> The Perfect Ones [Rewriting and editing process] > by CanadianFluttershy > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Chapter I: The Departure > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Perfect Ones By CanadianFluttershy Chapter 1: Departure Celestia sighed while looking at the war map in front of her. The lack of rest clearly unhidden since bags were formed underneath her eyes. She spent most of her days and nights in the Royal Equestrian Forces headquarters, along with the commanders and captains of the royal guard and fleet. She was desperately trying to find a way to reverse the current turn of event. Since the occupation of Trottingham and Baltimare, Equestria relied on only a few handful of cities like Stalliongrad for their troop recruitment. Ponyville was transformed into a refugee camp since the Manehattan siege. The union of the Griffin Kingdom, The Changeling and the Minotaur Clans gave them no mercy. The New Dawn Alliance or N.D.A, was what they called themselves. The war was fueled by fear and jealousy. Most races of the land of Equestria were threatened by the sudden war, the dragons, the zebras and the other nations of the land were at edge. Everywhere they'd go, they'd kill. Stallions, Mares, Foals and elders alike, nopony made exception. Those who were taken prisoner, were transferred in a concentration camp. Those who weren't so lucky were exterminated right away. Death would only wait ahead for the one who tried to flee, some shot down, others by the misfortune of a step on a landmine. Those who succeeded though, died from starvation or blood loss from their injuries. The ones who stayed were used as slaves, but when a pony was judged useless, they would simply killed them off in chambers full of deadly gas. Does who had to face this terrible fate, were told that they were just simple showers, unfortunately they were only met by a slow and painful eternal slumber. The little fillies and colts were as much use as laboratory rats. The N.D.A used them to test their biological weapons, by injecting them with horrible viruses. The results were beyond horrifying. "I can't believe such atrocities exists." Celestia said to herself while eyeing the war map. Since the war broke out, she didn't do anything except eat, sleep and strategies. Although the war took place here in her remaining land, her eyes weren't locked on Equestria or New Dawn territory, she was looking at another large continent. There, at the far West of the Sparkling Sea, stands another continent. Aurora.The race that lived there referred to themselves as human. They ruled over this humongous land as one nation. That nation was named, The Federation of Aurora. Old manuscripts of ponies that set hoof on that land, described it as incredibly stunning. Large cities and majestic palaces that even competed against Canterlot. "Me too highness, but we need to learn to not fear such crimes and fight against it in every way possible." A voice said from behind. Celestia sighed, "You're right Captain Armor." She turned around to face the stallion. "And I suppose everything is ready?" "Yes majesty. Admiral Sky Hoof set up the airships and are ready to depart for Aurora." "Is my sister already in the ship?" Celestia asked intriguingly. "Princess Luna is already in the HMEA Bella Mare, waiting for you highness." Shining Armor answered. "Good, soon we will head to Aurora and meet the humans. After all those years, I wonder how much they changed." "Lets hope they haven't changed into bloodthirsty monsters and shoot us on sight." Shining said while thinking in disgust of the possible scenario. "But with all due respect your majesty, are you sure these so called humans will help us? Our history with them is not something to be glad about." Celestia sighed and turned around to look at the map once more. "To be utmost frank, I do not know. Although like you said, we must fight this threat in every way possible, and another ally by our side would aid us greatly. It is, at the very least, worth the try." Shining looked at the floor with sorrow. "You know highness... I would do anything to protect my sister and my parents from harm. And if this means going to another land and find a dangerous species to help our cause, then you can count on me." Celestia turned her gaze to the now confident captain and smiled. "We will depart soon. Go tell my sister that I will be there in a minute." "Yes your highness." Shining bowed and exited the command centre. Celestia sighed, and for one last time returned her gaze at the map. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ """MUSIC"""(Listen while reading) Canterlot shipyard was full of activity. Workers and Soldiers were loading the ships with supplies and weapons. The weather was clear, and the sun brightly shone in the blue sky. Celestia approached the huge structure that was called the Bella Mare. The biggest ship of the Royal Equestrian Fleet. The ship was 80 meters long 35 meters wide. Standing on top of the main structure, was a huge golden ellipsoid shaped balloon. The balloon was 10 meters longer and five meters larger and taller than the actual ship. Large banners waved at the sides of the ship, showing the great Equestrian emblem. Underneath the main structure, was a big circular command bridge with dozens of huge windows. At each side of the ship, were huge bat like wings that helped thrusting the ship forward. The alicorn princess entered the airship and roamed the white hallways, skipping between many military personnel. The staff consisted of engineers, navigators and weapon masters. The captains and the admiral were mostly on the bridge, planning operations and receiving reports of current situations. The bridge was exactly where Celestia was going. Arriving there, her sight was to behold. The giant room was brewing with activity. The large windows offered a wonderful panoramic view of the outside world. "Admiral Sky Hoof." Celestia called the white stallion in front of her. He was wearing a blue uniform adorned with golden stripes on the shoulder insignias. The grey coated, white maned and white bearded earth pony was gazing at the outside through a large window, making sure that the other ships were ready. After all, he is the Admiral of this fleet. He was there to assure the security of his Stallions and Mares, and that every single operation was checked and re-checked. The stallion turned around to look at his ruler who was casually walking towards him. He bowed with respect, and approached his leader as well. "It's an honour to have you on board your highness." The stallion said with a husky voice. "The pleasure is mine admiral. May I ask for status report?" The stallion nodded and motioned Celestia to the window. "The HMEA Night Spirit just finished loading its weapons and ammunition. The HMEA Sun of Dawn is already in position and ready to head for Aurora. HMEA Starswirl is awaiting orders." The stallion replied with pride. "Perfect, tell the HMEA Starswirl to take position immediately via Magicomm." "Yes your highness." The stallion replied, and turned around to look at one of the crewpony. "Shimmer Flight!" He yelled. Quickly a young black stallion came in front of his admiral. "Yes sir?" He asked "Tell the HMEA Starswirl to take position immediately. We're heading to Aurora." "Aye aye Admiral." The young stallion replied. Slowly the Bella Mare and escort trusted forward, as the sound of the humongous magic powered wings pushed the air behind. The ponies on the docks waved farewell to the majestic airships as they slowly disappeared off the horizon. > Chapter II: The Arrival > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Perfect Ones By CanadianFluttershy Chapter 2 :Arrival The light of a clear late afternoon bounced off the mighty balloons of the Equestrian airships. Captain Shining Armor was doing his daily report gathering before night time."Anything on sight Swift!?" The great captain Armor asked loudly to a pony standing high up in the crow's nest of the Bella Mare. The deck was buzzing with activity. The wooden floor was glimmering from how clean and well kept it was and the mighty wings of the airship were pushing enormous amount of air behind, bringing the ship gracefully forward. A couple of weeks past since the Bella Mare and escort departed to soar above the vast stretch of clear water of the Sparkling sea, in search for the mighty land called Aurora. "Nothin' yet capt'n!" The earth pony yelled back, making sure is captain could hear him "Only a couple o'seagulls and some dolphins." Shining thanked his soldier and walked towards the captain's cabin, until he was interrupted midway by princess Luna. "Any news I should be aware of captain?" Luna asked simply. The unicorn looked at her liege glad in her black armour, ready for any eventual attacks. "Only some seagulls and dolphins your majesty. Still no land in sight" Shining answered. "Seagulls? We must be close then. We'll probably be there by tomorrow morning." Luna stated, before looking at the sea in front of her. The light of the sunset was reflected by the deep waters of the Sparkling Sea, giving a gorgeous glow of orange. "For now we must prepare ourselves for what is upcoming. May our strength protect us, if the humans react badly." Shining bowed in respect, and returned towards is cabin. Luna kept looking at the sea, enjoying every bit of peace that it gave. She was so absorbed by the moment, that she didn't even noticed her sister coming by her side, staring at the beautiful scenery too. "Wonderful, isn't it?" Celestia asked, without even turning her gaze from the ocean. "Yes, it is quite a show to behold." Luna answered, but then looked down at the water only a few meters below. "But I can't help but fear that our subjects are in great danger as we speak, with us being so far from home..." Celestia looked at her sister and smiled warmly."You don't have to worry Luna. I'm sure princess Twilight and princess Cadence have everything under control. Plus the Elements of Harmony would do anything to protect our subjects." Luna turned her gaze to Celestia with surprise. "The Elements? Didn't we give them back to the tree of harmony?" Celestia smiled again at her sister's curiosity. "Tools are useless for both those who don't know how to use them, and those who simply don't need them." Luna pondered a little bit at what her sister just said. The tired princess Celestia was already starting to head for her room, but stopped midway before looking back at her sister. "Oh and one more thing, you should watch the water at night. We don't call it the Sparkling Sea for nothing." (With) With that said Celestia, continued her own way, leaving her sister alone as the last sun rays disappeared off the horizon. Luna was about to raise the moon when something got her attention. She thought of what her sister said and headed to the side of the deck to look at the water below. The sight was breathe taking. Numerous glows of cyan, magenta, green, purple, red, indigo, all were decorating the ocean floor. Luna could even distinguish some of the ocean fauna. She looked for a minute, and then closed her eyes. "We are a long way from home indeed..." Luna muttered to herself, before reopening them to look once again at the beauty that laid under her. ___________________________________________________________________ Celestia and Luna were sleeping soundlessly in there cabins. Their armour on a ponyquin near their beds. Calm reigned in their regally decorated rooms. But it wasn't present on the deck of the Equestrian airships. "Princess! You may want to see this quick!" Shining Armor yelled from outside. Quickly, both alicorns rose from their beds and quickly equipped their armour. With both princesses ready, they swiftly ran to the deck to meet with the captain. Arriving there they found Shining trying to look down at the water. "What's happening?" Luna asked in concern to the Captain. Shining turned to look at the alicorns glad in their armour."Something is going on in the water. We don't know what it is, but it's big and it's following us." The word *following* wasn't fancied by Celestia who immediately reacted. "Prepare your stallions, load up the cannons. If this thing wants a piece of us, then it will be the taste of our steel!" Shining saluted and ran to prepare his soldiers. Both princesses looked down at the water, wondering what was hiding in the depths. It was obvious that they didn't liked that at all. Rumors about sea monsters lurking in the depths weren't unheard of, especially concerning the Sparkling Sea. Luna looked down for a bit and then turned towards her sister. "I'll take a look from the bridge. Perhaps I'll get a better view of whatever that thing is. I'll make sure to ask Sky Hoof if he has seen anything unusual. " Luna said to Celestia, who simply nodded in response. Luna went to her room grabbed her sword and the headed to meet Sky Hoof ____________________________________________________________________________________ It was a peaceful night in the beautiful city of Canterlot. Most of the city folks were sleeping as the moon shone brightly in the night sky. Of course the night guards were awake and were patrolling the city with scrutinizing eyes.The enemy could come up at any moment, and everypony knew that. But for now, everything seemed calm and restful. "I hope they're okay..." Twilight said while walking back and forth in the throne room. Cadence looked at her sister in law from her own throne and chuckled."Don't worry Twilight. They are only gone for two weeks. Plus, not everypony can fight Shining Armor and expect to win." "I know that Cadence." Twilight said before sitting on her throne with a huff. "It's just that they are so far away from home and who knows what's out there!" "Celestia knows what's out there Twilight." Cadence retorted. "She traveled there with her father remember?" "I know..." Twilight sighed and paused for a couple of seconds before saying something again. "But what's out there that could possibly help us here?" Cadence looked downwards while pondering at the question. "I don't know Twilight. Princess Celestia only said that they were going on an excursion to a land called Aurora." Twilight's eyes widened in surprise at the word land. "Land? I heard about stories of monsters, storms and pirates over Sparkling Sea before, but I never heard nor seen any information about actual land out there!" Twilight grunted "This is really confusing. Why there? Why didn't they tell me about this? What's out there!?" Cadence simply shrugged "Maybe there's some ancient magical artifact that could help us turn the tide of the war." "Maybe." Twilight sighed. "All I want is that war to come to an end. So that my family and my friends can finally live without the fear of being attacked, or even worse." Cadence had a look of sadness plastered right on her face. She had just realized how hurt her little sister in law was. She could lose one of her family member, or even her friends at anytime . "Twilight?" Cadence said, trying to get Twilight's attention. Which succeeded. "Everything will be fine, you don't need to worry. Plus you and your friends overcame many foes, many of which threatened Equestria's very existence!" "Yes we did, but this time it's different. The elements didn't work the first time! They absorbed it like it was nothing!" Twilight yelled, but then looked down in sorrow. "I...I just hope that whatever princess Celestia planned will work..." _______________________________________________________________________________ Ponyville looked normal that day. the only exceptions were the recruitment centres and the refugee camps on the market place. Their presence alone was an awful reminder of the war going on. With the EAF, or Equestrian Armed Forces, commonly patrolling the remaining cities, the presence of a slight tension was always palpable. Posters to promote the recruitment were everywhere in town, and a lot of ponies decided to join afterwards. Stallions patiently waited in line at the recruitment stall, for their turn to be enlisted. Among them was a certain red coated, and rather bulky stallion known as Big Macintosh. One by one, stallions were enlisted. Slowly, the line shortened until it was Big Mac's turn. A grey black maned earth pony in a green uniform pulled down his sunglasses to take a clearer look at the stallion before him. "Name and age please." The earth pony asked dully. "BigMacintosh Apple, 27." Big Mac answered, while looking at the pony who was writing the information on a sheet of paper. "Height?" "4,11 in" Big Mac simply answered "Any infirmities, allergies or vision problems?" "Nope" The stallion simply added while shaking his head. "Alright, take that sheet to the pony over there." The recruiter said while pointing at a mare pegasus, who seemed to be doing measurements on a new recruit."She'll measure you and provide you with your uniform and gear. After that, you'll be tasked to bring your gear to the train station, where you and the other recruits will take the train to Canterlot for training and role assignments. For now, welcome in the EAF." Big Mac nodded thankfully and immediately went to the mare, who quickly proceeded to measure the stallion and giving him is equipment. The uniform was nothing special. The colour was a bland green, and the only exception was the Equestrian flag patch on the right shoulder. The stallion then casually made is way to the train station, along with dozens of other ponies. Arriving there, everypony was busy saying what could possibly be their last farewell to their family and friends. Bigmac was about to enter one of the coaches, when something unexpectedly got his attention. "Big Mac!" A voice from the crowd called. Big Mac recognized the voice of his sister and looked around. He then noticed her trying to get through the crowd of recruits and their families, with tears pouring down her eyes. Applejack was finally able too take a breather from running, after stopping right in front Big Mac. "What in tarnation are ya doin! Do ya even know what is fixin to happen out there!?" Applejack yelled at her brother, but the stallion didn't even flinch. "The family needs ya! Me, Granny and Applebloom need ya!" Big Mac took a quick glance of annoyance at his sister, but shook it off to look elsewhere. "Don't you dare look away from me Mac! Listen to me for Pete's sake! You can get killed out there!" Applejack yelled furiously, almost on the verge of crying. (Big mac) He looked back at his sister with obvious grief. He knew he could probably be killed during a firefight. But he was determined to serve his home country if it meant that it would keep is family safe. Even if the war could take is life away. The red coated stallion then placed his right hoof onto Applejack's left shoulder. Both then embraced each other tightly. Applejack was now letting her tears flow. She knew her stubborn brother would go anyway. "Please take care of Applebloom alright? I'll write home as often as I can" The stallion asked before breaking the hug. Applejack wiped off her tears and nodded. Big Mac smiled warmly at her, and then walked into a passenger car before sitting down on one of the unoccupied seats. He then looked through the window, to see Applejack staring back with tears still waiting to be dropped. "Wait!" A voice yelled from afar. Applejack turned her gaze towards the path that connected the station to Ponyville. There, she saw little Applebloom quickly trying to pass through the crowd. Unfortunately, the train loudly whistled and started moving. Applebloom was in tears as she desperately tried to make her way through. The ponies in the train were now pulling their windows up and started waving their hooves at their loved ones. Applejack quickly took the filly in her hooves, but Applebloom tried and struggled to break free, jolting in every way possible. She was now crying out loud, as tears came down her heart-broken face. "Please!! Don't go! Big brother please don't leave us!" The filly cried, while still trying to get free from Applejack's grasp. Applejack was letting her tears flow too. "Don't worry little sis, big brother will be fine I promise." She whispered in the child's ear. Suddenly, both sisters saw a familiar red face and a hoof waving a them. Applebloom cried in her sister's hooves as the train slowly left, bringing the red coated stallion with it. ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Celestia eyed the water carefully, paying attention to every bit of odd detail she could possibly find. Luna did the same on her side. The large windows offered a panoramic view, as well as better chance of finding whatever that thing was. The last minutes were calm. So calm in fact, that it almost looked like time stopped for the crew. Everypony were geared up, ready for everything. Celestia started to get nervous about this, and decided to join her sister down in the bridge. Everything was silent, only the sound of the sea below was heard. Arriving there, Celestia noticed her sister still looking at the sea. She immediately joined her. "May I ask if you have seen anything sister?" Celestia asked calmly. Luna sighed. "Unfortunately no sister, It has been silent since we spotted it." Celestia scrutinized the water again before giving up. "Ugh, it's useless. Tell the crew th-" Suddenly out of nowhere, the sound of millions of gallons of water being pushed made everypony return their gazes at the water. What they saw was not to be laugh at. A humongous metallic structure slowly rose from the depths, moving an enormous amount of water in is way. Behind it, were small little tower like structures with what looked like three barrels of a cannon sticking out of them. Over a hundred of those rose quickly, until a full line of them was made. All of them were pointing right towards the airships. The sight was even more threatening, when weird flying objects flew out of the massive structure, and started to spin around them like a swarm of bees. Celestia quickly understood that this thing wasn't a sea monster. "It's....Them.." She muttered, still baffled by what she was seeing. Luna heard what her sister said, and decided to take an action. "We should return back to the deck and try to reason with them." Celestia nodded and they quickly left the bridge. Up on the deck, most of the ponies were already wavering. Until suddenly, a large cracking sound was heard. Everypony turned their gaze at the source, their eyes widened at the sight. Three bipedal beings, holding strange black metallic devices, and having what looked like black metallic wings on their back, were crouched right in front of them. The cracks on the floor made it evident that they landed hardly, but none of the creatures seemed fazed by it. Their weird black armour made them look very sleek and aerodynamic, followed by the strange black helmet with a dark tinted glass that seemed to cover their faces, making them look even more mysterious and intimidating. Another thing they noticed about them, were their heights. They were standing as high as their equestrian princesses, probably even a inch higher! Their mere presence was enough to make the crew of the Bella Mare tremble in fear. All of a sudden, the wings on the creatures backs folded in such a manner, that it was enough to make the ponies recoil in fear. Suddenly, one of the creatures spoke. "The mighty Equestrians are paying us a little visit" It spoke in a strong and rather hefty voice. "And with swords, rifles and bayonets? Please do let us speak to the horse in charge of that shameful display, or else we'll have to remind you of what happens to those who break the treaty!" Shining tried in vein to not grudge at the insults the creature made on his stallions and mares. Celestia looked at Luna who nodded confidently. "Greetings humans of Aurora, my name in Celes-" "We already know who you are princess, now what is the reason of your presence? Speak quickly." The human said harshly. Suddenly, the sound of a angry hoof stomp resonated, and a not so happy captain of the royal guards approached the humans. "You ape! Nopony disrespect the princesses and the royal guards!" Shining Armour unsheathed his weapon from the scabbard on his right hip, which forced the guards to do the same. The humans although, weren't impress by the weak demonstration of force. One of the creature, that the ponies assumed to be the female of the group, calmly took a sword from a nearby rack. She then slowly held it in front of her by both ends, before casually bending it upwards without a ditch of effort. When finished, the sword was bent at a 90 degrees angle. She then threw it right on the floor, in front of the captain. "Iron bends easily. Will you bend as easily?" She said coldly, before crossing her arms unimpressed. Shining was about to lose is temper but somepony interrupted him in the act. "Captain,put your weapon away immediately, it's an order." The white unicorn turn his gaze, to see admiral Sky Hoof slowly walking towards him and the humans. The captain grunted in annoyance, while sheathing his weapon in his scabbard. "Sorry for the inconvenience, I'm admiral Sky Hoof, leader of the HMEAS Bella Mare and escort. We come to discuss diplomatic affairs with your nation's ruler." Sky said with ease. The third male human on the left, who wasn't as big as the first one, looked at his bulky leader and nodded. The leader nodded back and returned his view towards the admiral."You're lucky, seems that our leader heard our little discussion and the reason of your visit. Also, we've just been informed that our general had given you the green light to pass. Although you, along with your escort, will be monitored during this entire visit and we will not tolerate any suspicious behaviour by you, your leaders and your crew. Did I get myself clear?" The pony looked at the princesses who nodded in agreement, before looking back at the human. "Fair enough." Sky answered simply. "Good." The human added before reaching for an handshake, which was greatly accepted by the pony. "For now, welcome to Aurora." "This is Falcon-3, requesting shut down of cloak E-302. Over" The third man said out loud. "Roger that Falcon-3, green light given, shutting down cloak E-302." A voice in his helmet answered back, to everypony's astonishment. What they saw afterwards, was the pure definition of beauty and prosperity. _______________________________________________________________________________________________ The musics belong to their respective owners, I did not create them nor am I using them for commercial purposes. All credits goes to the creators of those pieces of art. Thank you. > Chapter III: The Proposal > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Magical entities? Are you sure?" A rather aged man asked while sitting at his desk with his hands clenched before him. On his desk stood his name plate, CDR.Henri Johnson was written on it. The man had short white hair and a scruffy beard. He was wearing a black military uniform, adorned with ribbons showing his past exploits in the military. A young small holographic woman standing on his desk in front of him nodded and spoke. "Yes commander, the madars located three of them heading slowly towards Khaleesi shore. One of them has extremely powerful magic. I believe we should be wary." "Do we have visual? A glimpse of what technology and what kind of weapons they have?" The woman nodded and handed over a small tablet that projected 3 dimensional images of the so called entities. "Mostly cannons and swords that look straight out of the 19th century. Magic seems to be the only big threat." The commander scrolled trough the pictures and smirked. The young A.I noticed it and spoke. "Sir, may I ask why you are smiling?" The commander looked at the A.I before him. "If they wanted to attack us and win, they would have brought better than just wooden airships and magic. So it's probably not an attack. In fact, by the looks of it, it seems our pony friends didn't bother to upgrade their war game. " "What are your orders then sir?" The A.I asked curiously. "We're going to greet them of course. Get back to Captain Aran." The man commanded."Tell him that I'll show the orders via his TPD. Also tell him that I'll speak to him personally for an assessment on the current situation." The young A.I saluted, before vanishing away. The commander looked at his digital watch which showed 10:30 AM, It also gave specific details of the current temperature and weather outside. "This is going to be very interesting" he thought before returning to is paperwork. ________________________________________________________________________________________ Seria-4, underwater facility, July 23 2763, 11:03 am Deep down, sitting on the ocean floor of the Sparkling Sea, a large glass made structure stood. His dome like shapes connected by glass tunnels, offered an excellent view on the ocean floor, the flora and fauna as well. In the biggest dome, a crew of men and women were busy trying to have more details on the Equestrian presence at the surface. In the middle of the enormous room standing on the black granite floor, stood a big holographic platform that showed the surface of the sea. The surroundings were full of men and women looking at their screen, walking with haste to their posts and communicating with the military units in action. "Sir, the Ravens confirmed that they are not hostile." A man reported to his admiral. This admiral looked like a rather fine lad, despite almost hitting his fifties, he still seemed in great shape. "Good, did they ask the reason of their visit?" The brown haired and tanned skinned captain asked. The soldier nodded, "Yes sir, apparently it's a diplomatic visit." "Diplomatic visit eh? Interesting." Aran said and pondered. After a couple of seconds of thought gathering, he finally spoke. "Prepare to bring the cloak down and letting them in." The soldier slightly nodded in agreement. "However, send a request to Commander-in-chief Vasiliev to gather a company of men at the dock, just so they know how we treat hold enemies who pay us visits, understood? "Yes sir." The soldier assured. "Good, now dismiss." Immediately, the obedient man saluted and went off to fulfill his task. The captain approached the holographic platform, and with some quick hand gestures he zoomed on the Equestrian airships. He sighed and in a hushed voice he spoke to himself. "Time has passed, it changed in the most unexpected way. This might just change the future of our presence on Earth... The Union will want to hear further about the situation for su-" "Sir?" A voice from behind interrupted. "Commander Johnson wants to speak to you personally." Aran looked back at the soldier and nodded. "Let's get this over with." ___________________________________________________________________________ Princess Celestia and princess Luna of the Co-principality of Equestria. stared with awe and bewilderment as the cloak slowly degraded to reveal the result of three thousand years of technological advancement; since the last witness of human civilization by Equestrian eyes. An entire megalopolis gently revealed itself, starting from the top of the highest buildings and down to the bases of the giant structures. The buildings released bright hues of light, all with their own colours. The glass reflected some of the rays of the noon sun. Some strange little devices of numerous shapes at the bases of the towers and spires, seemed to be pursuing each other but were following some sort of airborne road made for them. High up over the city was what could be described as metallic structures with blue flames behind them. They floated graceflly over the city until suddenly they went off with a flash at ludicrous speeds towards the sky and disappeared. This took the interested of both monarch as they contemplated the might of the city that spread countless miles away. Both princesses, as well as the crew, were speechless from the demonstration of prosperity and technological advancement. The whole thing looked like it came from a Sci-fi novel. "How could such thing be possible!? No magic can render an entire city, this mighty, totally invisible!" Luna said while still captivated by the sight. The leader of the queer human group walked in front of the ponies before abruptly deploying his, surprisingly realistic looking, metallic bird like wings. The sudden action made the pony crew flinch back. A subtle hum could be heard from the footwear of the human bird, as fluorescent blue stripes adorned the various part of his sleek black suit. The light from the suit radiated and faded at a slow pace that made the armor looked like it was alive. The human then slowly rose up in the sky as small blue flames came from is boots. "It's simple." The man retorted. "It ain't magic." The man then flew off towards the port. The female faced the alicorns and spoke. "Please follow our lead from now on. We will escort you to the port where your crew and yourselves can disembark and rest." Both princesses nodded in agreement. The rest of the human group deployed their own pairs of wings and gently flew to guide the airship towards the port. _____________________________________________________________________________ Dark, dark were the shape shifting walls of the Changeling Hive. Nothing but a few queer looking and glowing green orbs shone on the walls to give the place some sort of lighting. Yet, the changelings didn't fear the gloomy feel of the place. After all it is their place of birth and for now their only remaining home. For as long as history could date back, this place was the center of changeling activity. Workers worked hard to take every single bit of emotion they could find, especially the tasty ones like love or happiness. Does emotions where then brought straight back to the hive and to Queen Chrysalis. After that. she then distributes an equitable share to all her Changelings. Queen Chrysalis was sitting on her throne, waiting for the next changeling to be fed. In front of her, a massive line of her subjects seemed to reach far outside the throne room and through the complex hallways. One by one she was feeding them by approaching near the ling's face and opening her mouth to let go of a pink magical smoke. The smoke was then absorbed by the Changeling's own mouth. The procedure repeated itself until only a short line remained. There, Chrysalis was about to feed the next changeling in line when and abrupt voice came from the entrance of the throne room. "My queen! King Gultar is just outside the northern gate, he requests an audience!" Chrysalis's expression went from surprised to angered in just a few seconds. "Let that fool in! Bring him to the meeting room!" The Queen harshly said, whilst she walked with a furious look plastered on her face. She walked through the dark hallway, to finally found herself in front of a large grey and black door adorned with some weird pulsating green lines. With her magic, she threw the doors open to the surprise of everybody, except for one griffin in particular who greedily smiled at the scene while sitting at the end of a large and long rectangular table. The griffin king was pretty average in height and weight for its kind. His long feathered wings were as black as the walls of the room he was in. The room was humongous and the blackness of the ceiling made it seem like it was a void that stretched forever towards the unknown. Large dark convoluted pillars stood in lines at a regular pattern at about 20 feet from each other. Those pillars are there to; of course, hold the ceiling, but also to add to the aesthetics of the meeting room. The table stood in between the lines of pillars, right in the middle of the room to give everyling a chance to see. The black marble flooring reflected the soft green lighting from the few torches "Ah, Queen Chrysalis! How delightful it is to see you again!" He exclaimed cheerfully, as his voice resonated throughout the room. "You!" Chrysalis looked at him with a menacing glare "How dare you show your miserable face in here! Grub!" The griffin laughed mockingly at the insult "I? King Gultar the third, a grub? Since when the almighty changelings had a shortage of mirrors? Although I'm surprised, really I am, that your miserable hive is still standing together. " "You insolent little pest!" Chrysalis reacted to the affront by charging her horn, ready to blast those beak heads into charred bird. This caused the guards standing besides the greedy king to react by pointing their rifles at the really angered queen. The changelings in the room didn't like the threat and they charged up their horns as well. The room stayed silent as the individuals in it waited for a move to be done. The king simply chuckled at the scene and spoke. "Easy now, we're not here for a little hustle, I came here with a proposal." The changeling Queen looked at her surroundings, then back to him, before discharging her horn slowly. Everyling and griffin in the room did the same and slowly put themselves at ease. "Good" The king said. "Now let's talk about my proposition." "It better not be an invitation to join your dumb campaign! We have our own plans, and we don't need a dumb griffon interfering with our affairs." The Queen answered with an angered tone as she proceeded to make her way and sit on her chair at the opposite side of where the Griffin king was sitting. "Oh no, it's more of a 'demand' rather than an invitation." The griffin said after giving a short boisterous laugh. The Queen wasn't buying it and spoke fiercely. "What type of proposal delivers only demands?" She asked sharply The griffin laughed."Mine!" He said with a smile. "Now I will say it once queen, join us, and you and your people shall prosper like no other. Deny us however, and I'll make sure your pitiful hive will be turned into a pile ash and rubble." The changeling Queen looked at him like as if he was joking. "You like to jest, don't you? You joke of a king!" She laughed rollickingly, followed shortly by her own minions. "You think you and your personal wimps you call guards will take over the entire hive?" "Oh pardon me, I forgot to mention that my armies are patiently waiting at your gates, how silly of me." "And you think I'm going to believe this nonsense!?" The queen exclaimed with a short laugh. The griffin smiled confidently. "You don't? Well then I won't stop you from looking at it yourself." He affirmed as he motioned for the queen to take a look from the balcony. Hesitantly, Chrysalis slowly walked towards the already glass doorway leading to the large balcony of the main spire. She opened the door and arriving there the sight was definitively intimidating. Armoured to an extent where only the sound of thousands of metal clanks resonated through the air. Armed in a way that even a hydra would cower in fear with a single glimpse, the mighty griffin army marched and shook the earth in its path, bringing terror to those who dare stand in their way. The changeling queen could easily spot a dozens of Rifle users as well as cannons and airships. She could also see some Sword masters and a couple of noble guards. But something seemed not right in the army composition, as she examined the army she noticed a different colour scheme apart from the glimmering bronze of the griffin armours. That colour was black! Dark black! Black like, her people! She focused on the group to finally uncover the truth. Some of her lings betrayed her! She couldn't believe it! Immediately she went inside to notice the king having the same cocky grin as before. "I see that you have spotted the little surprise I reserved for you back there, I can easily tell with that look on your face." The griffin said. "I say it is pretty entertaining to see these expressions of yours." Whispers from the crowd of changelings in the room were heard, trying to demystify the queen's sudden change of facial expression. The queen glared at the king, then spoke sharply. "What did you do to them?" "Ask him." The griffin stated, while pointing at the doorway that Queen Chrysalis previously used. There stood a group of changelings clad in dark armour. The small party marched its way into the room with high synchronization before splitting in two to let passage to the leader of the now rebellious Changeling forces. Again the queen couldn't believe it, did her forces really rebelled against her? If her own army joined this tyrant king then it could mean the end for her and her loyal subjects! "Captain Zopherus!? What is the meaning of this!?" The Queen shouted, immediately demanding a response. "High General Zopherus is now my title. Queen." The Changeling in noble black armor stated boldly. "And I will not stand idly by while our people are starving and rotting in this stinkin' hive! King Gultar is giving us a chance to finally flourish and eat our fill! I will not let pass a chance to finally live a good life. If it means to join a war against does pony scum, then I'll gladly do it!" Chrysalis didn't like the response, as she stomped and shouted her lungs out. "Don't you understand!?" The queen said while looking at him in disbelief. She then turned her gaze to the other changelings who betrayed her. "Don't you all understand!? He is trying to manipulate you by giving you false promises and rewards! This scum you call king would do anything in order to become more powerful each passing day! He does not care about you! He will laugh at your misery while he sits on his forsaken throne, while all of you are fighting a war that doesn't even concern you at all! The equestrians may seem like they are losing this war, but it is only a matter of time until they find their allies and mark their enemies. At the very last minute they will come back victorious yet again! No matter what you do, the tides will always go on their favor! I am the one who raised you all! All of you should know better!" "Nonsense coming from a coward!" Gultar objected. "Keep in mind that I am not a selfish king! I help and care for my people just like you Chrysalis! I am willing to help the Changelings by giving you a chance to finally be out of your misery, yet you still put yourselves in it anyways! I may have started this war, but it is for a good cause! Just imagine if you could get your hooves on the crystal heart! This could mean food for the changelings for countless years!" “You are stupid if you think the Crystal heart can help our cause! I am the ONLY one who can help and care for my subjects! This artifact can only be opened by pure magic, magic that can only be performed by equestrian ponies!” "Ah yes! the magic of friendship is cert strong, but it is not infallible Chrysalis! There is a way to crack open the heart in order to get what lies inside it." The changeling queen raised an eyebrow, not believing a word the griffin said, "Oh please do share us that brilliant idea of yours. Hopefully you’ll run out of saliva to waste soon…" "The elements are the key my friends" The griffin said sternly with open arms. "If we could bring those artifacts together, then the power of their magical auras would be more than enough to open the heart." "The elements cannot be activated by an aura link." Chrysalis stated. “The elements are already linked to those damned six mares." The king then smiled with greed."Then I’ll break it." Realization seemed to strike the queen as her eyes widened in shock. The griffin noticed the sudden change of expression. "Surprised? It's easy, really! Magic, though hard to fight against, needs a body to use, and you and me both know that a body is weak and vulnerable." "You plan on killing off one of the elements!?" The king chuckled."Why not? By getting rid of one of those mares we also get rid of their moral. And without any moral..." He lifted is goblet of whine at eye level and stared into it. Smirking, he proceeded to rotate the liquid inside, creating a small whirlpool."Their ability to think, fight, and even love, goes slowly down the drain." "The only thing that will go down the drain, is your army and your riches after such an actions." Chrysalis spat. "Believe me, queen. They won't see it coming. But I fear we are running out of time. We'll gladly let you till tomorrow morning to think about the proposition. You have my word." The griffon smiled before standing up and making is way towards the exit "Remember Chrysalis, I'm doing this for you and your people. I expect you to choose wisely!" He said before leaving the room entirely. _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Slowly and carefully. the now not so mighty equestrian airships initiated their decent towards the naval port. Skillfully the Bella Mare steered to the side of one of the docks and came to a full stop. The airship was now hovering about ten feet above the glimmering water. Pegasi flew out of the ship while holding long ropes in their mouths. Quickly and ably they tied the ropes to the great dock, thus preventing the airship from drifting away. A crewpony kicked the gangplank open and it dropped to eventually land on the quay with a thump. The two regal sisters descended the plank with their guards, as well as Shining Armor following them close behind. Luna was still looking at the buildings with wonder and awe, no city in Equestria compared to the might of this one. The lights, architecture and sheer size of those skyscrapers, cast immense shadows to the ground. While feeling a sense of security from the behemoths, Luna still felt puny and vulnerable compared to the might of the structures. Seconds later the female human in the black armored suit from earlier, slowly landed next to the group and motioned to follow her. As they followed the soldier, Luna looked upwards at the sky to see large metal structures hovering over the city before disappearing with a bright flash. All that was left was a blue trail that slowly faded away. So many questions were popping up within Luna's head. "Where did they go?" Luna accidentally spoke aloud, thus blushed at her clumsiness. Hearing the question and apparently knowing exactly what she was talking about, the human answered. "To Zeta C. Exilis, a system not so far from here, traders often go there to replenish their cargo. " She stated. A horde of thoughts invaded the princess's mind. Although tempted to ask more questions, she decided preserve them for now. Not willing to annoy the female human even further, she followed calmly. On the opposite, Shining did not trust the humans at all as he observed them with precaution and alertness. For him it seemed like the princess's were trotting into enemy territory without a care in the world. He quickened is pace to catch up on the Celestia who was speaking softly to her sister next to her. ''Your highness, with all due respect I suggest we should be more 'distrustful' of those beings." Shining proposed while looking around for anything suspicious. Celestia looked at him and spoke. "Captain Shining Armor, after insulting them and charging at them with your sword unsheathed like a psychopath, I suggest you stay out of our concerns until this visit is finished." "But your highness we-" "No 'buts' captain! It's an order!" The princess replied in anger. Shining Armor, who was now out of words, simply nodded and returned to his post at the back of the group. They advanced silently until they finally arrived at the dock's entrance, although the welcoming wasn't a warm one. They looked upon their surroundings to see a large company of human soldiers siding a man who was wearing what they supposed, was a high graded military uniform. The mysterious and fully geared soldiers created some sort of passageway towards the man, who was waiting with his hands behind his back. The man simply stood in front of a large elongated metallic structure on wheels. Shining was now looking around with all the cautiousness in the world, it was obvious the he didn't like the humans at all. The group slowly and silently neared the man. At their arrival he offered his hand for a handshake. Celestia happily offered her hoof with a smile. "It is a pleasure to finally make your acquaintance your royal highness." Said the man while shaking the hoof with a smile. " Allow me to introduce myself. Daniel Morrow, representative and chairman of the Human Federation of Aurora for the Galactic Union of sector T'Sora. But please, Mr. Morrow will do just fine. " "I share your delight mister Morrow, I am Princess Celestia, protector of harmony and ruler of the Co-principality of Equestria." Said the princess while smiling warmly. Seeing the lack of attention towards her, Princess Luna cleared her throat loud enough for the others to hear. Celestia immediately saw the little flaw she made and proceeded to correct it."Ah, I almost forgot to introduce you to my sister, Princess Luna, dream guardian and ruler of the night." Luna advanced and offered her hoof with pride."Charmed." She said. The human grabbed her hoof and shook it calmly with respect. Daniel caught a glimpse of the ponies behind the princesses and spoke. "I'm sorry, but some of your highness's guards will have to stay here until the end of the meeting, for I do believe there isn't enough room for more than two more of you. I'm sorry for the inconvenience." Shining was about to oppose but a stern look from Celestia immediately silenced him out. "It is quite alright, I understand. I'll choose lieutenant Sky Lance and Arrow Mane to accompany us. I fear captain Armor his a little bit on edge." Morrow smiled with thankfulness and opened the door of the transport he was standing in front of. The Princess's and their guards entered the weird carriage as it started making a low humming sound. Shining looked as the princess's left the port aboard the weird human transport. Shining gnashed at his sight and quickly turned back around with haste while spitting out swearwords on his way back to the airship. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Chrysalis, Queen Mother of the Changeling hive, laid calmly on her black bed sheets while staring at the ceiling of her silent quarters. She stood there for hours, thinking about her next course of action concerning the King's "Conquest of Equestria". Her options were limited and risky. Declaring war to Gultar would be suicidal and dumb. Accepting the Gryphon king's proposal was not an option either, after what happened back in Canterlot when the Changelings suffered a rough defeat because of those darn six girls, the whole hive was left with no food as well as no will to fight back. Before the invasion of Equestria, the Changelings succeeded at taking love from the surrounding nations. Those included the Grand Duchy of Donkarn, or more commonly known as the land of the donkeys, the zebras of the Zebrican Nations and the deer of Cervidae. But yet none of those sources of love compared to the one found in the principality. Changelings can only feed on love in its magical form and since the land of the ponies is a full blown magic goldmine and the other sources are too small to provide everyling with food, it is obviously hard to resist the temptation. Suddenly her thoughts were cut short after hearing the creaking sound of rusty door hinges desperately letting the black wooden door of the queen's room open. Chrysalis darted her gaze at the importunate visitor to notice typical big vivid blue eyes of a Changeling looking at her. "Who comes?" The queen asked The intruder opened the door even more to reveal itself. Immediately Chrysalis recognized the familiar silky violet mane and the shyly feminin face of her maiden. "It is only me my queen, I just wanted to check on your well being... Should I leave?" The maiden asked softly while looking at the ground. Chrysalis let out a small sight and spoke, "No... it is fine, you may come in, Dae..." With that said the changeling maiden entered and slowly closed the door behind her. She returned her gaze to her ruler who was still laying on her black canopy bed. She looked around to make sure nothing was out of place and the made her way next to the silent queen who was back on her train of thoughts. Miridae noticed the unusual silence from her leader and decided to investigate on the subject. "My Queen?" "Yes?" Chrysalis answered simply while still looking at the ceiling. "May I know what troubles you?" The maid asked shyly. Chrysalis looked at her beautiful servant and sighed. "Everything..." "It's because of the griffon King, right?" Dae guessed while looking at Chrysalis with concern The Queen sighed and rolled on her side, exposing her back to her hoofmaiden. "Great parts of it is indeed related to that bastard." The maid pondered for a moment and looked down at the old and damaged marble floor. Then she looked around to see the state of the place. It was really hard to keep the city fixed and well kept during these times. Everything arrived way too quickly. The war, the starvation, the raids, almost everything made it difficult for the hive to stand greatly like it once did. The queen then rose up and slowly walked to the balcony doors. She opened them, letting the fresh outdoor air caress her silky green mane. "I refuse to submit to some griffin who wishes to make my subjects his meat shield." Chrysalis said while looking at the morning sky. "And I'm in no mood to kiss the flank of that filthy perverted ostrich looking fool, all the while praising the toothpick between his legs." Dae blushed in embarrassment at the dirty insults. "My queen! Please! There are larvae next door!" Chrysalis chuckled "I apologize, I got carried away." the queen then recomposed herself and turned around to gaze at her servant shyly looking downwards. "There's something on your mind too, isn't there? What is it Dae?" The changelette was taken aback by her queen's queen sense of observation. "Well, my queen... If..." She chocked while looking at the floor yet again. The queen raised a brow. "If..? If what?" Seeing that her queen was getting impatient she mustered some courage and finally spoke."I... If the ponies are fighting a war against him. P.. Perhaps if we should consider joining forces and come to ther-" "WHAT!!!" The queen shouted, furious, as she levitated her own servant of the ground, choking her in the process. The servant was helplessly squirming around, coughing and wheezing as barely any air could get to her lungs. "So that's it!? You want the hive to submit to the alicorns now!? You foolish idiot! I will never come to the aid of those who rejected our kind for a millennia!" The poor servant was silently crying, for the choking prevented her to scream. "Plea- please!" She managed to say. "You aren't any better than those foolish rebels!" She shouted as she proceeded to bring the poor thing closer to her jaw. "I'll show you just what happens to those who betray the hi-!" All of a sudden, with a thunderous burst of energy, rubble that was once the balcony came flying past Chrysalis and her servant. The powerful blast sent them both to the opposite side of the room. Struggling, the queen slowly brought herself back on her hooves. Her servant, now traitor to her eyes, remained still on the ground. "My queen! The griffins are attacking!" A voice coming from the hallway resounded. Chrysalis rolled her eyes. "How observant..." She muttered. "Take arms! Move up to the walls! Prepare my personal armor. I'll deal with that lying scum myself!" She yelled back while leaving the room, leaving the young unconscious servant on the floor. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________