Roboute Guilliman, Primarch of the Imperium. A name that is known across thousands of worlds. Spoken to, in reverend prayer, for over 500 generations. After surviving a sabotage attempt by the forces of chaos, Guilliman and his fleet of the Indomitous Crusade have come to a world similar to that of Terra's ancient age. A world populated by multicolored equine creatures...Ponies!
Here it has been fourteen years since Flurry Heart's birth, and much has changed in those years, as war has broken out across the land. How will both sides react to one another?
MLP belongs to Hasbro Warhammer 40k belongs to Games Workshop.
The echo of distant explosions going off is all that is reaching the ears of the lord commander. As he and a multitude of Ultramarines, Primaris and not, as he boarded a nearby StormTalon bound for the freighter-hulk, Zar-Quaesitor, falling back from the Hive-World of Bhundar as the order for Exterminatus was carried out upon the damned world, beyond any hope the primarch could give, after it had been tainted by Nurgle. Guilliman could only exhale after such an ordeal that would make even the most unfeeling of men feel utterly at a loss. That, however, was not the case for him, nor his company of Custodes, and Sisters of Silence. It was then that one of the Golden warriors looked to his superior.
“My lord, we have brought great shame to you this day.” The Custode grieved under his golden helm.
The First Lord of Ultramar simply looked back with a cold solemn look in his eyes, as one should know when speaking of Roboute. Yet his response was somewhat humble to the guardians of his father.“Today is a harsh proclamation made by our enemies. That we may save many a world, there are those few that are beyond even us. But, know that the worlds lost will sleep soundly knowing that swift vengeance will be cast in retaliation.”
He turned to both men and women of the high ranks, unphased by this defeat.
“The battle is lost, but this war has only begun.” the ancient lord proclaimed, now turned to the direction of the cockpit of the craft. “Pilot, patch me through to the Zar-Quaestor's bridge.”
“Yes, sir.” replied the pilot, through the vox haler. The static soon cleared, allowing Roboute to communicate with Archmagos Dominus Belisarius Cawl of the Adeptus Mechanicus, and one of the few responsible for his return. “Archmagos, prepare the fleet to leave this system. There is nothing we can save here.”
In a cold, mechanical voice, Cawl responded utterly uneasy. “Lord Guilliman, it appears we are experiencing rather strenuous difficulties, regarding our navigators. We are getting reports from several vessels that the influence of Chaos is attempting to sabotage our warp travel. Reports also show a large chaos fleet nearby, making its way towards this system.”
“Have the Chief Librarian do what he can about the Chaos interference, and prepare to leave,” Guilliman commanded. The signal was then cut short as the StormTalon approached the Hulking vessel before it, containing much of the crusade’s most valuable and powerful resources. Including those of the Ultima-Founding, and three lances of Imperial Knights from house Taranis. The engines of the massive war vessels of the Imperial Navy began to thrust the great warships forward in the darkness of space, as the fleet of the Indomitus Crusade prepared to enter their warp jumps. Once the way had been opened, the ships zipped in, one by one as they moved on to the next system.
As the war class ships traversed the unpredictable passage of the warp, Guilliman made his way towards the command bridge of the Zar-Quaesitor. There he recognized Chief Librarian Tigurius standing next to the ship’s Navigator. The blind astropath, to Tigurius’ understanding, was in immense pain. Pain inflicted by Chaos. “Lord Commander…” The Psyker spoke. “The pain is only further damaging our navigator. I am shielding him from its full blast, but I fear it may not be enough…should he, and the other inflicted fail soon, I fear we may be trapped in the warp.” Roboute looked to the blind soul, as the astropath reached out his hand.
“My lord…” As the astropath reached out, a sudden rush of pain pierced him like a sharpened point in his mind, letting out an agonizing scream from the navigator’s mouth. Tigurius knew he could not hold it back for much longer. “We must find a nearby system to recover, or risk being lost to the warp.” “I Agree,” Guilliman replied, turning to the distressed soul. “My lord…there is a system not too far from where we are…I am not familiar with it…but if it means salvation…I will give my life to see you safely pass.”
The primarch turned toward Tigurius, who nodded to him. Aware that the astropath’s time is short, and that the uncharted world may be a far better alternative than being stranded forever. “Know that your sacrifice will not be in vain.” With that stated, the astropath began to signal the other ships to prepare to diverge from their path. The ships began to pour out, once an opening had been made, and once the ships had cleared, the full pain became too much for the astropath, killing him in a matter of seconds. Though a majority of the fleet of the Indomitus crusade was now stranded, without any navigators, the attempt of entrapping the primarch’s forces by the forces of chaos had failed.
“Tigurius, what of the other vessels?” asked Guilliman. “Several vessels too have lost their navigators. Yet few have had little effect on theirs.” The two looked out to see the world that stood in front. From what they saw, it appeared to resemble that of a feudal world, due to the lack of any major hive colonies as far as they can tell. “Archmagos, what do you think?” The ancient tech priest scurried forward, as he examined the system. “
There are very little signs of any technological development. But there are signs of civilization, and massive life form reading as far as our naval computers can make out. I would suggest we approach the system with caution.” “What’s the damage situation?” asked the Chief Librarian. “The engines have suffered a great deal upon exiting the warp jump. It will take time to repair the vessel’s engines before we can press on.”
Once the situation had been looked over carefully by the lord commander, he turned to the two of them with his verdict. “Cawl, see what can be done about the damage. Tigurius, send word our intact vessels to call for aid.” The two bowed their heads, as they prepared to depart. That was until Archmagos Cawl turned back to the primarch. “Perhaps this is another lost colony yet uncharted. For all we know, the taint of chaos may be prominent here.”
“That is why I intend to investigate it,” Guilliman explained. “I have instructed Captain Acheran to prepare his company to prepare for a recon mission. I would advise that several squads of Skitarii accompany us to the planet’s surface.”
“Yes, my lord.” Cawl answered, “It will be done.” With the order stated, the Archmagos departed to complete the task at hand, leaving Guilliman to observe the uncharted world even further, pondering as to what secrets it has to offer. Could it possibly serve to further aid and grow The Imperium further, or will it sow the seeds of Chaos, bent on its destruction. Roboute just had to know. Unable to push the question back, he departed the bridge to join the Reconnaissance mission, and acquire the answers he sought.
In the hangar bay of the Hulk class vessel, a brigade of Thunderhawks, Stormtalons, and other Imperial landing craft was being prepped for lunch by the cybernetic servants known as servitors. It was here that members of the reconnaissance party began boarding the vast ships that were destined for the planet’s surface.
Not only would the famous second company of Ultramarines be sent. But, also members of other Astartes chapters were to join them, most notably the Imperial Fists’ 5th company, known as the Heralds of Truth. Joining also was the White Scar’s own 3rd company, The Eagle Brotherhood, who brought with them a few of their Biker Squads. Leading one of the Biker squads was a Sergeant by the name of Barulatai, who took notice of the final company joining the mission. These were members of the Space Wolves chapter, specifically members of the Bloodmaws Company. One of the swift claw biker squad members looked over to see Barulatai giving him a look that suggested something was on his mind.
“What’re you looking at, Scarface?” The wolf snarled with a sneer. “That any way to greet an old friend, Sigfast?” Barulatai asked. The wolf merely smirked and scuffed at the remark. “Aye lad, any friend that decides to go in loud and crazy.” “Like any of your Thunderwolf comrades wouldn’t?” The Sergeant spoke. “Those loud-mouthed buggers? Obnoxious pissers more like it.”
The two looked over to see what appeared to be two packs of Fenrissian Wolves boarding one of the Space Wolves own Stormfang.
“You’re bringing those mutts with us?” Barulatai scuffed. Sigfast was not amused. “Those “mutts” got more fight in them than any of you half-assed speedsters.” That remark brought the White Scar sergeant to His point. “Care to put that to the test. Prove to me and my squad that you wolves can get first blood quicker than us.” The challenge then perked the ears of the wolf, in which he let out a smirk at the idea of rubbing the white scars’ face in the dirt. “Alright lad, you got yourself a challenge.”
Last to join were various pieces of equipment, such as Land speeders, Razorbacks and Rhinos, and a couple of Land Raiders.Among the equipment that was to be brought planetside were a group of Dreadnaughts, one being a Venerable Dreadnaught by the name of Odysseus of the Imperial Fists. And the other was a new Redemptor Dreadnaught, who carries the space marine, Justinian Gregorius. As the gargantuan machines were boarded upon their assigned craft, The Lord Commander was last to join, boarding the nearest gunship containing two tactical squadrons, and Intercessor squads of Ultramarines. The door then closed as the ship's engines roared to life.
The hanger had been cleared of its personal, allowing the bay doors to give way. The ships took for the vast open space before them as they cleared their fleet for the planet’s surface below. Nobody in the recon team knew what to expect, even if they asked their commander, he only replied with uncertainty. Several seconds had passed before they had completely entered the atmosphere. It was at this time, the gunship’s pilot spoke to Guilliman via the overhead.
“Lord Commander, we’re getting a scan of the area’s geology, in attempt to find a suitable landing spot.” “Show me.” The Primarch answered. An overhead projector lowered itself, projecting a holographic map of the closest area. The map projected a wide range of mountains with some scattered civilized areas, as well as a vast forest. Hidden within that forest was what appeared to be the ruins of an old castle, which has since been left to the ages. Guilliman saw this as a possible candidate for a landing site. “Set us down here.” He commanded, marking off the location.
The ships continued their course, passing through the skies in the dead of night, and just around the time of a massive storm. Heavy rain pounded the medal haul of the spacecraft as they descended upon the ruined area. The ships lowered their landing appendages in an opened area that fortunately fitted a majority of the ships. Once the crafts had been securely landed, the doors to the craft lowered to the ground, creating ramps for Guilliman and his task force to step onto the planet’s surface, deploying the infantry units first before making way for the heavy equipment. Despite the heavy rain, and thunderclaps upon occasion, the space marines were unphased by such phenomenon.
Roboute Guilliman examined the area carefully before removing his helm, breathing in the fresh rainy air. “The air isn’t toxic, that’s for sure. But that does not mean this world isn’t hostile. Proceed towards those ruins there. We shall establish a base of operations from there.” With the order stated, The reconnaissance group, comprised of Ultramarines, White Scars, Imperial Fists, and Space Wolves ventured forth to the castle-like ruins, as the heavy machinery was being unloaded for the craft to take back off into the air.
As the battalion pressed forward, many of them began to examine certain pieces of the fallen architecture, discovering the area had a certain theme to it. Several of the broken statues resembled those of ancient equine, as described in myth, and of the White Scars’ homeworld of Chogoris. One of the Tactical Marines of the white Scars turned to Biker Sergeant Barulatai.
“Do you suppose this was a lost monastery of the White Scars?” “Possibly” He answered. “For all, we know this could have very well been built by Jagatai Khan himself, in the days of the Great Crusade, left to corrode in the wake of the Heresy.” One of the Imperial Fists Terminators pointed towards two tapestries, both mostly intact. Both depicted two horse-like figures, each having a horn, and a pair of wings. Yet the two were different, almost opposites. The one on the left was blue and held an icon of a crescent moon. The other banner was golden with a depiction of the sun.
“Funny.” Sigfast proclaimed. “With all this horse themed rock lying around, no wonder you’d think that Jagatai was here. That’s if he even was here.” The Space marines began to investigate the palace itself and all its corridors, examining the ruins for any signs of who used it. It was upon the discovery of the palace’s library that Guilliman had discovered its answer. He grasped hold of a book that seemed to be less dusty than any of the others, indicating that this was picked up not too long ago. He opened the book and began reading through it. As he read on, Tigurius too entered the Library.
“Who do you suppose left this amount of knowledge to corrode here?” He asked his lord. Guilliman handed him the book he just read and pointed to the same two figures seen on the tapestries. “Nothing here was made by the hand of man.” He stated. “I believe this was once the home of a Xenos empire at some point, or at the least was once its capital.” The Librarian noticed several more books less dusty than most of the other books. “This empire may still exist if these books can indicate anything.” “Perhaps so,” Guilliman remarked.
Unknown to them, however, a figure laid hidden in the shadows, observing them as they continued to search for their answers. Cautiously, this figure poked its head out to continue to watch the primarch, and Librarian scroll through the books. However, curiosity had gotten the better of this figure as their hoof had lost its grip on the corner, giving way to rubble falling to the ground.
This caught the attention of the two humans, as their heard clopping sounds echo in the distance. Both Guilliman and Tigurius perused the sounds down a hallway. They could see just ahead of them a small hooded figure. Upon reaching the middle of the hall, the figure stepped onto a pressure plate, which gave way to a trap door before them. Rather than being captured by the unknown beings, the figure leaped over the trap door, hoping they would not pursue. Unfortunately, both figures managed to pass the door unchallenged. The figure then cut a few corners too by themselves sometime before coming across a doorway, leading back to the main hallway.
Taking their chance, this hooded figure made a run for the doorway and the main entrance. However, upon reaching the main door, a large armored hand grasped hold of the figure’s hind leg. Letting out a scream of distress, this figure, now identified as a female began to struggle her way out of this monster’s grip. She continued thrashing, kicking her way out.
But, ultimately was brought face to face with a yellow figure with red eyes, frightening this figure who’s hood then revealed itself to be a small horned equine creature with light purple skin, and a deep violet hair with turquoise and purple highlights. Her purple eyes shrank in fear of such a sight.
“By the emperor, an agent of Chaos…LORD COMMANDER!!! BROTHERS, COME QUICKLY!” The yellow warrior shouted. Quickly more of these armored beasts came running towards the yellow one. Including, the two figures that pursued her near the Library. These battle brothers pointed their bolters and plasma weaponry towards the creature, who knew they had not come in peace. “What is it?” One Astartes asked. “Look at its hide, a marking” Another spoke. One of the Terminator squads readied their storm bolters. “An agent of Slaanesh, if anything! Destroy it!” A terminator cried. As the soldiers prepared to fire…
“NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!”
A voice cried that came from the creature’s mouth. The Astartes warriors looked on in astonishment. “Great Terra…it…it spoke.” A flag bearer proclaimed. The creature’s horn began glowing with a purple aura as it forced the warriors back with a small burst of what seemed to them a psychic force. “What further proof do we need to kill this daemon?!” Sigfast exclaimed. “Hold yourself, Swiftclaw.” The response came from the Bloodmaws’ own Rune Priest. “I’m not a demon, or whatever you think I am!” The creature shouted defiantly. The bolters pointed themselves towards her again, preparing to fire once again.
“Hold your fire.” The primarch commanded. The little Xenos looked to see both the strange aliens walked towards her, stopping only a few feet away. She could sense that the tallest was their leader. This figure knelt close to her height before removing his helmet, revealing his face. This creature gasped at the sight of his face. “A…a human.” She thought, recalling her time with Sunset Shimmer at Canterlot high. Yet, unlike the humans there, this one was different. “If you are not an agent of Chaos, then who are you?” The creature remained silent from the shock and awe. “Speak.” He asked again.
The quadruped being then mustered enough courage to reply. “My name is Starlight Glimmer of Ponyville, Advisor to Princess Twilight Sparkle, Princess of friendship.” The Astartes warriors looked at the creature in confusion. “Is she the ruler of this world?” Guilliman inquired. “One.” Starlight corrected. “She rules alongside four other alicorns, Celestia, Luna, Cadence, and Flurry Heart. They govern a small portion of Equestria, holding their own domain.” Roboute pointed to the two tapestries. “Decedents of theirs?” He asked. Starlight shook her head. “Those are Celestia and Luna. The first two.” “Tell me…how long has this empire been established?” He asked. “Well, roughly a little over a thousand years. Founded by Princess Celestia herself, after a terrible time of war, she unified all the three pony races together under one banner.”
With that answer, Guilliman couldn’t help but notice that there was a similarity to this princess to another being of power…The Emperor. “Tell me, Creature…” “Pony” She corrected. “Tell me, Pony. Why were you spying on us, in the library?” Starlight went on to explain her situation. “You see, I was trekking my way through the Ever free forest, just outside of here, when I came to these ruins, the old palace of the princesses. I hoped to take shelter here, for the night, until the storm passed. But, as I wondered the halls, I heard your voices coming from the library. Examining the books. I did not know how to approach you, didn’t know you would be dangerous.”
“Only dangerous to the enemies of my father’s empire, little one.” He answered. “But…I have to ask…who are you” She curiously asked. “I…am Roboute Guilliman, Primarch of the Ultramarines Legion, and its successor chapters of the Adeptus Astartes, Lord Commander of the Imperium of man, thirteenth son of the Emperor of Mankind.” Starlight was astounded by the number of titles held by this being. “Quite impressive for one such as you.”
“Yet...” He continued. “You did not answer my question.” She then turned her attention east of the castle. “You see, my village has fallen under attack by creatures we call Diamond Dogs and have been under siege for many months now. Our resources have been drained, and our forces dwindled. We had no chance to evacuate for they attacked us on all fronts. My people have been trapped, and the inevitable end is quickly approaching. I was sent by the elements of harmony to find help while they stayed to fight. I have only begun my search when I found you here.”
There was a look on Guilliman face, almost sympathetic. He too knew of such an attack, much was the fate of Terra at the conclusion of the Horus Heresy when nine traitor legions struck the holy capital to dispose of his father. But, he also knew that should he chose to aid these creatures would not only prove problematic to these ponies but with the Imperium at large. “You have my pity, Ms. Starlight. But, we cannot help you. Our fleet has suffered heavy damage for us to remain on board for any significant span of time. We came here to investigate this world for any human colonies as we travel through space.” Starlight’s eyes widened at the sound of space. “You mean…you’re aliens?” She asked.
“By definition to your kind, I suppose.” He responded “Our presence here would bring only further harm to you than good. That is why we must leave this world as soon as possible.” “I understand.” The unicorn responded. She began trotting out of the palace with Bolters pointed at her. “Let her go,” Guilliman commanded. The Space marines lowered their weapons allowing her to leave.
Starlight continued on her path merely a few feet away, when a sound echoed through to Roboute’s ears. He quickly turned back to notice that alone arrow was hurtling towards Starlight. However, she notices the arrow enough to cast a protective spell for herself, deflecting the arrow.
But more arrows flew towards the ruins, as she heard loud multiple howls, and growls coming from the forest. She could see clearly the trees was a battalion of Diamond Dogs, armed with various clubs, hammers, and weapons charging forward towards her. “THERE IT IS!!!” The commander cried, pointing at the pony. Starlight knew she would stand a better chance with these unknown warriors than with the Diamond Dogs. She quickly turned tail and bolted towards the ruins. She was just a few feet from making it inside when one of the Diamond dogs pounced up her, ready to drop a battle axe upon her. She closed her eyes, ready to embrace her fate.
That was until she heard the clang of metal against one another. She opened to see a large flaming sword had countered the axe. Starlight looked to see the sword belonged to none other than Roboute Guilliman, who proceeded to grasp hold of the beast’s head with the hand of dominion and crushing its skull. The blood dripped from the crevices of the fingers, as he discarded the carcass, as more came charging in.
But upon reaching the two, the horde was greeted by a barrage of bolter, and plasma fire, as the task force of Space Marines open fired upon the now present Xenos threat. The horde continued to fall in bloody bursts, as limbs were separated from torsos, skulls were fractured from puncturing bolt shots that have passed through clean. Starlight looked on in amazement as The Lord Commander swung down his blade against the Ork like beasts, who were merely heads of wheat to this reaper of the Imperium. With each warrior slain by this warlord’s blade began to discourage the beasts, as Imperial forces began driving back the Diamond Dogs. The two sides clashed as The Ultramarines fought the diamond dogs with tactical parlays, and the Space Wolves’ ferocity hacked and slashed, and shot their way through the battle lines against this somewhat disappointing foe. “Come on, ya pissers! Give me a real fight!” Sigfast boasted as he brought his Chainsword upon a much larger Diamond Dog, slicing the head clean in half in a bloody spill.
On the other half of the battlefield, the Diamond Dog commander looked on in horror to see many of his kin slaughtered under the harsh tactics of these strange warriors. “Commander, The Ponys has help!” The commander growled in frustration. “Get her now! She knowses the one who took it!” The diamond dog saluted and ordered more to enter the battle. The space marines continued to fight on as a second wave of Diamond dogs approached. However, a loud barrage of rounds struck down the majority of the beasts. They looked to see that one of the Dreadnaughts, Odysseus of The Imperial Fists.
The Venerable Dreadnaught continued to fire his storm bolter into the creatures, driving them back in a fit of fear. Starlight saw in the looks of their eyes utter fear, one that they were all alien to until this battle. The Proud sons cheered and taunted the fleeing Diamond Dogs, as victory was assured. “No! Come back, ya buggers! We were just getting started!” Sigfast shouted. Once the smoke had settled, Starlight shimmer analyzed the damage.
While the Space marines suffered little damage, the vast bodies of diamond dogs lying across the, bleeding out from various wounds. From Bolter shots that pierced straight through their bodies, hacks, and slashes of their Chaninswords and power axes, even bodies crushed by the boots of the battle brothers, or by the head of Thunder Hammers. There were even piles of ash of the poor beasts caught in the blast of Plasma weaponry. The grim sight was enough to sicken her, though it was not the first time she saw such carnage. Guilliman took notice of the vomiting pony.
“Is this your first taste of combat?” he asked. Starlight merely shook her head. “I’ve seen bloodshed before. But nothing to this scale. This was a slaughter on them.” She was truly shocked that humans would be able of such carnage, despite having little knowledge of the race as a whole. “I have seen many horrors in my life to know that our actions here were just as protocol here as it were anywhere else. There are far worse powers in the galaxy at large than the mere defeat of an insignificant planetary faction. Though I do not expect you to understand that soon.” Starlight then looked back to Guilliman. “But, why…why help me? Didn’t you say you shouldn’t interfere with our affairs?” “That I did.” He replied. “But, then I remembered something…something my father taught me. They are my space marines, and they shall know no fear.”
He gestured her to walk with him back into the palace towards the library. “Where we come from, our empire is much like your village. Besieged on all sides by forces seeking to destroy it. For us, many alien races scheme and plot our Imperium’s demise, and foul Daemons seep into our reality from the Torment of the Warp. We are what stands in their way. We are more than mortal. We are steel, and we are doom. If the situation calls for us to give our lives for the emperor, so be it. But, while we stand we will not allow any harm that would come in pursuit of us destroy you instead. Because of this imposing danger. It would wise to remain in your world to help build your defense when the time comes. But, all will be explained in time. Now is the time to strategizes.”
Starlight’s eyes grew wide. “You mean…” She started. “After careful consideration…It may prove more beneficial to provide support to you, and your people. Besides,…we’re unable to leave anytime soon.” He spoke. Guilliman than turned to the Chief Librarian, and the captains of each company. “Captains, prepare your forces to be ready. At Dawn, we are at war.”
Some hours had passed, as Roboute, and his captains gathered to strategize on how to approach the coming battle near Ponyville. Starlight Shimmer began pointing out all four sides in which the Diamond dogs would attack from. “The Dogs will attack from the West, near Sweet Apple Acres here…Near Carousel Boutique coming from the south here…Near the Castle of Friendship to the east here…and lastly near Sugar cube corner north of here… Last time I checked, there was at least two thousand strong on the Diamond Dogs front compared to our five hundred strong defense. The majority of the threat is targeted towards the northeast.”
Guilliman analyzed the map and markers. “There’s a strategy to this attack.” Guilliman then took hold of a pen nearby and began marking the enemy’s attack. “The reason there would be a vast number of these …Diamond Dogs is to try and intimidate your defenses forces, distracting them from defending more vulnerable positions. Such as the acres or the boutique.” Starlight had thought examined his notes to find that this was airtight. “Then…then we had walked into a trap. We’ll be overrun if we…” “To rush in so blindly will only hinder our task than ease it.” The now distressed pony sat back down to continue with the planning.
“Acheran, have your second company acquire these apple acres here. Maluan and The Imperial fists will acquire the area near the boutique. From there, we will provide reinforcement to the defensive lines while Kor’sarro Khan and Lord RedMaw will force the enemy forces back.” The captains then nodded in compliance and then departed to prepare for the coming battle. “You sure this will work, Mr. Guilliman?” Starlight questioned. “Your people are running out of time and options. We need to make sure their defenses hold.” He coldly replied. “You have seen what has happened here. This was just a minor incident to the grim task that will come to pass. Your people must be ready to face such a harsh but necessary act.” The unicorn then nodded, fully aware of the dire situation at hand.
-Ponyville, near the defense lines north east.-
As the storm raged on, as thunder clasped in the sky, hooves trotted in the wet, soggy mud as soldiers both intact and wounded struggle to repair the defensive lines as quickly as possible. Hammers bashed in nails to support the already damaged walls, all the while nurses, and doctors tended to the wounded. Many having bits and pieces of them torn from them. Legs had been either chopped, or bitten off from recent attacks, many became gravely ill from any lack of medical attention, or some were beyond saving, and ultimately perished. Those who had died were brought to a massive pyre, to be cremated on the spot, as to prevent any disease from spreading to the populace.
Though the situation was grim, this did not mean all was grim, for there were those who sought to keep the spirits lifted. Ponies such as Ponyville’s own pinkie pie managed to keep putting smiles on everyone’s face, even the sick and dying laughed at her antics and gestures. Even the food was still not completely drained, for Applejack continued providing the troops with fresh apples, and apple pastries and ciders to them to keep up their strength.
“Wowie, this storm’s not letting up. My hair’s as spongey, and soaked as a soaked sponge.” Pinkie joked. “I know it ain’t pretty, Pinkie. But, we got to do our part to keep the morale up. Shoot Starlight’s bound to have found help by now.” Applejack reassured. “You think they’ll be big bulky aliens with their own plastic figurine line?” Pinkie asked. Applejack simply shook her head in utter joy.
“Pinkie, you always say the weirdest things.” Voice poke from next to a barrier. Sure enough, Rainbow Dash was helping the soldiers our with repairs. “I mean seriously, what is with you?” “Well…” “Oh Rainbow Dash, let her be.” Rarity said, approaching them under an umbrella. “Be it as it may that she is a bit odd. Pinkie is still a vital asset in this grim time.” “I know,” Dash said. “Besides, I doubt things could get any worse than…”
Rarity was cut short as the sound of the alarm bell went off, indicating an incoming attack. “By Celestia’s beard, those varmints are back again! I got to hold down the farm!” Proclaimed Applejack as she sped off towards her family farm. Followed closely behind by pinkie bouncing her way towards Sweet Apple Acres. Rainbow Dash and Rarity looked over to see that a large number of Diamond Dog soldiers were readying themselves. Rarity could only look on with horror. “It’s all my fault” she whispered. This caught Rainbow’s attention. “What was that, rare?” “Oh, nothing!” Rarity exclaimed.
The two then heard the horns of battle echo, as the guards, and soldiers took their positions at the barrier, ready for the enemy attack. Many looking frightened at the mass horde before them, knowing their fate was sealed. Many of them began saying their prayers as the dogs roared and charged at them in an assault that could mean the end of all of Ponyville as they and the Elements knew it. Rainbow looked to Rarity. “I wish the egghead was around, instead of Canterlot.” “Her presence here would’ve been most useful.” Replied Rarity, just as the enemy reached the walls of the makeshift barrier.
Unlike the stormy conditions back in Ponyville, the early morning of Canterlot was calm and quiet. That is with the exception of the pacing of a deeply worried Princess by the name of Twilight Sparkle, after hearing the worst news of the whole Ponyville attack.
“Of all the places I need to be, it should be back home! My friends need me there,” She exclaimed, stomping her hooves in frustration. “But Noooo…I’m here, attending this Faust forsaken Gala!” In the same room with her, was her sister in law Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, and her daughter Princess Flurry Heart, who was just a little over fourteen years of age. “Twiley, I know you’re worried to death about them. So am I…But, you also know that this Gala is important to Celestia. The delegates from all around Equestria will be here, and we must ensure their loyalty remains intact, and ours intact to them,” Cadence pleaded.
“Yeah, auntie,” spoke Flurry, “Besides, Miss Rarity and the others said you should go. They’re pretty tough, from all the stories you told me about them.” Twilight looked over to flurry, breathing out in an attempt to calm down. “They are,” she exclaimed. “But, I feel like the lousiest friend anyways. The latest report said that two thousand diamond dogs were approaching Ponyville, and things are getting worse for the ponies there.”
The alicorn begins to tear up. Unable to see the little filly she watched in this sorry condition, Cadence sat upon, and approached her sister in law, wrapping a hoof around her to comfort her. “Come on now,” she started. “They’ll be alright. That report also mentioned Starlight going for help. You taught her well, sissy. I’ll bet you she’s found it about now.”
-Ponyville, mid-battle-
The sound of utter chaos echoed the foul air, as the stench of smoke, and flesh burning seeped into the nose of all who were present. To the Northeastern portion of the city, the few remaining garrisons of guards continued to hold off the horde of vicious Diamond Dogs, as the tide crashed into the barrier like ocean waves on rock. Aiding these valiant soldiers were the elements of Harmony, Rarity who supplied the archers with fresh arrows, and Rainbow Dash, who took the fight to the enemy, bashing any dog who managed to reach the other side.
“Ha! Another one,” Dash cried, bashing the head of another dog in. Rarity took noticed, only to scuff and continue her task. “You know, this isn’t exactly a game if no one’s playing it,” Rarity yelled. Rainbow Dash paid no heed, as she bucked another of the beasts. “Whatever, Rare, Just keep up,” The two continued with their tasks, as the soldiers began to notice what they thought was a good setup defense. “Hold the line! Keep these beasts back,” A soldier exclaimed.
As the fight went on, the dogs began bashing less, and less. The soldiers looked to see that the enemy was pulling back, roaring a thunderous cheer as if victory was theirs. However…, “Sir! SIR!!!” Sprinting to the commander of the ponies was a beaten and battered soldier from the south. “Captain…We’re taking a heavy toll…The enemy has flanked us from the south. We need reinforcements!”
“Damnation,” The captain shouted. “We need to hold the wall! If any that wall goes, we all go!” The two elements overheard the news. “Surely we can spare a squa..” She was stopped midway by the captain. “Forgive me, but we simply cannot afford to send any more to the rear. We’re pinned down here as it is. Let us hope the south can hold it together.”
To the southwest laid Sweet Apple Acres. Once a lush, green orchard of apple trees had now become a fiery inferno of warfare, as the trees lit like torches from the Diamond Dog Flanking that was present. There, the few remaining guards dug themselves in deep in the mud as the trees burned even in the harsh rain. Though, the enemy showed little contempt to these brave warriors as they murdered the ponies with one bash, after another, beating back the ponies towards the farmhouse of the Apple Family, and kin.
The troops had created a stockade surrounding the house, as Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Big Macintosh had armed themselves with farm equipment they could salvage from the burning barn. “This ain’t looking’ too good, Mac.” “Nnnnnope.” He spoke, knowing what was to come. The threesome made their way to join the ranks as the horde roared towards them. One of the barricades gave in, allowing the beasts to crush two guards before charging the farmhouse.
The ponies took what they thought would be their last breath as the army charged forth. To their shock, however, something no less of a miracle had occurred. Sounding of as a great loud…
BANG!
A rather large pointed object hurtled towards one of the creatures, piercing through on end of its skull, and out the other, in a bloody explosion of flesh and bone. The other dogs stopped dead in their tracks and looked to the burning orchard. From out of the flaming wall came a multitude of figures. One of which was a pony figure and the others were what appeared to by yellow armored Bipeds wielding loud noise making weapons. These strange creatures charged in, guns a blazing, proving themselves to these creatures that they were masters of close range fire. The Pony figure was accompanied by one of these creatures, the commander, as well as other larger looking soldiers.
The three ponies got a better look at this pony drew closer, revealing herself to be none other than Starlight Shimmer. “Star,” Pinkie shouted, as she bounced in excitement, hopping towards her for a hug! Starlight embraced this hug as Applejack, and Big Mac approached with the guard’s sergeant. “Glad to see you again sugar cube,” the cowgirl sighed in relief. Starlight too hugged Applejack. “It looks like we got here just in time.” “We?” Asked Applejack. The ponies then turned to the large armored figure and company.
“OOOOOOOOOOOOH…” Pinke looked. “Starlightwhoaretheseguys?!!Are they….” She then lets out a loud gasp. “ARE THEY ALIENS?!!” Starlight placed her hoof in Pinkie's mouth. “Don’t call them that…and yes, by our terms. Guys, this is Captain Maluan of the Imperial Fists’ 5th company. They’re going to help us out, as well as others.”
The captain then looked to the other five near him, which were none other than a Terminator squad, armed with their storm bolters. “Have your squad provide cover fire. Drive these vermin back!” “Understood,” Replied the squad commander. The large hulking marines trotted forward towards the front of the barricade, relaying cover fire upon their enemy, just as the Dreadnaught Odysseus had arrived, crushing a diamond dogs' back before bashing it to the ground.
“By the sun…” stuttered the sergeant. “The dogs don’t stand a chance against these…creatures.” He then smiled at the sight of this new found hope. “REINFORCEMENTS HAVE ARRIVED!!!” The guards took this new hope, joining these armored warriors in driving back the dogs.
Captain Maluan placed his hand to his earpiece as he was receiving news from the other half of their forces. “Ms. Glimmer, Another wave of enemy forces is heading towards the Boutique as we speak. Lord Guilliman requests that we regroup there, and press towards the barricade.” “Who’s this Gillman, Starlight,” Applejack asked. “It’s Guilliman,” She started “And he’s their boss. He’s the one who agreed to help me. Come on!” The trio and captain raced towards the southeast toward Rarity’s workplace. “How will we know which ones this Guilliman?” Applejack asked. Starlight only smiled as she looked at her friend. “Oh, you’ll know!”
At the Boutique, The sound of a massacre echoed as Fluttershy was herding a group of fillies to safety, after hearing the squad of guards butchered not too far. “Stay with me, little ones,” She cautioned, as Fluttershy looked to ensure the coast was clear. But as they began to encroach, the group was halted as creatures took notice, and began cornering them at the boutique’s wall. Fluttershy’s eyes shrank, as her heart pounded. Instinctively, she hid the children behind her as a dog raised his axe to chop them. They shut their eyes as they prepared to embrace their fate.
But, upon hearing the dog scream, they looked to see a sharp flaming point pierce from behind the dog’s chest. He was lifted off the ground to reveal the point to be that of a flaming sword, wielded by a towering blue giant.
The other dogs armed themselves to attack. The dogs attempted to pile onto this figure, who of course evaded this attempt, as he grasped hold of one of the beats with his rather large palm, firing loud shots into him, blasting him to pieces in bloody sprays, letting go of its crushed head afterward. The warrior stood his ground between them and the group of ponies, as he brought the sword down upon them, slicing various limbs off, whether it be arms, torsos, and heads. This only left pain and death in its wake to the enemy.
When all the hostiles with reach were defeated, the giant then turned to Fluttershy, and the fillies, still petrified beyond fear. Knowing this, he knelt down to the element’s height, removing his helmet. She then saw that the face was flesh, yet not any creature she knew. “It’s alright,” It said. “I will not harm you, or your young.” Fluttershy panicked for a moment before looking back at this figure.
Once she began making eye contact, she began to feel a bit more comfortable, before she gradually lowered her guard. “They…they’re not mine. They lost their folks.” The two then took notice of other figures approaching them. These were Starlight, Applejack, Pinkie and Big Mac, as well as Captain Maluan. Pinkie and Applejack checked on Fluttershy, and the fillies.
“Y’all alright.” Applejack inquired. The element of kindness nodded with a smirk, gesturing to Lord Guilliman. “This giant saved us from a pack of Diamond Dogs.” The two elements looked at this massive being, having a pretty good idea who this was. “That there’s Guilliman. He’s here to help us beat these varmints back a notch.” “Yeah,” Pinkie added. “There are also these yellow guys who fought off the diamond dogs back at the farm! They were like Pow! Powpowpow! POW! And the dogs were like AAAAAAGH!!!...Wait a moment…” Pinkie examines the armor of Guilliman, and Maluan. “Say…you’re colors are different.” “We’ll explain later,” Starlight stated. “Now we need to make our way to the barricade for the second phase!” Following the group close behind were Guilliman’s Ultramarines, led by Captain Acheran, as well as the regrouping Imperial Fists, all headed for the front lines, and turn the tide of the battle.
The sounds of angry roars and growls accompanied the cracking of wood, as the barricade began to crack from the force of the army of two thousand strong. The Diamond Dogs applied a sheer force upon the gate, in which Rainbow Dash felt as she and several others braced the doorway. The weight of several thousand pounds of force is what the Element of Loyalty felt as several more hurried to repair the damage quicker than the damage that can be afflicted. “Damn! These guys just won’t quit, will they?!!” Rainbow grunted.
As the Wonderbolt continued holding the line, the enemy began approaching the wall with a different tactic. Hooks were fired up over the wall, sinking the sharpened edges into the walls tightly, allowing Diamond Dog Soldiers to scale the walls. Despite the arrows fired across, and the valiant, yet feeble defenses. The Guard ponies became overwhelmed by the sheer numbers of Diamond Dogs.
Even Rainbow Dash could see that the inevitable was quickly approaching. She then ordered the soldiers to fall back, as they cleared the giving gate. The sounds of wood cracking, and splitting apart roared like a violent snap of bones, as the army breached the gates, pouring in like a tidal wave of destruction. Intending on bringing about the village’s destruction. The two Elements of Harmony regrouped with the few remaining guards, and their captain as they prepared a final stand as citizens fled to the south.
The captain readied his sword, as the guards their weapons. “This is it! We hold them back. If we die, we die while doing our duty to the princesses, and Equestria!” Rainbow looked to Rarity, both ponies ready to fight. Though, the unicorn was less eager to shed any blood. “Rainbow…” Rarity spoke. “If we are to die today…I’m glad I’m dying alongside you.” Rainbow smirked as she nudged Rarity reassuringly. “Same here.” The Pegasus responded.
The angry ranting of the dogs approached the small force rapidly. The beasts were mere feet away before the equines heard what sounded like the clap of thunder, though on a rather small scale. None the less, they saw the dogs were rapidly pierced by numerous flying objects hurtled from behind the group. These objects pieced through the beasts like a hot knife through butter, in loud bloody impacts.
“GUYS!!!” a high pitched voice cried out. Both Rainbow and Rarity looked back, and there came charging to the rescue were Starlight Shimmer and the other three elements of Harmony. Accompanying them was a rather towering figure in Blue and gold armor, wielding a flaming sword. As well as a multitude of what was guessed as this figure’s soldiers, in blue armor, as well as yellow armor. These warriors charged in, reinforcing the depleted equestrian soldiers, and bringing hope to their darkest hour.
“Starlight, Darling!” Rarity squeaked, hugging the advisor, as well as the other three. Rainbow dash hoof bumped Starlight calmly before she too embraced her friend. “Glad to see you’re back, Star.” She stated. “I conquer. Your return is most opportune!” Rarity added. “But, who are these…” “Space Marines!” Pinkie interrupted. “Starlightfoundthesebigguysintheoldcastlewhoalsobeatasquadofdiamonddogs! AtsweetappleacrestheywerelikePOWPOWPOWandthedogswerelikeAAAAAAAAAAHHH!!! IT WAS SO AWESOME!!!”
The two elements then turned to the taller figure. “Who’s this?” Rainbow inquired. “I am Roboute Guilliman, Lord Commander of the Imperium of Man, Primarch to the Ultramarines.” He stated. “Basically, he’s those guys’ boss.” Pinkie explained. “Got to us just in time, we were getting overrun back at the farm.” Applejack started “But thanks to Mr. Girlyman here, we were able to beat those pests back. Made them run like there was no tomorrow!” The pony guards watched on as the space marine tactical squadrons, and Intercessor squads of Ultramarines applied their codex discipline tactics on the battlefield, while the Imperial Fists proceeded to apply their close range tactics, either be it close range firing, or melee combat. As the battle progressed, a large diamond dog was locked in combat with a Primaris intercessor in melee combat. The dog thought he had the upper hand as he blocked the Primaris Marine’s toothed blade.
However, the blade began roaring as the blade began eating through the dog’s handle like a saw and then rapidly making contact with his skull in a bloody fountain as bone crack, and brain matter scattered in the beast’s shriek of agony. The dogs quickly learned of the fear these soldiers had brought as a rather smaller diamond dog was caught under the boot of an Ultramarine, who looked the creature dead in the eyes as it used its fist to beat into the boot futilely. But ultimately, the creature was put out of its struggle with a bolt shot into its cranium.
“By Luna’s rear flank…” one soldier proclaimed. “These creatures are incredible.” Another soldier said. The captain of these ponies looked on before he was then approached by Starlight Shimmer and Roboute Guilliman. He took notice of the two and looked like he was about to speak his mind. “We had this under control, Ms. Shimmer.” He boasted. “My men were more than capable of holding these beasts back.” Starlight and Guilliman looked at one another, then back to the captain. “Right…” Starlight skeptically stated. “You just happened to let them walk right through the front door.” The captain grew angry at the statement. He let out a slight growl before Starlight turned to the Primarch. “It appears you’re incapable of defending Ponyville under this much stress. That is why you are relieved of command.” She proclaimed.
The captain was utterly horrified, to strip him of command was absolutely hypocritical in his mind. “You…YOU CAN’T!!!” He shouted arrogantly. “As Princess Twilight’s advisor, I can, unless any of the elements have any objections.” The elements shook their heads, seemingly perfectly happy with this decision. “Lord Guilliman…” Starlight started. “Do you accept command of Ponyville’s forces for the time being?” “I do.” He replied. “But on one condition. You and your elements shall serve as my lieutenants.” He requested.
The captain rolled his eyes and scoffed at such a move. “Lieutenants indeed…They have no military background!” Roboute looked to the arrogant pony with dismay. “They have shown more courage, and determination, and far more discipline than I have seen any of your forces this day.” The Lord Commander then turned back to the Elements. “Do you accept?” They all looked to one another and replied with a nod. “Alright, let’s do this!” Starlight exclaimed. One of the soldiers approached Guilliman. “What do you need from us, sir?”
The captain was surprised at how well his own troops were with this change in command. “But…but…but…” the captain muttered. The primarch then looked to the soldier and knelt to his height. “Have your remaining forces aid us in clearing a path for more of our brethren. The rest we’ll handle from there.” The soldiers then saluted with a loud “YES SIR!” then proceeding to the front lines to aid the Space Marines, and their Primaris brothers.
With newfound Hope, the soldiers of Ponyville pressed the attack to the dogs, as both ponies, and Astartes warriors pushed by the tide of Diamond dogs back from the inner walls, with each thrust of a power sword or chainsword, or by the sound of bolter fire from Intercessors and tactical squads. Even the fiery blast of plasma blasters from Hell blaster Primaris Marines was enough to send the dogs falling back to friendly lines. This change in tides was also aided by the encouragement of Starlight Shimmer, and The Elements of Harmony, who did their best to support pony soldiers, and Astartes, Whether by sheer force or by encouraging words and actions. Once a clear path was made, Guilliman’s next part of his plan took place.
On the diamond dog’s front, a small squad of dogs was falling back from the main gate. “Gah...Could this day get any worse?” One dog hissed. As if fate had answered his question, the sound of distant howling and loud roars grew louder as something was approaching from the mouth of the gate. The squad looked back to see that more of these creatures came, riding on strange looking two-wheeled contraptions. Half were adorned in white armor, and the other a grayish blue, accompanied by what appeared to be a pack of rather large wolves. The soldier looked to his comrade, who stared at him with a scolding stare. “You, and your big mouth.” He sneered.
One of these riders approached the squad with a chainsword in hand, slashing through several of these dogs, in a bloody massacre, having the pack of wolves pounce upon them, as they tore the few survivors apart. The white riders, who were of course members of the white scars, continued to apply their lightning tactics with each kill. One of the bikers was none other than Barulatai riding on an attack bike with a heavy bolter, armed by another of his kin. The Astartes fired their bolters into the creatures, as they fled from the battle lines. Each shot meant another score in Sigfast’s little game.
Though, neither the White Scars nor Space Wolves cared enough to count as many of the two thousand diamond dogs were quickly being decreased. By the time that defeat was assured on the Diamond Dog’s part, the remaining six hundred turned tail and fled the scene, retreating back to the rocky areas, on the outskirts of Ponyville. As the dogs retreated, Baruatai radioed into his commander of the victory. “Lord Commander, the enemy is in full retreat. Shall we pursue and destroy?” He inquired. “No. Let them go.” Guilliman responded, via com communication. “Return to the village, to assess the damage.” “Yes, my lord.” The White Scar sergeant replied.
The citizens of Ponyville began to take notice of the calmness in the air, as they all began coming out of the shelter of their homes and businesses, to discover the sight of the bloodied battle and the towering warriors that had arrived. Many citizens were a bit frightened by the giants, while others were rather curious. It was at this moment the elements approached the nervous townsfolk reassuringly. “Don’t be afraid.” Starlight stated. “They will not harm you. These soldiers helped in the defense of Ponyville.” The citizens started discussing with one another, still uncertain. Many of them asking questions like “Who are they?”, “What are they?” where did they come from?”, and so on.
It was at this moment, Roboute Stepped forth, and drove his sword into the ground, gaining their attention. “Citizens of Ponyville, hear me! My Name is Roboute Guilliman. I am the Lord Commander of the Imperium of Man, Son of The Emperor of Mankind. I and my Space Marines were asked by your advisor to your princess to aid in your hour of need. Rest assured you will not be harmed by us. I swear this on my own life that we mean your world no harm.” The ponies began looking at this towering man a bit calmer than they were minutes ago. “Though I must if any of you know why these…Diamond Dogs as you call them would attack your village?” He asked. The crowd then looked at one another, trying to answer that question themselves. The soldiers also began wondering why all this bloodshed. It was in this moment she recalled rarity saying something before the battle.
“Rare…” Dash asked. “What did you mean by...“It’s my fault”?” She continued. This got Rarity in a nervous state, as sweat began pouring from her head. The other elements and Roboute took notice. “Well?” The Primarch asked. “Answer her!” he ordered. Rarity then lets out a sigh of defeat, knowing she could not hide it any longer. “Well…there is a possibility that…I…I may have something that belongs to them.” The Ponies gasped at this statement. Knowing Rarity was known for many things. But, Thievery wasn’t one of them. “Rarity…what did you take?!” Applejack asked furiously. She gestured the small group to follow her back to her home.
Inside the boutique, Guilliman, Glimmer, and the four other elements took notice of Rarity’s item. “Holy Manure…” was all Glimmer could say. “That’s the…” Applejack started saying… “Collar of Divinity!!!” they all proclaimed. Guilliman was curious as to why this object was so well known. “Tell me about this collar.” He asked. Starlight then explained to the primarch. “The Collar of Divinity is the Diamond Dog’s most prized object. Said to have been worn by their ancient kings, who thought to have been gods in mortal form. It was lost for centuries until a decade ago.” This information reminded the Lord Commander of one of his chapter prone to guarding sacred relics “acquired”.
“But what I want to know is…HOW IN FAUST’S HUGE FLANK DID YOU GET A HOLD OF IT?!!” Rainbow Dash exploded in anger. Rarity composed herself, with tears in her eyes. “I…I wanted something back from them, after calling me an old mule!” Guilliman looked at the pony somewhat irritated that his aid was called for because some pony simply wanted revenge. But, he saw that he paled in comparison to Starlight Glimmer, who was outright furious. “You mean to tell me, that I risked my flank to find help, and bother Lord Guilliman and his men to fight for us…ALL BECAUSE YOU WANTED PAYBACK?!! DO YOU REALIZE ALL THE DAMAGE YOUR LITTLE GAME CAUSED, ALL THE PONIES AND DOGS THAT DIED BECAUSE OF IT?!!”
After venting out, Starlight took notice of Rarity bawling her eyes out. “I’M SORRY!!! I didn’t mean for this to happen!!!” She screamed, still crying her eyes out. Despite their anger towards the fashionista, Starlight and the others felt a little bit bad for going off on her like the way they did. However, Guilliman looked on at her, unphased by her reaction. He seemed to be in a state of meditating before he looked to the Element of Generosity. “You know that there is only one way to ensure they will never attack again.” Rarity sniffed as she looked to Guilliman. The pony nodded as she knew he was about to suggest the next course of action. “I…I have to take it back.” She stated with a sniff. “Are you crazy?!!” Dash asked. “They’ll rip you apart for just holding it!” Rarity then grabbed a bag and placed the collar inside it before saddling it to her back. “Then I will pay for my mistake.”
But before she could step outside, Starlight placed her hoof on Rarity’s shoulder. “At least let me go with you.” She pleaded. “I will go as well.” The two looked to hear the statement come from Guilliman. “But…but you didn’t steal the collar.” Rarity stated. “It was my men who slaughtered a great deal of these creatures. They will need reassurance on all parts. I have placed Captain Acheran of the Ultramarine’s second company in charge in my stead. He has assured me your village will be protected, should they try again.” He assured them. Rarity then nodded her head, as she opened the door. Once the trio reached outside, they soon began their journey to the outskirts, in an attempt to bring an end to a long and bloodied conflict.
“It’s been ages since the last report came in.” Twilight sparkle worried, pacing back and forth in the great dining hall of the castle. Princess Celestia and Luna looked on at the distressed alicorns, concerned for her well being. “Twilight, you must calm down.” Celestia recommended. “This consistent worrying though warranted, and understandable is not doing you any good either.” “She is right.” Luna added. “Your friends are more than capable of handling themselves and others for that matter.”
Just down the table sat Cadence, and Flurry Heart, as well as Twilight’s older brother, General Shining Armor, as well as her now grown up assistant, Spike. “Twiley, we’re all worried. Believe me. I wouldn’t want anything to happen to the girls. I really do.” Shining admitted. “But, that doesn’t mean you need to…” The general was interrupted by the sound of hooves trotting in a hastened pace, as a messenger pony came charging in abruptly. Upon reaching Celestia, the poor pony began panting, catching his breath before delivering a scroll as he spoke. “I…I..Bring news from…Ponyville…” He stated, handing the scroll over. “You…You want to read this.” Once delivered, the Pegasus departed out of the room, back to his duties.
The others then gathered around to hear what has happened since the last report. “Sister?” Luna asked. “What has happened?” Celestia read on, her eyes varied from a curious look to one of shock, and amazement, but utterly reassuring. She then hands the letter over to Twilight, with a smile on her face. “I believe your answer has arrived, Twilight.” Celestia stated. The purple alicorns grasped hold of the scroll and read it as Celestia explained.
“It appears we have visitors.” She started “We received word that Starlight Glimmer had encountered a small task force of creatures in the Everfree forest. Creatures who wear colorful armor, armed with weapons that resemble cannons, but on a smaller scale, even weapons beyond our comprehension. She states they are lead by a large figure that they call Lord Commander.” It was at the very end of the sentence that had Twilight worried the most. “And Rarity took the dog’s Collar of Divinity, the one reason behind the war! Now, she, Star and this…robot girlyman are on their way to return it to them!!!”
Spike looked on in confusion. “But…isn’t that a good thing?” he asked. “Spike, they’re walking into a trap!!!” Twilight shouted. Cadence then took the letter from twilight. “Twilight, if what this says is true, and then I highly doubt that this…Roboute will allow any harm to come to them, based on the description provided.” Cadence reassured. “Perhaps,” Twilight uttered. “But, how can we be sure as to trust this “Human”?” “I agree.” Shining spoke. “For all, we know they could be dangerous.” Celestia stood from her chair and looked to the two siblings. “Perhaps we don’t know them that well. But, until we can prove otherwise, we must give them the benefit of the doubt. However, it would be wise to learn more about these…Space Marines. I want you, and Twilight to board the next train to Ponyville to observe and report. We will continue from there about arranging a meeting.”
“Yes, your Majesty.” Shining bowed. With the order given, Twilight Sparkle, Shining Armor, and Spike made their way out of the dining hall, to prepare for their departure for Ponyville, and learn the truth about the fierce warriors that aided in the defense of Ponyville.
-Near the Diamond Dog’s territory-
The trio of two ponies, one primarch was approaching the borders of the Diamond Dog’s territory. During that time, Rarity was analyzing Guilliman’s armor and was simply quite fascinated by the detail put into it. “I must say…” She stated “Your armor is just simply beautiful. Such craftsmanship put into it. And the blue and gold does suit you rather well.” Guilliman let out a smirk a bit as he continued walking on. “Your compliment is rather appreciated.” He stated. “But, some of those other marines, the yellow ones….Ugh! They should consider changing their…” Rarity was interrupted by Roboute, who looked down a bit furious at the remark. “The Imperial fists wear that color in honor of their Primarch, my brother, Rogal Dorn. If I were you, I would not be so eager as to jump to criticizing the heraldry colors of my fellow Astartes.”
Remembering that this was a xenos creature, and only spoke her mind, Roboute let out some air before turning back to the path, leaving Rarity a bit nervous. “I…I’m sorry.” She stated. Starlight placed her hoof to Rarity’s side as the two walked on behind him. “Don’t take it too harshly. Let’s just say he has family issues.” Starlight stated. “But why is that?” Rarity asked. It was during that time Roboute began overhearing the conversation as Starlight explained what she could get from the other space marines.
“From what I’ve gathered, Roboute has nineteen other brothers, all are or were generals of the twenty original space marine legions. They were a part of their Father’s campaign to reunite their kind’s lost colonies, in a time they call The Great Crusade. It was near the end of the crusade that half of these legions and their primarch turned bad and attacked the Imperium. They were defeated but at a great price. They were left leaderless, and disorganized. It was during that time Roboute suggested the nine remaining legions were to be broken down into multiple thousand strong chapters, one in which bared the original legions name and colors, while others were left to their own devices.”
Rarity was astonished by the amount of information Starlight stated. “My word…” is all Rarity could say. This was about the time Roboute explained it further. “It was shortly after that my brothers began setting off on their own to deal with their grief. Rogal was killed in battle, with only his hand to be the only piece remaining.”
This made rarity begin to feel bad about judging the Imperial Fists color. “I…I didn’t know.” She mustered. “Nor did I expect you to.” Roboute stated. “That is why I apologize for my outburst. But now is not the time to talk.”
The group then approached a barren plain near a large rocky cave, guarded by two large dogs, with the remaining few hundred soldiers tending to their wounds, and to their dead. They all took notice of the approaching trio, as they began to worry and arm themselves. Starlight trotted up, waving a white flag, a sign that indicated no harm is to come. The dogs drew their weapons before a hand raised up.
“STOOOP!” cried the hand’s owner. This being cleared himself a path to the front of the army, as the three figures stopped a few feet away. The figure was that of their leader, a dog rarity was all too familiar with.
“Rover?” Rarity asked. The figure was that of Rover indeed, adorned in royal garments, and a crown on top of his head. “King Rover, I’s is…What does the ponyses want? Come to finish us poor dogs off has they?!!” Roboute then gestured to Rarity, who of course nodded as she trotted up, and present rover with the Collar, in which all the dogs gasp. ‘The collar…” Rover stated. “I…I’m sorry for taking this.” She pleaded. “If I had known this would bring about bloodshed…” Rarity uttered. Rover could only gaze upon the collar before gesturing the soldiers to stand down.
“Why should us forgive ponies after killing Rover’s soldiers?” He asked. It was here Roboute stepped forth. “Because it was not them.” He proclaimed. “I, Roboute Guilliman, had ordered my men to defend the village from being destroyed by your kind. Their deaths are your responsibility, just as mine are. Your kind chose to fight where negotiation was still visible. You have your precious collar back and have no further reason to attack. I have no quarrel with you or your kind, Rover. But, should you continue to attack these people, no matter the reason. I will have no choice but to eradicate your empire from existence. Believe me, I do not wish that upon you any more than you would.”
Rover then looked back to see the sorry remains of his forces, and the size of this primarch, knowing that what he spoke was truthful looked back to Guilliman. “If wes agreed, How can wes trust tall one to keep his word that no harm comes to Rover’s people?” The King asked. Roboute then drew his sword and drove it on the ground before stepping forth to the dog. “We have no quarrel with you, you have nothing we want. Your people’s destruction would be a waste of time and resources on my part. This I swear on to you, as Lord Commander of the Imperium. If you truly hold dear to your people, choose to live for your people.” The dogs all looked to one another, and back at the conversation. After what seemed like an eternity, Rover then nodded, as he took the collar, and handed it to one of his assistants. “Where does I sign?” He asked.
Starlight then presents a piece of parchment that listed the terms of the treaty. After reading over the terms, and quite pleased on both sides’ terms, Rover then signed away with an “X”. Starlight Shimmer then signed the treaty as well, followed by Roboute himself. Once the treaty was signed, the trio bid their farewell and departed back to Ponyville, while the dogs retreated back underground to recollect their forces, and rebuild what they had lost.
“Quite the diplomat, aren’t you Guilliman?” Starlight stated. The primarch looked over with a serious look, a pleased look on his face, but serious in tone. “I meant every word.” He said. “We could easily destroy their very kingdom…but what use would it be? It would only waste time and resources. Besides…my father always said that a peaceful solution, by all means, is a much preferable one than that of war.” Starlight looked ahead, with a smile as the sun began to rise in the east. “Your Father must’ve been a very wise man.” She believed. “He was.” Guilliman responded. “He really was.”
It was still early dawn, when Celestia stepped out onto her balcony, raising the warm glowing sun into the sky slowly, there she overviewed her former apprentice, and fellow alicorns Twilight Sparkle Board the next train to Ponyville, Accompanied by her lifelong assistant, and brotherly figure Spike, as well as her biological brother Shining Armor, and his daughter Flurry Heart. Despite the concern that Cadence had in regards to her child’s safety, the young alicorns assured her mother she would be perfectly safe.
The group boarded the steam locomotive, along with an honor guard of guards, as it prepared to depart from the station, huffing and puffing its way towards the village. Twilight looked out the window in deep thought as to the fate of her friends, and as to the true nature of these beings, Starlight had come across.
“Twilight?” The General asked. Upon hearing Shining’s voice, she snapped out of her thinking. “You’re still worried about them.” He presumed. She nodded accordingly. “I just can’t shake this feeling in my gut.” She attested. A large clawed palm wrapped around her as she was brought close to Spike. She was surprised that the grasp of his was softer than she’d expected from a dragon. The only real firm abnormality was the band of gold on his ring claw. “I know.” The dragon reassured. “I’m a bit worried myself.” Spike added.
The alicorns laid her head on his shoulder assured that they shared the same feeling of concern. Though out of all the royal party, the young princess seemed to be most excited to not only venture out to Ponyville but to actually to see real-life aliens, alien warriors none the less. Being the daughter of the princess of love, one would think she would follow in her mother’s footsteps.
But as the years went by, Flurry took a far more diverse course than what her parents ever thought she would. She preferred that of a disciplined path of the warrior, preferring to study and be among the soldiers than that of gala evenings, dresses and all the peaceful upbringings of an alicorn. “You really think they’re as big as they say these Space Marines are, daddy?” Flurry asked. Shining armor simply chuckled, along with other soldiers in the same cart. “I think the truth is a bit of a stretch.” He assured. Little did they realize that in several hours, they would find out soon enough just how wrong they were about to be.
-Ponyville-
The rosy dawn shined across the bloodied field of the battle, as ponies began moving the corpses of their fallen foes, all the while, the guards and space marines alike kept a lookout for the party’s eventual return. As they waited though, the citizens of Ponyville began to observe these strange warriors that had come to their aid. Most curious of these ponies were the mentioned elements of harmony. Each of the ponies was intrigued by each of space marine chapters, and their unique heraldry.
Applejack had found herself most fond of the Imperial Fists, who took watch over Sweet Apple Acres, even willing to part some of the fruit they harvested to the sons of Dorn for their effort. “Here, fellas. Help yourselves to some of Ponyville’s finest apples.” The cow mare said. The Imperial Fists looked at the fruits, and examined them, making sure they were safe to eat. They had reason to believe they were poisonous and often proceeded to eat with caution. However, thankfully their gene seeds picked up no abnormalities in the fruit, indicating they were safe to eat. The space marines bit into the fruit, savoring the taste for a more detailed analysis. What most of them neglected to mention was the eerily similar taste of the same fruit that was grown on many agri-worlds, yet these apples were far more delicious.
Rainbow Dash, on the other hand, found the White Scars to be fairly impressive, as far as speed, often spending time with them, and understanding the significance of the scars they bare as indicators of their office. “So those scars are a sign of office?” She asked. “Yes,” Barulatai answered. The Pegasus was both baffled as to why they would personally injure themselves to promote themselves, and fascinated that these guys even did so in the first place. “That’s both weird and cool at the same time.” She stated. “And this Jaghatai Khan sounds like a really fast guy.” The white scar sergeant smirked to hear such a thing come from a xenos. “But…” Rainbow continued “You guys aren’t as fast as any of the wonder bolts. Unless that is you want to prove it.” She challenged boastingly. Thos got his attention. “That a challenge?” He asked. She nodded. “Don’t come crying to us when you lose, little one.” He stated as they brohoofed one another.
Fluttershy and Pinkie had heard a great deal of the harsh conditions the Space Wolves homeworld of Fenris was like, and how their primarch Leman Russ was said to have been raised by a She-Wolf and her pups when he first arrived on the planet. The element of kindness often tended to some of the injured Fenrissian wolves, after showing an impressive display when one of the wolves growled at her. She simply used her trademark glare at the creature, which of course yielded eventually to allow her to tend to its wounds. “I don’t believe it.” Sigfast proclaimed. “All it took was for her to simply glare, and he’s submitting.” “I know, right?” Pinkie asked. “She’s really good at taking care of animals, even things as big as dragons.” She added. “Maybe so,” The space wolf spoke. “But no creature from Fenris can be tamed for long. If you grew up there, you’d understand.”
The guard then noticed moving in the distance, movement of three individuals making their way back from the enemy’s territory. The sound of trumpets sounded as Roboute, Starlight, and Rarity were greeted by the loud applause of the townsfolk, and guards alike. The trio walked down to town hall, where the mayor, and other elements, as well as loyalist captains, waited for their return. Upon approaching the center, Starlight handed the parchment to Mayor Mare, who hands it over to the town archivist. “An end to such a terrible bloody conflict at last.” She relieved. “However did you manage to accomplish the dogs signing a treaty?” She asked. Rarity stepped forward and answered. “We returned what they wanted, and assured them it would not happen again. Let’s just put this behind us and move on.” She suggested. The citizens and Mayor couldn’t take their eyes off of Guilliman. “But…who are these…creatures?” The mayor asked. It was then the Primarch began to speak to every pony before him.
“Citizens of Equestria, I am Roboute Guilliman, lord commander of the Imperium of Man, First Lord of Ultramar, son of the Emperor of mankind, and primarch to e Ultramarines legion, and all successor chapters. We have been summoned here, to your village, because your princess’ advisor had sought for help, not only for this battle but for much darker times ahead. We hail from beyond your stars, on worlds much like your own, and others not so much. We have suffered much damage on our way here, and have no means of leaving anytime soon. That is why…we have agreed to aid you the best we can for now and when you need it most.”
The citizens began conversing with each other. Dark times ahead, as in things will only get worse they all asked themselves. Starlight saw the panic in their eyes and had to do something. “But, until then…we celebrate the end of this war.” She stated, followed by the crowd letting out a cheer of triumph as preparations went underway to properly celebrate a victory.
-Later, that evening.-
The town of Ponyville was in a loud uproar of joy and utter celebration, for the end of the conflict had been established with much-appreciated aid from the Astartes, and their Lord Commander. As the townsfolk celebrated this joyous occasion, Starlight, and the others regrouped back at the castle of friendship, to not only thank Roboute personally but also to find a little more about the primarch.
“That was so awesome!!! How you and your guys just came in, and…BAM! Dropping those dogs like a bad habit!” Rainbow shouted. “Yeah!” Pinkie added. “You guys were like all shooty, and stabby! They were like “Aaaah! Help us!” Rarity too felt impressed by Guilliman, not only for being a skilled tactician But also for his diplomatic skills as far as she saw. “The way you handled their leader was rather…impressive.” She stated. “What I said was true.” He said. “It would be a waste of my time and resources to wipe them out.”
Starlight approached the primarch, about to begin a long inquiry about him and his legion. “Guilliman…if you don’t mind me asking…do you suppose…you can tell us a little more about yourself.” She asked. He looked at the map of Equestria, and then back to her. “I will tell you what I will be willing to share…if you too shared information on your world.” He requested. The group turned to one another and nodded in compliance.
After agreeing, the ponies and primarch began explaining to each other the history, the culture, every detail about their empires. The ponies first explained the founding of Equestria, how the three pony breeds united together, how Nightmare moon came to be, and how she was vanquished. That part, in particular, struck a chord with him, reminding him of a much similar time in the dark days of the Imperium. They continued on with how the Elements of harmony came to be, and their adventures since. The primarch processed each detail carefully, and for a majority was rather impressed with these creatures. But he also took heed, for he knew that the enemies and difficulties faced in this world paled in comparison to the dark powers across the galaxy.
For Roboute, he recounted the early days of the Imperium, his early childhood, and eventually becoming the first lord of Ultramar, joining the emperor in The Great Crusade, as well as the dark days of The Horus Heresy. And so on. He also shared with them the current state of the Imperium, a few historic battles in the last ten millennia, and of course sharing his encounters with some of the xenos races, from the Eldar and their craft worlds, to the technologically advancing Tau Empire, the ferocious insect-like Tyranids, the savage brutality of the Orks, and of course the ancient deathless race of androids know as the Necrons.
“This Emperor surely must’ve been a brilliant being. To have lived so long, with so much knowledge…” Starlight speculated. “I never thought that our problems would seem rather small when compared to having whole worlds being eaten by a bunch of space roaches.” Applejack admitted. “Not to mention those Nekocrons.” Fluttershy uttered. “It’s Necrons, Flutters.” Pinkie corrected. “They kind of sound like something I saw a while back…Da Dann Da – Da Dann!” The others looked at her awkwardly. “What?” Pinkie asked. “This Imperium of Man you come from seems rather…” rarity started saying. “Harsh.” “The Galaxy is a harsh place.” Roboute mentioned. “Only the strong are able to prevail. As vulnerable as we may be now, We still have got enough fight in us to hold them back.” “But, why help us?” Applejack asked. “If you guys think we’re just filthy aliens, why not kill us off?” “Because there is no real need to.” Roboute said. “You have not given us any reason to, and even if we did, we would just waste time and resources that should be used for something else.”
Starlight then approached the primarch, wanting to get what was on her mind off her chest. “Which is why...” She started saying “We have agreed to provide you guys with the ruins of the palace as your base of operations. The girls and I thought it’d be a nice little way of saying…thank you.” They all nodded and muttered a bit in compliance. The Primarch could only nod with a smirk on his face.
Just then one of the guards, rushed into the map room with little breath, with news for the elements. “Ladies…Princess Twilight Sparkle and honor guard…has just arrived.” The guard then collapsed from exhaustion, as the girls looked at each other in excitement. “Twilight’s back!” Rainbow cried. Pinkie Pie bounced up and down in excitement as they conversed on how they were going to celebrate. “She’s the one who rules this portion of your kingdom?” Roboute asked. “Yep.” Starlight responded. “She’s the Element of Magic, completing the elements of Harmony as a whole. She’s…well a lot like you in many ways. Very organized, and always has a plan.” “We gotta meet her at the station!” Pinkie exclaimed as she sped out the doorway, followed by the other elements, and of course Guilliman, who also wished to meet this alicorn in person, and hopefully meet the other royals before the coming darkness could arrive if it was at all possible.
The train makes its final approach to the now war-torn village of Ponyville. But as the Royals, and their honor guard stepped off of the passenger car, and onto the station, the town was livelier than ever, and filled with much joy with the war now over. Life began to pick up as the townsfolk began to repair the damage to the buildings, and washing away the blood stains. “Whoa…” is what Spike can say, after getting a whiff of the stench of the air. “I know.” Shining retorted. “This place has seen better days.” Twilight began looking around, hoping to find any sign of her friends. But due to the size of the crowd, finding any of them became rather difficult. “Ooooh, this is…” She started. But then …
“TWILIGHT!!!”
A high pitched voice cried out. The princess then looked to see the six ponies she identified as her friends trotting up to her. She could only smile in utter joy as she ran up to them. The seven of them embraced one another in a most joyous reunion. “Guys! You’re okay!” Twilight let out in tears. “Of course we are, dear.” Rarity. “That’s right, sugar cube,” Applejack added.
Spike and the others joined in through his eyes were set on one in particular. The then rushed towards to this certain mare. “Spike.” Starlight said as the two embraced. The young dragon held onto her for a good few seconds. “I should’ve been here.” He confessed, ad he buried his face into her shoulder. “Spike, look at me.” Starlight nudged him to make eye contact. “You needed to be with Twilight. You’re her number one assistant.” The unicorn stated. “But, you’re my wife.” He responded. “I could’ve helped fend off the diamond dogs and…” Twilight overheard the conversation. “We both could have. Believe me spike, I wanted to be here just as much as you do.” She interjected. “Yet, as I am to understand, they did in fact receive aid.” “Yeah!” Flurry Raced to the Advisor. “Is it true what they say?! Are these real humans, big humans with cool weapons and armor?!!”
The honor guard and Shining Armor let out a slight chuckle to such an idea. They continued to do so until the general himself took notice of several shadows that passed over, and the sources of those shadows. Soon the other guards took notice and simply froze as they saw two squads of Primaris Intercessors and two tactical squads of Ultramarines patrol by. The sergeant of the Intercessors glanced over to the Honor guard, who simply watched in intimidation as the Astartes warriors carried on with their routine patrol. While Shining had his jaw wide open, Flurry could not hold back any more of her excitement. “OH MY GOSH!!!” She exclaimed. Twilight and Spike also were left in awe, as they turned back to Starlight. “Yep, Big help.” She answered in a most confident way. “Which brings me to the next course, follow me.” The five elements nodded to Twilight and company to follow them.
They trotted down a freshly paved road, leading into the Everfree forest. “This road wasn’t here before.” Spike noticed as signs of progression indicated that someone or something had cut down several trees to make room for rather large vehicles to move. It was in the middle of this trek that the honor guard, general, dragon and alicorns heard several objects pass overhead. The ponies were a bit startled, much to the expectation of Starlight, though the others weren’t affected as much.
“What in Faust’s huge flank was that?!!” one of the guards cried out. “I don’t know.” Shining answered, looking towards the girls for an explanation. “Don’t you fret fellas. That there was just a couple of those Stormraven ships.” Applejack assured. This got Twilight, and Flurry perked with curiosity. “Stormraven? What’re those?” Twilight inquired. “Oh! Let me tell!” Pinkie bounced. “They’re these big spaceships that carry lots and lots of Space Marines and Other troops! Lots of the other chapters have them!” The guards looked at one another, realizing the sheer number of these creatures.
“You mean…there are more of these things?” Shining asked. “They’re not things.” Starlight corrected. “They’re living creatures, flesh and blood. But…don’t call them aliens. They don’t take that too kindly.” “Why’s that?” Flurry asked. “I think their leader can explain a bit better than we can.” Applejack stated. This brought Twilight to the point in which she wanted some background information. “Yes, this…Roboute Guilliman. Tell me what you think about him?” She pleaded.
The six turned to Twilight, each willing to give their friend their honest opinions about the primarch. “Well,…he’s similar to you.” Starlight said. “Very well organized, and not too fond of anything that isn’t.” “Yeah, but he’s also one hell of a badass! He can fight like nobody I’ve seen.” Rainbow added in her usual jock like terms. “Not only that, but he’s quite the strategist. Not to mention a fairly reasonable fellow.” Rarity interjected quite delicately. “Very dedicated to his folks, I’ll give him that, Though he’s not one to be trifled with.” Applejack advised cautiously. “Yeah! He has this big flamey sword, and big hand that’ll bash you to pieces!” The element of laughter stated excitingly. The last one to give their opinion was Fluttershy. “Maybe…but…He’s has a good soul…though…he has this feeling of guilt…What exactly it is, I don’t know. But, he’s very kind as far as I’m concerned.”
Twilight got her answers she needed and began to mentally compile them into a somewhat more comforting feeling. That all was then shoved away as the group looked at the end of the road to see that the once deserted grounds of the Castle of the Princesses had been turned into a landing site as Astartes craft, guardsmen landing ships, and transports of the Adeptus Mechanicus landed with fresh troops, and supplies, and took off back into the sky.
The ponies looked on in awe. Twilight and the others looked to see various individuals were inside the castle working on what appeared to be repaired. “It looks like they’re making themselves quite at home.” Rarity suggested. Seeing the rate at which these events were transpiring. “No kidding.” Pinkie complied. It was there, that the group was approached by two Primaris Intercessors as well as a Primaris Chaplain. The honor guard and Shining ready themselves to engage, feeling threatened by these towering beings. But the mane six gestured them to stand down as Starlight approached them. This got spike worried. “Star, No!” She looked back to her mate. “It’s alright. They’re not going to hurt us.”
She continued to approach the Space marines. The Chaplain stepped forward, adorned in his hollowed armor, hooded with his menacing skull helm, and tokens of battle and ritual. “Chaplain Valanor, we are here to see Lord Guilliman. He’s expecting us.” Starlight stated. The hooded priest-like figure nodded. “We were sent to escort you personally.” Twilight, Flurry, and Shining armor approached behind Starlight. “You know this particular…” Twilight started to say. “Chaplain.” The hooded figure spoke. “Valanor, Chaplain of the Ultramarines second company. Follow us please.”
The figure and Primaris marines gestured to the group to follow them. The ponies obliged and followed closely behind. It was then that Flurry began asking questions. “Chaplain…what is that anyways.” She asked. “We are responsible for the spiritual well being of our battle brothers. Through Tenet, dogma, and catechism, we are what armor them against such things as Heresy, and false pride, To ensure that the wisdom of the Emperor and Primarch into them.”
“So basically, you’re somewhat like priests?” Twilight asked. “Yes, in a way,” Valanor responded. “We are masters of ritual, administer rites, and perform our ancient rituals of initiation.” Twilight began to see the way these warriors’ societies were like; these were creatures of faith, bound by some code of honor. Yet as they pressed on, she began t see that these space marines varied in color, and the wondrous equipment they had from vehicles to weapons, and even Valanor’s Crozius Arcanum. Yet she took notice of the other troops as well, the guardsmen for one. These were much smaller than the Astartes, almost as if they were children.
“What of those ones?” She asked. “Oh, those are Imperial Guardsmen. They’re basically the average Joes army. The Space Marines are the super soldiers compared to them, literally.” Rainbow said.
The soldiers let out a unified “Ah”, understanding the reason behind the difference in size. “But…How do they get so…” Before he could finish his sentence, the group of ponies took notice of the loud thumping footsteps next to them. For these steps belonged to the Imperium’s most ancient weapons, and greatest war machines, a squad of Imperial Knights from House Taranis. “Big?” Valanor finished impatiently. “That is something I will not utter now.” The group pressed forward further into the palace.
Twilight could see the repairs and some modifications to the palace going on. Knocking out various walls, and rebuilding areas to their needs. Starlight nodded to her former instructor that the one overseeing this project was a much larger Astartes, bigger than even a Primaris marine. It was then Twilight began to realize this was indeed the supposed Lord Commander.
While Guilliman instructed several tech priests to their selected assignments, he glanced over to see the small group of ponies approach him, accompanied by the Chaplain, and Primaris marines. The warrior priest stepped forward and bent the knee. “Lord commander. The one called Starlight Glimmer has returned.” Valanor announced. Roboute drew his attention to the pony and company. “That will be all, Chaplain.” The black armored figure bowed and departed with the two Primaris marines. Starlight knew she had to start up a conversation and introduce the royal siblings to this ancient lord.
“Lord Guilliman, I’d like you to me Princess Twilight Sparkle of Friendship, and her brother General Shining Armor of the Royal Guard.” The primarch simply looked upon the two Sparkle siblings, unphased by this revelation. “Greetings, your highnesses.” Roboute uttered. The two ponies took notice of Guilliman not bowing.
This got Spike a bit annoying. “You know, you should bow before royalty when introduced.” He growled. Starlight looked back to him with a glare. “Spike, it’s alright,” Twilight stated. Roboute turned to the somewhat agitated dragon. “I meant no disrespect for not bending the knee. But these two are no lord or lady to me. Nor I to them and I only bend to my brother Primarchs…and my father alone.” “Oh…well, I…I suppose that’s fair enough.” Spike calmly spoke. “Sorry.”
Starlight continued with the introductions without further interruption. “Your Highnesses, this is Roboute Guilliman, Lord Commander of the Imperium of Man, Primarch of the Ultramarines Legion and chapters transcending from it, Son of the Emperor of Mankind.” Twilight was quite impressed with the many titles he bared if any of them were true that is. “Quite the titles you bear, huh? I didn’t even know there was such a thing as The Imperium.” The Lord looked down and nodded at the inquisitive Alicorn. “Indeed, there is.” He said. “And I understand that you have an abundance of questions about it, as I have for you.”
Twilight’s interest was perked the moment she heard him say he was curious about her. “Really? Yet my friends have told you what they know about Equestria already.” Twilight answered. “They have only provided me fragments and snippets at best. Though I do not hold any fault to them.” Guilliman replied. “Shall we continue this in the Library?” Twilight asked as Roboute gestured them the way.
The Guards remained in the great hall to observe the forces of mankind at work, leaving a rather curious Flurry heart to slip from the group, and venture amongst the humans as her father, and Elements and one dragon were escorted to the Library for further conversation.
After taking their seats at one of the tables that were recently constructed, Twilight Sparkle and her Brother, General Shining Armor began their thorough and detailed interview with Roboute Guilliman, the so-called Lord Commander of The mysterious Imperium of Man. The primarch agreed to be interviewed as a gesture of good faith. Twilight, being the excessive student pulled out her inkwell, pen, and parchment in an organized manner. One the pen had enough ink; the array of questions began seeping out.
“Let’s see now. I suppose we should start at the beginning. Let’s begin with simply where exactly did you come from?” Twilight ask. Guilliman did not hesitate to respond in a mannerly way. “I was found in a sealed capsule while I was very young. Roughly ten thousand years before this time.” Twilight was caught by surprise with this response. To hear someone claim to be this old, much older than Celestia she was considered practically unheard of. “Did you say ten thousand years?” She asked again. Guilliman nodded.
“Indeed.” He said. “It was on the feudal world of Macragge that I was found by a group of noblemen, lead by a man I would come to know as my adoptive father, Konor. When I asked him during my early years as to where I had come from he told me that he only knew of my presence from a dream, where he found me at a spot called Hera’s falls. It was there he bequeathed me the name Roboute, which means “Great one.”
As the hours had passed by, Roboute continued to tell his story. From his youth as a prodigy, growing fast in both body and mind, and mastering every subject the wisest men could teach him by his tenth birthday. Twilight would write in her notes of how he would go on to say that some of his insights over subjects of history, philosophy, and science would stun his elders. Though unquestionably, his greatest trait she wrote was his natural talent of a military leader as he recounted his expedition to Illyium, where he not only lead a successful campaign against its wild inhabitants But also earned the Wildman’s respect.
Guilliman went on in his story to the point in which he seized control from his father’s co-Consul Gallen, who murdered him for total control. For Gallen lead a fraction of Macragge’s nobility who ravished at the expense of slave, while Konor stood for the common folk. Roboute carried out his father’s vision, and executed Gallen and his co-conspirators, and redistributed their lands and wealth back into the people. He began a tremendous task as to reorganizing and restructuring Macragge’s entire social structure into that of a meritocracy, in which both office and honor were given to the hard-working rather than the wealthy and influential. Twilight became further enticed by the primarch’s accomplishments. But still, she remained level-headed, not wanting to get her hopes up.
“That certainly must have been quite a feat, Mr. Guilliman. But, I want to know about this Imperium of yours at large, if you don’t mind.” Twilight spoke. “Ah yes.” Roboute uttered. “But in order to explain the Imperium, we would need to begin shortly after the restructuring of Macragge, around that time is when I would meet my biological father…The Emperor of Mankind.”
-Somewhere in the castle-
The curious Flurry Heart continued to wander through the reconstruction carried on by the Imperial Guard, and other imperial factions. She was astonished by the large pieces of military equipment that was brought from the fleet in orbit, especially the war machines such as the dreadnaughts, and of course the Imperial Knights, to which she greatly admired for its sheer size. She proceeded to get closer to the machine when a rather strange figure halted her any further.
“Do not approach the machine any further.” He said. “The rite of repair must not be interrupted.” Flurry looked at the figure confused. “Rite of…Repair?” She asked.
“Yes.” The mechanical being responded. “The machine has suffered much pain in past encounters that we must see to its needs as soon as possible.” “But, it’s made of metal. It can’t feel pain.” The young alicorn said.
“Aaaaaaaah, But, that is where you are wrong, little one. For the spirit that resides in this machine is in terrible pain, and must be appeased in the name of the Omnissiah.” “Omnissiah?” Flurry further asked. “What’s that?”
The figure knelt down to her height. “He is the embodiment, and bestower of knowledge and technology in the galaxy.” This only further intrigued Flurry’s curiosity, as she continued to watch the Rite of Repairs being conducted on the Knight, often asking more questions in regards of The Machine God, machine spirits, and their quest for knowledge, and ancient technologies.
-Back in the library-
The ponies continued to hear the tail that Roboute spun as he was approaching the conclusion as far as his resurrection, and the beginning of the Indomitus Crusade. By this time, Twilight had filled nearly a hundred sheets of paper, each containing vast amount s of knowledge as to the current state of the Imperium, from its legislation to its system of government, and so on. “Incredible,” Twilight spoke. “To think that out amongst the stars is a civilization far surpassing than our own.” “I know. To even think any of this is possible astounds me.” Shining added. The ponies then heard a slightly noticeable scuff come from the primarch’s mouth. “Advanced indeed.” Roboute uttered. “If anything, your kind is by far a better example than us.” The elements and dragon looked at one another.
“Begging your pardon Guilliman, But, what do you mean by that?” Rarity asked. “Yeah” Pinkie added, “You have all this cool technology and spaceships at your disposal, while we’re just getting out of the steam age.”
Several seconds had past when Guilliman stood from his seat, and approached a window, looking out into the courtyard. “Because unlike your empire, ours is one that has decayed from a once thriving innovating kingdom into a disgusting ignorant shell, plagued by superstition. To see the secular society my father set out to create reverted to a primitive bureaucracy. To see the fears of my father come true before my eyes is a sheer sign of our failure to the Imperium. Yet all is not lost. Salvation is not beyond us, and I intend on setting humanity back onto the right path, once we depart this world.”
His attention then turned to the royal siblings, and their friends. “But until we are able to do so, we must make do with what time we do have, for I fear that dark times lie ahead for this world.” “What do you mean?” Shining tilted in question.
It was there Guilliman turned to Twilight Sparkle. “I must speak to you and your co-rulers immediately. I have answered your questions as far as I’m concerned. Now, I respectfully ask you to take me to them.” The somewhat aggressive tone set off some bit of alarm in both shining, and spike as they readied themselves for a possible attack. But, both were halted by twilight, which saw in Roboute’s face a sense of urgency, as if this were a matter of life and death. One she was all too familiar with when she first moved to Ponyville and battled Nightmare Moon. “Well…before we left Canterlot, my former instructor, Princess Celestia did ask if it was all possible to invite you to a gathering of delegates in Canterlot. Perhaps there, you can inform us of this coming danger.”
Upon hearing this offer, Guilliman was conflicted a bit. Though he was not fond of attending Galas or parties, he also knew the urgency of the coming forces of Chaos, if they did continue to pursue, which he knew very well they had indeed. “Very well.” He replied. “I will attend this…Gala. But, if only your fellow rulers will hear me in private.” There was a moment of silence as the ponies huddled up, and began whispering amongst themselves. After a matter of minutes, they broke up, and turned their attention back to Guilliman. “It’s a deal.” Twilight proclaimed, raising her hoof towards the primarch. Guilliman too reached with his Hand of Dominion, and lightly grasped the hoof.
Once the two leaders shook, Roboute turned to Captain Acheran with orders to leave. “Have the Ultramarines second company ready to leave at dawn. Along with a small battalion of Imperial Guardsmen, and Tech-priests.” He commanded. The Primaris Captain saluted his Primarch as he departed with the task of carrying out the order. “Inform your princess of our departure at dawn. We will need to reach your capital post haste.” Twilight looked to Shining Armor, who was also confused as to what he meant by post haste. “But, the earliest train doesn’t leave until eight in the morning. How do you intend on arriving there at dawn?” The Ultramarine’s primarch looked back and smirked. “Quite simply, we fly there of course.”
Spike’s eyes widened as he began getting giddy with excitement. “I think he means we’re going to be flying in one of those spaceships.” He squeaked. Starlight Glimmer rolled her eyes as she smiled to hear her dragon so excited. “Spike, you are the master of deduction.” Starlight proclaimed sarcastically, as Twilight looked to spike the way she usually does when writing to Celestia. “ Spike take a letter.”
“Dear Princess Celestia,
Shining Armor and I have successfully have made contact with the one called Roboute Guilliman, and have inquired as to The Imperium of Man in which he claims to rule over. I must say he is unlike anyone I have ever met, and may just be as the girls say that he is. I have documented our conversation, with much information as to the structure of this government, and I can say that there some rather impressive aspects to it in regards to its technology, social structure, and so on. Though, he does seem rather eager, if not paranoid a bit, claiming that it was urgent for him to speak with you and the others. So, I have relayed your invitation to the Gala, seeing as he is a reasonable being, and poses no threat to us. But, on the condition that he is able to speak with you and the other alicorns in private. I suggest we at least hear him out before pressing on any further than we already have.
Your faithful friend,
Twilight Sparkle
P.S. Tell Cadence that Flurry’s having the time of her life amongst these aliens.”
With that stated, Spike rolled the message up, and blew on the material, engulfing it in the magical fire as it dissolved into smoke and dust, traveling towards the equestrian capital of Canterlot, to the very hooves of Princess Celestia herself.
The first glimpse of light graced itself upon the landed spacecraft of the Imperium of Man, as their engines ignited, and troops began boarding their designated craft. Roboute and the ponies boarded a designated StormRaven crafted, accompanied by Captains of each Astartes Chapter under Guilliman’s command, as well as an honor guard of Custodes. Twilight and company couldn’t believe themselves. To actually board a real-life spacecraft. Yet out of the whole group, none were more as excited to Twilight’s surprise was her own brother. She could see him getting all giddy as if he were a foal again.
“Shiny? You okay?” She asked. “Of course I am, Twiley. It’s just…” he moved closer to her ear. “We’re on a spaceship!” He whispered in excitement.
Despite her calm appearance, she too was just as excited to onboard a craft capable of space travel. Even more so once the ramps closed in, and the engines burst their thrusters as the ships took to the air, and ventured forth towards the capital of Canterlot.
-Canterlot, Throne room –
As the sun continued on its course through the skies above the land, Celestia continued reading over her pupil’s letter, while Luna and Cadence were overseeing finishing up the final preparations for the arrival of the supposed Lord Commander. Though she is glad to hear that this Guilliman had accepted her invitation, she could sense that there may be more to his visit than meets the eye. None the less, she herself was all but excited as well to meet a member of another empire outside of her world, the leader of one in that matter. It was in her deep thoughts that Luna and cadence approached Celestia.
“Sister, everything has been prepared as thou have asked for.” “Everything is all set to go, auntie.” Cadence assured.Celestia put aside the parchment and looked to her fellow alicorns. “Excellent. According to this, Twilight, and the others will be here shortly, about roughly…an hour, or so.” The two alicorns looked back in confusion. “An hour?” Luna asked. “Surely you jest.” “Yeah, the first train to here won’t arrive until later than that.” Cadence proclaimed. “I don’t think they will be traveling by train if what twilight wrote is true.” Celestia assured. “What do you mean?” The lunar alicorn asked.
Celestia once more presented the scroll to the two. “She wrote that these creatures have technology beyond our comprehension.” Luna let out a subtle scuff. “Surely they boast more than they mean. To get here in an hour, they would have to have wings. Yet there are no reports of these…Space marines having any.” She stated. “We shall see, Lulu.” Celestia teased. Her attention then turned to cadence. “As for Flurry, Twilight says she’s having a ball among them, and can’t wait to tell you all about them.” Cadence let out a slight chuckle. “Oh, flurry.” She uttered soothingly.
-An hour later –
The sun had risen higher as the ponies of Canterlot cleared the central avenue, all in order to clear a path for the arrival of the latest visitor to their kingdom. The guards escorted many a stallion, mare, and filly behind the wooden barricades as Celestia, Luna, cadence, and the delegates from all over Equestria waited at the gates of the palace for the arrival of the Imperial forces of man. The street had been cleared, with guards standing at the barricades, making sure no one could get through.
The vast crowd of ponies chattered and spoke among themselves the various rumors, and talks of the Space Marines. Among the delegates were, of course, some relatives of the elements of harmony, the parents being a majority. Things began to quiet down as Luna looked at her sister. “You see? Just as I…”
There was then a loud applause as the alicorns and delegates looked to see trotting down the avenue Twilight Sparkle, and company. They continued their path, waving, and acknowledging the bystanders. Once they had arrived to the gate, Twilight, Shining, and Flurry took their places next to the other alicorns, and the elements and spike to their spots with the other delegates, and relatives. This baffled the others a bit.
“Twilight, where are…” Before Celestia could finish her sentence, Twilight placed her hoof towards her mentor’s muzzle. “They’ll be here shortly.” She assured her fellow alicorn. With that spoken, they turned their gaze towards the city limits and began to hear the distant booming of a large force marching closer and closer. The ponies began to quiet down as they heard the loud rumble of footsteps draw near.
The first to be sighted was a familiar figure approach, a lavender pony with violet hair, and a turquoise stripe with a star as her cutie mark. It was none other than Starlight Glimmer, royal advisor to Princess Twilight Sparkle. The Princesses, delegates, and crowd looked in awe, though not initially at Starlight. No, for she was not alone. Striding alongside her was a large bipedal figure adorned in beautifully crafted blue armor, trimmed in gold, bearing the various symbols of its allegiance. They could see the creature had two appendages, which were indeed arms. One was rather bigger than the other. The larger arm had a peculiar cannon shaped object attached to it, and a chain connected to it, feeding into its backpack. The other arm was rather more proportioned, carrying a large flaming sword. This creature bore a handsome face, much like an old coin would be, bearing dutiful lines to his jaws. His brow and nose bore energy and triumph. He had blonde hair, and what appeared to be s simple olive branch, serving as his crown, much like the ancient kings of old. Above his head was a golden eagle figure, holding up a halo-like piece for all to see. It was then, Celestia looked to Twilight, who nodded, letting her know that yes…this was Roboute Guilliman.
Following behind this figure, were somewhat smaller figures, bearing similar armor as he did. Though, theirs were more identical to one another as opposed to their leader’s armor. They carried a variety of odd-looking weapons. Looking similar to crossbows, yet they weren’t at all. The ponies looked on, eyes a wide, jaws dropped as these beings marched along down the street. Though as similar as their armors were, they were all separated not only by their colors but by the ways they adorned themselves. These were, of course, the physical might and will of The Emperor made in flesh and Ceramite. These were the defenders of humanity, the Adeptus Astartes, These were the Space marines.
Though, they were not from the same chapter. No, each of the nine loyal chapters with their original legions' names and colors were present, as well as a few more not worthy successor chapters. For the most part, the blue, yellow, white, green, red, and black marines bore similar armor, with little decorations. While others were adorned with cloak like pieces, animal furs, and so on. Yet no matter how they dressed, they had their company ancients bare their banners, each marking their chapter’s symbol and colors. They were accompanied by various heavy machines and vehicles, such as dreadnaughts, and land raiders, as well as a few Razorbacks, and rhino tanks.
Of course, the space marines weren’t the only ones present. Following behind them were the forces of the imperial guard, and the Skitarii of the Adeptus Mechanicus, lead by Belisarius Cawl, who then took to Guilliman’s side, as well as the twelve company captains representing their chapters. The crowd whispered amongst themselves but grew silent as a massive shadow cast down on them. Their eyes widened in a mix of fear and excitement as a trio of Imperial knights trudged forward behind the Skitarii. The delegates and royal alicorns too were rocked by the sheer sight of the mighty forces present.
“By the moon…” Luna uttered. “How can any of this be possible?” Cadence looked to Flurry, who stood there and looked back at her mother. “Aren’t they amazing? We actually got to fly with them on their spaceship.” She boasted. “It was really cool, Cady.” Shining added. The other Delegates, such as Haakim, and Amira of Saddle Arabia took notice of the immense force. “Such giants…I have never seen anything like them.”Haakin stated. “Yes, I’d hate to face such a force in battle.” Amira proclaimed.
Once Starlight and Guilliman reached the royal alicorns, and delegates, the primarch raised The hand of Dominion above his head, and they all stopped. Not a single soldier, marine, or tech priest stepped out of place, all synchronized as part of the great machine of mankind. He lowered the large gauntlet as he approached Celestia alongside Starlight. “Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Princess Cadence, and delegates of Equestria, may I present to you Roboute Guilliman. Primarch of the Ultramarines, and their successor chapters, Lord Commander of the Imperium of Man, Avenging Son of the Emperor of Mankind, and First Lord of Ultramar.” The primarch looked upon the alicorns, who looked back. Celestia stepped forth towards Guilliman.
“We are greatly honored for you to come all this way, Lord Guilliman. I am Princess Celestia; I am Co-ruler of Equestria alongside my sister, Princess Luna.” Luna nodded at Guilliman. In Guilliman’s deepest thoughts, he felt a bit of sentiment, seeing a world having co-rulers. Reminding him much of Macragge was once like before the Imperium.
“You truly have a mighty force at your disposal, Roboute. One our kind has never seen before. But, there is a concern as to your intentions. As impressive as your forces are, and that we are thankful that you have helped bring an end to an already bloodied conflict, we know very little about you, aside from what my pupil twilight has written.” “You are wise as to be concerned, if not in the art of war.” Guilliman stated. “There is a great concern that I have come to speak to you about, the only reason why I have come here.” The ponies looked at one another, confused as to what the Ultramarines’ primarch meant by. “But, rest assured your highness, that neither I, nor my forces mean your subjects, and world any harm.”
Celestia looked at Roboute, neither breaking eye contact. She continued to gaze at Guilliman for what felt like forever until she sensed what he said was true. “If you have no ill intent towards my little ponies, then you and your forces are more than welcomed here. I will here you out in the near future. However, in the meantime, I would like to welcome you all to Canterlot.”
The ponies let out a loud cry of cheers, a sign Guilliman had anticipated, and hoped for. This further boosted his effort to ensure that the peace between his forces, and pony kind would be maintained, despite the viewings, and upbringing of many of the Astartes, guardsmen, and tech-priests from the greater Imperium beyond. None the less, Roboute had reached out towards Celestia’s hoof, as his metallic grasp wrapped gently around the princess’ appendage. The delegates and others began to approach the primarch, many of whom had questions. But, he was then escorted by the four Alicorns to the throne room of Celestia’s palace, along with Cawl, and the twelve captains for a more in-depth introduction, and hopefully on Guilliman’s part, warn them of the dark times yet to come.
The very halls of Canterlot bore witness to many momentous occasions in Equestria’s long history. But no moment was more historic, more profound than when Celestia, Luna, Twilight, and Cadence led the ancient lord and nine loyal captains of the Astartes chapters were brought into the castles main audience chamber. As the group reached towards the center of the chamber, the four alicorns stood before the thrones and taking their side were the elements and the sparkle family. It was here Roboute stepped forward towards the co-rulers.
“Now Lord Guilliman, Thou wish to speak to us, of grave matters?” Luna asked. “That I do.” Roboute retorted, nodding to a servo skull. The device hovered above the center of the group and began projecting downwards, displaying a map of the Milky Way Galaxy. The ponies gathered in closely to the projection. Twilight, most of all studied the projection with most awe. It was not as if she had never seen such a projection before. Though she was baffled as to how it was possible to create such a map without magic. Her thoughts were set aside as Celestia nudged her out of thought, as Guilliman uttered his words.
“What you see before is a map of the entire Imperium of Man, as it has stood for ten millennia after its birth. In it contains countless worlds and citizens. To the western portion of the galaxy, lies Segmentum Solar, there lies both the ancient home forge world of Mars and also Terra, the cradle of humanity. It is also where the Imperial Palace lies and in it…my father, The Emperor of Mankind.” The captains then lowered their heads simultaneously. The princesses took notice the sense of great respect these men have for this figure.
Upon observing the map, the youngest Alicorn noticed a tear in the galactic map. “Hey, …what’s this?” There was a long dreaded silence in the room. It was only broken when Guilliman continued his lecture. “That…is The Eye of Terror. Rightfully named because of the hellish realm it has given way to.” “Given way to?” Twilight asked. Roboute nodded “Yes, the realm of the ruinous powers. It is the only gateway for the dark forces that seek the galaxy’s destruction. This enemy is simply known to us as Chaos.”
“Did somebody say Chaos?” A disembodied voice called. The marines and ponies looked around. The ponies had a stern look on their faces. “Discord. Show yourself.” Celestia demanded sternly. Just then the Draconequus crept right behind her as if reality had bent to his will. This provoked the marines to ready their weapons and aim them at the creature. Discord looked down the barrels confused. “Was it something I said?” He asked.
Twilight and the others backed away alarmed by the change in atmosphere. “What’re you doing?!” Fluttershy cried. Guilliman readied his blade and pointed the tip at the unknown creature. “It is a daemon, my lord!” Captain Acheran stated. The lord commander did not immediately strike the creature. Instead, he began examining Discord, trying to get a feel of the chaotic being. He looked to the librarian Tigurius, who nodded him more assuring. To the surprise of the captains, Roboute Guilliman lowered his blade. The ponies were rather relieved. “My lord, what are you doing?” Beliel, Grand master of the Deathwing asked. “Be still Captain.” Roboute stated, “We have nothing to fear from this creature. He is merely an annoyance, rather than a threat.”Stated the Ultramarines Librarian.
This greatly insulted the Draconequus to a great deal. “WHAT?!! Me, an annoyance?!!...Well, maybe that’s true. BUT, NONE THE LESS?!!!” He then felt a hoof placed on his leg. Discord looked to see it belonged to Fluttershy, glaring at him in a way he knew all too familiar with. With a sigh, the spirit of Chaos stepped down and took backed away. “You, creature, are merely a child, compared to the likes of the Chaos gods.” The Librarian stated. “To them, your power is merely child’s play to the atrocities that true chaos inflicts upon the mind, body, and senses.”
“Chaos gods?” Luna asked. Tigurius ‘eyes began to glow as a flash of light engulfed all in the room, once it had faded, the ponies, and marines, as well as Discord, were brought into a projection of the warp. Twilight and the others began to look in wonder as Tigurius began to explain.
“What you see before is what is known as the immaterium, the Warp. It is a reality that parallels real space. This realm is the source of all psychic powers, or in your case Magic. It is also our means of intergalactic travel. Yet this realm has a dark, malevolent purpose in its existence. The Warp is the home realm of the four Chaos Gods, and their vile legions of daemonic servants, who seek the ruin of souls.”
The Librarian began to project images of the ruinous powers and their legions, the scenes depicted to the ponies were both frightening, and fascinating. The only ponies who stood stern were the five alicorns, Discord, and Pinkie. “Ooooooooh…freaky!” Pinkie proclaimed. “As I have said, there are four Gods of Chaos” Tigurius continued. “There is Khorne, The Blood God, who hungers for War, Battle, and Murder. He is the embodiment of mindless and absolute violence, destroying everyone either friend or foe. He sits upon a brass throne upon a mountain of skulls, seeking for the blood to flow ever more to him.” In a gulf of flame, a vision of Khorne appeared, seated on his Skull Throne with the echo of battle in the background.
“Contrary to Khorne, there is Tzeench, The changer of ways. The God of Change, Sorcery, Fate, and Hope. Of all the gods, he is the most disturbing and above all the most incomprehensible of them all. They say his crawls ever change, ever-shifting, ever plotting.” A vision of the ever changing Tzeench is cast, in his most common form. “Thirdly, there is Nurgle, The Plague Lord. The designated God of Death, Decay, and Disease. He is the abominable father of all physical corruption and morbidity. The inevitable entropic decline of all things is his “gifts” to the galaxy. His spilling guts produce lesser daemons known as nurglings.” The images began projecting Nurgle in his true form, a body bloated with corruption. The vision was almost so real, that everyone could smell the horrific stench he produced. He was covered from head to toe in boils on his green, leathery necrotic skin. And from his festering wounds, The Nurglings feasted on the sickly fluids. This made many of the ponies sick to their stomachs, especially Rarity.
“Ugh…I can’t look anymore. Please! Stops this!” The Fashionista cried out. “That’s disgusting,” Cadence admitted. “Hmmm…a bit over the top, I’d say.” Critiqued Discord. “it’s like a bad cart accident. It’s so horrible, but you can’t look away.” Shining stated, “I’d want to throw up right now. But, I’d think that’d be an honor to that sicko if anything.”
The vision then dissipated to a more seductive bright shade of pink. “Finally we have the Prince of Pleasures, Slaanesh. The youngest of the Chaos gods. “It” is the embodiment of Pleasure, Desire, and sensation. It can assume male, female, or both. It is said that this being is divinely beautiful;, and those who look upon it are deprived of their soul, and enter its services.” The last vision depicted Slaanesh, as the Eldar had viewed her since her birth. The ponies could see why others would follow her. Even cadence took notice of an eerily similarity she has to this creature. “Freaky….” She uttered.
As before, the vision faded. “Yet there is still one bit of grace form their existence, and that is that they are not a unified whole. The desire the same goal, total domination of all realms. Yet to share that power with one another is anathema to them. They will fight each other over the spoils. Causing great warp storms as they clash one another. And yet it is not unheard of that they band together when a threat is great enough. For you see…There is one they fear above else. One who has the power to subdue, and weaken them, if not destroy them. A man they would call Anathema…”
“My Father.” Roboute Added. One final projection was cast in front of the Equestrian residents, an image of a man in golden armor, with a flaming blade in hand. Celestia then realized that this man was the unquestioned ruler of humanity…The Emperor of Mankind. In another blinding flash of light, all were brought back to the safety of the hall of Canterlot castle.
The elements of Harmony, Alicorns, Dragon, and draconequus began to slowly regain their composure after experiencing such a vision, as Tigurius rested himself after using so much psychic energy. “Easy, now.” Roboute told the chief Librarian. Roboute then noticed Celestia approaching. “I see now, why you wished to speak so urgently to me. But tell me, Lord Guilliman. What will happen now?” The lord of Ultramar approached the oldest of the Alicorns and made eye contact with her as he spoke. “Due to our ships needing extensive repairs, we are unable to leave this world for the time being. The ships that remain functional have been ordered to seek aid. Before arriving here, we were attacked by the very powers you saw, and have sent their followers to find us. I fear it will not be long until they find us here.”
Everyone present grew concerned and downright afraid. “But, our presence here has gone unnoticed for the time being. An opportune time to prepare, and ready this world when the time comes.” A small smirk crept onto Celestia’s face. “Indeed.” “Princess,” Twilight asked. “Do you think it’s a good idea to let all of Equestria know of the existence of such powers?” “No”, she answered. “To tell now, would only cause panic. Besides, we still are at war on several fronts. Until we are united at last will it be the proper time.” “I agree,” Guilliman stated. “For now, we must remain silent. A great task lies ahead in the days to come. One, we shall aid you through however we can.”
“You mean…you wish to help us?” Luna asked. “Indeed, I do.” He started, thinking back to the hour in which he was resurrected, with the help of the Eldar, on Macragge. “As unorthodox as it is to aid a xenos race, such as yourselves, it seems only right that I should aid you in your darkest hour.” Raising the gauntlet Hand of Dominion, Guilliman opened his hand out towards Celestia.
Upon realizing what was happening, the princess of the day placed her hoof in the metallic grip as it lightly closed and the two shook. In that instant, an Alliance had been made, one that may very be somewhat abnormal to some, but necessary, and one that was not unheard of. “Thank you,” Celestia said. “Please…allow me to show you around my home, and Canterlot” “I would be honored, your highness.” Said Roboute. “Please, call me Celestia.” She retorted. “Very well, Celestia.” The group as a whole then proceeded down the long hallway, as Princess Celestia of Equestria began to Give Roboute Guilliman, Lord Commander of the Imperium a tour of her castle, grounds, and city.
-Elsewhere, beneath the Crystal Empire-
In the years recently passed, The Crystal Empire had revealed many secrets. However, not every one of those secrets has been uncovered. One such secret still remains hidden beneath, in the icy caverns that have gone untouched since time in memorial. Including a large black slab of rock, adorned in eerie emerald runes of an unknown language, with only one door which remained sealed for countless eons…until now.
The large slabs that were once shut began to slowly open, as the dust was blown off as the air on the other side of the doors burst free. Once the slabs slide into the wall in which they came. A moment of silence was heard. A silence which grew into the sounds of distorted chirping, and the sounds of metallic feet marching forward.
