This is a crossover between Jafiction's Imperium Ascendent and My Little Pony. Read how Abaddon the Redeemer, most favored son of Horus, leads his Justaerin into a land of friendship as they search for a way home.
Abaddon the Redeemer and the Justaerin died in the Ullanor Crusade destroying the Ork Attack Planet, but what if that was not so. Read how Abaddon and his brothers find themselves in an unknown land known as Equestria and find their way home.
This is a crossover between Jayfiction's excellent Imperium Ascendent, continued by theklickator and My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic.
Inspired by My Little Xeno by MrTea on FimFiction
I do not own Warhammer or My Little Pony, credit goes to Games Workshop and Hasbro Studios.
This story will not be updated frequently as I am prioritizing my first story Thus Did The Imperium of Mankind Fight There which you can find on wattpad, username ccen26, using a different email account.
Abaddon the Redeemer, honored member of the Mournival, First Company Captain of The Lunar Templars, 16th Legion of the Legiones Astartes and the entirety of the Justaerin, except Garvial Loken, perished upon the Ork attack planet, DESTROYAH!!! during the Ullanor Crusade.
Posthumously renamed Abaddon the Hero by the Emperor, he and his brothers died honorably to ensure mankind would walk the Golden Path.
But what if this was not so, what if the Redeemer and his brothers did not die that day, and instead were, by the Orks Waaagh energy and collapsing Mork Portals, teleported to a planet hidden by strange magic from the empires of the galaxy.
“What happened?” was the first thought that entered the mind of Ezekyle Abaddon as he awoke. The first thing he noticed was the immense headache he felt, the first of its kind since he had battled that Daemon Prince during the Battle of Luna. Then he slowly opened his eyes and saw that he was looking up at a picturesque blue sky that would have been the equal of those seen on any Imperial paradise world.
Why was he lying down on the ground? How was he alive? He was certain that he was as he could see, feel and hear the world around him as the ringing in his ears died down. The last thing he remembered was speaking with his father for what he knew to be the last time before the Ork attack planet exploded underneath him and his -HIS BROTHERS!
Immediately he raised himself off the ground, such a thing would have been impossible for any regular marine in Cataphractii Terminator armor, but the events on Terra’s moon during the Solar Chaos Incursion, had turned him into a being closer to that of a Primarch than any other Space Marine within his legion. Instantly, he saw all of his fellow Justaerin, minus the youngest of their number who he had ordered to escape with their cousins from the Lightning Riders and Primarch Tengri Khagan, fully incased in their iconic black war plate, except for an apothecary. Among them were the Tech-priests from the Mechanicum detachment that were a part of the strike force sent to rig the Ork superweapon to explode, but none of their servitors.
All of them were on their backs, unmoving, the helmets they wore preventing him from hearing if they still breathed. Rushing to the nearest of his brothers, he attempted to lift him from the earth back upon his feet. To Abaddon’s relief, he heard a vox distorted groan from the legionary as his brother awoke much the same way he had. With an intense headache.
Ezekyle Abaddon: Brother! You are alive and that brings me great joy, but first we must aid our brethren.
The Terminator nodded in response and with that they went to help their brothers. Every Lunar Templar found alive brought ease to his twin hearts, but war is never merciful. Eventually, the first casualty was found and declared killed in action, causing a shadow to fall across all those who had regained consciousness. However, with the stoicism of the Imperium’s finest warriors they continued with their task, the time to grieve would come later.
In the end, four Battle-Brothers and one Marshall Sergeant were found dead. That left 96 astartes including the apothecary and himself. Three Tech-priests were also discovered to still live. Losses had been counted to be five KIA and one MIA presumed alive.
The first order Abaddon gave after all personnel had been accounted for, was for attempted contact to be made to any nearby Imperial forces over the vox. No contact could be made though, in fact, no signals could be picked up at all.
Concluding the obvious, that somehow they had been transported to an as of yet undiscovered planet, he gave the order for the contingency plan for any Imperial forces who found themselves stranded. The plan had been made in case any unfortunate souls encountered dangerous warp phenomena and cut off from the rest of the Imperium. The supplies were checked and the reports came back better than he had expected.
The armor of all those who still walked were functioning with only superficial and minor damage the Tech-priests stated that they could restore to their previous condition by scavenging the armor of the fallen. All the ammunition and provisions that they had not spent or consumed, had apparently been brought here with them. Their weapons too, had been carried along as well and they would only require some maintenance.
As Abaddon was looking over these reports, the lone apothecary, the only one of them equipped with Mark II Legio armor (basically mk 4 Maximus armor) instead of Tactical Dreadnought Armor, came up to him.
Normally, an ordinary apothecary wouldn’t have the authority to speak to what was effectively the second in command of the 16th Legion, but this one was, other than himself, the oldest brother present and had volunteered to join the mission even though all knew it was most likely a one way journey. Therefore, he respected the medical practitioner and he was never one to pull rank.
Apothecary: Captain, may I make a recommendation.
Ezekyle Abaddon: Any insights would be welcome, Brother.
Apothecary: Thank you, Brother, I have noticed that the biosphere of this world is suitable for human life, more than that, it is ideal. Furthermore, it’s environment bears an uncanny resemblance to that of Mother Terra in ancient pict-casts.
Ezekyle Abaddon: I have noticed as well, your point?
Apothecary: Captain, I suggest that a scouting party be formed, the world might be inhabited by humans that have not yet industrialized, which would explain the complete absence of pollution and vox signals. This would be of great help to us if we could convince them to join the Imperium and would allow us to continue our duty.
“Hmm” he pondered over the apothecary’s words. They had merit and were reasonable, backed by logic and what little information of this world that they had gathered. He nodded after carefully considering his options, it was the best course of action other than staying here and awaiting whatever fate had in store for them.
Ezekyle Abaddon: Agreed
Apothecary: Then I shall organize a scouting party at once-
Ezekyle Abaddon: No.
Apothecary: Captain?
Ezekyle Abaddon: I will lead the scouting party.
The apothecary’s eyes widened slightly.
Ezekyle Abaddon: You disapprove, Brother and I understand, but a leader must lead by example and you, as the only one amongst us who bear the secrets of our geneseed, are too invaluable to risk death or worse, capture.
At this, the apothecary could only lower his head and nod. Abaddon placed a reassuring power armored hand upon the shoulder of his brother and spoke.
Exekyle Abaddon: Form a defensive perimeter here for now Brother, I will send hourly reports over the vox link, if I miss a report, you may organize a search party.
The apothecary looked at his First Captain with a resigned expression upon his face.
Apothecary: Very well Captain, permission to extract the geneseed of our honored slain.
Ezekyle Abaddon: Granted.
The apothecary saluted him with a fist thrust over his heart and he returned the gesture before they parted. He informed the First Marshal Sergeant of the Justaerin of his intent, and although he seemed skeptical of the plan, he nonetheless trusted in his Captain, accepting temporary command over the Company. Then, he chose four Battle-Brothers to join him and they left the clearing and into the surrounding woodland.
With that, the Emperor’s grand-genesons set out to make first contact with the inhabitants of this world that will start a journey filled with trials of friendship, love, discovery and finally, home.
First Captain Ezekyle Abaddon and his four Battle-Brothers, entered the dense forest, crushing any vegetation in their path beneath tons of ceramite and plasteel. So far, they had not encountered any hostile life, but they remained vigilant of their surroundings, auspex scanners placed on high sensitivity and storm bolters in hand.
After some time of walking and not finding anything noteworthy, some in the demi-squad began to exchange jokes over their vox link.
Battle-Brother Aellius: Ciprian, doesn't this forest remind you of the world, where we battled those bat winged Khrave.
Battle-Brother Ciprian: This world? Hah! This world is a paradise Aellius, your senses must be failing you!
Battle-Brother Derisos: You two, how can you joke when we are stranded from our father?
Battle-Brother Septimius: Ah Derisos, let them be, it is better to laugh than to worry.
Ezekyle chuckled as his brothers conversed merrily, but then his transhuman hearing, sharper than even those of his brothers because of his gene-syncing with his Primarch, picked up a sound he hadn't perceived yet on this world.
(Author's note: gene-syncing in Imperium Ascendent, is when a Space Marine integrates with the geneseed on a level that makes them more like a mini-primarch than ordinary astartes.)
He raised a fist, and the demi-squad instantly became silent, training their weapons on the area around them. Straining his augmented ears, he could make out a high-pitched noise that sounded like...voices?
Ezekyle Abaddon: Do any of you hear that, Brothers?
Tuning up their helmet autosenses, the rest of his brethren began to make out the commotion as well.
Battle-Brother Derisos: Indeed, it sounds like-
???: Somepony, anypony, HELP!
Ezekyle Abaddon: Children!
Without another word, he charged ahead of his brothers towards the direction of the cries. Centuries ago, he had sworn to protect all those who were a part of his gang, and as long as those he met were not found guilty of heresy, then they were a part of his gang.
(Authors note: A heretic in Imperium Ascendent is defined as a being whose actions are detrimental to the survival of humanity and its domination over the galaxy.)
Quickly racing to where the screams had come from, he saw three small...pastel-colored ponies? Were they the pets of the children he heard? Such thoughts were soon made irrelevant as the threats appeared.
Leaping out of the foliage, came three abominations that eerily reminded him of chaos corrupted beasts he had fought on planets saturated by the warp. They were not made of flesh though, but wood, shaped like the old lupine animals that once walked on Ancient Terra. Their forms glowed a sickly green color, especially their eyes. No symbols of the archenemy could be seen upon them, but they clearly smelt of foul sorcery.
Recognizing an enemy when he saw one, the most favored son of the Warmaster drew his power sword and activated his lightning claw, the Talon of Horus. Bellowing for all to hear he pronounced the battle-cry of the Lunar Templars.
Ezekyle Abaddon: No Better Friend! No Fiercer Foe! Come and face me abominations!
In response to his challenge, the things howled, and all attacked as one. Three mindless creatures against the leader of the 16th Legion's elite Justaerin, not even a fight worth mentioning for the Redeemer.
He rammed into the first of the trio, turning the sorcerous construct into a scattering of timber against his Terminator armor. He decapitated the one on the right with a swing of his blade and impaled the one on his left in the chest on his claw at the same time an instant later. He lifted the beast to look into its eyes and although it possessed no pupils it was evidently afraid. Dropping the creature, he turned its head into a burst of splinters under his power armored boot.
Scanning the terrain with his enhanced vision, he searched for the people who had called for aid but could not find a single human. Suddenly, behind him, he heard a voice.
???: Wow.
Turning around, he saw the three equines looking at him in awe and amazement. Then, they opened their mouths and exclaimed.
???: That was AWESOME!
Ezekyle Abaddon raised his brow and for the first time since he became a Space Marine, was genuinely dumbfounded.
At that very moment, his four brothers came rushing to the scene. Seeing their Captain with his weapons drawn, they aimed their own at the trees around them.
Battle-Brother Aellius: Captain, what happened, what are your orders?
Before he could think of a reply, one of the tiny talking ponies, this one with wings, spoke again.
???: Cooool, there's even more of you.
Just like he had, his brother turned to face the ponies and despite the fact he could not see their faces due to their helmets, he was certain they had the expression he did.
Today had definitely not been their best. The Cutie Mark Crusaders had tried getting their cutie marks by going into the Everfree Forest. Their sisters had, obviously, said no, so they had snuck out without permission.
In hindsight, it had probably been a bad idea after they had been told over and over again about how dangerous the forest was. It was a bit too late to think about that now though as the three little ponies were being chased by Timberwolves.
Scootaloo: It can't end like this, we haven't gotten our cutie marks yet and Rainbow Dash was going to show me her new trick tomorrow!
Applebloom: We'all shoulda listened to our sisters!
Sweetie Bell: Somepony, anypony, HELP!
Then, out of the trees...IT arrived. The thing was a giant, fully ten feet tall, standing on two legs. It wore what was by far the thickest suit of armor they had ever seen, making those worn by the royal guard look like tin cans. One of its two arms ended in what seemed to be a paw of some kind and the other a gnarly looking claw.
At first the CMCs thought it was a minotaur, but then they saw its face. The giant had white skin and black hair with no visible fur. It had two eyes, one of which was covered with an eyepatch.
The whatever it was, stood there for a second looking at them before the Timberwolves leapt out of the nearby shrubbery. Then he, it had to be a he judging by the voice it had, turned his attention to the monsters and lifted what must have been the biggest sword in all of Equestria from his belt. Both of the sword and his claw glowed blue, and it shouted at the Timberwolves like a hero from an action comic. "No Better Friend! No Fiercer Foe! Come and face me abomination!".
The thing defeated the Timberwolves in no time, finishing the fight by stomping on the last one's head, ending the move with a pose that made the young fillies feel like they were seeing a knight in shining armor from a fairy tale.
Scootaloo: Wow.
Hearing the amazed Scootaloo, the giant turned to the Crusaders.
CMCs: That was AWESOME!
Then as if the day couldn't get any cooler, four more of them appeared, forming a circle and striking intimidating battle stances.
Scootaloo: Cooool, there's even more of you.
And so, did first contact between forces of the Imperium and the inhabitants of this world be made as the Space Marines had hoped, and not.
Abaddon was momentarily confused before he realized that what he had heard before were not human children, but xenos. Strange xenos, as he had never seen anything like them, they seemed to be like the equines used as pack animals in the old days of Ancient Terra, but with features imagined by a baby.
For a second, he considered simply disposing of the talking ponies, until he dismissed the idea. Both he and his father were a part of the faction that advocated for cooperative or at least peaceful relations with non-xenos horrificus. They had seen what zealotry and unrestrained hatred would do to mankind in a grim dark future.
Author's note: Xenos Horrificus is the label used by the Imperium in Imperium Ascendent to refer to alien species that present an unacceptable threat to human existence in the galaxy.
Signaling his brothers to stand down, he mag-locked his sword to his belt and deactivated his power claw. Approaching the tiny equines, the xenos continued to stare at him as he got closer, their heads tilting ever higher to see his face. Once he was only a foot away from the trio he spoke.
Ezekyle Abaddon: Greetings inhabitants of this planet, I am Ezekyle Abaddon also known as the Redeemer, from the Imperium of Mankind, First Captain of the Lunar Templars Legion, Legiones Astartes, First Company Justaerin. These "gesturing to the other Terminators" are my brothers.
Scootaloo: Wow, wait a minute? Lunar Templars? Do you guys know Princess Luna?
The orange one asked with a questioning tone. Abaddon found himself confused again. Did these creatures have a royal family with a princess named after Terra's moon? The chances of that were non-existent, not only that, but how did these horses know Low Gothic. Choosing to save these questions for later, he responded.
Ezekyle Abaddon: I'm afraid I do not know what you mean little ones, my brothers and I only just came to this world.
Applebloom: World? Hold on, you mean you guys are aliens.
This time it was the yellow one who spoke, and he had to admit, it annoyed him to be called an alien, but he had to concede that she was indeed correct that on this world, he and his brothers were the xenos.
Ezekyle Abaddon: I suppose from your perspective, yes, I am an alien, however, I would prefer if you called me by my name, Abaddon.
Speaking to the yellow pony, he used a controlled and measured tone, not wishing to make his annoyance clear and scare off the three.
Sweetie Belle: How did you get here; we didn't know there are other planets out there with...what are you guys?
Ezekyle Abaddon: My kind are known as Homo Sapiens also called humans, although my brothers and I...differ from most of humanity. Never mind that though, my brothers and I have been searching for civilization, do you three happen to know where a nearby settlement is located.
Applebloom: Oh y'all bet we do, we live in a town just outside this here forest called Ponyville, you guys can follow us and we'll show you the way there.
Abaddon smiled, now they were making progress, but he and his brothers would have to be cautious, the xenos seemed harmless enough and he wished to give them the benefit of the doubt, but it never hurt to be too careful.
Ezekyle Abaddon: You have my gratitude little ones, please lead the way.
The three equines nodded and began to walk as Abaddon gestured for his brothers to follow. Tapping at his ear mounted vox bead, he reported.
Ezekyle Abaddon: This is First Captain Abaddon to base, we have made contact with a local xenos species, non-hostile so far, await further reports.
After receiving an "acknowledged" he followed the ponies with his four brothers.
———————————————————————————————————
Ponyville-Main Six POV
Twilight and her friends were running around like headless chickens as Pinkie Pie would say. She had been in her library reading a book, as usual, when Applejack, Rarity and Rainbow Dash had come banging on her door asking her if she had seen their little sisters.
She replied that she had not and asked where they had seen them last time. The three stated that Applebloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo had all snuck out when they were busy at home and now, they couldn't find them.
After that, they rushed to find Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie and began searching all over Ponyville for the Cutie Mark Crusaders.
Rarity: Oooh! Where is my precious Sweetie Belle, how could she have disappeared like this?
Applejack: I don't know Rarity, but right now we've got to focus on finding them.
Rainbow Dash: Didn't they say they wanted to find their Cutie Marks in the Everfree Forest?
Applejack & Rarity: WHAT!
Pinkie Pie: FOUND THEM!
Immediately, the rest of the Main Six looked to where Pinkie Pie was pointing to and saw the Crusaders coming back into view just outside the town.
Applejack: APPLEBLOOM!
Rarity: SWEETIE BELLE!
Rainbow Dash: SCOOTS!
All three of them ran as fast as they could to their little sisters and gasped when they saw what was behind them. Five armored giants, one without a helmet and a frightening looking claw.
Applebloom: Y'all , get out of there!
Applejack hollered. Rainbow Dash swooped in and picked up the CMCs before flying back to Rarity and Applejack. Rarity used her magic to form a shield between them and the giants. Before things could escalate though, the CMCs screamed.
CMCs: STOP!
Applebloom: They didn't do anything wrong!
Sweetie Belle: Yeah, they saved us!
Scootaloo: They're awesome!
The rest of the Main Six caught up with their friends just as the CMCs started to explain what happened. They recounted how they had gone into the Everfree Forest to find their cutie marks (against the advice of their sisters). When they got chased by Timberwolves and how the giant with the eyepatch saved them like a protagonist in an amazing MLP fanfiction, (please like or vote this story) killing all the Timberwolves by himself in seconds.
As the Crusaders finished their tale, the three older sisters became embarrassed by their drastic misunderstanding and apologized to the heroes who had saved their little sisters.
Rarity: I am terribly sorry good sirs for my rash actions, I hope you can forgive me.
Applejack: Yeah, real sorry about yelling at y'all like that.
Rainbow Dash: It was awesome of you guys to save my Scoots, make you all 20% cooler in my book.
Abaddon was a bit miffed at being verbally harassed verbally by a group of xenos that looked to be from a child's color book, but he kept his irritation to himself. He would need to approach this situation more diplomatically than he was used to. Fortunately, he had some experience in negotiation, having joined his father on many diplomatic compliance missions as a part of his honor guard. He secretly thanked the Emperor that his accompanying brothers were wearing their helmets or else the ponies may have been either frightened or offended by their undoubtably displeased expressions.
Thankfully, he managed to form a friendly smile as he spoke to the little equines.
Ezekyle Abaddon: "No need to apologize, I understand the concerns between those of whom call each other kin.
That was sadly all too true, he thought as he recalled all the brothers and cousins who had given their lives so that mankind could walk the golden path. Including the five members of his own company who had most recently perished. The xenos seemed to still regret their earlier accusations though and continued to offer words of gratitude.
Rarity: "Oh you are much too kind sir..."
The older white pony trailed off as she realized she was still clueless as to the names of those who had so gallantly saved her little sister. Abaddon decided to introduce himself once more to ease relations with these surprisingly amicable talking horses.
Ezekyle Abaddon: "Ezekyle Abaddon also known as the Redeemer, from the Imperium of Mankind, First Captain of the Lunar Templars Legion, Legiones Astartes, First Company Justaerin. These "gesturing to the other Terminators" are my brothers."
His explanation as to his and his brothers' identity seemed to pique the interest of the purple pony with bangs as she questioned rapidly.
Twilight Sparkle: "Imperium of Mankind? I've never heard of a nation with that name. Where is it and why are you called the Lunar Templars? Are you friends with Princess Luna? What are the Legiones Astartes?"
Abaddon was once again stunned as the pony let out a never-ending stream of inquiries. Luckily the purple pony was quickly chastised by the white one before Abaddon could rebuke in what would have assuredly been in a quite intimidating manner.
Rarity: "Twilight! Heavens, how could you be so rude? We haven't even introduced ourselves yet and you're already questioning these fine gentle...creatures."
The pony caught herself at the end of her reprimand as she nearly called the Space Marines ponies. Nonetheless her scolding had its intended effect as the rapidly questioning mare went silent with an embarrassed blush on her face as she looked down.
Twilight Sparkle "Sorry about that, I get carried away when I hear about something new, allow me to introduce myself."
Looking up, the pony continued.
Twilight Sparkle: "I am Twilight Sparkle, Ponyville's one and only librarian, it's nice to meet you Mr. Abaddon."
Keeping his smile, Abaddon responded.
Ezekyle Abaddon: "Hello Librarian Sparkle, pleased to make your acquaintance."
He referred to the pony formally as librarian out of habit as that was how members of the members of the Librarius were addressed in the Emperor's Legions. Then all the ponies began to introduce themselves in their own unique style. Abaddon was quite confused as to why the ponies in this small group possessed so drastically different personalities.
Some seemed relatively normal such as the orange one who introduced herself as Applejack who looked completely fitting in the countryside surroundings around them. Others were more out of place such as the white one who had spoken up earlier who introduced herself as Rarity, who seemed to belong more at home in a hive spire. Yet others were entirely bizarre such as the pink one who introduced herself as Pinkie Pie. Somehow, she let loose a burst of confetti from her mane before pulling from it a cupcake of all things and offering it to him. He politely declined as he and his brothers resisted the urge to purge the pony from existence as they considered whether or not she was a cultist of Tzeentch.
Miraculously, the introductions were completed without any major incidents, although Abaddon was beginning to feel the strain of his smile despite his transhuman physique. His patience today, having been tested like never before. Once the greetings were over the pony named Twilight Sparkle asked.
Twilight Sparkle: "Mr. Abaddon, do you mind answering my questions now?"
The mare could not hide the eager expression on her face at the prospect of learning new knowledge. Diplomatically, Abaddon stated.
Ezekyle Abaddon: "Of course not, Librarian Sparkle, but may we do so somewhere less...out in the open."
Looking down in embarrassment again, Twilight exclaimed.
Twilight Sparkle: "Oh! That's right, you all must have had quite the journey coming here."
Putting a hoof to her chin, Twilight pondered for a moment.
Twilight Sparkle: "You're all a bit big for our homes though."
Twilight's eyes widened as she had an idea and turned to Applejack.
Twilight Sparkle: "Hey Applejack, you think you could spare your barn for them."
Nodding, Applejack answered.
Applejack: "Sure thing sugar cube."
Turning to face the Terminators, Applejack clarified.
Applejack: "Ma family runs a farm in this here town, got a mighty fine barn on it. We can go there where you can tell your story."
Abaddon never expected he would one day take residence in a xenos barn, but he had taken shelter in far more hazardous buildings and so he accepted the offer.
Ezekyle Abaddon: "That would do, Miss Applejack."
With that the odd mix of ponies and astartes entered Ponyville and made their way to the Apple Family Farm. The small town was like that of most settlements that could be found on Imperial Feudal Worlds. The entire town seemed to emit a welcoming atmosphere, that was until its residence saw them.
The ponies, almost as one, ran into their houses, three working in a flower shop even fainted. Abaddon raised his eyebrows at that, either those three were exceptionally susceptible to transhuman dread or were incredibly overdramatic.
Twilight blushed in embarrassment and apologized to the Astartes for the overly melodramatic display.
Twilight Sparkle: Sorry about those three, they can overreact sometimes when seeing new visitors, I'll go check to make sure they're ok.
Twilight trotted towards the three uncurious ponies as Abaddon wondered if this was how these strange xenos showed hospitality to all their guests.
The inhabitants were hiding in their homes, his transhuman sight allowing him to effortlessly see the poor attempts of some of the ponies, trying to discreetly observe him as his brother from behind window shutters and doors. The town almost looked entirely empty; a tumbleweed even bounced across the dirt road as if to cartoonishly emphasize that point.
Almost, being the keyword as he saw a mint-colored pony sitting on a bench next to a beige-colored one, excitedly waving in the direction of him and his brothers, in stark contrast to the depressing scene. Her companion, contrarily, looked at them with suspicion.
Abaddon was incredibly confused, he'd never seen an alien take the initiative to greet him or any of his brother and cousins but did the only reasonable next course of action he could think of, he waved back.
The mare reacted instantly, leaping off the bench and running as fast as she could to the Marine demi-squad.
Once again, he and his brothers were stunned, something that was becoming all too common in the single day they had been on this bizarre world.
A xeno was rushing happily towards a force of mankind's Avenging Angels of Death. It was something completely unprecedented. Legiones Astartes units had made peaceful contact with various xenos species before, but they always showed a mixture of fear, trepidation, nervousness and awe.
None had ever shown genuine joy such as the pony galloping at them now.
The five mares who remained with the Astartes moved to intercept the mint-colored pony, afraid that she may disturb their heavily armed and armored guests.
Rainbow Dash, of course, was first and asked the pony in her characteristically rash manner.
Rainbow Dash: Uh, hey Lyra, what are you doing?
The five friends blocked the pony named Lyra, stopping her onrushing charge towards the Terminators before she answered cheerfully.
Lyra Heartstrings: I'm going to meet your new friends and ask them if they're humans. They look just like the ones in my books but...bigger.
Lyra proceeded to wave at the Astartes again, the CMCs who were still with the Marines, waved back. However, Abaddon this time did not return the gesture.
For the umpteenth time in the less than 24 hours they had arrived on this planet, the Lunar Templars were dumbfounded.
This pony knew of humans? Had humanity colonized this world? If so, why hadn't he and his brethren met any?
The five ponies looked confused as well, Rarity herself asking.
Rarity: Darling, aren't humans just some foal's story?
Abaddon chose now to interject and speak with this, "Lyra". Whatever information he could gather from her could make the difference between whether or not his company could reestablish contact with the wider Imperium and rejoin the Crusade.
Granted, he did not expect much usefulness from any data he could gleam from the currently madly exuberant mint-colored equine, jumping like Pinkie Pie, but it might at least be something worthwhile.
Ezekyle Abaddon: Miss Lyra is correct, we are indeed humans, as for our larger stature, that shall be explained later.
Abaddon and his fellow Legionaries walked towards Lyra who had now been rejoined by her beige-colored friend. Their armor whirred as they moved, leaving large deep footprints in the dirt road.
The five mares and three foals stepped aside as they watched anxiously at what would happen between their guests and the two friends.
Lyra, seemingly unaware of the delicate situation around her, continued to jump in place with glee, talking rapidly.
Lyra Heartstrings: You're really, really humans? That's wonderful! Where did you all come from! What're your names'? Can I touch your hands? Oh, look at me getting all hyper.
Abaddon was pleasantly surprised to find a xeno that recognized the preeminence of mankind, and so spoke with a hint of warmth in his voice.
Ezekeyle Abaddon: Hello Miss Lyra, I am Ezekyle Abaddon, also known as the Redeemer, from the Imperium of Mankind, First Captain of the Lunar Templars Legion, Legiones Astartes, First Company Justaerin. These "gesturing to the other Terminators" are my brothers. Allow me to mention that it truly touches our souls that you acknowledge the worth of humanity.
Lyra became even more energetic after hearing his greeting, saying.
Lyra Heartstrings: You guys have an Imperium? That means there's even more of you, right? I'm your biggest admirer in all of Ponyville and maybe even Equestria. I've always wanted to meet a human!
Lyra's friend decided now to calm her down, fearing she might annoy the giants.
Bon Bon: Alright Lyra, I think you've said enough.
The beige-colored pony turned to look at Abaddon, suspicion still evident in her eyes, but smiled apologetically and explained.
Bon Bon: Sorry about my friend, she gets easily excited when it comes to anything to do with humans, not that, that's a bad thing.
She quickly added at the end. Abaddon was about to reply that he was not offended at all, in fact, he was quite happy with this latest development, when he was interrupted by a returning purple book worm.
Twilight Sparkle: Hey Lyra, hey Bob Bon, what are you two doing here?
Turning to Twilight, Abaddon responded.
Ezekyle Abaddon: These two kind mares were curious as to the identities of my brother and I. Something I found interesting from them was that we humans are known here. Librarian Sparkle, do you know anything about us as well?
Twilight looked shocked by this revelation and spoke in bewilderment.
Twilight Sparkle: I always thought that humans were just a myth and never looked much further.
Putting a hoof to her chin, Twilight pondered for a moment before looking to Lyra and Bon Bon.
Twilight Sparkle: Lyra, Bon Bon would you mind joining us.
Lyra Heartstrings: Join you all with the humans! Yes Yes! YES!
Abaddon could hear his brothers chuckling at the mare's enthusiasm underneath their helms over his vox-bead.
Bon Bon sighed, accepting that there was nothing she could do to divert her friend from hearing more of these newly arrived visitors.
With an "Alright then" from Twilight, the group of eight mares, five Astartes and three fillies made their way to Sweet Apple Acres.
When the considerably sized farmstead came into view, Abaddon was forced to admit, he was impressed. Rows upon rows of apple trees spanned the whole visible horizon. Even with his transhuman sight, he could not see where the orchards ended.
It was undoubtedly one of the most beautiful scenes of nature he'd ever gazed at. Especially considering most of the locations he'd seen were the either active warzones or the densely packed cities of capitals where negotiations for a newly discovered polity to join the Imperium were usually held.
He voiced his sincere opinion to the pony who apparently called this place home. No harm in making a good impression on their guides to smooth over relations.
Ezekyle Abaddon: I am impressed Miss Applejack. This farm is obviously excellently cultivated and well maintained. How is it that your family efficiently manages such a large area?
A wide smile appeared on Applejack's muzzle as she explained with evident pride.
Applejack: Ahh shucks, it ain't nothing too special. Just some good old hard work. The whole family helps out, even little Applebloom here and old Granny Smith.
Twilight herself chipped in, commenting.
Twilight Sparkle: You shouldn't sell yourself short Applejack, you've done a lot to keep this farm going.
The rest of the Main Six nodded in agreement. Applejack blushed from the praise while Applebloom beamed.
Deciding to change the topic Applejack pointed out.
Applejack: The barns over there, just hold on a bit while I tell Big Mac and Granny we're having guests.
Walking down the well-trodden dirt path, Applejack entered the Apple family home. After a short while, she returned with Big Mac and Granny Smith in tow.
Introducing both new parties, Applejack spoke.
Applejack: Granny, Big Mac, these are the newcomers I was telling yawl about. Abaddon and the rest of you, this is my grandmother, Granny Smith and my big brother, Big Mcintosh, but we just call him Big Mac.
Granny Smith and Big Mac were clearly surprised by the size of the never-before-seen creatures, but commendably collected themselves, smiled friendly and said:
Granny Smith: Howdy there, nice to meet yawl, got a say we don't usually run into anypony your size.
Big Mcintosh: Yup.
Putting on his diplomatic smile again, Abaddon responded.
Ezekyle Abaddon: Greetings Madam Smith and Mr. Mcintosh, we have come here in hopes of using your barn to converse in some privacy, if you would allow it.
Grinning, Granny Smith replied.
Granny Smith: Sure yah can, as long as you allow me and Big Mac here to join, it's been a while since I've heard a good story.
Abaddon nodded in agreement. The group, now joined by a stallion and an elder, made their way to the barn and entered.
The thirteen ponies sat down, but the five humans remained standing. Slightly confused by this, Twilight decided to ask her first question.
Twilight Sparkle: Excuse me Mr. Abaddon, sorry if I'm asking something rude, but why are you all still standing?
Answering her question, Abaddon clarified.
Ezekyle Abaddon: No apologies necessary, Librarian Sparkle, to explain, we cannot sit because the armor we are wearing limits our movements to a certain extent.
Gasping, Rarity exclaimed.
Rarity: Oh, that is simply dreadful, it must be ever so tiresome for you all to wear such burdensome panoply. Please allow me to craft some less restrictive garments for you all in the future.
At what the seasoned warrior mistook for the fashionista's thinly concealed attempt to unarmor them, Abaddon carefully stated.
Ezekyle Abaddon: Thank you for your concern, Miss Rarity, but that will not be needed. The armor we are wearing is power armor, unlike passive protective suits it moves when we do. In other words, despite its weight and certain constraints on our mobility, we are not strained by it. Instead, it strengthens us.
Rainbow Dash: THAT. IS. AWESOME.
Rainbow Dash declared, then she asked.
Rainbow Dash: How strong are you guys with this armor on?
Twilight found herself curious about this as well. Although she was more intrigued by how this "power armor" worked and how these humans created it. Did it move through magic or something else?
Responding to Rainbow's question Abaddon explained cautiously.
Ezekyle Abaddon: I am unaware as to the physical capacities of your species or what measurements of strength are used here, therefore, I'm afraid I cannot give a specific answer to your question.
Twilight thought over Abaddon's answer until she heard Lyra excitedly yell.
Lyra Heartstrings: I know a way you can show us, you can lift those haystacks over there.
Twilight became anxious as to how their guests would react to Lyra's insistence, but her worries were allayed when Abaddon replied.
Ezekyle Abaddon: That is optional, if the Apples agree.
Shrugging her shoulders, Granny Smith said:
Granny Smith: Go on right ahead Mrs. Show us what you got.
Nodding, Abaddon went to the nearest stack of barrels. He wasn't especially miffed by the pony's request; a show of Imperial strength was a common practice when encountering new civilizations for the Imperium.
Picking up a large stack of hay bales, he easily lifted up with only one hand. Then he ordered one of his brothers to place another stack on top of his.
The ponies were impressed seeing the Marine holding aloft two stacks of hay bales with only one limb. Most ponies would only be able to carry one hay bale at a time, much less two stacks at once.
Ezekyle Abaddon: I would be able to hold more if someone here were tall enough.
Seeing a chance to show off to their visitors, Twilight called out.
Twilight Sparkle: Please allow me.
Using her magic, she cast a telekinesis spell and raised a third stack of hay bales on top of the ones Abaddon held.
Twilight smiled proudly at the Astartes before she realized something wasn't right. Abaddon's face was grim, and his brothers were taking up combat stances.
