When a deadly Cutie Pox is released in Manehatten. The Division is activated to preserve the Equestrian Government. Agent Shadow Dawn is sent into Manehatten to help find a cure and liberate it from the three hostile factions.
The story takes place in Manehatten where a mutated version of Cutie Pox known as Bit Poison has devastated the government of Equestria. The Strategic Homeland Division is activated to save what remains and preserve the government. They are sent to Manehatten to help liberate the city from three hostile factions. The Ravagers, The Followers, and the Wolf Private Army.
The main character is Shadow Dawn. A bat pony activated in the second wave. But she will work together with three other agents. Autumn Rush, Cloud Dancer, and Rain Rider. While trying to liberate the city. Shadow Dawn will also try to piece together what happened to the first wave of Division agents.
It was late November, the streets of Manehattan were busy as always. But today was busier than ever, why? Because today was Holy Friday. A national holiday, where retail stores sell products at half-off. Ponies waiting and camping overnight just to be the first ones to get the newest popular items. Only a couple of minutes before the doors opened. Just a few more seconds. The doors in shops opened across Manehattan. Ponies swarmed into the stores like a swarm of bees. Taking the cheapest but most beautiful objects before heading to the cash register. Bits filled the cash registers, they looked like it was going to explode. It was a time of happiness and joy. But one pony had other plans.
He had been planning this for months. Using the Cutie Pox virus, he modified it to be more contagious, reproduce more quickly, and be lethal. His goal, make sure mother nature survives by cutting down the pony population significantly. And today was the day he was going to release it onto Manehatten. Using bits contaminated with the virus. He traveled shop to shop across Manehatten financial district. Spreading the virus to every corner of the busy city.
After a few days since Holy Friday, the first wave of people started getting ill. Flu-like symptoms but most ponies ignored it. Thinking that the seasonal flu came early. All the while spreading the lethal virus. But when the cases of this ‘flu’ virus started to explode. Ponies went to the hospital to get medicine and even flu shots. Spreading the virus to medical ponies. But when the ponies started dying, panic spread. It was at this time that the ponies realized this wasn’t the flu. It was something much worse.
That’s when the Equestrian Disaster Management Agency and Equestrian Disease Control took action. They quarantined all of Manehatten to keep the virus from spreading. Train stations were shut down, the bridge was closed, and boats were forced to turn around. Martial law was established as resources were rationed. In a desperate attempt to control the virus, they decided to build a large quarantine zone in the middle of Manehatten. It became known as the Dark Zone or DZ. But the infection spiraled out of control and hospital rooms were filled to the max with dying patients. Soon, large graves we're built since the morgues were filled beyond capacity.
The police and Equestrian guard were stretched thin to control the looting and rioting. They tried multiple antivirals and vaccines, but nothing was working. That’s when they realized this was a homemade version of the Cutie Pox virus and that it was deliberately released on Holy Friday for maximum infectivity. EDMA then realized who could commit this bioterrorist attack. Dr. Science Book. Former EDC doctor turned environmental terrorist. His name became famous in law enforcement. He instigated a riot in the capital of Equestria. Canterlot.
But when the military and EDC raided his apartment. He wasn't there. Not a trace of the doctor could be found. Neither his family nor friends knew of his whereabouts. It was like he vanished into thin air. But what they did was find a manifesto which explained his reason for developing the virus. He wrote that.
"Nature kept the ponies population check. But with the help of antivirals and antibiotics. Ponies overcame nature's creation. So now they were bound to ruin nature. So I decided to give nature a helping hoof. By creating a killer virus to decrease the pony population. If most of the pony population dies off. Planet Earth is given a fighting chance. Now a virus decides if it's going to kill or spare the pony. That's what my virus is going to do. Decide who lives or dies. It's beautiful really. It's like a game of chance. You win, you survive. You lose, you die. It's that simple. Now my virus is also going to decide if I live or die. If I live, then I become a wanted terrorist that every pony wants to strangle. If I die, then I die. There's no changing that. If you manage to survive Bit Poison. Then nature has decided for you to live. The rest shouldn't and won't. Good luck. I'll see you in hell." - Dr. Science Book
After reading that manifesto. Most ponies considered Dr. Science Book dead. But some remained skeptical. But without the knowledge of the virus from the creator himself. The EDC and military have a huge issue on their hoof. The virus soon spread far out of ground zero. Infecting nearby kingdoms, cities, and towns. In Manehattan. Riots and crime became rampant as the police and Equestrian guard failed to control the chaos.
The number of police officers and Equestrian guard soldiers dwindled as they were either killed or deserted. The riots became too much for the police to handle. And soon, they lost control of their city. Ponies did anything for survival at this point. Committing crimes such as theft and murder. Ruthless factions grew in the city. All with different goals and backstories. From escaped convicts that destroy everything they touch. To radical followers to continue the goal of wiping out the pony race. And an armed P.M.C with the goal of setting a totalitarian government in the city. These factions waged war on the streets. Killing each other for resources and territory.
Seeing the gravity of the situation. Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, and her cabinet activated Directive 51 across Equestria. A signal was activated. Activating sleeper agents who have been trained for a situation like this. It was the last line of defense when all else fails. The Strategic Homeland Division was activated. Many agents had to leave behind their friends and family to save the city. The first wave was sent into Manehatten before they evacuated. Most agents were stationed in the Dark Zone. But when they call for the police and Equestrian Guard to leave the Dark Zone. The agents felt betrayed. Many were killed by the factions or the virus. Some managed to escape and haven’t been seen since. While others went rogue.
After the failure of the first wave and the evacuation of Manehatten. The second wave of agents was sent into the ruined city. Their goal. Liberate the city and investigate what happened to the first wave. It’s time to take back Manehatten. But with the threat of the factions and the disease lurking over them. It’s going to be tough.
Snow gently fell onto the empty streets of the usually busy city. It used to be a time of fun and enjoyment around Hearths Warming Eve. Foals and colts used to play around the snow as carolers sang their angelic songs. But now the streets were filled with disease and danger. Houses and apartment windows boarded up with wooden planks to prevent the danger from outside getting in. Overturned taxi-carts filled the streets as pillars of smoke arose from the horizon from burning buildings.
Shadow Dawn walked down the barren street, remembering a time when these very streets were filled with ponies. Ponies peeking through their barricaded windows giving her nasty glares thinking she was another looter. It didn’t also help that she was a bat-pony, usually thought of as being “untrustful” and “scary”. Shadow Dawn sighed, her breath became apparent in the freezing air.
She continued walking down the street, passing by several overturned taxi-carts, and an abandoned medical tent. Soon, she made it to her house. Opening her door, she was immediately hugged by her two older siblings. Echo Burst and Moonlight.
“Guys, you're hugging me too tightly!” She gasped for air before they compiled and released their grasp.
“Sorry about that Dawn. We were worried sick about you. You know it’s dangerous to go out there alone. Especially with the virus and the looters rampaging through the streets.”
Sorry Echo Burst, but I just went to get some supplies.” She took off her saddlebag and placed some canned food and water bottles on the counter beside her.
“Look Dawn. We appreciate you getting some supplies for us, but. But next time we have to go together. We don’t want to lose you” Moonlight said.
“Don’t worry about Moonlight." Dawn said confidently.
“But…” Moonlight was quickly interrupted by Dawn before she could finish her sentence.
“Plus. If we all go out there. Our house is vulnerable to looters and thieves. So some pony has to hold down the fort while I’m out there” Moonlight still had the look of worry on her face. Dawn sighed.
“Look. I understand your concern sis. But trust, I know what I’m doing. I mapped out places that are dangerous and where the supply drops are. So that I can avoid the danger and get the supplies. Look, it makes you feel better. You can come with me. Echo Burst can stay here."
“HEY! Why do I have to stay!” Echo Burst clearly frustrated.
“Come on Echo Burst. Moonlight has to come with me or she’ll continue to worry about me.” Echo Burst sighed.
“Fine. You two can go. I’ll stay and hold down the fort” Dawn eyes glowed like stars in the night sky. She hugged her older brother tightly for a few seconds and whispered something in his ear.
“Thank you Echo Burst."
“No problem. But please let go. I can’t breathe.” Dawn let go of Echo Burst’s request. She looked back at Moonlight. Clearly smiling and longer worried. But suddenly, Moonlight’s stomach began to rumble.
“Sorry about that. I’m just really hungry now.”
“Don’t worry Moonlight. You two are clearly starving, so go eat.” Dawn said to her two older siblings.
“What about you Dawn? Aren’t you hungry?” Echo Burst said to Moonlight
“No. I’ll be fine. I’ll be upstairs in my room. I gotta do some stuff.”
“Like reading that Daring Do book.” Echo Burst replied. Dawn giggled at the comment as she went upstairs to her room.
Once she was in her room. She layed on top of her bed and started to read a Daring Do Book. Pulling out a bookmark, she flipped to the page where she left off. But before she could read a single word. She heard a beeping noise coming from her wrist. Checking her wrist, her watch turned a glowing orange with a beeping noise. Immediately, she sat up.
“Oh no” She was starting to hyperventilate at the current situation.
“I knew the situation was bad, but for this to be activated” Dawn sighed before going to her closet. In the very back of the closet was a black briefcase with a phoenix painted in orange. She opened and grabbed an earpiece. All the while grabbing a M1A assault rifle and inserting a magazine in the said rifle. Then a voice came over her earpiece.
“Agent Shadow Dawn. Do you copy?”
“This is agent Shadow Dawn. Who is this?”
“My name is agent Star Trail. I am the acting Division commander for Manehatten. Currently, we’re at the Celestia Post Office. It's our base of operations' ' The sudden noises of gunshots coming from outside could be heard from the earpiece.
“SHIT! Every pony, we’re under attack! Defend the base. Agent Dawn, we need you at the Celestia Post Office immediately. Sending you the coordinates now!
“Thanks, agent Trail. I’ll see you soon.”
When she turned around, she saw her perplexed older sister standing in the doorway. Shadow Dawn looked back at her older sister for an uncomfortable few seconds.
“Dawn? Why do you have an earpiece? Where did you get that gun! She started to tear up in her eyes. Absolutely breaking Dawn's heart. Dawn was thinking of telling her siblings about her being an agent. But Dawn was told to not tell any pony about her being an agent. Due to it being very confidential.
“Look Moonlight, let me explain.” Before she could explain. She heard her older brother come up the stairs wondering where Moonlight was. Before stopping at the doorway to see Shadow Dawn looking like a soldier of war. With the same perplexed face as Moonlight had for a few seconds. Dawn sighed.
“Moonlight. Echo Burst. Can you come into my room so that I can explain a few things?” They nodded before sitting next to her on her bed. Moonlight was still crying and Echo Burst was trying to comfort her. Shadow Dawn sat in a nearby chair, ready to explain the situation. But when she tried to talk. She couldn’t get a word out before stopping. Dawn couldn’t find the words to explain this situation. But she took a deep breath and exhaled. Dawn tried again to explain the situation she’s in.
“I’m part of an organization that has been activated during a catastrophic event like this. Activated as a last resort when all else fails. I’m part of that organization. I’ve been meaning to tell you but I couldn't for confidential reasons. And now I have to go to meet my fellow agents at the Celestia Post Office in downtown Manehatten. I’m so sorry I have to go” Tears were forming in Dawn’s eyes. Dripping down her face like a river. Wiping away her tears with her hoof. She continued talking.
“But I have a duty to follow. Please forgive me, Moonlight and Echo Burst." She started crying again. But suddenly, she was grabbed by her two siblings. Tightly hugging her. Then, they both whispered something in her ear.
“Be safe out there Dawn” Moonlight said to her sister in her ear.
“Goodluck. We love you” Echo Burst replied to her other ear. Shadow Dawn hugged them back before they released each other. Dawn got out the front door and looked back at her two older siblings.
“I’ll be back soon. I promise.” That was the last thing Dawn said to her older siblings. Now walking down a snowy street. Leaving everything she loved behind. Her goal is to now save what remains. Starting by heading towards the Celestia Post Office building. Which was under siege by the Ravagers.
Shadow Dawn ran through the snow-covered streets. Rushing towards the Celestia Post Office which was now under siege. She ran through burned taxi carts, concrete barricades, and an EDMA medical tent. As she kept running towards the post office. Her mind became cluttered with memories of her and her two older siblings. She tried to shake the memories out of her head. But those memories stuck with her like an insect on a spider's web. Her feelings were mixed. She felt like crying but she also felt hopeful. Hopeful that one day she could see her two older siblings again. Those very memories turned into memories of them having fun and bonding together as a family.
But the sound of a series of gunshots cleared those memories. Looking at her watch, it showed a map of the city. She pinpointed the post office which was relatively close. She prepared herself and pulled out her M1A assault rifle. Turning a corner, there it was. The Celestia Post Office. A huge concrete building now tarnished with bullet holes and graffiti. On the front of the building was a huge blue and white banner with the EDMA logo slapped on the front. Taking cover behind an abandoned chariot. Tapping her watch, it sent out a pulse that highlighted several hostiles glowing a bright orange.
She counted eight hostiles. Six of them holding submachine guns, one with a shotgun, and the leader with a light machine gun. The leader was wearing a prison jumpsuit with a bulletproof vest and an orange bandana around his head. Holding in his right hoof was a megaphone, Shadow Dawn listened carefully to what the leader had to say.
“The fact is that every one of you pigs is going to be killed at the end of the day. Just surrender now and get it over with. AND I MEAN RIGHT FUCKING NOW!” He screamed into the megaphone. His fellow goons cheering him on.
“YOU HAVE ONE MINUTE TO SURRENDER OR WE WILL STORM IN THERE! KILLING EVERY ONE OF YOU. Just like with your guards outside” The sound of his goons cheering him on was heard again by Shadow Dawn. She had to act quickly before the remaining ponies were killed by the criminals. She aimed her M1A at one of the criminals' heads. She squeezed the trigger and a loud gunshot rang through the air. One of the criminals fell down as he was killed.
“Over there!” One of them yelled as a barrage of bullets suppressed Shadow Dawn. Peeking out, she fired again and another criminal was shot in the chest.
“Cover me! I’m going in!” One of them yelled as he rushed towards Shadow Dawn’s position with his shotgun. Blasting it through the air. Shadow Dawn peeked out again and shot the rushing criminal. Killing him instantly.
“Come on! Just kill her already! Are we Ravagers or not!” The leader screamed.
“Hey, catch!” One of them yelled as he threw a grenade that landed perfectly next to Shadow Dawn. She jumped out of the way as the bomb went off. She ran towards a nearby concrete barrier and shot the grenadier. Then when the sound of gunshots coming from the post office could be heard. It was the Equestrian royal guard and several Division agents providing backup. All coming out from the entrance and running down the stairs. One of the agents took cover behind a chariot as another suppressed two Ravagers hiding behind a concrete barricade.
“Seeker mine out!” One of them yelled. A small black and orange ball rolled towards the two Ravagers and exploded. Killing both of them. Leaving a small dust cloud in its wake.
“Agent Dawn! You’re free to move up!” A fellow agent screamed. Shadow Dawn ran towards another concrete barrier as she shot another Ravager which was hiding behind it.
“Alright, that's it. I’m gonna waste you!” The leader screamed as he pulled the trigger. Shooting his lmg recklessly into the street. Killing two royal guards that we’re out in the open. Their bodies fell hard on the pavement. Another royal guard was shot in the leg but was pulled to safety by two other royal guards.
The barrage of bullets pinned Shadow Dawn behind the concrete barricade. She couldn’t get a shot out towards the leader without herself getting shot.
“This is Agent Dawn! I’m pinned!
“Don’t worry Agent Dawn. I got a plan. You ready sis?”
“I’m ready brother.” Shadow Dawn could see a blue pegasus with a dark blue mane running towards a concrete barrier. The leader took notice of that and focused his attention on the pegasus. All the while a cyan pegasus with a teal mane ran behind the leader. With his ACR SS rifle, he shot a red box on the leader’s back. The box exploded as the leader panicked. Dropping his lmg onto the ground, this was the perfect chance to take him down.
Shadow Dawn pulled the trigger and shot the leader in his chest. It took a couple of shots due to him wearing a kevlar bulletproof vest. But soon the bullets penetrated his body. The bullets severely damaged his internal organs and flesh. The leader dropped onto the hard pavement, lifeless and without a pulse. A wave of cheering and clapping was heard from the royal guard soldiers. Glad to live another day in the ruined city. Shadow Dawn smiled as the blue pegasus flew towards her.
“Agent Shadow Dawn. It’s a pleasure to meet you. My name is agent Cloud Dancer and that is my twin brother. Agent Rain Rider” Instantly when she saw the blue pegasus. Something caught her attention like a black sheep in a herd of white sheep. Her eyes. One orange, one lime green.
“Uh, you ok Agent Dawn?”
“Your eyes”
“My eyes?” It suddenly came to agent Dancer like a bolt of lightning
“Oh, my eyes! You looking at my eyes aren’t you. Well I have heterochromia. It basically gives me two different eye colors. One orange, one lime green”
“Oh sorry. I didn’t mean to be rude” Agent Dawn said embarrassingly
“It’s ok agent Dawn. No harm done” Agent Dawn smiled at the comment. But was quickly reminded of how she had to meet agent Star Trail.
“I was told by Agent Trail to meet her here. Where is she?” Shadow Dawn asked the two agents in front of her.
“Oh. Agent Trail. She’s inside taking care of the wounded. Along with agent Autumn Rush,” Cloud Dancer replied to the bat ponies question.
“Thank you, Agent Dancer.” Shadow Dawn walked towards the entrance of the post office. Walking past dead royal guards and Ravagers. Making her into the post office. Bright UV Rays filled the entrance of the post office. Killing off any germs to prevent contamination. Especially killing off Bit Poison. Shadow Dawn walked past the UV ray room and into the main building. Innocent ponies and royal guards were everywhere. Some we’re lined up for medical care or for rations. While others were relaxing or sleeping on their sleeping bags. Shadow Dawn entered the main office where a purple unicorn with a white mane was talking to a royal guard.
“Oh. Agent Dawn. It’s nice to meet you. I’m agent Trail. Acting division commander for Manehatten. Welcome to the base of operations. I’m just glad you arrived before those Ravagers made their way in here.”
“It’s my duty to protect the innocent and preserve the government. It’s all our duty honestly.” Star Trail chuckled before putting her hoof on Shadow Dawn’s shoulder.
“You're damn right it is agent Dawn. Anyways since you’re here. I’ll brief you on the situation. The city as you know has been carved by three different factions. You already met one of them. The Ravagers”
“Ravagers?”
“I’ll let agent Rush explain. Where is agent Rush anyway?” As soon as agent Trail said that. An orange pony with a golden mane walked through the door.
“Speak of the devil agent Rush. Where were you?”
“I was tending to the wounded soldiers before one of the guards told me you wanted to see me.”
“Yes, that's correct. This is agent Dawn. She was activated in the second wave. And she just arrived in time to save us from the Ravagers. Speaking of which. Can you explain the three hostile factions controlling the city agent Rush”
“Fine. Basically agent Dawn. We have three hostile factions controlling the city as we speak. The first one and the ones you just met are the Ravagers. Escaped convicts and gang members who have united under one banner. Their goal is to hoard and destroy supplies in revenge for leaving them behind in the prison. Next are the Followers. Made up of quarantine survivors from the dark zone. Led by Natural Cure who wants to continue Dr. Science Book goal of wiping out the pony race”
“So basically crazies.” Shadow Dawn said amusingly. Both agent Trail and agent Rush chuckled at the comment.
“Yeah, basically that. Finally is the Wolf Private Army or W.P.A. A P.M.C who wants to set up a totalitarian rule over Manehatten. Their leader is Lt. Colonel Golden Shield. They are highly organized and disciplined”
“So convicts, crazies, and a P.M.C. Great” Shadow Dawn realized this was going to be tough. But from here on out, it was only gonna get tougher for her.
The door swung open revealing a royal guard with several papers in his hand. His breath was heavy as he looked like he had just run a marathon. He struggled to get his first words due to being out of breath. But he took a deep breath and exhaled. Bringing fresh air into his lungs.
“Agent Trail. We got the location of doctor Candle Glow. She’s being held at the Manehatten Stadium Hospital. Along with several other doctors and nurses.” Agent Trail took the papers from the pony's hoof and flipped through them. After reading them, she looked down on the ground in frustration but kept her cool. She placed the papers on the table before telling the soldier to leave the room. He nodded his head and closed the wooden door.
“Um. Sorry but who is Doctor Candle Glow?” Shadow Dawn asked the agent before her.
“Doctor Candle Glow is one of the best doctors in Manehatten. She is probably our best bet to find a cure or vaccine for the virus. Without her, we could have months or years without a vaccine. But I hope with her on our side. The process will be quicker. Not that it's going to be easy but you gotta work with what you got.” Agent Trail replied
“Great! Let’s go get her then. Where is she currently located?.”
“She’s being held hostage at the Manehatten Stadium Hospital. During the outbreak, EDMA used the place to care for the sick. Before it was abandoned and every pony in there either died or got shot. We have several reports that the Followers are trying to force Doctor Candle Glow into giving them information on the virus. So that they can make a more deadly strain to wipe us out completely.”
“Well ain’t that just great.” Shadow Dawn replied sarcastically.
“I know, it’s tough. But without her, we could lose all hope for a vaccine or cure. But there is also something else. One of their lieutenants named the Savage is there. Looks like he’s the one in charge of looking after the doctor. So your goal is to eliminate the Follower threat, neutralize the Savage, and rescue Doctor Candle Glow and her team.”
“Alright then. Sounds like a plan. When are we heading out?” Shadow Dawn grabbed her gun.
“We’re heading out soon. You’re going to be with Agent Dancer and Agent Rider. You three make a great team.” Shadow Dawn blushed at the comment. Even though she just met them. She had this feeling inside her heart that told them they’re going to be a good squad.
“What about Agent Rush?” The orange earth pony looked up at the bat pony with shock.
“Hey! You three do the action. I pass the information to you three. You got that!”
“Copy that agent Rush.” Although the reaction he made was rude and loud. Agent Dawn still wanted to respect him. She didn’t want to start a fight with another fellow Division agent who had the same goals as her. Meanwhile, agent Trail just rolled her eyes in annoyance.
“Agent Dawn. Let’s leave Agent Rush to look over the papers and gather information ok.” They soon walked out the door as agent Rush continued looking through the papers. Agent Trail sighed in annoyance. Clearly not happy with how agent Rush reacted.
“I’ll talk to Agent Rush later about how he reacted. Right now you can go talk to Agent Dancer and Agent Rider. We’re still making plans to rescue doctor Candle Glow and her staff. With that agent trail walked away. Leaving Shadow Dawn to go find the agent twins. Which she found in a few minutes in the gun range. Shooting their guns for target practice. The sound of the guns blasting through the room rang like a bell. Agent Dancer looked over her shoulder to see the bat pony agent standing there.
“Oh hey, agent Dawn. How are you doing?” Her dark blue eyes filled with glee and cheer. They shone like bright stars in the dark night sky.
“I’m doing good agent Dancer. How about you and agent Rider?”
“We’re doing good. We’re just doing some target practice right now. Right, brother?”
“Yeah. Hey, we appreciate you helping us out earlier. Without you, who knows what would’ve happened if those Ravagers made it in.” Again, Shadow Dawn blushed at the comment. Making her feel like a hero.
“Thanks. Just a quick question if you don’t mind me asking?”
“What is agent Dawn?” Agent Dancer replies to the bat pony. Curious at what question she was going to say out of her mouth.
“How did you two become agents?”
“Oh, that’s simple. You see, our dad was a military veteran and we wanted to be like him. So we signed up with the royal guard. Soon, this strange pony wearing a suit approached us. He said he was impressed by our actions in the royal guard and asked us if he wanted to join another agency. We said yes and here we are today. How about you agent Dawn?”
Shadow Dawn froze when she heard that question. Standing there like a statue in a museum. Memories of Shadow Dawn’s childhood ran through her mind. She remembered what happened to her father. Small tears formed from her eyes and rolled down her cheek. Both agents took notice of this. Agent Dancer’s cheerful look was now replaced with a worried expression. Clearly seeing something troubling in the bat ponies bright yellow eyes.
“You ok?” Shadow Dawn wiped away the tears with her hoof.
“Yeah it’s my past is unpleasant and lost a family member in my family”
‘Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t know”
“It’s ok Agent Dancer. No need to worry” A bright smile grew across Shadow Dawn’s face but it didn’t make agent Dancer or agent Rider feel better. Suddenly, the voice of agent Trail came from the PA system.
“Agents Cloud Dancer, Rain Rider, and Shadow Dawn. Please report to the main office for the mission briefing. Again, agents Cloud Dancer, Rain Rider, and Shadow Dawn. Please report to the main office for the mission briefing”
Agent Rain Rider chuckled. “Well sis, looks like we got another mission on our hooves. You ready”
“Sure am brother!”
“Great! How about you agent Dawn?”
“More ready than ever I guess”
“Perfect, let’s go to the briefing." The trio of agents ran off to the main office. Ready for their next mission at Manehatten Stadium Hospital
The three agents ran through the huge corridor. Passing innocent ponies who were staying at the post office for refuge. And the remaining Equastrian royal guard in the war-torn city. Using the post office as their base of operations. Already, Agent Trail was waiting outside her door impatiently along with four Equastrian soldiers with Police M4’s over their shoulders. Ready for their next mission. Their blood pumping throughout their body.
“Where are those three?” Agent Trail said quietly. Clearly annoyed at how long the three agents she called through the PA system we’re taking their sweet ass time. That’s when the three agents finally reached her. Out of breath, their lungs demanding more oxygen, and sweat rolling down their faces like tears.
“Sorry agent Trail. We were at the shooting range when we heard your message. We got here as quickly as we could.” Agent Dancer said while still breathing heavily. Agent Trail sighed in annoyance but kept her cool.
“Ok, now that you three are here. I’ll explain the mission. If you don’t mind coming in this room first.” The door opened and all four agents walked into the room. Leaving the four royal soldiers outside the door. Already, agent Rush was waiting inside. There were blueprints for the stadium and documents scattered across the wooden table. He noticed the four agents walking into the room.
“Finally you three got here.” Agent Trail looked at the orange earth pony in frustration. She was not happy with his behavior or attitude. But she kept her compassion and took several deep breaths. Helping her calm down.
“Alright, here’s the plan. Right now, Dr. Candle Glow is being held hostage inside the stadium by the Followers. Led by a lieutenant named the Savage. We need to rescue Dr. Candle Glow and her team while trying to neutralize the Savage. The only way in is through the front. But it’s protected by a metal gate. Don’t worry, we got breaching charges ready to punch a hole in that gate. We believe she’s being held on the 5th floor in the stadium. Be careful though, some parts of that floor are heavily contaminated with Bit Poison. Once you have secured dr. Candle Glow and her team. Alpha team will enter through the front while Bravo team will enter through the roof. Look, I know it’s not an easy task. But let’s be honest here. It’s only going to get harder from here. And with that out of the way. Are you ready agents?”
“More than ever agent Trail. What about you sis?”
“Same with you bro. I’m ready for everything! What about you agent Dawn?”
“I think more ready than both of you combined,” agent Dawn said confidently. This got a chuckle from agent Dancer. Which made the bat pony agent smile. But behind that smile was worry. She was always told, time and time again. Do not let your emotions get the better of you. It’ll make you think irrationally and recklessly. Possibly endangering your and other ponies' lives. But no matter how many times agent Dawn shook that feeling off. It kept coming back like an unwanted guest.
“Alright, you three. Gather your gear. You’ll be leaving in five minutes”
The three agents walked outside the door. Waving bye to agent Trail. Although she smiles back at the three agents. She secretly hoped that those three agents would come back in one piece. Walking outside onto the concrete steps. The fresh, winter, crisp air filled her nostrils. Giving her a sense of relief from all her worries. The bright sun shone down upon the agents and soldiers. It was like a beam of hope shining down. The light at the end of the tunnel. That the darkness will fall and the light will return.
The three agents along with the four royal soldiers walked towards the stadium. Snow-covered the streets like a soft, white blanket. While they were walking. They passed by some innocent ponies who were shivering in the cold. Even though they were wearing all types of winter clothing. It didn’t protect them from the bitter cold. As they kept walking, in the back of agent Dawn’s mind was worry. She was worried about her two siblings. Worried that they would get hurt and she would never see them again. Fearing that her saying goodbye was the last thing she said to them.
“Hey, agent Dawn. You ok?” Agent Dancer said with concern. It caught agent Dawn’s attention.
“I’m ok agent Dancer” Clearly lying about her situation inside her head.
“No, you're not ok. Something is clearly bothering you. You can tell if you want”
“Alright, I guess. But you gotta keep it a secret. Please”
“Your secret is safe with me” A smile grew across agent Dawn’s face.
“Well-” But as soon as agent Dawn tried to tell agent Dancer of her situation. But was interrupted by agent Rider.
“We’re here.” Agent Dawn looked up at the tall stadium. The stadium roof looked like it was above the clouds. While a medical banner in the front waved in the cold wind. On the ground we’re several dead Equestrian royal soldiers. Their crimson blood stains the cold, dead, concrete. Several EDMA crates could be seen in the front of the building. Several dividers with an EDMA banner led towards the entrance of the stadium.
Then, a surge of memories rushed to her head like a brain freeze. She remembered how her parents used to take her to the stadium to watch games. She tried to block these memories with all her mite. But they didn’t want to leave, they lingered in her brain. These memories unlocked a wave of new memories. One that had her parents involved, before the accident.
“Agent Dawn, you ok?” asked agent Dancer.
“Yeah. I’m fine” the memories went away as soon as one of the royal soldiers yelled something at the three agents.
“Alright, I'll place the breaching charges. You three stay back ok.” Said one of the royal soldiers to the three division agents. The agents stood back as the soldier placed the breaching charges onto the metal gate. A beeping noise could be heard from the breaching charge which got faster every second.
“Clear!” The breaching charge exploded. Shrapnel flew through the air but none of the division agents nor the soldiers were injured. Black smoke filled the entrance due to the explosion but soon disappeared.
“Alright! GO GO GO!” The three division agents rushed into the building while the soldiers stayed outside. Protecting the entrance from any hostels. The three agents took cover behind some flipped hospital beds. Just as a couple of Followers armed with AK-M assault rifles and one with a MP5 submachine gun.
“WHAT WAS THAT!”
“SEARCH THE AREA. WE GOT INTRUDERS!”
“Agent Dawn, pulse now!” whispered agent Dancer in agent Dawn’s earpiece. Pressing her orange watch. An orange pulse highlighted the enemies. Who were searching the floor for the unwelcomed division agents.
“On my mark. 3, 2, 1. Now!” Agent Rider screamed. All three rose up from their cover and began shooting the surprised Followers. Killing two of them while the others ducked in cover.
“FUCK THE DIVISION!” One of them screamed as he began shooting agent Rider’s position. Agent Dancer took this opportunity and shot the Follower in the head. Another one was rushing towards agent Dancer’s position. Agent Dawn shot the Follower several times in the chest.
“SHIT, FOLLOWER DOWN!”
“CHEM GRENADE OUT!” A grenade was thrown through the air toward agent Dawn’s position. Spreading a noxious yellow cloud as soon as it shattered on the ground. Agent Dawn moved too late and got some of the fumes inside her lungs. She started coughing and wheezing. Agent Rider shot the thrower dead. While agent Dawn shot the last Follower in the room. Agent Dancer ran towards the bat pony, clearly concerned.
“You ok agent Dawn?”
“Yeah, I am. But what the hell was that!” agent Rider took a closer inspection of where the grenade landed. Wearing his gas mask to protect himself.
“Looks like the Followers created some type of toxic gas that they put into their grenades”
“You don’t say,” agent Dawn said sarcastically
“I’ll alert agent Trail about the gas when you go back to the base. But right now, we got a mission to finish” agent Dawn stood up and shook her head. Her face burned with determination like a wildfire. The three agents made their way towards the escalator, which was turned off. Halfway up the metal escalators were two Followers who came out of the blue. Agent Dawn shot the first Follower whose body fell down the flight of stairs.
“SHIT!” The other Follower ran away as the three agents made their way to the second floor. They soon passed by even more metal barricades, abandoned supply crates, and medical equipment that was left behind.
“Hey. If you three can patch me into the CCTV footage. I might get the location of Dr. Candle Glow and her team. You got that”
“Read you loud and clear agent Trail” Agent Dancer said optimistically
“Good. Now according to the blueprints. Your three are relatively close to the security room” Already they were passing by some UV rays which were to kill Bit Poison. But before they can enter the security room. They could hear a voice coming from the room.
“The Savage. We got Division agents inside the building!”
“Then kill them! Any pony who stands in our way will be eradicated. Do you understand!”
“Yes si-” But the voice was cut off as a barrage of bullets penetrated his body. Tearing apart his internal organs and flesh. His body dropped towards the ground as agent Rider ran towards the keyboard. Make sure to patch agent Trail into the CCTV footage.
“Alright, you’re in agent Trail.”
“Good work agents. I see Dr. Candle Glow. She’s still on the 5th floor. Where all the restaurants are. You're going to make your way through the court. Which was used as the main field hospital during the outbreak. I also see a lot of hostiles and they are expecting you. So neutralize any hostiles and keep going to the 5th floor.”
“Copy that agent Trail.” replied agent Rider. The three agents ran towards the security room exit, knowing that time was running out. Opening the double doors revealed an uphill tunnel leading to the court. The three agents entered the court. The center of the stadium was huge. It looked like it could fit an entire town’s population into it. Once used for ponies to watch sports. It was now used as an abandoned field hospital under hostile faction control. The court itself was filled to the max with medical beds, supply crates, IV stands, and EDMA posters. Already, there we’re hostels patrolling the court. The three agents took cover behind the medical beds. Ready to strike. Agent Dancer was the first one to fire her gun. Killing a Follower instantly with a bullet to the head.
“THERE SHE IS”! The Followers scattered, taking cover behind the medical beds. But agent Dawn shot a Follower in the chest several times as he dashed towards cover.
“WE’RE DOING THIS FOR THE GREATER GOOD!”
Agent Rider shot a Follower who was suppressing his sister. Killing him instantly. When the agents thought they were done. More Followers ran into the stadium and jumped down onto the court.
“More of them, you gotta be kidding me!” agent Rider yelled in frustration.
“YOU’RE GASMASK WON’T PROTECT YOU FROM THIS!”
Knowing what was going to happen. Agent Dawn shot the Follower who dropped his grenade. Releasing the noxious fumes. The Follower choked on his creation, his lungs burning with the noxious fumes. He dropped dead onto the ground shortly after.
“Turret out!” yelled agent Rider. Throwing his turret on a nearby medical tent. The turret launched a wave of bullets at two Followers. Killing one while the other shot the turret multiple times. Destroying it.
“My turret's down!”
“Alright, I’m gonna move up. Cover me!”
“Copy that agent Dawn” yelled agent Dancer who proceeded to suppress the Follower who destroyed the turret. Agent Dawn moved past the medical equipment like a speeding bullet. Shooting the Follower several times once she got into the right position.
“GIVE ME A HUG!” While agent Dawn moved up to kill the Follower. She didn’t realize that another one was rushing towards with a bomb around his chest. Screaming like a banshee, he rushed at her. Ready to turn her into dust. Agent Dawn realized that the suicide bomber was closing in. She rolled forward as soon as the bomb went off around his chest. Blowing up the suicide bomber into dust and bloody chunks of flesh. Agent Dawn got injured from the blast, but nothing major. Agent Dancer ran towards her as agent Rider suppressed two Followers.
“You ok?”
“Yeah, I’m fine. These Followers are crazy” agent Dawn grabbed agent Dancer’s hoof. Helping her stand on her hooves.
“Agent Dancer. I need a seeker mine deployed at the two Followers taking cover behind that medical bed” agent Rider asked his sister
“Copy that” agent Dancer deployed said seeker mine that rolled its way towards the Followers. Blowing them up and shattering their bones like glass.
“Looks like that’s all of them so far. So let’s keep moving towards the 5th floor” said agent Rider. The three agents ran through an exit that led towards an elevator. Once all three agent’s we’re in the elevator. Agent Dawn pressed a button that took the elevator up to the 5th floor. The three agent’s took a small break in the elevator. Though this break was short-lived as the elevator reached the 5th floor. Opening the doors revealed numerous medical equipment and dry erase boards.
“Agent Trail, this is agent Dawn. We are currently on the 5th floor.
“Copy that, doctor Candle Glow should be nearby”
The agent’s ran towards the food court and took cover behind a barrier. There was a medium sized gap between the wall and the food court. And on the opposite side was doctor Candle Glow and her team. Being held hostage by a group of Followers.
“Look, I have Division breathing down my neck. What do you want me to do exactly!”
“Let me go, you crazies!”
“Shut the fuck up bitch before I put a bullet in your head!” The three agent’s knew exactly where this was going. The three agent’s popped up above the wall and began shooting. Gunning down the Followers in seconds.
“All hostels are neutralized!” agent Rider yelled out. The three agent’s ran through the double doors that led towards the food court. The agent’s checked the doctor and her team for any injuries or weapons.
“This is agent Dancer. Doctor Candle Glow and her team are secured. No casualties “Great work agent’s. Now neutralize the Sava-” agent Trail’s voice was cut off by a royal soldier.
“WE NEED SUPPORT ON THE ROOF NOW! WE GOT A FOLLOWER THAT’S PINNING US DOWN! TAKE OUT THAT GUNNER!
“Shit, that must be the Savage. Agents, we need to take him out before Bravo team lands. Alpha team will escort dr. Candle Glow and her team back to base”
“Copy that agent Trail. Brother, agent Dawn. We have to go up to the roof”
“Alright. Doctor Candle Glow. Stay here with your team and don’t move. We will tell when the roof is secure. But right, find cover and don’t make a sound. You got that?” asked the bat pony to the doctor.
“Yes” doctor Candle Glow motioned for her team to hide behind some couches. While the three agents made their way towards the roof. After climbing some ladders, they we’re on top of the stadium. Agent Dawn looked down at the court below. Everything looked like tiny ants from this height. The agents made their ways through some double-doors leading towards the roof. Already welcomed with the sound of gunshots ringing through the air. The three agents saw the Savage and his remaining Followers shoot at the chariot which was circling around the roof. While the Savage was shooting the chariot on top of a catwalk.
The three agents started shooting the Followers, killing several. The Followers turned their attention to them and began shooting. The three agents took cover behind the barriers and air ducts as the bullets dented the metal that they were hiding behind. Agent Dawn shot a grenadier who was preparing to throw his chem grenade. While agent Dancer shot deployed a seeker mine which blew up a Follower who was behind cover.
“PREPARE TO DIE ASSHOLES! The Savage jumped from the catwalk and began shooting the Division agents. All the while several more Followers came out of the double doors behind the Savage. Agent Dawn noticed a suicide bomber rushing towards agent Rider’s position. She shot the bomb around his chest which blew him and two other Followers up. Agent Rider then got up from his position and shot another Follower.
“YOUR GONNA DIE FOR THAT!
“We need to take him out now!” agent Rider yelled in his earpiece
“You don’t say!” replied agent Dawn. Agent Dancer began shooting Savage several times. But he was wearing a heavy kevlar vest.
“Shit, we’re gonna need more bullets to take him out,” agent Dancer said in her earpiece. As soon as she said that. Both agent Dawn and agent Dancer got up and began shooting the Savage.
“Turret out!” agent Rider threw his turret on a nearby air duct which got the attention of the Savage.
“It’s only gonna last for a couple of seconds before he destroys it. So now’s the time to shoot him” all three agents rose up from their cover and began shooting the Savage. The plan worked as the bullets punched through his kevlar vest. One bullet went through his heart, killing him. His lifeless body lay on top of the snowy roof. The three agent’s cheered that the battle had ended. Even though they knew in their hearts that there would be more battles to come. But for now, it was time to relax.
“Agent Trail, this is agent Dawn. We have secured dr. candle glow, the roof is secure, and the Savage has been neutralized.”
“Great work agents. Come back to base, you deserve some relaxation”
“Copy that. Hey agent Dancer”
“Yeah Dawn?”
“Can we talk about something when we get back to the base?”
