed in robes.
The unicorn stepped forward, and when he was but a foot away, he said, “Nyitott, így én is engedje meg a szent kötődik. Open, so I may release you from your holy binds.”
After this, the unicorn procured from his pack an oddly shaped “key” and held it in front of the dragon engraving. The key glowed and dark mist seemed to pour out of it. With a groan the door slowly opened.
Inside the chamber were more statues yet these had light pouring out of their mouths. The ponies looked at them in surprise, but when the statues didn’t move, they pressed onward. Near the back of the room was a Music Box that was closed. The unicorn approached it while his guards waited for him. Trotting up to it, he placed his hooves on the box and slowly opened it…
Ponyville-
“Okay, so this is the Carousel Boutique. My friend Rarity works there, she’s a fashion designer. Over here is the…” Zephyr had been listening to Twilight’s monologue for about six minutes and decided to look around for himself. “...Down that road is the train station, thats where my friends and I went to go to-” “Umm Twilight, you think I could explore on my own?” Zephyr asked. “Ugh… fine, if you want to.” Twilight replied a little let-down. “No! The tour was fine… I just want to look around for myself a bit.” He quickly interjected.
“Okay, just don’t get yourself into any trouble.” Twilight reminded him. “Yeah, yeah, I won’t. Bye!” Zephyr shouted, galloping away from his now lonely tour guide.
Zephyr walked around, looking for a bakery. He spotted one eventually, named Sugarcube Corner. The building was in the shape of a gingerbread house.
*Hmm, odd shape… oh well.* Zephyr thought.
Zephyr walked inside, and he immediately noticed a gray pegasus with a blonde mane. She was purchasing several different varieties of muffins. After buying them, she turned around and bumped right into Zephyr.
“My bad, are you alright?” she asked.
“Yeah I’m fine, thanks for ask-” Zephyr stopped after he noticed her eyes.
“What are you staring at?” She asked.
“Umm… nothing. Yeah, well I shouldn't hold you much longer.”
“It’s ok, I like talking, by the way I’m Derpy. Nice to meet you.” She said.
“I’m Zephyr, I just moved here.”
“From where?”
“Uh….”
“It’s ok, you don’t have to tell me if you don’t want to.”
“Yeah… I’ll see you later ok.”
“Bye!” The grey mare walked out the door.
*I wonder what was with her eyes?* Zephyr thought.
Realizing he was next in line, Zephyr trotted up to the counter.
“Hello, and welcome to Sugarcube Corner. Hmm, I haven’t seen you around here before. Did you just move here?” The blue Earth pony asked him.
“Yeah, I just moved here, but so far everything looks good.” Zephyr told her.
“By the way, is it ok if you told me your name?”
“Yeah, I’m Zephyr.”
“Nice to meet you Zephyr, I’m Mrs. Cake.”
“Anyway, what would you like to get?” Mrs. Cake asked him.
“I’ll have a few blueberry muffins please.”
“Okay.” As she said this, she reached down and took five blueberry muffins out of the glass container. She then placed them on the counter.
“That will be fifteen bits please.” She said.
“Uh, hmm… oh!” Zephyr closed his eyes again and a strange symbol appeared on his forehead. Suddenly fifteen bits appeared on the countertop.
“There. Exact change.” Zephyr said with a smug look on his face.
The blue pony looked at the pegasus and then back at the bits.
“Are they...real? Or is this some kind of joke?” She asked a little angrily.
“Yes, they are, its a little trick I was taught. Zemus you better not have been lying…” He mumbled the last bit.
“Ok, well have a good day.” She replied a little cautious about the tan pegasus.
After exiting the building, Zephyr trotted over to a bench outside the bakery and began eating his muffins.
Not long after taking his first bite, he heard a scream followed by a “Lookout below!”.
Zephyr barely had time to blink before he was rammed full force by a blue blur of fur and hair.
Whatever hit him scrambled off of him as soon as it hit him.
“Are you okay?” His “assailant” asked
“Yeah… I think so.” Zephyr managed to say.
After this Zephyr too got up. Standing in front of him was an odd looking creature. It had blue fur and an orange mane with pinkish-purple eyes. The “pony's" front legs were draconic with his back legs being equine. Zephyr decided to question him on this later if he got the chance. The pony had an apologetic look on his face.
“Sorry about crashing into you, I hope I didn’t hurt you.” He said with a look of concern. “By the way, I’m Von.”
“I’m Zephyr.” he said while brushing himself off, with a slight tone of annoyance.
“I haven’t seen you around here before. Are you new?” Von asked.
“Yeah, I just moved in from the frontier.” Zephyr replied.
“East or west?”
“West.”
“That’s cool. I heard they were having it pretty tough out there though.”
“Yeah…”
“Why did you move to Ponyville anyway?” Von asked.
“I just thought I needed a change of scenery.” Zephyr replied.
“Oh, well do you like it here so far?”
“Yeah, it seems pretty nice. Anyway, I have to meet up with Twilight Sparkle. I’ll see you later.”
“Alright, have a good night.”
“Bye.”
Von walked off leaving Zephyr standing on the curb.
Year: 2340-Humans Location: In orbit over Equus; Locale population refers to as Equestria
-Two Hours before the Crash Landing-
“...Admiral. Admi ral!”
Zephyr jumped out of his daydream with a fright.
“Yes, EO? What do you need?” Zephyr asked while gritting his teeth.
“We are approaching the designated coordinates now sir.” The Executive Officer replied.
“Good, put shields on half power and focus them on our front. I want Yellow Alert.”
“Right away, sir.”
The ship jumped out of hyperspace to the planet known as Equus. It was a lush planet, filled with many different species and foliage. According to data and long range scanners, the planet was home to several sentient species, an odd situation for the relatively small celestial body. The Gortoss homeworld was about half that of Sol’s gas giant, Jupiter. Due to the large size of their planet, the Gortoss developed hollow bones and wings to help them cope with their extreme gravity.
“Sir, our scouts have detected odd energy readings up ahead. They say a large number of ships are heading our way.”
“Thats not right… It’s a trap!” As soon as Zephyr said this, twenty-eight Lugolavian Heavy Cruisers came out of Hyperspace.
The Lugolavians, who had been at war with the Gortoss for twelve years now were desperate for victory. They were an invading force from outside the Milky Way galaxy whose goal was to conquer the whole universe. An average Lugolavian had four arms, two heads, and a large reptilian tail. They rarely showed mercy and never surrendered.
“Put shields to full frontal power!” Zephyr fell as he said this, the ship rocking violently after being hit by an incredibly powerful shot.
“Sir, our ship can’t hold up against this much firepower! We only have an escort of six destroyers!” The EO shouted over the blaring sirens and loudspeakers.
“Shields at 40% and barely holding!” An Ensign yelled.
The lights flickered overhead.
“Sir, all systems are failing! We can’t hold out much longer or we will all die!” The EO shouted.
“...Abandon ship. I want all personnel to abandon ship.” Zephyr said in an angry undertone. The EO picked up a mic and shouted “All personnel, abandon ship! I repeat, all personnel, abandon ship!”
Zephyr turned and walked out of the bridge then began heading to the Escape Pod bay. No sooner than the blast door closed behind him did he hear a loud explosion and was literally thrown to the other side of the room. He slammed into the wall, and heard an audible crack only seconds before his arm flared with unbearable pain.
“Shit… My arm…”
*Warning, the ship has been breached. Air levels are dropping fast. Immediate evacuation is advised.* The ship’s Artificial Intelligence spoke over the audio system.
“The bridge… they hit the damned bridge…”
Zephyr slowly pushed himself up with his non-injured arm.
Once he was back-up on his feet he doubled his pace. He could literally feel the ship’s destruction around him.
“Tana, how long until the ship goes critical?” Zephyr asked hurriedly.
“At this rate of destruction, total system failure will occur in five minutes. I suggest you hurry.” His AI, Tana replied.
“Noted. Oh, and can you get me the quickest route to Bay A-86-1.”
“The escape pods? I guess so. Uploading to your datapad now, SCL.”
“Thanks, I’m heading there now.”
Zephyr followed the path he was given as the ship deteriorated around him. After about two minutes of full out running, well, as fast as someone with a broken arm can run, he eventually arrived.
“Tana, how many survived the initial attack?”
“Around forty, Commander. But now I only detect twenty-eight signatures onboard. Seventeen of them are heading your way. The others are trapped I’m afraid.”
“...Damn. How long until they arrive?”
“Momentarily, sir.”
Right after she said this, the aforementioned marines burst from around the corner. Upon seeing Zephyr one saluted quickly and then said “Sir, a Lugo boarding party just landed in our main hanger bay. They overwhelmed us, I’m sorry sir.”
“Don’t be. Right now we have to focus on getting off the-” Zephyr was cut-off by an explosion that rocked the ship. He suddenly felt himself sliding as the ship was literally ripped in half. In an instant ,eight of the marines were sucked into the vacuum of space, the others barely managing to get a handhold just in time. The ship was now completely vertical and losing altitude fast.
“Everyone, we need to climb up to the escape pods! They should be directly above us!” Zephyr shouted to his men.
They all began to work their way up to the top of the rapidly descending ship, the escape pods only feet away. Zephyr managed to get his hand on the hatch to one of the escape pods when a he heard a loud metallic groan above him. He turned his head upward right before he was-
Zephyr woke up. It was dark outside, the moon hanging in the sky with the thousands of stars dancing around it.
For a moment Zephyr thought he was at home. But after a quick look around him, he realized that he was in the guest room at Twilight’s house.
Just a dream. Zephyr thought.
After his eyes eventually grew accustomed to the darkness, he climbed out of bed. When he tried to stand up however he soon fell back down, only to realize he was still a pony.
Oh.
He walked over to the mirror.
Time to change back. This coverup won’t last forever. Gods, I hate cooldowns.
He closed his eyes and the same oddly shaped symbol appeared on his forehead. A dark mist surrounded him and after about a minute he emerged as his Gortoss self.
Hmm. Maybe I need a haircut.
Zephyr was wearing casual clothes. His brown hair hung loose and covered his one good eye. He had lost his right eye in a fight, and now he wore an eyepatch to cover the horrible wound. His aging body showed the signs of wear and tear.
Rubbing his eye , Zephyr took off everything except his undergarments and then crawled back into the now much smaller bed. Closing his eyes, he fell into his waking dreams.
***
The Music Box emitted a low moan, causing the unicorn to exhale in relief. The three horses turned to leave when one of them heard a slight creak behind them.
“Um, sir? Did you hear tha-” One of the unicorn’s guards began.
“Shh! Quietly head towards the door.” The Unicorn told them.
They slowly backed towards the door, trying their hardest not to make a sound. When they were only about three yards away however, one of the guards stepped on a broken piece of glass. The other two turned to the pony in question.
“You idiot! Now we’re in-” The unicorn started.
All of them jumped when the room started to shake. In an instant every single statue turned to look at the trio. Slowly but surely they began to move towards them, the horses now noticing for the first time the enormous swords and shields the statues were carrying.
“Now what, Shadow Caller?” one of the earth ponies guards queried.
“We run!!” Shadow Caller replied.
On his command, all of them began to run, with the statues surprisingly close behind.
“We just need to get the box safely out!”
“Sir, take the left tunne-” One of the guards was hit by a statue’s longsword, killing him almost instantly. They continued to gallop full-out trying desperately to escape the horrors behind them.
“I can see the exit!” The surviving earth pony shouted.
“Sprint!” Shadow Caller yelled.
They sprinted as fast as they could up the stairs, making it only seconds before the tunnel entrance collapsed behind them.
“We made it…” Shadow Caller huffed.
“Barely. Where are we supposed to meet up with the Hierophant?” the guard asked.
“Anvale, to the east. Run ahead, I have some things to finish up here. Oh, and tell him, He has arrived.” Shadow Caller grinned.
Location: Platform-782 Local Time- 23:09 8 Hours After Crash Landing
A light transport docked in the military hangar bay on the main Orbital Platform over Berenia. Its passenger, who was flanked on both sides by six Imperial Guards, walked down the ramp leading off the ship. A door opened on the far side of the hangar with dozens of guards pouring out and hurrying to clear the room for the visitor. The last one who entered the room was not the same as the others.
He was dwarfed by everyone else in the room but carried himself with a dignified stature. His hair was black with blue highlights and his red eyes seemed unnatural. While everyone else had black or brown wings, his were white. The visitor walked up to him. His face was shrouded by a hood, his whole body covered by the cloak.
“Kael Taylor, do you know why I am here?” the visitor questioned him.
“Zihark, I assume it is important?” Kael asked.
“You will address me as Emperor, and yes it is. My younger brother went missing.”
“Zephyr?” Kael asked, worried about his good friend.
“Yes, an automated distress signal was sent from the Equus system. I believe they were attacked by Lugolavians. I want you to assemble a Battle Group and head there as soon as possible. Bring Casey with you, I fear you’re going to need as much help as possible.”
“Yes sir. Do you know when the Valhalla projects will be finished?” Kael asked.
“We are almost done with the Asgard ships, but the Ragnarok project will take longer. I think we still have a year on the latter, but the formers should be done in a couple of months. With them under our control, the war with the Lugolavians should be over within a few weeks.” The Emperor replied.
“Good, I could use a break from all the death and destruction. Have you heard any news from the colonies near the edge of the galaxy?”
“Only…disturbing things. A new virus has been spreading through the most distant human colonies. It’s a highly regenerative pathogen that takes mere seconds to shutdown the whole immune system. Most of the colonies affected have been destroyed within a matter of days. Footage of the infected is... horrific. Grotesque creatures, they look nothing like their former selves. “
“What should we do?” Kael asked, a worried look on his face.
“For now we should focus on the Lugolavians.” Zihark replied.
“Sir, I still think it’s important that we at least investigate. For all we know this virus could very well become unstoppable.”
“I will think on it. Anyway, I want you to head to the Equus system as soon as possible.”
“Yes sir.”
Location: Planet G-617 g (The verge of Berenian Space) Local Time: 5:09 10 Hours after the Crash Landing
“Commander, you might want to look at this.”
“What is it, Corporal?”
“There is a large human colony ship plummeting into the atmosphere, it has odd bio-signatures covering the exterior and interior of the vessel. The ship has also refused to communicate on all frequencies.” The Corporal replied.
“Where will it land?” The Officer asked.
“Near the spaceport of Voi. ETA is approximately five minutes.”
“Warn the spaceport’s security. I have a feeling that whoever is piloting that ship is not here for pleasantries...”
Location: Planet Equus (Equestria) Local Time: 10:30 am 14 Hours after the Crash Landing
A single ray of light shone right over Zephyr’s eyes waking him almost instantly. Mere moments later Twilight rushed into the room.
“Get up, lazybones! And change back to a pony. I don’t want to have to explain to everyone why I have a bipedal creature in my home, well except for Spike...but he doesn’t count!” She yelled.
“Two more hours…please….” Zephyr groaned.
“No! You need to get up!” She threw a pillow at him after saying this.
“Alright, alright. I’m going.” He replied, knowing he had lost the battle.
After she left the room he used magic again to transform himself back into a pegasus. After putting on some clothes that Twilight had been kind enough to get him, he opened the door to his room and walked outside.
***
Unknown Location on Equus Local Time: 8:30 am 12 Hours after Crash Landing
“We’ve located the Optivus, my Lord.” Shadow Caller spoke to a hooded unicorn with a cloak decorated with many symbols.
“So, at long last he returns. We have waited millenias for this moment. Light the Beacon! I want all to know that our Ascension begins!” The figure replied
“I also recovered the Music Box, like you requested Hierophant.” Shadow Caller replied.
“Good, soon my brother all will ascend and our final goal will be realized. When the Optivus is recovered, nothing will be able to stop us! Ahahahahaha!!!”
“Should I send a group of acolytes to recover the Optivus sir?” Shadow Caller asked.
“Yes, but I want you to lead them. Nothing to go wrong, understand?”
“Yes, my Lord.”
***
14 Hours After the Crash Landing
Zephyr walked outside, and stretched his achy bones. Whenever he transformed, it always tired him out. He had only gotten about three steps when he was tackled by a flash of bright pink.
Owww! Thats the third time in two days… He thought.
“Hey, you’re new around here. How come Twilight never told me about you!?!? Oh my Celestia, we haven’t thrown a party yet! I’m going to start preparing right now! Oh, I’m Pinkie Pie by the way! But, you can just call me Pinkie!” The pink pony stated in a record four seconds.
“Nice to meet you, Pinkie. It’s kind of you to throw a party for me, but I assure you its ok, I really don’t need one-”
“Aww come on, it will be fun. I won’t take no for an answer anyway. Make sure you are here at the Library by 7:00 pm, if you aren’t I WILL find you!” She bounced up and down.
“Ok, ok. I’ll come, but only because you are so insistent.” Zephyr smiled.
“Great! I’m going to get started on preparing right away!” Pinkie squealed while nearly flying down the road towards town.
Man, she has got to be the most energetic person I have ever met. Zephyr thought to himself with a laugh.
Zephyr turned to head to town when his mane spiked up. He stopped, sensing something wrong.
Someone or something is hiding nearby. I always hate the feeling of being watched, I think I’m going to try ignoring whoever it is and keep walking. Lets see how that works. Zephyr grimaced.
***
Von and his friend Rainbow Dash where flying above Ponyville when the former stopped mid-race. Rainbow Dash continued to fly before she realized that her friend had stopped.
“What is it Von? She asked him.
“I don’t know… I just have this feeling that somepony is in trouble. My gut keeps telling me to go investigate.” He replied.
“Who do you think it is?”
“Do you remember that new stallion who just moved here?”
“Yeah, why?”
“I keep having this feeling that it has something to do with him. I’m going to go check.” Von said, a look of deep worry on his face.
“I’m coming with you then, I could use a good fight anyways.” Rainbow Dash responded with a wide grin.
“You sure? ‘Cause I’m pretty sure it could get dangerous.”
“You are NOT holding me back from a brawl, Von. You know how much I like to get dirty.”
Von chuckled at that last comment.
“You perv! Thats not what I meant!” She yelled, rolling her eyes.
“Alright, well lets get going.” He replied, still grinning.
The pair flew towards the Golden Oak Library as fast as they could.
***
Meanwhile, seventeen miles above Equus
“Is this Equestria?”
“Yes, Lord Taylor. We are approximately seventeen miles above the planet.” “Hmm, obvious signs of a battle. I don’t see any IBN ships though. Executive Officer, send a scout squadron out. I want to make sure this area is clear of hostiles.” Kael Taylor commanded.
“Yes, my lord.”
The forty-five ship Battle-Group was nestled in an asteroid field. Although it protected them from scanners, it severely lowered their shields. Around two minutes after Taylor gave the order, twelve long-range fighters left his ship’s hangar bay. They scouted area after area with no results until they stopped at a nearby nebula. The squadron’s leader immediately contacted Kael.
“Commander! I’m detecting multiple signatures! Ther-” The radio became fuzzy a second later.
“Dammit! Get those men out of there!” Kael screamed.
“We’ve lost contact, sir.” An Ensign responded.
“...Shit, setup battle formations, I want this battle done and over with.”
“Yes, sir.” His EO replied.
The fleet left the asteroid field and setup positions facing the incoming Lugolavian threat. The most heavy and armored ships took the front with the carriers in the middle and the lighter long-ranged ships in the back. As the Lugolavians approached, the IBN ships let loose a torrent of fire. ***
Zephyr heard rustling behind him. No sooner than he had turned his head was he tackled by a hooded pony. He at first assumed it wasn’t a threat, but no sooner than the horse pulled out a dagger from its hood did he realize the danger. Kicking it off his chest, he scrambled to his hooves only to be knocked down by another one. Zephyr struggled with the one on top of him, and was eventually able to throw the pony off. As Zephyr got to his feet, he looked to see if anyone was around to help, but he soon found that he would not get any. Zephyr turned around to run but soon found himself face to face with something he had never seen before.
It was hard to describe, with the closest thing to it being a cyclops. With one swing of its massive arm, he was flung backwards twenty feet. Zephyr landed in a heap on the dirt road, literally paralyzed.
“Next time we’ll use you first, Ouroboros.”
“It would be my pleasure, Shadow Caller.” Ouroboros responded, his voice like two boulders being grinder together.
“Quickly, pick him up and lets go! We have to hurry before anyone comes.”
“You’re a little too late for that.”
The hooded group turned to face the newcomers. Their eyes set upon Von and Rainbow Dash, who were clearly ready to fight. Von was wielding a rusted longsword while Rainbow was carrying two daggers.
“Von... you would do well to not interfere in conflicts that don’t involve you.” The apparent leader of the group cautioned him.
"Even if I don't happen to know this pony, its not right to just sit idly while you ruffians roam and do as you please. I won't let you harm innocents!" Von retorted.
"Humph… so be it then. Acolytes, kill them." The sinister figure commanded.
Several ponies approached Von and Rainbow, daggers drawn and glistening.
"You ready Dash?" Von asked his friend.
"Ready as ever. Lets bring the pain!" She replied grinning.
The pair drew their weapons and launched themselves at the group, knocking two of the cultists out almost immediately. The group managed to reorganize themselves and face the pair. Three of the ponies attacked at once, trying to overwhelm Von and Rainbow Dash with pure numbers. As soon as the acolytes were in range however, Von jumped up in the air and shot a blast of air directly where he had just been standing. Dash managed to avoid, like Von knew she would, but their pursuers weren't so lucky.
Around two minutes later, all the acolytes had either been killed or knocked unconscious.
“So it appears you still have some fight in you, Von. It annoys me that you had to appear now, of all times. No matter. You cannot win, there are too many of us and too few of you. I must be going now. Ouroboros, kill these fools.” Shadow Caller commanded.
“It would be my pleasure.” The cyclops replied.
He jumped over Von and Rainbow, landing next to a tree, he pulled the whole thing out of the ground. With one quick swing he knocked Rainbow backwards, knocking her out instantly.
“Rainbow!” Von yelled.
Ouroboros grinned and then moved to attack Von. As soon as the cyclops swung, Von jumped on the tree and climbed as fast as he could up Ouroboros’s arm. The cyclops tried in vain to hit the Kirin but failed in every attempt. Von swung his sword at the cyclops's neck but tripped and fell the seventeen feet to the ground.
“Hahaha, did you really think you could beat me? You should learn to choose your competition wisely, young one. A mistake that will now cost you your life.”
Ouroboros prepared to bring his makeshift-club down on the wounded kirin, but stopped mid-arc as a ornate sword sprouted from his chest. The cyclops’s face was that of pure terror as he slowly fell to the ground, dead the instant the blade punctured him.
In his place stood a bloodied, dirt-covered Gortoss.
“Forgetting someone?” Zephyr grinned as he too fell to the ground in a heap.
Location: 17 miles above Equus Local Time 12:00 pm 16 hours after crash landing
Both fleets engaged each other in earnest; the Berenians slowly gaining the upper hand. It had been an hour and a half of continuous fighting and both sides were tiring. The Lugolavian fleet slowly started to diminish until only a few ships remained. The Gortoss closed in for the kill.
“Surround them and continue broadsiding!” Kael Taylor commanded.
The Imperial Berenian Navy ships formed a large circle around the few Lugolavian ships and pounded them with round after round of broadsides. The barrage was effective and the last remaining ships began to tear apart.
“Sir, I’m detecting multiple escape pods leaving their ships. What are your orders?” An ensign asked.
“Destroy them. We can’t risk them getting to the planets surface. There can be no survivors.” Kael responded.
“They just left our weapons’ range sir. It would be impossible to hit them from this distance.”
“Dammit! We have no choice, follow them to the planet’s surface. I want five ships to follow me in. The rest should stay in the atmosphere and wait in case things go wrong.”
“Yes, sir.”
Zephyr barely managed to dodge the falling debris. After he regained his composure, he continued his climb. At last he reached the escape pod and pulled himself in. After he saw the other marines do the same, Zephyr activated the escape pod with his transponder. His ship slowly fell apart beneath him, reminding him of the waste of the three hundred fifty marines that died fighting to protect him. Shaking the thought out of his head he launched the escape pod. The battery powered rockets ignited and flung it away from the burning ship.
“Lets try to coordinate a landing zone, guys. I really don’t want to get separated. Also, try to avoid population zones. I don’t want to have another problem.” Zephyr told the surviving marines.
“Yes, sir. I’ve found an uninhabited area, about thirty miles east of the densest city.”
“Ok, set coordinates for there. We should be another five minutes until we break through the atmosp-”
At this moment Zephyr’s escape pod was hit by a large amount of debris. He was thrown upwards to the top of capsule and knocked unconscious.
“Commander! Commander…”
Unknown Location on Equus Local Time: 11:30 am
"You failed me again, Shadow Caller!" The Hierophant yelled in his face.
"I'm sorry, your excellence. Von's arrival ruined our plans. Give me one more chance. Please." Shadow Caller begged.
"Hmm, I guess, but your next failure will be your last. Understand?"
"Yes, my lord…" Shadow Caller sighed.
Location: Berenia's Imperial Palace Local Time: 7:00 pm
Zihark stared into his blank com screen. His boredom was at its highest yet. He prepared to lay back down and fall asleep when the screen flashed. Someone had sent him a message.
-Zihark. You are requested in the war room. Urgent Meeting. Voi has fallen-
Those last three words sent a chill down his spine. Voi was the most prominent spaceport in the outer-planets. The news visibly shocked him. He put on his robes and left the room.
"From the reports that came in it sounds like they did an accurate hyperspace jump right underneath our Orbital Battle Defences. Those who were infected turned on the uninfected. It became a slaughter." Alston Mirkado, one of the three High Command Lords explained.
"Thats impossible. No virus has that type of knowledge. If G-617 g fell within two hours and Voi itself only lasting about twenty minutes; a pathogen of that magnitude could wipe everything out!” Zihark yelled in frustration.
“Do we know of any survivors?” High Prince Hugh, the younger brother of Zephyr asked.
“Only two uninfected ships escaped. Both were light freighters. Everyone else…” Alston stopped there.
“Reports say the infected ships haven’t left the G-617 g system yet, my lord.” Alston continued.
“What should we do, brother? Hugh asked.
“We have twelve fleets on standby, correct?” Zihark questioned the others.
The group nodded their heads.
“Jump to any and all systems near the G-617 g quadrant. The virus cannot escape.”
“Yes, my lord.” They all replied.
Location: Equus Local Time: 1:00 pm
Unnhh…. damn, that was a nasty hit I took. What was that thing that attacked me. AND why can’t I see!?!?
Zephyr opened his eyes.
Oh. Thats why. I think I’m going to just stay silent for a second.
Standing over Zephyr was the odd creature he had met on his first day in Equestria.
What was his name… oh! It was Von.
Beside Von was a blue colored pony with a rainbow mane and Twilight Sparkle.
“What is he? I’ve never seen anything like him before.” Von asked, a little nervous.
“Well, he isn’t from Equestria, thats for sure. He says he came from space. I mean, he did almost kill me when he crashed into the ground. Not on purpose of course.” Twilight replied.
“Does he have a name?” Rainbow Dash asked.
“Yeah, he said it was Zephyr Darkwing. He’s what they call a Gortoss.”
Von looked him over. The Gortoss was badly injured with what looked like a broken ankle and his large wings ripped in several places. Zephyr’s eyes were open but seemingly glazed over giving him the appearance of someone paralyzed.
“We shouldn’t tell the rest of town. It could cause a panic.” Twilight told the others.
“I agree. It would probably be best if he laid low for a while. If he can still keep his pony form than that would be for the best.” Von responded.
“Those creepy hooded ponies worried me, they seemed to have an odd interest in Zephyr.” Rainbow Dash responded.
“Yeah, we should keep an eye out for them, I have a feeling they will be back.” Von replied.
***
Location: Vashj’ir Temple, Equus (Pronounced Vasheer) Local Time: 1:30 pm
The Hierophant walked up to an ornate slab. In his hooves was the Music Box that Shadow Caller had retrieved earlier. After placing it on the table, he closed his eyes and began to chant. Each time he repeated the phrase, mist poured out of the box and seemed to surround the area.
“Zerus…” An ominous voice resonated through the temple.
The Hierophant opened his eyes in shock and immediately stopped. Above the music box was a humanoid figure, but it was see-through and looked like an apparition.
“Is the Optimus on Equus?” the Apparition asked.
“Yes, my lord. We should have him in our grasp soon.”
The apparition looked Zerus over, and grimaced in disgust.
“Why do you still hold that form?” The figure snarled.
Zerus was a black unicorn with deep maroon eyes and what seemed to be a permanent scowl on his face. His muzzle was slightly gray and his hooves were the same. He was very tall, nearly the size of Celestia herself. Even with his foul mood Zerus still carried himself highly and normally looked down on his followers.
“I was attacked in this form and can no longer change back to my original body. It’s of no importance… plus it helps me to blend in with the local species of this planet. Although I do miss being able to use my hands… and feel the rush of wind in my face.” Zerus replied.
“Hm, well we will have to make do. Bring me the Optimus as soon as you can. And… I felt the presence of more of your kind on this planet. What luck we were given, you Gortoss can never stay away from Him after all.” The Apparition mumbled.
“...”
“No matter, we must accelerate our plans because of the arrival of the Berenians. I must wake Him. Unfortunately, it will take a couple of months. This should buy us time.” The figure materialized a beautiful locket out of the mist enveloping the room. “You know what to do. Now go.”
The figure handed Zerus the locket and then faded away.
“There is no turning back now, sorry Zephyr… but I can never forgive you for what you did… Never.”
Location: Two miles east of Canterlot Local Time: 2:30 pm
The wind blew the grass covering the field wildly and only got worse over time as five enormous ships slowly descended onto the plain and silenced their engines. A large ramp lowered down from the largest of the group and Kael Taylor walked out of the ship.
“Set up a base camp here, Commander.” He said turning towards another Gortoss.
“Yes, sir.”
The Berenian troops began to immediately build defenses and buildings. Luckily they had brought a prefabricated Barracks, which was a large easily deployable military building that took barely ten minutes to be fully operational. They unpacked auto-turrets and other defensive structures. When Kael thought everything looked in order, he began to brief his troops.
“We don’t know what to expect here so stay on full alert. Our top priority is to locate and acquire Zephyr. The secondary objective is to capture or kill the remaining Lugolavian forces. I want to avoid civilian centers if possible, but I’m pretty sure that won’t happen. Several sentient races populate this planet, the most prominent being an equine variant, although I don’t have much information on them. What I do know is that their government is a monarchy, led by two princesses.”
“There are several other species, but it shouldn't be something to worry about. I want long range scanners setup and constant patrols starting tomorrow. If you have any questions, ask me later. I’ll be in the barracks.”
With that, Kael stepped down from his makeshift podium of a rock and walked into the barracks.
Location: The Castle of the Two Sisters (Everfree Forest) 48,000 years in the Past
“My king! We must get you and her highness to safety! The city will fall within the hour!” A heavily armored pegasus exclaimed, having to yell over the ear shattering artillery that reigned down upon the capital of Equestria. The throne room they resided in constantly shook.
“You would have me abandon my people in their darkest hour? I think not.” A tall alicorn of immense stature and pride responded in a mixture of anger and defiance. The equine was enormous and resonated power.
There was a large explosion far off in the distance, followed by a lull in the screams of the bombs and artillery. The sound of small arms fire grew ever closer.
“The Gortoss have broken into the city! You need to leave now!” The nervous pegasus nearly yelled.
For the first time in his very long life, the alicorn was surprised.
“Take my wife and daughters, ensure they survive. I will stay behind and hold them off. Make sure they have their crowns.” He quickly answered.
Deciding to not push the question further, the pegasus bowed and then motioned for twelve guards to follow him. As soon as they left the room a large dent appeared in the enormous steel door that led into the building.
The alicorn stiffened. All of the fifty guards immediately raised their weapons. In their hooves were intricately designed swords and bows.
After a minute of pure silence, the door was bashed down and blaster fire poured into the throne room. Twenty of the guards fell immediately with another ten falling mere seconds later. The survivors threw themselves behind cover and returned fire. However, it was all in vain. Two minutes after the fighting started, it ended. The guards froze mid motion; their bodies lifeless and useless. The alicorn king looked in horror as his people became nothing but statues. His attention was soon drawn elsewhere.
Floating over the rubble of the gate was a being that made the king tremble in fear.
“Ah, your majesty.” The being mock-bowed.
“Vashj'ir…”
“I’m surprised that you are still here. I would have expected a coward like you to leave earlier. No matter, I’m not one who wastes time. Hand over your daughters and I will consider letting you live. Otherwise…” Vashj’ir motioned to his Gortoss guards. There was a unique resemblance between the dark being and his followers. They were created in the image of their maker, after all. The guards raised their weapons and took aim.
“We will never surrender to a beast like you, nor will I tell you where to find your quarry. You are a blight upon this universe Vashj’ir… a blight that needs to be removed!” The king replied, anger taking over his voice.
Before the dark god could react, six jewels materialized around the alicorn. The gems then combined into one and shot a rainbow beam directly towards Vashj’ir. With no time to avoid the attack, the god merely braced himself for the imminent blow and was hit directly in the abdomen. He looked down as he felt wet in the area, only to see his own blood beginning to flow. Even the king was surprised.
“That’s IT! I’ve had enough messing around! IT’S TIME YOU DIED!!!” Vashj’ir screamed in pure rage.
The dark god’s eyes glowed with an ominous maroon aura and his body began to be surrounded in fire. The alicorn began to charge another beam as his adversary did the same. A dark orb materialized in the god’s hand and he immediately raised it and pointed it at the king. A ring of energy surrounded the orb and a chaos infused beam flew towards the alicorn. This caused the king to launch his own attack with the two beams meeting in the middle of the room.
“The Elements of Harmony may be strong… but not nearly strong enough!” Vashj’ir gloated as the rainbow beam was slowly pushed back, the middle ground between the two attacks getting closer and closer to the Alicorn.
The king tried to hold his attack as long as he could but knew it was in vain. With one final effort, he was struck by the chaotic laser and thrown into a wall. The alicorn collapsed in a heap on the ground, although he was still alive.
“Fool, did you truly think you would even stand a chance? This could have been so much easier if you wouldn’t give in to stubborn pride.” The god shook his head in disappointment.
“I… will do anything to stop you… even if it means my own death…” The alicorn rasped, barely clinging to life.
“What was that? I couldn’t quite hear over your pathetic tone-” Vashj’ir grinned, but was cut off mid-sentence a moment later.
In the span of what seemed like a second, the Elements flew over to where the king lay, merged once more and glowed with immense power. The alicorn’s horn lit up and in that moment, an explosion of tremendous power erupted, completely disintegrating him and knocking the god back eighty feet into a wall. It was such a powerful blast that it could be seen from space itself.
1 minute earlier… In a secret-chamber located in the castle.
“Mommy, will daddy be alright?” A dark blue alicorn foal looked up at her visibly distraught mother.
“Yes, Luna dear. I’m sure he’ll be fine…” She sighed and looked down at her concerned daughters.
“You don’t sound so sure, Mom.”
“He’s been in many stressful situations before Tia, I’m confident he’ll be okay.” She responded to her white foal. However, the queen soon felt a strange disturbance and without a second thought, immediately cast a shield on her two daughters. A second later, the enormous explosion casted by her own husband consumed her.
…
The castle and surrounding city lay in ruins…
“Those… cursed stones, damn him!” A bloody and horrifically wounded Vashj’ir cussed as he felt his very life draining. He looked down at his hands and noticed that he was fading slowly but surely. The god could barely move and struggled to climb out of the pile of rubble he lay in.
“Dammit... I won’t let my plans be all for nothing. I need to ensure my survival, but how…?” An idea came to his mind, one that was very dangerous and could very well be the end if it went wrong, but Vashj’ir knew that it was the only way that he could survive.
I must split myself; separate mind and body… to ensure my continued existence.
