Through ignorance we cause pain. Through ignorance we cause sadness. Through ignorance we cause anger. But in the end, what you don't know cant hurt you, Right? Because ignorance truly is bliss.
Through ignorance we cause pain. Through ignorance we cause sadness. Through ignorance we cause anger. But in the end what you don't know cant hurt you, Right? Because ignorance truly is bliss when stuck in the limelight. For hundreds of years, Nightmare moon was stuck on the lunar surface devising her plans for revenge. Today she plans on enacting them.
Follow John Stone and Nightmare Moon as events unfold, Secrets are exposed, and pain resurfaces. Will Nightmare Moon succeed in her revenge against Celestia? Or will they work through their pain?
"It's cold up here In this insufferable prison I was sent to. Sitting there on the cold, desolate surface of the moon, I watched as the tiny green and blue orb that is Equus float effortlessly in the vacuum of space. Anger swelled inside me as I remember my sister's betrayal. She always told me to strive to be my best. Some good advice that was, look at me now, sent to the moon because no-one cared about me. No matter what I did for those ponies, Everypony always gave HER the praise and admiration, leaving me in her shadow. I tried to hold court so I could be praised as much as she, But no one ever bothered to show up. So I asked Celestia if I could join her court sessions, so that there would be an offer of second opinion. She agreed and said that it was a splendid idea. That and she would get to be at my side more."
"On the following weeks, whenever a petitioner shows up they just greet my sister and ignore me like I wasn't there. When I gave my input, it would fall on deaf ears as they ignored me. So I just stormed out ignoring my sisters pleas to come back like her subjects would to me. Over the years I became a shell of who I formerly was. Never enjoying what I used to. Avoiding social gatherings like they were the plague. If ponies ignore me why should I even bother showing up? After a while my sister never noticed my absence, she was always to absorbed in the praise of her little ponies to never notice the hurt and sadness of her poor dear sister. I remember a voice, like silk and sickeningly saccharine. It appeared one night and whispered to me sweet promises that if I let it help, It would make me far greater than Celestia would ever be. Its promises intrigued me, so I did. It would talk to me, Keep me company when I was alone. Eventually it started taunting me. Telling me of what I could have been. Breaking me down and slowly pulling me into its dark embrace. When It finally consumed my mind, I attempted to strike my sister down and take over ruling the kingdom. It was simple, my plan was so simple. I would blanket the world in eternal darkness for all to enjoy. All I ever wanted was to feel loved, to feel admired, and to be praised for what I did. But all it ended in was my defeat before I could start. And in the end, I was sent here."
Nightmare Moon stood up and started to walk towards the castle she built for herself In the Five hundred and Ninety-nine and a half years she'd been stuck there. Her cold, empty empire in which no one will ever see. Entering the arched doorway, Nightmare went to her room. Looking at all the plans for revenge she carved on the walls. Every inch of space covered in detailed graphs and complex equations. Laying down on her makeshift moon dirt bed, she stared into the abyss of space.
You know how they say not to stare into the abyss, How it stares back. Well I could feel it try to flee from me, Realizing that I've already been consumed by madness. Waiting here in solitude, I go over my final plans for revenge. What my dear sister hadn't realized was that I had already found a way back. That the magic of the elements can't hold me here on what I embody. So I could have left this place at anytime, but the main problem I had to solve was how. What she never thought was that I would be crazy enough to launch myself off the surface of the moon and drift towards Equestria. I would then have to shield myself upon re-entry. All my plans and calculations would come into play shorty. All I needed to do was wait for when she changes the day and night cycle. That's when the moon would be properly aligned with Equestria. The benefits of having the sun and moon drift around a stationary planet is that it is hard to miss. Even if you are slightly off in trajectory, you'll still get caught in the planet's gravity.
Feeling the moon being tugged into position I begin to make my way back to the moon's surface. I steel my nerves and prepare my vacuum cannon for my launch into space using rocks I carved. Levitating a carved chunk of moon stone and push it to the back of the stone cannon. I then sealed it off from space. Using magic to create a pocket of air behind my capsule. It will be a one time use before a five month drift to Equestria and eventual re-entry. I stop casting the shield spell I was using to keep the air in with and got ejected into space. After what I estimated was Five months I could feel my moon stone capsule heat from re-entry. Using a shield spell and cooling spells to keep me as safe as I could in preparation for the immense amount of heat to come. As my capsule started Breaking apart I could see the Everfree forest and what was the remains of my sister and I's castle. My capsule had finally disintegrated and left me flying through the air at great speeds. It was too dangerous for me to attempt to spread my wings and fly, so all I could do was brace for impact. Casting a multitude of shield spells, I slammed into the ground. Feeling bones splinter as I flipped wildly across the ground until I came to an abrupt stop colliding into a tree near the castle and lost consciousness. Blinking the blurriness from my eyes, I was able to determine it was around mid-day. Attempting to move my legs only greeted me with intense pain. Casting a spell I painfully set my broken bones and mended them. I cast another diagnostic spell to check myself for more injuries and use the appropriate spells to get me back in good health. Testing my legs and feeling no sharp pain aside from a few aches, I attempt to stand. Eventually making it onto all fours I shakily make my way to the ruins of my old home. Wondering what had happened to it. As I walk the halls I couldn't help but remember the days when it was in better condition. Smiling at the thought of ponies wandering these halls those thousand years ago. Stumbling into my room I smile more at the memories of me as a filly as I grew up, only to frown as my sister crept into my thoughts. I continued exploring, searching for answers as to why the castle was in disrepair and the whereabouts of my sister. After a bit of exploring and not finding any answers I angrily made my way into the throne room. I took in a deep breath and screamed as loud as I could. I ripped my Sister’s throne from the ground and threw it through the stained glass window of her.
"WHERE ARE YOU WRETCHED SISTER OF MINE!" I shouted. Taking deep breaths and trying to calm down, I notice something I hadn't before. Through the hole in the window I noticed another castle. Ornate with gold trim and gold topped towers on the edge of the mountain. It reeked of Celestia. "Ah, so that's where you are hiding." I prepared for multiple long range teleports. Making it to the new castle, I cast an invisibility spell to make finding my sister easier. Entering the castle, I started wandering the halls while avoiding the occasional guards on patrol. Rounding a corner I come across a strange Bipedal being with a young thestral. My curiosity getting the better of me as I silently follow them. Turning down another corridor It stopped, In one swift motion it pulled something of its hip and pointed it down the hall. At that same moment a maid had entered from another side hall farther down from me and turned the corner.
“eep! Sorry John, I didn’t mean to startle you.” the maid blurted in panic while cowering.
John put what he was holding away and said “Don’t worry, I should be the one apologizing. I’ve just been a little jumpy lately with all that’s been going on today. Well, I got to get going, have a nice day.”
Nightmare let out a breath she didn’t realize she was holding. Silently thanking the maid for her unintentional distraction from potential discovery she made her way down the hall until it opened up to the main hall. Coming across to what looked like the throne room doors and without wanting to draw attention, She sat and waited for someone to enter. It wasn't long till a frantic looking lavender pony came galloping down the hall and knocking rapidly on the door. I hear my sister call to the guards to open the door, as soon as it was open enough the pony bolted in. I followed right after barely making it through. That's when I froze, waves of memories of anger and sadness washed over me. There she was, sitting there on her throne, with six other ponies and a look of concern on her face. she spoke.
"You're all wondering why I had sent you all letters of utmost importance. After receiving a letter from Twilight detailing a meteorite of unusual shape and not being able to locate the impact crater left me with a few suspicions. Either it was just a meteor composed of soft materials and burned away completely like twilight Sparkle suggested in her letter, Or my sister had managed to make her way back from banishment sooner than I had expected. 500 years earlier." Deciding now would be a good time to make my reveal I undid the cloaking spell and spoke.
"Very astute sister, coming to those conclusions. It's such a pity that only now you show concern for me now than those thousand years ago." Everypony in the room gasped at my appearance. While my sister sat there in shock, The mare I figured out to be twilight and the rest of the unicorns in the room took an aggressive stance; their horns charged with magic.
"I've always car-"
"WRONG!" I cut Celestia off. "You never cared. Even as I closed myself off from the world you never once thought to ask if something was wrong. You never bothered to check up on me when i would never leave my room for days." Tears streaking her face as she yelled, venting years of pain. "You only cared about what your sniveling ponies though of you. So stuck up in your arrogance that it drove your own sister madness and to attack you. You treat me like an enemy, a monster, when it is you yourself a monster-" It was at that point that twilight shot a bolt of magic at me. but I had easily blocked it with a shield as she shouted at me.
"How dare you speak to Princess Celestia like that you monster!" She attempted to hit me with more magic, but failed to do so. I was far stronger than her.
"You think that poor excuse of an attempt at magic can hurt me? Think again pathetic little pony. Even Celestia will fail Because I have become much stronger while I was away." Letting out a laugh, I turn and teleport away. Upon arrival to my old home I took in a deep breath and exhaled with a smirk.
The sun slowly rose over the horizon, Casting its warm light over Canterlot and the Ponies. Disturbing the slumber of resident human John Stone. Rolling over and sitting up, I Rub the tiredness out of my eyes. “Man I hate mornings.” Dull thuds reverberate through the floor as my feet make contact. Entering the kitchen I walk over to the counter and make myself a cup of coffee. The pictures on my wall catch my interest, much to my dismay. A frown forms on my face In rememberance of my fallen brothers and sisters at the hands of the enemy. Deciding to not dwell on the thoughts of my past squad members I turn to look out the window towards the speck that was Ponyville. After a while a strange feeling that something was wrong formed in my gut. Finishing my drink and Getting dressed I leave my house. Walking down the street feeling the cool morning air, the ponies dashing about catch my interest. Giving a small smile and wave or quick nod in the direction of the ones I make eye contact I continue towards the strip mall. A mile later and the warmth from celestia's sun on my skin, I arrive at the Solar strip mall. When I got close enough the I'm hit with stereotypical, but catchy mall MuzaK. looking at the items being displayed in the various shop windows and waving to the occasional pony I spot a thestral colt eyeing some candy and looking a bit upset. Walking over to him and crouching I ask.
"What type of candy do you like? I personally love the gummy candies, especially the ones shaped like worms."
The colt gets excited, "Me too! thought I like the ring shaped ones."
"Names John by the way." I hold out a fist towards him and received a bump in return.
"Mine's Shadowfall."
"You looked upset earlier, something wrong?" I ask with concern.
"Yeah, I was with my mom and asked If I could get some candy. She said I could and to meet her at the store so she could finish talking to a strange stallion. But she hasn't came for a while and She isn't where she last was. I also don't have any bits to get the candy either."
"Hmm, that does seem like quite the problem. I think I know how to solve this, how about we go buy you the candy you want, Then I'll wait with you for your mom to arrive. how's that sound?"
"Awesome! Thanks mister!" He smiles wide and bounces over the the shops door. I shake my head and chuckle at the sight of the colt. Entering the shop we are greeted by a mare behind the counter.
"Hello! Names Sweet tooth, how can I help you gentlecolts today?"
"Can I get a pound of gummy worms, and half pound of your gummy fruit rings."
"Sure thing, Any flavor choice for the rings or would you like a mix of two flavors?"
"Any flavor preferences?" I ask shadowfall.
"Peach please." he says.
"Well you heard the big colt. peach rings it is." The mare 'dawwws' at how adorable he is before getting the specified amount and flavor of rings.
"Alrighty, That comes to a total of six bits", placing a ten bit coin on the counter she goes to hand four bits back, "Here's your change." I wave her off.
"Keep the change." She smiles at that.
"Thank you!" she beams with a massive smile plastered on her face.
"No problem. Keep up the hard work, It shows." I wave goodbye to the blushing mare as we exit the shop and sit on the bench next to the store.
"So. Shadowfall. You said your mom was talking to a strange stallion before she disappeared?"
"Yeah, he was weird. We saw him when we first left our house to come here and a few times after that. He always looked lost. So when we came across him before I left to go to the candy shop mom decided to ask if he needed any help. That's the last time i saw her."
"Hmm, Do you remember what he looked like?" I ask.
"He had dark brown fur, almost black in color. His mane was greenish blue and his eyes were brown. I didn't see his cutie mark though."
"Thanks, I'll have to keep an eye out for him if your mom doesn't show up in the next few hours." In the following thirty minutes I took the time to get to know the colt. Finds out he want to join the guard like his mother. After about twenty more minutes of waiting I spot Nightshade walking our direction.
"MOM!" Shadowfall shouts happily. Jumping up and wrapping his fore hooves around her neck he gives her the biggest hug I've ever seen. Although nothing beats Princess Celestia's wing hugs.
"Nightshade? I didn't know you had a son."
"Huh? Oh hey John. Yeah, Ain't he the greatest. Shadowfall, sorry I took off for so long. I had to show that stallion how to get somewhere, Ready to go get that candy you wanted?"
"Nope, John got me some, then he stayed with me till you got here. I also told him how I wanted to be a guard like you when I got older. He was excited to hear that."
"Oh really? thank you for that John." She said with a smile.
"No problem." I shrug. I spot a friend of mine enter a shop that deals with surplus and outdated armors, They also stock cleaning supplies and polishes for the armor.
"Well I gotta get going. hey, Shadowfall want to meet the captain of the royal guard?"
"Can I mom! Can I?!?" Shadow askes.
"Sure, I don't see any problems with that. You two have fun."
"Thanks mom!"
"Alright lets get going, It was also nice to see you too Nightshade" holding out a fist and getting a bump from Nightshade. I feel Shadowfall climb my back and poke his head over my shoulder. She giggles at the display and we went on our own ways. I enter the shop and spot shining at the counter.
"Wanna see a take-down move we learn in basic?" I whisper. Shadow nods.
Making eye contact with the shopkeeper I hold a finger to my lips as I crouch low. I maneuver right behind Shining. Pulling out a magic suppression ring I always carry on me out, I sweep low and knock Shinings hind legs out from under him. He falls and I restrain and slip the ring on him.
"That's how you incapacitate someone who is a unicorn." Shining gives up and stops struggling. At that point the shopkeeper loses it and start laughing uncontrollably. Pulling the ring off his horn and letting him go, I get up.
“Hey Shining.” I say. He turns around and glares at me. He then grins and waves at me. “How you doing? It’s been awhile since we last spoke. Anything new since then?”
“Nothing as of recently. Just the same ol’ guard work. I’m actually here to pick up some more polish for my armor, and then head back to the castle barracks. Who's that?” Shining said.
“Shining, this is Nightshade's son Shadowfall. He wanted to join the guard when he gets older. So I though I would introduce him to his potential commanding officer, and maybe even scare a few guards around the castle after.”
"Nice to meet you Shadowfall, You'll make a great addition to the guard. I can tell." He held out his hoof and got a bump in return.
"So you're really the captain. That's awesome, You must've taken out a bunch of baddies!"
"Yup, they were so scared when they saw me you could see them shake with fear."
"Hey shining, you think you would be able to resize that set of refurbished pegasi armor?"
"Yeah, Why?", he paused before realizing, "I gotcha, gimme a sec." Shrinking it down I take the helmet and put in on Shadow's head.
"That comfortable?" he readjusts the helm till his ears poke through.
"YUP!" He gives a fanged grin. After we get the rest of the armor on and paid for the armor and supplies we leave the shop and head towards the castle.
“So, Shining, How’s Twilight doing? I haven’t seen her since the last time she was here. Which was like what, a month ago?” I ask.
“Well, about a week ago I got a letter from her detailing an unidentified rock mass drifting toward the planet. Yesterday, I got another letter with more details on it. Apparently, she went out of the way to plot out its trajectory and determined it should impact somewhere between Canterlot and Ponyville. Keeping in mind that it could also just burn up in our atmosphere on entry. Other than her discovery she hasn’t been up to much. What about you? How’s work in the stealth ops going?”
“As much as I would love to talk about what’s been going on, I unfortunately can’t. BUT, what I can say is that everything is all clear and I have been able to pick up free running more often now, And I have also acquired a new hobby to do in the meantime.”
“And what would that be John? He asked.
“Blacksmithing. I found out that it helps me relax more than I thought It would, I also have a test to certify me as a mastersmith in a few weeks. That will be stressful. Sorry to change the subject, But did you ever get a strange feeling today like something was going to happen?”
“Can’t say I have, but with your line of work, I can guess your gut instincts would become stronger.” Shining mentioned. “Anyway, we made it to the castle. I assume you want to go scare some ponies. So I’ll leave you to that. It’s been nice seeing you again and it's nice to meet you Shadowfall.” Shining said as he waved and walked away towards the barracks. I wave back before I turn and enter the castle proper.
"Alright , we gonna learn you some things. Mostly on just moving around quickly and quietly, Because regardless of being in the guard or stealth ops, It's really handy."
Having shoes that are specially designed for my feet and to muffle the sound of my footsteps, we snuck around the castle looking for guards to spook. Spotting our first victims, both privates, I quietly make my way over to the patrolling guards and tap their withers. When they started to turn I ducked low and moved opposite of them as they spun around. They determined nothing to be there and they spun back around, only to come face to snout with me as I shouted.
“BOO!” I yell. The two guards let out a girly scream and ran back down the hall they came from.
"Ha HA, Gotta love new guards.” After teaching Shadowfall a few more skills I chuckle as I come up with a little surprise for Shadowfall.
"I got a little surprise I think you will enjoy." I decided to see if we would be able to sneak up on Princess Celestia spook her and then she if she wants to join us for lunch. The halls echoed with my footsteps as I made my way towards the throne room. Turning a corner I get the feeling of being watched and the sense of something extremely wrong came back. Unholstering my pistol and whipping it back down the hall we just walked, Only to spot a maid frozen in fear. After apologizing we resumed our walk to the throne room, only for both of us to miss the four large hoof impressions on the carpet. Opening a hidden passage and letting Shadowfall in we made our way closer. I began to hear shouting from the throne room and put my ear to the hidden door.
"You're all wondering why I had sent you all letters of utmost importance. After receiving a letter from Twilight detailing a meteorite of unusual size and not being able to locate the impact crater left me with a few suspicions. Either an unusual meteor had burned up upon entry of our atmosphere, Or my sister had managed to make her way back from banishment sooner than I had expected. 500 years earlier."
"Very astute sister. It's such a pity that you are now showing more concern for me than those thousand years ago." I heard the mystery pony say. Everypony in the room gasped at the appearance of the new voice. Deciding now would be a good time to poke my head in and take a look of the situation. Slowly opening the door and creeping up behind the throne with Shadowfall at my side I peek around the throne and I identify the Mysterious voice. It’s Nightmare moon, She’s back. I pull out my earpiece from my breast pocket and insert it into my right ear.
I whisper “Command, This is Spectre, we have a problem.”
“Receiving, Spectre, what's the situation?”
“code Midnight, I repeat, Code midnight. Nightmare moon has returned.”
“Okay, hold position while I contact Princess Ce-”
“Negative, Command. Celestia is currently speaking to Nightmare.”
“copy that Spectre, sit tight and wait it out. Update me when the situation gets under control.”
“Will do, Spectre over and out.”
"Shadowfall, I'm going to need you to stay as quiet as you can and you are to stay behind the throne unless I tell you otherwise, got it."
"Okay." He said as I peek back around the throne.
"I've always car-" Celestia started to say
"WRONG!" Nightmare cut Celestia off. Shadowfall flinched at the volume of the shout.
"You never cared! When I shut myself out from the world you never once thought something was wrong. You only cared about what your sniveling ponies though of you. So stuck up in your arrogance that it drove your own sister to attack you." It was at that point that twilight shot a bolt of magic at her. But It had been easily blocked with a shield as Twilight shouted at her.
"How dare you speak to Princess Celestia like that you monster!" She attempted to hit Nightmare with more magic, but failed to do so. She was far faster and stronger than her.
"You think that mere magic can hurt me? Think again. Even Celestia will fail Because I have become much stronger while I was away." It was then that Nightmare moon started laughing and teleported away. I made my way from around the throne while updating Op on the current situation. My presence made Princess Celestia and the surrounding ponies Jump and the new voice in the room.
“Command, This is Spectre. Everyone is safe and unharmed. Nightmare is at large. Her whereabouts are unknown, Her location is unknown, Will update when I have more information. Spectre out.”
“Confirmed, Spectre. Have a nice day.” I barely make out the last comment that command made pulled out my earpiece and returned it to my pocket. Looking up I realized I had a confused Celestia and two irate unicorns pointing their horns in my direction ready to blast me with magic. The blue pegasus launched herself through the air at me. Ducking down and grabbing her left fore leg I pull her down hard into the floor. Wrestling with her for a bit until I got her legs pinned with mine and her neck in a choke hold. She squirmed for a bit before giving up.
“Whoa, calm the hell down everypony. Let’s not have to file a report to my commander about my murder.” I say.
“My apologies John, you merely startled us. You now I would never hurt you.” Celestia says as she raises her head with a smile.
“That may be true, but not so sure about them.” I point over to the other five ponies still ready to attack and the pegasus in my hold.
“Stand down, My little ponies. He’s not going to hurt anyone. In fact, he is a part of our stealth operations. This is Captain John Stone. He is a leader of a small squad of elite stealth ops ponies.” Everyone seemed to relax at that revelation. That’s When Twilight spoke up.
“Wait, Are you the one that my BBBFF mentioned in a letter. He said he made a new friend but forgot to mention a name.”
“The one and only. Though I'm surprised you forgot about me, we've met before.” I say as I stand up and take a slight bow as the Blue one rejoined them.
“One last question. How did you get in here? There are only the doors over there that you could have possibly gotten through. But then everyone would have seen you.”
“Can I tell her Celestia?” I ask.
“Sure. I see no problem with them knowing.”
“Okay, so how I got in here was through a secret passage located behind the throne. There are also a lot more located Throughout the castle. I happen to know where they are due to my job and-”
“Sorry to interrupt your conversation, But what brings you here John?” Celestia asked.
“Well I was bored and had just finished scaring some of the castle staff, and though we could spook you too. Then see if you wanted to join me and Shadowfall for lunch. So uh, BOO!” as I wave my arms. Never failing to get a laugh out of her.
“That sounds lovely. Do you mind if twilight and her friends join.”
“Not at all. It would give me and Shadowfall the chance to meet them.” I turn towards the mares in question and ask, “Hey, Twilight and present company. Want to join Celestia and I for lunch?”
“Sure.” Twilight responds.
"alright cool." I feel shadow maneuvering on my back.
"So where is this Shadowfall you speak of." I feel him tense up before poking his head up over my shoulder.
"That's me Princess Celestia."
"Aren't you much to young to be a guard. Im gonna have to have a chat with the recruiters." She said with a hint of playful sarcasm.
"Shadowfall, front and center." He jumps from his perch to the floor in front of me.
"This is Honorary Cadet Shadowfall, I've been giving him tips and a few things he can safely practice so he will have the upper hand when he enlists."
"It's nice to meet you Shadowfall. But it looks like we need to make a few corrections to your armor and posture when at attention." With a flash of magic his armor went from silver to gold with the proper insignia and rank. "Now straighten your back a little, good, now this hoof needs to be a little higher." She lifts his hoof to a proper salute, "There you go. We now have one proper cadet. I can already tell you will shape up to be one fine soldier Shadowfall."
We all head out of the throne room after notifying the guards at the door that the court session has been cut short due to unforeseen circumstances. After a short walk and a few glares from the staff from my earlier shenanigans we make it to the dining hall. We walk over to the table designated for the royals/guests of royals. When Celestia sat down, I sat across from her, much to Twilight’s displeasure.
"So what was it that you wanted to talk about?” Celestia asks. I give her blank stare as she should know exactly what I was referring to.
“Oh. We shouldn’t really talk business at the table, how about we wait till after lunch and then we can talk in private.”
“No.” I say. The other ponies fall silent, and stare incredulously at me.
“This is a matter of high importance, And besides, They already know what we need to talk about. So let’s get to it. Also, It's good learning material for how to conduct an interview.”
I pull out a small notepad and pen and begin to take notes on only the important pieces of information. When we had finished our discussion on Nightmare our food arrived. While we ate the other ponies introduced themselves to me. Rarity was the alabaster mare with royal purple mane. She ran a clothing shop out in ponyville. Next was Applejack, She was a light shade of orange and had a blonde mane. She works on her family's apple orchard and runs a market stall in ponyville’s town market. Rainbow dash, cyan coat and rainbow mane, introduced herself very energetically, claiming that she was the fastest flyer in Equestria. Her job was on the local weather team. Fluttershy, Bless her soul, she was so quiet I couldn’t make out what she was saying, so her friend rainbow dash had to tell me. She takes care of animals and also deals with the local animal pests. Pinkie Pie was in my face yelling at a mile a minute. All I could make out was “Hi, I’m Pinkie Pie...Party...Ponyville...Next chapter.” The last two words confused the hell out of me, so I just ignored them. when lunch was finished we parted ways, I was just far enough away to hear Celestia say she was giving the Elements of harmony to twilight and the rest. I just decided to head home and update Command on with the new intel and get a reconnaissance mission set up and under way.
Arriving back at my house and entering my office, I put my ear piece on and send command a message. “Spectre here, I need a message delivered to my team. Send it as it says, Squad meet up, my place, 15 minutes, let yourselves in. Clearance code grid Alpha-10”
“Got it, sending message.”
Ever since we had encountered Changeling spies in our sector we started using a weekly changing clearance grid. It consists of columns A- J and rows one-ten, every space has a different word, that word corresponds to another letter and number which then shows the correct phrase. Its fairly simple three page system, changelings have been to stupid to figure out that there is a second grid page with the actual responses. I sit down in my office chair and start writing down all the necessary information I have currently in regards to Nightmare. In about nine minutes since the message was sent the first two of my team arrive. Two minutes later the final member arrives. They all grab a chair and pull it up to my desk, But remain standing.
"Shadowfall, you mind waiting in the front room, There's some books you can read or if so inclined, my desk has some paper if you want to draw. This meeting shouldn't take too long."
"Okay John."
“Sergeant major Phoenix, step forward.” The leftmost pony stepped up to the desk. I slid a keypad over the the thestral so they could put the code in. flashing green, the bat-pony stepped back and sat down.
“Corporal O’Reilly, Step Forward.” The black pegasus in the center stepped up to the desk where the keypad was and put in his code, flashing green, He stepped back and sat down.
“Sergeant Nightshade , Step Forward.” The last pony stepped up, she was also a thestral, and put in her code. It flashed red. John sighed and opened the top drawer of his desk. Pulling out his M9, he screwed on a suppressor and cocked the gun. John set it down on the table while looking back toward Nightshade.
“Only one chance to correct that. Fix it, or I’ll have to write my squad mates death report. I also really, REALLY don't wan't to have to kill a single mother.” In situations like these there is a second code that you are told when you first enlist. Everyone has a unique code that acts as an override for that day’s designated code and is to only be used in these types of situations. When she put in her seven digit code, the Keypad flashed gold, Then green. I de-cock the gun and put it back in my desk.
“Good, Now that that’s been dealt with we can get down to why I requested your presence.” I look them all in the eyes, “For those who haven’t heard yet, Nightmare Moon has returned. Her motives are unknown, But we we can all pretty much agree on the idea that she is going to try to gain control. After talking to Celestia, I have reason to believe that she might be hiding out either someplace in the Everfree or the old castle in the south-eastern side of the Everfree. When we locate her we are to send a message back to our Temporary HQ and wait for Captain Shining Armor to arrive with a squad of guards. ” Sgt. Nightshade raised her hoof.
“Yes Sgt. Nightshade?”
“When do we head out sir?”
“We head out tomorrow. But the search won’t be starting till tomorrow.. Reason being is that we will need to get setup, Then we have a party to go to. So remember to pack your SSDU alongside your other gear. Any other questions?” No-one raised their hooves, “Alright then, you’re all dismissed.” As the three ponies turn to leave I call to Nightshade.
"Nightshade, Wait a moment. I want to talk to you." she stops and turns back around.
"Something wrong?" she asks.
"Do you have any idea how hard it would be for me to have to shoot you then have to explain to your son why one of mom friends shot and killed her? I'm going to be completely honest with you. If I did have to shoot and find out you weren't a changeling and that it was only you screwing up, It would have completely destroyed me. Follow me, I want you to see something." I motion for her to follow me as I walk over to a section of wall in my kitchen covered in picture frames.
"Who are they?" she asked as I hear another set of hooves make their way over to my office.
“Hey.” Shining Armor said. “I wanted to talk about the plans regarding the operation.”
“wait in my office, I'll be there in a sec.”
"Got it." he nods as he recognized the wall and what was going to follow.
"Nightshade, Who do you think these ponies are?"
"They are past squad members right?"
"Yes, Do you now why you haven't seen any of them around?"
"I don't know sir. Did they leave Canterlot?" she asked. A sad sigh escapes as I shake my head.
"See that group there?" She nods, " That's Crimson Talon, Sky Chaser, Astral Dash, And Wild Blaze. They were my first squad I got to command back when I first joined the guard. That was during Operation: Husky. I was still stealth ops at the time But they needed more foot soldiers for the assault, So I went and fought. During a raid my team got too aggressive even though I told them to hold back, they rushed a corner a got caught in a hallway with a murder hole. Five seconds. Five seconds was all it took for them to get slaughtered by a mounted chaingun. I was lucky enough to kill that diamond dog before he did me." She stood there silently as I continued to speak.
"That group right there?" She looks over to the group on the right side," They were Moonstone, Crimson Moon, Shadow Chaser, and Onyx Bolt. They were my first full thestral stealth team. We were the ghosts of the operations for a few months. We were sent to investigate and quietly deal with any Changelings. That was Operation: Pest Control. we decided to split up to make the job go faster. Big mistake that was. The changelings outplayed us and were able to capture, kill, and replace whom they got. Only found out when they tried to kill me."
"The rest of these ponies on the wall, Nimble Charge, Star Chaser, Solar Strike, Onyx Star, then we got Onyx, Smokey, Applesause, and Maverick. the last over there." Pointing to the last group," They were Cobalt, Silver Wing, Solar Flare, Broad Shield, Hawkeye, Mythic Blade, and Thunder wing. Operations: Noose, Market Square, and Slipknot respectively. the last group, they died the most horrifically. Notice anything?" I ask.
"They all died to mistakes." she said.
"Yes, but If you looked harder you would realize that Star, Sky, and Shadow were all brothers. Same with Cobalt and Onyx. Do you know how hard it was to tell their mothers and fathers that their Children Weren't coming home, But were coming back in a fucking wooden box?" I look over to Nightshade, Eyes watering up.
"I can't even begin to imagine what it would be like."
"Now try to imagine me having to go to your home and tell Shadowfall the his mother was dead and that he will never be able to see you, Hear you, or get hugs from you ever again. All because of a single mistake." I could see her visibly gulp," Now do you understand why I drilled you and the others so hard on not making mistakes. I am like that Because I don't want to have to see your faces on this wall any earlier than they need to be. Got that?" She nods glumly, "Now get going, Shadowfall is Probably wondering what's taking so long."
"So what did you want to talk about Shining? I ask as I re-enter my office and sit in my chair.
“It would be faster for all of us to head together to Ponyville so that my guards and I are stationed closer to your Op, That would make the response time quicker and we could also get set up earlier. Not only that, but it's more convenient.” I sit there silently for a second.
“That would be best, I’ll have to work around the larger group, But I’ll make it work. By the way, We will be heading out tomorrow, Six am sharp. Do you think you will have your troops geared up and ready to head out by then?” I ask.
“Of course. We’ll meet you and your unit at the Guard platform at the Station tomorrow with our gear. See you then John.” Finishing my work and putting it all in a manila folder, I place the folder along with a few more documents in my small portable lock-box. Putting that and a few other items and place them in my rucksack. Heading upstairs and into my room, I pack the rest of my gear for tomorrow and decide to go to bed earlier than usual due to having to get up right at the crack of dawn. When the time came I got up double checked my gear and bags for anything I might have missed. I then send a personal message to my unit and one to command to be relayed to Shining, it read “Wakey, Wakey. Get your Flanks out of bed, We have a job to do.” Thirty minutes had gone by when my unit had arrived. After Twenty more, Shining Armor and his Squad arrived.
”Good morning Captain. Did your Squad give you any trouble?” I turn and look at the half asleep ponies in armor, They attempted to stand at attention but failed horribly. I just wave it off and turn towards Shining.
“I talked to the conductor ahead of time and he has a two car train ready for us, all we have to do is load our gear and board the train.” With a nod Shining armor turned to his troop and shouted, “You heard him, load up and board. You got ten minutes!”
Everypony started scrambling to get their gear loaded. I just chuckle as Shining Armor, and my team and I move into the passenger car and store our gear in the overhead compartments. When Everyone was on board and accounted for, I turn with a nod and make my way up to the conductor to tell him we were ready. Making my way back to the passenger car loaded with guards I feel the train start to move, I sit down and look out the window.
Look out Ponyville, Here we come.
<UNKNOWN LOCATION, NEAR CANTERLOT, Nightshade POV>
Her left hind leg twitched, sending pain throughout Her whole body. Groaning Nightshade sat up, well, more like laying against the wall. Trying to blink away the blur from her eyes she swiveled her head towards the sound of an opening door.
"Ah, the miserable excuse of a pony is awake." The voice said venomously.
"Who...Where am I." Nightshade asked trying to get a hold of her surroundings.
"That doesn't matter, because we are going to play a few games soon. Like how loud can we make a pony scream, How long will she last until she passes out, how far can our mutations and genetic tinkering go. We even have a bet on how long it will take before you break completely." Clapping his hooves together with sadistic glee," We are even going to turn you into our perfect little sleeper agent, but you wont remember any of this anyway. So I am going to leave you now with a little gift."
The now identified changeling walked over and bucked her chest. Leaving her sprawled out on the floor gasping for breathe, she started sobbing shouting for help.
It was around noon when we arrived at Ponyville. After the train pulled up to the required drop off for the guard we started unloading the train of our gear. About halfway through unloading I noticed that we had more gear than guards to move it all. Looking around for Shining I spot him talking to Sgt. Nightshade and make my way over. Upon noticing me Nightshade snapped a salute.
“Hey Shining, We have a slight issue. Too much gear, too little guards to move it. And I know you have to meet with the mayor to inform her of our presence and Operation. But due to our lack of not having enought unicorns with us we will need a cart.”
“Yeah, sorry about that, I honestly thought I assigned enough for the first wave of guards. Go to Sweet Apple acres and see if my sisters friend Applejack, or her brother can help, I know they have at least two.” shining armor replied.
“Alright” I turn towards the rest of my team, “O’Reilly, You’re in charge until I return with a cart. Make sure no one slacks off and gets everything ready.”
“YES SIR!” He shouts as I turn away from him and head in the direction I saw the farm in on the way here. Arriving at the front gate of the Apples farm I immediately start my search for Applejack. Getting directions from Big Mac and short walk later, I spot Applejack bucking trees and moving the full baskets onto a small cart. Leaning against the tree she just bucked, She set up more baskets under the next tree not noticing me. She gets into position And delivers a swift, sharp kick to the tree. As the apples fall I let out a whistle and she jumps from me startling her.
“You’ve got one hell of a kick there Applejack.” As she pick herself up off the ground she looks over to me.
“You gave me one heck of a scare there Sugarcube. What brings you here to farm?” she asks.
“Well, The guard and I need assistance. We have more gear than unicorn guards to move it. So we were wondering if we could borrow one of your carts to move our remaining gear with. We will return it once we’re done moving everything so we don’t interfere with what you are doing here.” I state.
“Sure, That won’t be a problem Sugarcube. Let me get these here baskets loaded and we can go get Mac to finish up while we get the cart.” I make my way over to help speed up the loading of the baskets. Once the last one was put on the cart She excused herself to go get Big Mac. Once she returned with her brother we set off to one of the barns and retrieved the cart. Once she finished hooking herself up the cart we made our way to the station. Half-way back I get that feeling of being watched and stop walking. I turn towards the Everfree and just barely make out the silhouette of a pony before it disappeared. Applejack noticed I’m not with her stops and turns. She sees my strange behavior and asks, ”You okay there? You look like you just saw a ghost.”
“I’m fine. Just thought I saw something.” We start moving again and I give the forest one last look. I make eye contact with the unknown at the forest's edge and notice their eyes widen as they realized they had been spotted and they disappeared again. Turning back to applejack I ask, “Is there anypony that lives out in the Everfree that is a unicorn?”
“Nope. Only pony I know of out there is Zecora. But she is a zebra. So unless she got an apprentice, then there is no one out there except her.” Applejack said. We make it back to the train station when it finally clicked. that had to be Nightmare Moon. I hold that thought for later for when Shining Armor returns.
“Alright everyone, Once Applejack gets the cart into position start loading the excess gear that can’t be carried onto it.” I shout. Everyone gives me a quick nod and starts loading everything onto the cart. I turn towards the sound of approaching hoof steps and spot Shining armor.
“So the mayor is a bit upset at the short notice of our arrival, but after explaining why we were here she calmed down a lot. She told us we can set up in the open field south of Applejack's farm.” He looks over at Applejack “I hope your family doesn’t mind us being so close to your orchards, not many ponies take a liking to have the guard being so close.”
“It’s no problem Shining, Everypony is welcome at our orchards as long as they aren’t rude. Besides, It’s not like we are going to be getting in each other's way bein’ so far away. So nothin’ to worry yourself with.” Applejack replied with a smile.
“Hey, Shining, I need to talk to you for a sec.” I motion for him to follow me. “I believe I spotted Nightmare when I was walking back here with applejack, But something wasn't quite right. When I made eye contact she seemed startled or surprised that I noticed her and then disappeared. I don’t think it’s anything to worry about but still thought it would be important to mention to you. Also, I need to send a letter to Celestia as fast as I can about our potentially problematic situation regarding Nightmare moon. Only problem is that our communications aren’t set up.”
“Don’t worry about that, Just write the report and head over to Twilight’s tree library, Spike can send letters directly to the Princess with his fire breath. If that’s everything you wanted to talk about then I’ll head out with the troops and applejack and let you go take care of that message.”
I lift my Duffel bag and sling it over my shoulder “I’ll see you at the camp in a while, I have one more thing I want to take care of after I send the report.” I turn and and start heading in the direction of town. Hearing the three sets of hoof steps behind me I say “You guys stick with Shining and help set up base, I have some things I need to take care of.” I hear them change direction as I keep walking into town. Making my way through town I receive a few stares as I arrive at twilight’s. one of of them more intently than the others. Opening the door and entering I hear the pattering of footsteps approaching.
“Whoa.” I look over in the direction of the voice and see a small dragon in a doorway to what I make out as a kitchen. “Are you Spike?” He nods as he stares up at me, “Shining armor said you would be able to help send a letter to Celestia.” He nods again, Still staring. “Spike! Who is that?” I hear Twilight call from the kitchen.
“It’s me, John.” I yell back. I hear the scrambling of hooves as she frantically makes her way out of the kitchen. “WHOA. Calm down Twilight, there isn’t a fire. I just need Spike to send a letter to Celestia. Also, I need you to show me the way to Rarity’s shop ‘cause I have no idea how to get there from here.”
She blinks, “OH, okay. Spike, help out John while I go finish eating my sandwich. John, I’ll be back in a minute to take you to go see Rarity.” I nod and look over to spike who already has a pen and paper ready.
“I’m ready to write when you are” spike says.
I nod, “Celestia, Spotted Code: Midnight at edge of Everfree, But something seemed off. Requesting advice at earliest convenience. Captain John Stone, Royal Stealth Force.”
“Is that all?” spike asks. I give spike a quick nod as I look over to see twilight heading over to me.
“Ready to go?” Twilight asks.
“Yup, let’s go.” I give one last glance to spike just as he finishes rolling and burns the letter, watching the green smoke make its way out the window. Spike then hops on Twilight’s back as I walk over and head out the door. Twilight takes lead as we make our way to Rarity’s shop on the southern edge of Ponyville's market square. I turn to Spike in hopes of striking up conversation during our walk.
“So. Spike, What’s your relation to Twilight? Shining never mentioned you before.” he looks up and over to me.
“Well, When Twilight was a filly she had hatched me as part of her entry exam into Princess Celestia’s school for gifted unicorns. So I guess that would make me a half sibling? I’m not really sure what it would be called, But Twilight and her family considers me family. So the best answer I could give you would be Younger brother.”
“Well, it’s nice to officially meet you Spike.” I raise my fist in his direction and get a fist-bump back.
“Hey john. Knowing you aren’t native to Equestria, how did you end up here?” He asks. I notice Twilight’s ears perk up at that.
“I don’t remember the specifics that the princesses told me, but I do know that when I first arrived it went from strange to awkward very quickly.” I say scratching the back of my neck with an awkward chuckle. It was at that moment that twilight just HAD to ask the question, Screw you Murphy's law.
“Care to explain?” She asked.
“When I appeared in Equestria I was submerged in warm, shallow water. Slightly panicking because, Well, I was under water. Anyway, so once I realized I was only in about two and a half feet of water I sat up quickly and wiped the water from my eyes and realized I was in a fairly large bathtub.” I say leaving some details out hoping she doesn’t ask more questions, But it’s never that simple when it comes to twilight.
“I don’t see how it would be awkward, strange yes, but not awkward. Can you elaborate more on it?” She asks. I have a short internal debate on whether or not I should tell her. You know what, screw it. She asked, so she’s gonna get an answer whether she likes it or not.
“I did leave out a few details, So don’t complain when I tell you them. Anyway, so the reason I could tell it was a bathtub was the fact that I was face-to-flank with the solar princess of Equestria.” I let out a little whistle, “I got the best view any stallion could wish for, Even where the sun don’t shine.” I look over at Twilight and see the scarlet blush on her cheeks through her fur, ” And I gotta admit, She’s got the best flank I have ever seen. One hundred out of ten. I’m getting way off topic. So, After a minute goes by she asks if I could was her back for her. So I was like, Eh, why the hell not. I’m already there. So while I’m scrubbing her back we had a pleasant conversation and she made me an offer. I declined of course but said I would still keep it in mind, And before you ask, No I will not tell you what that deal was. So that’s my tale of how I arrived in Equestria, Met the princess and washed her back.”
“Okay, Now I understand why you said it was awkward.” twilight said. I could see she was visibly uncomfortable at hearing me talk about Celestia like that. I could understand why she was like that. I notice Spike with a wide-eye stare with his dropped jaw.
“Dude, Nice!” he thrusts out his fist and I return the bump. Twilight just rolls her eyes and mutters ‘stallions’, “Here we are, Rarity’s Carousel Boutique.” She Exclaims. I make my way over to the door and enter, Twilight and spike following.
“One second” I hear her yell from upstairs. A minute later I hear the clopping of hooves making her way to us. “Welcome to the Carousel Boutique, Where every garment is chic, Unique- Oh, Hello John, Twilight, And my Little Spikey wikey, what brings you here to my shop?” She asks. I put my duffel bag on the floor, open it and pull out my SSDU.
“Would it be possible to get my dress uniform pressed for tonight?” She give it a quick look and nods.
“Sure thing, darling. I shall get it done once I finish an order for another pony. It shall be ready in two hours, And don’t worry about pay. I always help a friend in need, no matter how small or large the problem.” She says with a smile.
“Thank you Rarity. That means a lot.” I close my bag and sling it over my shoulder again.
“Now that that’s taken care of, I need to head over to where the guard is setting up camp. I’ll See you in a few hours Rarity.” I smile and wave as I turn to leave. She returns the gesture and says “See you then John, And don’t be stranger.” I say my Goodbyes to Twilight and Spike as we part ways.
========== NIGHTMARE’S POV, One hour Earlier ==========
Flying over the Everfree to give my wings a stretch I spot a shorter than usual train approaching. It wasn't the fact that it was shorter, more as how early the train was that was strange. I cloak myself with a spell and fly closer to investigate. A large group of royal guards funneled out of the the passenger car and made their way over to the car behind the first. Duffel bag after duffel bag were tossed out of the car and then promptly sorted and stacked.
“Hmmm, they must be searching for me.” I mumble to myself. I quickly lose interest and start to turn away, But notice something strange. The bipedal creature I had seen earlier exits the passenger car with four other ponies. I become curious as to what it is and where it came from. Being familiar with all the native species in Equestria I can tell it doesn’t originate from here. I notice it start moving towards an orchard at the edge of town. I follow from a distance and observe. It moved over to one of the ponies I recognize from when I gave my sister a surprise visit. I can’t help but chuckle as I see her fall on her face after being startled by him. A few minutes later I see them heading back towards the train station with a cart. About halfway back I notice it stop and turn towards my direction and make eye contact with me, I panic a little after realizing I wasn’t invisible and that I could be seen. I recast the invisibility spell and keep watching. He, or what I can assume is a male, lost interest, turned away and kept moving towards the station. An hour later he headed towards town while the guard went towards the orchard and make a left to a large open field. They start to unload and construct a temporary barracks, mess tent and officers tent. Another hour later I see the creature return and give a quick inspection of the camp with a white unicorn. When they finished they entered the officer’s tent only for the creature to stop halfway in the door frame and turn again in my general direction. By then it was already dark enough that my fur blended in with my surroundings so I wouldn't need to cloak myself, only I forgot about my eyes.
“He’s a high ranking military officer, that might be a problem if I wish to meet him. But something seems different about him as compared to the rest. Oh well, It’s just a risk I’m going to have to take.” I teleport back to my castle and make my way to my chambers. Upon entering my room I make my way to my desk and levitate a quill, Inkwell, and paper over to me. I pen out a simple letter stating I wished to meet him and that he can find me at the old castle at the southern border of the Everfree forest. Letting the ink dry I put it in a midnight blue envelope and take a small amount of black wax and seal the envelope with a wax seal of a crescent moon. I teleport back to the edge of the forest and wait for it and the unicorn leave so I can leave the note. As the evening draws closer I spot him and the unicorn leave and enter the town.
“Now’s my chance.” I say as I turn invisible again and fly into the camp. I look around to make sure no one is looking and enter the tent. After a quick observation, I determine which collapsible desk was his and place the letter dead center. I make my way back to my castle with hope of meeting him.
========== JOHN'S POV ==========
As I’m walking into camp I meet up with Shining and he gives me short tour of the camp and where everything was located. After that was over we went to our tent. Shining went in and i paused with the same feeling from earlier. looking at the forests edge again I spot a familiar pair of eyes staring back. Shrugging it off I entered and went to the right side cot and started unpacking my things. When I was done I turn and see Shining in his dress uniform.
“Damn Shining, looking good. You’re gonna have to fight off the mares tonight looking like that. Speaking of uniforms, Want to head over to Rarity’s shop with me to pick up my Uniform?” I ask
“Sure, I have nothing else better to do.” Shining says.
“Then let’s head out.” We head out and towards town. A while later we arrive at Rarity’s shop. We enter and I call out, “Hey Rarity, I’m Back!”
“I’m in the back. First door on the right darling.” She calls out. We make our way to the back of the store and enter the room. I glance around and notice mannequins everywhere with some form of dress or suit.
“Your suit is on the rack to your right, when I first gave it a look over I noticed a small tear. So I went ahead and patched it for you.” I walk over and pull it off the rack.
“Do you have someplace I can change?” I ask.
“Indeed I do. Over by the far wall to your left there is a privacy wall that I got so ponies could try on their order before leaving to make sure everything fit right.” I nod and walk behind it. I quickly change into my uniform and use the body mirror to give myself a quick look over. I nod to myself and walk back around. Shining gives a quiet whistle upon seeing me. I turn towards Rarity who was still hunched over her sewing machine.
“Hey Rarity, How do I look?” She stops and turns to look, She gives the biggest smile I’ve ever seen.
“You look absolutely Smashing Darling. You too Shining. You stallions are going to have to work together to beat back all the mares that will undoubtedly swarm you tonight at the party. Speaking of which, Would you mind waiting while I go get ready? That way we can all head over to Sugarcube corner Together.” She asked.
“Sure we don’t mind, And just so you know, If you wanted two Handsome stallions to escort you the party all you had to do was ask.” I tease. She sputters a bit before heading upstairs. A few minutes later she returns wearing a black form fitting dress. I notice she also touched up her make-up too. We then head out of the shop and pause so Rarity can can close her shop, Once she finished we make our way over to Sugarcube corner. I spot Pinkie Pie bouncing over to us with a smile.
"Hiyyah John, Rarity, and Shiny!" She waved ecstatically, She looks back at me "I talked to Princess Celestia and she said you weren't really a fan of parties anymore, But I wanted to throw you something to welcome you to Equestria. Even though I'm a few years late on that, So I got Rarity to help plan this. " I ruffle her mane a bit.
"Thank you for throwing this, even though it was a bit unnecessary. I still really appreciate the gesture." She smiles wider.
"They don't call me the number one party pony for nothing!" she turns and we all enter the party room that is joined to the main lobby of the bakery.
"Hey everypony! John arrived!" Pinkie shouts. Everyone turns and cheers. I give a slightly embarrassed wave. A few ponies would walk over to greet me or ask a few questions like how I like Equestria or what I do for a living. I got a small group of ponies surrounding me as I retell a few of the operations I was on that were declassified. They would also ask what the places I was deployed to were like. They were enraptured by the descriptions of the landscapes and foodstuffs, I notice that a grey mare with a charcoal mane complete with a white collar and pink bow-tie had walked over.
"Excuse me, I have a question about one of your Operations, but did you happen to know a lance corporal Cobalt?" She asks. everything goes silent and I immediately clam up.
"I don't want to talk about it." I state, a slight shake becoming ever more present.
"But I was just asking if you knew of him." she kept pressing, while I'm trying to get a hold of myself she asks one more question and I snap. "I don't understand what the prob-" I cut her off.
"I SAID I DON'T WANT TO FUCKING TALK ABOUT IT, BUT YOU KNOW WHAT. I'LL TELL YOU WHAT HAPPENED. HES FUCKIN' DEAD!", at that point angry tears form and fall, "HE WAS IN SO MANY PIECES I COULD BARELY TELL HIS FACE FROM HIS ASS. I STILL GET NIGHTMARES FROM THAT SHIT ME, HIM AND THE REST HAD TO GO THROUGH, BUT NOW YOU KNOW. YOU FUCKIN' HAPPY?!?" The mare cowers back a little, She chokes up and starts crying. she realized she crossed a line, Everyone else in the room stops talking and looks my direction. Some looked green in the face, while others looked sad. I make my way over to the beverage table and grab a case of hard ciders (courtesy of the Apple family), threw open the front door and stormed out to one of the outside tables. A few seconds later everyone resumes what they were doing. I shotgun the first cider and pop the top of the second, half way through it Pinkie makes her way over. She puts a hoof on my shoulder.
"You going to be alright?" she softly asks.
"Yes...no, I don't know...I just need a few minutes alone. Could you do me a favor? Find that grey mare and tell her to come over here in say 20 minutes." She quietly nods and goes back inside. I look up into the sky holding back tears of the memories of my fallen brothers, I silently toast to them and finish the drink. As I crack open the third of four ciders I hear someone clear their throat behind me. I look over and see her standing there looking visibly upset, I wave her over and she sits across from me.
"I want to apologize for yelling at you, I should have had better self control." I say.
"No, it is I who should be apologizing." She looks down to the table as she talks, "I didn't realize I overstepped my bounds when I kept pressing for answers."
"Whats your relation to him?" I ask.
"At the time he had been sent out on a mission, we had been currently dating."
"Shit." I mutter
This just got a whole lot harder to tell her. I am already breaking protocol by even telling her about what actually happened to him. You see, We aren't supposed to talk about operation: Slipknot, Even though some of it was okayed for public viewing . Well he was apart of my squad during the initial infiltration before it went to hell. Any members who were killed in action during that operation were labeled MIA in the reports as to satisfy the curiousity of why they were gone and to cover up the absolute hell they went through.
"Well, he was a part of my infiltration squad during Operation: Slipknot. I assume you read what was available from the reports?" I look her dead on in the eyes.
"Yes, they say he was missing in action and I haven't heard word since." I take a long swig of the cider.
"There is a reason why you haven't heard anything else, Because what actually happened has been red taped and kept from public records for a reason. That's the most I can tell you about it, sorry. There is one more thing I could do though. You ever been to Canterlot?" She nods.
"Yes, I live there. The reason I'm here right now is because my friend vinyl scratch wanted me to come, and when I heard that you were going to be there I just had to come, to try and get answers."
"Hey, Pinks. Can you get me a piece of paper and a pen?" within seconds they appear in front of me.
"here ya go!" I mutter my thanks as she disappears back inside. I write down my address on the paper.
"Meet me here two days from now, If I'm not there by noon there is a spare key under the potted plant by the door." I slide the paper over to her, she takes it an stores it in a small pocket in the collar. "I'll tell you more then, for now I just need some air." She nods and heads back in.
After the party was over Shining and I said our goodbyes and I thanked pinkie for throwing the party. I gotta admit, I did have fun, up until the the end. We then went back to base. Upon our arrival I was greeted by a messenger who gave me a reply from celestia. Thanking the messenger, I enter the tent and sit at the table completely oblivious on the envelope resting on it. Reading Celestia’s correspondence, Thanking me for informing her of the situation and told me that I should be cautious, but to not worry too much about it. There was a short note telling me to give shining this message to shining so he can read the message she wrote for him. I hand him the letter.
“Celestia has a message for you.” As he reads I notice he slumps a bit and looking a bit upset. I turn back to the table and am about to stand up to change when I see the letter.
“Whoa.” I lift up the envelope. “When did that get there. Hey, Shining. Check this out.” I lift up the envelope so he could see it.
“Who is it from?” he asks.
“I have no idea. But there is a wax seal on it that might tell us, or at least give us an idea on who.” I give it a closer look and make out a crescent moon.
“I have a good Idea on who it is. Just by looking at it, I would say it’s from Nightmare moon.” I flip it back over and pop the seal.
“Hey, careful man, it could be booby-trapped or something.” Shining states.
“Well, then scan it if it will make you feel better.” I hold it up so Shining could cast a few spells on it to make sure it was safe. He finishes and gives me a nod. I open the envelope and pull out the small letter.
“I would like to invite you to my castle at the edge of the Everfree. I have never seen a creature like you and would like to learn more about you. I am aware that you are a part of the guard, so I would like to make a proposition. A temporary treaty of sorts that will be voided after said meeting is over. The decision is ultimately yours. Should you choose to, you know where to find me. If not, then oh well. Nightmare.” I read aloud to Shining.
“Well, it’s pretty much confirmed now. Now the only problem is what to do. Should I take the risk and go, Or not and use this opportunity to bring in the guard and apprehend her. What do you think?” I turn towards Shining.
“I personally think it’s a trap, but at the same time she did sound sincere enough about the meeting. But like she said, it’s ultimately your decision. So do what you feel you should. Also, I don’t know if Princess Celestia told you or not, but she wants to use the element of harmony on her to try to purge the darkness from her sister. So when the meetings over we are going to have to make our move right after if we want to use them. So either way our troop will still have to go with you.” He said with a neutral expression.
“I understand that. I just wish I knew why she would call me out for a meeting if she was powerful enough to just waltz right into our camp and talk to me directly. Well the only way we’ll ever find out is for me to go and talk to her. So, here is the plan. I’ll send a message to operations back in Canterlot to notify Celestia that we know where Nightmare is, so she can offer support if we need it. I’ll head out a hour before all of you so Nightmare and I can get our information we need. I’ll get her to the throne room so there will be enough room to deal with her. During our talk you guys move into position using noise canceling spells and wait for my signal. When I give the signal, send in the Elements and Celestia, then the rest of you fall in shortly after. From their if everything goes well the situation should be under control. My team and Celestia will escort Nightmare to Canterlot While the rest of you teardown and pack up. From that point on we’ll interrogate Nightmare and see if we can re-integrate her into society or not. Anything you wish to add?”
“Nothing I can think of. Oh! Do you have any magic nullification rings?” He asks.
“Yeah, Three to be exact. It’s part of our standard kit.” Shining nods.
“Well, then I guess that’s all. I’ll set up a spare cot at the end of our tent for Celestia if she decides to come here after she gets my message. I’ll talk to you tomorrow before I head out.” Shining nods and takes off his dress uniform. I make my way over to the barracks and enter, Immediately getting the attention of everyone in the room. They all start scrambling to stand at attention. “Calm down everypony, I’m just looking for an extra cot.” I give a quick look around and see a guard gesturing to me. “There’s an extra over here sir!” He calls out. I make my way over and grab it. Heading back over to the door I shout, ”Get as much rest as you can, it’s gonna be a long day for you tomorrow.” As I exit I hear a chorus of replies, returning to my tent I notice Shining asleep, moving quietly as to not disturb him I set up the cot and send the message. I quickly change and lay down and drift off to sleep.
========== CELESTIA'S POV ==========
As the last petitioner exited the throne room I told the guards to Inform any remaining ponies that the courts are now closed for the day. I let out a tired sigh, some ponies just don’t realize how insignificant some things are, Especially the nobles. I don’t want to hear you complain that a shop owner raised the price of a food item by two bits because they were low on their stock, I want real problems. I’ll just have to make some rules for court to weed out the personal complaints over actual issues. I nod to the guards as I enter to retire for the night. Walking over to my balcony I lower the sun and raise the moon. Satisfied with my work I turn and walk over to my bed. Only to hear a knock at my bedroom door. I turn and open the door with a half-smile “Hello, can I help you?” I recognize the mare as one of the stealth ops messengers. “Message from Captain Stone!” She exclaims holding up a hoof with a envelope on it. “Thank you, lance corporal spade.” with a nod the mare took off down the hall. Closing the door I open the envelope. On the paper it read ‘was invited to have a chat with your sister, going to stage our operation right after she and I finish taking. Would like you to be there in case we are overpowered. Have an extra cot in Shining and I’s tent if you feel inclined to be here for the set up before I head out to the meeting. By the time this reaches you I’ll be asleep, so G’night Celestia.’ HE does make a good point, it would be more convenient to be there in the morning. I walk over to my door and crack it open, ”could one of you send a message to my adviser and tell her that court will be closed tomorrow and that I’m heading out to Ponyville tonight.” With a nod the right guard to leave to go inform my adviser. I close the door and make my way to the balcony. I jump off and spread my wings, gliding to Ponyville. After an hours flight I arrive and the temporary base. A few patrolling guards salute me as I walk by, I give a slight nod and continue my way over to right most officers tent. Looking at the name Designation I confirm its shining and Johns. I quietly enter and make my way to trying to make as little noise as possible. I set my crown and regalia on John’s table, I look at the letter my sister left for John. I let out a sad sigh before climbing onto the cot. I quickly fall asleep due to exhaustion from that day.
A few hours later, what I assume was 3:00 A.M., I was startled awake by a shout. I cast a dim light over the tent and notice John drenched in sweat and slightly shaking, he had his hands digging into and covering his face. he was sobbing. I get up and make my way over to John.
“Bad dream?” I quietly ask. John nods, Still shaking I pull him into a hug and wrap a wing around him. He relaxes enough to stop shaking. Shining sits up and looks at John with a look of concern. I levitate over a discarded shirt and gently dab the sweat and tears from his face.
“Want to talk about it?” I offer. He remains quiet for a minute before responding.
“I’ve been having the same reoccurring nightmare for the past year.” I give a comforting smile and reassure him that everything will be okay. “It was that damn fucking nightmare of a mission back in Stalliongrad. Operation: Slipknot, Remember that one?” I nod, Cringing at the memory. It was one of the bloodiest battles a stealth team had to deal with. They were severely under equipped and out numbered for a head on assault.
”When we arrived everything was fine, But someone had tipped off the enemy to my first team's presence, and they hit us with nerve gas. One didn’t get his mask on fast enough and inhaled too much of the agent. They somehow managed to make a non-lethal form of a type of sarin gas that only targets certain parts of your body, inhaling a small amount was enough to cause permanent paralysis. It still had a chance of killing you though, Death rates from it were three in ten. Poor bastard had a bad reaction to it and it ended up dying from asphyxiation. We then fought harder than we had before, later they ended up damaging our masks with magic. I remember collapsing to the ground unable to move, but could still feel everything. They decided that death was too good for us. So they tortured us. For days the Changelings would beat, electrocute, Burn, you name it, they fuckin' did it just to try to get information. The rest of my team died one by one over the next few till I was the only remaining one left. They decided that they would let me see my friends again as a reward for surviving for so long. As a sick joke they dragged in and dumped their mutilated corpses into my cell and left them to rot in front of me. If it weren’t for the massive assault team that arrived a month or two later that cleared house and freed me I would have been dead. I still can’t get those images out of my head even with the memory blockers, they still sometime make it through. I am really thankful that your healing magic is as strong as it was.” He looked down at his arms and chest at where the scars would have been if I hadn’t healed them. “You guys are the only other ponies other than that psychiatrist that was assign to me I have talked about this to.”
I give him a little squeeze before saying “We should probably try to get more sleep. I can stay here if it makes you feel better.” I say. He nods a scoots over a bit. I lay down next to him and pull him into an embrace, “I want you to know that I will try to assist you in anyway possible to help you forget that hellish nightmare.”
"Same here" Shining says with a soft smile. John nods half asleep. I drape a wing over him as he snuggles closer and I begin humming a song that always calmed Twilight down when she had a bad dream. Feeling him grip my barrel tighter I look down. A placid, almost content, smile graced johns face and he fell into a more peaceful slumber.
"My dad used to sing that to me as a kid when I had nightmares. He was a big fan of a musician named Johnny cash. It was the only version he felt was good enough to play on his guitar as he sung it." John mumbled drowsily before a soft snore escaped him.
As I drift off to sleep I can’t help but picture the state in which I found him after my assault team cleared the bunker. Bruised and bloodied, with the look of a tortured mind and soul. A hybrid of human and changeling. From the information we had gathered he was just about halfway through their process of total genetic modification, an attempt at turning him into the first bipedal changeling. Tears filled the corners of my eyes. I wrap myself around him protectively as a mother would a foal. I’ll try my best to find a way to save him from these nightmares, from His own personal hell. I think back to my sister. Maybe she might be able to help him...
I groggily sat up in bed rubbing the tiredness from my eyes. Hopping off the bed I sluggishly walked over to the window and parted the curtains. I smile as I feel the warmth of the sun, only to still feel oddly cold. I open my eyes only to see that the sun was on the horizon. Strange. I look over at my clock, it read ten o’clock. In a fit of panic, I scramble over to my desk to get some paper and pen to send Princess Celestia a message to see what was going on.
“SPIKE!” I hear the padded clacking of his clawed feet speedily making his way over. “I need you to send this.” I levitate the letter over to him, With a burst of green fire the message was sent. We sat there for 10 minutes waiting for a response, Nothing. I start to panic more while spike looks at me confused.
“What’s wrong Twilight?” Spike asked. Becoming nervous he asks “Is Equestria in danger again?” I turn towards him.
”YES, THE SUN HASN’T RISEN!” He immediately calms looks over to the window and back to me.
“Uh, Twilight, That’s because it’s still cresting over the horizon, you know, sun rise. You are panicking over nothing, I’m going back to sleep.” He turns back over to my door.
“Spike, one last thing. What time is it?” he glances at the clock.
“It’s half past ten.” he stops and turns towards me. “Uh, is your clock wrong?”
“No, you know me. I always keep a schedule, which means I always have to keep my clocks as accurate as I can. Now you understand why I’m going crazy right now. It’s 10:30 and the sun is still on the horizon! We need to get the girls. You go get Pinkie Pie, Applejack, and Rarity. I’ll get Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash. Tell them to meet here with the elements. From there we'll go see if Shining and John know anything.” we quickly made our way to their respective houses and gave them the news. when the last of us arrived at the library we gathered around the central table.
“You probably noticed we have a problem. It’s almost noon and the sun hasn't risen. I had sent a letter earlier to Princess Celestia to see what was going on and we haven’t gotten a response. I can only assume something has happened the Princess. So, now that all of that is said, I think it would be best to go to John and Shining over at the Temporary encampment and see if they know anything.” I give a quick glance around and get a nod in return. “Alright, let’s head out.” I lift spike onto my back and turn towards the door. After a short walk we arrive at the far side of the base.
“Okay girls, let's split up. Rainbow and fluttershy, take to the air and call out to us if you spot one of them or if you see us signal to you. Applejack and Pinkie pie, you two check the mess tent and the surrounding area. signal to Rainbow Dash or Fluttershy if you find them. Rarity, Spike, and I will check the barracks." Splitting off we head over to our respective areas.
“Spike, you go with Rarity and ask around if anyone knows where either of them are, I’m going to look for their tent and see if they are there.” Rarity nods and heads off with spike, I turn and head over to the multitude of tents and look for anything distinguishing. Five minutes later I find the correct one and head in. A few feet in spot a roll of paper, It's the letter I sent. I glance around the tent and freeze as I see John and Celestia snuggled up to each other. They both must have been sleeping like a rock if my letter hadn’t woken both of them. I turn towards the door as I hear my brother.
“They’re over here.” he says, I hear everyone’s hoofsteps a few feet away.
“They? What do you mean?” Rarity asks as Shining enters, with her and the rest coming in shortly after. I hear a snort and a half asleep ‘hmm’ from my left. Celestia looks over and we make eye contact.
“Morning Twilight” She says with a tired smile. She blinks away the sleepiness from her eyes, looking over she sees everyone else, “Oh, Hello my little ponies, What brings you all here?” She asks with a hint of curiosity.
“Well, something was wrong with the sun and I sent you a letter asking if anything was wrong and never got a reply back” I levitate the letter over to her.
“Twilight the reason the sun isn’t up because it morning.” she chuckled.
“You do realize it’s past noon right?” I say. She blinks. craning her neck she looks over at the magic powered desk clock.
“Huh, Guess you’re right.” her horn glows and it suddenly become brighter outside. Moving a hoof she nudges John. “John, you need to wake up.” John mumbles something and pushes his face further into her chest. “John, It’s noon, you need to get up and get ready. We also still need to brief everyone.” That woke him up like a bucket of ice water. To the amazement of everyone in the room he managed to sit up and vault over the princess in one fluid motion. When he landed he paused. It took him a moment to register all to ponies in the room.
==========JOHN’S POV==========
‘SHIT I’M BEHIND SCHEDULE!’ Was the only thought running through my mind as Sprung up from the bed and over Celestia, whom was still laying on the cot, Glancing at Twilight and the gang as I turned towards the back of the tent, didn’t think much about it. Stopping at the trunk by the Desk about to open it, everything caught up. ‘Wait what’s Twilight and the rest doing here?’ I thought to myself.
“What brings you guys here? Forget that, I was going to round you up here anyway for a briefing on what’s going down in the next few hours. I’ll have Shining take you down over to the situation tent while I get dressed because there are only two people I comfortable changing in front of. Both of which have seen me naked, Your brother and Celestia. I’m Pretty sure you don’t want to be on that list, so I’ll meet you there when I’m ready.” I look over to Celestia who is now standing, “Your welcome to stay and chat while I change or you can head out with the others, It’s up to you.”
“I’ll stay because there is one thing I would like to discuss.” she turns toward Twilight and Shining “I’ll Meet you there when we're done.” Shining nods and turns towards the door motioning for the rest to follow. Celestia and I watch as they slowly file out giving us both a respective wave or nod. Upon the door closing Celestia turns towards me, “I wanted to talk to you about your nightmares. I think I know of way to get rid of them, But it all rides on her.” I raise an eyebrow.
“Who?”
“My sister.” I pull my stealth suit I use for Ops on. After I zipped and clasped everything I sat down and pulled my boots on.
“Does Nightmare have the ability to do that?” She shakes her head.
“Not Nightmare Moon, But Luna can. I would tell you but I think it would be best if you asked her yourself when you meet. It would give you more to talk about. Now we should probably make our way over, we have many ponies waiting.” I grab my Utility belt and give a quick check of my Equestrian government issued M9, not to be confused with my Beretta M9 back home. The Equestrian variant uses magically charged crystals as rounds instead of normal bullets. Holstering the gun I grab a few mags of stun rounds (Blue crystals), Tranq rounds (Green crystals) and lethal rounds (red crystals). I slip them into their respective pouches. Exiting the tent we see a few more guards rushing over to the situation tent for the briefing. Upon walking in, everyone rises and salutes. Stopping at the small podium, I look over the group gathered. I nod.
“At ease”, looking over to my left I check to make sure my team is accounted for I look back forward, "As you may or may not have heard, I received a message from Nightmare Moon requesting a meeting. Now, I know a lot of you will object to me going under the likelihood that it would be a trap. For all intents and purposes, it could be exactly that. I have a plan for that. I’ll head out two hours before the rest of you so it will give us plenty of time to chat. When you arrive, Captain Armor, The Elements, and The princess will take lead. The rest of you will follow closely behind. Everyone will get into position in the throne room. That is when and where we will apprehend Nightmare Moon. Once that is done. The Princess, and my team and I will escort Nightmare back to Canterlot and place her into a holding cell. While we do that the rest of you will tear down, pack-up, and make your way back to Canterlot. Any questions?” I scan the crowd, nothing. “Alright, Dismissed.” I make my way over to the mess tent to fill up my canteen before I head out. Once finished I exit the tent and head south.
An hour had passed since I left the base. I lift my left hand and snap my fingers to open my 3D topographical map/ compass hybrid, that’s when I noticed something strange. Since I am team leader, I need to know where the rest of my team is. So my team has F.o.F. trackers built into their field suits that display an ID on my map. Two of three are at camp, mine is where it should be, and the Third was stationary several miles north, near canterlot. I spread my left hand out more to zoom in. Ghost’s call sign shows up. “Nightshade shouldn’t be there. That changeling has some balls to try to replace her. I’ll Deal with that once Nightmare has been dealt with.” I take a swig from my half-empty canteen and Open a private Channel to Phoenix.
“Wraith, I need you to keep an really close eye on Nightshade, She has been replaced by changeling.” a few seconds later
“Reading you loud and clear, Are you sure you don’t want me to just take care of it now?” he replies.
“No, when we all meet up and deal with Nightmare, I personally will make an example of it and make it realize how stupid it was to try to replace my personnel. I just need you to make sure it doesn’t go disappearing before then. This will be the last of my communications till we regroup.” re-adjusting my course I start moving again.
“Got it, See you at the castle, Wraith out.” Forty minutes later I arrive at the castle. The sun running its final pace down the sky, starts to set. ‘The others only have about hour and a half of daylight left to get here.’ I mutter. Entering the castle ruins I start my search for Nightmare. Wandering down several hallways I enter a large room and look around.
“So this is the throne room.” I mumble to myself. I start looking at the collapsed support pillars and check the ceiling for weakness and possibility of collapse. Nodding in Satisfaction, I resume my search for Nightmare. I walk down a few more corridors admiring the surviving tapestries and occasional painting. Passing by the occasional room I hear slow, deep breathing with the occasional snore. Slowing down I make my way over to investigate the second to last room. Peeking my head in I glance around and see Nightmare. Looking back over I spot a small table next to a small improvised kitchen. Slowly making my way over to the table trying not to disturb her I sit. Leaning back in the chair I look back over to the counter and see a coffee press. I quietly get back up and decide to make some coffee while I wait. ‘I’m sure she won’t mind’ I think to myself. A few minutes later and a steaming cup of coffee I sit back down and take a sip. Within a few minutes, a snort and movement, Nightmare slowly gets up and walks over to the counter. She pauses and looks at the already made coffee with confusion. “Did I make that in my sleep” I hear her mumble.
“Good evening.”, I sip my coffee, “I hope you don’t mind, but I made myself some coffee.” She jumped and spun towards my direction completely caught off guard by my presence.
“WHO DARES...” Her expression shifting from anger to surprise, “oh...I didn’t think you would actually come.”
“Well, we all initially thought it would be a trap, but I was pretty much able to rule out the fact that it would be really stupid of you to try something like that. So here I am.” I take another sip of my coffee.” by the way, apologies if I invaded your personal space.” I motion to her room.
“No need to worry, I never really specified where to meet in the castle. It was more of an error on my part.” levitating her cup of coffee she takes a sip and visibly shudders, ”This is really strong.” She lifts the creamer and pours some into her cup. “Creamer? She asks.
“Nah, I always drink it black. Adding stuff just ruins the taste for me. SO, how you wanna do this?” I ask “A Q&A, or you want me to talk about myself, or a mix of both? I honestly don’t care which.”
“It would be best if we just talked about ourselves and see where that takes us.” she responded
“I guess I’ll start. Names John Stone, I’m Equestria’s only human. The scientific name for our species is homo sapien. I come from a planet called earth. I’ve been here for somewhere around five years, Two years in I was somewhat forced to join the guard. After my Guard training I was moved to the stealth Ops and went through even more training after my current C.O. noticed my skills. I’ve fought in a few wars, mainly just as support. the wars, if you could even call them that, were more on the lines of Disputes that would turn violent because other people don’t understand why certain things are done like they are. The diamond dogs and changelings are the biggest problems still.” I shudder at the thought of the changelings hoping it would go unnoticed, ”Anyway, getting a bit sidetracked. Have any questions? I told you everything that I found was really relevant about me that would make sense given my situation.”
“I do, but I believe we will have to postpone this meeting. It seems we have a lot of unwelcome guests.” She gets up and walks out the room.
I put my earpiece in and open a comm channel to my team “She knows you arrived and is heading in your direction. What the hell is going on? why did you get here so fast. You need to double time it to the throne room and try to get into a defensible position. I’ll try to stall her for as long as I can.” I rush out the room to catch up to Nightmare.
“Hey! Nightmare, Wait up!” she slows and turns around.
“Yes?”
“Wanted to ask If you wanted to Schedule another meeting on a later date or finish after those others have been dealt with?” She pauses for a second.
“A later date would be better. It would give us more time to better prepare. How about two days from now at sundown?”
“Works for me.” Won’t really matter in the end anyway. I mutter “Status update?”
“Most of us are in position. The princess and elements are getting into position.”
“That’s good enough. We are at the last bend before the throne room’s side entry. Get ready.” Emerging Through the doorway Nightmare’s horn becomes alight with magic.
“SHOW YOURSELVES AT ONCE OR FACE MY WRATH!” She shouts. A cacophony of ‘poofs’ and ‘puffs’ of spells being cancelled and dozens of guards spread around the room. She looks at all the amassed guards with a smirk watching as some visibly flinched while others tensed in preparedness to deal with Nightmare. Looking towards the throne room doors Nightmare playfully says, “Don’t think I don’t know you are there Celestia. You and your precious little Elements should join the rest of these imbeciles.”
The throne room doors open wide. Princess Celestia and the elements alongside my team walk in. I walk towards the nearest guards and turn towards Nightmare.
“Don’t take it personally, But I set this all up. A chance meeting with Nightmare? A perfect time to set up the operation to capture you and lock you in a warded cell for Treason. Only that will happen though is if the elements don't work.”
“And what make you think I will let you or them try to stop me?” Nightmare asks.
“Well, the quicker and easier you let us do our job, the more lenient your sentence will be.”
“As tempting as that is, I will have to decline. I think ruling over an empire would be better.”
“I’m tired of waiting, Let’s get this monster!” A guard angrily shouts, stepping forward he fires a bolt of magic at Nightmare. She easily deflects it back towards him with more speed and power throwing him back several feet into a pillar with an audible crunch.
“YOU DARE ATTACK ME!” She screams. summoning more magic Nightmare lobs a few more bolts of magic towards the guards. Small clumps of guards that got caught in the magic explosions were being thrown back. I turn and duck behind a pillar shouting for them to get into cover. I pull out my M9 and load the stun rounds into it. Everyone starts scrambling while Nightmare fires more magic bolts towards the guards, more getting injured in the process. There was a sickening crunch and a yell in pain as one guard was unlucky enough to have part of a pillar collapse onto his lower half. Two guards immediately started to get him out from under it. I fire a few rounds but see them dissipate and absorb into her shield. I look towards Celestia and the Elements only to see another half pillar collapse onto a guard crushing him underneath. What was left of his lower half that wasn't crushed, convulsed a bit as a pool of blood was forming under him before going still.
“Get them ready for my signal!" I shout to the elements, "I’m about to do something stupid.” Looking on my belt for the small pouch with magic suppression rings and noticing the pouch isn’t there. I peek around the Pillar and spot them and a torn pouch in a small hole where some of the rubble caught it.
“Scratch that, Something extremely stupid.” Pulling off my boots, I move around the pillar and sprint at nightmare while occasionally dodging magic crossfire. I body check her hard enough to make her stumble but not fall. Swiping a wing at me, she manages to knock me down. Nightmare charges her horn with magic, readying to blast me with magic. But I was faster. I lunge up and grab her horn, I could feeling the magic grounding through my body and out my feet. Her magic explosively discharged and I get thrown back from the backlash. I struggle to get up, my entire body feeling as though it was struck by lightning. I notice her stumbling and shaking her head.
“NOW! DO IT NOW!” I shout. Looking down, I open my small med pouch and I pull out a small tube full of painkillers and take a capsule. Looking back up I see twilight and her friends blast Nightmare with rainbow magic. When the beam stopped we all watched as Nightmare Stumble around Drunkenly with the occasional spasm. Her coat flickering between midnight blue and black. she tried to launch more magic but only managed to miss every shot. When she finally collapsed I made my way over to check her condition. I put my hand on her neck feeling a small tremble she barely manages to look up. I whisper sorry to her as Her head slumps down and she succumbs to unconsciousness. Standing back up, I hear sobbing. looking over I see Celestia being comforted by Twilight and her friends. Remembering one last thing I needed to do. I draw my pistol and load a magazine of Tranq rounds.
“GHOST! FRONT AND CENTER!” Watching as she scrambles over and stands at attention. Everyone looking at me and her. I aim my pistol right at her forehead.
“Where is the entrance to your hive?” I calmly ask. I look into her eyes,” And don’t even THINK about lying.”
“I don’t know what you mean.” She says with confusion. I lift up my left and and open the 3d map and zoom in on the lone signal.
“You sure as shit should know. One chance left.” I pull the hammer back. At that point Twilight and her friends start shouting to put the gun down and that she says she doesn’t know. I ignore them as their shouts became more panicked and Celestia had a more calm expression as she observed what was going on. “I’m going to ask one last time. WHERE IS THE ENTRANCE!”
“I DON-” was all she could get out before I pulled the trigger and hit the changeling square in the head. Twilight screamed as Nightshades body slumped over and the changeling's disguise failed. At seeing the changeling, Twilight became less panicked. Holstering the pistol, I walk over to the still guard on the ground by the pillar he was thrown into. Not feeling a pulse I grab my knife and cut the straps holding his armor on. I roll him on his back and put my ear to his chest. I hear a faint pulse and a wet crackle with every breath. Shining armor and several other ponies start to gather with concern. Noticing this, I look up.
“Shining, here, now.” I motion him over, ”MEDIC!” I shout. The thundering of hooves answers my call.
“Quick Pulse reporting sir!” he says.
“You guy’s really need to get your shit together! He’s got a weak heartbeat and rales is present. Shining, I need you to scan for any broken bones and minor injuries.” I look over to the other pony,” You, check for a pierced lung or any internal bleeding and stabilize him. Deal with that first, then treat anything else present. If he dies, Both of you will be present to explain to his family why he didn’t make it.” They nod.
”Good, I’m going to go get a magic suppression ring on Nightmare.” I move over to give him better access and stand. I go and pick up the small pouch and rings. Kneeling down I lift nightmares head so it rested on my thighs. Opening the clasp I slip the ring on her horn. After checking to make sure it was secured I see a few small cuts from when she fell and a few small scorch marks on her side. Unclipping the small Med pack from my belt I pull out a few alcohol swabs and bandages. After cleaning the cuts I look over the rest of her. Not seeing any more I carefully roll her over and give a quick look. Finding nothing I shout to Shining.
“Shining, Update on the guard.” He turns and shouts back.
“He is awake and stable for now. Bleeding is slowed. A few ribs are broken, but nothing else. We will need to get him to Ponyville General as soon as possible though to get that punctured lung taken care of.”
“Get him out of here. My team and a few guards have this taken care of. The rest can head back to camp and start packing the unneeded supplies. We’ll pack the rest and head back to canterlot tomorrow.” Shining, Quick pulse, and the injured guard disappear with a flash.
“You three! You get to deal with the Changeling and any other injured guards” I put the last of the magic suppression rings on its jagged horn. "I’ll check back in with you before heading back to base to make sure it is properly detained. From there assist with anything that needs done. Twilight and the rest. you guys can go head back home, there isn’t really anything else here that is required. Twilight, If you want to stay with Princess Celestia then I won’t stop you. We all know she could use the company.”, Celestia smiles a bit a that,” And last but not least, Princess Celestia. What should we do about getting your sister back and what sector of the dungeon should we put her in?”
“For transportation, We’ll just take an empty car on the morning train with the rest of the guard. As for her, I want her in the spectral ward. That way the padded, heavily enchanted room would help restrain her magic. It would also make visits easier and faster for everyone that needs to be involved.”
As soon as she finished her sentence the guards returned. “You three, wait a minute. Celestia, do you think you have the energy to teleport us all back to base?” She nods.
“Alright everyone gather up and get ready to leave. Once I’m back with Nightmare we’ll teleport back.” Walking over to Nightmare, I carefully attempt picking her up. Realizing she is out cold, I throw caution to the wind and use more force to get her head and forelegs over my shoulder. Successfully doing so, I rejoin Celestia and the rest. Arriving at the base I tell those guards to get a prisoner detail setup and constant security watching that changeling till the morning. After I got that all dealt with I walk to my tent with celestia in tow. While I’m walking, many of the Surrounding guards look at Nightmare with astonishment and horror. Entering my tent, I set Nightmare down and walk to my table and start packing my things.
Celestia walks in and says, ”You know we don’t have any more spare cots and these are the only three here.”
“I don’t mind sharing.” I say.
“Good, Then you and I can share and Nightmare and shining can have their own cots.” She says matter of factly.
“I meant with Nightmare. She’s not staying with you based on the fact that if she wakes up she could strangle you to death. So I will share with her so then your life isn’t at risk. I also would be able to keep a much better eye on her.” I look up.
“I would much prefer If you would just share with shining or me. That way there is no risk of anyone getting hurt or killed.”
“This isn’t up for debate, Celestia. I’m doing this for two main reasons. One, If she tries to escape, Which I doubt, I will know Because of the fact that she has both a magic suppressor on and dealt with massive magic backlash. So she would have to climb over me. Second, if she wakes up, I want her to see a somewhat familiar face so she doesn’t panic and end up hurting herself or someone else.” I state.
“Very well. Now that you explain it that way it makes more sense. I’ll see you in the morning.” removing her regalia, she settles onto the cot.
Shining walks in visibly exhausted. Unclipping his armor and letting it fall to the floor with a clang he crawls on to his cot.
“Hey Shining. We got company for the night.”
“M’kay.” He mumbles with a small nod.
“And I’m not talking about Celestia.”
“Who then?” he asks.
“Well since you're too oblivious notice. Nightmare will be with us for the night. Since we don’t have a proper cell or way of containment. Also seeing that she is as strong as Celestia is even more reason why she is with us. That and the fact she is still unconscious.” Shining bolted upright.
“WHAT!?” He panics.
“Calm down, Nothing bad will happen.” Probably shouldn’t have said that, But too late for that now, ”Seeing as she has been out of it for about an hour she will probably be out for several more. Besides, See this rope.” I point to her hooves, “ I tied her hooves together so she can’t run off too easily and If she wakes up, I can handle it.”
“If you say so.” Shining lays back down, rolls over and promptly falls asleep.
I turn back towards my cot and check Nightmares bandages before adjusting her more towards the other side of the cot.
“You care about her don’t you.” I hear Celestia say in a low tone.
“I’d watch what you say Celestia. While I do feel sympathetic toward her, saying that I love her is going to far.”
“I never said you loved her, I was simply asking a question. From observing you both back at the castle cleaning her injuries and bandaging them, and here now with checking them over; I can see that you care, Because no one else but me would give her the time of day to do that without being ordered to do it.”
“I guess you’re right. I feel a bit sympathetic because all she was doing was trying to get revenge on her older sister because of a petty mistake made over a thousand years ago. Then in the end here she is now, unconscious and being treated as an enemy of the state. Public enemy number one. This whole situation is absurd just from the circumstances. Family tries to get revenge on family, but in the end, all they get is eternal imprisonment for treason.”
“You do know I have final say in the ruling. So I could easily dismiss the charges, sure ponies wouldn’t be happy, but they would just have to deal with whatever ruling is decided.”
“I’ll keep that in mind. Good night, Princess.” I lay down and prop myself up on a pillow next to Nightmare.
“Good Night, John.”
“Good night, Nightmare. If you can hear me.” I whisper and close my eyes.
<UNKNOWN LOCATION, NEAR CANTERLOT, Nightshade POV>
A loud clunk echoed in the small cell. The stench of sweat and feces greeted her nose as she came to. Pain wracked her body as she shifted in place. All those small cuts, bruises, and repeatedly broken and healed bones were taking a toll. The uncomfortable heat and oppressive humidity sapped the strength from her. The sites where they had been injecting her with various chemical concoctions were starting to change color and the fur to fall out. The door was wrenched open with a squeal startling her.
"Number 7, here's your slop. Eat and get ready for your next round of fun~" the changeling said with a dangerous-yet-playful lilt to its voice and a smirk on its chitinous muzzle.
"w-w-why a-are you doing this t-to me?" she rasped out.
"Because your boss pissed of my boss. So now we are going to break you, change you, and turn you into a perfect little claw for our claw-machine. That way our boss can finally get the prize he deserves in the middle of that shit-hole you call a capital. Then we can finish what we started before you ponies came and ruined everything. Now EAT!" He kicked the bowl, nailing her in the face. Her head reeled back from the impact causing her to slump to the floor and agitate all her wounds.
Nightshade snorted out the mush that got in Her nose as she watched him leave. He closed the door but not hard enough to latch closed. Her ears perked at that. Did he not notice he didn't close the door all the way, did he do it intentionally? She limped over to the door and listened for any sound. Nothing. The door silently swung open with a nudge, Just enough to poke Her head through. She was met with a dull grey concrete hallway that stretched on in both directions. Nudging the door fully open she stepped out. Choosing to go right she limped as quietly as she could to the corner. A quick peek around it revealed another hallway but this time with polished floors, white walls, and local map. She listened for any chatter before rounding the corner into the hall. This was just what she needed, quickly memorizing it she set off to one of the marked exits. She rounded the last corner before coming face-to-face with a security gate and accompanying checkpoint.
"Shit. I'm gonna need a plan. That map said there was a security room next to their R&D lab down one floor. Alright, Step one: Secure the keys, They probably have my gear there too, if not then in the R&D lab. Ah, there's the stairs."
Gliding her way down and softly landing at the bottom of the stairwell She pressed her ear to the door. There was a set of hoof-steps fading into the distance but nothing else could be heard. Stepping out into the hallway she gave a quick glance around and spotted a hall-marker pointing to that security room. She crouched low to the floor as She made her way to the security room door and pressed her ear to the door. Nothing again. Popping her head in and confirming it to be empty, She scoured the room for her gear and the keys to that gate.
"There they are, come to mama." She smiled with glee as she pulled her suit on, luckily that was the only thing she had on her when she was captured. Grabbing the keys and stuffing them into a snug pouch on her chest she quickly made her way back to the stair well only to stop.
"Its a big risk, but if I sneak into their lab and grabbed what ever documents I can find I could expose their plans to the Princess." she paused for a second before deciding, "Eh, why not. I'm already here." A short jaunt down a hall or two She found herself in the R&D lab.
"Now where would they put their documents" she muttered to herself as she looked through cabinets and desks, "Test subjects, Compound trials, Genetic mods, Yes please."
She found a set of saddle bags and started stuffing them full of files pausing when she came across Johns file. she set it aside as she stuffed the rest of the files in. she pulled up a chair and opened his file.
"Sweet Celestia! Torture, Bad reactions to chem batches, some nearly killing him. GENETIC TESTING?! 7/1/2190 Testing on subject no.6 begins today, I'm quite excited. He's a completely alien entity, calls his species Hyoo-man and so far from the tests we ran he shows promising results. We will start Phases 1&2 these following weeks... 8/2/2190 Subject shows improved signs after phase 2 testing. The DNA splices aren't being rejected anymore... 8/6/2190 Subject is well into phase 3, It's progressing faster than we imagined now that his body isn't fighting back anymore. We are about 60% of the way done with phase 3, can't wait for tomorrows round of injections and tests....Fucking hell John, what did they do to you? Shit!"
She heard steps approaching the lab. Stuffing his file into the bag she hid under the desk right as someone entered the lab. They paused and took a few sniffs of the air.
"I swear on the hive mother i'm going to kill Soft Shell. Tired of his damn pranks!" the changeling angrily muttered as they left the lab, Nightshade not to far behind. Making it back into the stairwell she fiddled around with her suit before finding her emergency beacon and her suit ID tracker and stuffed them into her front pockets before continuing to the locked gate. Moments later after unlocking and passing through the gate she found a maintenance stairwell.
"Step two: ascend from darkness." she muttered as she entered the maintenance stairwell. Making it to the top floor she exited the stairwell and turned the corner only to spot multiple changelings and another security desk. She darted back around the corner.
"Time for another plan, there's no way i'm going to easily get through that. Was nice of them to leave an arms locker unlocked in their security office." Popping open a pouch she produced the only distraction she could find, A smoke canister. she stopped when the Facilities P.A. system clicked on.
"You know I have eyes all over and throughout my facility don't you Nightshade, Or should I say Number 7." Nightshade peeked around the corner and saw that every Changeling in the lobby was staring at her.
"I knew of your little break out. Was pretty easy wasn't it. I had a little staff meeting and told one of your handlers, Shackles, to leave the door open a tiny bit. The rest of us got to watch your little adventure throughout. What do you think of this facility? It's SO MUCH better than that other place we experimented on number 6 in. But you wont be able to be saved like our mutual friend was. So do us all a favor and lay down on the floor so we can escort you back to your cell like a good little pony."
"How about no." There was an audible click as the pin was ripped out. Darting back around the corner she threw it into the group of changelings, within seconds the lobby was full of smoke. Rushing into the room she ducked and weaved between the changelings, she pumped her wings a few more times to gain enough speed to get out the entrance tunnel and to the outside. Darting back around she pulled out her suits ID beacon and dropped it by the entrance. She then pulled out her emergency beacon gave it a sharp twist to activate it and dropped it into the saddlebag. She flew a couple yards and managed to conceal it in a bush just as changeling swarmed out the entrance.
"There she is! Get after her!" Nightshade turned to run but failed to notice the one changeling with a red head-fin and dart gun.
Fwwiip!
A sharp pain hit her rump as the dart stuck in her. Biting and pulling the dart out she kept moving.
"No, I-I can get away, jush uh Miner Shetba-" she kept tripping over her own hooves and stumbling into nearby trees. Everything kept moving and swaying, eventually it became too much and she slumped to the ground as the tranquilizer ran its course through her system.
"I told you you couldn't get away you stupid mare" pharynx said as he tousled her hair a bit. That was the last thing she heard before she blacked out.
John POV
John found himself restless. He tried many times, but sleep managed to slip away every time. So he often found him self staring at Nightmare moon and thinking about what Celestia had said earlier about her possibly being able to sort out my head. I flick open my 3D projection map, looking at Nightshades blip. I zoom in on it and tap the blip opening a menu, I set it to bleep if its current position changes. Satisfied I get up and start doing laps around the camp in hopes to wear myself out enough to sleep. Which it does, I go back into my tent lay down next to Nightmare and hear her mutter 'I'm sorry' as I fall asleep.
Everything was quiet. the sound of Shining, John, Celestia, and Nightmares soft breathing were the only things to be heard.
BLEEP.
John shifted in his sleep before coming to rest again.
BLEEP.
I sit up and rub my eyes.
BLEEP, BLEEP.
The hell is that sound? I flick open the 3D map and look at the time. 5 AM.
"Why the hell am I up so early."
BLEEP, BLEEP.
I stare at Nighshades blip which was now pulsing in intensity. I quickly triple tap it to start recording and mapping the paths she's taking. I recognize some of the shapes the lines transcribing as stairwells. I see her blip spiral upwards a bit before stopping again. Next thing I see is her blip rapidly accelerate the come to a dead stop. Shortly after her emergency beacon starts broadcasting coordinates adding a pulsing red dot quite a bit from her own. Then nothing. Neither blip is moving, its concerning, especially when its hers that's stopped. But the nice thing, is what ever happened just saved our ass a lot of time with having to deal with an unresponsive Changeling.
"What is that?" I hear Nightmare mumble in fascination. I jump a bit while whipping my head in her direction. Seeing the wide-eyed wonder in her eyes I calm down a bit.
"Sorry, you startled me. To answer your question, It is a Three Dimensional Topographical Map with a built in compass. It also allows me to see the locations of all my current team members." I point to all the different bits as I explained them to her.
"There was something I wanted to talk to you about john. I can see a troubled look in your eyes, One of deep sadness and pain."
"Yeah, That also fits perfectly with something I wanted to ask you too. Celestia told me that you, or I should say Luna could help with Nightmares and such?"
"That is correct, but one thing I should mention is that we both can do dream magic. That is because both of us are the one in the same. There was no evil entity corrupting Luna. I created this ponysona out of my own anger and hatred of my sister. That's why my coat was flickering between shades. The elements had no idea what or who was the real one because the was not separate entity...Only me." A sniffle behind us caught us both of guard. Looking over we saw Celestia with tears running down her face.
"I'm so sorry lulu. I'm so sorry."
"I'm sorry too, Celly, But Luna is no more. I've had to live like this, as Nightmare moon, for so long that it just feels right. like this is actually who I am. maybe one day I will make a return as Princess Luna, but today is not that day."
"While all this chatter is nice, it would be better if we ALL could get some sleep." Shining grumpily mutters.
"Ignore his grumpiness, he's a real drama queen when he doesn't get his beauty sleep. But I agree with him though, we should all try to get at least a few more hours of sleep."
I got nods in response to that. The others where able to fall back asleep, all but John. All this new information regarding Nightshade kept him awake. Why is she still sitting there? Why did she activate her emergency beacon Instead of just heading to Canterlot? Damn it, Mind as well get up and go search then. It looks to be about a six hour walk from here to her last known location, even shorter from there to Canterlot. I'll go fill in my group and head out for information on her whereabouts. By now its around 7 am and the others are now waking up. I grab my utility belt and strap it on.
"John? where are you headed?" shining asked
"Nightshades blip moved and her emergency beacon was activated. So i'm going to go investigate." I flick open the map to show him.
"I'll go with you, teleportation would be quicker. Plus if we get ambushed I can get us out of there just as fast."
"Alright then lets go." With a flash and pop we found ourselves in the general area of her blips. "Let's check out her ID blip first, when I set it to record her path she was heading upwards before it made an abrupt stop."
"So it would be safe to assume she was either being chased or was using it to mark the location of her captors."
"Exactly, but it doesn't make sense as to why she would activate her Eee-Bee. why wouldn't she use that to mark the entrance instead. We're coming up on her first location, keep your eye's peeled."
A sort search revealed a cave. A shallow cave. That can't possibly be right.
"It says that there is should be a way to go down. But its just a stone wall, maybe were missing something here. Can you check for enchantments or anything magical in nature?" John said staring at the wall before him even harder.
"Sure thing." Shining's horn lit and flickered a multitude of times as he fired off spell after spell. "Nothing...Absolutely nothing. no enchantments, no spells. Not even magical residue from spell-casting besides myself. You sure that maps accurate?"
"Absolutely, it was made by Celestia herself with the assistance of Twilight to make sure all the different bits played nicely with each other....Hold on." John looked down. Hoof prints, a LOT of hoof prints. "Look, hoof prints. looks like they are coming and going."
"Good catch." shining and John exited the cave following the prints.
"They are heading towards the Eee-Bee. Let's go." A short jog later they made it to where the Eee-Bee was broadcasting from.
"You see anything? There's got to be something here that was important enough to drop that broadcaster."
"Hey, There's something over here, stuffed under this bush, looks like a Saddlebag."
"Bring it over here, let's take a look." Opening the bags greeted them to the sight of files and documents.
"Huh, Files. Looks like we have a bunch of information to go through later. There's her Eee-Bee, Also the tracks keep going further that way."
"Hey, uh, John. There's-There's a file on you." Shining shifted uncomfortably.
"As interesting as it is. We still need to figure out what happened to Nightshade."
"Right. lead the way." Tossing the bag on his shoulder they followed the tracks.
"The imprints are all over the place. Some are even dragging. Looks like she got hit with something."
"There's something stuck to the tree over there. Same with that one. All at the same height. Looks like fur." They both were examining the tufts of lost fur on the trees when a flash of color caught their attention.
"Well, we know what happened when she dropped the beacon." Lifting up the dart, Shining gave it a quick look.
"You happen to have a evidence bag stuffed in your armor?"
"Yeah, here." The dart and fur clumps were sealed in the bags and placed in the saddlebag.
"Let's get back to camp, whomever was chasing her out here more than likely has her. So were going to have to plan a full scale raid, Get these files dealt with, and get this dart analyzed. To top it all off we are short of time if we want to get Nightshade before who ever gets wise enough to move house."
"Alright lets go." Shining gave one last look the the tree the dart had been by before teleporting them back. A strange message for sure, probably somepony just being creepy.
