Prologue

When the comet first appeared in the sky, nopony paid it any mind, even as it grew larger with each day. When it eventually entered the atmosphere and crashed somewhere in the badlands, we still paid it no mind. After all, the only creatures that made their home in the badlands were the banished changeling colonies, and the majority of Equestria's dragons. We didn't much care what became of the changelings, and dragons are extremely tough, they would be fine.

It wasn't until the attack that destroyed Appleloosa that we finally paid attention. A dragon, unlike any that had ever been seen before, emerged from the badlands and laid waste to the town. It was, changed. Bigger, meaner, more vicious than any creature in Equestrian history. Almost mindless in its desire for destruction. And it proved nigh on unstoppable.

Through some miraculous good fortune, no-one in Appleloosa was killed, though many were injured. After it destroyed the town, the dragon cut a path of destruction across the landscape, torching everything in sight; only narrowly passing both Dodge Junction and Ponyville, until finally it reached Canterlot itself.

The Royal Canterlot Army could not halt its advance. Their weapons and magic simply bouncing off the creatures scaly hide. Desperate to stop it, Celestia summoned Twilight and her friends to try the Elements of Harmony against it. But even the power of the Elements of Harmony themselves proved ineffective against the beast, and the six of them barely escaped the battle with their lives.

It took the combined efforts of princess Celestia, princess Luna and princess Twilight to finally bring the creature down. It left them all magically exhausted. It also left Celestia, who dealt the killing blow, somewhat traumatized. All ponies hold life sacred, and Celestia more so than anyone. That she was forced to kill the creature only showed just how dire the situation had become. For the first time in recorded memory, a pony had been forced to take the life of another creature.

Much of Canterlot city lay in ruin. And this time, there were fatalities. But the tragedy did not end there. As if striking one last blow from beyond the grave, the dragons body ruptured, spilling blood and other fluids everywhere. As unpleasant as that was, the true danger didn't become apparent until a few days later when ponies became violently ill. The dragons body fluids proved to be extremely toxic. Many more ponies succumbed to the toxins and the city had to be largely evacuated. It took the best science ponies over a month to find a way to safely dispose of the toxic dragon blood. And the cleanup itself took almost as long. Finally we dared to breathe easy again. Finally there was time to mourn the dead, and life could return to normal. Or so we hoped. It was not meant to be.

The second dragon emerged three weeks later from the San Palomino desert and wiped Las Pegasus off the map, before making a beeline towards Ponyville and Canterlot. It was finally brought down during the battle of Ghastly Gorge when Pegasi from Cloudsdale dropped the cities entire lightning supply on it. The resulting devastation collapsed much of the gorge and buried the dragon under a landslide. When a third dragon eventually emerged from the badlands, we realized this was not gonna stop.

Thousands of refugees fled the south. Flooding Ponyville and Canterlot. Even more fled further north to Manehattan and Van Hoover. Dodge Junction was abandoned and booby trapped by the weather Pegasi, hoping to slay the beast before it could reach a populated area. But it wasn't enough. Though wounded, the dragon took to the sky and chased the fleeing Pegasi all the way back to Cloudsdale. In a desperate attempt to save the floating city, princess Celestia launched an all out assault on the dragon. Luring it away from Cloudsdale. With the last of her strength she managed to blast the beast from the sky by obliterating one of its wings, and impale its falling body on one of Canterlot Castle's towers, ending the threat. The dragons bulk crushed much of the Castle. Reducing it to ruin. Her reserves spent, Celestia collapsed and slipped into a magical coma.

The loss of Celestia sent a ripple of fear across the length and breadth of Equestria. Panic induced riots broke out in the remaining cities and towns, causing almost as many casualties as the dragon attacks. Princess Luna, realizing that the situation was unsustainable, ordered the evacuation of all the remaining citizens. Sending them north to the Crystal Empire. The peaks of the Crystal Mountain range and the open wastes of the frozen north should hopefully provide a natural barrier against the dragons. At the very least it would buy them time. Realizing that the Crystal Empire could not possibly harbor so many refugees, the city of Cloudsdale itself was moved in its entirety across the northern wastes until it hovered over the very spires of the Crystal Empire itself.

Celestia has been placed in a secure room inside the crystal palace. The best doctors have examined her. Physically she is unharmed. But no matter what we try, we simply can't wake her. And so the task of raising the sun and leading the kingdom fell to Luna.

Not just the ponies fled to the frozen north either. Large groups of Griffon's, Buffalo and even Diamond Dogs arrived at the city in droves. With so many new arrivals the city was soon bursting at the seams.

We were given no respite though. At least one dragon followed the trail of the evacuees all the way into the frozen north and assaulted the Crystal Empire itself. Using the power of the Elements of Harmony to amplify the Crystal Heart, a shield was erected to protect the city. It held, but the dragon was relentless. For three days and nights it pounded on the shield. Even trying to dig under it at one point. In order to lure the dragon away from the empire, the Wonder Bolts along with several brave volunteers launched a series of hit and run attacks against the dragon. Applejack and Twilight had to physically restrain Rainbow Dash, to stop her from joining them. Without their elements the crystal heart would not have enough power to maintain the barrier. After three grueling hours, the Wonder Bolts were finally able to lead the beast off into the frozen wastes. Neither they nor the dragon ever returned. A memorial service was held for their bravery.

Days passed with no sign of the dragons. But nopony dared venture away from the city for fear of attracting more of them. Food supplies were becoming strained and the tension and misery that hung over the city was thick enough to cut with a knife.

Salvation finally came thanks to Twilight Sparkle and Sunset Shimmer.
Desperate to find a solution, Twilight had once more traveled through the dimensional mirror to Earth, after finding a way to force open the portal. If she could not find a solution there, then she could at least see about securing a supply line for food, or a way to evacuate the city's population to Earth should the shield fail.

After explaining the situation to the former unicorn turned human, they not only set up a supply line for food and produce with the help of Applejacks earthen counterpart, but the rest of them came up with a solution both brilliant and so insane it nearly gave Discord a stroke from laughter. I believe the Draconequus called it: “Audaciously crazy.”

Using a combination of Equestrian magic and technology from Earth, they began a project to design a weapon that would allow ponykind to stand up against the dragons. It was dubbed Project Sleipnir, after a famous horse from Earth mythology, or so I am told. But I digress.

Based on works of fiction from Sunsets adopted home, she and Twilight designed gigantic mechanical ponies of crystal and steel. Controlled by magic and powered by the very energy of the crystal heart itself. These Sleipnir would be armed with weapons the likes of which have never been seen in Equestria. To control the Sleipnir, three ponies would be required. Two ponies of any species, moving in sync to dictate the Sleipnir's actions, and one unicorn to link their minds to the Sleipnir with magic.

It took more than a year for the project to be realized. Gold, metal and gems had to be dug up. The Diamond Dogs proved invaluable In not only locating and extracting the precious metal and gemstones. But in forging the metals as well. While we have many brilliant crafts-ponies, we actually use very little metal for our day to day needs. Diamond Dogs, while more interested in gemstones have knowledge and skill in metalworking that surpasses that of ponies.

The processed gold and gems would then be sent through the mirror to Earth, to exchange for currency to acquire both food and Earth technology, as well as other resources we lacked. An entire underground network had to be set up to smuggle these back through the portal to Equestria.

Radio transmitters. Raw materials such as rare metals we could not dig up in the Equestrian north itself. Hydroponics to establish underground greenhouse gardens. Even advanced computers. And then of-course ponies had to learn how to work with and adapt these devices. Sunsets knowledge proved invaluable in this effort once again. She trained a handful of ponies who then instructed another handful. And so the knowledge spread exponentially.

The city itself would need to be expanded to accommodate the project. New housing needed to be build. Workshops constructed. Factories raised. It was a monumental undertaking. Not only did the city expand across a large area on the surface, but underground as well. Vast caverns were dug and reinforced by both mundane and magical means. Hangars and launch bays were build to house the first of the Sleipnir. Long caverns were dug out to create hydroponic farms so we could once again provide food for ourselves.

A new army needed to be trained, as well as ponies to handle logistics and operations. Defenses needed to be build. Outposts, constructed to alert us to the approach of dragons, and ponies needed to be trained to staff them all. In the end our little ponies had to change and adapt to the new way of life. They had to become, harder, tougher. In order to survive, to preserve our very world, as distasteful as it was, they needed to learn to kill. Truly these are dark times.

In the end, the city became a fortress. The last bastion of ponykind in an increasingly hostile world. Our final refuge. No matter what may come, no matter how things turn out in the end, one thing is certain. Equestria will never be the same.

And yet, as I stand here looking out across the city, with the first stage of the project nearing completion, for the first time in a long time I look towards the future with a sense of hope.

Princess Cadance, signing off.

Chapter 1: First Sortie

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Chapter 1
First Sortie

Icy winds howled over the snow covered peaks of the Crystal Mountains. Heavy snowfall blew down from the thick gray clouds above. It was the coldest and bleakest place he had ever been to, and Star Whistle hated every moment of it. He wasn't a pony who enjoyed the cold and snow. Hay's sake he used to work at the docs of Horseshoe Bay in Baltimare. A climate about as temperate as they come. And now he was stuck here at the frozen top of the world for the next two weeks on scouting detail. The habitats back at the city were cramped, but at least they were warm.

When command had asked for recruits with keen eyes he never imagined being stuck here of all places. But the idea of being out of the overstuffed city had been so tempting. If he had know he would be sitting with his flank in the ice and snow for several hours each day he would have kept his mouth shut. He was snapped out of his brooding thoughts when his ear-piece crackled with a static laden hiss.

“Crystal peak control to scout four, requesting status update. You see anything out there Star?”

Grumbling he reached for his radio. “Are you kidding me Cloud Kicker? I can hardly see a thing with all this snow. Hay there could be a dragon standing right in front of me and I wouldn't be able to spot it unless it stepped on me.”

“Yeah, sorry about that. We just don't have the manpower to keep the skies over the peaks clear of snow. There is simply too much ground to cover.”

Star Whistle let out a sigh. “I know, its rough everywhere. Maybe we could ask command to send additional Pegasi with the next shift change.”

“I will forward a request with the next report, but I wouldn't get my hopes up.”

“Right now I'd settle for some hot coffee, I'm freezing my cutie mark off out there.”

“Your patrol shift will be over in forty-five minutes. Try to hang in there and I'll have a cup waiting for you when you return. Crystal peak out”

Cloud Kickers voice cut out with another hiss of static. Putting the radio back in his pocket, Star Whistle pulled the thick winter coat tighter around himself and picked up his binoculars. He raised them to his face and scanned the valley below. All he could see was shades of gray and white. He lowered the binoculars and peered over his shoulder back to crystal peak. He could barely make out the outline of the mountain top against the dark gray skies.

Crystal peak was one of several observation posts established throughout the Crystal Mountains. Diamond Dog dig teams had hollowed out mountain peaks, cliff sides and other suitable locations to hide the facilities from the dragons eyes. Each one accessible through well camouflaged entrances, and interconnected by a series of tunnels that wormed their way through the mountains. They served as early warning beacons against approaching dragons. Each facility was staffed by twenty ponies, working in twelve hour shifts.

Star whistle shook himself to get the snow out of his mane when something at the edge of his vision caught his eye. A vague gray blob in the distant clouds that hadn't been there a minute ago. He quickly raised his binoculars to his face and peered through them, eyes narrowing. Something was moving out there. His heart leapt into his throat when the gray mass took on a distinct green shape the closer it got.

“Dragon.” he breathed. Almost dropping the binoculars.

With slow, almost lazy wing beats the titanic beast soared through the sky. Its snakelike amber eyes scanning the ground below with a malicious glare. Moving as fast as he could across the treacherous terrain, Star Whistle hid in the shadow of a large boulder, hunkering down in the thick snow and trying to make himself as small as possible. His heart hammered against his ribs so hard he was sure it would give out. He held his breath, fearing the beast might hear it despite the howling winds. He sat there for what felt like hours as the beast passed overhead. It let out a deep rumbling growl. Its barbed tail swishing left and right.

Now that it was closer he could see that this was no ordinary looking dragon. The first dragons that attacked Equestria were bigger than normal sure, but they still looked like every other dragon. This one however had an extra set of limbs. It had six legs instead of four. And the front pair had a pair of ridiculously over-sized claws. As the beast flew off into the distance he fumbled for his radio.

“Cloud Kicker! Cloud Kicker answer me.” He hissed into the microphone. Still not daring to raise his voice.

“Alright alright already. Whats got your fur in a knot?” Her voice came back over the radio.

“Contact command. Tell em they got incoming. And its a big one.”

*******

The unicorn known as Sunset Shimmer stood on one of the catwalks overlooking one of the cavernous engineering bays. There was a flurry of activity down below. Pony engineering crews, Diamond Dog loading teams and Griffon work crews all moving about with purpose. Sparks flew from welding torches. Power-tools sang. Hammers rang with the sound of steel striking steel. All of them adding to the din of organized chaos that took place around the massive steel legs of a gleaming white Sleipnir.

Standing two-hundred and thirteen feet tall at the poll and clocking in at sixteen-hundred and eighty-five tons. Emblazoned on its flanks, right where the cutie mark would be on a pony were the words Sol Invictus. Meaning, Unconquered Sun. Named in honor of princess Celestia.

The sound of two more pairs of hooves approaching made her look up to see Twilight and princess Luna moving along the catwalk towards her. Twilight was wearing a blue commanders uniform that matched her hair color. No doubt Rarity's work, Sunset mused. Twilight had temporarily relinquished the title of princess to act as commander of the Sleipnir program. As they reached her Luna spoke up.

“Salutations Sunset Shimmer. 'Tis certainly a sight to behold what thee and Twilight Sparkle have created.” she said as she let her eyes drift across the lettering on the machines armored flank. “Mine sister would be honored, and proud of thee both.”

Twilight averted her eyes, cheeks flushing lightly at the praise.

“We can't take all the credit princess Luna. It took hundreds of Ponies, Griffons and Diamond Dogs together to build these after all.” Twilight said humbly.

Indeed the Sleipnir program was a joined effort. It had taken months to turn Twilight and Sunsets initial idea into a functional design. Dozens of science ponies, magical researchers and crafts-ponies working in tandem. Countless experiments and failures. Some with fatal results. Finding ways to compensate for the limitations of science with magic and vice versa. Without the right balance of the two, their designs would have forever remained in the realm of fiction. If they lived through the coming storm their achievement would go down in the history books as one of the greatest feats of magi-technological engineering.

“How is princess Celestia? Has there been any change?” Sunset asked.

Luna shook her head sadly. “Nay Sunset Shimmer. Whatever magic holds our sister in its grasp is beyond us. Even in the dreamscape we cannot reach her. It is almost as if her mind is hiding and does not wish to be found. It vexes us greatly.”

“We have exhausted every magical and medical means of waking her.” Twilight said. “At this point we can't do anything but wait and hope that she comes out of it herself.”

They all stood in silence for a moment before Luna spoke up.

“How progress the preparations?”

Twilights horn lit up and a stack of paper floated from her uniform pocket. She briefly leafed through it before she spoke.

“We are on schedule. Though there have been a few problems here and there. Nothing crucial however. Most of it minor logistic errors. We now have two active Sleipnir on the roster, and the third should be completed today. We still have to give it a name though.”

“What has thy named the other machine?” Luna asked while sweeping a hoof at Sol Invictus flank.

Sunset smirked. “Its called Party Cascade. Three guesses who one of the pilots is.”

“Speaking of the pilots? How fares their training?” Luna asked after doing a small mental double-take at that particular reveal.

Twilight started leafing through her report once more but Sunset replied before she could dig up the right paperwork.

“Its slow but steady. The hard part is finding ponies who are compatible with each other. There has to be a certain chemistry between them to make things work. And of course the unicorn of the trio has to be trained separately to perform and hold the mind link spell under any condition for extended periods of time.

The mind link spell is a very intimate thing. So it helps if the ponies involved share a familiar bond. Close friendships, loved ones, even friendly rivals or competitors can work. Its not an absolute but it we discovered early on that it makes a big difference in establishing and holding the connection to the Sleipnirs ACB.”

“The machines AC-what?” Luna interrupted. Utter confusion written on her face.

“It stands for Arcane Crystalweave Brain. Its an alchemically treated crystaline matrix inscribed with a series of complex magical runes that-” Twilight began, but before she could fly of on a complicated and overly technical explanation Sunset interrupted her.

“It uses the mind link spell to basically read the ponies thoughts and actions and then the Sleipnir duplicates those actions. The two ponies up front dictate the physical actions such as walking while the unicorn acts as the bridge between them and the machine, but also has control over the various weapon systems. This is why the pilots have to learn to work in sync with one-another. That takes time and can't be rushed. Its hard enough to do with just two ponies. Even more so with three.”

“But thou hath made progress, correct?”

“Yes we have. And we are learning more as we go along so training the next group of candidates should become easier over time.” Twilight cut in.

Their conversation was interrupted by a panicked looking blue Pegasus who came flying up to them at top speed.

“Commander, Commander!.” He called out before dropping down onto the catwalk, catching his breath.

“Whoa slow down there Slipstream, whats going on?” Twilight asked, slightly startled.

“Word from Crystal Peak ma'am. A dragon is headed our way.

Three pairs of eyes narrowed.

“Art thou absolutely sure.” Luna asked sternly, gazing intently at the Pegasus.

“Absolutely your highness.” Slipstream answered, withering slightly under the Alicorns stern gaze.

“It would seem thy inventions are to be put to the test sooner than expected Twilight Sparkle.”

Twilight stared into the distance. Her face unreadable. This was it, the moment they all knew would come. I they failed here, it would spell the end not just for Equestria, but for all of Equus. She felt the tendrils of dread worming their way into her mind, but crushed them with an iron resolve. They would NOT fall here. Not on her watch.

“I will be in the command center.” She said before spreading her wings and taking off.

Sunset gave a slight bow to princess Luna.

“I will go and inform our pilots.”

**********

The command center was a semi circular room located deep underground directly below the crystal palace. The far wall was dominated by a large view screen, flanked by two smaller monitors. Three rows of consoles bisected the room. Each occupied with two operators. At the back of the room was a small raised dais from where the commander could oversee everything.

As Twilight trotted through the doors those present snapped to attention.

“Commander Sparkle on deck!” one of the officers, a large beige Diamond Dog with a bulldog-ish face barked out.

“Listen up everypony, we just got word from Crystal Peak that we have an incoming dragon.”

Her words were met with nervous murmurs from across the room as they all began anxiously whispering to each-other.

“This is what we have been preparing for. We have all worked our flanks off. We trained everyday from sunrise till late at night. Now is the time to put your training to the test. I know we can do this, together.”

She paused briefly to let her eyes drift across the room. Twilights command crew was a diverse lot, made up primarily of Ponies of all three species, but also sported Griffons and Diamond Dogs. With a satisfied smile she saw the look of nervous anxiety in their eyes be replaced with one of determination.

“Everypony.... Battle Stations!”

All across the city alert sirens began to wail. Newly installed announcement billboards flashed the message: “Standby Alert”. All activity ground to a screeching halt as every eye was drawn to the message. As the sirens died down the message was replaced by a split screen video of Twilight and Luna. It was Luna who spoke first.

“Citizens of Equestria hear us. Our city is in peril. Remain calm and follow commander Sparkles instructions.”

That was twilights cue. She quietly cleared her throat before addressing the crowds

“We have confirmation that a dragon approaches. All non combatants are to proceed to their designated shelters immediately in a calm and orderly fashion. All combat personnel are to report to their section chiefs at their designated stations. This is NOT a drill.”

“Many of thee are no doubt frightened. But we ask thee to have faith in Twilight Sparkle, as we have. Follow thy instructions and we will emerge victorious.” Luna spoke, filling her voice with every ounce of conviction she could muster.

“We have survived this far because we stuck together. And together we will get through this as well. Now everyone carry out your instructions, time is of the essence.” Twilight said before the video cut out. The screens now displaying various safety instructions as well as a map that showed the entrance locations of all shelters.

Back at the command center Twilight let out a shaky breath. She still wasn't used to addressing such a large crowd, even indirectly through the billboards. The responsibility of her station weighed heavily on her. The choices she made in the next few minutes would mean the difference between life and death. Steeling her nerves she turned back to her command crew.

“How long before the dragon reaches the city?”

“According to the latest report approximately thirty minutes.” A butter yellow unicorn with a red gemstone cutie mark replied.

“I want Sol Invictus and Party Cascade deployed topside within ten minutes. As soon as they are in position raise the shield. Ruby Gem, patch me through to lightning control.”

“Aye ma'am” the unicorn replied.

The screen at the front of the command center lit up, and an elderly sky blue Pegasus mare saluted her.

“Awaiting your orders commander.” the spry elderly mare said crisply.

“Captain Foggy Fleece, the dragon is approaching by air. You are to raise all thunder canons and saturate the skies with lightning. Bring that bucker to the ground and keep it there.”

The elder mare rubbed her hooves together with glee.

“You can count on us commander. We'll roast that lizard like a hearts warming casserole.”

Twilight couldn't help but grin as the screen went black.

“Sleipnir pilots now boarding their units. Engine startup sequence has begun.”

“Status of the evacuation?” Twilight asked.

“About thirty-five percent complete.” barked the Diamond Dog who Twilight recalled was named Rustle.

“Any problems?” She asked him.

“None reported ma'am. If there are any I'll let you know.”

On one of the side screens several split screen camera views showed a series of strange looking cannons rising from underground bunkers all around the crystal city, as well as being deployed from below Cloudsdale itself. With an electrical snap and crackle they began to lob bright glowing spheres into the sky. The moment they made contact with the clouds they detonated with a thunderclap, sending dozens of lightning bolts in all directions. Some of them set off secondary detonations as they hit a particularly saturated cloud. Sending even more lightning bolts dancing across the sky. Soon the sky was filled with a lethal web of electricity more than a mile wide. It was like the wildest storm in history. A beautiful yet deadly spectacle to behold. The ever changing pattern the lightning made as it arced to and fro was almost hypnotic.

“Sol Invictus now ascending to gate three.” reported Redplume the Griffon, shaking Twilight out of her reverie.

One of the side monitors switched to footage of Sol Invictus inside the giant elevator while the main screen showed the edge of the city from one of the watchtowers. A large section of the ground inside the perimeter had been marked with large warning stripes. Yellow lights around the markings began flashing before the ground within it split open as armored bay doors retracted on rattling gears.

“Sol Invictus now reaching the surface. Party Cascade is now being loaded onto elevator two.”

******

On the giant view screen of emergency shelter twenty-four the armored head of Sol Invictus rose slowly from the ground. Each of the fifty shelters was equipped with a view screen so the occupants could follow events outside, rather than sit in the dark and worry what was happening. Yard by yard the machine emerged until the elevator fully surfaced and thick metal bolts locked it in place. With a thundering thud that shook the ground the machine took its first step. That simple first step send a cheer rolling through the crowd. Among them the cutie mark crusaders.

“Its working, its really working.” Sweetie Belle squeaked.

Apple Bloom punched the air with a hoof while shouting “Go get em big sister!”

*******

Sleipnir Pilot training rooms – a few minutes earlier.

Applejack was working up a good sweat, her strong hind legs striking out in rapid succession as she bucked at the target. She gradually picked up the pace until her hind legs were just a blur of action. A large portion of the training room contained gym equipment and other machines designed to test their physical and mental reflexes. The back wall held a series of target dummies for close combat training.

“Slow down AJ, I can't keep up.” Rainbow Dash said before doing a double take. “Never imagined myself saying those words. All the same slow down. Not all of us are apple bucking experts.”

Dash was doing her best to match Applejacks movements. Trying to kick her own target in sync with her. But despite being the fastest flier and having the reflexes to match, when it came to bucking things Applejack had a leg up on her. No pun intended.

“Aw shoot Rainbow you were doin' just fine.”

“Don't worry Applejack, clearly Danger Dash here has been hitting the cake too much lately. Its obviously slowing her down.” Said Vinyl Scratch as she sauntered up to the pair and poked dash in the barrel with a hoof. A teasing grin on her face.

“Dashie, why would you be hitting cake? Cakes are for eating. Hitting them seems like a waste to me.” Pinkie interjected.

“Would you two lay off already. There was no cake hitting. Period. And AJ simply has more experience with kicking things than me.” Dash grumped. Bumping Vinyl aside with her hip.

“Oh come on Dash its just a joke. No need to get so defensive.” Minuette said with mirth while Orchid Dew just broke down in giggles.

“Yeah yeah laugh it up you two. Shouldn't you be focusing on your own training?”

“You've kicked plenty ah clouds when y'all was leading the weather team Dash. Ahm surprised ya havin' trouble with this. ” Applejack said.

“Yeah, totally not the same thing AJ, trust me. Theres a whole lot of difference between cloud busting and bucking trees, or targets as the case may be.” Dash replied.

Just then the doors flung open as Sunset Shimmer trotted inside, her expression grim. She was followed by Rarity who floated several metal briefcases in her magical aura.

“Training is over ladies. Time for the real thing.”

“Wait what? What are you talking about Sunset?” Orchid Dew cried out.

“We just got word theres a dragon inbound. Twilight wants you all suited up and ready to deploy.”

“B-but were not ready.” Minuette protested. “We need more training. More time.”

“I'm afraid we are out of time darling.” Rarity said as she floated a suitcase over to each of them, popping the lid open. “it is time to sink or swim as it were.”

“Beg pardon Rarity but what're these?” Applejack said while pulling a bundle of strange looking fabric from her briefcase.

“Why those are your uniforms of course darling. I'll admit they look a bit, tacky. But they serve a purpose.”

The bundle of fabric turned out to be a skintight, bright red jumpsuit. The silhouette of a mechanical pony embroidered on the flank in bright gold and black thread where the cutie mark would be on a pony. A series of plug connectors ran along the spine.

“What are these for?” Orchid Dew asked.

“When you get inside the Sleipnir's cockpit your suit will hook up to the control armature. This will prevent you from being thrown around the cockpit when the Sleipnir takes a hit. As an added measure of protection, shock absorbing gel will be pumped into your suit to reduce the chance of injury.” Sunset explained.

“So wait, you're gonna cover us in goo?” Rainbow dash said, making a face.

“Not exactly. There are hollow pockets inside the suit that will fill up, sort of like balloons.”

“I like balloons.” Pinkie said cheerfully, making the others roll their eyes.

“Now get ready, that dragon will be here any moment.”

*******

Applejack slid her left back hoof into one of the armature's stirrups and pushed it down firmly. The machine, registering the presence of the operator clamped down on her hoof firmly but not painfully. Securing her in place. Slipping her other three hooves in she repeated the process until all her legs were secure.

On her left, Rainbow dash was doing the same while behind them Orchid Dew took place in her control seat. Unlike Dash and herself Orchids seat was not an armature rig but a more traditional pilot seat behind a control panel.

“You girls ready up there?” orchid asked as she buckled her safety belt with a tweak of her telekinesis.

“You kidding? I was born ready.” Dash quipped.

“All set sugarcube.”

“Here we go then.” Orchid breathed nervously.

Taking a calming breath she closed her eyes and focused on her horn, channeling the mind link spell. Her horn lit up as three strands of ethereal energy began to slither out from the tip. Two of them snaked their way towards Applejack and Rainbow Dash. Attaching themselves to each ponies forehead. The third tendril snaked upwards to connect to a large crystal lens on the ceiling. As soon as it made contact every console in the cockpit lit up. A thrum ran through the machine as systems sprang to life.

Connection hoses snaked out from atop the armatures above AJ and Dash as well as from the back of Orchids seat. Plugging into their jumpsuits. With a quiet gurgle and a cold sensation that send a shiver down their spines their suits were pumped full of shock absorbing gel.

Orchid slowly opened her eyes.

“Connection established.” She said. Her voice echoing slightly as if she were speaking into a metal bucket. “Whoa, thats weird.”

Applejack and Rainbow Dash blinked in unison before lifting their right front hoof and staring at it.

“Thats so freaky.” Dash exclaimed. Unlike Orchid her voice sounded normal. “It almost feels like I'm in three places at once. I'm in here. I'm in AJ's spot, and I'm out there, except I'm as tall as Canterlot castle.”

Applejack gave a quiet nod. The sensation was almost unreal.

A deeper bass hum ran through the cockpit as the Sleipnir's main power plant sprang into full life.

“Connection to the crystal heart has been established. We are now drawing power from it. Disengaging locking bolts.” Orchid said as she worked the controls.

With a faint lurch the platform beneath them began to move towards the launch elevator.

“Theres Pinkies ride.” Dash said as party cascade came into view through the armored cockpit window.

Applejack and Dash craned their necks slightly to get a better look, then suddenly Sol Invictus copied their movement. The cockpit turning until they had a perfect view of the other loading bay.

Unlike Sol Invictus, which was modeled after a Unicorn, Party Cascade had the much heavier build of an earth pony. The biggest difference though were the twin canons on its back that ran from two armatures to a turret attached to its croup. Pinkie called them the 'party canons 2.0'

The head of Party Cascade suddenly turned to look at them directly, then the magical holographic display of their cockpit turned on. Projecting the face of Pinkie Pie.

“Hi girls, ready to show this dragon how we ponies party?” she said cheerfully.

“Hay yeah.” Rainbow cheered. “I'm ready to kick some flank”

“See ya topside pinkie.” Applejack said as the elevator began its ascend.

********

Sleipnir Command Center.
Present time.

On the main view screen Party Cascade stepped off the elevator platform and walked outside the city perimeter. Far above the crackle of thunder and the dance of lightning continued.

“Both units are in position commander.” said Ruby Gem.

“The dragon is in visual range!” Rustle barked.

The main display switched to a view of the sky. Showing the gargantuan reptiles approach.

“Raise the shield.” twilight commanded.

“Aye aye ma'am.”

Far above them on the surface the crystal heart spun faster and faster until a beam of bright rainbow colored light shot into the sky. When it reached above the spire of the palace it split and turned into a shimmering multicolored dome that covered the entire city.

“Patch me through to the pilots.” Twilight said.

After a moment a split screen view of both Sleipnir cockpits appeared on screen.

“This is it girls. Are you ready?” she asked.

“As ready as we're gonna be Twi.” Applejack replied.

“Here's what I want you all to do,” Twilight began “Pinkie Pie, Minuette, Vinyl Scratch, hang back and engage the dragon at long range at your discretion. Do not engage it up close unless you absolutely have to or the others are in trouble.”

“Roger roger.” Pinkie said while snapping a salute. Her face a scrunched up in an overly dramatic grimace.

“Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Orchid Dew. As soon as that dragon hits the ground I want you to lay into it with everything you got. Go for the wings first. We don't want it taking off again.”

“We'll pluck that turkey lickety split Twi.” Applejack said.

“Ten seconds flat.” Dash growled.

“Celestia be with you.” Twilight said before breaking the connection. The screen once more showing the dragon.

********

Around the city, canons traversed to track the dragons approach. Gunnery crews worked feverishly to load the next round of lightning cannisters. With a might crack the canons let loose. Glowing orbs streaking into the lightning filled sky directly towards the dragon. They detonated just in front of the beast. Showering it with bolts of lightning. Roaring in pain the dragon began to dive, looking for whoever dared to attack it. Another volley, this one coming from Cloudsdale Pushed it down even further. Towards the waiting Sleipnir.

Party Cascade widened its stance. Back legs bracing as it lowered its front to give its canons an unobstructed view. They swiveled as they tracked the dragons movements. Capacitor coils whining as they charged up.

“Just a little closer.” Vinyls voice echoed from her control seat in the back. “Target is locked.”

“Drop the BASS!” Pinkie yelled.

The ground cracked underneath the warmachine's iron hooves with the recoil as twin beams of concussive sonic energy thundered from the barrels. They streaked across the sky with a blinding flash of crimson before slamming into the dragon, sending it tumbling end over end. With a sickening crunch the beast slammed into the ground. The earth shaking with the impact, throwing up a cloud of snow and loose soil.

“A-booyah! Thats how its done.” Pinkie exclaimed.

“Nice shot Vinyl.” said Minuette.

“When you got mad skills you got mad skills.” the blue haired unicorn nodded with a cocky smirk.

Their victory was short lived though. With an angry roar that echoed up and down the plains the dragon emerged from its impact crater. Eyes practically aglow with fury. It reared up to its full height, wings flaring threateningly as it stared down the two warmachines. Its absurdly large front claws splayed.

From their cockpit, Rainbow Dash and Applejack stared at the beast with angry eyes. Rainbows own wings were splayed in an instinctive threat display as her anger rose.

“Challenge accepted.” Dash growled.

“Time ta throw down.” Applejack replied.

With a mighty leap Sol Invictus set off into a full gallop. Charging the dragon head on.

Chapter 2 Full Metal Rumble.

View Online

Chapter 2
Full metal rumble.

The dragon let out a challenging roar that echoed across the valley. Small licks of flame shot from its throat and nostrils, its claws flexed and dug at the frozen ground as it got ready to counter charge the approaching Sol Invictus. With a mighty, wing assisted leap it shot forward, tearing up the ground as it made a mad dash towards the charging machine. Its over sized front claws shot forward, ready to tear the offending machine to ribbons. AJ and Dash saw it coming however and at the last second jinked to the left, the dragons claws missing their armored form by less than three feet. They hit the ground and created a long trench several yards deep.

“Critter's a fast one.” Applejack said as they brought Sol Invictus around.

“But we're faster.” Rainbow Dash replied.

The dragon tore its claws free of the frozen ground and turned to meet them.

“Git ready to buck.” Applejack growled as the dragon came round full circle.

Sol Invictus spun round. Servo engines whining under the strain of the fast maneuver. Its fore hooves slammed into the ground, cracking the earth as it brought its rear legs in.

“Now!” AJ yelled and she kicked out with all her strength. Dash following almost instantly. Their long hours of practice paying off.

Sol Invictus brought its hind quarters up and then kicked out. Engines howling at full power. The machines mighty steel hooves connected full force with the dragons skull. The boom of the impact so loud it rattled every window on this side of the city.

On the view screen of the command center, Twilight and her command crew followed the action.

“Direct hit!” Ruby Gem shouted. The rest of the command crew letting loose whoops and cheers of their own as the dragon slammed into the ground, dazed.

'Don't cheer too soon' twilight thought. Fighting to keep her expression neutral. She had to stay calm and collected, even as a spark of hope began to grow in her heart. A commander needed to be cool and analytical. Every book she had read on the subject stated so.

On the screen Sol Invictus began pounding the dazed dragon with its hooves. Raining down a quick combination of blows.

“Hay yeah we got this.” Dash yelled as she struck out with her fore leg, Making their war machine bash the dragon in the face for a third time.

“Lets not get cocky Rainbow. This varmint is down but not out yet.” AJ retorted as she matched Dash her movements.

They made ready to deliver another blow, but just as it was about to connect the dragon reared up its head, maw opening wide. And then it bit down like a bear trap snapping shut. Trapping their foreleg in its jaws. Armor plates buckled under the pressure. Servos ground to a halt, sparks flying as they overloaded due to the sudden stop and clouds of coolant blasted forth from emergency vents.

Inside the cockpit alarms started to howl. Followed suit by a cry of pain from Orchid Dew as the overload from the damaged systems caused a feedback reaction over the mind link that translated as a sharp jolt of pain. A mere moment later Applejack and Rainbow Dash cried out in pain as well as the feedback surge reached them too.

“AAAUGH! LET GO YOU BUCKER!” Rainbow Dash screamed. Yanking back the injured leg. It felt like her own leg was being stabbed with shards of glass.

Applejack was trying to strike out with her other hoof, but with the both of them making different movements Sol Invictus response was sluggish and the blows were not having much effect on the dragon at all.

“It hurts, it hurts.” Orchid was whimpering behind them. Her horn flickering as the pain made it hard to keep her concentration.

“Girls! Try to calm down.” Twilights voice suddenly burst over the radio. “Your synchronization with the Sleipnir is dropping.”

“It HURTS Twilight!” Rainbow shouted back. “Nobody said anything about it hurting this much.”

“We knew sensory feedback was a possible risk of the mind link spell. But if you let the pain overwhelm you, you won't be able to fight back. Work through the pain and concentrate on your actions.”

“Easy for you to say.” Dash ground out. Gnashing her teeth as she fought down the phantom agony in her leg.

The dragon was scrabbling back to its feet. Claws digging at the earth as it tried to gain leverage and push Sol Invictus back. But the girls and their machine stood their ground even as the dragon gnawed on the damaged leg. Once more the girls moved in sync, punching out with their free foreleg to try and dislodge the dragon.

“This bucker won't let go.” Dash growled through grit teeth.

“Ah'm open ta suggestions.” AJ growled back.

“C-charging horn canon.” Orchid Dew stuttered. Blinking tears of pain from her eyes.

With an electrical hum and buzz, capacitor coils began to spin up as the tip of Sol Invictus horn opened up. A bright blue glow emanating from within.

“Firing.” She said as the electrical noise reached its crescendo.

A powerful blue magical laser beam blasted forth from Sol Invictus horn. It struck the dragon in the face, cutting a diagonal furrow into its flesh, right down to the bone. It let out a roar of agony, finally opening its jaws and freeing the battered machine. The girls used the opportunity to back off to a relative safe distance.

“Good work sugarcube.” AJ said as she glanced over her shoulder back at Orchid.

“Tag out and take a breather girls.” Pinkie Pie's voice cut in. “Let us have a turn.”

They turned their Sleipnir to look back at Party Cascade. The heavy war machine was approaching at a leisure pace. Its twin canons tracking the dragon who was still clawing at its own face in agony. Their barrels already aglow with energy.

“He's all yours Pinkie.” Dash said into the radio.

Up in Party Cascade's cockpit a smirk crossed Pinkie Pie's face.

“Were on it like icing on a cake. Alright Vinyl you know the routine, get ready to drop the bass again.”

“Just say when.” The blue haired DJ grinned.

Just then the dragon looked up. Eyes aglow with hatred. It turned to face the pink machine, chest swelling up like a giant frog. A bright orange glow beginning to emit from inside it, the silhouette of its ribcage clearly visible. It threw its head back and then brought it snapping forward. Maw opening wide as an endless torrent of flame rolled forth from its cavernous throat. The girls panicked.

“Fire, FIRE!” Minuette cried out.

Vinyl responded out of reflex and fired the canons. Twin lances of crimson sonic energy blasting forth from the barrels before they had a target lock. As a result the beams went wide of their target, and then they were engulfed by the flames.

Back at the command center alarm bells began to ring on the monitor stations.

“Party Cascade hull temperature is rising drastically.” Rustle barked.

“Pilot heart rates are spiking.” Redplume reported.

“Magnetic capacitors are losing cohesion due to the extreme heat. Canons are offline.” Ruby Gem cut in.

“Hot.. its Burning! Skin... on fire!” the garbled, static laden cries of the girls came over the radio.

“How is that thing producing that much heat? Dragon fire should not burn that hot.” another pony on the command crew shouted.

“Internal temperature is rising. The coolant system can't handle it all.” Rustle said with worry.

“If this keeps up the canopy window will melt. They will be burned alive.” Ruby cried out.

“AJ get them out of there.” Twilight cried into the radio.

The ground below the stream of dragon fire ran molten. The stone spitting and hissing like magma. Clouds of steam rose up as the intense heat flash vaporized the snow nearby. And still the dragon kept exhaling fire. How it managed to do so without pausing to inhale fresh air they had no idea. Trying to work through the pain of slowly being cooked, the girls tried to steer Party Cascade out of the flames. But the dragon simply turned with them. Keeping them at the center of the inferno.

The machines movements were becoming sluggish as joints began to lock up due to the metal expanding under the intense heat. Several armor plates were beginning to run molten. Drops of red hot steel falling down in hissing rivulets. Several consoles in the cockpit blew out. Wires spitting fat sparks everywhere. The stink of melting circuit boards was everywhere, making them gag and gasp for breath.

A mighty battle cry pierced the air and then the flames suddenly stopped as Sol Invictus barreled into the dragon at full power. Its horn piercing the beasts neck just above the shoulder. Not a fatal wound, but more than enough to give the monster pause.

Both AJ and Dash were letting loose a stream of profanity as they lashed out as fast and hard as they could. Forelegs flashing in a blur as they struck out again and again. Sol Invictus engines whined and howled, barely able to keep up with its pilots commands. The impact of its hooves sent shock waves through the air.

The dragon wasn't about to roll over and die though. Even with blood spurting from the deep wound in its neck it struck back at them with its over sized claws. Battering and stripping chunks out of Sol Invictus armored hide. The two titans were pounding away at each other like a pair of blacksmiths trying to pummel an anvil into submission. The ground shook with every step and the boom of each impact could be heard for miles around.

Suddenly the dragon pushed them back with a burst of strength, creating a small gap between them. It roared, wings flaring it pounced on them. All six limbs clawing away at them as it slammed its full weight down on Sol Invictus. The damaged leg decided it had enough as something inside exploded. Blowing out part of the armor. Flames and shrapnel rained down around it. The entire mechanism locked up, and with no way to correct its stance Sol Invictus toppled over beneath the dragons weight. Sensing victory the dragon opened its maw wide and bit down on Sol Invictus armored skull.

“External pressure is rising exponentially.” Ruby Gem shouted from her console seat back at base. “Its gonna crack open the cockpit like an egg.”

“Pinkie!” Twilight yelled into the radio. “They need you, now!”

Party Cascade was moving sluggishly. Swaying like a drunk mule.

“We need a minute to regain control twilight.” Minuette replied with a cough. “Some of the wiring melted.”

“The others don't have a minute.” Twilight cried, panic was gripping her. Threatening to overwhelm her. She had to stay calm. Think. She had to buy them time to save AJ Dash and Orchid.

“The superstructure is beginning to crack.” Redplume shouted. “All gages are in the red.”

“Get me lightning command!” Twilight bellowed, almost slipping into the royal Canterlot voice in her urgency.

The screen flickered to life, showing the face of Foggy Fleece.

“Commander?”

“Fire everything at the dragon, right now.”

“But commander, we'll hit our own..” Foggy Fleece began but twilight cut her off.

“I know that, it will hurt them but they can take it. Better they be in pain than dead. Now fire!”

Foggy fleece saluted. Her face grim. Seconds later every single lightning cannon opened fire on the dragon and Sol Invictus. As the lightning shells struck home, both forms vanished in the blinding white blue light of the electrical detonation. The sound of a hundred thunderclaps going off at once shook the city right down to the foundation.

Pain was all they could feel. Every fiber of their being was in agony. Applejack, Rainbow Dash and Orchid Dew screamed until their voices cracked. They were temporarily blind from the endless flashes of lightning, and temporarily deafened by the cacophony of thunderclaps, and the dragons piercing wail of absolute agony.

The beast had let go of their head and was thrashing about on the ground. Its scaly hide was seared and scorched in hundreds of places. Blisters formed and burst beneath the scales. Leaking clear fluids and boiled fat. One of its over sized claws was gone, blown clean off the wrist. Its left eye was a bloody ruin.

It rolled over, trying to get to its feet to resume its attack, but never made it. Twilights desperate gamble had bought the crew of Party Cascade just enough time to reroute the machine's command functions. It came barreling forth through the cloud of smoke and dirt that the explosions had thrown up. Slamming its full weight into the dragon like a charging bull, throwing the beast to the side. It impacted the frozen ground hard. One of its wings got caught beneath its own bulk and snapped with a sickening crunch of splintering bone.

All three mares were panting and sweating. Pinkie's mane had lost its trademark curls and was plastered to her forehead with sweat. Minuette's was hanging limply. Even Vinyls spiky mane was drooping in the heat that still permeated the cockpit.

“Lets finish this.” The normally good natured DJ said. Her voice cold as the winter snow.

Minuette and Pinkie gave a grave nod.

With cautious steps they steered Party Cascade closer. The dragon was lying in a broken heap. Its legs kicking out weakly, clawing at the ground to try and get up. Its remaining eye stared at them with blind hatred. If looks could kill they would have gone up in a nuclear explosion. Whatever sympathy they might have felt for the creature vanished as they looked into that baleful orb. It was all to clear that if the situation were reversed the beast would show them no mercy.

“Sorry buster, this party is over.” Pinkie said before she reared up. Minuette followed suit.

Party Cascade reared up, kicked its forelegs once, and then slammed down with all of its weight on the dragons neck. There was a bang and a crack, followed by a sickening squelch as the dragons spine snapped and its throat was crushed. It spasmed once, twice, its tail twitching wildly. And then its body fell limp. Life left its remaining eye as its crushed throat gave one final gurgle. The beast was dead.

They had won.

Chapter 3: Cleaning up.

View Online

Chapter 3
Clean up.

The main view screen at the front of the command center showed a panning view of the battlefield. The frozen landscape was cracked in many places, spider-webbing outwards from the points of impact. The giant patch of scorched earth from the dragon's fire breath was still boiling and bubbling in places. The stone running molten. The grass around it burned, but fortunately the remaining snow kept it from running out of control and sparking a valley wide wildfire.

The camera turned to the fallen form of Sol Invictus. The machine was completely inert. The lightning barrage and the resulting electromagnetic overload had completely fried the machine's more delicate systems. Recovery would take a while. Twilight Bit her lip as she thought about that before speaking up.

“Stand down from combat alert status and drop the shield. I want rescue teams out there immediately. Recovery of the pilots is top priority. Medical crews are to stand ready. Once the pilots have been evacuated I want recovery teams topside to tow the Sleipnir back to base.”

A chorus of affirmatives went up around her as the command crew began to relay her orders. Moments later a virtual swarm of vehicles began to emerge from exit points around the city. Ambulances in the lead followed by heavy construction equipment like cranes and bulldozers to clear debris and make way for the tow crew to drag the machine back to base. A number of Pegasi rescue teams flew above the vehicles. Making a beeline for Sol Invictus cockpit.

One of the side screens lit up to show Pinkie's face. The earth pony was clearly worried.

“Are they okay Twilight? I can't reach them on the radio.”

“Their equipment is down Pinkie, we'll know soon.” Twilight replied as calmly as she could manage. She tapped a button and the angle of the camera widened to include Minuette and Vinyl as well. “I want you girls to take your Sleipnir back to the launch bay. Use gate five so you won't get in the way of the rescue teams.”

They gave a tired aye and Twilight couldn't help but notice how haggard they all looked. They kept shooting worried glances towards their fallen comrades. Pegasi were now crawling all over the machine's head. Manually prying open the emergency access hatch. She cleared her throat to get their attention and gave them a tired little smile.

“And girls...You did good.”

*********

Pain, so much pain. Applejack couldn't recall the last time she had hurt this much. The cockpit was dark, save for what light filtered in through the armored windows. Half of them were buried in the ground.

“Is everypony okay?” She managed to groan out.

“I think I sprained my wing.” Dash moaned beside her.

“If you can complain about it you're obviously okay.” Orchid said from behind them.

Applejack chuckled lightly before doubling over in pain. “Ugh, don't make me laugh, it hurts to laugh.”

There were noises coming through the hull and suddenly there was a faint tapping on the canopy window. A green coated Pegasus wearing a rescue vest was tapping against the glass, trying to get their attention. A minute or two later one of the emergency hatches popped open.

******

Back at the command center one of the screens lit up, showing the face of nurse Redheart.

“Please report.” Said Twilight.

“All pilots are alive commander Sparkle. Miss Dash has a sprained wing and some cuts and bruises. Orchid is much the same, mostly cuts and bruises. Applejack suffered two broken ribs when part of her armature gave out and slammed into her. All of them are being loaded onto the medical transport as we speak for treatment back at base.”

“Thank you Redheart, keep up the good work.”

“Commander.” Redheart saluted before the transmission cut off.

Twilight rubbed a hoof across her temple. Now that the crisis was over she felt the first signs of the onset of fatigue.

“If anypony needs me I will be in my ready room.” Twilight said before she left the control center.

The ready room was a small office just off to the left of the command centers control room. It held a desk, Twilight's personal library and a small cot in case she needed a quick power-nap.

She entered the door with a groan. She felt bone tired but could not afford to rest just yet. There was too much to organize and coordinate as well as an after action report to write. She dreaded the small mountain of paperwork that involved.

A cup of coffee held in a telekinetic field suddenly entered her vision, and when she looked over her shoulder she saw Cadance standing in the doorway with her horn lit.

“You looked like you needed it.” Cadance said with a small smile.

“Thank you.” Twilight said gratefully as she took the cup from Cadance and sipped from it appreciatively.

“I swear without this stuff I would have keeled over long ago.”

“Just make sure to catch up on sleep later.” Cadance admonished with a smile.

“Noted.” Twilight said with a smile of her own before looking back to the screen.

“So how did we do?” Cadance asked.

Twilight let out a sigh, “As well as could be expected for a first fight I suppose. Though we did suffer more equipment damage than I would have liked, injuries are minimal and fatalities zero. I call that a victory in my book.”

“I hope the council of nobles will see things the same way.”

Twilight grimaced as if she had just smelled something foul.

“Those pencil pushers can gripe and moan about our operational budget all they want. I won't spare on expenses when lives are at stake. We have sacrificed so much already, and they want to bicker about bits? To the dragons with them all.”

Cadance placed a comforting hoof on Twilight's withers.

“I know how you feel, but annoyance or not we need them to keep things running. You can't do it all on your own.”

“She could have.” Twilight said in a quiet voice as her thoughts drifted to her mentor.

“And she would also be the first pony to tell you not to.” Cadance said gently.

“I miss her Cadance. She was my rock and anchor. Whenever things got tough I knew she would just be a note away with guidance or answers. And now she can't give me either. I'm doing the best I can but I'm so, so afraid. One mistake, one wrong order and ponies will die.”

“You seemed to have everything well in hoof back there.”

“I can't show weakness in front of the others.” Twilight said whilst shaking her head, “If I break down in front of everypony they will panic. And that would be disastrous!”

“Breathe Twilight, breathe.” Cadance said calmly.

Twilight took a deep breath and let it out slowly.

“I'm sorry, Cadance, it's just that... I never asked for any of this. To become a princess. To lead ponies, let alone lead them in a war against the single most destructive force Equestria has ever faced. I know you and Luna and even Sunset are by my side and carry your share of the burden, but sometimes.... sometimes I still feel like I'm carrying the world on my back.”

She let out a shuddering sigh.

“I wish Celestia was here.”

Cadance stepped up to Twilight and wrapped her in a hug.

“So do I twilight. So do I.”

**********

Applejack was glaring at Pinkie Pie with a pained expression. Currently they were all down in the medical station.

“Ah told you no hugs pinkie, ah got two broken ribs here.” she said, pointing at her taped up barrel.

“Sorry, sorry,” Pinkie said sheepishly, “I'm just so glad you girls are all okay. We were super duper worried after the fight was over because the radio didn't work. And I was all, oh no what if they are hurt or worse, and Minuette was all, it's gonna be fine, but I couldn't stop feeling worried, and I don't like feeling worried because it makes my tummy all bleh, and gurgly and butterfly filled and..”

“Okay okay ah get it Pinkie, but were fine. A little dinged up but nothin' some good old time and care won't cure.”

“Good thing we wore those pilot suits, Redheart told me our injuries would have been way worse without them.” Orchid said.

“Ah will admit, ah was skeptical about them fancy duds at first, but if a few busted ribs is all I gotta endure thanks to them I'm all for em.”

“Plus they are very snug.” Pinkie said cheerfully.

Applejack chose to ignore Pinkie for the moment.

“Has anypony seen Dash?”

“She went topside as soon as the doctors finished with her. Though she seemed to be sulking.” Minuette chimed in.

“Probably feeling bummed out that she can't fly for a few days with that wing sprain ah reckon.”

“Oh no, I can't let Dashie sulk all day. I must cheer her up with some cake!”

And with that statement the pink pony disappeared out the door, leaving behind a trio of bemusedly smiling mares.

**********

The noise inside hangar bay four was deafening. The hum of magical crystals and the whine of electrical engines was everywhere as they strained to haul the enormous weight of the wrecked Sol Invictus into the dry dock with a combination of conventional cranes and magical levitation.

Sunset Shimmer observed the work crews with narrow eyes from below her hardhat. She was currently standing on one of the high catwalks so she could oversee the entirety of the hangar. A clipboard and pen floated in her telekinetic grip. She was not a happy pony at the moment. As the chief engineer it would be up to her and the work crews to get the massive mecha back in working order. A task she did not relish at the moment. She already had her hooves full trying to complete Sleipnir number three on time. They were going to need it now more than ever while Sol Invictus was out of commission.

“How's it looking up there Silver Spanner?” Sunset shouted to the tangelo colored unicorn with a spanner cutie mark.

The mare in question popped her head out of one of the maintenance access hatches to give a reply.

“Well the armor plates are salvageable. Most of the drivetrains and actuators are damaged. The right fore leg is a write-off and the electronics are one ginormous cluster-buck after that mother of all lightning storms.” Silver shouted, sounding way too cheerful. She absolutely loved fixing things, so to her this was like hearth's warming came early.

Sunset fought the urge to facehoof.

“Give me your best estimate. How much dock time are we looking at here?”

“Well the mechanical and electronic components alone are going to take two to three weeks at minimum to fully check and replace. And that's before the magi go over the magical parts of the systems. We're looking at a solid month in the docks before she's back in any kind of fighting condition, but I'd reckon closer to six weeks if we want her back in pristine condition.

Sunset sucked on her bottom lip. A month was a long time, and six weeks was worse. Who knew when the next dragon might pop up. It could be months, days or five minutes until the next one decided to head north over the mountains.

“Get started as soon as she's secured and bolted down, I'm going over to bay one and find out how much longer it's gonna take to complete work on Hurricane Force. Twilight said they would hopefully finish it today. If we can make that deadline we can put her crews to work on fixing up Party Cascade. That way I won't have to divide the crew working here between the two and we can hopefully chip some time off that estimate.”

“On it!” The unicorn replied with a cheer and ducked back inside the machine to continue her work.

Sunset set off at a brisk trot. It was going to be a long day.