Prince Shining Armor and Princess Cadance are taken hostage by a mysterious terrorist organization and Equestria cries out for aid...One man answers the call.
"Have you ever heard the saying 'The enemy of my enemy is my friend...?'"
Humans and Ponies have co-existed in relative peace for thousands of years. However due to their past relations, they harbor a bitter resentment for one another...although no longer down right hostile...
When terror and chaos rain throughout the Crystal Empire on a peaceful starry night, the Crystal Guard find themselves overwhelmed by a force in the darkness. They struck with unbelievable speed and left without a trace, taking with them, the Crystal Empire's beloved Prince and Princess. No one even caught a glimpse of the ones that abducted their leaders under the cover of Luna's night. The Royal Sisters of Canterlot were quick to launch a full scale investigation to reveal their whereabouts but to no avail.
Only weeks after the incident did the shadowy organization behind it all reveal themselves...What are their motives, why have they taken Shining Armor and Cadance hostage? What exactly do they want? And what does the human visitor to Canterlot have to say?
When the three Pony Tribes united as one under the banner of Equestria, they prospered from their new found unity. The Great Windigo Blizzards had been brought to end through friendship and for the first time in history Unicorns, Earth Ponies, and Pegasi could finally live happily together. The Unicorns with their amazing magical prowess made up the majority of Equestria's researchers and scholars, while the Earth Ponies providing enough food to feed all, and made up the majority of industry and commerce. The Pegasi kept a consistant regulation of the weather for the Earth Ponies and protected Equestria's borders from the skies. As the new found nation grew so did the population that resided within it and they expanded their dominance of the land until they reached the seas. The Ponies did not know what awaited beyond the horizon, where a whole other world lay in waiting...one completely different than the one they knew...
Crystal Empire, Equestria
0400 Hours...
"Amidst the blue skies, a link from past to future. The black wings of the raven..."
"Steel yourselves...Only four minute until drop"
The deep raspy voice of a spoke out from the darkness of the cabin. The orange-red lights adorning the sides revealing men that stood in waiting. Lined up against the length of the plane, the small group of men waited with rifles slung over their shoulders and details of their plan in mind. Aside from the steady whir of the engines and the occasional cough there was utter silence. The men all wore similar clothing. Urban camouflage pants, black assault vests over their shirts complete with parachutes for each man. Their faces were concealed behind their balaclavas. A young man's heart thumped rapidly at the end of the line as he waited just as his comrades did. The same raspy voice broke the silence once more. He knew what he was getting into—and if they succeeded...
"Two minutes! Check your gear and stand-by!" On cue the cabin was filled with sounds of zippers, Velcro and other equipment. Checking their chutes, weapons and the rest. Another voice spoke out, this one without an accent—was firm and clear.
"Alright listen up! We've gone over this before but I'll lay it out again! Once you hit the ground, regroup with your assigned team, weapons safe until we get the green light. Avoid the main roads and stick to the alley-ways. Most of em' are asleep so it should be clear. First team moves in and clears the palace grounds, The second is to extract the targets. Team three is to move to and wait at the designated building for the signal. They'll be crawling all over the streets soon after. From there on in you are to hold out until extraction got it?" Muffled grunts and a few nods was given to him in response. "We don't expect heavy resistance, so we should be out in less than an hour. Remember what we went over: Step one, Drop into the night. Step two, Secure the targets. Step three...unleash hell!"
From the windows, clouds and the world below could be seen, veiled by the beautiful night sky. The lone cargo plane tore through the night, high in the clouds. Only a faint sound could be heard from below. The masked men inside went through one last phase of silence as they approached the Crystal Empire. With no radar or anti-air defenses, slipping into Equestrian territory was no challenge for the plane and its cargo. This operation had taken months of planning. Gathering intelligence, smuggling weapons, recruiting more men for the cause. Humanity and Ponykind had been at peace for far too long it seemed.
The young man at the back was anxious. This was his first "mission" in the organization and if all went well, he wouldn't just get paid, he would officially become one of them. There was nothing more he wanted. Each of the men on board had a fire burning furiously in their hearts. One that could only be doused with blood. They all knew what they signed up for...and they were ready. The boy's anxiety was replaced with a seething anger waiting to be released...pent up emotions begging to escape.
Not yet...When the time is right son...when the time is right...
"Remember, not a shot goes off until you receive signal!" The burly man at the front spoke again. "Approaching drop point in thirty second! You fuck-up, you get left behind!" The red light above them turned green with a loud 'buzz' and the ramp began to lower. A blast of chilly wind greeted them instantly. A crewman stood at the front waiting to signal the men to jump.
GO! GO! GO!
One by one the men poured out from the back of the plane, dropping freely into the night. The young man was the last to drop, feeling the cool air sending ripples through his clothes as he accelerated. His eyes glued to the snowflake shaped city coming up to greet him through the clouds. He already began to see parachutes deploying below him and clutched the handle firmly. He let himself fall for a few more seconds before yanking the main handle hard. He felt the chute's contents fly out for a moment before he felt his body slow down. His descent now steady and calm, he clutched the handles, steering himself towards the drop zone.
You know what you must do...
As he approached the ground, he could see the others regrouping and making their way to the objective. The man hit the ground with a hard thud, falling over but he was quick to get up. He removed his harness and pulled out his rifle. A Kalash 47 assault rifle...cheap, reliable and easy to use. He took a moment to survey his surroundings. He had landed in a park and could see his mates on the other side. It was mostly dark, save for the street lamps and lights coming from the buildings. The streets were empty thanks to a particular 'incident' that made the Princess invoke a curfew.
"Head count! One...two, three..." He could hear his squad's leader whispering. The boy moved in closer to his group. "Four. Alright we're good..." He pulled out his walkie-talkie and reported in. The boy could hear chatter on the other end but couldn't make out any words. "...Copy, we're moving out, over. Let's go." The men made their way to nearest alley, there isn't supposed to be anyone out but it's best to be safe. The leader took point, with the rest following suit. They watched every corner for any signs of movement, if anything happened before they reach the castle, they'd be surrounded like cornered prey. They tread as lightly as they could. The rifle provided some comfort as the boy moved, his balaclava getting damp with sweat. His heart was beating furiously and his mind was expecting no less than disaster.
What if someone saw them? What if they were captured? Would they torture him? These questions burned through his mind like wild-fire. He took deep breaths at every time they stopped. The man leading was calm and firm, his eyes locked in the moment and his hand steady. The group approached the end of the alley leading out into the city square. A raised hand at the front signaled them to stop.
"...and she tells me that she 'doesn't have time' and I'm like 'are you kidding me!?'" The voice came from the way leading to the right.
"...and then what?" Another voice, male, he sounded tired. "I told her if she was going to stand me up on another bucking date than maybe we shouldn't be together." The two voices continued to chat blissfully unaware of the chaos that was to follow. "Uh huh, hey by the way did you hear a buzzing sound by any chance?"
"Buzzing sound? Nah, why?"
"I dunno, I was stayin' up reading when I heard like a 'eeerrrrr' sound coming from the sky."
"Dude, you read?" The other stifled a giggle.
"Shut up! I do!"
"Oh yeah and what exactly? Virgin's digest?"
"No! Something...else...Hey buck you! Don't you have anything better to do at five in the morning?"
There was a laugh and more chatter followed.
The squad leader peeked behind the wall spotting two crystal ponies engaged in conversation. One of them was standing in the doorway whilst the other was outside. They glistened in the moonlight, exposing themselves completely in the dark.
"What is it?" A voice whispered from the back of the group. "Ponies, two of em'. The castle is right up ahead but they're in the way."
"Orders?" Asked the man in the middle. "Stay put and hold your fire. Hold this." The leader passed his gun to the guy behind him. He drew out a suppressed pistol from his holster and pulled up his balaclava. "What are you gonna do?" The young man asked...
no response
The leader gave out a soft whistle, just loud enough to get their attention.
"What was that?" Asked a purple stallion as he stepped out the doorway. On cue, the man stepped out into the light, his pistol hidden behind his leg. "Hey, don't you folks know that there's a curfew in effect?" The two stallions went instaltly wide-eyed at the sight of the black garbed man. "A-a...h-human? W-what's a hu—" The man interrupted him with the barrel of a .22 pistol pointed straight between the stallion's eyes. They both began to back away in fear, lips quivering.
"Don't you worry your pretty little pony head about that." He cracked a toothy smile before a bullet was put in the pony's head. His hand quickly snapped to the other pony and another faint 'crack' was heard, followed by another thud.
The other men came out to join him. "What the fuck!? Someone could've fuckin' heard that!" The man said through clenched teeth. The man holstered his pistol. "No witnesses...If anyone heard that then we wouldn't be here. Now shut the fuck up and lets keep moving, we should be at the castle right now." He pulled his mask back down and retrieved his gun, gesturing the squad to move out. The young man paused. "Sh-shouldn't we get rid of the bodies?"
"No point, we'll be out of here before they're found. Now lets move!" The boy swallowed and continued on behind them. He was going to have to get used to this.
Somewhere within the majestic halls of the Crystal Castle slept a prince and princess, their Crystal Guard on high alert, patrolling and keeping a watchful eye out. It was another uneventful night as nary a thing stirred save for the guards themselves. However despite this they remained, faithful to their oath.
A lone pegasus guard walked through the main hallway, his shift nearly at its end. He was looking forward to finally getting some shut-eye. He was tired and the bags beneath his eyes showed it. Not much longer now...He thought, looking at his watch. He didn't know why it was even necessary for Princess Cadence to issue a curfew to protect her subjects, nothing ever happens this far out. Or does it?
They were definitely hiding something when they refused to fully elaborate on why the curfew was being put in place...However, it wasn't his place to overthink such things, the Princess most likely had her reasons and he was certain it was for the good of the Empire.
But still, the guard couldn't shake the feeling that something was...wrong. Weird noises coming from the sky, the curfew, and something clearly eating away at their leaders' minds. No doubt about it, something was off and he could only hope that whatever it is, it would be dealt with soon.
The guard let out soft yawn as he continued his rounds. Trotting on down the corridor, the clip-clop of his hooves and the clinking of his armor being the only sounds that could be heard. He spotted one of his buddies standing by a large door. The stallion looked his way and nodded, he returned the gesture.
"Yo..." The stallion's croaky voice indicated that the door-guard was even more tired than he was.
"Hey, how you doin'?"
"Good...I guess? You?"
"Fine, but bored as all hay. I'm just waiting for shift to end now..."
"Ah, well..." He blinked and straightened his posture. "After standing around doing absolutely bucking nothing for the last hour, I can report that all is quiet."
"Ha, yeah but a little too quiet for my tastes." The stallion yawned again.
"Ugh, I know...Hey we should probably get back on watch. Not gettin' paid to...chat." He smacked his lips before continuing to stay as alert as he could.
"Hey, does something seem off to you?" He raised a tired eyebrow.
"What do you mean?"
"I mean, this whole thing. The curfew, the extra security. I mean I'd understand better if they actually explained if anything was going on..."
"Hmm, Well everyone's thinkin' it but..."
"But...what?"
"I heard the Cap' talkin' about something the other day, something 'bout 'anticipating the unexpected'." It was his turn to be confused.
"What the hay does that mean?"
"Means, even the Captain of the guard doesn't know. If anything...they're not telling us something."
"Don't be ridiculous, the Princess wouldn't lie to us...would she?" The stallion shrugged.
"No clue buddy. It just ain't my place to say that. I'm just telling you what I heard."
"Alright, well only a few more hours 'till daybreak. You wanna go out eat later when our shift ends?"
"Hey I'm good for that. Someone else can stand around this bucking door." They shared a chuckle and the guard went on his way.
In only mere minutes they had reached it. The Crystal Castle. The young man looked in awe at the astounding architecture. How they managed to build the entire bloody thing out of crystal was beyond him. The entrance was guarded but a few well placed shots from the shadows disposed of the mere annoyance that was blocking their way. The squad leader called in on his radio whilst his comrades hid the bodies and watched their backs. The second team was in the market square securing the area for step two of their plan whilst another team was outside the city, awaiting the signal to extract the other two teams. The cogs had been set in motion...no turning back now...
"Team one reporting in. The castle entrance is clear and all is quiet over." The voice on the other end was deep and distorted.
"Copy, Team two is in position to get started. You are to clear the castle and stand-by to take the targets, only an hour until sunrise over."
"Roger, we're on the move."
"Be advised, the ponies are still unaware of our presence. I suggest you keep weapons safe for as long as you can over."
"Copy that, over and out"
With that, the leader opened the massive door leading into the castle. A massive hallway with two staircases branching off on opposite directions. Down the hall a few guards could be sighted but they hadn't seen their human intruders yet. The royal bedroom where their targets were currently sleeping soundly was at the top floor. Several flights of stairs awaited them. A unicorn or pegasus would have no difficulty getting up there but since they were neither they would need to use the old fashioned way. Treading as softly as they could the masked humans made their way up the stairs. Upon reaching the second floor they spotted two stallions chatting by the door to the throne room. The leader decided to give them a wide birth and not risk exposing them so close to their objective, if the targets were to awake, the situation would take a nasty turn.
"We got one last bit of stairs left, from there we secure the top floor. After that it's a one-way trip." Upon arriving at the top of the stairs they could see the shadow of another guard sticking out of the doorway. The leader looked to the man behind him and gestured for him to move forward. The man in question slung his rifle over his shoulder and pulled out a nine inch long bayonet. The pony was standing at the other side facing away from them. The man poked his head into the room and saw another guard trotting into a room at the end of the hallway. The man, seeing the coast was clear, snuck up behind the guard. Cupping a hand over the stallion's muzzle, muffling his scream, he pulled the pony in close before violently stabbing the blade into the stallions side several times in rapid succession. His body went stiff, flinching for the last time before he fell limp in the man's arms.
The rest of the men entered the hallway seeing their comrade pull out his blade from the stallions body—a pool of blood beginning to form. The man slowly walked towards the doorway where the other guard had gone to. The young man stood watch at the stairs whilst the leader and the other man stood by the door to the royal bedroom—ready to breech. A voice came from the other room, followed by the hoof-steps.
"Hey I heard something drop, everything al—" The stallion's sentence was 'cut' short by the man's nine inch blade finding its mark on the stallion's neck—blood trickling out of the wound like a tap.
"Clear."The man set his body down gently and looked at his bloodied hands. "Fuck...knives are always so messy eh? He should've drawn it out a bit more though. I expected some gurgling or at least some squirming." He wiped the blood off on his pants.
"Sick fuck..." The other man mumbled.
"What was that?"
"Nothing."
"Cut the chatter..." The leader interjected as he pulled out his radio to call in. "Team two, we have reached the top floor, I repeat we have reached the target area, what's your status over?" The man with the thick accent responded.
"We copy team one...Charges are set and we await signal over."
The man nodded to his comrade and they both drew out MK6 tranquilizer guns—a special dart in them that would put any man or pony out cold for hours. The door slowly creaked open. The young man's heart began to pound again as he watched his comrades enter the bedroom. It was only him left outside to watch their backs. He gripped his rifle tight and kept the darkness below in his sights.
The men entered the room ever so silently...eyes locked on the two lumps that lay in the bed before them. The third man fixed his bayonet to his rifle and pulled out a bright orange flare gun. He walked out into the high balcony and looked out at the glistening city below. The room itself had a decorative royal-red carpet with a grand dresser and mirror on the left side of the wall. It was a simple room save for the few exquisite pieces of furniture.
Only until they approached the sides of the bed, could they see their targets. On the bed in front of the masked humans lay Prince Shining Armor and Princess Mi Amore Cadenza or as she preferred...Princess Cadence. The two men stood by both sides of the bed. The man next to the Prince shot a glance at the squad leader who was standing by the Princess. The leader stared at the blissfully sleeping Princess... completely oblivious of the human's presence. They just slept, dreaming about whatever ponies dream about. They had heard about these two—their wedding, the incident at the Crystal Empire and how they thwarted an evil king...They heard they were powerful. But yet, here they were, two sleeping ponies as helpless as anyone. The squad leader was not afraid of them, in fact he almost found them to be quite cute...almost.
The leader nodded at his comrade and they both cupped their left hands simultaneously on the muzzles of their respective pony whilst the other pointed the barrel of the dart gun at their necks.
For a moment the Cadence's eyes shot open and upon reaching the human, her pupils shrunk into pinpricks. There was a sharp 'Psst' and Cadence could feel her head beginning to swim. The human put away his pistol and held his single index finger up to his lips...Shh...sleep. That was the last thing she heard before her eyes drooped back shut. The man across from him pulled the trigger and another sharp 'Psst' was heard. The Prince however had already woken and the men felt a hoof smack him in the face, knocking him down.
"Shit!"
"Gah! What!? Honey wake up! What's go—...I uh..." The white unicorn flung the blanket off but before he could react any further, rolled of the bed onto the floor.
"Nighty night sweet prince."
"Aw fuck...He hit me in the fucking mouth." The man got back on his feet and brought a two fingers to his lips—feeling the warm bit of blood. "Shit..."
"Hey, relax, We're almost in the clear. Time for step three." He walked outside into the balcony where his mate waited. The cool breeze washing over his head.
"It's nice..."
"What?"
"The city, it's not a bad place you know?" He cracked a brief smile. "Too bad we're gonna burn it to the ground."
"When the time's right brother...when the time's right." The leader patted the man on the shoulder before going back inside.
"Is everything ready...? Good... All teams...report."
"Team three, we're fully fueled and ready to kick some ass over."
"Team two, we are standing by near market square. We are ready..."
"Team one, we have secured the targets and are awaiting extraction over."
"Good, everything is set. Team three you are cleared to proceed. Team one, give the signal. Weapons are now free! Brothers...Let this night be but a taste of the destruction that is to follow. On this night, we send a message to ALL of Equestria...We are no longer afraid...it is they that will know the true meaning...of Fear. Let the cowards tremble at our sight! From this day...all of Equestria will burn!"
The man stood by the balcony, flare gun in hand. He pointed his weapon to the skies above...he paused and looked over his shoulder at the men behind, they nodded...and he pulled the trigger.
In an instant, all eyes went up, looking at the bright red star-like flare burn ferociously. On a clear night such as this, one would have seen it for miles...
Team two spared no time to gawk at the display. The men gathered together on the roof of a building overlooking the market square that was just a couple hundred meters away. The leader looked to the flare and to his comrades once more. They all braced themselves, hands cupped over their ears. He held the detonator in his grip firmly and pressed the button. The result was devastating...Explosion after explosion rocked the earth with tremendous fury. They saw what could only be described as a massive plume of fire rise up into the sky. The following shockwave completely obliterating the market stalls, chairs and tables. It gave no small effort to knock the men off of their feet. The cloud of dust beginning to dissipate, revealing a large crater that was once the Crystal Empire's market square. The surrounding buildings in the blast radius were destroyed leaving the ones further out slightly damaged. The entire area was completely shrouded in smoke, providing the perfect cover.
The men were quickly scurried to get up on their feet—brushing the small bits of dirt and debris off of their bodies. Their hearts were thumping like mad and their breathing quick. The team leader gave a hearty laugh seeing his men in such a "surprised" state.
"So! Did you kids shit pants or what?"
"I definitely got something in my pants..." said a man as he picked up his rifle. The laughter droned out and was replaced immediately by screams.
The entire city had awoken to the deafening sounds of the explosives go off. The gleaming crystal city now shone all the brighter. Ponies looked out to see what had happened. Many began barricading their houses in fear of whatever the pillar of smoke signified. Distinct shapes could be seen moving through the streets in an orderly but swift fashion—spears in hoof and Pegasi were dispatched into the air...The Crystal Guard had arrived.
Why? Why here...Why now?
The guards had already begun piling out of the barracks, any grogginess in them shaken out of them when the earthquake hit. Only mere minutes before had the guard been chatting with his friend, making arrangements on what to do when their night-shift ended...but now? Now they were racing through the halls of the Castle, awaiting orders. Two runners had been sent to alert the Prince on what had happened. Apparently it was no 'earthquake' that had hit them...it was an explosion. The confusion was maddening. Minutes had already passed and nopony even knew what was going on! The gaurds were scattered in disarray, nothing could be heard through the shouting and yelling. The young stallion trembled, praying to Luna that everything was alright.
"Atten-SHUN!" A loud and authoritative voice boomed from the crowd of guards. They all looked to the captain of the Crystal Guard standing tall before them. "I know this is sudden but we have to stay calm! As of yet, we do not know exactly what caused the explosion. A response team is currently out there now to tend to the wounded. Once we receive orders from Prince Shining Armor, we are to carry them out to the letter! Is that understood!?"
YES SIR!
"Good! Now I don't know what's going on anymore than you do! But I assure you that we will ge—" The captain's speech was immediately interrupted by sound of what seemed like firecrackers going off.
"What was that!?" A voice cried out.
"Sir that came from the top level!" The captain pointed his hoof to the young stallion in the front.
"Private! I want you and your team to go investigate what those noises were! I need to stay here and defuse the situation on the streets!" The young pegasus guard snapped a quick salute and gathered four other ponies to move out.
"I want you lot to get out there and support the response team! The rest of you are with me! It's total chaos out there and I wa—" The young guard could no longer make out any of the captain's words as he ascended up the flight of stairs, his mind focused on what he and his squad would encounter once they reached the top. He took point with his spear at the ready, beads of sweat rolling down his forehead. They began to hear shouting and objects hitting the ground. The guards couldn't make anything out from the sounds of their armor and rapid hoof-steps. Upon reaching the top the first thing the guard saw were the bodies of his comrades littered along the hallway.
"We've got casualties! I don't see any—" He froze, seeing something black in his peripheral vision. He snapped to the right only to see the creature tackle him to the ground. More rapid 'bangs' followed...then screams...then silence. Nothing more than the sounds of armored ponies tumbling over one another down the stairs they had just come up from. The guard wrestled with the dark clothed creature, punches and shoves were exchanged as they rolled around. The guard threw up his hoof only to be caught by the creature but he pushed his body to the side until the guard was now on top, pinning the creature by the forearms. The creature wore some sort of a woolen mask with three holes in it for the creatures eyes and mouth. He brought his muzzle down and bit on top of the mask and yanked back hard.
But only now did he truly get a good hard look at it...the creature was none other than something he had never expected to encounter...pinned down beneath him lay a human...and it was very angry...
The bird soared through time, spirit and joy in its wings...
There was no mistaking it...the small eyes, the tiny little nose, and overall ape-like appearance. The guard only stood there dumbfounded and didn't see the big heavy boot of the other human push him off. The man kicked the stallion away and stood back up.
The guard was thrown back and with a roar he stood right back up. However his excitement faded as he saw two more irritated humans pointing their 'weapons' at him. The same weapons that had killed his fellow guards...The pony was frozen, another human was barking orders at his comrades. He felt a piece of cold metal press up against his temple. The pony tilted ever so slowly to see the human he was just wrestling looking down at him with the L-shaped weapon in his hands. The room was suddenly filled with a muffled 'whirring' sound coming from the outside.
"Chopper's almost here! Watch that stairway for more! Prepare to pull out!" The human that he assumed was the leader stood out by the balcony. The man standing next the guard was slightly bigger than the rest. He was completely bald and had a scar going down his cheek. He tilted his head, looking curiously at the young stallion.
"What's your name?" The man asked.
"Wha-what?"
"Name!" He bellowed. "Do you have one?"
"F-Flash...It's Flash S-Sentry." The man scoffed and muttered something about "horse names". The man put his weapon back in its appropriate place on his hip and looked to his comrade, nodding before walking away making a gesture by spinning his raised index finger. The pony known as Flash simply blinked twice. He saw movement off the corner of his eye and snapped to it, only to see another masked human bring the backside of his weapon back, smacking it lightly but hard enough to knock the stallion out cold.
Hey Kid...It's time...
"Oi! Kid! Come on, we're leaving!" The young man known as "Kid" jumped, waken from his daydream by his squad leader. He turned back to see his comrades gathered at the end of the hall. The large burly man was carrying the Prince over his shoulder whilst another carried the Princess. Rotor wash from the helicopter outside blew in the chilly night air into the halls. The looked back at the unconscious stallion behind him.
He did not know what made him spare the pony's life but something about that look in his eye...reminded him of himself. He brushed his thoughts aside, still got a job to do, he thought. The man walked over to his comrades whom had already piled on into the chopper. The bald man extended a hand for the boy and he took it, climbing into his seat. The helicopter itself was cramped, assortments of containers lay on the underside of their seats. Thirty caliber machine guns adorning the sides. After doing a quick check the squad leader let the pilot know they were good to go. A quick check and the castle was shrinking in their rear view.
"So, what'd you guys catch?" The pilot was a tall blonde man wearing aviators and his breath smelled of tobacco.
"Two ponies, a unicorn and the other one...a pegacorn I guess?"
"Alicorn, genius" Baldy chimed in.
"Alicorn...Shit, ain't there like only three in existence, her included?"
"I heard there was four." The young man said.
"What?"
"Oh, I said I heard there was four Alicorns actually. L-like I only heard I-I don't really know for sure heh," The squad leader eyed him quizzically.
"Where you from kid?" he asked over the noise of the rotors.
"Huh? Oh! I'm from Veluca, small town of the east coast in Cally." This triggered a few laughs among the men.
"Shit! What's a Cally boy doing out here?" The boy didn't what to say so he just laughed with them.
"Hey, check it...Yo, You might wanna get that thirty going!" The men looked to the right of the heli to see the city. Team two had done a good job at setting up the "diversion" it seemed. Several houses were ablaze from the incendiary weapons the squad used. Crystal ponies were running frantically throughout the streets. The guard were hopeless as they couldn't get close to the humans through the massive crowds. They could see the second chopper closing in to extract the second team. Pegasi were hapless trying to engage the heavily armed helo with their spears and were gunned down before they could get close. The bald man found himself letting off a hellfire of bullets at the pegasi below or as he called it, swatting flies. The thunderous roar of thirty caliber bullets killing any poor souls that were unfortunate enough to find themselves in his sights.The helo did one more circle over the burning city below providing cover for the second team's extraction. It didn't take long before the ponies found that they were vastly outgunned and finally...retreated.
The Captain seemed to be the only one capable of maintaining a straight face as they moved through the bodies of their fallen comrades...So much death dealt so quickly. They were searching the mess of bodies for any survivors. Never before in the entire eleven years that the Captain had served did he feel so...useless. The Humans had made off with their leaders and the entire city was in a mass frenzy. The humans were pulling out and he had to order a retreat to the remaining guards. They weren't prepared for a sudden attack like this and he had no intention of letting more good ponies die. Their voices chilled him down to the bone.
Sir! They're killing us! What do we do!?
I-I can't F-feel my leg...
I'm hit, SOMEPONY HELP ME!
Sir we have multiple casualties! What are your orders!?
"Sir! We found a live one here!" His eyes shot open in surprise and he snapped to where lay an injured Flash Sentry. The stallion approached the boy and knelt down to eyelevel.
"Easy, son. You're gonna be just fine." He looked over to the other pegasi guards that flew in from the balcony. "Get this one to the infirmary,"
"Yes sir," The Unicorn Captain trotted over to the pegasus mare. Upon seeing him, gave a salute.
"Captain,"
"How's the situation down below?" She looked grim, her eyes were already damp.
"Eighty-one dead...At least fifty injured, The citizens are scared sir."
"I know,"
"The fires have been extinguished but the damage is severe. The market square is gone and a lot of ponies are going to be out of work."
"I know,"
"We've...sent a messenger to Canterlot. I-I don't know what else there is to say..." The Captain looked around—It was a look he hadn't seen before...defeat. In the face of an enemy that struck from the shadows whilst they slept. So much was happening at once, he couldn't stay focused. He didn't even have time to mourn or feel angry or anything.
"They hit us when we were most vulnerable. The curfew, the sightings...We just didn't see it." For a moment, the pegasus could have sworn the stallion was crying...
They both looked out into the crimson horizon. Celestia's sun finally gracing the devastated city with its presence—giving some much needed warmth.
"Why...just why?"
"Sir?"
"Why would the humans do this? Was two-hundred years of peace just to ready for another damn war?"
"They've killed so many of us. So many of those guards didn't even have actual combat experience,"
"They shouldn't have had to..." He muttered under his breath. "I'm going to make them pay..." The mare was caught by surprise at her captain's dark change of tone.
"Sir..."
"Your dismissed," he said under clenched teeth.
"Y-Yes Sir." With that, the mare took off into the sky looking for anymore that needed help.
"I swear to Faust...I will make them pay." He said to himself looking at a small piece of brass in his hoof.
The humans...a race that resided on the other side of their world, in a country known as Victoria. The humans were a crafty race, using their hands and innovative minds to make up for their lack of magic. They built things that astound many Equestrian scholars to this day. Cars, planes, electronics. The majority of technologies that exist in Equestria, they owe to humanity. But where they created cars and planes they also made weapons...Guns, tanks, bombs being only a few of the terrible and destructive weapons they possessed. The ponies experienced their potential for war first-hoof at the battles of the second half of the Great War with humanity...Scattered bits of history telling different stories from either sides. The ponies once saw the humans as a primitive and violent race whose greed and ambition would drive them to come to blows amongst even themselves. They had no magic and couldn't possibly understand things like friendship or collective harmony. But it is easy to come to conclusions about a topic as complicated as humanity when you know so little. The war left both nations deeply scarred in ways they'd rather not talk about...and ultimately since then, Humanity and Ponykind stay away from each other.
Until now it seemed...
You knows stories they'd tell to children at night to make them behave? The ones where if they didn't do as their parents told the "big bad boogey-man" would come to get them? Well, they don't tell those anymore...It just seems like nowadays they're using these so called stories to spread lies, twisted versions of the 'truth' and propaganda. Just about anything the government found themselves a threat to their interests was fair game to involve our children...or their children...I didn't have any of my own. Why? No time. What with another damn conscription crisis just around the corner, I'll be surprised if anyone would think its a good idea to have kids, only so that they'd grow up never knowing their fathers. Regardless, it wasn't my place to say anything...as I matter of fact it wasn't my place to think anything.
I joined the Victorian military about twelve years ago when I was still young and stupid. Back then it felt like for once in my life I had purpose. Something that I'd look back at on my death-bed and think...I did good...Back then we fought those that would have threatened our people and our way of life. To take away our freedom, our hopes and our dreams for their own selfish ambitions. Back then all of us young lads thought of ourselves as these white knights in shining armor like those tales of valor from ancient times when these honorable warriors fought to for the greater good to keep evil at bay.
Huh, greater good...If there's one thing I've learned in my years its that nothing is in black and white. That there are no 'good guys' nor 'bad guys'...just shades of fucking grey. When the 'big man' gives the orders to do his dirty work its us poor and stupid young boys that get caught in the crossfire.
Two hundred years ago, my ancestors fought what's known only as the largest conflict in human history...The Great World War. I was never much for history but from what I've learned is that both sides tell a different story. You see, there never truly was a victor in that war; too many things were left out, too many 'what ifs' to fill the void. But from what I've know...amongst the politics, death, destruction of that twenty year conflict there was courage, honor and sacrifice. Those boys and girls trudged through hell in the trenches, in the cities, and on the beaches so that we wouldn't have to. The people of tomorrow. We fought for the survival of our species and we didn't let our differences cloud our minds anymore. Back then we were just...human.
I really want to tell you that I also follow up with what my ancestors did...that I fought the good fight like they did. I really do want to tell you that. But times change...people change...
The day I decided I to leave that life behind was about two years ago...Now despite the fact that Victoria was the only human sovereign state in the world, there were certain groups that sought to change that. It seemed that even though we all share our part of the world together, there will always be those men who desire more than what they have. They claim to be fighting for freedom and independence but the truth is far from that. Officially since there are no actual two belligerents fighting it out, it's not considered war.
But it's not far off...
To this day, the blood in my viens chills when I think back to the events of that cold November morning...far, far from home.
Two years ago
Somewhere in East Victoria
Tuesday, November 14th
I had been assigned to the 103rd Armored Assualt battalion...Our convoy was inbound to clear out a stronghold of rebel defenses in the mountainous regions of East Victoria. The cold sting of the howling wind in my face and the smell of the morning dew being the few things that I actually found relaxing. I was riding in a halftrack just behind the small column of light tanks leading the way. Sitting next to me was Master Corporal Michael James Stuart but everyone called him "Motor-mouth' Mike...He and I enlisted together and have been fighting at each other sides for years. To my right was Sergeant Ethan Edward Burke...We all just called him 'Eddie'. I met with him whilst I was in sniper school, a good guy even if he was a bit quiet. Our unit had been assigned to provide support for the advancing armor, the tanks in our battalion were hardly suited for all out war but military funding had long since been cut short. Most of our more advanced and destructive weapons and vehicles were no longer being manufactured as the need for them diminished. The cost to create and maintain such powerful machines was great and Victoria's economy was still suffering from the events of the last civil war.
That was where me and my mates had made a name for ourselves as the "Black Jacks". A name our guys respected and the enemy feared. Michael seemed to enjoy the attention we got, using some of his 'war stories' to milk a few beers off the other guys on our down time. Ethan didn't really seem to care for the 'fame'. There was always something about that guy that I didn't quite get. He never really told me why he enlisted...just something he sort of did.
The awkward silence had continued on for the last hour. We hadn't seen each other in a few months during our leave. When the war was over we sorta just went our own ways. I hadn't asked them what they'd been up to, I wish I did. Motor-mouth Mike would usually be going off right about now, but he was surprisingly quiet...just like Eddie. We continued to sit there exchanging glares whilst the other boys chatted away. By now Mike would try elevate the somber mood but he was just as broody as I was. Some fresh-faced kids tried to make conversation with me, but I made it clear I wasn't in the damn mood. They hadn't seen what we had seen...What we had been through and had do. My mind was locked on getting this shit done and going home, after that...who knows...maybe I'll work that old corner store my parents had.
Mom and dad were good folk. They were simple country people at heart but I was always the adventurous type growing up. Dad had to put up with a LOT of the stupid shit I did when I was bored. My Sister would usually be the one bailing me out of trouble at the cost of more than a few favors...Hell I'm twenty eight years old, living on my own, and still in debt to my sis. Of course, the only thing she really wants is for me to come back home already. For good this time...And I intended to do just that.
Thoughts of home gave me some comfort. To wake up back in my old bed and just go for a drive in my beat up old pickup truck. I would drive the thing on over to that diner a few blocks down for a bite and hit on the cute red-head that worked there. What was her name? Rosie? Ruby? Something like that. Ah...yes, no place like home as they say.
My thoughts were abruptly cut-off as the convoy slowed to a halt. We weren't there yet, so there was no reason to be stopping here. The laughter and chatting began to drone out as several heads perked up to see what was happening. Mike gave me a look and my eyes met Eddie's. I wanted to say something but Eddie decided to hop off the track.
"Hey! And just where are you going?" I called after him—he didn't answer. I looked back at Mike, he wasn't a necessarily big guy, but he wasn't no push-over. He had a short blond buzz-cut and dark chestnut eyes. The look he gave me said enough, he was thinking exactly what I was thinking. I sat back down, eyes locking on the treeline. We were driving up alongside the mountain and there's barely any traffic out here. I didn't like the look of those rocks behind me however. I felt a sort of tingling sensation in the pit of my gut...and the good kind either. The kind you'd get when you knew something was wrong. Eddie must have noticed me tense up because he held his rifle closer as well.
The hatch on the tank in front of us opened, and the commander pulled himself up. The man was talking to someone but I couldn't hear. I hopped off the idle vehicle and kept my Mk 16 service rifle at the ready. I approached the side of the tank and nodded at the crewman.
"Hey, what's with the hold-up?" I asked.
"I haven't the foggiest sir, they said there was some kind of obstruction in the road up ahead." He pointed up front the road branching off behind the mountain.
"I'm going to go take a look, stay sharp."
"Aye sir,"
When we went on this little "mission" of ours we expected to be back by sundown. The rebels...they were just an un-organized rabble of misguided idiots. Slaves to the propaganda that banded them together to die for the wrong side. Of course, who am I to say what is right or wrong?
What happened next...no one even saw coming...
It happened so damn fast! I heard the gut-wrenching sound of someone scream out "RPG!" followed by a thunderous explosion right behind me. Instinct took over as without a thought I dived to the ground. I could feel the shockwave from that explosion wash over me. Another explosion, this time mere feet in front of me. All I could hear was the high pitched ringing of my ears. The dirt went in my mouth and I spat it out, rolling onto my back. I saw the turret of the tank I lay beside traverse, aiming at whatever was shooting at us. The ground shook again as the tank fired but I was still deaf. My turned my head to the side and saw them.
The rebels wore just any clothes they had and asides from the Kalash rifles in their hands, there was nothing that separated them from your average citizen. They took cover behind the trees down the hill. The tanks couldn't aim that low but they had no problem firing their rocket launchers at them like the sitting ducks they were. My hand made it's way down to my hip and I drew out my hand-gun. I popped a few rounds off at the trees but I don't think I hit anything. I had to get up...I had to move.
Grabbing my rifle, I mustered all the strength I could in my legs and made a mad sprint to get out of there. One by one, the tanks were destroyed, killing any who were taking cover behind them. One rocket found its mark on the lead vehicle in front of me. The explosion was enough to make me lose my footing along the road and sent me rolling down the hill like a barrel. My body tumbled and was tossed around like a ragdoll through bushes, sticks, rocks, trees, whatever. I finally came to stop with me lying on my back at the base of the hill. I looked up at the evergreens towering above me. The pain was all over, as I felt cuts, scrapes and bruises riddled throughout my tired body. I winced as I struggled to get up. My pants were torn in some places, jacket was still okay and my vest was just dirty. I wore standard issue army fatigues, the color scheme was woodland camouflage to blend with the world around me. My pistol was still in my hands but I lost my rifle. I don't know how long I was in that painful tumble downhill. My hearing was slowly returning and I could hear the gunshots and explosions from off in the distance back up the hill.
My leg killed and I gave a loud groan as I limped on. My bad day was still just getting started...
"Amidst the eternal waves of time, From a ripple of change shall the storm rise, Out of the abyss peer the eyes of a demon, Behold the Oscerahn, its wings of black sheath!"
Focus. Control. Conviction. Resolve. A true warrior lacks none of these attributes. Nothing can deter you from the task at hand except your own fears. This is your territory.
I was cold, hurt and exhausted. I placed a hand over the laceration on my shoulder. It wasn't deep, so it should clot up soon...Didn't change the fact that it hurt like hell. I kept a steady eye on my surroundings, watching the trees. Damn rebels could anywhere, I had no reason to let my guard down for anything. Each step sent a sharp sting up my leg.
The explosions had long since run dormant, occasional gunshots would still be heard. I must have been trudging through for at least an hour now. I had to find my way to the river, from there I could leg it on to town. I hoped that my friends survived the ambush, and that I'll see them once I get back. We were Blackjacks, we were trained for this. I wasn't overly concerned, they knew how to handle themselves. I was more worried about the rest of our guys...poor bastards...
I had enough to worry about at the moment. I felt vulnerable without my rifle, and this handgun wasn't much. A couple of mags will only do so much, even with a steady hand. The river was just up ahead and if I stay out of sight I'll be fine. I only take one more step until—
"FUCK!" I grab my left thigh hard before losing balance and falling over. I knew I shouldn't have ignored it...I pull up my tattered pants to reveal a nasty gash on my lower leg. A piece of bark was jammed deep into the flesh and it wasn't coming out easy. It was a gruesome sight and it's going to get infected if I don't do something about it. I crawled on over to a birch tree and set myself against it. I bit down on my collar and put my side-arm down. Reaching down my other leg until I felt the familiar grip of my combat knife, I retracted the knife from its sheath to the reveal the eleven inch blade, glistening in the sunlight. I bit down on my collar hard and moved the knife towards the bark and used to pull back the edge of the wound so I could get the leverage I needed.
To say it hurt would be understatement of the year...
A small bit blood spurted when I flicked the blade upwards. It was already trickling down freely and my socks were covered in red. I let go of my collar and took deep breaths. The bark had finally released its grip on my flesh and it came out the rest of the way by hand. Now for 'part two' I opened a pouch on my vest and fished out a small white case with the signature red cross on it.
A standard Army issue first-aid kit, equipped with a needle and thread, a roll of bandages, sterile gauze pads, a morphine auto-injector and a small vial of anti-septic; just what I needed. Part of my special forces training called for learning basic first aid. I had taken an additional medical course to help me or my buddies even further should the situation call for it. I was glad that I did. Had I tried to pull that bark out by hand right then, I would've yanked out a good chunk of my leg with it. Now wouldn't THAT have been a bitch?
I rummaged through the case for the needle and undid the knot that held the small bit of thread together. I carefully inserted the thread through the hole and tied it on. I sighed, The other option sucks a fuck-ton more so be glad you don't have to do THAT. Yeah, I know, it still fucking sucks though.
"Welp, here goes..." I brought my foot up and rested it on my knee, thankfully the wound was at the right side of my leg so I won't have to get into an awkward position for this. I slowly let the small needle slide into my skin, wincing slightly at the sting. I pushed it through all the way out on the other 'flap' of the gash. Doing the surgeon's knot, I bit down on my collar hard as the pain of the gash closing set in. I repeated the painful yet somewhat easy process five more times until I was fairly sure the wound was closed. Satisfied with my work I cut the thread off with my knife. My suturing skills were far from perfect but this would have to do. One last bit left and I'll leave you alone collar. There wasn't enough anti-septic to go around but I spread it out as much as I could. I swear I could hear my flesh 'fizzing' on contact over the sound of my yelling.
Oh nature, if I only you were a person so I could punch that smug look off your face...
I swallowed the searing pain and used my shaky hand to wrap the bandages up around my leg. That was going to leave one hell of a scar but I ain't complaining...chicks dig 'em...or at least that was what Mike would say, that smartass. I arched my head back—taking a long, needed breather. My hands were covered in blood, and was actually mine for once. My thoughts drifted back into the events of the day. That ambush was set up pretty damn well, they went through a lot of trouble for to take down one small convoy. Either that or you're REALLY starting to get popular. Fuck off, that name died a long time ago. I'm no fucking hero...
Heroes...do they even happen anymore? I remember when they made that stupid campaign to show us off to the public. The Blackjacks...Our knights in not-so-shiny armor. Those damn slogans always made me cringe. I did my duty, as did everyone else. I didn't need no damn parade but admittedly it felt kinda good. To get my mind off shit. To feel a little special. There was nothing to feel special for. That bloody civil war was nothing but one of deception and propaganda with a whole lot of people getting killed for nothing.
I look back and aimlessly ponder about whether or not I did the right thing by enlisting...To this day I still don't remember exactly what was going through my mind whilst I was standing in that line. A fresh young boy, indistinguishable from the man I had become now.
Of course, I had forgotten where I was...My thoughts immediately faded out at the gut-wrenching sound of a twig snap...sound...twig snap. Holy shit...
What happened to the gunshots? The explosions? Fuck...
Sure as hell, it had become eerily silent asides from your usual sounds of forest fauna. I began to see water dripping off the leaves above me. It looked up at the dark clouds forming up...I didn't mind rain but now isn't really the best time. The nip in the air only grew all the more harsh within the hour. Only a little colder and I would begin to see my breath. It was already noticeably darker.
I clutched my pistol and scanned the surrounding area. If I could no longer hear the sounds of battle, that could only mean one of two possibilities. One, the situation is FUBAR and everyone got killed or captured. Two, they managed to stave off the ambush and went on without me.
Please let it be two...
I just hope Mike and Eddie made it. I don't want to have break it their folks...heaven knows I've done that enough.
I didn't see anyone. If it IS them then I would be dead by now. They have no reason to hold back...I'm alone, hurt and only got a hand-gun on me. I placed a hand on the tree at my back to support myself as I stood back up. My leg still kills, so I won't be going anywhere fast. The ground was lit up in a bright almost blinding flash of lightning followed by a screaming 'crack'.
Hey buddy...It's okay, see? There's nothing to be afraid of. It's just a little...thunder...
What happened next...no-one could of saw it coming. Bastards hid like snakes in grass. Only mere seconds after I had regained my composure did I find myself standing there in the midst of that forest clearing dumbfounded. A dark red stain was near that birch tree where I had patched myself up and the familiar tang of blood in my mouth. I had bit my lip looking at it. Standing in front of me...in that gods-forsaken forest...was a man. In that man's arms was the Kalash—it's barrel looking at me right in the eyes.
But what really got me...was the man's face. The 'man' in question looked like anything but. He...He was just a kid. Couldn't have been any older seventeen or eighteen. There were drips of water on his forehead and I could feel myself getting damp by the second. He was wearing a filthy grey hoodie and some blue jeans; things you'd buy for any pocket change you had at a flea market. He was shaking. He looked at me and muttered a few words. I couldn't hear what he said but what I could hear was the rustling of leaves coming from behind me. He wasn't alone...of course, why would he be?
"What?" I blathered out like a fucking idiot.
"GET THE FUCK ON THE GROUND! NOW! D-Do it! I-I mean it...I'll...I'll shoot! I'm n-not afraid of you mother-fucker. I've killed plenty of ass-holes like you!" His eyes shifted over to the piece in my right hand and he motioned for me to drop it. Seeing no other option...I complied. The kid seemed a little less tense now that I was completely defenseless. They must be pretty damn desperate to let this spineless little shit into their fold. However through the hollowed glare I gave at the kid, I still felt a slight bit of pity for the kid. A burning sensation washed over my leg as I knelt down. Oh yeah. That...Why do I keep forgetting about that?
I held my bloodied hands at chest level—trying to make it clear that I wasn't going to try anything. That same dreadful feeling washed over me once more. I wasn't a stranger to being taken prisoner...only last time I wasn't alone. They could shoot me here and now and none of it would even matter. It wouldn't be hard to cover it up. They could make it look like I was killed in action or just dump my body into the river. Damn it...there's no getting out of this one. I'm fucked.
"So what're you waiting for kid?" I don't know why I said that.
"Go ahead...Do it" The kid seem to only tense up further now. His lips were quivering. "But know this...I'm un-armed. So to kill me now would be considered a war-crime. When the Victorian Military rolls through...better armed, armored, and trained than you...All of you will either be dead or taken prisoner where you'll rot in a damn hole...With nothing but all the time in the world to think about what you've done."
"Shut up..." This kid was scared shit-less. The nerve of those cowards. Sending a kid out to confront me for crying out loud. I could imagine the look on their smug faces. I may be looking at the kid, but I'm talking to those scum-bags skulking around in the shadows.
"Don't worry about that though...a trial and jailhouse will be the least of your worries by the end today." I gave him the coldest glare I could muster. If his face was anything to go by, I'm pretty sure there was dark stains on the back of his pants now...
"When my friends find out...and they WILL find out..." I gave a low chuckle. "I guess you could say that they'll be pissed. I won't tell you what they'll do because honestly I don't even know. I do hope you assholes behind me can hear me right now." I heard heavy footsteps trudge through leaf and mud advance towards me. Looks like they've heard enough. It was worth a shot I guess.
"It won't be death that's for sure...no, for them...death would be too...merciful. I was thinking something more along the lines of..."
Before I could finish, one last lightning flash revealed two distinctly shaped shadows looming over from behind me. Shit, guess these guys mean business huh? I can't die now...I'm way too under-dressed for hell. Maybe I could ask them if they'd let me borrow a suit or something?
I continued to wait there on my knees, taking one last look at the kid in front of me. The damn rain was chilling me to the bone. The shadows were still there. For a moment they looked like death's icy hands coming to greet me...but it never came...Instead of what I thought would be the end, instead it came down on me like a brick wall. A nice solid SMACK on the back of my head, sending me face first into the dirt. The last thing I heard before I drifted into unconsciousness was their voices...
"Damn, you got him good there."
"Fucker talks too much...A mouthful of dirt outta help with that slack tongue of his. Hey! Kid! Get over here and help us pick 'im up!"
I never really fully noticed how nice it is this time of year...
"The raven looked out into the eyes of the demon...its fiery glare piercing into its very soul..."
Another one?
Yes, we found him skulking around in the woods. Orders were to bring him here.
Wake him up...
Yes sir.
Only now had I fully regained consciousness. They threw me down from what I could only assume was the back of a truck and I landed on the ground with a thud. The past few hours had been nothing but a hazy blur...I felt the bindings constricting my wrists together and my head felt like it was in a vice. I could vaguely make out the cold concrete ground through the...
Is this a fucking potato sack on my head?
Sure as hell, there was a potato sack over my head, my hands were bound and it looks like I'm fucking screwed. I felt lighter, most likely because they removed my gear. I was left with only my olive green t-shirt, camouflage cargo pants and my combat boots. I couldn't hear my dog-tags jingling so that means they took them too.
Looks like it was the end of the line, here and now. The rebels weren't too keen on taking prisoners alive anymore. After what happened to them in the war I was surprised they didn't shoot me right then and there. I suppose I shouldn't question my good fortune.
So long as I breathe. So long as I can, I will fight...I just hope I'm not alone.
Two men on both sides of me, picked my tired body up from the ground, I felt a piece of cold steel press up against my neck through the burlap sack.
Move.
I swallowed a lump in my throat and walked forward at a brisk pace—trying hard not to fall over. The sun's light helped to illuminate what little I could see. I could make out the distinct shapes of trucks and jeeps parked in rows; a few of them pulling out and driving away. The sounds of our footsteps and distant gunfire was prevalent. Occasionally my captors would shove me or press the gun up against me whenever I slowed down. I could no longer see much of anything as I was shrouded in darkness entering a building of some sort. At least I wasn't freezing my ass out there anymore. I could hear chatter and muttering all around me but none of their conversations were of my interest. We finally exited the hallway into a room with a single incandescent light-bulb suspended by a wire on the ceiling. A single metal table with nothing on it and a chair was all there was as far as furniture went.
"On your knees," he said. I would probably have my best chances if I keep my mouth shut and do as I'm told. They hated me enough, I didn't need to give them another reason to kill me. I set myself down, resting my butt on my heels. I felt a wave of relief wash over my aching legs.
Suddenly, the knot on the sack came loose and I felt a hand yank the bag off hard. The light forced my eyes to squint as I waited for them to adjust. When my vision came to, I saw the face of my captor. To simply say he was a man just wouldn't cut it. The guy was fucking huge. He must have been around six foot-seven and three hundred and fifty pounds. No hair on his head but was sporting a short beard. He was wearing a white tank shirt and blue jeans; his incredibly muscular and burly physique fully visible. I'd imagine that if I tried something now I'd pretty much get pummeled by what was literally a bear in human form. He held a gleaming chrome revolver in his hand, I kept my head down. He knelt down—immediately pressed the barrel up against my chin and raised my head back up. He said nothing but gave me a serious glare. He made a gesture to his comrades with his pistol and the other two men stood me up on my feet. The big guy holstered his pistol and cracked his neck both ways. Here we go.
"Tell me, Victorian. What is your name?" He spat out the word 'Victorian' with disgust, emphasizing his hatred for me. He had a Slokavian accent which was rare to see back in Victoria but up here it was pretty common. There were rumors pertaining to the rebel leaders hiring Slokavian mercenaries; it seems as though said rumors were true. Slokavia was a small independent state bordering northern Victoria. Mostly mountainous regions and cold-ass climates, Slokavia made its profits primarily from the mining industry. The people there were a hardy lot just like Mr. Meat Mountain in front of me. Victoria was mostly on good terms with the Sloks but recent events have lead to our relationships deteriorating and as a result some Sloks are crying out for their state to join the rebels in their 'campaign' against Victoria. I opened my mouth to respond to baldy and give him a nice firm 'Fuck you' before I heard a groan.
"Ugh..." My head snapped to source of where it came from. I hadn't noticed the other prisoner who was in here with me. A bruised and beaten man sat on his knees, barely awake. He had dirty blonde hair and the same olive shirt and woodland pants that I wore. Actually he was just a kid, couldn't of been any older and nine-teen or twenty judging by how skinny he was. Looks like I wasn't alone after all. If this is where they were hoarding our guys that meant this was probably their headquarters. Which means—
"Argh!" The strike came quick and left me winded. Those beefy arms packed quite the punch if I do say so myself. For a moment my entire abdomen went numb and then the pain set in. I could feel a coolness gathering in my throat and that same metallic odor hung in my nose. I bent over and almost fell but the other guys holding me forced me back up.
"Please, do not look away when I am speaking to you..." He said in a calm but impatient tone. "I asked you question and I would like answer." I could see two possible options in this scenario. One: I could be the stubborn asshole that I am and just continue to cuss this guy off until he beats me to death or two: I could stay on his good side and hope that they leave me alone just long enough for me to devise a plan of escape. Seeing as though the former involves me dying I decided to go with the latter and took a deep breath and exhaled.
"First lieutenant..." Of course my voice sounded as if I had been gargling with nails this morning, the gut-punch I just got didn't help either. "...Alenko Gr—eene" He raised his eyebrows as if he almost appeared impressed. He pulled out the chair from the table and sat down in front of me, he made a downwards gesture with his hand and the men sat me back down. He leaned in forward and clasped his hands in front of his face together with his elbows on his knees, staring at me intently.
"So, lieutenant. That is bigger rank than other men we have taken captive." He withdrew a pair of shiny metal dog-tags, my dog-tags. He held them up to his eyes and inspected them for a brief moment before looking back at me.
"You are Blackjack yes?" I slowly nodded shooting back a glare of my own. "I was to believe that Blackjacks were among the best of Victorian soldiers...yet here you are, caught like rat in trap. I guess rumors of your kind being killing machine were only rumors right Hans?" He grinned and I clenched my fists behind my binds.
"Damn right." Said the man to my right known as Hans.
"If these binds were off I could prove them right..." I probably shouldn't have said that. Hans raised his arm to strike me but was stopped by Baldy giving a hearty laugh...
"Oh if only..." He stopped laughing and swayed his hand at the men. "Leave us and take him with you." Hans and the other guy hauled the other prisoner to his feet and dragged him out, closing the door behind them leaving only the two of us.
"Hans is idiot you know? He has never even fought anything more than basic soldier. I do not doubt you could kill him in a second." Uh...thanks? "I have fought Blackjack again and again before but only ever killed one. You are real soldiers...Like me but fight for different cause. You fight for country, I fight for uh...what runs country." He chuckled and paused for a moment. "But I am not here to give complement. I wish to...how you say? Negotiate." Of course...The rebel leaders probably recognized my worth and are going to use me as a bargaining chip to get what they want. Fuck...
"So? How about it? We will talk, soldier to soldier. You will contact your superiors and negotiate the unconditional withdrawal from this region and in exchange, save the lives of the hundred Victorian prisoners being kept here." Wait...What? Withdrawal? There was no way in hell a deal like that'll go down good for us. If we were to withdraw now they would regain full control of the region and be able to turn the tide to their favor...and who's to say they'll actually uphold their end of the bargain? An obvious trap if ever I saw one...
Victorian Countryside,
"Damn...That sounds rough." Said the man sitting next to me as we drove down the long, seemingly endless road. "So...what happened next? I-If you don't mind me asking..." My cousin Alex was only slightly younger than me. He was about my height and had brown hair and grey eyes. He was clean shaven as apposed to the little stubble I had. Alex had come to pick me up from the airport to drive me over to my parents' house. It was a beautiful day, with a cool southern breeze. Thick forests lined along the sides of the road and occasionally we passed by wheat fields, vast green pastures and farmhouses. Nothing to really hear besides my talking and the low hum of the car's engine. It was a long-ass drive to my parents' place so I told Alex the war stories he was so eager to hear. Guy was always a kid on the inside...
"Well, as you might've guessed I declined and he didn't really like that answer." Well considering he actually did beat the shit outta me that time, to say he "didn't like it" was putting it lightly. The guy broke the damn table throwing me around but I wasn't about to tell Alex that.
"Shit, how'd he take it?"
"He stood up and ordered his buddies to take me to my cell. Since I wouldn't comply I was of no use to them so they'd have me rot in a hole until I did." They didn't have enough cells for all of us so they made these little makeshift cages out of wood and scrap metal to stuff us in. "I stayed in that same cell for a good three days until help arrived. The entire 14th Cav tore through the place like a hot knife through butter. Mike and Eddie actually made it too, not like they were gonna die that easy."
This was the part where I had lied...The truth was, the 14th Cav ahead of us was mostly destroyed in the ambush and what was left only took part in freeing us after the mortars were done firing.
When...will it end...the screams...do they even know we're here!? Why are you all sitting quietly like that!? We have to get the fuck out of this cage! COME ON! ARE WE JUST GOING TO SIT HERE AND DIE!?!? Oh god...I c-can't br-breathe, ack!...
They rained fire and death on the place for a good hour, and we just sat there praying one of the shells wouldn't hit us. One actually landed somewhat close and destroyed a section of the cage killing one of the poor souls in there with us. We escaped but to a horror I'll never forget. Only mere minutes before our guys stormed the place they launched a few incendiary shells...unbeknownst to them it was a building full of their own guys. I watched dozens of them run out of the burning building, screaming and on fire. None of us could differentiate between friend and foe because all we saw were men dying in agony. I swear that one of them was the kid that was in the interrogation room with me. He didn't deserve to die an animal's death that day...none of them did.
In the destruction and chaos the rebels weren't paying attention to us and we escaped into the forest...That was when the 14th found us and like I said, my brothers were there too...I didn't say a goddamn thing, just grabbed my rifle and kept going.
"They took in all of the POWs and I resumed command of my unit. From there we just drove them right out until they surrendered." Not a complete lie, we did take what was left of their would-be HQ. The campaign came to end when the Rebel forces had negotiated their terms of surrender and the region was once again under Victorian control. Throughout that whole time, I never encountered the bald Slok ever again.
"Drove them out," He said.
"Right out. After they realized they were hopelessly outnumbered and outgunned we had them on the run. The following week my leave was granted and that's how I'm here." I replied.
"Damn, that was one hell of a story man." I nodded. "But why do I get the feeling you cut bits out?" I had no reason to tell him the full story. He was better off not knowing, my family doesn't need to bear my burdens on their shoulders. I simply shrugged and tried to shift our conversations to something more positive. For the rest of the trip we mostly made small talk and shared a few light-hearted stories here and there. I asked about my folks and Alex said they were doing all right. I hadn't spoken to my parents such a long time...No, not since my last deployment.
"Okay man, here we are." Alex parked the car outside a cream colored house with an old wooden bench on the porch.
"Thanks for the ride man. I'll stop by your place tomorrow and we'll get a few beers alright?" He smiled as I gave him a good, firm handshake and stepped out of the car, making my way to the back.
"Sounds good to me! Ey uh, need some help with your stuff?" He popped open the trunk and hauled out my old brown suitcase.
"Nah it's good, I got it." With a two-finger salute, I bid him goodbye and watched the bright blue car drive on out of sight. I made my way towards the front door slowly but before I set foot on the porch, the door opened. Out stepped a middle-aged man with grey hair and a short white beard...my father. He was wearing a light brown shirt and a pair of grey trousers. I awkwardly stood there and for a moment he just took a long look at me, mouth slightly opened as if in disbelief. He walked towards me and I pursed my lips into a little smile letting my bag drop to my side...
Hi dad...
He wrapped his arms around me and returned the embrace—feeling my eyes warm up but not quite to tears.
"Hi...son," He replied, patting me on the back.
For the first time in a long while...I was home.
Canterlot Castle, Equestria
Present Day...
Princess Celestia was pacing in her private quarters in an anxious mess. Before her was a table littered with assorted pieces of parchment and files along with pictures. It had been almost two weeks since the incident in the Crystal Empire. The investigations on the human attack was still ongoing, bringing back less than optimal results. The situation had been critical following the days of the attack, ponies all across Equestria were crying out for their leaders to take action...Truth was, they were scared; afraid of what the humans were capable of. The citizens in Equestria had little knowledge of what goes on in the Victorian Continent and to them the humans were all the same. Most say monsters and barbarians, some say misunderstood, others just want nothing to do with them. Some were even spreading rumors about supposed human "super-weapons" that were planning on using on Equestria and experiments they were doing on themselves to improve their fighting prowess.
The regal princess stopped for a moment in front of the mahogany table, overlooking the documents once more. Her mane was slightly disheveled and her eyes had bags under as a result of multitudes of sleepless nights. She raised a beige colored letter bearing the Victorian seal, an eagle spreading it's wings overlapping Equis or Earth as they referred to it, with a spear in one talon and a scroll in the other. Underneath the seal, the words, Primo Victoria were embedded. It was rather impressive for a mere insignia, for it showed the might and intelligence that was prevalent in the humans. There were times when Celestia had saw the humans in the same light as everyone else but soon she began to set aside her personal feelings towards them and instead looked at the astounding things that they had accomplished. The car, the airplane, ships that don't need sails, television, radio, the computer...all these were part of the many great breakthroughs a race, once considered inferior, had achieved.
But now...after her own family was taken from her by the very ones she had sought to build a friendship with, she didn't know what to feel.
Hatred only brews more hatred...it all just feeds on itself, she thought. Only a great hatred would drive them to do something like this, the reasons however still alluded her and everyone else this catastrophe had affected. The princess sighed and opened the letter, levitating it in front of her. She had received a letter stating that Victoria had not orchestrated the Crystal Empire raid in no less than nine days ago but they hadn't bothered to respond to her own until now.
Victorian Federal Government Department of Foreign Affairs 47th Byzantine Street City of Oured
To the Royal Sisters of Canterlot, Equestria.
I sincerely apologize for the late response Princess, the department has had their time constrained handling the more pressing matters.
'He was reffering to the civil war no doubt. It seems that they cannot even find peace amongst themselves.'
I wish to assure you once more that the Victorian government is doing everything they can to provide aid in this hour of crisis. Again on behalf of the Victorian people I offer my deepest condolences to all those affected. We have prepared our recommended tactical options and I will personally be arriving at Canterlot to discuss a possible solution, courtesy of Colonel Nielson. I trust that you will understand that this is an enemy that you will need our intellegince in order to combat. Our latest findings indicate that these "terrorists" were in possession of military vehicles and ordnance far beyond black market grade weapons, including modified high explosive, incendiary charges. We have confirmed that these were utilized in the destruction of the Crystal Empire. As to how they have acquired such weaponry we have yet to discover. This is an enemy that even we know very little of, only that they harbor a hostility towards Equestria in particular. Attempts at contact have been fruitless and the their exact location remains unknown. As of now the Victorian Defense committee has denied any proposals for a direct military intervention.
'Why am I not surprised?' She said to herself as she skimmed over to the bottom of the letter.
Resources are stretched thin and the civil conflict is being dealt with as I write this. I apologize for the vagueness of this letter but I deem it would be for the best if we were to discuss the details of this matter in person.
—With sincerest regards,
Alvin Korsinski, Ambassador to Victoria.
She slid the paper back into its envelope, wiping a bead of sweat from her brow. Humans seldom visit Equestria's borders let alone the capital itself, she hoped that they could get through this day without coming to blows. That never solves anything. As she set the letter down Celestia's thoughts were cut short as the door creaked open and in walked an equally fatigued Princess Luna.
"Sister...how have you been?" She asked wearily.
"Not good Lulu, another sleepless night after another. All this time and our efforts have barely yielded results." Luna nodded. "But for the most part, I'll be fine. How about you?"
"Although I cannot say that I have not had better days but I have been mostly well." Luna trotted over next to her sister and looked over the mess on the table. "On a more positive note, Princess Twilight's friends have been able to console their friend to come out of her room."
Celestia frowned. Among all those whom had been affected, Twilight took it the worst. She has been a complete wreck ever since hearing the news and refused to talk to anyone. Celestia did not blame her one bit but she needed her, they needed her to be strong for her brother and sister-in-law. If they were going to get to the bottom of this, it would be when they stand strong together. However this was the first good news she had received in days. Celestia could always count on the elements for anything. As long as their friendship remained true, Equestria was in good hooves.
"One more thing...The human ambassador has also arrived. I asked him to wait for us." Luna did not like the idea of a human being allowed in the palace any more than the common folk but she knew this was necessary. "I do not trust him Tia, nor any of them for that matter."
"I understand Luna, but what he writes to us is true, we do need their help. The Victorians have shown us that they are not responsible and even if they were lying, why would they be willing to help us?"
"Human trickery is cunning enough to rival even Discord's, and that is saying something. Whatever it may be, I will tolerate his presence however I do not think the elements would be so accepting."
The Princess sighed. "Than we'll have to deal with any problems as they arise. We're out of options and possibly out of time, the Humans know their own kind a lot more than we do. If we have any hope of recovering what was taken from us we need to work together." Luna nodded once more in agreement. There wasn't much else to say, they were far to exhausted for pleasantries and now they had to deal with the Ambassador. Luna led her sister out into the entrance hall, the various guards and servants giving their respectful greetings. As the two made their way down the grand staircase they spotted a man sitting in the only chair that would fit him. The man was only slightly shorter than Celestia herself. The guards standing by the entrance eyed him angrily, ready to pounce given the chance. His medium brown hair was combed upwards neatly and he was dressed in a fine navy blue suit with a white shirt and black tie. Blue eyes and clean shaven face, this man would be considered rather handsome by human standards. At his side was a black combination briefcase. He picked a small glass of water from the coffee table in front of him and took a sip. As he placed it back down he gave the princesses a lopsided smile.
"A good morning to you, princesses." He said in as friendly a way as he could manage.
"Likewise Mr. Korsinski, I trust the journey was pleasant enough." Celestia did the talking as Luna wanted to roll her eyes just looking at the man.
"As pleasant as it can be in August I suppose, I will say it's a lot cooler here than in Victoria, we're having one heck of a summer." The guards didn't like how the human remained seated in the presence of their princess, even though the man had no reason to bow before the Princesses.
"Your letter specified that you would be here to discuss a possible solution to our...predicament so may I ask that we see this 'solution' of yours?" said Luna, wanting to get past the niceties.
"Straight to point hmm? I guess that's fair." The man hoisted the case up from his side and placed on his lap. "The solution...Is right. In. Here princess..." he said patting the case with each point.
