> Equestria Divided: Faceless Legion
>  by ArthurGabriel
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter 1: The Happening
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	It was like any other day for Arthur, enjoying family time out in the wilderness. With his wife, a unicorn with a light yellow coat much like Arthurs, deep blue eyes, and a purple mane. Their daughter was playing near a pond, filly around three years old, yellow coat like her parent, amethyst eyes, and amber mane. Everything was prefect. Even the clear skies was something to enjoy. The sun was up high, a light cool breeze brushed their coat and manes ever so fondly. Arthur looked over at his daughter and yelled, "don't go to far now Aurora! I don't want you missing lunch!" 

"I won't dad!" Lightly giggling as she mimicked a frog hopping. He looked over at his wife, Rose, and lightly kissed her. She embraced the kiss and sighed happily, returning a reply of her own. Then, things slowly started to take a rather unexpected turn. The skies that were once clear now became dark. The cool breeze slowly became violent, and there was some light thundering. Arthur told his wife to pack up, and called Aurora back over. But, she didn't come. He urged Rose to hurry up and went looking for their daughter. He looked and found her tangled up in a bush. He quickly went to her and managed to get her untangled. They both managed to regroup with Rose and quickly retreated back to town.

As the gained distance to the town, there was smoke arising. As they got closer and closer, sounds of thunder and screams were heard. They quickly realize that their town was in a middle of a crossfire between House of Earthborn, and House of Stormwing. Arthur and his family tried to find a place till everything died down. They saw their neighbors retreating to a cellar and the three quickly dashed towards them. Their neighbors urged them inside. 

They managed to make it in time as a lighting bolt came close to striking them. The felt some relief, until they realized, Aurora wasn't with them. They quickly looked around the cellar and then heard a scream outside the doors. The looked out the small window and saw her, crying and terrified as she dodged various projectiles flying towards her. Rose shoved him out of the way and went into the smoke to retrieve their daughter.

Arthur tried going out, but his neighbors begged him not to go out, even going as far as restraining him. He broke from their grip and charged out. He looked throughout the chaos to relocate his family. His paranoia and sense of urgency was at an all time high. He saw them cowering under a fruit cart and quickly went to them. He dodged various swoops and grabs from the crazed pegasi around him. He took them by their hoofs and quickly led them back to the cellar.

The continued running for the lives until he felt the sensation of being lifted off the ground. Their neighbors quickly closed their doors at the sight of it. Arthur heard the screech and looked up: they were being carried of by a Roc, a rather large griffon. Arthur panicked as he tried breaking free. His wife Rose, was in its clutches. The talons went through her like scissors to paper. He covered his crying daughters' eyes, seeing the blood lightly gleam off its talons and trickling down.

Arthur quickly realized that Rose was slowly letting them go. He begged her not to let go, but she did. They fell. The could hear the whistles of arrows passing them and the various sounds of war. He held his daughter and tried to drown out the noise. The only sound heard was the thumping of their hearts. He held his daughter closely during what felt like their final moments. She embraced him back and sobbed. Then, they stopped. They felt a soft sensation. They weren't dead.

They just landed on one of the piles of hay. He felt ever so relieved and tried finding a place to hide. He heard his daughter cry, and shriek in terror. He saw her hastily climbing onto him as they heard the growl and a loud roar beside them. They were staring down a Keythong, a flightless relative of the griffon. Its tail wagged excitingly and the spikes on its back flexed. The Keythong continued staring at them, growling as blood trickled out of its mouth and had entrails of pony remnants on its claws.

They Keythong bolted at them and Arthur ran into the nearest house. The beast broke the door down and chased them upstairs. Arthur closed the door and tried pushing a dresser and a chester door, blocking it from entry. It did very little. Its talons clawed through the wood like it was nothing. Arthur quickly dodged into the bathroom, closed the door and hid in the tub, hoping it wouldn't find them.

The Keythong pushed the door down and sniffed around. Aurora lightly whimpered and Arthur tried calming her down. The beast took a few steps towards the tub. Its head grazed over the top, and both of them slowly felt the warm blood, trickling down on them. There was a loud roar and the Keythong screamed as its dismembered beak fell in the tub. Arthur cautiously looked around and saw a large hole on one side, on the other, a blown up Keythong.

After quickly leaving the house. They retreated to their own house only a few blocks away and tried to avoid the chaos. They arrived safely and hid, inside the basement. He quickly bolted and locked the door. He sighed with relief, however, Aurora whimpered and quickly started sobbing. Arthur quickly tended to her and held her tightly, knowing that Rose was dead. They some how managed to fall asleep and the chaos stopped. Arthur slowly woke up to silence, which scared him more than the thundering and roaring earlier.

Aurora was sleeping soundly and he gently slipped out of her grasp. Arthur unbolted the door and quietly, cautiously walked out. His house looked fine. He slowly looked outside and saw the chaos: cottages were burning, there were low moans, groans and cries in various places. Bodies of both houses laid scattered about. He saw his friends, and various faces he knew mourning over their loved ones. Arthur wanted to cry, but couldn't bring himself to do it.

The ponies around him quickly stopped crying at the sound of music playing. The music grew louder, and the tune sounded distorted and out of tune. The wicked melody made the very hairs on his back stand up. His blood ran cold, his knees buckled, and felt himself on the verge of collapse. He looked around and saw the various dead corpses slowly coming back to life. Even the one he was standing one struggled standing.

Arthur freaked and grabbed the hatchet by him and started hacking and thwacking at it. It stopped moving. However he heard everyone else panicking around him. He looked up, and saw them being carried away by the dead. Some managed to escape, but not all. He looked around once more and saw a few of them staring at him. He quickly ran back into the house, and locked it. He was scared, then the banging on the door happened and didn't ease him. He quickly closed the closet door and retreated into the basement. He locked the door and waited. He slowly scooted back to his daughter and stayed up, the rest of the night.
> Chapter 2: Another Happening
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Ever since that night, he couldn't sleep. The imagining of seeing the Cult of Laughters atrocities was scary to him. It was already bad enough that he heard them thumping upstairs, he could hear the light cackles and laughs above him. Being stuck in the darkness was already maddening. The fact that his daughter hasn't stirred or move all night was completely bewildering to him. He tried getting some sleep, right beside her and holding the hatchet closely.

What felt like weeks of silence, was only hours of this maddening sensation. Arthur woke up to the sound of constant banging. It became louder and apparent that it was on the basements' door. Aurora lightly groaned and the banging continued. He held his daughter and the hatchet frantically as the door gave in. Its hinges busted as the screws lightly bounced on the floor. He shivered as he heard the light steps down the stairs. Only the shadow of a pony stood before him. They only thing threatening was not knowing what house it belonged to. Then a thud and sharp scrape and a flash of light blinded him for a brief moment. He sighed with relief seeing that it was someone from house of Earthborn.

The Appleloosan ranger named Tin; brown coat, black mane, blue eyes had earned the nickname on the account of being the only ranger wearing anything considered armor, escorted them to  traveling caravan. "So...you witnessed the-" Arthur cut him off from finishing his statement.

"Yeah. Well, not entirely. My family and I went out for a picnic earlier. We decided to head back to our village when a storm started blowing in. After that, I, pretty much stayed in my basement the entire time."

Tin looked at him with a bit of disbelief, "that's it? There's gotta be more than that." Arthur shook his head. "Come Arthur, what else happened? Where's the Miss?" Arthur quietly recollected what happened to her.

"I'd...rather not talk about it." Tin nodded, he'd seen Arthurs expression too many time before. He'd seen his expression on lone survivors that suffered at other houses hands, or he saw it on prisoners who knew what was in store for them.

Once Arthur had calmed down, Tin told him that they had received reports of a nearby village being raided and Earthborn forces weren't able to repeal the attack. Tin had told Arthur that House of Stormwing was pushing its forces to the south and west, pushing into both Earthborn and Everfree territory. 

The Caravan was small and lightly guarded. It was a mixture of Appleloosan Rangers and conscripted Earthborn, survivors of previous raids. Arthur had heard word that they were making way to New Ponyville, the heaviest fortified city within the Heartland until the train was ready to haul them off in the Frontier where Eartborn maintained most of its control.

The Earthborn Caravan went untouched, and undetected as they went further south. They decided to take shelter in the old town of Ponyville. Most of the town was flooded out and sunk back into the earth. However, most of the towns under-city was safe from the flooding. There was a series of tunnels and underground shelters during the higher times before Equestria divided. They took shelter under the city, away from Stormwings' silent attacks and gazing eyes.

As night fell, they sealed up the doors, good and tight. Even went as far as booby trapping them. For once in the last several days, Arthur was able to find some peace with his daughter. The night continued with its calming silence, until a howl echoed in the darkness. They may have sealed it off, they never thought of inhabitants still living in the under city. Everyone gathered up in one of the larger chambers and waited. As cannoneers readied their shots, a foul wind came about. It smelled of mildew and swamp water. The groans grew louder and louder as a loud thud sounded.

In the distance, they saw yellow eyes and the smell continued becoming more present. A few flies flew in their direction and the groan slowly turned into a roar. As the steps and moans became louder, the cannoneers fired at the Swamp Shambler, later to be revealed in low light, continued advancing towards them. They continued firing their shots at it, with wave after wave of shots, the creature continued advancing towards them. After somepony threw a bomb, it finally fell. Only, more yellow eyes pierced out of the darkness and more low roars sounded off. "Its a herd of Shamblers!" A higher ranking pony shouted as more cannoneers took defensive formation.

Arthur, Aurora and several others retreated to the center of the formation. Cannoneers and Battle Buckers stood at the ready. The Shamblers continued their slow march towards them. Gunshots rang and flashes of light and smoke slowly filled the air. The Shamblers continued absorbing everything that was thrown at them. They eventually fell, one by one in either piles of muck or ash from last minute adjustments to throw fire bombs rather than shrapnel. Although victory belonged to Tin and his cohort, victory, also belonged to Everfree. 

The small band of warriors were defenseless. Almost all of their shots and bombs had been used up. The only thing they had left were their buck knifes, lassoes, extra rope, and a few bags of powder. Although they were resourceful, it still wasn't enough. So, they took turns doing the watch, they weren't fully awake and alert. This worried Tin, a lot. After long deliberation, they decided to continue further south towards New Ponyville.

The caravan continued their travel to New Ponyville. They were somewhat safe, for now.
> Chapter 3: The Settling
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Arthur felt relieved once on the inner walls of Ponyville. He'd hear so much about the place: the streets were made of silver, the apples were fresh as if they had been picked right off the tree, even the hay was supposedly soft and fulfilling. Well, it wasn't, spot on per say.

As they entered the city, the streets were made of cobblestone, and covered in various leavings and trailings. There was even some blood trickling down in the gutters. The apples, seemed fresh. Arthur gave the vendor a bit and took an apple, he bit into it and it was sweet. He gave him a few more bits and his daughter quietly ate them. There wasn't hay at the time unfortunately so he couldn't test that. 

However, the survivors were welcomed. Tin personally took Arthur and his daughter to his place. The home was, nice for a sergeant ranger. There he saw a mare getting a table ready. Her coat was as white as snow, yet her mane was the color of gold. She looked up at them with emerald eyes. She was rather relieved when she saw Tin. She looked over and said, "who are you?"

Before Arthur could get a word in, Tin nervously chuckled, "yeah…they were, survivors of a raid. I know, you usually don't like me bringing strangers in. But, he's a real nice guy. Plus, I figured a couple of days here, I'll get him situated a place of his own and, we'd be fine with that, okay?" He had a rather nervous smile. 

She lightly smiled and said, "of course…as long as your not escapading with that troublemaking pegasus, I'm fine." She looked over and saw little Aurora stuffing her face with apples, "are you hungry sweetie?" 

She giggled and feverishly nodded. "Well then…My name is Ebony. Our home, is your home…now, how bout you three get washed up now, I'll have dinner ready when your out."

Several minutes later, Tin walked down and sat next to Ebony. Arthur finished drying his mane and helped Aurora dry hers. Arthur and Aurora ate as if it was there last meal. Arthur looked up and apologized for their mannerisms. 

Ebony waved it off and completely sympathized with them. Aurora started falling asleep at the table. Arthur sighed and asked where the bedroom was. Ebony guided him there and got Aurora settled in. He sighed happily. When he returned, both Ebony and Tin had, rather gaunt looks to them. 

"Is, is everything alright?" He asked. Ebony replied, "is…is your daughter, a unicorn?" "Yes, yes she is. Just like her mother…why do you ask?" Ebony nudged Tin.

"Well…its…Earthborns are required by law, to dispose of any unicorn, by any means necessary. Even if, it meant dehorning them…" Arthur thought he was out of the woods, guess he was wrong. 

"Come on guys, she's just a filly. She hasn't even been enrolled into the arts. Please. We've been through enough. She watched her mother die at the hands of a griffon. She saw her filly friends and neighbors being mauled by Pegasai beserkers. She even saw her childhood friend being carried off by the Laughing Dead…we've, been through enough. Please. Don't do this to us. She's…she's all that I have left. Please."

Ebony and Tin gave into Arthur's plea. They'd help them either out of town if things got out of control, or would help them get seen into the council. They tried the council first. Tin told him they'd try that first thing in the morning. He thanked them for the dinner and their generous hospitality. For once, Arthur was able to put his mind at ease about everything that's happened.

Arthur quietly laid in his bed and as he heard Aurora's snore, so much was going through his head. He had no idea how he was gonna get his life back together. Everything he had known, was in that village. His friends, loved ones, and his very life was back there. The thought of how he was going to get his art business and support his daughter was gonna be hard.

He wasn't a pegasus and couldn't fly to Pegastapolis or the now heavily fortified capital of Cloudsdale. He wasn't a unicorn and couldn't open up business in Manehattan. Even if Arthur and Aurora could make the trip, the unicorn community doesn't have a high tolerance for earth ponies. At least from what he heard. He heard Aurora whimper a bit and felt a tug on the sheets, he looked over and saw Aurora trying to get in the bed.

Arthur leaned over and gently hoisted her up, "what's wrong babe?"

Aurora snuggled into him, "I miss mommy." Arthur quietly sighed and gently patted her mane, "I miss her too sweetie. I miss her too." Aurora fell asleep in his arms and the two of them slept soundly that night. Feeling a bit safer now.
> Chapter 4: The Waiting
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Morning had came, Tin was heading down to the office while Arthur and Aurora slept soundly. Ebony was busy remaking breakfast for when they got up. The smell of pancakes and tea was enough to waken Aurora. She slowly crawled out of bed and quietly trotted to the kitchen. Ebony smiled and greeted her as she crawled onto the chair. Ebony started making hay bacon strips, now that was enough to waken Arthur up.

Ebony greeted Arthur as he lightly kissed Aurora on the forehead. She quietly returned to eating her meal as Ebony made his. As soon as she let the plate down, Tin walked in with a rather pleased look on his face. "What's up Tin?" Asking as he took a sip of Orange Juice. Tin hung his hat on the rack, "the local council is willing to hear your case. They want us there before lunch." Arthur thanked Tin. 

He may not know it, but Tin made a rather good friend that morning. After breakfast, Tin got Arthur and Aurora some clothes to walk around the town. Tin escorted them about the town, showing them the local market. Where there Arthur got a decent saddle for Aurora, and some toys for her to play with. Arthur even got himself a saddle bag and a few other things. Tin showed them the local delicacy, their cider.

Tin, Arthur and Aurora were having fun. Tin may be used to the hustle and bustle of the big city, but Arthur and Aurora took it in like drinking water. Enjoying the sights and sounds, even though Arthurs wife lingered on the back of his mind. He'd flash back to seeing Roses' sympathetic, saddening blue eyes. He snapped out of his daze and quickly caught up with them. It was about an hour till noon and Tin escorted them to the Town Center. It was rather large, and a statue dedicated to the apple family. It was being cleaned by dehorned unicorns.

Aurora stayed closely to Arthur, feeling unfriendly eyes on her. Arthur kept her calm and collected, assuring her that they were just being very protective of her. She nodded lightly. Tin had made Arthur wait at the front door while he went in. A pegasus trotted up beside him. 

She had a dark blue mane, light purple coat and amber eyes, "what're you here for?" 

"Oh…to, I guess get a plea?" Arthur said.

"A plea? A plea for what?" Before she could say another word, she saw Aurora. The mare lightly nodded, understanding why he was there. Tin peeked his head out, "they're ready for you." 

As he walked in, he halted him. "She can't be in here. Twister…will you, watch her please?" He looked back at the mare and she said yes. Arthur reassured Aurora that he was gonna be gone for awhile and that the mare was gonna look after her. Twister made a promise to Aurora. She gently took her by the hoof and led her across the way to some indoor play center.

Twister tried keeping Auroras' attention as Arthur went in. Arthur entered a rather dark room. The ponies ahead of them were wearing hoods. "What's, with the-" Tin quickly interrupted him. "Its to keep their identities a secret." Arthur nodded, not asking anymore. Tin made his report about their traveling and how they did their best to clean up what was left of Stormwing and repeal a sweep team from the Laughing Mare. Tin continued reporting on how he found them, scared and terrified and took them in. He went on and told his superior that she was a unicorn. He continued on and then the council asked for Arthurs' side.

Arthur went into detail about what had happened and that he had no prior knowledge to the raid of his isolated village. He continued telling them what had happened. The councils heads turned as if looking to one another and a mare said, "thank you for your cooperation. We need time to reach a verdict, specially given your circumstances…we haven't had, anything like happen before. Nor do we have any records on hand that even come close to the situation. So please, take your time. While your here in New Ponyville, you are under Tin's care, and take this," she gestured Arthur to come.

He nervously walked up, "don't feel so frightened…we are friendly. No need to fear us." She handed them two arm bands. "These will keep you safe. As long as you and your daughter were these, no harm will come to you." She then gave him some food coupons and fresher clothes. Arthur kneeled and thanked them. The council replied and told them that they were dismissed. Tin escorted him out of the chamber. Arthur looked out and saw Twister playing with Aurora. She looked over and Aurora galloped to him. She acted as if he wasn't seen in years. Arthur lightly held her. He saw Twister gathering her belongings up. "She's a real sweet filly. She'll be fine." Arthur lightly cried as he slipped the band on her. He thanked her and Tin for their help.

Aurora took a small nap as they walked. "So…that mare, is she your-" 

"No, nothing like that. We were in basic together. I went into the Appleloosan Rangers, she went in the Pegasai Auxiliary. We talk whenever time permits." Tin went into some detail about his time with her and basic training.

"She's lovely." Arthur suggested as the two of them stared at her, watching her sway her hips. "Yeah, she is Artie…she is lovely." 

Tin took Arthur back to his place and the three enjoyed lunch with Ebony. They enjoyed their second day feeling fearless and secure. The group had a picnic, got aquatinted with their neighbors, and continued exploring New Ponyville. Night came, and once more, Aurora and Arthur slept with ease.
> Chapter 5: The Bargain
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	It had been a few days since his trial. Although calm and collected on the surface, he was terrified on the inside. He had used his food coupons and it seemed most of the ponies respected both him and his daughter. Even the other mothers let his daughter play with their fillies after hearing his heavy hearted story. Arthur continued enjoying his time getting aquatinted the other ponies. Tin casually trotted up to him. He whispered in his ear and he perked up a bit. He asked Ebony to take Aurora home when she was done. She nodded lightly, then Tin and Arthur quickly ran to the Town Center. Tin guided him to the grand chamber. There, the council seated and then a voice boomed, "all rise for the Matron Granny Smith!" A few ponies risen and displayed their Earthborn patriotism.

Arthur quickly mimicked what every other pony was doing. They all sat down and Arthur was rather fidgety. The elder lowered its hood and looked at him. "Please…don't fear us, my child. You are in good hoofs," he sighed with relief and thanked her. She replied back. She took her seat in the center. "Now…I've, come to understand you have a daughter, is that right Mr. Lights?" 

Arthur nodded, "yes, your Matronness." She lightly laughed, "please…call me Granny." "Very well, Granny," Arthur started to feel more relaxed, "but yes, I do have a daughter." 

Granny Smith had a inquisitive expression on her face, "she's a unicorn, is she not?" "Yes, that's, correct, Granny Smith." Arthur said as few low murmurs broke the silence. 

"Now…" she sighed heavily, "usually. We take the unicorn and dehorn them…but, given the fact that, she's your only living relative, and that she hasn't shown any signs of magic, at least according to your testament…" She took a light breath and drank some water, she then continued. "And the fact she's a filly as well…we've, never encountered a case in which we've had a filly unicorn…All recording of the de-hornings show that they were at least young teens to adults. We've deliberated, and here's what were gonna do…we, we've come to an agreement. We won't dehorn your daughter."

Arthur sighed with relief, "but…" Granny Smith continued. "We will be keeping a watchful eye on her…and, were willing to make a deal. If you serve the Applelossan Rangers, under Tin's command. You will have permanent residence here in Ponyville and your daughter will be untouchable." 

Arthur was about to say something but Tin lightly tapped his hoof, Arthur kept his tongue in check. "I know…what your about to say. Applelossan Rangers are usually herders turned warriors. However given your circumstances once more, Tin tells his superiors that your very observant. A key trait to a Ranger…" 

Arthur gently raised his hoof. Tin sighed and the murmurs continued, even a laugh and chuckle came about. "Yes, Arthur." He then spoke, "where, will my daughter be during my time of service?" 

"A vaild question…" Granny Smith said as she took a sip of water, "she, will be under Ebony's care during your time of service. You can come and see your daughter whenever time permits it." Arthur took everything in and was rather thankful for what they did. "Well…where do I sign up," Arthur sounding a bit more confident.

Grannys' smile lightly grew. "Good. I'm glad your took our offer so, hastily." 

Arthur replied, "well…if serving you gives my daughter protection, I would've done it a long time ago, had I known, what was going to happen to my wife." 

Granny Smith nodded, "very well…let the record show that, Arthur Lights, swears his allegiance to the House of Earthborn. In return, his daughter is to be remained untouchable and protected. Let the record also show that Aurora Lights, will be in the care of Ebony Castel. Court is now adjourned." She slammed her hoof on the sounding block. 

The bailer came by and said, "Arthur. You will have to report to Tin's superior. He'll show you the way."

Arthur and Tin were ever so relieved. Arthur eagerly followed as Tin took him to the military office. Tin walked in and went into an office. A voice bellowed, "come in Arthur." Arthur nervously walked in. He then saw a stallion: muscular, dark gray coat, one amber eye and a white eye, and snow white mane. He had a scar over his dead eye. 

"So…your the special case, are you not?" Arthur lightly nodded, in fear of his life. "Do I frighten you boy?" Arthur nodded, "well…don't be. I have three my own. Two sons and a daughter. My sons are in service, so, I understand what it means to have safety for your child…I'm your Superior, Iron Hoof Sr. If you need something and Tin isn't around, you come to me, understand." 

Arthur nodded, "very good." Iron gave him the Appleloosan manual, a time slip to get fitted for a uniform, and a hat. "Take pride in your job Artie…you only get it once." Arthur nodded and said, "may I be excused sir." 

"One more thing," Iron interjected, "we ship out two days from now. Twenty Thirty hours." Arthur seemed rather puzzled by this, "he means the train leaves at eight thirty, we have to be there before then." Tin said and Arthur nodded, "you don't talk much, do you Artie?" Iron asked as Arthur nodded. "At least you got your hoof in the right direction...your excused now."

Arthur nodded and quietly walked off. "Close the door Tin…" he closed the door, "take a seat." Tin took a seat. "I'm only doing this only because you requested it. If this was for some street rat bums of a group of friends and pals you hang out with, forget it. He's lucky. I only allowed the request because I sympathize with him because I have children of my own...understand." 

"Yes sir." 

"Now go on, get out of here." Tin gave him a salute and Iron returned to filing paperwork.
> Chapter 6: Shipping out
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	The next day, Arthur went to get fitted for a uniform. Lucky his size was pretty average. He was fitted out with leather chaps and duds. The outfit had been recycled and reused time and time again. He could even feel the different textures of each fabric. Arthur was finally fitted for a saddle bag. Once fitted, he struggled keeping balance. "I'm sure you'll figure it out by then," the seamstress said. She handed him a receipt and sent him on his merry way.

Arthur quietly walked out, he caught some of the wandering eyes staring at them. They lightly smiled back and even saluted him. He lightly chuckled and saluted back. He even saw some foal playing nearby, they stopped and saluted to him, once again, Arthur replied to them. Arthur slowly made his way back to the house. Some ponies actually started treating him differently. When he went home to fetch his daughter, they didn't say a thing. There wasn't any real sense of danger or being threatened. They were as the council said, untouchable. Arthur tried spending most of the time he had with his daughter. He knew she wouldn't understand why he was leaving. He just hoped that she was there when he returned.

Morning came. He quickly got dressed and tried waking Tin up. "Hey. We need to get going," Arthur nudged Tin. "What are you talking about?" "We gotta leave for the train." Tin looked at the clock. "That's in the evening. Not in the morning ya foal head. Now go back to sleep. Were gonna need it." Arthur, felt a bit dumb afterwords. He quietly trotted back downstairs, undressed and crawled back into bed. He quickly fell asleep. Aurora felt a bit saddened, and crawled into bed with him. Tin was already up and about with Ebony. Arthur had slept a bit in, passed breakfast time. Ebony went to check on them. She happily sighed at the sight. She grabbed a camera and took a few photos, knowing that it was gonna help him out.

Arthur slowly woke up at his daughters rustling. He lightly chuckled at seeing her messy mane. She eagerly galloped to the kitchen, eager as ever to start breakfast. Arthur was still trying to wake up, slipping on his uniform. "You know you don't have to wear that thing, right?" Tin suggested as he got himself some coffee. "I know," Arthur said, "but I like it." Tin merely rolled his eyes, "your remind me of my days in basic." "Your not that old, are you?" "I'd, like to think so," Tin lightly chuckled as he showed a few grey hairs in his mane.

Aurora told Arthur what she wanted to do today. She wanted to go to the park, see the small show, and various other activities. Arthur chuckled lightly and calmed her down. He assured her that they were going out today, but they couldn't do it all. She seemed, rather gloomy. Arthur lightly kissed her and promised her, that they would do everything together.

"Can we do everything else tomorrow daddy?" Aurora asked her dad. Arthur, seemed a bit nervous, "well…daddy, found a job." "Can we go after work dad?" 

"Its…not that kind of work," Arthur was having a hard time explaining the situation to Aurora.

Ebony stepped in, "your daddy's going out to protect you." Arthur looked at her and Ebony nodded. "Yeah…he's, going out with Tin to make the world a better place for you." Aurora, appeared to not, completely understand it. Arthur continued her statement, "daddy's gonna make the world a better place for you, and your little friends to play in…alright?" 

Aurora got the hint and smiled. Arthur wanted to curse Ebony outright for lying to her, but, it was the lesser of two evils. He didn't know what was gonna happen to her, but Aurora was happy and gonna have a new life in New Ponyville.

The sun was setting, and both Arthur and his daughter returned to the Castel residence. Aurora had her face painted and Arthur was carrying a stuffie she won at the small fair today. She was, exhausted. She was dozing off at the dinner table even before dinner was even started. Arthur chuckled lightly and took her off to bed. He sighed happily seeing her sound asleep, but was worried when morning came. He lightly kissed her and covered her up. Ebony could see a rather disappointed look on his face. She quietly called him over.

"Here, take these." She handed him a stuffed envelope. Arthur was a bit confused, "trust me. It'll help." Arthur slowly opened it and looked at them, "they're photos of you and Aurora. It helped Tin during his rough time in basic. I figure you could use them as well." Arthur, couldn't express himself. He was on the verge of tears and hugged her tightly. 

He muttered, "than...thank you, Ebony. I...I don't know, what I would've done without you or your husband. " 

"He's a good colt," Ebony continued as she refilled his drink, " he's a good friend to. As long as you look out for his back, we'll look out for yours too, alright." Arthur wiped the tears away as he got himself ready for his last home cooked meal.

Arthur finished his meal and some pony knocked on the door. Ebony answered it and it was Tin, "time to ship off" he said. Arthur, wasn't excited for all this. It was happening ever so fast, one minute he was gonna be laughing mare cannon fodder, the next, a complete stranger took him in and gave both him and his daughter food and board. Arthur grabbed his hat and looked at the back room one last time, hearing the light snores from Aurora. Ebony hid the photo's in his saddle bag, "no pony will find them. Trust me...and don't worry, she's in good hoofs." She helped him and waved them off.

Tin continued his way to the train station. Arthur, was lagging behind a bit. He hid his face from those at night, and cried. Tears rolled down his face. His hoofs dragged on the cobblestone. Tin urged him to hurry up. As he was about to turn and yell, he stopped and could tell Arthur was stressed out. 

"Its alright mate...she's in good hands. Don't worry though, my wife wouldn't even let the council touch her till her last breath..." Arthur was still silent, "you still have the photo's right?" Arthur lightly nodded. Tin smiled and tried cheering him up, "then don't worry. You still have a face of hers to see. Even those happy faces she makes. She has a large smile, like you." 

Arthur, lightly chuckled. "There now. That's the Arthur I got to know. Now let's hustle, we wouldn't wanna miss our ride now do we?" Arthur smiled and wiped the tears away, "yeah...I'd like to make at least one good impression." Tin lightly nudged him.

Arthur and Tin then went from a light trot into a gallop, racing each other to the train station.
> Chapter 7: Stranded
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Arthur quietly enjoyed the train ride to Fillydelphia, admiring his photo's before they were shipped out. It was too dangerous to travel on foot, especially with reports of Laughing dead trotting about the open. Even worse, word reached the house that Stormwing were continuing their push into earthborn territory. They were told that they were trying to attack Fillydelphia and were gonna try and keep that position. It was the perfect position between two houses without having to send troops in. Plus, Earthborn wanted to try using the train to advance troops across the heartland and frontier. 

Trying to take the diamond dog tunnels may have been the safer option, however the activity was a bit hazy in terms of whether or not the diamond dog activity was true, or they were just false rumors spread to keep any pony out of the tunnels. Whatever the case, Applejack enjoyed the train rides before her friends separated. If any pony could utilize the train and its tracks to their full potential, it would be her. Tin returned with their meal and just as Arthur started eating, "I've gotten word that there's been Laughing Mare activity around the Filly area." 

"So?" Arthur said as he took a bite from a ration, "they've always been trying to get inside Filly's walls. Those walls are as thick as mountains, at least from what I've heard. Its the next heavily fortified city next to Appleloosa." 

"Here's the real kicker Artie. From my superiors, I've been told that the laughing mare has a new unit...one that was involved in your villages raid." 

Arthur quickly gobbled down the ration and his full attention. "Ya know how you told me you heard that weird carnival music? Well, the sound you heard was from the Macabre Music Machine. Your lucky you didn't go mad from it. Anyways, our Pegsai Auxiliary has been telling us reports that large masses of dead corpses have been gathering around Filly...they believe, the Mare is using the dead corpses as some form of, battling ram, or something. The Pegasus scout tells us there is a rather foul smell..." Arthur was, rather puzzled by his story. 

"But Tin..." Arthur paused for a moment to word his statement, "how, how do the Pegasai know that its the mass of corpses there smelling instead of like, smelling some sort of swamp pocket?" "Here's the funny thing Artie." He pulled out a small folder and showed him different reports, one particular. "This report right here, is a personal account. He was actually able to get close enough to see this massive pile of corpses."

Arthur looked, a bit skeptical. "Something wrong?" Tin asked.

"Yeah...don't you think if somepony got close enough as the report says, don't you think he would've been able to tell what support is there to better further our aide?" Tin was, rather surprised by this notion. "Ya know...good point. That sounds like you have a bit of Earthborn in ya." 

"Well, what can I say, when you have something worth protecting," Arthur pulled a photo of them having their faces painted, "your true colors show." 

"Well..." Tin continued after he took a bite of his ration, "your right though. However, there is this other report listing what support he's seen come in and out of that area. We have a feeling, at least my superiors, say that more machines are going in rather than coming out...all that's come out are those Macabre-" the machine jerked and came to a sudden halt. "Sergeant Tin and Lights! Your needed up front!" They gathered their reports and made their way up front.

They reached the cabin and the conductor named Sparky said, "some ponies destroyed the tracks, the train can't go any further and we just sent a Pegasus to Filly to see if we can get any help." Arthur pulled a spyglass out and Tin said, "well, how far is the Filly from here Spark?" 

"Well..." he looked out and squinted a bit, "about half a days journey." "Well Artie...see anything?" Tin asked as Arthur looked through the other side, "I don't see anything. I say we send a few pegasai down the tracks and see how far the Filly is from here-"

Tin interrupted, "we don't have time for that. I say we just pack up and roll out, we'll have better-" "Tin! I don' t know if you've noticed, but the fog is starting to pick up. So either we stay in the car and hope that messenger returns, or we go out and risk ever ponies lives! I don't know if you know this, but did I mention that the raid several days ago started out like this, a fog rolled in, then the laughing dead came in-" 

"Okay okay okay!" Tin gathered his nerves and tried to remain calm, "I get it Artie...I'll tell the guys to, buckle down and get loaded, it may be awhile."
> Chapter 8: The Skirmish
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	The night continued with every pony on guard. They had their hoof cannons and bombs at the ready. Tin, Arthur, and a few others tried planning things out incase helped didn't come. No matter what they planned, they always managed to come back to abandoning the train and traveling on foot. There was the constant sound of swishing above them, as if wings were being flapped. One of the sergeants said that they sent all the Pegasai Auxiliary to Fillydelphia.

"Hand me that double barrel Tin." Tin handed him the double barreled cannon. Arthur slowly peeked his head out, "I don't see anything..." He ducked back in and walked out the car. Tin urged him back inside as he climbed in top of the roof. He lit the fuse and continued watch. The flapping continued and the fog cleared out in front of him. A pegasus landed, "point that in the other direction you fool!" A mare trotted up as she situated her wings. Her name was Jade: she was a light red pegasus with a teal colored mane, with bright, yellow eyes. "Oh. My bad..." Arthur chuckled lightly as he snuffed out the fuse. "Well Jade, what did the upper brass have to say about out situation?" Arthur asked as she sighed as she removed her helmet, "not good. Let's get inside."

They went back inside and she informed them of what they sent. She debriefed them that they are to hold tight at all costs. Even Supreme Commaner Applejack ordered it. "Fuck what she says man!" "Hey. Keep your tone man. That's the last thing we-" "Fuck you too man! I'm gettin' off this tin box whether you like it or not!" He stripped himself of his gear. 

As a young mare tried fetching him, Tin stopped her. "Forget...he won't make it out...I'll give it ten." Several minutes later, a scream was heard. "Told ya, now pay up." Several ponies dug into their pockets and started handing Tin various items, most of them were bits, or meal rations.

Arthur and Jade started the third watch. "So...Tin tells me you have a daughter back in NP?" 

"Yup," Arthur said as he holstered his rifle. Jade then asked "may I ask how old she is?" 

"She's three," Arthur replied as he continued keeping watch. "I also heard she's ah-" Arthur interrupted Jade. "Yeah. Unicorn. Her mothers side." 

"Sorry to hear about what happened to her," Jade said as she readied her small cannon. "Well...at least she died peacefully. And happily too." 

"So, how did you sign into this," Arthur asked. 

"Family tradition, actually." 

"Cool." 

"How bout you Artie?" Arthur, looked like she struggled with it, but finally came with a answer, "bargaining chip." 

"Bargaining-ohhh, never mind," Jade said slowly realizing the rumor about him were true. "Its cool. Some conversation is better then none, right?" Jade lightly chuckled. They spent the entire night keeping watch. They weren't bothered by it. Morning came and off in the distance he saw several pegasai approaching.

He sighed with relief and looked into his spyglass, "well, at least they got here like-" he stopped in mid sentence as he stared at their direction. "What is it Artie?" Arthur slowly reached for her hoof, "get...in the car, slowly." 

"What is it?" Just as she asked, a pegasus swooped down. Arthur jerked Jade and they braced the roof top. All Arthur saw was a female Pegasus, and wings that glistened in the morning light. The mare giggled maniacally and the two went inside with great speed.

"Its Stormwing!" Jade shouted, "bastards must've been the one who destroyed the tracks!" Arthur punched Tin in the arm, "I warned you not to send the entire Auxiliary out, foal head!" Tin merely glared at Arthur, "doesn't matter now. Alert the troops! And ready arms!" His ordered echoed throughout the various cars. 

"Well Tin, at least were inside right?" With Arthur trying to sound optimistic as they readied their arms. "That's, not always a good thing Artie." "What do you mean Tin?" Arthur asked Tin as he was reading a sniper cannon.

As he loaded a round, "have you ever stomped on a can of food?" "Well, in a hurry once...why?" "Kinda imagine that, except with ponies as the food substitute." 

"Stormwing doesn't have siege weapons like that though...don't they?" Another commander looked over, hearing their conversation. "You ever seen a Keythong." Arthur seemed a bit puzzled by that word. "Its like a griffon, only without wings," as the commander continued Arthur zoned out. He quickly realized that he'd encounter one back at his village.

Arthur then said, "I've...I've seen one of those. It tried to eat me and my daughter." The commander in question was rather surprised. "And you survived? Damn. Then that means it was just playing with you. Your lucky to survive, I watch my mate get mauled by-" 

Tin interrupted him, "enough of that Greenshift! Last thing I need is my Spymaster shakin' up by your story telling!"

Arthur merely pulled his spyglass, "see anything Artie?!" Watching him looking out. "Well...I don't see them, or anything. Perhaps someone should go out and look." The other commanders all eyed each other, then eyed to Tin and quickly shifted to Artie.

"Oh no. Your not-" Tin paused and quickly realized that they wanted to send Artie out. "He's a greenhorn guys, he hasn't even gotten his hoofs dirty ye-"

Another sergeant cut him off, "well its about damn time he's gotten them dirty! No pony should call themselves a ranger if they haven't even gotten their hoofs dirty! Send him out Tin!" 

"I can't-" Tin tried pleading. But his plea fell on death ears. "I'm ordering you, Sergeant Commander Castel to send Sergeant Spymaster Lights, out now!"

Tin's hoofs were tied. "Sorry Artie...orders are, orders." Arthur was nervous, lightly shaking a bit. 

Tin then said, "at least you got the double barrel cannon Artie. That's gotta count for something right. You can always double tap," trying to reassure him a bit. Arthur, lightly shrugged, holding the double barreled rifle. "Go on. You can do it."

Arthur took a deep breath, cocked the hammers back and cautiously trotted out.
> Chapter 9: Fight fight fight!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Arthur stood on the railing, looking above him and behind him. Everything was clear. Arthur cautiously stepped out. Checking both corners and up above. Everything was clear. Then there was the sound of thumping, off in the distance. As he looked towards the sun, he saw a figure off in the distance. He was blinded by the light and the thumping sound continued to get louder and louder.

As he looked down, the figure was clear: it was a laughing dead. It approached him faster and faster, manically laughing as parts of it flew off. Arthur panicked and fired the first round, it was a few feet away from. He sighed with relief. He heard tapping on the glass and turned around. The ponies inside were freaking out, their shouts and hollers were mumbled. While his attention was towards them, the dead mare slowly tried pulling itself remaining bits together. A young mare pulled the window down and yelled, "double tap idiot! Double tap!" She frantically shouted and pointed behind him. He turned and saw the dead pony trying to get up. Arthur quickly fired the second shot in the head.

The mare head blew into chunks, splattering against the ground and few bits of chunk got on him. He frantically reloaded as the ponies inside the car cheered and praised Artie for his first kill. Arthur, nervously smiled and chuckled. The thumps sounded more apparent. They sounded as if they were fast trotting and continued. Arthur looked out and saw the trotting dead. Lines and lines of undead ponies advancing towards the train. Arthur frantically got back onto the rail and tried getting inside. Tin opened the door and congratulated him on his first kill. Arthur pointed outside still a bit pail and shivering. Tin looked out and they saw the massive wave of dead ponies.

Tin shouted orders to ready arms and to fire on his command. His orders echoed as each pony shouted the order. Cannoneers aimed down their sights and readied their punks. Buckers went onto the roof and got their bombs ready. The buckers were three to five pony teams: one actually bucked the bombs, the other lit the fuses, and the other one to three were cannoneers supporting them as they reloaded. The laughing dead continued their trot, slowly starting to laugh. Their laughs continued getting louder and louder. The other ponies were slowly getting shaken up and echoed in their minds.

Some of the rangers even started firing against Tin's orders. Tin tried to regain control as every other pony continued firing. Arthur went above and ordered the Buckers to hold their fire. They were nervous and terrified. Arthur could tell that they were nervous, even saw a few of them trembling. Watching some of their knees buckle, acting like they wanted to bolt in the opposite direction. He tried calming the Buckers around him as Tin and the others tried to regain their control over the cannoneers below. The dead continued their slow, yet ever haunting and terrifying march towards them. Arthur ordered them to fire. The Bucklers aimed and fired their bombs. Each one hitting its target, and blowing it to bits. A wind blew in their direction, the smoke and smell of burnt flesh was nauseating and sickening.

The charred and burnt flesh didn't bother the dead ponies, and continued their endless march towards the train. Through the small craters and even trotting over their own dead. Arthur pulled a moleskin notebook and quickly took note of it. The constant firing and bombardment of metal and fire eventually came to a halt. The dead had stopped. Every cannoneer and bucker got their rounds ready. Even Arthur got his double barreled ready. It was quiet. After long silence, a small sound of joy came out. Eventually, there were series of cheers and shouts out of the cars.

Arthur himself felt excited about their first victory. He was excited for his own personal victory. The officers and Jade below celebrated. Arthur and the other ponies up top retreated back down below. The Pegasai from Filly finally came, and the earth ponies were hot on their trail. They large pack of stallions were dragging new sets of tracks, and quickly got to work on them. Quickly driving each spike into the dirt and laying them down perfectly. After a couple hours of working, the rail workers retreated to the train and it slowly started back up. As the smoke rose and the wheels slowly clicky-clanked, they relaxed and enjoyed their safe trip to Fillydelphia. Arthur cuddled up to Jade and fell asleep in her arms. Tin enjoyed the sight of it, seeing him happy and relaxed under Jades touch, watched her wings slowly drape over him.
> Chapter 10: Another Plea
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	As the train approached Fillydelphia, the watchers up top ordered the large, heavy gate up. It slowly rose as the train made it was through and came to a slow stop. Once inside, the gate was released and quickly fell back down. Tin gently nudged Arthur and Jade, "were in Filly. Ya'll might wanna look presentable." They both quickly woke up and lightly blushed at each others sight, with their arms wrapped around one another.

The trio got out and made way to their barracks. On their way there, a few generals waited inside the train station and flagged them down. The tired trio slowly walked by them, "yes sir..." 

One of the generals gave Tin a glare, "you look like you've been through hell son." 

Arthur chuckled a bit, "you have, no, idea." 

The same general named Lindt looked at him, "and who are you supposed to be?" 

Tin interjected, "sorry. General Lindt, this is my Sergeant Spymaster Artie. Artie this is one of our many General, Omar Lindt. He's stationed here in Filly. Each general is stationed on one of the heavily fortified towns-" 

Omar interrupted him, "yes yes, we get it. Get back to the barracks and wash up. I expect you three to be spick and spam, and ready to make a report. Understand." They all nodded, "good. As you were," the four generals trotted off, "talk about making good impressions Artie?" Jade lightly chuckling as Tin nudged him.

Arthur rolled his eyes, "let's just wash up. I don't wanna smell like the dead still." They chuckled lightly and quickly retreated to the barracks. They got all washed up as a group of dehorned unicorns cleaned their outfits and gear, under earthborn watch. Arthur sighed with relaxation, feeling the blood come off his coat and the bits of pony meat under his hoofs. He quietly walked out, drying his mane off and asking for assistance with his tail. Another unicorn came and quickly dried his tail off. He felt bad that unicorns lost the thing that made them so different from all ponies, much like a pegasus having its wings cut off.

Arthur got some help putting his uniform on and met up with Jade, Tin, and the other commanders. A messenger from Applejack came in. The mare presented a letter to Tin, "well...looks like Applejack and a few others want us to debrief them on what happened..." 

He handed the note back to the mare and she quickly trotted off. "Times a wastin', let's get goin' then." The small group hastily finished their breakfast and made a rather quick trot to Town Hall.

Once inside, the same mare that sent them the message guided them to the room. Arthur was about to go in with Tin, but a guard halted him, "one at a time sir." Arthur looked over to Tin, "its alright. Standard protocol." Tin went in while the others waited outside. As time went on, each general went in, one by one being interviewed. 

Finally Jade and Tin walked out, "they wanna see you now. Meet us back at the barracks, alright." Arthur lightly nodded, "don't fret Artie. You'll be fine." Arthur felt nervous. The guard summoned him and he walked inside.

Arthur quietly trotted inside. A guard guided him to a chair and told him to sit in it. Arthur quietly sat in it and heard several heavy clops against the stone floor. A few lights flickered on and the highest of the highest order were there. Starting with Supreme Master Applejack, General Big Mac, Braeburn, Elder Matron Granny Smith and a few other not so well known faces. 

Applejack spoke, "are you SpyMaster Arthur Lights." "Yes sir." "Are you aware of why your here." "No sir." "Are you sure about that?" "Yes sir." 

Applejack lightly chuckled, "at least your honest with us. Let's get started, for starters, tell us what happened on the train."

Arthur went in vivid detail on his account. Starting with the simple debriefing on what was happening, to the invasion of the laughing dead, to being summoned. "Well now...somepony can take things literal, won't you say Big Mac?" "Yes sir."

"Now then," Applejack finished taking note and Arthur slowly got up. "Where do you think your going," Big Mac said in a rather stern tone. "We...were done, aren't we," Arthur asked. "Not, entirely," Granny Smith said. Arthur quickly took back to his chair and waited.

"We know you have a unicorn daughter...are you aware of our laws Arthur." Arthur replied, "not, all of them, just the important ones." Braeburn had a rather displeased look, "was that supposed to be a joke?!" 

"No sir." Braeburn continued glaring at him, "enough Braeburn." Applejack ordered him. She looked over at Artie, with one eye staring at him. But Arthur felt as if both eyes were glaring at him. "You are aware of what were supposed to do with Unicorns right." 

"Yes sir." 

"Are you also aware of what happens to those who withhold information about the unicorn in question." Arthur was rather puzzled, "I...I don't understand." 

"What's there to understand," Applejack sounded a bit frustrated. "I thought she would be protected, and in return I'd be conscripted," Arthur said, lightly twiddling his hoofs. Applejack said, "who told you that nonsense?!"

Before Arthur could say a word, Granny Smith spoke up. "I told him that. He's the special case I told you about." 

"Right..." giving her own grandmother a stare.

"Let's make one thing clear Arthur. You serve us, we don't serve you." 

"Yes sir. I understand sir." Applejack continued with her statement.

"I need to keep appearances. I need to keep balance and things in check...With regret, we have to proceed with your daughters dehorning." 

"What?" Arthur was trying to comprehend what was happening. He tried pleading with her, "bBut, she told me-" 

"I don't care what she told you! I'm the one in charge here! You take orders from me! You take orders from your superiors! We don't take orders or requests from the likes of you!"

"But sir..." Arthur pleaded, "she's just, a filly. She's not even educated in the magical arts. She couldn't even lift a piece of parchment if her life depended on it. Please, she's all that I have left...what would you do if your only living relative was being threatened? What would you do if Applebloom was on the chopping block?" Applejacks expression slowly hardened.

Everyone else in the room dare not say a thing. Applejack quietly sighed, trying to stay collective and calm. "I suppose, I'd do everything I can to protect her." Arthur was now being aggressive, "fine, you do as your told. Then what do you when you superiors break that promise?" 

She sighed once more, "I suppose, I'd be begging." "And that's what I'm doing," Arthur got off the chair, and kneeled. Pressing his forehead against the floor, tears down his face. "Please. She's all I have left. I don't care if she's surveillance or watched over. I just want her safe, and alive. I don't want her like her mother meeting the same fate, please."

In all honesty, no pony knew what to make of the sight. Most of them would've just shoed him out or had the guards carry them out. Granny Smith slowly got out of her seat, and walked towards him. The Apples kept watch on him as she approached. "Rise up, Arthur." Arthur's watery eyes looked up to see Granny Smiths', and her hoof. "Please rise." 

Arthur took her hoof and quickly rose up, not needing her aid. Granny Smith turned and looked at them. "I know, I once said that magic was the strongest force in the universe...I lied. The strongest force in the universe, is a familys' love for each other. Applejack and Big Mac, you parents risked their lives so you could see a better future. Now, this earth pony. Who through his superiors talk highly of him, who willingly signed on when most would run, is begging for the only family in his life...what would your mother say now Applejack, do you think she just, risked her life for the sake of risking it? Or, did she want you to learn that there are somethings more important than keeping peace and order..."

Applejack quietly sighed, hiding her teary eye. Big Mac, didn't want to cry, his eyes were just a bit watery. Braeburn didn't have a proper response other than being silenced. Applejack collected herself once more, "very well then. Scriber, take note." The scribe got his quill and parchment ready. 

He nodded at her, "let the record show that by the authority of Applejack, Supreme Commander and leader of the Earthborn House...here I say that Arthur Lights, and his daughter..." she quickly looked at her notes. "That his Daughter Aurora Lights, are hereby protected and considered untouchable for the law of dehorning." Big Mac, Braeburn and a few others sighed and gave him unpleasing glares. "I don't want to hear any word of it!" 

Applejack shouted, "I have spoken, and I expect every pony to respect my word understand!" They all quietly said 'yes sir.' "Debriefing, and hearing is adjourned." She smacked her hoof against the sounding block.

Arthur was relieved once more. Granny Smith quietly said, "we'll talk more, later." She dismissed and the guards followed and escorted him out.
> Chapter 11: A Friendly Wager
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Arthur quietly trotted back to the barracks. Still in shock with what just happened. Sure Applejack may have sworn to have her daughter protected. But, ponies can get around words. There's always a loop hole of some sort. He opened the door and saw his friends playing cards. "Hey Art. You in? Its a one bit antie?" He looked at them and shook his head 'no.'

He quietly trotted back to his bunk, as he passed them they quietly talked amongst themselves. "What's up with him?" 

"Don't know," said Jade. "Were you able to stay for his hearing Tin?" He shook his head. "No, they wouldn't let me stay...but, I got a good feeling on what it is." 

"Well..." Joker asked. A stationed Earth Pony: gray coat, blue mane and bright red eyes "Well what?" Tin sounding a bit confused. "You gonna tell us what's up?" 

"I'd rather not, for all our sakes." Toll had a rather scrunched up face. "Come on man. You owe us that much." Tin lightly chuckled, "I'll tell ya what. If I lose this hand, I'll talk. If I win, you all drop it, got it." They quietly nodded in agreement.

In the other room, Arthur quietly looked at the photo's and drew Rose. He quietly sighed, sinking into sadness. It wasn't deep depression, his was just lethargic. He tried cheering himself up on old memories: the first time he met Rose, their first date, kiss, their wedding, and even the birth of Aurora. However, it didn't help like he thought it would. Instead it sank him further into this depression.

Back in the other room, the last card was played. Every pony revealed their hand, Tin won the hand. "...your still not gonna drop this, are you?" They all shook their head. 

Tin sighed deeply, "fine. But you can't tell anyone understand." They nodded in agreement. Then Tin told them of why Arthur could be depressed. He went into details on how he found both him and his daughter locked up in a basement, how he was almost ordered to cut his daughters horn off, and even told them of their brief trial on whether or not his daughter should lose her horn. 

Jade then said, "well...if, she's protected. Why is he still depressed?" "Well...I'd guess that the supreme master wanted the order carried out, against Granny Smiths prior plea," Tin suggested as he reshuffled the deck.

Arthur slowly walked out with his saddle bag packed and ready to go. "Where do you think your going," Tin asked as he dealt the hand, "I'm going home." Arthur said as he took his hat, "what do you mean your going home?" Jade sounded puzzled.

"Simple as that. I'm gonna by a train ticket, go back to Ponyville, retrieve my daughter, and live on the run." Jade ran up and closed the door, Toll went around and sealed the windows and other doors. "You can't do that Artie!" Tin said as he got out of seat, "I don't care. I'm going home, and I'm gonna do just that. I'm sick and tired of my daughter being used as a, plaything for high command." 

"You can't do that though Artie, you'll be considered a traitor." Tin tried pleading him, gesturing to keep his voice down. "I could care less Tin! My wife is gone, these, damn Earthborn elites wanna take away the thing that makes my daughter different from me! Now I'm going back, one way or another whether you like it or not."

Arthur made his way to the door that Jade kept locked and blocked him from it, "Jade, move." "No," she braced the door and even spread her wings. "Jade. Move now, or I'll, make you move," Arthur was starting to get frustrated ."You don't scare me Artie," Jade glared at him.

"Ya know...they say its the quiet ones that you gotta look out for," Tin then interrupted him, "enough! Look Artie, I get it. Your home sick, you wanna see your daughter. I get that. All I'm asking is to wait alright. I'm sure we'll be heading back there soon. Trust me." 

"Why should I trust you Tin? You gonna snitch on me like your ordered to. I read that stupid manual, cover to cover, page to page. I know what protocol is." Tin lightly nudged him back, "no...I know your not gonna run because you know if you do, she's gonna be dead and gone long before you get back...now. Calm down, get some cider and join us for a few cards, it'll put your mind at ease."

Arthur grumbled and threw a light temper-tantrum as he put away his things. "Ten bits says he's frustrated." Everyone just looked at Joker, "I mean in a sexual manner." They merely rolled his eyes at him, "come on. I'm serious. Ten bits, says he'll sleep with someone." 

They all chuckled, "alright...I see your ten and raise you twenty." Toll wanted in, "I got fifty." Jade lightly smirked, "two hundred bits says I get him to sleep with me." The rest of the table was, kind of in shock. 

"I...I thought you were engaged Jade," Tin suggested as he threw a few more bits into the pile. "Fuck that loser. I mean, he's nice and all...but he's just to soft for me." 

Toll said, "and you think Artie isn't." Jade lightly shrugged. "I mean...so what if the colt killed a couple ponies. Big whoop. You don't see me getting tail for that do you?" Toll complained. "You get enough tail as it is, Toll," Joker chuckling as he refilled every ponies cider. "So," Jade continued, "is the bet still on?" They all nodded their heads.

Arthur walked back in, looking a bit calmer. "So...what are we playing? 21? Black Jack, Texas Hold'em-" Tin politely shushed him. "Yes. We're playing 21. Ante is three bits."
> Chapter 12: Personal Space
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	The next day had came and everyone was up and early before the sun came up. Ponies continued their morning like every other morning, however, it pained some to know that their sisters were no longer there to raise or lower the sun and moon. Everyone was at the mess hall eating, Arthur was running a bit late. Arthur hastily rushed in and quickly got his meal together before they closed the kitchen. 

"So, what were you up to?" Tin inquired as Arthur took his seating next to Jade, "oh. I was sending a letter out." 
"A letter out to who?" Jade asked. "My daughter," Arthur said as he took a few napkins.

"Come on, you really think she's that sick missing you?" Arthur quietly sighed and gave Tin a rather unfriendly glare.

"Would you like me to remind you what happened to her...us, rather." Tin merely squinted his eyes, "smart ass." Arthur sighed heavily, "sometimes, its necessary to give a smart ass remark, specially to a question like that one. Considering I was, very detailed and descriptive about what happened." 

Tin sighed sharply, "alright, alright. Forget that I ask." Jade bashed an eye at Arthur, "so...what are you going to do today Artie?" He finished his apple and cleaned his beard, "well, I was gonna go to the armory and get a personal firearm. Seeing as, most officers have one, I figured, why not get one myself." 

Toll and Joker chuckled at his remark. "What's so funny?" Tin, cleared his throat out. "Its just...most ponies don't bother checking out a personal firearm." 

"Why's that?" As Arthur asked,Twister politely asked to sit next to Arthur as well, gently nudging him over and answering his question before Tin could answer. "The reason most ponies don't check out a p-f is because, they usually don't last long enough to get one." 

"I know I will," Arthur replied as he ate his eggs, "well. What makes you so different then," Joker asked bluntly.

Arthur once more sighed, "cause I have a reason to live. I'm not fighting for just Earthborn, I'm fighting for my daughter as well..." Arthur gave him a unpleasing glare, eyeing him. "Is that a good enough answer?" Joker merely leaned in and pressed his nuzzle against his, "I don't know. You tell me." A few guards were watching them, readying lassos if necessary. 

Tin merely grabbed Jokers' shoulder, "enough. No need to give him some flak." Tin actually had to force him down, "last thing you need is another report in your file. I don't think you can take another one Joker," Toll suggested, eyeing him and the guards.

Arthur quickly finished his meal, "I'll see you guys back at the barracks." He grabbed his tray and trotted off, not even looking back realizing that he was sandwiched between two mares who were interested in him. "The hells' your problem Joker?! Your always giving some pony problems, why's he so different?" Joker replied to Tin, "he's always giving us the runaround." 

"What do you mean?" Jade said. "He never comes out with his statement fully. Trying to get an answer out of him is like pulling his teeth."  Tin then suggested, "if he doesn't wanna give us everything, then he isn't obliged to."

"What's the matter now? Are you like special colt friends or what?" Joker said "Excuse me Joker?!" Tin sounding a bit aggravated. "You heard me. Ever since he's been assigned to our squad, he's been attached to your hip. Stop teating him for Celestias Sake." 

Tin was starting to get frustrated with him, "you know what. You have KP duty this time. That's an order." Tin stormed off, not even finishing his meal.

Joker started to play dumb, "what did I do?" Everyone else slowly finished their meal and left the table. Toll was the last one there, "you talked. That should've been a big clue." He finished his meal, and Joker finished his meal and went to clean his table.

Arthur was in the armory signing some paperwork as a older stallion walked from behind the counter. "Just about done?" "Sure'am," Arthur handed him the paper work.

"alright. I'll just file this away and we can get started, alright?" Arthur lightly nodded and the stallion walked off. Jade saw Artie and quietly walked up to him, "hey. Sorry about what Joker said. He can, kinda get like that when his blood sugars low." Arthur quietly sighed, "why was Tin defending him...or at least trying to." Jade, was silent for a bit. 

"He shouldn't have stopped him from what he was about to do." Arthur continued, "ponies like that are just big bullies. They couldn't finish school or get a decent job, so all they do is just keep the smarts for military stuff, get high enough, and just bully every other pony around them."

Jade, sighed and quietly listened, "Tin defended him because, he's my little brother...step brother, actually." Arthur looked in disbelief, "we both have the same mother. I got the pegasus part from her, he got the earth pony part from his dad, a second marriage to my mom." 

Arthur slowly contemplated on it, "well...I suppose that makes sense." The stallion walked out of the office, "I'm ready whenever you are, Lights." "I'll be there in just a moment," Arthur said as he looked over to Jade. 

"I guess, I'll see you back at the barracks then?" Arthur said. Jade then suggested, "actually...you know where the Mane Six mural is?" "Yeah," Arthur replied. "Meet me there after your done, alright. I wanna show you something." Jade lightly kissed him and she quickly scampered off. The stallion lightly chuckled, "special friend of yours?"

Arthur lightly blushed and rubbed his cheek, "I guess so...or at least I made one."
> Chapter 13: Love Affair
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	It was about late afternoon since Arthur got fitted for, a couple of weapons actually. He was told that he would he would be in the graces of high command if he tested a few weapons out for them. The first one being an experimental cannon. It was a quad barreled rifle and used experimental rounds: phosphorus type rounds, scattershot, and regular type cannon shots. The only acceptation to this was that they were pre-made and ready to load. Another experimental weapon was a type of portable bomb, one that didn't require the use of a fuse. All that was required to make it work was pulling a pin.

Arthur walked up and sat at the Mural. He stared at it. He admired Twilight and her friends accomplishments: fighting Nightmare Moon, Discord, twice, Chrysalis and her changeling army and finally Sombra. Arthur tried understanding why a group of friends, such as Twilight and hers, could destroy a world such as Equestria. Jade saw him sitting at the mural, staring at it and called his name out. He continued his deep, thoughtful, self argument trying to understand something as complex as a friendship being destroyed.

Jade rolled her eyes, lightly smiled and trotted up to him. "Hey there," she nudged him and he snapped out of daze. "Whatcha thinkin' about Art?" He lightly groaned and stammered a bit, "a lot...thinking about my daughter, the world around us, philosophical stuff." She lightly giggled, "you sure talk deep for some pony that most would consider shallow and not spoken." Arthur lightly chuckled, "ya know...I never thought it like that."

"Anyways," Arthur continued. "What was it that you wanna show me?" Jade then asked, "how much do you weigh?" Arthur was puzzled. "Yeah, how much do you weigh."

"Well...I weigh about three hundred and fifty pounds, including the gear, probably close to four hundred...why?" Jade gently took his hoof, "do you trust me." Arthur was once again puzzled, "umm...of course. Why?" She lightly giggled, "hold on." He gently hold him and the took off with great speed. Arthur stammered and grunted as he flew across Filly and onto the clouds. Jade chuckled as she landed on a cloud. "The hell was that?!" Arthur shouted as she helped him on the cloud. "Didn't I say trust me?" Jade sounded a bit hurt. "I figured you were asking about a question. Not flying me to the damn sun!" Jaded lightly giggled, "then tell me. How are you able to lay on this cloud with me, when your not a pegasus?" She lightly smirked as he came to realization of it.

"How, am I able to do that?" Jade obliged him. "There's been several reports about House of Stormwing trying to make clouds usable to non Pegasai. We found a few reconnaissance of Stormwing in the area. From what the captives told us, they wanted to try and somehow move their ground units as quickly as the air units move...so, we took these clouds and our Engineers are trying to reverse them." Arthur once more displayed his confusion. "Reverse engineering is when you take a machine and take it apart, see what makes it tick." Arthur's confusion was cleared.

"So...why did you bring me up here anyways?" Jade lightly sighed and gently coddled up to him. "I think you need a mare in your life." 

"Excuse me," Arthur sounded quite surprise, "why...the sudden interest in me? I thought you were engaged." Jade lightly nuzzled into him, "I like you more." She then leaned in and lightly kissed him. Arthurs face flushed a crimson color as he felt himself replying to her and his rock hard erection poking into the cloud.

Jade gently wrapped a wing around him and the two watched the sunset, missing dinner and tenderly kissing one another as the moon rose to the sky. Arthur became bold and asked, "is...is this cloud stable enough to have sex on?" Jade, had a rather disgruntled look across her face. Her eyes glared at him, but she wasn't huffing or puffing at him. She calmed down, looked him in the eyes, "if...if your promise to marry me, instead of my fiancé, alright."

Arthur, looked ahead at the moon and started thinking. Deeply. He knew that his wife would've wanted him to move on, be happy, and have a mother like figure for Aurora. But he was, confused. Everything had been going up and down, taking sharp left and right turns. He didn't know what to do, he went with his gut instinct, "Yes...I'll marry you under the condition that you break it off with your fiancé." Jade lightly nodded, "alright."


((Friendly warning for the reader. After this point, it is considered smut and NSFW))





Arthur slowly slip off his saddle bag and holstered rifle. Watching Jade strip in the pale moonlight was, awe-strucking. "So...you sure about this Arthur? Once you commit, you commit. Understand." Arthur took a deep breath and nodded at her, "yeah. I'm sure." She took off the last piece of gear, she gently stretched herself on the cloud, exposing her lower parts to him. "Well...have at it."

Arthur felt his heart throb. He started feeling warmer than usual, and felt some sort of rush flowing through him. Arthurs' member was completely erected. Arthur slowly stuck his nuzzle towards her. He could feel the heat coming off her and see it pulsate, slowly lubing itself for what's to come. Arthur slowly started eating her out, licking her clit and folds. Jade tried containing her moans, but they were impossible. "W-well then, I suppose, a married colt knows better huh?" Jade lightly chuckled till a moan urged through her.

After sometime had pass, Arthur continued teasing her. His member pressing against her lips. She lightly gasped at the sensation, "just, stop being a teaser and put it in, damn it." Arthur chuckled lightly and slowly mounted her, "say, please." Jade looked up, blushing at what's happening. "Please...please, stick it in me, Artie." He lightly kissed her and slowly slid his member inside her.

She moaned loudly as she felt him thrust deeper and deeper inside her. He then slowly started pounding her, slowly, going from halfway to base. He paced up and went faster and faster, hearing each moan leaving her lips. He continued making love to her that night, reaching several climaxes. That night, the found each other. Arthur belonged to Jade, and Jade belonged to Arthur.
> Chapter 14: Honesty is the best Policy
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	They finished their sex act and admired one another in the after sex glow. The moon continued glowing and there was a light cold breeze. The cloud drifted off and Arthur lightly nudged Jade, "don't you think we should get back to the barracks before some pony suspects something?" 

Jade looked down and saw their shadow slowly drifting, "perhaps we should." Jade guided the cloud to the Armory. They both got off and snuck the cloud back inside. Arthur was stuck on the cloud as he tried getting his gear. Jade urged him to hurry up. They just caught the night guards changing shifts. Although they had some time to spare, they took that moment and used it wisely. Jade asked Arthur to hold on and she flew them to the barracks. They hugged the tall ceilings and Arthur did his best to keep watch.

The two finally reached their barracks. Arthur and Jade quietly snuck in and caught the guys playing poker. "Oh hey! There you two are," Tin said as he brought back some Cider. "Its Peach. I'm sure you may like it." Tin refilled their glasses, "wanna join us Artie?" Jade lightly nudged him, "its alright. You could use some extra time with the guys." Jade lightly bumped her rump against his, "night boys." She quietly trotted back to the bunk.

The guys looked at her then back to Artie, "what was that about?" Toll asked as he dealt out the cards. "Oh...that's nothing really." Joker had a rather inquisitive look, "what really happened?"

Tin chimed in, "come on now Artie. Tell the truth, you were busy getting some tail?" The guys gave a rather, questioning glare at him. Arthur sighed, "alright alright...we, spent the evening together. But, I, repeat, I did not, get any," he lightly gulp in his shy nervous state, "get any tail. Alright." Arthur took his seat and the guys gave a light groan. "Fine...we'll find out, one way or another." Twister trotted in, mane weight and covered in a towel. "Hey guys! Got room for one more?"

Toll lightly nodded, "I don't see a problem with it, unless..." he nudged Arthur, "lady killer over hear takes your mare hood as well." Chuckling loudly and then Arthur shoved him off his stool. "You can take Tolls. I'm sure he wouldn't mind, right?" Toll shrugged and in a low grumble walked off to his bunk. Twister lightly giggled and took his spot, "well...what's the antie?"

Tin chuckled, "four bits this time." Twister lightly groaned as she threw in a few bits. A couple of hours had gone by and everyone was dry. Both Arthur and Twister took most of it. Tin was able to get some of it back, but Joker hadn't been able to get any of his losses back. Everyone finished their ciders and they went back to their bunks. Arthur went back to his and slowly crawled into bed, slowly falling asleep from his rather fulfilling day. He felt a light nudge against his privates and woke up to Twister forcefully spooning him.

Arthur quietly said, "twister?! What are-" she lightly hushed him. "You need to relax more."

She lightly chuckled and guided his member inside her, "please Twister. I don't, feel exactly comfortable with this," still recollecting his sexual encounter with Jade. But his colt desire overpowered his rationality. He gently wrapped his hoofs around her and lightly grinded himself against her. She quietly moaned under her breath, "be mine" she uttered.

"I'm sorry, I didn't quite catch that," he whispered into her ear, "what did you say?" She looked back and lightly spoke, "please, be mine."

Arthur lightly spoke back to her, "as long as you don't tell any pony what happened tonight, understand." She lightly nodded and kissed him back. The two quietly enjoyed their moment of intimacy. Arthur thought to himself, 'what would happen if Jade found out? Will she forgive him? Will she even, love him like she spoke of?' These questions ran through Arthurs mind as the night went on.





Morning came and Arthur barely got any sleep. Twister was long gone and in her bunk. Arthur was barely dozing off and Jade gently sat on the bed. Arthur shot awake and Jade said "morning." Arthur yawned and slowly tried sitting up. Jade looked a bit puzzled, "are you alright? You look as if you haven't slept."

Arthur rubbed his eyes and answered her, "well. That's one way of putting it."

"Well," Jade asked as she handed him a muffin, "what happened after I left?" Arthur took a few bites out of the muffin and answered. "Well...after you left, Twister joined us after I guess, she got out of the shower. I won some money, and then we all retired after a few hours of playing...then, I went to bed and-" Arthur quickly remembered what happened with Twister in his bed. "Jade...if, if I tell you something, will you promise to not be mad?" 

Jade looked at him in disbelief, "why would I be mad at you? Did something happen last night?"

Arthur replied, "yes. Something did happen. Twister was in-" He was immediately cut off. "Morning Arthur," Twister said as she held a pitcher of lemonade. Arthur was on the verge of an emotional fallout. "Umm, mor-morning, Twister. H-h-how, did you guys sleep anyways?"

Twister sighed happily, "I slept, wonderfully. After that night, I hadn't had a good night since. How bout you Jade?"

She replied to Twister, "I slept just as well. Last night was great as any other night. I guess we'll see you guys in the rec-room then?" Twister nodded as she left the pitcher by the stand. Jade looked over at him, "so, what were you going to say?" Arthur looked around her and didn't see Twister in the room. "Twister, had sex with me last night..." Jade looked at him with disbelief. She slowly saw that he was telling the truth. "So...that's why," Arthur interrupted her.

"Yeah...that's why, I was kinda nervous about saying it in front of her." Jade closed hey eyes and quietly sighed and held his hood, "it...hurts a bit. But I'm glad you were honest with me, and told me what happened." Arthur felt some relief, "so, your not mad at me then?"

Jade lightly smiled and patted his hoof, "no. Not, entirely. A little disappointed, but I forgive you. Plus, she's kinda the slut of the group." Arthur looked at her as if lobsters were crawling out of her ears. She continued, "yeah. She's slept with just about everyone assigned to the barracks. Even me at one point. Well, at least she tried to. I figured she was gonna try sooner or later."

Arthur happily finished his muffin, "so, wanna get some breakfast and meet everyone else in the rec. room?" Jade smiled and nodded at him.





The recreation room was filled with different games and activities. Some went into a smaller room and gathered around a radio, some were shooting pool, a group were playing foosball and smaller groups playing on the hockey table, ping pong table, and tables were ponies were playing various board and card games. Arthur and Jade casually strolled in and he saw his troupe playing with darts, and gambling still.

Arthur chuckled a bit as the two walked up to them. "Really guys? Are you like, swimming in bits to be gambling so much?"

Tin looked over at Arthur as Jade went by the bar to get cider, "well Artie. Were always working around the clock. Plus, veterans get paid a bit more when it comes to warfare. So for instance, as a Sergeant, I get a steady pay grade, its a bit higher than commanders and privates. However, you get paid a bit more than me, but you get less hours as a SpyMaster." Tin threw a dart and came close to the bullseye, "does that make sense?" Arthur nodded.

Tin offered him a couple darts. He lightly nodded and took them. He quickly eyed them and threw both darts with great accuracy. Both darts hit, or shared the bullseye. Everypony around him grunted. "What? What?! What did I do now?!" Every other pony lightly laughed. Toll came up and offered him some cider, "its Mango. Also, no other pony has been able to get a bullseye, then again, most ponies are drunk when they do this game. Perhaps you should have a few yourself."

Arthur looked around and his squad gestured to him to take a drink. "What's the buy in," he asked as he took a sip.

"Three bits," Joker said as he slouched against the couch.

Tin patted his shoulder, "don't worry about him. He's just mad that Jade resisted his, stallion like charms at breakfast this morning...so Artie, you in?"

Arthur looked back at Jade and her eyes lightly gleamed at him, she batted an eye and nodded. "Alright," Arthur said as he chugged his cider, "I'll put a few bits in."
> Chapter 15: Another Fight
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Arthur and his fellow comrades have spent most of their time playing darts. Jade was rather generous and collected his winnings. Every other Pony, was completely hammered and missing the board completely. Arthur was at his own tipping point as well. He lightly swayed and threw his darts. They both came close to the bullseye, but they were closer in comparison to what everyone else was doing. Tin grunted as he handed a few bits to Jade.

"So, tell me Artie," as he took a swig of his hard cider, "are you like...some sort of, entertainer or gamer that just, does everything so well? Or are you just lucky, cause that's what your cutie mark should be, not a paint pallet with, a brush and paints on them." Arthur chuckled lightly and gathered up the darts and set them in a small cubby against the wall.

"Well..my wife loved games like this. Darts. Pool. Even a drinking game now and then. Our friends would, get together and have a battle of the sex, type thing." Tin looked at him and asked, "well...what are you gonna do now? Knowing that she's, well, ya know. Gone." Arthur looked back at him and then to Jade, "I, I'm already, seeing another pony, actually." Jade lightly walked up and kissed him. He then tenderly kissed her back and gently bumped his plot against her, "see ya back at the barracks babe." 

She nodded and kissed him back, "see ya there babe." She took the bits, placed them in her saddle bag and trotted back to the barracks, swaying side to side. Arthur watched her as the guys slowly got puzzled looks on their faces. Arthur looked back and the colts were acting, well like colts. Arthur took a seat and looked back at them, "what?"

Tin leaned in and whispered, "you slept with her, didn't you?" Arthur in his drunken stupor said "yes." Tin smiled, then looked back at the guys. He leaned in and whispered the message to everyone. Everyone 'whooted' and groaned as they dug into their pockets once more. Tin lightly chuckled, "say...can we, write an I owe you for six hundred bits."

Arthur was, completely lost, "I'm sorry. Six hundred bits for, what exactly?"

Tin leaned in and said, "Jade, made a wager that she could sleep with you. Now, the wager was is, that if she can, we'd pay you two hundred bits each. We...we never got to where what would happen if she lost." Arthur was, even more lost now. 

"Wha...what are, you guys talking about? She loves me," Arthur said as he ate a few crackers.

"Well, I'm sorry to say, but she slept with you for prize sakes...here's those I owe you's from the three of us." Arthur just, spaced off, staring at the dart board. Tin in his drunken being, "I'll just, slip them in here." Tin slipped the notes in his saddle bag and went back to the other guys. They saw Arthur staring at the wall, in a zombie like state. They started to get worried and walked off. Arthur sunk in his chair, "She...she played me," muttering as he took another sip. The wooden stein cup was high and dry, and slipped from his hoofs. It lightly bounced on the ground. Arthur felt himself on the verge of tears.

He stormed out of the rec-room, shoving his way through the room and down the hallway. He collapsed in the hallway near his barracks and sobbed. The door opened and Jade looked out. She saw him crying and quickly ran to him.

"What happened?" She nuzzled him and tried looking into his eyes, "what happened in the rec-room? Did the guys mess with you again?" Arthur's sobbing expression flipped ninety degrees and he was pissed.

"Leave me alone," Arthur said as he shrugged his hoofs off of her.

"I'm sorry. What was that Artie?"

"Leave, me alone, you winged harlot!" He quickly got up and shoved her aside and made his way back to the barracks. Jade quickly followed him, "what's your problem?"

"My problem," Arthur exclaimed as the door closed. "My problem is, that the one, mare who I thought was genuinely interested in me, slept with me to fulfill a bet!" Jade was, at first in shock, but realized that the truth was finally out. Jade quietly sighed, "it was Joker, wasn't it?"

Arthur shook his head, "no. It was Tin."

"Tin?!" Jade exclaimed. 

"Yeah, the three of those dopes are so drunk, they couldn't say their abc's for their very life," Arthur shouted.

"Arthur...I'm, I'm sorry you found out. But in honesty, I really, really do care for you." Jade slowly approached him and placed a hoof on his shoulder. 

Arthur shrugged it off, "I don't wanna hear it. Here," he dug into his saddle bag and handed her the I owe you's to her. "Here's your money, I hope your satisfied with yourself...whore." He slowly made his way to the door and Jade bolted to it before him, locking him in and blocking the door.

Arthur groaned a bit, "Jade. Move." Jade shook her head. Arthur was quickly about to blow his top. "Jade. Move, or else."

"Or else, what." Jade said in a rather stern tone. "I'm not gonna move."

Arthur sighed once more, "ya know. At least I told the truth about Twister instead of trying to hide it like you whore!" Jade slapped him across the face. Arthur blew up. He grabbed her and tackled her to the ground, and pinned her. "You think you know what's like to be played? You don't know what its like to have your heart played like a damn Harp! Every pony, plucking your strings and playing you like your part of a damn concert! Exposed to the audience and crowd, and there's not a damn thing you can do about it! I thought I found somepony who, really, cared about me..but that's, not true. Its all about the damn money with you guys, isn't it."

"Its nothing like that," Jaded pleaded with him. "Please. I wasn't even thinking about the bet last night. Honestly. That kiss, and our time together was true, I promise you that. Please." Her eyes started tearing up, "I'm telling the truth. How can I tell you that I'm telling the truth. Please." Her tears rolled off her face. They didn't even leave water trails, they just glided off her face. Arthurs' expression softened.

"I'm. I'm sorry...I was just, so frustrated about everything that..." he stammered and stuttered for a bit. "I'm just so confused about, everything that's happened, alright. I'm just...scared. Everything's been nothing but sharp turns and drops, and, I can't handle it anymore...I need help."

Jade lightly nodded and tenderly kissed him, "I'll help you. I promise, I will never, keep anything from you again." She kissed him again and lightly purred at him, "ever." Both of them felt the position they were in, and Arthur could feel his member dangling over her mare parts. 

"Ya know," Arthur said as he looked into Jades eyes. "I never did it from the front before." Jade chuckled and reached up to the door and made sure it was locked. "I think we can change that."





Arthur and Jade went at it, in the main lobby where most of the meetings took place. He continued thrusting inside her, going deeper and deeper, feeling Jades parts eating him up. Arthur climaxed once more and felt his seed flow inside her and trickle on the floor. Arthur sighed happily and nuzzled her. She leaned in and tenderly kissed him, slowly giving him some tongue and caressing her lovers face.

There was a series of bangs on the door. "Its Tin open up!" Arthur and Jade quickly dismounted. Arthur tried covering his member up as Jade cleaned their mess.

"Never mind I got it." There was a series of ticks and clicks and the door opened. The three of them had puzzled looks on their faces, "why...why are you guys, sweaty?" Jade looked over and grabbed his hoof, flipped him on her back and pinned him on the ground. "Sparing session."

Arthur sighed as he looked back at them then at her. "You cheated." Jade shook her head, "no I didn't."

Tin gave a light groan,"enough already. Get ready and saddle up. Were heading back to NP." Jade helped Arthur back up, "back to, NP? For what?"

It appeared that Tin hadn't inform the entire group, "I'll explain on the train ride there."
> Chapter 16: The Hijacking
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	"Well, why the sudden urge to get back to NP? We've only been here in Filly for a few days," Joker asked. Tin urged everyone into the cabin and closed the door, lowering the latch and locking it.

"Well," Tin said as he folded down a table. "There's, some sort of collaboration between EverFree and some of the Pony Mutants in Old Ponyville."

"Say, what now?" Jade asked as she was saying what everyone else was thinking.

"Well," Tin continued, "one of our new Air Scouts had spot some sort of meeting between Fluttershy and leader of the mutants, at least that's what the report said." Arthur gestured him to continue. "The report mentioned something along the lines that the Mutants would be protected under the house with full cooperation from them." Arthur shook his head, "I don't buy it."

Tin looked at him, "what do you mean? Its in the paperwork man! What's there to not believe." Arthur glared at him, "if you said that the report came from a air scout, how come we haven't heard anything of it until now? How is it that a ground scout was able to deliver a report that fast? The trip from Old Ponyville to New Ponyville was two days Tin. Even if he was flying, there's one day from OP to NP, then, he has to cross vast country to get to Filly. That report is at least three days old. And were just hearing about now?!"

Tin was about to say something, but he stopped. He sat there and rubbed his chin, it, made enough sense. "Well...the messenger is on the train ride with us." Arthur got up and went to the door, "and where do you think your going Arthur?!" Tin exclaimed.

Arthur looked back, "to have a chat with our new guest." Tin slammed his hoof on his tail and caused him to stop and slam on the ground. "That's not a good idea Artie." Arthur slowly got up, "come on man. Old report. Unknown messenger riding on the train with us? Smells of highjacking if you ask me."

Tin gave him a displeased look, "you really think that's gonna happen."

Arthur looked back, "think about it. If some pony gave you a report and it was old. Wouldn't you check the source at least?" Tin nodded, "I, I suppose so. But don't you think the idea is a bit, preposterous?"

"Have you ever heard of the story called, Under Siege: Dark Territory?" Tin shook his head, "its about a train robbery, and a ex soldier must stop the train from a band of mercenaries." Just then, the train jerked violently and over the loudspeaker echoed, "sorry mares and gentlecolts. We had a slight malfunction and we'll be on our way."

Arthur eyed Tin, "do you believe in, coincidence mate?" Tin playfully eyed him.

"I do now," Tin then ordered everyone else to stay behind and sent Twister with him to investigate.

The two of them loaded up and went out. Arthur took lead, and Twister followed. Their small trip to the cabin was long, and quiet. Every other pony were locked away, quietly in their cabins. Twister gently bumped into him and mounted him. Arthur bucked her off of him, "ohhh. Someone's touchy today. What's up your flack?" Still holding onto him as he continued. "Come on babe. You know our time was good, wasn't it. I know you loved it. You know your mine, right." Arthur threw her right off.

"I'm not yours Twister, just as much your aren't mine. Got it." Arthur continued advancing, even without Twister. She quickly caught up to him. She slammed him into a wall, "this thing." She pressed his balls and member against the wall, "this dick, is mine. And I will see to it, if I have to get it myself." 

Arthur kicked her in the stomach, "no, its not!" He pointed all four barrels at her. She quickly became frightened. Arthur continued staring at her, "now you get this. Jade is my mare. You, are not. And if you dare, touch me like that again." He pressed all four barrels between her eyes, "I'll kill you. I'd rather spend my life, on the run, than being your little sex toy. Understand." Tears rolled down her face and she nodded. Arthur leaned down and kissed her, "and I, come to you. You. Don't come to me. I, give the orders when you can, and can't have me. Got it." She continued nodding as there was a loud thud in the cabin next to them.

Arthur helped her up and apologized for his behavior. She forgave him, but she has a small sense of anger towards him. He eyed the door and gestured her to get it. She gently opened the door, quietly sliding it as she got her arm ready. She jerked it open and he then saw a pegasus painted up as a zebra attempting to mount a mare. Arthur pulled all four barrels. He jerked back violently and the pegasus was no more. The winged zebra rested against the wall, four large holes blown into him. Arthur looked amazed and excited.

"Man. That was, wicked," he chuckled lightly as he holstered the rifle. He went in and helped the mare up. She had told him that some pegasai had hijacked the train. She mentioned that it might be someone from Everfree. Arthur asked Twister to take the mare back to their cabin and warn everyone else. Arthur reloaded and went forth without further aide. 





Arthur finally reached the cabin and didn't see anypony present. He slowly made his way past the tender box. His hoofs got a bit dirty. Midway through, the coal lightly shifted. Some zebra's slowly poked their heads out and the four of them slowly dug themselves out of the piles of coal. Arthur gently hopped off the top of the stack and continued forth. 

He looked around and saw the conductor and his assistant tied up and unconscious. Arthur quickly went to them and untied them. The Skirmishers behind him quietly crawled down, until one of them kicked over the shovel. Arthur turned and saw the three of them loading their blow darts.

Arthur grabbed his rifle and shot at them. He hadn't realized that he loaded them with phosphorous rounds. All four barrels lit up the cabin as if thunder had struck the cabins' insides. Once everyone's eyesight came back, there laid three. Arthur was puzzled and thought to himself 'did I miss count?' 'Was I only seeing four?' Arthur continued recounting till he heard a scream. A Zebra swung down from the roof and tried to stab him with a spear. Arthur pulled one of the triggers and a beam of light hit the Zebra. It wasn't blinding, but it was bright.

Arthur once more regained his vision and saw a ring going through the Zebras' neck, seeing through the other side. "Cool." There was then a constant nudging at his backside. The Conductor was still tied up. Arthur holstered his rifle and quickly untied him. 

He lightly stammered, "w-w-we were, ambushed by those, things dressed as zebras. A-a-and they, forced us to stop the train," Arthur hushed him and quietly calmed him down.

"Just, start up the train again, we'll keep ya covered." He then untied his assistant and the conductor got the train working. Arthur quickly retreated back to his cabin. On his way there, he got hit and then blacked out. Arthur awoke sometime later and was in one of the box cars, tied up and held hostage with everyone else. Arthur looked around and saw that he was beside Jade. He then saw Tin resting against the wall, "I warned you, didn't I Tin."

Arthur had a smug look on his face as Tin looked over, "shut up."
> Chapter 17: Under Siege
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	The train slowly came to a full and complete stop. Turns out that the 'mutant' leader wasn't a mutant. It was a pony disguised as a mutant and Fluttershy wanted to stop the train, and destroy its passengers. Arthur tried sleeping and Jade kept nudging him. "What?"!

"You what Arthur! Your sleeping like, its vacation or something. You should be planning to do, I don't know, something,"
Jade exclaimed.

Arthur sighed and agreed with her. He looked around and saw a few other ponies either sleeping, whispering amongst themselves, or frozen in terror. Some of them were battered and bruised up. Jade nudged him again and whispered, "I can get us out." Arthur eyed her and whispered, "well...what is it?"

Jade whispered back to him, "I got a knife, inside my...snatch." Arthur looked at her with a puzzled expression. "Its in my cave, vertical bacon sandwich, cockpit, love box..." She rambled on and on, and Arthur just looked dumbfounded as ever. " In my mare parts, my vagina!"

Arthur blushed and gently bit her nuzzle, "alright....just, keep it down. Well, how the hell am I supposed to get it?!" Jade lightly blushed and eyed him. Arthur shook his head, "no. Ain't gonna happen."

"Please Artie. I know you can do it. There's more to you than what happened on our, first outing. I believe you can do this. Please." Arthur looked around and didn't seen any of the Zebra's nearby, "alright." As Arthur leaned down, "keep me covered alright." 

Jade nodded and slowly spread her legs as much as she could. Arthur slowly leaned down and wormed himself to position. Arthur looked up, "you ready?" She nodded. She looked back up and continued watching. Arthur slowly stuck his nuzzle inside her. She lightly shook and muttered her moans and gently squeezed his head between her legs.. Tin looked over and saw what was transpiring.

"Damn it Artie! This isn't a mare stable damn it!" He scooted over and tried readying himself for a few kicks.

"Don't Tin! He's, trying to help," her blush seemed to get more red as time went on. Arthurs' nuzzle was completely inside her. He could feel the handle of the knife. He grunted and slowly pulled the knife out. Some of her mare juices formed a small pool from her stimulation and tried to recuperate. Eventually the small group unbounded themselves and set every other pony free. They all gathered their respected equipment and slowly tried retaking the train.





After their long, tactical, and silent counterattack, they finally took back the train and started it back up. The train lightly chugged and slowly started moving again. Unfortunately, they didn't take prisoners. They killed the zebras and 'flying' zebras as well. Everyone got a little something from them: Toll got a set of bone braces, Twister got a necklace, Joker sliced a small scalped piece from them, Jade took a small hair pine made from ivory and lace, and Arthur took a blow dart and its kit.

Arthur didn't know what kind of darts they used, but he felt it would somehow come in handy. Everyone retreated back to their respected cabins. Arthur slowly joined everyone else until he felt a light tug on his tail. He quickly looked back and saw Jade with it.

"I...I want to you thank you, for what you did Arthur. I know, it was embarrassing, but I'm sure high command would get a kick out of it."

Arthur lightly chuckled, "yeah...I'm sure, we'll be talking about this for awhile."

Jade smiled and took his hoof, "come on. There's something I want to show you."

Arthur followed as Jade led him through the various cars. They reached the caboose and Jade locked the door. She leaped out at him and tenderly kissed him. He embraced the kiss and the two laid on the warm fuzzy rug. As the caboose bounced a bit, Arthur could feel himself being mounted. Jade slowly inserted his member inside her and lightly bounced with the train ride. The two had their erotic play all the way to New Ponyvilles Train Station.
> Chapter 18: Home Sweet Home
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	The train continued chugging along the rail tracks. A NP Spotter saw the train and ordered the guards to open the gate. It was large, made of steel and had some form of scribes or ruins on it. The trains whistle blew and came to a slow stop at the train station, the cabins were slowly being detached and taken to the train yard. Everyone got off and went their own way. Arthur stepped off first and helped Jade, grabbing a hoof and guiding her down. She giggled and took a light bow. Arthur said, "listen...I, was gonna visit my daughter. Would you like to meet her?" Jade nodded happily and smiled. The two walked and Tin looked over at them, "be back at nineteen hundred hours for dinner alright?"

Jade and Arthur nodded and the two scampered off. He looked over and saw the clock was chimming, ringing twelve times, "ah. Lunch is served," he smiled and eagerly ran back to the house. Jade gave a light laugh and flapped her wings and followed. The two laughed and chuckled, dodging various ponies and obstacles to get home, it was indeed a sight to be seen. Arthur recognized the house and eagerly knocked, Ebony answered and looked surprised, "oh. Your back. I thought you and Tin left for Filly."

"We did," Arthur chuckled as he hung his hat and lightly undressed and took the saddle bag off as Jade trotted in, "but we were called back for some reason. We don't know why though." 

Jade lightly smiled at Ebony, "hello." 

Ebony replied back, "hello, and you are?" Jade smiled and took a light bow, "I'm Jade Wind. Its a pleasure to meet you, ma'am." She merely smiled, "pleasure to meet you Jade. I'm Ebony, Tin's wife."

Jade lightly smiled, "ah. So your the Ebony he's mentioned before." Ebony giggled and nodded, "and, may I ask how you know him?" Arthur walked off and went to the bedroom that Aurora took quarters in. But, she wasn't there. Arthur walked back to the girls and he asked, "ummm, Ebony. Where's Aurora." Looking a bit worried as Ebony waved a hoof at him, "she's fine. She's over at a friends house right now. She should be back in a few minutes for lunch."  He nodded and slowly took a seat at the table and Jade followed suit.

"I hope, you don't mind if we joined you two for lunch, Ebony." Arthur asked as Ebony walked into the kitchen, "no worries at all." Just then the door opened, "Ebony! I'm home!" Arthur hear Aurora's voice and, tried keeping his composure. Jade lightly nudged him, "it'll be alright love. Just, let the motions flow alright," Arthur lightly nodded as Aurora trotted in. 

She saw him, "daddy!" She quickly galloped to him and lunged into his arms. Tears flowing down her face, "I've missed you daddy." He sighed happily and held her, "daddy's, missed you too. Very, very much...did you get daddy's letter?" 

She nodded, "yes. I even got those sugar bars you sent me." He lightly nuzzled her and kissed her cheek. "Aurora...I, I'd like you to meet some pony who, recently befriended me. Jade." Rose looked over and saw her. She seemed sheepish as Jade eyed her. She giggled at Roses attempts at hiding. "Hi there sweetie, its a pleasure to meet you." Rose peaked over Arthur's shoulder slowly and looked at her. Jade extended her hoof and Rose lightly shook it and her arm quickly darted back. Jade lightly giggled as Ebony served some sandwiches, "its peanut butter and jelly with banana slices."

Arthur looked over at Rose, "since when did you eat banana's?" She giggled and eagerly ate her sandwich, "she's, been eating a lot more since your departure." Arthur gently stroked Roses mane, "good. That's good." Rose lightly giggled and continued eating as Arthur and Jade joined in. After a couple of sandwiches, Rose was yawning a bit. Ebony lightly giggled, "its been like clockwork since you've left." Arthur sighed happily, "that's good. She, always napped with her mother after breakfast and lunch. Then after, we'd, go for a small walk to the lake and back home for dinner...I'm, glad she's getting better." Rose nuzzled into Arthur's chest and he sighed happily, petting her mane. 

"I'll take her to bed," Ebony nodded and Arthur slowly got up, lightly rocking her in his arms. He took her to the bedroom and sighed happily at seeing it: the flower wallpaper, some crayons scattered across the floor, an easel with a hoof painting on it. Its the bedroom he always thought she'd have, and he was happy. He laid her down and covered her up, and lightly kissed her. He slowly tip toed out of her room and went downstairs. He walked to the kitchen and noticed Jade wasn't there.

"Umm...where, did she go?"

"She went back to the barracks," Ebony said as she was washing some of the dishes. "And, thanks for all that you've done Ebony. I, really appreciate it." She lightly giggled, "please, my plot is for sitting and not for kissing. But I appreciate it nonetheless." Arthur nodded, "and, thanks for Roses bedroom too." Ebony plainly said, "your welcome." Arthur slowly got dressed, "I'm, heading back now. Take care alright," she looked back and nodded. Arthur closed the door and she sighed, looking at a family photo of her, Tin, and a young foal and lightly muttered to herself, "she'd, be Roses age if, she was alive."





Back at the barracks, Jade flew in and quickly ran to her barracks and once again, the colts were gambling bits away, "what's the game this time?" She asked as she got a pint of cider and rested on the couch. Joker looked over, "we's playin' twenty-one. You want in?" She waved a hoof at him. "Ah, who needs ya anyways," chuckling as he tossed some bits in the pile and the guys continued playing.

Some time has passed and Arthur walked in, every other pony was still playing cards and Jade was quietly sleeping on the couch. Tin noticed him, "so, did you enjoy your time with, Aurora?" He smiled and nodded. Joker looked over, "oh? And, who is this Aurora of which he mentions Artie? Are you still being the lady killer that your are," nudging him and Arthur rolled his eyes and glared at him. "Aurora is m daughter..."

Joker just, shuddered a bit, "sorry. I didn't know." Arthur looked over and pulled a seat, "of course you didn't. Because I didn't feel it necessary, Joker," as he pulled a stool next to him. "But perhaps I should let you guys in on my life for now on...now, what's the antie?"

Tin chimed in, "two bits this time." Arthur chuckled and threw a couple bits in and joined in. As time passed, Arthur got to know everyone else and, he divulged some information about him. Nothing personal or private, just that he was an artist before joining the rangers and that he had his wife and daughter Aurora. Nothing more or less. Arthur won the pile and everyone went for dinner, he pocketed it and walked over to Jade. He smiled and lightly nuzzled her, waking her up and heading off to dinner.
> Chapter 19: Holy Matrimony
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Dinner came and went and, Arthur seemed to be getting along with everyone else for a change. Joker jokingly pushed Arthurs' buttons and Arthur fought back by 'accidentally' tripping on his hooves and spilling some juice on his coat. Joker at firs gave a low growl, but then laughed with everyone else. Arthur helped him get cleaned up and paid for his washing. As Arthur went back to the barracks, Jade quietly glided to him and gently pounced him. He grunted and lightly chuckled at her pinning him, "babe. I think we need to be in private quarters for that kind of thing."

Jade giggled and nuzzled him, "don't be so uptight, love." She looked into his eyes and he looked back at hers. Arthur once again broke the silence, "I think we should get to, somewhere more private love." Jade nuzzled him one last time and helped him up and the two quickly trotted back to the quarters. They guys didn't make it back so they had some private time with one another.

He walked over to the couch and gently patted a spot next to him, "so...wanna resume what we started out in the hall." She blushed a bit and nodded, gingerly trotting to him and pinned him against the couch. Her wings tickled his side and he lightly giggled. For an odd reason, his laugh was making her more aroused. She looked down and stopped tickling him for a moment. She gently pressed her nuzzle to his, "did...did you still, wanna marry me?" He looked up at her, staring into her gold yellow eyes. "Only, if you let me Jade," Arthur said as he tried licking her nuzzle.

She lightly giggled, "you sure know how to make a mare smile." She lightly kissed him and said, "let's do it then. First thing after breakfast." He nodded and lightly kissed her back. They both slowly started french kissing one another and they could feel each others arousal. Arthur chuckled and felt his erected member poking into her mare parts. She blushed heavily and quietly moaned, "don't, don't tease me. Love." He lightly grinned and rammed his rod inside her.

She moaned loudly and collapsed on top of him, lightly panting and moaning, "your, such a jerk," giggling and lightly moaning. Kissing his lips and Arthur gently bucked his hips into hers. She moaned with each kiss upon his lips and thrust against her backside. They continued their love session for some time. Arthur paced up and Jade thrusted back into him, both of them quietly moaning one another's name. Arthur went faster and faster and climaxed inside her. She moaned wildly and collapsed onto him, climaxing shortly after. He lightly chuckled and caressed her mane. As he did, he saw that on the back of her head was a brand: a House of Stormwings' Cloud and Thunderbolt.

Arthur quietly sighed and continued caressing her, merely thinking to himself 'two lone survivors.' He slowly wrapped his arms around her and fell asleep.





Morning came and he slowly woke up. Jade had wrapped her arms and wings around him, but he looked around there was a blanket draped over him. He slowly leaned his head up and looked up and saw Tin. He looked over and Arthur quickly ducked down and pretended to be asleep. The sounds of clopping got a bit louder and Arthur could feel Tin standing over them. "I know your awake Lights." He sighed and slowly woke up, "what, did you guys see."

Tin glared at him lightly, "we didn't see anything...all I can say is, if what's going on, what I think is going on, be prepared for the consequences  if caught...it could, be devistating and, give the counsel a more than enough excuse for them to go back on their promises. And yes, they have that kind of power Arthur, and its not pretty to be on the other end of the stick." He walked away and closed the door. He gently nudged Jade awake.

"We better not miss breakfast," she slowly woke up and nodded. She slowly got up and the two trotted to the mess hall. Arthur felt that it wasn't necessary to tell Jade about his talk with Tin. They met up with everyone else in the mess hall and chowed down. Tin softly spoke, "alright guys. After breakfast, we need to head to the fire house for a weapons drill and demonstration. After that, do as you please." They all quietly nodded and went back to breakfast. Arthur had Kitchen Patrol, he didn't complain and it seemed everyone was light on the messes. After that, he quickly ran to the fire house.

After their somewhat long practice and drill, everyone scattered and did their own thing. Arthur looked at Jade and she knew what was next. The two undressed into regular clothes and got their marriage license and made it official. As much as Arthur wanted the dream wedding with her, they both knew they couldn't do it. So it was as simple as it could get; just him, Jade and the minister.