Mordane Stronghoof ( Act two : Path of thorns)by Mr StargazerChaptersRunMercenariesA jaunt into enemy territory.The town.Stronghoof's (bonus chapter)A Month After (bonus chapter)Dimond Dog Mountain (bonus chapter)Two friends and a sudden dropTreacherous GroundInevitable.The begginning is where you make it.The next act.An army marches on its stomachNew places old facesRun(This is the second part find the first part and read it before this one...seriously do it) Mordane flew. Over the forest he raced, barely resting. Who knew if the sun tyrant’s scouts were looking for him. Celestia... That name filled him with rage and fear. Such turmoil like never before. It was the hate. Such burning hate. Settling deep into his stomach. Like a pit of embers. That bitch killed them. The sun monarch he had been cautious of his whole life, had finally made her true colors apparent. With that article she showed just how far she would go to cover up her crimes. The thought never entered his head that they might still be alive. After all, why lie about the time of someone's death if you were going to imprison them? She could've just said they were responsible for the attack. His parents dead after the first wave? He had seen them alive and well after the enemy was in full retreat. So he flew. He flew until his breathing deepened. The sight of the crusaders waiting for me in front of the club house... He flew until his wings grew stiff and the pain was nigh unbearable. The first lesson with Twilight... He flew on. Teardrops falling down to the world below even as his eyes were filled with nothing but rage. Star Charmer... Fury filled him, as did uncertainty. He would have to fly south, but what to do once he got there? How far must he go to escape her? I have eternity to prepare, but that might not be enough... plus she moves the sun. Should I doom the world for my revenge? The pony felt untold turmoil. He would silence it, but... who was he kidding. There are some emotions not even his mental control could stop. My home in the valley... Memories flooded back. His brother, sisters and maybe the entire town. Who knew how far her knife would thrust? Part of him wanted to turn for his village nestled between two mountains. Yet the rational part... the human part would not allow it. They are likely already dead... even if not. Where would you take them? He could not get there before Celestia's troops, and even if he did then he could not outrun them. Celestia was just too fast. Not only that but he had lost friends, a mentor. A whole life ripped away. He was just so tired, both mentally and now physically. Looking around he saw a river. He landed and sat down next to it taking a long drink. After he drank his fill he jumped into the deep part and came out with a shake before sitting on a hot rock. He closed his eyes and let the heat seep into his aching muscles, yet he could not find rest. At first he thought it was still his parents’ death, but no, it’s something deeper... A beat... he could hear them deep inside they spoke to him. Something he had forgotten long ago. It was not literally speaking... his mind was just going down paths it had not dared since... His mind continued back...back to the time before Equestria. Back to his grandfather's grave... and his promise. ...I let that part of me go long ago. There is no use taking it back up. Yet, a part said some things should never be placed aside. They're dead because of me...What have I done about it? Run. She takes and I run. I've been running all my life. Even before this world. I ran from my nature. Perhaps it’s time to start moving again. Perhaps just wanting her dead won't be enough. I need something more to push me. In his heart something stirs... just like in the battle. The beat murmurs to drive him on. Rested now, he flew over to a fruit tree and picked what he could before lifting off again. The sack on his right hip was full of food. Next to it was three canteens. On the other side was his knife and satchel. He barely had any money, Kindle was burned by the lightning, out of commission, and his food was low... Yes, there was not much to go on. All he had in the satchel was a tent, flint, two bowls, ink, paper, an extra cloak and a coil of rope. Sighing he ate some food and flew on. ****************************************************************** Mordane stared at it. How could something be so vast so... flat. Before him lay the Badlands. A desert region just south of Equestria, and beyond this vast desert lie the lands of the south. Not much was known about lands beyond the Badlands by Equestria. A few stories from traders in the port cities told of a region in turmoil. It was also where most who were, banished or ran from the law went. From what he heard there was dozens of cities. But first he would have to cross the desert. Then he would have to climb the mountains seeing as how the ports would be closed to him. Years earlier, he had read that the trip over the desert was seven days by wing, without stop. The desert would stretch right up to the mountain. He checked his canteens made a mental calculation and took off. ******************************************************************** Sand. Sand and more sand. An unbroken desert of flat sand. Six days of flying... no end in sight. ****************************************************************** Mordane drank the last of his water. There was still nothing in sight. He would have to resort to desperate measures. He sat down on the flat hard, salty ground. Setting down his canteen, he left it open and focused. He reached out. Water... smooth... flowing... life giving water. No matter where one is there is always water. It may just be so little that you cannot drink it. Mordane could not feel any pockets of water in the ground, yet a tiny bit resided in the air. So, taking the sun’s heat he pulled. and pulled. Why do things take so long out here? He sat for an hour before opening his eyes, having pulled trace amounts of water from up to a mile away. Looking into the canteen he saw that it was half full. Better than nothing. He looked out to the direction he had been flying, the sun guiding him. In the distance he saw something. ...Maybe. ************************************************** Two days later. Definitely something on the horizon. The collecting of water produced three fourths of a canteen. Mordane was convinced he must have chosen the widest point of the unbroken desert. ************************************************ Five days of travel later and the mountains barely looked any bigger. Just how far away are they? "************************************************* Twenty one days...how the buck does seven days turn into twenty one. Mordane sat at the base of the mountains, their peaks stretching into the sky above. He had read that the mountain was so high, that even the pegasi could not fly over it. It takes unicorn magic and time through one of the frozen paths on foot to make it. Mordane refilled his water and checked his food. ...only a week's food left and that's with barely eating anything. After day ten he had gone on starvation rations. Already the bulge from the easy life was shrinking. In a month his ribs might even show. I don't have time to delay. He set off and flew as high us as he could. Even after that, he had to make his way up a snaking path. ************************************************** After days of unrelenting desert sun the cold was unbearable, and only getting worse. Mordane was stumbling, bleary eyed and panting, through the frozen pass. Already he had cast spells to keep warm, on top of the ones to increase air pressure around him. All around him a blizzard pounded, cutting into his flesh. His hooves sunk deep into the snow as the heat from his body melted it before the cold refreeze the water into ice. Even as an Alicorn, immortal or not, he was dying. He suspected that death would have already come if he did not have magic. Every step grew more arduous and painful. As he was about to give up hope his eyes fell upon a cave. It stood out as a black dot along a wall of gray. Mordane quickly stepped into the cave and shivered before casting a light spell. Bones met his eyes. Over a dozen bodies laid around. Some in pieces, while others were huddled for warmth with their belongings strewn about. They looked as if most had simply laid down to sleep and never stood back up. Others looked like they had been ripped apart. He gagged and scanned the cave. It was small and empty of life. Only a darkly stained rock caught his attention. Checking their belongings. Soon he found one who had a bag of bits. There was not a scrap of food though. Mordane was so cold... then he had an idea. The bones were dry... with a spell he could collect them together and set them alight. It might be considered desecration, but then again it could also be seen as giving them a final rest. The decision came easily and soon a nose wrinkling smell of burning bones was filling the cave. Mordane shuddered and it was not from the cold, yet the warmth was welcome, at least until he heard a growl. At the front of the cave entrance was a... thing. It stood on four legs that met at an ape-like torso. Its fur and eyes were pure white, save for the dot of a pupil staring at him. In its teeth was a mare. Her body was covered in ice, and it was clear from how thick it was that the monster had found her frozen to death. Mordane hoped for a moment that the creature would prefer the frozen flesh over the living pony trapped before it. "ROAR!" No such luck. The stallion charged his horn to form an ice spear, but before he could cast the creature hurled the mare’s corpse at him. The pony body was never meant to react quickly. He was thrown against the wall, where he felt a sickening pop as his wing slid out of its socket. Dazed and in pain. He only had enough time to push the corpse off of his body before the creature grabbed him by the rear hoof and started to drag him across the cave. It was then that Mordane knew what the dark stain was. Desperately he looked around for something. ANYTHING that could be used as a weapon. His eyes settled on a rusty spear head. He barely even considered what he was doing before the burning bones were thrust into the beast face. It screamed as its hair caught fire. Mordane stood painting and floated the spear head over and began to pull on power. The wind and heat from the creature’s flesh itself, was his only source. A second later the beast turned and roared. Yet it never had a chance to charge. It was silenced as a rusty super accelerated spear head shot out. Mordane stumbled back, pain erupting from his chest. He could almost hear the lecture that Twilight had given him many years ago; "For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. Half of a unicorn’s power must go to counter the force on the body. This applies to any spell where a lot of force is being used to move something, otherwise that force is reflected equally back." The alicorn wheezed and checked his condition. Luckily it seemed he had only been bruised. Cautiously, Mordane moved closer. The beast continued to twitch on the floor until Mordane pulled up another sword and cut off its head. There he stood. In a frozen cave among the dead. Shivering from cold and fear. There was at least one thing he could do for the cold. Skinning animals was illegal in Equestria, and so was any product made from their flesh. Mordane was not in Equestria. The beast’s skin came off easily enough. A heating by the fire and a spell to both pull out the water and work the skin made it into leather. While waiting, he checked the poor mare and was lucky to find some raisins. His time during that night was the coldest of his life. *************************************************************************** A few days later, he was traveling on the edge of starvation when in the distance he saw a gap in the mountain. A smile came on his face. Thoughts of his parents had kept him going through the cold and monsters. The gap opened to a sloping valley. Several paths converged into a singular one. Even as he walked out to the road, a few travelers on it did a double take at his monster skin. One even called out. He was a trader and paid Mordane in food and a book about edible plants in this region. Mordane found a quiet place by a small stream to set up camp before going to sleep, glad to be over the worst of the mountain. ************************************************************************* Mordane woke up as the sun came through the crack of the tent. He feels warm and comfortable. He snuggles up to the pony next to him. His eyes snap open and looks down in growing horror. His hooves are wrapped around another stallion. Both of them were inside his sleeping bag. The other pony turned to look at him. Mordane mind nearly snapped as his eyes found a familiar sight. It was Child Stalker, staring back up at him. The bane of his last six years broke into a large grin. "Hello, beautiful." RIIP! Mordane sleeping bag was ripped open, as he tore out of it as fast as he could. In his struggle to get away the tent even collapsed as his scream echoed through the valley. Child Stalker chuckled to himself for a moment before continuing. "Hey now, not so rough. You promised you'd be gentle." "Gent- whuh?" Mordane shook his head vigorously just in case this was some horrible dream. "What are you doing in my bed?!" "Well it just looked so comfy, and I didn't think you'd mind. I mean, you've never complained before." Mordane ceased his struggles momentarily, his eyes wide and his mouth flapping soundlessly as he tried to process this information before yelling out "I need an adult! ...Wait! I AM AN ADULT!" Mordane shouted. "Why are you still stalking me!? How did you find me!?" "I didn't. I was just traveling to the south through the western pass. Though I did say you were interesting... aren't you suppose to be dead?" Mordane was having none of it. "Bull. We’re beyond Equestria. Tell me now, or I’ll break your spine in half." Stalker chuckled and reached into his main. He pulled something out and gave it to Mordane. "...This is one of my feathers. How did you use this to-" Child Stalker placed his hoof over the stallion’s mouth. "A better question is, how I caught up with you. The answer to that is you are a moron. What were you thinking going over the mountain? You could've at least taken a boat." "Well then how did you get over here?" Mordane asked accusingly. "We're nowhere near the coast, so you couldn't have come that way." "Oh, that is easy," he said, stepping back. "I bribed the diamond dogs to let me through their caves. It only cost twenty bits. I’ll pack up our gear." As Mordane sat, contemplating how he had risked his life for no reason, he looked down at the feather. Something about it nagged him. Something... This is one of my primaries... but it’s small. That means he got it years ago... which means he knew I was an alicorn. He stared at the stallion, thinking back. When I first met him he was able to resist mind sight... he is brother with Smut Peddler... come to think of it, this family has been there for a long time. Ever since... He remembered Child Stalker all those years before. "Who are you?" The stallion turned... and smiled. "A friend. Now get your things. We got to get out before winter falls." ************************************************************** Mordane and Stalker continued down the valley and soon found themselves going down the other side of the mountain range. They looked over the rolling hills and hills in the distance with a sigh of relief. The road would be easy to follow now. As they walked the two talked. "So, Mordane, does your wing still hurt?" "Not really... you have anywhere to go in mind?" "Well I was going to go to Vrus to meet Smut Peddler, but I think I'll go with you. So... where we heading>" "...I actually have nowhere in mind. You aware of what happened in Ponyville?" "Aye, I was there. Mighty impressive how you were revealed." "True... Celestia chased me after that. I escaped after teleporting out of a thunderstorm." "That could not have turned out well." "Nope. Anyway I'm just going south... learn what I can." "Are you going to kill her?" Mordane paused and looked at his traveling companion, raising an eyebrow. "Why would I do that?" "Because she probably killed your parents... I saw your father flee. Then that article... did not know the sun monarch had it in her." "...Yeah." Mordane looked at the ground and continued walking. “She really killed them... it still feels... shocking. Hard to believe." The two traveled on in silence, before arriving at a town situated in a bowl in the land. "I say we stop by the bar and sleep on the road." "Agreed." The two found their way to a table with drinks and made small talk until Mordane lifted his hoof up. He was listening in on a conversation across the bar between two younger stallions and an old grizzled pony. "Yah, them Carics are the best warriors in the entire region! Why, no one dares even attack them!" "Then how do you know they are so strong?" The gritty pony leaned close and smiled. "If you go near their valley at noon... you can hear them fighting. You see the reason they haven't conquered the whole of this region is because they’re split." "Split?" "Aye, split. Over who is going to be the next leader." Mordane turned to Stalker again, who looked at him with a smile. "Planning to make a stop, hmmm?" "...Well I would have to find out where that village is." Stalker laughed and took a drink. "You'll need to follow the road to Valenstien. Halfway there, you should hear the banging." Mordane stopped half way through his drinking soda and frowned. "Have you been in this area before? Also, are you not coming with me?" "Yes, I've been around, and no I'm not coming with you... I have to go meet some ponies." Mordane smiled. "Well I guess it's been nice knowing you. Maybe we will run into each other again." "Oh don't worry Mordane, you'll never be rid of me!" Stalker laughed at Mordane pained expression. "Just remember to stay on the road." ********************************************************************* "For Terria!" "For the plains!" The two armies charged straight at one another. The pony soldiers of both sides crashing into each other. Finally... I thought they would be here all day. Mordane had been watching this 'battle' since both armies made contact three hours ago having completely ignored Child Stalker’s advice. It had consisted of one hour of screaming. One hour of staring. Then one hour of the two armies circling each other in mass. What is with these ponies. That was terrible. Why either general had bothered to try and flank the other side he would never know. Nor would he care to. In fact it seemed to him that they had must have met on even ground on purpose. Seriously. Why is this battle happening? Whoever initiated should of at least brought an advantage in troops or equipment... as things are, both sides will take losses and have to withdraw. Mordane continued to watch for another hour as two armies of a thousand both lost a third there number to both desertion and death. The two foolish earth pony armies continued fighting for some time before mutually ordering a retreat. Not wanting to provoke another attack neither army could clean their dead. Just as I was hoping. Mordane had lost nearly everything in his mad rush to leave Equestria behind. He was trying not to think about it too much. The amulet to hide himself had been beyond repair. He could not even hope to make a new one until he had a lot more money. Therefore he would have to... refrain from taking off his cloak. It had crossed him mind that Celestia knew about him now. So why should he hide? In the end, caution and not wanting to attract attention, made him decide against walking through towns without it on. Flying felt great and there was no way he would walk to his destination.... ...This village is supposedly located on top of a mountain in a bowl. Well villages. He had no intention of meeting Stalker again....though something told him that it was inevitable. This clan would be interesting to see but dangerous. There is much he could learn about warriors in pony society. The journey would take about three days.... **************************************************************** Mordane landed at the entrance to the valley on top of the mountain. He was impressed. The valley only had two entrances and both had towns snuggled right up against them. What had shocked him however was the sight of the red field in the bowls center. Have they really been fighting that long? A blood soaked field... I dare not fly in. Better walk. The gated pass entrance was held by two guards. They glared at him while holding their spears. Both wore a tunic in red with a strange mark on it. "Halt! This is the proud home of the Tahcon clan. State your intent." Mordane looked right into the guards eyes and with utter confidence responded. "I am here to trade and learn with the master warriors of the Tahcon. Whose battle prowess is known far and wide. May I have entry into your home?" The two guards chests puffed up at his request. "It is brave of you traveler to so boldly approach our gate. Speak to our leader, that you may not be taken as a spy." Mordane bowed his head and walked through the opening gate. Along its walls more flags hung with the symbol on it. Upon exiting the pass he came into the town proper. What a nice town. The southern lands nearly universally shared one thing. Every group was composed almost entirely of its own kind. This was an earth pony clan. And in what was a rarity, it was an earth pony warrior clan. The village contained well over a hundred earth ponies going about their day. To his right, a blacksmith was hammering away its melodious backing giving rhythm to the town. Houses much like Ponyville ones, hung close to the wall. Beyond the houses and fields beyond, lay a wall with guard towers along its length. In the center of the town lay a grand hall. As he walked ponies yelled out to him. "Hail traveler, won't you come to my pub for a drink?" "Ohhh, fancy a dance darling?" "Arg, HAHA! I wonder if you unicorn types are any good at fighting!" The villagers would call out and many seemed to go about almost in a state of party. Mordane smiled at such a happy life. Could they really be fighters? "WHAT DID YOU SAY ABOUT MY MARE!" A crash sounded as a stallion came flying out of the second story window. In moments the entire town was fighting. Crashes resounded as ponies kicked through walls. The cling of swords provided a backing to the disaster. Before he could understand what was happening however the fighting came to a stop. "HEY! All of you get back indoors! And NO fighting!" The bellow and command came from a pony who had stepped out of the main hall. He was huge. Bigger than Mordane by a good two feet. His fur, mane and eyes were black save for the red cracks in his eyes. "You!" He pointed toward Mordane. "Come with me. Oh and welcome to Tahcon." As he followed the apparent leader into the hall he saw ponies pull boards and windows from alleyways and start repairing everything. All of them laughing at the 'small' brawl. ...They are all insane. Mordane entered into the hall with the leader. The entire place was made from well-polished wood and reminded him of a viking hall. All around, ponies sat eating and cheering randomly. Occasionally two stallions or mares would headbutt each other... Mordane took note that the gender ratio was actually about fifty/fifty. ...maybe from a history of fighting the population ratio shifted... interesting. The stallion motioned for him to sit. Mordane replied. "Oh I really could not impose." "But I insist. It is tradition!" The leader locked eyes with the alicorn. They stared for a short time before both laughed and Mordane sat down. "We do not receive guests in our land often traveler. I hope we do not offend you with our revelry." "Not at all... I was interested to learn more about such proud warriors. Could you tell me of your clan’s past?" The leader smiled. "Yes, but first." he drew himself up. "I am chief Running Sword. What is your name?" "I am Mordane Stronghoof." "Stronghoof? Good name... Now about our clan’s past." The room ,which had carried on before, grew quiet as it became clear that the chief was about to tell a story. "Long ago," he began in a quiet voice. "Our tribe ruled over all the land from Tripington river to Inersel valley. Our clan had not yet grown to its full potential, however. Our ambition was without end... then the chief grew sick." His eyes grew downcast. "In order to choose the successor, a sword battle was to be held by his son and daughter. They fought for hours, yet in the end it was my ancestor who won. Pointing the sword at her fallen foe, she turned to her father for him to declare victory. Yet it was not to be so. The chief had risen at her victory, but so glorious was her fighting skill that his heart gave out. Shuddering, he fell to the ground." He paused in respect and all bowed their heads. "Her brother saw his chance. At her shocked face he swung his sword and nicked her shoulder. Then he claimed victory of first blood. Outraged, our ancestor attacked roaring the truth of her victory. In the end both were dragged away. Every day they met on that field were the stone throne stood. If either one could but get the other to admit defeat, then they could unite the clan and claim the chief’s sword." "Chief’s sword?" cut in Mordane. "Aye, The Sword of the Mountain. A blade forged with iron from a mountain’s heart. It is a glorious blade. A blade meant to conquer the world. It was placed in the old clan hall, behind the stone throne. For generations our clan has fought itself. Every week, one of us will march out in our armor. The other shall rush to arm themselves. Always we meet in the blood field... oh you should see it lad. A field stained red. Dozens of us will fall. Never to rise again. So long is our struggle. We charge each other trumpeting our battle cry." "FOR HONOR!" he yelled at the top of his voice. "FOR GLORY!" yelled the hall in return. "AND THE RED DAWN!" The hall shook with the warriors roar. Mordane was in shock. He had imagined fighters but not this. It was simply... glorious. "How long has your clan fought itself?" "For over ten generations. My father and grandfather lie on that red field... I know they watch. Proud. Drinking to my honor." "Is there no hope for peace?" "Nay... not till they admit that it is I who should lead this clan." ************************************************************* Mordane was walking through the woods. In a part of the valley beyond the wall, a waterfall fell into a deep chasm. There he would have time to think. They are... greater than I thought. The human-turned-alicorn had always thought of the ponies as terrible fighters. Almost too skittish to really make organized warfare. Now however he was faced with ponies who showed the spirit of warriors, instead of just desperation. Perhaps the lack in matters of war is social rather than genetic. Mordane found his way to behind the fall and with a few flaps of his wings he flew up onto a stone ledge. And meditated. Places like this one... I have not felt such in years. The waterfall, the stone, the stars above all of it fit together. Such places draw crowds on earth or are broken by people finding their homes. They are places where the mind and world are reflected in one another. Mordane felt himself fall back. Back through time, into memories. Throughout his pony life he had felt moments of clarity. Of how he was before. ...It’s almost like I walk around half asleep. Yet tonight... tonight I feel awake. My old spirit, reawoken. The alicorn pony turned to look at himself. ...Why do I feel so old. Three lives rattling away in my skull. It is only at times like this I see the stretch marks. The times I acted like a pony child or the monster....Why is it so hard to find my center. To find peace with my place in this world. In his clear view the answer came with ease. I have no place here... this world has denied me. With a cold detachment he briefly considered throwing himself over the cliff but it was quickly abandoned. He had things to do. Obligations to fulfill. Celestia killed my pony parents... my good parents. They deserve justice. Yet if I am to move on her... I may have to let that part of me back in. Dare I go that far? In his mind chains rattled to the echo of drums. "Runner..." whispered a mare's voice. Mordane snapped out of his self reflection and looked through a gap in the walls. Darn I can't see anything. The alicorn closed his eyes and used mindsight. He felt two life ponies among the life in the area. Focusing he listened and put the scene playing out beyond the waterfall together in his mind. ... "Where are you Runner?" asked a mare sneaking out of the nearby brush. "Over here." spoke up a stallion confidently. Mordane already did not like the guy’s smug attitude but he put that aside to listen in. The two trotted over and embraced just at the edge of the pool below the falls. Quickly the sound of kissing wafted up to his secluded place. He was about to call out to tell them he was here when the stallion called Runner spoke up. "Did anypony follow you?" The mare giggled. "Golden Apple tried to follow me, but I gave her the slip at the poison joke fields." "Did you touch any of it?" She laughed again. "Yah. But I bought some bubble soup. Why don't we take a dip?" she said in a seductive tone. They both laughed and got into the water. Mordane listened for the next two hours. The context of their conversation had piqued his interest. It was obvious they were a young couple as they never went much beyond kissing. From there, multiple conversations Mordane pieced together the situation. The mare was named Honey Dew and the stallion Running Glade. She was from the village of Tahcon. While he was from the other one, across the valley. They were both very concerned about either village figuring out about their relationship. If Running's village knew about it, they would likely stage a raid. The other clan would do the same. Both were very set on not being caught. Half of their time together was discussing when and how they would meet again. After an hour they left leaving a perplexed Mordane. He had come to this village to learn, yet now he was seeing an opportunity. If the couple could reach across then it is likely that the division is traditional, not actual hate. I could try to bring them together. Would have to go look at the other clan though. His pulse quickened at the idea of healing the rift between the two halves of a whole. It filled him with excitement. If I can repair an old wound like this one without... that, then maybe I won't have to change to bring her low. Mordane knew he could not make such changes with only one side of the story. Even if there ancestor really did act so disgracefully, they might not see it that way. *************************************************************************** Mordane landed at the entrance to the valley, on top of the mountain. He was surprised how similar the entrance looked. The gated entrance was held by two guards. They glared at him while holding their spears. Both wore a tunic in blue with a strange but familiar mark on it. "Halt! This is the proud home of the Nochat clan. State your purpose." Mordane looked right into the guards eyes and with utter confidence responded. "I am here to trade and learn with the master warriors of the Nochat. Whose battle prowess is known far and wide. May I have entry into your home?" It worked on the last two. The two guards chests puffed up at his request. "It is brave of you traveler to so boldly approach our gate. Speak to our leader, that you may not be taken as a spy." Mordane bowed his head and walked through the opening gate. Along its walls more flags hung with the similar symbol on it. Upon exiting the pass he came into the town proper. What a nice town... though I have a very strong sense of deja-vu. Just like the other town, it was comprised of earth ponies. To his left a metal smith was hammering away its melodious backing giving rhythm to the town. Houses much like Ponyville one's hung close to the wall. Beyond the houses and fields beyond lay a wall with guard towers along its length. In the center of the town lay a grand hall. As he walked ponies yelled out to him. "Hail traveler, won't you come to my pub for a drink?" "Ohhh, fancy a dance darling?" "Arg, HAHA! I wonder if you unicorn types are any good at fighting!" Serious deja-vu. The villagers would call out and many seemed to go about almost in a state of party. Mordane walked on with growing confusion. "WHAT DID YOU SAY ABOUT MY STALLION!" A crash sounded as a mare came flying out of the second story window. In moments the entire town was fighting. Crashes resounded as ponies kicked through walls. The cling of swords provided a backing to the disaster. Before he could understand what was happening however the fighting came to a stop. "HEY! All of you get back indoors! And NO fighting!" The bellow and command came from a pony who had stepped out of the main hall. She was beautiful, yet strong. "You!" She pointed toward Mordane. "Come with me. Oh and welcome to Nochat." As he followed the apparent leader into the hall, he saw ponies pull boards and windows from alleyways and start repairing everything. All of them laughing at the 'small' brawl... just like the other town ...I don't even. Mordane entered into the hall with the leader. The entire place was made from well polished wood and reminded him of the other one, with only a few minor differences. All around ponies sat eating and cheering randomly. Occasionally, two stallions or mares would headbutt each other. If it was not for the banners he could've mistaken that he had fallen back in time. The mare motioned for him to sit. Mordane replied. "Oh, I really could not impose." "But I insist. It is tradition!" The leader locked eyes with the alicorn. They stared for a short time before both laughed and Mordane sat down. "We do not receive guests in our land often traveler. I hope we do not offend you with our revelry." "Not at all... I was interested to learn more about such proud warriors. Could you tell me of your clans past?" The leader smiled. "Yes, but first." she drew herself up. "I am chief Breaking Wind. What is your name?" Breaking Wind? Well, this will test my poker face. "I am Mordane Stronghoof." "Stronghoof? Good name... Now about our clan’s past." The room, which had carried on before, grew quiet as it became clear that the chief was about to tell a story. "Long ago," she began in a quiet voice. "Our tribe ruled over all the land from Tripington river to Inersel valley. Our clan had not yet grown to its full potential however. Our ambition was without end... then the chief grew sick." Mordane was well beyond any surprise. "In order to choose the successor, a sword battle was to be held by his son and daughter. They fought for hours yet in the end it was my ancestor who won. Pointing the sword at his fallen foe he turned to his father for him to declare victory. Yet it was not to be so. The chief had risen at his victory, but so glorious was his fighting skill, that the old one’s heart gave out. Shuddering he fell to the ground. " She paused in respect and all bowed their heads. Mordane mentally groaned. "His sister saw her chance. At his shocked face she swung her sword and nicked his shoulder. Then she claimed victory of first blood. Outraged, our ancestor attacked roaring the truth of his victory. In the end both were dragged away. Every day, they met on that field were the stone throne stood. If either one could but get the other to admit defeat, then they could unite the clan and claim the chief’s sword." Mordane said nothing. "The Sword of the Mountain... a blade forged with iron from a mountain’s heart. It is a glorious blade. A blade meant to conquer the world. It was placed in the old clan hall behind the stone throne. For generations our clan has fought itself. Every week, one of us will march out in our armor. The other shall rush to arm themselves. Always we meet in the blood field... oh you should see it, lad. A field stained red. Dozens of us will fall. Never to rise again. So long is our struggle. We charge each other trumpeting our battle cry." "FOR HONOR!" she yelled at the top of his voice. "FOR GLORY!" Yelled the hall in return. "AND THE BLUE DAWN!" The hall shook with the warriors roar. "How long has your clan fought itself?" said Mordane hoping that she might know more. "For over ten generations. My father and grandfather lie on that red field... I know they watch. Proud. Drinking to my honor." "Is there no hope for peace?" "Nay... not till they admit that it is I who should lead this clan." *********************************************************************** I think I might of seen some kind of massively improbable event... two clans both thinking the other is to blame. Both sharing a history and only some non-important things being the opposite. It's enough to drive one mad. Mordane was divided on his next action. Revealing the couple could end badly or result in the ceasing of violence between the two clan halves. The only other option would be to try and talk the two into a peace which considering the said romance was likely more tradition than hatred. ...Well I might as well go with the second option. The romance would probably be a better icing on the cake sort of motivation. But how to draw the two together..... ********************************************************************* Mordane was walking around Tahcon the general paty stance of the town had not lessened since he last had come... If he was to heal the clan, then understanding them would be a necessity. So he wandered around that village until coming on a peculiar scene. "Come on! Do you want the Nochats to have victory!" Out behind some building on an open dirt stretch a few young stallions and mares were laden down with massive piles of iron sitting on a stone pallet. It was strapped to her back as they struggled to walk in a straight line while simultaneously holding a spear. "Put your backs into it!" yelled a mare at the students. "But we have no liquid of strength! " one of the stallions groaned. ''Quit your complaining!" Mordane walked up to the instructor and lightly tapped her on the shoulder. "What is this liquid of strength he talks about?" She laughed. "It is what we drink to make us more powerful! Without it victory would be impossible!" Mordane nodded and moved on to his wanderings. Soon he came upon the blacksmith who was busy making a plow. "Good fortune upon you blacksmith." "Good fortune and glorious battle to you traveler. Are you going to fight with us tomorrow?" "Tomorrow?" he said with alarm. "Aye, tomorrow we march to the red field. There the two chiefs will meet in front of the old hall and demand the others surrender. If they refuse to bow to us then we shall fight once again." ...I will have to try then. It's the only place I'll have a chance. "Ah, so that's what those things are for." Mordane pointed to the edge of the blacksmiths land were some ponies were building what looked like siege engine parts. "Aye... need those for the battle." "If you are fighting tomorrow, why aren't you making any weapons or armor?" "There already made. Takes far too long to make the armor to wait until the last minute." The blacksmith then went on about how ingenious the armor designs were. Mordane could not understand it all really, but it sounded like it would have a built in cooling system of some kind and would make the wearer nigh invulnerable. Mordane politely nodded his head and moved away as soon as possible. There was not much more to do but eat and sleep in the hall before tomorrow....When he would have to pull out all the stops. That night a voice from long ago whispered in his ear. A pulse beat through his flesh... Gritting his teeth, the alicorn forces the memories and growing waves of hate away, before going to sleep. ************************************************************* The following day, Mordane was waiting at the hall. It was easy enough to find as it was the only structure near the battlefield. Looking down from the hill he could just not believe how red it was... almost as red as wine. His attention snapped back as the two clan leaders walked up the small hill. Coming to a standstill at the top of the hill both gave him questioning looks before turning to stare at the other. " YOU STUPI-!" "FAT UG-!" Both parties started hurling insults at each other while Mordane simply stood there blinking rapidly. Well....at least they haven't yet drawn swords. Mordane sat there and waited until a lull in there yelling before cutting in. "Would y’all two be quiet?" Both of the chiefs pause and blink at Mordane. "Listen, I know you two have not known each other long, but I think I can help yah." "Help how?" said both at the same time. Immediately glaring at the other. Psychologists would have a field day here. "Look, are you not one clan? Do you really want to continue to fight those who should be your brothers and sisters?" "Well of course not, but how are we suppose to work with them, unless she admits her ancestor was a liar!" "My ancestor?!" "Stop!" cut in Mordane." Is this really productive? What is really important?" "Honor." they both said without blinking. "Yes... honor. Is it honorable for brother to fight his sister for so long? Can we at least try to work something out.." The two shuffled around uncomfortably. Hope flared in Mordane’s chest. This was going better than he could of foreseen. "Will you let me try to find a way?" The two chiefs looked at each other and nodded with only a tiny flinch. "Very well... let’s begin." ****************************************************** Mordane sitting in the grand hall of the united clan. Empty, save for the two chiefs and two messengers. Outside, he could hear both sides preparing for battle. Behind him, held above all the decorations was a throne. Laid across it was a blade that had made his heart skip a beat. For it was the sword that had been held by the last chief to rule from this hall. Now however Four hours at the table and all they had agreed on was one that there was a battle between these two ancestors over a dozen generations before and two that the other was a complete tool that should bow down and lick the scum off the others feet. Progress was slow. "Look we are making no headway. Just tell me this. What is the most important thing about who becomes the clan leader?" "They must be the descendant of the victor of the sword match." Darn and without our knowing who really... Mordane face hoofed. Well it could work. If they don't have spouses... or their firstborns don’t. "...Do either of you have children?" "Yes, a son" said the mare clan leader. "And I a daughter." finished the other. No comment. "Well... its obvious both sides have honor... why not merge the two lines?" "WHAT!?" They both yelled nearly bursting Mordane’s eardrums.. "We are descended from the same line! It would be shameful!" Shouted the stallion. "That was well over fifteen generations back... you basically aren’t related at all now." "This is pointless!" shouted the mare. "Daylight continues. We go to war!" With that she turned and ran out. Followed quickly by the stallion. Mordane shook his head. What a waste...I have failed. The alicorn sat staring at the wood. Unsure of how he could've done better. Soon The roar of the two armies on the field below came to him. So standing, he made his way to the front door. Pausing only a moment to look on the battle below. ..... ..... .... The fuck? Mordane just could not comprehend at first what he was seeing. Part of him just refused to believe it. The knights were lined up on both sides of the fields in radically large armor. Though even that description was not enough to describe it. Each knight looked like an upside down ice cream cone with the bottom cut off. There helmeted heads sticking up and out. Two large funnels were mounted to their helmets. It took a bit to process, but the tubes leading down into the helmet and the smell of alcohol made it apparent. The open to funnels were quickly filled with barrels of whiskey as both sides continued to yell at one another. Oh god... this is... Both sides 'charged'. The better word would probably be waddle, as the suits apparently only had one joint. So they had to sway from side to side in order to move toward each other. An hour later the first two made it to each other. As they closed a couple of ponies ran out and straped wooden poles to there sides. Once close enough they would rotate their bodies and hit the other with the stick making a loud ringing noise. Mordane continued to stare dumbstruck at this spectacle. As the two groups fully conversed soon multiple ponies were hitting on one. Occasionally they would fall over only to wait as more squires dragged over the machines that Mordane had thought were catapults but seemed instead to be pulleys to lift the fallen soldiers. Mordane simply had to sit and take this in. ...The field is red from wine. ...There fallen have literally fallen over. ...There liquid of strength is alcohol. This is the most pathetic thing I have ever seen. ************************************************************ Hours later, Mordane sat on the hill as the two leaders walked up. His blood boiling in shame and anger. As they came to stand in front of him both ponies’ pride seemed to almost fill them. There looks filled Mordane with disgust. Of course, they began to insult each other, but Mordane would have none of it. “Be quiet” they both ignored him and kept on yelling. “I said, shut up.” Still no response even as mordane began to tremble. “SILENCE!” A crack rang through the air as a blast of wind and earth flashed out from Mordane. Both chiefs looked at him with their mouths hanging open. “I came here to learn what gave you so called ‘warriors’ strength. Having heard of your military past I even hoped to understand what held you back! Never could I of imagined that I would find a pack of fools.” “Hey you can't say tha-” The stallion guard was knocked to the ground as Mordane kicked him in the face. “I see now that you have lost your way! Yet I can save you.” “We don't need any saving!” “Ask that to your ancestors! That pathetic display out there was a shame on every one of them. If you fought anyone else, then you would die!” He took a step forward and used the spell shockwave. The ponies collected stumbled back as the wall of air hit them. Followed quickly by a hail of stone. “What is your word’s worth if you cannot even fight against me? A single unarmed Unicorn. Now you WILL come into this hall. We will find a solution for reintegration.” With that Mordane grabbed both chiefs with his telekinesis, and dragged them into the hall. Both groups retainers followed. Shouting and threatening. Yet none of them would lay a hoof on him. Cowards. After sitting them down they began to talk. Reluctantly at first. Mordane attacked every aspect of the way they did battle. Step by step, he forced them to admit the truth of how ineffective it was. Soon food was brought and all listened intently. A part of him that had laid silent stirred. As it edged awake his words became stronger, more sure. “With time, all ponies may lose their way but that is not what matters! It is what one does when this is called out that determines the value of a culture. Now I ask you. Please... for your children.” The two chiefs faces were shame filled. Both looked at each other and nodded. There hooves raised shake and bring about a lasting peace. Then a bread roll hit the Nochat clan leader’s head. Instantly, the whole place was in an uproar. Both sides began throwing food at each other while screaming like children. Buck! What do I do? I guess I'll have to fall onto those two love birds. “At least do it for the love between your two children.” He shouted at the chiefs. Utter silence. The chief Breaking wind spoke first. “What do you mean?” “I saw your son and his daughter kissing beneath the waterfall.” The mare chief turned to her son with a stern faced. “Is this true?” “...Yes mother, it is.” “You bastard!” Yelled several random mares from both sides of the room. “You bitch!” Echoed many more stallions yelling at the other chief’s daughter. The entire place descended into an all out food fight again. Mordane just stared. In utter defeat. There was nothing else to do. He stepped up from the table and turned around covering his eyes. I can’t even... Do they have nothing that would bring them together? Are they so petty? What could they care about!? Moving his hoof the alicorns eyes fell on their ancestor’s sword. The Sword of the Mountain. … If I survive this... No time With that Mordane grabbed the sword with his magic and yelled. “I’m stealing the Sword of the Mountain!” Nothing. They kept right on throwing food. “I’m heading for the door!” Surely they will not let me leave. About half way to the door he began floating silver plates and utensils over to a bag he made by ripping apart a pillow. “You know this painting of your ancestor would make good kindling. Do you mind if I take it?” The audible rip as the picture of their ancestor was torn from the frame caused no alarm. “I’m nearing the door... with your special sword... and the picture of your ancestor.” Mordane stood at the front door staring at the two clans still fighting. You know what. Buck them. and with that Mordane flew away. ******************************************************** The alicorn sat on a peak, miles from the valley in the mountain. Utter disgust filling him. Though not at their failures. At his. The only time I could even do anything was when... when... Out from the past, the dark voice called to him. His grandfather’s words no longer seemed so strong. ...If I am to defeat her. Then I will need power. But revenge is not enough. I need something more. Dare I let that deeper nature free? Dare I risk becoming a monster? The human in me gave up his ambition... I was willing to live a life on the side lines, away from the world’s stage. I gave up my ambition. Dare I take it up again? On the mountain whose name Mordane never learned, he made his choice. A broken mind came to that mountaintop. One that was unsure. Its heart hurt and twisted in confusion. The alicorn who left, felt none of these things. Only the drums. Only his hate. Only the need, for revenge. ************************************************************ Child Stalker came over the hill and looked down on the mud-ridden port city of Valenstien. Not a bad place to live. Well if you have the right mindset. The road leading up to the city was lined with stalls trading all manner of goods. They would shout at passing ponies, hoping some would even look at their wares. What a mess...I could always take the backway. The stallion stepped off the beaten path, while keeping an eye on the guards. Wouldn’t want to garner attention. He then made his way to the wall without being seen. Just over this section was the slums and the pony knew that no guards would be there... unless there had been someone important murdered... but that was unlikely. Better safe than sorry. Focusing his mind reached out beyond the wall. With a nod of his head he willed himself to be less noticeable and grabbed the rope from his bag. With one try he tossed the quickly made lasso over a rampart and made his way to the top before jumping down to the other side. His landing caused very little dust to be disturbed and even less noise. He made his way through the dark alleys. Soon he began to pass a few ponies. Most would walk past. However one bumped into him. “Sorry.” “No problem.” A few steps latter Child Stalker checked his coin purse and was unsurprised to find it cut. I think I made a profit. The thieves purse being slipped into his saddlebag. It was about double the size. Soon he saw a small colt sitting on a corner flipping a small coin. Now what was the code for the region? “You colt. Where can I wet my whistle?” “How dirty is it?” “A bit rusty...” “Oh, then you want the Rusty Mug.” Child Stalker passed him a coin after getting his directions. I think I told him the right one... lets see if I say its wet, I want a brothel. Muddy, a thieves den... yay I think thats right. The trip through the street took him through a few of the towns districts. The old slums quickly gave way to the stark lines of the craftsmen's houses. Followed quickly by the docks. Out on the sea, he could see ships pulling into harbor even as those up close prepared to leave with the tide. Taking a left he made his way quickly through the market and finally came upon his destination. The place was a regular bar to any who did not already know the truth. “What would you like.” “To wet my rusty whistle.” “What's your name.” Hmm now what name would he set. “Stronghoof.” The bar pony nodded and pointed to the back. “He said he would know it was you.” Child Stalker nodded and walked down the hall to the opening door. Once inside, he sat down and looked across the table. “Its good to see you, brother.” “Likewise. How is he?” “Alive. You were right.” “Good. Tell me, what is your plans?” Smut Peddler leaned back. His eyes shining in the darkly lit room. MercenariesMordane and Boulder reported to the warehouse the next day after both apologized and picked up their armor. From there, they were directed to a place just outside of town. As he came up on the mercenary camp, Mordane felt an itch rising in the back of his brain while he looked at it. ...So disorganized. Wonder they can get anything done. The tents of the camp were placed at random. Mordane could see at least three places where food carts were. Armor, tents, and ponies of every shape and size could be seen as well. No overall plan seemed to exist and even as he was looking the stallion could see at least three fights going on. Walking along the path he came across a board pony sitting at a table who called him over. "Name?" "Mordane." he responded "This is Boulder." "Find the tent labeled forty five. The third guy is in there. Do you have a tent of your own?" "Yes." "Leave it here." They complied, both giving each other looks knowing that this was a means of manipulation. Wondering around aimlessly Mordane resisted the urge to growl as the disorganization was repeatedly thrown in his face. The smell of dust, mud, piss and crap permeated the air but Mordane had grown use to that in the city. The ground beneath him had been churned to mud by hundreds of ponies over time. After an hour of searching both of them were tired and ready to rest. "There it is." Mordane walked in first and looked around the small tent before his eyes locked on the only pony inside. His groan was the equal of any prisoner who had just heard the death sentence. "Hey, beautiful. Fancy meeting you here," Child Stalker said while laying on his side and facing the entrance. "How in Tartarus did you get the same tent as me?" Wait I know that already "You know what just give me whatever feather you took." Boulder looked confused but shrugged and rolled out his cot. "Now, now, you must know I have backups." "Of course you do. Do you at least know if we are getting another pony in our tent?" "Naaa. When I bribed the tent assigner so he would put you and anyone you brought with you here." "No surprise there. Can you even fight?" "Of course." Mordane laid down on his side of the tent as Boulder talked to Stalker. "So how do you know this waste of flesh?" "I could ask the same. We met in Ponyville shortly after his arrival." "You going to tell him how you stalked me for upwards of six years Child Stalker?" Mordane butted in. "Nah, he probably won’t care about that." "...Your name is Child Stalker?" asked Boulder with confusion on his face. As the two started to exchange stories, Mordane left the tent to report to his superior unicorn mage. It took several questions and near threats to find his tent. It was bigger than most and a shiny green. Two guards in gray plate armor stopped him before he entered and asked for his name before checking with the unicorn inside. After being allowed inside Mordane looked around to see a surprisingly plain tent with a regular cot, a table, and what appeared to be an alchemy set. "Mordane?" asked a voice from his right. Looking over, he saw the necromancer from earlier and saluted. With a warm smile, he motioned to a mat beside him as a cup floated over filling with alcohol. "Come sit with me, Mordane. We have to discuss some things." "It would be my pleasure, sir," said Mordane returning the smile and sitting down. "Now, young one. What do you know about combat?" "Well... I was involved in the planning and fighting of a battle to the north. A bunch of farmers were facing diamond dogs." "Sounds like a terrible situation. Tell me, how did you fight. Personally I mean." he said while pouring himself a glass as well. "Thank you," Mordane commented as he picked up his own glass. "I used my War magic mostly... Used the other ponies to hold the front line. Ended up spending most of my time counteracting their shamans." "Really? How many of them were there?" "...I do not know. If I may ask, what is your name?" "Oh thats right," he said tapping the side of his head. "We three forgot to tell you our names. I am Steady Gaze. The first pegasus with the great sword was High Rise and the other was Cloud Charmer." "I am pleased to know you, Steady Gaze." "Please just call me Gaze" "Mr Gaze. I however must admit that I have no experience working with others in battle with magic." "Ah." Concern flashed up onto Gaze's face. "Well its rather simple. We split into two groups. One attacks, the other links minds and defends." Mordane tensed up. "Link minds!?" "Do you have a problem with it?" Anger flashed through the Unicorns eyes. "Well... no. Its just I've been told that linking with my mind is uncomfortable," Mordane said hoping the unicorn would just accept it. "Really? Well link with mine right fast." "...Are you sure?" "Yes, I'm sure. With as long as I've been at it there should be no problem." "Isn't it dangerous... I mean my last teacher never got around to it." Actually I got her to avoid it. I swear, that girl’s lists. "Not at all. The only danger while linking mind is if one of your minds is so much more powerful that it can swallow the other and does so." "...And if that happens?" "Oh ummm....Well normally three or four unicorns must work together to break through anothers mind. At that point the unicorn could pretty much take what they wish." "What about controlling them?" Gaze shook his head. "Oh no, that would be too difficult. It would require a constant connection and would drain energy constantly. The mind is self correcting, any attempt at permanent control would be shrugged off." "What of memories?" "Lock them behind a wall and I won’t see them." Mordane thought back the the first necromancer he had defeated and nodded his head. Even after breaking through the best he had been able to do was hold him. "Very well... Let’s proceed." With a mental twist Mordane pulled back on his memories, locking them away. Mordane felt as the stallion reached out and made contact. At first he almost panicked but soon he could feel Gaze’s mind reaching out like an open hand. Mordane reached out in return and contact was made. Gaze gasped and pulled back his mind before shaking his head. Stumbling from his chair Gaze darted to the other side of his tent and sat gasping. The old unicorn did not know what to think of the mind behind those eyes. It was like he had been smacked. What confused him even more was that he felt no ill will from it. That extreme turmoil was just the normal state. "By the old gods, boy. Where did you get a mental shield like that?" "I'm sorry?" Mordane confusion and worry welling up inside of him. "That mental wall you have around your mind. Its like a torrent of emotion." The old stallion came back close and floated over a quill and paper. "How do you function with such turmoil?" "...Uhh." Mordane did not understand what could this stallion be talking about his mind was a calm sea. I mean I don't feel agitated. In fact I'm rather calm. "Err, it’s just the way I think. I mean, I don't really feel all of that. It just goes on." "Fascinating. Your mind is similar to predators if what you say is true. The normal pony mind would have to have a strong will in order to touch your mind. I wonder what would have caused this?" Gaze started pacing around the tent leaving Mordane to sit. "Umm, Sir? What does this mean for my working with the other unicorns." "Hmm? Oh yes. It means you will not. Quiet a gift you have there. I will assign you to the aggressive team." "Thank you, sir." "No problem. Now report to your tent, we march tomorrow." "Where are we going?" Mordane asked curiously. Gave paused as a stern look came over his face. "That is not your concern," Gaze's voice said with a tone that could cut air. "Just follow orders and we will get out alive." Mordane bit back a retort at the sudden harsh rebuttal and saluted before leaving. Just think about the money. It is worth it for that. ********************************************************** The bitter taste in Mordane’s mouth from the uncalled-for rebuke still lingered on the tongue as he neared his tent. The sound of Boulder and Child Stalker arguing came out from the tent causing his to frown. Walking in he sat down and waited for the time to butt in and end the argument. "The reality of war is violence. To strike without the intent to kill is to do nothing," said Stalker with a cold tone and he laid on his back looking at the top of the tent. Boulder was standing with his eyes ablaze. He was practically spitting fire. "The point of violence is not to kill! Its to protect those who cannot protect themselves!" "Any who cannot protect themselves will inevitably fall to those who are strong. All who oppose a nation’s safety should be destroyed." "At some point or another every nation becomes a threat! Your interpretation would lead to constant war! Violence is a necessity of familiar. It is with the threat of violence that a nation can have peace." Stalker stood up, the calm expression falling from his face to reveal ager every much as hot as Boulders. "By your own admission peace is but a delusion! The time before inevitable combat! Violence begets violence and only with destruction of all but one people will it end!" "You sico-" "Both of you are wrong," Mordane cut in. "What would you know about it?" snapped Boulder "Enough. Violence is the base of civilization. It is only through force that order is established. To put it simply; Violence is control." "We were talking about war! Not control." "War is violence. Nothing more than violence on a massive scale. The extension of control through force in its most base form. Everything that holds society together is only an extension of that basic form of control and could not have come into existence without it." Boulder was frowning at the statement, trying to understand what he was saying. "Do you mean that violence is neither evil nor good?" asked Stalker with surprise coming over him. "Yes. It is simply put a tool. Something to be used with caution. Too much and you risk destruction. Too little and you leave the world’s fate in the hooves of others." A smile broke on his face. "I would not of guessed you understood philosophy, Stalker." "Oh yes I do. It helps in my line of work." "Stalking children?" cut in Boulder. A knowing smile met his. "Not necessarily. Though I must admit, that particular interpretation I've never heard before, Mordane. Where did you hear it?" The curiosity evident on his face. "Nowhere. Now go to sleep. We have a lot of marching tomorrow." Actually I came up with it as a human. One of my many useless hobbies back then. With that all three laid down and went to sleep one by one. Only to be woken by drums at six in the morning. ********************************************** Marching and camping and camping and marching and eating and camping and marching and sleeping. Just how far away is this job anyway? The army had been moving for days. In the evening they would set up camp wherever they happened to stop. Normally there would be no water or flat, clear ground. Mordane would use his sword to go cut wood. This was not good for the blade, which pleased the alicorn. His distaste of that clan was still strong. Mordane and the other two had taken to filling a barrel with water and carrying it with them in a cart they had found. Well, found in the supply train...with bags of salt in it. They simply threw the bags into another cart and pulled it away. No one had complained yet. Sharing it had helped to make them popular among the others. Mordane himself had gone to High Rise about the problem. His exact words were, ‘A little thirst will make you lot march faster’ Idiot. The army had stopped for the day and Mordane had decided to take a crack at repairing Kindle. Sitting her on the water barrel in front of him, Mordane assessed the damage. The spine was cracked and a large part of the side was burned by the lightning. It had even made its way through the book cover. This is way over my head. At the very least I would need another vessel and several ponies help. Plus weeks of preparation. Even then, there is no guarantee that all the knowledge would survive. "Hey, Mordane" "Hello, Stalker. Where have you been?" The pony came walking in and looked at Mordane’s book. "Oh not much. Yourself?" "I'm considering Kindle’s injuries." He lifted her up and began rotating it around. "Kindle is her name? I was wondering, never caught it before you moved into that blasted hidden room." Mordane glared at him. "Sorry." He sighed. "Its alright, Stalker. I forgive you. For all of it. I'm sure you had your reasons." "Wow, Mordane," he said raising his eyebrows. "That’s generous of you. What's it been, two months since Ponyville?" "Aye... two months." "How much could be in that book anyway? You must be running out of things to learn from it." "Well, it’s magical...and made by Star Swirl. The information could be... well, everything he learned. Though I must admit I was nearing the edge of useful info. It seems he only put in the stuff that was difficult for him. Most of it is useless to anyone else but him." "Then why do you want to repair it?" "...Just seems like a waste." A smile slowly dawned on Stalker’s lips. He laughed out loud. "You miss her, don't yah?" "What? Nah, she is just a construct. A creation of magic and logic puzzles....She could not really be alive." "That’s not really the question here." Mordane hung his head as Stalker laughed. "Look, Stalker...I just wanted something I'm use to. New land, destroyed life, I don't even know where the army is going!" The angry stallion threw down Kindle with a smack against the barrel in anger as Stalker paused and considered what he said. "Well we are headed into Cabistien. West of Tietus." "Cabistien? Why is it called that?" "No idea. All the cities down here have random names. Anyway, Cabistien is a kingdom with three cities under its control. The leader ruling from the capital with a dozen lords I think?" "Is it a queen or king?" "Not sure currently. Changes from time to time... How much do you know about the south?" Mordane took a seat and made himself a cup of water. At the same time stalker moved over and picked up his saddle bags before sitting across from him. "Nothing really. ‘Sept what you just told me." "Hmm, give me a moment." Stalker sat rubbing his chin with the ankle just before the hoof. Seemingly thinking on what he wanted to tell Mordane. A growing apprehension started up in the younger stallion. What could be making him think about it so hard? "Look, Mordane. I am no good a drawing maps and the captain would not like it if his disappeared. So I'm just going to show you my way. Keep your fancy unicorn magic out of it. Ok?" "Sure?" Mordane didn't know what to make of Stalker’s statement. It did not seem to make sense, but the pony/human would obey. With a nod of his head Stalker rummaged around his sack. Taking out various bottles and books. Soon a small pile was around him leaving Mordane to conclude that the pony’s bag had to be smaller on the outside than it was inside. Soon however he pulled out a large gem. As Stalker packed his things back into the bag Mordane examined the crystal with his eyes. It has a large reddish gem that was mostly clear. Oddly enough, it was shaped like a small bowl even though Mordane could not see any cut marks. To his eye it seemed to have simply grown that way. Excitement came rushing back to Mordane as his mind started jumping for solutions to what could make such a thing. It had to be something magical, but It did not use unicorn magic and can be used by an earth pony? It was said that only unicorn horns could cast spells, and this was true but there was plenty of evidence to suggest that it was not the only form of castable magic. Pinkie Pie had been enough evidence to that. There was also the crystal heart that Twilight talked of. In her mind, it had to have been unicorns who made it, but Mordane was not so sure. Especially since the Crystal Empire was an earth pony state. Stalker reached out with one hoof and tapped on the crystal. At that moment Mordane felt a rush in his mind. The crystal began pulse. Growing darker and lighter shades of red repeatedly. After a moment a sphere of light floated up out of the cut and took shape before his eyes. Mordane gasped. Before him was a map but no still image. No, it had moving seas and oceans. Clouds moved over its surface as strange shapes took form on the land mass. "This is the land south of the great divide. What the southern nations call the mountain range between Equestria and here. About 400 miles from that mountain range to the peninsula with six kingdoms and five city states." Stalker stopped looking at Mordane and rubbed the side of his head. "Sorry. Maintaining this mental image is difficult." "...I can imagine so without a spell. Did you make this thing?" Stalker smiled. "Aye...I suppose you would want me to teach you. Should be possible with your earth pony side." "Well I have noticed I can't sense you. Is that part of this ability as well?" "Well that would be telling. Now look at this map. You see how it looks like two letter U's with the left one flipped over and the whole thing rotated to the right? The place where the two meet is usually were these ponies call the divide between north and south." "Do they not know of Equestria?" "They know of it but not much beyond that. It took many years for my people to move north of the wall." Stalker grew gloomy and thoughtful before shaking his head. "In the north is Toe, Derrena and Frozi. Derrena being the largest." "Why does the Frozi name have a griffin behind it?" The half bird half lion was cast in shadow behind the name. Glaring in anger. "That land use to belong to the griffin empire before the pony revolution five hundred years ago. As to why you can see that on the map...Well the image comes from on my own mind so my… thoughts on the different places will probably leak through." "Okay." Looking at Derrena he saw a bunch of ponies walking around whispering to one another. Occasionally one would pick up a crown. Soon however he would be stabbed in the back. Toe showed ponies in rags next to ponies covered in diamonds on the coast as ships were moving around in the water. "Cabistien rests on the north side of the divide between north and south. While Dimier is on the southern half. Irona is south of that." Cabistien seemed to consist mostly of ruined forts and ponies building forts, on both the north and south frontier. Dimier was the same on its north while the south was covered in ponies with spy glasses and ponies standing around eyeing the nations to the south. "Then there are the city states. Tartus we left two weeks ago in the regions center. On the opposite side of Cabistien than Ike. Which as you can sees hugs the west coast bellow Toe. Both are port cities." Mordane looked at Tartus and could only see what seemed like ponies crawling over one anouther. They would change position and looks so quickly he could not trace any pattern. While Ikes border with Cabistien seemed shabby, almost non existent. Ponies could be seen crossing all the time. "Fae, NIe and Heridon line the southern peninsula with Herdon being on the very tip." The three city states seemed to consist of children throwing rocks at each other. occasionally they would charge over each others border and grab whatever they could. Fae seemed to be made of pegasi while Nle had earth ponies. Heridon was the only city with both earth ponies and unicorns. Though the unicorns were covered in fine dress while the earth ponies were covered in mud. "Now listen. Toe, Derrena, Dimier, and Irona are all ran by kings and queens who rule absolutely. Cabistien and Fazi are republics. Of the city states all are ran by a council save for Tartus and Herdon. Tartus is ran by a collection of wealthy merchants hold up in the castle. The leadership goes to whoever is the richest at the time. Heridon is a kingdom. Though considering how it lacks control of more than one city and cannot even maintain control of the local towns around it that title is a bit inaccurate." Mordane stood there trying to take it all in. Before shaking his head and mumbling the nations names. After a time he gained a grasp on it and went on to examine the magic itself. "Stalker...Where did you learn this earth pony magic?" "Earth pony magic?" Stalkers eyebrows raised. "It usually takes me days to get the unicorns to admit I'm doing this." "Well... I can feel you doing it. I have the power of an earth pony remember?" Stalker smiled. "Ha! That's right. Most believe earth ponies are the least magically inclined of the races. In reality it's just more subtle. Pegasi move clouds, unicorns move the stars and earth ponies, well earth ponies move the earth." Mordane frowned at that. "I've never seen an earth pony do anything besides move incredibly heavy loads before. I mean the crystal heart was something strange, but I was not certain." Laughter rang through the tent as the image floating above the crystal faded. "Oh look," Stalker said picking up and putting the crystal away. "You made me lose focus. Listen, Mordane. Unicorns generally feel very self important. They have the showiest kind of magic. The kind that none can doubt. Many of them specialize in finding gems and shaping theme for magic purposes. Despite this most quality gems come from earth pony farms. Rock farms, their called. Most unicorns say the earth ponies just find the gems but in reality they grow them." "Grow? Earth ponies can grow gems!?" He was in shock. Most gems were near worthless save for the few rare kinds. "If gems can be grown then how can there be ones of any value?" "That's simple," he smiled. "It ain't easy to grow ‘em. Very few earth pony families have the strength. Even with them, very few have the skill or patience. Now this one here," -he said tapping his bag- "is one I made and it's been tuned with a very specific purpose. " It clicked in Mordane’s head. "Oh. I get it. You use the crystal as a plate a sort of...directing element. Then you pour power into it with concentration...or if you're a unicorn, raw magic." "Unicorn? No this is-" "Cadence is the crystal princess...she might not know how it was made but her power is compatible with the crystal heart. So she can power it... Most of these kinds though wouldn't work with-" Stalker shoved his hoof into Mordane face frowning. "Look. The Crystal heart is one reason I was in Equestria to begin with. I know how it works and you’re right, that is exactly the case. However it was just random alignment. Making one of these that is compatible with unicorn magic is like... keeping sharks and fish alive together in the same tank. Unicorn magic is just too aggressive." Mordane nodded in agreement and understanding. He kept silent before speaking up again. "I would like you to teach me this magic." Stalker smiled and after a moment considering he spoke up again. "I'll do it for a lap dance." ************************************************ Stalker began teaching Mordane two days later. That is after waking from his injuries after Mordane used his forehead to break a few rocks. He found the entire thing hilarious. Three weeks after leaving Tietus, Mordane was called to commander High Rise’s tent. Though he had been meeting Steady Gaze every few days to learn the magical side to battle he had not spent much time with the other two leaders. Walking in to the commander’s tent, Mordane repressed the urge to wrinkle his nose. The tent was excessively large for one pony. The full size bed seemed excessive for a commander who would put up to four ponies into a single tent. The glass cups and wine bottles did not help. He almost did not notice the bit of white powder on the table. "Sir, Mordane Stronghoof reporting." The pegasus turned to Mordane after pouring himself a drink. The serious look on his face cracked at Mordane’s statement and laughed. He looked a bit ragged with bloodshot eyes. "Oh, I cannot believe it. Steady Gaze told me you used sir all the time. Such respect is not needed. After all, we’re only mercenaries." That is when you need respect most of all. "Of course, sir...Though it would make me more comfortable to continue to do so." He chuckled. "Very well. Have you seen Cloud Charmer yet?" "Your second in command? No, I haven't." "And why not?" High Rise’s voice took on a dangerous tone. Mordane’s mental alarms started to go off. "I have had no reason to, sir." "NO REASON! What about your scouting mission!" High Rise yelled. "Scouting mission? I am not aware of any-" Mordane stumbled back in shock as the glass of wine impacted his face. Only his flinching and quick reactions prevented him from getting glass in his eye. Three cuts bleed as Mordane pulled off the glass bits on his face. High Rise yelled the entire time. "YOU PIECE OF SHIT! STOP CALLING ME SIR AND NOT EVEN GETTING YOUR THINGS TOGETHER WHEN I SENT YOU A MESSAGE! GET OUT!" Mordane walked out using his mind sight and finished pulling off the glass shortly after leaving. Well... that happened. The alicorn did not even know how to feel about the assault. It had just come so out of right field. What kind of moron would throw glass at somepony’s face, even if they’re high? I swear if he keeps that up I'm going to end up killing the guy...Come to think of it, he never even told me what it was that he wanted. Stalker and Boulder were on latrine duty. Walking into his tent, Mordane found a mirror and did repair work on his face, careful to make sure the skin healed together without scarring. Five minutes later a runner appeared carrying a message telling him to report to Cloud Charmer... before noon. Mordane looked up in the sky and saw there was not much time. He quickly put together that they were about to go on some scouting mission so he quickly wrote a note and left it were the other two could find it. At the same time he collected his gear, preparing to travel light. I'll probably be out for only a few days. Finding Cloud Charmer was easy enough. The mild mannered stallion simply nodded at his explanation for arriving so close to the time to leave. He told Mordane to meet him and the others of the scout mission at a location he described "Don't forget to bring enough supplies for two days of flight." **************************************************** Mordane had walked out of the camp range of sight before taking off. The scouting party was to meet in an open valley to the west of the armies position. As Mordane flew he worked to settle the irritation he felt toward High Rise. Even if he was acting like a fool, Mordane knew questioning his orders or showing doubt in his leadership would only result in the army almost certainly dying. In battle hesitation would mean death. I just have to believe he knows what he is doing...despite the evidence otherwise. The pegasi waiting in the grassy clearing did not even turn to look as he approached on wing. Landing he did not bother to tuck his wings away or hide his horn. You know, this will be the first time I'm open about my nature here. I wonder how they will react. "What the buck...?" One of the pegasi had looked at him as he approached. Seeing Mordane wings and horn he had muttered under his breath. Quickly all the others stopped what they were doing and turned to see what he had been talking about. "Cool it, ya'll. You should recognize me." The army itself had only just over a thousand ponies but Mordane and his group had started gaining a bit of notoriety. "I did not know that unicorns could make themselves wings!" "They can't," Cloud Charmer said as he glided in over Mordane's head. Landing softly he stretched a bit before continuing. "This here is an entirely different species. Half unicorn and half pegasi." I'll just let him keep thinking that. "Mordane, have you ever flown in formation?" "No, sir." "Storm Cloud will tell you the basic flying patterns. Let's move out!" ************************************ Over the next few days the ponies flew in a V formation over a large area. Basically they would have to zig-zag across the land while looking with their eyes. Formation wise there was only a circle, A, box, and V. The party leader was one of the most uncharismatic ponies he had ever met. He would give orders in simple phrases without smile then go off to sleep alone. This was the first time he noticed the... relational habits of many of his fellow soldiers. The mares and stallions would pare off almost at random. This was in direct violation of Cloud Charmer’s orders but it was obvious to Mordane that the pegasi had no respect. It was on the third day however that the party was attacked, though Mordane would have used that word while rolling his eyes. The ponies below fired arrows from tree cover up into the air but the pegasi were far too high to be hit. His fellow soldiers laughed. Mordane waited for his orders. "Mordane, Storm. Keep an eye on them. We will go back to the army and report." That's exactly what happened. Without anypony of interest around or any events causing even the slightest fear, Mordane was left his to thoughts. Mordane found the entire experience incredibly boring. They would take shifts flying to a nearby mountaintop to both sleep and eat before trading up. One week after leaving camp the army caught up with them. *************************************** Mordane stretched his hooves as he made his way to the army encampment. Five days on the wing completely bored out of his mind. Even those soldiers firing arrows at us in the air barely raised my heart beat. He sighed. I bet High Rise is preparing to seize their homes and families. That would likely force their surrender. Walking up to the meeting place Mordane was surprised to see the army preparing to march. He quickly saw that most of the ponies had put on their full armor. This is insane! We should be resting. The army has been marching for days. As he contemplated this, Steady Gaze walked out from behind a preparing column to meet him giving his orders. "The army is splitting into two groups. It seems the other scouting party found another group of these farmers. You will command the unicorns in group A since you're the only aggressor in that group. We are to put them down. You’re with B go talk to Cloud Charmer." With no time to rest the pony found Cloud Charmer as soon as he could. Only to be ordered to find the other two mages who would be acting as defense. After searching for them he finally found that they had left with the other group already. God I'm glad we are only fighting farmers or this would be a disaster. Finally Mordane had a chance to meet his comrades... Only to find that they had been sent with group A as well. Sighing Mordane went prepared himself for battle. Yet, he noticed so was everypony else. Who is staying to hold our supplies? Mordane just assumed no one would and brought his essentials with him. Finally an hour late, the force of three hundred left the now empty camp to march unstopping through the forest. The human forced himself to stay near the front of the column. His moral at a low though he refused to show it. Every action of this armies leadership made him angrier and angrier. With such weak commanders he feared for the lives of his men and those of his enemy. Victory was a must, but any killed life was a waste. With such a weak command they will likely drive us straight into combat. With that, we will both take casualties. With our superior equipment we should be able to force their surrender if they actually stand to fight. The stallion scanned the woods hoping that Cloud Charmer would prove to be an excellent field commander even if his charisma was lacking. About four kilometers from the last known position Mordane spoke up to his commander. "Sir, ...we are getting close. Should we not send out scouts or get off the road? They may have moved or there may be an ambush." The stallion laughed for the first time since Mordane had met him. "Look, colt. I have seen how you go about things over the last few days. You’re too uptight." Smiling, he continued, "Look, there is no danger of them ambushing us they are just-" As Mordane registered the arrow that had suddenly grown out of his commander’s eyeball and fired up his shield. Only two thoughts came up in his mind. Oh the irony. I will save them. "AMBUSH!" With a roar he fellow mercenaries charged. With a breath Mordane willed a force shield into be in front of him. The drain on his available energy was immense. He was grabbing as much as he could and yet it was not coming fast enough to keep up with the energy expending from the arrow attacks. A true master of shield spells could make one that would only activate when another spell detected incoming missiles. That was beyond him though. At about one second they were half the way down the road to where the ambushers were when the critical point was reached. That was when Mordane reached for his spare power in the bracelet he had made a few weeks earlier. Smiling he laughed as the shield that was near breaking resolidified. Protecting them all the way up to the enemies. The earth pony archers fell quickly. Most surrendering before physical contact was made. Mordane pinned one to the ground and turned to wait for orders. However none came. Even as the other mercenaries fell on the other archers. The stallion looked down at his prisoner expecting to see a shoulder. However what meet his eyes was a colt with tears in his eyes and trembling hooves. Instead of armor he saw only a sack cloth. These ponies are only farmers...oh shit. Are we putting down a rebellion? Looking around he saw that all the other archers had been captured. The mercenaries had tied them up and were laughing as they kicked them on the ground and poked them with knives. Some were obviously preparing to execute them. Where is our leadership? Who was second in command!? Then it hit him. Cloud Charmer must have never appointed one. The pony had always seemed... off. Maybe he did not consider that it was a possibility. Mordane however knew what he had to do. "STAY YOUR SWORD SOLDIERS! TAKE THEM PRISONER!" There was many different reactions to his order. As he indicated to another mercenary the pony he had been pinning. Most of the ponies who had been standing around watching moved to obey without thought. Some continued until him or others made them stop. One pony however ignored him entirely. *Thunk* Mordane swiveled his head and saw a rather large earth pony with an axe. On the other side of the group. He had started to give orders as well. Mostly ones involving lining up the prisoners as he chopped their heads off one by one. "What do you think you're doing! Stay your axe." The stallion looked at him smiled and swung anyway. *Thunk* Another head rolled as Mordane failed to yank the axe out of the would be executioner’s hooves. "I said stay you axe, soldier." "Who are you to order me?" Suddenly Mordane’s eyes opened and he took in his position. The place where the earth pony had been executing others was on a small rise of earth. Without realizing it, Mordane had run up on that and directly challenged another. All around them ponies of the army were getting quiet during their quick exchange. It was the quiet that he had noticed. Mordane knew how minds worked. If he backed down now, this one would be in command and looking into his eyes he saw only bloodthirst. I need to establish authority...There is only one way to do that so quickly. "My name is Stronghoof and I am in command." The pony laughed and leaned on his axe. " You? A unicorn? You don't have the guts to lead. Step down, little colt." Mordane stopped up to the towering pony emanating disgust. A simple spell of fear could have helped him but he was alone and a glowing horn could provoke an attack. "No I will not step down. I was content to rest under the hoof of a pony who was paying me, but not a bloodthirsty fool like you." The earth ponies smile grew into a full grin as he swung the large axe up onto his back. He walked up the stallion before him. "You are within my kill range, unicorn, if your horn glows I'll kill you. Now tell me which of us is stronger. Tell me who leads." Damn he is not backing down...I would have preferred to avoid this. Mordane fell back on his War magic and pulled at the earth beneath the large earth pony’s hooves. Since War magic does not use the horn, he never had a chance to react before suddenly losing his footing and falling to the ground. Mordane did not hesitate. He wrapped magic around his swords handle and quickly moved the blade over to the pony’s throat. It was over in a second. The blade was on his throat before the others even gasped. Now to gain their respect....through fear. "Listen here you lumbering ulf. I have killed more ponies than I care to count." I think three? " In my studies I have ripped out the souls and made slaves of ponies stronger than you." Total lie... or at least it was. I'm so sorry. Suddenly Mordane’s horn began to glow black. Even though he had never cast the spell before memories of doing so came back to his mind. There was curses and girly screams as ponies once dead shuddered and stood up. He only could raise five for a short time but it would be enough. Cloud Charmer and two other mercenary ponies walked toward the small hill as a crowd parted for them. The two headless ponies rose up from where they had been left after the axe pony left them. One casually walking over to pick up his now served head and hold it. The pony beneath his sword had stopped grinning as he hit the ground. At the gasps he had frowned and when the headless pony came into view he looked. "As you can see, I am far from just a regular unicorn. Do you acknowledge my leadership? If not I could always use your corpse." Fear blossomed in the ponies all around him as he looked at the pony below him, now covered in his own piss and shaking. "I... I will obey." "Good." Mordane withdrew his sword. "Then see to it that all the prisoners are collected and kept alive. Remember: Alive. If they are harmed... well I'm sure you know already." The pony ran off to do as he commanded. Turning, Mordane addressed the crowd. "Does anypony else challenge my authority?!" Silence. "Then regroup. We march in the hour. Scouts report to me for you orders." ************************************************* Mordane bundled up his disgust over using both the sword and necromancy until later. For now he had an engagement to plan. The ponies around him parted wherever he walked and obeyed without question. Soon the fifty captured farmers were in a wooden cell constructing between the trees. Mordane left ten soldiers to guard them and mentioned something near them about how he had been ordered to keep them alive unless they tried to run. Then he could eat their souls. The scouts reported back good news. The remaining farmers were held up on a single hill only a mile away. Mordane smiled as they described the ponies position "I have a plan." *************************************************************** Ground Berry was a Cabistien earth pony who grew grapes. He and his father were serfs under the local pegasi lord who hated earth ponies. Needless to say, life was not good for the ponies under his rule. Food was scarce as fully four fifths of what they grew was taken by the lord. He would sell the food to other lords and merchants. Then instead of using the money on his subjects he would pocket or spend it on his castle. Bandits were common as the lord only hired enough guards to protect his castle and the main road of trade. Towns were left to fend for themselves. That is why the townsfolk had finally had enough. They rose up and refused to pay their taxes. When the few guards showed up they were quickly driven away by the larger force as the colt had proven to be a competent leader. After that Berry had set his sight higher than before. Generations ago this region had been independent. Why not take the keep and make himself lord? He could make sure the other ponies were treated right and live in comfort as a loved lord. Now however, the lord had hired some mercenaries. Young Ground frowned as one of his scouts reported the forward group captured. Their numbers were larger than I imagined... How did he take them so easily? Do they have magic? "Sir!" shouted and older mare running up to his table with a rough map on it. "Thompson just spotted the mercenaries, they’re here!" She was shaking him her boots as the colt stood up and stepped onto the table, a bow emblazoned on his flank. "Calm down, Cherry, we are okay. This high ground will give us an advantage. We have all the food and if they attack, then we will win. Even with three hundred, that is still only half our number." The mare blushed at the bravery and calm in the colt before her. He was only fifteen years of age and already a leader. The colt did not notice this however. Instead he started telling his older brother orders who would then yell them out for all to hear. At first others had teased him for taking orders from one so young but not anymore. Soon they had weapons and a goal. "Prepare the defenses! Archers at the ready!" The earth ponies were well dug in. Their hill had a chest high mound of dirt in two levels around it. The first line being melee and second archers. Looking between two spikes the colt squinted at the forest edge enemy. There he could see a few dozen ponies moving around just out of bow range. What are they planning...? Soon however he saw five ponies break away. He saw they each carried a great sword and moved with a shuffle. Each one was wearing a full body cloak with their hoods pulled up. The buck? Do they want these ones to die? Looking around he tried to think of a way this could help them. There was nothing he could think of however. He was not going to move his troops to meet this side until they had already attacked...so were they surrendering? "Ponies!" he yelled. "Mercenaries! Throw down your weapons and surrender! Do not waste your lives in such a way!" The five ponies ignored the command. A feeling of unease came to the boy’s stomach. Looking around he saw it reflected in his troop’s eyes. They’re trying to unnerve me... "Archers! Fire!" Over the next few seconds the archers let loose. The arrows sailed through the air and impacted the ponies. To their horror they did not fall even with six or more arrows in them "Again!" The archers let loose a second time. This time however the arrows made enough damage to the garments that they simply started to fall off. Even as they let loose a third salvo the farmers were met with a horrifying sight. Carmel, Biscuit. Oh sweet maker what have they done to you? The two ponies he recognized had swords sticking in their eyes that were pushed all the way through and down out the neck and into the body bellow. The arrowes plunged into the flesh where stuck in deep. Even as he turned back from throwing up he saw the head of one dislodged and fall off. Its mouth still opening and closing as his eyes shifted around. Screams rang out as they saw fifty ponies stepped out of the forest with the same dead eyed look of their face. "BRING THE PONIES FROM THE BACK TO THE FRONT!" The farmers all moved around and stared as the five ponies finally stopped at the lines edge, so full of arrows that their bodies could not move. They stared as the fifty odd ponies started to move forward. Suddenly Ground Berry heard shouting behind him. Turning he was met with the sight of a large pony, with blue eyes, dark brown coat and off white mane, staring into eyes with a spear pointing at his throat. As he watched the horn on his head started to glow black as his eyes turned green and shadows played out in tendrils. "I saw you giving orders...give one now and tell your ponies to surrender." The farmers fell with barely a fight. Mordane was able to take them from behind as they were distracted from the front. The farmers had left two ponies to watch however Mordane had encased their heads in a sound proof shield. The fifty ponies from the front had been faking their state of undead. Casualties were non existent on both sides as Mordane had ordered his troops to refrain from lethal force and the mercenaries hit far too quickly for the farmers to react. There were plenty of injuries on both sides, however. As he gave out the orders, he reflected on the differences of real command to books. Really it just comes down to people. Who they are, how they think. Sun Tzu lead me true today. Walking over to the children section. Mordane grinned. After talking to the older brother he had a promise to keep. God I hope he gets this. I'd hate to have some twerp try and kill me a few years from now. "Ground Berry. Where is Ground Berry?" The colt stood tall in the middle of the mass of children. Comforting those older and younger than himself. Mordane was impressed. He felt sorry for these people but letting them go would do no good. It would only prolong the inevitable. The colt walked forward like a martyr to be killed. Mordane motioned for the boy to follow eventually finding a tent to go in that was empty. "So, young one. I don't want you to say anything. Nothing you could say would matter. I will tell you only this. Your brother has arranged with the other villagers to take the claim for being the leader of the rebellion instead of you." Shock played across the boys face followed quickly by rage. He opened his mouth to speak. "Quiet! Now listen. You want self rule, yes? I'll tell you how to get it. When your older, after years of preparing, after this village appears to be nothing but loyal to the lord and he lowers his guard, attack his keep. Do not wait out by a village for a few months, be prepared and move in one fluid strike. Take out his throne and kill him before he can leave. Then take all that gold your brother says is in that keep and send half to the ruler of this land." "That is our bits!" "Then use it to buy your ponies happiness! Send a letter telling about how terrible he was at using the land. Tell him how he stole money from the king or whatever is head of this nation. Then tell him you have reclaimed what is his and that the people have asked you to be there lord and that you said only if the ruler or whatever says yes. Then you will have your freedom." The child stared at the pony who had so resoundingly beat him then told him how to win next time. How according to those loyal to him had prevented the massacre of his fellow villagers and forced their surrender without blood. He did not know what to think. "What is your name?" "I am Mordane Stronghoof." "You won an amazing victory today." "I broke the heart of farmers and preserved its most important piece. This was nothing." With that he pulled the colt back the children and moved to prepare for his commander. This would be just the beginning. He would fight her one day. I'll fight her, for others. ************************************* High Rise was not having a good day. These farmers had lead him on a goose chase. Somehow fooling the scouts into believing that the main part of the army was farther south. Now it was likely that he would go to find his three hundred ponies killed. Oh he would make those farmers pay. At least that's what he told his men. In truth he did not mind the loss. It would mean less ponies to pay at the end of the exposition. They even took a bit to pack up the camp before coming. However as his troops approached the enemies position, his scouts reported his mercenary flag flying over some fortifications on a hill. As well as neatly rowed tents and a huge number of ponies sitting in large groups under guard. High Rise did not know what they think until a pony scout from group B landed and reported on the events up to the battle. High Rise then felt a pit of sadness open in his chest. Cloud Charmer had been his friend. This emotion however was quickly replaced with horror and rage when he heard how Mordane had taken command and desecrated his body. That bastard! The commander barely registered how the pony said there was no casualties. He did not care that the farmers had been put down without a major fight. Storming into camp, he did not even pause. He marched up the path and hill strait to the main tent. Once inside he saw Mordane turn and start to salute but the commander did not give him a chance. With a flap of his wings the commander picked up speed and punched the upstart in the jaw. The stallion stumbled back onto his rear as High Rise began to yell. When he tried to stand the commander kicked him in the stomach and yelled even louder. The ponies who had served under Mordane at first had feared him. Then respect him with the victory. The time after had only heightened their opinion of the new leader. To have this pony then treated like this left them stunned. High Rise pulled out his sword when the hilt glowed and was slammed back into its scabbard. Spinning around he was confronted by Steady Gaze. "Calm yourself, High Rise! Look where you stand!" It was an old phrase between them and the commander took it seriously. Looking around he saw the confused look on the ponies faces. Some even angry. It was then that it clicked that Mordane had won without casualties...Without them getting hurt. They may feel some loyalty for that. "Stand up!" Mordane did not even attempt to conceal the contempt on his face. The pegasi had expected him to be shaking, yet he stood with only a bleeding nose and piercing eyes. Does this punk have an earth pony’s strength as well? "Look, Mordane. I don't like you. I don't care for what you did to my friend of ten years... but I know you were able to hold this together... So I'm not going to kill you." The sigh from one of the guards made him even angrier. "Instead I'm going to punish you.Lightning! Bring the straps, both of them!" A metal brace and collar was brought out by Lightning and another pony. Mordane saw them and could tell that they were meant to bind his magic and wings. His options were limited having naturally released all the energy in the area to Steady Gaze when he came in as a curtsy. The commander glared at the stallion before him and gave a curt order. "If there is anyone who want to share in his punishment step forward." "I do," said Child Stalker having come in with the brace. " I assume it will be some sort of physical challenge?" Furrowing his brow, the commander replied. "Yes. For disrespecting an officer, I fine you four hundred bits and bind your abilities for a week." "Sir," said Mordane, glaring knives at him. "That is my only crime?" "Yes, yes," he said without thinking Mordane smiled. "Then you have acknowledged that my orders were just that. Orders...from a superior officer." High Rise was about to shout him down before catching himself. I've punished him for what happened to Cloud Charmer. That was done under his orders...If they weren't his orders then the ones who did it would be responsible. The guild would hold me in contempt. I can't acknowledge a command rank for him though! Unless... "...Fine, yes. Though in addition to the fine and straps I have another punishment. Mordane Stronghoof. We have another mission in the nation of Drena after this. You are to go there and scout from the top of Merrygold mountain." High Rise knew that such a mission would be death for the stallion. He lacked the skills. His friend seemed to not have them as well. "On your return with your straps to our army I will of course acknowledge you as my second...all according to the guild laws." With that he turned and laughed sure the pony would give up before being killed and forfeit his money. Either was he won. "I accept." The laughter behind the commanders eyes was evident. Yet Mordane was not thinking about that. He had only the future. In his mind. One day he would save Equestria. He was a good pony. A strong pony. It's the truth. A jaunt into enemy territory.The story so far... (READ THIS FIRST) The story up till now.... Mordane was a human, named John, who lived alone in a house passed down by his grandfather. He would work on the train set down stairs sometimes and play table top war games with other strategy enthusiasts whenever he was not working at his job as a antique radio repair man. He lived a simple life content with his place in the world. He had many friends, a job he enjoyed and a roof over his head. The only thing that he did not like was his mother and father as they were terrible parents. Mostly though John would of not appeared strange to anyone who saw him. A simple man leading a simple life. Yet there was something strange about him. Over the years he had learned to reach out with him mind. Knowing that he would be called crazy by most, and seeing no real world use, he was content to use this skill to wage little wars with his backyard ants... Fate had other plans though. Due to his carelessness his soul was broken off from his body leaving him to pass on in the void between worlds. In panic he poured himself into the nearest body he could. When he came to he had been reborn an alicorn. Still encased in his mother's womb. Over the next decade he grew up and left his home town having grown close to his new family. He faced trials on his journey loosing someone who had grown important to him. After going to Ponyville and having a good time as Party King in a different town Mordane became Twilight Sparkles student. Him, the main six and the CMC become close. For years his parents had told him that Celestia was evil and though he tried to keep an open mind in time he had to agree. Even though his reasons were circumstantial at best. His fear of her growing into near paranoia as he contemplated what she would do if she found out his alicorn nature. His fear of her growing into near paranoia as he contemplated what she would do if she found out his alicorn nature. However years later after killing a necromancer he helped to fight off a Diamond dog attack. During the attack he was revealed as an alicorn and ran. Escaping he found a newspaper claiming his parents death even though he knew they were alive. Concluding Celestia must of kidnapped and killed them he vowed revenge before heading south across the desert and over the great divide. In the southern lands he was confronted with true barbarism. He faced difficulties before stumbling across an old friend and joining a mercenary group. When his captian died the young stallion took control of his division and went on to win a major battle. Angry at his use of necromancy on his friends body the commander punished Mordane by having his abilities bound and a demand he go on a scouting mission... Oh and don't forget about the war magic and how it binds the caster to a concept as a focus for magic independent of the horn. It's important. The town.An army marches on its stomach Two weeks after leaving Shoplitfer, Stalkers brother, behind Mordane and Child Stalker near the army camp. It was high noon and clear skies all around. In the distance Mordane could hear the animals as they scurried around the woods looking for food to survive. The trees were sparse and throughout you could see stumps from where some had been cut down. A deep soreness had settled into his hooves despite the hard layer set there to protect them. Figuring out the camps location had not proven difficult as High Rise's terrible management skills predictably forced him to move directly from water source to water source. Just do the same but in opposite order and finding them was inevitable. Coming into range of the camp, Mordane kept an eye on the sky and saw a scout come gliding over them, riding a hot current, before banking and nodding his head toward Mordane. Turning from them he headed in what Stalker and Mordane assumed was the direction of the army walking for about an hour through brush, thorns and streams before a stallion in light armor stepped out of the brush. He wore a scowl that quickly turned into a smile once he recognised him. "Mordane! The scout thought it was you sir. Just making sure." he seemed nervous to Mordane. Something was off. "At ease. What is the state of our forces?" Mordane replied with a smile. "Moving just a mile south of here. If you will follow me sir." He said smiling enthusiastically. Looking into his eyes, Mordane tried to judge if this was a trap. His smile seemed genuine enough though Mordane could feel something else as well Ah, respect. If I remember he wielded that sword of his like a mad pony and followed me around most of the time afterward. "You should not state openly the direction our forces to one you don’t know is the enemy or not soldier. I could be a different pony than I appear they appear." The pony paused a moment before smiling again. "That makes sense. I'll try to remember that." "I'm sure that you will." Mordane said returning the smile." Please lead us through the brush." "Of course sir." With him leading on, Mordane turned and looked at Stalker who raised a single eyebrow. The unspoken question about their escort came across clear. Mordane nodded his head in the direction after the pony as Stalker raised his hoof and traced a little circle. Mordane nodded his head yes in return. During their excursion the two had learned each other's little signals for subtle meaning. Well, at least Mordane tried to learn Stalker’s. That pony seemed to know what he meant all the time. That little hoof movement meant Stalker wanted to sneak around and make sure it was safe. To Mordane it was a simple question of being safe instead of being foolish. He watched the guard intently ready to react at the slightest indication of a trap. However, within ten minutes, the guard had lead him to a valley the army was moving through and seemed completely oblivious to the fact that there had been another with Mordane. "You did well, go take a break before getting back on your patrol." "Yes sir." he nodded vigorously. Mordane walked out into the open smiling to himself about what was to come before putting on a blank expression. High Rise was leading the army when he gave a momentary look of shock at the sight of Mordane. This quickly through fury before a neutral expression slammed down. Hmmm he does not like to show weakness. "Sir High Rise, I have returned." Mordane said as soon as he was close enough. The commander stopped and raised his hoof before shouting. "Set up camp!" The ponies moved to obey even as Mordane grabbed one and ordered him to bring Steady Gaze, the head magic user. Being so close to having his freedom made his wings itch and horn burn; It took nearly all of his will to not show this to High Rise who was staring at him. They looked into each other's eyes, Judging. Mordane could practically see the gears turning in High Rise’s head as his thoughts turned over calculating what he could and should do to him. Mordane himself was making predictions as well, trying to think how he would react to whatever choice he made. Would he have to attack? Rip the binding himself and crush the commander? Could he hope to do it fast enough? "Mordane?" said steady Gaze walking up from the rear of the line "Well hmmm let me check these bindings." His horn glowed for a moment before the restricting binds popped off "Yes...yes he kept them on. Otherwise they'd would not have done that." "I see," said Rise flatly "Well...second. It is good that you have returned unharmed. I'll leave the unpacking to you then." Mordane broke the eye contact smiling at the old necromancer. “Thank you for releasing them so cleanly.” The old stallion smiled in return. “ It is of no consequence.” "That pony has a grudge against you." spoke up Steady Gaze " I'd be careful." You don't say? "Thanks for the advice. If you'll excuse me." "Sure, sure...got to wonder what kind of army this is now though." He asked while scratching his chin. "Excuse me?" Mordane said while raising an eyebrow. "You know with you being one half of pegasi and unicorn. We have the same amount of each race in leadership." Mordane nodded before walking off to locate the ponies he had made responsible earlier for the setting up of camp. Even as he walked away he saw ponies beginning to set up wherever they pleased. He went about ordering them to fix it and whenever he saw one of the ponies he was looking for, only a short reminder was enough to get them working. What really surprised him was that nopony questioned his orders. It seemed news had spread before him or perhaps it was just the air he carried. Mordane did not know nor care. Heading about he searched out Boulder who he found setting up his tent in the correct spot for it. "Hey Boulder." "Mordane! Good to see ya. So are you..." "Yes, High Rise acknowledged that I'm second." Boulder smiled and stepped closer while raising his eyebrows. "Hey I guess that means you’ll earn more money ehh?" With a chuckle Mordane put his arm over Boulder. "I suppose...The real thing I worry about though is convincing High Rise to not get us killed." "Do you think that is a possibility?" Boulder said shifting to a serious tone. "Yes, though I'm sure we can manage. I'm surprised that the scouts are still going though." "Oh that." Boulder rolled his eyes before replying sheepishly " It was simple as most of them were under you. I might have also… said a few things." "Really? good. Well I have to go Boulder. Come by my tent tomorrow evening." "Sure." Mordane left Boulder to set up his tent. Looking around he went to work. ************************* After organizing dinner, food storage, wood supply, water supply and a system of reporting what the scouts observed to Mordane’s personal tent he took a stroll around the camp taking mental note of the lack of ...well anything. Calling up a nearby guard he had them bring in a regular cot and a writing table before dismissing them and laying down to think. High Rise is probably the worst commander I've ever seen. Err, the only commander I've ever actually seen, but that's not the point. I find it hard to believe he would just leave food and such up to his men ...ponies. I'll have to talk about that tomorrow. Well at least I won't have to put up with him forever. All I need to do is make sure High Rise isn't going to kill me. ********************************* The following day Mordane woke and prepared himself before heading out. His body odor was starting to become noticeable after a month without a bath. I'll need to fix that the next time I have a chance. Heading out he went to High Rises tent. Trying to project a way to find peace with him and setting up a strategy , as well as learning what exactly the mercenaries had been hired to do. One of the two guards, seeing him coming, leaned his head into the tent before pulling it back out and nodding to the other guard. When he got to them they simply let him pass through. "Mordane! Good to see you up this early." Said High Rise sitting at a table and drinking a glass of water, a fake smile plastered across his face. Mordane took note of the cleanness of his suit and how he seemed clearer than before. ...Must be worried about what I’ve been doing. "Good morning to you as well sir. Its fine weather we're having today. Did you sleep well?" Mordane replied with a smile that seemed genuine. "Oh dreadful. Yet that is not really the issue." He leaned forward." The real question is why you want to see me." Now Mordane took extra notes; There were no cracks in the commander's eyes and his gaze was not only clear, it was piercing. He seems to be clean. Odd. Best to be frank and friendly, act like I respect...or fear him if needed. "Oh" Mordane began taking a seat across from him. "I'm just seeing what you want me to do and tell you what has already done with the tents and the scouts." "Really, been busy?" he said in a tone that very well knew he had been and was not entirely happy with it. "A bit. The tent organization had to be reinforced and I've set individuals responsible to see that it's done. The scouts have not been organized and some have not even been reporting. I made sure to set a pony to that as well. Besides, it's just been reinforcing my new authority and making it clear that I was your second....not your equal." High Rise raised a single eyebrow as if to say isn't that obvious. His eyes however showed confusion at Mordane’s bluntness until an understanding sparked in his eyes. "I see you clever pony. I was wondering how you were able to command such respect so easily." He laughed as Mordane joined him. Damn...He has to know that's not true. Maybe he thinks I don't know I can make others follow? My mark… It dawned on him that even if High Rise saw his mark its meaning might not come across as it was culturally linked to Equestrian history. In fact most in the south would not be able to understand its deeper meaning. "Well of course. I mean I'm a little young for them to follow.... You don't mind,do you?" "No no not at all. You aren't bad at command Mordane you just, uhh, what is it again?" "Charisma?" Mordane asked perplexed. "Err...the stuff. The thing that makes others follow you." Or the effect of understanding a crowd and using that along with confidence to manipulate them. "Ah,that makes sense. Anyway, there is a few things I would like to ask you about." "Ask away." High Rise said leaning back in his chair. "We are low on food. Taking it from the locals is cheap but the ponies hiring us might not appreciate us causing mass starvation among their farmers if we run out....Most ponies are on their last week's worth. We were able to restock from those peasants we defeated but that was about three weeks ago....as you know most soldiers carry a month's worth with them." "Your point?" "We should make all haste to our destination. In order to do this one of us will have two options. Either we hop water to water source and still be within the nation that hired us when food runs out or we head straight there at haste." "If we do that then ponies will have to go onto half rations." he frowned. “ Pillaging our employers land though….” "Aye, If we did not send a group ahead to secure food for us from the enemy's farms and from several sources in order to prevent starvation." "...good plan but why worry about peasants starving?" Thought you would think that. "Leaving a path of starving farmers once we attack their land does not sound exactly covert to me sir. I was planning on putting us off as bandits and striking at several places along the border." "...You?" he said with a frown "Yes. I thought I would take the riskier command." High Rise stared at Mordane rubbing his chin seemingly trying to understand his motivation for doing this. He still thinks I'm up to something...at least he'll think I'm nice. "Fine we'll do it your way." "Thank you sir....If I may ask, what is our overall objective?" "Capture the town of Trans and build a bridge across the river there. Then we hold it until the Cabistien forces show up." "Sounds simple enough. They want to flank the enemy?" "Yes, It’s good work I'll need you to take the town and secure its resources for the construction." He glared into Mordanes eyes "That includes the native population. We will need them to build the bridge." "...Of course sir." Mordane felt a wrenching in his gut. "Should I prepare my force and leave sir?" "Yes. Take about a hundred it should be enough." "Of course." Mordane saluted and quickly pulled out of the tent. His pace quickened after he left the tent. Rushing to behind another he spewed his breakfast on the ground and shivered. He remembered reading of ancient warfare and he had now seen the battle half firsthand. Yet he knew that was not the real toll of death. Usually civilian casualties would outnumber soldiers three to one. That was not even considering those that died from starvation. To feed an army without causing such destruction would take an immense effort. He sighed thinking how humans could avoid such things now because of trucks that could follow the army. Now he was receiving orders to enslave a population. Was he willing to do this? It only made him feel sicker when the answer came back yes, yes he was. It will happen with our without me. All I can do is make sure it's as light as possible. Just like George Duckwitz. Some things I cannot change but I cannot allow that to prevent what I can. High Rise will be moving north. He will need food. He will take it. All I can do is make sure it's as clean as possible. The mind always rationalizes what it must. Trotting quickly he made his preparations and sent some ponies to go and ask for volunteers. Then one of the ponies over the tents to reorganize so that he could take thirty five tents with him. Then there was the lack of wagons and some food needed taking with them. He decided to take the twenty empty ones and they would take some more once there. After sending different ponies off to the various tasks he went to his old tent. Inside Mordane was met with Boulder and Stalker both sitting idly. "Boulder, Stalker, get up were moving out." "So late?" asked Boulder jumping up and looking at the sun that was past noon. "Yes, We’re going on a foraging mission." "The Cabistien won't like that." Stalker said while picking his teeth with a knife "That's why we're moving ahead to Derrena territory for our foraging." "Foraging!" Boulder shouted "You mean scouring the land?" A sick look came across his face. "Calm down Boulder I intend to make it as undestructive as possible. Why do you care anyway?" "The land must always be protected."Boulder snorted " It is the way of harmony." "Right.. Gather your things and prepare to move out." Mordane left to prepare his things as well. Within two hours the foraging party was prepared to moving out. Double checking everything he saw Boulder and Stalker coming up to him. "Ready?" "Aye." With that they moved out. ************************************************* With an internal shudder Mordane watched as a pegasus came flying toward their position. The army set within the crux of the mountain in the forest in the south of Derrena and its mountain range. He sat outside of a cave they planned to use for storage. Inside was a network of caverns that would provide plenty of space. Even now his army of a hundred was hiding in there quite comfortably. The trip back into Derrena had gone by without incident save for some difficulty in going undetected. As the pegasus neared Boulder trotted up and stood beside him. "So what's the plan?" "Small groups. Multiple locations. I'll be putting you over another group." Mordane replied without feeling. "...I'm worried about this Mordane. In the guard we never had to do such things." he said frowning. "Well down here they don't have trains and war is a constant." "Does that mean we should give up what makes us civilized?" "...yes. If we want victory." The six Pegasi landed softly and the leader walked over to him. " They’re three villages in the area you talked about sir." "Good" Mordane stood up at the mouth of the cave. "Listen up! Prepare to move out ponies! Three Groups! Bring only your battle gear!" The ponies in the large cave collected themselves even as Stalker trotted up to him and nodded. Once they were ready, he assigned Boulder and Stalker a group then shouted his orders. "I will only say this once so pay attention! You will obey your group leader. You will not steal anything save food. You will not rape, burn or murder the farmers unless they attack you. Do you understand!" "What I a load of pig shit!" Many of the ponies turned stunned toward the individual who had spoken up before anypony could respond. He was a grizzly large earth pony stallion and the face seemed familiar to Mordane. Ah that's right he was the one who was executing those prisoners. "Are you challenging me." He angry look was replaced with a bit of fear but he answered anyway. "Err no. I'm just saying taking loot is one of the reasons I joined this shindig." Many of the ponies around him grumbled In agreement. Darn it I forgot these weren't soldiers for a minute. A few moments of consideration, and remembering they were suppose to appear as bandits, he made a decision. "Fine, You all may loot what you can carry yourselves. Leaders make sure no pony takes to much. Also we will not be taking all the food. Leave enough for them to survive. If you understand say aye!" "AYE!" Mordane nodded to the other two leaders and the groups headed out. *************************************** The attack on Tripton, one of the villages, was swift and bloodless. Only a few of the residents were able to run off into the woods before being caught. Though it was called a village the reality of it was a collection of homes around a trading post with fields all around. Many times homes were a mile out from the town which made collection difficult. After six hours they had found most of the residents and taken their food storage of apples and grain. Both of which would provide the large amount of calories needed to conduct a war. "Take the wagons to the town center." "Yes sir!" Walking around Mordane checked that the farmers were not being abused. Walking into the town hall. He looked at the dozen odd families crowded into the small area. Several of the Stallions and mares glared at him with accusing eyes. Making a mental effort he resisted the urge to apologies. Instead glared all the harder in return. His eyes locking with each one in turn devoid of pity or remorse. They seemed to dare the ponies before him to resist. That he would enjoy putting them down. Many of the farmers shuddered and averted their eyes. "Beat any who try to leave." "Yes sir." God, I hope none try. Surprising the sickening sensation was becoming easier to suppress Mordane left the building and walked around the town again. Something was bugging him though. This is taking far longer than it should. The ponies are dragging their feet with the raiding. If we don't hurry. One of the ponies could’ve gotten- "Enemy! I see the enemy!" A pony soldier ran out from behind a building and spotted Mordane. "Sir! The enemy is nearing!" If the ponies voice had been loud Mordane’s was deafening as he yelled as loud as he could. "EVERYPONY FRONT AND CENTER. INTO THE MAIN SQUARE! ENEMY HAS BEEN SIGHTED" Doors burst open and ponies ran from all over the village. With Mordane’s quick orders he made them prepare a defensive line even as he listened to the ponies report on the enemy. "It was about fifty ponies I saw." He said gasping." I was standing up on a nearby hill watching the road. You know, because I had already gotten all I could and thought we should watch the road. Then I saw them marching." "That's good." he said absentmindedly as he drew on the local energy in the area. Too late he found himself reaching into an empty amulet for more. Damn it, I forgot to fill it. From what he said they will be here in a minute. "Archers. Hold your fire until I say!" He took one more moment and prepared. With a deep breath he listened to the world around him. The earth beneath my hooves. Burning at its core The air above it. Swirling continuously. The moisture that flies collects and runs through it all. This is mine to comm- The unexpected blow caused him to shake his head before instinctively pushing back. Mordane did not know who but there was a magic user in the approaching force. Already he or she had taken nearly half of the energy in the area. Mentally slapping himself Mordane fought back. Gaining ground inches at a time. Surprise emanated from the other side at his sought resistance. Even as Mordane’s physical eyes saw the first of the enemy come into view. "Prepare to fire!" he shouted. The magical war now shifted to the other pony as he took away some of his attention to command his ponies. Once in range Mordane let out a shout. "Fire!" The arrows flew through the air piercing the enemy. A dozen fell to them. Shock emanated from the pony on the other end at the ponies fallen. As the local energy was split near fifty both began pulling in the energy preparing to cast their spells. Mordane began muttering the verbal formula for his shield. It was a trick he had learned from Twilight. "Charge!" Bellowed a unicorn commander. Paying attention Mordane saw his horn was glowing. There he is. "Charge!" Mordane yelled "Archers fire again!" As arrows pierced their enemies flesh Mordane's troops charged to meet them. Ponies screamed out in agony as bones were broken and armor was twisted from the impact. Throughout it all Mordane prepared. Then struck. His enemy was still preparing his aggressive spell when rock shards began striking his shield. He panicked and began rushing to cast. Mordane continued to batter on the unicorns mental and physical defenses as the distance between them became smaller and smaller. Why is he using verbal spells for something so small? The pony was untrained or improperly trained. Mordane didn't know, but he was sure it would be his undoing. As the barriers fell the stones began to rip him to pieces. The look of fear barely had time to form before Mordane summoned a spike and pierced his throat. The gurgling as the pony drowned in his own blood did not reach Mordane's ears. I must end this quickly. What is the fastest way to kill them? He thought of boiling their blood but knew that affecting them directly would be too difficult with their natural magic field. Next he considered a wave of sound but that would affect his men as well. Then he Considered spikes, ice blades, mental attacks and fire. Dang it they are just too intermingled by this point. He looked around seeing his men and the enemy fighting to exhaustion. Already some of his had fallen and soon there would be far more. Then it hit him. He took all the energy he could and channeled The strength of a magic user was determined by how much energy they could move at a time, the number of bindings they could manage and how much energy those bindings could handle. Like the water input valve to many faucets. Too small a input with many valves would result in only a trickle coming out each. Too few faucets and the size of the valve would not matter. Then there was those who could pull on a lot of water, had plenty of faucets, but they were too small. They could not handle the water pushing through them. This could change as the caster grew older. Mordane was of the latter category. Whenever he reached for the power it was easy to hold but his body always felt too small to handle it. Much of the power was splashed back as he pushed.. Except when he was angry of course.. That is why this was so difficult as it would require many bindings of high power. Looking at each enemy in turn he made and individual binding to a button, scabbard or something on their body. At six he began to feel the strain on his will and spirit. Ten his legs began to tremble. Twenty his sight began to dim. All he had was his mind's eye once he finally got the last one at thirty four. He could not breath as all of the bindings pierced like hooks into his mind. This is far more than I should have pulled on....The strain is killing me.' He felt fire and ice role like waves through his veins as his mind expanded like a balloon from the force it was moving. His horn was an inferno. Yet he did not allow himself to pop and break his mind even as he pushed more than he thought possible. Even as he stretched to his max Mordane cast the spell. At first there was no effect then in a few seconds the enemy began to stumble and fall. The objects he had bound to caught fire as they pulled heat from his enemies flesh. Steam began to emit from their bodies even as they began to freeze. The effort was tremendous butt he knew that only a drop of ten degrees could prove fatal. He did not even have to wait that long as the sudden chills caused his enemies to stumble which allowed his men to strike home. As each opponent fell he cut the binding to them down to the last. Gasping as his hooves were planted firmly into the ground his growing horn slowly faded. When the last enemy fell his will and physical strength was nearly spent. Feeling like a deflated balloon he turned and ordered his soldiers to take what loot they wanted from the fallen foes and to bring their dead back with them as they prepared to move out. Going back he saw that the guards over the villagers had been able to hold them back. "...Were pulling out." he said addressing the villagers." There is enough food left for the winter and seeds for crops. We may be bandits but were not savages. Stay inside for the next few hours and we will be gone.." ***************************** The march back to the cave was grueling for Mordane even as his men jarred the whole way. Enjoying their spoils. Taking what little gold and money they had left a bad taste in his mouth but if that is the only way to maintain control then he would have to let it be. Arriving at the cave he saw Stalker coming out and nodding at him. Mordane grunted a reply before taking a trail near the caves to a spring some ponies had told him about. He kept on his cloak. Not knowing if any pony was around. The water was cool and he had no soap but even so he sighed as his body slid in and rested on the rocks. Soft currents left him dozing even as his wings stayed open to the sun stretching and clinching as the bones popped. Peace entered him for a time and he let down his guard. *********************************** Boulders expedition had gone by without a hitch. He had even snagged a bag of gold coins from the mayor's office before leaving. Stalker had made it back before him and was staring out over the forest. Over the time that he had known him Boulder had come to grudgingly accept the skills of Stalker and his growing closeness with Mordane. Even the way he seemed to calm the stallion sometimes or focus his thoughts. If Boulder did not know better he would say the stallion was molding Mordane. The exact reason why such a character would put so much time into this young stallion was barely understandable to him. From what he had overheard Stalker had been following Mordane for years. What would drive some pony to that? Then there was his enslavement at the hooves of highway robbers. He was sworn to defend the weak! Yet he had taken from them. ...I just don't know anymore... Ever since I left Celestia's service things have just gone wrong. About the only good things that happen are when Mordane is around. What do I do with my life? He went around the back of the cave entrance and found a small clearing. This time I will try Luna... Her and I at least have more in common. That will behind there. Not to mention Nightmare Moon. She at least had honor He winced as memories long sealed away came back to him... Pushing past all his attempts to block them. ***************************************** Boulder trotted up the steps in Canterlot castle onto a platform reserved for the princess and her guests. Its garden seemed the picture of serenity as it hung high above the land below. "Princess Celestia!" "Captain Boulder. It is so good to see you this beautiful evening." Celestia sat on her favorite chair in the castle gardens. Hair waiving despite the lack of wind. Beside her a small filly and even younger dragon sat reading among balls and measuring tools. She could not of been older than ten. "Celesia I don't understand this..." "Hush now, Twilight. I need to talk with the Captain of the Guard." His heart still beat so hard whenever he saw her. The glory of the sun filling him. "Why have you come to visit Captain?" She said in a motherly tone. "I'm sorry to bother you Princess but it came to my attention that my request to move some troops to the changeling border has not been approved. I intended to construct outposts along it to prevent further incursions. Surely there is no problem with protecting the nation?" "Of course not." Boulder smiled and sighed with relief. "I understand princess, these things do happen. I'll move my troops at the end of the week. It will be good to know that the changeling menace will not go unanswered." "...I see." she replied before placing down her cup. "There has been a misunderstanding." She stood up and motioned for Boulder to follow. "Come. We have much to discuss my little pony." Boulder felt confusion but his face remained passive. The two of them walked away from the central clearing over to a balcony. "I love the view from here. It's so peaceful. Serene. The hills bending slightly into the distance. A river flowing unending to the sea. Through my feet I can feel the mountain behind and beneath me. When I spread my wings I can sense the direction of the wind..." "Princess-" "Over a thousand years ago this was a plain. Flat as far as the eye could see. The great divide was called the Diamond hold. Home of the Diamond Dog empire. To the north a vast crystal pony civilization stood. On the west along some of the few mountains was a colony to the griffin kingdom. The western ocean was impassable as the sea ponies would drag any ship to the bottom....This was the state of things when me and my sister came to power." She had spoken in a kind and controlled tone but Boulder felt as if she had slapped him across the face. "Discord had no inclination to expand his borders and the power he held could of turned any invading army to ash. After overthrowing him however our enemies began to prepare...." Her eyes grew distant. "My sister and I gathered our magic. We pulled this mountain from the earth and set the hills in place. The land bends like a giant fortress. The mountain is the keep. For the next two years we prepared and reinforced it's base with crystal. This mountain would have to hold the entire pony race and all they would need to live." Boulder stood with his mouth hanging open. Listening about a time before recorded history. "They came. In their tens of thousands. For Thirty long years we fought them. Pushing the griffins to the sea. The dogs came in such number and greed that not enough where left to hold their civilization together. We pushed them back and back. Over the great divide. Down through the peninsula. We Broke the crystal ponies backs. At the height of our power all of the lands form the frozen north to the southern tip belonged to my sister and I." "I'm sorry princess, but your sister?" "Yes...my sister. Luna but you would know her by another name. Nightmare moon." He gasped. Shock and awe filling him. That such an old legend had been based on truth. "But princess...what happened to that kingdom?" "... My sisters rebellion happened." A single tear fell freely form the monarchs face. Dripping down onto the ground." I was blind to her pain that over the centuries had turned to madness. She claimed I was a tyrant. That I sought to rule all the world. For many years we fought and our armies spilled their blood against one another. In the struggle the southern land were cut off. They formed their own nations. In the end I was able to win but only after banishing my sister to the moon...her madness had begun to show on her physical form. Fangs and reptilian eyes stared at me....I had no choice." "Princess...Why tell me all this?" Boulder whispered. " I tell you this because of what happened next. In the ashes of war I rebuilt our nation and in an effort to stave off their invasions I forced dialog with our neighbors. It was with words not swords that I achieved the peace we enjoy today. Now another threat has arisen... and you want me to build up defenses again? Close off dialog? I'm sorry Boulder but I won't." He stood there stunned. Unable to comprehend what she had said. "But...my princess. The changelings cannot be reasoned with. To them we are but food. The peace you have made like a juicy apple. They will come in mass as they are starving. They cannot resist the temptation." "And we will turn them back." She replied resolutely. "Yet they will come and thousands could die. More if we should loose. They will continue to grow from feeding off the agents they send among us." "They are far too weak to attack. Building those bases would be expensive. Also the dry desert air would make it very difficult on the average guard. My ponies do not know of the threat and telling them so could cause panic. Destroying the very peace you wish to protect." She paused before nodding her head "We must endure until dialog can be established" "There will be no dialog with the changelings whether we want it or not...My princess they will invade. We MUST prepare a defense. For our nations honor and glory if nothing else." The princess paused and looked at him. Raising a single eyebrow. "I will not send ponies to bake out in the desert to defend against something that can never attack and would likely just sneak past if it wanted to." "I'm sorry princess I meant-" "Your desire for glory on the battlefield is well known to me Boulder. However I would of thought that you would not let your judgment be clouded it." she said curtly. Boulder stood there looking her in the eye before saluting. "Princess...I have not let my desires for glory cloud my judgment. If this is your final decision that we not act... then I must ask to step down as captain of the royal guard." Celestia blinked. Confusion evident. "Step down! Why would you-" "You and I know that there are ponies clamoring for my demotion...the Canterlot nobles prefer a unicorn." He coughed and rubbed his head "If you will not listen... Then all I can do is command the troops after they attack and report to you when the kingdom has fallen. It would be better to have a captain that could use strong defensive magic in such a case. He may provide the leverage you will need to survive when they catch you off guard." "That won't be-" Boulder cut her off. "I advice promoting Shinning armor to my place. He is a good commander and is strong with defensive magic. You will need him when the invasion comes." Boulder turned and walked away from the stunned monarch. His face hidden it took on the rage that he had felt boiling inside. "Boulder... I'm sorry." He turned around for a moment. A calm expression on his face lying about what he truly felt inside. "Don't be... You are the avatar of the sun. Spirit of Day. Keeper of the eternal flame." Celestia's mouth opened in shock as she had not heard those honorifics in centuries. "I am just a mortal who was once blessed by your flame." "Boulder... I had no Idea that you followed that religion. Yet you must know I did not give you your strength and will. I did not give your natural war magic. The flame is simply part of your nature." "Oh Celestia, you are wrong." He said quietly walking away. "Faith is everything." **************************************** Boulder snapped back to the present and sighed. That had been the point where his life had turned for the worst. Seven years later and the invasion he had predicted occurred. By then he was a drunk guard in a backward town. He was never able to use his natural war magic since that day. "Remembering your past Boulder?" He snapped his head around glaring at Stalker who was standing in a tree. "Not intentionally. I intend to commune instead." "Commune? I did not know anyone else followed that old religion." Boulder raised an eyebrow as his comrade jumped down and sat across from him. "You don't mind if I join you?" "Not at all." At that moment however both of them heard a splash. They could both see Mordane clearly from their position, standing firmly on a small stone sticking out of a pound. He saw Mordane close is eyes. A moment later Boulders ears tweaked as the wind in the area slowed noticeably. Then his mouth opened as the water began freezing all around the stallions rock. ...War magic. He has learned it well. Such knowledge is hidden in Equestria. Few have it naturally occurring and never is it this strong unless a spell is involved. Wonder what his focus is... Boulder reflected slightly on how his loss in faith caused him to lose one of his best advantages even as he continued to watch. The ice grew for about eight feet before Mordane started gasping. The only thing Boulder saw was how the amulet jewel had looked pale pink before but was now blood red. Boulder watched as Mordane left the pound. A frown on his face as he noticed something odd. "Why does Mordane never take off his cloak?" he asked Stalker suddenly "The same reason you keep on your armor perhaps. Some ponies just don't want to give away that much information about themselves. Some ponies have secrets." Stalker replied curtly. "What is Mordane's I wonder?" "What is yours Boulder....I still have not seen your cutie Mark." "Nor I yours." Stalker and Boulder stared at each other before Stalker turned his flank to him and lifted his saddlebag. A blank flank cause Boulder to raise his eyebrow. "I can't say that I've ever seen a blank flank on one as old as you. " "My family does not get Cutie marks but I showed you my flank. Now you must show me yours." he smiled. Boulder shrugged and reached behind himself to unbuckle a strap. His flank armor slid off revealing his cutie mark. A circle of fire surrounding a sword stood in stark relief on his pale coat. Its meaning was clear. "A fire mage? But..." "War magic. I'm sure you heard of it?" Stalker nodded. "I was immune to fire. In a way I felt I was the fire so it just seemed like it shouldn't hurt me. Useful war magic." "Did you ever get it supported by a spell?" "No. Then I lost it after leaving her service. Now...there is no way I could afford it." "So you left." Stalker said. "I was not sure. Why not ask Mordane?" "I would only accept the blessing of a spirit." "...It is a spell, not a blessing." Boulder glared at Stalker. "You know that in our beliefs there is no difference." With that they grew silent as Boulder reattached his armor. "Your strong for such an old drunk." "Aye...that's what a life in the army will give you. A strong body and scars." "Ha... I was wondering Boulder. Why have you not asked me which spirit I commune with." "Because I'm not sure I want to know." The two of them sat down smiling as they prepared to commune with their respective spirits. Stronghoof's (bonus chapter)The town. Rain spattered down upon Mordane’s head. His breathing calm and serene. This engagement would go smoothly, he was sure of it. As always, a few innocent may die, but that was necessary. He needed the money and if this did not get done he did not get paid. He took a moment to remind himself that he would be making something that would happen anyway less bloody. Beyond the edge of the unnamed cut back forest was a river called the Rine. A small lumber town was settled along its river banks acting as a hub of food transportation in the region and had a population of about two thousand, more of a tiny city than town really. It was night, but with Luna's full moon overhead he could see the faint silver outlines of the town’s defenders and their perimeter. He was in a perfect position to take control of the town, yet commands from High Rise held him back until the screaming started. Mordane pulled up his hood and sat down to wait, taking a moment he let himself smile a bit when no one could see. Part of him truly enjoyed standing on the edge before the storm. His men standing behind him waiting like drawn bow to strike down his foe...It was the nature of that foe which left a sour taste in his mouth. As he waited for the opportune time with his sword clamped to his side he could almost feel as those around examined him waiting for his order. To them it seemed as if a tension permeated his being, as if his will was ready to become reality. This feeling filled them too as they dug into the earth with their hooves, fidgeting, waiting to let loose. Boulder stood like stone unmoving beside him looking down on the town with a slight look of disgust as if the entire affair was beneath him. Stalker stayed on the other side seeming board save for the occasional smile when he looked back at the soldiers. "You do realise that it would be far easier to attack the town at dawn, Mordane. The sun would be at our backs," suggested Boulder offhandedly as he frowned. "It would blind them and give us another advantage." "Aye. I suggested such to High Rise, but he did not seem to agree." Mordane replied resolutely as he scratched behind his ear. A part of him regretted he would not be charging with the army but he had remembered the lesson from the ants all those years ago in another life. A commander must lead from the rear. High Rise had insisted on an assault during the night, saying that the surprise would give them an advantage. This of course was foolish as their food collection efforts would’ve put all towns on alert. "You are going to have to deal with him if this goes on," Stalker spoke in a grim tone. “We can’t take stupid risks like this, even if he demands it.” A few ponies muttered agreement behind Mordane, his popularity with the mercenaries had been on the rise after he had reportedly defeated a trained battle mage during the scavenging mission. Mordane was not sure if that was true, since he could not tell just by looking, but he would certainly not be the one to take away from the image of his men. Cries rang up from the small town as a trumpet blew from the other side of the field. High Rise lead the charge himself across the meadow with nine hundred ponies at his back. Mordane groaned at the sight, already figuring that forty would die in the assault. "Steady Aim!" he yelled for one of his soldiers. "Yes, sir?" The pony Steady said, running up quickly. "Schedule the digging of graves for the morning. About a hundred and fifty should cover the defenders and our losses," Mordane said calmly. "...Yes, sir," he replied with a slight wince before leaving to obey. "Do you think that horn qualifies as a signal, Boulder?" Mordane asked his friend with a smile. "Of course." he replied with a raised eyebrow. “Well then!” He yelled “CHARGE!" Fifty ponies stayed behind to guard the carts of food as hundred and fifty barreled down the hill at his command to hit the enemy line. As they barreled down the hill they say that only a few of the local guards were there to meet them the rest had moved their forces to intercept High Rise’s force. The human souled alicorn walked calmly toward the town while ordering the carts to start moving as well. He would have a place for them in a barn or storage room when they finally got moving. His forces poured down the hill sweeping away the defenders in a complete route. By the time he caught up to his forces they were accepting the surrender of the entrenched enemy. Indeed one of Mordane’s men brought him the town flag, but instead of taking it he ordered him to give it to High Rise as soon as that side of the battle was over. Sending others to round up the locals, he took a hundred of his men and moved to hit the guard High Rise was attacking. At that moment High Rise’s troops came running up the street and bursting into houses. The unrestrained glee on his commander’s face disgusted Mordane, but he moved to address him anyway. The commander was in his light metal armor. His lungs pulled at the air with only a slight strain. His back left flank had a deep spear wound that was bleeding profusely. "The town is yours, Commander. Should I take care of the trivial matters?" High Rise’s smile faded a bit at the sight of Mordane. "Yes, yes, Mordane. Get to it." He snapped. "Of course, sir. The mayor’s house has been secured, I'll have Smooth Stone show you where it is." Mordane replied calmly indicating another pony. High Rise limped off to take care of his wound and most likely communicate with their employers, while Mordane organized the mercenaries and issued disciplinary actions. Two ponies had to be whipped after setting fire to a few buildings despite orders not to. Three others had gotten into a fight over loot and were sentenced to latrine duty. Mordane stood rubbing the space between his eyes trying to understand what was going through their heads to forget his orders. What if the town had burned down? In that respect he thought the punishment was incredibly light. Mordane turned to Stalker and with a pained smile. Both had found him shortly after the initial push of the battle. “Stalker I need you to go find the best place to store food. Boulder, get Steady Gaze and check the town water supply for poison. I’m going to make sure the rest of these fools don’t destroy everything.” The two of them nodded before trotting off to fill their tasks. Mordane continued to walk around giving orders to those clearing the buildings. “Sir, Most of the buildings are empty.” said on of his ponies running up “ We can’t find the locals anywhere.” “Did they take the valuables?” Mordane asked wondering if they had escaped. “No and they have food as well I don't-” “Sir!” shouted a pegasus landing beside him. “ You're needed at the town hall. The locals seem to be hold up there in mass.” “Lets go then!” Mordane shouted. He had the pony lead him toward the building in question. A few minutes later he trotted up to a rather large building in the town center. The wood planks covering the windows reminded him of Ponyville. Even if this town hall was five times the size. The thought of home gave him pause for a moment as the strangeness of the situation settled on him. Merely four months ago he had defended a town against an attack by a superior force. Now he was leading one. That's life I suppose. Shaking his head he examined the situation. Before him five ponies in armor were standing in front of the town hall, bucking the door over and over again. With each hit the door creaked but did not budge leading him to think it may be reinforced. Despite his outward calm he was fighting a losing battle. His gut felt like a pit as he watched pony's homes being robbed of what little wealth they had and a growing disquiet at what he was about to do. The cold logical mind however continued to examine the situation. He had read of similar events back when he was human. It was still strange to him how they came back so easily. Perhaps the ease of access was because of how his mind was reaching the maturity to handle his old thoughts. Ideas and feelings that had plagued him since the start of his pony puberty were settling around his mind. Yet that only made it more clear what could go wrong. Forced labor was dangerous, for both the pony doing the labor and the one forcing it. Their position however would not allow for much else. The river beyond only had two crossings, both of which were heavily guarded. Cabistien would need to approach from the other side to take them on, as the defenses were designed to defend against the south, therefore, a bridge would have to be built, and these civilians; these...ponies, would have to build it. Fear would be needed, and perhaps some stark truth, Mordane would have to make them believe that he was being as kind as he could be. Because he was... Cracks began to form on the doors hinges as Mordane cast his mind beyond. There were two earth pony stallions shaking as they held pitchforks toward the door. Mares, foals, the old and fearful hung into the corners comforting each other. He could feel the fear emanating from them. Suddenly, another mind met his. A familiar feeling of Stalker was on the air. Exchanging thoughts was impossible, but he could feel Stalker reached out toward the ponies and began to work on their fear. Nurturing it. Magnifying the paralyzing effect. Mordane pulled back and cast a spell to project the same. "Stop bucking ponies, I'll take it from here." His men looked confused for a moment, but obeyed. Mordane needed to move quickly so he pulled on his war magic; eyes slightly glowing he reached into the earth and formed two solid pillars. With a thrust he rammed them through the doors before quickly turning them into dust. To the ponies inside it was as if a sudden blast of dust had broken down their front door. He walked through the broken door, and before they could stop coughing he drew on the wind and moved all the dust out of the building. At the same time he rammed the ponies holding pitchforks against the wall. Then rammed the pitchforks into the wall above their heads. "My name is Mordane, and you are our prisoners." The two went for their pitchforks again, but Mordane simply pushed them harder. "Our organization is a mercenary group tasked with securing this town and constructing a bridge," He said calmly. "A task that will require your cooperation. Either willingly or after we have...persuaded you. Be assured, if I must then I will kill, but if you obey then your families will not be harmed." "What of my wife!" A stallion stood up in the back. Next to him sat a mare who was shaking. He practically spat his words at Mordane. "She was raped by one of your ponies.Why should we bend to you if you're just going to violate all that we have?" The stallion in question stood tall and stared Mordane in the eyes, both remaining still. They assessed each other, one seeing a moderately well-off business pony. The other seeing a hard powerful mercenary who might just be kind enough to guilt into behaving with slight restraint. Mordane felt disgust at what the stallion had said. Rape in his opinion was one of the few things that absolutely could never be justified. On top of that he had ordered against it before the battle. He made a mental note to have the pony tracked down later. However he could not show weakness to these ponies. If he did then he would have to make examples of some of them down the line. That was something he wanted to avoid desperately. "I respect a pony who can stand and question. I will listen to any who do the same so that this can be done as easily as possible for both our sides. I will look into this myself as rape would have gone against my orders. Talk to me again later." Mordane walked around the room looking the ponies in the eyes. “Under our occupation I will expect you to obey any order given to you by one of my soldiers. I expect you to work as we tell you and not to make trouble. Failure to do so will result in punishment. However do not worry, If you do these things I will make sure that your lives will not be further violated and that when we leave you will be no more worse for it then you are now.” He stopped and walked back to the room entrance before continuing. "Now.” he said calmly “who among you is the leader?" "I am," said the unicorn stallion from before. " You talk of work. What do you expect from us?" Mordane didn’t even pause. "I expect you to build a bridge." Murmurs ran through the crowd, all the different voices giving shocked claims and others paranoid thoughts. Mordane continued. "Now, in the morning you will go back to your homes. Be warned, no pony is allowed to leave the town. At ten the next day, half of you will report to the river edge." Mordane turned and started to walk out. "I advise you to comply, as forcing you to do so will only result in a more uncomfortable situation." The awkwardness of the situation was not lost on Mordane. His armor itched, but even now he could see some of them were planning his death in their eyes. "I have things to do, so good evening." Mordane turned around , walked out of the town hall and moved briskly through the village. After making sure that the last of the fighting had stopped and the locals were being escorted to their homes he went back to the now empty town hall. Found a room with a bed and went to sleep with his heart heavy. ********************************************* "It's better than a pile of gold my friend." High Rise smiled at Mordane as he sat in a chair with his forehooves resting on a desk. "A warehouse full of iron. I never thought that I'd see the day." "How did it get there?" Mordane asked, glad that his commander was in a good mood. He still hated the guy, but at least like this he was bearable. "Well, according to their old mayor, there are three reasons. One is the old tools, owned by the nearby city pony funding this place, the next is the new tools, while the last is a mixture of weapons and utensils being sent out to nearby towns. It was pure luck that we arrived when we did." High Rise smiled viciously. Eyes gleaming with greed. Mordane nodded glad that he had been woken up in the morning without incident after the town had been secured. He would have never guessed that all of that iron had been found in a basement under a warehouse. "So we are going to take it." "Of course," said High Rise as he lit a cigar. "That stuff is worth five times what we are being paid for this entire expedition. I got a friend over in Tietus with a warehouse, that would be the best place to sell it." Mordane paused a bit to consider the situation. The goods would take weeks to drag back across the border. Even then it would likely be under attack. Minimally they would need two hundred ponies to pull the carts and protect them... "High Rise...we can't spare the ponies to drag that across the country." Mordane said with a frown and heavy sigh. "What are you talking about?" he snapped. "The bridge is going to be built by the four thousand residents of this town. We have just under one thousand troops. That's four ponies we need to guard each. Why, we’re still pulling them out of basements even now. Cabstien is going to be expecting the workers as well when they arrive and will be angry if we sell them to Tietus." High Rise’s face grew thoughtful at Mordane’s words. As he stood up and walked to the window. "...Well it seems we have too many prisoners." The stallion shifted around uncomfortably before quietly making a suggestion. "What if we were to lose some of them?" Mordane’s stomach flipped as the mind of High Rise turned where he feared. Part of him could acknowledge the dark reasoning behind the statement. There was no way Tietus would accept Drena slaves until after this war was over. He would have to choose his words carefully and hope that some part of this stallion would not want to do this. "Sir...Killing or enslaving-" High Rise winced "-any of the locals en masse would likely cause the ones we are keeping alive to be harder to control." Mordane walked over to the window to stand beside him keeping his cool. "And I am unwilling to leave that bridge undone. I want all the money I can get. Just like you." High Rise nodded in response. "We have enough time. Just let me put the iron in the carts and we will wait until our employers, the Cabistien military, shows up to cross the bridge here. Then we'll high tail it out of here before they even think about what we might have stolen." "Yes...yes, of course, you're right," said High Rise as he walked over to a cabinet and pulled out a bottle to drink. "Don't know what I was thinking. Drink?" "Yes of course. Just a shot though." It'll help with my stomach at least. I can't say no anyway. He might take offense. Downing the single glass Mordane turned to walk out, but stopped before leaving. He sighed releasing the tension that had built up in him during the day. "I believe one of the stallions disobeyed my order. What should I do with him?" Mordane said offhandedly. "How against it was he?" High Rise asked quickly without looking at him. "Directly...I was going to order his whipping." he said flatly. "Kill him if it's true." High Rise’s tone became cold as he said those words. His eyes left no question before turning back to the window. "...Yes sir," Mordane responded with resignation. Walking out Mordane wondered if he should really put effort into finding who had raped that mare. His face remained blank because in truth he did not know what to think. ************************************************************* "When can you get your ponies out to rope the river?" "Well, we've never done anything like this before, sir." the pony before Mordane said uncertainly. "That river is gonna be a doozy to cross, aye, I can say that to you ere’ now." Mordane stood with the unicorn mayor and another mercenary just off from the river. It was just about three hundred meters across and clear. The water came down off the mountain and into the plain pretty much untainted. At the center it was about thirty meters deep. "How do you plan to bridge it Mr...Bob.” Mordane said hesitantly. “Bob the Builder?” “Yes it is!” The pony said with an unnaturally large smile on his face. “Riiight” Mordane said awkwardly ”Can we build it? The bridge I mean." "Yes we can!" he said enthusiastically. "I can get em’ to place the supports about five feet apart in three rows. Should do fine." "How long do you think it will take?" Mordane asked as ponies continued to move, cut and sort logs behind him. "Uhh, not sure. Whatcha think, Lofty?" asked Bob to a nearby pony. "Ahh, I don't know..." said a pony passing by timidly. "Well, I'm sure you can-." Mordane began. "Come here you!" came a shout from behind him. Two ponies were approaching dragging a large third one between them. Mordane recognized him. He was the stallion who had been causing trouble for a while. First executing those prisoners. Then yelling out in the crowd. Now, according to two witnesses and another mercenary, he had raped the mayor's wife. "Here he is, sir. We found him hiding in one of the cellars." "Thank you," Mordane said before addressing the prisoner. "Do you know why I've ordered you to be brought to me?" The stallion stopped resisting and swallowed. "...yes." "Did you do it?" he growled. The stallion frowned. "Look she was as much my right to take as any gold I found. This is war! The spoils to the vic-" Mordane back hoofed him as the two stallion held him in place. "I don't care what you say about rights and such. I gave you an order." he shouted. "Yeah?" The rapist said spitting at Mordane’s hooves. “Well, then put me in the brig for a week or something. I admitted. I'll do my time." "...I'm sorry, but I can't do that." Mordane said staring the pony dead in the eye. "What?" he grunted. "Take him to the edge of the river and hang him from something where the workers can see. Don't leave until he is dead."Mordane told his holders coldly. "Y-you can't do this!" the stallion cried desperately as they dragged him away. "No! STOP!" Mordane ignored his howling till he was dragged far enough away. He then reached over to a nearby stand and made a glass of beer he then offered to the mayor who looked sick. "Drink." The visibly shaken unicorn obeyed. Downing the drink in one gulp before giving Mordane a suspicious eye. "You would do that to one of your own men for rape?" He asked with a shaking voice. "No," Mordane replied coldly. "I did that because he disobeyed me. Keep that in mind." ************************************** The ice spears flew through the air directly into the space where Mordane’s throat use to be as he stumbled to the right. A blast of wind acted as a distraction for Steady Gaze who stood against him with a smirk on his face. The old stallion dissipated the spell with little effort. Mordane intentionally avoided using his war magic to confront the pony as it would make the old stallion pull on his war magic of fire and death. The speed of which usually overwhelmed Mordane. Plus it had started to be dangerous for the both of them. A wall of flame came to Mordane’s attention as he looked back toward the old stallion. He must of cast it right after the first one crafty bastard. There is no time to dodge or counteract. However Mordane did not die that day as the flame wall dissipated before touching him drawing a laugh from his competitor. "My, my, Mordane, you always seem to be focused on the task at hoof, but in this case it would seem that failed you." His eyes were dancing with laughter. "As you have said many times before, sir Steady Gaze," Mordane replied sullenly. "You should’ve noticed the flame then poured its heat into my ice converting the mass to water that my spell would not have been able to continue to affect." "Unless you cast a second spell to affect water alone." Mordane rolled his eyes. "While casting a fire wall? Hardly." Steady Gaze replied with a wave of his hoof. It was nearly a week after they had taken the town and the bridge was half way done. Which would mean it's a little behind. Mordane had just yesterday convinced High Rise it would only hurt to employ whips. Still he was certain something would happen soon. "You know, Mordane," said the old stallion, "You waste a lot of energy in your spells." "Yes, sir, you have said so many times." Mordane said exasperated. "I have? Well you should’ve fixed it then." he said raising an eyebrow. Mordane sighed. "How?" "Why the nerve you, young one. I went to the academy you know. You should be honored to be taught by me." He said raising his chin. Mordane nodded and resisted the urge to sigh again. Steady Gaze had talked about the academy at Heridan nearly every session. "Why did you leave then?" Mordane asked again. Normally the stallion would snort at this point and say the lesson was over, but this time he didn't. "Well...Mostly it was the racism. I did not agree with the other unicorns over the subject of magic making us superior. So I was exiled." He said bluntly. "Exiled? Huh… Are they that bad to non unicorns?" "Oh yes.” Steady Gaze nodded vigorously “The city is split in two with an upper and lower district. I lived with the other unicorns in luxury until my fall from grace...they are abhorrently racist. Even you would be considered a lower life form. Or worse. An abomination." "...sounds terrible." Mordane whispered. "Oh it is, but… there is no better magic school in all the world. Save maybe Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns." "You know of Celestia?" Mordane’s voice dropped down. A bitter taste entering his mouth. "Yes. I visited Equestria long ago. Peaceful land, but a bit boring. Save for their wondrous technologies." His eyes glazed over and looked into the distance. “ I remember when I got off a train for the last time.” "Yes... it is." Mordane whispered feeling only a tad homesick. Mordane left his session with Steady Gaze an hour later tied to the bone. The stallion had valuable combat experience, much to his surprise. To think he once thought he was untrained. That pony was a crafty one alright. He had taken residence in a library room in the main hall. Most of the few books in there were useless to him but a few were an interesting distraction. He was reading one such book when Stalker unceremoniously came through his locked door. "Hey, Mordane. I'm bored. Come drinking with me." He said pleadingly. His lower lip bulging as he pouted. Mordane floated the book out of his way so he could look Stalker in the eye. "No. You know what happens when I drink." Mordane said. Stalker rolled his eyes. "Come on, Mordane, I'll see to it you don't make a fool of yourself." He asked again. This time pushing the book all the way down. "No." "Please?" "No." "Please?" "No." "Please?" "No." "Please?" "No." "Please?" "No." "Please?" Mordane sighed before asking exasperatedly. "Are you a child?" "Yes.” Stalker said firmly “Now are you coming or not?" "FINE. I'll come have one drink with you." Stalker lead Mordane down the street to a large bar that was reserved for the mercenaries as having them drinking with the locals seemed like asking for trouble. "How long has this thing been running?" asked Mordane. "Since day two. High Rise approved it himself. Set up a drinking shift as well. Yours, mine, and Boulder’s just so happens to fall on the same evening." Stalker winked. "I see..." Mordane sighed while facehoofing. "I suppose it's needed, though I wish he had informed me." "Well don't worry about it," Stalker said while slapping him on the back. "You should relax. Hey, look, there's Boulder." The stallion walked up to meet them with glazed over eyes. It was obvious by his shining breastplate that the pony had been cleaning it all day. "Do you ever take that off, Boulder?" Stalker asked with a smirk. "Of course not," cut in Mordane. "He wouldn't want to be caught unaware." Boulder huffed. "You two are going to be the death of me one of these days. Especially if I listened to y’all and we are called to battle soon." "True, though I doubt they would get through our scouts." Mordane said rubbing his chin. "Where did you get the idea to put them out constantly anyway?" Boulder asked rubbing his forehead. "...Why wouldn't I want to know what's going on around me?" He replied raising and eyebrow. "...Guess so." The three walked into the bar quickly stepping over the large lip at the entrance ******************************** Stalker made note of the bar around him, examining entrance and exit points. Noting where troubled mercenary ponies were settling. With a nudge he lead Mordane to the bar itself where a local pony served drinks. It had been a good move by Boulder to organize how much could be given at any time after he found out about the bar. Looking over at the younger stallion, Stalker’s mind flashed through why he had gotten Mordane to come drink with them. That morning he had explained to Boulder something he had found out about Mordane a while back. That the stallion was, in fact, the party king. Finding out had been quite a shock to him at the time and Boulder was unsurprisingly skeptical to the idea. After all, Mordane was just so...collected. Both of them found it hard to believe that he had it in him. Sure he could make others do things where it mattered, but he just didn't seem to have the raw charisma needed to pull off the party associated with that name. Over years that event had become infamous in Equestria. Ponies would still talk about what it had been like under his short lived "eternal party". Stalker had been willing to let it lay until word reached him of a small town that had nearly imploded with a similar character… this time however his fur had been brown and the body was not full grown. The two had agreed that seeing what could possibly make this happen was worth any real risk that it would get out of hoof. They would simply have to turn him from trouble. Should be easy enough. "What will you have, Commander?" asked the bartender smiling hesitantly. "I'd like a beer please." Mordane said bluntly. "I as well." Boulder grinned. "Me too." Quipped Stalker . "So, Boulder," asked Stalker as they got their drinks. "What made you leave Equestria?" "Disagreements not worth discussing." He glared. "Shesh, Boulder, you nearly have as large of a stick up your flank as Mordane here." "Excuse me?" Mordane replied with a raised eyebrow. Cheeks tinted red from the alcohol. "I will tell you that the stick is quite comfortable where it is." Boulder and Stalker burst out laughing. Quickly Mordane joined them as he continued to drink. Usual to his semi-methodical nature, Mordane drank at a steady pace. However it was one far faster than his two compatriots. Why is he always so careless with his life? Stalker thought while playing with his drink. Sometimes I think he is trying to manipulate everyone then things like this happen where he is so uncareful. Afraid of Celestia or anyone knowing who he is but not me. I honestly thought he would try to kill me as soon as I let him know I knew about him being an alicorn...Yet he did nothing. Not even seeming surprised. Oh all bringer why did I tell him? "You know what I think?" said Boulder still quite sober. "I think that we should actually pay this stallion bartender." "Oh no charge… sir," the stallion in question stammered. "Nonsense!" cut in Stalker. "We should. He has been such a good host. What do you think Mordane?" The stallion in question was not talking. Instead staring sullen faced into his glass. "Mordane?" "Hmm?" he replied. "Do you think we should pay the bartender?" "...no." "Why?" Stalker asked with a raised eyebrow. "Sir, if any of my servi-" "Shut up." Mordane glared at him. "Give me a refill, this glass is empty." "...Yes, sir." "Are you ok, Mor-" began Boulder. "Stupid." "I'm sorry?" "It was stupid of you to think we should pay him." Stalker looked confused at Boulder who eventually answered. "Well, I don't really see-" "I mean we are going to leaving eventually and High Rise will just take everything from here then. Any money would only cause him trouble." The two stood awkwardly as Mordane’s glare softened. "I apologize… Alcohol doesn't sit well with me sometimes." "You don't say," Stalker said sarcastically. "You're not stupid, Boulder… I'm just tired. The drink lowers my impulse control." "Its fine, Mordane. Happens to everyone." Stalker watched as Mordane continued to drink. He grew quieter and quieter as time went on. Pulled deep into a sullen mood. By the beginning of drink three Stalker had enough. "Come on, Mordane, that's enough." "Hmm?" he replied lifting his head eyes foggy with the stupor from his drink. "You've had enough." "Aye, you are just getting gloomier," Boulder replied. Stalker reached to pull away the younger stallions drink, Intent on not letting him make a fool of himself. "You know, Stalker...You really should just sleep with the bartender." His hoof froze in shock mimicking both Boulder and the bartender himself. Mordane did not look up from his glass however even as he continued to speak. "I mean… Both of ya are that way. I'd let you get rid of some of your tension… Really you shouldn't be worrying about me that much." He seemed completely serious. "...Mordane," whispered Boulder. "I don't think that is something you should say. The drink-" "And you one to talk?" Mordane questioned calmly looking into Boulder’s eyes. "I know about that flask you keep in your mane... Don't know exactly why, but something Celestia did caused you to be unable to live with yourself." He drank deeply again emptying the glass, apparently unconcerned by his own words. "Bartender, another beer. No ice this time." The stallion hesitated. "Do it… before I tell High Rise about that quality wine you got hidden in the cellar." He stumbled away. Hoping to return with a pitcher and leave before the commander ordered his bar burned down. Mordane gulped down the rest of his glass in silence. Then a fourth. Then his fifth before laying his face down on the table. Mumbling about food limitations. "...what the buck," Boulder whispered. "Come on, Boulder, lets-" "PARTY TIME!" His shout nearly broke glass as Mordane snapped back up. His face covered in a gigantic smile. The dull look was gone from his eyes and instead it was as if he had been set alight. "Say, barkeep!" Mordane yelled in a raspy voice. "Y-yes?" "Give these ponies another round. Such strong working soldiers need another drink!" He said banging his hoof on the bar. A small cheer of agreement met Mordane’s declaration, though most still ignored him. "Mordane, I-" His comrade began. "Stalker!" he said suddenly. Grabbing the side of his face. "You magnificent shadow warrior slash assassin slash thief slash cult leader… whatever you are. I need you to help the bartender pass out drinks. Ok?" "Uh," he replied. "Sure." "Boulder!" He flipped around. "You got to know a few good drinking songs." "Well… yeah, but-" Mordane grabbed the pitcher of beer and chugged half of it down. The grin on his face only getting wider. "God this bar is boring. Hey you! Barkeep! Hurry up with those drinks!" Mordane said floating a dozen glasses over to the bar. "What's gotten into him?" asked one of the ponies across the bar to Boulder. "Oh, nothing has, really," Mordane said stepping up onto a random table, knocking ponies drinks over as he did. There cries of anger turning to laughter at the look on the stallions face. "Nothing that has not affected you as well. The dread of this towns ponies and the long march through the wilderness has touched us all. Oh, to the cutting wind as it comes down the mountain and we are forced to sit while idle glory and riches could yet be won." Stunned the bar was silent as they all listened. "Though more so the gold I think." A few laughed and nodded their heads. This job had been a long march with little to do. Many were getting bored. Stalker passed out pitchers watching as Mordane seemed to take a moment before continuing. "What are we, but fickle coils upon which all life that will come must tread. Well, I do not say we set idly by and wait for time that has yet to finish its slow climb. While we wait for glory let them hear our call, our shout. From the roofs of this small town all the way to the heart of Tietus… LETS PARTY!" The roar of approval met his words. Stalker listened in on a table as he put down a pitcher. "What the buck did he say?" "Don't know. Something about glory and riches." "I can drink to that." Ponies moved out from their tables and began milling around. Mordane almost bounced between groups his words drawing them out and closer to each other. Many ponies began to drink more than they would normally. Soon the party was in full swing. Instruments appeared from somewhere being played by smiling ponies. Enough of this. Stalker grabbed a beer glass and added a large dose of sleeping agent. Walking over he gave it to Mordane who promptly drank it. Mordane swayed for a while before slowly getting quieter and sinking to the ground. No pony noticed as Boulder and Stalker flanked him and walked out of the bar, his eyes already closing. The two ponies stepped out into the cold air. Behind them to party continued, oblivious to the fact that the one who started it was gone. "Stalker?" Boulder asked. "What the buck just happened in there?" The two of them pulled Mordane’s limp body toward his room. "Madness, I'd say normally, but since it’s Mordane… I think we just saw something important." "Stalker, Mordane just made us balk and before we recovered he had the entire place ready to party all night long… That does not happen by accident. I'm just wondering why?" "Because he wanted to party." "But why?" "...I don't think there was a reason. Alcohol tends to bring out the most base in ponies. Perhaps Mordane at his core just wants to have some fun, but his mind won't let him." "...You know he controlled us like we were little colts." "Yes. That worries more than anything. If he is that skilled while drunk, what is he doing to us while he’s sober? ...I just keep thinking back to what I've done for him. Why did I do it?" "...He saved me from slavery. I could have ran." "But you didn't because you wouldn't. He knew how to get your loyalty and did it. Me? I've followed after him for years. At first I thought I was imposing but now I wonder if he really intended for me to be there… He was just so enticing." "..." A few minutes later they arrived at his room. Heaving Mordane onto the bed Boulder turned to Stalker and lifted an eyebrow. "Now what did you say you were going to get?" "Water. I need to make a cure. That sleeping pill is more of a poison. Should be fine, if I give him the antidote." Boulder glared at the smiling Stalker who walked out of the room. His angry glare however turned to confusion as he looked at the sprawled out Mordane. He had felt something while caring him. Something he just could not believe. Mordane speaks with authority… It seems impossible. How can I not believe my own senses though? His hoof trembled as he walked over to Mordane’s prone form. Reaching down he pulled back his ever present coat. Two wings met his gaze. A small gasp escaped his lips as he stood there staring at the feathered appendages. Disgust and fear twisting at his heart. How… For all this time. How long? He thought back and back. Never could he remember a time the pony did not wear his cloak. Suddenly his issue with Celestia was clear. "So, now you know." Boulder turned to look at Stalker. A blank look on his face. "You might as well remove the cloak. He sleeps better that way." "You knew?" "Of course," he said with a laugh. “I’ve seen him sleep that way before.” He walked over and propped up Mordane's head. He shoved a long tube down his throat before pouring the medicine. "Can you really see me not learning of it. I've known for years. Why do you think I follow him." "Is he your spirit?" Stalker paused. "No." Standing Stalker pulled off Mordane’s cloak and pushed him onto the bed before climbing in beside him. "What are you doing?" "Sleeping with him, of course." "What!? No you're not!" "And why not? I've done it before," he said seductively. "There is no way in all that is holy that I am letting you sleep with Mordane while he is passed out." "Well, you're welcome to join us." "THE BUCK IS WRONG WITH YOU!" "Fine, don't." Stalker curled up next to Mordane on the bed leaving Boulder to stand there gasping and grunting at the indignity of it all. "Fine. I will sit in that chair over there and at least then I can prevent you from doing any-uhh." Boulder fell face first onto the bed and immediately began snoring. "Sure you can." Stalker laughed then reached over Mordane to pat him on the head. "Must’ve had too much to drink during your singing number." Stalker threw the cover over the three of them. Soon their steady breathing was all to be heard. ******************************************************* The dull cloud of alcohol faded away to shadows and lightless sleep, but in time the mind of Mordane began to turn up strange and fearful images. Mordane gazed up at Celestia’s rear in the sky, basking in the glory of the sun. Behind the rather bloated glory of Celestia, Luna’s own glory peeked out from behind. Mordane was surprised to see a solar eclipse, but it was Celestia so he paid it no heed. Pinkie Pies were galloping through the candy cane fields, and it was obvious to all but Mordane there was something seriously wrong with this scene. In the bright pink sky, various humasus’ could be seen, flying at high speeds completely nude, their wings and… such flapping in the wind. humacorns froliced below, using various magiks to ensure throughout the… breeze their hair stayed pristine and clear. The earth humans tended to the fields, some working at the markets selling various… illicit materials. And nothing else. “Mordane! My son!” Mordane turned his head at the voice calling out to him. “Grandpa?” “I’m here Mordane.” he said, dangling in the air by a rope around his neck. “What are you doing up there?” “Oh nothing... Just the trains, Mordane. Oh, and this pit of Celestia’s is about to eat me.” It was then that he noticed the rather large hole beneath his grandfather filled with white alicorns. Their eyes flamed with the brilliance of the sun in the sky. Snapping their teeth at his grandfather, they tried desperately to eat him. “Do you mind getting me down from here?” he asked calmly. “Well, I would, but the ice cream shop is about to close,” Mordane replied sadly indicating the pizza shop behind him. “Are you sure? It would only take a moment of your time.” He seemed suddenly desperate. “I don't know how much longer I can hold on!” Mordane looked at the Celestia pit and gumdrop trees of beer before looking back at the taco joint, where he would get his ice cream. His glorious, illicit ice cream. “But its closing in a minute, and this is the last day they have my ‘favorite flavor!” he pleaded. A group of humansi flew between them. “Wait! Tell me how long you can hold on?” “I don’t know, umm, three minutes? After that point I will have passed the singularity, and will have no chance of going back.” “Oh, good then,” he sighed with relief. ”I’ll just go and get me some ice cream then save you afterwards. “Oh, do you want anything?” “You know I like sardine pickled ice cream.” “Sure, sure.” Mordane hopped down the road for a few minutes before another Mordane suddenly approached Mordane. “Hi, I’m your conscience.” And then the second Mordane launched a kick in between the legs. “YOU WILL NOT GIVE A TIP!” Ignoring the fact that he should be feeling unimaginable pain, Mordane had a brilliant idea. “Hey why don't you go save Grandfather and I’ll order us tacos, pizza and ice cream. Illicitly.” “YAY, ICE CREAM!” Suddenly his clone kissed him, but then became Pinkie who then bounced down the street. “Stop that,” he said to the army of Stalkers wiggling their eyebrows. Suddenly Celestia walked down the road, riding on Twilight as she cantered down the street, stopping near Mordane. “MORDANE, how did you become so devilishly handsome?” said Celestia steamily. “He works out. I know. I watched him. It’s not creepy,” Twilight whispered while chewing on her mane. Mordane chuckled before lying to get away. “Ladies, I’m Gay.” “LIES!” shouted his subconscious. “Yeah, he slept with me,” confirmed Pinkie Pie. Celestia transformed into Mordane. “Then explain all your hard-ons!” “...bacon?” “Nooo, how will I ever have smexy children now?!” After speaking, Twilight also turned into Mordane. “No, it’s true. I’m so Gay that it’s capitalised. And look: that lamp, with those curtains? Atrocious. See?” “It’s the truth, I lost my virginity to Stalker at the candy store.” “Um… hi?” “GET OUT OF HERE, FLUTTERSHY. NO ONE WANTS YOUR SHIT!” “Eep. ”And then she turned super saiyan and knocked out Twidane and Celestdane. “Subconscious, what does it say about her power level!” “IT’S OVER NINE SUNSETS!!” And then Super Saiyan Fluttershy turned into Super Saiyan Mordanershy, and exploded. ******************************************************* Mordane laid on the bed a smile on his face. Warm fur pressing up to him as he hugged some warm body front of him. Taking note of the warmth from behind as well. He was content. His eyes snapped open. In a flash he was in the air hovering, eyes contracted into tiny specks as he looked down at the two stallions below him. Drawing one inevitable conclusion as the smell of alcohol permeated the air and the fact that his prized cloak was casually thrown over a nearby chair. "NNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!" He cried out in anguish. Boulder and Stalker’s eyes opened slowly. They sat up and stretched trying to awaken. "Oh, hey there, Mordane. Feeling better this morning?" Boulder said a small smile on his lips. "Hello, beautiful," Stalker said while lighting a cigar. "You both were great" Boulder glared at him. "He don't have any memories likely, Stalker. Don't scare the poor bastard even more." "WHAT THE BUCK ARE THE TWO OF YOU DOING IN MY BED!" Mordane yelled eyes burning with rage. "There is no need to yell, Mordane." Stalker frowned. "This is the second time we have woken up together." "You know I think he might have a good reason in this case. Oh," he said turning to Mordane. "And I just did not want to leave you alone with him. I must’ve fallen asleep while trying to convince him." Landing, Mordane floated his cloak over with magic holding it with his hoof before looking at Boulder. "Thanks, Boulder, but it's not something to worry about." He said relieved. “That would've been the worst thing ever.” "So, Mordane," Boulder coughed covering his mouth. "Wings?" "Wings?" Mordane deadpanned. "Yeah, those ones that you are currently flying with." he laughed. Mordane’s eyes nearly plopped out of his eyes and onto the ground. With a thump he landed unblinking as he replied."Uhh. Oh, you mean these wings. They’re um, a… spell. Yeah, a spell." "Yeah," Boulder said while pulling a feather from his mane. "Totally fake." "..." "So how long have you been an alicorn?" Boulder said raising an eyebrow. Mordane sighed in exasperation. "All my life." "A natural born alicorn." Boulder said placing the feather on a nightstand. "I did not even think that it was possible for stallions to be alicorns. Plus, I can see your cutie mark. The commander’s rife. Can't say I'm too surprised save for the color. What does that mean?" "Earth, water and air… or liquid, solid and gas. The states of matter depending on your perspective. Maybe the world… You've seen my war magic?" Mordane inquired. "Yes." "But you did not react to it so I assumed you knew about it… I chose how I see the world as my focus and I cast the spell well before I got my mark. So..." He trailed off "You have no idea how it affected your mark." Finished solemnly. "Aye… Does make me wonder though," Mordane said, smiling. "Can I really trust you two?" "Trust us?" said Stalker before frowning and letting out a small growl. " I think the better question is can we trust you?" "Aye," agreed Boulder darkly. "You have some explaining to do." "Trust me?" Mordane asked as his face twisted a bit with worry. "Why not? I've been there for you. I've even helped you Boulder," he started quickly looking back and forth between the two. "We know you better than most, Mordane… You're a bit of a liar." Stalker said awkwardly. "I never lie," he said firmly. His eyes getting a little wider. "What would make you say such a thing?" "Well, a bender of the truth then," Boulder rephrased ignoring Mordane’s question. "Yes, we noticed some… patterns after last night Mordane," Stalker said calmly. "You're always putting up a front. Even now. Who are you really Mordane? Behind the mask," Boulder asked, eyes filled with genuine concern. "Nopony should be alone." His two comrades had stood up from the bed and were moving toward him. Closing the gap. "I don't know wh-" "Come now, Mordane," Stalker patronised while standing up and stretching. "As Boulder said, we know you better than that. Can't you be true with us for a while? We’re your comrades." "Get away from me," Mordane yelled his mouth was dry his mind running a mile a minute. He started stepping back, trying to put space between them and him. What did I say last night? What did I do? "I'm just a reg- ...I am a comman- ...I am an alicorn. Things are bound to be strange." "Please tell us Mordane," Stalker said, ignoring his explanation. "We have been asking the question too long." Mordane sat down against the wall. His comrades sat in front of him. A calm descended over his face. "Why does it matter who I am behind the mask? Perhaps all I am is that mask. That barrier between you and others." "Ponies that have known each other as long as we have lower that mask for each other, Mordane," Boulder whispered. "Aye… What am I? I don't know how to answer that. I'm a commander, an alicorn, a pony... No label I have ever put on feels right. They just seem too small." "Then who are you?" Stalker whispered. "I am what I am. I'm Mordane… we all are something underneath, you know." He looked at Boulder. "Like you. A warrior at heart. You searched for glory long ago and it was denied...that's why you drank. But what is your name? Is it Boulder, Warrior? No… I think you are Soldier. Even if you have lost your way a bit." "You, Stalker. Such deception. You think the few slips are not noticed… Or that it would distract me. I can feel the weight that you carry but I cannot tell what your purpose is. " The three sat there as Mordane closed his eyes and leaned back his head. The silence stretched on as Boulder and Stalker reassessed the younger stallion before he spoke up. "You know… life is short. At least, I thought it was. This life though its eternal. Who am I if I last forever? My kind is meant to burn out. To flash in a brilliant light. To die young… Yet, I am given the means to live on? Is it a joke of God? A cruel irony? I don't know. I was something else before this life. Before I kicked in my mothers womb. I remember it well and at the same time barely at all..." He opened his eyes and looked at them with a half smile and tired eyes. "What I do know is that I have a purpose. One that I cannot abandon.” They stood up. "How can we trust you if we know you're manipulating us?" "I guess it will require a little faith” Mordane laughed “Not that I can firmly say I deserve it. Yes, I will manipulate you, but it will always be for a purpose. Consider if that purpose is one you wish to share." Mordane walked over to where he had dropped his cloak and put it on. He smiled at them walked toward the door. "You're still keeping secrets Mordane," Stalker said with a frown. Mordane turned to him, frowned, and said, "Of course. That is my nature, you are just going to have to live with the mystery." Walking out the room door he left them to get back to managing the occupation. A Month After (bonus chapter)Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Dimond Dog Mountain (bonus chapter)Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Two friends and a sudden dropSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Treacherous GroundSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Inevitable.Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.The begginning is where you make it.Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.The next act.Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.An army marches on its stomachA jaunt into enemy territory.... (grammer and spelling errors. I'm looking for an editor now) "Stalker, I will end up killing you one of these days." Mordane and the earth pony stallion were climbing over a pile of rocks three days after leaving the mercenary camp. The plateau had stood before them as both an obstacle and a short cut to the two travelers. Mordane’s muscles burned and sweat poured out of his body as it endeavored to carry the camping equipment up the steep embankment. The straps on his wings and horn were constantly rubbing against him, Surely leaving red marks beneath his fur. The horn binding ring at the base of the appendage itched and occasionally emitted a spark. His wings burned as they sat strapped to his body. He had tried to find a way to remove them safely but, they had proven to be far too strong of an enchantment for the young stallion to remake after breaking it. That was if breaking it did not backfire somehow. Because of that he would have to leave them on. "You knew that this bucking rise was going to be here. That's why you took the first shift for the first two days." Stalker's laughter only caused Mordane to growl some more at him. “You know Mordane,” he said while jumping lower down the mountain to push him up ,”as much as I love touching your hot flank I would have expected you to last longer. What, you have been carrying it one day? That is hardly commendable after having such a victory.” Legs shaking Mordane lacked the energy to really complain about Stalkers touch. Even as such he seriously considered cutting off the pony's hooves. “That victory as you call it,” Mordane grunted as he finally pulled himself over the last rock and onto the top of the plateau, “was something any half competent commander could’ve done with half of a leg being gnawed off by a bear that was on fire.” Stalker snorted as Mordane turned around and reached down to help him up as well. “If I’m not mistaken Stalker,” he continued “,you also seem to be breathing a little deeper than before. It was Mordane’s turn to laugh at the glare from his traveling companion. Sitting down they both looked over the other side to the area beyond. Their panting slowed as they fully took in the scene Stretching out before them were rolling hills with trees hugging to the side of the mountain chain that they sat upon. Overhead they could see birds flying. In the far distance one could just make out the shimmer of a river. “Why are we climbing up the side of a mountain again?” Mordane asked after recovering. “This plateau was once a pegasi outpost; much larger than it is now. Earth pony slaves would be forced to grow food here. Eventually the place was abandoned though and the few buildings made of wood turned to dust eventually. With erosion crumbling its edges this is the only place you can cross the mountains this far west. It’s far faster than going around the long way and you did say ‘I’ll be back as soon as I can,’ to Boulder. Why I would have sworn you were about to kiss.” Stalker was already standing. Pulling out a spyglass he began to scan the area before them. “Plus I can teach you to move without being seen on the way. Much too hard for you on the road.” “Teach me to sneak? Why?” “You do not know?” Stalker sighed and put up his spyglass “Of course you don’t. Recently Cabistien and Derrena are at each other's throats. The various lords of Derrena have even toned back their infighting. Cabistien is moving its troops west. That's why that rebellion happened. There is going to be a war.” “War? What for?” Mordane asked as he started looking for a place to climb down from. “Derrena is looking to annex the city state Ike. It will give them access to both sides of the peninsula.” Stalker pointed to a spot on the opposite side of the plateau a hundred meters away. “Cabistien won’t allow that as Ike is a vassal state to it.” “...Who will win?” Mordane asked curiously. “Cabistien has more money but Derrena has more soldiers. Either way it goes neither side currently has the resources to hold the other anyway. It would take all Derrena has to take Ike.” “So which direction we headed?” “To the north east. By the way, how did Boulder take the news of where we are going?” “Well if I remember his exact words he told me to kiss my ass goodbye.” Reaching the Plateau edge they began the long climb down and into the forest before heading north northeast toward their destination. A few hours later as the sun began to set the two Ponies found a small clearing to camp in. “Isn’t this too exposed Stalker?” asked Mordane as he drew his sword with his mouth and began using it to shift through the brush in order to find some kindling. Only dropping it twice. “No it should be fine we're way too far off to be noticed at this point. Tomorrow though we’ll be getting close.” Stalker rubbed his hooves against the ground, pushing the twigs and leaves to the side and clearing a place for the tent. After coming back with another load of wood on his back Mordane saw that Stalker had already set up the tent and was mixing water into a bowl with hardened wheat porridge. Mordane went on to set up the fire and to get water from a nearby stream they had seen. He returned to find Stalker sitting next to the fire eating from a bowl with a spoon. A small pot of food hung over the fire. "Come over and take some porridge Mordane." "Sure" Picking it up Mordane sat down and began to eat knowing it would likely be there only warm meal for some time. Stalker stared at him from across the fire slowly spooning the goo into his mouth. "So...How was your childhood Mordane?" What? Why would he care? "It was nice. My family was isolated so I could just wear a hat when company came over. Nopony would show up unannounced. I would help in the fields and play with my brothers and sisters...there probably dead now...or imprisoned. Same with my parents." The somber tone settled over the camp bring the dampness of the area much to the forefront of Stalkers mind. "Why'd you not try to free them?" "Because I would have failed." he snapped eyes glaring, " I loved my parents ,but that will not make me a fool. If I surrendered then my family would be slaves. Held to keep me in line. Them and their seed for time untold. Even if I knew where they would be taken I would have no chance to capture the place alone. Not to mention its likely right under that castle of hers."Mordane set aside his bowl and sacred into the fire. His eyes turning a slight red and a little watery." I need help, loyal help. It will take time to get it but....Well I will find their bodies and take my revenge." "But couldn't they be alive? She may be keeping them prisoner." " I considered that. My parents are old. They would not survive such imprisonment. My older brother would break as well....The stronger they are. My sisters would take the longest butt in the end only shells would remain. At most two or so years....Already been over a half. By the time I get back...." Rage burned in Mordanes eyes. The fire that he stared into was reflected in them but for a moment Stalker felt a chill. The ponies usual mask had been pulled back and he could see clearly. Stalker did not know if his companion was insane but he could almost feel the heat of Mordane's anger. "What if she keeps them well Mordane?" "Then I will kill her for the years of my life lost and for imprisoning them. It matters not." The coldness confused Stalker. Was this not the same pony who would spend money to free a pony and go out of his way to avoid causing pain and death of the innocent. Who could command undead but chose not to? Where was this kindness? It was things like this that made him wonder if Mordane really was insane. "That voice.....talk like that again." "What? why?" "It turns me on." Mordanes glare could have curled milk. "Don't you think that you have been making enough innuendos stalker?" Stalker took note of the manipulation in the statement and briefly wondered how he could at one moment be capable of it and another blind to the most obvious thing. "Oh please Mordane" Stalker said smiling coyly" It relatives tension between us. After all it is what you expect of me." "True but that fact does not take away from how annoying it is." Mordane paused " I see were you picked up such a social defense mechanism....probably sexual childhood abuse." Stalker snorted. "Wrong oh wise one. I was raised in a loving family." "Yeah right," he said rolling his eyes "what loving parents name there colt Child Stalker?" The stallion in question waived his hoof in a dismissive gesture. "It was tradition. My parents were names similarly and you've met my brothers. Why I remember carrying rocks up to the top of the mountain. Then we had to drop them on the top or stare at a tree until I made it grow a foot in one day. Or mine for crystal in aforementioned mountain. Now that one was downright cruel. I mean. There were no gems in that...." Stalker paused mid sentence seeming shocked at how much he had said. Regaining his composure he tried to divert the conversation. In the back of his mind however he once again wondered about Mordane and how his maturity and personality seemed in flux all the time. "Umm...Why did you decide to go to Ponyville anyway?" Darn. Caught himself. "Oh . Well it had the best library outside of Canterlot. I wanted to learn as much as I could without being under Celestia's rule." Stalker snorted "Bullcrap. You like the danger. The chaos." "I'm sorry?" Mordane raised his eyebrow "What do you mean?" " Nopony hides from the thing they fear under its nose. Certainly they don't apprentice themselves to the pony who is third closest to them. At the least they don't speak to them! I mean come on. How close did you come to being caught?!" " Well...at least five I can think of." "You see. You like danger. keeps ya sharp." Stalker laughed and took the dishes to the camps edge to clean." Even though I had to save you a few times." Mordane did not concern himself if what Stalker says was true. Besides, keep your friends close, and your enemies closer. ******************************************************** Mordane held a jewel in his hands. Calm filling his being. With a tendril from his mind the crystal flared to life. "You bastard." His normal calloused shell was not here to protect him. The words cut deep. "Star charmer I'm so-" "I don't want to hear you excuses you stupid ape." Tears were going down his face his eyes "Why did you do it Mordane why did you stop being a pony?" Mordane looked down . For the first time noticing that he really did have hands and a feet. As part of him flashed shame another rejoiced at his returned humanity. Then both was filled with dread at the thought of eventual death came to him. All was swept away by Star Charmers wards as her hoof played across his face. "Did we not mean anything Mordane? Or should I call you. By your human name?" "I've always been human Star charmer. I always will be." "Can you even remember you name?" The question cut like a knife. My...name? What but...How could I forget "How could you forget me Mordane?" Star charmer was gone replaced instead with his grandfather from before he came to Equestria. Setting his jaw Mordane fought to gain control of himself. "This is a dream." "Does it matter? You can't deny the question Mordane." The dread that had been building in the background started to twist the dark fog beyond his immediate thoughts. Dark shapes formed. I will not be consumed "Perhaps you already are." His heart hammered in his chest even as The apparition stepped closer to his now tiny pony form. "Tell me Mordane....tell me. What are you? A pony with a human soul or a human soul with a pony body?" "I will not give into such madness. That question has no mean-" "My boy" he said touching his shoulder with dark lines growing deeper on his face." Its all that matters." "Begone. I will have nothing more to do with you. This is a new world. A new life! It is mine to take!" "New world old patterns. War...war never changes. Death....It stays the same as well. Don't forget taxes....or did you forget." "War, death, taxes. These three are one and the same, but the greatest of these is taxes." "Aye. Never forget that." "...I was the one to say that to you. Not the other way around. No you said there is no state more desired than peace and none more valuable. That once violence is done for oneself it will only begat more violence. What you just said makes no since to that.... BECAUSE THIS IS A DREAM!" Mordane screamed in anger "YOU WILL BEGONE!" and he was gone.. Mordane was alone. In the dark. Voices spoke in the abyss. His mothers...fathers...brothers..sisters...Star charmers... "Why did you kill us Mordane?" On the edge of his troubled mind a hoof began to try and push into his dream. ******************************************************** Mordane snapped his eyes open and repressed the urge to scream. I am the stone next to the ocean. The unchanging nature of the wind. I am the truth of water. Silence is my peace. Quiet my refuge.... He struggled back. Trying to remember everything he could. I..I was called...JOHN! Yes yes what was my last name? Uh, I was called John Running? No John Triston, Yes John Triston. I was twenty five...Now I am forty three....Then why don't I feel like it. Sitting in his cot Mordane contemplated when he started noticing the disconnect. It had to have been in the womb....then He grew use to it and for a while it disappeared. Now he was calling back old memories again. That must be it...I'm using knowledge from then and its causing me to come back...but I never left? It did not take long for him to crush that little voice of confusion. He was Mordane...and John they are the same person. Just different points in time in a life. He had not thought about some things for a while....that was fine. Old memories do tend to fade with disuse. "Yes...yes that is what happened. Just some old memories resurfacing. I know there deaths were not my fault." "Bad dreams?" Mordane snapped his head to stare at Stalker for a second. The question of sharing a single tent had not even crossed Mordn'es mind. Now it seemed more important for some reason. "It happens to me sometimes my friend" He said quietly before standing up. "So how are we going to travel today?" "Well as I said" Stalker replied with a raised eyebrow " We travel in secret. Now help me pack up the camp" Mordane nodded and headed out of the tent He did not hear Stalkers whispered finish to his sentence"..friend." __________________________________________________________ High Rise snorted in disgust and with a mighty flap of his wings literally blew his spy out of the tent. Oh the stallion had his uses to keeping the group together but his report filled him with rage and disgust. That mutated half-bred, spawn of a necromancer. How the buck did he do it? Despite the stallion being gone somepony was still going around following his orders. The tents were in line and number. He had been receiving scout reports constantly despite not ordering them. What am I going to do? Tell them to not do the work? He certainly wasn't going to pay them more for it. For that matter he would not be paying whoever was doing extra work for Mordane. Just the name set his teeth on edge. I know that punk is looking to take my place...Probably some of his goons are already planning to kill me when my back is turned. It seemed wherever he went in the camp the topic was always the same. Mordane this Mordane that. The informant had been snooping around. According to him the entire camp was already referring to Mordane as "the second". How long till that is commander I wonder...I won't have my band taken by some snot nose colt from the north! There was not much he could do about it though. If the stallion did not return in two weeks then... "Now there is an idea....There is nothing saying I have to wait for him. It may be customary but...Yes. I think I'll do just that. By the time he gets here well be gone and he will have no idea how to find us" With a chuckle at his cleverness High Rise called for another one of those farm mares to be brought to him. ______________________________________ "So Mordane...how do you know High Rise will wait for us back at where we left him." "Doubt he would. The guy is only concerned about his bottom line.. Good thing he planed where they would march and marked it on a map. Pretty funny how he left it out for all to see." "Huh. Well that could have been bad." "Indeed." ******************* Hours later Mordane was moving carefully through the forest. Trying to avoid twigs and leaving prints while at the same time moving silently from cover to cover. His mind just kept playing back what Stalker had said. "Listen Mordane. We are going into enemy territory. With the war up and coming they will likely have random patrols going around the cities. I would rather avoid having to hurry due to your clumsiness. Now here is the first thing to being sneaky." Mordane carefully stepped over a log and winced as the sound of a large stick breaking rang out. Looking back he judged how well he had done. There was at least five hoof prints he could see, broken twigs everywhere and his favorite quill was laying on the ground which he promptly went back to pick up. "Wow...you really suck at this." Looking up Mordane was confronted with the puzzling sight of Stalker standing on a tree limb How did he get up there? "Well...Ummm" "I mean a blind, deaf old man with a cane could follow that trail Mordane!" "Err it is my first time" Stalker smiled" Well I guess I'll have to be more gentle." "...walked right into that one." "Yes yes you did. Now head straight and do try to be more carefule" Mordane turned and headed on. It confused him how Stalker would disapear as soon as his back was turned. Looking back he knew that just like the other five times he would be met with empty forest. Eventually Stalker dropped out of the trees to talk again. "I mean really Mordane. I thought you were good at everything?" "Common misconception. I just only use my strengths and move before It becomes a problem." "There! There is the problem. Your too much of a leader to sneak." Mordane furrowed his eyebrow. "Well I seem to remember launching a surprise attack not two weeks ago." "That was an army. you only had to distract them. This is different. We have to get through without gaining their attention." Stalker said patently. The constant putting down of his sneaking skills had put Mordane in a bad mood. "Do not patronize me Stalker." he growled. "I shouldn't have to tell you this stuff Mordane but with your sneaking..." "I'm not a child, Stalker. I am trying to follow your advice to the best of my ability. Repeating it won't help in that regard." The veiled annoyance of Stalker turned to downright anger. "Maybe if you weren't acting like one I wouldn't have to." he whispered turning away. "What did you say." Mordane responded threateningly " I don't much like the idea of you thinking that of me. If we have a problem just say it." Stalker opened his mouth to make another innuendo but stopped midway before closed his mouth. A second later his brow furrowed to match Mordane as his voice took on a quality of steel. "I said that If you did not act like a child I would not have to treat you like one. I mean come on Mordane!" He walked right up and stood in the stallions face. " Advice? I did not just give advice. I gave you instructions on how we both can get out of this. I did not have to come on this you know." "Bullshit" "What!?" Mordane had already lowered his horn at stalker as he glared. "I am no fool Stalker. Your family has been watching me for a long time." "No you idiot!" he shouted " It's just me who has been watching you!" Whatever Mordane was going to respond with was lost as Stalker suddenly tackled Mordane to the ground. At first Mordane thought that the stallion was trying to kill him but his eyes fell on the arrow shaking as it stuck out of a tree. "Were under attack!" he shouted. "I know! Get to cover!" yelled Stalker as he bolted. Mordane did the same and dived behind a outcropping of rock. Reaching out with his mind he felt the seven ponies on the hill. There is no way we can take that many. He searched for a way out but soon he realized that they were just to close. A grim determination to not die hiding filled him. Once one stallion was close enough he pulled out his sword and jumped him. With the first blow Mordane and the pegusi pony guard both had their swords knocked out of their mouths. His look of shock at Mordanes strength flashed across his face. Quickly they turned to hooves. There was no rhyme or reason to Mordane's attack. He jabbed left and right before bucking at the ponies face. The pony at first barley dodged but within a few second he began to weave with ease around Mordanes strikes. There is however only so much one untrained can do against a trained soldier. With a single thrust and a flap of his wings the stallion threw Mordane against a tree. In a daze he watched the stallion pick up his sword and start walking toward him. For a few moments he considered his options before realizing that it was impossible. His soul was anchored to this flesh and even if he had all the proper rituals he was just too weak. With careful resignation he accepted the inevitable. With an odd calm his thoughts and the life that he had lived. So...this is the end. I probably should of taken the binds off. Then maybe I'd of won. Well hindsight is twenty twenty... It's odd how I don't feel any fear. Well it's the time. I wonder if ponies and humans go to the same heaven...or hell. The stallion raised his sword for the killing blow Two hooves suddenly snaked around his neck. With a twist there was a loud crack and he fell to the ground. "You know saving you like this was not in the job description." Stalker smirked " I was not aware there was one." "True." he laughed. "What happened to the rest of them?" "Take a look" He turned a gestured around. One mare sat tied to a tree as the rest of the attack party lay fallen in bushes and open ground. "...Remind me to not piss you off again till I have my magic back." "Will do...and I am sorry. It's just I was afraid something like this would happen." "How did you take them out" Mordane asked as he stood up. " Family tradition. Now ...what to do with her?" He said gesturing to the mare tied to the tree. "...Well there is the obvious thing. We are on a spying mission." he looked stalker in the eyes " I don't know about you Stalker but I dislike the idea of torture." "True. It's not very effective anyway." he replied causally " They just tell you whatever you want to hear." " So psychological?" "Do you know anything about it?" Stalker asked curiously. "Torture? Yes, both physical and mental. Though I've never practice it." "Well I suppose we can go mental. First let's find a place to take her Then we'll talk." An hour later they found a small cave in the side of a cliff. Stalker secured her inside before returning. "She's awake. You ready?" "Yes. What's the plan?" "I'll go in and rough her up. Look like I'm ready to really ramp it up. Threaten her with the usual, rape , more punching and such. I'll avoid really hurting her though." "Ok...then I come in and play good Stallion." " Well no" Stalker replied sheepishly " you play the worse guy. Then I'll come in and try to look like I'm desperate. That I'm the good Stallion." "Ah...so what I be as evil as I can and you'll act all scared? Didn't she see me beaten?" " I'll say something about how your letting me do this because of training or something." "Ok....got it. I'll have to be the most evil bastard you have ever known." Stalker nodded before rolling his eyes and heading back into the cave. Mordane took a seat and started thinking back. He had covered nearly every aspect of war as John... I will have to be convincing. Carefully he selected his words and outlook that would have the desired effect. As he worked the back of his mind took note of the sound of impacts and gasps of pain. Standing he started walking toward the cave. His eyes were glazed over seemingly uncaring about anything. Walking in one could almost taste the blood he must spilt as it was marked clearly in his trot and breathing. Looking at the mare he did not let a flicker of emotion touch his face at her bloody nose. He instead turned to Stalker and put a disgusted look on his face. "Stalker!" The stallion jumped into the air at his shout. He turned playing out the part of a fearful subordinate. "S-sir I was just interrogating he prisoner. As per your orders." Mordane glared at him letting the disgust leak into his voice. "I said to torture her. Not to give her a few broken bones." "Oh no sir! No sir! Steady hoof has broken none of her bones!" Mordane shouted and projected pure rage. "Then you have failed even more! If I was not training with restriction s I would do this myself! " "But sir...What else is there to do without magic?" Mordane sneered. "I suppose I will have to show you how to conduct such things. Very well. I will explain carefully." Walking up Mordane looked around the cave before beginning to speak. "Step one: Either lay down some sheeting to keep from making a mess, take the subject to a location where it doesn't matter if you make a mess, or prepare a tip and an apology for the maid. *sigh* I go through so many maids. Anyway, step one - check." Mordane calmly recounted to the much confused Stalker and prisoner. He taped the stone behind the prisoners head. "Step two: Impress upon the subject that it is in their best interest to divulge any and all information that is asked of them. There are several ways of doing this, some folks like the old 'surprise knife to the knee' but my personally my favourite is to give them a rundown of the planned itinerary. " A small smile crossed his lips as the mares eyes grew wider. "This would be where you tell them about all the horrible things you're going to do. You know, shatter their hooves , flay their tail, boil their legs one by one, all that good stuff. I saw some centipedes back there and I'm interested to see if they'll be able to dig their way out if I sew them into someone's gut, so that'll be fun to look forward to. You'd also be surprised at how many ribs you can take out while keeping the subject conscious. I'll give you a hint; it's all of them." She groaned and shook at his words. Her eyes unable to look away from his. "Heh, that reminds me of this one time I was working on a griffon, a real tough nut, and her kid was in the next room. I was going at it for most of the day so, needless to say, he ended up pretty bored. I swear his whining was even louder than his mum's. Anyway, what I did , right, was I gave him a pile of his mum's ribs and he spent the rest of the day in there on his own using them to make little teepees and stuff. It was downright adorable. Of course I did end up plucking the little chicken in front of his mum, but it was cute while it lasted." Stalker gaged. "Ahem, anyway, I thinks that's check and check. Next comes step three: ask the subject if they're willing to talk. This step's really more of a courtesy, but I like to do it anyway. We're all busy people after all, and the sooner we get things wrapped up the sooner we can all go about our business. If they don't want to play along then that's when we go to step four: the Fun Part." He paused to let that sink in. Already the mare was staring wide eyed at him. " Since it seems unwilling to surrender the information." he said with a smile" Start with the tail. Cut it off...then the mane. " "Ummm." Stalker spoke up swallowing his surprisingly dry mouth. "What do we do if she talks without a fuss?" "Oh then we give her some food and knock her out for a day." "I'LL TALK! I'LL TALK!" "Yes yes you will." ******************************************** Mordane walked out of the cave with Stalker who had stayed silent throughout the rest of the conversation. The information had been of no real value as the mare had not known anything. "She will be ok right?" "Yes Mordane, but where did you learn about things like that? I thought you disliked torture." He seemed put off by what Mordane had said. "I learned it a long time ago. Disliked it myself. Can't think of many times I would actually have to do it and certainly never to that extreme. In the end though she told us everything with no fuss." "Aye but what will she say about us." "No idea....So where are we headed?" "North still. I gave the impression we were headed east to the ocean for pickup....Look Mordane, I shouldn't of called you a child." Mordane rolled his eyes. "Apologizing does not become you Stalker." "That's certainly true." They both smiled and continued north. ______________________________________________ Celestia damb Mordane and his brilliance! Boulder walked toward the mess hall. It was much easier now that the tents were in alignment. Though they had yet to moved Mordane had already set ponies in command when they did. For Bolder arriving at camp was one of the biggest surprises of his life, tents in a row, the locals pacified, and who had done it. To Boulder Mordane was still a child. Only eighteen. How could he have gained control so quickly? Then maintained it? Not to mention actually commanding well. The maneuver was not something taught in any military training he saw. Attacking a superior position with lower numbers...It sounded like suicide. Even if they were just farmers. It just did not fit into Boulders world view. I have got to see what the others think of him. Boulder ,on the first day, had set out to gain 'friends' throughout the army. It was an old instinct from before he had been forced to retire at the age of twenty five. That was ten years ago but habits die hard. Plus it was good to hear were they were going. Not to mention what that Stalker fellow was up to. Walking into the mess area, something else Mordane had set up, Boulder was not supriced to see his friends waiting for him. "Welp gentlemen" he said sitting around a fire with them and seeting down two wine sacks he had traded extra guard duty for. " Its good to see ya." "Good to see you to Boulder." said a pegsi scout. "ello my friend." returned a earth pony engineier. "Fine night to you." Spoke up a smug unicorn. The pony rummaging through the utensil chest just grunted in response. "So...I know yall haven't met each other. I'm just pulliong yall her because It accrued to me we might be able to figure something about this Mordane fellow." Boulder said picking up his fake drawl. Most ponies would be more open around someone they perceived as stupider than themselves. None of them knew he shared a tent with the guy and so they did not question how they would know more than him. "Well" spoke the Unicorn " I don't know him that well... all I know is that he seems to of straightened out the camp. Quiet respectable." "Eh, an officer's an officer; met one, you've met 'em all. Damn it, where's that damn can opener? I traded my picture of Steamy Buns for these damn beans." "Respectable my ass!" growled the Pegusi " I mean the dumb one I got back home. I'll tell you about Mordane. He's a brute! A monster from the old tails! One of those damb necromancers." "Don't say that about him!" fumed the Earth pony " He is an incredible commander! Look at how he was able to win the battle so soundly." "Bah! They were farmers." the pegasi said picking up the wink flask " Any pony who has seen any REAL fighting could of done the same." "Ah hell with it." grunted the pony looking for a fork "Hand me that rock would you? This thing wants to play games then I'll make it a game of rock-paper-smashed can." "Without any casualties?" smiled the Unicorn." I do wonder about the quality of leadership but his command is without question ." "Exactly! and I don't know about yall but the best quality a commander can have in my book is to keep his ponies alive and feed." "figures an earth pony would only care about his stomach." "Ah shut it. You just mad because a unicorn turned out to be a better commander than you could ever be." Clang-clang-clang-SPLAT "Aw damn it." The pegasi sputtered as the Unicorn and earth pony laughed. "Well any" said the unicorn whipping a tear from his eye" All I know is that some are enamored with him. Some are afraid or hate him. Most however don't care. Like me." "I see...." Boulder whispered." That's interesting." "Well you can at least say that" agreed the Unicorn. Boulder continued to talk for a while before leaving. His frustration noted like a rope inside of him. Walking away from camp Boulder found a secluded spot. Sitting down on his flank Boulder prepared to do something he had not done in years. Commune with the sun. For uncountable generations his family had worshiped Celestia. She was powerful. Immortal. Wise. All that any stallion or mare could wish to be. So of course they had called he a god. Yet this title had always seemed wrong to those first ones. That was until they realized that the alicorns were not gods but spirits. Of the moon or sun, love or hate, kindness or fear. They could embody anything. Even Discord was not god. A sprit yes but not a god. They were not omnipresent or all knowing. They did not have all the answers or hear prayers. Boulder knew his beliefs where considered outdated by most ponies. Only a few families like his practiced it anymore with any devotion or fever. There was his problem however. One that lead to his downfall from grace. The sun was cleansing fire, unbending light, fearless and Celestia was the ponyfication of these qualities. She was gloriace to behold....and yet. He had always felt she burned to brightly. That she demanded too much. Is Celestia blinded by her own light? Celestia was wise. The bringer of dawn and order to the world. She was the shining sun.....and he believed that she was wrong. He struggled with this and soon it became obvious to others. When he confessed what was troubling him to his father.....he had been thrown out. Twelve years ago he had thought that. Eleven he began drinking. He tried to follow the other alicorn finding them to feel even worse. Years had been spent traveling around from one life to the next. Meeting dangers and trying to evoke that burning spirit of the sun. Yet it never came. It had been years since his last attempt to commune. In fact it had been a long time since he had thought about his religion. One that had pushed him away from harmony. Ah this is the place. Her sun in my face and the life she feeds below. Power and giving all in one. My father might of even insisted we rebuild our family chapel here. So he drew his sword and stabbed it into the ground before removing his helmet. He stood in silence. Listening to the wind as it rustled through the leaves. Breathing deeply he tried to draw the suns strength and warmth into him. Pushing away the sickening taste in his mouth. He became a nothing. Yet he did not feel peace. Only rage. How could she of done that to me. _____________________________________________________ "Were are you taking us Stalker." "Hmm?" Mordane gave him an incredulous look. " Stalker we have been at this for days. Where is this Merrygold mountain? " "Just about a day's travel to the north. First however I'm got somewhere I have to stop." "...So more walking through this rocky wilderness?" "Yep." ********************** Stalker lead Mordane around ever changing wilderness. Later that day however he pointed to a seemingly random white boulder. "There it is. Ok just one second." Trotting over he moved a smaller rock next to it revealing a small hole and a envelope. Opening it stalker read it then quickly ate it whole. He was still chowing as Mordane walked up. "Wasn't sure I'd find anything but It seems m brother has gotten himself into a jam." "Smut peddler?" "No Shop lifter." "...ah...I don't remember much about him." Stalker motioned for him to follow. "It just means well have to make a stop on the way back." "Thats fine...what about getting caught?" "Well...we can't go in without looking like soldiers. We'll need a disguise." "What kind?" "...Well a lot of merchants travel the road leading into the city...We're going to need to sneak him out by the way." "Of course we do." Mordane had stopped trying to figure out about Stalker and his ilk. They had some kind of spy/perverts thing going on and in truth it really did not seem to be that important. Then he thought about how the fact that there was a spy/pervert in his life seemed completely normal."Lead on." The trip to Merrygold was easy. Going up the mountain slightly more difficult. The place was an abandoned gold mining location from the time of the griffin empires occupation centuries ago. It had been mined dry. The only value in it was that from the top one could get a view of a large area and see if there was any troop movements going on...Ultimately useless work since they knew the Rina military was moving south and west toward Ike. After confirming that there was no massive army to be seen the two headed west to gain access to the main road. There plan was simple. Stalkers brother Shop lifter was held up in the small city of Arius. S small city north of Tietus. They would have to hold up beside a major road and attack a wagon carrying goods It would have to be a lightly guarded one as well... ********************************************* Calm heart and Smooth corn were riding toward Rina in there single wagon. The old couple had been farmers for years but to their misfortune no children had come to them. Now in their old age they were getting to the point that growing crops was too difficult. The couple had been through worse though and had acted quickly instead of waiting till they could not do anything. Selling the farm they had made a bold move and bought iron for an incredibly cheap price. It would sell well in the city near Tietus. Most would of balked at such a risk and journey without protection. They did not worry much however. After all who would attack two ponies who were pulling a rickety cart and were dressed in rags. To all the world carrying bags of turnips. If they could get a good price in the city they might even be able to settle down there and open a small shop. Yes no pony would guess that they were carrying raw iron ore. " It's such a nice day Heart. We'll likely make good time." said the old mare to her husband who smiled back at her. "Yes... I dare say that nothing will get in our way." *Wham* Both of the smiling old couples slid to the ground unconscious . Mordane strapped himself into the front of the cart and waited for Stalker to finish with the old couple. He winced hopping he did not hit them to hard. "Well I slipped them some sleeping powder. Wouldn't believe what I found back here though." "Hmm?" "three bags full of Iron ore." Mordane deadpaned "Are you being true with me?" "Yeah...We can get a good price for it in the city." His eyes were shinning and a dreamy look was in his eyes. "We are not stealing from an elderly couple Stalker." Mordane glared "Well he did just assault them. Stealing is really a step down." Mordane ignored him. Stalker sighed. "Fine we will not steal a fortune from the old couple. Happy now?" "I suppose." Mordane nodded toward the city in the distance" I will be the puller and merchant while you are the guard." "Of course." The trip to the city only lasted hours as they moved through the same land they had for days. Only now there progress was much better. Before he knew it Mordane was pulling the cart up to the gate. "Halt traveler. What are your goods." The guard glared at Mordane. "I'm moving turnips...that's all." "Not a real demand for turnips." "Well...you take what you can get." The guards eyes narrowed and glared at the merchant before him before shrugging. "True. Go on in." Mordane nodded and pulled the cart through. Once inside Stalker showed him were to take the Iron and turnips to sell as Mordane insisted they could get a better price for them as repayment. The stallion waiting seemed bored at the sight of the Iron and pretend to be more interested in the turnips. Even giving a good price. "That iron ore though...We don't have the forges to handle it really. Only the major cities can afford to manage refineries. All of the iron must be collected to go there. I mean I can give you thirty bits a pound." "Sixty bits or I go to tietus." "Sixty! That's outrageous!" "Not with a war coming." The outrage on the stallions face fell away and he nodded. "Well can't blame me for trying. Sixty is fine. This stuff is in very high demand right now." " Of course." The two of them too the money and left. Gladely offering to unload the items themselves. "So how are we going to find this guy?" Mordane asked as they headed away "Should be easy enough. He is just in the local prison. All we have to do is post bail and he is free to go." "... Then why would we have to sneak him out of town?" Mordane asked frowning. "Because of all the stuff he is going to steal." Stalker replied with a straight face. "..." "..." "...Don't you think he might refrain for a day?" "No." "..." "..." "...ok then. Lets go get him then." Stalker looked at him blankly. "Uhh....what about the old couple?" "Well we have to free them somewhere." "Well...I was going to wake up him up and tell him where the bits are. Then disappear but that plan involved realizing them outside the city." "They proably won't mind to muck if you give them all the money. Then say it was to save a lovers life." "....Thats cold of you Mordane." Mordane glared at him. "Really? You don't say. I was thinking it would be better to spend five ours explaining something that would probably be over their heads anyway." "You better." Stalker laughed " Go find the prison then. I'll take care of the couple you bleeding heart." "Ah shut it. Only a fool is unnecessarily cruel." Stalker pulled off the cart and took off with it leaving Mordane to figure out where the prison was alone. A task that proved to be easier than one might think. "Hey do you know where the prison is?" He asked a random passerby. "Yeah just go two blocks down and take a right. Its at the end of the street. " "Thanks.". The guard at the front simply stared at him though when he told him who he wanted. He wore a blue hat and uniform cut to not interfear with is wings movement. "...Are you sure? I mean. We could keep him here a long time if you want." Mordane gave him a questioning look. "I'm going to ignore that. Look were friends. I have to get him out. How much is the fine?" The stallion sighed. "Your loss. It will be fifty bits." "Fifty!?" "Aye. Fifty. Stealing a ponies dentures while there in his mouth is tantamount to assault." "Dentures?" "Dentures." Mordane stared at the stallion wondering what the heck would drive Lifter to steal something like that. "... fine I'll pay. Now take me to get him." There was little paperwork before the pony lead Mordane through to the back. Cells lined the wall filled with prisoners. All of the hooting and holering at the glaring Mordane. The guard led him to a cell with only one ocupant. "Lifter! Your fine has been paid!" "Is that so my good friend!" The pony in the cell sat smiling as the guard nodded at him. "Yes this pony paid it for you. Now if I could just find my keys." The guard started patting in pouches and checking his mane. " Have I met you before?" " Yes I'm Mordane, we met many years ago in a small town with your other brother...The one you warned by about." "Stalker? Yeah I remember. He's still stalking you?" "No not really. More like following me." "Uhh Is this what you dropped?" asked Lifter pulling a ring of keys out of his mane." I urr picked them up off the ground in front of my cell." The guards mouth hung his mouth open before clamping it shut and growling. "...Just give them to me." "Sure thing officer." Mordane left the prison only a few minutes later with Lifter following him. He felt sure that with a little work and careful planning he could keep the pony out of trouble. After all how hard could it be to convince one pony to not steal anything for awhile. "So Shop Lifter, Dentures?" he asked without turning around "No I dont have any...do you?" Lifters eyes shined with greed. "Yeah thats right. Now listen Stalker, err Lifter" he said turning to look him in the eyes. " you cannot steal anything until were at lea... Lifter" "Yes Mordane?" "Where did you get that police hat?" "Hmmm" he scratched his chin thoughtfully " I have no idea." Knocking the hat off his head Mordane pulled him through the street toward the main gate without pause. Soon Lifter started keeping up with him as his hoof was hurting from the pull. Stalker walked up and motioned them into an alley. Mordane stood watch. Not looking back at the two brothers but listening. "They are fine now." "Hey brother! Long time no see. Hows the hip?" "Still twitchy and if you touch my things it will still make be buck you in the jaw." "Ahhh no need for such hostility." Lifter gave Stalker a hug and backed off. His goofy grin gave way to the serious one Mordane remembered from all the years before. "Is the air clear?" he asked strait faced "Yes all ears are at peace with the way." Stalker replied rolling his eyes. "Do you still follow the path?" Stalkers face twisted with rage and shock. He stomped up to Lifter angrily glaring into his eyes. It was at this time that Mordane noticed how much smaller Stalker was than the normal pony as he had to look up at Lifter. "The path is my life and my binding. Without it I have no color. Without it the world is like a sea of gray. I am of the way." "This one wonders." Lifter looked over at Mordane who was standing blank faced as they spoke suddenly in a archaic form. "Why have you shadowed this one beyond the allotted time. How could that be with the path?" "It is of the path because I say it is leveler" Lifter bowed his head " Of course path finder" The Two stared at each other until Mordane regained his composure at their surprisingly strait conversation and coughed. "Can we go now? I would like to leave before Lifter steals more things." "To late for that." Stalker said while Mordane turned around. Shop Lifter was covered head to hoof in Two hats, three cuffs, three jackets and four pouches. How he had not noticed the insane outfit or the bags literally jingling as random items shifted was a mystery. "..." "..." "...problem?" Lifter said smiling. Mordanes face turned red with rage. "...just drop it Mordane." Stalker asked while touching his shoulder. He exhaled letting the anger go. "Fine Lets go. Now. The sooner I'm out of these bindings the better." "Yeah you should tell me about that Stalker. I did not know you were into H&M." After getting Lifter to dump the goods the three of them walked calmly out the front gate and quickly parted ways after a parting ritual between the two brothers. Stalker and Mordane headed over the mountains the way they came. The time going smoothly. Ultimately it was a very boring and uneventful trip. New places old faces"If you say a lie loud enough and long enough, the people will believe it." - Adolf Hitler The space between the truth and the lie is a fickle thing. If one tells a lie about themselves long enough. Ponies won't follow me for my own revenge. You being to tell yourself that lie. I'm not just doing it for myself. You act on the lie. I have to free those under Celestia's rule. Then you believe the lie. I will save them. Then it no longer is a lie. I'll fight her, for others. It's the truth. **************************************** In a flat spacing of land among the rolling hills, a little town of less than forty houses was resting beside a river. The leaves of trees were just beginning to brown and loosen, in preparation for their journey to the ground below a few weeks from now. Throughout the streets, young played while the old sat grumbling about the children playing, and the middle aged worked in the shops and fields. On one corner of the dirt roads interlaced in the small town. Mordane cautiously walked out of the pawn shop while keeping his hood low. The bitter taste of that clan's memory left little room for appetite in the young stallion. In all truth he just wanted to break something. The frustration from being so close to success, only for the lack of perspective to cut under him, put his teeth on edge. I could have used them...no! I must not think that way. It’s dangerous. Dark thoughts played out in his mind as impulses long suppressed from the now released part of his personality came to the surface. His perception seemed to expand and contract. One moment he would be so aware of everything around him, from the smell of oil in the wood floors and the distant look of the shop owner, and the next he would fall back. The necromancer had thought himself quite strong willed, cruel and terrifying. His evil intentions however did not compare to these thoughts. The worst part was knowing they were his own. Yet he would not give into them. No they simply focused on efficiency without morality. The shopkeeper not giving you enough gold? Threaten him. Find that mare enticing? Sleep with her, all you have to do is act tough but with a hint of kindness. Obvious daddy issues. On and on it would go. There was the other ones that were just as extreme but on the opposite side of the spectrum and would still feel twisted. Get some food for that homeless man. Treat him kind and use him after he becomes your friend. Say hello to everyone you meet with a smile. Treat them with respect and they will respect you even more. Follow that pick pocket and stop him when he does try to steal something. How do you know he's a pick pocket? By the way he looks at others of course. All for himself. This side of him did not care if it was with sugar or blood, he would twist whatever he could to his advantage. It would be up to his more...humane side to control this. The wind blew hard through these streets catching up dust and blowing his cape in the wind. A string on the inside held the cloth close to his body. He had sown it in so as to prevent the cloak from blowing up and revealing his wings. As he stepped out of the shop that little cord snapped from the winds pressure. Desperately the stallion grabbed for his cloak billowing upward. His wings were out for anyone to see for a full four seconds before he grabbed onto it and pull down. His eyes darted around. Did anyone see? "Well I be a Diamond dog! You got both wings and a horn? That's Something! What, was one parent a pegasus and the other a unicorn?" Spinning around, an old earth pony was looking at him with a smile on his face. Mordane stared at the smiling stallion his panic quickly subsiding into confusion as he tried to grasp what the pony had said. What it's almost like- More ponies crowded started to gather around having overheard. "What, he has wings too?" asked a construction worker "I won't believe it till I touch em-" "Never been with a stallion like you before," said a mare with a seductive smile "Let us see em!" Hesitantly while still forming a plan. Mordane slipped off his cloak. The crowd ooh-ed and ah-ed. "What’s your name?" said the original stallion. Oh buck... Mordane thought nervously. What if Celestia hears about me? I coul- Suddenly he had an idea. oh god why Looking up he smiled as apprehension filled his stomach and yelled. "Why little old me? I'm called the Party King!" As some ponies laughed he could already see how to get the party going. I really did tell myself not to drink again...Well it should be fine. I just won’t get drunk Celestia is over the mountains and tails of the 'Party King' will only be taken as rumors from all those years ago. With that thought Mordane lead several of the ponies into a nearby bar and took his first drink ***********(fifth teen hours later)****************** Mordane opened his eyes. Groan. I said I would not get drunk! Pushing up from between the three mares on his coach Mordane stumbled up and looked around the room. Seeing his cloak, bag and sword leaned against the wall he walked over and checked it making sure that nothing was missing. Oh buck did I do anything with them...best check Casting a detection spell noticed that there was a contraception spell activated on himself. God I though for a moment it was going to be like the last time. Having to check up on here a year from now would be terrible. After packing up he walked out of the room and into the main bar area. ...You know what I'm not even going to ask how they got the flag that close to right. He thought while looking around the nearly destroyed bar. Mordane stepped over the fallen bodies even as the few still awake saluted him. "Hail party king!" "uhh thanks." Opening the front door of the bar Mordane stepped out onto the street. "...huh" All around him ponies were passed out in the street reflecting the look inside the bar. "Everything is looking better than I thought it would." As Mordane flew away from the town, with only a few fires and a lot less alcohol, he pointed himself south and aimed for the city that the townsfolk had told him of last night. Apparently there was a lot of jobs available there for those skilled enough. Mordane felt a small smile on his lips. The idea that no one knew about alicorn was just so strange to him. After last night at both the pawn shop and gambit table he had a tidy sum of just over a thousand bits. He was excited to see a city state. At first he had not really caught onto its nature but a few questions at the town told him what he needed to know. It was said to be the center of the northern region. It was there where he could find out how things around here tick. Mordane felt uncertain about his future, but happy considering his prospects. The townsfolk had known nothing of alicorn but that would not stop him from wearing his cloak. Best to avoid such attention. He glided down and landed at the entrance. He moved quickly toward the City called Tietus. Which was said to be in a state of unrest. Mordane chuckled to himself thinking it likely meant rebellion. Mordane did not know what to expect from the great city but his gut told him it was the place to go. **************************************************************** Flying over the last of the hills, Mordane looked out over the plains and down on the city. The sight that came to him was impressive. The coastal city seemed to be divided into four districts, and had two outer gates. The docks stood out fairly clearly, as did the marketplace, with its many brightly colored marquees. The bulk of the city was taken up by slum-like masses of buildings, with the last section containing larger, roof tiled houses surrounding the castle. Obviously the respective domains of the poor and the rich.One river ran through the three poor districts. It had an odd color to it but Mordane just chalked that up to weather. Quickly his mind ran predictions. Looking at the various sections and how run down they are one can make a fairly good estimation of the population...about five hundred thousand. No wonder this is the center of power. It's as big as Manehattan. From what I can see it's the port that gives it strength...block that off and the city would empty. Mordane shook his head and smiled before setting down. As he made his way to the main gate he noticed as the guards considered stopping for a moment before shrugging and letting him walk past. Inside, he was assaulted by the sight and smells of the city. Trash, dust, smoke and feces. The reality of a middle age city came up and slapped him in the face. Sewage ran freely along the street edge with trash floating through it. Carriages carry both the wealthy and goods through the dirt roads of the city. Mordane gagged. Wh-what the hell...this place is...Even basic sanitation? The sickness growing in Mordane surged. He ran over to the road edge and threw up his last meal. Looking around in disgust he saw that nopony had even looked twice. ...This is atrocious. I have to hand it to the bitch, she at least lifts Equestria out of this sickening state. Mordane knew even with his knowledge, anything he revealed would likely cause him to be seen as a threat by the elite. Something to be fought or controlled. As Mordane walked through the town he purposely avoided bumping anypony. He down two raggedy individuals who actually purposely tried to bump him. A slight thrill ran through him both times, even as he watched them go to talk to others who were standing on corners as money exchanged hooves. ...organization. A thieves’ guild of some kind most likely. He resisted the urge to laugh at that thought. What a world. As he stepped through an unavoidable puddle of what he assumed was water, the stallion overheard something that gave him pause once more. "Why, mares and gentlecolts, we have a fine selection today!" Mordanes head tuned as his heart sank at what he saw. Down a large alley, ponies stood close together in front of a simple wooden stage. Eight ponies stood on it. Two were guards. A third was the salesman. The rest stood in line with neck collars and chains. A few were mares, others stallions. They ranged from teen to middle aged. Mordane found himself making his way through the crowd toward the stage. A sense of foreboding filled him and words he only thought to hear said in film came to his ears. "Yes, before you today we have a fine selection indeed. These slaves were captured as part of campaigns in the south and are legally claimed. Just look at this stallions thick back legs. He could do some fine field work-" The former human watched as the first batch was sold. On the second he was wondering why he was not crying out... All he felt was just shock. Slavery is just so unfathomable to those who have lived in a land where all are free. It was only on the third line that he was snapped out of his stupor by a voice that sounded familiar... "WHY DON’T YOUR SCREW YOURSELVES!" "Shut up, you!" The guards dragging out the stallion viciously bucked him in chest, causing Mordane to flinch. As they held him in the middle of the stage the earth ponies face caught his attention. The stallion seemed familiar. In fact he was sure he had seen him before. It took a few seconds but soon Mordane remembered. "Brawny Boulder? Is that you?" The old drunk Mordane had meet after first leaving home stopped long enough to stare at the stallion. His eyes searching to something he could recognize. It had been years since the alicorn had even thought of his old temporary companion. "Who the buck are you?" "No talking to the merchandise!" shouted the sale pony. "Now this one may be feisty but he is strong! Chain him up to an entrance and use him as a guard! Do I hear five hundred bits?" Utter silence. No pony would want such a hoof-full. Many in the crowd were muttering about how the pony should of been broken before being brought out. ...He does not remember me. Understandable. Luckily I should be able to buy him. Mordane of course knew he would buy him. The question was how much it would cost. "Four hundred bits!" "I don't know, Boulder, that’s a might expensive," Mordane spoke to his chained up companion in front of him. A pained look came over the former guard’s face. "Buck you! If you know me then save me and then we can talk!" "Three hundred fifty bits?" the sale pony’s look was even more pained. "I'll give you two hundred bits," Mordane said with a smile. I cannot believe I would run into this guy again. "Only two hundred bits?" The sales pony looked around. "Do I hear three fifty...One twenty five? Yes you two hundred twenty five!" A random mare made a bid. I have to end this. "Three hundred bits!" Nopony decided to go against Mordane’s offer. Handed a simple key they asked him three times if he had a guard to handle him, before letting him walk the stallion out himself. As Mordane and Boulder walked out of the alley way the old stallion was giving his new owner odd looks. "Why don't we get a drink, old buddy, and catch up." "I don't know how you know me, colt, and if you think you can hold me..." "Wouldn't dream of it. Just consider the three hundred bits a loan. I know you're the type to repay debts." The old stallion grumbled and followed Mordane into a bar. The alicorn ordered them both a soda, drawing a smile onto the owner’s face. "Really, soda? You really are a colt," Boulder grumbled. "Not as young as I once was, old timer... Do you really not recognize me?" He glared at Mordane before drinking the glass dry. "Can't say I do." The laughter bubbled up easily though Boulder did noticed it was a little strained. "Well what if I told you we met in Equestria?" Brawny Boulder took another long look at Mordane before shaking his head. "I left there about two years ago and had a lot of drink before being hit in the head and taken as a slave." The shame of being caught so unaware was evident in his voice. Mordane felt pity at how far the earth pony had fallen. He hair was ragged and worn where the collar was hung. The eyes looking out at Mordane looked deader than the ones from all those years before. "Heh. Guess I can't blame you then ...Perhaps if I tell you my name?" "Out with it. I ain't got all day." "I'm Mordane Stronghoof." The old stallion spat out his drink as his eyes widened in recognition, and after a few seconds he smiled as he started to recognize the colt from all those year before in the stallion before him. "By Celestia’s name, it is you! I can't believe you saved me," he shouted "What are you doing down here?" "I could ask you the same. What happened to that mare, Sugar?" "No idea. She left me after we came over the mountain, before I was captured. We were just running from some fines." "Disorderly conduct?" Boulder laughed. "Yeah. What about you?" This guy hated Celestia right? Perhaps I can find an ally. "Oh you know," Mordane said awkwardly. Boulder raised an eyebrow and Mordane sighed. "I'm on the run." "The run?" Boulder said with surprise. "Aye, from Equestria and her queen...I remember you did not like her as well.” The older stallion grunted an affirmation. "She has no respect for conflict. It will come to bite her again one day." "...Aye, it did. Diamond dogs attacked Equestria." Boulder’s mouth dropped open, but he quickly recovered. "I assume the defenses failed?" "The attack was on multiple fronts simultaneously... The ill trained guard had terrible response time." Disgust and a slight sense of loss filled Mordane. It only magnified as the conversation continued. “The dogs were after slaves...I lived in a town called Ponyville at the time." "Ponyville?" he cut in, "The home of the Elements of harmony?" "You know about them?" "Of course I do. I was part of the guard before...Well before I fell out of favor" Mordane sat back."Interesting. What did she say about it?" "Basically, don't respond to anything and leave it up to her student." "...Huh. That's an...odd command." "We got a lot like that. So were you able to repel those dogs?" "Yes. Though it wasn't easy...I lost a few." "Only a few?" he responded shock "Gods, boy, how did you fight them? I would think the town would be taken. No matter if Princess Twilight was there." "I burnt the bridges and put all the colts and fillies in the town hall. Then built the defenses around it." Boulder raised an eyebrow. "You put young ponies’ lives in danger?" "They were already in danger. I just forced the parents onto ground they would not give up for anything. Because I let them know what would happen to their little ones," Mordane explained. "After the battle I ran from Ponyville and was chased by Celestia." This time the shock expression did not go away so easily. "Why did she chase you? If you were just leaving?" "...Well. I did something that threatened her authority. After that she chased me down and ran me into a storm trying to kill me. It was only through teleporting in said storm that I was able to escape." Boulder sat in silence for a moment staring at Mordane. "Look, colt, I'm not going to take it as rent that Celestia wants you dead! That’s just crazy. Nearly as much as you wanting revenge for it. Nopony is going to die for your revenge." That was obvious to Mordane. ...Ponies won't follow me for my own revenge. He would just have to give them something more to fight for. " ...This is unimportant. We have a problem. I only have six hundred bits. That is enough to start a home but not enough to really gain some wealth." "We? And what is this about wealth?" "Look, you old stallion, I might have freed you for our former acquaintance, but I remember how you thought. You're a pony of honor. The real kind. I helped you and now I need your help. Money is power and I need power." Boulder leaned back and thought for a time before his face lit up. "Well I do owe you some money it would seem...There is a way for us to make it back." *************************************************** Mordane turned to look at Boulder with his face devoid of any emotion. Before them was a brothel with a hiring sign being held by a stallion as another stallion danced on a pole. "No." "But the pay’s good. With your tight fla-" "No, and if you complete that sentence I'll sell you to a fat, gay stallion who obviously has various STDs..” Boulder burst into laughter. “You're a backside, you know that?" "Fine then. I do have one more idea. Though you'll wish you went with this one." ******************************************************* "What is this dump?" Mordane and Boulder were standing before a rundown warehouse on the edge of the dockyards. A bunch of stallions were standing in line leading up to a door. "It's a recruiting station for the mercenaries." "...So you want us to join them." "Uhh..." Boulder frowned at Mordane "Yeah...The pay is ok, but the real pay is from the salvage. After a round I can pay you back and you can do...whatever it is you’re planning." Mordane felt an odd sense that this was an important moment in his life. From this point on he would be building a destiny for himself. Such time come and go in life but Mordane was ready. ...I need money if I'm to succeed. While becoming a mercenary was not in the plan. It does make sense however, there is not much I can be hired for...The experience would come in handy as well. His pace quickened. Besides...I'm not just doing it for myself...It's for those others under her hoof as well. "Well...I really have no other plans." The recruiting process was surprisingly simple. When it was your turn, walk out into the middle of the open space and state your specialty before demonstrating it. Mordane calmed himself before entering the line with Boulder. With his sword strapped onto his back, Mordane walked calmly into the warehouse once his turn had arrived. Three ponies stood in front of him with bored expressions. The first was an earth pony in heavy armor. His light blue coat and dark blue mane were offset by orange eyes. On his back rested a greatsword. The sight of him filled Mordane with unease. He fidgeted a bit. The second was an unarmored pegasi and carrying a lacer: An air blade dragged behind a flyer, meant to remove heads." The third was a cloaked figure. Mordane tensed up as he felt the necromantic energy. Though quickly he recognized it was not the one from his childhood. "State your specialty," said the first. "...Magic. If you mean what kind, I can perform both elemental, necromancy, minor healing, and illusions." The first two raised an eyebrow at that while the third simply said. "Show me." He paused for a moment and made up his mind. There was no use in lying about his power. This necromancer was good enough to know. "I guess I'll do an illusion first." The three stared forward as Mordane’s eyes grew red. Quickly he was transformed wrapped in shadow. "Fear me." His voice had unearthly quality to it. "Is that rea-" Instantly he was cut off as he flinched. A wave of fear rolled off of Mordane. The necromancer fought off the mental attack with little difficulty, but the first two felt a little jittery on their hooves. He smiled at the younger stallion. Using illusion magic to dirctly induce fear was not bad. Inefficient but it showed proficiency. "Good enough. Necromancy and minor healing are related. Leave them till last. Show your elemental magic." "Are you aware of war magic?" Approval radiated from the third one."Yes. Please show me yours." "Of course." Mordane did not need to restrain himself. Reaching out he took command of the local energy that was unclaimed. The third seemed to be holding onto over half of it, though his grip was nothing impressive. ...Must be self taught. No use in holding back. Mordane quickly found his center. This was much easier since he had allowed his regressed trait free. His eyes snapped open. The calm flowed and stirred. The dust from all around the room moved and collected into a sphere. He compressed it to half the normal volume.At the same time he drew the moisture into a stream of water orbiting the compressing dirt clod. The third one was smiling and nodding but the two pegasi seemed almost bored. ...Well then. I guess it's time to pick it up. "I advise you to cover your ears." Mordane pulled a shockwave spell and stomped his foot down. The ball of dirt compressed and then with an exhale he formed it into a stone sword. At the same time the water formed razor edges on the blade. The two pegasi eyes were wide as he stabbed the sword into the ground. Silence. The necromancer burst out laughing. "Hahaha. No need to impress these two, Mordane." "What's funny?" said the first pegasi, confused. "Oh, he simply was trying to impress you, but to someone who is skilled the first part was far more impressive. His control and strength were precise. Not perfect, but very good. That alone would’ve gotten him into the university." University? The first pony, named High Rise, nodded his head and chuckled. "Well I don't know a thing about magic. Though from your comment I can tell this one is worth the money." He turned to Mordane as the alicorn felt a flush of pride. "Do you have any other skills?" he asked catching Mordane off guard. "Well...yes. Though what more could you want to know?" “It helps our command. We do pay more if you have extra skills.” I really do need the money...I suppose being winged would pay more. Eh it's worth the risk. "...What if a pony claimed to be a winged unicorn?" That gave them pause. The first one frowned. "I would kick him out for lying." Mordane laughed nervously. "I'm sure that the other necromancer over there could verify my wing’s authenticity... or I could just hover." They exchanged looks and the third one nodded. "...Very well." With that Mordane pulled off his cloak and stretched out his wings. Causing all of the three judges eyebrows to rise. With a few flaps he took to the air and hovered. Quickly, a bolt of thunder passed through where he had been as a rolling sensing spell ran across him causing a mildly unpleasant feeling throughout his body. The unicorn’s eyes became thoughtful as he set back down. "...He's genuine." Curiosity in each other their eyes was evident. High Rise leaned forward. "I'll pay you sixteen hundred." Mordane thought for a moment before responding. "Make it fifteen. Then you keep my nature to yourselves and whatever flying group I work with." After a pause High Rise gave a simple nod of understanding. As long as he did not get too big, most would dismiss the idea of a pony with both wings and horn as ridiculous. "I'll label you as a unicorn in the books and we will downplay your wings." "Thank you. Where should I report?" Mordane asked with a stern face. "Here. In two days, with equipment," chucked the unicorn while leaning back in his chair "You're going to need some armor. That is, if you intend to survive." "Of course. I will be here at noon, sir." With that he saluted and marched out. The eyes of High Rise watching him as an unease settled into his stomach. **************************************************************************** Mordane sat looking at the entrance for the few minutes before Boulder came out. The human alicorn slight smile reflected the surge of energy and excitement of somepony who knows they are about to go and spend a lot of money. The guard pony walked out grumbling under his breath a look on his face as if he had spent three hours sucking on lemons. "Four hundred bits. Those bastards." "Only four hundred? That's half what a unicorn gets." The earth pony winced at that and had a slightly jealous look entered his eyes. "Aye. Unicorn mercenaries are rare." Mordane decided to refrain from telling him how much he was given. It would bring up questions. He knew for a fact that Bounder had no idea he was an alicorn... Mordane had no idea how he would react to that knowledge. The very thought caused Mordane stomach to turn. "We better use your money and buy our supplies." Boulder cut into his thoughts. "Who knows where we can find the things we'll need." "Well I have the basics. We will need a sleeping bag for you...and a sword. Both of us need armor. You more than me...You’re expensive, you know?" "Shut it, young’un. Lets go find what we need." ************************************************************** The armor was easy for them to find. For Boulder, he needed iron leg bracers and a center piece that covered mid drift and his flank. Mordane pointed out this would leave his breastbone unprotected. He grumbled something about stupid children knowing nothing of war. Iron is very rare in this world. Many nations would hold it. Tartris being the main port city of the south however guaranteed a steady supply and the lowest prices in the world. This gave them a price that most would've called a steal at fifty bits a kilogram. Mordane just took Boulders word that the armor was necessary and dished out six hundred bits. For himself he was much more careful. He found a battle cloak in one shop that was basically a regular cloak with metal plates put in sewn up pockets. Once realizing that Mordane saved money by buying the metal plates and some sewing material. Then he bought some quality gems for fifty bits. ************************************************************************* Mordane made his way to the room he and Boulder were sharing. Sighing, he entered and rubbed between his eyes. Boulder laid on his small bed his side gently rising and falling. The room was tiny and beyond plain, filled with only the two old and dirty beds. The room was cool, but Mordane was sure it would have been freezing or burning depending on the weather considering it had such thin walls. The smell of dust and the kitchen below mixed to give the feeling of an abandoned part of a home. Opening his pack, Mordane laid out a large piece of paper made of pressed wood. Next he pulled out a paint brush and ink bottle. Finally he opened a book of magic symbols. With a calm demeanor he began his work. Learning enchanting was more of an art than a science. The symbols in truth held no power; they just acted as a means of fitting the entire idea of the spell firmly in your mind. The markings could be anything. It was just easier to use the magical standard markings. After about four hours Mordane stood up and looked down at his work. He stared at the waving lines and worked to hold the entire spell in his head. Reaching into a bag he pulled out a hoof cuff and some gems before placing it on the paper center where there was no ink. Then he drew on the power from the fire downstairs. Pouring in the power, he gave the matrix existence independent of his mind using the magic of making. Once the magical matrix came to be, he then bound it to the cuff. Small pieces of the cuff’s surface fell off leaving engravings similar to the ones on the paper. The very nature of the cuff was changed as it shifted from a dull bronze to a cold gray. Small pops were heard as the gems were pulled and set into the metal. Excitement built in Mordane as he lifted up the cuff. For a long time he had been certain that there were ways to magically store power. Why did Celestia’s troops wear armor with gems? Crystals jewels are mostly made from carbon and a naturally occurring magical field. It forms a sort of spreading structure throughout the gem. Normally when one tries to hold power in an item it will eventually lose it yet the Equestrians used several items that seemed to hold power indefinitely. It was a closely guarded secret but soon it came to Mordane that the structure of crystal could be used to hold the energy better since its tight molecular bonds could more easily hold power. That is what he used to make his copy of the clandestine bracelet...even if the end product was not as good as his original. Now however he had far more strength and skill. Though he would not be making a Clandestine bracelet. No this one would be a well of power. It would have a limit but with it he would have a store of strength that only he could access. All of this flashed through his mind as he lifted up the cuff and put it on his arm. "Go to sleep, Mordane...leave your magic till the morning." Boulder grumbled having been woken by his annoying comrade. "...Ok, Boulder. Good night." Mordane pulled on the surrounding energy and stored enough in the bracelet to make a building burst into flame before going to bed. ***************************************************************************** Boulder and Mordane sat on a curb just outside of town. Both had agreed that staying in the city would be extremely boring. While going out the sit next to the forest would be better. The sun was hanging. Birds flew across the sky accompanied by the occasional pegasi. The wind blew softly making the trees, grass, flowers and pony hair wave in its flow. Boulder did not know what to think of this runt. He remembered back to all those years ago when he accepted him into the party. Then he watched his girl die...What would that do to a kid? After he was able to lift up that huge boulder. Now all these years later... Hating Celestia. The old stallion would never admit it but he felt protective of the kid and at the same time afraid. If his story is to be believed, he had escaped Celestia...Impressive. Though I don't know what to think of that look. Boulder sat there as the question worked its way up through his thoughts. Growing and festering until it popped out. "Why do you think Celestia is evil? She has made mistakes but I don’t think she does it for herself." Mordane turned glaring before responding in a terse voice. "What, besides her blatant abuse of power and Equestria being stuck in the a technological rut?" Boulder’s reply came back quickly with irritation creeping into his tone. "Look Mordane, Celestia has not abused her power. She uses it every day to raise the sun and fights monsters who would destroy Equestria." "Tell me, Boulder. You know that long ago the unicorn tribe, whose name is forgotten, use to raise the sun. Celestia took over not as an act of kindness but as a display of power. Are you suggesting that the unicorns could not take over again. Oh yeah! That's right, we no longer remember how. Instead she sits in her unicorn noble court and rules from on top of the mountain. Throwing parties and wasting taxpayer money on maintaining a home there instead of somewhere more accessible. Then she leaves the roads of Equestria unpaved and maintains military control with her guard acting as a police force." Boulder raised his voice to match Mordane’s increased one. "Are you saying she made us forget? That's insane. It would take hundreds of years. Canterlot I admit is not the best location for a capital, but it is in the exact center of Equestria. And why would you pave roads?" "You pave roads so citizens can travel with more reliability or you at least build enough railroads instead of one way passenger cars between the major cities and Canterlot alone. Do you need more? Children are raised with her image on the glass walls. The holidays are designed to build her image. She has ruled unopposed for over a thousand years and only recently has her sister returned from a banishment caused her loneliness. Loneliness! Celestia's pride is such that she would rather send her sister away then let her be an equal in the eyes of her people." "People?" "Nevermind that!" "Luna betrayed the Equestrian ponies wh-" "Look you're already spouting her propaganda" "You are just jealous of the love she receives!" Mordane and Boulder were on their hooves glaring at each other, but at that Mordane took a few steps back. " Jealous...jealous. JEALOUS! YOU FUCKING BASTARD! DO YOU KNOW WHAT SHE DID TO ME?!" "What! What could she of possibly done Mordane!?" "SHE KILLED MY PARENTS!" Silence. Boulder stared at the panting stallion. Unable to believe what he heard. Mordane spoke quietly. "On the day of the diamond dog attack my parents were in Ponyville...I saw them alive after the fighting was done. DONE!" Mordane reached into his bag and pulled out the newspaper before throwing it to Boulders feet. The old guard watched Mordane storm off into the forest before picking it up. ********************************************************** Mordane galloped away from the stallion, his eyes burning. Rushing between trees and fallen logs he growled before seeing a clearing between the trees teleporting into the sky. To far away to been seen by Boulder he flew like a rocket until landing in a flat clearing. Snarling he lashed out with his mind scouring the area for any sapient that could hear him before pacing around. He snarled and stopped staring into the distance. Mordane had thought his anger had grown cold yet all it took was a little hot air from Boulder to set it ablaze. With his emotions running high, the old magic of Star Swirl was activated and soon he could hear music. With rage filling him he sang the song that came from his heart. __________________________________________________________ What does that bastard even know! .... How can he not see what she sows! .... The fire of nations , misery and woe! .... How can he not see her flow. .... How she keeps them in depravity. Making markers. Nothing as it seems. ... She taxes the poor to give parties to the rich. She sets above to glow and makes her sister a bitch. ... She builds castles to scrape the sky Yet does not pave the roads so my father has a hospital for his wife! ... For over a thousand years she has reigned. Hiding behind her smiles a million ponies pain! ... Well this pony, no this human sees true. Watch out I'm coming for you. ... Hell and fire I'll bring. .... To twist your throne at its seams. ... All the world is a stage now I know the part I play ... So rest in peace You avatar of the sun .... for when I come before you your last song will be DONE _________________________________________________________ Drained of his rage Mordane leaned on his front hooves that he had been pounding into the now cracked stone. Shacking only one thought ran through his mind. I have to free those under Celestia’s rule. Child stalker watched the panting alicorn beneath him from the trees as the dust began to settle and Mordane's horn stopped glowing. "Well Buck, Somepony gots problems." He leaned back in the tree and covered in shadow. "Poor colt."
Run(This is the second part find the first part and read it before this one...seriously do it) Mordane flew. Over the forest he raced, barely resting. Who knew if the sun tyrant’s scouts were looking for him. Celestia... That name filled him with rage and fear. Such turmoil like never before. It was the hate. Such burning hate. Settling deep into his stomach. Like a pit of embers. That bitch killed them. The sun monarch he had been cautious of his whole life, had finally made her true colors apparent. With that article she showed just how far she would go to cover up her crimes. The thought never entered his head that they might still be alive. After all, why lie about the time of someone's death if you were going to imprison them? She could've just said they were responsible for the attack. His parents dead after the first wave? He had seen them alive and well after the enemy was in full retreat. So he flew. He flew until his breathing deepened. The sight of the crusaders waiting for me in front of the club house... He flew until his wings grew stiff and the pain was nigh unbearable. The first lesson with Twilight... He flew on. Teardrops falling down to the world below even as his eyes were filled with nothing but rage. Star Charmer... Fury filled him, as did uncertainty. He would have to fly south, but what to do once he got there? How far must he go to escape her? I have eternity to prepare, but that might not be enough... plus she moves the sun. Should I doom the world for my revenge? The pony felt untold turmoil. He would silence it, but... who was he kidding. There are some emotions not even his mental control could stop. My home in the valley... Memories flooded back. His brother, sisters and maybe the entire town. Who knew how far her knife would thrust? Part of him wanted to turn for his village nestled between two mountains. Yet the rational part... the human part would not allow it. They are likely already dead... even if not. Where would you take them? He could not get there before Celestia's troops, and even if he did then he could not outrun them. Celestia was just too fast. Not only that but he had lost friends, a mentor. A whole life ripped away. He was just so tired, both mentally and now physically. Looking around he saw a river. He landed and sat down next to it taking a long drink. After he drank his fill he jumped into the deep part and came out with a shake before sitting on a hot rock. He closed his eyes and let the heat seep into his aching muscles, yet he could not find rest. At first he thought it was still his parents’ death, but no, it’s something deeper... A beat... he could hear them deep inside they spoke to him. Something he had forgotten long ago. It was not literally speaking... his mind was just going down paths it had not dared since... His mind continued back...back to the time before Equestria. Back to his grandfather's grave... and his promise. ...I let that part of me go long ago. There is no use taking it back up. Yet, a part said some things should never be placed aside. They're dead because of me...What have I done about it? Run. She takes and I run. I've been running all my life. Even before this world. I ran from my nature. Perhaps it’s time to start moving again. Perhaps just wanting her dead won't be enough. I need something more to push me. In his heart something stirs... just like in the battle. The beat murmurs to drive him on. Rested now, he flew over to a fruit tree and picked what he could before lifting off again. The sack on his right hip was full of food. Next to it was three canteens. On the other side was his knife and satchel. He barely had any money, Kindle was burned by the lightning, out of commission, and his food was low... Yes, there was not much to go on. All he had in the satchel was a tent, flint, two bowls, ink, paper, an extra cloak and a coil of rope. Sighing he ate some food and flew on. ****************************************************************** Mordane stared at it. How could something be so vast so... flat. Before him lay the Badlands. A desert region just south of Equestria, and beyond this vast desert lie the lands of the south. Not much was known about lands beyond the Badlands by Equestria. A few stories from traders in the port cities told of a region in turmoil. It was also where most who were, banished or ran from the law went. From what he heard there was dozens of cities. But first he would have to cross the desert. Then he would have to climb the mountains seeing as how the ports would be closed to him. Years earlier, he had read that the trip over the desert was seven days by wing, without stop. The desert would stretch right up to the mountain. He checked his canteens made a mental calculation and took off. ******************************************************************** Sand. Sand and more sand. An unbroken desert of flat sand. Six days of flying... no end in sight. ****************************************************************** Mordane drank the last of his water. There was still nothing in sight. He would have to resort to desperate measures. He sat down on the flat hard, salty ground. Setting down his canteen, he left it open and focused. He reached out. Water... smooth... flowing... life giving water. No matter where one is there is always water. It may just be so little that you cannot drink it. Mordane could not feel any pockets of water in the ground, yet a tiny bit resided in the air. So, taking the sun’s heat he pulled. and pulled. Why do things take so long out here? He sat for an hour before opening his eyes, having pulled trace amounts of water from up to a mile away. Looking into the canteen he saw that it was half full. Better than nothing. He looked out to the direction he had been flying, the sun guiding him. In the distance he saw something. ...Maybe. ************************************************** Two days later. Definitely something on the horizon. The collecting of water produced three fourths of a canteen. Mordane was convinced he must have chosen the widest point of the unbroken desert. ************************************************ Five days of travel later and the mountains barely looked any bigger. Just how far away are they? "************************************************* Twenty one days...how the buck does seven days turn into twenty one. Mordane sat at the base of the mountains, their peaks stretching into the sky above. He had read that the mountain was so high, that even the pegasi could not fly over it. It takes unicorn magic and time through one of the frozen paths on foot to make it. Mordane refilled his water and checked his food. ...only a week's food left and that's with barely eating anything. After day ten he had gone on starvation rations. Already the bulge from the easy life was shrinking. In a month his ribs might even show. I don't have time to delay. He set off and flew as high us as he could. Even after that, he had to make his way up a snaking path. ************************************************** After days of unrelenting desert sun the cold was unbearable, and only getting worse. Mordane was stumbling, bleary eyed and panting, through the frozen pass. Already he had cast spells to keep warm, on top of the ones to increase air pressure around him. All around him a blizzard pounded, cutting into his flesh. His hooves sunk deep into the snow as the heat from his body melted it before the cold refreeze the water into ice. Even as an Alicorn, immortal or not, he was dying. He suspected that death would have already come if he did not have magic. Every step grew more arduous and painful. As he was about to give up hope his eyes fell upon a cave. It stood out as a black dot along a wall of gray. Mordane quickly stepped into the cave and shivered before casting a light spell. Bones met his eyes. Over a dozen bodies laid around. Some in pieces, while others were huddled for warmth with their belongings strewn about. They looked as if most had simply laid down to sleep and never stood back up. Others looked like they had been ripped apart. He gagged and scanned the cave. It was small and empty of life. Only a darkly stained rock caught his attention. Checking their belongings. Soon he found one who had a bag of bits. There was not a scrap of food though. Mordane was so cold... then he had an idea. The bones were dry... with a spell he could collect them together and set them alight. It might be considered desecration, but then again it could also be seen as giving them a final rest. The decision came easily and soon a nose wrinkling smell of burning bones was filling the cave. Mordane shuddered and it was not from the cold, yet the warmth was welcome, at least until he heard a growl. At the front of the cave entrance was a... thing. It stood on four legs that met at an ape-like torso. Its fur and eyes were pure white, save for the dot of a pupil staring at him. In its teeth was a mare. Her body was covered in ice, and it was clear from how thick it was that the monster had found her frozen to death. Mordane hoped for a moment that the creature would prefer the frozen flesh over the living pony trapped before it. "ROAR!" No such luck. The stallion charged his horn to form an ice spear, but before he could cast the creature hurled the mare’s corpse at him. The pony body was never meant to react quickly. He was thrown against the wall, where he felt a sickening pop as his wing slid out of its socket. Dazed and in pain. He only had enough time to push the corpse off of his body before the creature grabbed him by the rear hoof and started to drag him across the cave. It was then that Mordane knew what the dark stain was. Desperately he looked around for something. ANYTHING that could be used as a weapon. His eyes settled on a rusty spear head. He barely even considered what he was doing before the burning bones were thrust into the beast face. It screamed as its hair caught fire. Mordane stood painting and floated the spear head over and began to pull on power. The wind and heat from the creature’s flesh itself, was his only source. A second later the beast turned and roared. Yet it never had a chance to charge. It was silenced as a rusty super accelerated spear head shot out. Mordane stumbled back, pain erupting from his chest. He could almost hear the lecture that Twilight had given him many years ago; "For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. Half of a unicorn’s power must go to counter the force on the body. This applies to any spell where a lot of force is being used to move something, otherwise that force is reflected equally back." The alicorn wheezed and checked his condition. Luckily it seemed he had only been bruised. Cautiously, Mordane moved closer. The beast continued to twitch on the floor until Mordane pulled up another sword and cut off its head. There he stood. In a frozen cave among the dead. Shivering from cold and fear. There was at least one thing he could do for the cold. Skinning animals was illegal in Equestria, and so was any product made from their flesh. Mordane was not in Equestria. The beast’s skin came off easily enough. A heating by the fire and a spell to both pull out the water and work the skin made it into leather. While waiting, he checked the poor mare and was lucky to find some raisins. His time during that night was the coldest of his life. *************************************************************************** A few days later, he was traveling on the edge of starvation when in the distance he saw a gap in the mountain. A smile came on his face. Thoughts of his parents had kept him going through the cold and monsters. The gap opened to a sloping valley. Several paths converged into a singular one. Even as he walked out to the road, a few travelers on it did a double take at his monster skin. One even called out. He was a trader and paid Mordane in food and a book about edible plants in this region. Mordane found a quiet place by a small stream to set up camp before going to sleep, glad to be over the worst of the mountain. ************************************************************************* Mordane woke up as the sun came through the crack of the tent. He feels warm and comfortable. He snuggles up to the pony next to him. His eyes snap open and looks down in growing horror. His hooves are wrapped around another stallion. Both of them were inside his sleeping bag. The other pony turned to look at him. Mordane mind nearly snapped as his eyes found a familiar sight. It was Child Stalker, staring back up at him. The bane of his last six years broke into a large grin. "Hello, beautiful." RIIP! Mordane sleeping bag was ripped open, as he tore out of it as fast as he could. In his struggle to get away the tent even collapsed as his scream echoed through the valley. Child Stalker chuckled to himself for a moment before continuing. "Hey now, not so rough. You promised you'd be gentle." "Gent- whuh?" Mordane shook his head vigorously just in case this was some horrible dream. "What are you doing in my bed?!" "Well it just looked so comfy, and I didn't think you'd mind. I mean, you've never complained before." Mordane ceased his struggles momentarily, his eyes wide and his mouth flapping soundlessly as he tried to process this information before yelling out "I need an adult! ...Wait! I AM AN ADULT!" Mordane shouted. "Why are you still stalking me!? How did you find me!?" "I didn't. I was just traveling to the south through the western pass. Though I did say you were interesting... aren't you suppose to be dead?" Mordane was having none of it. "Bull. We’re beyond Equestria. Tell me now, or I’ll break your spine in half." Stalker chuckled and reached into his main. He pulled something out and gave it to Mordane. "...This is one of my feathers. How did you use this to-" Child Stalker placed his hoof over the stallion’s mouth. "A better question is, how I caught up with you. The answer to that is you are a moron. What were you thinking going over the mountain? You could've at least taken a boat." "Well then how did you get over here?" Mordane asked accusingly. "We're nowhere near the coast, so you couldn't have come that way." "Oh, that is easy," he said, stepping back. "I bribed the diamond dogs to let me through their caves. It only cost twenty bits. I’ll pack up our gear." As Mordane sat, contemplating how he had risked his life for no reason, he looked down at the feather. Something about it nagged him. Something... This is one of my primaries... but it’s small. That means he got it years ago... which means he knew I was an alicorn. He stared at the stallion, thinking back. When I first met him he was able to resist mind sight... he is brother with Smut Peddler... come to think of it, this family has been there for a long time. Ever since... He remembered Child Stalker all those years before. "Who are you?" The stallion turned... and smiled. "A friend. Now get your things. We got to get out before winter falls." ************************************************************** Mordane and Stalker continued down the valley and soon found themselves going down the other side of the mountain range. They looked over the rolling hills and hills in the distance with a sigh of relief. The road would be easy to follow now. As they walked the two talked. "So, Mordane, does your wing still hurt?" "Not really... you have anywhere to go in mind?" "Well I was going to go to Vrus to meet Smut Peddler, but I think I'll go with you. So... where we heading>" "...I actually have nowhere in mind. You aware of what happened in Ponyville?" "Aye, I was there. Mighty impressive how you were revealed." "True... Celestia chased me after that. I escaped after teleporting out of a thunderstorm." "That could not have turned out well." "Nope. Anyway I'm just going south... learn what I can." "Are you going to kill her?" Mordane paused and looked at his traveling companion, raising an eyebrow. "Why would I do that?" "Because she probably killed your parents... I saw your father flee. Then that article... did not know the sun monarch had it in her." "...Yeah." Mordane looked at the ground and continued walking. “She really killed them... it still feels... shocking. Hard to believe." The two traveled on in silence, before arriving at a town situated in a bowl in the land. "I say we stop by the bar and sleep on the road." "Agreed." The two found their way to a table with drinks and made small talk until Mordane lifted his hoof up. He was listening in on a conversation across the bar between two younger stallions and an old grizzled pony. "Yah, them Carics are the best warriors in the entire region! Why, no one dares even attack them!" "Then how do you know they are so strong?" The gritty pony leaned close and smiled. "If you go near their valley at noon... you can hear them fighting. You see the reason they haven't conquered the whole of this region is because they’re split." "Split?" "Aye, split. Over who is going to be the next leader." Mordane turned to Stalker again, who looked at him with a smile. "Planning to make a stop, hmmm?" "...Well I would have to find out where that village is." Stalker laughed and took a drink. "You'll need to follow the road to Valenstien. Halfway there, you should hear the banging." Mordane stopped half way through his drinking soda and frowned. "Have you been in this area before? Also, are you not coming with me?" "Yes, I've been around, and no I'm not coming with you... I have to go meet some ponies." Mordane smiled. "Well I guess it's been nice knowing you. Maybe we will run into each other again." "Oh don't worry Mordane, you'll never be rid of me!" Stalker laughed at Mordane pained expression. "Just remember to stay on the road." ********************************************************************* "For Terria!" "For the plains!" The two armies charged straight at one another. The pony soldiers of both sides crashing into each other. Finally... I thought they would be here all day. Mordane had been watching this 'battle' since both armies made contact three hours ago having completely ignored Child Stalker’s advice. It had consisted of one hour of screaming. One hour of staring. Then one hour of the two armies circling each other in mass. What is with these ponies. That was terrible. Why either general had bothered to try and flank the other side he would never know. Nor would he care to. In fact it seemed to him that they had must have met on even ground on purpose. Seriously. Why is this battle happening? Whoever initiated should of at least brought an advantage in troops or equipment... as things are, both sides will take losses and have to withdraw. Mordane continued to watch for another hour as two armies of a thousand both lost a third there number to both desertion and death. The two foolish earth pony armies continued fighting for some time before mutually ordering a retreat. Not wanting to provoke another attack neither army could clean their dead. Just as I was hoping. Mordane had lost nearly everything in his mad rush to leave Equestria behind. He was trying not to think about it too much. The amulet to hide himself had been beyond repair. He could not even hope to make a new one until he had a lot more money. Therefore he would have to... refrain from taking off his cloak. It had crossed him mind that Celestia knew about him now. So why should he hide? In the end, caution and not wanting to attract attention, made him decide against walking through towns without it on. Flying felt great and there was no way he would walk to his destination.... ...This village is supposedly located on top of a mountain in a bowl. Well villages. He had no intention of meeting Stalker again....though something told him that it was inevitable. This clan would be interesting to see but dangerous. There is much he could learn about warriors in pony society. The journey would take about three days.... **************************************************************** Mordane landed at the entrance to the valley on top of the mountain. He was impressed. The valley only had two entrances and both had towns snuggled right up against them. What had shocked him however was the sight of the red field in the bowls center. Have they really been fighting that long? A blood soaked field... I dare not fly in. Better walk. The gated pass entrance was held by two guards. They glared at him while holding their spears. Both wore a tunic in red with a strange mark on it. "Halt! This is the proud home of the Tahcon clan. State your intent." Mordane looked right into the guards eyes and with utter confidence responded. "I am here to trade and learn with the master warriors of the Tahcon. Whose battle prowess is known far and wide. May I have entry into your home?" The two guards chests puffed up at his request. "It is brave of you traveler to so boldly approach our gate. Speak to our leader, that you may not be taken as a spy." Mordane bowed his head and walked through the opening gate. Along its walls more flags hung with the symbol on it. Upon exiting the pass he came into the town proper. What a nice town. The southern lands nearly universally shared one thing. Every group was composed almost entirely of its own kind. This was an earth pony clan. And in what was a rarity, it was an earth pony warrior clan. The village contained well over a hundred earth ponies going about their day. To his right, a blacksmith was hammering away its melodious backing giving rhythm to the town. Houses much like Ponyville ones, hung close to the wall. Beyond the houses and fields beyond, lay a wall with guard towers along its length. In the center of the town lay a grand hall. As he walked ponies yelled out to him. "Hail traveler, won't you come to my pub for a drink?" "Ohhh, fancy a dance darling?" "Arg, HAHA! I wonder if you unicorn types are any good at fighting!" The villagers would call out and many seemed to go about almost in a state of party. Mordane smiled at such a happy life. Could they really be fighters? "WHAT DID YOU SAY ABOUT MY MARE!" A crash sounded as a stallion came flying out of the second story window. In moments the entire town was fighting. Crashes resounded as ponies kicked through walls. The cling of swords provided a backing to the disaster. Before he could understand what was happening however the fighting came to a stop. "HEY! All of you get back indoors! And NO fighting!" The bellow and command came from a pony who had stepped out of the main hall. He was huge. Bigger than Mordane by a good two feet. His fur, mane and eyes were black save for the red cracks in his eyes. "You!" He pointed toward Mordane. "Come with me. Oh and welcome to Tahcon." As he followed the apparent leader into the hall he saw ponies pull boards and windows from alleyways and start repairing everything. All of them laughing at the 'small' brawl. ...They are all insane. Mordane entered into the hall with the leader. The entire place was made from well-polished wood and reminded him of a viking hall. All around, ponies sat eating and cheering randomly. Occasionally two stallions or mares would headbutt each other... Mordane took note that the gender ratio was actually about fifty/fifty. ...maybe from a history of fighting the population ratio shifted... interesting. The stallion motioned for him to sit. Mordane replied. "Oh I really could not impose." "But I insist. It is tradition!" The leader locked eyes with the alicorn. They stared for a short time before both laughed and Mordane sat down. "We do not receive guests in our land often traveler. I hope we do not offend you with our revelry." "Not at all... I was interested to learn more about such proud warriors. Could you tell me of your clan’s past?" The leader smiled. "Yes, but first." he drew himself up. "I am chief Running Sword. What is your name?" "I am Mordane Stronghoof." "Stronghoof? Good name... Now about our clan’s past." The room ,which had carried on before, grew quiet as it became clear that the chief was about to tell a story. "Long ago," he began in a quiet voice. "Our tribe ruled over all the land from Tripington river to Inersel valley. Our clan had not yet grown to its full potential, however. Our ambition was without end... then the chief grew sick." His eyes grew downcast. "In order to choose the successor, a sword battle was to be held by his son and daughter. They fought for hours, yet in the end it was my ancestor who won. Pointing the sword at her fallen foe, she turned to her father for him to declare victory. Yet it was not to be so. The chief had risen at her victory, but so glorious was her fighting skill that his heart gave out. Shuddering, he fell to the ground." He paused in respect and all bowed their heads. "Her brother saw his chance. At her shocked face he swung his sword and nicked her shoulder. Then he claimed victory of first blood. Outraged, our ancestor attacked roaring the truth of her victory. In the end both were dragged away. Every day they met on that field were the stone throne stood. If either one could but get the other to admit defeat, then they could unite the clan and claim the chief’s sword." "Chief’s sword?" cut in Mordane. "Aye, The Sword of the Mountain. A blade forged with iron from a mountain’s heart. It is a glorious blade. A blade meant to conquer the world. It was placed in the old clan hall, behind the stone throne. For generations our clan has fought itself. Every week, one of us will march out in our armor. The other shall rush to arm themselves. Always we meet in the blood field... oh you should see it lad. A field stained red. Dozens of us will fall. Never to rise again. So long is our struggle. We charge each other trumpeting our battle cry." "FOR HONOR!" he yelled at the top of his voice. "FOR GLORY!" yelled the hall in return. "AND THE RED DAWN!" The hall shook with the warriors roar. Mordane was in shock. He had imagined fighters but not this. It was simply... glorious. "How long has your clan fought itself?" "For over ten generations. My father and grandfather lie on that red field... I know they watch. Proud. Drinking to my honor." "Is there no hope for peace?" "Nay... not till they admit that it is I who should lead this clan." ************************************************************* Mordane was walking through the woods. In a part of the valley beyond the wall, a waterfall fell into a deep chasm. There he would have time to think. They are... greater than I thought. The human-turned-alicorn had always thought of the ponies as terrible fighters. Almost too skittish to really make organized warfare. Now however he was faced with ponies who showed the spirit of warriors, instead of just desperation. Perhaps the lack in matters of war is social rather than genetic. Mordane found his way to behind the fall and with a few flaps of his wings he flew up onto a stone ledge. And meditated. Places like this one... I have not felt such in years. The waterfall, the stone, the stars above all of it fit together. Such places draw crowds on earth or are broken by people finding their homes. They are places where the mind and world are reflected in one another. Mordane felt himself fall back. Back through time, into memories. Throughout his pony life he had felt moments of clarity. Of how he was before. ...It’s almost like I walk around half asleep. Yet tonight... tonight I feel awake. My old spirit, reawoken. The alicorn pony turned to look at himself. ...Why do I feel so old. Three lives rattling away in my skull. It is only at times like this I see the stretch marks. The times I acted like a pony child or the monster....Why is it so hard to find my center. To find peace with my place in this world. In his clear view the answer came with ease. I have no place here... this world has denied me. With a cold detachment he briefly considered throwing himself over the cliff but it was quickly abandoned. He had things to do. Obligations to fulfill. Celestia killed my pony parents... my good parents. They deserve justice. Yet if I am to move on her... I may have to let that part of me back in. Dare I go that far? In his mind chains rattled to the echo of drums. "Runner..." whispered a mare's voice. Mordane snapped out of his self reflection and looked through a gap in the walls. Darn I can't see anything. The alicorn closed his eyes and used mindsight. He felt two life ponies among the life in the area. Focusing he listened and put the scene playing out beyond the waterfall together in his mind. ... "Where are you Runner?" asked a mare sneaking out of the nearby brush. "Over here." spoke up a stallion confidently. Mordane already did not like the guy’s smug attitude but he put that aside to listen in. The two trotted over and embraced just at the edge of the pool below the falls. Quickly the sound of kissing wafted up to his secluded place. He was about to call out to tell them he was here when the stallion called Runner spoke up. "Did anypony follow you?" The mare giggled. "Golden Apple tried to follow me, but I gave her the slip at the poison joke fields." "Did you touch any of it?" She laughed again. "Yah. But I bought some bubble soup. Why don't we take a dip?" she said in a seductive tone. They both laughed and got into the water. Mordane listened for the next two hours. The context of their conversation had piqued his interest. It was obvious they were a young couple as they never went much beyond kissing. From there, multiple conversations Mordane pieced together the situation. The mare was named Honey Dew and the stallion Running Glade. She was from the village of Tahcon. While he was from the other one, across the valley. They were both very concerned about either village figuring out about their relationship. If Running's village knew about it, they would likely stage a raid. The other clan would do the same. Both were very set on not being caught. Half of their time together was discussing when and how they would meet again. After an hour they left leaving a perplexed Mordane. He had come to this village to learn, yet now he was seeing an opportunity. If the couple could reach across then it is likely that the division is traditional, not actual hate. I could try to bring them together. Would have to go look at the other clan though. His pulse quickened at the idea of healing the rift between the two halves of a whole. It filled him with excitement. If I can repair an old wound like this one without... that, then maybe I won't have to change to bring her low. Mordane knew he could not make such changes with only one side of the story. Even if there ancestor really did act so disgracefully, they might not see it that way. *************************************************************************** Mordane landed at the entrance to the valley, on top of the mountain. He was surprised how similar the entrance looked. The gated entrance was held by two guards. They glared at him while holding their spears. Both wore a tunic in blue with a strange but familiar mark on it. "Halt! This is the proud home of the Nochat clan. State your purpose." Mordane looked right into the guards eyes and with utter confidence responded. "I am here to trade and learn with the master warriors of the Nochat. Whose battle prowess is known far and wide. May I have entry into your home?" It worked on the last two. The two guards chests puffed up at his request. "It is brave of you traveler to so boldly approach our gate. Speak to our leader, that you may not be taken as a spy." Mordane bowed his head and walked through the opening gate. Along its walls more flags hung with the similar symbol on it. Upon exiting the pass he came into the town proper. What a nice town... though I have a very strong sense of deja-vu. Just like the other town, it was comprised of earth ponies. To his left a metal smith was hammering away its melodious backing giving rhythm to the town. Houses much like Ponyville one's hung close to the wall. Beyond the houses and fields beyond lay a wall with guard towers along its length. In the center of the town lay a grand hall. As he walked ponies yelled out to him. "Hail traveler, won't you come to my pub for a drink?" "Ohhh, fancy a dance darling?" "Arg, HAHA! I wonder if you unicorn types are any good at fighting!" Serious deja-vu. The villagers would call out and many seemed to go about almost in a state of party. Mordane walked on with growing confusion. "WHAT DID YOU SAY ABOUT MY STALLION!" A crash sounded as a mare came flying out of the second story window. In moments the entire town was fighting. Crashes resounded as ponies kicked through walls. The cling of swords provided a backing to the disaster. Before he could understand what was happening however the fighting came to a stop. "HEY! All of you get back indoors! And NO fighting!" The bellow and command came from a pony who had stepped out of the main hall. She was beautiful, yet strong. "You!" She pointed toward Mordane. "Come with me. Oh and welcome to Nochat." As he followed the apparent leader into the hall, he saw ponies pull boards and windows from alleyways and start repairing everything. All of them laughing at the 'small' brawl... just like the other town ...I don't even. Mordane entered into the hall with the leader. The entire place was made from well polished wood and reminded him of the other one, with only a few minor differences. All around ponies sat eating and cheering randomly. Occasionally, two stallions or mares would headbutt each other. If it was not for the banners he could've mistaken that he had fallen back in time. The mare motioned for him to sit. Mordane replied. "Oh, I really could not impose." "But I insist. It is tradition!" The leader locked eyes with the alicorn. They stared for a short time before both laughed and Mordane sat down. "We do not receive guests in our land often traveler. I hope we do not offend you with our revelry." "Not at all... I was interested to learn more about such proud warriors. Could you tell me of your clans past?" The leader smiled. "Yes, but first." she drew herself up. "I am chief Breaking Wind. What is your name?" Breaking Wind? Well, this will test my poker face. "I am Mordane Stronghoof." "Stronghoof? Good name... Now about our clan’s past." The room, which had carried on before, grew quiet as it became clear that the chief was about to tell a story. "Long ago," she began in a quiet voice. "Our tribe ruled over all the land from Tripington river to Inersel valley. Our clan had not yet grown to its full potential however. Our ambition was without end... then the chief grew sick." Mordane was well beyond any surprise. "In order to choose the successor, a sword battle was to be held by his son and daughter. They fought for hours yet in the end it was my ancestor who won. Pointing the sword at his fallen foe he turned to his father for him to declare victory. Yet it was not to be so. The chief had risen at his victory, but so glorious was his fighting skill, that the old one’s heart gave out. Shuddering he fell to the ground. " She paused in respect and all bowed their heads. Mordane mentally groaned. "His sister saw her chance. At his shocked face she swung her sword and nicked his shoulder. Then she claimed victory of first blood. Outraged, our ancestor attacked roaring the truth of his victory. In the end both were dragged away. Every day, they met on that field were the stone throne stood. If either one could but get the other to admit defeat, then they could unite the clan and claim the chief’s sword." Mordane said nothing. "The Sword of the Mountain... a blade forged with iron from a mountain’s heart. It is a glorious blade. A blade meant to conquer the world. It was placed in the old clan hall behind the stone throne. For generations our clan has fought itself. Every week, one of us will march out in our armor. The other shall rush to arm themselves. Always we meet in the blood field... oh you should see it, lad. A field stained red. Dozens of us will fall. Never to rise again. So long is our struggle. We charge each other trumpeting our battle cry." "FOR HONOR!" she yelled at the top of his voice. "FOR GLORY!" Yelled the hall in return. "AND THE BLUE DAWN!" The hall shook with the warriors roar. "How long has your clan fought itself?" said Mordane hoping that she might know more. "For over ten generations. My father and grandfather lie on that red field... I know they watch. Proud. Drinking to my honor." "Is there no hope for peace?" "Nay... not till they admit that it is I who should lead this clan." *********************************************************************** I think I might of seen some kind of massively improbable event... two clans both thinking the other is to blame. Both sharing a history and only some non-important things being the opposite. It's enough to drive one mad. Mordane was divided on his next action. Revealing the couple could end badly or result in the ceasing of violence between the two clan halves. The only other option would be to try and talk the two into a peace which considering the said romance was likely more tradition than hatred. ...Well I might as well go with the second option. The romance would probably be a better icing on the cake sort of motivation. But how to draw the two together..... ********************************************************************* Mordane was walking around Tahcon the general paty stance of the town had not lessened since he last had come... If he was to heal the clan, then understanding them would be a necessity. So he wandered around that village until coming on a peculiar scene. "Come on! Do you want the Nochats to have victory!" Out behind some building on an open dirt stretch a few young stallions and mares were laden down with massive piles of iron sitting on a stone pallet. It was strapped to her back as they struggled to walk in a straight line while simultaneously holding a spear. "Put your backs into it!" yelled a mare at the students. "But we have no liquid of strength! " one of the stallions groaned. ''Quit your complaining!" Mordane walked up to the instructor and lightly tapped her on the shoulder. "What is this liquid of strength he talks about?" She laughed. "It is what we drink to make us more powerful! Without it victory would be impossible!" Mordane nodded and moved on to his wanderings. Soon he came upon the blacksmith who was busy making a plow. "Good fortune upon you blacksmith." "Good fortune and glorious battle to you traveler. Are you going to fight with us tomorrow?" "Tomorrow?" he said with alarm. "Aye, tomorrow we march to the red field. There the two chiefs will meet in front of the old hall and demand the others surrender. If they refuse to bow to us then we shall fight once again." ...I will have to try then. It's the only place I'll have a chance. "Ah, so that's what those things are for." Mordane pointed to the edge of the blacksmiths land were some ponies were building what looked like siege engine parts. "Aye... need those for the battle." "If you are fighting tomorrow, why aren't you making any weapons or armor?" "There already made. Takes far too long to make the armor to wait until the last minute." The blacksmith then went on about how ingenious the armor designs were. Mordane could not understand it all really, but it sounded like it would have a built in cooling system of some kind and would make the wearer nigh invulnerable. Mordane politely nodded his head and moved away as soon as possible. There was not much more to do but eat and sleep in the hall before tomorrow....When he would have to pull out all the stops. That night a voice from long ago whispered in his ear. A pulse beat through his flesh... Gritting his teeth, the alicorn forces the memories and growing waves of hate away, before going to sleep. ************************************************************* The following day, Mordane was waiting at the hall. It was easy enough to find as it was the only structure near the battlefield. Looking down from the hill he could just not believe how red it was... almost as red as wine. His attention snapped back as the two clan leaders walked up the small hill. Coming to a standstill at the top of the hill both gave him questioning looks before turning to stare at the other. " YOU STUPI-!" "FAT UG-!" Both parties started hurling insults at each other while Mordane simply stood there blinking rapidly. Well....at least they haven't yet drawn swords. Mordane sat there and waited until a lull in there yelling before cutting in. "Would y’all two be quiet?" Both of the chiefs pause and blink at Mordane. "Listen, I know you two have not known each other long, but I think I can help yah." "Help how?" said both at the same time. Immediately glaring at the other. Psychologists would have a field day here. "Look, are you not one clan? Do you really want to continue to fight those who should be your brothers and sisters?" "Well of course not, but how are we suppose to work with them, unless she admits her ancestor was a liar!" "My ancestor?!" "Stop!" cut in Mordane." Is this really productive? What is really important?" "Honor." they both said without blinking. "Yes... honor. Is it honorable for brother to fight his sister for so long? Can we at least try to work something out.." The two shuffled around uncomfortably. Hope flared in Mordane’s chest. This was going better than he could of foreseen. "Will you let me try to find a way?" The two chiefs looked at each other and nodded with only a tiny flinch. "Very well... let’s begin." ****************************************************** Mordane sitting in the grand hall of the united clan. Empty, save for the two chiefs and two messengers. Outside, he could hear both sides preparing for battle. Behind him, held above all the decorations was a throne. Laid across it was a blade that had made his heart skip a beat. For it was the sword that had been held by the last chief to rule from this hall. Now however Four hours at the table and all they had agreed on was one that there was a battle between these two ancestors over a dozen generations before and two that the other was a complete tool that should bow down and lick the scum off the others feet. Progress was slow. "Look we are making no headway. Just tell me this. What is the most important thing about who becomes the clan leader?" "They must be the descendant of the victor of the sword match." Darn and without our knowing who really... Mordane face hoofed. Well it could work. If they don't have spouses... or their firstborns don’t. "...Do either of you have children?" "Yes, a son" said the mare clan leader. "And I a daughter." finished the other. No comment. "Well... its obvious both sides have honor... why not merge the two lines?" "WHAT!?" They both yelled nearly bursting Mordane’s eardrums.. "We are descended from the same line! It would be shameful!" Shouted the stallion. "That was well over fifteen generations back... you basically aren’t related at all now." "This is pointless!" shouted the mare. "Daylight continues. We go to war!" With that she turned and ran out. Followed quickly by the stallion. Mordane shook his head. What a waste...I have failed. The alicorn sat staring at the wood. Unsure of how he could've done better. Soon The roar of the two armies on the field below came to him. So standing, he made his way to the front door. Pausing only a moment to look on the battle below. ..... ..... .... The fuck? Mordane just could not comprehend at first what he was seeing. Part of him just refused to believe it. The knights were lined up on both sides of the fields in radically large armor. Though even that description was not enough to describe it. Each knight looked like an upside down ice cream cone with the bottom cut off. There helmeted heads sticking up and out. Two large funnels were mounted to their helmets. It took a bit to process, but the tubes leading down into the helmet and the smell of alcohol made it apparent. The open to funnels were quickly filled with barrels of whiskey as both sides continued to yell at one another. Oh god... this is... Both sides 'charged'. The better word would probably be waddle, as the suits apparently only had one joint. So they had to sway from side to side in order to move toward each other. An hour later the first two made it to each other. As they closed a couple of ponies ran out and straped wooden poles to there sides. Once close enough they would rotate their bodies and hit the other with the stick making a loud ringing noise. Mordane continued to stare dumbstruck at this spectacle. As the two groups fully conversed soon multiple ponies were hitting on one. Occasionally they would fall over only to wait as more squires dragged over the machines that Mordane had thought were catapults but seemed instead to be pulleys to lift the fallen soldiers. Mordane simply had to sit and take this in. ...The field is red from wine. ...There fallen have literally fallen over. ...There liquid of strength is alcohol. This is the most pathetic thing I have ever seen. ************************************************************ Hours later, Mordane sat on the hill as the two leaders walked up. His blood boiling in shame and anger. As they came to stand in front of him both ponies’ pride seemed to almost fill them. There looks filled Mordane with disgust. Of course, they began to insult each other, but Mordane would have none of it. “Be quiet” they both ignored him and kept on yelling. “I said, shut up.” Still no response even as mordane began to tremble. “SILENCE!” A crack rang through the air as a blast of wind and earth flashed out from Mordane. Both chiefs looked at him with their mouths hanging open. “I came here to learn what gave you so called ‘warriors’ strength. Having heard of your military past I even hoped to understand what held you back! Never could I of imagined that I would find a pack of fools.” “Hey you can't say tha-” The stallion guard was knocked to the ground as Mordane kicked him in the face. “I see now that you have lost your way! Yet I can save you.” “We don't need any saving!” “Ask that to your ancestors! That pathetic display out there was a shame on every one of them. If you fought anyone else, then you would die!” He took a step forward and used the spell shockwave. The ponies collected stumbled back as the wall of air hit them. Followed quickly by a hail of stone. “What is your word’s worth if you cannot even fight against me? A single unarmed Unicorn. Now you WILL come into this hall. We will find a solution for reintegration.” With that Mordane grabbed both chiefs with his telekinesis, and dragged them into the hall. Both groups retainers followed. Shouting and threatening. Yet none of them would lay a hoof on him. Cowards. After sitting them down they began to talk. Reluctantly at first. Mordane attacked every aspect of the way they did battle. Step by step, he forced them to admit the truth of how ineffective it was. Soon food was brought and all listened intently. A part of him that had laid silent stirred. As it edged awake his words became stronger, more sure. “With time, all ponies may lose their way but that is not what matters! It is what one does when this is called out that determines the value of a culture. Now I ask you. Please... for your children.” The two chiefs faces were shame filled. Both looked at each other and nodded. There hooves raised shake and bring about a lasting peace. Then a bread roll hit the Nochat clan leader’s head. Instantly, the whole place was in an uproar. Both sides began throwing food at each other while screaming like children. Buck! What do I do? I guess I'll have to fall onto those two love birds. “At least do it for the love between your two children.” He shouted at the chiefs. Utter silence. The chief Breaking wind spoke first. “What do you mean?” “I saw your son and his daughter kissing beneath the waterfall.” The mare chief turned to her son with a stern faced. “Is this true?” “...Yes mother, it is.” “You bastard!” Yelled several random mares from both sides of the room. “You bitch!” Echoed many more stallions yelling at the other chief’s daughter. The entire place descended into an all out food fight again. Mordane just stared. In utter defeat. There was nothing else to do. He stepped up from the table and turned around covering his eyes. I can’t even... Do they have nothing that would bring them together? Are they so petty? What could they care about!? Moving his hoof the alicorns eyes fell on their ancestor’s sword. The Sword of the Mountain. … If I survive this... No time With that Mordane grabbed the sword with his magic and yelled. “I’m stealing the Sword of the Mountain!” Nothing. They kept right on throwing food. “I’m heading for the door!” Surely they will not let me leave. About half way to the door he began floating silver plates and utensils over to a bag he made by ripping apart a pillow. “You know this painting of your ancestor would make good kindling. Do you mind if I take it?” The audible rip as the picture of their ancestor was torn from the frame caused no alarm. “I’m nearing the door... with your special sword... and the picture of your ancestor.” Mordane stood at the front door staring at the two clans still fighting. You know what. Buck them. and with that Mordane flew away. ******************************************************** The alicorn sat on a peak, miles from the valley in the mountain. Utter disgust filling him. Though not at their failures. At his. The only time I could even do anything was when... when... Out from the past, the dark voice called to him. His grandfather’s words no longer seemed so strong. ...If I am to defeat her. Then I will need power. But revenge is not enough. I need something more. Dare I let that deeper nature free? Dare I risk becoming a monster? The human in me gave up his ambition... I was willing to live a life on the side lines, away from the world’s stage. I gave up my ambition. Dare I take it up again? On the mountain whose name Mordane never learned, he made his choice. A broken mind came to that mountaintop. One that was unsure. Its heart hurt and twisted in confusion. The alicorn who left, felt none of these things. Only the drums. Only his hate. Only the need, for revenge. ************************************************************ Child Stalker came over the hill and looked down on the mud-ridden port city of Valenstien. Not a bad place to live. Well if you have the right mindset. The road leading up to the city was lined with stalls trading all manner of goods. They would shout at passing ponies, hoping some would even look at their wares. What a mess...I could always take the backway. The stallion stepped off the beaten path, while keeping an eye on the guards. Wouldn’t want to garner attention. He then made his way to the wall without being seen. Just over this section was the slums and the pony knew that no guards would be there... unless there had been someone important murdered... but that was unlikely. Better safe than sorry. Focusing his mind reached out beyond the wall. With a nod of his head he willed himself to be less noticeable and grabbed the rope from his bag. With one try he tossed the quickly made lasso over a rampart and made his way to the top before jumping down to the other side. His landing caused very little dust to be disturbed and even less noise. He made his way through the dark alleys. Soon he began to pass a few ponies. Most would walk past. However one bumped into him. “Sorry.” “No problem.” A few steps latter Child Stalker checked his coin purse and was unsurprised to find it cut. I think I made a profit. The thieves purse being slipped into his saddlebag. It was about double the size. Soon he saw a small colt sitting on a corner flipping a small coin. Now what was the code for the region? “You colt. Where can I wet my whistle?” “How dirty is it?” “A bit rusty...” “Oh, then you want the Rusty Mug.” Child Stalker passed him a coin after getting his directions. I think I told him the right one... lets see if I say its wet, I want a brothel. Muddy, a thieves den... yay I think thats right. The trip through the street took him through a few of the towns districts. The old slums quickly gave way to the stark lines of the craftsmen's houses. Followed quickly by the docks. Out on the sea, he could see ships pulling into harbor even as those up close prepared to leave with the tide. Taking a left he made his way quickly through the market and finally came upon his destination. The place was a regular bar to any who did not already know the truth. “What would you like.” “To wet my rusty whistle.” “What's your name.” Hmm now what name would he set. “Stronghoof.” The bar pony nodded and pointed to the back. “He said he would know it was you.” Child Stalker nodded and walked down the hall to the opening door. Once inside, he sat down and looked across the table. “Its good to see you, brother.” “Likewise. How is he?” “Alive. You were right.” “Good. Tell me, what is your plans?” Smut Peddler leaned back. His eyes shining in the darkly lit room.
MercenariesMordane and Boulder reported to the warehouse the next day after both apologized and picked up their armor. From there, they were directed to a place just outside of town. As he came up on the mercenary camp, Mordane felt an itch rising in the back of his brain while he looked at it. ...So disorganized. Wonder they can get anything done. The tents of the camp were placed at random. Mordane could see at least three places where food carts were. Armor, tents, and ponies of every shape and size could be seen as well. No overall plan seemed to exist and even as he was looking the stallion could see at least three fights going on. Walking along the path he came across a board pony sitting at a table who called him over. "Name?" "Mordane." he responded "This is Boulder." "Find the tent labeled forty five. The third guy is in there. Do you have a tent of your own?" "Yes." "Leave it here." They complied, both giving each other looks knowing that this was a means of manipulation. Wondering around aimlessly Mordane resisted the urge to growl as the disorganization was repeatedly thrown in his face. The smell of dust, mud, piss and crap permeated the air but Mordane had grown use to that in the city. The ground beneath him had been churned to mud by hundreds of ponies over time. After an hour of searching both of them were tired and ready to rest. "There it is." Mordane walked in first and looked around the small tent before his eyes locked on the only pony inside. His groan was the equal of any prisoner who had just heard the death sentence. "Hey, beautiful. Fancy meeting you here," Child Stalker said while laying on his side and facing the entrance. "How in Tartarus did you get the same tent as me?" Wait I know that already "You know what just give me whatever feather you took." Boulder looked confused but shrugged and rolled out his cot. "Now, now, you must know I have backups." "Of course you do. Do you at least know if we are getting another pony in our tent?" "Naaa. When I bribed the tent assigner so he would put you and anyone you brought with you here." "No surprise there. Can you even fight?" "Of course." Mordane laid down on his side of the tent as Boulder talked to Stalker. "So how do you know this waste of flesh?" "I could ask the same. We met in Ponyville shortly after his arrival." "You going to tell him how you stalked me for upwards of six years Child Stalker?" Mordane butted in. "Nah, he probably won’t care about that." "...Your name is Child Stalker?" asked Boulder with confusion on his face. As the two started to exchange stories, Mordane left the tent to report to his superior unicorn mage. It took several questions and near threats to find his tent. It was bigger than most and a shiny green. Two guards in gray plate armor stopped him before he entered and asked for his name before checking with the unicorn inside. After being allowed inside Mordane looked around to see a surprisingly plain tent with a regular cot, a table, and what appeared to be an alchemy set. "Mordane?" asked a voice from his right. Looking over, he saw the necromancer from earlier and saluted. With a warm smile, he motioned to a mat beside him as a cup floated over filling with alcohol. "Come sit with me, Mordane. We have to discuss some things." "It would be my pleasure, sir," said Mordane returning the smile and sitting down. "Now, young one. What do you know about combat?" "Well... I was involved in the planning and fighting of a battle to the north. A bunch of farmers were facing diamond dogs." "Sounds like a terrible situation. Tell me, how did you fight. Personally I mean." he said while pouring himself a glass as well. "Thank you," Mordane commented as he picked up his own glass. "I used my War magic mostly... Used the other ponies to hold the front line. Ended up spending most of my time counteracting their shamans." "Really? How many of them were there?" "...I do not know. If I may ask, what is your name?" "Oh thats right," he said tapping the side of his head. "We three forgot to tell you our names. I am Steady Gaze. The first pegasus with the great sword was High Rise and the other was Cloud Charmer." "I am pleased to know you, Steady Gaze." "Please just call me Gaze" "Mr Gaze. I however must admit that I have no experience working with others in battle with magic." "Ah." Concern flashed up onto Gaze's face. "Well its rather simple. We split into two groups. One attacks, the other links minds and defends." Mordane tensed up. "Link minds!?" "Do you have a problem with it?" Anger flashed through the Unicorns eyes. "Well... no. Its just I've been told that linking with my mind is uncomfortable," Mordane said hoping the unicorn would just accept it. "Really? Well link with mine right fast." "...Are you sure?" "Yes, I'm sure. With as long as I've been at it there should be no problem." "Isn't it dangerous... I mean my last teacher never got around to it." Actually I got her to avoid it. I swear, that girl’s lists. "Not at all. The only danger while linking mind is if one of your minds is so much more powerful that it can swallow the other and does so." "...And if that happens?" "Oh ummm....Well normally three or four unicorns must work together to break through anothers mind. At that point the unicorn could pretty much take what they wish." "What about controlling them?" Gaze shook his head. "Oh no, that would be too difficult. It would require a constant connection and would drain energy constantly. The mind is self correcting, any attempt at permanent control would be shrugged off." "What of memories?" "Lock them behind a wall and I won’t see them." Mordane thought back the the first necromancer he had defeated and nodded his head. Even after breaking through the best he had been able to do was hold him. "Very well... Let’s proceed." With a mental twist Mordane pulled back on his memories, locking them away. Mordane felt as the stallion reached out and made contact. At first he almost panicked but soon he could feel Gaze’s mind reaching out like an open hand. Mordane reached out in return and contact was made. Gaze gasped and pulled back his mind before shaking his head. Stumbling from his chair Gaze darted to the other side of his tent and sat gasping. The old unicorn did not know what to think of the mind behind those eyes. It was like he had been smacked. What confused him even more was that he felt no ill will from it. That extreme turmoil was just the normal state. "By the old gods, boy. Where did you get a mental shield like that?" "I'm sorry?" Mordane confusion and worry welling up inside of him. "That mental wall you have around your mind. Its like a torrent of emotion." The old stallion came back close and floated over a quill and paper. "How do you function with such turmoil?" "...Uhh." Mordane did not understand what could this stallion be talking about his mind was a calm sea. I mean I don't feel agitated. In fact I'm rather calm. "Err, it’s just the way I think. I mean, I don't really feel all of that. It just goes on." "Fascinating. Your mind is similar to predators if what you say is true. The normal pony mind would have to have a strong will in order to touch your mind. I wonder what would have caused this?" Gaze started pacing around the tent leaving Mordane to sit. "Umm, Sir? What does this mean for my working with the other unicorns." "Hmm? Oh yes. It means you will not. Quiet a gift you have there. I will assign you to the aggressive team." "Thank you, sir." "No problem. Now report to your tent, we march tomorrow." "Where are we going?" Mordane asked curiously. Gave paused as a stern look came over his face. "That is not your concern," Gaze's voice said with a tone that could cut air. "Just follow orders and we will get out alive." Mordane bit back a retort at the sudden harsh rebuttal and saluted before leaving. Just think about the money. It is worth it for that. ********************************************************** The bitter taste in Mordane’s mouth from the uncalled-for rebuke still lingered on the tongue as he neared his tent. The sound of Boulder and Child Stalker arguing came out from the tent causing his to frown. Walking in he sat down and waited for the time to butt in and end the argument. "The reality of war is violence. To strike without the intent to kill is to do nothing," said Stalker with a cold tone and he laid on his back looking at the top of the tent. Boulder was standing with his eyes ablaze. He was practically spitting fire. "The point of violence is not to kill! Its to protect those who cannot protect themselves!" "Any who cannot protect themselves will inevitably fall to those who are strong. All who oppose a nation’s safety should be destroyed." "At some point or another every nation becomes a threat! Your interpretation would lead to constant war! Violence is a necessity of familiar. It is with the threat of violence that a nation can have peace." Stalker stood up, the calm expression falling from his face to reveal ager every much as hot as Boulders. "By your own admission peace is but a delusion! The time before inevitable combat! Violence begets violence and only with destruction of all but one people will it end!" "You sico-" "Both of you are wrong," Mordane cut in. "What would you know about it?" snapped Boulder "Enough. Violence is the base of civilization. It is only through force that order is established. To put it simply; Violence is control." "We were talking about war! Not control." "War is violence. Nothing more than violence on a massive scale. The extension of control through force in its most base form. Everything that holds society together is only an extension of that basic form of control and could not have come into existence without it." Boulder was frowning at the statement, trying to understand what he was saying. "Do you mean that violence is neither evil nor good?" asked Stalker with surprise coming over him. "Yes. It is simply put a tool. Something to be used with caution. Too much and you risk destruction. Too little and you leave the world’s fate in the hooves of others." A smile broke on his face. "I would not of guessed you understood philosophy, Stalker." "Oh yes I do. It helps in my line of work." "Stalking children?" cut in Boulder. A knowing smile met his. "Not necessarily. Though I must admit, that particular interpretation I've never heard before, Mordane. Where did you hear it?" The curiosity evident on his face. "Nowhere. Now go to sleep. We have a lot of marching tomorrow." Actually I came up with it as a human. One of my many useless hobbies back then. With that all three laid down and went to sleep one by one. Only to be woken by drums at six in the morning. ********************************************** Marching and camping and camping and marching and eating and camping and marching and sleeping. Just how far away is this job anyway? The army had been moving for days. In the evening they would set up camp wherever they happened to stop. Normally there would be no water or flat, clear ground. Mordane would use his sword to go cut wood. This was not good for the blade, which pleased the alicorn. His distaste of that clan was still strong. Mordane and the other two had taken to filling a barrel with water and carrying it with them in a cart they had found. Well, found in the supply train...with bags of salt in it. They simply threw the bags into another cart and pulled it away. No one had complained yet. Sharing it had helped to make them popular among the others. Mordane himself had gone to High Rise about the problem. His exact words were, ‘A little thirst will make you lot march faster’ Idiot. The army had stopped for the day and Mordane had decided to take a crack at repairing Kindle. Sitting her on the water barrel in front of him, Mordane assessed the damage. The spine was cracked and a large part of the side was burned by the lightning. It had even made its way through the book cover. This is way over my head. At the very least I would need another vessel and several ponies help. Plus weeks of preparation. Even then, there is no guarantee that all the knowledge would survive. "Hey, Mordane" "Hello, Stalker. Where have you been?" The pony came walking in and looked at Mordane’s book. "Oh not much. Yourself?" "I'm considering Kindle’s injuries." He lifted her up and began rotating it around. "Kindle is her name? I was wondering, never caught it before you moved into that blasted hidden room." Mordane glared at him. "Sorry." He sighed. "Its alright, Stalker. I forgive you. For all of it. I'm sure you had your reasons." "Wow, Mordane," he said raising his eyebrows. "That’s generous of you. What's it been, two months since Ponyville?" "Aye... two months." "How much could be in that book anyway? You must be running out of things to learn from it." "Well, it’s magical...and made by Star Swirl. The information could be... well, everything he learned. Though I must admit I was nearing the edge of useful info. It seems he only put in the stuff that was difficult for him. Most of it is useless to anyone else but him." "Then why do you want to repair it?" "...Just seems like a waste." A smile slowly dawned on Stalker’s lips. He laughed out loud. "You miss her, don't yah?" "What? Nah, she is just a construct. A creation of magic and logic puzzles....She could not really be alive." "That’s not really the question here." Mordane hung his head as Stalker laughed. "Look, Stalker...I just wanted something I'm use to. New land, destroyed life, I don't even know where the army is going!" The angry stallion threw down Kindle with a smack against the barrel in anger as Stalker paused and considered what he said. "Well we are headed into Cabistien. West of Tietus." "Cabistien? Why is it called that?" "No idea. All the cities down here have random names. Anyway, Cabistien is a kingdom with three cities under its control. The leader ruling from the capital with a dozen lords I think?" "Is it a queen or king?" "Not sure currently. Changes from time to time... How much do you know about the south?" Mordane took a seat and made himself a cup of water. At the same time stalker moved over and picked up his saddle bags before sitting across from him. "Nothing really. ‘Sept what you just told me." "Hmm, give me a moment." Stalker sat rubbing his chin with the ankle just before the hoof. Seemingly thinking on what he wanted to tell Mordane. A growing apprehension started up in the younger stallion. What could be making him think about it so hard? "Look, Mordane. I am no good a drawing maps and the captain would not like it if his disappeared. So I'm just going to show you my way. Keep your fancy unicorn magic out of it. Ok?" "Sure?" Mordane didn't know what to make of Stalker’s statement. It did not seem to make sense, but the pony/human would obey. With a nod of his head Stalker rummaged around his sack. Taking out various bottles and books. Soon a small pile was around him leaving Mordane to conclude that the pony’s bag had to be smaller on the outside than it was inside. Soon however he pulled out a large gem. As Stalker packed his things back into the bag Mordane examined the crystal with his eyes. It has a large reddish gem that was mostly clear. Oddly enough, it was shaped like a small bowl even though Mordane could not see any cut marks. To his eye it seemed to have simply grown that way. Excitement came rushing back to Mordane as his mind started jumping for solutions to what could make such a thing. It had to be something magical, but It did not use unicorn magic and can be used by an earth pony? It was said that only unicorn horns could cast spells, and this was true but there was plenty of evidence to suggest that it was not the only form of castable magic. Pinkie Pie had been enough evidence to that. There was also the crystal heart that Twilight talked of. In her mind, it had to have been unicorns who made it, but Mordane was not so sure. Especially since the Crystal Empire was an earth pony state. Stalker reached out with one hoof and tapped on the crystal. At that moment Mordane felt a rush in his mind. The crystal began pulse. Growing darker and lighter shades of red repeatedly. After a moment a sphere of light floated up out of the cut and took shape before his eyes. Mordane gasped. Before him was a map but no still image. No, it had moving seas and oceans. Clouds moved over its surface as strange shapes took form on the land mass. "This is the land south of the great divide. What the southern nations call the mountain range between Equestria and here. About 400 miles from that mountain range to the peninsula with six kingdoms and five city states." Stalker stopped looking at Mordane and rubbed the side of his head. "Sorry. Maintaining this mental image is difficult." "...I can imagine so without a spell. Did you make this thing?" Stalker smiled. "Aye...I suppose you would want me to teach you. Should be possible with your earth pony side." "Well I have noticed I can't sense you. Is that part of this ability as well?" "Well that would be telling. Now look at this map. You see how it looks like two letter U's with the left one flipped over and the whole thing rotated to the right? The place where the two meet is usually were these ponies call the divide between north and south." "Do they not know of Equestria?" "They know of it but not much beyond that. It took many years for my people to move north of the wall." Stalker grew gloomy and thoughtful before shaking his head. "In the north is Toe, Derrena and Frozi. Derrena being the largest." "Why does the Frozi name have a griffin behind it?" The half bird half lion was cast in shadow behind the name. Glaring in anger. "That land use to belong to the griffin empire before the pony revolution five hundred years ago. As to why you can see that on the map...Well the image comes from on my own mind so my… thoughts on the different places will probably leak through." "Okay." Looking at Derrena he saw a bunch of ponies walking around whispering to one another. Occasionally one would pick up a crown. Soon however he would be stabbed in the back. Toe showed ponies in rags next to ponies covered in diamonds on the coast as ships were moving around in the water. "Cabistien rests on the north side of the divide between north and south. While Dimier is on the southern half. Irona is south of that." Cabistien seemed to consist mostly of ruined forts and ponies building forts, on both the north and south frontier. Dimier was the same on its north while the south was covered in ponies with spy glasses and ponies standing around eyeing the nations to the south. "Then there are the city states. Tartus we left two weeks ago in the regions center. On the opposite side of Cabistien than Ike. Which as you can sees hugs the west coast bellow Toe. Both are port cities." Mordane looked at Tartus and could only see what seemed like ponies crawling over one anouther. They would change position and looks so quickly he could not trace any pattern. While Ikes border with Cabistien seemed shabby, almost non existent. Ponies could be seen crossing all the time. "Fae, NIe and Heridon line the southern peninsula with Herdon being on the very tip." The three city states seemed to consist of children throwing rocks at each other. occasionally they would charge over each others border and grab whatever they could. Fae seemed to be made of pegasi while Nle had earth ponies. Heridon was the only city with both earth ponies and unicorns. Though the unicorns were covered in fine dress while the earth ponies were covered in mud. "Now listen. Toe, Derrena, Dimier, and Irona are all ran by kings and queens who rule absolutely. Cabistien and Fazi are republics. Of the city states all are ran by a council save for Tartus and Herdon. Tartus is ran by a collection of wealthy merchants hold up in the castle. The leadership goes to whoever is the richest at the time. Heridon is a kingdom. Though considering how it lacks control of more than one city and cannot even maintain control of the local towns around it that title is a bit inaccurate." Mordane stood there trying to take it all in. Before shaking his head and mumbling the nations names. After a time he gained a grasp on it and went on to examine the magic itself. "Stalker...Where did you learn this earth pony magic?" "Earth pony magic?" Stalkers eyebrows raised. "It usually takes me days to get the unicorns to admit I'm doing this." "Well... I can feel you doing it. I have the power of an earth pony remember?" Stalker smiled. "Ha! That's right. Most believe earth ponies are the least magically inclined of the races. In reality it's just more subtle. Pegasi move clouds, unicorns move the stars and earth ponies, well earth ponies move the earth." Mordane frowned at that. "I've never seen an earth pony do anything besides move incredibly heavy loads before. I mean the crystal heart was something strange, but I was not certain." Laughter rang through the tent as the image floating above the crystal faded. "Oh look," Stalker said picking up and putting the crystal away. "You made me lose focus. Listen, Mordane. Unicorns generally feel very self important. They have the showiest kind of magic. The kind that none can doubt. Many of them specialize in finding gems and shaping theme for magic purposes. Despite this most quality gems come from earth pony farms. Rock farms, their called. Most unicorns say the earth ponies just find the gems but in reality they grow them." "Grow? Earth ponies can grow gems!?" He was in shock. Most gems were near worthless save for the few rare kinds. "If gems can be grown then how can there be ones of any value?" "That's simple," he smiled. "It ain't easy to grow ‘em. Very few earth pony families have the strength. Even with them, very few have the skill or patience. Now this one here," -he said tapping his bag- "is one I made and it's been tuned with a very specific purpose. " It clicked in Mordane’s head. "Oh. I get it. You use the crystal as a plate a sort of...directing element. Then you pour power into it with concentration...or if you're a unicorn, raw magic." "Unicorn? No this is-" "Cadence is the crystal princess...she might not know how it was made but her power is compatible with the crystal heart. So she can power it... Most of these kinds though wouldn't work with-" Stalker shoved his hoof into Mordane face frowning. "Look. The Crystal heart is one reason I was in Equestria to begin with. I know how it works and you’re right, that is exactly the case. However it was just random alignment. Making one of these that is compatible with unicorn magic is like... keeping sharks and fish alive together in the same tank. Unicorn magic is just too aggressive." Mordane nodded in agreement and understanding. He kept silent before speaking up again. "I would like you to teach me this magic." Stalker smiled and after a moment considering he spoke up again. "I'll do it for a lap dance." ************************************************ Stalker began teaching Mordane two days later. That is after waking from his injuries after Mordane used his forehead to break a few rocks. He found the entire thing hilarious. Three weeks after leaving Tietus, Mordane was called to commander High Rise’s tent. Though he had been meeting Steady Gaze every few days to learn the magical side to battle he had not spent much time with the other two leaders. Walking in to the commander’s tent, Mordane repressed the urge to wrinkle his nose. The tent was excessively large for one pony. The full size bed seemed excessive for a commander who would put up to four ponies into a single tent. The glass cups and wine bottles did not help. He almost did not notice the bit of white powder on the table. "Sir, Mordane Stronghoof reporting." The pegasus turned to Mordane after pouring himself a drink. The serious look on his face cracked at Mordane’s statement and laughed. He looked a bit ragged with bloodshot eyes. "Oh, I cannot believe it. Steady Gaze told me you used sir all the time. Such respect is not needed. After all, we’re only mercenaries." That is when you need respect most of all. "Of course, sir...Though it would make me more comfortable to continue to do so." He chuckled. "Very well. Have you seen Cloud Charmer yet?" "Your second in command? No, I haven't." "And why not?" High Rise’s voice took on a dangerous tone. Mordane’s mental alarms started to go off. "I have had no reason to, sir." "NO REASON! What about your scouting mission!" High Rise yelled. "Scouting mission? I am not aware of any-" Mordane stumbled back in shock as the glass of wine impacted his face. Only his flinching and quick reactions prevented him from getting glass in his eye. Three cuts bleed as Mordane pulled off the glass bits on his face. High Rise yelled the entire time. "YOU PIECE OF SHIT! STOP CALLING ME SIR AND NOT EVEN GETTING YOUR THINGS TOGETHER WHEN I SENT YOU A MESSAGE! GET OUT!" Mordane walked out using his mind sight and finished pulling off the glass shortly after leaving. Well... that happened. The alicorn did not even know how to feel about the assault. It had just come so out of right field. What kind of moron would throw glass at somepony’s face, even if they’re high? I swear if he keeps that up I'm going to end up killing the guy...Come to think of it, he never even told me what it was that he wanted. Stalker and Boulder were on latrine duty. Walking into his tent, Mordane found a mirror and did repair work on his face, careful to make sure the skin healed together without scarring. Five minutes later a runner appeared carrying a message telling him to report to Cloud Charmer... before noon. Mordane looked up in the sky and saw there was not much time. He quickly put together that they were about to go on some scouting mission so he quickly wrote a note and left it were the other two could find it. At the same time he collected his gear, preparing to travel light. I'll probably be out for only a few days. Finding Cloud Charmer was easy enough. The mild mannered stallion simply nodded at his explanation for arriving so close to the time to leave. He told Mordane to meet him and the others of the scout mission at a location he described "Don't forget to bring enough supplies for two days of flight." **************************************************** Mordane had walked out of the camp range of sight before taking off. The scouting party was to meet in an open valley to the west of the armies position. As Mordane flew he worked to settle the irritation he felt toward High Rise. Even if he was acting like a fool, Mordane knew questioning his orders or showing doubt in his leadership would only result in the army almost certainly dying. In battle hesitation would mean death. I just have to believe he knows what he is doing...despite the evidence otherwise. The pegasi waiting in the grassy clearing did not even turn to look as he approached on wing. Landing he did not bother to tuck his wings away or hide his horn. You know, this will be the first time I'm open about my nature here. I wonder how they will react. "What the buck...?" One of the pegasi had looked at him as he approached. Seeing Mordane wings and horn he had muttered under his breath. Quickly all the others stopped what they were doing and turned to see what he had been talking about. "Cool it, ya'll. You should recognize me." The army itself had only just over a thousand ponies but Mordane and his group had started gaining a bit of notoriety. "I did not know that unicorns could make themselves wings!" "They can't," Cloud Charmer said as he glided in over Mordane's head. Landing softly he stretched a bit before continuing. "This here is an entirely different species. Half unicorn and half pegasi." I'll just let him keep thinking that. "Mordane, have you ever flown in formation?" "No, sir." "Storm Cloud will tell you the basic flying patterns. Let's move out!" ************************************ Over the next few days the ponies flew in a V formation over a large area. Basically they would have to zig-zag across the land while looking with their eyes. Formation wise there was only a circle, A, box, and V. The party leader was one of the most uncharismatic ponies he had ever met. He would give orders in simple phrases without smile then go off to sleep alone. This was the first time he noticed the... relational habits of many of his fellow soldiers. The mares and stallions would pare off almost at random. This was in direct violation of Cloud Charmer’s orders but it was obvious to Mordane that the pegasi had no respect. It was on the third day however that the party was attacked, though Mordane would have used that word while rolling his eyes. The ponies below fired arrows from tree cover up into the air but the pegasi were far too high to be hit. His fellow soldiers laughed. Mordane waited for his orders. "Mordane, Storm. Keep an eye on them. We will go back to the army and report." That's exactly what happened. Without anypony of interest around or any events causing even the slightest fear, Mordane was left his to thoughts. Mordane found the entire experience incredibly boring. They would take shifts flying to a nearby mountaintop to both sleep and eat before trading up. One week after leaving camp the army caught up with them. *************************************** Mordane stretched his hooves as he made his way to the army encampment. Five days on the wing completely bored out of his mind. Even those soldiers firing arrows at us in the air barely raised my heart beat. He sighed. I bet High Rise is preparing to seize their homes and families. That would likely force their surrender. Walking up to the meeting place Mordane was surprised to see the army preparing to march. He quickly saw that most of the ponies had put on their full armor. This is insane! We should be resting. The army has been marching for days. As he contemplated this, Steady Gaze walked out from behind a preparing column to meet him giving his orders. "The army is splitting into two groups. It seems the other scouting party found another group of these farmers. You will command the unicorns in group A since you're the only aggressor in that group. We are to put them down. You’re with B go talk to Cloud Charmer." With no time to rest the pony found Cloud Charmer as soon as he could. Only to be ordered to find the other two mages who would be acting as defense. After searching for them he finally found that they had left with the other group already. God I'm glad we are only fighting farmers or this would be a disaster. Finally Mordane had a chance to meet his comrades... Only to find that they had been sent with group A as well. Sighing Mordane went prepared himself for battle. Yet, he noticed so was everypony else. Who is staying to hold our supplies? Mordane just assumed no one would and brought his essentials with him. Finally an hour late, the force of three hundred left the now empty camp to march unstopping through the forest. The human forced himself to stay near the front of the column. His moral at a low though he refused to show it. Every action of this armies leadership made him angrier and angrier. With such weak commanders he feared for the lives of his men and those of his enemy. Victory was a must, but any killed life was a waste. With such a weak command they will likely drive us straight into combat. With that, we will both take casualties. With our superior equipment we should be able to force their surrender if they actually stand to fight. The stallion scanned the woods hoping that Cloud Charmer would prove to be an excellent field commander even if his charisma was lacking. About four kilometers from the last known position Mordane spoke up to his commander. "Sir, ...we are getting close. Should we not send out scouts or get off the road? They may have moved or there may be an ambush." The stallion laughed for the first time since Mordane had met him. "Look, colt. I have seen how you go about things over the last few days. You’re too uptight." Smiling, he continued, "Look, there is no danger of them ambushing us they are just-" As Mordane registered the arrow that had suddenly grown out of his commander’s eyeball and fired up his shield. Only two thoughts came up in his mind. Oh the irony. I will save them. "AMBUSH!" With a roar he fellow mercenaries charged. With a breath Mordane willed a force shield into be in front of him. The drain on his available energy was immense. He was grabbing as much as he could and yet it was not coming fast enough to keep up with the energy expending from the arrow attacks. A true master of shield spells could make one that would only activate when another spell detected incoming missiles. That was beyond him though. At about one second they were half the way down the road to where the ambushers were when the critical point was reached. That was when Mordane reached for his spare power in the bracelet he had made a few weeks earlier. Smiling he laughed as the shield that was near breaking resolidified. Protecting them all the way up to the enemies. The earth pony archers fell quickly. Most surrendering before physical contact was made. Mordane pinned one to the ground and turned to wait for orders. However none came. Even as the other mercenaries fell on the other archers. The stallion looked down at his prisoner expecting to see a shoulder. However what meet his eyes was a colt with tears in his eyes and trembling hooves. Instead of armor he saw only a sack cloth. These ponies are only farmers...oh shit. Are we putting down a rebellion? Looking around he saw that all the other archers had been captured. The mercenaries had tied them up and were laughing as they kicked them on the ground and poked them with knives. Some were obviously preparing to execute them. Where is our leadership? Who was second in command!? Then it hit him. Cloud Charmer must have never appointed one. The pony had always seemed... off. Maybe he did not consider that it was a possibility. Mordane however knew what he had to do. "STAY YOUR SWORD SOLDIERS! TAKE THEM PRISONER!" There was many different reactions to his order. As he indicated to another mercenary the pony he had been pinning. Most of the ponies who had been standing around watching moved to obey without thought. Some continued until him or others made them stop. One pony however ignored him entirely. *Thunk* Mordane swiveled his head and saw a rather large earth pony with an axe. On the other side of the group. He had started to give orders as well. Mostly ones involving lining up the prisoners as he chopped their heads off one by one. "What do you think you're doing! Stay your axe." The stallion looked at him smiled and swung anyway. *Thunk* Another head rolled as Mordane failed to yank the axe out of the would be executioner’s hooves. "I said stay you axe, soldier." "Who are you to order me?" Suddenly Mordane’s eyes opened and he took in his position. The place where the earth pony had been executing others was on a small rise of earth. Without realizing it, Mordane had run up on that and directly challenged another. All around them ponies of the army were getting quiet during their quick exchange. It was the quiet that he had noticed. Mordane knew how minds worked. If he backed down now, this one would be in command and looking into his eyes he saw only bloodthirst. I need to establish authority...There is only one way to do that so quickly. "My name is Stronghoof and I am in command." The pony laughed and leaned on his axe. " You? A unicorn? You don't have the guts to lead. Step down, little colt." Mordane stopped up to the towering pony emanating disgust. A simple spell of fear could have helped him but he was alone and a glowing horn could provoke an attack. "No I will not step down. I was content to rest under the hoof of a pony who was paying me, but not a bloodthirsty fool like you." The earth ponies smile grew into a full grin as he swung the large axe up onto his back. He walked up the stallion before him. "You are within my kill range, unicorn, if your horn glows I'll kill you. Now tell me which of us is stronger. Tell me who leads." Damn he is not backing down...I would have preferred to avoid this. Mordane fell back on his War magic and pulled at the earth beneath the large earth pony’s hooves. Since War magic does not use the horn, he never had a chance to react before suddenly losing his footing and falling to the ground. Mordane did not hesitate. He wrapped magic around his swords handle and quickly moved the blade over to the pony’s throat. It was over in a second. The blade was on his throat before the others even gasped. Now to gain their respect....through fear. "Listen here you lumbering ulf. I have killed more ponies than I care to count." I think three? " In my studies I have ripped out the souls and made slaves of ponies stronger than you." Total lie... or at least it was. I'm so sorry. Suddenly Mordane’s horn began to glow black. Even though he had never cast the spell before memories of doing so came back to his mind. There was curses and girly screams as ponies once dead shuddered and stood up. He only could raise five for a short time but it would be enough. Cloud Charmer and two other mercenary ponies walked toward the small hill as a crowd parted for them. The two headless ponies rose up from where they had been left after the axe pony left them. One casually walking over to pick up his now served head and hold it. The pony beneath his sword had stopped grinning as he hit the ground. At the gasps he had frowned and when the headless pony came into view he looked. "As you can see, I am far from just a regular unicorn. Do you acknowledge my leadership? If not I could always use your corpse." Fear blossomed in the ponies all around him as he looked at the pony below him, now covered in his own piss and shaking. "I... I will obey." "Good." Mordane withdrew his sword. "Then see to it that all the prisoners are collected and kept alive. Remember: Alive. If they are harmed... well I'm sure you know already." The pony ran off to do as he commanded. Turning, Mordane addressed the crowd. "Does anypony else challenge my authority?!" Silence. "Then regroup. We march in the hour. Scouts report to me for you orders." ************************************************* Mordane bundled up his disgust over using both the sword and necromancy until later. For now he had an engagement to plan. The ponies around him parted wherever he walked and obeyed without question. Soon the fifty captured farmers were in a wooden cell constructing between the trees. Mordane left ten soldiers to guard them and mentioned something near them about how he had been ordered to keep them alive unless they tried to run. Then he could eat their souls. The scouts reported back good news. The remaining farmers were held up on a single hill only a mile away. Mordane smiled as they described the ponies position "I have a plan." *************************************************************** Ground Berry was a Cabistien earth pony who grew grapes. He and his father were serfs under the local pegasi lord who hated earth ponies. Needless to say, life was not good for the ponies under his rule. Food was scarce as fully four fifths of what they grew was taken by the lord. He would sell the food to other lords and merchants. Then instead of using the money on his subjects he would pocket or spend it on his castle. Bandits were common as the lord only hired enough guards to protect his castle and the main road of trade. Towns were left to fend for themselves. That is why the townsfolk had finally had enough. They rose up and refused to pay their taxes. When the few guards showed up they were quickly driven away by the larger force as the colt had proven to be a competent leader. After that Berry had set his sight higher than before. Generations ago this region had been independent. Why not take the keep and make himself lord? He could make sure the other ponies were treated right and live in comfort as a loved lord. Now however, the lord had hired some mercenaries. Young Ground frowned as one of his scouts reported the forward group captured. Their numbers were larger than I imagined... How did he take them so easily? Do they have magic? "Sir!" shouted and older mare running up to his table with a rough map on it. "Thompson just spotted the mercenaries, they’re here!" She was shaking him her boots as the colt stood up and stepped onto the table, a bow emblazoned on his flank. "Calm down, Cherry, we are okay. This high ground will give us an advantage. We have all the food and if they attack, then we will win. Even with three hundred, that is still only half our number." The mare blushed at the bravery and calm in the colt before her. He was only fifteen years of age and already a leader. The colt did not notice this however. Instead he started telling his older brother orders who would then yell them out for all to hear. At first others had teased him for taking orders from one so young but not anymore. Soon they had weapons and a goal. "Prepare the defenses! Archers at the ready!" The earth ponies were well dug in. Their hill had a chest high mound of dirt in two levels around it. The first line being melee and second archers. Looking between two spikes the colt squinted at the forest edge enemy. There he could see a few dozen ponies moving around just out of bow range. What are they planning...? Soon however he saw five ponies break away. He saw they each carried a great sword and moved with a shuffle. Each one was wearing a full body cloak with their hoods pulled up. The buck? Do they want these ones to die? Looking around he tried to think of a way this could help them. There was nothing he could think of however. He was not going to move his troops to meet this side until they had already attacked...so were they surrendering? "Ponies!" he yelled. "Mercenaries! Throw down your weapons and surrender! Do not waste your lives in such a way!" The five ponies ignored the command. A feeling of unease came to the boy’s stomach. Looking around he saw it reflected in his troop’s eyes. They’re trying to unnerve me... "Archers! Fire!" Over the next few seconds the archers let loose. The arrows sailed through the air and impacted the ponies. To their horror they did not fall even with six or more arrows in them "Again!" The archers let loose a second time. This time however the arrows made enough damage to the garments that they simply started to fall off. Even as they let loose a third salvo the farmers were met with a horrifying sight. Carmel, Biscuit. Oh sweet maker what have they done to you? The two ponies he recognized had swords sticking in their eyes that were pushed all the way through and down out the neck and into the body bellow. The arrowes plunged into the flesh where stuck in deep. Even as he turned back from throwing up he saw the head of one dislodged and fall off. Its mouth still opening and closing as his eyes shifted around. Screams rang out as they saw fifty ponies stepped out of the forest with the same dead eyed look of their face. "BRING THE PONIES FROM THE BACK TO THE FRONT!" The farmers all moved around and stared as the five ponies finally stopped at the lines edge, so full of arrows that their bodies could not move. They stared as the fifty odd ponies started to move forward. Suddenly Ground Berry heard shouting behind him. Turning he was met with the sight of a large pony, with blue eyes, dark brown coat and off white mane, staring into eyes with a spear pointing at his throat. As he watched the horn on his head started to glow black as his eyes turned green and shadows played out in tendrils. "I saw you giving orders...give one now and tell your ponies to surrender." The farmers fell with barely a fight. Mordane was able to take them from behind as they were distracted from the front. The farmers had left two ponies to watch however Mordane had encased their heads in a sound proof shield. The fifty ponies from the front had been faking their state of undead. Casualties were non existent on both sides as Mordane had ordered his troops to refrain from lethal force and the mercenaries hit far too quickly for the farmers to react. There were plenty of injuries on both sides, however. As he gave out the orders, he reflected on the differences of real command to books. Really it just comes down to people. Who they are, how they think. Sun Tzu lead me true today. Walking over to the children section. Mordane grinned. After talking to the older brother he had a promise to keep. God I hope he gets this. I'd hate to have some twerp try and kill me a few years from now. "Ground Berry. Where is Ground Berry?" The colt stood tall in the middle of the mass of children. Comforting those older and younger than himself. Mordane was impressed. He felt sorry for these people but letting them go would do no good. It would only prolong the inevitable. The colt walked forward like a martyr to be killed. Mordane motioned for the boy to follow eventually finding a tent to go in that was empty. "So, young one. I don't want you to say anything. Nothing you could say would matter. I will tell you only this. Your brother has arranged with the other villagers to take the claim for being the leader of the rebellion instead of you." Shock played across the boys face followed quickly by rage. He opened his mouth to speak. "Quiet! Now listen. You want self rule, yes? I'll tell you how to get it. When your older, after years of preparing, after this village appears to be nothing but loyal to the lord and he lowers his guard, attack his keep. Do not wait out by a village for a few months, be prepared and move in one fluid strike. Take out his throne and kill him before he can leave. Then take all that gold your brother says is in that keep and send half to the ruler of this land." "That is our bits!" "Then use it to buy your ponies happiness! Send a letter telling about how terrible he was at using the land. Tell him how he stole money from the king or whatever is head of this nation. Then tell him you have reclaimed what is his and that the people have asked you to be there lord and that you said only if the ruler or whatever says yes. Then you will have your freedom." The child stared at the pony who had so resoundingly beat him then told him how to win next time. How according to those loyal to him had prevented the massacre of his fellow villagers and forced their surrender without blood. He did not know what to think. "What is your name?" "I am Mordane Stronghoof." "You won an amazing victory today." "I broke the heart of farmers and preserved its most important piece. This was nothing." With that he pulled the colt back the children and moved to prepare for his commander. This would be just the beginning. He would fight her one day. I'll fight her, for others. ************************************* High Rise was not having a good day. These farmers had lead him on a goose chase. Somehow fooling the scouts into believing that the main part of the army was farther south. Now it was likely that he would go to find his three hundred ponies killed. Oh he would make those farmers pay. At least that's what he told his men. In truth he did not mind the loss. It would mean less ponies to pay at the end of the exposition. They even took a bit to pack up the camp before coming. However as his troops approached the enemies position, his scouts reported his mercenary flag flying over some fortifications on a hill. As well as neatly rowed tents and a huge number of ponies sitting in large groups under guard. High Rise did not know what they think until a pony scout from group B landed and reported on the events up to the battle. High Rise then felt a pit of sadness open in his chest. Cloud Charmer had been his friend. This emotion however was quickly replaced with horror and rage when he heard how Mordane had taken command and desecrated his body. That bastard! The commander barely registered how the pony said there was no casualties. He did not care that the farmers had been put down without a major fight. Storming into camp, he did not even pause. He marched up the path and hill strait to the main tent. Once inside he saw Mordane turn and start to salute but the commander did not give him a chance. With a flap of his wings the commander picked up speed and punched the upstart in the jaw. The stallion stumbled back onto his rear as High Rise began to yell. When he tried to stand the commander kicked him in the stomach and yelled even louder. The ponies who had served under Mordane at first had feared him. Then respect him with the victory. The time after had only heightened their opinion of the new leader. To have this pony then treated like this left them stunned. High Rise pulled out his sword when the hilt glowed and was slammed back into its scabbard. Spinning around he was confronted by Steady Gaze. "Calm yourself, High Rise! Look where you stand!" It was an old phrase between them and the commander took it seriously. Looking around he saw the confused look on the ponies faces. Some even angry. It was then that it clicked that Mordane had won without casualties...Without them getting hurt. They may feel some loyalty for that. "Stand up!" Mordane did not even attempt to conceal the contempt on his face. The pegasi had expected him to be shaking, yet he stood with only a bleeding nose and piercing eyes. Does this punk have an earth pony’s strength as well? "Look, Mordane. I don't like you. I don't care for what you did to my friend of ten years... but I know you were able to hold this together... So I'm not going to kill you." The sigh from one of the guards made him even angrier. "Instead I'm going to punish you.Lightning! Bring the straps, both of them!" A metal brace and collar was brought out by Lightning and another pony. Mordane saw them and could tell that they were meant to bind his magic and wings. His options were limited having naturally released all the energy in the area to Steady Gaze when he came in as a curtsy. The commander glared at the stallion before him and gave a curt order. "If there is anyone who want to share in his punishment step forward." "I do," said Child Stalker having come in with the brace. " I assume it will be some sort of physical challenge?" Furrowing his brow, the commander replied. "Yes. For disrespecting an officer, I fine you four hundred bits and bind your abilities for a week." "Sir," said Mordane, glaring knives at him. "That is my only crime?" "Yes, yes," he said without thinking Mordane smiled. "Then you have acknowledged that my orders were just that. Orders...from a superior officer." High Rise was about to shout him down before catching himself. I've punished him for what happened to Cloud Charmer. That was done under his orders...If they weren't his orders then the ones who did it would be responsible. The guild would hold me in contempt. I can't acknowledge a command rank for him though! Unless... "...Fine, yes. Though in addition to the fine and straps I have another punishment. Mordane Stronghoof. We have another mission in the nation of Drena after this. You are to go there and scout from the top of Merrygold mountain." High Rise knew that such a mission would be death for the stallion. He lacked the skills. His friend seemed to not have them as well. "On your return with your straps to our army I will of course acknowledge you as my second...all according to the guild laws." With that he turned and laughed sure the pony would give up before being killed and forfeit his money. Either was he won. "I accept." The laughter behind the commanders eyes was evident. Yet Mordane was not thinking about that. He had only the future. In his mind. One day he would save Equestria. He was a good pony. A strong pony. It's the truth.
A jaunt into enemy territory.The story so far... (READ THIS FIRST) The story up till now.... Mordane was a human, named John, who lived alone in a house passed down by his grandfather. He would work on the train set down stairs sometimes and play table top war games with other strategy enthusiasts whenever he was not working at his job as a antique radio repair man. He lived a simple life content with his place in the world. He had many friends, a job he enjoyed and a roof over his head. The only thing that he did not like was his mother and father as they were terrible parents. Mostly though John would of not appeared strange to anyone who saw him. A simple man leading a simple life. Yet there was something strange about him. Over the years he had learned to reach out with him mind. Knowing that he would be called crazy by most, and seeing no real world use, he was content to use this skill to wage little wars with his backyard ants... Fate had other plans though. Due to his carelessness his soul was broken off from his body leaving him to pass on in the void between worlds. In panic he poured himself into the nearest body he could. When he came to he had been reborn an alicorn. Still encased in his mother's womb. Over the next decade he grew up and left his home town having grown close to his new family. He faced trials on his journey loosing someone who had grown important to him. After going to Ponyville and having a good time as Party King in a different town Mordane became Twilight Sparkles student. Him, the main six and the CMC become close. For years his parents had told him that Celestia was evil and though he tried to keep an open mind in time he had to agree. Even though his reasons were circumstantial at best. His fear of her growing into near paranoia as he contemplated what she would do if she found out his alicorn nature. His fear of her growing into near paranoia as he contemplated what she would do if she found out his alicorn nature. However years later after killing a necromancer he helped to fight off a Diamond dog attack. During the attack he was revealed as an alicorn and ran. Escaping he found a newspaper claiming his parents death even though he knew they were alive. Concluding Celestia must of kidnapped and killed them he vowed revenge before heading south across the desert and over the great divide. In the southern lands he was confronted with true barbarism. He faced difficulties before stumbling across an old friend and joining a mercenary group. When his captian died the young stallion took control of his division and went on to win a major battle. Angry at his use of necromancy on his friends body the commander punished Mordane by having his abilities bound and a demand he go on a scouting mission... Oh and don't forget about the war magic and how it binds the caster to a concept as a focus for magic independent of the horn. It's important.
The town.An army marches on its stomach Two weeks after leaving Shoplitfer, Stalkers brother, behind Mordane and Child Stalker near the army camp. It was high noon and clear skies all around. In the distance Mordane could hear the animals as they scurried around the woods looking for food to survive. The trees were sparse and throughout you could see stumps from where some had been cut down. A deep soreness had settled into his hooves despite the hard layer set there to protect them. Figuring out the camps location had not proven difficult as High Rise's terrible management skills predictably forced him to move directly from water source to water source. Just do the same but in opposite order and finding them was inevitable. Coming into range of the camp, Mordane kept an eye on the sky and saw a scout come gliding over them, riding a hot current, before banking and nodding his head toward Mordane. Turning from them he headed in what Stalker and Mordane assumed was the direction of the army walking for about an hour through brush, thorns and streams before a stallion in light armor stepped out of the brush. He wore a scowl that quickly turned into a smile once he recognised him. "Mordane! The scout thought it was you sir. Just making sure." he seemed nervous to Mordane. Something was off. "At ease. What is the state of our forces?" Mordane replied with a smile. "Moving just a mile south of here. If you will follow me sir." He said smiling enthusiastically. Looking into his eyes, Mordane tried to judge if this was a trap. His smile seemed genuine enough though Mordane could feel something else as well Ah, respect. If I remember he wielded that sword of his like a mad pony and followed me around most of the time afterward. "You should not state openly the direction our forces to one you don’t know is the enemy or not soldier. I could be a different pony than I appear they appear." The pony paused a moment before smiling again. "That makes sense. I'll try to remember that." "I'm sure that you will." Mordane said returning the smile." Please lead us through the brush." "Of course sir." With him leading on, Mordane turned and looked at Stalker who raised a single eyebrow. The unspoken question about their escort came across clear. Mordane nodded his head in the direction after the pony as Stalker raised his hoof and traced a little circle. Mordane nodded his head yes in return. During their excursion the two had learned each other's little signals for subtle meaning. Well, at least Mordane tried to learn Stalker’s. That pony seemed to know what he meant all the time. That little hoof movement meant Stalker wanted to sneak around and make sure it was safe. To Mordane it was a simple question of being safe instead of being foolish. He watched the guard intently ready to react at the slightest indication of a trap. However, within ten minutes, the guard had lead him to a valley the army was moving through and seemed completely oblivious to the fact that there had been another with Mordane. "You did well, go take a break before getting back on your patrol." "Yes sir." he nodded vigorously. Mordane walked out into the open smiling to himself about what was to come before putting on a blank expression. High Rise was leading the army when he gave a momentary look of shock at the sight of Mordane. This quickly through fury before a neutral expression slammed down. Hmmm he does not like to show weakness. "Sir High Rise, I have returned." Mordane said as soon as he was close enough. The commander stopped and raised his hoof before shouting. "Set up camp!" The ponies moved to obey even as Mordane grabbed one and ordered him to bring Steady Gaze, the head magic user. Being so close to having his freedom made his wings itch and horn burn; It took nearly all of his will to not show this to High Rise who was staring at him. They looked into each other's eyes, Judging. Mordane could practically see the gears turning in High Rise’s head as his thoughts turned over calculating what he could and should do to him. Mordane himself was making predictions as well, trying to think how he would react to whatever choice he made. Would he have to attack? Rip the binding himself and crush the commander? Could he hope to do it fast enough? "Mordane?" said steady Gaze walking up from the rear of the line "Well hmmm let me check these bindings." His horn glowed for a moment before the restricting binds popped off "Yes...yes he kept them on. Otherwise they'd would not have done that." "I see," said Rise flatly "Well...second. It is good that you have returned unharmed. I'll leave the unpacking to you then." Mordane broke the eye contact smiling at the old necromancer. “Thank you for releasing them so cleanly.” The old stallion smiled in return. “ It is of no consequence.” "That pony has a grudge against you." spoke up Steady Gaze " I'd be careful." You don't say? "Thanks for the advice. If you'll excuse me." "Sure, sure...got to wonder what kind of army this is now though." He asked while scratching his chin. "Excuse me?" Mordane said while raising an eyebrow. "You know with you being one half of pegasi and unicorn. We have the same amount of each race in leadership." Mordane nodded before walking off to locate the ponies he had made responsible earlier for the setting up of camp. Even as he walked away he saw ponies beginning to set up wherever they pleased. He went about ordering them to fix it and whenever he saw one of the ponies he was looking for, only a short reminder was enough to get them working. What really surprised him was that nopony questioned his orders. It seemed news had spread before him or perhaps it was just the air he carried. Mordane did not know nor care. Heading about he searched out Boulder who he found setting up his tent in the correct spot for it. "Hey Boulder." "Mordane! Good to see ya. So are you..." "Yes, High Rise acknowledged that I'm second." Boulder smiled and stepped closer while raising his eyebrows. "Hey I guess that means you’ll earn more money ehh?" With a chuckle Mordane put his arm over Boulder. "I suppose...The real thing I worry about though is convincing High Rise to not get us killed." "Do you think that is a possibility?" Boulder said shifting to a serious tone. "Yes, though I'm sure we can manage. I'm surprised that the scouts are still going though." "Oh that." Boulder rolled his eyes before replying sheepishly " It was simple as most of them were under you. I might have also… said a few things." "Really? good. Well I have to go Boulder. Come by my tent tomorrow evening." "Sure." Mordane left Boulder to set up his tent. Looking around he went to work. ************************* After organizing dinner, food storage, wood supply, water supply and a system of reporting what the scouts observed to Mordane’s personal tent he took a stroll around the camp taking mental note of the lack of ...well anything. Calling up a nearby guard he had them bring in a regular cot and a writing table before dismissing them and laying down to think. High Rise is probably the worst commander I've ever seen. Err, the only commander I've ever actually seen, but that's not the point. I find it hard to believe he would just leave food and such up to his men ...ponies. I'll have to talk about that tomorrow. Well at least I won't have to put up with him forever. All I need to do is make sure High Rise isn't going to kill me. ********************************* The following day Mordane woke and prepared himself before heading out. His body odor was starting to become noticeable after a month without a bath. I'll need to fix that the next time I have a chance. Heading out he went to High Rises tent. Trying to project a way to find peace with him and setting up a strategy , as well as learning what exactly the mercenaries had been hired to do. One of the two guards, seeing him coming, leaned his head into the tent before pulling it back out and nodding to the other guard. When he got to them they simply let him pass through. "Mordane! Good to see you up this early." Said High Rise sitting at a table and drinking a glass of water, a fake smile plastered across his face. Mordane took note of the cleanness of his suit and how he seemed clearer than before. ...Must be worried about what I’ve been doing. "Good morning to you as well sir. Its fine weather we're having today. Did you sleep well?" Mordane replied with a smile that seemed genuine. "Oh dreadful. Yet that is not really the issue." He leaned forward." The real question is why you want to see me." Now Mordane took extra notes; There were no cracks in the commander's eyes and his gaze was not only clear, it was piercing. He seems to be clean. Odd. Best to be frank and friendly, act like I respect...or fear him if needed. "Oh" Mordane began taking a seat across from him. "I'm just seeing what you want me to do and tell you what has already done with the tents and the scouts." "Really, been busy?" he said in a tone that very well knew he had been and was not entirely happy with it. "A bit. The tent organization had to be reinforced and I've set individuals responsible to see that it's done. The scouts have not been organized and some have not even been reporting. I made sure to set a pony to that as well. Besides, it's just been reinforcing my new authority and making it clear that I was your second....not your equal." High Rise raised a single eyebrow as if to say isn't that obvious. His eyes however showed confusion at Mordane’s bluntness until an understanding sparked in his eyes. "I see you clever pony. I was wondering how you were able to command such respect so easily." He laughed as Mordane joined him. Damn...He has to know that's not true. Maybe he thinks I don't know I can make others follow? My mark… It dawned on him that even if High Rise saw his mark its meaning might not come across as it was culturally linked to Equestrian history. In fact most in the south would not be able to understand its deeper meaning. "Well of course. I mean I'm a little young for them to follow.... You don't mind,do you?" "No no not at all. You aren't bad at command Mordane you just, uhh, what is it again?" "Charisma?" Mordane asked perplexed. "Err...the stuff. The thing that makes others follow you." Or the effect of understanding a crowd and using that along with confidence to manipulate them. "Ah,that makes sense. Anyway, there is a few things I would like to ask you about." "Ask away." High Rise said leaning back in his chair. "We are low on food. Taking it from the locals is cheap but the ponies hiring us might not appreciate us causing mass starvation among their farmers if we run out....Most ponies are on their last week's worth. We were able to restock from those peasants we defeated but that was about three weeks ago....as you know most soldiers carry a month's worth with them." "Your point?" "We should make all haste to our destination. In order to do this one of us will have two options. Either we hop water to water source and still be within the nation that hired us when food runs out or we head straight there at haste." "If we do that then ponies will have to go onto half rations." he frowned. “ Pillaging our employers land though….” "Aye, If we did not send a group ahead to secure food for us from the enemy's farms and from several sources in order to prevent starvation." "...good plan but why worry about peasants starving?" Thought you would think that. "Leaving a path of starving farmers once we attack their land does not sound exactly covert to me sir. I was planning on putting us off as bandits and striking at several places along the border." "...You?" he said with a frown "Yes. I thought I would take the riskier command." High Rise stared at Mordane rubbing his chin seemingly trying to understand his motivation for doing this. He still thinks I'm up to something...at least he'll think I'm nice. "Fine we'll do it your way." "Thank you sir....If I may ask, what is our overall objective?" "Capture the town of Trans and build a bridge across the river there. Then we hold it until the Cabistien forces show up." "Sounds simple enough. They want to flank the enemy?" "Yes, It’s good work I'll need you to take the town and secure its resources for the construction." He glared into Mordanes eyes "That includes the native population. We will need them to build the bridge." "...Of course sir." Mordane felt a wrenching in his gut. "Should I prepare my force and leave sir?" "Yes. Take about a hundred it should be enough." "Of course." Mordane saluted and quickly pulled out of the tent. His pace quickened after he left the tent. Rushing to behind another he spewed his breakfast on the ground and shivered. He remembered reading of ancient warfare and he had now seen the battle half firsthand. Yet he knew that was not the real toll of death. Usually civilian casualties would outnumber soldiers three to one. That was not even considering those that died from starvation. To feed an army without causing such destruction would take an immense effort. He sighed thinking how humans could avoid such things now because of trucks that could follow the army. Now he was receiving orders to enslave a population. Was he willing to do this? It only made him feel sicker when the answer came back yes, yes he was. It will happen with our without me. All I can do is make sure it's as light as possible. Just like George Duckwitz. Some things I cannot change but I cannot allow that to prevent what I can. High Rise will be moving north. He will need food. He will take it. All I can do is make sure it's as clean as possible. The mind always rationalizes what it must. Trotting quickly he made his preparations and sent some ponies to go and ask for volunteers. Then one of the ponies over the tents to reorganize so that he could take thirty five tents with him. Then there was the lack of wagons and some food needed taking with them. He decided to take the twenty empty ones and they would take some more once there. After sending different ponies off to the various tasks he went to his old tent. Inside Mordane was met with Boulder and Stalker both sitting idly. "Boulder, Stalker, get up were moving out." "So late?" asked Boulder jumping up and looking at the sun that was past noon. "Yes, We’re going on a foraging mission." "The Cabistien won't like that." Stalker said while picking his teeth with a knife "That's why we're moving ahead to Derrena territory for our foraging." "Foraging!" Boulder shouted "You mean scouring the land?" A sick look came across his face. "Calm down Boulder I intend to make it as undestructive as possible. Why do you care anyway?" "The land must always be protected."Boulder snorted " It is the way of harmony." "Right.. Gather your things and prepare to move out." Mordane left to prepare his things as well. Within two hours the foraging party was prepared to moving out. Double checking everything he saw Boulder and Stalker coming up to him. "Ready?" "Aye." With that they moved out. ************************************************* With an internal shudder Mordane watched as a pegasus came flying toward their position. The army set within the crux of the mountain in the forest in the south of Derrena and its mountain range. He sat outside of a cave they planned to use for storage. Inside was a network of caverns that would provide plenty of space. Even now his army of a hundred was hiding in there quite comfortably. The trip back into Derrena had gone by without incident save for some difficulty in going undetected. As the pegasus neared Boulder trotted up and stood beside him. "So what's the plan?" "Small groups. Multiple locations. I'll be putting you over another group." Mordane replied without feeling. "...I'm worried about this Mordane. In the guard we never had to do such things." he said frowning. "Well down here they don't have trains and war is a constant." "Does that mean we should give up what makes us civilized?" "...yes. If we want victory." The six Pegasi landed softly and the leader walked over to him. " They’re three villages in the area you talked about sir." "Good" Mordane stood up at the mouth of the cave. "Listen up! Prepare to move out ponies! Three Groups! Bring only your battle gear!" The ponies in the large cave collected themselves even as Stalker trotted up to him and nodded. Once they were ready, he assigned Boulder and Stalker a group then shouted his orders. "I will only say this once so pay attention! You will obey your group leader. You will not steal anything save food. You will not rape, burn or murder the farmers unless they attack you. Do you understand!" "What I a load of pig shit!" Many of the ponies turned stunned toward the individual who had spoken up before anypony could respond. He was a grizzly large earth pony stallion and the face seemed familiar to Mordane. Ah that's right he was the one who was executing those prisoners. "Are you challenging me." He angry look was replaced with a bit of fear but he answered anyway. "Err no. I'm just saying taking loot is one of the reasons I joined this shindig." Many of the ponies around him grumbled In agreement. Darn it I forgot these weren't soldiers for a minute. A few moments of consideration, and remembering they were suppose to appear as bandits, he made a decision. "Fine, You all may loot what you can carry yourselves. Leaders make sure no pony takes to much. Also we will not be taking all the food. Leave enough for them to survive. If you understand say aye!" "AYE!" Mordane nodded to the other two leaders and the groups headed out. *************************************** The attack on Tripton, one of the villages, was swift and bloodless. Only a few of the residents were able to run off into the woods before being caught. Though it was called a village the reality of it was a collection of homes around a trading post with fields all around. Many times homes were a mile out from the town which made collection difficult. After six hours they had found most of the residents and taken their food storage of apples and grain. Both of which would provide the large amount of calories needed to conduct a war. "Take the wagons to the town center." "Yes sir!" Walking around Mordane checked that the farmers were not being abused. Walking into the town hall. He looked at the dozen odd families crowded into the small area. Several of the Stallions and mares glared at him with accusing eyes. Making a mental effort he resisted the urge to apologies. Instead glared all the harder in return. His eyes locking with each one in turn devoid of pity or remorse. They seemed to dare the ponies before him to resist. That he would enjoy putting them down. Many of the farmers shuddered and averted their eyes. "Beat any who try to leave." "Yes sir." God, I hope none try. Surprising the sickening sensation was becoming easier to suppress Mordane left the building and walked around the town again. Something was bugging him though. This is taking far longer than it should. The ponies are dragging their feet with the raiding. If we don't hurry. One of the ponies could’ve gotten- "Enemy! I see the enemy!" A pony soldier ran out from behind a building and spotted Mordane. "Sir! The enemy is nearing!" If the ponies voice had been loud Mordane’s was deafening as he yelled as loud as he could. "EVERYPONY FRONT AND CENTER. INTO THE MAIN SQUARE! ENEMY HAS BEEN SIGHTED" Doors burst open and ponies ran from all over the village. With Mordane’s quick orders he made them prepare a defensive line even as he listened to the ponies report on the enemy. "It was about fifty ponies I saw." He said gasping." I was standing up on a nearby hill watching the road. You know, because I had already gotten all I could and thought we should watch the road. Then I saw them marching." "That's good." he said absentmindedly as he drew on the local energy in the area. Too late he found himself reaching into an empty amulet for more. Damn it, I forgot to fill it. From what he said they will be here in a minute. "Archers. Hold your fire until I say!" He took one more moment and prepared. With a deep breath he listened to the world around him. The earth beneath my hooves. Burning at its core The air above it. Swirling continuously. The moisture that flies collects and runs through it all. This is mine to comm- The unexpected blow caused him to shake his head before instinctively pushing back. Mordane did not know who but there was a magic user in the approaching force. Already he or she had taken nearly half of the energy in the area. Mentally slapping himself Mordane fought back. Gaining ground inches at a time. Surprise emanated from the other side at his sought resistance. Even as Mordane’s physical eyes saw the first of the enemy come into view. "Prepare to fire!" he shouted. The magical war now shifted to the other pony as he took away some of his attention to command his ponies. Once in range Mordane let out a shout. "Fire!" The arrows flew through the air piercing the enemy. A dozen fell to them. Shock emanated from the pony on the other end at the ponies fallen. As the local energy was split near fifty both began pulling in the energy preparing to cast their spells. Mordane began muttering the verbal formula for his shield. It was a trick he had learned from Twilight. "Charge!" Bellowed a unicorn commander. Paying attention Mordane saw his horn was glowing. There he is. "Charge!" Mordane yelled "Archers fire again!" As arrows pierced their enemies flesh Mordane's troops charged to meet them. Ponies screamed out in agony as bones were broken and armor was twisted from the impact. Throughout it all Mordane prepared. Then struck. His enemy was still preparing his aggressive spell when rock shards began striking his shield. He panicked and began rushing to cast. Mordane continued to batter on the unicorns mental and physical defenses as the distance between them became smaller and smaller. Why is he using verbal spells for something so small? The pony was untrained or improperly trained. Mordane didn't know, but he was sure it would be his undoing. As the barriers fell the stones began to rip him to pieces. The look of fear barely had time to form before Mordane summoned a spike and pierced his throat. The gurgling as the pony drowned in his own blood did not reach Mordane's ears. I must end this quickly. What is the fastest way to kill them? He thought of boiling their blood but knew that affecting them directly would be too difficult with their natural magic field. Next he considered a wave of sound but that would affect his men as well. Then he Considered spikes, ice blades, mental attacks and fire. Dang it they are just too intermingled by this point. He looked around seeing his men and the enemy fighting to exhaustion. Already some of his had fallen and soon there would be far more. Then it hit him. He took all the energy he could and channeled The strength of a magic user was determined by how much energy they could move at a time, the number of bindings they could manage and how much energy those bindings could handle. Like the water input valve to many faucets. Too small a input with many valves would result in only a trickle coming out each. Too few faucets and the size of the valve would not matter. Then there was those who could pull on a lot of water, had plenty of faucets, but they were too small. They could not handle the water pushing through them. This could change as the caster grew older. Mordane was of the latter category. Whenever he reached for the power it was easy to hold but his body always felt too small to handle it. Much of the power was splashed back as he pushed.. Except when he was angry of course.. That is why this was so difficult as it would require many bindings of high power. Looking at each enemy in turn he made and individual binding to a button, scabbard or something on their body. At six he began to feel the strain on his will and spirit. Ten his legs began to tremble. Twenty his sight began to dim. All he had was his mind's eye once he finally got the last one at thirty four. He could not breath as all of the bindings pierced like hooks into his mind. This is far more than I should have pulled on....The strain is killing me.' He felt fire and ice role like waves through his veins as his mind expanded like a balloon from the force it was moving. His horn was an inferno. Yet he did not allow himself to pop and break his mind even as he pushed more than he thought possible. Even as he stretched to his max Mordane cast the spell. At first there was no effect then in a few seconds the enemy began to stumble and fall. The objects he had bound to caught fire as they pulled heat from his enemies flesh. Steam began to emit from their bodies even as they began to freeze. The effort was tremendous butt he knew that only a drop of ten degrees could prove fatal. He did not even have to wait that long as the sudden chills caused his enemies to stumble which allowed his men to strike home. As each opponent fell he cut the binding to them down to the last. Gasping as his hooves were planted firmly into the ground his growing horn slowly faded. When the last enemy fell his will and physical strength was nearly spent. Feeling like a deflated balloon he turned and ordered his soldiers to take what loot they wanted from the fallen foes and to bring their dead back with them as they prepared to move out. Going back he saw that the guards over the villagers had been able to hold them back. "...Were pulling out." he said addressing the villagers." There is enough food left for the winter and seeds for crops. We may be bandits but were not savages. Stay inside for the next few hours and we will be gone.." ***************************** The march back to the cave was grueling for Mordane even as his men jarred the whole way. Enjoying their spoils. Taking what little gold and money they had left a bad taste in his mouth but if that is the only way to maintain control then he would have to let it be. Arriving at the cave he saw Stalker coming out and nodding at him. Mordane grunted a reply before taking a trail near the caves to a spring some ponies had told him about. He kept on his cloak. Not knowing if any pony was around. The water was cool and he had no soap but even so he sighed as his body slid in and rested on the rocks. Soft currents left him dozing even as his wings stayed open to the sun stretching and clinching as the bones popped. Peace entered him for a time and he let down his guard. *********************************** Boulders expedition had gone by without a hitch. He had even snagged a bag of gold coins from the mayor's office before leaving. Stalker had made it back before him and was staring out over the forest. Over the time that he had known him Boulder had come to grudgingly accept the skills of Stalker and his growing closeness with Mordane. Even the way he seemed to calm the stallion sometimes or focus his thoughts. If Boulder did not know better he would say the stallion was molding Mordane. The exact reason why such a character would put so much time into this young stallion was barely understandable to him. From what he had overheard Stalker had been following Mordane for years. What would drive some pony to that? Then there was his enslavement at the hooves of highway robbers. He was sworn to defend the weak! Yet he had taken from them. ...I just don't know anymore... Ever since I left Celestia's service things have just gone wrong. About the only good things that happen are when Mordane is around. What do I do with my life? He went around the back of the cave entrance and found a small clearing. This time I will try Luna... Her and I at least have more in common. That will behind there. Not to mention Nightmare Moon. She at least had honor He winced as memories long sealed away came back to him... Pushing past all his attempts to block them. ***************************************** Boulder trotted up the steps in Canterlot castle onto a platform reserved for the princess and her guests. Its garden seemed the picture of serenity as it hung high above the land below. "Princess Celestia!" "Captain Boulder. It is so good to see you this beautiful evening." Celestia sat on her favorite chair in the castle gardens. Hair waiving despite the lack of wind. Beside her a small filly and even younger dragon sat reading among balls and measuring tools. She could not of been older than ten. "Celesia I don't understand this..." "Hush now, Twilight. I need to talk with the Captain of the Guard." His heart still beat so hard whenever he saw her. The glory of the sun filling him. "Why have you come to visit Captain?" She said in a motherly tone. "I'm sorry to bother you Princess but it came to my attention that my request to move some troops to the changeling border has not been approved. I intended to construct outposts along it to prevent further incursions. Surely there is no problem with protecting the nation?" "Of course not." Boulder smiled and sighed with relief. "I understand princess, these things do happen. I'll move my troops at the end of the week. It will be good to know that the changeling menace will not go unanswered." "...I see." she replied before placing down her cup. "There has been a misunderstanding." She stood up and motioned for Boulder to follow. "Come. We have much to discuss my little pony." Boulder felt confusion but his face remained passive. The two of them walked away from the central clearing over to a balcony. "I love the view from here. It's so peaceful. Serene. The hills bending slightly into the distance. A river flowing unending to the sea. Through my feet I can feel the mountain behind and beneath me. When I spread my wings I can sense the direction of the wind..." "Princess-" "Over a thousand years ago this was a plain. Flat as far as the eye could see. The great divide was called the Diamond hold. Home of the Diamond Dog empire. To the north a vast crystal pony civilization stood. On the west along some of the few mountains was a colony to the griffin kingdom. The western ocean was impassable as the sea ponies would drag any ship to the bottom....This was the state of things when me and my sister came to power." She had spoken in a kind and controlled tone but Boulder felt as if she had slapped him across the face. "Discord had no inclination to expand his borders and the power he held could of turned any invading army to ash. After overthrowing him however our enemies began to prepare...." Her eyes grew distant. "My sister and I gathered our magic. We pulled this mountain from the earth and set the hills in place. The land bends like a giant fortress. The mountain is the keep. For the next two years we prepared and reinforced it's base with crystal. This mountain would have to hold the entire pony race and all they would need to live." Boulder stood with his mouth hanging open. Listening about a time before recorded history. "They came. In their tens of thousands. For Thirty long years we fought them. Pushing the griffins to the sea. The dogs came in such number and greed that not enough where left to hold their civilization together. We pushed them back and back. Over the great divide. Down through the peninsula. We Broke the crystal ponies backs. At the height of our power all of the lands form the frozen north to the southern tip belonged to my sister and I." "I'm sorry princess, but your sister?" "Yes...my sister. Luna but you would know her by another name. Nightmare moon." He gasped. Shock and awe filling him. That such an old legend had been based on truth. "But princess...what happened to that kingdom?" "... My sisters rebellion happened." A single tear fell freely form the monarchs face. Dripping down onto the ground." I was blind to her pain that over the centuries had turned to madness. She claimed I was a tyrant. That I sought to rule all the world. For many years we fought and our armies spilled their blood against one another. In the struggle the southern land were cut off. They formed their own nations. In the end I was able to win but only after banishing my sister to the moon...her madness had begun to show on her physical form. Fangs and reptilian eyes stared at me....I had no choice." "Princess...Why tell me all this?" Boulder whispered. " I tell you this because of what happened next. In the ashes of war I rebuilt our nation and in an effort to stave off their invasions I forced dialog with our neighbors. It was with words not swords that I achieved the peace we enjoy today. Now another threat has arisen... and you want me to build up defenses again? Close off dialog? I'm sorry Boulder but I won't." He stood there stunned. Unable to comprehend what she had said. "But...my princess. The changelings cannot be reasoned with. To them we are but food. The peace you have made like a juicy apple. They will come in mass as they are starving. They cannot resist the temptation." "And we will turn them back." She replied resolutely. "Yet they will come and thousands could die. More if we should loose. They will continue to grow from feeding off the agents they send among us." "They are far too weak to attack. Building those bases would be expensive. Also the dry desert air would make it very difficult on the average guard. My ponies do not know of the threat and telling them so could cause panic. Destroying the very peace you wish to protect." She paused before nodding her head "We must endure until dialog can be established" "There will be no dialog with the changelings whether we want it or not...My princess they will invade. We MUST prepare a defense. For our nations honor and glory if nothing else." The princess paused and looked at him. Raising a single eyebrow. "I will not send ponies to bake out in the desert to defend against something that can never attack and would likely just sneak past if it wanted to." "I'm sorry princess I meant-" "Your desire for glory on the battlefield is well known to me Boulder. However I would of thought that you would not let your judgment be clouded it." she said curtly. Boulder stood there looking her in the eye before saluting. "Princess...I have not let my desires for glory cloud my judgment. If this is your final decision that we not act... then I must ask to step down as captain of the royal guard." Celestia blinked. Confusion evident. "Step down! Why would you-" "You and I know that there are ponies clamoring for my demotion...the Canterlot nobles prefer a unicorn." He coughed and rubbed his head "If you will not listen... Then all I can do is command the troops after they attack and report to you when the kingdom has fallen. It would be better to have a captain that could use strong defensive magic in such a case. He may provide the leverage you will need to survive when they catch you off guard." "That won't be-" Boulder cut her off. "I advice promoting Shinning armor to my place. He is a good commander and is strong with defensive magic. You will need him when the invasion comes." Boulder turned and walked away from the stunned monarch. His face hidden it took on the rage that he had felt boiling inside. "Boulder... I'm sorry." He turned around for a moment. A calm expression on his face lying about what he truly felt inside. "Don't be... You are the avatar of the sun. Spirit of Day. Keeper of the eternal flame." Celestia's mouth opened in shock as she had not heard those honorifics in centuries. "I am just a mortal who was once blessed by your flame." "Boulder... I had no Idea that you followed that religion. Yet you must know I did not give you your strength and will. I did not give your natural war magic. The flame is simply part of your nature." "Oh Celestia, you are wrong." He said quietly walking away. "Faith is everything." **************************************** Boulder snapped back to the present and sighed. That had been the point where his life had turned for the worst. Seven years later and the invasion he had predicted occurred. By then he was a drunk guard in a backward town. He was never able to use his natural war magic since that day. "Remembering your past Boulder?" He snapped his head around glaring at Stalker who was standing in a tree. "Not intentionally. I intend to commune instead." "Commune? I did not know anyone else followed that old religion." Boulder raised an eyebrow as his comrade jumped down and sat across from him. "You don't mind if I join you?" "Not at all." At that moment however both of them heard a splash. They could both see Mordane clearly from their position, standing firmly on a small stone sticking out of a pound. He saw Mordane close is eyes. A moment later Boulders ears tweaked as the wind in the area slowed noticeably. Then his mouth opened as the water began freezing all around the stallions rock. ...War magic. He has learned it well. Such knowledge is hidden in Equestria. Few have it naturally occurring and never is it this strong unless a spell is involved. Wonder what his focus is... Boulder reflected slightly on how his loss in faith caused him to lose one of his best advantages even as he continued to watch. The ice grew for about eight feet before Mordane started gasping. The only thing Boulder saw was how the amulet jewel had looked pale pink before but was now blood red. Boulder watched as Mordane left the pound. A frown on his face as he noticed something odd. "Why does Mordane never take off his cloak?" he asked Stalker suddenly "The same reason you keep on your armor perhaps. Some ponies just don't want to give away that much information about themselves. Some ponies have secrets." Stalker replied curtly. "What is Mordane's I wonder?" "What is yours Boulder....I still have not seen your cutie Mark." "Nor I yours." Stalker and Boulder stared at each other before Stalker turned his flank to him and lifted his saddlebag. A blank flank cause Boulder to raise his eyebrow. "I can't say that I've ever seen a blank flank on one as old as you. " "My family does not get Cutie marks but I showed you my flank. Now you must show me yours." he smiled. Boulder shrugged and reached behind himself to unbuckle a strap. His flank armor slid off revealing his cutie mark. A circle of fire surrounding a sword stood in stark relief on his pale coat. Its meaning was clear. "A fire mage? But..." "War magic. I'm sure you heard of it?" Stalker nodded. "I was immune to fire. In a way I felt I was the fire so it just seemed like it shouldn't hurt me. Useful war magic." "Did you ever get it supported by a spell?" "No. Then I lost it after leaving her service. Now...there is no way I could afford it." "So you left." Stalker said. "I was not sure. Why not ask Mordane?" "I would only accept the blessing of a spirit." "...It is a spell, not a blessing." Boulder glared at Stalker. "You know that in our beliefs there is no difference." With that they grew silent as Boulder reattached his armor. "Your strong for such an old drunk." "Aye...that's what a life in the army will give you. A strong body and scars." "Ha... I was wondering Boulder. Why have you not asked me which spirit I commune with." "Because I'm not sure I want to know." The two of them sat down smiling as they prepared to commune with their respective spirits.
Stronghoof's (bonus chapter)The town. Rain spattered down upon Mordane’s head. His breathing calm and serene. This engagement would go smoothly, he was sure of it. As always, a few innocent may die, but that was necessary. He needed the money and if this did not get done he did not get paid. He took a moment to remind himself that he would be making something that would happen anyway less bloody. Beyond the edge of the unnamed cut back forest was a river called the Rine. A small lumber town was settled along its river banks acting as a hub of food transportation in the region and had a population of about two thousand, more of a tiny city than town really. It was night, but with Luna's full moon overhead he could see the faint silver outlines of the town’s defenders and their perimeter. He was in a perfect position to take control of the town, yet commands from High Rise held him back until the screaming started. Mordane pulled up his hood and sat down to wait, taking a moment he let himself smile a bit when no one could see. Part of him truly enjoyed standing on the edge before the storm. His men standing behind him waiting like drawn bow to strike down his foe...It was the nature of that foe which left a sour taste in his mouth. As he waited for the opportune time with his sword clamped to his side he could almost feel as those around examined him waiting for his order. To them it seemed as if a tension permeated his being, as if his will was ready to become reality. This feeling filled them too as they dug into the earth with their hooves, fidgeting, waiting to let loose. Boulder stood like stone unmoving beside him looking down on the town with a slight look of disgust as if the entire affair was beneath him. Stalker stayed on the other side seeming board save for the occasional smile when he looked back at the soldiers. "You do realise that it would be far easier to attack the town at dawn, Mordane. The sun would be at our backs," suggested Boulder offhandedly as he frowned. "It would blind them and give us another advantage." "Aye. I suggested such to High Rise, but he did not seem to agree." Mordane replied resolutely as he scratched behind his ear. A part of him regretted he would not be charging with the army but he had remembered the lesson from the ants all those years ago in another life. A commander must lead from the rear. High Rise had insisted on an assault during the night, saying that the surprise would give them an advantage. This of course was foolish as their food collection efforts would’ve put all towns on alert. "You are going to have to deal with him if this goes on," Stalker spoke in a grim tone. “We can’t take stupid risks like this, even if he demands it.” A few ponies muttered agreement behind Mordane, his popularity with the mercenaries had been on the rise after he had reportedly defeated a trained battle mage during the scavenging mission. Mordane was not sure if that was true, since he could not tell just by looking, but he would certainly not be the one to take away from the image of his men. Cries rang up from the small town as a trumpet blew from the other side of the field. High Rise lead the charge himself across the meadow with nine hundred ponies at his back. Mordane groaned at the sight, already figuring that forty would die in the assault. "Steady Aim!" he yelled for one of his soldiers. "Yes, sir?" The pony Steady said, running up quickly. "Schedule the digging of graves for the morning. About a hundred and fifty should cover the defenders and our losses," Mordane said calmly. "...Yes, sir," he replied with a slight wince before leaving to obey. "Do you think that horn qualifies as a signal, Boulder?" Mordane asked his friend with a smile. "Of course." he replied with a raised eyebrow. “Well then!” He yelled “CHARGE!" Fifty ponies stayed behind to guard the carts of food as hundred and fifty barreled down the hill at his command to hit the enemy line. As they barreled down the hill they say that only a few of the local guards were there to meet them the rest had moved their forces to intercept High Rise’s force. The human souled alicorn walked calmly toward the town while ordering the carts to start moving as well. He would have a place for them in a barn or storage room when they finally got moving. His forces poured down the hill sweeping away the defenders in a complete route. By the time he caught up to his forces they were accepting the surrender of the entrenched enemy. Indeed one of Mordane’s men brought him the town flag, but instead of taking it he ordered him to give it to High Rise as soon as that side of the battle was over. Sending others to round up the locals, he took a hundred of his men and moved to hit the guard High Rise was attacking. At that moment High Rise’s troops came running up the street and bursting into houses. The unrestrained glee on his commander’s face disgusted Mordane, but he moved to address him anyway. The commander was in his light metal armor. His lungs pulled at the air with only a slight strain. His back left flank had a deep spear wound that was bleeding profusely. "The town is yours, Commander. Should I take care of the trivial matters?" High Rise’s smile faded a bit at the sight of Mordane. "Yes, yes, Mordane. Get to it." He snapped. "Of course, sir. The mayor’s house has been secured, I'll have Smooth Stone show you where it is." Mordane replied calmly indicating another pony. High Rise limped off to take care of his wound and most likely communicate with their employers, while Mordane organized the mercenaries and issued disciplinary actions. Two ponies had to be whipped after setting fire to a few buildings despite orders not to. Three others had gotten into a fight over loot and were sentenced to latrine duty. Mordane stood rubbing the space between his eyes trying to understand what was going through their heads to forget his orders. What if the town had burned down? In that respect he thought the punishment was incredibly light. Mordane turned to Stalker and with a pained smile. Both had found him shortly after the initial push of the battle. “Stalker I need you to go find the best place to store food. Boulder, get Steady Gaze and check the town water supply for poison. I’m going to make sure the rest of these fools don’t destroy everything.” The two of them nodded before trotting off to fill their tasks. Mordane continued to walk around giving orders to those clearing the buildings. “Sir, Most of the buildings are empty.” said on of his ponies running up “ We can’t find the locals anywhere.” “Did they take the valuables?” Mordane asked wondering if they had escaped. “No and they have food as well I don't-” “Sir!” shouted a pegasus landing beside him. “ You're needed at the town hall. The locals seem to be hold up there in mass.” “Lets go then!” Mordane shouted. He had the pony lead him toward the building in question. A few minutes later he trotted up to a rather large building in the town center. The wood planks covering the windows reminded him of Ponyville. Even if this town hall was five times the size. The thought of home gave him pause for a moment as the strangeness of the situation settled on him. Merely four months ago he had defended a town against an attack by a superior force. Now he was leading one. That's life I suppose. Shaking his head he examined the situation. Before him five ponies in armor were standing in front of the town hall, bucking the door over and over again. With each hit the door creaked but did not budge leading him to think it may be reinforced. Despite his outward calm he was fighting a losing battle. His gut felt like a pit as he watched pony's homes being robbed of what little wealth they had and a growing disquiet at what he was about to do. The cold logical mind however continued to examine the situation. He had read of similar events back when he was human. It was still strange to him how they came back so easily. Perhaps the ease of access was because of how his mind was reaching the maturity to handle his old thoughts. Ideas and feelings that had plagued him since the start of his pony puberty were settling around his mind. Yet that only made it more clear what could go wrong. Forced labor was dangerous, for both the pony doing the labor and the one forcing it. Their position however would not allow for much else. The river beyond only had two crossings, both of which were heavily guarded. Cabistien would need to approach from the other side to take them on, as the defenses were designed to defend against the south, therefore, a bridge would have to be built, and these civilians; these...ponies, would have to build it. Fear would be needed, and perhaps some stark truth, Mordane would have to make them believe that he was being as kind as he could be. Because he was... Cracks began to form on the doors hinges as Mordane cast his mind beyond. There were two earth pony stallions shaking as they held pitchforks toward the door. Mares, foals, the old and fearful hung into the corners comforting each other. He could feel the fear emanating from them. Suddenly, another mind met his. A familiar feeling of Stalker was on the air. Exchanging thoughts was impossible, but he could feel Stalker reached out toward the ponies and began to work on their fear. Nurturing it. Magnifying the paralyzing effect. Mordane pulled back and cast a spell to project the same. "Stop bucking ponies, I'll take it from here." His men looked confused for a moment, but obeyed. Mordane needed to move quickly so he pulled on his war magic; eyes slightly glowing he reached into the earth and formed two solid pillars. With a thrust he rammed them through the doors before quickly turning them into dust. To the ponies inside it was as if a sudden blast of dust had broken down their front door. He walked through the broken door, and before they could stop coughing he drew on the wind and moved all the dust out of the building. At the same time he rammed the ponies holding pitchforks against the wall. Then rammed the pitchforks into the wall above their heads. "My name is Mordane, and you are our prisoners." The two went for their pitchforks again, but Mordane simply pushed them harder. "Our organization is a mercenary group tasked with securing this town and constructing a bridge," He said calmly. "A task that will require your cooperation. Either willingly or after we have...persuaded you. Be assured, if I must then I will kill, but if you obey then your families will not be harmed." "What of my wife!" A stallion stood up in the back. Next to him sat a mare who was shaking. He practically spat his words at Mordane. "She was raped by one of your ponies.Why should we bend to you if you're just going to violate all that we have?" The stallion in question stood tall and stared Mordane in the eyes, both remaining still. They assessed each other, one seeing a moderately well-off business pony. The other seeing a hard powerful mercenary who might just be kind enough to guilt into behaving with slight restraint. Mordane felt disgust at what the stallion had said. Rape in his opinion was one of the few things that absolutely could never be justified. On top of that he had ordered against it before the battle. He made a mental note to have the pony tracked down later. However he could not show weakness to these ponies. If he did then he would have to make examples of some of them down the line. That was something he wanted to avoid desperately. "I respect a pony who can stand and question. I will listen to any who do the same so that this can be done as easily as possible for both our sides. I will look into this myself as rape would have gone against my orders. Talk to me again later." Mordane walked around the room looking the ponies in the eyes. “Under our occupation I will expect you to obey any order given to you by one of my soldiers. I expect you to work as we tell you and not to make trouble. Failure to do so will result in punishment. However do not worry, If you do these things I will make sure that your lives will not be further violated and that when we leave you will be no more worse for it then you are now.” He stopped and walked back to the room entrance before continuing. "Now.” he said calmly “who among you is the leader?" "I am," said the unicorn stallion from before. " You talk of work. What do you expect from us?" Mordane didn’t even pause. "I expect you to build a bridge." Murmurs ran through the crowd, all the different voices giving shocked claims and others paranoid thoughts. Mordane continued. "Now, in the morning you will go back to your homes. Be warned, no pony is allowed to leave the town. At ten the next day, half of you will report to the river edge." Mordane turned and started to walk out. "I advise you to comply, as forcing you to do so will only result in a more uncomfortable situation." The awkwardness of the situation was not lost on Mordane. His armor itched, but even now he could see some of them were planning his death in their eyes. "I have things to do, so good evening." Mordane turned around , walked out of the town hall and moved briskly through the village. After making sure that the last of the fighting had stopped and the locals were being escorted to their homes he went back to the now empty town hall. Found a room with a bed and went to sleep with his heart heavy. ********************************************* "It's better than a pile of gold my friend." High Rise smiled at Mordane as he sat in a chair with his forehooves resting on a desk. "A warehouse full of iron. I never thought that I'd see the day." "How did it get there?" Mordane asked, glad that his commander was in a good mood. He still hated the guy, but at least like this he was bearable. "Well, according to their old mayor, there are three reasons. One is the old tools, owned by the nearby city pony funding this place, the next is the new tools, while the last is a mixture of weapons and utensils being sent out to nearby towns. It was pure luck that we arrived when we did." High Rise smiled viciously. Eyes gleaming with greed. Mordane nodded glad that he had been woken up in the morning without incident after the town had been secured. He would have never guessed that all of that iron had been found in a basement under a warehouse. "So we are going to take it." "Of course," said High Rise as he lit a cigar. "That stuff is worth five times what we are being paid for this entire expedition. I got a friend over in Tietus with a warehouse, that would be the best place to sell it." Mordane paused a bit to consider the situation. The goods would take weeks to drag back across the border. Even then it would likely be under attack. Minimally they would need two hundred ponies to pull the carts and protect them... "High Rise...we can't spare the ponies to drag that across the country." Mordane said with a frown and heavy sigh. "What are you talking about?" he snapped. "The bridge is going to be built by the four thousand residents of this town. We have just under one thousand troops. That's four ponies we need to guard each. Why, we’re still pulling them out of basements even now. Cabstien is going to be expecting the workers as well when they arrive and will be angry if we sell them to Tietus." High Rise’s face grew thoughtful at Mordane’s words. As he stood up and walked to the window. "...Well it seems we have too many prisoners." The stallion shifted around uncomfortably before quietly making a suggestion. "What if we were to lose some of them?" Mordane’s stomach flipped as the mind of High Rise turned where he feared. Part of him could acknowledge the dark reasoning behind the statement. There was no way Tietus would accept Drena slaves until after this war was over. He would have to choose his words carefully and hope that some part of this stallion would not want to do this. "Sir...Killing or enslaving-" High Rise winced "-any of the locals en masse would likely cause the ones we are keeping alive to be harder to control." Mordane walked over to the window to stand beside him keeping his cool. "And I am unwilling to leave that bridge undone. I want all the money I can get. Just like you." High Rise nodded in response. "We have enough time. Just let me put the iron in the carts and we will wait until our employers, the Cabistien military, shows up to cross the bridge here. Then we'll high tail it out of here before they even think about what we might have stolen." "Yes...yes, of course, you're right," said High Rise as he walked over to a cabinet and pulled out a bottle to drink. "Don't know what I was thinking. Drink?" "Yes of course. Just a shot though." It'll help with my stomach at least. I can't say no anyway. He might take offense. Downing the single glass Mordane turned to walk out, but stopped before leaving. He sighed releasing the tension that had built up in him during the day. "I believe one of the stallions disobeyed my order. What should I do with him?" Mordane said offhandedly. "How against it was he?" High Rise asked quickly without looking at him. "Directly...I was going to order his whipping." he said flatly. "Kill him if it's true." High Rise’s tone became cold as he said those words. His eyes left no question before turning back to the window. "...Yes sir," Mordane responded with resignation. Walking out Mordane wondered if he should really put effort into finding who had raped that mare. His face remained blank because in truth he did not know what to think. ************************************************************* "When can you get your ponies out to rope the river?" "Well, we've never done anything like this before, sir." the pony before Mordane said uncertainly. "That river is gonna be a doozy to cross, aye, I can say that to you ere’ now." Mordane stood with the unicorn mayor and another mercenary just off from the river. It was just about three hundred meters across and clear. The water came down off the mountain and into the plain pretty much untainted. At the center it was about thirty meters deep. "How do you plan to bridge it Mr...Bob.” Mordane said hesitantly. “Bob the Builder?” “Yes it is!” The pony said with an unnaturally large smile on his face. “Riiight” Mordane said awkwardly ”Can we build it? The bridge I mean." "Yes we can!" he said enthusiastically. "I can get em’ to place the supports about five feet apart in three rows. Should do fine." "How long do you think it will take?" Mordane asked as ponies continued to move, cut and sort logs behind him. "Uhh, not sure. Whatcha think, Lofty?" asked Bob to a nearby pony. "Ahh, I don't know..." said a pony passing by timidly. "Well, I'm sure you can-." Mordane began. "Come here you!" came a shout from behind him. Two ponies were approaching dragging a large third one between them. Mordane recognized him. He was the stallion who had been causing trouble for a while. First executing those prisoners. Then yelling out in the crowd. Now, according to two witnesses and another mercenary, he had raped the mayor's wife. "Here he is, sir. We found him hiding in one of the cellars." "Thank you," Mordane said before addressing the prisoner. "Do you know why I've ordered you to be brought to me?" The stallion stopped resisting and swallowed. "...yes." "Did you do it?" he growled. The stallion frowned. "Look she was as much my right to take as any gold I found. This is war! The spoils to the vic-" Mordane back hoofed him as the two stallion held him in place. "I don't care what you say about rights and such. I gave you an order." he shouted. "Yeah?" The rapist said spitting at Mordane’s hooves. “Well, then put me in the brig for a week or something. I admitted. I'll do my time." "...I'm sorry, but I can't do that." Mordane said staring the pony dead in the eye. "What?" he grunted. "Take him to the edge of the river and hang him from something where the workers can see. Don't leave until he is dead."Mordane told his holders coldly. "Y-you can't do this!" the stallion cried desperately as they dragged him away. "No! STOP!" Mordane ignored his howling till he was dragged far enough away. He then reached over to a nearby stand and made a glass of beer he then offered to the mayor who looked sick. "Drink." The visibly shaken unicorn obeyed. Downing the drink in one gulp before giving Mordane a suspicious eye. "You would do that to one of your own men for rape?" He asked with a shaking voice. "No," Mordane replied coldly. "I did that because he disobeyed me. Keep that in mind." ************************************** The ice spears flew through the air directly into the space where Mordane’s throat use to be as he stumbled to the right. A blast of wind acted as a distraction for Steady Gaze who stood against him with a smirk on his face. The old stallion dissipated the spell with little effort. Mordane intentionally avoided using his war magic to confront the pony as it would make the old stallion pull on his war magic of fire and death. The speed of which usually overwhelmed Mordane. Plus it had started to be dangerous for the both of them. A wall of flame came to Mordane’s attention as he looked back toward the old stallion. He must of cast it right after the first one crafty bastard. There is no time to dodge or counteract. However Mordane did not die that day as the flame wall dissipated before touching him drawing a laugh from his competitor. "My, my, Mordane, you always seem to be focused on the task at hoof, but in this case it would seem that failed you." His eyes were dancing with laughter. "As you have said many times before, sir Steady Gaze," Mordane replied sullenly. "You should’ve noticed the flame then poured its heat into my ice converting the mass to water that my spell would not have been able to continue to affect." "Unless you cast a second spell to affect water alone." Mordane rolled his eyes. "While casting a fire wall? Hardly." Steady Gaze replied with a wave of his hoof. It was nearly a week after they had taken the town and the bridge was half way done. Which would mean it's a little behind. Mordane had just yesterday convinced High Rise it would only hurt to employ whips. Still he was certain something would happen soon. "You know, Mordane," said the old stallion, "You waste a lot of energy in your spells." "Yes, sir, you have said so many times." Mordane said exasperated. "I have? Well you should’ve fixed it then." he said raising an eyebrow. Mordane sighed. "How?" "Why the nerve you, young one. I went to the academy you know. You should be honored to be taught by me." He said raising his chin. Mordane nodded and resisted the urge to sigh again. Steady Gaze had talked about the academy at Heridan nearly every session. "Why did you leave then?" Mordane asked again. Normally the stallion would snort at this point and say the lesson was over, but this time he didn't. "Well...Mostly it was the racism. I did not agree with the other unicorns over the subject of magic making us superior. So I was exiled." He said bluntly. "Exiled? Huh… Are they that bad to non unicorns?" "Oh yes.” Steady Gaze nodded vigorously “The city is split in two with an upper and lower district. I lived with the other unicorns in luxury until my fall from grace...they are abhorrently racist. Even you would be considered a lower life form. Or worse. An abomination." "...sounds terrible." Mordane whispered. "Oh it is, but… there is no better magic school in all the world. Save maybe Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns." "You know of Celestia?" Mordane’s voice dropped down. A bitter taste entering his mouth. "Yes. I visited Equestria long ago. Peaceful land, but a bit boring. Save for their wondrous technologies." His eyes glazed over and looked into the distance. “ I remember when I got off a train for the last time.” "Yes... it is." Mordane whispered feeling only a tad homesick. Mordane left his session with Steady Gaze an hour later tied to the bone. The stallion had valuable combat experience, much to his surprise. To think he once thought he was untrained. That pony was a crafty one alright. He had taken residence in a library room in the main hall. Most of the few books in there were useless to him but a few were an interesting distraction. He was reading one such book when Stalker unceremoniously came through his locked door. "Hey, Mordane. I'm bored. Come drinking with me." He said pleadingly. His lower lip bulging as he pouted. Mordane floated the book out of his way so he could look Stalker in the eye. "No. You know what happens when I drink." Mordane said. Stalker rolled his eyes. "Come on, Mordane, I'll see to it you don't make a fool of yourself." He asked again. This time pushing the book all the way down. "No." "Please?" "No." "Please?" "No." "Please?" "No." "Please?" "No." "Please?" "No." "Please?" Mordane sighed before asking exasperatedly. "Are you a child?" "Yes.” Stalker said firmly “Now are you coming or not?" "FINE. I'll come have one drink with you." Stalker lead Mordane down the street to a large bar that was reserved for the mercenaries as having them drinking with the locals seemed like asking for trouble. "How long has this thing been running?" asked Mordane. "Since day two. High Rise approved it himself. Set up a drinking shift as well. Yours, mine, and Boulder’s just so happens to fall on the same evening." Stalker winked. "I see..." Mordane sighed while facehoofing. "I suppose it's needed, though I wish he had informed me." "Well don't worry about it," Stalker said while slapping him on the back. "You should relax. Hey, look, there's Boulder." The stallion walked up to meet them with glazed over eyes. It was obvious by his shining breastplate that the pony had been cleaning it all day. "Do you ever take that off, Boulder?" Stalker asked with a smirk. "Of course not," cut in Mordane. "He wouldn't want to be caught unaware." Boulder huffed. "You two are going to be the death of me one of these days. Especially if I listened to y’all and we are called to battle soon." "True, though I doubt they would get through our scouts." Mordane said rubbing his chin. "Where did you get the idea to put them out constantly anyway?" Boulder asked rubbing his forehead. "...Why wouldn't I want to know what's going on around me?" He replied raising and eyebrow. "...Guess so." The three walked into the bar quickly stepping over the large lip at the entrance ******************************** Stalker made note of the bar around him, examining entrance and exit points. Noting where troubled mercenary ponies were settling. With a nudge he lead Mordane to the bar itself where a local pony served drinks. It had been a good move by Boulder to organize how much could be given at any time after he found out about the bar. Looking over at the younger stallion, Stalker’s mind flashed through why he had gotten Mordane to come drink with them. That morning he had explained to Boulder something he had found out about Mordane a while back. That the stallion was, in fact, the party king. Finding out had been quite a shock to him at the time and Boulder was unsurprisingly skeptical to the idea. After all, Mordane was just so...collected. Both of them found it hard to believe that he had it in him. Sure he could make others do things where it mattered, but he just didn't seem to have the raw charisma needed to pull off the party associated with that name. Over years that event had become infamous in Equestria. Ponies would still talk about what it had been like under his short lived "eternal party". Stalker had been willing to let it lay until word reached him of a small town that had nearly imploded with a similar character… this time however his fur had been brown and the body was not full grown. The two had agreed that seeing what could possibly make this happen was worth any real risk that it would get out of hoof. They would simply have to turn him from trouble. Should be easy enough. "What will you have, Commander?" asked the bartender smiling hesitantly. "I'd like a beer please." Mordane said bluntly. "I as well." Boulder grinned. "Me too." Quipped Stalker . "So, Boulder," asked Stalker as they got their drinks. "What made you leave Equestria?" "Disagreements not worth discussing." He glared. "Shesh, Boulder, you nearly have as large of a stick up your flank as Mordane here." "Excuse me?" Mordane replied with a raised eyebrow. Cheeks tinted red from the alcohol. "I will tell you that the stick is quite comfortable where it is." Boulder and Stalker burst out laughing. Quickly Mordane joined them as he continued to drink. Usual to his semi-methodical nature, Mordane drank at a steady pace. However it was one far faster than his two compatriots. Why is he always so careless with his life? Stalker thought while playing with his drink. Sometimes I think he is trying to manipulate everyone then things like this happen where he is so uncareful. Afraid of Celestia or anyone knowing who he is but not me. I honestly thought he would try to kill me as soon as I let him know I knew about him being an alicorn...Yet he did nothing. Not even seeming surprised. Oh all bringer why did I tell him? "You know what I think?" said Boulder still quite sober. "I think that we should actually pay this stallion bartender." "Oh no charge… sir," the stallion in question stammered. "Nonsense!" cut in Stalker. "We should. He has been such a good host. What do you think Mordane?" The stallion in question was not talking. Instead staring sullen faced into his glass. "Mordane?" "Hmm?" he replied. "Do you think we should pay the bartender?" "...no." "Why?" Stalker asked with a raised eyebrow. "Sir, if any of my servi-" "Shut up." Mordane glared at him. "Give me a refill, this glass is empty." "...Yes, sir." "Are you ok, Mor-" began Boulder. "Stupid." "I'm sorry?" "It was stupid of you to think we should pay him." Stalker looked confused at Boulder who eventually answered. "Well, I don't really see-" "I mean we are going to leaving eventually and High Rise will just take everything from here then. Any money would only cause him trouble." The two stood awkwardly as Mordane’s glare softened. "I apologize… Alcohol doesn't sit well with me sometimes." "You don't say," Stalker said sarcastically. "You're not stupid, Boulder… I'm just tired. The drink lowers my impulse control." "Its fine, Mordane. Happens to everyone." Stalker watched as Mordane continued to drink. He grew quieter and quieter as time went on. Pulled deep into a sullen mood. By the beginning of drink three Stalker had enough. "Come on, Mordane, that's enough." "Hmm?" he replied lifting his head eyes foggy with the stupor from his drink. "You've had enough." "Aye, you are just getting gloomier," Boulder replied. Stalker reached to pull away the younger stallions drink, Intent on not letting him make a fool of himself. "You know, Stalker...You really should just sleep with the bartender." His hoof froze in shock mimicking both Boulder and the bartender himself. Mordane did not look up from his glass however even as he continued to speak. "I mean… Both of ya are that way. I'd let you get rid of some of your tension… Really you shouldn't be worrying about me that much." He seemed completely serious. "...Mordane," whispered Boulder. "I don't think that is something you should say. The drink-" "And you one to talk?" Mordane questioned calmly looking into Boulder’s eyes. "I know about that flask you keep in your mane... Don't know exactly why, but something Celestia did caused you to be unable to live with yourself." He drank deeply again emptying the glass, apparently unconcerned by his own words. "Bartender, another beer. No ice this time." The stallion hesitated. "Do it… before I tell High Rise about that quality wine you got hidden in the cellar." He stumbled away. Hoping to return with a pitcher and leave before the commander ordered his bar burned down. Mordane gulped down the rest of his glass in silence. Then a fourth. Then his fifth before laying his face down on the table. Mumbling about food limitations. "...what the buck," Boulder whispered. "Come on, Boulder, lets-" "PARTY TIME!" His shout nearly broke glass as Mordane snapped back up. His face covered in a gigantic smile. The dull look was gone from his eyes and instead it was as if he had been set alight. "Say, barkeep!" Mordane yelled in a raspy voice. "Y-yes?" "Give these ponies another round. Such strong working soldiers need another drink!" He said banging his hoof on the bar. A small cheer of agreement met Mordane’s declaration, though most still ignored him. "Mordane, I-" His comrade began. "Stalker!" he said suddenly. Grabbing the side of his face. "You magnificent shadow warrior slash assassin slash thief slash cult leader… whatever you are. I need you to help the bartender pass out drinks. Ok?" "Uh," he replied. "Sure." "Boulder!" He flipped around. "You got to know a few good drinking songs." "Well… yeah, but-" Mordane grabbed the pitcher of beer and chugged half of it down. The grin on his face only getting wider. "God this bar is boring. Hey you! Barkeep! Hurry up with those drinks!" Mordane said floating a dozen glasses over to the bar. "What's gotten into him?" asked one of the ponies across the bar to Boulder. "Oh, nothing has, really," Mordane said stepping up onto a random table, knocking ponies drinks over as he did. There cries of anger turning to laughter at the look on the stallions face. "Nothing that has not affected you as well. The dread of this towns ponies and the long march through the wilderness has touched us all. Oh, to the cutting wind as it comes down the mountain and we are forced to sit while idle glory and riches could yet be won." Stunned the bar was silent as they all listened. "Though more so the gold I think." A few laughed and nodded their heads. This job had been a long march with little to do. Many were getting bored. Stalker passed out pitchers watching as Mordane seemed to take a moment before continuing. "What are we, but fickle coils upon which all life that will come must tread. Well, I do not say we set idly by and wait for time that has yet to finish its slow climb. While we wait for glory let them hear our call, our shout. From the roofs of this small town all the way to the heart of Tietus… LETS PARTY!" The roar of approval met his words. Stalker listened in on a table as he put down a pitcher. "What the buck did he say?" "Don't know. Something about glory and riches." "I can drink to that." Ponies moved out from their tables and began milling around. Mordane almost bounced between groups his words drawing them out and closer to each other. Many ponies began to drink more than they would normally. Soon the party was in full swing. Instruments appeared from somewhere being played by smiling ponies. Enough of this. Stalker grabbed a beer glass and added a large dose of sleeping agent. Walking over he gave it to Mordane who promptly drank it. Mordane swayed for a while before slowly getting quieter and sinking to the ground. No pony noticed as Boulder and Stalker flanked him and walked out of the bar, his eyes already closing. The two ponies stepped out into the cold air. Behind them to party continued, oblivious to the fact that the one who started it was gone. "Stalker?" Boulder asked. "What the buck just happened in there?" The two of them pulled Mordane’s limp body toward his room. "Madness, I'd say normally, but since it’s Mordane… I think we just saw something important." "Stalker, Mordane just made us balk and before we recovered he had the entire place ready to party all night long… That does not happen by accident. I'm just wondering why?" "Because he wanted to party." "But why?" "...I don't think there was a reason. Alcohol tends to bring out the most base in ponies. Perhaps Mordane at his core just wants to have some fun, but his mind won't let him." "...You know he controlled us like we were little colts." "Yes. That worries more than anything. If he is that skilled while drunk, what is he doing to us while he’s sober? ...I just keep thinking back to what I've done for him. Why did I do it?" "...He saved me from slavery. I could have ran." "But you didn't because you wouldn't. He knew how to get your loyalty and did it. Me? I've followed after him for years. At first I thought I was imposing but now I wonder if he really intended for me to be there… He was just so enticing." "..." A few minutes later they arrived at his room. Heaving Mordane onto the bed Boulder turned to Stalker and lifted an eyebrow. "Now what did you say you were going to get?" "Water. I need to make a cure. That sleeping pill is more of a poison. Should be fine, if I give him the antidote." Boulder glared at the smiling Stalker who walked out of the room. His angry glare however turned to confusion as he looked at the sprawled out Mordane. He had felt something while caring him. Something he just could not believe. Mordane speaks with authority… It seems impossible. How can I not believe my own senses though? His hoof trembled as he walked over to Mordane’s prone form. Reaching down he pulled back his ever present coat. Two wings met his gaze. A small gasp escaped his lips as he stood there staring at the feathered appendages. Disgust and fear twisting at his heart. How… For all this time. How long? He thought back and back. Never could he remember a time the pony did not wear his cloak. Suddenly his issue with Celestia was clear. "So, now you know." Boulder turned to look at Stalker. A blank look on his face. "You might as well remove the cloak. He sleeps better that way." "You knew?" "Of course," he said with a laugh. “I’ve seen him sleep that way before.” He walked over and propped up Mordane's head. He shoved a long tube down his throat before pouring the medicine. "Can you really see me not learning of it. I've known for years. Why do you think I follow him." "Is he your spirit?" Stalker paused. "No." Standing Stalker pulled off Mordane’s cloak and pushed him onto the bed before climbing in beside him. "What are you doing?" "Sleeping with him, of course." "What!? No you're not!" "And why not? I've done it before," he said seductively. "There is no way in all that is holy that I am letting you sleep with Mordane while he is passed out." "Well, you're welcome to join us." "THE BUCK IS WRONG WITH YOU!" "Fine, don't." Stalker curled up next to Mordane on the bed leaving Boulder to stand there gasping and grunting at the indignity of it all. "Fine. I will sit in that chair over there and at least then I can prevent you from doing any-uhh." Boulder fell face first onto the bed and immediately began snoring. "Sure you can." Stalker laughed then reached over Mordane to pat him on the head. "Must’ve had too much to drink during your singing number." Stalker threw the cover over the three of them. Soon their steady breathing was all to be heard. ******************************************************* The dull cloud of alcohol faded away to shadows and lightless sleep, but in time the mind of Mordane began to turn up strange and fearful images. Mordane gazed up at Celestia’s rear in the sky, basking in the glory of the sun. Behind the rather bloated glory of Celestia, Luna’s own glory peeked out from behind. Mordane was surprised to see a solar eclipse, but it was Celestia so he paid it no heed. Pinkie Pies were galloping through the candy cane fields, and it was obvious to all but Mordane there was something seriously wrong with this scene. In the bright pink sky, various humasus’ could be seen, flying at high speeds completely nude, their wings and… such flapping in the wind. humacorns froliced below, using various magiks to ensure throughout the… breeze their hair stayed pristine and clear. The earth humans tended to the fields, some working at the markets selling various… illicit materials. And nothing else. “Mordane! My son!” Mordane turned his head at the voice calling out to him. “Grandpa?” “I’m here Mordane.” he said, dangling in the air by a rope around his neck. “What are you doing up there?” “Oh nothing... Just the trains, Mordane. Oh, and this pit of Celestia’s is about to eat me.” It was then that he noticed the rather large hole beneath his grandfather filled with white alicorns. Their eyes flamed with the brilliance of the sun in the sky. Snapping their teeth at his grandfather, they tried desperately to eat him. “Do you mind getting me down from here?” he asked calmly. “Well, I would, but the ice cream shop is about to close,” Mordane replied sadly indicating the pizza shop behind him. “Are you sure? It would only take a moment of your time.” He seemed suddenly desperate. “I don't know how much longer I can hold on!” Mordane looked at the Celestia pit and gumdrop trees of beer before looking back at the taco joint, where he would get his ice cream. His glorious, illicit ice cream. “But its closing in a minute, and this is the last day they have my ‘favorite flavor!” he pleaded. A group of humansi flew between them. “Wait! Tell me how long you can hold on?” “I don’t know, umm, three minutes? After that point I will have passed the singularity, and will have no chance of going back.” “Oh, good then,” he sighed with relief. ”I’ll just go and get me some ice cream then save you afterwards. “Oh, do you want anything?” “You know I like sardine pickled ice cream.” “Sure, sure.” Mordane hopped down the road for a few minutes before another Mordane suddenly approached Mordane. “Hi, I’m your conscience.” And then the second Mordane launched a kick in between the legs. “YOU WILL NOT GIVE A TIP!” Ignoring the fact that he should be feeling unimaginable pain, Mordane had a brilliant idea. “Hey why don't you go save Grandfather and I’ll order us tacos, pizza and ice cream. Illicitly.” “YAY, ICE CREAM!” Suddenly his clone kissed him, but then became Pinkie who then bounced down the street. “Stop that,” he said to the army of Stalkers wiggling their eyebrows. Suddenly Celestia walked down the road, riding on Twilight as she cantered down the street, stopping near Mordane. “MORDANE, how did you become so devilishly handsome?” said Celestia steamily. “He works out. I know. I watched him. It’s not creepy,” Twilight whispered while chewing on her mane. Mordane chuckled before lying to get away. “Ladies, I’m Gay.” “LIES!” shouted his subconscious. “Yeah, he slept with me,” confirmed Pinkie Pie. Celestia transformed into Mordane. “Then explain all your hard-ons!” “...bacon?” “Nooo, how will I ever have smexy children now?!” After speaking, Twilight also turned into Mordane. “No, it’s true. I’m so Gay that it’s capitalised. And look: that lamp, with those curtains? Atrocious. See?” “It’s the truth, I lost my virginity to Stalker at the candy store.” “Um… hi?” “GET OUT OF HERE, FLUTTERSHY. NO ONE WANTS YOUR SHIT!” “Eep. ”And then she turned super saiyan and knocked out Twidane and Celestdane. “Subconscious, what does it say about her power level!” “IT’S OVER NINE SUNSETS!!” And then Super Saiyan Fluttershy turned into Super Saiyan Mordanershy, and exploded. ******************************************************* Mordane laid on the bed a smile on his face. Warm fur pressing up to him as he hugged some warm body front of him. Taking note of the warmth from behind as well. He was content. His eyes snapped open. In a flash he was in the air hovering, eyes contracted into tiny specks as he looked down at the two stallions below him. Drawing one inevitable conclusion as the smell of alcohol permeated the air and the fact that his prized cloak was casually thrown over a nearby chair. "NNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!" He cried out in anguish. Boulder and Stalker’s eyes opened slowly. They sat up and stretched trying to awaken. "Oh, hey there, Mordane. Feeling better this morning?" Boulder said a small smile on his lips. "Hello, beautiful," Stalker said while lighting a cigar. "You both were great" Boulder glared at him. "He don't have any memories likely, Stalker. Don't scare the poor bastard even more." "WHAT THE BUCK ARE THE TWO OF YOU DOING IN MY BED!" Mordane yelled eyes burning with rage. "There is no need to yell, Mordane." Stalker frowned. "This is the second time we have woken up together." "You know I think he might have a good reason in this case. Oh," he said turning to Mordane. "And I just did not want to leave you alone with him. I must’ve fallen asleep while trying to convince him." Landing, Mordane floated his cloak over with magic holding it with his hoof before looking at Boulder. "Thanks, Boulder, but it's not something to worry about." He said relieved. “That would've been the worst thing ever.” "So, Mordane," Boulder coughed covering his mouth. "Wings?" "Wings?" Mordane deadpanned. "Yeah, those ones that you are currently flying with." he laughed. Mordane’s eyes nearly plopped out of his eyes and onto the ground. With a thump he landed unblinking as he replied."Uhh. Oh, you mean these wings. They’re um, a… spell. Yeah, a spell." "Yeah," Boulder said while pulling a feather from his mane. "Totally fake." "..." "So how long have you been an alicorn?" Boulder said raising an eyebrow. Mordane sighed in exasperation. "All my life." "A natural born alicorn." Boulder said placing the feather on a nightstand. "I did not even think that it was possible for stallions to be alicorns. Plus, I can see your cutie mark. The commander’s rife. Can't say I'm too surprised save for the color. What does that mean?" "Earth, water and air… or liquid, solid and gas. The states of matter depending on your perspective. Maybe the world… You've seen my war magic?" Mordane inquired. "Yes." "But you did not react to it so I assumed you knew about it… I chose how I see the world as my focus and I cast the spell well before I got my mark. So..." He trailed off "You have no idea how it affected your mark." Finished solemnly. "Aye… Does make me wonder though," Mordane said, smiling. "Can I really trust you two?" "Trust us?" said Stalker before frowning and letting out a small growl. " I think the better question is can we trust you?" "Aye," agreed Boulder darkly. "You have some explaining to do." "Trust me?" Mordane asked as his face twisted a bit with worry. "Why not? I've been there for you. I've even helped you Boulder," he started quickly looking back and forth between the two. "We know you better than most, Mordane… You're a bit of a liar." Stalker said awkwardly. "I never lie," he said firmly. His eyes getting a little wider. "What would make you say such a thing?" "Well, a bender of the truth then," Boulder rephrased ignoring Mordane’s question. "Yes, we noticed some… patterns after last night Mordane," Stalker said calmly. "You're always putting up a front. Even now. Who are you really Mordane? Behind the mask," Boulder asked, eyes filled with genuine concern. "Nopony should be alone." His two comrades had stood up from the bed and were moving toward him. Closing the gap. "I don't know wh-" "Come now, Mordane," Stalker patronised while standing up and stretching. "As Boulder said, we know you better than that. Can't you be true with us for a while? We’re your comrades." "Get away from me," Mordane yelled his mouth was dry his mind running a mile a minute. He started stepping back, trying to put space between them and him. What did I say last night? What did I do? "I'm just a reg- ...I am a comman- ...I am an alicorn. Things are bound to be strange." "Please tell us Mordane," Stalker said, ignoring his explanation. "We have been asking the question too long." Mordane sat down against the wall. His comrades sat in front of him. A calm descended over his face. "Why does it matter who I am behind the mask? Perhaps all I am is that mask. That barrier between you and others." "Ponies that have known each other as long as we have lower that mask for each other, Mordane," Boulder whispered. "Aye… What am I? I don't know how to answer that. I'm a commander, an alicorn, a pony... No label I have ever put on feels right. They just seem too small." "Then who are you?" Stalker whispered. "I am what I am. I'm Mordane… we all are something underneath, you know." He looked at Boulder. "Like you. A warrior at heart. You searched for glory long ago and it was denied...that's why you drank. But what is your name? Is it Boulder, Warrior? No… I think you are Soldier. Even if you have lost your way a bit." "You, Stalker. Such deception. You think the few slips are not noticed… Or that it would distract me. I can feel the weight that you carry but I cannot tell what your purpose is. " The three sat there as Mordane closed his eyes and leaned back his head. The silence stretched on as Boulder and Stalker reassessed the younger stallion before he spoke up. "You know… life is short. At least, I thought it was. This life though its eternal. Who am I if I last forever? My kind is meant to burn out. To flash in a brilliant light. To die young… Yet, I am given the means to live on? Is it a joke of God? A cruel irony? I don't know. I was something else before this life. Before I kicked in my mothers womb. I remember it well and at the same time barely at all..." He opened his eyes and looked at them with a half smile and tired eyes. "What I do know is that I have a purpose. One that I cannot abandon.” They stood up. "How can we trust you if we know you're manipulating us?" "I guess it will require a little faith” Mordane laughed “Not that I can firmly say I deserve it. Yes, I will manipulate you, but it will always be for a purpose. Consider if that purpose is one you wish to share." Mordane walked over to where he had dropped his cloak and put it on. He smiled at them walked toward the door. "You're still keeping secrets Mordane," Stalker said with a frown. Mordane turned to him, frowned, and said, "Of course. That is my nature, you are just going to have to live with the mystery." Walking out the room door he left them to get back to managing the occupation.
A Month After (bonus chapter)Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
Dimond Dog Mountain (bonus chapter)Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
Two friends and a sudden dropSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
The begginning is where you make it.Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
An army marches on its stomachA jaunt into enemy territory.... (grammer and spelling errors. I'm looking for an editor now) "Stalker, I will end up killing you one of these days." Mordane and the earth pony stallion were climbing over a pile of rocks three days after leaving the mercenary camp. The plateau had stood before them as both an obstacle and a short cut to the two travelers. Mordane’s muscles burned and sweat poured out of his body as it endeavored to carry the camping equipment up the steep embankment. The straps on his wings and horn were constantly rubbing against him, Surely leaving red marks beneath his fur. The horn binding ring at the base of the appendage itched and occasionally emitted a spark. His wings burned as they sat strapped to his body. He had tried to find a way to remove them safely but, they had proven to be far too strong of an enchantment for the young stallion to remake after breaking it. That was if breaking it did not backfire somehow. Because of that he would have to leave them on. "You knew that this bucking rise was going to be here. That's why you took the first shift for the first two days." Stalker's laughter only caused Mordane to growl some more at him. “You know Mordane,” he said while jumping lower down the mountain to push him up ,”as much as I love touching your hot flank I would have expected you to last longer. What, you have been carrying it one day? That is hardly commendable after having such a victory.” Legs shaking Mordane lacked the energy to really complain about Stalkers touch. Even as such he seriously considered cutting off the pony's hooves. “That victory as you call it,” Mordane grunted as he finally pulled himself over the last rock and onto the top of the plateau, “was something any half competent commander could’ve done with half of a leg being gnawed off by a bear that was on fire.” Stalker snorted as Mordane turned around and reached down to help him up as well. “If I’m not mistaken Stalker,” he continued “,you also seem to be breathing a little deeper than before. It was Mordane’s turn to laugh at the glare from his traveling companion. Sitting down they both looked over the other side to the area beyond. Their panting slowed as they fully took in the scene Stretching out before them were rolling hills with trees hugging to the side of the mountain chain that they sat upon. Overhead they could see birds flying. In the far distance one could just make out the shimmer of a river. “Why are we climbing up the side of a mountain again?” Mordane asked after recovering. “This plateau was once a pegasi outpost; much larger than it is now. Earth pony slaves would be forced to grow food here. Eventually the place was abandoned though and the few buildings made of wood turned to dust eventually. With erosion crumbling its edges this is the only place you can cross the mountains this far west. It’s far faster than going around the long way and you did say ‘I’ll be back as soon as I can,’ to Boulder. Why I would have sworn you were about to kiss.” Stalker was already standing. Pulling out a spyglass he began to scan the area before them. “Plus I can teach you to move without being seen on the way. Much too hard for you on the road.” “Teach me to sneak? Why?” “You do not know?” Stalker sighed and put up his spyglass “Of course you don’t. Recently Cabistien and Derrena are at each other's throats. The various lords of Derrena have even toned back their infighting. Cabistien is moving its troops west. That's why that rebellion happened. There is going to be a war.” “War? What for?” Mordane asked as he started looking for a place to climb down from. “Derrena is looking to annex the city state Ike. It will give them access to both sides of the peninsula.” Stalker pointed to a spot on the opposite side of the plateau a hundred meters away. “Cabistien won’t allow that as Ike is a vassal state to it.” “...Who will win?” Mordane asked curiously. “Cabistien has more money but Derrena has more soldiers. Either way it goes neither side currently has the resources to hold the other anyway. It would take all Derrena has to take Ike.” “So which direction we headed?” “To the north east. By the way, how did Boulder take the news of where we are going?” “Well if I remember his exact words he told me to kiss my ass goodbye.” Reaching the Plateau edge they began the long climb down and into the forest before heading north northeast toward their destination. A few hours later as the sun began to set the two Ponies found a small clearing to camp in. “Isn’t this too exposed Stalker?” asked Mordane as he drew his sword with his mouth and began using it to shift through the brush in order to find some kindling. Only dropping it twice. “No it should be fine we're way too far off to be noticed at this point. Tomorrow though we’ll be getting close.” Stalker rubbed his hooves against the ground, pushing the twigs and leaves to the side and clearing a place for the tent. After coming back with another load of wood on his back Mordane saw that Stalker had already set up the tent and was mixing water into a bowl with hardened wheat porridge. Mordane went on to set up the fire and to get water from a nearby stream they had seen. He returned to find Stalker sitting next to the fire eating from a bowl with a spoon. A small pot of food hung over the fire. "Come over and take some porridge Mordane." "Sure" Picking it up Mordane sat down and began to eat knowing it would likely be there only warm meal for some time. Stalker stared at him from across the fire slowly spooning the goo into his mouth. "So...How was your childhood Mordane?" What? Why would he care? "It was nice. My family was isolated so I could just wear a hat when company came over. Nopony would show up unannounced. I would help in the fields and play with my brothers and sisters...there probably dead now...or imprisoned. Same with my parents." The somber tone settled over the camp bring the dampness of the area much to the forefront of Stalkers mind. "Why'd you not try to free them?" "Because I would have failed." he snapped eyes glaring, " I loved my parents ,but that will not make me a fool. If I surrendered then my family would be slaves. Held to keep me in line. Them and their seed for time untold. Even if I knew where they would be taken I would have no chance to capture the place alone. Not to mention its likely right under that castle of hers."Mordane set aside his bowl and sacred into the fire. His eyes turning a slight red and a little watery." I need help, loyal help. It will take time to get it but....Well I will find their bodies and take my revenge." "But couldn't they be alive? She may be keeping them prisoner." " I considered that. My parents are old. They would not survive such imprisonment. My older brother would break as well....The stronger they are. My sisters would take the longest butt in the end only shells would remain. At most two or so years....Already been over a half. By the time I get back...." Rage burned in Mordanes eyes. The fire that he stared into was reflected in them but for a moment Stalker felt a chill. The ponies usual mask had been pulled back and he could see clearly. Stalker did not know if his companion was insane but he could almost feel the heat of Mordane's anger. "What if she keeps them well Mordane?" "Then I will kill her for the years of my life lost and for imprisoning them. It matters not." The coldness confused Stalker. Was this not the same pony who would spend money to free a pony and go out of his way to avoid causing pain and death of the innocent. Who could command undead but chose not to? Where was this kindness? It was things like this that made him wonder if Mordane really was insane. "That voice.....talk like that again." "What? why?" "It turns me on." Mordanes glare could have curled milk. "Don't you think that you have been making enough innuendos stalker?" Stalker took note of the manipulation in the statement and briefly wondered how he could at one moment be capable of it and another blind to the most obvious thing. "Oh please Mordane" Stalker said smiling coyly" It relatives tension between us. After all it is what you expect of me." "True but that fact does not take away from how annoying it is." Mordane paused " I see were you picked up such a social defense mechanism....probably sexual childhood abuse." Stalker snorted. "Wrong oh wise one. I was raised in a loving family." "Yeah right," he said rolling his eyes "what loving parents name there colt Child Stalker?" The stallion in question waived his hoof in a dismissive gesture. "It was tradition. My parents were names similarly and you've met my brothers. Why I remember carrying rocks up to the top of the mountain. Then we had to drop them on the top or stare at a tree until I made it grow a foot in one day. Or mine for crystal in aforementioned mountain. Now that one was downright cruel. I mean. There were no gems in that...." Stalker paused mid sentence seeming shocked at how much he had said. Regaining his composure he tried to divert the conversation. In the back of his mind however he once again wondered about Mordane and how his maturity and personality seemed in flux all the time. "Umm...Why did you decide to go to Ponyville anyway?" Darn. Caught himself. "Oh . Well it had the best library outside of Canterlot. I wanted to learn as much as I could without being under Celestia's rule." Stalker snorted "Bullcrap. You like the danger. The chaos." "I'm sorry?" Mordane raised his eyebrow "What do you mean?" " Nopony hides from the thing they fear under its nose. Certainly they don't apprentice themselves to the pony who is third closest to them. At the least they don't speak to them! I mean come on. How close did you come to being caught?!" " Well...at least five I can think of." "You see. You like danger. keeps ya sharp." Stalker laughed and took the dishes to the camps edge to clean." Even though I had to save you a few times." Mordane did not concern himself if what Stalker says was true. Besides, keep your friends close, and your enemies closer. ******************************************************** Mordane held a jewel in his hands. Calm filling his being. With a tendril from his mind the crystal flared to life. "You bastard." His normal calloused shell was not here to protect him. The words cut deep. "Star charmer I'm so-" "I don't want to hear you excuses you stupid ape." Tears were going down his face his eyes "Why did you do it Mordane why did you stop being a pony?" Mordane looked down . For the first time noticing that he really did have hands and a feet. As part of him flashed shame another rejoiced at his returned humanity. Then both was filled with dread at the thought of eventual death came to him. All was swept away by Star Charmers wards as her hoof played across his face. "Did we not mean anything Mordane? Or should I call you. By your human name?" "I've always been human Star charmer. I always will be." "Can you even remember you name?" The question cut like a knife. My...name? What but...How could I forget "How could you forget me Mordane?" Star charmer was gone replaced instead with his grandfather from before he came to Equestria. Setting his jaw Mordane fought to gain control of himself. "This is a dream." "Does it matter? You can't deny the question Mordane." The dread that had been building in the background started to twist the dark fog beyond his immediate thoughts. Dark shapes formed. I will not be consumed "Perhaps you already are." His heart hammered in his chest even as The apparition stepped closer to his now tiny pony form. "Tell me Mordane....tell me. What are you? A pony with a human soul or a human soul with a pony body?" "I will not give into such madness. That question has no mean-" "My boy" he said touching his shoulder with dark lines growing deeper on his face." Its all that matters." "Begone. I will have nothing more to do with you. This is a new world. A new life! It is mine to take!" "New world old patterns. War...war never changes. Death....It stays the same as well. Don't forget taxes....or did you forget." "War, death, taxes. These three are one and the same, but the greatest of these is taxes." "Aye. Never forget that." "...I was the one to say that to you. Not the other way around. No you said there is no state more desired than peace and none more valuable. That once violence is done for oneself it will only begat more violence. What you just said makes no since to that.... BECAUSE THIS IS A DREAM!" Mordane screamed in anger "YOU WILL BEGONE!" and he was gone.. Mordane was alone. In the dark. Voices spoke in the abyss. His mothers...fathers...brothers..sisters...Star charmers... "Why did you kill us Mordane?" On the edge of his troubled mind a hoof began to try and push into his dream. ******************************************************** Mordane snapped his eyes open and repressed the urge to scream. I am the stone next to the ocean. The unchanging nature of the wind. I am the truth of water. Silence is my peace. Quiet my refuge.... He struggled back. Trying to remember everything he could. I..I was called...JOHN! Yes yes what was my last name? Uh, I was called John Running? No John Triston, Yes John Triston. I was twenty five...Now I am forty three....Then why don't I feel like it. Sitting in his cot Mordane contemplated when he started noticing the disconnect. It had to have been in the womb....then He grew use to it and for a while it disappeared. Now he was calling back old memories again. That must be it...I'm using knowledge from then and its causing me to come back...but I never left? It did not take long for him to crush that little voice of confusion. He was Mordane...and John they are the same person. Just different points in time in a life. He had not thought about some things for a while....that was fine. Old memories do tend to fade with disuse. "Yes...yes that is what happened. Just some old memories resurfacing. I know there deaths were not my fault." "Bad dreams?" Mordane snapped his head to stare at Stalker for a second. The question of sharing a single tent had not even crossed Mordn'es mind. Now it seemed more important for some reason. "It happens to me sometimes my friend" He said quietly before standing up. "So how are we going to travel today?" "Well as I said" Stalker replied with a raised eyebrow " We travel in secret. Now help me pack up the camp" Mordane nodded and headed out of the tent He did not hear Stalkers whispered finish to his sentence"..friend." __________________________________________________________ High Rise snorted in disgust and with a mighty flap of his wings literally blew his spy out of the tent. Oh the stallion had his uses to keeping the group together but his report filled him with rage and disgust. That mutated half-bred, spawn of a necromancer. How the buck did he do it? Despite the stallion being gone somepony was still going around following his orders. The tents were in line and number. He had been receiving scout reports constantly despite not ordering them. What am I going to do? Tell them to not do the work? He certainly wasn't going to pay them more for it. For that matter he would not be paying whoever was doing extra work for Mordane. Just the name set his teeth on edge. I know that punk is looking to take my place...Probably some of his goons are already planning to kill me when my back is turned. It seemed wherever he went in the camp the topic was always the same. Mordane this Mordane that. The informant had been snooping around. According to him the entire camp was already referring to Mordane as "the second". How long till that is commander I wonder...I won't have my band taken by some snot nose colt from the north! There was not much he could do about it though. If the stallion did not return in two weeks then... "Now there is an idea....There is nothing saying I have to wait for him. It may be customary but...Yes. I think I'll do just that. By the time he gets here well be gone and he will have no idea how to find us" With a chuckle at his cleverness High Rise called for another one of those farm mares to be brought to him. ______________________________________ "So Mordane...how do you know High Rise will wait for us back at where we left him." "Doubt he would. The guy is only concerned about his bottom line.. Good thing he planed where they would march and marked it on a map. Pretty funny how he left it out for all to see." "Huh. Well that could have been bad." "Indeed." ******************* Hours later Mordane was moving carefully through the forest. Trying to avoid twigs and leaving prints while at the same time moving silently from cover to cover. His mind just kept playing back what Stalker had said. "Listen Mordane. We are going into enemy territory. With the war up and coming they will likely have random patrols going around the cities. I would rather avoid having to hurry due to your clumsiness. Now here is the first thing to being sneaky." Mordane carefully stepped over a log and winced as the sound of a large stick breaking rang out. Looking back he judged how well he had done. There was at least five hoof prints he could see, broken twigs everywhere and his favorite quill was laying on the ground which he promptly went back to pick up. "Wow...you really suck at this." Looking up Mordane was confronted with the puzzling sight of Stalker standing on a tree limb How did he get up there? "Well...Ummm" "I mean a blind, deaf old man with a cane could follow that trail Mordane!" "Err it is my first time" Stalker smiled" Well I guess I'll have to be more gentle." "...walked right into that one." "Yes yes you did. Now head straight and do try to be more carefule" Mordane turned and headed on. It confused him how Stalker would disapear as soon as his back was turned. Looking back he knew that just like the other five times he would be met with empty forest. Eventually Stalker dropped out of the trees to talk again. "I mean really Mordane. I thought you were good at everything?" "Common misconception. I just only use my strengths and move before It becomes a problem." "There! There is the problem. Your too much of a leader to sneak." Mordane furrowed his eyebrow. "Well I seem to remember launching a surprise attack not two weeks ago." "That was an army. you only had to distract them. This is different. We have to get through without gaining their attention." Stalker said patently. The constant putting down of his sneaking skills had put Mordane in a bad mood. "Do not patronize me Stalker." he growled. "I shouldn't have to tell you this stuff Mordane but with your sneaking..." "I'm not a child, Stalker. I am trying to follow your advice to the best of my ability. Repeating it won't help in that regard." The veiled annoyance of Stalker turned to downright anger. "Maybe if you weren't acting like one I wouldn't have to." he whispered turning away. "What did you say." Mordane responded threateningly " I don't much like the idea of you thinking that of me. If we have a problem just say it." Stalker opened his mouth to make another innuendo but stopped midway before closed his mouth. A second later his brow furrowed to match Mordane as his voice took on a quality of steel. "I said that If you did not act like a child I would not have to treat you like one. I mean come on Mordane!" He walked right up and stood in the stallions face. " Advice? I did not just give advice. I gave you instructions on how we both can get out of this. I did not have to come on this you know." "Bullshit" "What!?" Mordane had already lowered his horn at stalker as he glared. "I am no fool Stalker. Your family has been watching me for a long time." "No you idiot!" he shouted " It's just me who has been watching you!" Whatever Mordane was going to respond with was lost as Stalker suddenly tackled Mordane to the ground. At first Mordane thought that the stallion was trying to kill him but his eyes fell on the arrow shaking as it stuck out of a tree. "Were under attack!" he shouted. "I know! Get to cover!" yelled Stalker as he bolted. Mordane did the same and dived behind a outcropping of rock. Reaching out with his mind he felt the seven ponies on the hill. There is no way we can take that many. He searched for a way out but soon he realized that they were just to close. A grim determination to not die hiding filled him. Once one stallion was close enough he pulled out his sword and jumped him. With the first blow Mordane and the pegusi pony guard both had their swords knocked out of their mouths. His look of shock at Mordanes strength flashed across his face. Quickly they turned to hooves. There was no rhyme or reason to Mordane's attack. He jabbed left and right before bucking at the ponies face. The pony at first barley dodged but within a few second he began to weave with ease around Mordanes strikes. There is however only so much one untrained can do against a trained soldier. With a single thrust and a flap of his wings the stallion threw Mordane against a tree. In a daze he watched the stallion pick up his sword and start walking toward him. For a few moments he considered his options before realizing that it was impossible. His soul was anchored to this flesh and even if he had all the proper rituals he was just too weak. With careful resignation he accepted the inevitable. With an odd calm his thoughts and the life that he had lived. So...this is the end. I probably should of taken the binds off. Then maybe I'd of won. Well hindsight is twenty twenty... It's odd how I don't feel any fear. Well it's the time. I wonder if ponies and humans go to the same heaven...or hell. The stallion raised his sword for the killing blow Two hooves suddenly snaked around his neck. With a twist there was a loud crack and he fell to the ground. "You know saving you like this was not in the job description." Stalker smirked " I was not aware there was one." "True." he laughed. "What happened to the rest of them?" "Take a look" He turned a gestured around. One mare sat tied to a tree as the rest of the attack party lay fallen in bushes and open ground. "...Remind me to not piss you off again till I have my magic back." "Will do...and I am sorry. It's just I was afraid something like this would happen." "How did you take them out" Mordane asked as he stood up. " Family tradition. Now ...what to do with her?" He said gesturing to the mare tied to the tree. "...Well there is the obvious thing. We are on a spying mission." he looked stalker in the eyes " I don't know about you Stalker but I dislike the idea of torture." "True. It's not very effective anyway." he replied causally " They just tell you whatever you want to hear." " So psychological?" "Do you know anything about it?" Stalker asked curiously. "Torture? Yes, both physical and mental. Though I've never practice it." "Well I suppose we can go mental. First let's find a place to take her Then we'll talk." An hour later they found a small cave in the side of a cliff. Stalker secured her inside before returning. "She's awake. You ready?" "Yes. What's the plan?" "I'll go in and rough her up. Look like I'm ready to really ramp it up. Threaten her with the usual, rape , more punching and such. I'll avoid really hurting her though." "Ok...then I come in and play good Stallion." " Well no" Stalker replied sheepishly " you play the worse guy. Then I'll come in and try to look like I'm desperate. That I'm the good Stallion." "Ah...so what I be as evil as I can and you'll act all scared? Didn't she see me beaten?" " I'll say something about how your letting me do this because of training or something." "Ok....got it. I'll have to be the most evil bastard you have ever known." Stalker nodded before rolling his eyes and heading back into the cave. Mordane took a seat and started thinking back. He had covered nearly every aspect of war as John... I will have to be convincing. Carefully he selected his words and outlook that would have the desired effect. As he worked the back of his mind took note of the sound of impacts and gasps of pain. Standing he started walking toward the cave. His eyes were glazed over seemingly uncaring about anything. Walking in one could almost taste the blood he must spilt as it was marked clearly in his trot and breathing. Looking at the mare he did not let a flicker of emotion touch his face at her bloody nose. He instead turned to Stalker and put a disgusted look on his face. "Stalker!" The stallion jumped into the air at his shout. He turned playing out the part of a fearful subordinate. "S-sir I was just interrogating he prisoner. As per your orders." Mordane glared at him letting the disgust leak into his voice. "I said to torture her. Not to give her a few broken bones." "Oh no sir! No sir! Steady hoof has broken none of her bones!" Mordane shouted and projected pure rage. "Then you have failed even more! If I was not training with restriction s I would do this myself! " "But sir...What else is there to do without magic?" Mordane sneered. "I suppose I will have to show you how to conduct such things. Very well. I will explain carefully." Walking up Mordane looked around the cave before beginning to speak. "Step one: Either lay down some sheeting to keep from making a mess, take the subject to a location where it doesn't matter if you make a mess, or prepare a tip and an apology for the maid. *sigh* I go through so many maids. Anyway, step one - check." Mordane calmly recounted to the much confused Stalker and prisoner. He taped the stone behind the prisoners head. "Step two: Impress upon the subject that it is in their best interest to divulge any and all information that is asked of them. There are several ways of doing this, some folks like the old 'surprise knife to the knee' but my personally my favourite is to give them a rundown of the planned itinerary. " A small smile crossed his lips as the mares eyes grew wider. "This would be where you tell them about all the horrible things you're going to do. You know, shatter their hooves , flay their tail, boil their legs one by one, all that good stuff. I saw some centipedes back there and I'm interested to see if they'll be able to dig their way out if I sew them into someone's gut, so that'll be fun to look forward to. You'd also be surprised at how many ribs you can take out while keeping the subject conscious. I'll give you a hint; it's all of them." She groaned and shook at his words. Her eyes unable to look away from his. "Heh, that reminds me of this one time I was working on a griffon, a real tough nut, and her kid was in the next room. I was going at it for most of the day so, needless to say, he ended up pretty bored. I swear his whining was even louder than his mum's. Anyway, what I did , right, was I gave him a pile of his mum's ribs and he spent the rest of the day in there on his own using them to make little teepees and stuff. It was downright adorable. Of course I did end up plucking the little chicken in front of his mum, but it was cute while it lasted." Stalker gaged. "Ahem, anyway, I thinks that's check and check. Next comes step three: ask the subject if they're willing to talk. This step's really more of a courtesy, but I like to do it anyway. We're all busy people after all, and the sooner we get things wrapped up the sooner we can all go about our business. If they don't want to play along then that's when we go to step four: the Fun Part." He paused to let that sink in. Already the mare was staring wide eyed at him. " Since it seems unwilling to surrender the information." he said with a smile" Start with the tail. Cut it off...then the mane. " "Ummm." Stalker spoke up swallowing his surprisingly dry mouth. "What do we do if she talks without a fuss?" "Oh then we give her some food and knock her out for a day." "I'LL TALK! I'LL TALK!" "Yes yes you will." ******************************************** Mordane walked out of the cave with Stalker who had stayed silent throughout the rest of the conversation. The information had been of no real value as the mare had not known anything. "She will be ok right?" "Yes Mordane, but where did you learn about things like that? I thought you disliked torture." He seemed put off by what Mordane had said. "I learned it a long time ago. Disliked it myself. Can't think of many times I would actually have to do it and certainly never to that extreme. In the end though she told us everything with no fuss." "Aye but what will she say about us." "No idea....So where are we headed?" "North still. I gave the impression we were headed east to the ocean for pickup....Look Mordane, I shouldn't of called you a child." Mordane rolled his eyes. "Apologizing does not become you Stalker." "That's certainly true." They both smiled and continued north. ______________________________________________ Celestia damb Mordane and his brilliance! Boulder walked toward the mess hall. It was much easier now that the tents were in alignment. Though they had yet to moved Mordane had already set ponies in command when they did. For Bolder arriving at camp was one of the biggest surprises of his life, tents in a row, the locals pacified, and who had done it. To Boulder Mordane was still a child. Only eighteen. How could he have gained control so quickly? Then maintained it? Not to mention actually commanding well. The maneuver was not something taught in any military training he saw. Attacking a superior position with lower numbers...It sounded like suicide. Even if they were just farmers. It just did not fit into Boulders world view. I have got to see what the others think of him. Boulder ,on the first day, had set out to gain 'friends' throughout the army. It was an old instinct from before he had been forced to retire at the age of twenty five. That was ten years ago but habits die hard. Plus it was good to hear were they were going. Not to mention what that Stalker fellow was up to. Walking into the mess area, something else Mordane had set up, Boulder was not supriced to see his friends waiting for him. "Welp gentlemen" he said sitting around a fire with them and seeting down two wine sacks he had traded extra guard duty for. " Its good to see ya." "Good to see you to Boulder." said a pegsi scout. "ello my friend." returned a earth pony engineier. "Fine night to you." Spoke up a smug unicorn. The pony rummaging through the utensil chest just grunted in response. "So...I know yall haven't met each other. I'm just pulliong yall her because It accrued to me we might be able to figure something about this Mordane fellow." Boulder said picking up his fake drawl. Most ponies would be more open around someone they perceived as stupider than themselves. None of them knew he shared a tent with the guy and so they did not question how they would know more than him. "Well" spoke the Unicorn " I don't know him that well... all I know is that he seems to of straightened out the camp. Quiet respectable." "Eh, an officer's an officer; met one, you've met 'em all. Damn it, where's that damn can opener? I traded my picture of Steamy Buns for these damn beans." "Respectable my ass!" growled the Pegusi " I mean the dumb one I got back home. I'll tell you about Mordane. He's a brute! A monster from the old tails! One of those damb necromancers." "Don't say that about him!" fumed the Earth pony " He is an incredible commander! Look at how he was able to win the battle so soundly." "Bah! They were farmers." the pegasi said picking up the wink flask " Any pony who has seen any REAL fighting could of done the same." "Ah hell with it." grunted the pony looking for a fork "Hand me that rock would you? This thing wants to play games then I'll make it a game of rock-paper-smashed can." "Without any casualties?" smiled the Unicorn." I do wonder about the quality of leadership but his command is without question ." "Exactly! and I don't know about yall but the best quality a commander can have in my book is to keep his ponies alive and feed." "figures an earth pony would only care about his stomach." "Ah shut it. You just mad because a unicorn turned out to be a better commander than you could ever be." Clang-clang-clang-SPLAT "Aw damn it." The pegasi sputtered as the Unicorn and earth pony laughed. "Well any" said the unicorn whipping a tear from his eye" All I know is that some are enamored with him. Some are afraid or hate him. Most however don't care. Like me." "I see...." Boulder whispered." That's interesting." "Well you can at least say that" agreed the Unicorn. Boulder continued to talk for a while before leaving. His frustration noted like a rope inside of him. Walking away from camp Boulder found a secluded spot. Sitting down on his flank Boulder prepared to do something he had not done in years. Commune with the sun. For uncountable generations his family had worshiped Celestia. She was powerful. Immortal. Wise. All that any stallion or mare could wish to be. So of course they had called he a god. Yet this title had always seemed wrong to those first ones. That was until they realized that the alicorns were not gods but spirits. Of the moon or sun, love or hate, kindness or fear. They could embody anything. Even Discord was not god. A sprit yes but not a god. They were not omnipresent or all knowing. They did not have all the answers or hear prayers. Boulder knew his beliefs where considered outdated by most ponies. Only a few families like his practiced it anymore with any devotion or fever. There was his problem however. One that lead to his downfall from grace. The sun was cleansing fire, unbending light, fearless and Celestia was the ponyfication of these qualities. She was gloriace to behold....and yet. He had always felt she burned to brightly. That she demanded too much. Is Celestia blinded by her own light? Celestia was wise. The bringer of dawn and order to the world. She was the shining sun.....and he believed that she was wrong. He struggled with this and soon it became obvious to others. When he confessed what was troubling him to his father.....he had been thrown out. Twelve years ago he had thought that. Eleven he began drinking. He tried to follow the other alicorn finding them to feel even worse. Years had been spent traveling around from one life to the next. Meeting dangers and trying to evoke that burning spirit of the sun. Yet it never came. It had been years since his last attempt to commune. In fact it had been a long time since he had thought about his religion. One that had pushed him away from harmony. Ah this is the place. Her sun in my face and the life she feeds below. Power and giving all in one. My father might of even insisted we rebuild our family chapel here. So he drew his sword and stabbed it into the ground before removing his helmet. He stood in silence. Listening to the wind as it rustled through the leaves. Breathing deeply he tried to draw the suns strength and warmth into him. Pushing away the sickening taste in his mouth. He became a nothing. Yet he did not feel peace. Only rage. How could she of done that to me. _____________________________________________________ "Were are you taking us Stalker." "Hmm?" Mordane gave him an incredulous look. " Stalker we have been at this for days. Where is this Merrygold mountain? " "Just about a day's travel to the north. First however I'm got somewhere I have to stop." "...So more walking through this rocky wilderness?" "Yep." ********************** Stalker lead Mordane around ever changing wilderness. Later that day however he pointed to a seemingly random white boulder. "There it is. Ok just one second." Trotting over he moved a smaller rock next to it revealing a small hole and a envelope. Opening it stalker read it then quickly ate it whole. He was still chowing as Mordane walked up. "Wasn't sure I'd find anything but It seems m brother has gotten himself into a jam." "Smut peddler?" "No Shop lifter." "...ah...I don't remember much about him." Stalker motioned for him to follow. "It just means well have to make a stop on the way back." "Thats fine...what about getting caught?" "Well...we can't go in without looking like soldiers. We'll need a disguise." "What kind?" "...Well a lot of merchants travel the road leading into the city...We're going to need to sneak him out by the way." "Of course we do." Mordane had stopped trying to figure out about Stalker and his ilk. They had some kind of spy/perverts thing going on and in truth it really did not seem to be that important. Then he thought about how the fact that there was a spy/pervert in his life seemed completely normal."Lead on." The trip to Merrygold was easy. Going up the mountain slightly more difficult. The place was an abandoned gold mining location from the time of the griffin empires occupation centuries ago. It had been mined dry. The only value in it was that from the top one could get a view of a large area and see if there was any troop movements going on...Ultimately useless work since they knew the Rina military was moving south and west toward Ike. After confirming that there was no massive army to be seen the two headed west to gain access to the main road. There plan was simple. Stalkers brother Shop lifter was held up in the small city of Arius. S small city north of Tietus. They would have to hold up beside a major road and attack a wagon carrying goods It would have to be a lightly guarded one as well... ********************************************* Calm heart and Smooth corn were riding toward Rina in there single wagon. The old couple had been farmers for years but to their misfortune no children had come to them. Now in their old age they were getting to the point that growing crops was too difficult. The couple had been through worse though and had acted quickly instead of waiting till they could not do anything. Selling the farm they had made a bold move and bought iron for an incredibly cheap price. It would sell well in the city near Tietus. Most would of balked at such a risk and journey without protection. They did not worry much however. After all who would attack two ponies who were pulling a rickety cart and were dressed in rags. To all the world carrying bags of turnips. If they could get a good price in the city they might even be able to settle down there and open a small shop. Yes no pony would guess that they were carrying raw iron ore. " It's such a nice day Heart. We'll likely make good time." said the old mare to her husband who smiled back at her. "Yes... I dare say that nothing will get in our way." *Wham* Both of the smiling old couples slid to the ground unconscious . Mordane strapped himself into the front of the cart and waited for Stalker to finish with the old couple. He winced hopping he did not hit them to hard. "Well I slipped them some sleeping powder. Wouldn't believe what I found back here though." "Hmm?" "three bags full of Iron ore." Mordane deadpaned "Are you being true with me?" "Yeah...We can get a good price for it in the city." His eyes were shinning and a dreamy look was in his eyes. "We are not stealing from an elderly couple Stalker." Mordane glared "Well he did just assault them. Stealing is really a step down." Mordane ignored him. Stalker sighed. "Fine we will not steal a fortune from the old couple. Happy now?" "I suppose." Mordane nodded toward the city in the distance" I will be the puller and merchant while you are the guard." "Of course." The trip to the city only lasted hours as they moved through the same land they had for days. Only now there progress was much better. Before he knew it Mordane was pulling the cart up to the gate. "Halt traveler. What are your goods." The guard glared at Mordane. "I'm moving turnips...that's all." "Not a real demand for turnips." "Well...you take what you can get." The guards eyes narrowed and glared at the merchant before him before shrugging. "True. Go on in." Mordane nodded and pulled the cart through. Once inside Stalker showed him were to take the Iron and turnips to sell as Mordane insisted they could get a better price for them as repayment. The stallion waiting seemed bored at the sight of the Iron and pretend to be more interested in the turnips. Even giving a good price. "That iron ore though...We don't have the forges to handle it really. Only the major cities can afford to manage refineries. All of the iron must be collected to go there. I mean I can give you thirty bits a pound." "Sixty bits or I go to tietus." "Sixty! That's outrageous!" "Not with a war coming." The outrage on the stallions face fell away and he nodded. "Well can't blame me for trying. Sixty is fine. This stuff is in very high demand right now." " Of course." The two of them too the money and left. Gladely offering to unload the items themselves. "So how are we going to find this guy?" Mordane asked as they headed away "Should be easy enough. He is just in the local prison. All we have to do is post bail and he is free to go." "... Then why would we have to sneak him out of town?" Mordane asked frowning. "Because of all the stuff he is going to steal." Stalker replied with a straight face. "..." "..." "...Don't you think he might refrain for a day?" "No." "..." "..." "...ok then. Lets go get him then." Stalker looked at him blankly. "Uhh....what about the old couple?" "Well we have to free them somewhere." "Well...I was going to wake up him up and tell him where the bits are. Then disappear but that plan involved realizing them outside the city." "They proably won't mind to muck if you give them all the money. Then say it was to save a lovers life." "....Thats cold of you Mordane." Mordane glared at him. "Really? You don't say. I was thinking it would be better to spend five ours explaining something that would probably be over their heads anyway." "You better." Stalker laughed " Go find the prison then. I'll take care of the couple you bleeding heart." "Ah shut it. Only a fool is unnecessarily cruel." Stalker pulled off the cart and took off with it leaving Mordane to figure out where the prison was alone. A task that proved to be easier than one might think. "Hey do you know where the prison is?" He asked a random passerby. "Yeah just go two blocks down and take a right. Its at the end of the street. " "Thanks.". The guard at the front simply stared at him though when he told him who he wanted. He wore a blue hat and uniform cut to not interfear with is wings movement. "...Are you sure? I mean. We could keep him here a long time if you want." Mordane gave him a questioning look. "I'm going to ignore that. Look were friends. I have to get him out. How much is the fine?" The stallion sighed. "Your loss. It will be fifty bits." "Fifty!?" "Aye. Fifty. Stealing a ponies dentures while there in his mouth is tantamount to assault." "Dentures?" "Dentures." Mordane stared at the stallion wondering what the heck would drive Lifter to steal something like that. "... fine I'll pay. Now take me to get him." There was little paperwork before the pony lead Mordane through to the back. Cells lined the wall filled with prisoners. All of the hooting and holering at the glaring Mordane. The guard led him to a cell with only one ocupant. "Lifter! Your fine has been paid!" "Is that so my good friend!" The pony in the cell sat smiling as the guard nodded at him. "Yes this pony paid it for you. Now if I could just find my keys." The guard started patting in pouches and checking his mane. " Have I met you before?" " Yes I'm Mordane, we met many years ago in a small town with your other brother...The one you warned by about." "Stalker? Yeah I remember. He's still stalking you?" "No not really. More like following me." "Uhh Is this what you dropped?" asked Lifter pulling a ring of keys out of his mane." I urr picked them up off the ground in front of my cell." The guards mouth hung his mouth open before clamping it shut and growling. "...Just give them to me." "Sure thing officer." Mordane left the prison only a few minutes later with Lifter following him. He felt sure that with a little work and careful planning he could keep the pony out of trouble. After all how hard could it be to convince one pony to not steal anything for awhile. "So Shop Lifter, Dentures?" he asked without turning around "No I dont have any...do you?" Lifters eyes shined with greed. "Yeah thats right. Now listen Stalker, err Lifter" he said turning to look him in the eyes. " you cannot steal anything until were at lea... Lifter" "Yes Mordane?" "Where did you get that police hat?" "Hmmm" he scratched his chin thoughtfully " I have no idea." Knocking the hat off his head Mordane pulled him through the street toward the main gate without pause. Soon Lifter started keeping up with him as his hoof was hurting from the pull. Stalker walked up and motioned them into an alley. Mordane stood watch. Not looking back at the two brothers but listening. "They are fine now." "Hey brother! Long time no see. Hows the hip?" "Still twitchy and if you touch my things it will still make be buck you in the jaw." "Ahhh no need for such hostility." Lifter gave Stalker a hug and backed off. His goofy grin gave way to the serious one Mordane remembered from all the years before. "Is the air clear?" he asked strait faced "Yes all ears are at peace with the way." Stalker replied rolling his eyes. "Do you still follow the path?" Stalkers face twisted with rage and shock. He stomped up to Lifter angrily glaring into his eyes. It was at this time that Mordane noticed how much smaller Stalker was than the normal pony as he had to look up at Lifter. "The path is my life and my binding. Without it I have no color. Without it the world is like a sea of gray. I am of the way." "This one wonders." Lifter looked over at Mordane who was standing blank faced as they spoke suddenly in a archaic form. "Why have you shadowed this one beyond the allotted time. How could that be with the path?" "It is of the path because I say it is leveler" Lifter bowed his head " Of course path finder" The Two stared at each other until Mordane regained his composure at their surprisingly strait conversation and coughed. "Can we go now? I would like to leave before Lifter steals more things." "To late for that." Stalker said while Mordane turned around. Shop Lifter was covered head to hoof in Two hats, three cuffs, three jackets and four pouches. How he had not noticed the insane outfit or the bags literally jingling as random items shifted was a mystery. "..." "..." "...problem?" Lifter said smiling. Mordanes face turned red with rage. "...just drop it Mordane." Stalker asked while touching his shoulder. He exhaled letting the anger go. "Fine Lets go. Now. The sooner I'm out of these bindings the better." "Yeah you should tell me about that Stalker. I did not know you were into H&M." After getting Lifter to dump the goods the three of them walked calmly out the front gate and quickly parted ways after a parting ritual between the two brothers. Stalker and Mordane headed over the mountains the way they came. The time going smoothly. Ultimately it was a very boring and uneventful trip.
New places old faces"If you say a lie loud enough and long enough, the people will believe it." - Adolf Hitler The space between the truth and the lie is a fickle thing. If one tells a lie about themselves long enough. Ponies won't follow me for my own revenge. You being to tell yourself that lie. I'm not just doing it for myself. You act on the lie. I have to free those under Celestia's rule. Then you believe the lie. I will save them. Then it no longer is a lie. I'll fight her, for others. It's the truth. **************************************** In a flat spacing of land among the rolling hills, a little town of less than forty houses was resting beside a river. The leaves of trees were just beginning to brown and loosen, in preparation for their journey to the ground below a few weeks from now. Throughout the streets, young played while the old sat grumbling about the children playing, and the middle aged worked in the shops and fields. On one corner of the dirt roads interlaced in the small town. Mordane cautiously walked out of the pawn shop while keeping his hood low. The bitter taste of that clan's memory left little room for appetite in the young stallion. In all truth he just wanted to break something. The frustration from being so close to success, only for the lack of perspective to cut under him, put his teeth on edge. I could have used them...no! I must not think that way. It’s dangerous. Dark thoughts played out in his mind as impulses long suppressed from the now released part of his personality came to the surface. His perception seemed to expand and contract. One moment he would be so aware of everything around him, from the smell of oil in the wood floors and the distant look of the shop owner, and the next he would fall back. The necromancer had thought himself quite strong willed, cruel and terrifying. His evil intentions however did not compare to these thoughts. The worst part was knowing they were his own. Yet he would not give into them. No they simply focused on efficiency without morality. The shopkeeper not giving you enough gold? Threaten him. Find that mare enticing? Sleep with her, all you have to do is act tough but with a hint of kindness. Obvious daddy issues. On and on it would go. There was the other ones that were just as extreme but on the opposite side of the spectrum and would still feel twisted. Get some food for that homeless man. Treat him kind and use him after he becomes your friend. Say hello to everyone you meet with a smile. Treat them with respect and they will respect you even more. Follow that pick pocket and stop him when he does try to steal something. How do you know he's a pick pocket? By the way he looks at others of course. All for himself. This side of him did not care if it was with sugar or blood, he would twist whatever he could to his advantage. It would be up to his more...humane side to control this. The wind blew hard through these streets catching up dust and blowing his cape in the wind. A string on the inside held the cloth close to his body. He had sown it in so as to prevent the cloak from blowing up and revealing his wings. As he stepped out of the shop that little cord snapped from the winds pressure. Desperately the stallion grabbed for his cloak billowing upward. His wings were out for anyone to see for a full four seconds before he grabbed onto it and pull down. His eyes darted around. Did anyone see? "Well I be a Diamond dog! You got both wings and a horn? That's Something! What, was one parent a pegasus and the other a unicorn?" Spinning around, an old earth pony was looking at him with a smile on his face. Mordane stared at the smiling stallion his panic quickly subsiding into confusion as he tried to grasp what the pony had said. What it's almost like- More ponies crowded started to gather around having overheard. "What, he has wings too?" asked a construction worker "I won't believe it till I touch em-" "Never been with a stallion like you before," said a mare with a seductive smile "Let us see em!" Hesitantly while still forming a plan. Mordane slipped off his cloak. The crowd ooh-ed and ah-ed. "What’s your name?" said the original stallion. Oh buck... Mordane thought nervously. What if Celestia hears about me? I coul- Suddenly he had an idea. oh god why Looking up he smiled as apprehension filled his stomach and yelled. "Why little old me? I'm called the Party King!" As some ponies laughed he could already see how to get the party going. I really did tell myself not to drink again...Well it should be fine. I just won’t get drunk Celestia is over the mountains and tails of the 'Party King' will only be taken as rumors from all those years ago. With that thought Mordane lead several of the ponies into a nearby bar and took his first drink ***********(fifth teen hours later)****************** Mordane opened his eyes. Groan. I said I would not get drunk! Pushing up from between the three mares on his coach Mordane stumbled up and looked around the room. Seeing his cloak, bag and sword leaned against the wall he walked over and checked it making sure that nothing was missing. Oh buck did I do anything with them...best check Casting a detection spell noticed that there was a contraception spell activated on himself. God I though for a moment it was going to be like the last time. Having to check up on here a year from now would be terrible. After packing up he walked out of the room and into the main bar area. ...You know what I'm not even going to ask how they got the flag that close to right. He thought while looking around the nearly destroyed bar. Mordane stepped over the fallen bodies even as the few still awake saluted him. "Hail party king!" "uhh thanks." Opening the front door of the bar Mordane stepped out onto the street. "...huh" All around him ponies were passed out in the street reflecting the look inside the bar. "Everything is looking better than I thought it would." As Mordane flew away from the town, with only a few fires and a lot less alcohol, he pointed himself south and aimed for the city that the townsfolk had told him of last night. Apparently there was a lot of jobs available there for those skilled enough. Mordane felt a small smile on his lips. The idea that no one knew about alicorn was just so strange to him. After last night at both the pawn shop and gambit table he had a tidy sum of just over a thousand bits. He was excited to see a city state. At first he had not really caught onto its nature but a few questions at the town told him what he needed to know. It was said to be the center of the northern region. It was there where he could find out how things around here tick. Mordane felt uncertain about his future, but happy considering his prospects. The townsfolk had known nothing of alicorn but that would not stop him from wearing his cloak. Best to avoid such attention. He glided down and landed at the entrance. He moved quickly toward the City called Tietus. Which was said to be in a state of unrest. Mordane chuckled to himself thinking it likely meant rebellion. Mordane did not know what to expect from the great city but his gut told him it was the place to go. **************************************************************** Flying over the last of the hills, Mordane looked out over the plains and down on the city. The sight that came to him was impressive. The coastal city seemed to be divided into four districts, and had two outer gates. The docks stood out fairly clearly, as did the marketplace, with its many brightly colored marquees. The bulk of the city was taken up by slum-like masses of buildings, with the last section containing larger, roof tiled houses surrounding the castle. Obviously the respective domains of the poor and the rich.One river ran through the three poor districts. It had an odd color to it but Mordane just chalked that up to weather. Quickly his mind ran predictions. Looking at the various sections and how run down they are one can make a fairly good estimation of the population...about five hundred thousand. No wonder this is the center of power. It's as big as Manehattan. From what I can see it's the port that gives it strength...block that off and the city would empty. Mordane shook his head and smiled before setting down. As he made his way to the main gate he noticed as the guards considered stopping for a moment before shrugging and letting him walk past. Inside, he was assaulted by the sight and smells of the city. Trash, dust, smoke and feces. The reality of a middle age city came up and slapped him in the face. Sewage ran freely along the street edge with trash floating through it. Carriages carry both the wealthy and goods through the dirt roads of the city. Mordane gagged. Wh-what the hell...this place is...Even basic sanitation? The sickness growing in Mordane surged. He ran over to the road edge and threw up his last meal. Looking around in disgust he saw that nopony had even looked twice. ...This is atrocious. I have to hand it to the bitch, she at least lifts Equestria out of this sickening state. Mordane knew even with his knowledge, anything he revealed would likely cause him to be seen as a threat by the elite. Something to be fought or controlled. As Mordane walked through the town he purposely avoided bumping anypony. He down two raggedy individuals who actually purposely tried to bump him. A slight thrill ran through him both times, even as he watched them go to talk to others who were standing on corners as money exchanged hooves. ...organization. A thieves’ guild of some kind most likely. He resisted the urge to laugh at that thought. What a world. As he stepped through an unavoidable puddle of what he assumed was water, the stallion overheard something that gave him pause once more. "Why, mares and gentlecolts, we have a fine selection today!" Mordanes head tuned as his heart sank at what he saw. Down a large alley, ponies stood close together in front of a simple wooden stage. Eight ponies stood on it. Two were guards. A third was the salesman. The rest stood in line with neck collars and chains. A few were mares, others stallions. They ranged from teen to middle aged. Mordane found himself making his way through the crowd toward the stage. A sense of foreboding filled him and words he only thought to hear said in film came to his ears. "Yes, before you today we have a fine selection indeed. These slaves were captured as part of campaigns in the south and are legally claimed. Just look at this stallions thick back legs. He could do some fine field work-" The former human watched as the first batch was sold. On the second he was wondering why he was not crying out... All he felt was just shock. Slavery is just so unfathomable to those who have lived in a land where all are free. It was only on the third line that he was snapped out of his stupor by a voice that sounded familiar... "WHY DON’T YOUR SCREW YOURSELVES!" "Shut up, you!" The guards dragging out the stallion viciously bucked him in chest, causing Mordane to flinch. As they held him in the middle of the stage the earth ponies face caught his attention. The stallion seemed familiar. In fact he was sure he had seen him before. It took a few seconds but soon Mordane remembered. "Brawny Boulder? Is that you?" The old drunk Mordane had meet after first leaving home stopped long enough to stare at the stallion. His eyes searching to something he could recognize. It had been years since the alicorn had even thought of his old temporary companion. "Who the buck are you?" "No talking to the merchandise!" shouted the sale pony. "Now this one may be feisty but he is strong! Chain him up to an entrance and use him as a guard! Do I hear five hundred bits?" Utter silence. No pony would want such a hoof-full. Many in the crowd were muttering about how the pony should of been broken before being brought out. ...He does not remember me. Understandable. Luckily I should be able to buy him. Mordane of course knew he would buy him. The question was how much it would cost. "Four hundred bits!" "I don't know, Boulder, that’s a might expensive," Mordane spoke to his chained up companion in front of him. A pained look came over the former guard’s face. "Buck you! If you know me then save me and then we can talk!" "Three hundred fifty bits?" the sale pony’s look was even more pained. "I'll give you two hundred bits," Mordane said with a smile. I cannot believe I would run into this guy again. "Only two hundred bits?" The sales pony looked around. "Do I hear three fifty...One twenty five? Yes you two hundred twenty five!" A random mare made a bid. I have to end this. "Three hundred bits!" Nopony decided to go against Mordane’s offer. Handed a simple key they asked him three times if he had a guard to handle him, before letting him walk the stallion out himself. As Mordane and Boulder walked out of the alley way the old stallion was giving his new owner odd looks. "Why don't we get a drink, old buddy, and catch up." "I don't know how you know me, colt, and if you think you can hold me..." "Wouldn't dream of it. Just consider the three hundred bits a loan. I know you're the type to repay debts." The old stallion grumbled and followed Mordane into a bar. The alicorn ordered them both a soda, drawing a smile onto the owner’s face. "Really, soda? You really are a colt," Boulder grumbled. "Not as young as I once was, old timer... Do you really not recognize me?" He glared at Mordane before drinking the glass dry. "Can't say I do." The laughter bubbled up easily though Boulder did noticed it was a little strained. "Well what if I told you we met in Equestria?" Brawny Boulder took another long look at Mordane before shaking his head. "I left there about two years ago and had a lot of drink before being hit in the head and taken as a slave." The shame of being caught so unaware was evident in his voice. Mordane felt pity at how far the earth pony had fallen. He hair was ragged and worn where the collar was hung. The eyes looking out at Mordane looked deader than the ones from all those years before. "Heh. Guess I can't blame you then ...Perhaps if I tell you my name?" "Out with it. I ain't got all day." "I'm Mordane Stronghoof." The old stallion spat out his drink as his eyes widened in recognition, and after a few seconds he smiled as he started to recognize the colt from all those year before in the stallion before him. "By Celestia’s name, it is you! I can't believe you saved me," he shouted "What are you doing down here?" "I could ask you the same. What happened to that mare, Sugar?" "No idea. She left me after we came over the mountain, before I was captured. We were just running from some fines." "Disorderly conduct?" Boulder laughed. "Yeah. What about you?" This guy hated Celestia right? Perhaps I can find an ally. "Oh you know," Mordane said awkwardly. Boulder raised an eyebrow and Mordane sighed. "I'm on the run." "The run?" Boulder said with surprise. "Aye, from Equestria and her queen...I remember you did not like her as well.” The older stallion grunted an affirmation. "She has no respect for conflict. It will come to bite her again one day." "...Aye, it did. Diamond dogs attacked Equestria." Boulder’s mouth dropped open, but he quickly recovered. "I assume the defenses failed?" "The attack was on multiple fronts simultaneously... The ill trained guard had terrible response time." Disgust and a slight sense of loss filled Mordane. It only magnified as the conversation continued. “The dogs were after slaves...I lived in a town called Ponyville at the time." "Ponyville?" he cut in, "The home of the Elements of harmony?" "You know about them?" "Of course I do. I was part of the guard before...Well before I fell out of favor" Mordane sat back."Interesting. What did she say about it?" "Basically, don't respond to anything and leave it up to her student." "...Huh. That's an...odd command." "We got a lot like that. So were you able to repel those dogs?" "Yes. Though it wasn't easy...I lost a few." "Only a few?" he responded shock "Gods, boy, how did you fight them? I would think the town would be taken. No matter if Princess Twilight was there." "I burnt the bridges and put all the colts and fillies in the town hall. Then built the defenses around it." Boulder raised an eyebrow. "You put young ponies’ lives in danger?" "They were already in danger. I just forced the parents onto ground they would not give up for anything. Because I let them know what would happen to their little ones," Mordane explained. "After the battle I ran from Ponyville and was chased by Celestia." This time the shock expression did not go away so easily. "Why did she chase you? If you were just leaving?" "...Well. I did something that threatened her authority. After that she chased me down and ran me into a storm trying to kill me. It was only through teleporting in said storm that I was able to escape." Boulder sat in silence for a moment staring at Mordane. "Look, colt, I'm not going to take it as rent that Celestia wants you dead! That’s just crazy. Nearly as much as you wanting revenge for it. Nopony is going to die for your revenge." That was obvious to Mordane. ...Ponies won't follow me for my own revenge. He would just have to give them something more to fight for. " ...This is unimportant. We have a problem. I only have six hundred bits. That is enough to start a home but not enough to really gain some wealth." "We? And what is this about wealth?" "Look, you old stallion, I might have freed you for our former acquaintance, but I remember how you thought. You're a pony of honor. The real kind. I helped you and now I need your help. Money is power and I need power." Boulder leaned back and thought for a time before his face lit up. "Well I do owe you some money it would seem...There is a way for us to make it back." *************************************************** Mordane turned to look at Boulder with his face devoid of any emotion. Before them was a brothel with a hiring sign being held by a stallion as another stallion danced on a pole. "No." "But the pay’s good. With your tight fla-" "No, and if you complete that sentence I'll sell you to a fat, gay stallion who obviously has various STDs..” Boulder burst into laughter. “You're a backside, you know that?" "Fine then. I do have one more idea. Though you'll wish you went with this one." ******************************************************* "What is this dump?" Mordane and Boulder were standing before a rundown warehouse on the edge of the dockyards. A bunch of stallions were standing in line leading up to a door. "It's a recruiting station for the mercenaries." "...So you want us to join them." "Uhh..." Boulder frowned at Mordane "Yeah...The pay is ok, but the real pay is from the salvage. After a round I can pay you back and you can do...whatever it is you’re planning." Mordane felt an odd sense that this was an important moment in his life. From this point on he would be building a destiny for himself. Such time come and go in life but Mordane was ready. ...I need money if I'm to succeed. While becoming a mercenary was not in the plan. It does make sense however, there is not much I can be hired for...The experience would come in handy as well. His pace quickened. Besides...I'm not just doing it for myself...It's for those others under her hoof as well. "Well...I really have no other plans." The recruiting process was surprisingly simple. When it was your turn, walk out into the middle of the open space and state your specialty before demonstrating it. Mordane calmed himself before entering the line with Boulder. With his sword strapped onto his back, Mordane walked calmly into the warehouse once his turn had arrived. Three ponies stood in front of him with bored expressions. The first was an earth pony in heavy armor. His light blue coat and dark blue mane were offset by orange eyes. On his back rested a greatsword. The sight of him filled Mordane with unease. He fidgeted a bit. The second was an unarmored pegasi and carrying a lacer: An air blade dragged behind a flyer, meant to remove heads." The third was a cloaked figure. Mordane tensed up as he felt the necromantic energy. Though quickly he recognized it was not the one from his childhood. "State your specialty," said the first. "...Magic. If you mean what kind, I can perform both elemental, necromancy, minor healing, and illusions." The first two raised an eyebrow at that while the third simply said. "Show me." He paused for a moment and made up his mind. There was no use in lying about his power. This necromancer was good enough to know. "I guess I'll do an illusion first." The three stared forward as Mordane’s eyes grew red. Quickly he was transformed wrapped in shadow. "Fear me." His voice had unearthly quality to it. "Is that rea-" Instantly he was cut off as he flinched. A wave of fear rolled off of Mordane. The necromancer fought off the mental attack with little difficulty, but the first two felt a little jittery on their hooves. He smiled at the younger stallion. Using illusion magic to dirctly induce fear was not bad. Inefficient but it showed proficiency. "Good enough. Necromancy and minor healing are related. Leave them till last. Show your elemental magic." "Are you aware of war magic?" Approval radiated from the third one."Yes. Please show me yours." "Of course." Mordane did not need to restrain himself. Reaching out he took command of the local energy that was unclaimed. The third seemed to be holding onto over half of it, though his grip was nothing impressive. ...Must be self taught. No use in holding back. Mordane quickly found his center. This was much easier since he had allowed his regressed trait free. His eyes snapped open. The calm flowed and stirred. The dust from all around the room moved and collected into a sphere. He compressed it to half the normal volume.At the same time he drew the moisture into a stream of water orbiting the compressing dirt clod. The third one was smiling and nodding but the two pegasi seemed almost bored. ...Well then. I guess it's time to pick it up. "I advise you to cover your ears." Mordane pulled a shockwave spell and stomped his foot down. The ball of dirt compressed and then with an exhale he formed it into a stone sword. At the same time the water formed razor edges on the blade. The two pegasi eyes were wide as he stabbed the sword into the ground. Silence. The necromancer burst out laughing. "Hahaha. No need to impress these two, Mordane." "What's funny?" said the first pegasi, confused. "Oh, he simply was trying to impress you, but to someone who is skilled the first part was far more impressive. His control and strength were precise. Not perfect, but very good. That alone would’ve gotten him into the university." University? The first pony, named High Rise, nodded his head and chuckled. "Well I don't know a thing about magic. Though from your comment I can tell this one is worth the money." He turned to Mordane as the alicorn felt a flush of pride. "Do you have any other skills?" he asked catching Mordane off guard. "Well...yes. Though what more could you want to know?" “It helps our command. We do pay more if you have extra skills.” I really do need the money...I suppose being winged would pay more. Eh it's worth the risk. "...What if a pony claimed to be a winged unicorn?" That gave them pause. The first one frowned. "I would kick him out for lying." Mordane laughed nervously. "I'm sure that the other necromancer over there could verify my wing’s authenticity... or I could just hover." They exchanged looks and the third one nodded. "...Very well." With that Mordane pulled off his cloak and stretched out his wings. Causing all of the three judges eyebrows to rise. With a few flaps he took to the air and hovered. Quickly, a bolt of thunder passed through where he had been as a rolling sensing spell ran across him causing a mildly unpleasant feeling throughout his body. The unicorn’s eyes became thoughtful as he set back down. "...He's genuine." Curiosity in each other their eyes was evident. High Rise leaned forward. "I'll pay you sixteen hundred." Mordane thought for a moment before responding. "Make it fifteen. Then you keep my nature to yourselves and whatever flying group I work with." After a pause High Rise gave a simple nod of understanding. As long as he did not get too big, most would dismiss the idea of a pony with both wings and horn as ridiculous. "I'll label you as a unicorn in the books and we will downplay your wings." "Thank you. Where should I report?" Mordane asked with a stern face. "Here. In two days, with equipment," chucked the unicorn while leaning back in his chair "You're going to need some armor. That is, if you intend to survive." "Of course. I will be here at noon, sir." With that he saluted and marched out. The eyes of High Rise watching him as an unease settled into his stomach. **************************************************************************** Mordane sat looking at the entrance for the few minutes before Boulder came out. The human alicorn slight smile reflected the surge of energy and excitement of somepony who knows they are about to go and spend a lot of money. The guard pony walked out grumbling under his breath a look on his face as if he had spent three hours sucking on lemons. "Four hundred bits. Those bastards." "Only four hundred? That's half what a unicorn gets." The earth pony winced at that and had a slightly jealous look entered his eyes. "Aye. Unicorn mercenaries are rare." Mordane decided to refrain from telling him how much he was given. It would bring up questions. He knew for a fact that Bounder had no idea he was an alicorn... Mordane had no idea how he would react to that knowledge. The very thought caused Mordane stomach to turn. "We better use your money and buy our supplies." Boulder cut into his thoughts. "Who knows where we can find the things we'll need." "Well I have the basics. We will need a sleeping bag for you...and a sword. Both of us need armor. You more than me...You’re expensive, you know?" "Shut it, young’un. Lets go find what we need." ************************************************************** The armor was easy for them to find. For Boulder, he needed iron leg bracers and a center piece that covered mid drift and his flank. Mordane pointed out this would leave his breastbone unprotected. He grumbled something about stupid children knowing nothing of war. Iron is very rare in this world. Many nations would hold it. Tartris being the main port city of the south however guaranteed a steady supply and the lowest prices in the world. This gave them a price that most would've called a steal at fifty bits a kilogram. Mordane just took Boulders word that the armor was necessary and dished out six hundred bits. For himself he was much more careful. He found a battle cloak in one shop that was basically a regular cloak with metal plates put in sewn up pockets. Once realizing that Mordane saved money by buying the metal plates and some sewing material. Then he bought some quality gems for fifty bits. ************************************************************************* Mordane made his way to the room he and Boulder were sharing. Sighing, he entered and rubbed between his eyes. Boulder laid on his small bed his side gently rising and falling. The room was tiny and beyond plain, filled with only the two old and dirty beds. The room was cool, but Mordane was sure it would have been freezing or burning depending on the weather considering it had such thin walls. The smell of dust and the kitchen below mixed to give the feeling of an abandoned part of a home. Opening his pack, Mordane laid out a large piece of paper made of pressed wood. Next he pulled out a paint brush and ink bottle. Finally he opened a book of magic symbols. With a calm demeanor he began his work. Learning enchanting was more of an art than a science. The symbols in truth held no power; they just acted as a means of fitting the entire idea of the spell firmly in your mind. The markings could be anything. It was just easier to use the magical standard markings. After about four hours Mordane stood up and looked down at his work. He stared at the waving lines and worked to hold the entire spell in his head. Reaching into a bag he pulled out a hoof cuff and some gems before placing it on the paper center where there was no ink. Then he drew on the power from the fire downstairs. Pouring in the power, he gave the matrix existence independent of his mind using the magic of making. Once the magical matrix came to be, he then bound it to the cuff. Small pieces of the cuff’s surface fell off leaving engravings similar to the ones on the paper. The very nature of the cuff was changed as it shifted from a dull bronze to a cold gray. Small pops were heard as the gems were pulled and set into the metal. Excitement built in Mordane as he lifted up the cuff. For a long time he had been certain that there were ways to magically store power. Why did Celestia’s troops wear armor with gems? Crystals jewels are mostly made from carbon and a naturally occurring magical field. It forms a sort of spreading structure throughout the gem. Normally when one tries to hold power in an item it will eventually lose it yet the Equestrians used several items that seemed to hold power indefinitely. It was a closely guarded secret but soon it came to Mordane that the structure of crystal could be used to hold the energy better since its tight molecular bonds could more easily hold power. That is what he used to make his copy of the clandestine bracelet...even if the end product was not as good as his original. Now however he had far more strength and skill. Though he would not be making a Clandestine bracelet. No this one would be a well of power. It would have a limit but with it he would have a store of strength that only he could access. All of this flashed through his mind as he lifted up the cuff and put it on his arm. "Go to sleep, Mordane...leave your magic till the morning." Boulder grumbled having been woken by his annoying comrade. "...Ok, Boulder. Good night." Mordane pulled on the surrounding energy and stored enough in the bracelet to make a building burst into flame before going to bed. ***************************************************************************** Boulder and Mordane sat on a curb just outside of town. Both had agreed that staying in the city would be extremely boring. While going out the sit next to the forest would be better. The sun was hanging. Birds flew across the sky accompanied by the occasional pegasi. The wind blew softly making the trees, grass, flowers and pony hair wave in its flow. Boulder did not know what to think of this runt. He remembered back to all those years ago when he accepted him into the party. Then he watched his girl die...What would that do to a kid? After he was able to lift up that huge boulder. Now all these years later... Hating Celestia. The old stallion would never admit it but he felt protective of the kid and at the same time afraid. If his story is to be believed, he had escaped Celestia...Impressive. Though I don't know what to think of that look. Boulder sat there as the question worked its way up through his thoughts. Growing and festering until it popped out. "Why do you think Celestia is evil? She has made mistakes but I don’t think she does it for herself." Mordane turned glaring before responding in a terse voice. "What, besides her blatant abuse of power and Equestria being stuck in the a technological rut?" Boulder’s reply came back quickly with irritation creeping into his tone. "Look Mordane, Celestia has not abused her power. She uses it every day to raise the sun and fights monsters who would destroy Equestria." "Tell me, Boulder. You know that long ago the unicorn tribe, whose name is forgotten, use to raise the sun. Celestia took over not as an act of kindness but as a display of power. Are you suggesting that the unicorns could not take over again. Oh yeah! That's right, we no longer remember how. Instead she sits in her unicorn noble court and rules from on top of the mountain. Throwing parties and wasting taxpayer money on maintaining a home there instead of somewhere more accessible. Then she leaves the roads of Equestria unpaved and maintains military control with her guard acting as a police force." Boulder raised his voice to match Mordane’s increased one. "Are you saying she made us forget? That's insane. It would take hundreds of years. Canterlot I admit is not the best location for a capital, but it is in the exact center of Equestria. And why would you pave roads?" "You pave roads so citizens can travel with more reliability or you at least build enough railroads instead of one way passenger cars between the major cities and Canterlot alone. Do you need more? Children are raised with her image on the glass walls. The holidays are designed to build her image. She has ruled unopposed for over a thousand years and only recently has her sister returned from a banishment caused her loneliness. Loneliness! Celestia's pride is such that she would rather send her sister away then let her be an equal in the eyes of her people." "People?" "Nevermind that!" "Luna betrayed the Equestrian ponies wh-" "Look you're already spouting her propaganda" "You are just jealous of the love she receives!" Mordane and Boulder were on their hooves glaring at each other, but at that Mordane took a few steps back. " Jealous...jealous. JEALOUS! YOU FUCKING BASTARD! DO YOU KNOW WHAT SHE DID TO ME?!" "What! What could she of possibly done Mordane!?" "SHE KILLED MY PARENTS!" Silence. Boulder stared at the panting stallion. Unable to believe what he heard. Mordane spoke quietly. "On the day of the diamond dog attack my parents were in Ponyville...I saw them alive after the fighting was done. DONE!" Mordane reached into his bag and pulled out the newspaper before throwing it to Boulders feet. The old guard watched Mordane storm off into the forest before picking it up. ********************************************************** Mordane galloped away from the stallion, his eyes burning. Rushing between trees and fallen logs he growled before seeing a clearing between the trees teleporting into the sky. To far away to been seen by Boulder he flew like a rocket until landing in a flat clearing. Snarling he lashed out with his mind scouring the area for any sapient that could hear him before pacing around. He snarled and stopped staring into the distance. Mordane had thought his anger had grown cold yet all it took was a little hot air from Boulder to set it ablaze. With his emotions running high, the old magic of Star Swirl was activated and soon he could hear music. With rage filling him he sang the song that came from his heart. __________________________________________________________ What does that bastard even know! .... How can he not see what she sows! .... The fire of nations , misery and woe! .... How can he not see her flow. .... How she keeps them in depravity. Making markers. Nothing as it seems. ... She taxes the poor to give parties to the rich. She sets above to glow and makes her sister a bitch. ... She builds castles to scrape the sky Yet does not pave the roads so my father has a hospital for his wife! ... For over a thousand years she has reigned. Hiding behind her smiles a million ponies pain! ... Well this pony, no this human sees true. Watch out I'm coming for you. ... Hell and fire I'll bring. .... To twist your throne at its seams. ... All the world is a stage now I know the part I play ... So rest in peace You avatar of the sun .... for when I come before you your last song will be DONE _________________________________________________________ Drained of his rage Mordane leaned on his front hooves that he had been pounding into the now cracked stone. Shacking only one thought ran through his mind. I have to free those under Celestia’s rule. Child stalker watched the panting alicorn beneath him from the trees as the dust began to settle and Mordane's horn stopped glowing. "Well Buck, Somepony gots problems." He leaned back in the tree and covered in shadow. "Poor colt."
