Stronghold: New Beginnings.

Chapter 12:

Operation Stronghold.

“Three weeks have passed-almost a month-and nothing has happened. And with good reason, too. Both The Rebels and Reggie's army have been making final preparations before we go into war. I've learned something new; Electricity. I'll be using it when I come face to face with my former friend, Reggie. His mallet versus my brute force; a battle worthy of the Gods, I guess. I'm afraid for my new home, though. I worry about it's 'people' dying on my watch. I understand that sacrifices are made every time you go to war but, I don't feel this is the best option.

So, I've decided to go it alone. Without anypony except Jake...Ha. Now I'm talking like all of you too. Shame that I'll probably die before I can live peacefully...Seems like so long ago, when the bunker crashed in the middle of the Everfree Forest, and Zecora cared for Jake and I. If I die though, it will be AFTER weakening their defenses. But I hope your memory of me doesn't falter. Also, I just wish to be buried, like everyone else when I die. This way, I can be even closer to the heart of Pony-Gaia.

I'm sorry that I did this to you, Flutters. I loved you, and I always will. I just feel it's better if I go. Everyone should be spared. Me and Jake decided to end something Reggie refused to end himself.

―Maxwell Alexander Thorns-bury Stronghold.”

This was the note I left three hours ago before saying my goodbyes to Pound & Carrot cake, Kissing my wife, Fluttershy on the forehead, jumping out the back window of Fluttershy's Cottage, Waking up Jake, Gearing up, and leaving Ponyville. “Goodbye, Flutters...I'm sorry that I'm about to put you through all this.” I said. Then, like a shadow in the night, I vanished through the window.

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“Max?” Said Jake as I put on my gun holsters on. “Yeah, Jake?”

“Got three things for you to know; First, if we make it out alive, I'm thinking of going steady with Rainbow Dash. I need your blessing and her father's.”

“I give you my half of the blessing. Why you need it from me, though, I do not understand.”

“Thank you,” he said, obviously ignoring my remark. “The second thing is, Pinkie Pie likes you. I'd suggest making a clone before we leave. But first, make him have slightly different features. We don't want your wife Fluttershy going and killing herself, now do we?”

“Fine. Give me some space.” I then Split my cells mentally, to the point where my body was able to make a clone. It had blonde hair, sea-green eyes, freckles on his cheeks and nose. Strong features, tan, and a foot taller than me. Other than that, he looked just like me.

He had a red shirt, a denim jacket, skinny jeans, and high top Adidas on. “I'll name him...Austin Levi. Austin, Whatever you do, be warned. I'll know. My brain will be able to read your thoughts, see your actions, and allow me to control you if I wanted to. If you hurt Pinkie Pie, I will make you stab yourself to death. Understand me?”

Austin, looking at me with a mischievous grin, said, “From what I can see through your memories, she's just like me; A PARTY FREAK!!! There's no way I'd hurt her.” “Good. Now go, Rico Suave.” Obviously getting the joke, Austin laughed, and ran; probably to get a party hat, and some roses.

Last thing, Jake. Then, we leave.”

“Is this a revised Operation Stronghold?”

“Yes, Jake. Yes it is.”