Introduction

Year: 1001 (One Year after Nightmare Moon Return)
Location: Stalliongrad

Stalliongrad, one of the states of Equestria, shares its status with the State of Canterlot, State of Ponyville, State of Las Pegasus, State of Manehatten, State of Fillydelphia, State of Baltimare, State of Apploosa, and State of Cloudsdale. However, Stalliongrad stands apart from the rest due to the stark contrast in its socio-economic and political landscape. Unlike the other states, which are well-developed and prosperous, Stalliongrad finds itself subjected to severe mistreatment at the hands of both the local nobility and the Equestrian Guards who govern the region.

The nobles in Stalliongrad have exploited their privileges to amass wealth at the expense of the suffering citizens, and the Royal Guards, who are meant to protect and serve, have been co-opted by the nobility to suppress dissent and maintain their unjust rule.

This dire situation might not have arisen had Princess Celestia not been preoccupied with the threat of Nightmare Moon in the recent past. This brief window of opportunity allowed the corrupt nobles and Royal Guards to consolidate their control over the State of Stalliongrad.

Even after a year has passed, the ponies of Stalliongrad continue to hold onto the hope that Princess Celestia will intervene and free them from this oppressive tyranny. A small group of courageous ponies, led by Vladimare Lime, attempted a peaceful rally to persuade the corrupt nobles to cease their oppressive actions. Unfortunately, their efforts ended in tragedy.

Location: City of Stalliongrad

On this gloomy day in the heart of the city, the capital of the State of Stalliongrad, the urban landscape teems with a labyrinth of factory, commercial, and residential structures. It stands as a formidable industrial hub within Equestria, boasting a population predominantly composed of earth ponies (75%), with unicorns (10%) and Pegasus (15%) rounding out the demographic mosaic.

Amid this backdrop of oppression, most acutely felt by the earth ponies who constitute the majority, a throng of determined citizens marches toward the city hall. They bear banners and slogans beseeching the nobles and royal guards to treat them justly and to cease the madness that has gripped their city.

However, when faced with such a rally, what response might one expect from tyrants who thrive on subjugating their populace? The answer becomes chillingly clear as the peaceful march is forcibly halted by royal guards brandishing bolt-action rifles illicitly acquired from the Griffon Empire's black market.

The disquieting tableau unfolds as unarmed ponies stand on one side of a wide avenue, endeavoring to voice their grievances while, on the opposite end, a dozen guards, resolute and poised to execute orders, await with grim resolve.

"Halt! You are advised to stop where you are and return home! You are all in violation of the law by disturbing the peace of this esteemed city!" admonishes an officer, his revolver pointed at Vladimare Lime, identified as the rally's leader.

"We are not in violation of anything! We have the right to protest! We are being oppressed by this corrupt government, and we demand change!" Vladimare Lime defiantly shouts as he and his fellow protesters bravely advance.

"Stop! Halt! I said halt!" the officer screams, making a futile attempt to halt the march. When his attempts prove unsuccessful, he resorts to the gravest of errors.

BANG!

Vladimare Lime stands in shocked silence, his gaze slowly falling to his chest, where a bullet hole oozes with a steady flow of crimson. He has no time to contemplate the gravity of his wound, as he crumples lifelessly to the ground. The gunfire erupts once more.

BANG! SCREAM! BANG!

A massacre unfolds, the streets now littered with lifeless ponies, their blood pooling around them. Some still cling to life, though it is slipping away as they bleed out. The onslaught continues. This fateful day comes to be known across the State of Stalliongrad as the "Stalliongrad Massacre" and etches itself indelibly into Equestrian history as the inception of the Great Revolt of Stalliongrad.

A few weeks following the harrowing Stalliongrad Massacre, a glimmer of hope emerges for the beleaguered population of the State of Stalliongrad. Within the labyrinthine alleys of the city's streets, a sudden azure light materializes in an instant. From this luminous portal emerges a mysterious equine figure, their form enshrouded in inky darkness. After rising to their hooves, the figure surveys their surroundings, taking a moment to scrutinize their newfound appearance. With deliberate steps, they proceed to the thoroughfare, keen to ascertain their location. The lamplight casts its glow upon the figure, revealing not only their transformation into a Changeling Queen but also the stark reality of their presence in the City of Stalliongrad, as indicated by the sign.

"Stalliongrad? Shouldn't it be Stalingrad or something?" the Changeling Queen mused aloud, her voice tinged with confusion. As she glanced around, her eyes fell upon a group of ponies clad in tattered rags who were hurrying toward her. Their distressed expressions and rapid movements suggested that they were fleeing from some impending danger. It didn't take her long to discern that they were being pursued by another faction, this one adorned in resplendent golden armor and armed with bolt-action rifles. The incongruity of the situation weighed heavily on her mind, prompting her to wonder aloud about the inexplicable circumstances surrounding her arrival in this tumultuous city.

"HALT!!! Stop right there!!!" bellowed one of the guards, taking aim at one of the ponies in rags. Without a moment's hesitation, the Changeling Queen's curved horn emitted a blue aura, summoning a protective magic shield that deftly intercepted the bullets mid-flight. Observing this miraculous display, the fleeing ponies swiftly extended an invitation, urgently exclaiming, "Come with us now!!!" One of them seized her in a hurried grasp, and together, they dashed away from the oncoming royal guards, escaping the immediate threat.

Location: In a Abandon Factory
(Stalliongrad Revolutionary Head Quarter)

As they continued their frantic escape from the pursuing guards, the Changeling Queen found herself still grappling with the shock of her unanticipated magical abilities and her instinctual use of them. The rapid succession of events had left her in a state of bewilderment, trying to make sense of her newfound powers.

However, amidst the chaos and uncertainty, something even more perplexing occurred. A deluge of memories, foreign yet somehow intimately connected to her, began to flood her consciousness. These memories were not her own, yet they imparted a profound understanding of her biology, her innate magical capabilities, and even offered fragments of insight into the world she now found herself in.

As her racing heart and breathing slowly steadied, she grappled with the revelation that there was much more to her existence than she had ever known. The implications of these memories left her with a sense of both wonder and trepidation, as she contemplated the secrets of her true nature and her place in this enigmatic world.

Recovering her composure and facing the array of armed ponies, the Changeling Queen managed to muster an amused smile. The newfound memories had granted her a sense of assurance in her abilities, and she now understood that she could withstand whatever they might unleash. With a confident yet enigmatic grin she casually said "Why hello there...."

Chapter 1: Hastily Integration and Explanation

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Year: 1001, Early Summer, After Nightmare Moon Return (A.N.M.R)
Location: Stalliongrad Revolutionary Head Quarter, Abandoned Factory

[Last Time on The New Dawn]

BANG!.....

BANG! SCREAM! BANG!

"Stalliongrad? Shouldn't it be Stalingrad or something?" the Changeling Queen mused aloud, her voice tinged with confusion.

(Present Time)

A tense silence fell over the assembled ponies as they exchanged uncertain glances, their bolt-action rifles aimed at the Changeling Queen. Her unconventional response had left them thoroughly perplexed, challenging their preconceived notions about Changelings. The widespread belief was that Changelings were inherently malevolent creatures, characterized by a superiority complex that could rival the most haughty of Stalliongrad's nobility.

In this surreal moment, the ponies grappled with the stark contrast between their expectations and the Changeling Queen's seemingly affable demeanor. A profound sense of uncertainty filled the air, as they struggled to decide their next course of action in the presence of a Changeling who defied their assumptions.

The tension in the air remained palpable as the light brown-coated mare with a brown mane and tail, red eyes, and the attire of an everyday worker in Stalliongrad, sought answers. Her no-nonsense tone conveyed a sense of urgency and suspicion.

"Enough joking!!! Answer me right now! What's a Changeling Queen like you doing in our fine city?" she demanded, leaving no room for ambiguity and awaiting a swift and clear response from the enigmatic visitor.

David Schmidt, now transformed into a female Changeling Queen with a striking blue mane and tail, knew that this moment required a measured and unambiguous response. Drawing upon the discipline and composure she had cultivated during her military career and business ventures, she assumed a cold, pragmatic, and calculating demeanor—a stark departure from her previous interaction.

With a demeanor that conveyed authority and assurance, she declared, "Let me be honest with all of you, and even if you do not believe me, what I'm about to tell you is nothing but the truth." The abrupt shift in her presence left everyone present in a state of shock, as if they had suddenly found themselves in the presence of someone who embodied cold, calculating pragmatism, in contrast to her previous personality earlier.

As the armed ponies took a collective deep breath, they awaited with rapt attention to hear what the enigmatic Changeling Queen, David Schmidt, had to reveal. Her unusual presence and the unexpected turn of events had created a solemn atmosphere that held their focus.

In a calm yet assertive manner, she began to explain her background, fully aware of the skepticism she was likely to encounter. "Before meeting all of you in that alley, I was, what you might call, a Human male or, in your terms, a stallion," she commenced. "I am 48 years old, having retired from my military career. Prior to my arrival here, I was a businessman."

She could sense the incredulity in their expressions and continued, "I understand that my words might seem strange, but the information that now resides in my mind should not exist here. At this moment, my ability to stay grounded and rational is a testament to my training and priorities. At the top of that list is one simple goal: survival." The frustration that had been simmering within her became palpable as she nearly shouted her declaration. She followed it with a deep breath, endeavoring to regain her composure in the face of this bewildering revelation.

In the wake of her revelation, an eerie silence pervaded the vicinity, and David Schmidt, in her Changeling Queen form, braced herself for what seemed like an impending storm of emotions and reactions. However, what transpired was beyond her expectations. After a few minutes, it became apparent that the ponies surrounding her were not responding with anger or hostility. Instead, they seemed to have reached a collective understanding.

The sudden turn of events came as a surprise, particularly when the pony who had initially questioned her suddenly exclaimed, "Wait!!! Did you just say 'a retired military officer' as in a military leader?" David nodded in response and replied, "Yes, First Lieutenant David Schmidt, at your service." The reaction that followed was even more startling.

The ponies, previously poised to attack, dropped their weapons and converged on her with an almost desperate enthusiasm. They excitedly declared things like, "This is it!" and "Finally, a real soldier that can help us!" The abrupt shift in their demeanor left David Schmidt perplexed, and she felt compelled to interject in order to gain a better understanding of what was happening.

Amidst the escalating excitement and fervor of the gathered ponies, David Schmidt, now compelled to gain clarity on their motivations and actions, raised her voice to command attention. "Stop!!! Please stop!!" she implored, her stern tone successfully quelling the commotion that had begun to unfurl. She continued, "Tell me why you're all acting as if I'm some kind of miracle. I understand you're rebels, based on the guards who attempted to shoot you back there, but please provide me with all the details. I need to comprehend the full extent of the situation here."

David's tone and her request for information helped rein in the bewildering chaos. From her keen observations and the environment around her, she had surmised that they existed in an Industrial Era, drawing upon the knowledge and memories from her previous life. As the gathered ponies began to recount the grim events and hardships they had endured in Stalliongrad, a sense of foreboding washed over David. The tales of oppression, abuse, and the unchecked power of the nobles and the monarchy bore a haunting resemblance to the injustices she had learned of in her previous life. The memories of her former existence as a human male resonated deeply as she listened to the accounts of the ponies.

The all-too-familiar narrative of the privileged few exploiting their power at the expense of the suffering masses struck a chord with her. The parallels between the world she had known and the one she now inhabited were unsettling, and the urgency of the situation became unmistakably clear. David realized that she had unwittingly stumbled into a world on the brink of revolution, and the experiences of these ponies had brought her face to face with the injustices that mirrored her own past life.

David's voice was tinged with concern as she addressed the assembly of ponies before her. "From what you've shared, I fear that your suffering is only just beginning," she remarked somberly. "You did understand what I said earlier about me being from another universe as a human, correct?"

The ponies nodded in acknowledgment.

"In my past life as a human," she continued, "we experienced something eerily similar to what's transpiring here right now. It led to a great deal of death and immense suffering for millions." The collective gasp and wide-eyed expressions among the ponies painted a vivid picture of the shock and dread they felt upon realizing the gravity of the situation. The prospect of their world spiraling into a fate akin to the dire circumstances in David's previous life was a chilling revelation that hung heavily in the air.

It was a moment of profound realization for all, and the urgency of their circumstances weighed heavily on their hearts as they contemplated the perils that loomed before them. David continued to speak passionately, "What I'm saying is, I've seen firsthand the devastation that such tyranny can unleash, I have seen how horrible it is to be under such tyranny and I'll be damned if I didn't help ensure that your world doesn't suffer the same fate." Her expression was resolute, as she was now committed to preventing history from repeating itself.

In their desperate quest for a leader who could guide them out of the shadows of suffering and oppression, the ponies assembled before David cast aside their preconceived notions and prejudices. It was a moment of collective recognition that transcended her identity as a Changeling Queen, her claims of hailing from another universe, and even her existence as a being known as a human.

The deep yearning for change and the overwhelming desire for a just and powerful leader led the weary and downtrodden populace of Stalliongrad to a profound decision. They saw in David, with her compassion and her willingness to assist them, the potential for the miracle they so desperately needed. The plight of the oppressed had found its beacon of hope, and they were ready to unite under her leadership to achieve the freedom and justice they had long fought for.

Chapter 2: Plans and Events

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Year: 1001, Mid Summer, After Nightmare Moon Return (A.N.M.R), a couple of weeks later
Location: Stalliongrad Revolutionary Head Quarter, Abandoned Factory

Previously on A New Dawn

"Before meeting all of you in that alley, I was, what you might call, a Human male or, in your terms, a stallion," she commenced. "I am 48 years old, having retired from my military career. Prior to my arrival here, I was a businessman."

They excitedly declared things like, "This is it!" and "Finally, a real soldier that can help us!" The abrupt shift in their demeanor left David Schmidt perplexed

"In my past life as a human," she continued, "we experienced something eerily similar to what's transpiring here right now. It led to a great deal of death and immense suffering for millions."

The plight of the oppressed had found its beacon of hope, and they were ready to unite under her leadership to achieve the freedom and justice they had long fought for.

(A Couple of Weeks Passed By)

With the rebel ponies consistently raising questions about her unusual name, David recognized the need for a name that better suited her Changeling Queen form. After hours of contemplation and reflection, she arrived at a name that encapsulated her qualities and intentions. "Queen Valorix" was the name she selected, combining "valor," signifying bravery and military prowess, with the regal suffix "-ix." This new name was a representation of a Changeling Queen who excelled not only in the art of warfare but also in the intricate domains of business and leadership. It conveyed strength, courage, and a commanding presence, all of which were attributes she hoped to embody as she led the rebellion and guided her newfound comrades toward a better future.

As Queen Valorix spent time with her newfound comrades, she familiarized herself with those who would be instrumental in the struggle to liberate Stalliongrad from the oppressive rule of the nobles and royal guards. Among them, she learned more about Ruska Kalinova, an inquisitive light brown-coated Unicorn mare with a wrench crossing a gear as a cutiemark. Ruska's leadership during the revolt was born out of necessity after the death of Vladimare Lime. Queen Valorix also discovered that Ruska had been a diligent worker in an industry that had been shuttered due to the workers' rebellion against the corrupt nobles who managed it.

Storm Stride, with his striking white coat, light blue mane and tail, and a storm cloud as a cutie mark, brought a unique and invaluable set of skills to the group. His expertise in controlling the weather and his swift, graceful flying abilities made him an asset that Queen Valorix greatly appreciated. His name truly epitomized his capabilities and the role he played in their mission.

Shadow Cloak, the dark grey-coated earth pony stallion, sported a black mane and tail and a cutie mark depicting a cloak emitting shadows. He specialized in reconnaissance and espionage, adding a crucial element of stealth and secrecy to the team's repertoire. Queen Valorix recognized the significance of his abilities in gathering vital information and maintaining the element of surprise in their operations.

As Queen Valorix delved deeper into her relationship with her fellow rebels, she was continually impressed by the diverse talents and qualities they each brought to the cause. This only further strengthened her confidence in their collective ability to effect lasting change in Stalliongrad.

(2 Days Later)

Queen Valorix's keen observation and understanding of the abandoned industry complex did not go unnoticed. The potential of the tools, equipment, and machinery within the complex was not lost on her, and she recognized that with the right modifications and ample time, they could transform the facility into a place capable of producing a wide range of weaponry, from a simple Colt 1911 pistol to a more complex vehicle like a BMP-2.

Her practical thinking and resourcefulness would undoubtedly prove to be an invaluable asset to the rebel cause. As she assessed the complex's potential and considered the possibilities, Queen Valorix was poised to harness this facility's capabilities for the benefit of their struggle, ultimately bolstering their chances of achieving their shared goal of liberation in Stalliongrad. Queen Valorix wasted no time in sharing her insights and plans with the rebels. She outlined a comprehensive strategy for the industrial complex, explaining how they could gradually retrofit and repurpose the machinery for manufacturing weapons, ammunition, and other essential supplies for their movement. In the coming week, her body would be ready to produce her first batch of changelings because of the energy that came from the love and adoration of everypony that viewed her as their hope and key to be free of the nobles and royal guards.

The rebels all but agreed, even if they didn't always fully understand what she was talking about. Both Ruska Kalinova, Storm Stride, and Shadow Cloak were impressed and energized by her vision. They could see that with Queen Valorix's guidance, the abandoned complex held the potential to be a vital hub for their operations. As work began on the complex, Queen Valorix demonstrated her considerable knowledge and leadership abilities. She worked side by side with the rebels, overseeing the modifications, retooling, and retraining required to adapt the facility to its new purpose. The rebels had a renewed sense of hope and determination as they saw the complex slowly transform into a well-organized production center. With Queen Valorix's guidance and the dedication of her comrades, they were taking a significant step toward realizing their goal of freeing Stalliongrad from the clutches of the corrupt nobles and the oppressive royal guards.

As the rebels continued to work on transforming the abandoned industry complex into a weapon and supplies production center, the pressing need for a clear strategy and steady supply of weapons and resources became apparent. Queen Valorix called a meeting to address these crucial issues.

Gathering in a dimly lit, makeshift meeting room within the complex, Queen Valorix, Ruska Kalinova, Storm Stride, and Shadow Cloak sat down to discuss their strategy.

"Thank you all for being here," Queen Valorix began. "Our progress has been impressive, but we need to ensure we have a steady supply of weapons, ammunition, and essential resources to sustain our rebellion."

Ruska Kalinova, ever the practical thinker, interjected, "I've been reaching out to the underground networks and connections I've made over the years. I believe we can secure a reliable source of materials and goods. We just need to ensure our contacts remain discreet and that we don't attract the attention of the nobles or royal guards."

Storm Stride nodded in agreement. "I can help with that. My reconnaissance skills can be put to good use in ensuring that our supply lines remain covert and secure. We can't afford any leaks."

Shadow Cloak, the expert in espionage, added, "I'll assist Storm Stride in maintaining the secrecy of our operations. The nobles' corrupt dealings should keep them distracted, but we can't underestimate their cunning. We must be vigilant."

Queen Valorix looked at her team, a sense of determination in her eyes. "We need a comprehensive strategy for our upcoming operations. We can't just rely on our manufacturing capabilities. We must plan our strikes carefully, choosing our battles wisely to weaken the nobles' grasp on Stalliongrad. I believe we should prioritize disrupting their supply lines and targeting key figures who support their oppressive rule."

Ruska Kalinova chimed in, "We can use our knowledge of the city's infrastructure to identify vulnerable points. And with the information Storm Stride and Shadow Cloak provide, we can strike swiftly and efficiently."

The rebels discussed their ideas further, mapping out a detailed strategy that balanced their need for resources, weapons, and supplies with their desire to undermine the nobles' control. They recognized the importance of coordination and information-sharing, as well as the need for backup plans in case of unexpected setbacks.

By the end of the meeting, they had a clear plan in place, a sense of purpose that fueled their determination. The abandoned industry complex was not just a symbol of their unity; it was becoming the heart of their rebellion, where weapons, strategy, and supplies were forged, and where their hope for a better Stalliongrad grew stronger each day.

Under Queen Valorix's guidance, the rebel forces grew not only in numbers but also in morale. The industrial complex became a symbol of their determination, a place where their vision of a free and just Stalliongrad was taking shape, one piece of equipment at a time.

Ruska Kalinova, who had once acted as the acting leader of the revolt, found in Queen Valorix a mentor and partner in their struggle. The two worked closely to organize the rebellion and plan their next moves. Queen Valorix's leadership and military experience, combined with Ruska's knowledge of the city and her strong determination, made for a formidable team.

Storm Stride continued to lend his expertise, not just in controlling the weather but also in scouting and reconnaissance. His ability to gather critical information without detection became invaluable in uncovering the plans and movements of the nobles and royal guards.

Shadow Cloak's skills in espionage and stealth played a crucial role in outmaneuvering their adversaries. He gathered intelligence on the nobles' activities and exposed their corrupt dealings, fueling the rebellion's cause.

Together, they formed a tight-knit group, with each member contributing their unique skills and expertise. With each passing day, their unity and the sense of purpose they shared grew stronger.