Keeping Hope Aloft

by Silbern

Rating: teen
Tags: Human, Romance, Adventure
Length: 13303

Follow Captain Lucas Fayn, his Dreadnaught breed, Dragon Elongath and loyal crew as they fight dangerous foes to keep the Pony Kingdom safe.

"Bank left, Elongath!"

Major fighting in the Middle East is nothing new in Human society as seeing such reports on the news are seen with little surprise. Captain Lucas Fayn of the NATO Dragoneer Corps. is an Aviator fighting for both Country and for his best friend, Elongath. His best friend happens to be a Heavy-Weight, Dreadnought Breed Dragon from the deep swamps of Louisiana, USA. Together they fight and survive as a family along with a loyal crew that care for nothing but each other. They may all be from different Nations and backgrounds but one thing brings them together; Elongath. A trial lays before them as they try their hand at one of the most challenging campaigns yet!

Equestria is under attack by Changelings but that is only on one front. Diamond Dogs assault trade caravans and the Gryphons are irritated with the Slavery Laws placed by Celestia and Luna themselves. To the North they have a struggling Colony that is under threat of a ancient foe. Celestia, along with the Elements of Harmony, will have to fight both in the Global courtroom and on the field if they want to secure a more peaceful future.

Keep a hold of the railing, Midwingman. Things shall get bumpy.

Published 1970-01-01 00:00:00 UTC
Last updated 2013-09-12 09:57:12 UTC

Introduction: Hope

Keeping Hope Aloft

By: Silbern

For every person in the world that get's pushed down in the mud, pulled through gravel or pinned to a wall with a weapon to their throat; there is hope. It is often a small thing, Hope. Can inspire one to do tasks that make others simply falter in the shadows of frustration and despair. Hope can also push back that cloud of despair like a torch in a dark cave. Some say hope is nothing but something foolish to reach out and grasp. I laugh at the very notion. If you have to reach for Hope then you already lost it.

To say that once you lose hope you can never regain it, is also an oxymoron. You spend your entire life grasping onto Hope even if it's just a tiny flicker from a fleeting moment of joy. That's why I've always loved the Human race. We have the ability to push another into the mud and then place our boot on the back of their head so as to drown them in the very sludge that they squirm in. Some do it with a smile. That, however, is nothing compared to what we are really great at. What about that girl who even though she is surrounded by her friends, all of high society standings, still stops to give the rest of her lunch to the homeless man sleeping beside a dumpster?

It's Hope. Genuine Hope. The feeling of that maybe if, for one solitary moment, I can pass on even a flicker of my hope, that this person my slam a fist into the ground out of defiance and whisper:

“I'm not done yet,”

I want to hear that whisper.

“I'm not done yet,” I awaken to my true feelings. “I'm not done,”

Celestia fell to the floor with a sickening thud as she tried her hardest once more to rise from her defeated position within the royal chambers of Canterlot. Through her unfocused vision and aching head she noticed her crown laying idle to her side. Even from here position of pain she noticed the few scuff marks it received in the blast that maimed her.

“Oh how things have turned against you, dear Celestia!” a maniacal cackle entered into Celestia's mind like a venomous snake. The Sun Goddess turned, much to her pained discomfort, to see a tall sleek creature that held many holes through her legs and lithe hair. The thin buggy wings and carapace could only describe her as the Changeling Queen, the Marauder of the Badlands; Queen Chrysalis. “I've been waiting a very, ve~ry, long time for this exact moment. It's been over three hundred years since we've last been in Canterlot en mass. Do the Moon Tulips still grow by the North-Western wall?”

Celestia ignored the question as she grimaced with pain. The blast not only drained Celestia of her magical reserve but only left little for her to survive on. The amount of magic stolen from her would have killed a lesser Unicorn with slight ease. Much like a leech draining an absurd amount of blood from its victim. The Goddess tried no matter the pain however to channel her magic at the base of her horn. One final plea.

“Oh? You still have some fight in you?” Chrysalis asked, delighted with the chance of showing the amassed crowd that their ruler was now truly defeated. “There is no hope for you or your ponies, Celestia. I will drain every last ounce of energy from your body and your city! Not even your silly Elements of Harmony will stop me from my ascension!”

“There is always hope,” Celestia muttered moments before discharging all the remaining energy she had into one last spell.

Chrysalis prepared for the offensive spell but was mildly surprised to see the colourful flare shoot out through the window only to explode like a fire cracker outside. It took moments for the Queen to register Celestia's last move only moments after that to burst out laughing. “A Signal spell? Who in Equestria can dare defeat me now? You pleas for aid shall go unanswered and unheard, Celestia!”

“I'm not done yet, Chrysalis,” Celestia muttered through grit teeth as she forced some blood to be coughed up onto the marble floor. “I'm not done,”

The large scaled creature gave out a rather vicious roar only a few meters from where a solitary man stood with arms on his sides. Even when the rest of the ground crew gave up on the Dragon's harness, the intelligent creature persisted. A venomous cloud of smoke trailed loosely from it's nostrils as slitted eyes gazed down at it's very small obstacle.

“Are you finished yet?” the irritated voice filtered through the gas mask as two dark blue eyes narrowed right back at the colossal beast. It's jet black scales easily reflected the sunlight from the sun that shone high above these Afghanistan lands. Even the average soldier knew to give the beast wide berth lest he be squished with nary a bother to the behemoth.

“The Harness itches,” the Dragon pouted. That's correct. Pouted. “Micky didn't clean it,”

The gas masked man gave an irritated growl. The large, darkened leather trench coat whipped with the wind as he turned sharply to face the entire crew. “Corporal McMatthews, double time please,” he called with a quick tap of his section radio PTT switch on his belt.

“Yes, sir!” the younger man, no later then twenty, scrambled over and snapped to the position of attention.

“Missing something?”

The dragon gave a huff of his smoke as the young man that sported an almost bald head of dark chestnut hair jumped at. Instantly his hand jumped for his Gas Mask bag which he only stumbled at again. For an agonizing minute the entire crew watched as the fresh Dragoneer finally snapped back to attention with a fresh olive dabbed gas mask on his face. The clear face shield left little protection from the taller man to see the beads of sweat starting to fall rapidly around his eyebrows. His uniform was clean and very presentable with the British flag proudly displayed on his left shoulder.

“You're a bag of hammers, Corporal,” the man simply shook his head. “You've been around Elongath for over four months now and you still have the shakes. Pray tell, are you afraid that he will gobble you up?”

The younger man was silent for a few moments. “No, sir!”

A huff of smoke washed over the Corporal which elicited a sudden rigid posture. He didn't squeal though; always look on the bright side. The smoke eventually vanished with the strong wind as the dragon rolled on his side exposing his softer belly to the Sun.

“You're on bath duty today, by yourself. Next time you should wash all of his equipment before trying to irritate the big guy,” The man with the tinted gas mask nodded as the Corporal gave his salute in response before trudging off to find the large bucket and mop. There was a lot of scrubbing to do and the mocking he was receiving from his fellows was little help. An odd amount of middle fingers were shown for a celebration.

“Captain Fayn,” a loud voice echoed as the mention Captain twirled on the spot easily whipping his coat around to reveal an actual uniform underneath for only a moment. The good Captain watched as a older man wearing some Oakley sunglasses approached with hands grasping behind his back. It didn't last long though as Fayn quickly rose his arm to salute to his superior. “At ease, Captain. I've come to inspect Elongath before her patrol outside of the wire,”

Fayn watched the Colonel for only a moment before turning to the Dreadnought Dragon, Heavy weight class, before them. Elongath had to be one of the heaviest weight of his breed East of Nova Scotia, Canada. It was an odd proceeding when the breeders back on good ole North American soil found a single egg nestled in the Louisiana swamp. Many were just happy to find another Dreadnought breed Egg a few months before hatching especially with the Taliban turning up the heat after yet again another failed negotiation.

“Is she ready to fly?” the Colonel asked as he slowly passed his subordinate.

“Elongath is a Male, sir,”

“I don't care as long as it fills out it's roll in our AO today,” the Colonel repeated as he continued to gaze the beast over. It quickly became apparent to every single crewman that this old fart simply couldn't think of anything better to do.

Mickey yelped for a second as a rumble was felt through the concrete below him which only meant one thing. Elongath apparently had heard quite enough as he rolled over, leaving a gap for the poor Dragoneer who was washing his back left leg. Lower his large muzzle to spot the high ranking officer, Elongath could only snort. “Have you come to pester me once more, Colonel?”

Fayn groaned as he put his masked head in one hand.

“I am the fastest Dreadnought breed in NATO; proven records. I've been hit by a surface-to-air missile and lived with only minor scarring. I have a full, experienced crew and well fed. Is there anything else you need?” the Dragon begun to dive into more exploits to only be stopped by the Colonel raising a hand.

“You Dragoneers may have more slack around here but that doesn't mean you get to avoid protocol! Address me as a proper officer, you beast!” the greying Officer bellowed but instead of any verbal answer he was awaiting for, he simply noticed the Captain move slowly away from his side. “Captain Fayn, I demand you place this beast under more constraints while inside Airfield!”

Fayn didn't even mutter a word but continually backed away much like the rest of the crew did.

The Colonel was about to bellow once more until he witnessed a rather large shadow pass over him to the point where he could count individual claws that were extended to the sides. Turning slowly to find the Dragon on his haunches, the Colonel began to slowly back away himself. “You wouldn't dare,”

Oh, he did. Elongath dropped down with enough force that the Colonel fell on his rump letting out a pained groan. Muffled laughs erupted from the Crew until the Colonel gave a glare in their direction. “All of you will be court marshaled for this!” He threatened as he walked off in angry, ignoring salutes and such. It was a usual act with Dragoneers when mixing duty with other branches of the Military. Some big wig with a few leaves on his collar suddenly think they can boss an intelligent creature that weighs over fifteen tons.

Ignoring the whole dramatic display, Captain Fayn went back to business. “Sharpshooters, I want a ammunition and rifle inspection in twenty! Gunners, barrel checks if you would! Karrlson! Recheck all your gear. I don't want another mishap like the one in Africa; one too many bullet holes for my liking,”

Karrlson, Norwegian, Combat Engineer, tapped his hat in respect. “Aye, Captain,”

“Midwingman! Get the Harness and Rig ready to get mounted on Elongath. Mickey, make sure that all the straps are ready to go, no rips or tares, roger?”

Mickey waved from his spot then gave a imaginary tip of a hat. “Aye, sir!”

“Would you be so kind as to escort yourself aboard in due time, Doctor?” Fayn called out although his back was turned to his crew; hands rubbing Elongath's muzzle with affection.

“Ja, Ja,” The obvious German, Dragon Biologist answered with flippant enthusiasm as his gaze was focused on the paperback book held in his hands. The name of Günther stencilled on his chest.

Captain Fayn stood a bit more relaxed as he felt a large pressure nuzzle into his side. The warmth radiated of the muzzle of the great creature. A single hand began to pet the Dragon as a low, satisfied hum filed out of the Dragon's throat. It was a bond that was almost impossible to break without including death. He was a Dragon Rider; Aviator. As soon as Elongath was born from his shell in Atlanta, it was his destiny. Every waking day was spent together and soon, after extensive training and growth, Elongath soon had an entire crew to himself.

It was a bond a few shared in a sense. They are Brothers and Sisters but also comrades in arms. It often got to the point that the entire crew would sleep together with the Dragon. Just leaning against his stomach provided enough heat for even the coldest Afghan nights as long as you had a decent blanket. His rhythmic breathing at night has even become a relaxer for many as noise died off to the point where everyone would simply fall asleep to simple Dragon purring.

Those are the good times however. The many dangers in the Military service were many as Anti-aircraft guns are an ever present danger to such a slower moving creature compared to fighter jets and the like. Missile lock-ons however were one of a few saving graces that Dragons possess. Due to the rather mysterious scales that cover most of the body, it almost acted like a stealth plane's hull. Radar just seemed to miss it at no matter the altitude. Scientist still to this day are eluded from the fact that Dragon's can do slow formation flying and not a single blip on the radar. Only heat seeking missiles ever seem to find their mark and only if the Dragon decided to show it's softer belly to the attacker.

This however was the life of a Dragoneer. The married life is difficult to maintain as a soldier but when you are a Dragoneer, it worsens. When you marry a Dragoneer, you marry the Dragon as well. Straight from the hatching process, the Aviator is selected to be joined with the Dragon. If the dragon refuses to be harnessed from the selected Aviator then the Dragon will either choose another of his liking or try to be free within the wilds. It is rare for Dragons to choose the more feral life considering their intelligence straight from the hatching. They are given food and shelter along with a single human to accompany them. Not a bad deal, or at least that is what Elongath thought when gazing at a younger Lieutenant Fayn back at his hatching.

If only every day could be as simple as reading to a young Dragon Hatchling.

“Gunners, ready!”

“Sharpshooters, ready!”

“Midwingmen, ready!”

“Armourers, Ready!”

“Medic, Ready!”

“Ground Crew, ready!”

Captain Fayn nodded his head as he received the roll call from his crew. He sat at the base of Elongath's neck so he could speak easily to the dragon and call out orders with the best field of view. It left little for protection but it also was necessary in navigation when it came to fighting other Dragons. All Fayn ever wore was his heavy coat to negate the wind and a flak jacket mostly because the top brass wouldn't let him fly without it. What the brass didn't know was that the Captain removed the very plates that were going to protect him essentially making it a layer of fabric protection.

“Elongath, test the Rig please?” Fayn called out as he patted the side of Elongath's neck.

“I shall, Lucas,” Elongath acknowledged as he beat his large wings a few times until he was standing upon his two back legs. From there he begun to turn and shake himself in hopes to find any faulty equipment or uncomfortable places. Giving the Rig a few more shakes the mighty Dreadnaught fell back onto all fours. “All is well,”

“Thank you, Friend,” Lucas Fayn called back before turning his head to gaze back at the crew on the top Rig. The top level held the ten man section of Sharpshooters. Each armed with 7.62 carbines to deploy accurate and deadly results that often meant the death of separated Infantry or enemy Dragon crew members. Below them was the main deck that sat securely on Elongath's back. It held the Medical team, Armourers and half of the Midwingmen. The main deck is also where many of the crews supplies are stored. Climbing down the sides of Elongath, you reach the Bottom post; aptly named. Here is where the two 7.62 Machine Guns are manned for the most devastating Air-to-Ground support. Along the two gun crews are the rest of the Midwingmen and Ground Crew who do everything from bomb runs to sleeping on long flights. Every Woman and Man in the crew did his or her part. For if the Dragon was to die or the Captain slain, then the crew couldn't help but follow.

A Dragon who has lost his Captain was a very, very dangerous situation.

“Lieutenant Chevalier, radio command. Elongath is ready to take off,” Fayn spoke through his headset as he watched Elongath paw at a portable toilet station with amusement.

“Understood, sir,” came back a female voice

The screams from within the small cubicle elicited a small round of laughter as a Marine stumbled out with his pants around his ankles. Elongath howled with laughter which would wake up most of the large base.

“Really? Come on, Elongath,” The Marine grumbled before picking up his magazine and re entered the confines of his happy place. His oddly smelling, happy place.

“Captain,” the French accent thick through the headset. “We have the green light for lift off. We are tasked with the Americans today along with Decius and Captain Turner,”

Elongath let a happy rumble escape from his mouth as he gave a slight shake. “It has been a while since we have flown with Decius! Do you think he and Markus are doing well?” he asked with renewed enthusiasm for the flight ahead.

Fayn simply patted his friend in the hopes to calm the large creature down. “I bet they are doing just great. Last time I heard from them was when we switched posts with Villius and Van Haanrath's crew. Apparently the Copper Top missed most of the mountain fighting due to leave,”

Decius was a Copper Top hailing from Arizona, USA. Their naturally sand coloured scales were an easy match to the environment but their true strength lays in speed. Their Light-Class frame didn't allow for heavy fighting but there was no better scouts that hailed from North America. Sharp eyes and even sharper flying often allowed for quick escapes in case they were spotted or easy manoeuvring through dangerous terrain. Competition between the French, Dutch and Americans were common place when they pitted their Dragons in simple races. It also served to boost morale within the Dragoneer Corps, no matter the Nationality.

“Elongath, when you're ready,” Fayne informed his friend as he threw his arm up to warn the rest of the crew of immediate lift off.

The Dragon only responded with large flaps from his wings which blasted the surrounding area with large gusts of wind. The Dragon and crew slowly gained altitude as more of the base came into view. Rows and rows of large tents were in view along with Kandahar off in the distance. Elongath continued to gain altitude until the wind easily allowed the large creature to coast most of the way North. Far below them they spotted cars passing by on the highway and even a few mountain goat leaping to get away from the large Predator.

Only a few hours passed as the crew watched the mountains eagerly awaiting the simplest sign of danger. It wasn't until their gazes eventually spotted the Forward Operating Base only a kilometre away from the mountain range. Fayn could only roll his shoulders and try to stretch his legs but flying often left one sitting for long periods of time.

“Lucas,” Elongath murmured as the Dragon slowed his approach towards the FOB. “I smell blood,”

“Contact Port! Contact Port!” blared over the radio as both Lucas and Elongath turned their heads to spot what seemed to be a flock of small creatures flying over the hill tops. Their advance directly intervening with Elongath.

“Captain, we got Swarmers to Elongath's Port,” Chevalier's voice channelled through Lucas' earpiece quickly. “Orders?”

“Miss Chevalier, radio in the contact report to Command,” Lucas ordered while holding onto one of the harnesses handles as Elongath banked left to engage the approaching Swarm of smaller dragons. The numbers of the crew-less Dragons numbered greater then thirty at least as the Captain tried to get an accurate number. Swarmers were deadly in large packs mostly because they easily overwhelmed their targets. They were inexpensive to breed which made them perfect for the Taliban. They often used them to target patrols or lone Dragons. More then a few evacuation helicopters were brought down from the Swarm of scales and claws. “Prepare for boarders!”

It was often a strange thing to see in such a modern day where a man would pull a sword from his hip but when the creature was often too fast to hit from afar, a side arm and sword worked just as nicely. More experienced crews had more then just swords as the years went by in the Dragoneer Corp. Multiple side arms and close quarter weapons were Acquired. Karrlson himself unlatched a pump shotgun from his kit as he pulled back the slide to chamber a fresh shell. Midwingmen brought out their own swords and pistols as a nervous silence filled the crew. On the Low Deck, both Machine gun teams slid their respective weapons along the oiled rail until their sights fell upon the approaching swarm.

“1000 meters and closing, Captain,” Chevalier spoke through the crew Comms.

“Hold your fire, Lieutenant,” Lucas ordered as he drew his own sabre. The blade shone brightly as it reflected the Sun's gaze with polished ease. It was passed down from his old instructor only a few days before he passed away. The old French Captain engraved a simple message on the blade which still held true to the Elongath crew to this day.

Tenir Ferme.

“Get ready, Elongath. When they breach your range try to widen your spray to maim as many as you can,” Lucas ordered with ease moments before letting a long breath loose from his lungs. He feared for Decius and Markus life knowing full well that if they were hit by surprise then it'd be extremely difficult to fight that many off. Knowing Decius however, they'd have a hard time just trying to catch up to the Copper Top. “Steady,” Lucas mentioned over the Comms for the Crew to hear with commanding confidence only born from experience.

“800 meters, Captain,” Chevalier's voice filled the earpiece once more.

“Machine Guns, fire!” Lucas ordered with a loud shout as he threw his sword arm in the direction of the enemy. Only a second passed before the air was disturbed with the loud crack of gun fire as multiple projectiles filled the air. Everyone watched as the Tracers flew off into the distance, ashamedly coming too short of their mark.

Chevalier didn't waste a second as she ordered the two American Gunner teams to adjust fire from their last twenty round burst. This was met with a much deadlier effect as the light Swarmers begun to explode in red mists due to the projectile piercing their rather poor excuse for scale armour. The Gunners couldn't help but grin as they gave another loud burst towards the flying bastards with glee, trying their best to counter wind and the decreasing distance. Loud cracks of prolonged fire continued to erupt from the lower deck as multiple foes fell from the sky. Cheering erupted from the crew even with their gas masks still held tightly to their faces. Swords were raised in the air in a unison of cheer.

“I'm ready, Lucas,” Elongath announced as the Dragon pulled up slightly to halt his forward momentum.

“Let 'em have it, Elongath,” Lucas responded, hiding a smile behind his own mask. Feeling the large gust of air file into his body from between his legs, Lucas was about to warn the crew until Chevalier's voice filled the comm channel.

The French officer noticed quickly when the stomach bands expanded above her which easily signalled the imminent disperse of the most deadly weapon at their disposal. “Make sure your Masks are secured tightly! Elongath is about to fire!” her warning reached across the comm as every single hand went to their masks to check the straps and did checks to make sure the seal was unbroken.

Lucas patted the Elongath's side once to signal the crew that they were ready. A moment later the Dragon forced all of his breath out along with a long stream of bubbling green liquid that already began to smoke from coming into contact with the oxygen around it. If the 7.62 millimetre guns from the Low Deck made a mess of the crowd before them, the acid spray was down right inhumane. The enemy Dragons writhed in pain as the very scales upon their bodies were quickly being eaten away by the deadly, liquid acid. The poor souls that had their eyes open when assaulted soon found their very vision being eaten away. All of it was a horrid experience to witness but the crew now had another problem as the remaining ten Swarmers that managed to avoid all the attacks descended upon the crew in haste.

Smoke billowed from Elongath's nose as it easily washed over the crew. It was a grim remark at the first time a Dreadnaught was to be harnessed and crewed. The very fumes that the crew breathed in not only ate away at the soft lung tissue but the throat too. A gruesome experience that paved the way for Aviators of the future.

All of this however was left at the back of Lucas' mind as he heard a cry from behind him. One of the Sharpshooters was being yanked from his position only to have his harness strap connecting him to the Top Deck keep him from being carried off. His crew mates reacted quickly as multiple Carbine rifles were levelled at the offending creature. It's narrowed eyes angrily stared at the crew for only a moment before being killed before even hitting the ground far below them. Quickly, hands were pulling the injured man back aboard as a call for a Medic was alarmed.

Chevalier had about the same luck as she swung her own sword that was only deflected from the Swarmer's claws. What the Swarmer didn't expect however was the wide swipe from a Midwingman's Machete that caught the intruder in the fore leg. The Machete did its gruesome work as the creature bellowed in pain. Chevalier didn't waste a single moment as she gathered her composure and made an accurate swipe for the exposed neck tissue. Smiling wildly at her success, she witnessed the creature flail in pain until a Midwingmen stepped forward with a 9mm sidearm and begun to dump its lethal cargo deep into the Dragon's head.

Lucas ducked low as claws grazed over his coat barely giving the Captain enough room to avoid the Swarmer's grasp. Elongath, annoyed that the Swarmer would even dare attack his friend and Captain, waited patiently for the Swarmer to make another pass before stretching his neck out in quick fashion. The snatch between his massive set of serrated teeth left little to the imagination as the force was enough to separate limbs from the main body. The whole attack seemed over as the little amount of Swarmers began to retreat towards their initial attack vector.

“Low Deck secured, Captain!” Chevalier reported through the earpiece only moments before a loud shotgun blast echoed from the main deck. Lucas turned to see Karrlson kick the dead Swarmer off the railing before pumping the action which ejected a hot, used shell.

“Main Deck is secured, sir,” Karrlson reported.

“We have a minor wounded, Lucas”  Günther's voice came alive over the channel as a moment's pause came over the crew. “Minor laceration but he's stable. It will need some stitches when we get a chance to land, Ja?” his explanation soothed Lucas' worries as a joined breath of relief came over the crew.

“I'm sorry, sir,” a pained voice came over the Comms as Lucas knew it was Corporal Michael Winchester, Sharpshooter. “Bastard came from the main deck and tried to fly off with me,” his explanation wasn't needed, Lucas knew, but it was a comforting thought that the crew were that loyal to him and Elongath that they felt like they needed to explain themselves. It was as if they needed to present him their sin of failure. Lucas knew Michael was no failure though, or the boy would never be in his crew to begin with.

“Think nothing of it, Mr. Winchester. These bastards are kings of boarding actions if ever there was a Breed for it,” Lucas responded quickly. “Thank you, Doctor. We'll do a quick scouting mission around the FOB then descend to assess damage. Lieutenant! Get Command on the phone and give them a SITREP,”

“Yes, sir,” her voice was crisp, even with the accent, as she accessed her separate radio.

“Are you ok, Elongath?” Lucas spoke as ran his hands along the jagged edges of his friend's scales.

“Swarmers taste horrible,” the Dragon responded before spitting at the ground far below in disgust.

“I bet they do,” Captain Fayn responded with a small laugh himself before spotting a sharp bright flash of light in the distance. “What in the name of-”

Celestia watched with growing despair as her last ditch spell simply fizzed and cracked but nothing happened other wise. The small little flicker of hope that resided within her started to die as her vision was soon tinted with green, as she felt with great pain, that her body was levitating. The aches echoed through her limbs as the vision of the grand chambered shifted before her until two beady eyes stared maliciously back at her.

“You're hopeless,” Chrysalis laughed with delight as she stomped her hooves in giddy pleasure. “I think this will make a grand throne room for my Swarm! Maybe hang up some nice tapestries revelling in my grand victory over the great Celestia,” she began to rant as images of a reformed Canterlot floated within her thoughts.

“Oh and look who will be keeping us company? The lovely Princess Cadence!” Chrysalis tickled the chin of the smaller dishevelled  Alicorn. Cadence simply tried to move away from the Changeling Queen until the goo that kept her firm in place restricted Cadence furthermore. “Such a lively one too! You two will keep the Swarm very much alive for decades to come!”

“You'll never get away with this, Chrysalis!” a voice interrupted the Queen as eyes shifted to the entrance where Twilight Sparkle, Prodigy of Princess Celestia, stood surrounded by both her friends and many more Changelings. “I'll find a way to stop you!”

“You foolish, little insignificant Pony. Do you honestly think, in your current predicament, that you have any say of how the future is to be viewed?” Chrysalis mentioned before laughing at the so called Elements of Harmony. The average looking mares were nothing but play things and food for the Swarm now. Chrysalis was going to rub some more insults deeper into the emotional wound of the Mares before her until a loud crackle of energy alerted her to the window.

Celestia, aflame with pain, turned her head to gaze out the window to see a very small black spherical object. The black void the object with held began to grow in expanse. Soon the pitch black canvas covered an easy one hundred meter diameter.

Chrysalis turned with anger towards Celestia. “What spell did you use?” the Queen demanded but Celestia only gave the Changeling a small smirk. A hoof smacked against the side of Celestia's muzzle which caused the Princess' view to darken. “That spell was no ordinary flare spell! What did you use?” the Queen demanded again.

“I'm not done yet,” Celestia muttered before a loud echoing roar came from the void within the sky.

“I can't escape its pull, Lucas!” Elongath desperately tried to beat the gravitational pull that came over both the Dragon and his crew. With each mighty flap of his wings he tried to gain distance but it was starting to become easily apparent that whatever that hole is, nothing was going to leave. “I can't keep this up much longer! My wings are starting to get tired,”

Every human aboard Elongath's Rig held on for dear life as the strange pull that was brought down on them was almost unbearable. Luckily everything was latched down to avoid any lost kit or ammunition, not that it seemed to matter with that increasingly frightening thought of being eaten up by a Black Hole.

“There's no escaping it then,” Lucas admitted as he held onto Elongath's harness and neck for all his worth. “It was an honouring being both your friend and Captain, Elongath,” Lucas spoke as he tried to stroke the side of Elongath's neck affectionately, possibly for the last time in his life.

“Of all the Humans on this planet, I'm glad my Aviator was you Lucas. You've been a good friend ever since I first hatched,” Elongath responded as he bent his head around to slightly nuzzle Lucas' head. It was also at that moment the Dragon let things take it's coarse. His wings were drawn to his side as all the fight within the large, black creature left. He, Lucas and all the crew were pulled through the void with nary a scrap of evidence left behind to mark their step in history.

It was dark for what seemed like a long time as no noise was heard. Nothing could ever simulate the amount of emptiness that was felt by every living being within the void's grasp. Lucas expected to feel extremely cold but was oddly warm as if sitting by a fireplace in the winter months. All of this was shattered as a bright light shone over the Earth born beings. In mere moments the feeling of normal gravity feel over the large Dragon as the sun shone down on them once more.

“Sacre bleu,” Chevalier was heard over the crew Comms as she regained her footing first only to spy her surroundings.

Elongath was mute for many moments as he evened out his flight path and eagerly stretched his neck this way and that to examine the rather vivid changes in scenery. The large mountain range was replaced with a single large mountain and surrounding it was rolling hills of bright green grass and clear rivers. It was as if Earth was given a rather colourful splash of paint. Refreshing if anything.

“Roll call,” Lucas ordered through his Comms only moments after shaking his own head as if to shake away the images before him.

“Sharpshooters, ready,”

“Gunners, good to go,”

“Armourer, aye,”

“Midwingmen, ready,”

“Ground Crew, all green,”

“Medic Team, Scheiße,”

Lucas only nodded his head to the full roll call before examining his surroundings more carefully.

“Lucas, look!” Elongath announced as he turned his head to gaze down at the mountainside to his Port. Lucas followed his gaze to see what seemed to be a Castle along with a small city outside. The odd thing about the whole thing was how it just seemed anchored to the side of the Mountain with little to no support. The designs also seemed pretty distant to what the crew was used too in Afghanistan.

“Sir, we have incoming from the settlement,” Chevalier informed as all eyes shifted to see small black specks approaching from a distance away. “I'm getting a look at them through my binoculars, sir, they look like,” Chevalier's voice caught off from the crew Comms which caught the Captain's attention.

“Look like what, Lieutenant?” Lucas asked until a bolt of green energy fizzled past his mask, mere inches from a direct hit.

Elongath instantly went on the offensive as he folded his wings and dived towards the attackers. What was once an aloft Dragon was now a Biological battering Ram that the strange, foreign creatures seemed to realize pretty quickly. Their changes of directions came but not all were so lucky as more then a few became crushed under both claw and sudden force pressed against their much frailer bodies. Bones and carapace crack as they fall from the skies.

“Sharpshooters, open fire!” Lucas ordered as Elongath deployed his wings to stop his decent a few hundred meters above the large Castle below. The Carbines cracked to life as projectiles flew from the Top Deck. The first few shots missed but when one of the small, bug like creatures turned to face the crew, it lost most of its brains. Together the entire team of experienced shooters begun to wittle away at the enemy.

“We have incoming from the city limits!” Chevalier's shouts invade Lucas' train of thought as he turned in his harness to see the Swarm of creatures aiming directly for the large Dragon.

“Any time, Elongath,” Lucas asked politely which he knew a wide grin graced the Dragon's muzzle. Detecting possible boarding action once again, Lucas pulled his blade from it's sheath and waved it in the air above him. “Prepare your selves!”

Elongath didn't need much time as he released his deadly contents on the incoming swarm below them. If the Swarmers were a miserable sight after Elongath's breath attack, then these lot were just desecrated. Their wings lasted less then five seconds as many of them plummetted to the city beneath them. It easily begun to rain the creatures as Lucas watched many of them sliding off roofs or landing in a mess upon the roads. What ever was left of the swarm was soon fired upon by the Machine Gun crews with deadly efficiency.

It was a massacre.

“Call them off!” Chrysalis screeched in pain as she watched from the window as her children fell lifelessly to the ground. The creature was obviously a large Dragon but it was dressed in a weird fashion and sporting creatures unknown to her. Their weapons tore through carapace and toughen muscle with ease and they deafened the sky! “Call them off, Celestia!”

Chrysalis turned in extreme sadness only to find to her grief that Cadence was free and in touch with her loving husband, Shining Armour.

“No!” she screeched but it was far too late. The magic entwined both of them which effectively cut the Changeling Queen from her strength. The residual blast caught her and with enough magical force that the very marble below her hooves was lost to her. In a bright flash it was over.

The Nightmare that was the Changelings rule over Ponies has been halted and the Princesses saved. A good day in anyone's books.

The day however was not finished as Celestia rose to her hooves with magical aid from her protege, Twilight Sparkle. Together they went to the window to spot the massive Dragon slowly coming to land upon the large wall of the Castle. Celestia was almost worried that the walls couldn't handle that much weight. The gust the Dragon kicked up was enormous but the Mares held their ground. When the large grey membrane wings folded back to his side, Celestia managed a better view of the creatures.

Stumbling out into the large courtyard with the rest of the Ponies, Celestia waited a safe fifty meters away. The large Dragon lowered his head and gazed down upon the Ponies. Celestia knew that if the Dragon wanted to, it could swallow her whole with a maw like that. Knowing that it has yet to attack was something of a comfort.

“My name is Princess Celestia of Equestria. I welcome you to my Captial although the timing was very fortunate for us,” Celestia greeted her new guest with a smile as she tried to hide the residual she still felt. Now all she could hope for is a language that they could both speak to avoid any communication barrier.

“Greetings, Celestia of Equestria,” The Dragon's voice easily overpowered Celestia's more timid and respectful tone. “I am Elongath of,” the Dragon paused for a moment as Celestia was wondering if he was simply trying to choose his next words. “Of Earth,”

“That will be quite enough, Elongath,” another voice came from the Dragon's direction but nobody appeared to claim it until a figure slid down the side of the muscled fore leg. Celestia examined the heavily clothed figure and noticed many interesting features as the movable digits upon their fore legs. “My name is Captain Lucas Fayn of the 23rd Dragoneers Corp. I can take a hint and say we are no longer on 'Earth', are we?” the Captain questioned as the tinted mask kept what Celestia thought was a respectful gaze to the speaker.

Celestia let out a low sigh. “No, Captain, you are in fact not even in your solar system I would guess,” Celestia answered truthfully if her spell worked the way it was supposed too.

“Oh boy,” the male voice came out of the mask in mild frustration.

Elongath let out a low chuckle. “The Colonel is going to be pissed,”

Drive

Keeping Hope Aloft

By: Silbern

Hope, I find, is an inexhaustible fuel source but often untapped. As if terror, doubt, suffering or other demeaning measures against you derail the very train you called Purpose. Purpose in ones life is something that feels like a well oiled machine that can prevail through intimidating environments. Had I the drive and purpose ion my life, I may have never had actually joined the Army after high school. I would have gone to college or possible have taken a trade somewhere. Either eventual occupation gives one a purpose if he loves what he creates. For my purpose in life, it is Elongath.

Ever since Elongath was hatched from his hardened shell, his eyes knew me inside and out. Before I could even mutter a word he picked me from a crowd of aspiring Aviators. For once in my life I felt true purpose. Within me, I felt the train tracks finally aline where all the hope I held for the future finally connected with my train. Fuelled, I hit life with everything I had. Head held up high, chest out proud, posture never slacking.

I found Purpose.

I found Life.

I found true Drive.

When I gazed at the leader of these Ponies I found a very odd torment of hurt, suffering but also courage to press on. It was hard to actually notice at first, I admit, but it is there deep within her mental fortress. Much like when I found Elongath introduced into my life, I can see the same kind of Drive within her. What type of Hope fuels her is still a mystery for I am still quite new to this environment and the rather vivid characters are still quite...

Unnatural.

Twilight collapsed after yet another failed spell which caused her horn to spurt a few sparks of condensed energy. Panting for air she wavered more then a few times to get back to her hooves. Her gaze rose to meet that of the giant slumbering dragon that easily consumed most of the courtyard space. The young protege, ever dedicated to her magic, narrowed her eyes before lighting her horn once more with full intent on sending these visitors back to their own planet. Unfortunately for every ones viewing pleasure was the same few spurts of crackling magic energy.

Elongath watched with mild amusement as he huffed a smokey breath skywards. The very gesture getting the attention of the crew that sat beside his unmounted Rig. Many were doing mundane tasks like cleaning weapons or double checking equipment for wear and tares. Lieutenant Chevalier watched over the crew with minimum interest for her true attention was placed on the man who sat beside the large white horse. For an hour they conversed in silence except for a laugh escaping their shaded refuge.

“Ma'am?” a rough voice spoke out that caused the French officer to turn. “A moment?”

Chevalier instantly recognized the face of Sergeant Nakagawa, Chief of the Ground Crew. The Japanese flag proudly displayed upon his shoulder showed but Chevalier's attention was on middle aged man's face as he seemed to be unfocused. Already a sneaky suspicion was dawning on her as she nodded to his request.

“Thank you, Ma'am,” Nakagawa nodded his head back in appreciation. “The boys have been talking and we were wondering where we are exactly?” his question came like a traveller simply asking strangers at random.

Chevalier hummed for a moment before looking over the Chief's shoulder to see most of the crew looking at them in silence only to quickly go back to whatever task that should have them occupied. Chevalier, far from surprised, gave another hum before feeling a nudge against her sides. Nakagawa felt it too as they both gazed at one large slitted eye gazing back at them.

“I'm starting to get hungry, Maria,” Elongath muttered quietly as he could but his voice was easily heard across the garden. Chevalier watched as a single pony that had a gardener's hat on her head simply ran away as fast as her legs could carry her.

“I'll ask the Captain, Elongath,” Chevalier allowed a smile as she gave the large snout a quick pat. “Sergeant, I will see if we cannot get some answers, yes?” her voice became gruff once more but the man gained a reassuring smile immediately as he nodded his head in respect before turning sharply to address the rest of the crew. She watched him return and noticed the few smiles he seemed to get from the crew. Steeling herself however, she approached the two figures talking underneath a cherry blossom tree where Captain Lucas Fayn, Celestia and now an exhausted Twilight Sparkle.

“Ah, Lieutenant!” Lucas Fayn called out a moment before standing himself, gas mask still donned. “I have some good news and bad news!” he informed the French officer who gaze him an inquisitive gaze. Motioning towards an empty chair they all sat down once more as Chevalier watched in amazement as a tea cup was levitated before her.

“Please drink, Lieutenant,” Celestia spoke with a calm voice and even calmer gaze. “You are friends within my Castle. I'm not even sure that I'd still be alive if it were not for your rather timely appearance in Equestrian air space!”

“Which brings up the question of returning home,” Chevalier spoke rather quickly without trying any of the tea placed before her. A silence came over the table as a gas mask turned to gaze at her then to the tea cup before her. A small groan came over the French officer as she brought the tea cup up to her lips to take in the sweet, honeyed concoction. “By all that is holy, what is this?”

Celestia pleasantly hummed in delight at see yet another guest enjoy her favourite choice of tea. “It is mix of a flower that grows on the mountainside called, Sun Kissed; it mixes splendidly with Honey,” Celestia explained as she caught another delighted expression coming from the female sitting across from her. “To your earlier question however, Lieutenant Chevalier, I'm afraid there is a complication. You see, travelling any distance past our solar system requires either a large amount of magic that equates over fifty Unicorns worth or a Tagging Spell,

“Both options to you are very limited as not many Unicorns even study such an advanced teleportation spell. Even if we could gather so many of said Unicorns, it would take time to not only find your planet but summon a secure portal back,” Celestia paused for another delightful sip of her honeyed tea. “With all that being said; there's hope. A Tagging spell. It is specially made to find a single living thing no matter where they are. I tapped into that very spell to gather you all here,”

“Wait, wait,” Fayn spoke with a small waving motion for the Princess to notice. “If this spell is to lock on to one living target, how did we all get pulled along for the adventure?” Fayn asked as he waved his hand in the direction of his crewmen.

“Simple. The spell was targeting Elongath's bloodline. This would explain a big enough portal to accept all of you considering that you were practically strapped to him,” Celestia explained with a smile. “We can get you home, Captain, Lieutenant, do not worry. I must apologize on how quickly that action will be executed though,”

Chevalier turned her gaze to the Captain as she simply listened to the man's breathing through his gas mask. It was often hard to read such a man's emotions on a topic but she started to see little ticks over the years. For instance, she noticed the man tapping his finger on his exposed uniformed knee. It was the signal for deep thought and concentration. Taking the reigns, Chevalier lowered her own tea cup. “Thank you, Princess, for your hospitality,”

Celestia covered her mouth with a hoof as she let loose a small giggle. “Please, please,” She paused to regain her composure. “You can simply call me Celestia. You are friends and heroes in my books, even if your methods were quite efficient,” Celestia finished as she obviously remembered the falling corpses of Changelings.

“Yes, well, that is the nature of our duty to our Corps; we are Men and Women of war,” Fayn finally spoke as he stood up to his full height. “If we are to be staying in this land for a prolonged time, we will need supplies. Elongath can eat his fair share of meat,” Fayn was about to continue until a gasp was heard from the recuperated Twilight Sparkle.

“Does he not eat carrots, gems or other vegetables and fruit?” her question almost struck both Officers to be very odd. The two ponies didn't seemed to be astonished at seeing a Dragon but eating meat surprised them?

“No,” Chevalier simply responded before Fayn could subject the innocent question to further interrogation.

“Please don't mind Twilight. Her assistant is a baby Dragon who is quite the little vegetarian. He also eats gems but they do tend to fatten him up slightly,” Celestia explained once more as she gave her frazzled protege another look over. “You have to understand that eating meat in Equestria is almost never heard of except for when we have Gryphon visitors,”

Fayn rose his hand gingerly so as to attract attention to himself. “Is there any location where we can secure some food? Both Elongath and the crew would do well to have such provision in our stock,”

“I have an old friend that knows a thing or two about the Tagging spell. Last letter I had from him was almost a month ago from the Gryphon border. He travels often enough that it can be hard to really pin point the Stallion, especially the company he surrounds himself with,” Celestia offered as her horn lite up and after a small crackle of energy, a large scroll appeared. As it slowly levitated to the table, it also unrolled to see the rather far expanse of Equestrian landscape. “To the North west here, you have the border with Gryphons. That is where I last heard from him,” Celestia explained as her hoof tapped the mountainous region lightly.

“That settles it then,” Fayn spoke as he tapped the Gryphon border for emphasis. “Lieutenant, I want full battle Rig ready for flight quickly,”

“A word, Captain, if you please,” Celestia motioned which gathered the two Earth born officers attention. “I have a fragile treaty with the Gryphons that needs the utmost caution. They are militaristic creatures that endorse slavery, an appalling ideal, but I do not have the power to remove from their stubborn way of life. I must ask you to bring some Ponies so I can entrust my Country's relations are not in jeopardy?” The brilliantly white Alicorn asked without raising her voice.

Fayne only gave his crossed arms a few taps before nodding his head. “I will gladly take an escort but may I meet the Pony who is to be accompanying my mission?”

“You already have meet one of them,” Celestia gave a warm smile as she motioned to a startled Twilight Sparkle.

“Me?” Twilight gasped as she shifted her eyes back and forth from Elongath to Celestia. “Princess, my Brother is to be married in a few hours, surely there is another suited for this?” Twilight's tone and expression easily conveyed the idea of avoidance. It even grew worse every time she had to look at the two Humans before her dressed in long coats and tinted masks. “Perhaps one of your own Ambassadors?” Twilight fruitlessly suggested once more.

“Consider this another lesson for you, my Student,” Celestia's smile seem to raise a sort of fire within the smaller Mare.

Twilight's back straightened as her gaze narrowed with a sudden serious edge. “A lesson?” Twilight faltered for only a moment as she let a long gulp out as she gazed once more at Elongath who snorted out black smoke. “What about my Brother and Cadence?”

“I never said that you had to leave this instant, Twilight. Surely the Captain here would love to stay and celebrate the joyous occasion?” Celestia offered the invitation which made Fayn slightly twitch as eyes suddenly were placed upon him.

“Sir?” Chevalier spoke up as she waited at attention for orders.

Fayn however was beside himself with deep thought. A good moment of silence cam over the small group as they waited for Fayn to respond. “I would like to wish the newly wedded couple all the best wishes but I need to tend to Elongath. He still needs to eat and I fear he may mistake a citizen for food,”

“Captain!” a loud shout of alarm called from towards the crew easily made Fayn adjust his gaze.

“Speak of the Devil. Apologies, Princess Celestia,” Fayn spoke along with a curt bow before swiftly making his way towards his crew. Not even halfway to the crew he could see Elongath's ruff spines raise in anger. What really  made him cautious, however, was the Pony who was now huddled upon the ground with a rifle eagerly pointing at it. “Hold your fire!” Fayn spoke clearly as every head except for the lone rifleman turned to acknowledge their Aviators order.

“What is the meaning of this?” Fayn spoke as he came closer to see the rifleman as Private Parkin; the only Australian for Elongath's crew.

“I seen 'em getting too close to one of the Machine gun parts, Captain,” Parkin easily spoke through his gas mask as he didn't let his gaze wonder away from the shaking creature. “Was probably trying to take some of it away for their King or something!”

“Lower the gun, Parkin,” Fayn ordered but he didn't apply any sort of threatening demeanour as he knew that the young Sharpshooter was correct in acting towards the defence of their equipment. Everyone gave a breath of relief as the barrel was lowered slowly until the safety was clicked on. Fayn's gaze was upon the cowering pale yellow Pony before them as he easily noticed her hooves over her face. Her rather long flowing pink tail and mane easily covering much of her body. “Explain yourself, Pony,” Fayn spoke with authority until a blue blur easily meet him in shockingly quick speed.

“Who do you think you are, ya big dope!” the blue Pegasus shouted in furious anger. It took Fayn a moment to see the messy, rainbow coloured mane that bounced with every little bob of her head. “Don't pick on Fluttershy just because your bigger!”

“Lucas!” Elongath called out in a furious shout as the Dragon rose with a terrifying maw ready to strike. Every single human besides the oblivious Surgeon and Fayn levelled their weapons towards the single blue Pony. “I'll swallow you whole if you put one hoof on Lucas,” Elongath bellowed in all of his intimidating glory.

Fayn was about to order another attempt of easing the hostility until a purple aura encased the enraged Pony. The Rainbow mare struggled by flailing wildly but nothing worked as she was levitated along with the huddled mess of pink to Twilight's side.

“What are you girls doing?” Twilight shouted with sudden worry as she gave only one look at Elongath's open maw before shouting again. “They are our guest! Our guest with a massive Dragon,” Twilight harshly applied her meaning by turning Rainbow so she could get a glimpse at Elongath's snort of black smoke.

“We were only playing a small prank but they turned it into a big deal, sheesh, Twi,” the Rainbow mare said as she crossed her fore hooves and blew part of her mane away in irritation.

Twilight could only groan at her friend before turning to the huddled form of Fluttershy. “Fluttershy, are you ok?” Twilight asked with a much softer voice as the timid Pony before her was almost polar opposites from Rainbow Dash.

Slowly Fluttershy began to peek out from the safety of her hooves. In that split second of realizing she was away from danger she embraced twilight's neck in a vice grip hug. “I'm so sorry, Twilight! Rainbow Dash said that these Humans were super friendly and animal lovers like me!” Fluttershy squealed in her explanation. “They had a weird bag that I found interesting and, and, and,” Fluttershy almost began to tear up again before Twilight groaned again.

“Really, Rainbow?” Twilight spoke with irritation. “You dared Fluttershy to deal with a foreign military force?”

“I didn't know those jerks couldn't simply ask Fluttershy to leave them alone!” Rainbow Dash explained as she felt the magic aura dissipate from around her body. She was about to open her mouth again before she heard it from behind her.

“What did you say, ya TWAT!” Private Parkin spoke up again as he rose a fist at Rainbow Dash in response of her explanation.

Fayn turned to immediately remedy his crewman's mistake but a familiar blue blur went to meet Parkin instead.

“You think yourself a tough guy, huh!” Rainbow Dash glared at the fair skinned Aussie with renewed vigour. The two were practically head butting but neither gave an inch to the other.

“Damn straight I do!” Parkin bellowed back with growing anger himself. “Maybe ya should mind your own damn business and go play dress up,”

Twilight and Fayn collectively let out a groan as Rainbow Dash's glare intensified.

“Dress up? Dress up!” Rainbow roared in anger. “I bet I could beat you in any competition!”

“Oh for the love of God!” Fayn spoke out in irritation as he pointed a finger towards Parkin. “Do not speak another word, Private! I will have you on double wash duties by yourself if you speak another word!” Fayn order spoke clear and with as much military force that was almost beat into him.

Parkin was just about to say another word until he bit his tongue and tightened his free fist as tightly as he could. He simply took a step back which made Rainbow Dash grin wildly, much to the dismay of his souring mood.

Rainbow Dash herself was about to speak until a rope tied around her waist and suddenly yanked her from the air.

“Woah there, Sugar Cube. No need to rattle the cage, now,” A wingless and hornless Pony spoke with a heavy southern accent, a surprise to Fayn.

“Yeah!” Another ecstatic shout called out as a rather bright pink Pony begun to use Elongath's tail as a slide only moments before the Dragon noticed and swiped his tail away in haste only to destroy a nearby Gardener's shed. “Whoopsy!”

“Darling, please be more careful!” Another Pony appeared from a nearby archway. This one had an actual styled mane of lavish purple curls.

“Not exactly how I wanted to introduce you to your escort, Captain Fayn, but never the less,” Celestia began as she beckoned all the Mares to her side. “These are the Elements of Harmony. Each of them are responsible Mares,”

Parkin snorted once which caught Rainbow Dash's glare.

“As I was saying,” Celestia coughed once to regain silence. “They will see you to your destination as well as any questions you may have of our Equestrian way of life. Please do try to get along!”

Everyone immediately gave each other long gazes until Fayn approached the mares with long strides. “I am Captain Lucas Fayn of the 23rd Dragoneer Corp. I welcome you aboard Elongath but for all intended purposes, we need time to make new harnesses for your,” Fayn paused for a moment as he gazed over their bodies. “Physique,”

Rainbow Dash laughed at the very idea “A harness? Pah-lease! I'm a natural born flier!”

“You will also need gas masks,”

Rainbow Dash scrunched up her nose at the strange masks before tilting her head.

“Elongath's smoke will corrode your lungs if you breath it in directly. I highly recommend one,” Fayn spoke with a slight irritation at the blue Pegasus himself.

At his explanation all the Mare's optimistic expression suddenly turned to caution as the Dragon gave a hearty chuckle that caused small trails of smoke to leave his nostril.

Celestia let out a small giggle at the antics before here. “I can find something for their protection but there is a celebration to be had! Princess Cadence and Shining Armour are to be wedded tonight, surely you will join us, Captain?” Celestia eagerly offered.

Lucas Fayn couldn't help but feel immensely out of place as he stood next to a very curious Elongath. Every crew member had switched out their sweaty uniforms as they stood amongst the gathering crowd to celebrate the newly formed marriage. Even on Earth it was very rare to see a Dragon anywhere near such an event. Here in Equestria it was evident that both Human and Dragon seemed to be the cause of many patrons to give the group much berth. The gas masks probably didn't help matters but it was so ingrained within them that it almost seemed second nature to have them on.

“Captain Fayn?” a new voice spoke out to the point that it almost startled Lucas.

Fayn adjusted his vision quickly to see another Pony before him but this Stallion wore something he could immediately recognize. Military dress uniform. Nodding his head politely, Fayn stuck out his hand in a friendly manner towards the greying Stallion before him. The guy had a crisp jet black suit on with traditional polished buttons and medals but the sharp blue eyes were his most defining trait. “Greetings. I'm Captain Lucas Fayn, 23rd Dragooner Corp.,”

“Good to meet you, Lad!” he spoke honestly while shaking the Human's hand with little to no hesitation; a big grin on his face. “I hope the few rogue sheep that we secured was enough to feed your friend here?”

Elongath, more then eager to jump into a conversation, lowered his head to gaze at the Military figure before him. “It was, thank you. I am Elongath and this is my crew before you,” he spoke with a very deep voice that easily caught much of the surrounding attendees attention. “I usually like my meals to have more meat on the bone but I shan't complain, Mister,”

The Tan coated pony almost jumped at the realization. “Oh! How rude of me not to introduce myself? I am Colonel Sight Seeker of the Royal Equestrian Army, Nocturnal Brigade,” the Pony gave what Fayn could only assume was a salute.

“That is silly,” Elongath spoke which caused Fayn to turn with surprise. “What? Why would anyone want a Nocturnal Brigade? Not very flexible if you ask me,” Elongath spoke as he eyed both members of the conversation.

“Lord, help me,” Fayn said as he gave the side of Elongath's muzzle a small rub. “Pray tell me you won't try to get everyone mad at us?”

Sight Seeker could only let out a long laugh as he waved his hoof in good humour. “Don't mind him, Captain. It is a long traditional title that was passed down from Princess Luna back before the civil war. We carry with us as a reminder of our past more then anything specific these days,”

Fayn straightened up at the Colonel's easy going attitude but still kept his hand on Elongath's large muzzle. “I apologize none the less, Colonel. Elongath can be very open minded when it comes to certain topics,” Fayn tried to apologize only to feel Elongath give out a mighty snort of derision.

“I mock when I feel it opportune timing. I have the intelligence to do it there fore I shall,” Elongath remarked as he begun to dig up some of the fresh grass with one claw. “Are the two wedded couple also mating within the large halls?”

“Oh lord, Elongath,” Fayn pleaded only to be interrupted again by a laugh from his side.

“I'm sorry to drive you to such boredom, Elongath,” Celestia spoke as Fayn noticed the Colonel bow low to her presence. Following suit he gave the Alicorn a simple bow the best that he could, something Celestia apparently found amusing. “Please, Colonel, Captain, rise. I'm glad you had some company to keep you from the rather displeasing scene of absence. I suppose a Dragon is terrifying to the average Equestrian citizen, tis a shame,”

“Agreed. Many from Earth also like to avoid Dragons because they fear us, I would like to think. Perhaps they still think we eat Humans?” Elongath spoke more jovial at the prospect of more attention.

“That is nothing but an old wives tale, old friend,” Fayn spoke up much to the mighty dragon's displeasure.

“That is good to hear!” Celestia easily claimed as she gave out a softening chuckle. “I spoke with the girls more and they all seem more then happy to travel with you but I even had one special visitor for you, Elongath,” the Princess expressed as she stepped aside to let a small creature awkwardly step forth.

“Hello,” the small being spoke as he held his purple and green tail within his claws.

“I'll be damned,” Fayn spoke as both Elongath and himself leaned forward to get a better look. “You're a baby Dragon, no?”

“I have yet to see a breed of his colour and look at the way he stands on his back two legs,” Elongath spoke as the much larger Dragon turned his head now and again in his observation. “He has yet to even grow wings! Are you sure he's not some over grown lizard of some type?” Elongath supposed which made Fayn shrug his shoulders.

“Go on, Spike, introduce yourself,” Celestia badded with a smile.

The creature who seemed to grow smaller after each insinuation gave himself a moment to swallow any regret and stuck out a claw almost to the point that it smacked Fayn in the face. “Good to meet you! My name's Spike! I'm a baby Dragon!” the poor creature seem more then eager to spit it all out in a surprisingly strong voice from such a small body.

Fayn turned his head to look at Elongath as both were speechless for a moment. They turned their vision back to Spike as he halfway opened his eyes to see both foreign creatures staring at him although the Human's face was covered by his “magical” breathing apparatus.

“Are you sure?” Elongath finally spoke to break the awkward silence.

Spike stood there for a moment in shocked confusion at the question.

“Perhaps your egg was misplaced or wrongly labelled,” Elongath spoke with sudden disinterest. “Dragons are born with wings, little one,”

Spike couldn't believe it. His face puffed with slight anger as he clenched his claws to fight his temper. “I am so too a Dragon! Just because I don't have wings yet but that doesn't mean I am not a Dragon!”

“Do not raise your voice at me, Hatchling,” Elongath spoke with his own temper getting a hold of his better judgement as the Dragon's ruff upon his back extended.

“Calm, dear,” Fayn spoke out giving Elongath a small pat.

Celestia rolled her eyes. Knowing more then a few Dragons herself made it easy to better predict their own train of thought. Leaning down she spoke a few quiet words into Spike's ear that made the little purple creature grin with delight.

“I can breath fire!” Spike boasted boldly moments before drawing a large breath, a signal to any who knew Dragons that they were about to loosen an attack. Spike, with chest all extended, let out a small spout of bright green flame which barely made both Aviator or Dragon move.

“Bloody hell,” Fayn spoke easily enough as he knelt down beside Spike so he could look him in the eyes.

Spike was caught off guard for a moment as a tinted glass that almost seemed soulless just observed him closely. Silent moments passed but Spike soon grew more accustomed to the foreign man looking him over. “Is something wrong with me?” Spike questioned Fayn as he gazed himself over with sudden worry.

“Don't be silly, Spike,” Twilight spoke out as she came up to the group donned in her bridesmaid dress. “You groom yourself daily and I know your diet inside and out. If there was something wrong with you, wouldn't we have noticed it?” she asked with a knowing glance before she knelt before her teacher and ruler.

“Wrong with you?” Fayn spoke almost with a hint of laughter at realizing how he may be acting. “Far from it, Spike. You seem fairly healthy for a Hatchling but what surprises me is your Species. Where are your Sire and Dam?” Fayn asked inquisitively looking both to Spike then Celestia. The question however seemed to bring fool tiding. Twilight's happy expression sank and Celestia seemed no better off as Fayn turned to see that Spike himself started to nervously play with his claws.

Elongath nudged Spike to gather his attention to his senior. “I never knew my Sire or Dam, Spike, but let it not dissuade you from living a full life. I had Lucas straight from hatching and he has never left my side since,” Elongath spoke with such a soft voice that Celestia and Twilight seemed honestly surprised. “You have friends and this Twilight Sparkle; trust in your Captain,”

“Captain?” Twilight spoke out with slight confusion.

Fayn rose his hand after rubbing the top of Spikes head gently. “In the Dragoneer Corps, every Aviator assigned to a Dragon is admission to the rank of Captain in our respective Military nationality. So every rider that has been harnesed to their respective Dragon is often refereed to the Dragon's Captain,”

“So I'm Spike's Captain?” Twilight summarized quickly and with Fayn's nod she let out a thoughtful hum. “It almost makes it seem like you are in control of your Dragon like an Officer ordering your troops. Spike and I do not have that kind of relationship. He's a responsible Dragon for his age and I'm very proud of him for it,” Twilight's words easily made the small green creature break out in a sudden blush.

Fayn was about to protest until he felt the sudden weight against his side.

“I am not a pawn to be moved across the board at a Human's whim. I choose to serve so I can make sure Lucas doesn't get himself shot serving aboard some other weaker Dragon. The same goes with the rest of my crew; they are mine,” Elongath spoke out with protest that only made his Captain smile deeply behind his mask.

“Yes, yes, I love you too, ya big lummox,” Fayn chuckled as he gave Elongath's muzzle a few scratches of affection. “Well at least you know your specific Dragon species, Spike,” Fayn spoke but yet again they noticed another awkward shuffling amongst the ponies.

“Well. . .” Twilight began before she could hear the sigh escaping from the Human.

“He's an Acier Destroyer. Breed in France although I've seen a few in British harness due to some trading,” Fayn explained but found surprised eyes staring back at him. “I couldn't tell until he let out his green fire, a true spectacle to behold. In french, Acier means steel which aptly melts like butter to such a breath. They are effective anti-vehicle creatures that melt main battle tanks with ease but they are not the greatest with manoeuvrability once they get aloft,”

Twilight was absorbing as much information as she could get but when she gazed down to see Spike slack jawed with surprise. How he was taking it was something she wish she could foresee but all she could do was what any friend should. She slowly sat on her haunches beside the now quivering Dragon and drew him into a soft hug. “It's ok, Spike,” Twilight whispered as she felt the familiar clawed digits return the hug eagerly.

“I'm a tool of destruction, Twilight!” Spike's cries were muffled with his face deeply embraced in Twilight's welcoming hold. “It's just like the time I almost destroyed all of Ponyville again!”

“Of course you are a dangerous being,” Elongath's voice interrupted the two with mocking ease.

Twilight gazed up with sudden anger at the invading creature above them. “We are not used to war like your Humans are, Elongath. Spike doesn't want such a life to corrupt him,” Twilight's voice easily showed her distress.

“You are silly to do so in such attempts,” Elongath noted as if a scholarship professor looking over grade school addition. This attracted both Spike and Twilight's attention as they waited foir him to go on. “Your breath is hot enough to melt over three hundred milometers deep of steel, Spike. Sheltering your scales behind someone is hardly the way to harness your breath. Learn yourself and you'll have nothing to fear about in such regards of wanton destruction,”

Twilight was about to speak before she felt the taller form of her Teacher close in.

“Spike has shown time and again that he has more then enough control over his natural abilities, Elongath. I would like you to show him some consideration before judging him again,” Celestia spoke with authority that was admirable for many.

“I simply note things in my observation, especially his stunted growth,” Elongath pointed out with exasperation.

Fayn groaned as he could definitely tell the conversation was anything but pleasant or kind hearted.

“He is not stunted in the slightest!” Twilight protested in quick succession to her pulling in the baby Dragon closer. “He is growing just fine, thank you very much!”

“How old are you, Spike? I cannot even smell the egg on you anymore yet you are the size of one of my tooth's,” Elongath asked as he crossed his forelegs to secure a more comfortable position.

“I'm seven,” Spike spoke out lowly as his tone easily reflected much of his own confidence level.

A large, rolling laughter echoed through the Castle courtyard as Elongath began to roll on his side in much humour. A few of his crew, including Mickey who spilt most of his drink on himself, had to dodge left or right to miss the tail. The large Dragon's spirit of comedic origin could not be doused except to let the creature have his moment.

Fayn could only give his head a shake and clap his hands together to bow towards both Celestia and Twilight for forgiveness.

Rolling back onto his stomach once more with ease he gazed down to the smaller Dragon who only seemed able to stand because of Twilight's support. “You are seven yet you have no wings and are smaller then a human of equal age? Spike, you have been robbed of your natural process by inexperience fops who think  prancing about in merry making! Eat some meat and let yourself grow out before you embarrass yourself further, Hatchling,”

“Elongath!” Fayn shouted before any other being there could even attempt at it. “That will be quite enough! You do not insult another being after we have had such a graceful acceptance in a unknown geography! It is like you do not desire to return home at all!” Fayn's anger, highly suppressed till that moment, was released with the mask only muffling it to a small degree.

Elongath was quiet as he simply gave an awkward nod in acceptance before lowering his head closer to the rest of the crew. A tell tale sign of sulking if the crew ever saw one.

“I apologize for half of Elongath's behaviour, Spike, Twilight, Princess,” Fayn spoke out after he gave out a long breath and squared his shoulders once more.

“For half of his behaviour?” Celestia spoke, not exactly accepting the apology but not refuting it either. Celestia's question however made all eyes return to their tinted visitor with troubled curiosity.

“Elongath's accusations are for all intensive purposes, correct. Dragon's are meat eaters and natural survivors in all kinds of conditions. Spike's biological growth is probably in such disarray that it is in much dismay,” Fayn spoke with appreciation of not being disturbed. “How you choose to live, Spike, is up to you like always has been. Elongath simply sees you as a suffering Dragon that is a little off course,”

“Off course? More like careening into the ditch and set ablaze,” Elongath interrupted only to get a quick hush from Lieutenant Chevalier.

“See, Spike, we do not wish to set you in such a dire mental smacking but it is simply something we must note from our experience,” Fayn knelt once more closer to Spike much to Twilight's dismay. “I apologize,”

Spike let his gaze linger for a moment before pushing Twilight away slowly. The little guy gave himself a shaky, deep breath before gazing up to face his accuser. “I am a great Dragon! I will be better then that party pooper one day, just watch!”

Fayn could only nod his head with much relief as he stuck out his hand. “I look forward to that day, Spike,”

Spike grasped onto the large hand with gusto and gave it a good shake. “I'm going with Twilight so Elongath can see how much I'll grow!”

Fayn nodded with a pleased smile only he could see. It didn't seem to last long enough for his ears picked up on a all too familiar silence in the large group of ponies celebrating the new marriage. Fayn thought perhaps a speech was about to commence but what was happening at the DJ's booth was much more horrifying.

Dun. Dunna Dun.

“Oh lord. . . ,” Fayn spoke out as he recognized the the two human figures that easily begun to air guitar with the music with great enthusiasm. The American flags on both female and male easily situated them as Machine gun team two, Turner and O’Brien respectively.

A white Unicorn grabbed hold of the mic as the intro of the song started to wind up. “Now for some rocking tunes straight from Earth! I bring you AC/DC! Back. In. Black!”

“Turner! O'Brien!”