> Operation Iron Hoof
>  by thewookie1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> A Sandy Start
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

To make this story easier to read, all German will just be written in English. My Little Pony is property of Hasbro Inc.

 May 1941: Tobruk area, Italian Colonial Libya 

"Sir, we've got enemy movement!" yelled a German soldier hiding behind a small sand dune.

"Hmmm" A man just shorter than six foot with an officer's cap raised his binoculars to the dust cloud approximately 3 km to the east. " Looks like the Tommies are sending us some more targets" said the man. 

"Finally something to kill!" yelled another soldier from the officer's left.

"Krause, radio headquarters. Tell them there's movement near Fort Capuzzo; tanks and APCs from what I can tell!" yelled the officer who then gave a cough from his dry mouth.

"Yes sir!" said the radio operator as he saluted and then ran to his radio to send the message.

The officer then paced the area in which his men were stationed and looked again to the enemy in the east and sighed. " Men, get your food out and begin eating! We don't want to fight Tommy on an empty stomach do we?" yelled the officer as he held up a small metal cup.

"No, sir!" yelled the men in unison and then they all began rustling their bags and went to sit on the Panzers or ruins of the Fort to the rear of the position.

"Leutnant Johansson, the Generalleutnant would like to speak with you!" yelled Krause from a makeshift table behind an old column.

"Alright, I'll be right there!" yelled the officer as he climbed over the short wall in front of him.  I wonder why Rommel himself wants to speak with me? What did my Dad tell him now....

"Here he is sir." said the radio operator.

"Leutnant Robert Johansson reporting in sir!" the officer said into the radio as he gave a salute, since it was second nature.

"At ease Leutnant. So they are moving again you said." a voice said over the radio.

"Yes sir, the British armor is moving around again and I don't hear any Stukas." replied Robert.

"Alright, its likely just routine movements to keep us unbalanced; but keep on your toes." the radio responded again.

"Yes sir!" Robert replied again.

"But knowing your father, you'll be ready for anything." the radio commented.

"Yes sir, my father taught me well sir." Robert said as he began thinking of his family back in Hamburg.

"Report in anything new that arises, your dismissed Robert." the radio said and then static was heard.

Hours upon hours went by with only the occasional puff of sand in the distance and the night went by just as uneventful. But the next day would not be as calm by any respect......

Due to Leutnant Johansson fear that the British would attack at night, he stayed up throughout the night before finally going to bed at 08:00 hours. Sadly he would be awaken by the sound of shells dropping on their position.

BOOM!

Quickly he sprang out of his cot and grabbed his Luger and officer's cap and ran out of his tent to find utter chaos. One of the guards had likely fallen asleep allowing for the British armor to get just inside of firing distance and were now raining HE rounds all over the ruins. Robert quickly grabbed a pair of binoculars from the table near him and peered over the horizon. What he saw were at least seven British tanks and what appeared to be ten fully manned Bren carriers heading at them at a high speed. Four of the tanks also appeared to be following in tow while the others hull downed.

"Krause, radio HQ, tell them we are under heavy attack and that they used the dunes somehow to cover their tracks!" yelled Robert over to the radio table. "Take cover everyone, we have incoming!" he yelled to the men who began scrambling to anything that could be used as cover. "Light Panzers shoot those carriers with HE and 88 you kill the enemy tanks! 

"Sir, we are being ordered to fallback to the other side of the pass!" yelled Krause from his table.

"What!" yelled Robert as he ran to the table which then exploded. "Dammit, Krause you still alive?" Scrambling through the ruins he found a hand and immediately tried to pull it out from under the light rubble. What he got wasn't what he had hoped as he pulled an arm from the rubble and then found the dead radio operator under the cleared space. "Dammit to hell! We're deaf and down a man already!" he yelled to the sky. "Panzers we have a change of orders; you are to fallback to the positions behind the pass. We'll cover you and then join you! Go!" 

The engines of tanks and a captured Bren carrier revved up as the 88 began folding into its mobile position. 

"Men we need to cover the Panzer's tactical withdrawal and then join them!" yelled Robert over the sound of shells dropping everywhere.

"We're  always stuck covering those damned Italian's asses" one soldier remarked as he jumped behind a wall of bricks.

After four minutes the enemy charged into the forts outer territory in one valiant charge which almost seemed immune to rounds. The soldiers on the outer most areas began being shot down as they fought or attempted to retreat.

"You five with me! The rest of you begin falling back!" yelled Rob as he pointed Krause's former rifle at the enemy Bren Carrier and shot the MG gunner through the skull. "Move!"

As many soldiers fell back Robert and five of his soldiers held up in a former barracks using the windows to shoot from. 

"We disabled one sir!" one of the five name Shultz yelled.

"Don't get cocky Heinrich!" yelled the soldier next to him.

"Alright we delayed them long enough men, let's get the hell back to our lines!" yelled Robert as he held his rifle up in one hand while pointing to their left.

"Finally!" one of the soldiers commented as they began siphoning out the rear entrance to the building.

"F### its a Maty someone have a AT nade?" yelled Shultz as he ran just outside the building.

Robert quickly raised his rifle and dropped the Maltilda tank's commander and then charged it while holding a grenade. "Get the hell out of here, I'll catch up!" yelled Robert as he jumped a small stack of bricks.

The tank's turret began turning to the other men when Rob stuffed started unscrewing the granade's mechanism but it didn't loosen.

"F###, what hell is wrong with this grenade. Damn sand, dammit dammit!" yelled Robert from the rear of the tank as he fought with the grenade.

"Sir, hoping for a dramatic ending?" one of the soldiers commented sarcasticly as they ran trying to stay ahead of the barrel and MG. 

"F### it!" Robert yelled finally givng up on trying to get his grenade to activate. He then noticed Shultz had tripped so he did the unthinkable and grabbed the butt of his rifle and pounded down on the MG on the turret which bent it due to the heat. Then he grabbed the grenade and stuffed it in the barrel of the gun and what was left of his officer's coat. "F### you, you damned Brits!" yelled Robert as he jumped in from of the tank and shot his pistol off the driver slit. 

The tank's turret aimed and fired, then it all went dark.


Everfree Forest, Equestria

Deep in the former home of Celestia and Luna a light appears startling the bats which lived there. Suddenly three apples and a pencil come flying though. Then the light turns back off leaving the bats in utter chaos. Equestria had now been invaded by an otherworldly lunch.
  
 
> The Strange Device
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

August 1941  Hamburg, Germany 

“I’m tired of this rehab, I’ll be fine doctor.” exclaimed Robert in a hospital robe.

“You can hardly walk on your left leg Leutnant. I’m sorry but you’ll never go back onto active duty.” the doctor explained bringing a frown to the Robert’s face.

“See I can walk aka k aaah owwwww!” yelled Robert as he attempted to place weight onto his damaged knee.

“You had a piece of a gun barrel in your leg along with multiple other wounds Leutnant. Did you really expect to get back on the battlefield within no time?” asked the doctor as he helped Robert back onto the bed.

“No, I guess I just want to do something aside from sitting on a bed or lying on a bed. There’s a war out there and I have to prove myself to my father!” exclaimed the Leutnant from his bed.

“I would guess your father would be proud of you Leutnant.” added the doctor as he attempted escape the conversation. 

“Hmmm, did I miss something?” Robert said with a curious face and his eyebrow quirked.

“Fine, I’ll tell you; you are going to receive an Iron Cross Second Class and a Knight’s Cross for your valiant and heroic act of destroying a tank while saving five other soldiers.” confessed the doctor.

“Wow, are you just pulling my leg? I guess that would explain why my Iron Cross Third Class medal is MIA." asked Robert as a smile appeared on his face.

“Yes Leutnant, it’s true. Now can I leave without you trying something stupid?” the doctor added.

“You can leave Dr. Hertz , I apologize for delaying your other patients.” Robert said as he began to re-adjust his pillows for a better night’s sleep.

The next morning he woke up with new vigor and a couple ideas that he was going to ask the doctor about. He had come upon his ideas as he slept; one of his dreams was about his time in England for secondary school. He then knew something he could do that would allow him to help the war’s cause. He was fluent in English so why couldn’t he interrogate prisoners. After making up his mind he told his intentions to his doctor in a quick list.

1.	   Ask the High Command for a transfer to an interrogation unit.
2.	   Get his leg to the best it can be post-injury.
3.	   Interrogate until they achieve victory.

He felt like some sort of professor at a university after the three months he had spent in the hospital. With a lack of things to do, Robert had read the entire hospital library on Archeology, History, and Military tactics. Robert had grown up planning to visit the ruins of Greece and studying the battlefields of the Napoleonic Wars, but the war threw a wrench into that plan. So instead he picked up the profession his father had in WWI, a military officer. He still hoped though that after the war he could explore Waterloo and other major battlefields from the early 1800’s. Robert’s biggest hope was that his interrogation unit would be set up in Athens interviewing the prisoners from the Crete fiasco.

August 1942 Dregen, German held Austria 


“I believe we have done it Hans. We have solved not only our oil problems but furthermore a new place to colonize.” gloated a man with a lab coat and a large scar over his left eye.  

“Really, do you really think the SS would risk one of its English speaking agents going off-world to fool with something trivial like this?” questioned Hans, another man with a lab coat but much younger than his mentor, Dr. Gruben.

“Yes, Hitler always had a soft spot for these kinds of journeys. If he sent men to Tibet, I think he’ll be fine with exploring a new world.” the older doctor chuckled.

“What if there’s beings still alive there sir?” questioned the younger doctor.

“If they are Aryan they shall live, anything else and we shall purify the planet of their existence.” Dr. Gruben said with an acidic voice. “They can’t be that smart anyway, they worshipped horses from what we could tell from our brief scouting expeditions. Also they use a dialect of English in their writings.” the doctor said as he looked at a picture of a ruin showing what appeared to be two flying unicorns on either side of a sun. 

“But wouldn’t it be a better idea if we find these horse worshipers, to study them? asked Hans hoping for a less bloodthirsty reply.

“What could we possibly learn from them Hans; how to scratch behind our backs easier or neigh at the sun gods?” trailed off Dr. Gruben as he began laughing maniacally. “You my young assistant are far too naïve in your thoughts; didn’t the schools teach anything about our superior race?” said Dr. Gruben as he gave Hans a frightening cold stare. 

“Ummmm no not really,” he said with a shrug “I was taught to assist people through technology not to murder people sir.” responded the now shaking young doctor.

“O really, well if that’s the case then I should send you to a hospital ran by the SS. You might learn something…..” threatened the older doctor.

“Am I interrupting something Drs. Gruben and Kritz?” interrupted a tall dark haired man with a swastika on his left arm. “I was intrigued by the message of a new super-weapon.”

“No, you are not interrupting anything Oberst Fransheim. My underling was just having trouble understanding basic genetics, that’s all.” as he glared to his younger partner.

“Good, then tell me how the hell this archway door will help the Reich against its enemies!” yelled the impatient SS officer.

“It is a portal to another world Oberst!” exclaimed Dr. Gruben. 

"You had better not be fooling with me doctor. I'm a busy man." the officer said angrily.

"It is, it is truly a inter-planetary portal." Dr. Gruben replied reassuring the SS officer.

“Is it able to be colonized? Exploited?” questioned the now interested Oberst Fransheim.

“I can prove its worth, Dr. Kritz please enter the portal and then return in two minutes.” commanded the older doctor.

“Alright, let me grab my equipment!........” Hans yelled as he was thrown into the now glowing bluish green portal. 

“The report said you knew about some of the ruins you claim to be near this portal’s exit?” the Oberst questioned while looking at the bag sitting at the portal door.

“Yes, the now deceased scouts I sent reported drawings of horses on the walls. They had to be disposed of though since this is a completely secret operation.” snickered the doctor as he went over to his desk and grabbed a gun from its top compartment.

“Good, let me tell you then what we have planned for this portal.” Oberst Fransheim said as he stood looking at the doctor intently.

“Yes?” the doctor questioned hoping he could see some experiments in the near future.

“We are going to bring in some soldier to butter up the locals on the planet, if there are any, then after he’s gained proof of oil reserves the SS shall invade and conquer the people of the planet.” he said as he fiddled with his holster.

"Seems more involved then it should." the doctor replied.

"Why hunt a planet's entirety when one can just coerce the locals to do it for us." the SS officer said with a devilish grin. 

“Why let them live at all? They aren’t worth talking too!” yelled the doctor.

“So there are intelligent creatures on the planet…… how many humans were there and what do they look like?” the Oberst grinned as he had made the doctor slip up.

“Uh um well I don’t know anything more than one of my scouts said he saw at least five small horses working on a massive farm of what appeared to be apples. He said he could hear English being spoken but only saw the small horses. That is all.” replied the doctor as he scrambled to regain his composure and control of the situation. 

“Interesting, you have done well and you shall be rightfully AwarDEAD.” The Oberst said as he began to unlock his holster.

“Thank you, I can’t wait for my mansion and visit with Hitler!” the now gleeful doctor said as he turned to the portal.

"Your welcome, but you haven't listened; there won't be any meeting." Oberst Fransheim said as he drew his pistol on the doctor.

"What! I have done as the Fuhrer had wished, I was promised a great reward for suceeding!" the doctor angrily spat back as he stepped back from the officer.

"Yes, doctor you did succeed... but you broke the rules." the Oberst said with a stern glare.

"What do you mean?" the doctor said confused.

“I'm sorry but you have overstayed your welcome doctor." the Oberst said as six soldiers walked in from the hallway  outside.

"You can't do this to a high ranking party member!" the doctor yelled as drew his pistol only to be cut down in a hail of rifle and pistol fire. The doctor then collapsed to the ground in a heap in front of the portal.

The younger doctor then came back through the portal to see the dead doctor at his feet.

"What the hell happened here?" Dr. Kritz asked as he pointed to the corpse of Dr. Gruben.

"Tying up loose ends.." Oberst Fransheim said as he put a round between the younger doctor's eyes.

"Someone clean up this mess!” yelled the Oberst as he though to himself, {now I am the only ranked man on the project.}

Outside of Ponyville, Equestria 

“Can I go check on the others, little squirrel? Are you sure?” whispered a yellow and pink pony said to a squirrel. 

With that the squirrel nodded its head and the pony went on to another animal.

“May I please check your paw? That is if you don’t mind.” inquired the pony to a puppy which was staring up at her. Then as the pony lifted up its paw a grayish rabbit came out of the forest and rammed into her side knocking her off balance. Surprised and a bit timid the pony walked up to the grey rabbit which appeared to have sap all over it and blood. 

“Are you ok little one?” the yellow pony asked.   

Immediately the rabbit began attempting to pantomime the events which had just taken place.

FLASHBACK

Near a small hole in the ground Little Grey was collecting his carrots when a large Manticore popped out of the bushes behind him. Immediately the rabbit sprung from his stash of carrots and began hopping for his life. The two ran a good mile before coming to the old castle where Grey hoped to lose the beast. The all appeared lost when he tripped on a vine while turning a sharp corner and the Manticore jumped him. Digging his claws into the side of the rabbit the Manticore growled and began bringing Grey to his mouth when suddenly the Manticore’s eyes went wide open and claws released Grey. After being dropped Grey ran to the Pony’s house for she was known to help injured creatures.


“Oh that sounds scary.” the pony said as she began to cringe at the thought of it. 

Immediately the rabbit began grabbing at her hoof and attempted to pull her to the forest. 

“I…..I can’t go into the forest alone….. it’s dark and scary.” said the pony as she began to shake.

"I’ll go get Twilight, she’ll help. Wait here little guy.” she told the small slightly bloodied rabbit. “Oh your hurt too, Angel could you help me fix this little one up?” said the pony as she glanced over to another rabbit gladly chomping on a carrot. At the sound of work though, Angel the rabbit sighed and pulled a first aid kit out of his house and began walking to the pony’s position.

After fixing the small rabbit up the pony headed to her friend Twi’s house and to her delight found the rest of her friends were already there.

“Umm hello everypony, would you mind helping me solve a problem in the forest? That of course if you don’t mind.” whispered the shy yellow pony at the door of the tree/house/library which her friend lived.

“That must be why Pinkie alerted us to her twitches.” said a purple with a pink streaked mane pony near a pile of books.

“Are you sure Twilight, must I dirty my hooves again. I just had my spa visit yesterday.” said the white pony with a purple mane with a bothered look on her face.

“Are you sure Twilight?” added a small purple and green dragon with hearts for eyes.

“Yes Rarity, Fluttershy needs our help.” Twilight responded as she glared at the small dragon.

“Ah see nothin wrong with halpen ya Fluttershy. Ah’ll even get some appals for the road.” added the orange pony with a  farmer hat.

“Ooh maybe I’ll get to fight what evil creature is out there, that would be so cool. Or maybe the Shadow Bolts will be out there again!” gleefully exclaimed the cyan pony with a rainbow mane now flying in loops above the others.

“Aah Pinkie Pie, where’d you go?” asked Twilight.

“Right here! Right here!” said the jumping pink cotton candied mane pony on outside the door holding a cannon.

“How did you get outside, oh never mind.”  Twilight said as she sighed and led the group outside.

After a long walk into the Everfree Forest the six ponies and one grey rabbit wrapped in gauze arrived at the former castle. After arriving the rabbit bolted to a clearing in the ruins where there lay what appeared to be a sleeping Manticore. Upon closer inspection the ponies then notice a blood pool around the once mighty predator. Fluttershy jumped immediately behind the rest of the group and Rarity began to check her hooves while looking further downtrodden.

“No party now.” the pink pony sighed as her cannon seemingly disappeared as fast as her smile had.

Laying in front of the six was a bloodied Manticore with its arms in odd positions.

“What in tarnation could have left a Manticore like this?” questioned the orange pony as she adjusted her hat trying to take in the sight.

Fluttershy quickly squeaked before hopping behind the stone wall to their left while the others just stared at the creature in with disturbed faces.

“I don’t know guys; I have never seen a Manticore with these strange wounds before. None of my books have ever displayed similar holes.” Twilight said as she raised a hoof to her mouth and began to ponder. “Can’t be a spear, too small….” trailed off Twilight as she began to talk to herself about the possibilities.


“Hey guys, there’s something wrong with these trees.” the cyan pony said in a startled tone as she hovered near a tree.

“Rainbow Dash, this is no time…….. what the hay…” said the orange pony.

“What is it Applejack? Oh what is that?” said Twilight as Rainbow Dash picked up a strange metal crushed cylinder from the wall below the tree.

> Biting the Bullet
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

August 1942 Metz, France

The office was nice but still not what Robert liked. He’d much rather be on the front leading or at least be near it. But instead he was stuck in Metz attempting to make POWs talk. True, he had wanted to be an interrogator but it wasn’t all he had hoped for. 

“Really, yet another loss in Africa at this rate we will be kicked out within a year. Those damn so-called allies in the East decided to get the Americans into it; bright idea Hirohito.” Robert said as he glanced down upon a newspaper on top of three new POWs’ folders. As he walked through the halls he noticed a lack of people but decided it was just a good day for his shoulder. He went to his office door and walked to his door and got out his key as he balanced the paperwork in his other hand. 

“Leutnant Johansson you have arrived! You have an urgent message from Berlin!” yelled his secretary who had just returned from the bathroom.

“What!?” he yelled back accidently spilling his papers onto the desk where his coffee laid. “Dammit Hilda, didn’t I say not to yell from behind me!” the now enraged officer said as he attempted to save the files from the now forming puddle of coffee.

“Sorry sir, the letter is in on your desk. I’ll clean up the mess sir. Oh and heil Hitler!” she stated as she abruptly rose her right hand to her ear.

“Heil Hitler! Now get back to whatever you were doing after you finish cleaning. Also remember, you don’t need to formally salute every blessed time I walk into the foyer. Alright?” said Robert as he now grabbed his folders, or at least what was left of them, and went into his large room. His desk was flanked by two banners with a picture of Hitler above his chair. On either wall were large wall sized book cases filled with enormous amounts of books along with trinkets. 

“Oh joy, the Fuhrer has moved again.” he said while rolling his eyes. “Let’s see what’s on my desk. Ok the typical note from the Nazis telling me I can’t hang my Hitler picture somewhere else since it isn’t huge. Yet another officer get-together at the Château, they never run out of time to party do they.” he said while he tossed notes and an invitation into the garbage bin to his right. “All they want is to have me go and say their awesome to the ladies.” Robert said as he laughed a bit and looked at his Iron Cross on his coat. Then adjusting his Knight’s Cross (around the neck) he sat down to see the remaining mail. “Hmm typical orders from assorted officers nothing new there. Oh here it is, from HQ in Berlin. I hope they finally accepted my request to be moved to Greece.” gleefully Robert said as he grabbed his letter opener and tore open the letter before his face turned to stone. He began reading in horror:

 Dear Leutnant Robert Johansson,


Your Mother and Father were found dead today in their Hamburg residence after a recent bombing raid. We are very sorry for your loss. 

My sincerest regrets,
General Von Traust 


After reading the letter Robert’s sad induced anger caused him to grab the Hitler bust that was on his table and toss it across the room nailing a book on one of the shelves. The book then fell hitting the record player below turning on the “The Ride of the Valkyries” and spilling contents of the book onto the floor. With that he marched out the door not even noticing his secretary saying something. Then he just left the building and started to walk aimlessly around the city attempting to tie up his emotions inside him. For no good officer shows emotion as his now late father always told him.

After he had walked awhile he came across a bread stand being run by a local middle aged French man. Robert felt a bit hungry from his long walk and decided to get in line behind a young boy about the age ten. The Frenchman took the currency the little boy handed him and in return the boy got three rolls and then thanked the man. The boy then turned and apologized in French for taking so much time to Robert. Robert patted the boys head in forgiveness not knowing exactly what he had said and the boy then began heading down the road. 

“I would like to buy a loaf a bread sir? How much will that be?” Robert asked the older French gentleman now working the counter as presumably the son went back inside to make more bread.  As Robert opened his wallet he heard some yelling from down the street and decided to check it out. “I’ll be right back.” said Robert as he jogged down the road to the source of the noise. 

As he approached the turn he saw three SS soldiers huddled around the same little boy from the bread stand. The boy began to cry as one of the soldiers started to eat a roll. Robert dashed off to stop this nonsense but as he ran to aid the boy being mugged; the boy attempted to run off with at least one roll. Then Robert stopped dead in his tracks as he stood in utter shock while screams of women could be heard along with the slamming of doors. Just thirty feet from the SS men laid the young boy now attempting to crawl through a pool of blood. 

Robert yelled, “Hold your fire!” but the SS men didn’t listen and fired a second shot which ended the poor boy’s life. “You bastards! What in God’s name did that boy do to deserve to be shot!” yelled the Leutnant as he now again began moving to the SS soldier with now smug looks. 

“Oh look, the Wehrmacht sent a limping man to scold us.” jeered the one SS soldier quietly to the others causing brief laughter until Robert came up to them.

“Sir, that boy was attempting to steal our rolls and we yelled for him to halt but he didn’t stop.”  said another SS soldier as his friends nodded intently.

“We all know that’s a lie soldiers. You shot him for no reason!” yelled the Leutnant. “I watched the boy buy the rolls just two minutes ago and you must of yelled halt to you imaginary friends since I never heard it!” the now fuming man raged.

“Haven’t you ever read about a soldier’s right to seize food when needed sir?” commented the third SS soldier.

“Yes I have you three, and you three are definitely in need of food since the SS are being housed in a former hotel and you there have a sauce stain on your uniform!” yelled Robert as he pointed to the stain.

“Why are you so angry, he was just a Frenchman……” commented one of the three.

“He was nowhere near being a combatant and you had no reason to say otherwise! Plus what is that supposed to mean? He was still a human! He even was much more polite with me than any SS soldier I have ever met! You three are to come with me immediately, I am reporting you to your superiors.” he yelled as he grabbed one of the SS men’s uniforms and began to push him forward.  

August, Ponyville 

“That’s all the books we have Twilight; I can’t magically make one appear…… burp…….” the small dragon said as suddenly green dust appeared with a book and note. “It’s not like Rarity will just pop-up and says she loves me!” said the excited dragon as he looked all over for the white pony to magically appear.

“Nice try Spike, but that isn’t going to happen.” Twilight said with a giggle.

“Awe….” Spike then sighed in defeat. “Let’s see what the Princess had to say…” said the now saddened baby dragon.

Dear my faithful student Twilight Sparkle,
I apologize for the late reply as there was an infestation in Stalliongrad of those cute bugs again. I found a book that may help you in your quest to find what that strange object is.
Your Princess and Teacher Celestia 

“If the princess sent it then it must be good!” said the now gleeful Twilight Sparkle as she hopped around Spike.

“Aah Twilight, this book is an old military experiments book…” Spike said immediately bringing Twilight to halt midflight and back to earth.

“Oh ok then.” the now slightly disappoint purple pony said as she walked up over to her reading podium with the book held by a purple aura.

“Let’s see what the Princess sent me Spike.” Twilight said as she began flipping through the pages. 

 This notebook is a compiled resource of all the experiments my team and I commenced between May and October of 1874. All the weapons are in the directory page after this. 

After scanning the directory she found what the small object might belong to. This gun, they called it, could be used by ponies in battle with an effective range of 500m. But as she continued on she found out that the smaller guns were given up on due to their inability to pierce magical shields and were far too difficult for a hoof to reload. She skimmed further only to find that the bullets were similar but not close enough.

“I guess that’s how Pinkie got her party cannon… but it still left me with more questions than answers. What could possibly put at least twenty bullets into the Manticore within a few seconds. None of these guns have anything close to that.” Twilight said to herself as she wrote notes on what she had read and then decided to head to bed. Twilight had spent two weeks now scouring the libraries of both Ponyville and Canterlot hunting for the origins to the “bullet”.

September 1942 Dregen, German-held Austria

“The scouts report nothing out of the ordinary sir. The climate is mild and there are no humans to be found in the general vicinity to the portal.” reported the tall blonde haired SS scout as he saluted to Oberst Fransheim now occupying the now deceased doctor’s desk. 

“Good, any more information on these so called intelligent horses?” inquired the Oberst as he spun a globe on his new desk.

“We believe they speak English sir. I have heard English in conversation when I have gotten closer to the red horse’s farm.” added the scout.

“Alright then, I expect you to report in bright and early tomorrow soldier.” replied the now grinning Oberst. “Miriam, get me a list of fluent English speaking officers.” yelled the officer as he leaned back in his chair. “Those horses won’t stand a chance against the weight of the Reich.” gloated the leaning officer. “But first we shall play them for their own layout of supply lines!” remembered the Oberst as he began to sit up again.

> A Sight for Sore Eyes
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

November 1943 Metz, France

Heil Hitlers were exchanged between Robert’s secretary and two officers.

“We are here to see Leutnant Johansson.”  said the tall dark haired man with a swastika on his sleeve.

“Well sirs, he is busy in his office; let me send him a ring.” replied the secretary who pushed a small button.

Inside the officer Robert was shuffling through reports and intelligence on his newly assigned POW group. This time it was American pilots who had been shot down near Paris. As he began practicing his American styled accent his buzzer to his left, on the table, started buzzing. 

“Come on in, oh Ich meine, sende ihnen darin. (I mean, send them in.) said the Leutnant as he switched back from his Americanized English to his primary language, German.

As he said that the door opened revealing to SS officers in their usual attire.

“Heil Hitler!” yelled the two.

“Heil Hitler” returned Robert. “What is your business here, is this about needing a witness to that shooting?" added Robert as he thought to himself sarcastically, {hat great honor graced me with their visit}

“We are here to give you news and orders sir.” said the taller SS officer. 
“All three men involved with the shooting you reported were dealt with accordingly.” added the officer as he attempted to cover up the actuallity. What had happened was the three SS were plainly transferred to the eastern front (Poland) rather than arrested. 

“That is good to hear; no German should ever stoop to such a barbaric act. We are supposed to be the greatest civilization in the world.” said Robert as he spun the globe in the corner until stopping it pointing at Germany.

“We also would like to inform you on your change of orders.” said the other officer who had no visible hair and a scar over his left eye.

“What are my new orders?” asked the Leutnant as he began to imagine the Parthenon and the temples of Greece.

“You are hereby promoted to the rank of Oberst, and are to be in Dregen, Austria within the week. “ announced the short, scarred man.

“What, I can’t just jump that many ranks? What would I be doing in Austria?” questioned Robert as he gave a perplexed look to the SS opposite his table.

“Orders are orders Oberst, we expect you there by Friday which is in two days. Pack up and get ready for a long stay.” said the stern SS officer as he pointed around the room.

November 1943 Dregen, Austria

“Sir, the Wehrmacht officer has gotten off the plane at the airfield.” said a short German soldier with his gun slung over his back.

“Good, phase one of the plan can commence very soon. Soldier, make sure that the Kettengrad is loaded for his trip.” replied Oberst Fransheim sitting behind his desk.

“Yes sir!” replied the soldier as he hurried back out of the office.

“This plan is foolproof.” Fransheim said to himself; “This German officer will lead a ghost division without knowing that it will allow us to acquire additional supplies.” he continued.

He then walked over to a small folder which lay on the desk near the door.

“If the local population of creatures attack and/or kill him, we then know we should just slaughter them. If they are indifferent or friendly, we shall manipulate them into helping us destroy them.” said the laughing SS Oberst as he grabbed a cigar from his desk container. “It’s too easy.”


Later

“Heil Hitler!” yelled four SS soldiers as Robert walked into the cave door.

“Heil Hitler, at ease men.” replied the newly promoted Oberst.

Robert received an escort to help him find his intended destination which was a large office with a massive banner outside the door. After being summoned from the inside of the room, Robert walked in to see who he was now working with. 

“Heil Hitler!” they both took turns saying as they saluted one another.

“Oberst Johansson, it’s good to finally meet you. I am Oberst Fransheim of the SS, you are here on a special mission before your men arrive.” said the officer while he shook Robert’s hand.

“Hello, why do I have no troops to command at the momment? Plus what could I possibly need troops for, in the middle of Austria?” replied Robert as he scratched his chin and leaning on his good knee.

“We needed you for your skills with the English language and your experience in archeology.” replied Fransheim as he flipped close the folder in front of him.

“I took three classes in Britain for archeology; I’m not a archeologist or an English linguist.” added Robert as he attempted to remove himself from the situation. “I would suggest you find an actual archeologist and an English linguist if that’s your problem. I’m only useful nowadays behind a desk or interrogating POWs.” explained Robert as he began to feel a bit depressed from his current state.

“You are an Iron Cross holder, are you not?” said Fransheim as he pointed to the medal on Robert’s uniform.

“Yes I am, your point?” added Robert as he checked if his Iron Cross still was there.

“That’s why you are assigned this task, now follow me so you can get started.” responded Oberst Fransheim as he began shoving Robert out of the room.

“What’s the rush? I just got here and I was promised a good dinner when I arrived.” asked Oberst Johansson as he heard his grumbling stomach.

“All in good time, first you shall see your mission and then you shall receive your dinner. We'll feed you so well you'll think it's your last time on Earth.” said the laughing SS officer.

“Alright then." added Robert as he quirked his eyebrow. {odd phrasing for sure} 

They began walking down the hall to a massive room labeled “Top Secret” (in German) and the door was opened leading to a large room with an archway the size of a tiger tank.

“What in God’s name is that, and how the hell is that top secret? It’s.... a big arch.” said Robert as he just looked dumbstruck at the massive arch.

“It is no ordinary archway, you see it can travel to places beyond ours.” replied the SS officer with an almost doctor-like voicing.

“Like the other side of the room? So I can see some steak and a table.” sarcastically replied the perturbed Robert as he walked to the arch and was gravely disappointed he saw nothing was behind it.

“No, like other worlds, new worlds to discover, explore and conquer.” said the SS officer.

“What was that last part?” asked Robert.

“Umm, I said discover, explore, and colonize.” said the SS officer as he mentally scrambled for another phrase.

“Oh, then how do help with this?” Robert replied as he started to get a better look at the arch.

“There are what appear to be English-like writings on ruins outside the archway’s other side.” informed Fransheim.

“Well I guess if it gets me far away from Hamburg.” Robert trailed off as he spoke. 

"Good, then we shall discuss your mission over the steak you requested." grinned the SS officer.

The two walked to the mess hall and while eating Robert was briefed on the magnitude of going off-world. Unnoticed by Robert though, Fransheim grinned sinisterly throughout the conversation. 

As Robert began walking back to his quarters he began to think about what had been happening. {This whole new world journey is fascinating and all, but I hope I do not have to work with this SS officer much.} He then arrived at his quarters and saw the three bags of clothes and personal objects {Well, at least they didn’t take them away from me with mysterious circumstances.} Robert then searched his bags to make sure he hadn’t lost anything due to the SS security. {They left everything alone except the toothpaste, I guess someone desperately wanted to clean his teeth} With a short chuckle, Robert went to his bed and went to sleep.

Ponyville, Equestria

“Fascinating, Spike come here you have got to see this.” said the purple pony with a smile.

“Yes, Twilight?” said the small dragon as he approached his motherly figure with a bit of annoyance. Seeing that Spike has been asked to check out every experiment Twilight attempted in solving the problem posed by the “bullet” for the past few weeks. “What is that?” said Spike as the baby dragon’s interest peaked.

“The bullet Spike, it is not from our world!” exclaimed Twilight as she held up the small object with her magic.

“What now, come again?” said the baby dragon as his mouth hit the floor.

“The residue on the bullet uses a substance that has never been seen by even Princess Celestia! You know what this means?” cheerfully yelled the purple pony.

“No sleep again?” Spike said with sarcasm.

“Yes, I mean no. We shall ask Princess Luna.” Twilight said as she packed a notebook into her saddlebag.

“Twilight, since Princess Luna is the younger of the sisters and was on the moon for a millennia, how could she possibly know more?” asked Spike as he was magically bombarded with three notebooks and a pen.

“Never hurts to be sure Spike. Just as Star Swirl the Bearded said in final magical suggestions book.” said Twilight as she began pulling books looking to find it.

“Alright, alright I’ll go, just don’t make me read another suggestion book.” Spike conceded in defeat.

As they turned to leave Pinkie came to the door. She began hopping up and down and then pulled an invitation for a party out of nowhere.

“Party time Twilight, it’s your ‘Leaving the Library Finally’ party!” said the pink blob of joy jumping over Spike and Twilight.

“I’m sorry Pinkie but I have matters to attend to.” Twilight said as she pushed Spike forward.

“You have to come Twilight. You’ve been hiding in there for at least two weeks.” Pinkie said while giving the cutest look she could muster.

“Argh, alright then Pinkie, I’ll go to the party and then I’ll take a train to Canterlot.”Twilight conceded.

“Okie dokey lokey, a train is fun, plus that rhymes with brain, and drain, and pain, and Wayne, and window pane, and………” Pinkie began to trail off as she hopped into the instance to Sugercube Corner.

With a facehoof the librarian and her relieved assistant dropped their books on the table near the door and went off to join their pink friend.

November 1943 Dregen, Austria

“The archway is going to get power very soon sir!” yelled a soldier with goggles on.

“Good, and the Kettengrad is ready?” replied the SS Oberst.

“Yes, it is ready to go sir.” responded another goggled soldier.

“How does this get powered Fransheim?” asked Robert as he came up behind him in a motorcyclist uniform.

“We steal the energy from the local cities or use lightning strikes. So don’t expect any help for a month.” replied the SS officer as he attempted to speak over the machinery at work.

“Alright, that’s interesting.” replied the now worried Robert. “This planet better have something to speak with!” he muttered to himself as he climbed on the Kettengrad.

“Good luck Oberst Johansson hope you brought enough books. You won’t need this though...” said the SS officer as he knocked the food container off the rear of the Kettengrad.

“What was that?” yelled Robert as he turned to see Oberst Fransheim.

“Good luck and enjoy your books!” yelled back the SS officer.

"Here goes it." Robert said as he hit the pedal and drove into the portal.

He arrived in massive ruins that appeared to be in some sort of old foyer. Deciding to move on he drove a bit farther north before getting to the edge of what appeared to be former main hall due to the fragments of colored glass he could see in what was left of windows. 

“Time to set up shop. I guess I'm the new royalty.” laughed Robert as he got off his Kettengrad. 

“I hereby claim this land, German!” he yelled causing a few birds to become startled. “Wow, they actually have birds like at home.” Robert commented to himself as he began to unload.

Back in Dregen

“May I ask sir?” asked an SS soldier as he peered down upon the now broken box of rations on the floor. 

“Alright soldier, you must be curious about why we only sent the two barrels of gasoline behind him. Am I right?” inquired Oberst Fransheim as he kicked a ration into the box.

“Yes sir.” responded the soldier.

“Without food Robert will be forced into survival mode and meet the “locals” sooner.” said the SS officer with a smirk.

In Sugercube Corner

“Woh Pinkie what dance is that?” asked the rainbow maned cyan pony.

“This, this is another doozy from the Pinkie sense. Don't be a fraidy cat Rainbow Dash, they subside after a couple of hours.” replied Pinkie Pie as she shook like a leaf.

“You’ve had others?” questioned Twilight.

“Yeah silly, but they don’t seem to ever relate to anything. No big events have occurred and they all tell me they are at the old Royal home.” Pinkie said as she smiled and attempted to eat more cake.

“Well darling, this does not appear to be your, normal, Pinkie Sense. It seems far to different. ” Rarity said as she looked at Pinkie.

With a collective gasp the remaining five noticed Pinkie’s tail deflate.

“Hey, that’s new!” Pinkie exclaimed.

“Okay girls, were going to get to the bottom of this.” Twilight said with authority.

“Ah say that is a good idea.” replied the orange pony.

"But I thought you had to head to the train, choo choo!" Pinkie said imitating a train engine.

"Pinkie, this is far more serious then bullet residue. It could even mean more evidence could be there." Twilight said as she took off her party hat. "Spike, watch the library while I'm gone."

"Alright, Twilight..." Spike said with a somber tone knowing his nap was further in the future now.

“Where’s Fluttershy?” asked Rainbow Dash noticing a certain lack of quiet speech.

“Ah don’t now, she must have gotten afrad of Pinkie’s shaken and went home.” Applejack responded.

“I guess your right Applejack.” said Rainbow Dash.

Everfree Forest

Walking alone in a pointed, star covered, hat walked a light blue pony pulling a cart with the words “The Great and Powerful Trixie” painted on the side along with a similairly styled cape hanging out of where the window was. 

“The Great and Powerful Trixie should never have to do such menial labor. It is much too underneath her.” spoke the pony as she walked through the forest path. “Those stupid colts left me no choice; the Great and Powerful Trixie compliments nopony and no brute is going to pull my cart through mud." “Those neighsayers must had no knowledge of my stature for they were clearly dimwitted.” continued the stuck-up pony as she struggled to push forward with her cart.

“It’s all her fault, that Twilight Sparks or something like that.” angrily snorted the pony as she continued forward while the cart creaked. “If she hadn't shown me up, I would still be the premier showmare this side of Canterlot.” 

Robert’s Basecamp

“Just like the SS to forget something…” angrily Robert said as he saw he held no food in any of his supplies. “I could have sworn when I checked it before I left… nevermind.” the off said with defeat.

“I could always hunt, but how would I bring it back here?” Robert said as he scratched his head. {maybe the Ket?}

"Maybe there's some wild berries or something along those lines?" again Robert said aloud before he thought {well it's a foreign planet, for all I know everything is poisoned}

The sound of wood creaking in the distance startled Robert at first but then with the sound echoing again his face lit up.

“Is that a wooden cart? Civilization! That may mean food!” exclaimed Robert as he jumped to his feet and grabbed his rifle and helmet from the wall near the tent he set up to be his HQ. Then he dashed off toward the noise.

Everfree Forest

After walking awhile Robert finally began to hear more than just the occasional creak of wood. There was English being spoken by some person in the distance.

“Hello!” Robert yelled hoping to gain the person’s attention.

Hearing a colt’s voice gave Trixie an idea.

“The Great and Powerful Trixie says greetings.” yelled back the light blue pony. 

“I need directions to the nearest town please!” yelled Robert as he approached the cart, now a slightly larger dot in the distance.

“The Great and Powerful Trixie does not give directions to commoners without compensation!” replied Trixie with a loud voice but emphasis on compensation.

“I am no mere commoner,” {odd language, must be pre-Renaissance-era} “I am Oberst Robert Johansson of the German 24th Panzergrenadier Division.” yelled back Robert.

“Herman Infantry, never heard of them.”  Trixie said to herself. “But he is a soldier so he is likely well built.” “Alright then, come here and I shall tell you your directions.” as she finished saying that she cursed to herself for not stating it in the third person.

“Alright just give me a minute.” yelled back the now aching officer. “Damned knee!” he angrily said to himself as he pressed forth to the carriage which said “The Great and Powerful Trixie”. “Wow, she must rival the SS in self-promotion.” Robert said with a chuckle.

Seeing an unknown creature in the distance startled Trixie but she decided to use her own superior intellect to trick this strange beast. “I am in the cart kind sir. Please make haste, the Great and Powerful Trixie’s show must go on." added the blue showmare as she prepared her sleeping powder. 

“Coming, and nice horse! Facinating color.”  Robert said as he could begin to see an odd colored horse near the front of the carriage.  “She sure loves speaking of herself in the third person” he mumbled to himself as he arrived at the carriage.

“Just open up the door kind sir” Trixie said as she spoke into the small slide window in the front of the carriage.

“Alright then,” Robert said as he began unfastening the door hinge and stepping up into the carriage. “Umm, where are you? Robert said as he started searching the carriage.

“The Great and Powerful Trixie must not be seen, for I am a magician, all you may see is through small window at the front.” replied Trixie as she readied her powder for creature’s nose.

“Fine…..” Robert said as he began to become annoyed. “I’m here looking out the small window." he said with one hand on his pistol.

“I’ve got you now foul beast!” yelled Trixie as she tossed a mass of sleeping powder mistakenly on the eyes of the unsuspecting officer.

“F###! What the hell was that!” screamed Robert as he desperately tried to wipe out his eyes leaving his Luger in its holster.

With that Trixie jerked the carriage forward causing Robert to stumble backwards out of the carriage and to the ground with a large thump.

“Ow!” yelled Robert as his rifle flung off his back hitting a tree nearby.

“I’ve got you now!” Trixie yelled as she charged the beast ready to cuff it.

“Oh no, you don’t!” Robert said as he picked up a brown object in front of his vision. After noticing it wasn’t his rifle by the roughness and weight behind the wood, he deduced it was a stick. The light blue blur approached him and he swung and made contact with whatever was attempting to pursue him. The stick broke in half and the Great and Powerful Trixie lay unconscious to Robert’s side. 

The now blinded officer stumbled to his feet and stared down upon the blue lump at his feet. “Dammit you bitch, you blinded me!” Robert yelled as he gave a swift kick to the blur on the ground. “Ow, I shouldn’t have kicked with that leg.” yelled Robert as he tried to find his rifle. "Maybe you should spend more time learning to fight, rather than matching your horse's mane to your costume!" he gloated  as he finally got his hand on his rifle.

"You are lucky I don't just shoot people little lady." Robert said re-slinging his rifle over his back.

Robert then headed off partially confused and sedated, toward what he thought was his camp to the south. But instead he was in fact heading north.

> Blinded by the Twilight
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

November 1943 Just outside of the Everfree Forest

“Damn that woman,” yelled Robert as he stumbled to the outside of the forest.  “She screwed up me knee even more, and gave me another concussion. Not to mention some cut above my eye which keeps bleeding onto it.” said Robert as he angrily stumbled along the dirt road.

After some time his stumbling walk began to slow as his mind became more clouded. “I can’t fall asleep, I can’t fall asleep, or else I’ll die just one more step, I need to...” he said as he slowly began to succumb to the sleeping powder. 

Just outside the forest was a home built within a tree with what appeared to be a miniature zoo in its side yard. Just outside the house wandered the yellow and pink pony named Fluttershy as she began to feed her “pets”. “La la la la,” hummed the yellow pony.  Suddenly a rabbit from near the chicken coop ran over to Fluttershy and began stomping his foot.

“What is it Angel?” asked the meek pony carrying chicken seed on her back.

The rabbit began madly hopping up and down and pointing to the forest.

“Yes, the forest is beautiful this time of year. All the trees change colors.” Fluttershy said as she continued on with the small bag upon her back.

The rabbit continued to stomp his foot and hop up and down while pointing to the forest.

“Am I missing something? Are you hungry?” asked the pony as she continued along to the chickens.

The rabbit rolled his eyes then hopped up and kicked the bag off of Fluttershy’s back.  

“What is it Angel, why would you do that?” the now startled pony said as she looked disappointed at the rabbit.

The rabbit jumped up on her back and steered her head to a location on the forest line where a strange creature hobbled towards their home.

“EEEEEeeeeeeeee, baaaaaaa” squealed the pony as she imitated a goat collapsing.

“Halt! Oder ich schießen!” (Halt! or I'll shoot!) yelled Robert as he drew his rifle and began aiming to the area near Fluttershy and Angel.

He continued to walk forward without any real idea where the noise came from but its general direction.

"Kommen Sie mit erhobenen Händen heraus oder ich schieße!" (Come out with your hands up or I'll shoot!) yelled Robert again as he began to see movement to his left.  “Ich habe gesagt, zu halten!” ( I said to halt!) Robert yelled as he fired a round into the location of the movement.

With the gunshot Robert cringed in pain due to his headache giving Angel enough time to hop over to the Oberst and trip him. Robert faceplanted into the dirt where he made one last small swipe at the white blur in front of his face but missed as Angel jumped up just in the nick of time. Being to weak to stand back up, Robert finally succumbed to his injuries and just fell asleep.

“Is it dead?” said the frightened pony shivering behind a tree glancing at the now motionless creature.

The rabbit shook his head but climbed onto the back of the creature and with one foot on it looked to the sky in triumph.

“Oh my Angel, this creature looks hurt. We need to get him inside.” said the pony as she quickly flew back to the house to find a stretcher. 

The rabbit though taken aback by his mother/owner’s change of behavior decided to just sit next to the body and try to move the loud stick away from the creature.

Twilight’s Library

“So that’s the plan girls, we shall pick up Fluttershy and then revisit the ruins we found the “bullet” at last time.” said Twilight as she pointed to it on the map in front of her.

“Are you sure Twilight? She will just slow our pace.” said Rainbow Dash with a bit of annoyance in her voice.

“Remember the dragon ordeal, Rainbow. If it weren’t for Fluttershy, you would have been a dragon’s snack.” responded Twilight as she looked up towards her flying friend.

“Yeah, I guess. Then I’ll get a head start to fill her in. CYA.” said Rainbow Dash as she sped out the door leaving only a rainbow in her path.

“RD wait, uh never mind.”  Twilight said with a sigh.

“Ah don’t mind the forest, it’s just creepy.” Applejack’s voice rose to the forefront due to the sudden silence.

“Don’t you worry AJ, the ghosties won’t get you. And Zecora won’t turn you into a stew. Then again there are Manticores and mustached sea monsters…..” trailed off Pinkie Pie as she jumped up and down.

With a couple cringes from Applejack and a failed attempt by Rarity to convince Twilight she should stay behind the remaining Mane 6 headed off to Fluttershy’s house.

Fluttershy’s house

“Angel get me the bandages and gauze.” firmly stated the usually shy pony with a helmet in her one hoof.
With a nod the rabbit ran into a bathroom and returned with the needed materials.

“Thanks Angel. Poor, poor creature what hurt you so bad?” Fluttershy whispered as she looked at the creature she was attempting to repair.

After some stitches on a gash over his right eye and two bandages being wrapped around the creature's waist she sat down. Suddenly a crash was heard outside the door and in walked Rainbow Dash with a flattened nose.

“Ow, Derpy needs to watch where she's going." commented the rainbow maned pony with her nose now back to normal.  “Fluttershy where are you?” 

“Over here… “the startled pony said as she crept out from behind a table.

“Sorry Flutter, OMGOMGOMGOMGOMG what is that!” asked the actually fearful Rainbow Dash pointing at the creature on the couch-bed. 

“I don’t know Rainbow, he collapsed after yelling gibberish at us and he was seriously wounded.” replied Fluttershy as she pointed to the creature.

“Ooo where’d you find that?” commented Rainbow as she pointed to the helmet on the shelf.

“He was wearing it.” Fluttershy said, “Any idea what kind of hat this is?”

“Ponies in the military wear similair ones to them for additional protection. I guess this creature is in some kind of army.” Rainbow Dash said as she put the helmet on her head and gave a mock salute. “This reminds a bit like the one Granny Smith has.”

“Since you know so much Dashie, would you tell me about, uh this here? That is if you don’t mind, I don’t want to bother.” said Fluttershy as she gestured over to the long metal and wood thing being guarded by Angel the rabbit.

“Ooo there’s more!” Rainbow dash squealed then immediately dropped back into her “cool” demeanor. “Sure, Fluttershy.”

“Oh thank you, watch out though, it put a hole in my chicken coop and the tree near it.”  Fluttershy stated as she trembled at the thought of it.

“Really, it must have been flying really fast! I gotta go see what this thing did!” RD said as she literally dashed out the nearest open window.

Rainbow Dash went over to the coop to find a small hole on each side of the roof and then went another few flaps over to the nearby tree which now had a dent in it.

“This sure looks familiar….. think think think.” said Rainbow as she poked her hoof at her head.  “Wait, isn’t this what that Manticore was killed by.” she exclaimed as she began quickly trying to fetch the metal from within the tree’s trunk. “Well I guess that solves Twilight’s missing weapon problem.”

She then promptly flew back into Fluttershy and explained what she had found to which Fluttershy fell over again as a goat would. Only to be further startled by a collective gasp by four other ponies as they walked in the door.

“Twilight, look I found your bullet’s shooting device!” Rainbow Dash said as she held up the gun, puffed out her chest and took a bow to an invisible cheering crowd.

“Hmmm, what was that Dashie, you said that too fast.” Twilight said with as she put her hoof on her head and scratched.

“This gun here is what shot the Manticore in the forest.” said Rainbow in a slightly slower pace.

“Really, where did you find it?” Twilight enquired as she used her magic to levitate the bullet to her along with the gun.

“It shot a hole in Fluttershy’s chicken coop and dented a tree.” explained Rainbow Dash.

“This looks nothing like the book I had with all the prototype weapons the engineers attempted to make over the years.” Twilight remarked as she took the rifle from Rainbow with her magic.

“Ah reckon it’s from som other country of ponies on another continent. Their always fightin  since the Princess gave up trying to make peace between them.”  Applejack commented.

“My dad told me about these sorts of weapons, he went over to Angor for a year to study the engineering of their weapons for the Princess. Supposedly that’s why we have stockpiles of weapons hidden all around Equestria.” Rainbow Dash said as she grinned, knowing for once she was the expert on the subject.

“Why would we need such inefficient weapons Rainbow, not to mention weapons at all.” Twilight replied with much confusion while holding up the gun in assorted poses trying to figure out how it is used.

“Since we haven’t had a war since Celestia took over for her father; doesn’t mean we shouldn't protect ourselves from enemies like the gryphons and their stooges up north.” Rainbow said.

“But they’re a peaceful nation, Rainbow.” Twilight said with doubt in her friend's logic. “The Princess told me so.”

“They are peaceful at the moment, but back in flight school I remember many gryphons would complain about learning with pegasi. We used to fight the griffons back before Celestia's father wiped out the griffon armies and dethroned their KIng Gold Talon. Most pegasi were warriors back then due to our many fights.” Rainbow Dash explained as she danced about the room doing assorted war-like dog fighting drills.

“Oh, but why wouldn’t the Princess tell us about this?” Twilight said as she felt betrayed.   

“Probably since it was over a thousand years ago, Twilight.” Rainbow explained.  With a brief sigh by Twilight, Rainbow continued, “But there is no need to fear, Equestria has many armament specialists, like my father, who continue to keep our country up to speed. Not to mention are giant Royal Guard."

“So that’s wha the guards run many of the chariots to and from Canterlot.” concluded Applejack.

“Yes, I guess so AJ. But this technology seems way more advanced than anything my father has seen.“ Rainbow added.

“How do you know this Rainbow?” questioned Twilight with a grin.

“Well, I um, um, looked at my Dad’s stuff occasionally when I was a filly.” said the blushing RD as she crossed her front legs.

“So you know where those hideous gray machines come from darling?” Rarity commented after have sitting silent long enough.

“Yes, Rarity. Everything doesn’t have to look pretty you know. Tanks aren’t made for tea parties.” Rainbow said with a sarcastic tone.

“Well they could really use a better designer, the colors clash and the long cylinder on the top is just a crime against fashion.” Rarity exclaimed.

To that all the other three ponies in the room facehoofed. 

“Rarity when did you see a tank?” asked Twilight.

“Oh, my father used to have meetings in Stalliongrad when I was a filly, we had to walk past that atrocious hunk of metal every time we past the museum of machinery. “ Rarity stated with a shiver at the end.

“Ah am interested in all this and all but where’s Pinkie and Fluttershy?” Applejack interjected into the conversation.

With that they heard the crashing of many pans and the sound of scurrying to which they all gave a short laugh. Pinkie was baking something again and scared Fluttershy under the table.

“Fluttershy, Pinkie what are you two doing?” Twilight said as she walked into the family room area behind the living room.
With that a pink pony appeared from out of nowhere and startled Twilight.

“A welcome to Ponyville Party obviously, everypony here is invited and I’ll have to invite Big Mac and Mr. Cake……………” trailed on the pony before being interrupted by a loud PINKIE by Twilight.

“For who is this welcoming party, darling?” Rarity asked as she walked in.

“For the creature over there, he’s sleeping but I’ll get him up with the smell of fresh cupcakes and the sound of party music!” said the pink pony now on the couch-bed with the creature.

“What in tarnation is that?” Applejack yelled.

“Oh meet big super cool soldier creature, everypony.” Rainbow Dash said as she rubbed the back of her neck.

Why do I recognize that creature? Twilight mentally questioned as she stood with her mouth open beside her friends.

“I for one do not care what creature it is, but his fashion sense is appalling.” Rarity said as she yanked on the creature’s pants.

“Well ah hope this thing is the doozy Pinkie was talking about.” added Applejack as she looked around paranoid of what may occur.

Outside their room came the loud noises of Pinkie Pie yelling about it being time for the party cannon to which the five ponies laughed.

“Oh Fluttershy, how’d you get over there?” Twilight asked as she looked behind her.

“Did I startle you, I’m so very sorry, please forgive me.”  Fluttershy pleaded.

“It’s no problem Fluttershy, but may I ask where did you found this creature?” Twilight said getting straight to the point.

“He stumbled onto my lawn, and needed help.” Fluttershy said in a whisper.

“Are you crazy Fluttershy, this man was holding a weapon that can kill a Manticore without needing to be near it.” Twilight shouted.

“He was hurt, eeek, please forgive me, I couldn’t just leave him there.” Fluttershy said as she cowered into the corner under a table.

“Sorry for shouting Fluttershy, you can come out, I forgive you.” Twilight said with a frown.

While Fluttershy slowly came out from under her hiding spot, she said, “Thank you, now could you help me wake him; that is if you don’t mind.  He appears to have a concussion and you’re not supposed to sleep right after receiving one.” said Fluttershy as she began returning to her more nurse-like composure.

“Alright then, if you think he’s safe I’ll trust you. Girls?” Twilight said as she looked to her friends to her left and right. With a nod from the others Twilight’s horn lit up and surrounded the creature in a purplish aura.

"Aah. Mutter, Vater, lasst mich nicht alleine! Ich werde aus der Armee austreten und nach Hause kommen, wie ihr es wolltet! NEIN!" (Aah Mom and Dad! Don’t leave me! I’ll retire from the army like you suggested and come home! NOOO) yelled the creature as he arose from his bed startling all the ponies and sending RD and AJ into defensive postures.  “Warum kann ich sehe nicht. Welche die Hölle!” (Why can't I see. What the hell!) continued to yell the creature until he began to calm down as he held his head with a groan.

“Ah’ll take him down Twilight, let me at tha gibberish speakin creature.” Applejack said with her hoofs up in a punching motion.

“You, you speak English?” the creature inquired as he looked around the room trying to find where the words came from.

“Ah speak Equestrian you creature, how do you know it?” Applejack said in confusion.

“Equestrian, no it's called English." said Robert.

"No, ah reckon it is called Equestrian." Applejack replied.

"Well, not where I'm from it's not." Robert finished.

"Where is that then?" Applejack questioned. 

“Well who are you then, are you a spy?” Rainbow Dash interrupted getting up into the creature’s face.

“Who am I, the name is Ro...." the Oberst said before being cut off.

"I asked are you a spy and what do you know!" Rainbow Dash said again slightly louder.

Well I know two things for sure; I am no spy and I may not see you but I can tell you need a better dentist...” Robert concluded causing giggles to pop up around him.

“Humph!” Rainbow said as she floated back to her former location.

“Well ladies, you are all ladies right?” Robert questioned. {All of these giggling girls must be wearing high-heels or some sort or tap-dancing shoes}

“Yes, that is true creature.” Twilight said in response.

"As I suspected." Rober deduced quietly.

"What was that mister?" Twilight asked.

“I am Oberst Robert Johansson of the 24th Panzergrenadier Division of the great German Wehrmacht." 

“What?” Twilight said again.

“Oberst Robert…” 

“No, the last part …. Robert.” Twilight interrupted.

“The German Wehrmacht? It’s the greatest army in the world and I’m Oberst Johansson to you civilians.” Robert stated with a slight scowl.

With that Rainbow Dash began laughing and rolling on the floor.

“What is so funny in that statement miss?” Robert questioned.

“Oh just my friend saved you, but you’re still playing your high and mighty title on us.” gasped Rainbow between laughs.

“Being an Oberst in the German Wehrmacht is no laughing matter young lady. I have killed more people than you have probably met on your pitiful planet.” Robert said confidently even while he knew that the chances of that were slim.

“Um, for starters chump, your just a couple years older than us mister, {I think} also you’re not so scary without your gun.” Rainbow argued back.

“I still have my… “ he replied as he reached for his holster.

“Quiet!” yelled Twilight over the arguers. “What do you mean by planet, Oberst?”

“I am here from a much greater world hoping to find intelligent life and gasoline along with a potential trade partner and future ally for my German Fatherland. Thus far though, I only see little proof of intelligent life.“ Robert explained and then looked to the approximate location to where Rainbow Dash was.

“Fascinating, intergalactic travel! Starswirl the Bearded spoke of the possibility and here it is!” Twilight squealed while hopping in a circle.

As she continued to mumble about information Applejack decided to save the group from another history lesson on the “Greatest Unicorn ever” and spoke up. “So, Robert where do ya come from? That is planet wise?”

“Earth” replied the Oberst.

“Interestin, we call our planet Earth too. Do you have a sun? ” Applejack responded.

"If you mean a big yellow star, then yes. We are the third planet from our sun." Robert replied.

"Now Big Mac will have to clean the dishes tonight..." Applejack said as she recalled betting her brother over what Pinkie's sense was about.

‘You know, you sound like some of the American's I have interogated." Robert commented to Applejack.

"There's other farmer folk on your world." Applejack asked now interested further.

"Yes, many to to be exact. I have a favour to ask may I have some food, I feel like I just got hit by a truck.” he said while rubbing his head.

“Truck?  Ah well we have some hay, flowers, and apples here for sure.” Applejack said since she didn’t know what Fluttershy filled her fridge with. 

“Apples, that’s a turn of events I didn’t expect, I would like one if you can confirm their red or green with a small stem on the top.” Robert said with his mouth watering for anything. {What do they think I am, a horse}

“Ya darn tootin that’s what an apple is.” Applejack said in reply and walked over to the kitchen to cut up an apple for the creature.

“Ms. Sparkle, what you spoke about is quite fascinating and I would not mind hearing more about it at some later time.” Robert said surprising the ranting pony who had inadvertently put Rainbow Dash to sleep and made Fluttershy step back as if she were under attack.

“Oh yay.” Twilight said with an odd sounding clap. 

“Which one saved me?” Robert questioned as he looked around the room.

“I did.” Fluttershy said in a practically silent voice.

“Eh”

“I did.” Fluttershy repeated barely any more audible.

“You’re going to have to speak up miss.” Robert said.

“I did” Fluttershy said again barely audible.

“Fluttershy did Oberst Robert.” Twilight said.

“Well thank you then Flutter Skine?”  Robert replied with a try at the name.

“Fluttershy” said Fluttershy again in a voice silenter than the wind.

“Oh for Pete’s sake, Flutter as in float and shy as in scared to meet people.” Twilight interrupted the two.

“As much as I would love to let you stay up sir, I need you to, after your done eating, to take a nap and let me fix your concussion. Your vision will be back in complete form in six days.” Twilight said to Robert as she put her hoof down.

“Alright then, it’s better than laying here until I die, you just better know what you’re doing.” Robert responded with a slight nod though he felt worried.

“Oh there’s no need to fear Oberst, I have fixed many concussions in the past with my ma---gic( noise of streamers go off in the background along with a brief scream by Rarity after triggering a confetti launcher) on the arguing pony, Rainbow Dash and my assistant Spike.” reassured Twilight.

“Alright then I sure hope you can” Robert said as he trailed off.

“Here’s your apple sugar cube.” Applejack said with a bowl of apple slices.

“Huh, oh thank you.” Robert replied. {Why did she call me sugar cube he thought to himself. Must be some sort of saying.}

Everfree Forest

“Ow, that hurts. why does my head hurt so bad. Why am I bleeding.” Trixie said with a sigh.

“Hmm, Ponyville is near here, I’ve never been there before. I hope somepony there will be a doctor specializing in headaches.”  she said as she patted her cart.

“I might be new to some, but I am definitely going to prove my parents wrong. I, Trixie shall become the best magician in all of Equestria and the Great and Powerful Trixie shall be a name heard in every household!” proclaimed Trixie as she held her head high and magically re-placed her hat on her head.

Aaaaoooooooooooo (Timberwolves)

“Then again I guess it can wait another day.” Trixie said while she turned on her exterior lanterns before heading to bed.   

“Hmmm, what’s this?” Trixie said as she picked up a cross shaped reward for something. “Somepony named Robert lost his award? He must live nearby, I may as well find him since I’m heading into town.” Trixie said as she floated up into her cart and shut the door. 

> Ponies on your mind?
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight’s Library, Next Morning

“Spike, find all the books which mention humans.” called Twilight up the stairs waking the baby dragon.

“Gah alright. You were supposed to be gone long enough for me to take a nice nap.” Spike replied and then mumbled to himself.

“Oh and Spike, bring a quill from my room, I’m out down here.” Twilight added as she rummaged through her desk. “Oh never mind I found one!” she yelled back up the stairs.

Fighting his grogginess Spike began looking through a few of the books on the upper level bookcases which Twilight privately owned. Then he remembered that likely it was just that musician again and made his way downstairs. 

“That musician pony here again trying to test another of her crack theories?” Spike retorted while he made his way down the stairs.

“What Spike, oh you mean Lyra?” Twilight inquired.

“Yes, that’s her, the one who keeps coming by looking for human related books so she may work on “figuring out” the past.” Spike said as he rolled his eyes.

“Actually Spike, I need them.” Twilight said while she moved her hooves in a circle.

“Not you too!” Spike said as he facepalmed.

“Just help me Spike, and I’ll show you why I need them.”  Twilight replied as she motioned to the bookshelf to the left. “You look through that one and I’ll look through this one ok”

“If you say so.” Spike said with much displeasure. 

Twilight and Spike searched high and low through the library finding assorted books from mythological creatures dictionaries to the strange tales which involved humans. After finding about twenty books the two headed back off to Fluttershy’s house. 

 Everfree Forest 

“Aaaaah that was a good night sleep.”  The light blue pony said to herself as she began to stretch her legs.

“Nothing is like a good night of sleep after an odd day.” she continued as she opened the doors on her cart to let the early morning breeze into the cart.

“If I get moving soon I’ll get to the hospital on the map by the early afternoon. That’s my best bet if I hope to make It to Baltimare still by the end of the week.” Trixie said as she began re-organizing her cart. 

“There must have been a tornado in here yesterday.” she commented as she shuffled through the paperwork. 
As Trixie continued through her cart she stumbled upon an odd stack of letters in the corner which were disorganized beyond words. As she looked through the letters her jaw dropped in surprise.

“What the hay, these letters are dated three years from now.” Trixie said as she looked through the letters.
“2012, 2011, who would date their letters three years ahead of schedule?” questioned Trixie as she rubbed her head with her hoof.

(2009 =1938 and so on.)

“May as well read them, they must be from fans who have heard of my shows in Coltsdale and Hoofenwald.”

Dear Great and Powerful Trixie,

My son is for some reason in love with your show, would you be so kind as to sign a picture. Then please send it back to us in Manehattan when you get the chance.  

Thank you,
Sandie Shore 

“That’s nice.” said Trixie as she grabbed a picture from the rack on her desk and signed it The Great and Powerful TRIXIE. “Wonder what else people have sent me?”

Dear Great and Powerful Trixie,

The Annoyed and Angry Parent would like to strangle you if it weren’t against the law. You think you can just prance into town and start ordering people around? Not in my town you can’t and especially not my child! If you ever step foot back in Mareta again, I’ll personally knock you out of the clouds!

The Annoyed and Angry Parent 

“What an odd Pegasus, I haven’t even gone to Mareta yet. Plus why the third person speech, is she some snob from a town council?” Trixie said as she burned the letter with magic tossing the ashes into the trash can.

Trixie shuffled through the remaining letters with a growing degree of confusion caused by the assorted accusations from ponies in places she hadn’t been yet, and the occasional person speaking in the third-person.

“I must get to the bottom of this!” Trixie said as she slammed her hoof down. {They can't all be town council members.} was what she thought to herself as she paced back and forth inside her cart.

“This could be a strange dream where I accidentally time traveled during one of my shows?” Trixie said as she began to laugh devoid of real feeling..

“Maybe the ponies in Ponyville can help me in figuring out this peculiar problem of mine.” she said as she climbed out of the cart.

Trixie then grabbed her hat off the table, hitched herself to the cart using her magic, and with a quick stomp on the ground she got the cart out of the mud indentations and trotted north. 

Fluttershy’s House

“Come on Fluttershy, can’t I wake him up for his party?” the hyper pink pony said as she hopped around Fluttershy with a party hat on her head.

“Pinkie, Twilight said he isn’t to be awoken until Friday.” the meek pony said while putting a thermometer in a bird's mouth.

Seeing a tear calendar on the desk near the kitchen Pinkie devised a plan, a Pinkie Pie plan. She went over to the calander and tore off Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday leaving Friday as the new “day of the week”.

“It’s Friday, it’s Friday!” started chanting Pinkie as she jumped up and down in place.

Fluttershy hearing the commotion went into the kitchen to investigate. Much to her chagrin however she found the cause the outburst was her “quote a day” calendar was now missing three days.

"My quote calender!" Fluttershy eeped.

"Don't worry silly, the other day's quotes were boring anyway." Pinkie said dismissing Fluttershy's slight anger. 

“Pinkie, how could you, that was calendar my parents gave me for Hearth Warming’s Day. Maybe you should go home Pinkie.” Fluttershy said with a bit of underlying anger.

“Okie dokey lokey” Pinkie said and quickly cleaned up her party supplies and raced off into the horizon in the direction of Ponyville.

“Sometimes she makes me want to scream.” Fluttershy said with an angry face. "Maybe if I yell it will help." she said before rapidly letting in a lot of air and expelling in a soft squeal. "That's better." she added with a small smile.


Road to Fluttershy’s house

“What was that Twilight?” Spike asked as he pointed to a flash of pink streaking in the distance.

“I’m not sure Spike, I have never seen something like that before..” Twilight replied as she scratched her head.

“Was that what these books are for?” Spike questioned as he stared Twilight down hoping to break her charade.

"I'm not telling you until we get there." Twilight said with a grin as she teased the young dragon.

"Not even a clue, I know Fluttershy is harboring a zombie pony!" Spike said with a slightly scared voice.

“Nope, not in the least. He's still alive.” Twilight said grinning until she noticed she had given information away.

"Got ya Twilight!" Spike cheered as he rose his claws up and jumped.

The two approached Fluttershy’s house and knocked on the door. Answering the door was a short white rabbit with a carrot in his mouth that waved them in.

“Twilight, is that the surprise!”  Spike yelled as he pointed to the now startled Fluttershy and Rarity who were sitting staring at something in the other room.

“No Spike, Rarity isn’t the surprise.” Twilight said as she rubbed the baby dragon’s  head.

“She’s always my favorite surprise…….” Spike said as he floated to the white and purple pony in the main room.

Twilight and Spike continued into the room which held the sleeping creature named Robert but Spike was to love struck to notice the creature on the couch-bed.

"Um, Spike see anything interesting?" Twilight said trying to get Spike to snap out of his trance.

"Yes......" Spike said in a low voice while hovering to Rarity's side.

"Oh for the love of Celestia, look at the creature on the bed Spike!" Twilight yelled startling the baby dragon out of his trance.

"Woh, what is that?" Spike said while gesturing dramatically.

“That would be a human, Spike.”  Twilight replied.

Spike then asked questions to Twilight until he had a dry tongue. Then he grabbed some water and continued his usual pampering of Rarity.

With Spike busy Twilight began to update the notes on humans she had compiled over the day. "The Princess will want to see this soon."

 Mane Street, Ponyville 

“Why are they all looking at me like I’m some sort of criminal?” asked Trixie quietly as she slowly walked through Ponyville with her cart.

“How dare she show her face here again” one colt said to another.

“The horror, the horror.” a mare said before fainting.

Trixie continued on listening in on similar comments which slowly began to wear at her patience. She finally saw one pony at a cabbage stand that wasn’t glaring at her. So she approached the colt with a question.

“Why are they all staring at me like I’m some sort of criminal?” Trixie asked.

“No idea mam, just moved here recently.” said the green colt with a black mane.

“Could you tell me where the local hospital is?” Trixie inquired as she pointed to her bandaged head.

“Just up the road mam, take a right on Stable Ave. and then turn left on Maple Rd.” said the colt.

“Thank you, this means a lot to me.” Trixie said as she began down the road again.

As she walked she could continue to sense she was being watched but with her headache worsening she couldn’t care less. As she turned onto Maple Rd. she was blindsided by a pink pony with puffy hair.

“Eeeep!” yelled Trixie in pain as she rubbed her side.

“Sorry, ooh it’s the bear bringer.” Pinkie said with a slight frown.

“Umm, what was that?” Trixie responded as she looked at Pinkie confused.

“You’re that showpony who brought the big baby Ursa Minor to town. I recognize the name.” Pinkie said as she looked behind Trixie fearing another bear.

“I have done no such thing; I would never be so incompetent to cause destruction in a town.” Trixie said as she stood tall and strong briefly before squeaking back into a slouched position.   

“Well you didn’t silly, Snips and Snails brought it here for you.” Pinkie said with a giggle.

“You must have me mistaken for another pony.” Trixie said as she began to head off again to the hospital.

“No, you’re her alright, you really are silly Trixie; I had never seen a cutie-mark like that before you visited and I haven’t seen one sense you came by. Isn’t that right Gummy?” Pinkie said as she pointed to the cutie-mark and received a nod from the small toothless gator to her right.

“There is bound to be another mare out there with a similar mark, none like my be—utiful cutie mark though, it is after all the sign of magical showmareship.” Trixie said with much pride. 

“Or it could be misconstrued for a strange communist logo.” Pinkie replied.

“What?” Trixie said unable to understand what the pink pony said.

“Oh, never mind Trixie. You had better go to a hospital to fix that head of yours. Bye!” responded Pinkie Pie who then vanished as fast as she had appeared.

“These ponies here are complete loons.” said Trixie as she continued to the nearby hospital. 

 Fluttershy's House 

“Ok, Spike remember to keep me safe while I’m in the trance.” Twilight said to the small dragon next to her.

“Yes, sir!” Spike yelled as he put a ladle over his shoulder and began marching around her.

Thinking to herself, “now to enter a dream I must first sit and then think about the person I’m attempting to speak with,” 

Twilight thought as she began her magical thought process. “I sure hope this human is as easy to invade as Spike…”

Meanwhile in the mind of Oberst Johansson a battle was being waged. 

“Sir the Dutch regiment has been decimated, how shall we proceed?” said an officer in a mid to late 1800’s uniform said with a salute.

“Good, thrust the cavalry through the hole and use three of the infantry regiments to break their backs.” the more decorated officer said as he turned around displaying he was in fact Robert.

“Yes sir!” yelled the younger officer as he ran out of the tent.

“I guess I may as well inspect the other cavalry regiments.”  Robert then commented to himself as he left the tent.

Outside the tent was a mass of smaller tents along with horses tied to trees. As Robert walked to his 3rd and 4th regiments of cavalry the soldiers saluted him and then resumed their duties once he was out of sight.

“Fall in men!”  Robert yelled causing a sudden stampede of boots and hooves to his right.
With his army set up for morning drills Robert began pacing the length of the regiments.

“Straighter back soldier……. How’s the lady back home Private?.........Clean your helmet off”  said among many similar remarks. Then he paced back only looking at the horses, “Nice stallion Hans, maybe if you spent more time working and less time brushing, you might have a medal.” “Brown horse, brown horse, brown horse, black horse, brown horse, small purple horse, brown horse, black horse, yellowish horse…. Purple horse?”

With that Robert walked back to see a short purple horse which was lacking a rider but had a horn on its head. 

“What the heck, you don’t even look like a character from a story..” Robert said scratching his chin.

“That’s because I’m Twilight Sparkle.” She said startling Robert.

“What the hell!” yelled Robert immediately scattering the dream to nothing but a plain with tall grass. “What are you doing here? Better yet, how the heck did you get into my mind?" Robert said with a bit of annoyance in his words.

“I had some questions which couldn’t wait until Saturday Oberst.” Twilight replied as a notepad appeared from nowhere.

“What’s with the horse costume?” Robert asked.

“Actually I’m a unicorn pony and it ……” Twilight said before being interrupted.

“Ok, blah blah blah, you have loved unicorns since you were a little girl yada yada yada.” Robert said gesturing his hands while did so.

“No I’m actually a….” again Twilight was interrupted.

“Ask me these so-called vital questions Miss. Sparkle. You interrupted a grand battle in Denmark.” Robert said as he appeared a bit angry and waving his saber around.

“So, what is Earth like? “ Twilight asked as she put a pair of glasses on.

"Well its hard to explain, I know, I'll just show you! Robert announced to Twilight. “Like this…“ Robert said as suddenly they appeared in Paris. “This is Paris, France, home of good wine, the Eiffel Tower, and a lot of chickens.”

“Really, how does a chicken civilization work?” Twilight asked gleaming in excitement.

“Chickens as in backbone-less humans.” Robert said as he pointed to a bunch of white flag holding French people running out of view.

“Oh, very fascinating.” Twilight said as she quickly scribbled in her notebook. {French humans are actually spineless, and carry white flags.}

Suddenly the scenery changed to another large city, with a large stone archway with a chariot-like object at the top. “This is Berlin, Germany capital of the German Empire and home of the Reichstag, Brandenburg Gate, and best city in all of Europe and the world!” Robert said as scenes flew by showing assorted buildings.

“What do all the flags stand for, and why are there so many?” Twilight said tugging on a dreamt flag.

“It’s the flag of the new German Empire, the flags are supposed to express nationalism, but I never understood the need for so many banners.” Robert said as he tore a flag down. “It covers up the architecture.” 

"Facinating." Twilight said as she continued in her notebook. {His home country likes flags and banners; but to the extent of covering buildings.} “Any other cities on your world?” Twilight asked.

“Many, Miss.” Robert said and then began proceeded to show Twilight many cities he had seen pre-war.

After many cities from London to Hamburg and Vienna to Rome and many others. Twilight filled her notebook to the brim with interesting facts.

“Thank you, Oberst Robert; I appreciate this greatly.” Twilight said with a large smile.

“Alright, then; well here’s a map of my world.” Robert said as he began pondering. {Why am I doing this
for her, am I bored with the same old historical battles, am I trying to thank her, am I trying to impress this young lady with my knowledge?}

After two more hours of Twilight asking about random information about his world; she decided to leave after devouring every ounce of information she could.

“Good bye Miss Sparkle, thank you again for the surgery and company.” Robert said as she began to fade.

“You’re welcome.” Twilight said waving.

Back to reality….

“Your back!” Spike yelled into Twilight’s ear startling her.

“Yes, yes I am Spike why are you so jumpy?” Twilight responded as she attempted to get her ear to go back to normal.

“You’ve been gone two full days, I wrote to the princess to help fix the problem; the book said that if you were jarred badly you might lose your consciousness into the dreamer’s mind.” Spike said hugging the purple pony.

“Oh, well I’m sorry Spike, it didn’t seem very long in there.” she replied while hugging the baby dragon.

The knocking of the door then interrupted the two; and the quiet but happy Fluttershy answered the door, then eeped.

“We are here Spike!” Celestia said in a roaring voice.

“How does she do Spike?” Luna said in her slowly improving modern Equestrian.

“She just woke up, Princesses.” Spike said rubbing his foot on the floor.

“Has thou given her food?” Luna asked pointing at Twilight.

“Not yet my Princesses.” Spike said.

“Twilight, my student, what is that creature on the bed over there.” Celestia said with a puzzling look.

“It’s a human, Princess. His name is Robert Johansson and he’s from another planet.” Twilight said as she pointed at Robert.

Walking over to Robert Luna felt his forehead and motioned for Fluttershy to come over to her.

“Why is thy human hot? Feverish is he?” Luna said while using some of her weather manipulation powers to create ice.

“He was fine just a couple minutes ago, eep, he’s really warm.” Fluttershy said as she touched his forehead.

“Oh no, the spell must have been on so long that he is reacting to magical overload!” Twilight yelled startling the entire room. “Um, sorry.”

“Twilight, why have you left these garments on the creature, it is not winter?” Celestia asked.

“Um, I’m not sure, he seems to like them.”  Twilight said in reply while blushing in embarrassment.

“Strip the creature and then we shall bathe him in ice.” Celestia ordered as the others began scrambling while Luna began icing the tub.



> A Nude Awakening
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

After spending around the clock watch on the boiling human the Mane 6 +Princesses were glad to hear that the human would wake up today. After he finally reduced to around 100.3 in his fever they floated him out of the water and laid him back on the couch-bed. The morning then arrived finally.

Fluttershy’s house

“Girls how do you want to wake him up, I can’t go back in his mind to tell him to wake up; all this spell does is allow him to awaken.” Twilight said pondering.

“Stupid Fillydelphian bug problems.” Spike said with a snort.

“Ah reckon, it must have been pretty bad out there if both Princesses had to leave.” Applejack retorted to the grumpy baby dragon.

“I know how” Pinkie attempted to say before being drowned out by the rest of the group.

“We could try the water splash wake up.” Rainbow Dash said as she gestured to a bucket in the corner.

“That might scare him.” Fluttershy replied in her typical quiet voice.

“He would likely go into defensive mode like those poor darlings who return from terrible situations. “ Rarity added. “Now what is that called again, Twilight dear?”

“Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome, Rarity.” Twilight replied.

“I know how to wake him.” Pinkie again said, but was drowned out.

“Ah could bake one of ma pies, always works for Big Mac when he don’t wake up on time.” Applejack suggested getting a couple nods from other ponies.

“I know how!” Pinkie yelled now startling the other ponies.

A collection of eyes rolled, and a goat was heard near Fluttershy’s former location.

“How Pinkie, cakes won’t help in this situation.” Rainbow said with a laugh.

“Parasprites.” Pinkie said to Rainbow shutting up the rainbow maned cyan pony.

“Pinkie what is your suggestion?” Twilight asked.

“We need to send him a letter…….” Pinkie said but was interrupted by Rainbow’s laughter.

“We need to send him a letter with lights and sounds. We could write a note, maybe make his hand gesture it out. Also we need to flash magical lights over his head with the letters while we assist him writing the note. Also we could tell him as we do the others, hopefully one of his senses will pick up on the message.” Pinkie said with a flattened mane and a serious demeanor. “The sooner we wake him, the sooner we can par tay!” Pinkie then went back to her puffy haired, smiley self.  

After the other six in the morning picked up their jaws, Twilight was the first to speak.

“That’s a…. good idea Pinkie.” Twilight said still recovering from her mind being blown.

“I know it is, silly. Now where’s a quill, a notepad, and two cupcakes.” Pinkie said while smiling brightly.

“Suger cube, ah beg your pardon. What’s the cupcakes for? ” Applejack said.

“The big soldier is going to be really hungry silly, plus how would you like to wake up? With a cupcake or a piece of bread.” Pinkie said hopping around.

With that the Mane 6 and Spike went about hunting down the equipment needed for Pinkie’s plan. After the collection had finished they all worked simultaneously on attempting to send the message, “Wakey cakey lakey bakey wakey.” For they all knew no military dream would include that; plus Pinkie liked the rhyming.

Robert’s subconscious 

“This is getting old, Waterloo, Belgium looks like Benghazi…..” Robert said as he began looking over his Prussian cavalry hastily making their way to Waterloo to aid the British forces.

“Ever since Miss Sparkle left, every scenario seems to have a certain desert feel to it. It’s hard to get a feel of the Winter War in Finland when it feels like it’s 37C (100F) out… “Robert said as he stroked his dreamt beard.

Suddenly the horse bucked knocking Robert onto the sandy ground. “What startled you girl?” Robert said as he began rubbing his horse’s side.

Then he noticed a massive flying tank coming from above which landed next to him. A SS officer stepped out and backhanded Robert then handed him a note. Before Robert could punch back, the SS officer and his gravity defying armored vehicle were nowhere to be seen.

“Huh, Wakey cakey lakey bakey wakey.” Robert said with a low monotone voice. “What the hell…..” it then went dark.

Fluttershy’s house

“Good job Pinkie, I think your plan is working.” Twilight said as she began to watch Robert toss and turn.

“Yawn……. That was one hell of a dream sequence.” Robert said stretching as he woke up.

“Good morning sleepy-head, I brought cupcakes!” Pinkie said shoving a cupcake into Robert’s hand.

“Huh, oh thank you, um Pastry Pine?” Robert said still keeping his eyes shut.

“Pinkie Pie silly, now look at the cupcake.” Pinkie said hopping joyously.

Robert then opened his eyes and stared at the small cake in his hand. Much to his surprise though, his sleeves were gone, 
and then he noticed he was missing more than his cuffs.

“What the hell! Why am I naked?” Robert yelled tossing the cupcake airborne to cover himself up. Pinkie caught the cupcake confused by the sudden outburst.

Then Robert looked around him and saw five colorful ponies and a small lizard.

“Fluttershy, what are these animals doing in your house? Better yet why am I naked?” Robert exclaimed as he yelled to the kitchen where noises were being made.

“Um, I take care of them.” Fluttershy said while timidly rotating her hoof on the ground. 

Not noticing the source of the words Robert yelled again, “Then why are they all staring at me? Get them the hell out of here, and give me back my clothes!” 

“They are on the table (squeak).”  Fluttershy responded.

With that Robert glanced past the rainbow colored pony and the pink yellow one and began tearing through his clothes for underwear. As he did that a familiar purple pony walked in the room from the kitchen with a tray of tea.

“Tea ready girls……” Twilight said now staring at the man staring back at her with disbelief.

“I must be freaken dreaming! Twilight, is this some odd side-effect, you look like a small purple horse!” Robert shouted as he began to pinch his arm and slap his face.

“What do you mean, I always look like a purple pony.” Twilight said as she sat the tea down with her magic.

“No, that’s impossible. Horses cannot speak, or be intelligent enough to build such a house. Not to mention carry out a surgery.” Robert said stammering as he just stared at Twilight.

“Maybe on your world, but here we are more than capable……” Twilight said before being interrupted by Robert once more.

“That concussion must of killed me, there’s talking colorful horses. Who’s sick dream did I fall into?” Robert said as he began to breathe quickly and accidently tore his pants in half.

“Oberst Robert, I visited you in your dream like this, why are you so afraid to see me?” Twilight said puzzled by the officer’s sudden breakdown.

“You were just in a dream, if I wanted to be a kangaroo I could have!” Robert replied as he began rapidly looking around for his Luger but only finding more ponies.

“Settle down, Robert we won’t hurt you, were very friendly.” Fluttershy said in a quiet voice.

“Where’s my gun! I can’t take this anymore!” Robert said while scrambling in the room in only his underwear hunting for his Luger.

“Calm down, you’re going to hurt somepony or yourself.”  Twilight said trying to get through to the distraught officer. 

“Where is my gun……..aah unhand me you witch!” Robert yelled as he was suddenly bound by a strange purple aura.

“Only when you calm down. We are not here to hurt you.” Twilight said as she struggled to keep the officer at bay.

“I shall never calm down you freak of nature!” Robert declared as he stared at Twilight with rage.

Then Fluttershy walked up in front of Twilight and began to stare at Robert.

“What are you trying to do yellow-pony? Stare me to death?” Robert said sarcastically. 

Fluttershy then unleashed her stare calming Robert down in an instant while assertively repeating, “Calm down, and stop struggling!”

“O ok” Robert said as he suddenly felt as if he had been stared through to his soul.

“Thank you, now let us explain, that is if you don’t mind.” Fluttershy then said back in her usual quiet voice.

“Fine” Robert said as he was allowed back onto the bed.

“In our world there are many pony nations along with other creatures of similar intelligence. Like that London place you showed me in your dream, we have royalty who rule from a city called Canterlot. You are near it in the town called Ponyville.” Twilight said as she whipped out a map and her glasses then began pointing.

“Interesting, but how can such a creature be so intelligent. You’re a horse, not some professor.” Robert retorted.

“Actually we are ponies, not horses and the origin of our kind is very sketchy at best. But all ponies are typically quite intelligent in one form or another.” Twilight answered.

“Alright, well I still don’t understand how you could enter my dream and interact with my subconscious.” Robert said as he scratched his head.

“A spell which I looked up in the library, did you know that the spell I used was the common way for the deaf or mute unicorns to communicate to one another?” Twilight said as she began a tangent.

“What, as interesting as that does sound, what do you mean by spell?” Robert said as he switched her back to the topic.

“Magic, silly.” Pinkie said surprising the Oberst by landing in his lap.

“Magic, that’s hilarious and impossible! “Robert said as he went off on his own tangent on how it could not be.

“Let me show you, “Twilight said lifting the bed with Robert on it along with the other ponies in the room.”

“I rather not fight over this, I have a bad headache. Plus I would like to know a bit more about this planet.” Robert said as he held his head.

“Ok, then” Twilight said as she pulled out another book.

“Ah reckon were going to be doing this awhile..” Applejack commented.

With that the Mane 6 and Spike continued their explanation of Equestia and the surrounding area much to Robert’s disbelief. But deep down, he truly was fascinated by how another species of creatures could rival his own's intelligence. 

 Ponyville Hospital 

“Well Ms. Trixie, you may leave now, all the tests have came back negative for a concussion or any serious damage.” the grayish pony, in a white coat, with a floating writing board near his nose.

“But that doesn’t explain why I have letters from the future.” Trixie said as she scrambled to her feet from her bed.

“From the future you say, well I’ll be the judge of that.” the doctor stated with a sarcastic smile.

“Look, their all dated in 2011 or 2012! It’s only 2009!” Trixie said with great passion.

“Mam it is 2012.” the doctor said as he took the letters from Trixie’s hoof.

“No it is 2009! I just left Baltimare last week, with a very successful show.” Trixie said with pride.

“Look at the calendar miss, its 2012.” the doctor said as he tapped on the door in an odd rhythm.

“You are wrong, I am certain it is 2009 and I can prove it with these many letters I had yet to return from 2009.” Trixie said thrusting her hoof out with more letters.

“All this tells me mam is that you are far behind on your mail…” the doctor said as a nurse appeared behind him.

“I, the Great and Powerful Trixie honors her fans, and would never do such a heinous act.” Trixie said as her hat and cape floated to her and she put them on. “Now I shall be on my way.” Trixie said with a annoyed shrug and grabbed her mail in a light blue aura.

“I’m afraid we can’t let you leave now mam, you appear to be suffering from amnesia.” the nurse said as she attempted to block the door along with the doctor.

“I cannot have amnesia, I am Trixie, and my fans await me.” Trixie said as she attempted to walk through the door.

“You cannot leave!” the doctor commanded, “we must first solve your memory loss.” 

“I do not need any further assistance, now I shall be on my way.” Trixie said as she walked through the wall next to the door using a phasing spell.

“We have to stop her, she’ll cause chaos.” the doctor said to the nurse.

“We cannot hold her against her will doctor, but I do hope she comes to soon before her mind is further troubled.” the nurse replied as they both watched Trixie walk to the staircase.

Fluttershy’s House

“What is that?” Robert said pointing to the balloons on Pinkie’s flank.

“It’s my cutie mark, everypony knows that.” Pinkie said with slight sarcasm.

“Well I’m not anypony, I’m someone. So what’s the tattoos for?” Robert replied.

“Actually they are called cutie marks, and they appear when a pony finds their special talent.” Twilight explained.

“Then what do they mean?” Robert said as he glanced about the room eying Rainbow Dash.

“It’s my sonic rainboom!” she proudly stated.

“Your sonic what now?” Robert said with confusion.

“Sonic Rain-boom” Rainbow said with emphasis.

“What do you do, make loud rain…..?” the Oberst said as he rolled his eyes.

The two glared at each other until they were both startled by the entrance of two large ponies.

“I see the guest has woken up.” Celestia said with a smile.

“Huzzah, Tia you must now secede the two bits you promised.” Luna said with a large grin.

“Umm, why are you two so much larger?” Robert said as he stood up and his jaw dropped.

“We are Alicorns my good male.” Luna said with a voice which rocked the house. “Sorry.”

“Alright…….”, Robert responded as he held his head in pain while attempting to fix his now backward motioning hair.

“We shall answer you once we have fixed your problem.” Celestia said as she lowered three bags from her back.

“Problem, what problem. I have had many headaches since my injury occurred, it’s nothing special.” he said while trying to look in better health.

“Actually you have magical overload, well overstock.” Celestia said as she tapped Robert on the head with her hoof.

“What? I’m a human, as Twilight told me before you arrived, my species cannot absorb, refine, or generate our own magic.” Robert said gesturing to Twilight.

“I said in normal circumstances.” Twilight said in defense.

“What’s abnormal about my case?” Robert said in confusion.

“You see, um what is your name?” Celestia said with a slight embarrassing blush.

“Oberst Robert Johansson of the German Wehrmacht.” Robert said with a salute as he figured she must be of some authority since he noticed guards at the door.

“Thank you, well you see Oberst Johansson; when Twilight healed your concussion and your broken rib, it left a bit of magic behind to help calm any swelling. But when she entered your mind to talk with you, she brought more.” Celesetia spoke before being interrupted.

“How’s that a problem?” Robert said.

“Well typically when a pony is injured and needs a bit of magical medical attention, it doesn’t affect them since all ponies absorb magic. But in your case, you’re not supposed to be able too. But when Twilight visited your subconscious, she inadvertently modified your body to accept magic.” Celestia said with a brief glare at her prized student.

“Um ok then, I now receive magic or generate or whatever. What’s the problem?” Robert said scratching his head.

“Well we cannot drain a human of magic, additionally since Twilight’s unicorn magic was the seed; you absorb magic as well as generate it. “ Celestia added.

“What do you mean by seed..” Robert said with a glare to Twilight who began scratching the ground nervously.

“You were empty of magical influence, so when her magic was used in mass quantity in your body; it adapted to it. She sprouted her own magic in you as a tree sprouts other trees. Being that you were the lone non-magically effected creature, it took root in you like air with a nearby vacuum.”

“So I have her magic in me? What is that mean?” Robert said as he began to worry.

“Nothing really, I would assume you may have a special magical connection with her seeing that your “magic” is hers and vice-versa. But since it has never occurred before, I cannot say.” Celestia said with curiosity while attempting to explain.

“Sounds odd, but how is that a problem? I’m not going to be absorbed by her am I?” Robert said as he began concocting a plan to kill the room’s inhabitants and get out alive.

“Oh none of that, I can assure you of that since we have done studies in the past with non-intelligent creatures. The problem is we need to level your magic to a normal level, but the only way we can is if you are a pony.” Celestia responded.

“Oh that’s a relief, one moment what was that last part?” Robert sighed in relief before tensing up again.

“We have to temporarily turn you into a unicorn so we can help you reduce your internal magic reserve. That’s all.” Celestia explained while she gestured to her sister to ready the spell’s activation area outside.

“That’s it! That’s it! Your telling me that I have to turn into an equine for some amount of time so you can fix the problem your student created. No thank you, I can deal with the headaches!” Robert yelled as he pushed by Applejack and Fluttershy to leave.

“The headaches are only the start Oberst, the magic will kill you with its fever, you nearly died just yesterday night.”
Celestia pleaded.

“That would explain why I was naked, but why was I left naked?” Robert inquired back.

“Well um, we had to study your anatomy to see if the transformation spell could work.” Celestia said with a slight blush.

“Oh great, I had a bunch of horse foolin with me while I was out cold….” Robert retorted with an annoyed tone of voice.

“Oh we had none of that Oberst, but would you please come outside, the spell will wear off as soon as you would like. Well after a day at least.” Celestia said attempting to explain herself to the fuming Oberst.

“Fine, I’ll do your weird operation, but in 24 hrs I demand to be human again, or by God I’ll kill you all!” Robert yelled as he now approached Celestia, “starting with you….”

“I promise Oberst Johansson, nothing bad shall occur to you, we may even be able to fix your knee.” Celestia said pointing at his swollen knee.

“What do you mean?” Robert inquired.

“Well the anatomical studies we did overnight showed us that you have a terrible injury to your knee due to fragments left in there, we can remove them.” Celestia said pointing to his knee.

“Well, I guess that would be helpful.” Robert retorted as he began thinking about being able to run again without needing to 
lay in bed for a week due to sheer pain the fragments could cause. “Fine, hit me then, but make I am not pink.”

“Alright, I’ll be sure Oberst. Luna he is ready.” Celestia yelled out to her sister.

The Mane 6 followed Robert and Celestia outside to an odd assortment of objects and items along with three large gems.

“Those look tasty” Spike said as his mouth began to water.

“Those are beautiful.” Rarity added as her eyes grew wide.

“Ready Oberst?” Celestia yelled over the now humming gems.

“Ja!” Robert yelled back.

“We may proceed sister?” Luna yelled.

“Yes!” Celestia yelled back.

Then with a massive light with assorted gem colors blinding the other ponies a loud yell was heard and then sheer silence.

“Oh my, did he, did he die?” Fluttershy said with her eyes about to cry.

With that the smoke began to clear as Rainbow flew in a tight circle to blow it all away.

“I’m not that easy to kill you know….” a gray unicorn replied from the center of the now shattered gems. “Now where’s my officer’s cap?” 

> Hooved and ready!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fluttershy’s House

“What’s the matter with all of you? You look like you’ve seen an enemy tank.” Robert said as he walked back into 
Fluttershy’s tree-house. 

Robert then rummaged through his stuff until it dawned on him that he hadn’t brought his hat, but rather his helmet.

“Anyone know where some clothes are for a male pony?” Robert said yelling outside.

“Rarity, I think that’s your cue.” Twilight told Rarity as she jabbed her out of her awe.

“But darling, what can we give him to wear? I rarely make colt’s clothing.” Rarity said still love struck.

“What are you ponies chatting about out there? Do I need to head to town myself to get anything done around here?” Robert said poking his head over the window sill.

“Darling I can go and retrieve you some garments, but I must know your size.” Rarity said with a blush.

“Fine,” Robert said as he took a table cloth out of the pantry and attempted to drape It over his back with his hooves. “one moment ladies.”

Robert walked out with his helmet oddly placed upon his head along with a table cloth draped across his back.

“Remember our deal Princess, I shall see you tomorrow afternoon with the antidote.” Robert said as he walked toward Rarity and the others.

“Actually thou human-form will be achieved by another spell.”  Luna replied to the officer’s reminder.

“As long as I don’t have to stay like this…” Robert said rolling his eyes.

“Do not worry Oberst, we shall return you to your past state as soon as we possibly can.” Celestia said with reassurance.

“I sure hope so, for your sake that is…” Robert said with an underlying threat causing Rainbow Dash to get tense.

“Yes, as you said before Oberst. I know of your threat and I can assure you that you will not have to act on it.” Celestia said with a smile.

While Robert discussed additional information with the princesses; Rainbow Dash walked over to Applejack.  Rainbow Dash leaned over to Applejack’s ear and whispered “How does she know of this threat? Should we get him?” 

“Ah guess you hadn’t been listen for the past couple hours there sugar cube?” Applejack answered.

“What do you mean by that? I’m always paying attention.” Rainbow said putting her hoof down with authority.

“Then why didn’t ya know about the threat?” Applejack retorted.

“I, uh, I, uh, look there’s a flying apple tree.” stammered Rainbow Dash as she pointed to the sky and then retreat hurriedly behind the other Mane 6.

“Dashie’s head sure is in the clouds… all that arguing with the human musta wore her out.” Applejack said to herself.

Meanwhile Rainbow began pondering about the larger tanks the Oberst had mentioned to quickly cover up her strange attraction to the gray pony.

“Is it that bad?” said Robert noticing all the blushes among the crowd of ponies outside the door. “At least your que…Princess Celestia doesn’t think I look like a walking table.”

“Let me help you with that Oberst Johansson,” Celestia said as she transformed the table cloth into a grey cloak. “is that better?”

“Thank you, I shall see you two tomorrow at eighteen hundred.”  Robert said as his emotion went back to a serious tone. “I guess I won’t have to receive any clothes from you, white pony.” With that the two princesses boarded a larger chariot and began heading back to Canterlot.

“Rarity darling, and I can still patch up your uniform if you would like.” Rarity said as she gestured to the house.

“I guess….. “ Robert replied.

“Wonderful, I’ll have them done before you are a human again.” Rarity said as Fluttershy’s door was magically opened. Then a holey uniform floated out of the house with a magical aura around it.

“Now what am I needing to do Miss Sparkle? That is to get rid of the overstocked magic.” Robert said tapping his hoof impatiently on the ground.   
“Well, you need to use your magic; I’ll teach you how to operate it.” Twilight responded as her eyes lit up since she, for once, would be the teacher.

“Alright, I’m still not very trusting in this whole magic idea…. Talking, intelligent, colorful ponies is already unfathomable. Magic being “real” is like saying that tree is a cow and expecting me to believe it.” Robert responded as he skeptically looked at Twilight.

“Once you’ve used it, magic won’t seem so farfetched.” Twilight said trying to open Robert’s mind to magic.

“Oh, I guess we’ll see who’s right.” Robert answered. “As for the rest of you, thank you for your food, help, and company. But I will no longer need your assistance.” Robert said attempting to leave.

“But what about your “Welcome to Equestria/Ponyville/Fluttershy’s House Party”!” popped in Pinkie appearing in front of Robert.

“How’d you, umm no thank you mam, I have no need for a party.” Robert said passing Pinkie Pie on the road.

“Where are you going silly? Oh and you can call me Pinkie Pie, or Pinkie. Making all my friends smile is what I love to do.” Pinkie said hopping up and down to the Oberst’s left.

“Ponyville…” Robert replied.

“Ponyville’s that way silly.” Pinkie said pointing the other direction.

“Oh, well I thank you then. Now please leave me be……”  Robert said before being cut off by a wagon. “Where’d that c…..”

“It’s my welcome wagon!” Pinkie replied before breaking out into song.

Welcome welcome welcome
A fine welcome to you

“Ah you don’t….” Robert attempted to interrupt.

Welcome welcome welcome I say how do you do?

“I still have a……” again he tried

Welcome welcome welcome
I say hip hip hurray  

“I still have headache you know.” he finally finished saying.

“Oh yeah. Sorry Robert.” Pinkie said with a frown as she attempted to turn off the wagon.

Suddenly a ding came from wagon and a cake popped out of the oven on a massive pan. Then a shout of whistles unleashed a shower of confetti coating Robert and Pinkie.

“Hey it looks like I remembered this time.” Pinkie commented.

“What was that?” Robert asked in response.

“It’s a wagon silly, I am very sorry for hurting your feelings, maybe some cake will make you happy.” Pinkie said cutting a piece of cake.

“Actually I meant, oh never mind. I guess that cake does look pretty good.” Robert said succumbing to his growling stomach.

Pinkie then handed Robert the slice of cake on a plate to which he lifted his hoof and was unhappy.

“How am I supposed to use a fork without fingers to hold it?” Robert glanced over to Pinkie.

“Forks aren’t needed, just use your hoof and pick it up.” Pinkie said smiling as she devoured a piece of cake.

“But I have nothing to hold it with. It’s just a hoof.” Robert replied puzzled as he looked at his hoof.

“Don’t worry about it, it works. Not sure why though……” Pinkie said as she trailed off into deep thought briefly. “Don’t just stand there, come join us girls.” Pinkie said in between bites.

Robert looked down at the cake and reached for it as if he still had his hands, and somehow the cake was grasped by a joint in the hoof near the end. He was sure horses didn’t have one from where he was from but all this thought was broken as he took a bite of cake.

“Woh, this cake is…..  is……. is good.” Robert stammered as he regained his serious posture. “Very good cake Miss Pie.”

“Thank you, but I like to be called Pinkie or Pinkie Pie.” she replied with a massive smile.

“Alright then Pinkie Pie, thank you for the welcoming, but I must get my basic training in this so called magic.” the Oberst said as he attempted to make air-quotes with his hooves.

The Mane 6 and Robert then finished up their eating of the cake before they went their separate ways.

Meanwhile at Twilight’s House/Library

“I hate being sent home early to make sure other ponies can access the library.” Spike said with a huff as he entered the door.

The sound of wings could be heard as he walked in and he was greeted by an owl.

“Whoo”

“Oh hi Owloysius.” Spike said with a quick wave.

“Whoo”

“You” Spike replied.

“Whoo Whoo”

“You, oh, what’s the matter?” Spike said as he escaped an endless cycle of questions and answers.

“Whoo Whoo Whoo” said the owl before heading into the backroom.

“Where are you going Owloysius?” shouted Spike at the now leaving feathered friend.
Suddenly there was a crash and a bang along with a bit of smoke as Spike entered the backroom.

“What did you do!” Spike yelled as he saw a mess of books strewn across the floor.

“Whoo”

“Hey, what are you doing now?” yelled Spike as Owloyisius knocked a pile of books down revealing a lighter blue unicorn pony with a white mane. “What are you doing here?” Spike said with authority as he attempted to look big. “Didn’t Twilight teach you enough, when she saved your hide from the Ursa Minor?”

“I, know nothing of which you speak young dragon, but since you do appear familiar with this feathered nuisance, would you mind taking him away.” Trixie said as she floated three more books to her side.

“The bird is a nuisance, you’re the nuisance! Get out of Twilight’s library!” Spike shouted while holding up a scroll like a sword.

“That is no way to treat a guest young dragon, I am only here seeking information on the present date along with medical information regarding amnesia.” Trixie said without any real show of fear.

“It’s December 15th 2012” Spike responded as he rolled his eyes.

“It can’t be, it’s still 2009, it has to be!” Trixie yelled as she began to look nervous.

Spike almost began to laugh at the showmare’s loss of time but stopped when Trixie began to cry.

“I lost three years of my life……” Trixie said weeping onto the cover of a book titled “Lean on Me”

“Umm umm it’ll be ok?” Spike said as he walked over to the sad showmare and patted her head.

“How can I impress my family now? My Dad wanted me to join the family business in operating the theater, why didn’t I just stay?” Trixie lamented as she grabbed Spike like a doll and squeezed him.

“Um, I can…….can’t breathe Trixie.” Spike choked out as Trixie held tight to the small dragon before letting go.

“I apologize young one.” Trixie stood up and said. “I must keep my cool for I am The Great and Powerful Trixie.” 

“Would you like some tea? Twilight always likes a cup when she reads.” Spike asked as he looked up to the blue pony.

“Tea would be much appreciated, two sugars please.” Trixie said as she sat back down and wiped away a few more tears. 

“Ok then. Oh and the books on ammnnia is over in the front room under A, I think.” Spike said pointing to the front room.

“Oh, how did I miss that, thank you young dragon.” Trixie replied as she got up and trotted over to the shelves.

Road to Ponyville

“What sort of books on history do you hold in your library, I am assuming it holds many books right?” Robert said as he continued lifting rocks along the path.

“Keep lifting and dropping those rocks your doing great! And yes, we have many history books too.” Twilight said in response.

“Good, I’ll be very happy to overview this planet’s history.” he added. 

The two continued their walk until they finally arrived at the library.

“Are all your houses trees? Or in trees? “ Robert said still focused on lifting and dropping the stone in his “magical” grip.

“No, just look around.” Twilight said as she practically ran into the door due to the laughter she got out of the question.

“I’m glad you enjoyed it…” Robert said sarcastically.

Twilight then opened the door and walked into her house.

“Spike, I’m home! The Oberst is here too.” Twilight said yelling up the stairs expecting Spike to be napping.

“Hi Twilight, I d…” Spike attempted to say before being cut off.

“Spike would you mind making some tea? I have six hours to teach a pony how to operate basic magic so he can rid of his extra magic.” Twilight said before beginning a long rant on different techniques she may use to accomplish her intended goal. Meanwhile Spike rolled his eyes and headed to the kitchen.

“Oh boy, she’s going to be in for a big surprise.” Spike whispered to himself as he thought about Twilight finding Trixie in her backroom, or even the guest bedroom adjacent to the backroom. “Maybe Rarity needs some comforting.” Spike said with a grin.

His train of thought though was interrupted when a large gray unicorn patted him on the shoulder.

“Um, little dragon, at least where I’m from, you don’t overflow your drinking cups.” Robert said nudging the seemingly lost dragon.

“Oh, holy guacamole, thank you human guy.” Spike said as he quickly shut off the faucet and dumped some excess water from the kettle. 

“What was that all about?” Robert continued while Spike turned on the oven.

Spike began thinking, finally another man who isn’t related to Twilight’s friends. “Just thinking about a special pony.” Spike said as his eyes shaped into hearts. 

“What?” Robert said bewildered.

“You know, a special pony…..” Spike said with a nudge and a wink.

“Hmm, I’m confused Spigot….” Robert responded before being corrected.

“It’s Spike.” Spike said defensively.

“Spike then, I am lost on what you mean by a special pony. Do you mean a mentally troubled patient? Maybe a family member like Twilight appears to be..” Robert paused pondering on what the dragon was hinting at. I wouldn’t personally call my parents special people, I would call them my parents…. With that Robert began to sob on that thought.

“Uh, what’s wrong , Oberst Yohandsen?” Spike asked as he became puzzled by yet another spontaneous sobbing.

“Nothing…just my allergies are getting to me… may I ask what are you referring to by special pony?” Robert said wiping a couple tears from his eyes.

“You know, like a girlfriend.” Spike said with another nudge.

“Huh, but you’re a dragon. Or is pony just what they say here instead of body or one or whatnot.” Robert said thinking back to all the phrases he had heard used by the ponies.

“No, I mean a pony, the most beautiful pony to walk in Equestria.” Spike replied as he began to hover.

“But, um you’re a dragon…..” Robert added with much confusion in his head.

“Yes, but I’ll find a way for her to love me.” Spike said with a determined face.

“Oh, good luck I guess then…” Robert said before being interrupted by a whistle from the tea kettle.

“Yay, tea!” Twilight squealed from the front room.

“I would move if I were you.” Spike said to Robert while gesturing to the table.

“What do you mean Spike?” Robert responded.

Suddenly a purple blur  shot through the swinging door and bowled over the gray stallion attempting to move.
“That’s why...” Spike said with a small laugh.

“Aaah” the two unicorns yelled in unison as they toppled head over hoof into the cabinet.

“Sorry about that Oberst Johansson.” Twilight replied sheepishly with a blush.

“What’s the rush? Does this always happen Spike?” Robert said looking bewildered and put his hood on his head to stop his head from throbbing.

“Only when she’s been up more than a day straight…” Spike commented. “Also this is her favorite tea.”

“Oh, what flavor is this tea?”  asked the officer pony as he thought back to his times in London with  the many smells of assorted teas.

“Lilly and tulip spiced black tea with a hint of lemon.” Spike said with pride. “I invented it myself.”

“Yeah, when you dropped the flowers I meant to present on, into my tea.” Twilight said with a giggle.

“Well I did invent it!” Spike replied defensively only getting another grin from Twilight.

“If you don’t mind me interrupting your personal history lesson, I would like to get to work. And did you say flowers?” Robert said with a less than interested look.

“Yes, why do you ask… oh, well us ponies eat many sorts of flowers along with other greens.” Twilight said as her voice switched back to that of a teacher.

“Oh, well I guess I would like mine just hinted with lemon.” Robert said just imagining what a flower could do to his human stomach. (I know not much but it sounds much worse)

“Alright then, Spike make sure…” Twilight before Spike cut her off with an abrupt “I know, I know”

The trio of tea drinkers then proceeded to train and explain the skeptical Oberst Robert in the ways of magic. Spike though was less enthused being that he knew he would replace the rock at some point.
Meanwhile a lighter blue pony sat in the guest bedroom reading multiple books for information regarding amnesia.

“I’m starting to think they forgot to add it in this dictionary…” Trixie said with sarcasm along with annoyance. 

December 15th 1943 Dregen, German held Austria

“Heil Hitler” saluted a group of SS scouts. 

“Heil Hitler! All but the leader of this squad is to leave.” returned the SS officer Oberst Fransheim.

“It would appear that the Wehrmacht officer has gone into the town of ponies sir!” one of them spoke up.

“Good, this gives us a chance to begin setting up a base there. Did you find any caves?” Fransheim questioned as he pointed to the local map generated from what the scouts knew of Equestria.

“Here and here sir, this one appears to skinny to fit a tank though.” the soldier replied with haste.

“Good, send a regiment and clear out the cave of threats. Then send someone back for the supplies.” Fransheim said as he gestured to the map pointing to certain locations.

“Sir, what if Oberst Johansson sees us.” the soldier asked.

“Tell him the portal is back up for a little while, we’re just returning his food.” Oberst Fransheim replied.

“Yes sir!” the soldier 

“Heil Hitler!”

“Heil Hitler!”

The soldier then met up with his squad and they grabbed the officer in charge of a regiment and relayed the orders. Then the Regimentskommandeur informed his 3,000 men and marched them through the freshly reopened portal.

Everfree Forest

3,000 soldiers marched to the cave’s location which had been tasked for them to clear. When they arrived they sent in a scouting party to check out the cave. After about fifteen minutes they then returned with their report.

“Sir, you aren’t going to believe this.” replied the scout.

“What is it soldier” replied the Regimentskommandeur.

“There’s gems in the cave sir.” The soldier said showing the one in his hand.

“Gems, how many?” inquired the Regimentskommandeur.

“A lot sir, so many we cannot even see the top of the pile.” commented the scout as he took another out of his pocket. “They are of assorted colors and sizes.”

“Is it clear?” the officer replied.

“Yes sir! There’s nothing in the cave except these gems.” the soldier said with much confidence.

“How far back did you go?” inquired the officer again.

“At least 500 meters sir.” the soldier responded.

“Alright then, tell the messengers of this news so we can get some sort of transport. Also tell 1st Battalion to head in the cave and secure the area.” the officer gave orders.

“Yes sir!” replied the soldier before he went off to do his duties.

Deep inside the cave lurked something far more threatening than gems, a dragon.

Twilight’s house/library

“You’re doing a lot better Robert, let me get a book out of the back though so we can move on.” Twilight said praising the Oberst’s ability.

“Alright I guess, anything to get this done quicker.” Robert lied to his host. He truly did actually enjoy this for it had been the first truly relaxing thing e had done in years. Though magic seemed still very impossible to him, he couldn’t think of any logical or scientific explanation for the telekinesis he was now able to achieve. His thoughts were shattered by a scream.

“What the hay are you doing here, how did you get in here!” Twilight said yelling at the groggy Trixie who laid on the guest bed having fallen asleep from a long day. 

“What?” Trixie replied still not awake.

“Spike! What is Trixie doing here?” she shouted again.

Spike scurried into the backroom and spotted the angry purple mare staring at him from the door of the guest bedroom.

“Um, well Twilight. She was trying to find information on some illness. She seemed really sad about whatever it was.” Spike said trying to cover up any trouble before it could get worse.

“What illness?” Twilight said calming down a bit.

“Amnesia.” Trixie replied coming out of her sleepy state slowly.

“Why would you need to look up such a problem?” Twilight pressed on expecting Trixie to attempt some sort of lie.

“I think I may have it.” Trixie said right off the bat, startling Twilight.

“Spike is this true?” Twilight turned back to the baby dragon.

“I think so, she thought It was 2009 still.” Spike said in response.

“Oh, well… “Twilight sarted before Robert interrupted her walking in the door.

“What’s all the commotion?” Robert said as he came through the door.

“An old “friend” of ours is in need of some help.” Twilight said putting emphasis on the word friend.

Then the light blue pony walked out of the room past Twilight and said, “Who’s the nice-looking colt?”

It then dawned on Robert, this Trixie was the same as the one who had attempted to kill him.

“The man who will end you!” Robert yelled as he reared up his front hooves and grabbed Trixie in his magic.

“What?” said the three others in the room in near perfect unison.

“She’s the one who tried to capture me! Now she will pay for her actions since I can’t trust your “police” can do any better than the morons in the SS.”  yelled Robert as he began choking the showmare.

“I….don’t…… know…….who……you…..are.” gasped out Trixie as she grabbed at her throat.

“Stop that Oberst. Stop that Robert! You’re going to kill her!” Twilight yelled at Robert.

“That’s the point Miss Sparkle!” Robert yelled back in an acidic tone.

> Burning Out
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Much thanks for the comments. Also a thank you to Wanderer D; for giving me some helpful writing techniques. 

Twilight’s House/ Library

Last time:

“What’s all the commotion?” Robert said as he came through the door.

“An old “friend” of ours is in need of some help.” Twilight said putting emphasis on the word friend.

Then the light blue pony walked out of the room past Twilight and said, “Who’s the nice-looking colt?”

It then dawned on Robert, this Trixie was the same as the one who had attempted to kill him.

“The man who will end you!” Robert yelled as he reared up his front hooves and grabbed Trixie in his magic.

“What?” said the three others in the room in near perfect unison.

“She’s the one who tried to capture me! Now she will pay for her actions since I can’t trust your “police” can do any better than the morons in the SS.”  yelled Robert as he began choking the showmare.

“I….don’t…… know…….who……you…..are.” gasped out Trixie as she grabbed at her throat.

“Stop that Oberst. Stop that Robert! You’re going to kill her!” Twilight yelled at Robert.

“That’s the point Miss Sparkle!” Robert yelled back in an acidic tone.

Chapter 9

“Why can’t we talk about this?” Twilight pleaded with the enraged officer.

“And what then, she walks! How does that make me feel any better!” Robert exclaimed as he shot a stare at Twilight and Spike who stood near the floating Trixie.

“Killing her isn’t going to solve anything! Stop choking her!” Twilight yelled back now begin to become worried.

“Ple … ase……..stop………I…… beg………of …….. you.” Trixie gasped out as she began to look pale.

“I couldn’t avenge my parent’s death, so I will get revenge on my attempted murderer!” Robert belted as he got ready to finish the showmare.

“Now you’re just being the murderer, I thought soldiers had honor.” Twilight continued attempting to reason.

“Stop!” Spike said running at Robert with a scroll.

“Not so fast Spike!” Robert said menacingly as he levitated Spike off the ground and held him in place while still levitating Trixie.

“You have to stop him Twi!” Spike yelled as he was spun to face the wall.

Twilight’s horn began to glow and then said, “Stop Robert or else!”

“Or else what?” Robert gloated.

Twilight then began to unleash a massive magic disruptor spell but was stopped by a massive gust of cold air.

“Freeze!” Robert laughed as Twilight stood frozen in place inside of a large ice cube.

“Twilight!” Spike yelled.

“Now as for you Trixie, your miserable existence shall be ended!” Robert said as his horn began to glow brighter.
Trixie made one last squirm for freedom and magically jerked her cape at Robert causing a medal to fall out and land at his feet.

“What’s this? How did you get this!” Robert said curiously. 

“I…..fo…..und” Trixie kept gasping until she was suddenly released from a choke hold. “I, I found it outside my cart, and I hoped to return it to the pony whom owned it.” Trixie honestly explained.

Robert just stood there in complete confusion while millions of thoughts ran through his mind. Why would she attempt to kill me, than try to return something of mine after she had failed. Why isn’t she speaking in the third person?  Could she really have amnesia? Will this really avenge my parent’s death? He consumed himself in though and then just collapsed into a lump on the floor dropping Spike and Trixie in the process along with unfreezing Twilight.

Twilight then ran over to Robert to figure out what had just happened.

“I’m done, “ Robert mumbled in a defeated tone.

“Huh” Twilight said unable to hear the mumbling.

“I’ve finally broke God! Make it stop! Make it stop!”  yelled Robert as he raised his front hooves into the air.

“Twilight, what is he doing?” Spike said both confused and a bit scared.

“Have I gone insane!? Ponies that talk, dragons, portals, MAGIC. Have I fallen into the Fantasy section of hell!?” Robert continued to rant.

“Yes, you’re in…..” Spike said before a purple hoof silenced him.

“Oh yeah I’m a pony now to myself…. “ Robert said looking at his hooves angrily.

“Calm down, Robert you are far from dead.” Twilight said attempting to comfort the distraught officer.

“Oh thanks magical pony… How would you feel if your parents died and then within the year your entire perspective on reality was completely thrashed?” Robert yelled while gesturing wildly. “Not to mention the SS seem to be hiding something from me, along with all of Germany. Maybe I should have listened o those officers who wanted to kill Hitler. Would that be treason though?” Robert continued to rant as he vented a massive quantity of frustrations.

“Umm well everything isn’t set in stone, even as much I wish it was...” Twilight said thinking about the whole “Pinkie Sense” ordeal.

“Well it has to be! The idea that all planets don’t fall-in on the same set of rules of science is completely absurd. It’s like saying there’s a planet with creatures that can generate random elements from nothingness and are used for battling. Better yet, people who can manipulate water and fire with their hands!” Robert continued while acting out a creature generating electricity and then using his hooves to shoot imaginary fire. 

“Holy guacamole, send me there…” again Spike was silenced by a purple hoof.

“Physics can’t be that different on your world; you haven’t seemed stressed about gravity or motion.” Twilight commented.

“No, aside from that pink pony everything seems right in the Physics department,” Robert said with authority while thinking in the back of his head, based off my one Physics class at university.

“Then why are you so distraught?” Trixie said attempting to add herself to the conversation.

“Didn’t I already say, this world has magic. I cannot explain how it works but I just manipulated gravity and condensation.” Robert replied confused.

“Well magic is created by….” Twilight began before Spike shoved a sock in her mouth.

“My  so-called overload must have been corrected, I can finally think clearly.” Robert said with a small smile as he rubbed his forehead.  “ I apologize Miss Sparkle and Spike for my anger issues, this entire situation is hard to take.”

“Phew,   I forgive you Oberst Robert, now are you calmed down now?” Twilight said after spitting out the sock.

“I believe so, but I still would like a damn good explanation from you, Trixie.” Robert said with authority as he pointed to the showmare. 

“You shall be explained to err, name again?” Trixie said embarrassingly rubbing the back of her head.

“Oberst Johansson to you.” Robert stated sternly.

“Alright Oberst Johansson, I shall explain everything that I know.” Trixie replied modestly worried.

“You better girl, I have a couple years of experience in interrogations, I can see a lie on anyone’s face.” Robert responded as he stretched the truth. Robert had actually had trouble reading ponies’  facial signs.

“Tea…” Twilight interrupted attempting to diffuse the situation some.

“Alright I guess, two sugars please.” Robert replied.

“Yes, please do so Twilight.” Trixie said rubbing her throat which still ached.

“Good. Spike, what would you like?” Twilight said as she entered the kitchen.

“Two red gems and a sapphire please.” Spike said as he begant o drool.

“Spike…” Twilight responded as she rolled her eyes.

Robert then stared at Trixie with only one thought running through his mind, you shall tell me everything…

 Cave south of portal in Everfree Forest 

“Regimentskommandeur, the Opels are here.” a SS soldier said as he pointed to the small walkway being fully occupied by three trucks in a row.

“Good, what did they bring with them?” Regimentskommandeur von Falst replied with a nod.

“Three Pak 40s sir, along with assorted provisions.” the soldier replied as he looked at his clipboard.

“Isn’t that a bit heavy, we haven’t seen any armor in the area.” von Falst said curiously.

“Oberst Fransheim must have wanted them sent, my clipboard states we were to get three cooking platforms.” the soldier said pointing to the clipboard as he displayed the list to the officer.

“Well, when those trucks get here have them dump the equipment over there, then send two of the three back for more. We’ll fill the third with gems.” von Falst said signing the clipboard.

“Yes sir!” replied the soldier before he ran off towards the slowly moving trucks.

Regimentskommandeur von Falst then headed over to the cave to inspect the progress on the moving of the gems out of the cave. He glanced about the massive cavern and finally saw the mass of gems he had seen mere examples of. 

“Wow, I didn’t expect so many gems.” the officer said to himself as he slowly walked deeper into the cave towards a group of soldiers. As he walked he began to imagine the pile of gems in a mansion of his own. 

“What is the status of the gems’ movement?” he asked a soldier carrying a pile of gems.

“Sir, we are moving the gems at a steady pace. They should be outside within a couple hours.” the soldier replied with a salute and heel clap.

“Good, once we’re done with the gems’ movement, take up sentry duties.  2nd Battalion will be handling the moving of the supply into the cave.” von Falst added before saluting briefly and continuing his supervising of the process.

Meanwhile back at the portal, six armored vehicles slowly made their way out of the former room which the portal was held. Behind them had twenty soldiers with assorted sweeping and cleaning devices making sure that there was no evidence to the vehicles arriving. 

2 hours later

The last of the armored vehicles arrived at the cave and were turned off to conserve gasoline. 

“Good, it’s always nice to see German engineering at its finest.” Regimentskommandeur von Falst said as he rubbed a tank’s hull.

“Sir, all three Panzer IV Gs are fully armed. The two Panzer II Cs are lacking the main gun ammo.  The captured H-39 is fully operable.” a soldier informed the officer.

“Then what’s the Matilda minesweeper for?” von Falst questioned as he tapped on the hull of a damaged minesweeper tank.

“The Oberst sent it to help level the ground in the cave of spikes so that the trucks can go inside.” the soldier replied as he knocked on the armor.

“Where’s its turret?” the officer asked as he tapped figuratively on the area lacking a turret.

“It’s a captured tank sir, we don’t have British tank turrets just laying around. The steel sheet on the roof is all we need for its job.” a tank crew member retorted from behind the Matilda trying to take a nap.

“Alright.” the officer said sourly as he debated giving the smart talker a punishment.

But his thoughts were broken by the sudden sound of a gunshot in the forest.

“That’ll teach you to bite my knife you goat.” said a SS soldier standing over a corpse of a goat.

“What the hell was that!” yelled Regimentskommandeur von Falst as he ran to the location of the gunshot. 

“Some damn goat bit my knife.” the soldier answered as he kicked the body.

“So you shot it!” yelled the officer as he raised his arms in the air.

“It’s just a f***en animal. What’s wrong sir?” the soldier replied pointing at the dead goat at his feet.

“Haven’t you read the intelligence report on this planet? There are intelligent ponies, what’s to say that goat wasn’t a leader of some goat nation!” the officer said grabbing the goat’s corpse.

“We haven’t the killed human equivalents? “  the soldier replied sarcastically.

“Well here, we can’t just be killing; our mission is to trick the pony’s country into helping us find oil and then we surprise attack them.” the officer responded. “Go bury the corpse and then get back to sentry duty!” 

“Yes sir.” the soldier replied as he grabbed the corpse and went off deeper into the woods to get rid of the body.

Inside the cave a large dragon began to stir due to the gunshot’s noise echoing through the cave.  The dragon began stretching its wings and claws and then a growl emitted again from the massive creature. This time though it wasn’t from his voice but rather his stomach. So the dragon made his way toward the mouth of the cave where he kept his gem stored. As he approached the cave entrance he saw lights and heard strange voices ahead so he began to creep quietly to the opening. When he arrived though the dragon was stunned by what he saw, or rather, what he didn’t. In front of him he saw hundreds of bipedal creatures and a lack of gems. With that he roared loudly and unleashed a massive flame.

“Gah! Aaaah!” a large group of soldiers, in the cave, all began yelling as they became suddenly engulfed in flames. 

“Roaaaaaaaaar!”

“What the hell is that?” one soldier yelled as he drew his gun.

“A dragon I think!” another soldier yelled as he opened fire.

Just as fast as the dragon unleashed its first flame the SS troopers returned fire with their assorted rifles and sub-machine guns. 

“The rounds aren’t doing anything!” one soldier noticed as he reloaded his MP-40.

“You grab a MG-42!” yelled one soldier to another as he pointed to the machine gun on the crate at the cave entrance.

Another burst of flames swept over the soldiers as the dragon charged into the more open cave entrance. Another slew of soldier s lit on fire while three were impaled by the dragon’s tail. 

Outside the cave the officer began to run toward the commotion after making sure that the other soldier buried the goat. 

He reached the opening outside the cave and saw something he couldn’t believe. “A dragon!” he yelled as he pointed to the cave in horror. “Get the panzers! Man the Paks!” he yelled again as he began to command the scared soldiers in the shallow trenches around the cave.

The 2nd Battalion started with 1,000 men, but within one mere minute the battalion had been cut by a tenth.  Tank Crews were woken from their naps by the commotion and began hopping into the armored monsters.  Ten soldiers quickly rushed toward the anti-tank guns sitting near the provisions while other soldiers began to charge the cave.3rd Battalion was non-existing though due their orders were to guard the portal/watch for Robert/load goods onto the Opels on Earth. 

The dragon then spoke to the soldiers in rage between flame burst causing some men to just take a tail to the face due to the shock. “Where are my gems!” he yelled. 

The soldiers desperately began scrambling to find cover to which there was little to none aside from the few supply crates which were useless as it was. Bullets continued to deflect off the hard scales of the dragon causing rounds and bullet fragments to skip off the cave walls and kill other soldiers, but due to the chaos no one could hear the few soldiers who had began yelling to stop firing.

“Take this you overgrown lizard!” yelled one soldier as he fired a panzerfaust which ripped a hole in the dragon’s wing causing it to yell loudly in pain. “Yes we can….” the soldier yelled before being crushed by the dragon’s foot. 

“Find the crate with the panzerfausts!” yelled another as assorted soldier began scrambling to open crates for the weapon.

The dragon then aimed at a group of boxes near the entrance and unleashed a fire ball which incinerated few soldiers but lit the boxes on fire. 

“Fire!” yelled one soldier as three more panzerfaust round ripped through the dragon’s wings but one bounced off the Dragons chest.

With that the dragon flapped what was left of his wings causing a gust of wind to stir the flames higher and he swung his tail into the group of soldiers nearby flinging them into the boxes. Suddenly the boxes exploded. The dragon grinned with delight as he watched a large group of people scatter from the burning mess as limbs and blood rained from the heavens. 
Over the moaning and roar of many machine guns came another though, the sound of a panzer tank which when it came into the dragon’s sight surprised it.

The dragon thought to itself, what is that? But by the time he was about to shoot flames he felt a sharp pain in his neck and then a sudden burning sensation. 

“We hit it!” yelled the gunner to his driver who hadn’t quite turned to the cave yet. 

“F***en thing dead?” yelled back the gunner.

“Not sure, it’s just stumbling around and spewing flames.” he replied.

Suddenly a substance began spraying from the dragon’s wound causing existing fires to rage further and burning the soldiers nearby. 

“It burns aaah!” yelled one as he began to show signs of burns.

The dragon finally fell to its knees but continued to spew an acidic spray along with a fire stream that reached over 25 meters.

The growled loudly once again but this time blood came out too causing a slight gargling noise. With that the dragon was pelted with several 75mm inch AP rounds to the face causing it completely stop. The acid continued to leak out of its neck causing the ground to begin lighting on fire and engulfing the cave entrance in flames five meters high.

Rejoices were screamed along with profanities as the remaining non-wounded soldiers began cheering at the sight of the dead dragon.

“This isn’t going to be as easy as I had hoped.” said the Regimentskommandeur as he gazed toward the sight of a dragon and many men burning in the night. All he could smell was burning flesh mixed with beer and provisions. “This is truly a completely different world…”

Twilight’s House/Library

The two mares and the baby dragon slept without a worry in the world in their respective master or guest bedroom, except one officer who lay staring at the ceiling from the couch.

“Oh God, please help me survive this without killing myself or one of these “ponies”. I beg of you God, and Mom and Dad I miss you two very much.”

> Fingers are nice!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight’s house/Library

The morning arrived in its usual glorious fashion awaking Twilight from her slumber.

“Aaaaah, boy, I had the strangest of dreams, the human went crazy and the Great and Powerful Trixie was here.” Twilight 
said to herself as she began stretching.

Glancing over at the clock she saw it was already noon and decided to make a late breakfast to wake up Spike. Twilight 
walked down the stairs and saw the human Robert laying oddly over the couch with one of his legs standing straight up and his head on the arm rest while he snored. 

“Must be a human thing….” Twilight commented to herself as she checked the back room for her favorite 
cookbook. “Wow, I guess that all really happened.” Twilight told herself as she noticed the backroom was in disarray and a light blue mare sleeping in the back room.
Not wanting to awaken either for fear either might be like Spike when awoken, she decided to just make more hay-
pancakes.

Cave south of the Portal.

After five hours worth of fire fighting the SS troops were able to stop the burning chemicals and re-enter the cave to judge the damage to the cave. Meanwhile other SS soldier began to count their losses in men and equipment.

“I have fought in the freezing cold of Russia, and worked in the many camps around the Reich; but I have never seen such a horrendous sight.” von Falst commented as he overlooked the mass carnage within the cave. 

“Sir, “a soldier ran up to him and said.

“Yes?” von Falst replied back.

“The wounded have been taken back to Germany, reinforcements will arrive in a week.” The soldier responded.

“So we are to build a base still, I would assume.” the officer said back.  

“Yes sir.” The soldier returned before returning a salute and heading back north.

Regimentskommandeur von Falst then looked back to the cave and frowned knowing this would take awhile.

Two more soldier approached him with clipboards and gave him a salute and “Hiel Hitler”

“Hiel Hitler!” he returned.

“We have the tentative numbers on our losses sir.” the one soldier said as he gestured at his clipboard.

“Ok, tell me them.” the officer said bracing himself for the numbers.

“355 wounded, over 500 KIA. Also there’s at least 35 MIA which we assume are likely dead.”  the soldier said as he read off the numbers.

“An entire brigade of the Fuhrer’s best taken down by an oversized lizard! This is an embarrassment to the Reich!” the officer yelled as he began clenching his fists.

“Logistically, we lost three months worth of rations and at least 30 crates of assorted ammunition. Also we lost some weapons in the cave due to the melting.” the other soldier spoke up. “But we will get more supply within the hour; the SS is making this base a priority.”

“Alright then, then go get it, and bring some panzershrecks.” von Falst said withholding his sheer rage. 
With that the officer made his way back to his temporary tent HQ just outside the cave’s outer clearing. When he entered he slammed his fist onto the table and yelled incoherently due to he now knew that a promotion had just left his outlook after four years of clawing.

Twilight’s house/Library

The smell of hay-pancakes spread about the house causing a baby dragon to practically float out of bed following the delectable aroma. Likewise a lighter-blue mare began babbling about her mother and giving her a few more minutes. But in the main room, one gray pony continued to snore.

“Yuuum….. hay-pancakes…..” a small dragon said as he floated in through the separating doors alerting Twilight.

“Well good morning my little dragon.” Twilight said with a motherly tone.

“Hey Twilight, you made delectable pancakes. Where are they?” the drooling dragon stated as his eyes perked up and began looking about the kitchen.

“There right here Spike.” Twilight replied as she floated a plate of steaming pancakes from behind her.

Quicker than light, Spike darted and grabbed the plate of pancakes along with syrup and sat back down with a massive grin.

“Almost forgot something Spike.” Twilight giggled as she floated a fork and a butter knife to Spike.

“Oh, thank you Twilight.” Spike said as he grabbed the utensils and began to dig in.

Before Twilight could leave the kitchen to check on her guests, one walked in the door with a mane which looked as it had gone through a war of its own.  

“Good morning Trixie.” Twilight said suppressing her giggles desperately.

“Good morning” Trixie said as she slowly regained here senses.

Spike’s blitzkrieg of the pancakes was delayed when he saw what appeared to be a pony with a troll’s haircut walk in the door. He then let out a massive laugh waking up Trixie entirely and causing Twilight to succumb to her giggles as well.

“Spike……that…..is no way…… to treat…. a guest.” Twilight attempted to scold Spike while attempting to suppress giggling.

“But her hair.“ Spike commented as he fell out of his chair in hysterical laughing.

Trixie meanwhile glanced at a window and saw what appeared to be a large hairy creature taking residence upon her head. Then blushing she slowly backed out of the kitchen again and headed to the bathroom for some much needed hair taming.

“Where’s the Cutie Pie Crusader Hair Stylists when you need them.” Spike said as he slowly got back up off the ground.

Twilight seeing that Trixie was going to need some time remembered her “foreign” guest in her main room and decided to check on him to only find him snoring as loud as before.

“Would you like to wake up sir?” Twilight said as she nudged the bed-time contortionist’s flank.

Robert rolled over with a small grumble in response.

“I made pancakes.” Twilight added hoping to peak his interest.

He continued to grumble and occasionally glance at the ceiling.

“Alright then, I’ll bring them to you. Last thing we need is a hungry pony or human.” Twilight said as she walked back into the kitchen, grabbed some pancakes and a plate, and brought them back to the table next to the couch. After doing so she poked Robert in the flank again, before heading back to the kitchen.

After two minutes of aroma therapy, the Oberst rolled over and grabbed one of the pancakes with his hooves and devoured it. After eating the full plate of pancakes he felt parched so he slowly staggered into the kitchen for water.

“Good afternoon Robert.” Twilight said looking up from her plate.

“Hey.” Spike greeted without looking at him.

Robert nodded in response and continued towards the sink. As he began to fill up the cup with water the other door swung open to reveal a blue mare now less disheveled. Seeing Robert, Trixie then backed back out of the kitchen.

“I couldn’t care less, come back in. I am only here in this accursed situation for a few more hours anyway.” Robert said sitting down his cup on the counter.

“I am very impressed in you Oberst.” Twilight said with great cheerfulness.

“Why?” Robert retorted in confusion.

“Because you forgave Trixie. And due to that, you may begin your healing process against your inner-demons.” Twilight said trying to sound like some psychologist.   

“I haven’t forgiven her; I just know that she isn’t the reason I’m angry.” Robert replied.

“Oh, well I guess that’s a start.” Twilight optimistically returned.

“Germans are supposed to be civilized people, not barbarians like those Bolsheviks out east. Twilight, you reminded me that I am no barbarian, but a German officer, like my father. “the Oberst declared as he stood on his hind legs and gestured. 

“Is that good?” Spike questioned as he glanced over to Twilight.

“Yes, it is Spike. For unlike some of my peers, I feel it is my duty to be honorable at war, and murdering unarmed civilians at the slightest reasoning is no way to behave.” Robert said as he thought of the SS men back in Metz.
Spike nodded in agreement thought not really knowing what had been inferred.

“I apologize again to you three, Twilight I am greatly ashamed of my actions in wrecking parts of your back room, along with freezing you in a block of ice.” he looked over to Twilight with a stern but saddened look.

“It is ok Robert, I am done all sorts of things to as it is. Plus it showed me that your magic, well “my” magic also influences a unicorn’s ability. Since not all unicorns could even hope to freeze another unicorn with little effort involved. Then again, you were enraged which can cause your powers to seem more potent than usual…..” Twilight trailed off as she thought about it.

“As I was saying, I apologize to you Spike, not only because I spun you like a top, but I also scared you in what I did to your mother or sisterly figure.” Robert continued as he drowned out Twilight’s tangent.

“It’s ok, I have dealt with worse over less “serious” matters.” Spike said emphasizing the end as he glanced over to Twilight who blushed and rubbed the back of her neck.

“As for you Trixie, I apologize for attempting to kill you as I did; but aside from that, I just would like to say you are lucky to be alive. I still am not happy about what you tried to do, but since you have no memory of the occasion I will let it pass, for now.” Robert finished as he ended the apology with a scowl.

“I well, me before, or whatever, apologizes for trying to hurt or capture you.” Trixie replied.

“Now that I feel less angry, Twilight would you mind getting all of your military history books on Equestria and this world. I may not want to stay much longer, or understand all of this world, but military history is a passion of mine.” Robert said as he thought about his many books back at his house in Kiel.

“Ok, Spike and I will get every military history book we have and let you read them as long as you are in Equestria.” 

Twilight agreed with a smile. “It will be nice to have a fellow book-worm around here aside from the occasional visit from 
Rainbow Dash.” Twilight added.

“Umm, well I had hoped to read them back at my camp once I’m human again. Also the rainbow one reads books. Who would of thought……” Robert said in a dry sarcastic tone.

“Oh, well what if you need help with something?” Twilight quickly replied.

“I’ll come back with questions then.” he returned.

With that the four finished eating and drinking before Twilight washed the dishes with her magic.

Robert then left the kitchen and headed back to the main room with Spike to begin their book search.

Cave south of Portal

With the initial cleaning finished, Regimentskommandeur von Falst sent squads of troops deeper into the cave to insure safety. After four hours had passed one of the six groups returned with a sack slung over one of its soldier’s backs.

“Sir, you’re going to want to see this.” said the tallest of the soldiers pointing to the sack on the blonde haired soldier’s back.

“Unless it will impress Himmler, I don’t care.” von Falst spat at the soldiers as he resumed writing letters to the deceased.

“We aren’t sure, sir.” another of the soldiers replied.

“Then do away with whatever it is.” the officer said as he gestured to leave.

“Yes, sir!” the soldiers said in unison before leaving the tent.

The five soldiers walked over to a tree before sitting down and discussing what they should do.

“I say we destroy it.” said the blonde haired soldier who had carried the sack.

“I concur!” agreed the black haired soldier with three large scars.

“We could cook it?” questioned the short brown haired soldier as he rubbed his belly.

“Is that all you think of Hans? Your stomach?” replied the tall soldier with a hardy laugh.

“Well, it is an egg after all.” retorted the hungry soldier.

“Yeah, but it was found in a cave over 30 km inside, I doubt it’s edible.” added the blonde haired one.

While the four soldiers argued, the fifth soldier, a man with black hair and a full mustache, interrupted the group. “I’ll destroy it, we can’t eat it, and I know you two will just do something stupid with it….” he said as he pointed to the soldiers.

“Alright I guess.” replied the tall one.

“Why do you think I would do anything stupid…… oh alright.” concluded the one with the scar as he remembered a certain fiasco in a Norwegian government building.

The other two nodded grudgingly and handed the egg over to the mustached man. He then quickly walked out into the forest toward the portal, fired three shots into the ground, then he stashed the egg under a bed in a tent near the portal before running back to the cave. All awhile dreaming of assorted riches he could receive for the egg’s contents.

Fluttershy’s House 

“It’s finally time.” the gray unicorn said as he walked into the center of a contraption. 

“Mirrors, check! Gemstones, check! Robert, check! Robert’s clothes, check!” Twilight shouted as she went down her checklist while waiting for the Princesses to arrive.

“I guess I won’t need this any longer.” Robert said as he took the gray cloak which had been keeping him covered for the past day. “Hmm, what is this called again?” Robert questioned as he looked at his flank.

“Cutie mark.” Twilight replied. “Uh what is it?”

“Hmm, well it looks like my Iron Cross on something.” Robert said as he strained to get a better angle.”Twilight, could you tell me what it is on top of.” 

“Sure” Twilight said as she trotted over to Robert and looked at his flank. “Well, it looks like a piece of paper with lines on it.”

“What sort of lines? Writing? Music? Topographical?” he questioned as pondered what could possibly be there. 

“It’s just oddly placed lines and oh, there’s an arrow too. “ Twilight exclaimed as she pointed to it.

“A strategic map, that’s interesting. I never thought of myself as much of the strategist, more of a leader on the ground sort of officer.” the Oberst commented as he put his hoof on his chin.

“Maybe you just haven’t quite done the entire feat yet.” Twilight replied as Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy arrived.

“Flutter…shy…what is …… all this…. Stuff?” the cyan pegasi gasped out as she carried six large first aid kits and what appeared to be Robert’s equipment.

“Well I was scared he might catch a cold, or the flu when he changes back. Since that is not ok with me.” Fluttershy explained as she took one of the kits off Rainbow’s back.

As the two pegasi set up a medical tent and a bed. Robert quirked his eyes and asked, “Umm, what is that all for?”

“It’s so you don’t catch a cold…..” Rainbow Dash responded sarcastically before promptly being stomped on by Angel the bunny.

“Fluttershy, you do know that I will only be naked about two minutes, right?” Robert continued.

“Yes, but I don’t want anypony to get sick. That is if you don’t mind all of this.” Fluttershy stated before going back to be submissive.

“Umm, well I guess since it’s already here…” Robert finished as he turned and then rolled his eyes.

Suddenly a flash of light blinded the ponies and the two Princesses appeared. 

“Hello, Princess Celestia, and Luna, I am ready to be turned back. It is 18:00 hours.” Robert said gesturing to his hoof as if there were a watch on it.

“Art thou sure?” Luna replied 

“Very much so, now do your magic…” replied Robert as he facehoofed knowing the saying really didn’t make sense to the ponies.

Both alicorn’s horns began to glow and the gems began to float; then they began spinning and a bright flash of light appeared along with a brief scream from Robert. After about five minutes the light cleared to show a naked officer flexing his fingers.

 Ponyville Market 

“I would like three celery stalks please.” a mint colored pony said. 

“That will be……ah what are you doing?” the shop keeper asked as the mint pony began to stare at her hooves.

“Somewhere, a pony just received fingers!” the mint pony yelled.

“Umm, ok….” the now confused shopkeeper replied.

“Here you are sir, seven bits, six for the celery and one for your troubles.” A cream colored pony with a multi colored mane said as she handed over the bits.

“Thank you.” the shopkeeper said handing over the celery.

“Now, Lyra what are you doing?” the other pony asked.

“Bob-Bon I’m checking how much money I still have, we need supplies so I can find this now fingered pony, or better yet, a human!” Lyra said as she jumped into the air causing many ponies around her to stare.

“Oh, not this again…” Bon-Bon said as she followed the ecstatic mint pony.

 Fluttershy’s House 

“My knee works, it’s a miracle! Thank you, Celestia!” Robert said as he bent his former injured knee without feeling pain.

“Well, it was actually Twilight’s studies on your other knee that allowed us to achieve those results.” Celestia added.

“Oh, well thank you very much! Now it’s time for a jog. Then I can get back to my tent and dump water on my head.” 
Robert said as he dressed.

“Hmmm?” Luna pondered aloud.

“Then I can wake up from this dream and move on with my life.” Robert said before dashing off toward the forest.

“I guess someone’s in for a wet surprise.” Rainbow Dash commented as she began to laugh.

“Who said surprise…. I like surprise parties!” Pinkie said as she dodged Applejack’s hoof.

“Oh brother…” Twilight said as she watched the human practically skip into the forest.
  


> Guns & Eggs
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Next week I shall be running through the opening 10 chapters to find any errors that both of my initial hunts missed. Comments are greatly appreciated.
Now onto another chapter. It is a smaller one so I apologize.

Chapter 11

Robert continued his quickened pace jog as he began testing out his newly repaired knee. Meanwhile, Twilight followed from afar hoping to find out more about this human named Robert.

“This must be a damned dream, this knee hasn’t felt this great in years.” Robert commented to himself as he hopped over a downed tree. 

The officer held grabbed his helmet and better secured it then swung his rifle into a shooting position and began aiming it around him.

{Oh no, he saw me} Twilight thought as she kept very still behind a bush.

“Bewegung Hans, ich können keinen klaren Schuss erhalten!” (Move Hans, I can’t get a clear shot!) Rob suddenly yelled as he rolled over in the leaves setting up in a prone position.

{Hmm?} Twilight now sat up confused.

“Feindliche Fußtruppen 700 Meternorden, Hans steigen herunter, bevor Sie entdeckt sind.” (Enemy infantry 700 meters north, Hans get down before you’re spotted.) Robert yelled at nothing as he crawled up to a downed tree 
and checked his iron sights.

{What the hay is he doing? Some human ritual?} Twilight continued to think as she wrote in her small observation journal.

After sitting in that position about 5 minutes, the Oberst began imitating another voice and yelled, “Charge!”  before lunging over the log and charging forward up the slight incline. Then he quickly dove behind a tree and fired a shot into the forest causing birds to fly away. “Erraten Sie, dass ich noch es habe.” (Guess I still have it.).

Twilight then crept closer to see what he had shot, she was pleasantly surprised to see him poking a tree.

“100 Meter, nachdem in Deckung gehend, nicht schlecht. Ich sicher hat Sie Knie verpasst. “ (100 meters after taking cover, not bad. I sure missed you knee.)  Robert said he rubbed his knee with a smile. He then switched the safety back on before slinging the gun again. Then he began to walk again.

{Hmm, what was that all about} Twilight thought to herself as she continued to follow the officer from a distance.

After about an hour more of what appeared to be aimless wandering, Oberst Johansson finally found his camp again. “Jetzt um dieses fremde Albtraum zu beenden.”(Now to end this strange nightmare.) he sighed as he started to hunt for the bucket in his supplies.  “Trauriges Knie, aber Sie sind unmöglich.” (Sorry knee, but you are not possible.) he added as he rubbed his former bad knee.

Twilight arrived to the scene and stood shocked at strange device with a wheel and two strange longer wheels sitting near the archway she had investigated only a week earlier. {How can this thing work? What are those weird wheel like structures?}

After an hour of searching and fetching water Robert stood outside his tent and dumped the cold water over his head while he yelled, “Tschüs, unheimliche Welt!” (Bye, weird world!)

This sudden outburst startled Twilight out of her trance caused by her thorough hooves-on investigation of the device owned by the officer.

“Scheiße” (Shit!)  he yelled upon seeing he was now just a wet officer in this strange world.

{I must be dead then, that’s the only answer to this world of talking ponies and magic. That means, maybe if I kill myself I can reset the whole system; or if I live I can obviously know. Then again if both do not happen, hell does it really matter. I have nothing left back in Germany for me, my family is dead, my country is trying to join them, and I have to deal with the SS constantly ever since Africa} Robert deduced as he sat on his bunk he had created. 

He reached toward his holster only to find it empty. With a very pronounced sigh he wandered out of his tent and became startled by the sight of Twilight attempting to draw the treads of his transportation. “Well, hello again 

Miss Sparkle, what are you doing here?” Robert said with some confusion.

{Darn, he saw me} Twilight thought as she tried to hurry an excuse.

“I can tell you followed me….” the Oberst inferred.

“I was…..how did you know…I mean…” Twilight stuttered.

“For starters you’re wearing a adventurer’s hat. Not to mention the grass, tree leaves, and sap you have all over your body.” Robert said as he rolled his eyes at the sorry attempt of stealth.

“Oh, well I’m just fascinating by your many unknowns along with this magnificent device.” she said defensively as she pointed to the Kettenkrad behind her.

“Ok then,” Robert said sarcastically as he pulled out another pistol from his bag situated on the transport.

“What are you doing with that?” Twilight said as she began to worry slightly.

“I’m going to use this C96 and end this whole confusing scenario.” Robert said as he loaded a clip of ammo into his pistol.

“I don’t understand.” Twilight replied.

“I’m going shoot myself, simple as that. ” Robert angrily shot back.

“But life is always worth saving.” Twilight replied hoping to talk down the distraught officer.

“I’m not going to commit suicide Twilight. I plan to shoot myself in the hip to see if it hurts.” Robert said with a smug look.

“Umm, why wouldn’t it hurt?” Twilight asked confused by his logic.

“Because this is a dream, or I’m already dead. Either way, even if I do die from this, there isn’t anything for me to live for.” Robert said as he frowned while putting his hand on his face.

“Why isn’t your life worth living? Life is a grand thing.” Twilight asked.

“For starters, my family is dead, and my fiancé ran off with some Gestapo agent while I was defending the 
Fatherland in Africa!” he yelled while shaking his pistol with gestures.

“Oh, how horrible. I’m sorry for your loss.” she said with concern. 

“Thank you, but no one understands where I’m coming from, not even you Miss Sparkle. No book can ever explain it.” the officer replied as he motioned to as if he were reading a book. Then he readied his pistol and aimed directly at his hip. Twilight seeing this grabbed the pistol from Robert with her magic and used a sleeping spell on the officer before hovering his body to the bunk inside the tent.  Her horn glowed  again as she influenced Robert’s dreams to mask the whole event. 

“Maybe, if he doesn’t figure it out, he will finally give up on this being a dream and start living in reality.” Twilight said as she brought the covers over Robert. “Oh, almost forgot.” Twilight reminded herself as she magically dried his clothes. 

As she sat down to read one of his books, she noticed a bag below his bed. “Hmm, what’s this?” Twilight asked aloud as she grabbed it. She then magically emptied the contents revealing an egg. 

“How did he get a dragon egg in here?” Twilight asked while she scratched her head.  She deemed the egg healthy with a quick magical analyzing spell and quickly tucked it into the excess covers at the end of the bed.

 Outside tent towards the south 

“zzzzttchhhzzz Come in home camp, over zzzzzchtthch” said the soldier into radio microphone.

“Hearing you loud and clear, over.” a voice replied from the radio speakers.

“The officer has returned to his tent with some colored horse. Over” the soldier continued.

“Fine, make sure we don’t show ourselves to him. Over” the radio replied.

“Yes sir, Over.” the soldier ended the conversation as he turned off the radio.

 Back in the Tent 

2 hours later

The officer in his magically dried clothes began to stir as his sleeping spell slowly wore off.

“Well hello there sleepy head.” Twilight said attempting to play oblivious to the past events.

“Oh, hello Twilight, oh damn! I guess I’m not dreaming, or dead for that matter.” Robert said as he rubbed his thigh.

“Please, no more shooting yourself in the hip to prove a point. I don’t have endless knowledge in the medical field.” 
Twilight said finishing her impressive hypnotic spell which convinced Robert he wasn’t dead.

“Sorry, but I really do feel lost in this whole world. Magic is completely fictional where I am from, not to mention 
talking ponies.” Robert said as he fell into depression.

“I shall teach you that magic is not as you see. It has science to it, as Star Swirl the Bearded once said, ‘Magic is just as much a science as it is an art.’” Twilight said in a reassuring manner.

“I guess that might help.” Robert responded cutting her tangent off.

“Now where did you get this?” Twilight said as she floated the egg in front of him.

“Uhh, I have no idea where it came from; though I can think of a couple good recipes for a chicken egg of that magnitude.” Robert concluded as his mouth watered.

“No! This is a dragon egg.” Twilight said disgusted at the thought of eating a baby dragon.

“What? Then I don’t have any idea how it got in here. Unless….” Robert said as an idea dawned on him.

“What are you thinking?” Twilight asked as she lowered the egg back into its prior position.

“Maybe a few of Oberst Fransheim’s cronies arrived while I was gone. But that would mean the portal would have 
been opened much earlier than I was told.” the Oberst stated as he rubbed his chin.

With that Robert and Twilight heard twigs breaking near the tent which brought Robert to his feet and he grabbed his C96 on the table.

“Come out with your hands or hooves up!” Robert yelled into the forest.

Twilight’s horn began to glow as she readied herself for whatever may pounce at them.

*twigs snap* 

> Close Encounters of the Herd Kind
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Author’s Quick note:
After doing further research I found out that the SS had different names for their ranks. So for now on I shall be referring them as such.
Obersturmbannführer  =  Regimentskommandeur  (von Falst)
Standartenführer = Oberst (Fransheim)
Old chapters will not be edited as of this chapter’s release but I do plan to at some point.
Enjoy.


A pony stumbles out of the forest with a massive blush, embarrassed of being caught. 

“Who are you?” Robert said as he lowered his weapon slightly to get a better look at the pony ahead of him. She appeared to be mint green unicorn with a string instrument on each flank.

“Lyra……… Heartstrings……” the pony babbled out as she just stared at him. 

“Lyra what are you doing here!” Twilight yelled as her horn’s glow became lighter.

“Hands…..” Lyra moaned and she pointed at Robert’s hands.

“Um… are you ok?” Robert said lowering his weapon and re-holstering it.

“What are they like? Is everything easier with hands? How do I get hands!?” yelled the now jumping mint pony.

“Woh woh who, hold your horses… settle down.” Robert said as he gestured his hands to the ground.

“Twilight! Why didn’t I hear about this? An actual human in Equestria that can also speak Equestrian!” Lyra said with pride.

“Lyra, calm down. Oberst Johansson might answer your questions if you stop for a moment.” Twilight said hoping to 
contain the musician.

“You said an actual human who can also speak Equestrian?” Robert said puzzled by that phrase.

“Oh, there’s a couple others in the bushes out there; but they only speak in some other language and tried to shoo me 
away.” Lyra said still hopping.

“Really…. Eh…….. Twilight you calm your friend down, I’ll investigate .“Robert ordered and walked out of his tent toward where Lyra pointed. 

Robert exited the tent he walked over to his vehicle being sure to keep an eye out for these so-called other humans. Then he spotted what appeared to be a reflection of light briefly to his right so he began walking toward the source indirectly by 
heading in an angle.

{Dammit, I think he’s spotted me.} the German soldier in the bush thought as he attempted to crawl back toward the ditch behind him.

Seeing the leaves begin to ruffle Robert turned with his Luger drawn and shouted, “Übergabe! Kommen Sie mit Ihrer Waffe in einfachem Sehvermögen heraus! “(Surrender! Come out with your weapon in plain sight!).

Seeing that his cover was blown the soldier quickly cut a button off his uniform with his knife and stood up.

It is still in German   

“Well, hello there.” Robert said sarcastically.

“Heil Hitler!” the SS soldier said with a heel clop and salute.

“Heil Hitler!” Robert returned with the simple raising of his right hand.

“Oberst Johansson, it seems I have finally found you.” the SS soldier said as he fidgeted awkwardly.

“Yes, I see you have….. How did you get here?” Robert said seeing through the nervous recruit’s fabrication. 

“There was a…. a lightning storm. So we sent some troops here along with provisions to aid in your investigation of the local populace.” the soldier said unknowingly hinting Robert the SS knew more than they had told him.

“Oh, then where are these SS men?” Robert said as he rose his hands up in a questioning gesture.

“Um, they are stationed at the forest just south of here.” the SS soldier replied.

“Alright then, take me to this base of operations.” Robert said as he pointed south.

“I’m afraid you are not allowed to see the base sir.” the SS soldier replied.

“Soldat, I outrank you. I command you to take me to your base of operations!” Robert yelled at the soldier.

“Sir, I cannot take you there.” the SS soldier sternly returned as he thought { I am not a lowly Soldat, I am a SS-Sturmmann}

“As I said before I demand you show me your base of operations. I am the head officer of the Wehrmacht on this mission with the specific orders to keep up with all aspects of the German interaction with the planet.” Robert said again.

After a few minutes of the two staring at one another, the SS soldier backed down and led the disheveled and angry officer to his HQ.

 Back to English and during the above. 

“Twilight, he had hands!” Lyra said ecstatically. 

“Yes Lyra I know…. Calm down you are blowing this out of proportion.” Twilight said attempting to reason with the jumping pony.

“But Twilight why are you not excited, why aren’t you scanning him or something?” Lyra said quizzically. 

“I already picked his brain for information.” Twilight said with a slight giggle at the pun.

“When! You only started following him around the forest, and since then you haven’t been talking in there.” Lyra said as 
she held her hooves up trying to walk like a human before falling back to Earth.

“I have had a bit longer time with the Oberst than you know Lyra.” Twilight said in return making Lyra pout.

“Why didn’t you get me then? I am the expert on humans!” Lyra proclaimed.

“For starters, humans were just myths until recently; furthermore the Princess wished to keep him out of the national spotlight for now.” Twilight explained to the mint pony.

“Oh, what is the human world like then! Is it big? Is it cool? Do they have lyres? Is it a boy or girl? What’s with his crazy speech?” Lyra barraged questions at the now overwhelmed purple unicorn.

“Yes, it is huge and fascinating. He’s a boy and he speaks what his home calls ‘German’” Twilight replied attempting to answer all her questions.

“No lyres?” Lyra said worried.

“I don’t know, he’s not a music expert.” Twilight said scratching the back of her head.

“Then what Is he?” Lyra asked again.

“He’s an officer in a ‘Weremach or Weremat or Wheremat’” Twilight said stumbling on the pronunciation.

“Oh so he’s a soldier. Where’s his spear then?” Lyra asked as she gestured with her hoof as if she was controlling a spear with an imaginary hand.

“He uses much more advanced weaponry, but that’s all I can say.” Twilight said receiving a small sigh from Lyra.

German to English again

Meanwhile in the bushes three other SS soldiers radio in to the base that they need to prepare.

After about 15 minutes of walking Robert spoke up again hoping to pry a little more info from the SS soldier walking in front of him.

“So, when did you get in?” Robert asked.

“Umm, about three hour ago sir.” the soldier answered hesitantly.

“Interesting, where were you stationed prior to this?” Robert continued the small talk.

“I was in Germany training for awhile, and then I was moved to Austria. How about you?” the soldier replied.

“Hmmm well I was in the invasion of Poland, Belgium, France, and eventually I was in North Africa for awhile. Then back in France until just a few weeks ago.” Robert replied thinking back on prior years of war.

“Was it fun sir?” the SS soldier said startling Robert.

“Was what fun?” Robert replied perplexed by the question.

“Killing them.” the soldier replied nonchalantly. 

“Killing who exactly?” Robert said as he tried to sort out what the man was asking specifically.

“Killing the enemy. Was it fun?” the soldier responded again as he aimed his rifle as if he were in a battle.

“Did I kill, yes. Was it fun, I’m not sure; I wouldn’t say killing anyone is truly ‘fun’.  I got relief in the fact they couldn’t kill my 
friends, I enjoyed defeating the enemy; getting revenge for my friends was relieving but it didn’t bring them back.”  Robert 
replied as he thought about his many confirmed kills and old friends who were lost.

“Oh, but wasn’t fun killing all of the lesser peoples.” the soldier continued.

“Lesser peoples? All of you SS have the same problem…..” Robert retorted.

“What is that then sir.” the SS soldier replied annoyed by the prior statement.

“Lesser intelligence, maybe; but even they have guns. I lost many good friends to these so called lesser peoples. We may 
be overall smarter, but that doesn’t mean they are all lesser people just because they are being compared to German intellect.” Robert responded arguing his idea.

“Doesn’t that make them lesser people regardless.” the SS man replied. 

“No, they may not be as intelligent with technology, but if the Russians were as ‘lesser’ as claimed; why haven’t we been invited to a banquet in Stalin’s bedroom yet…. Hell, I have met ponies here smarter than some of my friends. And last I checked, intergalactic ponies are not Germans…” Robert continued.

“But that’s what we were told sir!” the SS soldier said in defense.

“True, but following anything blindly will never help you in life or win you a war.” Robert replied, quoting his late father.

“Hmph.” the SS soldier said with a shrug.

“What’s your name soldier?” Robert asked.

“Hans Shoerburt, sir.” the soldier replied.

The two men walked shortly more in silence before arriving at a tent with many SS soldier busily moving equipment and crates around. The two entered the tent after dodging a blindly walking soldier with a crate taller than his head. The smell 
of gasoline and burnt material filled the air giving Robert a slight headache.

“Heil Hitler!” the soldier yelled as he entered the tent.

“Heil Hitler!” Obersturmbannführer von Falst returned.

“Heil Hitler.” Robert returned in less eccentric tone.

“Welcome to SS Headquarters Oberst Johansson. I am Obersturmbannführer von Falst.” 

“What’s the gasoline smell from?” Robert said getting straight to the questioning.

“Just a few Opels dropped off some supplies…” von Falst lied calmly.

“Interesting, what is your orders here?” Robert continued.

“To establish contact with the locals, and arrange diplomatic dealings.” von Falst stated as he pulled out a map from behind a small sack of books.

“Hmmm, where are my troops? I was assured a detachment of around a thousand men upon full German involvement.” 
Robert said as he gestured to the SS soldier’s silhouette on the canvas tent.

“Don’t worry Oberst, I do not personally know their arrival date but I can assure you they are on their way.” von Falst 
calmly replied while stroking his chin. “So what are the locals like sir?” 

“Nice, seem very mixed though in technological advances.” Robert responded hoping to get the officer to slip up somewhere on what the SS really knew.

“How so, Oberst?” von Falst inquired.

“They use candles and electric lighting. They have no automobiles but seem to have oddly constructed zeppelins. Some of their books mention coal ran trains just to start.” Robert responded as he thought back on his brief walkthrough of 
Ponyville.

“So these horses are truly sentient?” von Falst asked unknowingly slipping up.

“Yes, they seem on par with the typical German. It’s quite fascinating.“ Robert replied with a grin.

“Fascinating indeed… What proof do you have that these creatures are intelligent?” the Oberst asked in disbelief.

“They fixed my bad knee, where our doctors couldn’t.” Robert said as he moved his once bad knee.

“That’s hardly evidence that they are on par with the master race.” von Falst shot back with great emphasis.

“If you would like, the government could send diplomats. I can take them to the heads of state here in Equestria. 
Equestria, is the country we are in at the moment.” Robert responded trying to avoid another confrontation with a diehard 
Nazi.

“Good, I shall contact Berlin and they should hopefully be here by the end of the week.” von Falst replied.

“Another lightning storm coming?” Robert asked slightly confused by the statement.

“No, we were able to set up a more consistent power source while you were here.” Obersturmbannführer von Falst answered. “Now I must get back to work sir.”

Robert decided to head out of the tent and head back to his “home” to see what Twilight thought of the meeting’s plan and figure out the mystery egg’s origins. 

 January 12, 1944 Dregen, German held Austria 

A sheet of paper floats off Standartenführer Fransheim’s desk onto to the floor.

 “Operation Konig” Troop Report 
Presently 3,000 soldiers stationed in Dregen, Germany
25,000 inbound
100,000 requested


> Manticores, Ponies, and Humans oh my!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The sound of leaves crunching beneath his feet calmed Robert as he began to ponder how he might bring this situation across to Twilight. Due to his mind being occupied Robert inadvertently steps on a tread track and falls flat on his face.

“Ow” he said while rubbing his face clear of dirt. “Now what do we have here…” he said as he cleared some leaves off the now revealed tread tracks. {Hmm, the SS have been using treaded vehicles. Likely a tank based off its width. Now what would they need a tank for…}

Robert decided to just store the information in the back of his mind and continue onwards toward his personal HQ as the sun began to inch closer to the canopy.

His walk would be interrupted though by the sound of gunshots and assorted screams. Robert immediately pulled out his 
Luger and slowly approached where the sound of the yells had originated from.

“Hello?” Robert said as he crept up into a bush near the location he suspected to be the ambush sight.

He crawled toward the front of the bush only to be greeted with horror. Lying only two feet from his face was an arm which must have belonged to a fellow soldier. {Oh God, what the hell could have done that?} He continued on toward the sound 
of chewing only to come upon a massive scorpion tail slowly moving up and down.

*Louder sounds of bones cracking*

{Whatever this thing is, it needs to die.} he thought as he crept closer to the beast with the scorpion tail.{Wings?}

The Manticore’s snout quivered as it detected a fragrance nearby causing it to stir and sit up from its fresh meal.  But after a brief look about, it resumed tearing into the remains of a once SS soldier while Robert snuck into a better position to strike.

“Yaaaaaaaah!” Robert yelled startling the creature as he charged out the nearby shrubbery surprising the Manticore.

“Rawr!” the Manticore growled as it attempted to pounce on the incoming German .

Seeing it attempt to pounce Robert quickly rolled to the side and fired two rounds into the side of the Manticore’s large head causing it to stumble forward slightly before face-planting in the nearby dirt.

“I knew you wouldn’t fail me Luger.” Robert said he returned his sidearm to its holster. He then approached the body to grab the dog tags and noticed a folder. {What could this be?} Robert picked up the partially bloodied folder and pulled out assorted papers with SS stamps. While the all the top papers were basic supply orders the last one caught his attention. 

Transfer of Prisoners

500 prisoners from Bolzano

35 Americans

52 British

23 Italian

400 Other

Unreadable smudges….

Destroy upon taking place.


“Dammit, there’s too much blood on this to see where those 500 prisoners are going, but why does it need to be destroyed? There seems to be two different destinations as well for these prisoners, and what’s other?” Robert spoke to 
himself as leaned on a nearby tree. “Maybe Twilight’s magic could help shed some light on this.”

With that he tore the dog tags of the young SS soldier and continued toward his intended destination,  his tent HQ.

Meanwhile on the Everfree Forest Path toward Ponyville 

Mentally and physically worn, Twilight trudged through the leaves while making sure Lyra didn’t attempt to go back to 
Robert’s tent.

“So Twilight, what else did you learn about humans?” Lyra asked, her eyes staring intently at Twilight.

“Um, I already told you everything Lyra. I told you about how they walk, how they talk, mannerisms, what they eat, and how they sleep. What else could you want to know?” Twilight said in reply hoping to quiet the sound pollution from getting 
any worse.

“Hands!” Lyra yelled in a creepy manner.

“I already told you that too, they are much like our hooves in everyday use and are less equipped to walk on but better at grabbing intricate items.” Twilight explained once more.

“But what does he do with his hands?” Lyra continued.

“Huh, everything we do with our hooves…” Twilight replied nonchalantly.

“Are you sure he doesn’t do anything special?” Lyra pleaded.

“Um, occasionally he would use his weird claw things to scratch like Spike does.  He also spins that weapon from earlier every so often.” Twilight replied desperately trying to think of something.

“Amazing! I’ll have to watch him do that!” Lyra said jumping high into the air.  

*gunshot sound x2*

“What was that!?” Lyra yelled startling a couple sleeping birds nearby.

“That was nothing, Lyra. I’m really tired though, would you mind if I just teleport you back to your house?” Twilight asked.

“Why didn’t you just teleport us before?” Lyra asked puzzled by her sudden urge to teleport them.

“We were out of range…” Twilight answered unconvincingly.

“Ok!” Lyra replied completely believing the purple mare.

With that Twilight focused real hard and grabbed Lyra by the hoof and vanished with a spark before reappearing outside her library.

“Bye Lyra!” Twilight said in a hurry as she ran inside her house again.

“Bye Twilight… she must be real tired…” Lyra said with a giggle before heading home. “Wait until Bon Bon hears about this, she’ll owe me one million bits.”

 Twilight’s house/library 

“Spike!?” Twilight yelled as she hunted for her first aid kit.

“Huh, Twilight what’s wrong?” Spike said as he walked out of the back room with an empty tray.

“I heard one of those “guns” fire in the forest. I think Robert might be hurt and with Manticores more grumpy than usual…” 
she replied before Spike pointed to the cabinet with his tail. 

“Twilight, could it be that we shortened winter this year?” Spike said as he approached the kitchen doors.

“Maybe, that uncontrollable storm that hit the Fertile Land did force the Princess to shorten winter for fears of starvation.” 
Twilight responded as she dug the first aid kit out from under assorted equipment within the oak cabinet. “Oh and Spike!”

“Yes?” Spike replied from inside the kitchen as the sink’s steady stream of water ricocheted off the plates.

“I won’t be back tonight, so feed Owloysius and don’t worry.” Twilight said as she shoved the first aid kit into her 
saddlebag.

“But Twilight….” Spike sighed as he saw the distinctive teleportation spell flash under the push doors. “ don’t you need something to eat too…”

 55 meters north of Robert’s HQ Tent 

Twilight appeared in a flash and fell flat from magical exhaustion. “Teleporting…. Lyra… must of… taken… more …. out of… me… than.. I originally…. thought.” Twilight said between her heavy breathing. 

She slowly rose to her feet while recognizing her surroundings and headed south unknowing that a group of Manticores had been rudely awaken from her teleportation flash.

 Just outside Robert’s HQ Tent 

“First casualty in a new world, hopefully poor Heinz here is the only one.” Robert said to himself as he looked over the dog tags as he approached his brightly lit tent. “They must have not known how to turn off the lanterns.”

He opened the flap to his tent and sat down on his bed to see a note on his desk.



Dear Oberst Robert,

Lyra and I are heading back to Ponyville. We shall discuss the dragon egg tomorrow afternoon or earlier if you like.  
According to your clock its 6:30 PM and we need to leave before the Manticores start hunting.

Your friend,

Twilight Sparkle


Robert put the note down after giving a chuckle at the heavily crossed out “Your faithful student” above “Your friend” and began to undress out of his hastily configured outfit of both his officer uniform hat and coat with a basic pair of pants and undershirt. He removed his officer’s cap and overcoat neatly placing them over his desk and sat back down to remove his boots when there was a yell from the forest. Robert jumped up and grabbed for his MP-40 but was barreled over by a purplish blur knocking them both into the desk and then onto the dirt floor.

“Twilight?” Robert said staring up at the pony lay atop him.

“Manti… Manti… Manticores!” she struggled to say in fear as Robert lifted her off of himself.

“What? “ Robert said with confused head scratch.

“They’re coming! Get your gun thingie!” Twilight yelled as she pointed to the rifle on the boxes in the corner.

“What, can’t you just use your magic?” Robert said as he scrambled over his now overturned desk to grab his Mauser 
K98. 

“To…. tired… magic…. exhaustion. “ she replied as she scrambled to the back of the tent.

“Huh, oh damn it’s those things!” Robert yelled as the first Manticore jumped out of the bushes into the small clearing 
outside of his tent’s door.  

By instinct Robert raised his rifle threw the bolt action into the firing position and unloaded a round into the Manticore’s left eye dropping it like a ton of bricks and quickly pulled back the bolt for a new round. A second Manticore then jumped out of the brush near a tree only to be greeted by a bullet to the lower jaw which plunged into the Manicore’s body causing it to collapse and its hind legs to twitch. As Robert pulled the bolt action back yet again two more Manticores charged out of the forest brush growling with hunger. He turned his gun to the closer of the two and fired a round into its front leg causing it to fall to the ground while the other continued ahead. With another bolt swing he unloaded his fourth round into the now uncomfortably close (8 meters) Manticore with a shot between the eyes dropping the beast in a heap. Robert quickly looked over to the wounded Manticore and chambered his final round. With that a fourth Manticore met its doom to German engineering.

“#### you damn freaks of nature!” Robert yelled as he looked at the corpses now drenching the once pristine field in red.

“There’s a fifth!” Twilight yelled as she saw another Manticore hop out of the brush.

“Scheiße!” he yelled as he pulled on the bolt only to notice the sound of an empty gun.  { I don’t have any ammo on me!} he thought as he reached around his pants and belt desperately. 

The Manticore charged Robert but before he could draw his pistol the creature clawed him across the chest causing him to scream in pain as the Manticore’s claw tore across his chest in a diagonal swipe knocking him back into the table and scrambling back.

“No!” Twilight yelled as the Manticore pounced on his now downed prey.

The Manticore then gave a deafening growl as a table leg poked up through its lower body giving Robert enough time to grab his knife from the floor and plunge it into the Manticore’s neck which then began to drench his face in blood.

Twilight’s fears were startled though by laughter.

“I guess I had a leg up all along! Didn’t see that coming did you!” Robert chuckled as he pulled himself out from under the bleeding carcass of a Manticore.

{How did he survive? Why is he laughing…} Twilight thought as she stared speechless at the laughing Oberst.

Wiping the blood off his face Robert crawled over to a group of fallen boxes and dug through the pile.

“How?” Twilight squeaked, finally speaking after being stuck in shock.

“Could we table that discussion until after I find my medical supplies!” Robert replied as he sifted through the many spilled contents.

“I have medical supplies!” Twilight said as she weakly floated the first aid kit out of her saddle bag.

“You do, hand it here!” Robert yelled as he took off his torn undershirt causing great discomfort.

“Ok, can I help?” Twilight asked as she placed the kit near him and opened it.

“Get that shirt over there.” Robert said gesturing toward his bed as he got the alcohol out of the kit.

“Alright.” Twilight said she hurried over to the bed, grabbed the shirt, and tossed over to him.

Robert then took the shirt and placed it in his mouth as he poured the alcohol over his chest causing him to cringe and make garbled yells. Then he tipped over two boxes and found a shot for morphine which, using the shirt from before to make the veins pop out, stabbed himself in the arm and releasing the pain killing medicine.

“What was in that?!” Twilight exclaimed seeing Robert stab himself with a shot.

“Morphine, now do you have anything that can light a fire?” Robert said as he kicked another leg off the table and rapped the ripped shirt around it.

“Fire, what would you need fire for?” Twilight asked quizzically tilting her head. 

“I have to cauterize the wound. Seeing that I have no stitches to sew it back together or the ability to just run to a nearby medical station.” he replied as he took a few boxes and the Manticore’s table leg to create a small pyre just outside the 
tent.

“What! How is burning yourself going to help?” Twilight desperately tried to reason with the bleeding officer. 

“It will seal the wounds so I don’t die of blood loss! Now light it” Robert responded as pointed at the pyre.

“What about glue? I have some superglue still in my bag from my last book repairing day.” Twilight said hovering multiple small tubes of glue out of her bag.

“That might work!” Robert yelled as he tore his knife back out of the Manticore and wiped the blood on the torn shirt clean side.

Robert grabbed the many glue tubes and began chopping their tops off with his knife then smearing the sticky substance on his open cuts.  After about 15 minutes of gluing the three serious cuts Robert finally succumbed to his morphine and became woozy.

“Robert what’s wrong now, did you lose too much blood? Oh Celestia, this can’t be happening!” Twilight frantically stated as she attempted to get Robert to stop giving her a blank stare.

“Turn off the lantern.” Robert replied groggily.

“Huh what?” Twilight said giving a confused face.

“Turn off the lantern Tie Light…” he mumbled again.

“Why?” Twilight asked confused further by his butchering of her name.

“Manticores, they might have more. Would be attracted to light, don’t worry, this is the morphine… I’ll need more help tomorrow but I should be fine for one night.” Robert replied as he laid back again on his back.

“What are you doing now?” Twilight said as she saw Robert pulling his bed over to himself and then above him.

“Get the rest of the table out from under him, and lean it on the bed then come under here.” Robert said warily pointing at the table.

“Why, I can hardly move as it is?” Twilight questioned as she slowly moved over to the bed.

“Fine, I’ll move it over here. Just get under here now.” Robert replied as scooted out from under the bed and rolled the Manticore off the table.

“Ok?” Twilight said as he pulled the table over both of them, leaning upon the bed.

“Manticores likely don’t eat their own, so as long as we hide under this bloody table, Manticores won’t smell us and try to 
finish us.” Robert responded as he scooted back into a more comfortable position.

The sound of sleep quickly overtook the tent as the two, exhausted from their ordeal, drifted into dreamland.

 January 13, 1944 Abwehr Headquarters   Berlin, Germany

“Admiral, I believe you may want to read this report.” an agent stated as he held a folder out to the aged man at a desk.

“What is it about?” Admiral Canaris stated as he adjusted his reading glasses.

“The SS are up to something in western Austria.” the agent replied.

“A new camp?” the Admiral asked as he took the folder from the agent’s outstretched hand.

“No sir, one of their small mountain complexes has suddenly become a hotspot for supplies and manpower. Additionally there have been sporadic power outages with no visible cause.”  the agent explained.

“What types of supply?” Canaris continued.

“Tanks, ammo, and enough rations for an army four times their size. “the agent described.

“That is very odd, Switzerland isn’t their target again since there are no reports of a planned Swiss occupation.  Anything else I should know?” the Admiral added as he began to skim the reports in the folder.

“One of my fellow agents in the area said that supposedly a Wehrmacht division is stationed in the town aswell. But there aren’t any Wehrmacht troops anywhere near the town. Yet they are still receiving supplies according to the supply distribution center.” the agent answered causing Admiral Canaris to look back up at him.

“A Wehrmacht division there? Which one?” Canaris asked.

“The 24th Panzergrenadier Division sir; Oberst Johansson is its commanding officer.” the agent responded as pointed to the paper which explained the information.

“Well, this is strange, there is no such thing as the 24th Panzergrenadier Division. And the former- Leutnant Robert Johansson is supposed to be in Metz.” the Admiral said as he looked over the group of papers. 

“You know this Oberst or Leutnant sir?” the agent asked in curiosity. 

“Yes, we have worked with him before on occasion. He was an interrogator who wasn’t a party member so we used his services from time to time with English speaking POWs who could help us with counterintelligence.” he replied. “Do what you must, find out what the SS are up to now Agent Krause.”

“Yes sir.” Krause returned with a salute before heading back out of the room.

> Stitching Up
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

  Robert’s Tent HQ 

The sound of scavenger birds outside the tent brought Robert out of sleep much to his chagrin. Reacting as if he were in a warzone he rose rapidly while drawing his knife before hitting his head.  “Ow!” The sound of birds flying in mass rapidly followed as the officer rubbed his head.  With a grimace he shoved the table top off the bed’s side and rose from his, hastily made, mini-bunker and stretched his arms being sure not to reopen any of his wounds.

“Twilight, its morning.” Robert said as he grabbed a new shirt that wasn’t bloodied from the box sitting in the corner. 

“What, huh, I feel like someone dropped a piano on me. Oh my, someone did!” Twilight yelled she panicked attempting to 
use magic little effect.

“Twilight calm down, you’re just under my bed.” Robert said as he lifted the light bed up revealing the unicorn below. 

“Sorry, I guess I just got a little scared.” Twilight said as she blushed sheepishly.

“From that I can tell you’re magic isn’t getting us to the Ponyville Hospital, there is one of those right?” Robert said as he never remembered seeing a hospital.

“Yes Oberst, we have a hospital. How do you hope to get there though? It’s a bit too long of a walk for a wounded pony or I guess a human in your case.” Twilight said as she placed her hoof under her chin.

“I’ll drive us there.” Robert said as he looked for his officer’s jacket and cap.

“What? We can’t let other ponies see you! Couldn’t Fluttershy….” Twilight began before being interrupted by Robert.

“Unless Ms. Timid has a mass supply of painkillers in her tree, I’ll need to see an actual doctor; not a veterinarian.“ he said sternly as he draped his officer’s jacket over his shoulders not bothering to button it.

“But I don’t remember any carriages Robert.” Twilight said with much confusion.

“Remember that thing you were fascinated by outside, that’s what were heading to Ponyville on.” Robert said as he grabbed his Holster off the floor and picked up his rifle.

“Is it safe?” Twilight said worriedly.

“Yes, and before you ask; it runs on gasoline which is a byproduct of oil which is formed through the biodegrading of ancient creatures and plants.” he added as he placed his hat on his head before sifting through some boxes for ammo.

“Why do you need those?” Twilight asked curiously observing the Oberst.

“Habit…..and I guess I don’t want any more unfriendly locals trying to kill me….”  Robert replied as he placed multiple clips of ammo in a small sack on the ground. “Oh would you mind grabbing the egg too; put it in that bag.”

Twilight nodded and nicely laid it in the other nearby sack but this one with weird straps.

“Thank you, wouldn’t want some baby getting a rude awakening now would we? I’m amazed it’s still intact.” he continued as he grabbed a strange sharp object out of a box with a small ring on it.

“Dragon eggs are the most durable eggs on the planet.  According to one of my books they can be dropped from heights up to 5 meters, survive being submerged in lava, and Manticore attacks.” she replied with a grin at the end.

“Twilight….., now let’s go before my glue undoes itself.” Robert responded with a short chuckle which was abruptly stopped when he felt a sting go through his chest.

“Oh, sorry!” Twilight apologized before blushing in embarrassment.

The two then made their way through the Manticore graveyard, made the night prior, and approached the tracked vehicle with wheel in the front.

“Hop on, Twilight. Oh and you may want to hold on to something back there.” Robert said as he placed the bags on the back of the vehicle and gingerly putting himself in the driver’s seat. 

“Ok” she replied as she climbed aboard, “But why would I need to….. nevermind” Twilight said as she nearly topple off the Kettenkrad as it lurched forward.

“See….” Robert said with a chuckle as they sped north at around 25mph toward the ponies of Ponyville.
They then drove in silence since Twilight, was both too fascinated and terrified of the vehicle to even speak.  After a few minutes Robert noticed that Fluttershy’s house and then hopped on the dirt road so he could pick up some more speed.

 January 14, 1944 Dregen, German held Austria 

“Standartenführer Fransheim, sir it appears we have a situation.” An SS soldier stated as he flung open the door to his officer’s office.

“This had better be good soldier!” the startled officer stated with a scowl.

“Obersturmbannführer von Falst’s base was discovered by the Wehrmacht officer.” the soldier quickly replied.

“How did he find it? What did Falst do?” Fransheim demanded.

“A soldier was discovered watching his location and then forced by the officer to show the HQ’s location.” the soldier explained.

“What was that incompetent soldier doing; doing a dance in the brush outside his tent!” Fransheim yelled.

“I don’t know sir. I know Obersturmbannführer von Falst’s response to this was to have the Wehrmacht officer contact the local government to arrange a diplomatic meeting.” the soldier continued.

“I guess it can work, but that moves up the plans a good three weeks. Bring me the intended diplomats soldier. Also tell the hanger we need that Junkers by the end of this week.” Fransheim ordered as he began sifting through his paperwork.

“Yes sir, Standartenführer Fransheim!” the soldier replied.

“Heil Hitler!” Fransheim and the SS soldier saluted one another before the soldier left.

 January 14, 1944  Ponyville, Equestria  

The growl of the Kettenkrad startled many ponies and sent them running for their homes which they promptly put on lockdown. A few braver ponies though went to investigate where the odd noise was coming from and the sight terrified them for on the road was a strange beast that was kicking up dust while approaching them at great speed. Fearing for their lives even the braver ponies fled to their houses.

Robert sped into town at 30mph and became curious on where the ponies were.

“Twilight? You still alive back there?” Robert asked glancing behind him and seeing the purple pony.

“Yes…. “ Twilight stuttered weakly.

“What was that?” he yelled in replied trying to overcome the engine’s noise.

“Yes!” Twilight yelped.

“What’s wrong, magic overuse causing drowsiness?” Robert questioned  loudly as they rolled through the town passing the Library.

“Speed.” Twilight babbled holding on to the vehicle for dear life.

“Aah, well where’s the Hospital? Sooner we arrive there the sooner we slow down.” Robert replied grinning.

“Keep to the road, it should be nearby. It’s hard to miss; it’s on a hill.” she explained nervously.

“Alright then.” Robert replied as he continued to look over the houses as he went by. {Quills and sofas? How do those things have anything in common? Feathers maybe?} 

Robert then began to see the large cottage styled building with a white cross with a red circle surrounding it at the top. {I guess the whole red cross idea is more universal than I thought}

Slowly he brought the vehicle to stop in front of the hospital where two security ponies walked out practically shaking.

“Hold it right there beast!” one of the guards said in an assertive tone.

“We both have no time for this! She needs magical overuse care of some sort and I am in dire need of stitches and some pain medication.” Robert said as Twilight slowly got off the Kettenkrad and kissed the ground.

“Is this true Miss Sparkle?” the guard pony asked.

“Yes it is Starry Night.” Twilight said as she began to walk to the door followed by Robert.

After they were well inside the two guard ponies just stood there awestruck.

“What the hay is that thing Star?” the other guard said as she stared with disbelief at the Kettenkrad.

“Whatever it was must know Twilight.” Starry replied.

“I guess, where do you think it came from?” she asked. 

“I don’t know Curity; probably one of Twilight’s spells went crazy again….” Starry responded causing them both to just roll their eyes and return to their guard duty.

 January 14, 1944 Dregen, German held Austria 

“Welcome gentlemen, you have been chosen to lead the diplomatic mission to a vastly inferior nation in order to scout out resources and useful information about the planet.“ Fransheim began as he paced in front of a chalkboard with a pointer. 

“You four shall have specific duties, Hauptsturmführer Klaus shall be the Italian diplomat.” he stated while he handed a tall tan man with black hair a folder.  

“Hauptsturmführer Von Rylander and Obersturmführer Otto shall be the Reich’s diplomats..” Fransheim continued while handing a bald, sturdy, man in his late 50’s and a younger blonde haired, average size, far younger man folders. 

“Lastly Hauptsturmführer Berg, you shall represent Hungary.” he finished while handing the folder to tall blonde haired man in his 30’s. 

“Your mission is to convince the rulers of this ‘Equestria’ that the entire Axis Powers are present and we come only looking for trade and a potential ally.” Fransheim added as he resumed his pacing. “Our first objective is to gain their trust by any means; simple technology, engineering techniques, and factory plans are what we hope to place in their hands. The goal is to have them build factories for us to then use after we seize control, additionally we need to find oil and coal along with a place to build a refinery. The target date of full trust achievement is July 1st, you are to leave Earth tonight and see the Princess Celestal by the end of next week. You are dismissed!” he finished.

The four soldiers then stood up and exchange “Heil Hitler”s with the Standartenführer and marched out of the briefing room.

 Ponyville Hospital  January 15, 1944 Ponyville, Equestria  

Robert lay in his hospital room bed, which barely fit his 5’10” length, and stared at the ceiling wondering what he should do. {It’s been a couple months now since I was thrown into this place; why can’t I just get used to the whole ordeal? I’m an adult dammit, killing yourself isn’t the answer. Twilight was right, would that be how a German officer would solve a hard problem? No, that’s the easy solution; I must come to terms with the new information just as I had to in Africa. At least this time I’m not scorching in a desert with sand on everything. Hell, I’m the man in charge of history in the making!}

“Robert? Are you awake sir?” a doctor pony said as he entered the room.

“Oh, yes I am.” Robert replied being startled out of his deep thinking.

“I am Dr. Stitches and I must say that very few ponies have ever survived a Manticore attack.” the doctor said introducing himself.

“Well I guess humans have survived one of two.” Robert retorted as he shook the doctor’s light grey hoof.

“Of two?” the doctor replied quirking his eyebrow in confusion.

“I saw a casualty caused by one of those foul beasts on one of my allies.” Robert responded with a strain on the word “allies”.

“Well then, your stitches have set fine but we will need to keep you a few more days to be sure they all hold. Additionally you appear badly injured so a week should do your body good.” Dr. Stitches explained.

“Alright doctor, but what of Twilight Sparkle’s exhaustion?” Robert replied noticing now a sewing needle on the doctor’s flank. 

“She should be fine, but she’ll needs to take it easy on the magic though for a few days though. Any idea what she had been doing recently? She appeared to have been very magically overworked.” the doctor questioned.  

“Not sure…” Robert lied knowing full well what she had been doing. “Is she still here?”

“Her dragon is here at the moment; do you need me to tell her something?” the doctor asked.

“Tell Spike, the dragon, to come here after he finishes with Twilight.  I have a message for Princess Celestia.” Robert explained. “And doctor..”

“Yes?” 

“Where are my uniform and personal belongings I arrived here with?” Robert said glancing around the room.

“Your clothes are in the cabinet; as for your many strange devices, we placed them in the sheltered area out back.” the doctor explained.

“I would like my bags to be brought here, as for the vehicle you can send it to Fluttershy’s house.” {Hopefully she won’t mind, she’d probably too scared to touch it anyway.} Robert stated as he sat up in his bed.

“Alright Mr. Robert…”

“Actually I’m Oberst Robert Johansson, so just call me Robert.” Robert explained.

With that the doctor just nodded and trotted back out the door. 

Robert waited for about twenty minutes before the small dragon entered his room. Once Spike was ready, Robert dictated a letter stating his country’s diplomat would like to meet with Princess Celestia.  After Robert read it back over, Spike sent the letter on it way in a green flame.

 SS HQ in Equestria (the cave) 

“Get this plane built men, Junkers already did it job! I wanted it done by yesterday!” the SS officer yelled while overseeing multiple SS men piecing together a JU-52 Transport plane.






 Notes: 
The next few chapters shall timeskip much more drastically as we head toward July of 1944.
> The Gears begin to Turn (2.0)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

 January 21, 1944 SS HQ in Everfree Forest 

The portal sparked to life with a sudden flash of light alerting the soldiers nearby causing an immediate scramble to the portal as a group of figures made their way out of the strange reddish-orange liquid-like substance encased in the portal.  

“Heil Hitler!” Standartenführer Fransheim said with a full salute stopping only a few steps from the portal.

“Heil Hitler!” a squad of soldiers said in unison as they clapped their heels, while the guards flanking the officer quickly took up positions opposite of the others.

“Who is in command here at the moment?” Fransheim asked the soldiers as he walked slowly through the group.

“Unterscharführer Hart, sir” one of the soldiers replied.  

“Alright then, I need to be taken to the HQ immediately! I have a flight to catch.” Fransheim commanded the troops while walking toward the young Unterscharführer who stood quaking in his boots.

“Yes sir, the Opel is over there. I shall inform you on the way on our progress.” the Unterscharführer stuttered out as he pointed to his right where two additional soldiers stood at attention.

“Good, I sure hope your superior officer is more capable of speaking though.” he scoffed as he walked past the young officer.

Fransheim and the squad loaded into the back of the Opel Blitz truck sitting on pre-installed fold up benches on either side of the topless truck bed. After a tapping on the top of the driver’s carriage by the soldier nearest to the driver, the engine roared into action and the truck began to move. As they drove through the forest the young Unterscharführer began explaining.

“As you can see sir, we have been working around the clock in building a road from the portal to our headquarters to assist in logistics.” Hart explained while doing his best to hide his fear of the SS officer.

“And what of the cave?” Fransheim added.

“We have been expanding the inner corridors as orders, sir. But without the ability to use mining explosives, we have been forced to use only picks and shovels, so it has grown slowly. But the false wall is up and the inner cave likely could house at least a thousand men, sir.” Hart replied rubbing legs to get the sweat off his tense palms.

“Well that won’t be a problem very soon.” Fransheim replied with a cruel grin to which Hart just smiled awkwardly.

“Uh, here we are now sir.” the much relieved Unterscharführer stated looking over Standartenführer Fransheim’s shoulder to see the camp coming into view.

As the truck entered the HQ area SS soldiers began saluting from partially dug trenches and assorted construction sites. It continued to drive until it pulled up next to a JU-52 sitting on a short runway cut out of the forest. Immediately the soldiers on the ground stood in formation with their salutes while the ones in the Opel filed in.

“Heil Hitler!” Fransheim exclaimed as he looked over the group of forty soldiers, two pilots, and four well dressed ‘diplomats’.

“Heil Hitler!” the group replied returning the salute.

“Is the plane ready pilot?” Fransheim stated as he approached the ramp.

“Sir, you’re going? The operation’s manual didn’t mention this.” the “Italian" diplomat asked as he raised his hands in confusion.

“I couldn’t miss the facial expressions they are going to give us when we land. I read stories of how the savages in Africa reacted to the early explorers’ technology and felt this would be my chance to see it first-hand.” Fransheim finished as he entered the plane.

The pilots then climbed aboard and began doing their pre-flight check while the other soldiers climbed onboard. Four officers/temporary officers and twelve soldiers armed with Mauser Kar98s then took off heading north to their intended destination.

The plane cut through clouds of varied sizes as it made its way to Canterlot; the sound of three BMW 132T reverberating through the sky. As it flew over Ponyville multiple soldiers looked down through the windows on either side of the fuselage with fascination and curiosity; while ponies looked up toward the sound which similar fascination. Suddenly, a pony began yelling causing a sudden panic leaving Ponyville Square vacated in less than a minute startling the soldiers who watched from above as the creatures below scrambled.

“They look like we are about to bomb them.” one soldier commented to the men near him.

“Maybe they’ve seen planes before?” another commented.

“What was that?” one soldier said startled as a cyan blue streak bolted past the plane.

“It was nothing Shultz. Just your imagination.” the soldier next to him said to him dryly prompting the other to scowl.

“Sir, you may want to see this.” the pilot yelled back into the passenger seats.

“What is it pilot?” Fransheim yelled back slightly annoyed to be interrupted from his work.

“One of the flying horses is flying next to us!” the pilot yelled back surprising the passengers and prompting one soldier to grin smugly at his friend.

“Finally I get to see one for myself.”  the Standartenführer said as he walked up to cockpit where he  looked out the side of the front windows to see a cyan pegusus with a rainbow mane just to the right of the windows.

“Hey!” Rainbow yelled trying to overcome the roar of the engines to no avail while waving.

Fransheim just stared at the flying pony, blinked a couple times, and turned back toward the passenger section. Seeing no 
response from the humans inside, Rainbow made a disgruntled sigh and headed back towards Ponyville. 

“Sir, I believe we can see Canterlot from here.” the co-pilot stated as he looked to the small protrusion from the side of the largest mountain ahead.

“If we can see their castle from here, the Fuhrer will be overjoyed by its size.” Fransheim commented turning around to see the sight in the distance.

“10 o’clock sir…. a floating city?” the pilot said with disbelief. 

“Interesting, it looks like…. uh Athens, but in the air.” the co-pilot replied confusingly.

“You’ll have plenty of time to stare at it some other time soldiers.” Fransheim sternly said though he, himself, was further intrigued by the rainbow colored liquid flowing from a factory like shaped building. 

The plane’s propellers continued their mild hum as the plane approached Canterlot from the southwest. Meanwhile inside Canterlot the slight hum of motors began to be heard by the local populace.

“That long road looks like a good landing spot Erich.” the co-pilot said as they began to get a clearer view of the city.

“Yes, I hope these animals have the brains to get out of the way.” Erich confirmed.

Meanwhile in the Royal Guard Barracks

“Captain, there are guards saying an odd aircraft is making its way to the city. It’s about ten minutes out approaching from the southwest at high speed.” a gold armored white colt said with a salute.

“I guess the Princess’s guests have arrived. Just be sure to guide them in, and clear the populace where need be.”  Captain of the Royal Guard Shining Armor ordered the soldier. “Also send a messenger to the Princess to tell her they appear to have arrived.” 

Back in the plane

“It looks like they’re giving us a landing zone Erich, I guess you owe me three hundred reichsmarks.” the co-pilot said with a grin. 

“Dammit…” Erich said rolling his eyes in annoyance. “You’re worse than those swine in the banks.”

The co-pilot began laughing before practically choking as Fransheim entered the cockpit again.

“What is so funny, are the horses putting on a show for you two…” he sarcastically droned to the pilots.

“No sir, but their operation on the ground is quite the sight.” Erich replied. “They keep just staring up at us, one even fainted from what it looks like.” 

“That is good. Even aliens respect the might of the Reich’s engineering.” Fransheim replied looking down at the ponies. “When do we land?”

“About five minutes Standartenführer Fransheim.” the co-pilot replied flicking a few switches.

The plane slowed as it approached the hastily prepared airstrip and touched down with a small bounce and then slowly killed the engine bringing the flying fortress to a standstill. Hearing the beast quiet multiple royal guards flooded toward the aircraft surrounding it within the minute. Then suddenly the side of the plane opened up and two soldiers hopped out with guns drawn with a third slowly climbing down.

“We arrive in peace.” Hauptsturmführer Von Rylander said in a heavy German accent. The he tapped both his soldiers on the shoulder prompting them to lower their weapons.

“Lower your weapons stallions.” a golden armored guard ordered as he stepped forward with his red helmet crest blowing in the breeze.  

“What brings you strange creatures to Canterlot?” the Royal Guard officer asked glaring at the three Germans outside the plane.

“We have a meeting with your Princess.” Von Rylander responded as he gestured diplomatically.

Remembering what his orders were, Sentinel grabbed his helmet in his magic, and placed it on the ground before 
saying, “Welcome to Equestria humans. I hope your stay is beneficial to us all.”

“Oh it will.” Von Rylander whispered as he nodded in approval before moving out of the way for the others to come out of 
the aircraft.


 January 27, 1944 Abwehr Headquarters   Berlin, Germany 


The aged Admiral Canaris sat at his desk reading through reports when a secretary came in with more mail.

“Thank you Catherine.” the Admiral said with a smile. 

“I do know how much you love to read your reports sir so I put all the event mail at the bottom.” she replied sarcastically causing the Admiral to give a hardy chuckle. She then handed him the stack of letters and returned to her desk outside the room.

{Let’s see what we have here.} he thought as he began shuffling through the stack of mail. As he approached the bottom, a letter made his eyes widen and he promptly pulled the letter from the pile and began to read its envelope. 

 From: Dregen, Germany 

He immediately tore the large letter and spilled its contents onto his desk and began rummaging through the assorted “trinkets” before finding the letter.

 Dear Wilhelm,
Good to stay in touch with an old friend. The war hasn’t touched this beautiful town which is surprising seeing how there’s soldiers stationed near here They come out to the bars and pack the places telling tales of burns they sustained to a dragon. I wonder if I can take a flight to Vienna for a short time. I saw aircraft parts heading west. The peace here is quite relaxing aside for when heavy machinery heads to that military base which causes a ruckus. I wonder if the power plant for this city is being bombed a lot seeing we lose power quite often. I plan to see our old friend soon, I’ll be sure to tell him you said hi.
Sincerely, 
Johan 

After reading the letter a large swastika on a letter drew his eyes to an envelope from Paris.

 Intelligence Report:
-U.S. are likely preparing an invasion of the Port de Calais or Brittany  
-S.S. divisions are missing from reserve duty roles in Brussels, Paris, and Brittany
-Points A through Q are ready while R is still holding out
-French Resistance has been taking fish from local villages


“I wonder what they are up to in Dregen.” Canaris quietly asked himself while rubbing his chin.


 February 2, 1944 Twilight’s House/Library 

Trixie sat up from her bed and yelled, “Spike…”, as she laid her book on the nightstand to her right. 

“Yes….” Spike replied rolling his eyes.

“Could you get me a smoothie, my poor tongue is begging for vanilla.” Trixie continued as she approached the door of the guest room.

“Fine…” Spike replied as he went into the kitchen to make the smoothie.

As he mixed it the front door bell rang alerting Spike that a customer had arrived. “Trixie can you help?”

“If that is needed...” Trixie replied dryly as she quickly donned her hat and headed to the front room. “Welcome to  Books & Branches  ‘Where you may never want to leaf…” she announced in a monotone.

The stallion at the door was very skinny green pegasus with a red mane with a small hat that denoted he worked for the postal service. “Hello…. Ah.. ahh”

“Ah, a mailpony. Speak up I have a smoothie melting in my room.” Trixie said sternly at the love struck mailpony.

Spike walked in expecting to help before his thoughts were interrupted.

“Miss, I haven’t seen such a beautiful creature in very long.” the wannabe casanova suavely said as he shoved the large yellow letter into Spike’s claws.

“Do we know each other?” Trixie replied surprised by the sudden change in the mailpony’s behavior.

“I would like to know you a lot more.” he said while seductively posing.

“Well I don’t, Thank you for coming and don’t come again.” Trixie said as she magically lifted the pony back out the door and shut it on his rump.

Spike laughed before beginning to try taking the large letter off his claws when Trixie’s light blue aura surrounded the envelope and removed it.

“That was awesome. Sometimes I wish Twilight was more willing to stand up for herself.” Spike said as he ran over to the window to see the now angry pegasi kicking a rock before giving a huff and taking flight.

“Well a traveling showmare must be able to defend herself you know.” Trixie replied smugly with a confident grin. 

“Why? Are you in the Everfree Forest a lot?” Spike said with much curiosity.

“Um, not reall…. Yes, that is the main and only reason.” Trixie replied with a insincere grin.

“That’s cool, so what do you know? Rarity knows two different martial arts!” Spike said with a lovestruck grin near the end.

“I know some karate…  that’s about it.” Trixie said rubbing her hoof behind her neck.

“Wow, Twi was right! You really are a changed mare!” Spike proclaimed startling the showmare causing her hat to fall off as she moved her hoof again.

“Really, how so?” Trixie inquired intrigued by what he said.

“When you came here last time you would of probably been all like (Trixie impression) ‘ The Great and Powerful Trixie can do anything better than you. I know every martial art ever created.’ and then preceded to challenge a pony. “ Spike said grabbing her hat, placing it on his head and in the end pointing at Trixie.

“Really, that doesn’t seem very showmare-like” Trixie replied submissively.

“Yeah, you were really grinding on ponies’ nerves with your endless boasting. “ Spike said as he continued to dance about the room much like Trixie did at her show.

“I was a boaster?” Trixie asked cautiously.

“Yeah, like Rainbow just more annoying since you spoke in the something person.” Spike said trying to remember what Twilight had told him.

“Is that what caused the Ursa Minor problem?” Trixie asked knowing the answer was likely not good.

“Yeah, your claims of defeating an Ursa Major convinced Snips and Snails to go bring one to town.” Spike responded.

“I thought the Ursa came because it followed my cart?” Trixie asked confused by Spike’s statement.

“Who gave you that idea?” Spike asked practically shocked.

“Twilight..” Trixie replied as it dawned on her finally why everyone in town besides Twilight and her friends refused to speak to her.

“Oh, I don’t think I was supposed to tell you that.” Spike said scratching the back of his head before kicking the bookcase in self-punishment. 

“I guess I really am a Lulamoon….” Trixie whispered to herself.

“What was that?” Spike asked.

“Nothing Spike… Put my smoothie back in the freezer, I’m not feeling hungry anymore.” Trixie depressingly said as she held her head low and returned to the guest room.

“I wonder why she got all sad. I need to fix this! Twilight is busy with Robert so as her number one assistant I must solve this problem!” Spike said proudly. 

“But who can help me? Rarity is busy with orders, Rainbow Dash isn’t the greatest to ask for advice… Applejack has to help Big Mac with the apple harvesting, Fluttershy would likely cower at the idea of looking into a pony’s history behind the scenes, and Pinkie….” Spike spoke to his small baby phoenix.  

“Tweet” PeeWee replied fluttering his wings.

“You’re right PeeWee! Princess Celestia would know how to fix it!” Spike replied as he rewarded him by scratching him.

“Tweet” PeeWee replied in bliss.

 Dear Princess Celestia,
I have come across a problem. A mare around my age has been at my home for almost two months but does not appear to be getting her memories back. Could you look up the archives on ‘The Great and Powerful Trixie’?
Your faithful student,
Twilight Sparkle


“I hope that sounds enough like Twilight…” Spike said. Then he blew a small green flame at the letter sending it to the princess. 


 February 8, 1944 Robert’s Tent HQ 

“It’s nice being home again… I see for once the SS made themselves useful and cleaned up the mess.” Robert said as he 
approached his tent with Twilight. 

“Actually I cleaned it up with some help from the others. It was my fault after all that the Manticores came and you were wounded.” Twilight said in a depressing and apologetic tone.

“Awe, I guess they still aren’t useful for anything but stress. When did you clean it?” the Oberst inquired as he laughed.

“Right after I left the hospital.” Twilight replied with a smile. “Why don’t you like the other humans here?”

“Let’s just say the SS and my Wehrmacht aren’t the best of friends. We serve the same country but they are bit zealous in our government ideals and have a tendency in making our jobs harder. Plus I have a personal problem with them.” Robert answered as he went through his stuff looking for the bloody paper he had found on the dead soldier.

“Oh, may I ask what it is? Maybe I can help seeing that I am studying friendship.” Twilight asked magically pulling a pad of paper and quill out of her saddle bags.

“You don’t want to know Twilight, trust me.” Robert said noticeably disturbed and depressed.

“Oh, but talking about problems is the best way to fix them.  I have read in multiple books.” Twilight said with a reassuring grin.

“I bet you have, Twilight, “Robert replied with a small smile. “but this is something I’d rather not tell you about.”

“Oh… ok, need help then finding this paper you need?” Twilight responded saddened.

“Sure, check those boxes over there. It’s a sheet of paper with blood and numbers on it.” Robert said causing Twilight to cringe at the word blood.

“Alright…” she replied apprehensively.

After about fifteen minutes Robert finally yelled “a ha!” startling the lavender mare who then bumped her head on the new table.

“Sorry… but here it is! I must of left it in my jacket pocket  after interesting night.” Robert said holding up the reddened paper in pride.

“What is it?” Twilight said quizzically.

“I’m not sure; it’s some SS prisoner movement. Here take a look.” Robert said handing the paper to Twilight who grasped it in a magical aura.

 Transfer of Prisoners
500 prisoners from Bolzano
35 Americans
52 British
23 Italian
400 Other
Unreadable smudges….
Destroy upon taking place.


“What does this mean?” Twilight asked pointing  to the floating sheet.

“Well the Americans and British are POWs, prisoners of war, I would presume. The Italians could be either POWs or political. And the ‘Other’ I have not the slightest idea.” Robert explained as he moved his finger over the words.

“Prisoners of War? Is that a phrase of some sort?” Twilight asked turning her head sideways in confusion.

“It means we captured surrendering enemy soldiers. We then take them to POW camps to make sure they don’t aid the enemy again. They do the same thing to our surrendering men usually.” Robert replied with a shrug.

“What do mean by usually? What else can you do with them…. Oh.” Twilight said with a noticeable frown.

“It varies by officer how they deal with surrendering enemy combatants. Not all officers obey the rules of war.” Robert explained with a sigh and a slight frown.

“What about you, you’re an officer.” Twilight asked worrying what might be said.

“Well I personally never had to deal with surrendering enemies. My old superior officer in North Africa though, always did. 
At least to my knowledge we tried to fight the British honorably and without reasonless hatred.” Robert explained getting 
slightly relieved reaction from Twilight.

“What were you doing in North Africa? That map you showed me doesn’t put Germans there.” Twilight asked again.

“It’s a long story so I’ll tell you some other time. Okay?” Robert asked getting a nod. “ For now I’d like to get back to the paper… I was hoping you could make the unreadable lines visible with your magic. “Robert said pointing at the paper and then her horn.

“I can try, but I would have to go home and read into paper cleaning magic.” Twilight responded surprised by the Oberst’s knowledge. “How did you know I might be able to?”

“I guessed.” Robert stated earning Twilight facehoof.

“What about political?” Twilight then questioned.

“That’s a whole other topic I don’t really want to explain at this time, is that okay too.” Robert said defensively.

“Okay I guess.” Twilight nodded slightly disappointed by the knowledge being withheld from her.



 February 12, 1944 “German”-Equestrian Embassy

An SS soldier opened the small door and entered the former mansion now turned embassy holding a large envelope. After greeting the guards on the first floor he preceded to climb the stairs and open the door labeled Hauptsturmführer Von Rylander.

“Heil Hitler!” the soldier stated with the full salute as he entered the officer’s office.

“Heil Hitler!” Von Rylander returned. 

“Hauptsturmführer I have your newest orders from HQ.” the soldier said handing the envelope to Von Rylander.

“Thank you soldier, you may leave.” Von Rylander replied giving a short salute.

“Yes sir.” the soldier walked out after returning the salute. 

Grabbing his letter opener he tore the seal on the envelope and pulled out its contents and began to read.

 

With the recent success in the diplomatic dealings with these ponies we have decided we need to take advantage of this grace period. In this envelope are schematics to basic combustion engines and a Volkswagen. Your goal is to convince them to trade us coal or if possible crude oil for these schematics along with German help in building production plants.  Additionally inquire upon what the reward for fixing the Manticore problem in the Everfree Forest would be.


{Hmmm, I guess I can bring this up tonight at the Festival they are hosting at the Canterlot Castle.}



 February 13, 1944 Ponyville Market 

The sun shined brightly as Twilight and Spike made their way slowly through local market. The many pony folk without gifts were scrambling for gifts for Hearts and Hooves Day turning the usually organized marketplace into a complete mess with many ponies yelling and tents looking more disheveled than ever.

“Chocolates! Four for a bit!” one pony yelled out.

“Flowers! Get your blue and gold flowers here!” another yelled while raising a sign.

“Roses! We have roses over here. Sweet smelling and de-thorned.” another vendor yelled as she stood atop her table to attract attention.

“Spike, you be sure to stay with me. I don’t want you to get lost.” Twilight said to the little dragon walking beside her.

“Yeah, yeah, yeah. I know Twilight.” Spike said with a dismissive wave.

“Ah Spike, watch where you’re going…” Twilight said putting her hoof on her face as Spike walked directly into another pony.

“Hey! Watch it!” a large stallion yelled startling the pre-occupied baby dragon.

Grabbing Spike with her magic she lifted him back on her back before turning her head and giving him a scolding glare.

“What are thinking about Spike?” Twilight asked again startling the dragon.

“I’m trying to figure out what to give to Rarity. I want to give her something great! Then she will like me too!” Spike said standing proud upon Twilight’s back.

“Spike, what were you thinking to get her?” Twilight asked with a giggle.

“Well, I was trying to figure out how to get a large amount of gems for Rarity so she wouldn’t have to go to the Diamond Dog’s territory again.” Spike said showing a simplistic picture Rarity being happy with gems above Rarity being sad with Diamond Dogs.

“That’s nice of you Spike, what were you planning?” Twilight asked again as they restarted their path toward the grocery part of the market which was practically vacant at the time.

“Well I was going to have Robert use his guns to scare that mean dragon from that one cave.” Spike said intently.

“What! Spike that isn’t a good idea! That could get you and Robert hurt.” Twilight said so startled that Spike toppled to the ground.

“But he said that he’d be willing to help me with stuff.” Spike said in defense.

“I doubt he meant he would become your very own aggressive negotiator.” Twilight retorted receiving a scowl from Spike. 

“How am I supposed to be her knight in shining armor then?” Spike said depressingly.

“You could make her a card.” Twilight suggested with a smile.

“I can’t.” Spike replied hanging his head low.

“Why not? I can help if you want me too.” Twilight said lifting the dragon back onto her back.

“Somepony bought out the entire store of card making supplies earlier today.” Spike said in a depressed tone leaning on Twilight’s neck for comfort. 

“How do you know that for sure?” Twilight replied quizzically. “It is very unlikely that all the card making supplies are out throughout Ponyville.”

“Look….” Spike said pointing to multiple card shops all with signs which said sold out. 

“How can that be!?! ” Twilight said while her jaw dropped in amazement. “Well we should have some paper at home”

“But that’s just for scrolls, maybe we can give her another type of gift!” Spike exclaimed.

“Like?” Twilight said quirking her eyebrow in curiosity.

“Something foreign, something completely out of this world, something…..”


A few hours later at Robert’s Tent HQ 

“You want me to find what?” Robert exclaimed in utter confusion.

“Something cool from your world that will win me Rarity! Spike said practically jumping.

“Like what?” Robert said glancing at Twilight who quickly mouthed “Sorry”

“Clothes, do have any clothes she could use for inspiration or a massive fashion book from your world?” Spike said as he hopped on his tail like a pogo stick.

“Well I do have some photos from France….” Robert said before Spike yelled.

“Where!”

“Somewhere in this mess of boxes” Robert said pointing to his tent which was now overfilled with boxes.

Spike immediately hopped into the nearest box and began rummaging through its contents.

“Where did these come from?” Twilight asked gesturing at the boxes and second tent outside.

“High Command has shifted me here on a more permanent liaison position and is sending all my personal belongings here.” Robert said as he rubbed his forehead. Supposedly an actual HQ is on the SS’s building agenda but I doubt it.”

“So you’re staying here?” Twilight said with a grin.

“Yes, I guess so….” Robert said with little enthusiasm as he glanced over at Spike and quickly yelled “Don’t touch those boxes they won’t…… stand up without.”

Boxes came crashing to the ground leaving an embarrassed Spike, angry Twilight, and annoyed Oberst in its wake. 

“Why….” Robert whined rubbing his head again.

“Sorry Robert.” Spike said with pleading eyes.

“Oh not this again….” Robert replied leaving Twilight and Spike confused. “You see the Crusaders were here earlier…”

 2 hours earlier  

A scooter with wagon in tow zoomed down the freshly constructed dirt road toward the portal holding three fillies in helmets. 

“Ah sure hope Robert won’t mind helpen us.” the yellow pony in the wagon said to her friends; her red mane blowing about under the helmet.

“I think he will Apple Bloom, he’s a nice pony.” the white filly replied; her purple three toned hair doing the same.

“Ah sure hope yur right Sweetie Belle.” Apple Bloom said with a slightly worried expression.

After a few minutes the scooter came to an abrupt stop in front of the large white tents which were situated near the portal. All three of them tossed their respective helmets into the wagon and walked over to the tent.

“Hellooo, anypony home?” Apple Bloom shouted outside the tents causing the others to cringe.

“I don’t think he heard you.” the orange filly with a purple mane said sarcastically earning a glare from Apple Bloom.

Robert hearing the question and now the sound of arguing outside his tent flap, pushed back his chair and walked over to the flap.

“Ah, hello?” Robert said looking down at the white filly holding the other two back from one another.

“Oh, Hey Robert!” the three yelled in unison causing the officer to flinch.

“For the last time I’m not letting you three anywhere near my rifle, or my grenades, or even my bayonet.” Robert quickly replied sternly.

“That’s not what we’re here for though. We’re here to ask for your help.” Sweetie Belle asked promptly the all three to innocently look at the officer.

As Sweetie Belle explained their need for help with the massive card Scootaloo and Apple Bloom wandered into the other tent.

After a few minutes Robert agreed to help the fillies and shook Sweetie Belle’s hoof but as they went to tell the others a loud crash came from the other tent.

“Aaaah Avalanche!” Scootaloo yelled running out of the tent with Apple Bloom following closely behind along with multiple 
brown boxes. Sweetie Belle blushed with embaressment as Robert stared at the mess mouth agape.

“Guys what happened?” Sweetie said as she trotted over to her friends who were recovering from their sudden dash; while Robert just stood paralyzed in a state of disbelief.

“We were hoping to do Mr. Robert a favor.” Scootaloo panted.

“Yah, ah thought that he might want help unpackin his boxes.” Apple Bloom explained restraightening her bow.

“Is he broken?” Scootaloo asked causing the other two to notice the officer gesturing with his hands in confusion while looking over the mass of spilled contents spread across the the tent’s interior and entrance.

 Back 

“Oh”, Spike replied as he scratched the back of his head.

“How about I just give them to you tomorrow when I get into town?” Robert suggested as he again glanced over the recently made mess.

“That sounds fine, Spike we have things to do.” Twilight quickly replied as she lifted the surprised baby dragon with her magic and left while waving good bye.

“Good bye? I guess I have another mess to clean up….” Robert said to himself with a depressing sigh before bending down and beginning the clean up.








	


> Industrial Complex (Battle of Canterlot Part 1) 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

 February 13, 1944 Ponyville Market 

The sun shined brightly as Twilight and Spike made their way slowly through local market. The many pony folk without gifts were scrambling for gifts for Hearts and Hooves Day turning the usually organized marketplace into a complete mess with many ponies yelling and tents looking more disheveled than ever.

“Chocolates! Four for a bit!” one pony yelled out.

“Flowers! Get your blue and gold flowers here!” another yelled while raising a sign.

“Roses! We have roses over here. Sweet smelling and de-thorned.” another vendor yelled as she stood atop her table to attract attention.

“Spike, you be sure to stay with me. I don’t want you to get lost.” Twilight said to the little dragon walking beside her.

“Yeah, yeah, yeah. I know Twilight.” Spike said with a dismissive wave.

“Ah Spike, watch where you’re going…” Twilight said putting her hoof on her face as Spike walked directly into another pony.

“Hey! Watch it!” a large stallion yelled startling the pre-occupied baby dragon.

Grabbing Spike with her magic she lifted him back on her back before turning her head and giving him a scolding glare.

“What are thinking about Spike?” Twilight asked again startling the dragon.

“I’m trying to figure out what to give to Rarity. I want to give her something great! Then she will like me too!” Spike said standing proud upon Twilight’s back.

“ Spike, what were you thinking to get her?” Twilight asked with a giggle.

“Well, I was trying to figure out how to get a large amount of gems for Rarity so she wouldn’t have to go to the Diamond Dog’s territory again.” Spike said showing a simplistic picture Rarity being happy with gems above Rarity being sad with Diamond Dogs.

“That’s nice of you Spike, what were you planning?” Twilight asked again as they restarted their path toward the grocery part of the market which was practically vacant at the time.

“Well I was going to have Robert use his gums to scare that mean dragon from that one cave.” Spike said intently.

“What! Spike that isn’t a good idea! That could get you and Robert hurt.” Twilight said so startled that Spike toppled to the ground.

“But he said that he’d be willing to help me with stuff.” Spike said in defense.

“I doubt he meant he would become your very own aggressive negotiator.” Twilight retorted receiving a scowl from Spike. 

“How am I supposed to be her knight in shining armor then?” Spike said depressingly.

“You could make her a card.” Twilight suggested with a smile.

“I can’t.” Spike replied hanging his head low.

“Why not? I can help if you want me too.” Twilight said lifting the dragon back onto her back.

“Somepony bought out the entire store of card making supplies earlier today.” Spike said in a depressed tone leaning on Twilight’s neck for comfort. 

“How do you know that for sure?” Twilight replied quizzically. “It is very unlikely all card supplies are out all over Ponyville.”

“Look….” Spike said pointing to multiple card shops all with signs which said sold out. 

“Oh how can that be.” Twilight said while her jaw dropped in amazement. “Well we should have some paper at home”

“But that’s just for scrolls, maybe we can give her another type of gift!” Spike exclaimed.

“Like?” Twilight said quirking her eyebrow in curiosity.

“Something foreign, something completely out of this world, something…..”

A few hours later at Robert’s Tent HQ 

“You want me to find what?” Robert exclaimed in utter confusion.

“Something cool from your world that will win me Rarity! Spike said practically jumping.

“Like what?” Robert said glancing at Twilight who quickly mouthed “Sorry”

“Clothes, do have any clothes she could use for inspiration or a massive fashion book from your world?” Spike said as he hopped on his tail like a pogo stick.

“Well I do have some photos from France….” Robert said before Spike yelled.

“Where!”

“Somewhere in this mess of boxes” Robert said pointing to his tent which was now overfilled with boxes.
Spike immediately hopped into the nearest box and began rummaging through its contents.

“Where did these come from?” Twilight asked gesturing at the boxes and second tent outside.

“High Command has shifted me here on a more permanent liaison position and is sending all my personal belongings here.” Robert said as he rubbed his forehead. Supposedly an actual HQ is on the SS’s building agenda but I doubt it.”

“So you’re staying here?” Twilight said with a grin.

“Yes, I guess so….” Robert said with little enthusiasm as he glanced over at Spike and quickly yelled “Don’t touch those boxes they won’t…… stand up without.” Boxes came crashing to the ground leaving an embarrassed Spike, angry Twilight, and annoyed Oberst in its wake. “Why….” Robert whined rubbing his head again.

“Sorry Robert.” Spike said with pleading eyes.

“Oh not this again….” Robert replied leaving Twilight and Spike confused. “You see the Crusaders were here earlier…”

 2 hours earlier  

A scooter with wagon in tow zoomed down the freshly constructed dirt road toward the portal holding three fillies in helmets. 

“Ah sure hope Robert won’t mind helpen us.” the yellow pony in the wagon said to her friends; her red mane blowing about under the helmet.

“I think he will Apple Bloom, he’s a nice pony.” the white filly replied; her purple three toned hair doing the same.

“Ah sure hope yur right Sweetie Belle.” Apple Bloom said with a slightly worried expression.

After a few minutes the scooter came to an abrupt stop in front of the large white tents which were situated near the portal. All three of them tossed their respective helmets into the wagon and walked over to the tent.

“Hellooo, anypony home?” Apple Bloom shouted outside the tents causing the others to cringe.

“I don’t think he heard you.” the orange filly with a purple mane said sarcastically earning a glare from Apple Bloom.

Robert hearing the question and now the sound of arguing outside his tent flap, pushed back his chair and walked over to the flap.
“Ah, hello?” Robert said looking down at the white filly holding the other two back from one another.

“Oh, Hey Robert!” the three yelled in unison causing the officer to flinch.

“For the last time I’m not letting you three anywhere near my rifle, or my grenades, or even my bayonet.” Robert quickly replied sternly.

“That’s not what we’re here for though. We’re here to ask for your help.” Sweetie Belle asked promptly the all three to innocently look at the officer.

As Sweetie Belle explained their need for help with the massive card Scootaloo and Apple Bloom wandered into the other tent.
After a few minutes Robert agreed to help the fillies and shook Sweetie Belle’s hoof but as they went to tell the others a loud crash came from the other tent.

“Aaaah Avalanche!” Scootaloo yelled running out of the tent with Apple Bloom following closely behind along with multiple brown boxes. Sweetie Belle blushed with embaressment as Robert stared at the mess mouth agape.

“Guys what happened?” Sweetie said as she trotted over to her friends who were recovering from their sudden dash; while Robert just stood paralyzed in a state of disbelief.

“We were hoping to do Mr. Robert a favor.” Scootaloo panted.

“Yah, ah thought that he might want help unpackin his boxes.” Apple Bloom explained restraightening her bow.

“Is he broken?” Scootaloo asked causing the other two to notice the officer gesturing with his hands in confusion while looking over the mass of spilled contents spread across the the tent’s interior and entrance.

 Back 

“Oh”, Spike replied as he scratched the back of his head.

“How about I just give them to you tomorrow when I get into town?” Robert suggested as he again glanced over the recently made mess.

“That sounds fine, Spike we have things to do.” Twilight quickly replied as she lifted the surprised baby dragon with her magic and left while waving good bye.

“Good bye? I guess I have another mess to clean up….” Robert said to himself with a depressing sigh before bending down and beginning the clean up.


 February  26, 1944 German-Equestrian Industrial Center (35km S of Canterlot) 

“Mommy, can we please go to the Grand Opening!” a small brown colt pleaded with his mother as they walked to the market in the small town of Greensville (12km SW of Canterlot).

“I already told you once Bronze, Mommy has to get a lot done today.” the older grey mare with a green mane said softly in reply.

“But Mommy, the whomans are going to show a surprise! Please, please, please!” the colt continued doing his best puppy dog face.

“Well, maybe if Mommy can get her shopping done we could catch the noon train…. I do have to visit my sister Polly in Ponyville…” she replied softly in return.

“Yay! Let’s get the shopping done!” the little colt yelled as he dashed off toward the nearest stand.

“Bronze Cap, get back here this instant!” the mare yelled chasing after her now ecstatic son.

 3 hours later 

“Wow, Mommy, look at it all!” Bronze proclaimed upon seeing the massive, in progress, steel structures ahead of him.

“Yes honey, it is very interesting to look at. It reminds me of the factories in Fillydelphia.” the mom replied with a grin while stroking her son’s mane. Then they approached the line and slowly made their way up the line, all the while Bronze Cap jumped in place in excitement.

“Velcome” the SS soldier at the gate said as Bronze Cap and his mother received a pamphlet and walked into the bustling area in front of a podium situated on a stage.

“Hi whoman guy!” Bronze replied, waving vigorously at the non-interested soldier.

“Come on now, don’t bother the busy soldier.” his mother said calmly pushing her son away from the entry.

After a few minutes of ponies ambling about trying to find a good place to stand or lay, a German soldier approached the microphone on the podium and tapped it to gain everyone’s attention.

“Welcome, everyone to the to the first of many planned joint Industrial Centers between our country and yours!” the soldier spoke loudly in a subtle accent.

“It is with great honor and privilege for me to aid such a friendly ally such as yourself!  Though we have only known each other a short time, I already can see we have much to learn and share between our two cultures.” the translator announced.

“For those who have not already read the pamphlets handed out at the gate, these steel structures are to become factories. These factories though, unlike your own, shall be equipped with the ability to mass-produce goods thanks to our genius engineers back home! These specific factories shall be building Volkswagens!” he announced further causing the crowd of ponies to erupt with stomping. 
“Ever since we arrived, ponies all over have asked about our many vehicles. We felt, that your curiosity should be quenched so we have also brought an already built Volkswagen model that these factories will produce!” he continued as he pointed to a red cape on an object. A soldier then pulled the cover off revealing a black Volkswagen Kübelwagen causing the crowd to stomp louder and begin to “ooo” and “aaah”

“Look Mommy, a cobble-wagon!” Bronze yelled as he pointed to the car.

“I see it honey, it’s very interesting looking.” his mother responded picturing how one operates such a device.

“Already, both German and Equestrian engineers are formulating ways to allow ponies to drive these beauties!” he yelled over the already roaring crowd.

Meanwhile in the lone completed building near the rear three ponies and an SS officer spoke over a desk with maps spread across it in the lobby of the future supervisor’s building.

“We ponies of Equestria greatly appreciate your friendship Obersturmführer Otto.” a yellow earth pony with an orange mane said as she smiled at the young blonde officer.

“As do we, to you Orange Burst.” the SS officer smiled back. “Now on to the materials we will need to operate these vehicles.”
A gruff looking tan and black earth pony with a pump on his flank stepped up to the map and began to speak,” thanks to your people’s knowledge we figured out that the gooey black substance at the surface near Los Pegasus was indeed “crude” oil. Using a modified pump from the Rainbow Factory in Cloudsdale, we have begun pumping it into containers. Additionally we have set aside some land south of the city for this refinery you say is needed.”

“I’m very impressed in you ponies, you are quite resourceful. I’ll be sure to get a few German oil refining experts to your plant along with some blueprints. “Obersturmführer Otto informed the three ponies while giving a nod. “How about you Rapidfire, has your Wunderbolts found any other of these exposed pits of crude oil?”

“Not yet, but still we plan to head to the Haysead Swamps but they’re very dense with foliage. “ the fully garbed Wonderbolt stated with a less than enthusiastic attitude.

“Sounds good, is there anything else I should know? The Reich can only help if you give us information to do so.” the officer/diplomat said as he began repacking his suitcase.

“Well, the Princess would like to know if any of your high ranking officials plan to come to the Royal Wedding in about two months?” Orange Burst abruptly said jumping in front of the man. 

“I do not know, I will take it up with my superiors.” he stated with a nod before heading out the door into the busy crowds of ponies taking tours. 

“I hate this….” Rapidfire sighed as he turned to go back into the office.

“Why is that Fire?” Orange lunged in front of the angered Wonderbolt halting his walk.

“The Wonderbolts are showcolts and mares, and even at some times we were the elite of the Equestrian military! Now we’re being treated like neighborhood deliveryfoals!”  Fire angrily commented with a snort.

“But Princess Celestia feels it is best that we help our new friends with acquiring their gifts to us.” Orange replied.

“Friends….” Rapidfire said in a sarcastic tone gaining a frown from Orange Burst. “I’m closer with Prince Blueblood than these two legged things.” 

“Rapidfire, this is all crucial to Equestria’s growth and development, just imagine driving one of those automobiles around.” Grey Pump stated as he walked up to the other two.

“I have wings, I don’t need one of those strange contraptions.” Fire dismissed the idea with a groan of annoyance.

“But what about us? Don’t you care about us on the ground too?” Orange said with pleading puppy dog eyes.

“Fine, if you weren’t so cute little sister; I wouldn’t do this.” Rapidfire gave in to his sister’s pouty face.

“You make me sound like a filly Fire.” Orange replied, “I’m only three years younger than you.”

“Well you act like one…..” Rapidfire replied mockingly before jumping through the window and commencing full flight.

“Typical….” Orange replied while rolling her eyes in annoyance.

 March 6, 1944 Twlight’s House/ Library 

A purple glow engulfs a bloody sheet a paper as Robert and Twilight eagerly await the findings on the paper’s purpose. Suddenly the glow creates sparks and the blood vanishes leaving a cleaner paper behind.

“That’s all I can do; I moved the blood off this sheet and to a plain one.” Twilight said somewhat disappointed in her accomplishment.

“Don’t get down, at least now I can read a bit more of the document” Robert replied with a reassuring smile as he picked up the document of the desk.

 
Non-desirable or non-useful prisoners can be rid of at your will. 


“Odd….” Robert commented to himself gaining a curious look from Twilight. “These appear to be orders for executions of POWs and whatever “others” stands for.  Though that would be against a bunch of “laws” written at a recent Geneva Convention. Then again I doubt that would stop them…”

“Geneva Convention?” Twilight asked.

“Some rules of war, that are loosely followed on how a war should be, and how occupying forces should behave.” Robert said blandly. 

“Loosely followed?” Twilight again followed up.

“They have good intentions but putting rules on warfare itself is like telling gravity to stop making things fall. It did however put POW treatment as a high concern.” explained the Oberst. 

“What does that mean then?” Twilight asked further.

“It means the SS are up to something in those camps; probably a lot more than just teaching so-called undesirables to be good Germans. Last thing we need is Allied forces deeming all of Germany evil for some SS commanders with thirsts for blood.” the Oberst angrily replied.

With a disturbed look on her face Twilight decided not to press further and trotted out of the room leaving Robert to ponder angrily to himself.

“Twilight, what’s wrong with him?” Spike whispered to Twilight outside the door, broom in claw.

“I’m not quite sure Spike, and I’m not quite sure if I even want to know…” Twilight whispered back in response while proceeding to walk into the kitchen. 

{Twilight not wanting to learn something! That can’t be good.} Spike thought to himself while restarting to sweep the floor.

{What the hell are they up to?} Robert thought to himself as he exited the library with both hands clutched in anger. But his thoughts were promptly interrupted by a trio of speeding fillies as their scooter-plus contraption ran into him leaving a human and 6 sets of hooves flailing on the ground.

“Hey there O-burst, sorry about the crash.” Apple Bloom greeted 

“Ugh, hello girls….” Robert said as he sat up and tried to clear the stars from his vision.

“Sorry Mr. Robert sir. Scootaloo, look what you did!” Sweetie Belle squeaked a scolding at her orange friend.

“Sorry there, I hit a twig and it sent my wheel into a sharp turn.” Scootaloo solemnly said with her head bowed in sadness. 

“Oh, I’ll be fine girls. Be more careful though next time, what was your rush anyway?” he asked as he rubbed his head and gave a grin.

“There’s a sale at SugerCube Corner! Buy three cupcakes, get a pie!” Sweetie Belle piped up while hopping to her hooves.

“That’s an interesting sale…..” Robert started before being interrupted.

“Hey O-burst, why don’t ya join us. You can have pie if ya like. It’s the least we could do after running you over there like a stampeding 
herd of cow.” Apple Bloom offered as she adjusted her bow.

“I guess I could use some pie to take my mind off things. Alright girls, I accept your invitation.” Robert replied with a curt nod. 

The group made their way to the delightfully sugary store with the CMC bombarding Robert with new ideas they were thinking about. 

Upon arrival they noticed a massive line which brought a sigh to all of them.

“Wow, I guess a lot of people, or well I guess ponies, like cupcakes and pie.” the Oberst commented and received nods from the fillies. 
{I wonder if Twilight could use her magic to make a baked good force someone to tell the truth? Maybe then I could get some answers on the POW sheet} 

Again he was drawn out of thoughts by commotion, however this time it was pink and jumping.

“Hiya Robby!” Pinkie exclaimed jumping in front of the officer.

“Huh…. Oh hello Pinkie Pie. You certainly seem to be having a successful sale.” he said as gesturing to the line and crowd outside eating their delectable treats. 

“Yepperoo! I was trying to teach the Cake twins how to make pie but they kept ignoring my examples. Next thing you know there’s hundreds of pies piling up in the kitchen and a tired Pinkie Pie. But then I ate a few pies and I felt good again……” Pinkie rattled off causing Scootaloo to role her eyes while Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle decided to discuss crusading ideas.

After a few minutes, “Great story Pinkie Pie, but I’d really like to be able to contemplate something that’s been perplexing me all day.” he said while standing confused as he saw Pinkie quite literally suspended in mid-air.

“Oooh, what sort of something! Is it a party!? I really like parties…” Pinkie Pie said as she resumed her jumping and obeying some laws of physics.

“No Pinkie, not a party….” Robert replied as Pinkie raised her hoof to ask another question to which he interrupted  “nor a surprise party, or any other sorts of fun celebration.” 

“You should Robby! Rattling your brain about a boring SS document won’t help.” Pinkie explained as her hopping ceased and she gave a more or less serious demeanor. 

“What, how? Ummm….. look the line is nearly to us. Isn’t that right girls.” Robert said trying to back out of an imaginary corner.

“Yes, we are” Apple Bloom replied only partially paying attention.

“Well Pinkie, can we go get our cupcakes now?” Robert said literally having to pull Pinkie off his arm.

“Okie dokey loki!” she exclaimed before vanishing in a cloud of dust.

“Well, I guess that’s over.” Robert commented gaining nods from the Crusaders.  “Let’s eat.”

March 24,1944 Dregen, German-held Austria  Hidden mountain complex

“The engineers say that the ponies are quite the effective builders; the first six oil wells are practically finished already thanks to their magic.”  Obersturmbannführer von Falst said with great enthusiasm.

“Quite impressive isn’t it; maybe after we have control of their country we can use them as labor.” Standartenführer Fransheim commented in response.

“At this rate we should be able to get at least one Refinery up by May.” Von Falst added.

“I expect two by May, and four by July. Any fewer, I’ll find a suitable replacement for you who can.” Fransheim said sternly.

“I can, but only if we can get some more workers; the troops are stretched thin already between the patrols and the many building projects we have underway. Not to mention the tank factory we’re building that won’t have enough workers to even work one line. “Von Falst retorted with animated gestures. 

“You will get your troops Obersturmbannführer; for now you must make do. Also, you will be getting 3,000 more troops by the end of April, however they will be dressed in Wehrmacht uniforms in order to stop Oberst Johansson from sending anymore letters to High Command. Eventually he’ll figure out that we have been holding his mail.” Fransheim explained while spinning a pen on his desk.

“It shall be done sir! Heil Hitler!” Von Falst responded before promptly giving a salute which Fransheim returned.

Meanwhile, about 2000m away on a nearby mountain.

“Looks like we have found ourselves a German base lads.” a camouflaged man with a MP-40 said while sipping some tea on a ledge with three others.

“What’s Jerry up to Chris?” another man responded in a similar accent.

“They’re having a party….how the hell should I bloody know what they are doing in there?” the first man angrily replied.

“Shut it you two, I’m trying to get a message from command.” a third man manning a small communications radio scolded. 

“James, what are they saying?” the second man asked.

“Shush.. I’m trying to decipher it.” James the radio operator said while he jotted down words in a small notepad. “Sir, the message is here.”

Sounds exited the caves resembling a bear before another camouflaged man ducked on out of it. “What did London have for us this time?” he firmly asked.

“London says that some intercepted intelligence on this place leaves them to believe that this cave must house an oil refinery. They want us to take care of it and then move on to Innsbruck.” James said while glancing down at his notepad.

“Hmm, they must be wrong. There’s no way they could be refining anything here; the stench of oil is nonexistent along with a lack of smoke.” the British squad leader pondered aloud.

“It must be pretty important though, whatever it is, they have the place swarmed with SS.” Chris said giving his binoculars to his superior.

“You’re right, seems to heavily guarded to be nothing at all. I guess we are going to just have to find out.”  the squad leader responded.

“Maybe it’s some sort of tank factory, the bloody things have been going in and out of there all day.” the second man commented. 

“Good thought there Private Cunningham; maybe command was right to send you along.” the officer replied while giving a nod of approval. “James, send a reply to command asking for a bombing run. The base is crawling with enemies.”

 April 12th, 1944 Train-car approximately 15km from Canterlot, Equestria  (Day of Royal Marriage)   

The sound of steel rails hitting wheels soothed the Oberst to sleep as he rode the train up to Canterlot after getting a strange feeling of anxiety. Why he was anxious was unknown to him but he thought it was just he felt bad about skipping the royal wedding of Twilight’s brother. The train jarred, awaking the Oberst and he noticed that Canterlot looked odd.  

“Guard, what’s with the bubble looking thing around the city?” Robert spoke loudly gesturing toward the city through the window.

“There was a threat on the Princess’s life; so Captain Armor is putting a shield up around the city.” the white guard unicorn replied coming in the train-car from outside the door. “By the way, my name isn’t guard….. it’s Valiant Endeavor.”

“Well Valiant, why not just guard the Princess more? I may have little knowledge of magic but I’d take a guess this must be a tiring job.” the Oberst commented.

“The shield will keep all non-ponies out of the city, however we guards can open it up slightly in order to let you humans in and out.” Valiant stated pointing to his horn.

“Alright, but what if the assassin is already inside?” Robert questioned further as two more Royal Guards came into the car.

“Well they couldn’t be; we have guards everywhere.”  a gray pegasus guard smugly replied.

“Sky, he’s a superior officer.” a green pegasus guard whispered back to the gray one receiving an eye roll in response.

“Really, how can you be certain?” Robert inquired further as Valiant tried to shush the cocky private.

“The Royal Guard are the best of the best! We aren’t just the Equestrian Army ponies that sit on borders and watch grass grow. We protect the Princesses!” the gray pegasus proudly proclaimed in reply.

“What he means Oberst is that we have trained for this sort of situation so there’s little to worry about.” Valiant said with an awkward smile to which Robert just gave a small laugh.

“You remind me of my old friend Thomas, pegasus. Pompous and loud, but reliable.” the Oberst said with a smile.  “I’d have to assume your combat ability is top notch seeing as you’re a Royal Guard.”

“Certainly! The name is Sky Strike!” the gray pegasus said with a salute.

“Calm down Sky Strike, the Princesses can probably hear you.” the green pegasus spoke up yanking down his overzealous friend. “Nice to finally meet a human officer who is actually willing to talk to us, the name is Cumulus Seed.” he said while shaking Robert’s hand.

“Nice to meet you as well, interesting name too.” Robert replied with a smile. 

“Father was an earth pony which is why my name includes ground related words.” Cumulus replied with a huff.

“Oh, do only earth ponies use ground related objects in their names?” the Oberst asked as he reached for his cup of coffee on the table next to him.

“Yes.” Valiant answered watching Robert making scrunched up faces after drinking the coffee.

“Could someone reheat this, it’s too strong to be drank cold.” Robert said as he reached out with his glass before it was enveloped in a bluish magical aura. “Thank you”

“How warm?” Valiant said as he gestured to his horn implying he could heat it too.

“Uh, nice and hot please.” the Oberst replied with curt nod.

“Here you are sir…..” Valliant said as the train suddenly jerked forward causing the hot coffee to hit the table and everyone to fall toward the front spraying hot coffee over the occupants.

“What the hell! We can’t be there yet! There are still trees on both sides of us.” the Oberst growled as he rubbed his now bruised knee which had nailed the table.

“Good question… “ Cumulus said glancing out the window.

“Who in Celestia’s name decided to pull the break?” Sky Strike said looking annoyed. “It must be a would be assassin!” he yelled throwing open the door and flying toward the front of the train while Valiant yelled in vain.

“Oh ponyfeathers…. “ Cumulus said with underlying fear.

“What is it soldier, spit it out!” Valiant barked as he tried magically dry his military orders now covered in coffee.

“The shield…. it just shattered…” Cumulus replied in disbelief.

“What? What do you mean it shattered!?” Valiant yelled tossing his coffee drenched orders aside and pushing the side of his head against the window to see Canterlot.

“Uh… what’s going on?” the Oberst said trying to pull the cup handle out of the nearby wall.

“The shield is gone…. It wasn’t supposed to go down until the end of the week.” Valiant replied while pondering aloud. “Oberst, we’ll be right back; we have to check on the engineer and see what’s wrong.”

“Are you sure you don’t need any assistance?” Robert responded reaching to his Luger in its holster.

“Don’t worry Oberst Johnsson, it’s probably nothing.” Valiant replied as both he and Cumulus left the car heading toward the front.
As the two guards briskly walked through the cars they continued to find spilled contents of suitcases and goods all over the passenger cars. Once they had reached the coal car however they saw Sky Strike coming and stopped.

“Sky! Over here!” Cumulus yelled gaining the attention of the gray pegasus. 

“What’s going on up their soldier?” Valiant spoke in a commanding tone.

“Nothing sir, just some usual train maintenance and such; nothing special.” Sky replied back with a salute. 

“Really?” Valiant replied scrunching his face in confusion. “Does the engineer know anything about the shield going down?”

“What do you mean? Oh, well he told me that it’s just going down for a little bit.” Sky said with a shrug before walking inside the car between them.

“Didn’t you see it shatter Sky? Shields are supposed to slowly go down, not shatter.” Cumulus said grabbing his friend by the tail with his hooves.

“Nope, I was too busy talking with the engineer to notice.” Sky said continuing to walk toward the back of the car. 

“Shields aren’t supposed to shatter like that, only under extreme pressure would it shatter. Sky we three need to check in with headquarters about this. We can use that new radio thing Robert’s friends gave us.” Valiant said reopening the door toward the coal car.

“Already checked in sir, nothing is wrong.” Sky replied dashing back to close the front door knocking Cumulus onto the table inside the train car.

“Watch it bud!” Cumulus yelled.

“Fine Sky, just calm down stallion.” Valiant ordered giving a glare to Sky before turning back.

“Watch out sir!” Cumulus yelled jumping off the table and tackling Sky into the reclosed door.

“What the hay!” Valiant shouted turning around to find two of his Royal Guards wrestling on the ground.

Suddenly a greenish glow appeared inside the mess of hooves and the green pegasus was flung across the car into a countertop.

“What the…” Valiant said before himself being blasted by a green beam coming from Sky’s form on the ground.

Sky rose to his hooves with a bruise over his right eye, opened the door and yelled, “I’ve found two more!” Then he turned back to see his catches only to get a skillet to side of the head and then blacking out. 

A greenish flame slowly burned away Sky to reveal a pony sized bug with wings and a jagged horn earning a curious glance from Cumulus.

“What the hay is that thing!” Cumulus yelled at the unconscious changeling.

“No idea, but he seems to have brought friends!” Valiant replied pointing his hoof at four more bug ponies approaching the train car from the forest.

The four changelings bowed their heads before they unloaded four green magical blasts into the side of the car, shattering the windows before charging the car horns ablaze.

“Here they come!” Valiant yelled picking himself off the ground again; feeling the glass shards rub against his body.
Meanwhile,

“What on Earth was that? “ Robert said as he heard a loud crash and bang from the front of the train. {Must be the engine re-firing.}

After a few minutes however he’d be rudely jarred by a sudden loud blast accompanied with a shaking of his car.
{Alright, that definitely wasn’t an engine.} Robert thought reaching down to grab his Luger out of his holster and flipping the safety off. The sound of a scuffle became louder as the Oberst slowly went through each car making sure they were clear of enemy combatants. As he reached the first passenger car he noticed a strange dark pony-like figure outside the side windows and crept over to the seats where the shades had been closed. 

“What in God’s name is that?” Robert whispered to himself.

He then began to leave the chair when he heard some speech of sorts.

“The trainzz is clearzz commanderzz” one silhouette said to another.

“Good… the ponieszz were unprepared for our strike. Our Queen was right as alwayszz” the slightly larger figure said back.

The far door opened and a changeling walked in only to go wide eyed and yell, “not clear!” and charge his horn. 

“F***!” Robert cursed as he quickly raised his Lugar and fired a round through the large bug’s eye causing it to stumble and fall back out the door.

“What waszz that! Drones, find the loud pony!” the large figure outside the shutter yelled causing the sound of buzzing to be heard.

“Go to hell!” yelled Robert as he fired a round at the dark figure through the shaded window causing glass to shatter. 

“Raah! Itzz here! Aaagh!” the figure screamed as it waddled out of Robert’s view.

“Dammit, dammit, dammit!” Robert growled as cut down another changeling trying to enter the far door with another round.

“Get itzz!” the figure yelled at the other changelings as they began firing magical blasts at the car knocking Robert out of his little perch.

“Gah!” the Oberst yelled as he fell onto the floor.  

A changeling entered at the door nearest to Robert and hissed its fangs at the Oberst only to have a hole appear moments later in the back of its throat. 

“Taste lead you overgrown ant!” he yelled as he fired at a fifth changeling which came into the door’s pathway.

He quickly got into a crouch position as green magical bursts flew above him and glass shattered all around him. He approached the door and put a bullet through the skull of another unlucky changeling as it tried to turn the corner. 

“Take itzz down!” the larger changeling yelled to his many drones. 

“Scheiße” Robert cursed under his breath as he shut the door. 

Three changelings ran to the door and began bucking at it as the Oberst leaned on it to keep it closed. Suddenly a black hoof punched through the door barely missing him and Robert moved forward careful not to cut his hands on the glass. The hole in the door continued growing larger until a changeling popped its head through the door only to promptly receive a muzzle piercing. Quickly getting up he looked out the window to see multiple black bugs approaching the train car with rage in their eyes.  

“Whatzz iz that!?” one of the changelings yelled before another shot rang out cutting down another of his comrades.

Magical beams scorched through the car as Robert dove to the ground cutting up his uniform in the process.  Another changeling jumped in through the window and landed on the human’s back causing Robert to drop his weapon. He quickly jumped back up over knocking the changeling into the nearby bar. Noticing some broken bottles on the ground; Robert grabbed the nearest one and yelled at the downed changeling puncturing its eye before grabbing his gun and ending the stumbling foe. 

“Nooo!” another changeling yelled as it entered the far door. Blindly it charged, intending to gore its target, only to be cut down with the Luger’s last round.

The scent of blood and the sound of magical beams filled the air as Robert crept out of the train car slowly while reloading his Luger’s magazine slot before spotting three more of the bugs bombarding another train car further up. 

{They must be firing on the Guards} he thought as he crept a bit closer to his intended targets.  

Situating himself in a nearby bush the Oberst fired, cutting down the two closer to him and wounding the third which briefly had enough time to look over its shoulder before joining his comrades in changeling hell. 

An eerie silence rained over the train and the nearby forest as Robert crept up to the once bombarded train car to find his Royal Guard escort badly beaten up but still holding up behind a table.

“Hey… you okay over there? the Oberst whispered from the far end of the train car’s now door-less frame.

“Oberst is that really you?” Cumulus whispered back as he held his frying pan defensively. 

“Huh, yeah? Who else could I be? There isn’t a mass quantity of Germans waltzing around in the forest I can assure you.” Robert replied with a slightly sarcastic tone.

“How do I know you’re not a changeling?” Cumulus whispered back.

“A what now? I’m a human, did you take a bad hit to the head Cumulus?” Robert replied now entering the train car.

“Stay back!” Cumulus whispered with more force waving the pan around with his wing.

“Jesus, Cumulus……. The bugs are attacking us, and last I checked I don’t look like a bug.” the Oberst said as he rose his eyebrows in annoyance.

“But changelings can change into anyone!” Cumulus yelled incidentally with a cough.

“Huh? Changelings…… as in shapeshifters that feed on people?” Robert whispered back with some curiosity. 

“Yes but…..” Cumulus began to reply as a now angry Changeling Commander with a bleeding leg hole entered from door close to the downed Royal Guards. 

“Youzz killed my dronezz strange creature! And youzz dared injure my leg! Die!”  the larger changeling yelled as he pointed down his horn to fire.

Cumulus had other ideas however as he slammed the pan into the changeling’s helmet confusing him long enough for Robert to fire the rest of his magazine into the large bug.

“Woh! Woh! What the hay was that!?”  Cumulus yelled startled by the gunshots.

“It’s a Luger, a pistol.” Robert said while rapidly reloading his last magazine into the weapon.

“You killed it with that thing?” Cumulus said wide eyed in disbelief.

“Well a fly swatter wouldn’t of worked, so yeah.”  the Oberst responded with a brief chuckle as he made sure the enemy was dead.

“Why’d you kill him though? I could of knocked him out.” Cumulus added.

“He certainly wasn’t surrendering Cumulus…… I’d rather shoot first and ask later.” Robert said lifting the body with a groan. “Jesus, what do these things eat!?” 

“Love” Valiant replied softly as he slowly came to.  

“Love….. is that some sort of flower or term?” Robert asked dropping the body in the sink.

“No, they feed on ponies’ love.” Valiant answered making Robert give a look of disbelief.

“Oh this world just keeps getting better and better……..” he quipped to himself.

“Oberst Johansson, go look for Sky and the conductor in the Engine please. We’ll patch ourselves up and wait here.” Valiant stated.

“Alright, you hold here.” Robert said opening the door.    

Meanwhile in the train car

"Sir he killed the changeling! Lethal force wasn't necessary!" Cumulus whispered to his superior.

"Really? I guess humans aren't very fond of taking enemies alive......" Valiant responded.