The Element of Valorby Lunarus Solaris NexusChaptersEphialtesGreatest First Day EverAnother First Day Part IAnother First Day Part IIFirst ReportWinter SolsticeThe Shadow's ReturnEverywhere and NowhereHonor's Last HopeThe Start of the Shadow WarSecond Chance Turns to New Problems.ResignedThe Death of HonorEphialtesThe dungeon hadn’t changed a bit since he had been there last. Same dank, dark atmosphere, same cobblestone floors, walls and ceiling and even the same moldy smell. They weren’t taking him to the regular level, they were taking him down to death row. Memories flash through his mind of what he use to be, the thing that he hated so much, the thing that drove him away from his morals. As they pass through the massive metal door Nexus nearly fell forward at what was sitting in the middle cell. The first thing he noticed were the stallion’s eyes. The purple-blue, serpent-like eyes. His black mane was caked with dirt, and his tail looked like three scythe blades. His ears were curved and pointed like a zebra and that wasn’t the only thing; black stripes cover his blood red coat and bloody bandages wrapped around all four of his knees. Where the cutie mark should have been was a Saddle Arabian symbol, common amongst zebras. He even had the black muzzle of a zebra. The zebra/pony looked to only be about a year or so younger then he was. But what really boggled his mind, he was a unicorn. His horn stuck out from under his mangy black mane. Nexus looked over to the other guard, Phalanx, and lowered his voice. “What is he being charged with?” “We suspect he’s a changeling. Not a very good one, might be the reason he isn’t with the rest of the herd.” Nexus’ horn emitted a light glow as he looked back over at the pony/zebra hybrid. What he had been accepting to feel was a natural field of magic around him, but there was none to speak of. He wasn’t even using his horn to try and break his restraints. The glow vanished and he turned back to Phalanx. “Give me a minute alone with him.” he said. “Are you sure Captain? He seriously injured two guards.” “Were they Lunar Guard?” “N-No, Sir.” “Then it isn’t in my jurisdiction to be concerned.” “Your funeral, Sir.” Phalanx took Storm Cloud back into the hall, closing the massive door behind him. “So.” Nexus said walking towards the iron bars at the front of the cell. “Does the accused have a name?” The zebra-pony just stared at him with an angry stare. “Oh, come on. Everything has a name.” “My name is Ephialtes (ef-feel-tiss).” the zebra-pony finally said with a smooth, deep voice. “F-what now?” “Ephialtes.” “Okay, Ephialtes, what were you doing when you were arrested.” “I was looking for the Ponyville library.” “And?” “And some bubble gum colored chick with a cotton candy mane screamed, ‘Omi gosh, it’s a changeling! Everypony run!’” “Well that wasn’t very nice now wasn’t it?” “No, no it wasn’t.” “Where ya from?” “Haystead Swamps.” “That’s awful close to dragon territory.” “Yeah it is.” “There’s also no settlements anywhere near there.” “Not anymore there aren’t.” “And why’s that?” “Because it was wiped out during the last Great Dragon Migration. They pillaged my village and burned it until it was ashes.” “Where there any survivors?” “No, I’m the only one that I found.” “And why should I believe you?” “What does it matter if you do?” “’Cause I can help you get out of here.” “How’s that?” “You’re not going to like it, but it’s better then the gallows.” “What is it?” The early morning air chilled what little skin Nexus had exposed. He had a few books, a packet of personnel files and several design blueprints he had been tweaking settled in his saddle bags. He wore his usual set of legs he wore on the job and a pair of blue, reflective sunglasses on his forehead. The arms of the sunglasses had ear buds curving up into his ears. Nexus walked alone down a residential street in the west side of Canterlot. A small, two story house at the top of a cul-de-sac was his destination. The unassuming house had white siding and black shudders. Nexus smiled as he approached the front door. It only took a minute after he knocked before a dark blue unicorn with a black and gray mane answered the door. Her typewriter cutie mark was covered by a brown dress. “Lunarus!” she said ecstatic. “Good morning Mom.” Nexus replied with a smile. “Oh, it’s so good to see you again!” his mother responded wrapping her forelegs around Nexus’ neck. “Who’s there Molly?” a stallion called out from the living room. His coat was black and his gray mane was neatly combed to cover the bald spot on the back of his head. His half moon cutie mark was partially covered by a dress shirt. Once his dark blue eyes fell on Nexus, he lit up. “Son! Haven’t seen you since your friends wedding.” “I know, sorry I haven’t been able to come and see you guys more often. Mom, could you let go please?” “Oh,” she gasped letting go of her son. “sorry. Like you said you haven’t been by in a while.” “Are you two going somewhere?” “Your cosine Midnight is getting married at noon in Ponyville. And knowing your father, he’s going to make us late.” “Hey, I don’t do anything half assed.” He said in his usual snarky tone. “Not doing anything half assed. Made you late for our wedding.” Nexus chuckled and took a seat in the living room. “Well that’s good. Give the blushing bride my congratulations. I can’t stay long though.” “Why, where are you off to?” Nexus’ father asked. “The Canterlot Military Academy. They need a temporary replacement there to oversee all the new trainees.” “How long is temporary?” Molly asked. “I have no idea. Could be a few hours, or a few years.” “Well, I hope everything goes well. Molly, could you help me with this bowtie?” “Sure, Burney.” Mom said rolling her eyes. Molly’s horn started glowing and the tie hanging untied around his neck stared tying itself. That would be a useful spell. “Go get your jacket honey, we’re running late as it is.” “Okay Meter.” Commander. Were also starting to run behind. A.L.I.S. told him inside the ear bud. “I’ll wrap it up A.L.I.S., calm your circuits.” “Alice? Who’s Alice?” “Not Alice, A.L.I.S.. A-L-I-S. Stands for Artificial Logistics & Intelligence Systems.” “And, where is, A.L.I.S..” “She’s talking to me through the ear bud. I’m running fashionably late.” “Oh, well have a safe trip son. And it was so nice to just see you again.” “You too Mom. See ya dad!” he shouted up the stairs before going out the door. “Bye son!” he shouted back. Nexus waved back to his mother as she shut the door behind him. Nexus felt a strange wave of dejavu pass over him as he walked down the to the end of the cul-de-sac. The wind whipped across his face as he approached the bar that kept both earth ponies and unicorns from falling over its edge. Commander. I have the weather around Canterlot Mountain for you. A.L.I.S. informed. “Put it on the H.U.D. (Heads Up Display).” Nexus said pulling the sunglasses over his eyes. The lenses of the sunglasses came to life with light green lines and numbers. Temperature: 73 degrees. Light cloud cover across central Equestria. Humidity: 42%. Wind speed/direction: 5mph from the northwest. “Thank you. Where’s my airspeed indicator?” On screen, Commander. ETA to the bottom of the mountain, two minutes if done safely. “Yeah, we’re not going to follow the beaten path.” Of cores, Sir. What was I thinking? Nexus spread his wings as he stood at the edge of Canterlot. Looking down, the lines of his artificial horizon scrolled up as he looked down. With a deep breath, Nexus leapt over the rail and began to fall towards the forest bellow. The wind whipped past his ears and the airspeed counter climbed quickly past 200mph. Half way down the mountain, he fully extended his wings and pulled back. He had only made it halfway down the mountain before he leveled off. Nexus banked hard to the left and flew close to the face of the mountain. He was only ten feet from the face of the mountain. The rocks along its face rushed by with the wind shrieking in his ears like a phoenix. Wait. He looked over his right shoulder and saw waves of dark blue and black cascading right over his shoulders. Raven Wing had a knack for knowing when Nexus was going for a flight. Nexus snickered and flapped his wings a few times to pick up speed. As the two of them came around the southern face of the mountain, the waterfall coming from Canterlot came into view. Nexus started flapping his wings faster, picking up more speed. His air speed indicator passed 350mph as the roar of the falls came through the whistling of the wind. As he came closer, Raven Wing pulled back a few yards. The waterfall was right on top of him now. The spray washed over him as his left wing sliced though the surface of the cascading water. If he was a normal Pegasus, he would have Dutch Rolled into the water and fallen several thousand feet to his death. His mechanical wings were twice as strong as normal but were also twice as heavy. As he passed the waterfall, Raven Wing came line abreast on Nexus’ right wing as he slowed back to 250mph. Nexus came around the east side of the mountain, Nexus looked back over his shoulder and smiled at Raven Wing. “Follow this!” Nexus shouted. While still flying close to the face of the mountain, Nexus rolled right until he was upside down and dove along face of the mountain. The airspeed indicator rose past 600, then 700 as he flapped his wings harder. There was a loud, low boom as he broke the sound beerier. Knowing if he didn’t slowdown now he would be going straight through to Tartarus. He fully extended his wings and let the air catch the artificial feathers. The frame extended small metal blades to increase the surface area that was catching the air as he pulled back. The airspeed indicator had already passed bellow 300 he pulled up next to the railroad as the train came out of the tunnel. He passed the train relatively easily. In the far back however, a strange looking passenger as under lock and key in the caboose. Ephialtes sat in the back right corner of the train car with eight Lunar Guards starring right at him. His purple-blue, serpent eyes cautiously passed over the passengers seated in the car with him. “I still don’t understand why The Commander is giving you this chance.” one of them said. “You should know better then to question The Commander by now. He’s never been wrong about recommendations.” “Oh really?” Ephialtes said chiming in. “No one’s talking to you.” the first guard said. “Last I checked, you said, while looking me right in the face; I still don’t understand why The Commander is giving you this chance.” “Shut up!” “Just saying.” “Yeah, The Commander always has something to say about somepony. Usually it’s advice. And his advice is always worth taking.” the guard next to the one that started this butted in. “Is it now?” “Always.” “So he’s never given bad advice?” “Nope. Some ponies think he can read minds, but that’s dark magic. I know his specialty is dark magic, but that’s too dark.” “I don’t know. Have you heard what he did to Captain Storm Cloud last April Fools Day?” the guard next to Ephialtes said. “No, what?” “Storm said that he had a nightmare about his grandmother.” “What was she doing?” “Cloud kind of just gags when he tries to tell anypony.” “Then I don’t wanna know.” “Heard he didn’t talk to The Commander for a week after that.” “Sounds like fun.” Ephialtes said sarcastically. “Hey! You better feel privileged that The Commander is sticking his neck out for you!” the first guard snapped back. “Why do you people keep calling him the Commander? Why not just his name?” “He runs a tight shift around here buddy. We all call him The Commander because he told us to.” “Anything else I should know?” “Yeah. You see him in uniform, you better be standing at attention and calling him Sir.” “And why’s that?” “I think it’s better if you find out for yourself.” The breaks squealed as the train pulled into the station. “Get up. Time to get to the academy.” Greatest First Day EverAfter the train unloaded its passengers, Ephialtes was lead into an armored, horse drawn carriage and for a very long ride down an unpaved road. Once the carriage stopped, a Celestian Guard telekinetically yanked him from the back and started pushing him through a set of massive gates. The sign on the brick archway had the Celestian Guard seal. On the seal, the name of the establishment was printed in gold. Canterlot military academy May Celestia guide thee to glory. Ephialtes groaned as he was lead through the massive iron gates. He was quickly shoved into a corridor with eight other ponies: Six stallions; two unicorns, one earth pony and three Pegasi; and two mares, both Pegasi. He didn’t care to learn anymore, whether from observation or otherwise. “Follow this line and do as your told.” the guard said. Ephialtes didn’t reply. He fell in with the line of eight ponies, all older and stronger. Even the two mares in the line looked more muscular than him. An old stallion in Celestia’s golden armor stepped out in front of them and looked them all over. “Okay kiddies! Forward march!” he shouted as he lead them from the corridor they were in to a massive courtyard. Ponies of all colors and types were milling about in the courtyard. Pegasi flew obstacle courses more complex than the ones in the Wonderbolt Academy. “Company, halt!” the old stallion shouted again. Everypony in front of Ephialtes stopped. He bumped into the largest unicorn in the bunch. “Hey! Watch it runt!” he shouted looking back at him. “Ten-Hut!” the guard shouted. All but Ephialtes stood up straight and locked their eyes forward. “Left, face!” All in the line turned ninety degrees to the left and stayed in attention. Ephialtes stood lose and continued looking around. He looked forward long enough to see another white stallion in Celestian Guard Armor walking towards him. To his right, the cyberpony he had met in the dungeon in the castle. With nothing else to go on, he assumed he was The Commander. He was in a strange set of armor. It didn’t look like Celestian Guard armor. For one it wasn’t golden, it was navy blue iron and it tapered to very sharp edges. He only wore a chest plate and helmet, his legs had been changed to match the armor. The metal they were plated in looked stronger then the material the set he had seen him in before. He even had boots built into the hoofs. And he did not look happy. “Salute!” the guard next to The Commander shouted. Everypony but Ephialtes put their right hoof to their brow and (if at all possible) stood straighter. The Commander looked straight at Ephialtes and knit his brow. “These are the best of the best?” The Commander asked the pony next to him. “Yes Sir!” “Sound off!” The Commander shouted. “Sir, Private Gear Shaft, Sir!” the white unicorn shouted. “Sir, Private Shockwave, Sir!” the gray Pegasus stallion shouted. “Sir, Private Wildflower, Sir!” the dark green mare shouted “Sir, Private Livewire, Sir” the pale blue unicorn shouted. “Sir, Private Sea Spray, Sir.” the earth pony shouted. “Sir, Private Night Wind, Sir!” the black stallion Pegasus shouted. “Sir, Private Ice Wind, Sir!” the light blue mare shouted. “Sir, Private Light Wave, Sir!” the sunflower yellow winged stallion shouted. The Commander glared at Ephialtes. “Private Ephialtes!” he shouted louder then the soldiers. “Did you not hear me!?” The Commander walked straight up to Ephialtes with his horn glowing. “I SAID, DID YOU HEAR ME, PRIVATE EPHIALTES!?” The Commander’s voice had gained such force when he spoke that not only did everypony in the line jump, but were pushed back a few inches. “Yeah, I heard you.” Ephialtes said annoyed. The Commander didn’t seem to take to kindly to that response. With lightning fast, smooth movements, The Commander dropped low and swung his hind legs in a wide sweeping motion, knocking all four of Ephialtes’ legs out from under him. As Ephialtes fell, The Commander reversed direction and closthslined Ephialtes with his left foreleg. As The Commander continued to rotate his body, he brought Ephialtes with him and locked his left foreleg around Ephialtes’ neck. As the two fell to the ground in a struggling heap, The Commander pulled his left foreleg towards him with his right and locked Ephialtes in his grip. “I’m sure you talked to my soldiers on the train ride here. And I’m sure they gave you a synopsis of my expectations of all soldiers. Am I right private?” The Commander said holding Ephialtes in his grip. “Yes.” Ephialtes wheezed. “I’m sorry, I can’t hear you.” “Sir, yes Sir!” Ephialtes tried to shout. With a sigh, The Commander released Ephialtes and allowed him to stand. The Commander stands as well and looks him back over. “Sergeant, take it from here. And have Private Ephialtes report to my office after orientation.” “Yes Commander Nexus.” the Guard said, “Okay kiddies, listen up!” Ephialtes tuned out what the Sergeant was telling them, he only watched as Commander Nexus spread his silver wings and take off. Another First Day Part IThe moon was still hanging high in the sky as Ephialtes approached the brick Lunar building. His eyes lids were heavy. It was 0303. Maybe Commander Nexus would see he wasn’t ready and would kick him right after. The building itself looked like it was a modified gymnasium or roofed stadium from a high school. As Ephialtes made his way through the double doors he was stunned to find it was a gymnasium. Polished wooden floors and even bleachers off to the sides. On the floors there were four long tables lined up in two rows with three packs set on them. From first count, he could only see ten ponies in the room; one being Commander Nexus standing at the front of the desks. “Nice of you to finally join us Private. Please, take a seat.” Commander Nexus said motioning towards the desks. With great hesitation, Ephialtes approached the tables and sat down at the far right corner. “Now we can begin.” Nexus began. “I would like to be the first to welcome all of you to the first day of training for the Evening Guard. I am Commander Nexus, and will address me as such. Is that clear?” “Yes, Sir Commander Nexus, Sir!” all but Ephialtes shouted. “Good. Now this isn’t going to be anything like what they told you in orientation. In fact, forget everything that the teachers have told you. From this day on, you all will be trained to counter anything that is thrown at you. Form every counter spell you can learn to how to work your equipment. Unlike the Celestian Guard, we have weapons, ranging from the lightning lance, to the standard issue Iron Icarus Mk. III that are sitting in front of you.” It wasn’t until now that Ephialtes looked around at the other ponies that were around him. Three Earth ponies, three unicorns and three Pegasi. All dark colored accept for one that was white and one Pegasus with bat wings? “For all but three of you, this will be your main piece of equipment. You will learn how to take every little component out of that pack and put it back together backwards. And that is after a ten mile run. For the unicorns here, I will be teaching you spells you’ve never even heard of; spells that no soldier will be able to counter. You will learn to bring out a ponies greatest fears and have hoofs as deadly as your horn. And that last part goes for all of you. Is that clear?” “Yes, Sir, Commander Nexus Sir!” “Good. You will all report here at the same time every day for the next two months. In the top flap of the Iron Icarus, there is a schematic of it. You will learn it and will also be ready to use it by the time. Now, line up five by five at the doors and wait for my go. Ten miles is a long run!” “Yes Sir, Commander Nexus, Sir!” Ephialtes stood and walked to the doors with everypony else. Nexus wasn’t kidding either. They were the hardest ten miles of his life. Nexus was on his case the entire run. It took more then two hours to run the full perimeter of the main campus twice. The moon was just starting to dip behind the trees when they returned to the Lunar Building. The Iron Icarus’ were still lying where they had been left. Ephialtes could barely lift his tools, either with his telekinesis or even his teeth. Every other pony was having similar problems. And with Commander Nexus prowling around the floor shouting about how they were doing it wrong made it harder for him to concentrate. The manual wasn’t a load of help either. On top of being practically being in Saddle Arabian, and the incredibly complicated diagrams made it even more impossible to understand. At dawn, Commander Nexus herded Ephialtes with the other six ponies that weren’t Pegasus and ten Pegasi onto a royal airship with their Iron Icarus’ strapped firmly to their backs. Ephialtes wasn’t quite sure how he got his hands on an airship, but he was sure it had to do with hard core flank kissing. Once airborne, they flew higher then the Canterlot mountain and hovered there. “Okay, this is your first test! If you prepared your Iron Icarus right, you’ll be able to fly back down to the base with no problem. If you start free falling, one of the Pegasus here will be there to bring you down safely. You land, your wings must retract back into its pack to pass. Okay, catchers, take off!” “Yes Sir, Commander Nexus Sir!” they said in sync. Once they were all out, Commander Nexus turned back to them. “Now, get your sorry flanks out those doors now! Move it!” One by one, they all jumped from the airship. Ephialtes was the last out the doors of the airship. The rush of cold air was exhilarating and also terrifying as he plummeted from the highest point in the world. Ephialtes’ heart nearly jumped from his chest as he reached back to the deployment ring on the left side of the back. Or was it the right? He couldn’t remember at this point! He gripped the left ring and pulled as hard as he could. The sound of metal scrapping against metal filled the air around Ephialtes as he started slowing down. He also started moving forward. Looking around him, he say five of the six others spiraling down with Pegasus trailing each of them. The only other that was still flying was a white unicorn. Ephialtes leaned left lightly and began to slowly descend in a left hand turn. Once everyone was safe and sound on their now unsteady hoofs, Ephialtes and the white unicorn were the only two who could get their wings back into their packs. (considering most didn’t deploy to begin with it wasn’t too impressive) “Ten-hut!” Commander Nexus called as he landed in front of them. Everypony lined up on Ephialtes and stood at attention. “That was one of the most pathetic displays of airmanship I’ve seen in my two years in the Guard! Private Breeze, you were late on deployment by ten seconds! Drop!” “Yes Sir, Commander Nexus Sir!” a black unicorn replied dropping down to his stomach. “And Private E!” Commander Nexus said glaring at him. “You took the easy way out and glided back to the ground! Drop!” Ephialtes looked confused. “Maybe I should be a little more clear. Drop and give me twenty!” Commander Nexus put his hoof on the back of Ephialtes’ neck and shoved him, face first, into the ground. Begrudgingly, Ephialtes began his set of twenty pushups with Commander Nexus’ hoof still on his neck. He even counted out all of Ephialtes pushups out loud. Once he finished, Nexus let him up and returned his attention to Breeze. “Now don’t think you’re off the hook either Private Breeze! I want you and at the head of formation with Private Ephialtes! And as for the rest of you, I want you all to keep up or it’ll be your asses going hungry! Two by two formation, now!” “Yes Sir, Commander Nexus Sir!” they all shouted, lining up behind Ephialtes and White Knight. Commander Nexus led from the right of the formation as they started down the running trail again. Once they made it back to the main campus, Nexus ordered them into the mess hall, by then it was past noon and lunch was being served. Ephialtes couldn’t have been more grateful for this act of mercy. What he found odd, was that Evening Guard trainees got their own table in the chow hall. Commander Nexus sat with the other officers on base chatting quietly. “Hey, Ephi.” a white pegasus named White Knight said, elbowing Ephialtes in the ribs. “You hear me?” “Hu? Oh, no I was just thinking about something.” Ephialtes replied. “How do you think The Commander ended up like he did?” “I’d rather hear what you guys think.” “Okay, I heard he’s the son of the C.E.O. of Lunarus Industries and that he was run over by a train.” the gray Pegasus mare with yellow eyes and bat wings eating a mango said leaning in like it was some big secret. “That’s stupid Hestaria. I heard he had a heart attack so strong it caused his legs to explode.” the White Knight said. “And you say I’m stupid?” Hestaria said shaking her head. “I agree Hestaria’s theory, but I think he was kidnapped by marauders and held for ransom. As punishment for not delivering on time, they chopped off his legs and mailed them to his father everyday he was late.” the red unicorn said. “What about you Ephi?” “I don’t know. I’ve only been here for three days and only talked to him twice.” “Maybe he just thought they looked cool.” Commander Nexus said standing right behind the black earth pony. He suddenly went ridged as Commander Nexus went to the head of the table. “How’d he do that?” Hestaria whispered to Ephialtes. “Quiet Private Hestaria!” Nexus shouted. “Now I don’t want to hear anymore of these conspiracy theories, or all of you will go hungry tonight. Saddle up, time for combat training.” “Yes Sir, Commander Nexus Sir!” everypony, including Ephialtes said getting up from the table. Another First Day Part IIOnce again, lined in two by two, they trot into the forest. Commander Nexus was silent and forced them to keep their eyes forward under threat of going hungry. After nearly an hours trot, Ephialtes looked over his shoulder and saw Commander Nexus was nowhere in sight. “You want to know how I did what I did back in the chow hall?” Commander Nexus asked from the right side of the trail. “How a pony with metal strapped to fifty percent of his body could be so stealthy?” he asked from the left side this time. The entire squad began looking around for him as his voice continued to emanate from all around them. “It’s called The Art of the Shadow. Pioneered by zebras in the time before the Great Twilight War and was first used in combat against Celestia by the Evening Armada during the war. It was very effective against the forces of Celestia. If you want to be one of us, you have to master this art. And I suggest that you don‘t…blink.” Suddenly Commander Nexus was standing amongst them with a smirk on his face. As soon as Ephialtes saw him, he swung himself around and tried to hit Nexus with a wide swinging kick. Nexus was quick and blocked the fast moving strike from Ephialtes. Nexus deflected the kick and pulled Ephialtes into another headlock. Ephialtes looked up and slid his head out of Nexus’ grasp. As he dropped down, he swiped Nexus’ legs out from under him and attempted to take hold of his left foreleg. Before Nexus even hit the ground, he had maneuvered himself away from Ephialtes. He rolled out of the formation and stood with his wings extended. “I see somepony’s studied The Art of the Shadow before.” Nexus said glaring at Ephialtes. “We start with hoof-to-hoof combat then we move onto combat maneuvers. Sergeants!” From behind the rest of the group, a black Pegasus mare and a gray earth pony stallion emerged from the bushes surrounding the path. “Sergeant Midnight and Lumen here will be assisting in flight maneuvers for the Pegasi and combat maneuvers for the rest of you. The unicorns will be with me for Macabre Magic 101. You will listen to them as well as you listen to me or you’ll be working tomorrow night.” “Commander Nexus, permission to speak freely, Sir?” Hestaria asked. “Granted.” “What’s tomorrow, Sir?” “Tomorrow is the Winter Solstice. As with the Summer Solstice, those under the employ of Luna are given the day off unless otherwise told by the Captain of the Guard. So, unless you want to be cleaning barracks all day tomorrow, I suggest you do as I say. We’ll start with hoof-to-hoof combat then I’ll split you off into your separate groups. Form up, forward, march!” They did as they were told with a Yes Sir, Commander Nexus, Sir!. It was another ten minute trot until they reached the fighting arena. It was a large stone smoothened down into a table with no legs. In white chalk, a circle running the entire circumference of the stone table and a white line splitting it down the middle. The top was smooth though still had some dips in the stone where others before them must have been slammed down repeatedly. “This will be your training ground. We’ll be starting with holds and how to break them. Sergeant Midnight, if you would be so kind as to join me in the arena.” “Yes, Commander.” Midnight replied stepping into the center of the stone table with Commander Nexus. “Basic hold Sergeant Midnight.” “Yes Commander.” The Pegasus approached Commander Nexus and proceeded to force him to his hindlegs and put his right hoof behind his back from over his shoulder. Not only did this look extremely painful, but the fact that Sergeant Midnight didn’t restrain from pulling Nexus’ foreleg back stunned Ephialtes. Did Nexus even feel it was the pain question. He didn’t show any pain on his face. Or was that part of the training too? “From this hold, the easiest thing to do is to use their leverage against them. From this position you can do one of two things; you can toss them over your shoulders, or…” Nexus bent his knees slightly, then, using Sergeant Midnight as a counter weight, vaulted himself over the Sergeant and touched down behind her with the Sergeant’s hoof still holding his. “You could reverse the hold and turn the tables. Any questions?” No pony spoke up as Nexus held the Sergeant in the same hold he had once been trapped in. While watching this display, Ephialtes noticed that the Sergeant wasn’t showing any pain either. “Now, when you’re putting someone in this hold, you can force them to the ground by knocking their legs out from under them, or you can force them to their knees. It’s all dependent on preference. I like shoving their face into ground.” He showed his preference by kicking the Sergeant’s legs out from under her and planting the side of her face firmly into the stone. “Any Questions so far?” Commander Nexus asked once again. And when no one answered, “Good. Pair up and get to work. Start by throwing the other over your shoulder. I know there are eleven of you, so Sergeant Lumen will pair with the straggler. Sergeant Midnight, keep an eye on them. I need to report in with the Princess. I’ll be back in ten minutes max.” “Yes Sir, Commander Nexus, Sir!” Sergeant Midnight said. Without another word, Commander Nexus spread his wings and took off from the clearing. Ephialtes was, unwillingly, paired with Hestaria. She and White Knight were the only two ponies here he could consider his “friends”. After all, they were the only ones that willingly talked to him. Ephialtes was the first in the hold. She didn’t hold back as she put him in the most basic hold in The Art of the Shadow. Something he had practiced with his father a long time ago. “I hope that because I’m a lady that you don’t think I’ll let you take it easy on me.” the bat pone said in his ear. “I would certainly hope not.” Ephialtes said jumping over her and locking her in the basic hold. “’Cause I studied this since before you were out of diapers.” Out of udder annoyance, Hestaria pushed her hips back and threw Ephialtes over her shoulders and into the dirt. First ReportA mile north and a few miles up, Nexus walked down the main hall with Princess Luna and Captain Storm Cloud. They talked casually, swapping stories and jokes they had picked up from the past few days. In between telling about the recruits jumped out of their skin when he introduced them to The Art of the Shadow trick, he informed her on the progress of the rest of the recruits. “So, you have adjusted well, Lunarus?” Luna asked him. “Yeah.” “And what of the prisoner? Ephialtes wasn’t it?” “He’s adjusting, albeit very slowly, but he’s adjusting. I’m still not 100% sure that he isn’t what they think he is.” “And why’s that?” Storm asked. “I didn’t detect a magical field that could have been from a shape shifting spell. But I feel a dark field around him I haven’t seen before.” “Do you think it could be-” “No, it’s too weak to be that.” Nexus said cutting Luna off. “What?” “Above your pay grade Storm. Sorry buddy.” “How high is it exactly?” “It can only be between Lunarus and I. It’s something that could send him back to the gallows, no matter what I say in his favor.” “Okay. So what about this Ephialtes character?” “He told me he’s from the Haystead Swamps. Says his village was raided by dragons during the last Great Dragon Migration and then was promptly burned to the ground. And he’s apparently the last survivor of his village.” “Still not as bad as your story.” Storm said. “Regardless, I have to be sure to break him to be sure he is what he says he is.” “Commander, if you wish to make it back in time, I suggest you take off now.” A.L.I.S. said in his ear. “Look, I have to go. I’ll be back tomorrow to fill you in further.” Nexus said spreading his wings. “I understand. Thank you for dropping in Lunarus. Oh, before I forget, how is Miss Dust Storm assimilating to her new life?” “Sh-She’s doing fine. Thank you for asking.” Nexus said telekinetically opening the closest window. “I’ll be sure to tell her you said hi, Princess.” ‘She just loves pushing my buttons doesn’t she?’ he thought to himself. “Thank you.” she said with a giggle. “I hope she’s having a nice time away from the castle.” “I-I’ll be sure to let her know you said that, Luna. Gotta jet!” Nexus said launching himself out of the window and into the still midday air hanging over Canterlot. The flight back was quick at supersonic speeds. He was pleasantly surprised to see that all of his trainees were still practicing. Once he landed, they all stopped what they were doing and stood at attention. “As you were!” Nexus shouted as he walked over to Midnight Wave. “How’ve they been?” “They’ve been working their flanks off Commander.” she replied. “Non stop. Private Ephialtes is showing great promise. He preformed the counter on the first try.” “Did he now? You let me know where he goes during the Winter Solstice. I want to see how well he’s conforming to society here.” “Yes Commander. Should we split them up?” “I got it. Okay, listen up! We’re splitting off into your groups. All unicorns, follow me!” Winter SolsticeCommander Nexus was a very cryptic teacher. The first spell he tried to teach them was something called Shadow Thoughts. It was to only be used in combat and not against civilians. This spell would allow a pony to enter the mind of another and take a ride in their body while influencing what they see, mainly fears. He said to look inside themselves and know what they fear, use that fear to power the spell, but wasn’t specific as to how to summon this spell to start with. He said it’s different for everypony, but most thought that was a load of horse shit. A red unicorn named Short Fuse, tried entering Commander Nexus’ mind and immediately fell unconscious. “There are some ponies that have impenetrable minds, or when you enter them, the thoughts they have are far too strong for you to handle. This is why the only way to learn how to use it is in combat. When Private Fuse comes to, tell him to meet me in my office.” Nobody said a word as Nexus continued lecturing on how the spell worked. The next day, Fuse wasn’t in the chow hall. There were only a few hours before the Winter Solstice celebration. Unfortunately for Ephialtes, he and the remaining trainees for the Lunar Guard had to attend the celebration before going on leave. Hestaria invited him and White Knight for some drinks at the on base bar, The Neon Moon. The celebration was much smaller then the Summer Solstice for Celestia. Only a few hundred ponies showed up to watch the raising of the moon and stars. And were they missing out on a spectacular view. More stars then even Ephialtes had ever seen. And being in a small town in the middle of a swamp, stars were always plentiful. Now, a blanket of stars began flooding over the horizon lead by the moon. Their pail blue glow was just as great as the sun, covering the land with soothing light. Once the moon reached its apex and the stars reached from horizon to horizon, did Nexus dismiss the Guard. Nexus followed Princess Luna back to the castle while everyone else went off to party and relax. Ephialtes stood outside The Neon Moon on The Canterlot Military Academy’s campus. He sighed, knowing he didn’t have much else better to do tonight, and started towards the bar. Inside, music from a live rock band played as mostly gray, mares and stallions, wearing their black, iron chest plates and boots, danced, played darts gambled, and more over, drank. They were all singing the Lunar Guard marching song and Commander Nexus drilled into their heads. “I don’t know what you been told! Royal Guard was getting old! You fight one you fight us all! United we all stand up tall! Sound off! One, two, three, four! Hoorah!” Ephialtes shook his head and scanned the bar for his “Friends”. White Knight wasn’t too hard to find. He was the only white stallion in the entire bar. He was sitting at one of the poker tables with a bottle of Apple Whisky sitting on the table next to him. on his right, Hestaria chugged a mango flavored beer and let out a powerful belch. “Ephi! You zebra son of a bitch! Get over here!” Hestaria shouted over the music. Ephialtes sighed and took the seat next to Hestaria. “Wanna’ sip?” she said tipping the neck of her mango flavored beer towards him. “Nah, I-I don’t drink.” the blood red zebra/pony hybrid said pushing the bottle away from him. “You don’t drink? Sweet, Luna you’re as stuck up as The Commander!” White Knight said taking a pull from his Apple Whisky. “I just don’t okay.” “Whatever, deal ‘im in Ace.” Hestaria said looking over to the black earth pony with an Ace of Spades cutie mark at the end of the table. “Wait, I don’t have any money!” Ephialtes tried to argue. “Here,” She said sliding him five poker chips over to him. “Twenty five bits. More then enough to get you started. Each chip is five bits, starting pot at five bits.” “Okay. Fine.” Ephialtes said as Ace slid him five cards. “That’s the spirit!” White Knight said reaching accrues the table to punch him in the shoulder. The other player at the table took his chips in his teeth and left the table as Ephialtes tossed his chip into the center of the table. He wasn’t sure if he could remember the rules of the game. Can only have five cards, in hand, can trade in for a equal amount of cards discarded. Ephialtes levitated his cards up to his face, he saw; Ace of Clubs, Nine of Moons, King of Suns, Eight of Hearts, Queen of Hearts. Nothing good, and the likely hood of getting anything else was even lower. “Fold.” Ephialtes said dropping his cards. Nearly two hours and two hundred bits of winnings later, Ephialtes was on the dance floor with his forelegs around both Hestaria and White Knight, banging his head to the rock music. It wasn’t until somepony uttered the single most kill joy word ever spoken in that bar that everypony stopped. “Captain!” Everypony stopped what they were doing and even the band stopped playing. All eyes were on the front door and Commander Nexus standing in it. He looked around the bar confused. He wore a black leather jacket and navy blue baseball cap. “What are you looking at? Blow Me Away!” he shouted to the band. The lead smiled and the drummer tapped out the first three beats before the guitar started playing Blow Me Away. Nexus smiled and banged his head to the beat of the song as the first words started flowing. Everypony in the bar went back to partying except for Ephialtes, Hestaria and White Knight. In truth, Ephialtes was enjoying himself. It had been a I very long time since he had smiled. Nexus noticed they weren’t rocking out and motioned them over to the bar. Nexus was the first to sit; Ephialtes sat to his right with Hestaria next to him and White Knight on Nexus’ left. “What’s wrong with you guys tonight? We’ve got the night off!” Nexus said still rocking out to the band as he spoke. “But you’re the Commanding Officer of the entire Lunar Guard. Shouldn’t you still be working, Commander Nexus, Sir?” Hestaria asked. “Fuck that. I need to cut lose once in a blue moon too ya know. Bar keep! Beer me!” With no delay, a closed bottle of beer slid down the table and to Nexus’ fabric cover metal hoof. Not waiting for the bottle opener, Nexus pried open the top with his teeth and spit the cap into the trash at the other end of the bar. “So, what’ve ya’ll been doin’ since the raising of the moon?” “Just rocking out here Commander Nexus, Sir.” Ephialtes said avoiding eye contact. “Please, when I’m not in uniform, call me Nexus.” Nexus responded taking a sip of his beer. “O-Okay, Nexus, what are you doin’ here?” White Knight said taking a hesitant sip of his Apple Whisky. “Like I said, even I need to kick back once in a blue moon.” Nexus said taking another swig from his beer. “Yeah… I guess.” Ephialtes said looking back to the band. “You okay Ephi? You don’t seem happy.” Ephialtes was about to go off on Nexus. It wasn’t until he started thinking about it, he hadn’t felt this way until he saw him standing in the door. He felt the familiar feeling of resentment and towards this dark blue cyber pony. What right did he have to put him here? None. He had no right to even be interfering with his night. Ephialtes felt the overwhelming urge to bash Nexus’ head into the bar his was sitting at but held back. Though he couldn’t tell, Nexus knew of his feelings. He was looking into his mind as Ephialtes stared back at him looking for the words to say. Ephialtes had to get out of there before something happened. “I’m fine, Commander. I need some air.” Ephialtes replied getting up from the bar. Nexus shrugged and went back to his beer as Ephialtes left the bar alone. “Maybe I should go with him.” Hestaria said about to get up. “Let him go Private. He just needs some time to himself.” Nexus said taking another sip of his beer. The Shadow's ReturnDeep in the forest around the Academy, Ephialtes walked alone. “What does he think he’s doing?” he asked himself. “I know he’s sticking his neck out for me, but does that mean that he has to fucking stalk me!? Maybe I’m just being paranoid.” “You’d think so…” Nexus said right behind him. Ephialtes growled and turned to face him. “Why don’t you just leave me alone! I never asked for your help!” Nexus looked to taken back by him saying that. “Believe it or not Ephi, I am sticking my neck out for you; literally. If I’m wrong, and you aren’t what you say you are, I have a one way ticket to the gallows.” “Yeah, like Princess Luna would allow that.” “She doesn’t have a say. You might not believe it, but I was accused of being a changeling once as well. It took an invasion of Canterlot for me prove my innocence and I want to make sure you don’t have to go through that kind of thing.” “And it still matters to me how exactly?” “It matters because I had no pony that believed me when I said I wasn’t what they thought I was. Ironically enough I believe you. You show no signs of being a traitor.” “Then why do you stay on my fucking case!?” “Because that is how training goes. I can’t give anypony special treatment. Not even you.” “Yeah, I’m sure your parents are very proud.” Ephialtes said rolling his eyes. “Ephialtes, there is a reason I didn’t let them hang you. I knew you needed a second chance at life, something I got almost too late.” “Yes, the rich General didn’t get what he wanted on time. Should have happened sooner.” “I would have died had it not come. Two years ago I was more like you then you think, I had untapped skills I almost never got to unleash. And when I thought I was getting the chance to use them, I was nearly killed. I had reigned to dying and just letting the great pain end, in fact, most everypony though I was dead. That’s how I got my legs. I made them and tried to get home. At first my family was overjoyed, then they saw what I had become. Not even they wanted to accept what I was now, so I ran. At one point I finally gave in and let my time on this earth slowly slip away. When I did that, something came over me, something that needed me to give up on everything I believed in.” “What would that be?” “I still don’t know. All I know is that my parents didn’t accept me until after I proved I wasn’t what they thought I was. It took me becoming what I had feared most to realize it.” “What did you fear?” “I feared losing who I really was. An honest, brave and loyal soldier to Luna, and a friend to so many. I became emotionless, ruthless and unwavering in my thirst for power. It felt great, but I would have come at the cost of everything I loved.” “Still wondering what this has to do with me.” “I’m giving you that second chance, hoping you find the things that make life worthwhile. Your friends seem to have helped you with that. And I’m sure your parents would be proud to see you reaching your potential.” “Well they’re dead, doesn’t matter.” “I suspect you haven’t talked about it with anypony since it happened?” “Like it matters.” “Your mother was the zebra, right?” Ephialtes looked stunned and glared back at Nexus. “You’ve been invading my mind?” “Your dreams. Most of them are flash backs. I tried to keep you in a dreamless sleep as I searched them. She was a wonderful woman.” “You keep my family and personal life out of this you bastard.” “I couldn’t find anything about your father though. From what your mother told you, he was a great pony, a soldier.” “You don’t know anything!” “I know you’re a lot like me. Not very many ponies liked you as a child. They teased you and when you did something about it the teachers blamed your father. I know the feeling.” “No, you don’t! You’ll never know! Your father wasn’t a changeling!” The caused Nexus to jump back a little. “Yeah, he was a converted changeling! You happy now? I wish I had never been captured. And I wish you would just drop dead!” “Ephialtes, I’m sorry, but-” With zero warning, a bolt a black lightning shot towards him from Ephialtes. With almost no time to put up his shield, the bolt slammed into Nexus and launching him into a nearby tree. His cap was singed and smoldering as it slid across the ground. “And I’m going to be the one to drop you!” Ephialtes shouted. Nexus stood on his metal hoofs and looked over Ephialtes in the full moon light. His eye color had changed to poison green and light purple aura aluminates from the sides of his eyes. “You are under arrest Ephialtes! Stop now I can keep you from the death penalty.” Nexus said feeling his lightning spell ready to fire. “If Celestia won’t kill you, then I will!” Ephialtes shouted as he charged Nexus. Nexus was faster then Ephialtes and was able to block his first strike. Not wanting to harm him, he turned Ephialtes’ momentum against him and threw him into the three Ephialtes had thrown him into. He howled in pain and shot another black bolt at Nexus. Thankfully, Nexus didn’t have to consciously use his lightning spell, the bolt left his horn and collided with Ephialtes’. The shockwave from the blast shot Nexus and Ephialtes back and bent the trees back around them. Looking down at himself, Nexus saw his left rear leg was heavily damaged from being dragged across the ground. He stood on his now unsteady hoofs as Ephialtes charged him again with rage in his eyes. Nexus ducked beneath him as he attempted to tackle him, but that was what Ephialtes was hoping for. As he sailed over Nexus he did a full front flip and planted his right fore hoof into Nexus’ damaged leg. The force of his kick bent the metal plating and caused the piston inside to explode. The blast propelled Ephialtes up and Nexus forward. Nexus slid to a stop next a stone sitting up out of the ground. He saw his leg was useless, but not wanting to kill Ephialtes or cause any unnecessary damage, he didn’t detach his now useless leg. With all the strength he could muster, he took flight for a brief moment before Ephialtes telekinetically ripped them from his body. An electric shock raced up his spine and to the rest of his limbs. He fell hard next to the stone with a grunt of pain. Before he could stand, Ephialtes was already on top of him. Nexus was pinned. Out of his peripheral vision, he saw the stone shake then morph into a razor sharp spike. “This is the last time you interfere, Lunarus!” Ephialtes said picking Nexus’ head up. As hard as he could, he tired to impale Nexus’ head through the stone stalagmite. Nexus fought furiously to keep from becoming a pony shish kabob. But he wasn’t quite strong enough. His left eye inched closer to the stalagmite until it started piercing his retina. He shouted in protest and pain as his eyes was slowly impaled on the stone spike. Nexus cringed as he summoned a wave of fire. The heat singed his mane and pushed Ephialtes back. Nexus slowly pulled himself free from the death trap without dragging his eye out of its socket. Blood ran down his left cheek and stained his coat as he stood on unsteady hoofs. As best he could, he held his head high and prepared for another attack. “Firebrand was right. You really don’t die do you?” Ephialtes asked. “What’d you just say?” Nexus asked. “You heard me Lunarus. You didn’t think I would forget after only a few months, did you?” “I don’t understand.” “I sense your fear, and I have to say, it’s delicious.” Ephialtes said with a sadistic grin on his face. Nexus was starting to feel light headed. The pain was starting to numb and so was the rest of his body. “You’re weak. Why I ever thought you were a worthy host I’ll never know.” Ephialtes said, walking closer to Nexus. “I don’t care what you are anymore, there’s no way I’m letting you win!” Nexus launched another bolt at Ephialtes and it bounced harmlessly off a shield he hadn’t sensed before. “It matters not Lunarus, you will die here, and I’m glad that it is at the hoofs of somepony you thought you could trust.” Nexus fell to his knees. The pain was gone and his mind was starting to waver. “You’re very stubborn aren’t you? Brain damage, blood loss and a useless eye; it’s impressive that you are even still conscious.” Nexus launched another bolt, this one barely cracking as it left his horn. “And you still have enough strength to use your strongest spell? That’s quite impressive.” Now Nexus had nothing left. He fell to his left side and watched the blurry image of Ephialtes-no this wasn’t Ephialtes. This thing wasn’t the same pony that he had been or could ever become. This thing approached Nexus and placed its hoof on his neck. Everywhere and NowhereEphialtes awoke nowhere. Literally, he was nowhere. He could tell he was in some kind of room. Blank, white walls, floor and sealing with a white mist floating around the room. “Where am I?” Ephialtes asked startled. “Nowhere, everywhere, anywhere.” the voice said again. At his feet the a circle of light began spreading to the corners of the room. Inside the circle, pale blue grass sprouted up and the smell of fresh, post rain air flowed through the room. The circle touched the walls and continued up and out of the room revealing the brilliant night sky and full moon. Atop a distant hill, a lone pony stood starring up at the stars. It blended against the sky and ground well. Ephialtes started moving towards the figure. “This is everything I ever accepted from this world; peaceful, calm, serene.” the voice said. “This isn’t so bad I suppose. I can live in the comfort of her embrace for all eternity here.” The figure on the hill looked down at the ground. The silhouette showed a horn atop its head. “I know I’ll miss the world I helped build, but I guess I don’t have much of a choice now do I, Ephialtes?” the figure looked at Ephialtes as he approached him. The distance seemed to have close in the blink of an eye. It could have been a few moments or a few days, but he was now standing right behind the figure. “What are you? Why did you bring me here?” Ephialtes asked the figure. “Like I said; you are now nowhere, everywhere and anywhere. In truth you haven’t left that clearing, yet you are not there.” the voice said again. Ephialtes was close enough to the figure to see his features. Dark blue coat, black mane and tail with a winged moon cutie mark gave it away instantly. “Commander Nexus?” Ephialtes asked the figure. “You’re more perceptive then you like to let on.” Nexus replied facing Ephialtes now. “Are we-” “Dead? No, not you anyway.” “Wait, you’re dead?” “I wouldn’t expect you to remember. He has that effect if he so wishes to keep his host in the dark.” “Hold on, what do you mean?” Ephialtes said reaching out to Nexus. His hoof passed straight through him and as he withdrew his hoof, he glanced down at his legs. “Nexus, your legs…” “Oh! I guess this is my reward.” “Can somepony please tell me what’s happening right now!?” “Gladly. You see, what had control of you, once had great power, greater then even The Elements of Harmony could defeat. It took the power of Princess Cadence to free me from him and even then he wasn’t defeated. He came back, fueled by what he took from me he tried to retake the Crystal Empire but failed. It seems he’s found a new home in you Ephialtes.” “Who?” “Me.” a deep, sadistic voice said from behind Ephialtes. Ephialtes looked behind him and saw a large, black mist swirling behind him. Ephialtes’ ears dropped and he started to back up slowly. “Wh-Who are you?” Ephialtes said backing up next to Nexus. “Hello again Sombra.” Nexus said glaring at the shadowy mist. With in the mist, Sombra’s red yes appeared. “I have missed you Lunarus. Your pain were divine.” the voice said again. “It’s over Sombra. I’m dead, you got your revenge. I suggest you leave Ephialtes willingly or I will end this.” “Ah, Lunarus, still young, and still so naïve. I tried enlightening you to the world around you, to your new reality, but you still thought you had control over your life.” “Now that your gone, I do. This is your last warning, surrender or die.” Sombra chuckled at Nexus’ spirit. “This is not your battle Lunarus. Shouldn’t we let Ephialtes decide his own fate? After all, you believe in shaping your own destiny.” “I am nothing but a soldier of honor Sombra. And I not only fight for myself, but for the honor of all.” “Then I suppose you’ll both be lost forever. What a shame.” The mist began surrounding them, the beautiful sky enveloped in a cloak of black. Ephialtes started to feel suffocated, he couldn’t see two feet in front of him. Then a light appeared in the shadows, a spark. Nexus stood tall in the swirling shadows his, eyes glowing a pure white and his horn’s aura illuminating everything. And by everything there was nothing around him that wasn’t visible. “You have no power here Sombra. No matter how strong you think fear and anger are, you can never a match for the Element of Honor!” With a brilliant flash of white light, everything around them dissolved. Honor's Last HopeThe world came back in stark focus to Ephialtes. He sat up in the clearing, alone and startled at what he had just witnessed. The corps of Commander Nexus still lay still in the middle clearing. Ephialtes was about to get up and check on him until a deep chuckle caused him to turn away. “He’s dead Ephialtes. At your hoof.” Sombra’s voice called out. Ephialtes turned and saw something he had never accepted; it was him. It was like looking into a mirror. The only glaring difference was the flowing, purple aura emanating from the now green eyes. “This may be hard for you to comprehend, but it seems you’ve given me a new body. I would like to thank you before I send your soul to Tartarus.” Ephialtes’ doppelganger said lowering its horn. Sombra launched a black bolt of lightning at Ephialtes. Ephialtes didn’t know any shield spells, and he would have resigned to giving up; if it hadn’t been for a white bolt of lightning deflecting Sombra’s into a near by tree. “What!? How did you- Lunarus.” “That’s right Sombra.” Nexus’ spirit said stepping out from behind Ephialtes. “What? I thought you were dead?” Ephialtes said staring at the transparent figure in front of him. “I am, but that doesn’t mean you have to fight alone.” Nexus’ spirit replied. “Fight? I can’t fight him!” “He’s right Lunarus. You should accept your fates and lead him to Tartarus.” “You don’t seem to understand the words Element of Honor very well do you? Even in death I fight for Luna and all those that serve her. We are the New Evening Armada! We are born to die, but not before you!” “Still not sure how this helps me win here. No offence.” Ephialtes said. “You don’t, you let your instincts. Armada soldiers were never made, they were born. And you are one of them. Just let your instincts take over and follow your gut.” Nexus vanished and so did his voice. Ephialtes gulped and looked Sombra in the eyes. “His trust is misguided. I know you don’t have it in you to fight me.” Sombra said charging Ephialtes. Ephialtes dropped to the ground and rolled out of the way of Sombra’s charge. Sombra accepted the move and stopped dead in his tracks and attempted to bring his hind legs down on Ephialtes’ head. Ephialtes put up his forelegs and took the blow. Ephialtes rolled to his hoofs and took a stance. “You have skills. But I know everything you do.” Sombra said. “Does this mean this will never end?” “Thankfully no. But I will leave you with a little treat.” Sombra’s horn flashed and he was gone in a swirling mass of black. Though the world was not quiet, the forest was alive with whispers. Some spoke of danger, others soothed him. A deep growl vibrated Ephialtes’ eardrums before a bone chilling roar caused him to nearly jump from his skin. As he turned to locate the source of the sound when a Manticore paw nearly knocked his skeleton from his flesh. His body was thrown like a rag doll to the other side of the clearing by the Manticore. As he stood, battered and weary, more began slowly advancing from the edge of the forest. Ephialtes shut his eyes and felt a jolt of electricity shoot through him and out his horn. The lightning spell came again, but this time sapping a lot more of his energy. He knelt for a moment then saw that one of the Manticores were gone and a pile of golden dust was left. He tried summoning the lightning again, but he didn’t have enough energy. Before he could even think of trying anything else, a spear shot out of the sky and struck the closest Manticore in the leg. The spear arched with power and the Manticore began to convulse before turning into dust. The cavalry. Four Evening Guard Pegasi soldiers landed in front of Ephialtes, lightning lances at the ready. The Manticores exchanged looks then slowly backed away into the darkness of the overhanging trees. Ephialtes couldn’t udder a word of thanks before he was shoved to the ground by Hestaria and a lightning lance shoved in his face. “Tell me why I shouldn’t skewer you right now Ephi!?” the gray Pegasus demanded. “Halt!” a regal voice called out from the sky. Ephialtes looked past Hestaria and into the night sky. Princess Luna, glided down from high above the tree tops and landed behind her guards. “Release him.” she commanded. Hestaria let Ephialtes up but kept a close eye on him. “Please, Ephialtes, step forward.” Ephialtes nervously took a step forward. Before he could take another however, Hestaria stopped him and whispered in his ear. “I’m really happy to see you’re not insane anymore.” “Let him pass, Hestaria.” “Yes, Princess.” She moved out of the way and allowed him to stand face to face with her. Luna’s horn glowed lightly as she looked into his eyes. She sighed and looked back to Nexus. “Lunarus.” she said. “Princess!” a mare shouted in the distance. “Princess!” “Dust, stay back!” Luna shouted back as a light brown Pegasus mare with a black mane swooped down into the clearing. Upon entering the clearing the first thing she saw was Nexus’ battered and bloody body lying still under the moon. “Lunar…Lunar! No, no, no! Get up, please!” she shouted kneeling next to him. “Lieutenant Storm, please, take her back to the castle.” Luna said looking to the Pegasus next to her. “Yes, Your Highness. Come on Dust.” “No, I’m not leaving him!” She continued to shout and struggle as Strom dragged her out of the clearing. “As for you, Ephialtes…” Luna said looking back at him. Ephialtes’ mind was racing a mile a minute. He knew he killed Nexus, well he didn’t know at the time, but he knew that this was more then enough circumstantial evidence to prove he was a changeling. He gulped down a whimper and looked Luna in the eyes. “I didn’t kill him.” Ephialtes said standing tall. “Oh, is that so?” Luna asked. “Yes. I didn’t kill him. I wasn’t in control of my body.” “Then what was?” “Sombra.” Luna seemed very taken back by the statement, but composed herself before continuing. “Sombra was defeated only a few months ago.” “He can’t die. So long as fear and hate still live, so does he.” he wasn’t sure what he was saying anymore, the words were not his own. Even the way he was standing, hoofs together, neck straight. He was standing at attention. Luna’s horn glowed as she looked him over again. “Should I arrest him, Princess?” a guard asked. “No. He speaks the truth.” she said. “No matter how painful the truth is, he is honest. Sombra is still alive and we have to find him.” “What about The Commander?” “He died in battle as he would have wanted.” Ephialtes detected a note of pain and repentance in her voice as she said that. “He was a true hero.” Nexus appeared next to Ephialtes again, this time looking sad. “Don’t look this way, they can’t see me. I’ve done all that I can for you Ephi, it’s time for you to face what has happened alone. You’re free to do whatever you wish. Leave for all I care.” “I want to be head of finding him.” Ephialtes said. Even Nexus’ spirit did a double take when he heard that. “You want to what?” Luna asked. “This is my fault. And I want every chance I can to make it right.” “Princess?” Hestaria said a little afraid. “What if Sombra is still in him?” “He is. As he is within me. There is always apart of him left behind once he is banished.” “Only this time he has a body. He can’t hide forever.” Ephialtes butted in. “And may I try something?” “What would that be?” Luna asked the blood red zebra/pony. “It has to do with Commander Nexus.” “What are you doing, Ephi?” Nexus asked. “As you wish.” Luna said letting Ephialtes walk to Nexus’ lifeless body. He sat down and lowered his horn to Nexus’ chest. “I ended your life, but now I’ll make it up to you.” he said quietly. “What are you-ah!” Nexus’ spirit shouted putting a hoof to his right eye. As he pulled it away, fresh blood trickled down his foreleg and left cheek as his eye started to shut in pain. “What are you doing Ephialtes!?” “Giving you a third chance.” Ephialtes replied as his horn glowed brightly and enveloped Nexus’ body. The metal plates on Nexus’ body reflect the light perfectly, creating a brilliant show as cascades of purple and white created an aurora in the sky above them. A clap of thunder, followed by a bright purple flash enveloped Nexus and a sharp breath shot into his lungs, followed by a blood curdling shout of pain from him. “Lunarus!” Luna shouted in joy and surprise. “You’re okay!” “No!” Nexus shouted back. “I’m not okay, get me a medic now! Celestia be damned, this hurts!” One of the guards shoved Ephialtes out of the way and started treating Nexus’ still bloody eye. “Not my eye, my left hind leg!” “But that’s metal.” “What did you do to me Ephialtes!?” “Resurrection spell. It’s the only one I know. Brings dead tissue back to life.” he said in a matter of fact tone. The field medic waved his horn over Nexus’ leg and Nexus’ pain fueled grunts lessened from the numbing magic. “Then why do I feel like my leg was just now blown off?” he said through his teeth. “It can’t be.” Ephialtes said getting closer. “Can you feel this?” he asked pressing his hoof against Nexus’ right hind leg. “Yes, I could always feel pressure.” “Can you feel anything else?” Nexus was about to say he couldn’t, but then the feeling of a chilled hoof came into focus. “I can feel your cold hoof. I can feel the grass under me. I can feel the medics armored knee in my chest.” The medic re adjusted himself as he continued wrapping gauze around Nexus’ left eye. “You didn’t just bring dead tissue back to life, you brought nonliving tissue to life.” he said amazed. “I did?” Ephialtes helped Nexus stand once the medic was finished and they proceeded to help him back to the Academy. The Start of the Shadow WarThe day of medical leave wasn’t as refreshing as Nexus thought it would have been. No pony was allowed to see him whilst he was under observation and studied closely. Midnight Spangle had come in late at night to help Nexus repair his legs and replace his wings; it wasn’t until the next day that Nexus was able to leave on his own accord. He walked with a dark red unicorn with fiery yellow mane. His cutie mark was, for whatever reason, as a burning musical note. He was dressed in the Celestian Guard Dress Uniform. “You sure you don’t want me walking on your right?” the soldier asked. “You’re fine Brand Fire.” Nexus said looking over to him. “I’m not blind in this eye, the medics just say keep it under wraps until we’re sure there’s no damage left behind.” “So he can heal any wound after death, but can’t grow back your legs?” Firebrand asked looking down at his robotic legs. Nexus chuckled. “It only brings dead tissue back to life. And it can bring any nonliving tissue attached to the body come to life as well.” “So if a rock was laying on you, it would have come to life and shout happy birthday?” The two soldiers laughed and continued walking. “It’s nice to know that the real you isn’t out to kill me.” “The night’s still young.” “Shut it old man.” “So, you going to market the spell, make everypony with a Lunarus Corp. leg feel again?” “No, I can’t. It only works if the wearer is dead. I don’t think that would roll over too well.” “Be a good slogan. “Lunarus Corp. Prosthetic legs! So real, they’re to die for!” “You’re insane.” Nexus said with a smile. “I know, isn’t it great!?” “To most I’m sure. So, Captain, how’s the new promotion treating you?” “Captain of the Guard is pretty laid back, so long as high ranking officers aren’t being choke to death in the middle of the night.” “Shut up.” “So, what now? Sombra’s still out there. It is your jurisdiction.” “Under control. Sergeant E is working on tracking him down.” “The same guy that killed you is now working for you… Tell me that doesn’t sound like a bad idea.” “Says the pony that was kidnapped by a bunch of bugs while going to a strip club.” “Hey! I didn’t see that that mare had fangs until I was already out the doors!” “Sure you didn’t. Ephialtes will be working on that case and I’ll be heading back to my job as Captain of the Guard.” “And that would be…?” “Paperwork and personally guarding Princess Luna.” “Oh! Well that sounds like fun!” he said with a raunchy smile. “Is your mind anywhere but the gutter, Brand Fire?” “I was kidnapped outside the only strip club in Canterlot, what do you think?” “Look, it was nice catching up with you Brand Fire, but I need to check on Sergeant Ephialtes and Sergeant Hestaria.” “You do that. I have an office to finish renovating.” Nexus shrugged and continued down the corridor as Commander Brand Fire teleported back to his office in a column of fire. (never understood his fetish with that) He was a floor below his and Luna’s rooms in the Tower of the Moon. He pulled his string with Luna and got Ephialtes and Hestaria a room in the tower, saying it would help them get more work done tracking Sombra down. Luna probably would have agreed without that part, but it didn’t hurt. Nexus could hear muffled orchestra music as he approached the door. “Hey,” Nexus said opening the door. “How are you two-” Nexus stopped when he saw Hestaria laying across their couch with her nether regions covered by thin white sheets and a mango in her teeth. Ephialtes sat in front of a canvas with a pencil hovering next to him looking as though he had been caught steeling. “I’ll…just leave you to drawl her like one of your French girls.” Nexus said leaving, his face redder then the twilight sky. He shook his head and trudged back up to his room. The door opened on its own and A.L.I.S. came on over his intercom. "Welcome home, Commander Nexus. I trust your recovery is going well?" “I’ll be set in a few months. Just shut everything down and open the sky light. I want to sleep under the stars tonight.” As you wish, Commander Nexus. How would you like the temperature? “Outside. I want it to be cold in here.” Nexus climbed the stairs and climbed into the king sized bed with navy blue sheets. He slid under the sheets and watched as the skylight opened. Nexus sighed as he looked through his good eye into the cascading wall of stars. The moon was hanging to the east, towards the head of the bed. He put his hoofs down to his sides and dug his head in his into his pillow. His ears folded to his head as he began drifting from the physical world into his subconscious. In the shadows, an unseen observer walked into the room and waited at the edge of the shadow created by the skylight. The figure opened her wings and gently hovered over Nexus as he slept. The figure landed just on top of Nexus and gently laid itself down on his chest. Nexus didn’t budge, his ears didn’t even move. The figure giggled and opened its right wing. It leaned in lightly and started flicking the last feather on its wing on Nexus’ nose. Nexus cringed lightly and his nose twitched as the giggling from the figure grew more prominent. Nexus grunted in annoyance and tried slapping whatever was on his nose away, only to hit himself. He let out a low ‘ow’ and opened his good eye. The silhouette above him was unmistakable to him. “If it were anypony else did that I would have filled them with voltage by now, Dust.” Nexus said smiling at the figure laying on top of him. “That’s for not coming to see me after you were released.” Dust Storm told him pulling her wing back. “What do I get for being with you now?” “This.” Dust leaned forward and placed her lips to his. Nexus let out a sigh as he put his forelegs around her. Dust nearly shot back from the feeling. “Lunar, they’re warm.” “I know.” “How?” “I honestly would need a day to explain. But I know you’ll never feel that chill ever again.” “But…never mind, what matters is I have you back. I love you Lunarus.” “You have no idea how happy I am to hear you say that Dust.” “What do you mean?” she said sitting up straight. “It’s just, sometimes, I look at these, things, and feel as though I’m, somehow, less of a man because of them.” Dust smiled and leaned back down to Nexus. “Then let me show you how much of a man you really are.” “I love you Dust.” “I love you too Lunar.” Dust kissed Nexus deeply again and slid under the sheets with him. The moon rose high over Equestria as another long night set in across the land. Nexus was home and Ephialtes was acquitted. But the fight isn’t over yet. Deep in the mountains to the far east, Ephialtes’ doppelganger hides in the shadows; growing stronger with each passing day. Nexus and Ephialtes alone couldn’t kill him; and now that he grows stronger, what is to become of the world? Second Chance Turns to New Problems.The forest was quiet as an odd looking stallion wandered through the massive expanse of trees. The stainless steel plating that were his legs glistened in the full moon along with his silver wings. Neither the metal plates on his chest and back covered his cutie mark. His jet black mane was hardly visible in the night and his dark blue coat blended in with the grass at his metallic hooves. At first glance, most think he’s a Pegasus that fell victim to unfortunate incidences’ that handed him a full set of Lunarus Industries Mechanical Legs and wings, then they see his horn. He was naturally a unicorn, but he needed more options in his line of work as head of the Evening Guard. He wasn’t a patient that received the Lunarus’ products, he was Lunarus Nexus. Nexus stopped in a clearing and looked up to the starry sky that went on forever. He let out a sigh as a shriek pierced the silence like a knife. Nexus didn’t react quickly, he had been waiting for it. Looking in the direction of the loud call, he saw a beautiful, black bird. Its wings emanated a purple and blue mist that sparkled like Princess Luna’s mane. It was a Nightmare Phoenix, his Nightmare Phoenix. “There you are Raven Wing.” he said trotting up to the majestic creature. “I know you love flying as much as I do, but you can just ask me to let you out instead of melting the glass in our room.” before turning into a scroll with a strange seal on the band. Raising an eyebrow, Nexus The Phoenix squawked and then let out a blue ball of flame. The flames swirled and a scroll appeared as they vanished. Nexus wrapped it in a telekinetic field and unrolled it in front of him. “Captain Lunarus Solaris Nexus,” he read aloud. “I hope this letter hasn’t come to you at an inconvenient time, but this had to be sent. Due to unforeseen circumstances, I am being forced to reign as Captain of the Royal Guard and all positions I held in Canterlot. Though my replacement is capable, he has chosen to reign his place at the training academy. I know you do not wish to remain there long, and a replacement for me there is in the process of being appointed, but I wish for you to hold down the fort until that pony is chosen. I thank you for your help Captain. Sincerely: Commanding General Shining Armor of the Crystal Empire. Now that‘s a mouth full.” Nexus shook his head and levitated the letter back to Raven Wing. “If you would be kind enough to hold on to this for me until we get back?” he asked the bird. Raven Wing squawked and lit the page with blue fire before it vanished. “Thanks buddy. Let’s get back before Luna hits us both with the Canterlot voice. My ears are still ringing from the last time.” he said spreading his fake wings. Raven Wing took off first and Nexus followed. “By the way,” Nexus added. “How did Commander Armor find you exactly?” The Phoenix squawked mockingly and flew ahead of Nexus toward Canterlot. The next morning, Commander Nexus was walking along side Princess Luna through the gardens. Since the affair with Commander Firebrand’s imposter four months ago, Nexus had become her personal protégé in dark magic alongside his duty as her guard. He loved his job, he had even met a nice mare a month ago, but now he wasn’t sure if he had to quit what he loved to do, even for a moment. “This is a great opportunity Lunarus.” Luna said to him as Raven Wing swooped down on to Nexus’ back. “You could get to know more of your fellow soldiers.” “I know Luna, I just like it here. It’s like a little foul being forced to move. All of my friends, including you, are here and I’m still not sure I’m up to the task. Raven Wing, perch!” The Nightmare Phoenix took off and landed on top of the statue of Nexus in the center of the garden next to Luna. “I still think you should take the job. After all, you’re the pony who’s special talent includes military strategy.” Nexus groaned knowing she was right. If anypony was qualified to teach ponies unorthodox combat, it was him. Begrudgingly, Nexus nodded. “I’ll need somepony to replace me while I’m gone.” he said. “I’m sure Lieutenant Storm Cloud can cover for you until a replacement for Shining Armor is chosen.” “And I want Dust Storm to come with me.” “Oh?” Luna said with a sly smile. “Why did I just say that?!” he thought to himself. “And why is that?” Luna continued. “Sh-she knows how I like my living quarters to be and she is the only other pony that knows how to work A.L.I.S.” “Of course.” she responded with a smile. She knew his rules, and one of them was never date a co-worker (or someone that you know you’ll see everyday). Dust Storm was the maid that was assigned to his room just after the Changeling incident. He knew two things, Luna was the one that had her assigned and that she would never let him live it down. Even Raven Wing seemed to be laughing at him from atop his own statue. “I shall have her accompany you to the Canterlot Military Academy.” she said holding back a laugh. “Wh-What’s so funny Luna?” “Oh, *giggle* nothing. I hope you have a safe trip. Take the day off before you go.” “I can’t. I have a lot to do princess.” “Then work on another one of your side projects until you leave. I insist Lunarus.” “Ugh, fine. Only for you Luna.” Luna smiled before leaving Nexus alone in the gardens. Nexus grunted in annoyance before whistling for Raven Wing. The powerful Nightmare Phoenix only glided onto his back from the statue. “If you laugh at me like that again, I’ll cook you into a roast.” he threatened. The phoenix only squawked back at him as he walked back in to the castle. His quarters were next to Luna’s. They were once used only for VIP visitors. But since most stayed in the rooms next to Celestia, that left Nexus with a free room and board. It was a large room with a bedroom that spanned the length of all the rooms bellow it, a living room, kitchen and a luxury bath, complete with a Jacuzzi, sauna, and walk-in shower. There were two, walk in closets. One for Nexus, one for whomever else might need the storage space. Nexus didn’t have to open the door, a light brown Pegasus maid was on her way out. Her feather duster cutie mark was hidden under the uniform and her long brown mane tied back in a pony tail. She smiles at Nexus and moves aside, letting him in. “Nice to see you again Captain.” she says as he walks past. “Same to you Dust.” he replies with a light smile looking into her light blue eyes. “A.L.I.S.? You online or what?” The door shut behind him with Dust Storm still in the room. Yes. Welcome home Commander. Shall I change your legs? an electronic mare’s voice said through the loudspeaker over the door. “Casual, I’ve got the day off. And pack my uniform, formal set and other essentials please.” Yes Commander. Shall I pack a bag for Miss Storm as well? “Yes.” “Where are we going?” Dust Storm asked as several robotic arms jutted out of the wall panels. They attached to Nexus’ legs. He didn’t seem to notice as a vibration detached his hind legs form the stubs that had been left. As the first set was taken away, a new set were brought from the wall and were attached where the old ones had once been. His forelegs were a little harder. Another pair of mechanical arms came from the wall tipped with heads that would fit over the elbow joint on the forelegs. With a quick hiss, the forelegs separated from the contact plate and the new set were put in place. The new set of legs looked like any other ponies legs, save for the articulation points at the knees and hoof. The material was similar to his coat in both texture and color. The arms retracted back into the wall and the panels closed up. Nexus shook his legs a bit before walking into the living room. “Where are we going?” Dust asked. “We’re going to the Canterlot Military Academy. They need a replacement for Captain Armor, and I’m the temporary fill.” he said laying down onto the couch. “And I have to go why?” Dust asked laying down next to him. “Because I know how you get when I go somewhere and you don’t get invited.” Dust sighed and nuzzled Nexus’ neck. Nexus leaned closer to her. “You know I wouldn’t dream of going anywhere without you.” “I know. What would you do without me?” “Yeah, who else knows how I like my legs ironed?” I feel left out, Commander. A.L.I.S. said. “Don’t get your circuits in a binding A.L.I.S.. You’re going to. Download yourself into my HUD tonight.” Yes Commander. “So… what do you have planned for the day?” Dust asked. “I was thinking dinner later tonight, but I still have a whole day to tie up some lose ends.” “What lose ends?” “Well, I did promise Smoke n’ Mirrors and Lea I would have lunch with them when I had a day off.” “Oh, I haven’t seem them since their wedding! How’ve they been?” “Well, Mirrors found a job that he could actually hold down.” “So better then last week?” “Pretty much.” Dust giggled and leaned in to kissed Nexus’ cheek. She moved a little closer and felt her skin touch his contact plate. She cringed at the ice cold steel against her. Nexus noticed and sighed annoyed. “I told you to avoid touching my plates until I can get the new design finished.” “Lunar, you’ve been working on that thing for weeks and still haven’t found the right spell to make it work.” “I just need something that creates feeling. I can feel pressure with this model, just not texture or temperature.” Dust sighed. “I’ll send a letter to Lea to let her know about lunch.” Nexus watcher her get up and go to Raven Wing. He sighed as well and left to the bedroom to make sure everything was being packed. The Cookie Cutter Café, great place for a scone, cookie and was also the only place in Canterlot that had a sandwich with meat in it. The outdoor seating was packed in the cool autumn air of the early afternoon. Even in his casual set, ponies still slowed down to make sure they were seeing him correctly. Dust and Nexus sat opposite Mirrors and Lea at the furthest table from the café. “So, how’ve you been Metal Head?” Mirrors asked. “Better then you if you call me that again.” Nexus said with a cocky grin. “How long have you two been going out?” Lea asked. “Only a month.” “Only a month?!” Dust exclaimed. “Most relationships don’t last past two weeks in this day and age, Lunar.” “I know Dusty. But looking at the time, it isn’t a long time.” Lea shook her head with Dust and giggled. “Stallions.” Dust said to Lea. “Tell me about it.” “Hey!” “Best thing a mare ever said to you.” Nexus added with a smile. “That’s totally not true.” “Let’s see, if memory serves; one called you a sick bastard, another called you shit head. Oh, and my personal favorite, Smoke n’ Li’le-” “Okay!” he interrupted. “So it’s not the worst thing I’ve been called.” Everyone at the table laughed. “Anyways, enough about me. How’ve you two been the last three weeks?” “Um, I think I need to use the little mares room. Dust would you like to come with?” “Sure, be back in a second.” Dust said kissing Nexus on the cheek. The two of them walked into the café leaving the two old friends alone. “So, you want to go first?” Mirrors asked. “If you’re going where I think you’re going, then I’ve got nothing to tell.” “Yeah, sure yah don’t. I’ll take that as permission to go first.” “By all means. Luna only knows how much I’ve wanted to hear of your sexual exploits.” Nexus replied sarcastically rolling his eyes. “I thought so. So the honey moon was glorious! We went to Las Pegasus and-” “Captain.” a dark gray Pegasus with a white mane and lightning cloud cutie mark called out as he landed in the open section of the café. “Storm. Shouldn’t you be protecting the princess?” Nexus said glaring at him. “Scheduled lunch hour. And when I heard that the most dedicated pony in the guard was taking a day off, I had to see it for myself.” “Well, you’re kind of interrupting lunch.” Smoke n’ Mirrors said. “Well, unfortunately for Captain Nexus, duty calls.” “What happened to lunch hour?” “That was just-” “A front?” “Yeah.” “Fine.” Nexus said with a sigh as he stood. “What is it?” “You’re needed in the dungeon.” “Why?” “Wouldn’t say. Just said the only pony that they needed was you.” “Sorry Smokey. Tell Dust where I went when she and Lea get back.” “It’s cool Nexus. I’ll send you a letter.” “Same.” Nexus spread his wings and took off from the café with Storm Cloud in tow. “I ever tell you, you got an impeccable sense of timing?” Nexus asked as they soared towards the castle. “No.” “Well now you know.” ResignedThe door to Nexus’ office opened a few minutes after “welcoming” the new recruits to the academy. Nexus groaned as he entered his office. Dust Storm was there setting photos on his desk when he walked in. She looked up at him as he removed his helmet and hung it on the coat rack. “So, it sounds like the prisoner is taking authority well.” Dust said sarcastically. “Your Canterlot voice is getting better.” “Thanks Dusty.” Nexus said kissing her cheek. “I think it still needs some work.” “What do you plan on doing about him?” “I have a fair idea.” After the long orientation, involving running, and several hour classes on combat strategy, the Sergeant was leading him down a massive hall in the center of the main building of the academy. He was sure Commander Nexus was about to chew him out again. The Sergeant told him to wait outside the office. The letters on the glass had been scratched off but he could still read what had once been there. Capt. Shining Armor Captain of the Guard Ephialtes rolled his eyes and waited patiently for the door to open again. Once inside the Sergeant left and shut the door behind him. Commander Nexus only looked up at him from the paperwork he was working on for a moment before returning to it, ignoring Ephialtes. Ephialtes sighed. He stood up straight and put his right hoof up to his brow. “Sir!” he shouted. “At ease.” Nexus said now looking up from his papers. “I see you’re learning how things work around here.” “Albeit unwillingly.” “You should also know that whether I say “at ease” or not, you don’t speak unless I say so. Got it?” “Ye-Sir yes Sir!” “Good. Now, from what Sergeant Clover has told me, you are in great shape, have trouble with authority and enjoys smart ass comments to anyone that listens. Any sane Commander would boot you right now. You wanna know what I’m thinking?” “Sir, no Sir.” “As you know, there is more then one guard faction. And I’m head of one of them. Do you know where we get our soldiers Private?” “Sir, no Sir.” “We pull the best of the best. And guess what, none of those stuck ups you were standing with a few hours ago didn’t make my cut. Do you know why?” “Sir, no Sir.” “Because they aren’t asking questions. Your question is “why am I here?”. Well, you’re here to get your ass out of trouble. Like it or not being apart of the crowd isn’t going to help you. Get to the Lunar building tomorrow morning at 0300.” “Anything else?” Commander Nexus glared up at Ephialtes for a moment before he added a sir to the end of that . “Yes. Return to your barracks before curfew and be ready at 0300.” “Yes, Sir!” “As you were.” The Death of HonorFrom high above the trees, Hestaria flew towards the bright flashes of light and loud explosions emanating from the trees. She could feel something strange in the air; a static charge and a heavy weight pressed into her like needles. The flashes were getting closer but dimmer as she approached the clearing. As the center of the clearing came into view, she was horrified by the sight. Ephialtes standing over Commander Nexus laying in a pool of his own blood. “Ephi! What are you doing!?” Hestaria shouted as she landed behind him. Ephialtes turned and smirked at Hestaria. “What I should have done the minute I met him.” Nexus groaned and a flash of light shot from his horn. Ephialtes shouted in anger and stopped his hoof down onto Nexus’ throat. He gasped, trying to shout through Ephialtes’ hoof crushing his windpipe. He barely struggled as Ephialtes pressed his hoof down harder. His right eye was nearly closed as his continued to try and pull in another breath. After a few agonizing seconds, his metallic limbs went limp in a clatter of metal. His right eye still half open and blank, starring back at Ephialtes. Ephialtes released Nexus from his hold and his final breath escaped his mouth. Ephialtes turned again to Hestaria with a sick, sadistic smile spread across his face. “Are you afraid Hestaria?” Ephialtes asked with great pleasure in his voice. “I can taste your fear, and it’s delicious.” His horn glowed black and he threw Hestaria against the closest tree. He slowly approached her showing his teeth as shadows started swirling around to his right. “Lunarus’ death was long and painful, I won’t give you the same luxury of wasting my time.” With in the shadows a blade of ice formed. As he reached Hestaria, he put the ice dagger to her throat. “What are you doing?” a voice asked. Ephialtes hesitated and turned around to find the source. All he saw was Nexus’ beaten and bloody body laying in the middle of the clearing. “This isn’t you Ephialtes. You know it isn’t you. This is one of your friends after all.” Ephialtes started scanning the edge of the clearing looking for the source of the voice. “I think we need to have a little talk.” There was a flash of light and Ephialtes fell to the forest floor unconscious. Hestaria fell from the tree and the ice dagger shattered against its roots. She quickly ran to Ephialtes and knelt at his side. “Ephi! Are you okay!? Wait here, I’ll get help!” she said franticly before flying back towards Canterlot.
EphialtesThe dungeon hadn’t changed a bit since he had been there last. Same dank, dark atmosphere, same cobblestone floors, walls and ceiling and even the same moldy smell. They weren’t taking him to the regular level, they were taking him down to death row. Memories flash through his mind of what he use to be, the thing that he hated so much, the thing that drove him away from his morals. As they pass through the massive metal door Nexus nearly fell forward at what was sitting in the middle cell. The first thing he noticed were the stallion’s eyes. The purple-blue, serpent-like eyes. His black mane was caked with dirt, and his tail looked like three scythe blades. His ears were curved and pointed like a zebra and that wasn’t the only thing; black stripes cover his blood red coat and bloody bandages wrapped around all four of his knees. Where the cutie mark should have been was a Saddle Arabian symbol, common amongst zebras. He even had the black muzzle of a zebra. The zebra/pony looked to only be about a year or so younger then he was. But what really boggled his mind, he was a unicorn. His horn stuck out from under his mangy black mane. Nexus looked over to the other guard, Phalanx, and lowered his voice. “What is he being charged with?” “We suspect he’s a changeling. Not a very good one, might be the reason he isn’t with the rest of the herd.” Nexus’ horn emitted a light glow as he looked back over at the pony/zebra hybrid. What he had been accepting to feel was a natural field of magic around him, but there was none to speak of. He wasn’t even using his horn to try and break his restraints. The glow vanished and he turned back to Phalanx. “Give me a minute alone with him.” he said. “Are you sure Captain? He seriously injured two guards.” “Were they Lunar Guard?” “N-No, Sir.” “Then it isn’t in my jurisdiction to be concerned.” “Your funeral, Sir.” Phalanx took Storm Cloud back into the hall, closing the massive door behind him. “So.” Nexus said walking towards the iron bars at the front of the cell. “Does the accused have a name?” The zebra-pony just stared at him with an angry stare. “Oh, come on. Everything has a name.” “My name is Ephialtes (ef-feel-tiss).” the zebra-pony finally said with a smooth, deep voice. “F-what now?” “Ephialtes.” “Okay, Ephialtes, what were you doing when you were arrested.” “I was looking for the Ponyville library.” “And?” “And some bubble gum colored chick with a cotton candy mane screamed, ‘Omi gosh, it’s a changeling! Everypony run!’” “Well that wasn’t very nice now wasn’t it?” “No, no it wasn’t.” “Where ya from?” “Haystead Swamps.” “That’s awful close to dragon territory.” “Yeah it is.” “There’s also no settlements anywhere near there.” “Not anymore there aren’t.” “And why’s that?” “Because it was wiped out during the last Great Dragon Migration. They pillaged my village and burned it until it was ashes.” “Where there any survivors?” “No, I’m the only one that I found.” “And why should I believe you?” “What does it matter if you do?” “’Cause I can help you get out of here.” “How’s that?” “You’re not going to like it, but it’s better then the gallows.” “What is it?” The early morning air chilled what little skin Nexus had exposed. He had a few books, a packet of personnel files and several design blueprints he had been tweaking settled in his saddle bags. He wore his usual set of legs he wore on the job and a pair of blue, reflective sunglasses on his forehead. The arms of the sunglasses had ear buds curving up into his ears. Nexus walked alone down a residential street in the west side of Canterlot. A small, two story house at the top of a cul-de-sac was his destination. The unassuming house had white siding and black shudders. Nexus smiled as he approached the front door. It only took a minute after he knocked before a dark blue unicorn with a black and gray mane answered the door. Her typewriter cutie mark was covered by a brown dress. “Lunarus!” she said ecstatic. “Good morning Mom.” Nexus replied with a smile. “Oh, it’s so good to see you again!” his mother responded wrapping her forelegs around Nexus’ neck. “Who’s there Molly?” a stallion called out from the living room. His coat was black and his gray mane was neatly combed to cover the bald spot on the back of his head. His half moon cutie mark was partially covered by a dress shirt. Once his dark blue eyes fell on Nexus, he lit up. “Son! Haven’t seen you since your friends wedding.” “I know, sorry I haven’t been able to come and see you guys more often. Mom, could you let go please?” “Oh,” she gasped letting go of her son. “sorry. Like you said you haven’t been by in a while.” “Are you two going somewhere?” “Your cosine Midnight is getting married at noon in Ponyville. And knowing your father, he’s going to make us late.” “Hey, I don’t do anything half assed.” He said in his usual snarky tone. “Not doing anything half assed. Made you late for our wedding.” Nexus chuckled and took a seat in the living room. “Well that’s good. Give the blushing bride my congratulations. I can’t stay long though.” “Why, where are you off to?” Nexus’ father asked. “The Canterlot Military Academy. They need a temporary replacement there to oversee all the new trainees.” “How long is temporary?” Molly asked. “I have no idea. Could be a few hours, or a few years.” “Well, I hope everything goes well. Molly, could you help me with this bowtie?” “Sure, Burney.” Mom said rolling her eyes. Molly’s horn started glowing and the tie hanging untied around his neck stared tying itself. That would be a useful spell. “Go get your jacket honey, we’re running late as it is.” “Okay Meter.” Commander. Were also starting to run behind. A.L.I.S. told him inside the ear bud. “I’ll wrap it up A.L.I.S., calm your circuits.” “Alice? Who’s Alice?” “Not Alice, A.L.I.S.. A-L-I-S. Stands for Artificial Logistics & Intelligence Systems.” “And, where is, A.L.I.S..” “She’s talking to me through the ear bud. I’m running fashionably late.” “Oh, well have a safe trip son. And it was so nice to just see you again.” “You too Mom. See ya dad!” he shouted up the stairs before going out the door. “Bye son!” he shouted back. Nexus waved back to his mother as she shut the door behind him. Nexus felt a strange wave of dejavu pass over him as he walked down the to the end of the cul-de-sac. The wind whipped across his face as he approached the bar that kept both earth ponies and unicorns from falling over its edge. Commander. I have the weather around Canterlot Mountain for you. A.L.I.S. informed. “Put it on the H.U.D. (Heads Up Display).” Nexus said pulling the sunglasses over his eyes. The lenses of the sunglasses came to life with light green lines and numbers. Temperature: 73 degrees. Light cloud cover across central Equestria. Humidity: 42%. Wind speed/direction: 5mph from the northwest. “Thank you. Where’s my airspeed indicator?” On screen, Commander. ETA to the bottom of the mountain, two minutes if done safely. “Yeah, we’re not going to follow the beaten path.” Of cores, Sir. What was I thinking? Nexus spread his wings as he stood at the edge of Canterlot. Looking down, the lines of his artificial horizon scrolled up as he looked down. With a deep breath, Nexus leapt over the rail and began to fall towards the forest bellow. The wind whipped past his ears and the airspeed counter climbed quickly past 200mph. Half way down the mountain, he fully extended his wings and pulled back. He had only made it halfway down the mountain before he leveled off. Nexus banked hard to the left and flew close to the face of the mountain. He was only ten feet from the face of the mountain. The rocks along its face rushed by with the wind shrieking in his ears like a phoenix. Wait. He looked over his right shoulder and saw waves of dark blue and black cascading right over his shoulders. Raven Wing had a knack for knowing when Nexus was going for a flight. Nexus snickered and flapped his wings a few times to pick up speed. As the two of them came around the southern face of the mountain, the waterfall coming from Canterlot came into view. Nexus started flapping his wings faster, picking up more speed. His air speed indicator passed 350mph as the roar of the falls came through the whistling of the wind. As he came closer, Raven Wing pulled back a few yards. The waterfall was right on top of him now. The spray washed over him as his left wing sliced though the surface of the cascading water. If he was a normal Pegasus, he would have Dutch Rolled into the water and fallen several thousand feet to his death. His mechanical wings were twice as strong as normal but were also twice as heavy. As he passed the waterfall, Raven Wing came line abreast on Nexus’ right wing as he slowed back to 250mph. Nexus came around the east side of the mountain, Nexus looked back over his shoulder and smiled at Raven Wing. “Follow this!” Nexus shouted. While still flying close to the face of the mountain, Nexus rolled right until he was upside down and dove along face of the mountain. The airspeed indicator rose past 600, then 700 as he flapped his wings harder. There was a loud, low boom as he broke the sound beerier. Knowing if he didn’t slowdown now he would be going straight through to Tartarus. He fully extended his wings and let the air catch the artificial feathers. The frame extended small metal blades to increase the surface area that was catching the air as he pulled back. The airspeed indicator had already passed bellow 300 he pulled up next to the railroad as the train came out of the tunnel. He passed the train relatively easily. In the far back however, a strange looking passenger as under lock and key in the caboose. Ephialtes sat in the back right corner of the train car with eight Lunar Guards starring right at him. His purple-blue, serpent eyes cautiously passed over the passengers seated in the car with him. “I still don’t understand why The Commander is giving you this chance.” one of them said. “You should know better then to question The Commander by now. He’s never been wrong about recommendations.” “Oh really?” Ephialtes said chiming in. “No one’s talking to you.” the first guard said. “Last I checked, you said, while looking me right in the face; I still don’t understand why The Commander is giving you this chance.” “Shut up!” “Just saying.” “Yeah, The Commander always has something to say about somepony. Usually it’s advice. And his advice is always worth taking.” the guard next to the one that started this butted in. “Is it now?” “Always.” “So he’s never given bad advice?” “Nope. Some ponies think he can read minds, but that’s dark magic. I know his specialty is dark magic, but that’s too dark.” “I don’t know. Have you heard what he did to Captain Storm Cloud last April Fools Day?” the guard next to Ephialtes said. “No, what?” “Storm said that he had a nightmare about his grandmother.” “What was she doing?” “Cloud kind of just gags when he tries to tell anypony.” “Then I don’t wanna know.” “Heard he didn’t talk to The Commander for a week after that.” “Sounds like fun.” Ephialtes said sarcastically. “Hey! You better feel privileged that The Commander is sticking his neck out for you!” the first guard snapped back. “Why do you people keep calling him the Commander? Why not just his name?” “He runs a tight shift around here buddy. We all call him The Commander because he told us to.” “Anything else I should know?” “Yeah. You see him in uniform, you better be standing at attention and calling him Sir.” “And why’s that?” “I think it’s better if you find out for yourself.” The breaks squealed as the train pulled into the station. “Get up. Time to get to the academy.”
Greatest First Day EverAfter the train unloaded its passengers, Ephialtes was lead into an armored, horse drawn carriage and for a very long ride down an unpaved road. Once the carriage stopped, a Celestian Guard telekinetically yanked him from the back and started pushing him through a set of massive gates. The sign on the brick archway had the Celestian Guard seal. On the seal, the name of the establishment was printed in gold. Canterlot military academy May Celestia guide thee to glory. Ephialtes groaned as he was lead through the massive iron gates. He was quickly shoved into a corridor with eight other ponies: Six stallions; two unicorns, one earth pony and three Pegasi; and two mares, both Pegasi. He didn’t care to learn anymore, whether from observation or otherwise. “Follow this line and do as your told.” the guard said. Ephialtes didn’t reply. He fell in with the line of eight ponies, all older and stronger. Even the two mares in the line looked more muscular than him. An old stallion in Celestia’s golden armor stepped out in front of them and looked them all over. “Okay kiddies! Forward march!” he shouted as he lead them from the corridor they were in to a massive courtyard. Ponies of all colors and types were milling about in the courtyard. Pegasi flew obstacle courses more complex than the ones in the Wonderbolt Academy. “Company, halt!” the old stallion shouted again. Everypony in front of Ephialtes stopped. He bumped into the largest unicorn in the bunch. “Hey! Watch it runt!” he shouted looking back at him. “Ten-Hut!” the guard shouted. All but Ephialtes stood up straight and locked their eyes forward. “Left, face!” All in the line turned ninety degrees to the left and stayed in attention. Ephialtes stood lose and continued looking around. He looked forward long enough to see another white stallion in Celestian Guard Armor walking towards him. To his right, the cyberpony he had met in the dungeon in the castle. With nothing else to go on, he assumed he was The Commander. He was in a strange set of armor. It didn’t look like Celestian Guard armor. For one it wasn’t golden, it was navy blue iron and it tapered to very sharp edges. He only wore a chest plate and helmet, his legs had been changed to match the armor. The metal they were plated in looked stronger then the material the set he had seen him in before. He even had boots built into the hoofs. And he did not look happy. “Salute!” the guard next to The Commander shouted. Everypony but Ephialtes put their right hoof to their brow and (if at all possible) stood straighter. The Commander looked straight at Ephialtes and knit his brow. “These are the best of the best?” The Commander asked the pony next to him. “Yes Sir!” “Sound off!” The Commander shouted. “Sir, Private Gear Shaft, Sir!” the white unicorn shouted. “Sir, Private Shockwave, Sir!” the gray Pegasus stallion shouted. “Sir, Private Wildflower, Sir!” the dark green mare shouted “Sir, Private Livewire, Sir” the pale blue unicorn shouted. “Sir, Private Sea Spray, Sir.” the earth pony shouted. “Sir, Private Night Wind, Sir!” the black stallion Pegasus shouted. “Sir, Private Ice Wind, Sir!” the light blue mare shouted. “Sir, Private Light Wave, Sir!” the sunflower yellow winged stallion shouted. The Commander glared at Ephialtes. “Private Ephialtes!” he shouted louder then the soldiers. “Did you not hear me!?” The Commander walked straight up to Ephialtes with his horn glowing. “I SAID, DID YOU HEAR ME, PRIVATE EPHIALTES!?” The Commander’s voice had gained such force when he spoke that not only did everypony in the line jump, but were pushed back a few inches. “Yeah, I heard you.” Ephialtes said annoyed. The Commander didn’t seem to take to kindly to that response. With lightning fast, smooth movements, The Commander dropped low and swung his hind legs in a wide sweeping motion, knocking all four of Ephialtes’ legs out from under him. As Ephialtes fell, The Commander reversed direction and closthslined Ephialtes with his left foreleg. As The Commander continued to rotate his body, he brought Ephialtes with him and locked his left foreleg around Ephialtes’ neck. As the two fell to the ground in a struggling heap, The Commander pulled his left foreleg towards him with his right and locked Ephialtes in his grip. “I’m sure you talked to my soldiers on the train ride here. And I’m sure they gave you a synopsis of my expectations of all soldiers. Am I right private?” The Commander said holding Ephialtes in his grip. “Yes.” Ephialtes wheezed. “I’m sorry, I can’t hear you.” “Sir, yes Sir!” Ephialtes tried to shout. With a sigh, The Commander released Ephialtes and allowed him to stand. The Commander stands as well and looks him back over. “Sergeant, take it from here. And have Private Ephialtes report to my office after orientation.” “Yes Commander Nexus.” the Guard said, “Okay kiddies, listen up!” Ephialtes tuned out what the Sergeant was telling them, he only watched as Commander Nexus spread his silver wings and take off.
Another First Day Part IThe moon was still hanging high in the sky as Ephialtes approached the brick Lunar building. His eyes lids were heavy. It was 0303. Maybe Commander Nexus would see he wasn’t ready and would kick him right after. The building itself looked like it was a modified gymnasium or roofed stadium from a high school. As Ephialtes made his way through the double doors he was stunned to find it was a gymnasium. Polished wooden floors and even bleachers off to the sides. On the floors there were four long tables lined up in two rows with three packs set on them. From first count, he could only see ten ponies in the room; one being Commander Nexus standing at the front of the desks. “Nice of you to finally join us Private. Please, take a seat.” Commander Nexus said motioning towards the desks. With great hesitation, Ephialtes approached the tables and sat down at the far right corner. “Now we can begin.” Nexus began. “I would like to be the first to welcome all of you to the first day of training for the Evening Guard. I am Commander Nexus, and will address me as such. Is that clear?” “Yes, Sir Commander Nexus, Sir!” all but Ephialtes shouted. “Good. Now this isn’t going to be anything like what they told you in orientation. In fact, forget everything that the teachers have told you. From this day on, you all will be trained to counter anything that is thrown at you. Form every counter spell you can learn to how to work your equipment. Unlike the Celestian Guard, we have weapons, ranging from the lightning lance, to the standard issue Iron Icarus Mk. III that are sitting in front of you.” It wasn’t until now that Ephialtes looked around at the other ponies that were around him. Three Earth ponies, three unicorns and three Pegasi. All dark colored accept for one that was white and one Pegasus with bat wings? “For all but three of you, this will be your main piece of equipment. You will learn how to take every little component out of that pack and put it back together backwards. And that is after a ten mile run. For the unicorns here, I will be teaching you spells you’ve never even heard of; spells that no soldier will be able to counter. You will learn to bring out a ponies greatest fears and have hoofs as deadly as your horn. And that last part goes for all of you. Is that clear?” “Yes, Sir, Commander Nexus Sir!” “Good. You will all report here at the same time every day for the next two months. In the top flap of the Iron Icarus, there is a schematic of it. You will learn it and will also be ready to use it by the time. Now, line up five by five at the doors and wait for my go. Ten miles is a long run!” “Yes Sir, Commander Nexus, Sir!” Ephialtes stood and walked to the doors with everypony else. Nexus wasn’t kidding either. They were the hardest ten miles of his life. Nexus was on his case the entire run. It took more then two hours to run the full perimeter of the main campus twice. The moon was just starting to dip behind the trees when they returned to the Lunar Building. The Iron Icarus’ were still lying where they had been left. Ephialtes could barely lift his tools, either with his telekinesis or even his teeth. Every other pony was having similar problems. And with Commander Nexus prowling around the floor shouting about how they were doing it wrong made it harder for him to concentrate. The manual wasn’t a load of help either. On top of being practically being in Saddle Arabian, and the incredibly complicated diagrams made it even more impossible to understand. At dawn, Commander Nexus herded Ephialtes with the other six ponies that weren’t Pegasus and ten Pegasi onto a royal airship with their Iron Icarus’ strapped firmly to their backs. Ephialtes wasn’t quite sure how he got his hands on an airship, but he was sure it had to do with hard core flank kissing. Once airborne, they flew higher then the Canterlot mountain and hovered there. “Okay, this is your first test! If you prepared your Iron Icarus right, you’ll be able to fly back down to the base with no problem. If you start free falling, one of the Pegasus here will be there to bring you down safely. You land, your wings must retract back into its pack to pass. Okay, catchers, take off!” “Yes Sir, Commander Nexus Sir!” they said in sync. Once they were all out, Commander Nexus turned back to them. “Now, get your sorry flanks out those doors now! Move it!” One by one, they all jumped from the airship. Ephialtes was the last out the doors of the airship. The rush of cold air was exhilarating and also terrifying as he plummeted from the highest point in the world. Ephialtes’ heart nearly jumped from his chest as he reached back to the deployment ring on the left side of the back. Or was it the right? He couldn’t remember at this point! He gripped the left ring and pulled as hard as he could. The sound of metal scrapping against metal filled the air around Ephialtes as he started slowing down. He also started moving forward. Looking around him, he say five of the six others spiraling down with Pegasus trailing each of them. The only other that was still flying was a white unicorn. Ephialtes leaned left lightly and began to slowly descend in a left hand turn. Once everyone was safe and sound on their now unsteady hoofs, Ephialtes and the white unicorn were the only two who could get their wings back into their packs. (considering most didn’t deploy to begin with it wasn’t too impressive) “Ten-hut!” Commander Nexus called as he landed in front of them. Everypony lined up on Ephialtes and stood at attention. “That was one of the most pathetic displays of airmanship I’ve seen in my two years in the Guard! Private Breeze, you were late on deployment by ten seconds! Drop!” “Yes Sir, Commander Nexus Sir!” a black unicorn replied dropping down to his stomach. “And Private E!” Commander Nexus said glaring at him. “You took the easy way out and glided back to the ground! Drop!” Ephialtes looked confused. “Maybe I should be a little more clear. Drop and give me twenty!” Commander Nexus put his hoof on the back of Ephialtes’ neck and shoved him, face first, into the ground. Begrudgingly, Ephialtes began his set of twenty pushups with Commander Nexus’ hoof still on his neck. He even counted out all of Ephialtes pushups out loud. Once he finished, Nexus let him up and returned his attention to Breeze. “Now don’t think you’re off the hook either Private Breeze! I want you and at the head of formation with Private Ephialtes! And as for the rest of you, I want you all to keep up or it’ll be your asses going hungry! Two by two formation, now!” “Yes Sir, Commander Nexus Sir!” they all shouted, lining up behind Ephialtes and White Knight. Commander Nexus led from the right of the formation as they started down the running trail again. Once they made it back to the main campus, Nexus ordered them into the mess hall, by then it was past noon and lunch was being served. Ephialtes couldn’t have been more grateful for this act of mercy. What he found odd, was that Evening Guard trainees got their own table in the chow hall. Commander Nexus sat with the other officers on base chatting quietly. “Hey, Ephi.” a white pegasus named White Knight said, elbowing Ephialtes in the ribs. “You hear me?” “Hu? Oh, no I was just thinking about something.” Ephialtes replied. “How do you think The Commander ended up like he did?” “I’d rather hear what you guys think.” “Okay, I heard he’s the son of the C.E.O. of Lunarus Industries and that he was run over by a train.” the gray Pegasus mare with yellow eyes and bat wings eating a mango said leaning in like it was some big secret. “That’s stupid Hestaria. I heard he had a heart attack so strong it caused his legs to explode.” the White Knight said. “And you say I’m stupid?” Hestaria said shaking her head. “I agree Hestaria’s theory, but I think he was kidnapped by marauders and held for ransom. As punishment for not delivering on time, they chopped off his legs and mailed them to his father everyday he was late.” the red unicorn said. “What about you Ephi?” “I don’t know. I’ve only been here for three days and only talked to him twice.” “Maybe he just thought they looked cool.” Commander Nexus said standing right behind the black earth pony. He suddenly went ridged as Commander Nexus went to the head of the table. “How’d he do that?” Hestaria whispered to Ephialtes. “Quiet Private Hestaria!” Nexus shouted. “Now I don’t want to hear anymore of these conspiracy theories, or all of you will go hungry tonight. Saddle up, time for combat training.” “Yes Sir, Commander Nexus Sir!” everypony, including Ephialtes said getting up from the table.
Another First Day Part IIOnce again, lined in two by two, they trot into the forest. Commander Nexus was silent and forced them to keep their eyes forward under threat of going hungry. After nearly an hours trot, Ephialtes looked over his shoulder and saw Commander Nexus was nowhere in sight. “You want to know how I did what I did back in the chow hall?” Commander Nexus asked from the right side of the trail. “How a pony with metal strapped to fifty percent of his body could be so stealthy?” he asked from the left side this time. The entire squad began looking around for him as his voice continued to emanate from all around them. “It’s called The Art of the Shadow. Pioneered by zebras in the time before the Great Twilight War and was first used in combat against Celestia by the Evening Armada during the war. It was very effective against the forces of Celestia. If you want to be one of us, you have to master this art. And I suggest that you don‘t…blink.” Suddenly Commander Nexus was standing amongst them with a smirk on his face. As soon as Ephialtes saw him, he swung himself around and tried to hit Nexus with a wide swinging kick. Nexus was quick and blocked the fast moving strike from Ephialtes. Nexus deflected the kick and pulled Ephialtes into another headlock. Ephialtes looked up and slid his head out of Nexus’ grasp. As he dropped down, he swiped Nexus’ legs out from under him and attempted to take hold of his left foreleg. Before Nexus even hit the ground, he had maneuvered himself away from Ephialtes. He rolled out of the formation and stood with his wings extended. “I see somepony’s studied The Art of the Shadow before.” Nexus said glaring at Ephialtes. “We start with hoof-to-hoof combat then we move onto combat maneuvers. Sergeants!” From behind the rest of the group, a black Pegasus mare and a gray earth pony stallion emerged from the bushes surrounding the path. “Sergeant Midnight and Lumen here will be assisting in flight maneuvers for the Pegasi and combat maneuvers for the rest of you. The unicorns will be with me for Macabre Magic 101. You will listen to them as well as you listen to me or you’ll be working tomorrow night.” “Commander Nexus, permission to speak freely, Sir?” Hestaria asked. “Granted.” “What’s tomorrow, Sir?” “Tomorrow is the Winter Solstice. As with the Summer Solstice, those under the employ of Luna are given the day off unless otherwise told by the Captain of the Guard. So, unless you want to be cleaning barracks all day tomorrow, I suggest you do as I say. We’ll start with hoof-to-hoof combat then I’ll split you off into your separate groups. Form up, forward, march!” They did as they were told with a Yes Sir, Commander Nexus, Sir!. It was another ten minute trot until they reached the fighting arena. It was a large stone smoothened down into a table with no legs. In white chalk, a circle running the entire circumference of the stone table and a white line splitting it down the middle. The top was smooth though still had some dips in the stone where others before them must have been slammed down repeatedly. “This will be your training ground. We’ll be starting with holds and how to break them. Sergeant Midnight, if you would be so kind as to join me in the arena.” “Yes, Commander.” Midnight replied stepping into the center of the stone table with Commander Nexus. “Basic hold Sergeant Midnight.” “Yes Commander.” The Pegasus approached Commander Nexus and proceeded to force him to his hindlegs and put his right hoof behind his back from over his shoulder. Not only did this look extremely painful, but the fact that Sergeant Midnight didn’t restrain from pulling Nexus’ foreleg back stunned Ephialtes. Did Nexus even feel it was the pain question. He didn’t show any pain on his face. Or was that part of the training too? “From this hold, the easiest thing to do is to use their leverage against them. From this position you can do one of two things; you can toss them over your shoulders, or…” Nexus bent his knees slightly, then, using Sergeant Midnight as a counter weight, vaulted himself over the Sergeant and touched down behind her with the Sergeant’s hoof still holding his. “You could reverse the hold and turn the tables. Any questions?” No pony spoke up as Nexus held the Sergeant in the same hold he had once been trapped in. While watching this display, Ephialtes noticed that the Sergeant wasn’t showing any pain either. “Now, when you’re putting someone in this hold, you can force them to the ground by knocking their legs out from under them, or you can force them to their knees. It’s all dependent on preference. I like shoving their face into ground.” He showed his preference by kicking the Sergeant’s legs out from under her and planting the side of her face firmly into the stone. “Any Questions so far?” Commander Nexus asked once again. And when no one answered, “Good. Pair up and get to work. Start by throwing the other over your shoulder. I know there are eleven of you, so Sergeant Lumen will pair with the straggler. Sergeant Midnight, keep an eye on them. I need to report in with the Princess. I’ll be back in ten minutes max.” “Yes Sir, Commander Nexus, Sir!” Sergeant Midnight said. Without another word, Commander Nexus spread his wings and took off from the clearing. Ephialtes was, unwillingly, paired with Hestaria. She and White Knight were the only two ponies here he could consider his “friends”. After all, they were the only ones that willingly talked to him. Ephialtes was the first in the hold. She didn’t hold back as she put him in the most basic hold in The Art of the Shadow. Something he had practiced with his father a long time ago. “I hope that because I’m a lady that you don’t think I’ll let you take it easy on me.” the bat pone said in his ear. “I would certainly hope not.” Ephialtes said jumping over her and locking her in the basic hold. “’Cause I studied this since before you were out of diapers.” Out of udder annoyance, Hestaria pushed her hips back and threw Ephialtes over her shoulders and into the dirt.
First ReportA mile north and a few miles up, Nexus walked down the main hall with Princess Luna and Captain Storm Cloud. They talked casually, swapping stories and jokes they had picked up from the past few days. In between telling about the recruits jumped out of their skin when he introduced them to The Art of the Shadow trick, he informed her on the progress of the rest of the recruits. “So, you have adjusted well, Lunarus?” Luna asked him. “Yeah.” “And what of the prisoner? Ephialtes wasn’t it?” “He’s adjusting, albeit very slowly, but he’s adjusting. I’m still not 100% sure that he isn’t what they think he is.” “And why’s that?” Storm asked. “I didn’t detect a magical field that could have been from a shape shifting spell. But I feel a dark field around him I haven’t seen before.” “Do you think it could be-” “No, it’s too weak to be that.” Nexus said cutting Luna off. “What?” “Above your pay grade Storm. Sorry buddy.” “How high is it exactly?” “It can only be between Lunarus and I. It’s something that could send him back to the gallows, no matter what I say in his favor.” “Okay. So what about this Ephialtes character?” “He told me he’s from the Haystead Swamps. Says his village was raided by dragons during the last Great Dragon Migration and then was promptly burned to the ground. And he’s apparently the last survivor of his village.” “Still not as bad as your story.” Storm said. “Regardless, I have to be sure to break him to be sure he is what he says he is.” “Commander, if you wish to make it back in time, I suggest you take off now.” A.L.I.S. said in his ear. “Look, I have to go. I’ll be back tomorrow to fill you in further.” Nexus said spreading his wings. “I understand. Thank you for dropping in Lunarus. Oh, before I forget, how is Miss Dust Storm assimilating to her new life?” “Sh-She’s doing fine. Thank you for asking.” Nexus said telekinetically opening the closest window. “I’ll be sure to tell her you said hi, Princess.” ‘She just loves pushing my buttons doesn’t she?’ he thought to himself. “Thank you.” she said with a giggle. “I hope she’s having a nice time away from the castle.” “I-I’ll be sure to let her know you said that, Luna. Gotta jet!” Nexus said launching himself out of the window and into the still midday air hanging over Canterlot. The flight back was quick at supersonic speeds. He was pleasantly surprised to see that all of his trainees were still practicing. Once he landed, they all stopped what they were doing and stood at attention. “As you were!” Nexus shouted as he walked over to Midnight Wave. “How’ve they been?” “They’ve been working their flanks off Commander.” she replied. “Non stop. Private Ephialtes is showing great promise. He preformed the counter on the first try.” “Did he now? You let me know where he goes during the Winter Solstice. I want to see how well he’s conforming to society here.” “Yes Commander. Should we split them up?” “I got it. Okay, listen up! We’re splitting off into your groups. All unicorns, follow me!”
Winter SolsticeCommander Nexus was a very cryptic teacher. The first spell he tried to teach them was something called Shadow Thoughts. It was to only be used in combat and not against civilians. This spell would allow a pony to enter the mind of another and take a ride in their body while influencing what they see, mainly fears. He said to look inside themselves and know what they fear, use that fear to power the spell, but wasn’t specific as to how to summon this spell to start with. He said it’s different for everypony, but most thought that was a load of horse shit. A red unicorn named Short Fuse, tried entering Commander Nexus’ mind and immediately fell unconscious. “There are some ponies that have impenetrable minds, or when you enter them, the thoughts they have are far too strong for you to handle. This is why the only way to learn how to use it is in combat. When Private Fuse comes to, tell him to meet me in my office.” Nobody said a word as Nexus continued lecturing on how the spell worked. The next day, Fuse wasn’t in the chow hall. There were only a few hours before the Winter Solstice celebration. Unfortunately for Ephialtes, he and the remaining trainees for the Lunar Guard had to attend the celebration before going on leave. Hestaria invited him and White Knight for some drinks at the on base bar, The Neon Moon. The celebration was much smaller then the Summer Solstice for Celestia. Only a few hundred ponies showed up to watch the raising of the moon and stars. And were they missing out on a spectacular view. More stars then even Ephialtes had ever seen. And being in a small town in the middle of a swamp, stars were always plentiful. Now, a blanket of stars began flooding over the horizon lead by the moon. Their pail blue glow was just as great as the sun, covering the land with soothing light. Once the moon reached its apex and the stars reached from horizon to horizon, did Nexus dismiss the Guard. Nexus followed Princess Luna back to the castle while everyone else went off to party and relax. Ephialtes stood outside The Neon Moon on The Canterlot Military Academy’s campus. He sighed, knowing he didn’t have much else better to do tonight, and started towards the bar. Inside, music from a live rock band played as mostly gray, mares and stallions, wearing their black, iron chest plates and boots, danced, played darts gambled, and more over, drank. They were all singing the Lunar Guard marching song and Commander Nexus drilled into their heads. “I don’t know what you been told! Royal Guard was getting old! You fight one you fight us all! United we all stand up tall! Sound off! One, two, three, four! Hoorah!” Ephialtes shook his head and scanned the bar for his “Friends”. White Knight wasn’t too hard to find. He was the only white stallion in the entire bar. He was sitting at one of the poker tables with a bottle of Apple Whisky sitting on the table next to him. on his right, Hestaria chugged a mango flavored beer and let out a powerful belch. “Ephi! You zebra son of a bitch! Get over here!” Hestaria shouted over the music. Ephialtes sighed and took the seat next to Hestaria. “Wanna’ sip?” she said tipping the neck of her mango flavored beer towards him. “Nah, I-I don’t drink.” the blood red zebra/pony hybrid said pushing the bottle away from him. “You don’t drink? Sweet, Luna you’re as stuck up as The Commander!” White Knight said taking a pull from his Apple Whisky. “I just don’t okay.” “Whatever, deal ‘im in Ace.” Hestaria said looking over to the black earth pony with an Ace of Spades cutie mark at the end of the table. “Wait, I don’t have any money!” Ephialtes tried to argue. “Here,” She said sliding him five poker chips over to him. “Twenty five bits. More then enough to get you started. Each chip is five bits, starting pot at five bits.” “Okay. Fine.” Ephialtes said as Ace slid him five cards. “That’s the spirit!” White Knight said reaching accrues the table to punch him in the shoulder. The other player at the table took his chips in his teeth and left the table as Ephialtes tossed his chip into the center of the table. He wasn’t sure if he could remember the rules of the game. Can only have five cards, in hand, can trade in for a equal amount of cards discarded. Ephialtes levitated his cards up to his face, he saw; Ace of Clubs, Nine of Moons, King of Suns, Eight of Hearts, Queen of Hearts. Nothing good, and the likely hood of getting anything else was even lower. “Fold.” Ephialtes said dropping his cards. Nearly two hours and two hundred bits of winnings later, Ephialtes was on the dance floor with his forelegs around both Hestaria and White Knight, banging his head to the rock music. It wasn’t until somepony uttered the single most kill joy word ever spoken in that bar that everypony stopped. “Captain!” Everypony stopped what they were doing and even the band stopped playing. All eyes were on the front door and Commander Nexus standing in it. He looked around the bar confused. He wore a black leather jacket and navy blue baseball cap. “What are you looking at? Blow Me Away!” he shouted to the band. The lead smiled and the drummer tapped out the first three beats before the guitar started playing Blow Me Away. Nexus smiled and banged his head to the beat of the song as the first words started flowing. Everypony in the bar went back to partying except for Ephialtes, Hestaria and White Knight. In truth, Ephialtes was enjoying himself. It had been a I very long time since he had smiled. Nexus noticed they weren’t rocking out and motioned them over to the bar. Nexus was the first to sit; Ephialtes sat to his right with Hestaria next to him and White Knight on Nexus’ left. “What’s wrong with you guys tonight? We’ve got the night off!” Nexus said still rocking out to the band as he spoke. “But you’re the Commanding Officer of the entire Lunar Guard. Shouldn’t you still be working, Commander Nexus, Sir?” Hestaria asked. “Fuck that. I need to cut lose once in a blue moon too ya know. Bar keep! Beer me!” With no delay, a closed bottle of beer slid down the table and to Nexus’ fabric cover metal hoof. Not waiting for the bottle opener, Nexus pried open the top with his teeth and spit the cap into the trash at the other end of the bar. “So, what’ve ya’ll been doin’ since the raising of the moon?” “Just rocking out here Commander Nexus, Sir.” Ephialtes said avoiding eye contact. “Please, when I’m not in uniform, call me Nexus.” Nexus responded taking a sip of his beer. “O-Okay, Nexus, what are you doin’ here?” White Knight said taking a hesitant sip of his Apple Whisky. “Like I said, even I need to kick back once in a blue moon.” Nexus said taking another swig from his beer. “Yeah… I guess.” Ephialtes said looking back to the band. “You okay Ephi? You don’t seem happy.” Ephialtes was about to go off on Nexus. It wasn’t until he started thinking about it, he hadn’t felt this way until he saw him standing in the door. He felt the familiar feeling of resentment and towards this dark blue cyber pony. What right did he have to put him here? None. He had no right to even be interfering with his night. Ephialtes felt the overwhelming urge to bash Nexus’ head into the bar his was sitting at but held back. Though he couldn’t tell, Nexus knew of his feelings. He was looking into his mind as Ephialtes stared back at him looking for the words to say. Ephialtes had to get out of there before something happened. “I’m fine, Commander. I need some air.” Ephialtes replied getting up from the bar. Nexus shrugged and went back to his beer as Ephialtes left the bar alone. “Maybe I should go with him.” Hestaria said about to get up. “Let him go Private. He just needs some time to himself.” Nexus said taking another sip of his beer.
The Shadow's ReturnDeep in the forest around the Academy, Ephialtes walked alone. “What does he think he’s doing?” he asked himself. “I know he’s sticking his neck out for me, but does that mean that he has to fucking stalk me!? Maybe I’m just being paranoid.” “You’d think so…” Nexus said right behind him. Ephialtes growled and turned to face him. “Why don’t you just leave me alone! I never asked for your help!” Nexus looked to taken back by him saying that. “Believe it or not Ephi, I am sticking my neck out for you; literally. If I’m wrong, and you aren’t what you say you are, I have a one way ticket to the gallows.” “Yeah, like Princess Luna would allow that.” “She doesn’t have a say. You might not believe it, but I was accused of being a changeling once as well. It took an invasion of Canterlot for me prove my innocence and I want to make sure you don’t have to go through that kind of thing.” “And it still matters to me how exactly?” “It matters because I had no pony that believed me when I said I wasn’t what they thought I was. Ironically enough I believe you. You show no signs of being a traitor.” “Then why do you stay on my fucking case!?” “Because that is how training goes. I can’t give anypony special treatment. Not even you.” “Yeah, I’m sure your parents are very proud.” Ephialtes said rolling his eyes. “Ephialtes, there is a reason I didn’t let them hang you. I knew you needed a second chance at life, something I got almost too late.” “Yes, the rich General didn’t get what he wanted on time. Should have happened sooner.” “I would have died had it not come. Two years ago I was more like you then you think, I had untapped skills I almost never got to unleash. And when I thought I was getting the chance to use them, I was nearly killed. I had reigned to dying and just letting the great pain end, in fact, most everypony though I was dead. That’s how I got my legs. I made them and tried to get home. At first my family was overjoyed, then they saw what I had become. Not even they wanted to accept what I was now, so I ran. At one point I finally gave in and let my time on this earth slowly slip away. When I did that, something came over me, something that needed me to give up on everything I believed in.” “What would that be?” “I still don’t know. All I know is that my parents didn’t accept me until after I proved I wasn’t what they thought I was. It took me becoming what I had feared most to realize it.” “What did you fear?” “I feared losing who I really was. An honest, brave and loyal soldier to Luna, and a friend to so many. I became emotionless, ruthless and unwavering in my thirst for power. It felt great, but I would have come at the cost of everything I loved.” “Still wondering what this has to do with me.” “I’m giving you that second chance, hoping you find the things that make life worthwhile. Your friends seem to have helped you with that. And I’m sure your parents would be proud to see you reaching your potential.” “Well they’re dead, doesn’t matter.” “I suspect you haven’t talked about it with anypony since it happened?” “Like it matters.” “Your mother was the zebra, right?” Ephialtes looked stunned and glared back at Nexus. “You’ve been invading my mind?” “Your dreams. Most of them are flash backs. I tried to keep you in a dreamless sleep as I searched them. She was a wonderful woman.” “You keep my family and personal life out of this you bastard.” “I couldn’t find anything about your father though. From what your mother told you, he was a great pony, a soldier.” “You don’t know anything!” “I know you’re a lot like me. Not very many ponies liked you as a child. They teased you and when you did something about it the teachers blamed your father. I know the feeling.” “No, you don’t! You’ll never know! Your father wasn’t a changeling!” The caused Nexus to jump back a little. “Yeah, he was a converted changeling! You happy now? I wish I had never been captured. And I wish you would just drop dead!” “Ephialtes, I’m sorry, but-” With zero warning, a bolt a black lightning shot towards him from Ephialtes. With almost no time to put up his shield, the bolt slammed into Nexus and launching him into a nearby tree. His cap was singed and smoldering as it slid across the ground. “And I’m going to be the one to drop you!” Ephialtes shouted. Nexus stood on his metal hoofs and looked over Ephialtes in the full moon light. His eye color had changed to poison green and light purple aura aluminates from the sides of his eyes. “You are under arrest Ephialtes! Stop now I can keep you from the death penalty.” Nexus said feeling his lightning spell ready to fire. “If Celestia won’t kill you, then I will!” Ephialtes shouted as he charged Nexus. Nexus was faster then Ephialtes and was able to block his first strike. Not wanting to harm him, he turned Ephialtes’ momentum against him and threw him into the three Ephialtes had thrown him into. He howled in pain and shot another black bolt at Nexus. Thankfully, Nexus didn’t have to consciously use his lightning spell, the bolt left his horn and collided with Ephialtes’. The shockwave from the blast shot Nexus and Ephialtes back and bent the trees back around them. Looking down at himself, Nexus saw his left rear leg was heavily damaged from being dragged across the ground. He stood on his now unsteady hoofs as Ephialtes charged him again with rage in his eyes. Nexus ducked beneath him as he attempted to tackle him, but that was what Ephialtes was hoping for. As he sailed over Nexus he did a full front flip and planted his right fore hoof into Nexus’ damaged leg. The force of his kick bent the metal plating and caused the piston inside to explode. The blast propelled Ephialtes up and Nexus forward. Nexus slid to a stop next a stone sitting up out of the ground. He saw his leg was useless, but not wanting to kill Ephialtes or cause any unnecessary damage, he didn’t detach his now useless leg. With all the strength he could muster, he took flight for a brief moment before Ephialtes telekinetically ripped them from his body. An electric shock raced up his spine and to the rest of his limbs. He fell hard next to the stone with a grunt of pain. Before he could stand, Ephialtes was already on top of him. Nexus was pinned. Out of his peripheral vision, he saw the stone shake then morph into a razor sharp spike. “This is the last time you interfere, Lunarus!” Ephialtes said picking Nexus’ head up. As hard as he could, he tired to impale Nexus’ head through the stone stalagmite. Nexus fought furiously to keep from becoming a pony shish kabob. But he wasn’t quite strong enough. His left eye inched closer to the stalagmite until it started piercing his retina. He shouted in protest and pain as his eyes was slowly impaled on the stone spike. Nexus cringed as he summoned a wave of fire. The heat singed his mane and pushed Ephialtes back. Nexus slowly pulled himself free from the death trap without dragging his eye out of its socket. Blood ran down his left cheek and stained his coat as he stood on unsteady hoofs. As best he could, he held his head high and prepared for another attack. “Firebrand was right. You really don’t die do you?” Ephialtes asked. “What’d you just say?” Nexus asked. “You heard me Lunarus. You didn’t think I would forget after only a few months, did you?” “I don’t understand.” “I sense your fear, and I have to say, it’s delicious.” Ephialtes said with a sadistic grin on his face. Nexus was starting to feel light headed. The pain was starting to numb and so was the rest of his body. “You’re weak. Why I ever thought you were a worthy host I’ll never know.” Ephialtes said, walking closer to Nexus. “I don’t care what you are anymore, there’s no way I’m letting you win!” Nexus launched another bolt at Ephialtes and it bounced harmlessly off a shield he hadn’t sensed before. “It matters not Lunarus, you will die here, and I’m glad that it is at the hoofs of somepony you thought you could trust.” Nexus fell to his knees. The pain was gone and his mind was starting to waver. “You’re very stubborn aren’t you? Brain damage, blood loss and a useless eye; it’s impressive that you are even still conscious.” Nexus launched another bolt, this one barely cracking as it left his horn. “And you still have enough strength to use your strongest spell? That’s quite impressive.” Now Nexus had nothing left. He fell to his left side and watched the blurry image of Ephialtes-no this wasn’t Ephialtes. This thing wasn’t the same pony that he had been or could ever become. This thing approached Nexus and placed its hoof on his neck.
Everywhere and NowhereEphialtes awoke nowhere. Literally, he was nowhere. He could tell he was in some kind of room. Blank, white walls, floor and sealing with a white mist floating around the room. “Where am I?” Ephialtes asked startled. “Nowhere, everywhere, anywhere.” the voice said again. At his feet the a circle of light began spreading to the corners of the room. Inside the circle, pale blue grass sprouted up and the smell of fresh, post rain air flowed through the room. The circle touched the walls and continued up and out of the room revealing the brilliant night sky and full moon. Atop a distant hill, a lone pony stood starring up at the stars. It blended against the sky and ground well. Ephialtes started moving towards the figure. “This is everything I ever accepted from this world; peaceful, calm, serene.” the voice said. “This isn’t so bad I suppose. I can live in the comfort of her embrace for all eternity here.” The figure on the hill looked down at the ground. The silhouette showed a horn atop its head. “I know I’ll miss the world I helped build, but I guess I don’t have much of a choice now do I, Ephialtes?” the figure looked at Ephialtes as he approached him. The distance seemed to have close in the blink of an eye. It could have been a few moments or a few days, but he was now standing right behind the figure. “What are you? Why did you bring me here?” Ephialtes asked the figure. “Like I said; you are now nowhere, everywhere and anywhere. In truth you haven’t left that clearing, yet you are not there.” the voice said again. Ephialtes was close enough to the figure to see his features. Dark blue coat, black mane and tail with a winged moon cutie mark gave it away instantly. “Commander Nexus?” Ephialtes asked the figure. “You’re more perceptive then you like to let on.” Nexus replied facing Ephialtes now. “Are we-” “Dead? No, not you anyway.” “Wait, you’re dead?” “I wouldn’t expect you to remember. He has that effect if he so wishes to keep his host in the dark.” “Hold on, what do you mean?” Ephialtes said reaching out to Nexus. His hoof passed straight through him and as he withdrew his hoof, he glanced down at his legs. “Nexus, your legs…” “Oh! I guess this is my reward.” “Can somepony please tell me what’s happening right now!?” “Gladly. You see, what had control of you, once had great power, greater then even The Elements of Harmony could defeat. It took the power of Princess Cadence to free me from him and even then he wasn’t defeated. He came back, fueled by what he took from me he tried to retake the Crystal Empire but failed. It seems he’s found a new home in you Ephialtes.” “Who?” “Me.” a deep, sadistic voice said from behind Ephialtes. Ephialtes looked behind him and saw a large, black mist swirling behind him. Ephialtes’ ears dropped and he started to back up slowly. “Wh-Who are you?” Ephialtes said backing up next to Nexus. “Hello again Sombra.” Nexus said glaring at the shadowy mist. With in the mist, Sombra’s red yes appeared. “I have missed you Lunarus. Your pain were divine.” the voice said again. “It’s over Sombra. I’m dead, you got your revenge. I suggest you leave Ephialtes willingly or I will end this.” “Ah, Lunarus, still young, and still so naïve. I tried enlightening you to the world around you, to your new reality, but you still thought you had control over your life.” “Now that your gone, I do. This is your last warning, surrender or die.” Sombra chuckled at Nexus’ spirit. “This is not your battle Lunarus. Shouldn’t we let Ephialtes decide his own fate? After all, you believe in shaping your own destiny.” “I am nothing but a soldier of honor Sombra. And I not only fight for myself, but for the honor of all.” “Then I suppose you’ll both be lost forever. What a shame.” The mist began surrounding them, the beautiful sky enveloped in a cloak of black. Ephialtes started to feel suffocated, he couldn’t see two feet in front of him. Then a light appeared in the shadows, a spark. Nexus stood tall in the swirling shadows his, eyes glowing a pure white and his horn’s aura illuminating everything. And by everything there was nothing around him that wasn’t visible. “You have no power here Sombra. No matter how strong you think fear and anger are, you can never a match for the Element of Honor!” With a brilliant flash of white light, everything around them dissolved.
Honor's Last HopeThe world came back in stark focus to Ephialtes. He sat up in the clearing, alone and startled at what he had just witnessed. The corps of Commander Nexus still lay still in the middle clearing. Ephialtes was about to get up and check on him until a deep chuckle caused him to turn away. “He’s dead Ephialtes. At your hoof.” Sombra’s voice called out. Ephialtes turned and saw something he had never accepted; it was him. It was like looking into a mirror. The only glaring difference was the flowing, purple aura emanating from the now green eyes. “This may be hard for you to comprehend, but it seems you’ve given me a new body. I would like to thank you before I send your soul to Tartarus.” Ephialtes’ doppelganger said lowering its horn. Sombra launched a black bolt of lightning at Ephialtes. Ephialtes didn’t know any shield spells, and he would have resigned to giving up; if it hadn’t been for a white bolt of lightning deflecting Sombra’s into a near by tree. “What!? How did you- Lunarus.” “That’s right Sombra.” Nexus’ spirit said stepping out from behind Ephialtes. “What? I thought you were dead?” Ephialtes said staring at the transparent figure in front of him. “I am, but that doesn’t mean you have to fight alone.” Nexus’ spirit replied. “Fight? I can’t fight him!” “He’s right Lunarus. You should accept your fates and lead him to Tartarus.” “You don’t seem to understand the words Element of Honor very well do you? Even in death I fight for Luna and all those that serve her. We are the New Evening Armada! We are born to die, but not before you!” “Still not sure how this helps me win here. No offence.” Ephialtes said. “You don’t, you let your instincts. Armada soldiers were never made, they were born. And you are one of them. Just let your instincts take over and follow your gut.” Nexus vanished and so did his voice. Ephialtes gulped and looked Sombra in the eyes. “His trust is misguided. I know you don’t have it in you to fight me.” Sombra said charging Ephialtes. Ephialtes dropped to the ground and rolled out of the way of Sombra’s charge. Sombra accepted the move and stopped dead in his tracks and attempted to bring his hind legs down on Ephialtes’ head. Ephialtes put up his forelegs and took the blow. Ephialtes rolled to his hoofs and took a stance. “You have skills. But I know everything you do.” Sombra said. “Does this mean this will never end?” “Thankfully no. But I will leave you with a little treat.” Sombra’s horn flashed and he was gone in a swirling mass of black. Though the world was not quiet, the forest was alive with whispers. Some spoke of danger, others soothed him. A deep growl vibrated Ephialtes’ eardrums before a bone chilling roar caused him to nearly jump from his skin. As he turned to locate the source of the sound when a Manticore paw nearly knocked his skeleton from his flesh. His body was thrown like a rag doll to the other side of the clearing by the Manticore. As he stood, battered and weary, more began slowly advancing from the edge of the forest. Ephialtes shut his eyes and felt a jolt of electricity shoot through him and out his horn. The lightning spell came again, but this time sapping a lot more of his energy. He knelt for a moment then saw that one of the Manticores were gone and a pile of golden dust was left. He tried summoning the lightning again, but he didn’t have enough energy. Before he could even think of trying anything else, a spear shot out of the sky and struck the closest Manticore in the leg. The spear arched with power and the Manticore began to convulse before turning into dust. The cavalry. Four Evening Guard Pegasi soldiers landed in front of Ephialtes, lightning lances at the ready. The Manticores exchanged looks then slowly backed away into the darkness of the overhanging trees. Ephialtes couldn’t udder a word of thanks before he was shoved to the ground by Hestaria and a lightning lance shoved in his face. “Tell me why I shouldn’t skewer you right now Ephi!?” the gray Pegasus demanded. “Halt!” a regal voice called out from the sky. Ephialtes looked past Hestaria and into the night sky. Princess Luna, glided down from high above the tree tops and landed behind her guards. “Release him.” she commanded. Hestaria let Ephialtes up but kept a close eye on him. “Please, Ephialtes, step forward.” Ephialtes nervously took a step forward. Before he could take another however, Hestaria stopped him and whispered in his ear. “I’m really happy to see you’re not insane anymore.” “Let him pass, Hestaria.” “Yes, Princess.” She moved out of the way and allowed him to stand face to face with her. Luna’s horn glowed lightly as she looked into his eyes. She sighed and looked back to Nexus. “Lunarus.” she said. “Princess!” a mare shouted in the distance. “Princess!” “Dust, stay back!” Luna shouted back as a light brown Pegasus mare with a black mane swooped down into the clearing. Upon entering the clearing the first thing she saw was Nexus’ battered and bloody body lying still under the moon. “Lunar…Lunar! No, no, no! Get up, please!” she shouted kneeling next to him. “Lieutenant Storm, please, take her back to the castle.” Luna said looking to the Pegasus next to her. “Yes, Your Highness. Come on Dust.” “No, I’m not leaving him!” She continued to shout and struggle as Strom dragged her out of the clearing. “As for you, Ephialtes…” Luna said looking back at him. Ephialtes’ mind was racing a mile a minute. He knew he killed Nexus, well he didn’t know at the time, but he knew that this was more then enough circumstantial evidence to prove he was a changeling. He gulped down a whimper and looked Luna in the eyes. “I didn’t kill him.” Ephialtes said standing tall. “Oh, is that so?” Luna asked. “Yes. I didn’t kill him. I wasn’t in control of my body.” “Then what was?” “Sombra.” Luna seemed very taken back by the statement, but composed herself before continuing. “Sombra was defeated only a few months ago.” “He can’t die. So long as fear and hate still live, so does he.” he wasn’t sure what he was saying anymore, the words were not his own. Even the way he was standing, hoofs together, neck straight. He was standing at attention. Luna’s horn glowed as she looked him over again. “Should I arrest him, Princess?” a guard asked. “No. He speaks the truth.” she said. “No matter how painful the truth is, he is honest. Sombra is still alive and we have to find him.” “What about The Commander?” “He died in battle as he would have wanted.” Ephialtes detected a note of pain and repentance in her voice as she said that. “He was a true hero.” Nexus appeared next to Ephialtes again, this time looking sad. “Don’t look this way, they can’t see me. I’ve done all that I can for you Ephi, it’s time for you to face what has happened alone. You’re free to do whatever you wish. Leave for all I care.” “I want to be head of finding him.” Ephialtes said. Even Nexus’ spirit did a double take when he heard that. “You want to what?” Luna asked. “This is my fault. And I want every chance I can to make it right.” “Princess?” Hestaria said a little afraid. “What if Sombra is still in him?” “He is. As he is within me. There is always apart of him left behind once he is banished.” “Only this time he has a body. He can’t hide forever.” Ephialtes butted in. “And may I try something?” “What would that be?” Luna asked the blood red zebra/pony. “It has to do with Commander Nexus.” “What are you doing, Ephi?” Nexus asked. “As you wish.” Luna said letting Ephialtes walk to Nexus’ lifeless body. He sat down and lowered his horn to Nexus’ chest. “I ended your life, but now I’ll make it up to you.” he said quietly. “What are you-ah!” Nexus’ spirit shouted putting a hoof to his right eye. As he pulled it away, fresh blood trickled down his foreleg and left cheek as his eye started to shut in pain. “What are you doing Ephialtes!?” “Giving you a third chance.” Ephialtes replied as his horn glowed brightly and enveloped Nexus’ body. The metal plates on Nexus’ body reflect the light perfectly, creating a brilliant show as cascades of purple and white created an aurora in the sky above them. A clap of thunder, followed by a bright purple flash enveloped Nexus and a sharp breath shot into his lungs, followed by a blood curdling shout of pain from him. “Lunarus!” Luna shouted in joy and surprise. “You’re okay!” “No!” Nexus shouted back. “I’m not okay, get me a medic now! Celestia be damned, this hurts!” One of the guards shoved Ephialtes out of the way and started treating Nexus’ still bloody eye. “Not my eye, my left hind leg!” “But that’s metal.” “What did you do to me Ephialtes!?” “Resurrection spell. It’s the only one I know. Brings dead tissue back to life.” he said in a matter of fact tone. The field medic waved his horn over Nexus’ leg and Nexus’ pain fueled grunts lessened from the numbing magic. “Then why do I feel like my leg was just now blown off?” he said through his teeth. “It can’t be.” Ephialtes said getting closer. “Can you feel this?” he asked pressing his hoof against Nexus’ right hind leg. “Yes, I could always feel pressure.” “Can you feel anything else?” Nexus was about to say he couldn’t, but then the feeling of a chilled hoof came into focus. “I can feel your cold hoof. I can feel the grass under me. I can feel the medics armored knee in my chest.” The medic re adjusted himself as he continued wrapping gauze around Nexus’ left eye. “You didn’t just bring dead tissue back to life, you brought nonliving tissue to life.” he said amazed. “I did?” Ephialtes helped Nexus stand once the medic was finished and they proceeded to help him back to the Academy.
The Start of the Shadow WarThe day of medical leave wasn’t as refreshing as Nexus thought it would have been. No pony was allowed to see him whilst he was under observation and studied closely. Midnight Spangle had come in late at night to help Nexus repair his legs and replace his wings; it wasn’t until the next day that Nexus was able to leave on his own accord. He walked with a dark red unicorn with fiery yellow mane. His cutie mark was, for whatever reason, as a burning musical note. He was dressed in the Celestian Guard Dress Uniform. “You sure you don’t want me walking on your right?” the soldier asked. “You’re fine Brand Fire.” Nexus said looking over to him. “I’m not blind in this eye, the medics just say keep it under wraps until we’re sure there’s no damage left behind.” “So he can heal any wound after death, but can’t grow back your legs?” Firebrand asked looking down at his robotic legs. Nexus chuckled. “It only brings dead tissue back to life. And it can bring any nonliving tissue attached to the body come to life as well.” “So if a rock was laying on you, it would have come to life and shout happy birthday?” The two soldiers laughed and continued walking. “It’s nice to know that the real you isn’t out to kill me.” “The night’s still young.” “Shut it old man.” “So, you going to market the spell, make everypony with a Lunarus Corp. leg feel again?” “No, I can’t. It only works if the wearer is dead. I don’t think that would roll over too well.” “Be a good slogan. “Lunarus Corp. Prosthetic legs! So real, they’re to die for!” “You’re insane.” Nexus said with a smile. “I know, isn’t it great!?” “To most I’m sure. So, Captain, how’s the new promotion treating you?” “Captain of the Guard is pretty laid back, so long as high ranking officers aren’t being choke to death in the middle of the night.” “Shut up.” “So, what now? Sombra’s still out there. It is your jurisdiction.” “Under control. Sergeant E is working on tracking him down.” “The same guy that killed you is now working for you… Tell me that doesn’t sound like a bad idea.” “Says the pony that was kidnapped by a bunch of bugs while going to a strip club.” “Hey! I didn’t see that that mare had fangs until I was already out the doors!” “Sure you didn’t. Ephialtes will be working on that case and I’ll be heading back to my job as Captain of the Guard.” “And that would be…?” “Paperwork and personally guarding Princess Luna.” “Oh! Well that sounds like fun!” he said with a raunchy smile. “Is your mind anywhere but the gutter, Brand Fire?” “I was kidnapped outside the only strip club in Canterlot, what do you think?” “Look, it was nice catching up with you Brand Fire, but I need to check on Sergeant Ephialtes and Sergeant Hestaria.” “You do that. I have an office to finish renovating.” Nexus shrugged and continued down the corridor as Commander Brand Fire teleported back to his office in a column of fire. (never understood his fetish with that) He was a floor below his and Luna’s rooms in the Tower of the Moon. He pulled his string with Luna and got Ephialtes and Hestaria a room in the tower, saying it would help them get more work done tracking Sombra down. Luna probably would have agreed without that part, but it didn’t hurt. Nexus could hear muffled orchestra music as he approached the door. “Hey,” Nexus said opening the door. “How are you two-” Nexus stopped when he saw Hestaria laying across their couch with her nether regions covered by thin white sheets and a mango in her teeth. Ephialtes sat in front of a canvas with a pencil hovering next to him looking as though he had been caught steeling. “I’ll…just leave you to drawl her like one of your French girls.” Nexus said leaving, his face redder then the twilight sky. He shook his head and trudged back up to his room. The door opened on its own and A.L.I.S. came on over his intercom. "Welcome home, Commander Nexus. I trust your recovery is going well?" “I’ll be set in a few months. Just shut everything down and open the sky light. I want to sleep under the stars tonight.” As you wish, Commander Nexus. How would you like the temperature? “Outside. I want it to be cold in here.” Nexus climbed the stairs and climbed into the king sized bed with navy blue sheets. He slid under the sheets and watched as the skylight opened. Nexus sighed as he looked through his good eye into the cascading wall of stars. The moon was hanging to the east, towards the head of the bed. He put his hoofs down to his sides and dug his head in his into his pillow. His ears folded to his head as he began drifting from the physical world into his subconscious. In the shadows, an unseen observer walked into the room and waited at the edge of the shadow created by the skylight. The figure opened her wings and gently hovered over Nexus as he slept. The figure landed just on top of Nexus and gently laid itself down on his chest. Nexus didn’t budge, his ears didn’t even move. The figure giggled and opened its right wing. It leaned in lightly and started flicking the last feather on its wing on Nexus’ nose. Nexus cringed lightly and his nose twitched as the giggling from the figure grew more prominent. Nexus grunted in annoyance and tried slapping whatever was on his nose away, only to hit himself. He let out a low ‘ow’ and opened his good eye. The silhouette above him was unmistakable to him. “If it were anypony else did that I would have filled them with voltage by now, Dust.” Nexus said smiling at the figure laying on top of him. “That’s for not coming to see me after you were released.” Dust Storm told him pulling her wing back. “What do I get for being with you now?” “This.” Dust leaned forward and placed her lips to his. Nexus let out a sigh as he put his forelegs around her. Dust nearly shot back from the feeling. “Lunar, they’re warm.” “I know.” “How?” “I honestly would need a day to explain. But I know you’ll never feel that chill ever again.” “But…never mind, what matters is I have you back. I love you Lunarus.” “You have no idea how happy I am to hear you say that Dust.” “What do you mean?” she said sitting up straight. “It’s just, sometimes, I look at these, things, and feel as though I’m, somehow, less of a man because of them.” Dust smiled and leaned back down to Nexus. “Then let me show you how much of a man you really are.” “I love you Dust.” “I love you too Lunar.” Dust kissed Nexus deeply again and slid under the sheets with him. The moon rose high over Equestria as another long night set in across the land. Nexus was home and Ephialtes was acquitted. But the fight isn’t over yet. Deep in the mountains to the far east, Ephialtes’ doppelganger hides in the shadows; growing stronger with each passing day. Nexus and Ephialtes alone couldn’t kill him; and now that he grows stronger, what is to become of the world?
Second Chance Turns to New Problems.The forest was quiet as an odd looking stallion wandered through the massive expanse of trees. The stainless steel plating that were his legs glistened in the full moon along with his silver wings. Neither the metal plates on his chest and back covered his cutie mark. His jet black mane was hardly visible in the night and his dark blue coat blended in with the grass at his metallic hooves. At first glance, most think he’s a Pegasus that fell victim to unfortunate incidences’ that handed him a full set of Lunarus Industries Mechanical Legs and wings, then they see his horn. He was naturally a unicorn, but he needed more options in his line of work as head of the Evening Guard. He wasn’t a patient that received the Lunarus’ products, he was Lunarus Nexus. Nexus stopped in a clearing and looked up to the starry sky that went on forever. He let out a sigh as a shriek pierced the silence like a knife. Nexus didn’t react quickly, he had been waiting for it. Looking in the direction of the loud call, he saw a beautiful, black bird. Its wings emanated a purple and blue mist that sparkled like Princess Luna’s mane. It was a Nightmare Phoenix, his Nightmare Phoenix. “There you are Raven Wing.” he said trotting up to the majestic creature. “I know you love flying as much as I do, but you can just ask me to let you out instead of melting the glass in our room.” before turning into a scroll with a strange seal on the band. Raising an eyebrow, Nexus The Phoenix squawked and then let out a blue ball of flame. The flames swirled and a scroll appeared as they vanished. Nexus wrapped it in a telekinetic field and unrolled it in front of him. “Captain Lunarus Solaris Nexus,” he read aloud. “I hope this letter hasn’t come to you at an inconvenient time, but this had to be sent. Due to unforeseen circumstances, I am being forced to reign as Captain of the Royal Guard and all positions I held in Canterlot. Though my replacement is capable, he has chosen to reign his place at the training academy. I know you do not wish to remain there long, and a replacement for me there is in the process of being appointed, but I wish for you to hold down the fort until that pony is chosen. I thank you for your help Captain. Sincerely: Commanding General Shining Armor of the Crystal Empire. Now that‘s a mouth full.” Nexus shook his head and levitated the letter back to Raven Wing. “If you would be kind enough to hold on to this for me until we get back?” he asked the bird. Raven Wing squawked and lit the page with blue fire before it vanished. “Thanks buddy. Let’s get back before Luna hits us both with the Canterlot voice. My ears are still ringing from the last time.” he said spreading his fake wings. Raven Wing took off first and Nexus followed. “By the way,” Nexus added. “How did Commander Armor find you exactly?” The Phoenix squawked mockingly and flew ahead of Nexus toward Canterlot. The next morning, Commander Nexus was walking along side Princess Luna through the gardens. Since the affair with Commander Firebrand’s imposter four months ago, Nexus had become her personal protégé in dark magic alongside his duty as her guard. He loved his job, he had even met a nice mare a month ago, but now he wasn’t sure if he had to quit what he loved to do, even for a moment. “This is a great opportunity Lunarus.” Luna said to him as Raven Wing swooped down on to Nexus’ back. “You could get to know more of your fellow soldiers.” “I know Luna, I just like it here. It’s like a little foul being forced to move. All of my friends, including you, are here and I’m still not sure I’m up to the task. Raven Wing, perch!” The Nightmare Phoenix took off and landed on top of the statue of Nexus in the center of the garden next to Luna. “I still think you should take the job. After all, you’re the pony who’s special talent includes military strategy.” Nexus groaned knowing she was right. If anypony was qualified to teach ponies unorthodox combat, it was him. Begrudgingly, Nexus nodded. “I’ll need somepony to replace me while I’m gone.” he said. “I’m sure Lieutenant Storm Cloud can cover for you until a replacement for Shining Armor is chosen.” “And I want Dust Storm to come with me.” “Oh?” Luna said with a sly smile. “Why did I just say that?!” he thought to himself. “And why is that?” Luna continued. “Sh-she knows how I like my living quarters to be and she is the only other pony that knows how to work A.L.I.S.” “Of course.” she responded with a smile. She knew his rules, and one of them was never date a co-worker (or someone that you know you’ll see everyday). Dust Storm was the maid that was assigned to his room just after the Changeling incident. He knew two things, Luna was the one that had her assigned and that she would never let him live it down. Even Raven Wing seemed to be laughing at him from atop his own statue. “I shall have her accompany you to the Canterlot Military Academy.” she said holding back a laugh. “Wh-What’s so funny Luna?” “Oh, *giggle* nothing. I hope you have a safe trip. Take the day off before you go.” “I can’t. I have a lot to do princess.” “Then work on another one of your side projects until you leave. I insist Lunarus.” “Ugh, fine. Only for you Luna.” Luna smiled before leaving Nexus alone in the gardens. Nexus grunted in annoyance before whistling for Raven Wing. The powerful Nightmare Phoenix only glided onto his back from the statue. “If you laugh at me like that again, I’ll cook you into a roast.” he threatened. The phoenix only squawked back at him as he walked back in to the castle. His quarters were next to Luna’s. They were once used only for VIP visitors. But since most stayed in the rooms next to Celestia, that left Nexus with a free room and board. It was a large room with a bedroom that spanned the length of all the rooms bellow it, a living room, kitchen and a luxury bath, complete with a Jacuzzi, sauna, and walk-in shower. There were two, walk in closets. One for Nexus, one for whomever else might need the storage space. Nexus didn’t have to open the door, a light brown Pegasus maid was on her way out. Her feather duster cutie mark was hidden under the uniform and her long brown mane tied back in a pony tail. She smiles at Nexus and moves aside, letting him in. “Nice to see you again Captain.” she says as he walks past. “Same to you Dust.” he replies with a light smile looking into her light blue eyes. “A.L.I.S.? You online or what?” The door shut behind him with Dust Storm still in the room. Yes. Welcome home Commander. Shall I change your legs? an electronic mare’s voice said through the loudspeaker over the door. “Casual, I’ve got the day off. And pack my uniform, formal set and other essentials please.” Yes Commander. Shall I pack a bag for Miss Storm as well? “Yes.” “Where are we going?” Dust Storm asked as several robotic arms jutted out of the wall panels. They attached to Nexus’ legs. He didn’t seem to notice as a vibration detached his hind legs form the stubs that had been left. As the first set was taken away, a new set were brought from the wall and were attached where the old ones had once been. His forelegs were a little harder. Another pair of mechanical arms came from the wall tipped with heads that would fit over the elbow joint on the forelegs. With a quick hiss, the forelegs separated from the contact plate and the new set were put in place. The new set of legs looked like any other ponies legs, save for the articulation points at the knees and hoof. The material was similar to his coat in both texture and color. The arms retracted back into the wall and the panels closed up. Nexus shook his legs a bit before walking into the living room. “Where are we going?” Dust asked. “We’re going to the Canterlot Military Academy. They need a replacement for Captain Armor, and I’m the temporary fill.” he said laying down onto the couch. “And I have to go why?” Dust asked laying down next to him. “Because I know how you get when I go somewhere and you don’t get invited.” Dust sighed and nuzzled Nexus’ neck. Nexus leaned closer to her. “You know I wouldn’t dream of going anywhere without you.” “I know. What would you do without me?” “Yeah, who else knows how I like my legs ironed?” I feel left out, Commander. A.L.I.S. said. “Don’t get your circuits in a binding A.L.I.S.. You’re going to. Download yourself into my HUD tonight.” Yes Commander. “So… what do you have planned for the day?” Dust asked. “I was thinking dinner later tonight, but I still have a whole day to tie up some lose ends.” “What lose ends?” “Well, I did promise Smoke n’ Mirrors and Lea I would have lunch with them when I had a day off.” “Oh, I haven’t seem them since their wedding! How’ve they been?” “Well, Mirrors found a job that he could actually hold down.” “So better then last week?” “Pretty much.” Dust giggled and leaned in to kissed Nexus’ cheek. She moved a little closer and felt her skin touch his contact plate. She cringed at the ice cold steel against her. Nexus noticed and sighed annoyed. “I told you to avoid touching my plates until I can get the new design finished.” “Lunar, you’ve been working on that thing for weeks and still haven’t found the right spell to make it work.” “I just need something that creates feeling. I can feel pressure with this model, just not texture or temperature.” Dust sighed. “I’ll send a letter to Lea to let her know about lunch.” Nexus watcher her get up and go to Raven Wing. He sighed as well and left to the bedroom to make sure everything was being packed. The Cookie Cutter Café, great place for a scone, cookie and was also the only place in Canterlot that had a sandwich with meat in it. The outdoor seating was packed in the cool autumn air of the early afternoon. Even in his casual set, ponies still slowed down to make sure they were seeing him correctly. Dust and Nexus sat opposite Mirrors and Lea at the furthest table from the café. “So, how’ve you been Metal Head?” Mirrors asked. “Better then you if you call me that again.” Nexus said with a cocky grin. “How long have you two been going out?” Lea asked. “Only a month.” “Only a month?!” Dust exclaimed. “Most relationships don’t last past two weeks in this day and age, Lunar.” “I know Dusty. But looking at the time, it isn’t a long time.” Lea shook her head with Dust and giggled. “Stallions.” Dust said to Lea. “Tell me about it.” “Hey!” “Best thing a mare ever said to you.” Nexus added with a smile. “That’s totally not true.” “Let’s see, if memory serves; one called you a sick bastard, another called you shit head. Oh, and my personal favorite, Smoke n’ Li’le-” “Okay!” he interrupted. “So it’s not the worst thing I’ve been called.” Everyone at the table laughed. “Anyways, enough about me. How’ve you two been the last three weeks?” “Um, I think I need to use the little mares room. Dust would you like to come with?” “Sure, be back in a second.” Dust said kissing Nexus on the cheek. The two of them walked into the café leaving the two old friends alone. “So, you want to go first?” Mirrors asked. “If you’re going where I think you’re going, then I’ve got nothing to tell.” “Yeah, sure yah don’t. I’ll take that as permission to go first.” “By all means. Luna only knows how much I’ve wanted to hear of your sexual exploits.” Nexus replied sarcastically rolling his eyes. “I thought so. So the honey moon was glorious! We went to Las Pegasus and-” “Captain.” a dark gray Pegasus with a white mane and lightning cloud cutie mark called out as he landed in the open section of the café. “Storm. Shouldn’t you be protecting the princess?” Nexus said glaring at him. “Scheduled lunch hour. And when I heard that the most dedicated pony in the guard was taking a day off, I had to see it for myself.” “Well, you’re kind of interrupting lunch.” Smoke n’ Mirrors said. “Well, unfortunately for Captain Nexus, duty calls.” “What happened to lunch hour?” “That was just-” “A front?” “Yeah.” “Fine.” Nexus said with a sigh as he stood. “What is it?” “You’re needed in the dungeon.” “Why?” “Wouldn’t say. Just said the only pony that they needed was you.” “Sorry Smokey. Tell Dust where I went when she and Lea get back.” “It’s cool Nexus. I’ll send you a letter.” “Same.” Nexus spread his wings and took off from the café with Storm Cloud in tow. “I ever tell you, you got an impeccable sense of timing?” Nexus asked as they soared towards the castle. “No.” “Well now you know.”
ResignedThe door to Nexus’ office opened a few minutes after “welcoming” the new recruits to the academy. Nexus groaned as he entered his office. Dust Storm was there setting photos on his desk when he walked in. She looked up at him as he removed his helmet and hung it on the coat rack. “So, it sounds like the prisoner is taking authority well.” Dust said sarcastically. “Your Canterlot voice is getting better.” “Thanks Dusty.” Nexus said kissing her cheek. “I think it still needs some work.” “What do you plan on doing about him?” “I have a fair idea.” After the long orientation, involving running, and several hour classes on combat strategy, the Sergeant was leading him down a massive hall in the center of the main building of the academy. He was sure Commander Nexus was about to chew him out again. The Sergeant told him to wait outside the office. The letters on the glass had been scratched off but he could still read what had once been there. Capt. Shining Armor Captain of the Guard Ephialtes rolled his eyes and waited patiently for the door to open again. Once inside the Sergeant left and shut the door behind him. Commander Nexus only looked up at him from the paperwork he was working on for a moment before returning to it, ignoring Ephialtes. Ephialtes sighed. He stood up straight and put his right hoof up to his brow. “Sir!” he shouted. “At ease.” Nexus said now looking up from his papers. “I see you’re learning how things work around here.” “Albeit unwillingly.” “You should also know that whether I say “at ease” or not, you don’t speak unless I say so. Got it?” “Ye-Sir yes Sir!” “Good. Now, from what Sergeant Clover has told me, you are in great shape, have trouble with authority and enjoys smart ass comments to anyone that listens. Any sane Commander would boot you right now. You wanna know what I’m thinking?” “Sir, no Sir.” “As you know, there is more then one guard faction. And I’m head of one of them. Do you know where we get our soldiers Private?” “Sir, no Sir.” “We pull the best of the best. And guess what, none of those stuck ups you were standing with a few hours ago didn’t make my cut. Do you know why?” “Sir, no Sir.” “Because they aren’t asking questions. Your question is “why am I here?”. Well, you’re here to get your ass out of trouble. Like it or not being apart of the crowd isn’t going to help you. Get to the Lunar building tomorrow morning at 0300.” “Anything else?” Commander Nexus glared up at Ephialtes for a moment before he added a sir to the end of that . “Yes. Return to your barracks before curfew and be ready at 0300.” “Yes, Sir!” “As you were.”
The Death of HonorFrom high above the trees, Hestaria flew towards the bright flashes of light and loud explosions emanating from the trees. She could feel something strange in the air; a static charge and a heavy weight pressed into her like needles. The flashes were getting closer but dimmer as she approached the clearing. As the center of the clearing came into view, she was horrified by the sight. Ephialtes standing over Commander Nexus laying in a pool of his own blood. “Ephi! What are you doing!?” Hestaria shouted as she landed behind him. Ephialtes turned and smirked at Hestaria. “What I should have done the minute I met him.” Nexus groaned and a flash of light shot from his horn. Ephialtes shouted in anger and stopped his hoof down onto Nexus’ throat. He gasped, trying to shout through Ephialtes’ hoof crushing his windpipe. He barely struggled as Ephialtes pressed his hoof down harder. His right eye was nearly closed as his continued to try and pull in another breath. After a few agonizing seconds, his metallic limbs went limp in a clatter of metal. His right eye still half open and blank, starring back at Ephialtes. Ephialtes released Nexus from his hold and his final breath escaped his mouth. Ephialtes turned again to Hestaria with a sick, sadistic smile spread across his face. “Are you afraid Hestaria?” Ephialtes asked with great pleasure in his voice. “I can taste your fear, and it’s delicious.” His horn glowed black and he threw Hestaria against the closest tree. He slowly approached her showing his teeth as shadows started swirling around to his right. “Lunarus’ death was long and painful, I won’t give you the same luxury of wasting my time.” With in the shadows a blade of ice formed. As he reached Hestaria, he put the ice dagger to her throat. “What are you doing?” a voice asked. Ephialtes hesitated and turned around to find the source. All he saw was Nexus’ beaten and bloody body laying in the middle of the clearing. “This isn’t you Ephialtes. You know it isn’t you. This is one of your friends after all.” Ephialtes started scanning the edge of the clearing looking for the source of the voice. “I think we need to have a little talk.” There was a flash of light and Ephialtes fell to the forest floor unconscious. Hestaria fell from the tree and the ice dagger shattered against its roots. She quickly ran to Ephialtes and knelt at his side. “Ephi! Are you okay!? Wait here, I’ll get help!” she said franticly before flying back towards Canterlot.
