Once a Soldier always a soldier

Chapters

the shit hits the fan
Royal meetings
a day's work is never done
When the fun begins... bad things happen
Doing a dying wish
contact
Predator and prey
The loss of one’s self and the gaining of another.
the trumpets of war
Crazy seems to follow me, EVERYWHERE
Prologue

the shit hits the fan

The shit hits the fan

Afghanistan, location classified. December 24, 2013 1942 hours

“Are you fucking sure, Josh?” I said. Looking out at the valley that the two hummves where blazing through. This place was giving me a bad feeling.

“Yes, I am fucking sure, Parker." Josh answered mockingly. "We got this guy where we want him. The Intel says he’s here in a cave.” Josh said over the radio. What a shocker! A Taliban leader hiding in a cave. “All we have to do is just go in there, grab him and any other Intel those bastards have with them. Easy Peasy, no need to worry.” I sighed and nodded slightly.

“I know but, worrying is what got me this far in life and this place is giving a bad feeling. I just want to get out of here in time for new years.” I replied as the convey went to this side of the tree covered mountain side.

“I know we all we-” he couldn’t finish his sentence as his hummve was sent flying over the side of the mountain by an explosion nearly doing the same to my hummve but, it went back on its front wheels.

“JOSH!” I yelled. My hummve stopped just as bullets started to hit the glass making it web. I jumped out of the back seat in the driver’s side with my M4 slapping my side. I knelt behind the engine and started to squeeze off rounds at the direction of the enemy fire. My ears were pounding from the explosion but, I could hear the mounted gun going off. I looked up to see David on the gun firing. Crazy black bastard I love ya. I looked to the right of the hummve to a figure with a long tube on top of its shoulder. “RPG! David get do-” he couldn’t even hear me as the rocket hit the hummve; blowing half of the thing off along with David. “DAVID!” but, before I could act I felt someone pulling on my shoulder down to the tree line. I turned to see Mark dragging me to the mouth of a cave.

“Parker are you ok!?” he said almost taking out his med bag.

“I’m fine. what about Dylan, Josh and Cameron?” I replied placing a mag in my rifle.

“I’m sorry but, Josh and Cameron were killed in the explosion and Dylan is at the hummve half way down the mountain. Sir, what do you want me to do?” I peered from the mouth of the cave to get chucks of rocks to the cheek.

“Shit!” I yelped recoiling i turned to see Mark waiting for instructions. i thought for a moment before speaking “Mark, I want you to take Dylan, Ryan, Eric and yourself to get the hell off of his mountain and back to the nearest friendly base. This was a trap from the beginning.” I said blasting rounds blindly around the lip of the cave; pressing my back on the wall of the cave. I noticed that Mark was still there.

“What about you, Sir?” Mark replied.

“I am going to stay here and cover your ass.” I answered as calmly as possible but, I sucked at that.

“No, I am going to stay here with you.” Mark said shooting off his rifle taking down two men.

I grabbed him by the collar. “THAT IS AN ORDER, PRIVATE! NOW GET THE FUCK OUT OF HERE OR WE WILL BE BOTH DEAD AND FED TO DOGS!” I yelled at Mark nearly making him jump out of his skin.

“Fine, just be careful boss.” he replied. He looked left and right before sprinting down the mountain leaving me by myself.

I took a deep breath. 'In out in out' I thought slowing my heart rate. I turned around the corner to a see the same man with the RPG that blew up David. “You bastard” I thought as I put the ACOG on the motherfucker’s chest. Me and him shot at the same time. Time seemed to slow as my bullets struck home. I could see the force of the bullets ripple on the man’s body.but, his rocket was close as it hit the ground ten feet away from me launching me through the air into the cave. My life flashed before my eyes. From being bullied in grade school, High school prom, joining the rangers, my dad’s funeral, now today. Well shit. After this I am going to get a fucking drink. I closed my eyes as I was engulfed by the ever darkness of the cave. But, instead of my head being busted open by rock I rolled over soft plushy grass. “What the hell?” I thought as I pushed myself up. I looked back the cave, ignoring the fact that it was disappearing instead limping to the surrounding forest. I could feel my M4 hit my side as I got as far away from the cave that I felt that was safe. I found a clear spot and I plopped down building a fire. Once, it caught the warmth of the flames started to me fall asleep. A twig snapping made me aim my rifle in the direction nearly firing but, i luckily had an empty mag in the rifle. I lowered my weapon setting it across my lap and I began to stare at the embers that jumped for the crackling wood. My eyelids began to have minds of their own as they began to close. I popped them open trying to stay awake. 'Fuck it.' I thought as I closed my eyes for the night.

My Dream was really weird. I was back at home with my mom, brother, sister, uncle and grandparents. We were having a Nice thanksgivings meal then, all of a sudden it went all to black.

“what the hell is going on?” I looked left and right seeing nothing but, blackness. I looked at my hand and I could still see it. I looked over to see that I was in some kind of fancy dining hall. I could see a blue horse with a horn and wings. Its mane was flowing in an unnatural wind and had what looked like stars shining from it. It was sipping tea. “what and who are you?” I raised and eyebrow instinctively trying to draw the non-existent pistol. "What the hell?" i said looking down seeing just my normal fatigues of mulit-cam.

It sat the cup on a little plate and back on the table. It looked at me with a pair of blue eyes that could freeze the sun but, also warm it too. “I am Princess Luna and I’m an Alicorn. I was also about the ask you the same question. I have never seen you before and I have been in everypony’s dreams at least once.”

I raised an eyebrow at this. “What are you telling me that you are in my head?” she nodded. “Well, can you please, w-wait what did you say?”

It was her turn to raise an eyebrow. “What?”

“You said everypony, does that mean that you are implying about everypony as everyone is a pony?” she nodded. “But, I am not a pony. I am a human being. But, if I am a pony that means I have refer everyone I meet as everypony?” she nodded. “But, I am not a fucking pony."

“No, you are a pony my guards say so. They surround you right at this moment and you are indeed a pony. Just wake up and see for yourself.” she replied and went back at sipping her tea.

I woke up to see about five ponies with some kind of rifles resembling M-16s aimed at me. All of them seemed to have bat wings, grey coats and wearing purple armor. “Well, guess who’s wake.” one of them said nearly making me jump out of my skin.

“What the fuck is going on here!” I yelled scattering birds.

“Well holy shit, it looks like our friend here has a rifle, pistol and four grenades.” he eyed my rig on my chest. “Where are you going a war zone?” he said then he started to laugh along with his friends.

“uhh, I just came from one, smart ass.” I replied that seemed to shut them up. “If you excuse me I need to get going." I tried to get up but, the moment I got on my feet I fell down on my face, getting some of laughs from the guards.

“Is this your first time walking?” he said. His face looked like it was going to burst in laughter. I got on my feet and realized that I was shorter then, earlier. i felt something on both sides of my back. every time i tried to get on my feet i just wind up going back on all four. Confused, I ran to the near by lake with the guards following close behind snickering the entire way. I looked down and saw my reflection from the rising sun. I was a black stallion with fucking wings! “HOLY SHIT!” I yelled making the guards rub their ears in pain.

One of the guards, it seems that this one has been hanging back as his friends were making fun of me, came up to me. “The Princess wants to see you.” he said with some kind friendliness in his voice but, mostly professional.

“Fine, it seems like I don’t have a choice. How do we get there?” he said nothing but, just pointed at the wings at my side. I sighed. “How do you do this?” i said looking at my 'wings'.

He turned around. “Just follow my lead.” he said before he flapped the leathery wings rising into the air. Well, I be a son of a bitch.

“Alright, lets see if I can do this.” I said. I began to flapped my wings. It felt like when you were a kid trying to fly by flapping your arms it felt the same way kind of. My eyes went wide as I began to fly. “well, this is something you don’t see everyday.”

“Just follow me and please don’t try to crash into anything along the way.” I nodded.

“Hey, I’ve got a question.” I asked.

He stopped and turned around in mid air. “what?” with an annoyed tone to his voice.

“what’s your name? If I may ask.” I said. Almost loosing what little control I have.

“Name’s Sunshine shield.” he said flatly. That is literally too funny to laugh at. I thought. He looked at me with a raised eyebrow. “What? No, hey sunny, oh something is shining in my eye?”

“No, I don’t make funny of people’s or pony’s names.” I said realizing my mistake.

“What’s yours?” he asked raising an eyebrow.

“Name’s Parker but, something tells me that I am going to need to change it so i don't stand out. Don't I?” I said. He nodded. i sighed before thinking for a moment “So, how about Nightwing?" i asked.

Royal meetings

“So, this is the new pony I have been hearing about.” said a large white alicorn was walking around me; studying me. “I definitely know that you are not from around here. But, I shall not be rude for new guest; my name is Princess Celestia. What is your name?”

“That is what I been trying to say. I am a Human from earth and definitely not a pony. I just want to go home and make sure my team is alright. They are my responsibility or at least at the momment. But, my name is Sergeant Parker or you can call me Nightwing, if I am a pony I might as while have a pony name from what I hear.” I said calmly but, felt like yelling it. But, my mom taught me manners and if she saw me she would kick my ass. “Also why in the hell am I a fucking pony!” I said with anger filling my voice. 'So much for manners.'

“I don’t know why are you a pony. I don’t know how you got here. But, you said you had a team. What kind of team? If I might ask.” she said with a calm voice as she sat in her throne.

I raised an eyebrow. “I am on a special operations team and that is as much I can disclose. I can not betray my country, my friends, my family and most of all myself. ” standing as straight as I could be.

“Spoken like a true soldier.” said a voice behind me nearly making me jump but, I held.

A white unicorn with a blue mane came from behind me to Celestia and whispered something in her ear. She nodded and her smiling face turned to one of great concern. She raised her head and looked me in the eye. “If we can trust you, I am going to have ask you a favor. But, I can tell even if I can’t see your original body, I can see in your eyes that you are experienced soldier that has worked behind the lines.” she said the soft comforting voice turned to one of harden steel and determination. “If you are willing to do this I will grant you full access to the Canterlot library to research what is going on with you.” I nodded. “If you go I will grant you full access for training for pony weapons and armory. But, there is one more thing I want you to do."

“What?” I sat on my haunches with confused look on my face.

“I want you after this mission to join the solar army as a Commander, Nightwing.” Shining armor said just before Celestia could say anything.

“Alright, I will do this if you can teach me how to fly better. I almost crashed into another pony, a fly cart, a hot air balloon and the castle. Also, I would like to be briefed on the mission and to have my friend Sunshine Shield with me along with two other ponies. Deal?” I said raising an eyebrow.

“Deal. Now, that is enough serious business it is Hearths Warming eve after all. Have a good time.” Celestia said before she left the room. I sighed as everyone left the room. I got up and stretch my legs and turned around to see that Sunshine Shield was still there waiting for me. He had a smile on his face. “Don’t you have a family to you should get to?” I said with a small sigh.

“No, I don’t have a family. My dad was killed in fight with a griffin, my mom died of cancer and I am an only foal.” He replied. He had a smile on his face but, I could tell that it was forced.

“I know how you feel on losing someone or in your case someone. I’ve lost my dad when a gun fight broke out in our street between a couple. The angry boyfriend shot my dad as he tried to calm down the situation.” I said. A small tear rolled off my eye but, quickly wiped it off. “He died when I was fifteen, in my arms. I could not forget the last words he said.”

“What were they?” Shield said, opening the door out of the castle. His face seemed to light up as I opened up.

“Do not forget the past but, do not swear to revenge or it will consume you.” I said looking out the window at the snow blanketed city. I turned to Shield. “Do you know where we can get a drink?” I asked.

He chuckled. “I know place and cheap too. I will buy for tonight but, you owe me.” I chuckled before we left the castle.

********

we entered a small bar that had a little Christmas tree at the end. hmm, festive. I looked over at the pool table area to see two ponies getting into a fight. More human then, i thought.

“huh, it looks like alcohol is the same everywhere." I murmured to myself.

“Hey, Skillet give my two of your finest.” Shield said a brown stallion that seemed to be the bartender.

He looked up from the tap. “So, you come back here, still? For this shit you call our finest? Your funeral.” Skillet said sliding down two mugs of drink. I sat down next to Shield at the bar. I looked at the drink and then at Shield.

“What the hell do you call this?” I said raising an eyebrow looking down at the dark liquid.

“I don’t know I just call beer and just chug it down.” he replied before taking a swig.

I shrugged and looked at Shield. “there is a saying in my world and you know what that is?”

Placing the glass down. “What?” he replied.

“Over the lips, through the gums, watch out stomach here it comes.” I sung before I chugged the beer. I shook my head from the sting of the alcohol. "Holy shit, that is strong.” I said as I looked down at the drink.

“Do you cuss all the time?” Shield ask as he finished his second drink.

I looked at him with a grin. “ya, got a problem with that?” I said. Leaning to my right into his face leading with my right eye wide open. “Got a problem with that? Do ya do ya?” I said knocking on the bar getting a another drink.

Shield chuckled and pushed my face away. “No, not at all you son of a bitch. But I do got a question.” he said taking another drink.

“What would that be?” I said letting the drink sting my throat. I shook my head again. “I could get used to this.” I thought with a wide grin.

“why did you accept the deal after just being here from about half a day?” he said setting down his drink.

I shrugged and thought about it for a second. “I don’t know.” I paused for a second. “I think it was instinct but, now that I think about I think I did so I can gain their trust. And also I can pay you back for tonight.” I said slugging him in the left arm/upper leg.

“Shit, for somepony that just transformed into a pony you can hit pretty damn hard.” Shield said rubbing his left upper leg. I belted out a hard laugh that made the entire bar look at me. I saw a red mare give me a giggle after i winked at her. I blushed as I raised my glass to her and winked back. A huge ass light green stallion glared at me getting up and started to come my way.

When he came to me and glared. “What’s your deal asshole and winking at my girlfriend.” he paused seeing that i was laughing out loud. “What’s so funny?” anger started to rise in his tone.

I busted out laughing, nearly falling on the floor. “oh” I wiped a small tear of laughter from my eye. “It just-” I paused doing a chuckle.

“spill it or I am going to spill your guts on the floor.” he said looking me dead in the eye.

“You- you kind of look like a thin mint.” I said falling on the ground laughing.

That seemed to get to him as he tried to stomp my head into the floor. I twisted around sweeping his feet out of under him. I jumped up before he could react and did a round house kick to the face as he was halfway up,: knocking him out cold. "And that's how a US soldier does it motherfucker." i said before I sat back down on the stool and I began to chug drink after drink. My vision began blur as the alcohol began to take hold more of me. I began to stagger around until I landed on my face and started to sing ’let it snow’. After my memory faded for about a few hours, all i remember is that I felt two ponies helping me out of the place and towards the castle. (note: I only found this out from Shield afterwards. Only after catching hell from everypony. Shit.)

a day's work is never done

A day’s work is never finished.

I woke up and I sat up rubbing my eyes. How I hate hangovers. I looked around the room smaking my lips freezing when I felt the bed shifting along with a breath along with the smell of sex in the air. I looked down to see a red mare. “What the hell happened last night?” I said to myself just before the door burst open revealing a smiling Shield.

“So, it looks like you got some.” he said with a wide smile; involuntary answering my question

“You know if I had my fingers I would be showing you one.” I said flatly carefully getting out of bed making sure not to wake the mare in my bed.

He shrugged. “I have no idea what the hell fingers are but, if it anything like claws, you are probably talking about the middle one right?” he said with a small chuckle.

My face went flat. “lets get out of here, so I can start my training and get briefed.” I said walking to the door just to get stopped by shield.

Shield raised a hoof and shook his head. “No need, you are already trained. This is how we do it here. Well, in a hurry anyways” he said motioning his head to go outside. The moment that I got outside the door. A unicorn pined me against the wall and flared his horn. The moment it touched my forehead vision began to appear in my eyes and I could see it all. Weapons, training, tactics, vehicles and the briefing. I’m going after what they call Changelings. I shook my head to see the out stretched hoof of Shield.

“That... was a ride.” I said. I rubbed my head again for the first time not from my hangover.

“yeah, now lets get going we are going to miss the chopper.” he said slugging my legs. I glared at him rubbing it following behind him. “And that is pay back for last night.”

We were quiet as we reached the chopper and climbed on. My mind was racing as I realized where I was going. I am going to one of the most dangerous places on this world. Right into the Changeling hive. I was thinking for most of the two hour long ride then, I looked in the horizon to see the mountain where it is. The chopper slowed down and began to decent into a small clearing. I jumped off along with shield and two others. I looked at them. “Private frozen water, and Private Hog.” Is what my head briefing said that were they're names. We began to move along a valley stealthily as not to get detected by any sentries.My head breifing was telling me everything as we went along, It put an image in my mind. They look like ponies but, what creeps me out is that they have holes covering their bodies, scaly bodies and insect wings. I kept my rifle ready as just in case of an ambush learning from the IED strike. There have been rumors as I was able to figure out from the ponies from the chopper, that these changelings can change into any living thing they desire as long as they have a good mental picture that i backed up with the mental briefing. which means I can’t even trust the last two ponies for now. We walked into a large ancient court yard in front of what looks like a castle. We kept an eye out for anything as we walked to the entrance Shield stopped in front of the entrance and pressed his ear against the door. He looked at me and nodded to some rocks about seventy-five yards away. We all ran to it just and jumped behind them.“Lets blow this popsicle stand.” he said just before the door exploded and swarms of black bugs came out; the buzzing was hurting my ears. The blast pretty much kicked the hornets nest. oh the irony.

We all began to fire our rifles taking out as many as possible before the got to us. Some went into the air and tried to dive into us. I smiled lining up my shots . “you get lead.” I said shooting a bullet into a changeling's head making it fall onto the ground never to get up again. I got a grin on my face as I began to shoot again. I was firing with precision firing in bursts killing one changeling at a time. “here’s your present. your’s. and I can’t forget about you!” I said shooting three changelings out of the air. My ears perked up again as a changeling was rushing from behind me. “AND YOU GET COAL!” I yelled I swung around and hitting the changeling with butt of the gun, stunning it. It fell onto the ground shocked the expertise of the attack and it looked up. I lowered my rifle to its head. “Ho Ho Ho motherfucker.” I said just before I pulled the trigger splattering green goo across the ground. I smiled truing around to see that the changelings were setting a defensive position firing orbs of green I say plasma. I chuckled a little. “Just like back home. except, for all of the weird shit here." i said firing on a pair of changeling bombers.

When the fun begins... bad things happen

I dove behind a rock as beams of green Goo, energy, magic… what ever the hell it is go past me. I looked around to see that Hog and water firing their weapons with deadly precision taking down Changeling after Changeling. I looked around to see where Shield was. I turned my head left to see that there were five different Shields running around shooting what seemed to be energy rifles that seemed to change into the rifles we were using and acted like them. My jaw nearly hit the ground. I shouldered my rifle to see which one was real. In the magic it taught me that there is a way to differentiate from Changeling and the real thing. I brought up the computer that was on my what I call a wrist to see a small radar screen. (Pause for a second, I wish I had this shit when I was on earth it would have saved me a lot of shit.) Three green dots came up and a shit load of red dots came up. I looked to see that four of the shields were on the ground with green ooze coming out. I turned to door to see that the defensives were destroyed thanks to water and Hog. The firing stop as did the changeling troops. I looked down at one of the bodies, it was like a bug. I never believed in old data unless I see it myself. “I hate bugs.” I turned to see that shield and the others were starting to go in. I got behind the group with Water at point. I looked around, the nest was made in an old castle that was literally made inside a mountain.

“So, those are changelings?” I whispered to shield. He nodded before hushing me as we got to a stair case. I hate stairs, no matter where in a battle field or to a fucking water slide, I hate stairs. As we trotted up I began to feel crosshairs on my head. “So, can anypony feel crosshairs right about here?” I said as I tapping my forehead.

“Be quiet but, yeah I don’t like this. It’s too quiet. Hog are you sure that this is the queen’s hive?” Shield said. We entered what looks like an old guest room. It was in massive disrepair and neglect, it has definitely seen better days. reminds me of Fallout. I looked at the door to see if any Changeling were coming this way.

Through the crack of the door I could see ten Changelings flying this way towards the door. I turned to the guys. “Guys, tangos coming this way.” I whispered to them. They went quiet as they could hear the buzzing as the Changelings passed. I turned to Hog. “Where do we go?”

He looked on his map. “Throne room eight floors above us.” I nodded.

“Any lifts or elevators?” I said with an optimistic tone.

He shook his head. “Sorry only stairs.”

My face went flat. “Shit. Well, lets complete the objective and get the fuck out of here.” I said. I cracked open the door looking up and down the hall. Nothing. “It’s clear.” I said. I trotted out the door as I could hear buzzing everywhere. I don’t like this. They should have found us by now. I turned to Shield and the others. “Hog lead the way. We have to cover as much ground before we are caught. Also, lets put the suppressers on the rifles. We’ve already kicked the hornets next, no need to hit it with a baseball bat.” they nodded. Me, Hog, and Shield bit into our suppressors and screwed it on the end of our barrels. While Water being a show off decided to use his magic to do the same. The blue glow wrapped around his and placed it on. “Show off.” He got a smug face at the comment.

“Alright, if you can stop your bitching we need to get to three places. The Armory, the hatchery and the throne room. Then, Water can teleport us back to the LZ.” Shield said as we started up a stone stair case that seemed to go on forever. Did I mention that I hate stairs. I looked up to see a stair case of that of fancy hotel but, made of stone and in horrible condition. I took on step and a chuck of it fell off and made a dull thud on the ground. This is going to be fun.

We started up the stairs with our rifles at the ready. I looked up once more to look at the stairs. I turned to Hog. “Hog where is the nearest objective?” I said as we reached the third flight of stairs.

Hog looked on his computer. “Two floors above us and that is the armory. But, don’t worry about to much opposition, that is the least guarded of the three. Let hoof it and book it.”

It was quiet as we reached the doors of the fifth floor. Shield pressed his ear against the door. I motioned with his hoof that there was in fact a shit load of Changelings. He cracked the door and his eyes said it. Shit. He motioned to the team to come toward him. He turned to us after softly closing the door as much as possible. “Ok, there are about twenty of those fuckers guarding the armory. If we go guns blazing we will be shot to pieces and I don’t want to return in a body bag. Do you guys have any ideas, spit them out before they hear us.” Shield said in a whisper that I was barely able to hear it.

I raised my hoof. (Damn hoofs I still don’t know how they fucking work in this world.) He nodded. “How about a flash-bang? It will blind them and make them deaf enough to confuse them for us to take them by surprise and take them out.” I said. They had the look that said ‘what the fuck is he talking about?’ my voice went flat. “A flash-bang is a non-lethal grenade that makes large bang and blinding flash that is made to disorientate a target for about 10 to 30 seconds depending on where they are looking at.”

They nodded as Water recognized the description. “Oh, like a CF grenade?” he said in a some what mild voice but, I could tell that he was about 26. I raised an eyebrow at the statement of the grenade. “CF means Celestial Flare.”

I nodded and faced the door. “Alright but, I got plenty of regular frags. We could use those injuring them an-” Hog was interrupted by Shield.

“Shhhh. There leaving.” Shield said as he was by the door again. He quietly opened the door and stepped inside. We quickly entered just realize that there were only maybe three guards at the door in the hall. I lined up my rifle as did everypony else. 3... 2... 1... We all fired at the same time killing the guards with a suppressed crack. We scanned the halls for any more signs of Changelings. Nothing. We quietly went to the door and opened it. My jaw almost hit the floor as the room was filled rows and rows of weapons. I just stared as Water was taking pictures and Hog was placing charges. I looked at the bodies in front of the door.

“Hey shield help me with this, we don’t want them to be suspect us to be in here.” I said pulling the legs of the changeling and putting them inside an open crate. With the last one everything seemed to be finished.

“Alright, next place is the Hatchery and that shit is tightly guarded. So, we need a way inside without attaching any attention. Hog, is there any way we can take beside the fucking stairs?” Shield said as he closed the door.

Hog looked at his computer and nodded with some confusion. “There is a way but, I didn’t see it before. I think that there a secret passage near by that takes us all the way to the hatchery. But, I can’t find the entrance.”

Water snorted leaning against a wall with a torch. “A castle with a secret passage how original.” he said with a sarcastic tone as he hit his head on the torch. It knocked out making the wall slide downwards, revealing the passage way.

Shield and Hog laughed. “For once your hard head actually helped us.” Shield said as he stepped inside. “Parker, you are not going to like this, more stairs.” he said with a small chuckle.

“Goddamn it.” I muttered to myself as I entered the passage. Nothing but, blackness and stairs. I looked up at Shield. “Are you sure that we can’t just attack the changelings and have some real fun?”

“yes, I sure, plus if it will stop your bitching it will take us just ten minutes get there and set the explosives. Then, off to the throne room to kill the queen.” I smiled and became quiet.

Everypony was quiet the entire way up the staircase. With some time on hand my mind began to run wild. I started to think about magic briefing. Infiltrate the Changeling hive in Discord’s castle, distract the Changelings with a explosion at the castle gate. Destroy the armory. Destroy the Hatchery. Kill Queen Chrysalis. Gather any information about any farther attack. No Prisoners. Kill any Changelings you see as long you are sure that you can get out. Evac 15 hours of drop off. No back up. You are on your own. If you are captured there will be no rescue unless one volunteers. It went from the briefing to what little family I have. I sigh and looked up to see that shield was looking. I decided to lighten the mood a little and to get out that fucking depressing thought. “After this and the pay I’m getting I’ll pay the first round.” I said. That seemed to make the guys laugh.

“Alright, guys this is where the real fun begins. Behind this door there are going to be Changelings. Lock and load.” Shield said. He pulled out a grenade that had the Letters CF. He pulled the pin and threw it behind the door. I could hear it bouncing on the stone floor and land in some goop. The buzzing was the signal that they saw it. Then, the familiar bang and flash of light came and we ran in. My rifle was a part of me as we entered. The room was fill with Changelings and eggs. My rifle began go to Changeling to Changeling. It was all over in a few seconds as every live Changeling. It was kind of a medium sized Hatchery but, to me it a little small for a castle of this size.

“Guys I have a bad feeling, I thought there would be more especially here in the Hatchery where there entire species is born.” I said making everypony stop. (Damn it) Shield was about to say something when the door of the Hatchery exploded in green fire. A wall of energy beams came from the smoke of the former door. “It’s a trap!” I yelled. (Pause I have always wanted to say that. *In the background* NNNEEEERRRDDD. I should have never shown them star wars. Before you ask I have all six movies on my MP3 Player with a 4 inch screen. One does not simply watch all six movies. *Chuckle*) I dove behind a column next to Shield. “I knew that something was wrong with this.” I yelled as blindly fired my rifle into the wave of Changelings.

“I know, It felt off.” Shield said as he fired into three Changelings.

I turned around saw a small circular object land next to Hog. “HOG GRENADE!” I yelled but, it was too late. The grenade explode practically under him before he could react. Water ran to him as me and Shield finished off the last of the Changelings. We went to Hog. He was in really bad shape. His read left leg was blown off and covered in blood from the shrapnel.

He coughed up blood. He began to chuckle as Shield walked a little away from Hog with Water. I could hear what there say. “He is not going to make it. His lower left leg is completely severed and there is shrapnel covering his entire left side. I’m surprised that is his still alive let alone talking. He looked over at Hog.

“Hey, Nightwing or can I call you Parker?” he said with a bloody smile on his face.

“You can call me Parker.” I said as I sat next to him against the wall.

“Parker, I know that we barely know each other but, I consider a close friend. If you watched my back like this even in my final hour or should I say minute.” he chuckled. He coughed a little and blood came out covering his entire uniform.

“No, don’t say that we can get you out of here and into a hospital.” I said trying my best to lie but, I was horrible at that.

“No, don’t lie. I can hear Shield and Water talking about my injuries. “you know I actually saw you in the bar the second night you were here. I almost busted out laughing when you called that big green douchbag a thin mint.” he said with a grin on his face. He began to laugh with blood coming down the sides of his mouth. Staining his light green coat. he took out a necklace that had his dog tags and a small locket. He pulled off the necklace snapping the band. He placed it in my hoof. “Give it to my wife and tell her that I died doing what I love and that I was thinking of her when I died. Just meet her at the Damn good eggs restaurant she is a blue unicorn and her name is Colgate. Now, get the fuck out of here before another wave of those fucking bastards come here.” he looked at Water. Shield and Water were listening to our conversation. “Water give me the fucking detonator and get the hell out of here. Before this place blows.”

Water and Shield looked at each other. “What about the queen?” Water said before Shield could.

“She’s not here. This is a fucking outpost. This is something bigger. This is just the beginning.” he said with the smile still on his face.

I stood up and walked over to Shield. “It’s time to go and report on what we found.” Shield said.

“We just can’t leave him. There is a fucking good saying on my world. Never leave a man behind. But, here it’s Never leave a pony behind. We are taking him.”

“No, go. It is my decision. Somepony has to stay within range from the detonator.” Hog said before Shield could say anything. “NOW GET THE FUCK OUT OF HERE!” he yelled as he began to fire at the door with his rifle killing four Changelings.

He looked at Water and nodded. He flared his horn for a teleportation spell. I looked at Hog and saluted. He simply nodded and grinned. I could hear the buzzing of the Changelings as they approached. With the flash a light we were out at the LZ. i nearly vomited at the spell. I'm not going to get used to that. I looked at the castle. I clicked on my radio and I can tell that the Changelings were on him. Their voices were like a snake. “Tell us where the explosives and we might not kill you.” the Changeling said.

“Fuck you motherfucker.” I could hear him spit into the thing’s eye.

“Take him to the dungeon.” the changeling said anger is the only thing in it's voice.

“but, I want to say a few more words with you asshole.” he chuckled.

“And what would that be?” the changeling said in sarcastic tone.

“Boom bitch.” he said as an explosion engulfed the castle. The shock-wave knocking me onto the ground. With my vision blurred I looked up at to see the castle destroyed and some parts hurdling down toward the ground.

Few of Hog’s last words stuck out to me as I looked at the castle. There is something bigger. This is just the beginning.

Doing a dying wish

“For Hog.” Shield said raising a glass of beer.

“For Hog.” Me and Water said at the same time taking a drink. I sighed and pulled out my MP3 player and started to play Johnny Cash, The Man in Black. I could tell that Shield and Water could hear the music that was coming from my headphones. They looked at me with a confused look on their faces. I Sighed. It’s like teaching a five year old kid how to juggle it is just complicated. “It’s my music play that I had on my Music player. It is a device that stores and plays music and video. Here this will explain it.” I said handing out my earbud. Shield picked it up in his hoof. (Ok, Pause again. I need to ask how in the hell do hoof pick up items when you have no fucking fingers. I could never get my head around that.) I began to look around in my MP3 Player for a good song and I found I won’t back down by Johnny cash.

Shield began to bob his head a little as he got into it. As Water saw Shield with the earbud he grabbed the other one placed it in. I rolled my eyes as I got onto my hoofs and placed five bits on the counter. The Skillet nodded. I turned around and went out the door. I looked back and forth on the street. A thunder storm was wrecking havoc on the snow around me as I made my way down the south end of town. As I made my way down the ever on going maze of buildings in the slums of Canterlot I looked at my watch that somehow stayed on my ’wrist’ after the RPG blast. 0539 hours. I sighed at the fact that I am going to have to brake a mare’s heart. I could already feel the slap that was to come. I have been through some of the worst hell holes that the universe could throw at me and I’m still afraid of the slap of a broken hearted woman or mare.

About an hour of wondering the slums I made my out to the main road of Canterlot. I looked at the restaurant’s sign. Damn good eggs. I sighed and entered. The bell attracted attention to me for a brief second before everypony went about their business. The smile of cooking eggs made my mouth water. Thank god I am not a vegan. I looked around and froze in place as I saw the blue unicorn. Her mane kind of looked like toothpaste to me. She looked like the was waiting for somepony. I sighed and trotted over to next to the table. “Colgate?” I said in as sincere as possible.

She looked at me with a raised an eyebrow. “Yes?”

“May I take a seat?” I said. Motioning to the seat.

“Yes, but you have to make this quick I am suppose to meet my husband in a little bit.” she said totally unaware to what I’m about to say.

I took a seat on the soft pillow and looked her in the eye. “That is why I am here Colgate.”

Tears started to build up as she began to realize to what I am about to say. Her eyes were saying ’no no it can’t be.’ “I’m sorry to say that Hog is dead. He wanted me to give you this.” I reached in my vest pocket of the jacket I was wearing and took out his Dog tags and locket. I slowly placed them on the table.

Tears began to pour out when she opened the locket. From what I could see it was a picture of there wedding photo on one side and a picture of her holding a small colt. She became silent other then the occasional sniffle. But, the silence was broken of my jaw popping out of place as she slapped me across the face. The force of the hit knocked me to ground. She jumped on top of me and began to pound on my chest. Her punches weren’t as strong as the slap but, I can tell she need to be comforted. I just laid there as began to slow and collapse on my chest.

I began to lightly hug her. “It’s ok. It’s ok. He wanted me to tell you that her loves you and that he was thinking of you when he died. He is in a better place now.” I whispered in her popping my jaw back into place. I nearly screamed in pain but, I held it back.

I was a little surprised when she began to hug back. “I… I just miss him now.” she said in between sobs.

“I know you do, darling. I know you do. Now, lets get off this dirty floor and let me buy you breakfast.” I said helping her off the floor.

She wiped her eye with her foreleg. “I would like that.” she said. Starting to a small smile on her face.

“Alright, Now just order anything you like.” I said. I looked around to see everypony in the restaurant looking at us. I began to get a sheepish grin on my face.

I sat there across from Colgate for a couple of hours as she told me how her and Hog met. There lives together and their colt Light breeze. Who was about five now. I never like to talk about this kind of stuff but, it made her feel better.

But, before I could even stand up. Shield and water came bursting into the restaurant. Shield’s face was pale as he saw me. “Nightwing we have problem.”

I shot up at the sentence. “What happened?” I said trying to do my best to keep calm.

“Appleoosa is under attack.” was the only sound in the entire place as he spoke those words.

contact

Contact

“Holy shit.” was the only thing I could say at the destruction from my view on the chopper. Pillars of smoke columned into the sky burning the air with the smell of fire and death from the burning town. I could not take my eyes off of it. I looked down at the ground and I could see tiny dots everywhere. Even if I’m not from here. They have taken me in if I liked it or not. “Those fucking changelings are going to pay.” I said, not realizing that I said it out loud.

“Same here, Parker.” Shield said. I turned my head to my friend shocked at the reply. I do not want anybody or pony reading my mind.

“ETA three minutes.” the pilot said over the radio.

“Parker, this is going some real shit. From what you have told me you are specialized in unconventional warfare. Put that to good use.” Shield said as he charged his rifle.

I sighed. Well, this is going to be f-. I couldn’t even finish the thought as AA began to tear at the chopper. “CONTACT!” the pilot screamed as he tried to avoid the AA. But, it was a wasted effort as the chopper took a direct hit to the tail rotor. The dashboard lit up like a fucking Christmas tree. “Mayday! Mayday! Mayday! This is SIW-9248 we are going down. I repeat we are going down.” he yelled. The chopper began to go into a tailspin. I held onto the strap as best I could with hoofs. The worst damn time not to have fingers. “BRACE FOR IMPACT!” was the last thing I heard before I was rocketed out of the chopper as it hit the ground. The chopper began to tear apart sending gleaming pieces of metal death toward me. A small creator created trail in my wake as I smashed into the ground hearing a crunch. I stopped in my creator, the pain came as it in waves from my sides and back. I could hear voices as the world faded into black.

“Someone get a medic!”

*************

My eyes opened up to see a world of darkness and felt depressing. What the hell is the place? The world around me was as black as the darkest moonless night. But, my eyes started to adjust to the darkness and began see a little. I put my hand to my face to see if I can see it. Wait? MY HAND?! I looked my the five fingers covered in scars from my life in the woods including the one from the run in a cougar. I looked at my left…hoof? “What the hell is going on here?” I said looking at the two limps of different species. I looked around confused of where I am. I looked to my left and saw a single floating window. I tried to walk closer to it be I was stuck in place. I looked at my feet and saw that I was tied to a standing table. But, for the oddest reasons only my feet were tied to table. I bent over and untied the leather straps and stepped off. I could feel the rubber thumped of my combat boot under my right foot and the hard clop of my left pony hoof. I looked to window. As I started toward the window I started to hear voices.

“Are you sure that his mind can’t hear us?”

“Yes, while we are in this part of his mind he can’t hear us.”

“Ok, but he is not ready. Even with his combat skills, he is not ready for his role in all of this. But, I am just happy that he survived the crash.”

“Me too. I just hope that he will figure out his role in this world or it will…” I stepped closer to the window and the floor under creaked under my hoof. The voices stopped cold in their tracks. “His mind is awake! Alpha protocol four!”

When it said that my body all of sudden went limp and the world went into a darker black.

**********

I shot up in a gasp. My body was covered in a cold sweat. I could still feel the pain but, it wasn’t as agonizing as when I crashed. I looked at my…hoofs. I looked at them disappointed. I sighed. I looked farther down and saw myself covered in bandages. The plush support on my body told me that I was laying in a cot. I looked up to see the most surprising thing I have ever seen. A griffin with what looks like a… laser rifle? Please God please don’t tell me I am in the war before the wonderful world of fallout. But, as I looked closer, it was the very rifle. That is just fucking great. I want one. I tried to get up and move but, the pain exploded in my body like sledgehammer hit me square in the chest.

The griffin looked at me with worry in her eyes. Before her eyes showed what looked like joy when for some odd reason my wings poof out. I saw the griffin chuckle and… wink at me? What the hell is going on here and why do I feel fucking horny out of the blue? One moment I was being shot down and now I am covered in bandages with griffin mental hitting on me. I looked at my wings and back at the griffin with the laser rifle. Yepy kai yay, I am the one race that show everyone around me that I have a fucking hard on.

The griffin opened a door to reveal another one at the door. The griffin was scarred and young but, his eye says that there is an experience behind each of those scars. Note: do not piss him off. He walked up the edge of my bed.

“I see that you are finally awake.” his voice was kind of low but, not threatening. Wait? Finally?

I just stared at him confused. “I know you must have some questions but, let me tell you that you are safe from the battle.” he sat down on the sit next to my bed.

“Where the hell am I?” was all that I said.

All he did was chuckle. I looked around then, looked at him with a cocked eyebrow. “Did I miss the clown or what?”

I could tell that he almost laughed at the joke. “No, it is just you are the first of your team to ask that question.” my eyes went wide. “but, then again I only have your friend that was in the chopper when it crashed. The pilot died on impact.” A little piece of me wanted to just jump out of the bed and pay my respects. But, he knew the dangers of this job.

Getting back to the griffin in front of me. “If I may ask? But, who are you?”

“Aw, how can I be so rude. My name is Guawd but, if you can’t say that as most can’t, you can just call me rotor.”

“Ok? Rotor my name is Pa- Nightwing.” I held out a hoof and he shook my hoof. “But, I got one question?” he took a sip from a flask. The sweet scent of rum came from it.

He looked at me from his flask. “Ask away.”

“Why?”

“Why what?” It was his turn to cock his eyebrow.

“Why did you save me and my friend?”

“Aw, because you my friend are very special. Very special indeed but, you also are going to me meet my employer. Now, get the hell up before my patience runs out.” his voice went cold I looked at the griffin guarding my door and she nodded. To hell with it. I twisted my body grunting in the pain as Rotor walked to the door but, stopped and turned to the griffin guarding the door. “Make sure that he goes where he is needed, Blitz.”

“Y-yes sir.” she stuttered. Her eyes wide with fear as he left.

“You better or you will join your brother.” his voice was like cold as concert in winter and as hard as a steel blade. Note: This is a cold hearted motherfucker and I am going to have deal with him later.

Blitz came to my bed and began to help me up on the verge of tears. Goddamn it, why… why do I have be a fucking good guy. Fuck me. I looked up to see that she is putting a syringe filled with a green liquid into my left foreleg. The pain started to subside. I looked up at her. She was forcing a smile. “What happened to your brother?” I said with the kindest voice I had, which sounded like a cat scratching on a blackboard but, what can you do?

She looked at me with some doubt but, said nothing as we left the infirmary. The corridor was made of metal and concrete with a mixture of stone on the walls. It was giving off a eerie feeling as we made our way further into the… temple, facility or what ever the fuck this place is.

“He was executed.” She said flatly with a single tear rolling down her cheek. “Because he was a minute late on delivering the last person that was sent into the place that you’re going into.” I was too shocked at the small story that to realized that we are at a metal door that has seen little use. There were markings and symbols covering the door. I… I did not like that place and I am going to run when the moment comes but, I have to find out where in the Sam hells I am.

The door opened with a dull clank as it fell into the floor spewing dust into the air. I coughed and put a hoof to my mouth. Shit, I better not get the black lung or I am going to jab someone in the throat. I coughed as I entered the room with Blitz close behind. The door closed with another dull clank. The inside of the room was completely black except for a green fire that lit a small portion of the back of the room in a eerie green light. That wasn’t the creepiest part. There was a small hooded figure sitting behind the fire facing me. The figure nodded at Blitz. What the hell did that mean? I found the answer by the end of Blitz’s rifle sending me into a blacker abyss. Well shit.

********

My eyes opened and I looked around the room that I was in. It was a dreamless knockout but, something felt off. I sat up and realized that the pain from my wing and other injuries was gone. I looked at the small pile of hay that served as my bed. The room was about the size of good size about 15 feet by 15 feet but, I was not alone. There was a figure that standing in front of a open door that lit the room. Without a word the figure motion with a hoof to follow and stay quiet. I got up and saw the my kit was laying next to the door with rifle and body armor. I got to my kit and picked it up with my teeth. Something was off about this, I couldn’t put my finger on it or hoof what ever the hell I’m supposed to put on it. This was too easy, in a place filled to the brim of armed griffins with laser rifles and I’m going to trot around like I own the place? Where the hell is Shield?

“If you are looking for your friend I suggest that we move quickly or they will kill him just to teach you a lesson.” the figure said as I put the last strap on my vest. Rifle and sidearm in holster.

“Well, we got no time to waste then.” I said following the figure to the outside of the cell to see that I was in some serious shit. The walls were covered in blood written words and symbols that I could not read. The figure trotted down the hall to a door. That used to be guarded by the looks of the dead guards they didn’t see the figure until it was too late.

The figure unlocked the door and cautiously trotted out looking in both directions. I continued to look at the walls at the symbols. This is some creepy stuff. Is this a dream or real the pain is gone but, I can feel the ground beneath me and the cold around me like mist. I looked at the figure and just before I could say a word the figure said “we all need help but, is it me who is will help you or is it the other way around?”

What the hell is there a rhyming zebra here?

******

An hour later.

“What the fuck is going on?! The fucking griffins are helping the Changelings!” I yelled the cave that me and Zecora were hiding in echoed my voice. I looked a Shield as he laid unconscious on the floor of the cave.

“Yes, what you say is true even when I say there is more.” she said. I. AM. NOT. GOING. TO. GET. USE. TOO. THAT.

“Wait you say there is more and can you please cut the rhyming that is messing with me.” I asked.

She cleared her throat. “Yes, sorry that is just how I… normally talk.” she said a little slowly. I can not imagine how somepony (Damn it) can speak like that normally. “But, yes there is more. When you came to this place. Celestia felt something that was coming off of you, like it was some kind of energy. She wanted to see what it was. When Shield gave you the mental training, Celestia felt a spike in this energy. She thinks you are dangerous, Parker. But, as long as you stay on our side she feels safe. Even, with her army she feels that she needs you. But, that one part. The other is that the Changelings are going to try something. They are starting to withdraw troops from Appleloosa, with almost without a fight.”

I froze when she said that. Fuck me with a unicorn’s horn on a Tuesday. I nearly chuckled at that. But, withdrawing troops without a fight, it stinks of a trap. “Zecora you need to radio in and tell them DO NOT ENTER THE TOWN.” she looked at me with a raised eyebrow. I sighed. “They probably have the place rigged to explode the moment a certain amount of ponies are inside.”

She looked worried when I said that. Shit. “Ok, Zecora please tell me that neither Luna or Celestia are not there.”

“No, but Shining Armor is there over looking the relief effort.” Fuck. Without saying a words she pulled out two rifles out of bag she was carrying and threw one to me. Then, she got on the radio and said “Copy, this is striped death, and I need to talk to you Armor!” she let go of the button and heard static. I placed a magazine in the rifle and charged the rifle.

“This is Armor and I copy you Striped death, what’s wrong?”

“Are you in Appleloosa, right now.”

“Yes, why we are help the victims of the atta-”

I took the radio out her hoofs and pressed the button. “Armor get the hell out of there and as ma-”

I couldn’t finish before the radio went dead. I pressed the button again. “Hello?” I looked up at Zecora.

“Bad luck seems to follow you, where ever you go doesn’t it?” I chuckled at that.

I was about to answer before the sound of hard shell and talons against stone echoed through the cave. I looked at Shield then, at Zecora. I sighed and shook my head at the floor of the ground. “Don’t reminded me.” I said just as the first Changeling came around the corner only to get a bullet to the head. Fuck me and my luck.

Bullets ripped up and down the cave with a few lasers here and there. Zecora and me dove behind a couple of pillars that were already getting riddled with small craters with a few burned spots. “Take these!” Zecora yelled almost drowned out by the gunfire, tossing a bag. It landed at my hooves. I went through it quickly. Black armor with four frag grenades shaped like apples. Now, she gives it too me. I quickly replaced my worn out armor for this new black one. I stuffed my old one in the bag, while taking out the grenades. I bit the pin and threw the frag. Just to say it landed right under a griffin. I swear the thing said fuck just before it blew taking it and two changelings with it. Three down, seven to go. I slid out of cover aiming down the night vision red dot and fired. Two three round burst into two changelings. One went down but, the other kept fighting. I kept firing at more targets wondering why that changeling kept fighting even with three bullets to the chest. Zecora took down three that were getting too close with her bare hooves. I looked at her fallen rifle and saw that the stock was destroyed.

Two griffin and two changelings were left but, theses were tough. They knew how to use cover and fucking grenades but, not like the one that killed Hog. What these were plasma or energy. Now, it is time for a finishing finally. I bit into two frags and tossed them at the wall that they were hiding behind. I saw one get thrown back but, exploded in the air sending shrapnel right into my right shoulder. The last one they could not find until it exploded right up the lead griffin’s ass. I thought it was over until I saw the one changeling that JUST WON’T DIE! It staggered until it fell on the ground. Dead. Thank God. Zecora and me came out of cover to see that we had forgot Shield on the ground in the cross fire but, the lucky bastard wasn’t even scratched. I looked at the Changeling that survived my shots. Its eyes were still open. I just realized that its eyes were green with small pupil while the others were solid blue. I am going to have ask Luna about that later.

“Hey, Zecora where are we anyways?” I said looking at the four enemies that she took down with her bare hooves.

“We are a three days walk from Appleloosa and without any friendly forces for about twenty miles we are going to hunted down like animals.” she said flatly. I chuckled at that. She seemed to irritated by that. “What the hell is so funny? Huh? We are being hunted down like animals.”

I took a deep breath from chuckling again. “Nothing, it is just that I’m used to that. If I hadn’t came here in this world, I would be in this exact same situation we are in right now. So, I’m not laughing at the situation, I’m laughing at the irony of it all.” I walked up to the dead commander Changeling. I knelt down and took his pistol. It looks like a plasma pistol from Halo. Fuck, were in the hell are they getting this designs? I put it in my new armor rig. A nice trophy for the way back home. I froze when I thought of that one word. Home. It has been what? Five days, a week? I sighed and looked my pack that was now on my back. They had taken my supplies, and original grenades. Fuck.

“Alright, Zecora grab Shield and lets get the hell out here.” I said putting the sling of the rifle around my neck and put Shield’s front right leg round my neck and Zecora did the same with the other side. I sighed. “This is going to be a long walk.”

Predator and prey

Predator and Prey.

“The difference of predator and prey is knowing how it can be switched to your advantage. But, at what cost.”

Three days. Three long fucking days and only half way to the nearest friendly town. It turns out from Zecora some boarder towns have been captured along the swamp of the changelings in the south and the plains of the griffins in the east. That added another three days to our journey. Good news is that Shield is awake but, weak. Still has the attitude, at least that lightens the mood. More bad news, radio is out thanks to some genius that it has to be charged with a unicorn’s magic or it will go dead within twelve hours. Karma is a bitch. Is for tee bagging JoshWe were going down a rocky slope heading northwest toward a town called ponyville but, we have to go through a forest called the everfreet forest. I hate heights even though I’m train to jump out a perfectly good plane at high altitudes but, I was trained to trust my gear to get me down safely. I have hoofs and a backpack that weights with my old armor in it about forty pounds with two rifles one busted and one on swinging off my neck with about twenty pound armor around me. Seventy-four pounds of gear not including the ammo, grenades and the supplies that we managed to find. Plus one plasma pistol. ( I LOVE THIS FUCKING THING!)

Shield stopped underneath a rock outcropping, panting. “Hey, guys can…” he paused to breath. “…take a break please?”

Zecora looked at me looking for an answer for that. “Yeah, we’ve walking for about six hours now. So I think we deserve a break. We’ll leave in fifteen.” I sat down taking off my rifle and bag. It was a relief to get the weight off. I took out three bottles of water and handed everypony one.

“Hey, do you guys get the feeling that your being watched?” Shield said out of nowhere.

“Yes, I’ve had the feeling of being watch too for some time now.” Zecora added. Now that he mentioned it we were total in the open right now with almost now cover but, has a lot of little rocks to set up in.

“Fuck.” Zecora and Shield looked at me with concern. “Sniper.” that was the only word I need to say as we packed and began to move low and fast. Only going into open areas when we need to. Please don’t let there be a bridge, please God or Celestia whatever please don’t let there be a bridge. I looked up as we came to the sound of rushing water. I looked up ahead and saw a bridge. Damn.

“Alright, from this bridge we can make a run for the forest.” Shield said. “Then, it is a straight shot to Ponyville.

I sighed it’s not like we have a better choice. More and likely we are be hunted. I looked at the rotten wood of the bridge. Why do I always have bad luck in the fucking world! I placed my hoof on the wood and placed a little weight on it. It creaked a little but, it held. I turned to Zecora and Shield. “Alright, I’ll go first and see if the bridge is safe to cross.” they nodded looking too tired to do anything else. I faced the bridge, the sun was starting to set. I began to run across. But, I couldn’t fight the urge to look down. It was a looooooonnnnnnngggggg way down. I could only see white water. I ran across to the end. I turned to see that Zecora was half way across while shield was leaning against a small rock.

When Zecora made it we both looked at him as he came across. I had my rifle at the ready. But, halfway across he stopped and began to flap his wings. When he came and landed in front of me. He had a smile on his face but, his eyes sagging. “Parker.” He said in a calm tone but, had it had an edge to it. What is going on? He doesn’t usually use my real name. “The sniper is near the mountain on a small overhang about 600 yards away. Remember, Don’t back down and keep on fighting.” a small tear ran down his cheek. “Goodbye.” he said with a smile just before a bullet struck him in the side of the head spattering some of the blood on my face. He fell to the ground, blood pooling around his head and body. One one-thousand, Two one-thousand, Three one-thousand. Then, I heard the crack.

No. Not again. “NOT AGAIN!” I yelled tears starting to pour out of my eyes as he laid down on the ground dead my best friend, and brother. Not again. I snapped my head toward the mountain. I shot into the air and blasted toward the overhang that Shield said. I felt like broke the sound barrier but, I don’t give a flying shit right now. I saw the sniper and he tried to aim his rifle at me but, I as on him. I pulled my knife and put it in that fucking green eye. The force of me stabbing him forced him onto the wall, the knife was the only thing keeping the Changeling up on his hind legs. I began to pound the body with my hoofs until the Changeling was nothing but, green goo. I ripped off the rifle and dog tags. I flew back to Zecora and Shield’s body. She was still looking at me with fear. “I’m sorry, Shield. I wish I could of done something… I’m so sorry.” I said before I passed out.

********

“Is he going to be alright? He unlocked some of his power before he was ready.” a voice said.

“Yes, he going to be alright but, he put a lot of strain of his body when he did that. Who could blame him anyways. He just lost his best friend.”

“That still doesn’t matter. He is still not ready, for that and his fate. He has much to learn.” he voice paused. “We know that you are listening Parker. You will not remember anything of this. But, you will get answers soon. Now, go your friend needs you.”

********

I woke up to the sound of gunfire. I shot up and saw that Zecora was fighting wolfs that were made of…wood? What the hell is wrong with this place?! As she finished off the last one she saw me sit up. She was breathing heavily with bullets casings surrounding and blood dripping off slash wounds from different places all over her body. It seemed that the claws went straight through her armor. She sat down and looked at me with a smile as she passed out. I got up and slowly walked to Zecora. I propped her on my back. And slowly began to walk north. Just hope to God that we are near somepony. I walked for what seemed to be hours but, according to my smartass watch. It was only fifteen minutes before I saw a flash of yellow and pink. I heard a beautiful voice singing along with the birds. I stumbled forward into a yard. It looked like a small farm but, there was a cabin made from a solid tree. A yellow Pegasus with a pink mane was tending a small rabbit. I stumbled into the yard. “Help.” she jumped and squeaked at the sound of my voice. She looked at me with concern. “Help us, please.” I said just before I collapsed and fell into darkness.

All I heard was “Zecora!” I feel so loved.

The loss of one’s self and the gaining of another.

I sat up gasping and began to cough. That made the young mare squeak in fright and almost curl up in a ball. “I’m sorry.” I said while forcing a smile. I did not feel like smiling or doing anything. I feel nothing at all.

“It’s alright. This is just how I am.” she said sitting on a pillow with a cute smile. Did I just say ’Cute’? This world is messing with me. I sighed. “Is something wrong?” she said in a sincere voice fuel of kindness and loving warming. It almost made me smile a little just her speaking.

“No, it is just…” I paused not knowing what I was going to say next. I took a deep breath. “how is Zecora?”

She smiled again. “She is doing good, her wounds from the timber wolfs were major but, not too sever. She is resting in the next room. But, when you get some more rest then, you can go back to the princess to report back for duty.” I froze at that.

“How do you know that I’m going to report back to the princess?”

“Oh, went you collapsed in my yard I saw your rifles and armaments. But, when I undress you to see your wounds I saw two sets of dog tags. A pair from the Solar empire and another I don’t recognized. It says US ARMY Giles, Parker S#31262559 but, the religion part was scratched off. But, confuses me the most is where your Cutie Mark is?” Great she doesn’t know I am not from this world. Luck you are a fickle bitch. Wait? What?

“What is a Cutie Mark?” I said raising an eyebrow.

“A Cutie Mark is mark that everypony gets when they figure out what they are good at.” she said with a smile.

“Well, I don’t exactly know. All I know is rifles, pistols, combat and…” I paused. “That… is all I know.”

“That’s alright. Everypony gets their Cutie Mark at different times in their lives.”

Great add the Cutie Mark to the ever growing list of moral dilemmas.

Great she doesn’t know I am not from this world. Luck you are a fickle bitch.

“What is your name?”

“Fluttershy and your name is either Parker, or Nightwing?” she said as she changed my bandages on my shoulder. “You are not from around here are you?”

I chuckled a little. “What gave that way?”

“Nothing, it was just obvious and plus I hear a lot from everypony. Being the quiet one makes for listening on somepony really easy. You are from another world full of war and hatred. I could tell from your journal and recorder in your pack. Sorry, I get curious sometimes.” she tightened the knot on the bandages. “There now get some rest, the guards should be here tomorrow. From what I hear from your sleep talking.”

“Ok, I do not sleep talk.” I said interrupting her.

She chuckled a little. “Yes, you do but, I…” She paused. “I’m sorry about your losses. I’m sorry about Shield.” I froze. The memory of him knowing his own death stuck with me. It wants to make me cry but, I have to earn the rest of those tears. But, how I will earn those tears is what worries me to most. “Now, get to rest while I check on Zecora.” She said with another smile. I sighed as I laid back down on the bed. My life here has been crappy, well not just here but, on earth too. I need a drink. I rolled to my good shoulder. Just before I went back to sleep the image of flash smiling just before the bullet struck stuck with me. Screw one drink, I need two.

[three hours later]

I woke up, sweat was dripping off of me and soaking the blanket and bed. I sighed and began trying to move out of my bed but I realized I can’t feel anything. Nothing at all, not mentally but, physically. I look around were my eyes could. I looked to my right to see that the cabin was trashed, most of the windows were broken, what seemed to be birdhouses and couches were smashed and some were on fire. I saw something pink right next to my bed. I strained to look and saw that it was Fluttershy unconscious and bloody but, still breathing. Who did this? “Fluttershy…” I said weakly just barely able to talk.

“Don’t waste your breath. She can’t hear you.” I stopped cold to see that a Changeling was standing right next to me looking down at Fluttershy. “I have to admit she can be a good fighter when she wants to protect somepony. Your zebra friend ran away when she saw us but, you on the other hoof are stuck here. Plus, if you are wondering why you can‘t move, Changeling magic can do wonders.” he turned smiling to another changeling right next to him. “Alright, get ready to transport him and tell discord that he is on his way.” Discord? Who in the hell is that?

“Yes, sir.” the other changeling said.

He turned and left out the door to only get knocked back in along with the sound of a shotgun. It made my ears ring a little, I turned my head toward the door to see that Zecora had a hunting shotgun in her hoofs, and next to her was a orange mare with blazing blond mane with a shotgun in her hoofs as well. Five more shot rang out, five more Changelings went down. The commander Changeling pulled a knife and put it to my throat. “Get any closer or I will slit his throat.” I felt the cold sharp edge of the knife, the pressure of the knife was getting greater by the second. He was going to kill me anyways. Fuck me. Then, a memory of Shield came to mind. Don’t back down and keep on fighting. I took a deep breath and closed my eyes. Slowly I began to feel my body again. I opened my eyes, taking the knife out of the changeling’s magic and elbowed him in the side. I jumped out of my bed, taking the knife in my teeth and smashing the knife in the back of the Changeling’s neck. Killing him dead.

I shoved to body away from Fluttershy. Without saying a word I picked her up. That moment the orange mare aimed her shotgun at my head. But, before she could do anything Zecora made her lower the shotgun and silently shake her head. They moved to the side as I passed with Fluttershy on my back. Rest in Peace Shield, may I see you again someday. But, not now. I still need to fight. May my enemies tremble in fear just at the mention of my name but, I need to rest.

There was a chariot outside with a small squad of Solar guards. They looked at me with concern. They knew who I was, Water came from the squad. Before he could speak I said “He didn’t make. A Sniper got him but, I got this off of the bastard.” I threw the dog tags. He nodded as he told the guards to get Fluttershy to the nearest hospital. They left with her and I got on the small chariot. “Lets go.” but, before we left I turned to Zecora. “Hey, why don’t you come along, Celestia would like to hear what you have to say. Besides, I would like to have some company besides this asshole.” I said forcing a smile and pointing to Water.

“You’re calling me an asshole? Let me tell you why that’s bulls-” I shoved my hoof in his mouth before he could finish.

She smiled and gave a small chuckle . “I would love to Nightwing.”

The orange mare came up from behind her and from what I could hear she said “Yeah, you would.”

Zecora immediately started blushing. I wanted to face hoof so hard right then but, I fought the urge. “Lets go, Zecora. We can’t keep the princess waiting.” I handed a hoof out and she took it. Water nodded at the drivers and we were off.

the trumpets of war

The trumpets of war

[Five days later]

It has been a ride I tell you what. After Zecora, Water and me arrived at the castle we were escorted straight to the throne room. Water stayed outside while me and Zecora told Celestia what we went through for the last week. It turns out that there was a bomb in Appleoosa but, only half of the explosives went off. Thank God that most of the ponies where on the east side of the town. Shining was just close enough to get injured but, not sever. The first good news that I have heard in a week. Celestia froze when I mentioned the name Discord. I told her that the Changelings in Fluttershy’s cottage said that they were transporting me to him. She was quick to change subject but, when she was going to ask where Shield was but, Zecora shook her head and looked at me. I told her that I was alright. She knew I was lying. We were about to leave when she said that she was going to stay a little bit longer to talk to Celestia alone. Two weeks I have been here and I have lost nine of my friends. Josh, David, Mark, Dylan, Ryan, Eric, Cameron, Hog and Shield in two weeks. I don’t know what to do now. All of my life I have been either to talk or fight my way out of most situations but, I can’t do anything right now. Celestia said that I am on leave for another two days. Shield’s funeral was yesterday and that was the only thing I had looking forward to. Now, boredom is the only thing I know right now. I just… I miss everyone, home, my family or what’s left of it and my friends. I feel homesick. At least this place is not as doom and gloom as earth. Fuck it.

I sighed and climbed out of my bed wiping the drool off my face. I turned to see that Zecora was still with me. I smiled. She was with me the entire time during the funeral and during the night. I passed out on my bed when I got to my room. I was surprised to see her in my bed. My face became as hot as a campfire in winter. My ears were on fire, probably from the campfire on my face. I left the room and sighed. “What to do? What to do?” I said to myself. My stomach rumbled answering my question. “Food it is.” I said putting on a small smile as I walked down the hallway. I arrived in a fancy dining hall. The same one that I had the dream with Princess Luna in it. I sat down and almost in a flash a plate of eggs, broccoli, toast with butter, along with a glass of milk. I turned to my head to see that a chief was walking way with a big smile on his face. I began digging in as somepony came in.

“How is today’s meal, commander?” The voice said.

“It’s not half bad, General. But, let cut the formalities until I’m not on leave.” I paused to egg some of the runny egg. “The same should said to you too, Shining armor. How is your leg?” I said taking a drink of milk.

“It’s doing good and yeah but, your leave so going to be cut short as we need you again.”

I interrupted him by spitting out my milk onto a maid who was passing by. She glared at me. “Sorry.” I said smiling sheepishly. I looked at Shining Armor getting back to my surprise. “What?!?”

“The Changelings have grown quiet. Even, the griffins. I know a couple and I know that they are not the quiet type.” He slid the folder to me. I opened the folder to see some pictures of plains towns with fields of crops half of which were burning. “I want you and three others to see what is going on in the Griffin front. If you find any intel grab what you can carry and burn the rest. This is a take no prisoners mission. But, do not fire unless you are found out. If you find a high ranking officer like a general or lieutenant get rid of them. When you are done, fade away like ghosts ”

“So, in short this is a stealth mission. Grab what you can carry, destroy the rest, kill any high ranking officer silently then, fade away. If caught give them a big ol’ can of ass whopin’. sounds simple enough but,…” I paused taking a bite of toast. “Knowing my luck the moment we touch ground we would have griffins trying to rip our balls off.” I could hear Shining give off a painful groan. I drank the rest of my milk and ate my broccoli. “Or in deep shit. Either or. Both mean the same thing.” I finished off the last of the meal. “So, when is this going to happen?” I looked him in the eye.

“Tomorrow morning at 0400 hours. You will meet your team in the briefing in five hours in the war room underneath the castle where the Lunar guard is housed.” I looked at him with a raised eyebrow. “just ask one of the guards and they will show yeah but, if they give you crap, you have my permission to open that can of whope ass on them.” we both laughed at that. That was one the only times I have actually laughed in a while.

“Like I need permission to do that.” we laughed again. I heard a small chuckle behind me which made my smile a little bigger as I got up. “While I will see you in five hours.” I paused just as I pushed in my seat. “Zecora, I know that you are listening and I will be in town, to see if I can get anything with the bits I got. Half of them are in your bag. The money is are as much your’s as mine.” I said walking toward the door when she came out from a shadowy corner. She came hugged me. I smiled and hugged back for a second. But, it felt longer than that. When I hugged her I felt a good warmth. One that I haven’t felt before at all. I let go and shrugged it off. I walked off to a balcony and took a deep breath. “Well, here we go.” I closed my eyes and jumped off. I began to flap my wings as much as I could. But, I kept falling. I could feel the air passing me and I began to think of the first time I flew. I took a deep breath and began to flap my wings at a constant pace. I began to slow a little by little then, I stopped. I opened and looked down. I was a foot above from a VERY pointy statue of a Solar guard. I shuttered at the thought of getting impaled. I flew forward, still shaking in the air. I caught a few laughs from some of the guards. I flew to the bar that Shield showed me the first time I was in Canterlot.

I sighed and opened the door. The sounds of good times, drinking contests, and bar fights filled the air. But, it all stopped when I walked in. Everypony looked at me. A big green douche bag glared at me from a corner as I got on a stool at the bar. “Hey, Skillet give me two of your finest.”

“If you call this shit our finest then…” he stopped as he saw it was me. “I’m sorry. This one is on the house.” He said with pity in his voice as he slid two mugs my way.

I sighed. “Thanks, but I insist on paying.” I said placing several bits on the counter.

“I’ll just count this as a tip. But, I’m sorry about what happened.”

“I know, I saw you at the funeral.”

I was about to say something but, I heard big hoof steps behind me. I sighed. “Hey, asshole where is your leathery friend? Oh, that’s right his got his brains shot out.” he said while laughing.

When he said that I could feel something snap a little. I turned using the momentum of the turn to kick the asshole in the jaw where I heard a satisfying crack knocking him down. I drew a knife and placed it on his throat. Blood was coming from his mouth staining his green fur, his eyes were filled with fear. “You don’t get it do you, motherfucker?” I pressed the knife against his throat drawing a thin line of blood. “You don’t know the loss of your best friend and one of your only friends. You just sit here in this bar drinking your life away, thinking you’re a big shot but, all you are is an asshole and a loser. You don’t realize the sacrifices that soldiers make so you can sit here drinking beer and not giving a shit.” I paused letting the silence speak for itself for a second. “You don’t have to make sacrifices but, I do. I will not kill you but, I want too sooo badly right now. For making fun of my best friend and his death. It was thanks to his sacrifice that I was able to live. I will not waste his sacrifice on somepony like you. Now, I will let you go. But, if I hear you making fun of him or his death I will kill you.” I said letting go the pressure of the knife. The blood has went to his chest and won’t be coming out anytime soon. He gasped for air and he stumbled to get up. When he did he ran off. I sheathed my knife and took a deep breath. I opened my eyes and looked around. Everypony was looking at me with shock and surprise but, the most of all with a raised mug.

“To Shield!” they all yelled taking a drink.

I smiled and took a drink. “To Shield.” I said. Like I said before May you rest in peace dear friend may we meet again someday.

[Four and half hours later]

I have spent the last three hours just wining money on darts. Now, that I’m good at. I won about two hundred bits just in the first hour and ponies were getting angry. With the extra money I bought the whole bar a round. I looked at my watch and smiled. It was almost time for the briefing.

As I was about to leave I felt a tug on my shoulder. I turned to see the red unicorn mare from the second night I was here. My face began to blush as the memory of that night came to light. Oh boy. What in the hell got into me?

“Hey, I never got your name?” She said with a sweet voice made of lavender which made my face blush a whole lot harder. Her face got closer to mine and she began to pet the base of my left wing and I began to pound my hind leg like a dog.

“Um… my name is… Nightwing. Your’s? Can you please stop? this is getting embarrassing” I said sounding like a nervous wreck along with the fact I‘m being petted like a dog.

“Alright, but you owe me.” She stop and I was about to able. “By the way my name is Velvet Wood.” Yeah wood is right. “ Nice to meet you but, I think it is a little late for that.” she said with small chuckle. It feels like my entire face is on fire. “So, how about you soldier boy ready to go?” GODDAMN IT! “We have to get to that briefing right now or we won’t make it.” Wait? WHAT!

“I’m part your team, I’m your sniper.” she smiled and tilted her head. My jaw literally hit the floor.

“Yeah, lets go.” I said moving out into the falling snow. Snow? Haven’t seen that in while. Well, living in Oklahoma the weather is something that NO ONE can predict. We made our way to the castle. When we entered the guards showed us the way down to the Lunar guard section of the castle. The whole way down I was getting crap from every single guard about Velvet and me sitting in a damn tree and I nearly kicked the crap out of every single guard. When we reached the room I saw my team besides Velvet. I opened the door to see that Shining Armor was in his purple armor. Their were two other ponies, one was Water and another had a Stetson hat similar to the one the orange mare had when her and Zecora saved my ass. But, it was a guy. Velvet was the only mare on the team.

“Alright, I’m glad that everypony is here. Now, lets get to business.” Shining paused as a screen appeared showing the fields around the boarder town burning and the town being occupied with the griffins. “Operation Feather, this mission is simple, find any intel relating to any operations along side with the Changelings and find any intel on why they have joined the changelings and are attacking us.” Armor said as he passed folders of the mission detail. “If you find any High ranking officers kill them but, do it without being seen or heard. Suppressors must be used.” he looked at Velvet. “Velvet, you will be using the simi-auto SE-97 Sniper rifle with a day time scope with a night vision adapter. Everypony else well be using the standard assault rifle with suppressors and night vision goggles. Everything else is user’s choice.” he looked the cowboy. “Burntrum, you can use your revolvers only when your cover is blown.”

“Alrighty, then. What about my rifle?” Burntrum said in a country accent similar to mine but, more. Like I said Oklahoma.

“You, know what we are doing? It is not the time to be a cowpony. But, like your revolvers if you are caught you can use your lever action rifle. Just make sure that it can pierce their armor.”

“Can do.”

“On that subject, fill your guns with armor piercing ammo and only use none-suppressed or silent back weapons if you are compromised. Don’t fire unless fired upon. Armory is open to all assault rifles, grenades, knifes and pistols. Crossbows are included for those good silenced kills.” I smiled as he said that. The rules of Engagement never change and almost free ranged armory I remembered having a back up .44 magnum stub nose revolver along with a .45 ACP 1911 as a secondary along with my other secondary FNX .45 Tactical pistol. Now, the question is do they have .44 magnums and .45 ACP? I looked around to see that Armor was about to continue. “Alright, you all will be going in by Chopper four miles away from the town at 0400, you all will walk to the rest of the way to the town. Extract will be at the same spot as the drop at 2300 hours. As the time difference says for itself you 19 hours to complete your mission. When we are done we expect to have some vital intel and when you all get back come back here for the debriefing and next assignment. Dismissed.”

“Yes, sir!” we all said while we saluting.

“Velvet led Nightwing to the armory and get your kit we will be leaving at 2100. Also, everypony if you are compromised you will not get any back up. This is a classified mission.” we all nodded. nodded.

I looked at Velvet and smiled. “Led the way.”

“Don’t I always?” she said giving me a seductive smile. Thank God that I have black fur or everypony would see the red on my face. I rubbed the back of my head. She chuckled. “Lets go.”

About ten minutes later we arrive at a small door with two guards armed to the teeth with ammo, frags, knifes, armor and rifles. I looked at Velvet. “Remind me not to piss them off.”

“Alright, Don’t piss them.” she smiled. She went to the guards. “Anvil.” the two guards looked at each other and moved to the side. “come on we don’t have much time. How else are we going to get some time alone.” they guards looked at me with perverted smiles. I swallowed and walked in.

“Damn” is what I said the moment I saw how big the arsenal is. The arsenal seemed to be carved into a cave made of crystal and lit by flames. It gave it a eerie feeling but, it was mostly spears and bows. As we made our way back it started to be more and more lit and the weapons became more like rifles but, still crossbows. We came across another pair of guards in the same kit.

“Feather.” Velvet said and the pair stepped to the side and we entered. Now, I looked like a regular armory made of steel, lights, and tables. I looked on a table where a large rifle sat. Velvet went to it and took it down. It looked like the Sniper rifle from Halo. I began to look at the rifles and pistols. I nearly screamed like a little girl when I saw a stub nose revolver in a good caliber. .44 magnum but, as I look closer it had an engraving similar to the I had one mine. if you need to kill something, do it in one shot or you’re just wasting bullets. it was mine when I first came here. But, I looked on a table right in front or me. Full of boxes of .44 magnum. “You must love that pistol if you almost squealed like a little foal. As much as I do you.” Velvet said behind me scaring the hell of me so much that I jumped into the air flying right into the ceiling.

“Ow. Don’t sneak up on me like that.” I said gliding down rubbing my head.

“I’m sorry.” she managed to breath out from her laughing.

“No you’re not.” I said putting the revolver in my vest along with two boxes of thirty rounds in my pack. I took a suppressed assault rifle and pistol then, holstered the pistol and placed the rifle next to my pack. I turned to see that Velvet was bending over as she packed some extra mags and supplies. She turned to look at me and I was caught with my hand in the cookie jar.

“I hope you like what you see, but that can wait for later.” she said closed her pack. She turned and smiled. She gave me a hug and a peak on the checked which sent my wing straight up. Damn it. My face was sent a blaze. “Lets go. But, we can stay longer if you’re not finished.” I smiled and the burning sensation went down.

I turned and grabbed and extra pistol and five more mags for my assault rifle and pistol. Have extra for your extra like my uncle says. So, fifteen magazines for the pistol and twenty for the rifle. Along with three days worth of food and water. About fifty pounds along with the stealth black armor that I got when I was out at the bar. Thanks to a friendly game of darts, I managed to win a brand new suit of stealth armor that could turn me partially invisible just leaving a simmering situate in my place but, it only runs for about two hours then, it needs to recharge. Reminds me of the Ghost recon armor a little. It turns out I won it off my quartermaster along with a battle rifle. It was a good day but, I left the rifle and took my twenty-five pounds of armor. I’m carrying seventy-pounds of kit with out ammo. I shrugged. Pretty light considering most of the time I carry about a hundred pounds of kit but, that is with twenty pounds of heavy armor along with the twenty-five pounds of light armor. M4 and M9 pistol. That fifty-three pounds right there and three days worth of supplies. Food and water. Adds about twenty-five pounds of water and five pounds of food. Wait, why in the hell I’m doing this? I’m getting off topic.

I smiled and turned to her as I closed my pack and placed it on my back. “I’m ready. How long until we have to go?” I asked.

She checked her watch. “About half an hour, why?” she asked with a little cute smile.

“Nothing, I just want to take a nap.” I said with a yawn. “I’m going to the nearest couch.” I said as w were walking out of the armory and into the main part of the castle. Just as I was about fall asleep. “If you want to join me you can.” I said as I placed a cap over my eyes. I took a deep breath and let it out just as another warmth laid to my side. I could feel her heart beat and breathing. I smiled and began to fall asleep faster. It was soothing to me. I don’t know why but, it did and I “like it.”

I heard her chuckle a bit as I realized that I said that last part out loud. I rested my head on the arm of the couch. As sleep was enveloping me a memory of my life on earth. The night on where my dad died. It seemed to be more clear then I usually do. It was the moment he was shot. I realized as the events unfolded. He saved me. If he didn’t get in the way of the gun, the bullet would killed me. Dad, I miss you so much. Thank you.

“Is everything alright, Nightwing?” I opened my eyes to see that Velvet was looking at me with worry.

“What? Yes I’m fine, why?”

“You’re crying.”

“Uh?” I said as I touched my hoof to my tear soaked fur. “I guess that I am.” I said smiling.

“What was it?” I sat there a little silent. “Nightwing, what’s wrong?” she said bring a motherly tone in her voice.

“Nothing, just a memory. But, what time is it?” I quickly changed subject.

She paused for a moment deciding whether or not to see what was wrong but, as she was about to speak her watch’s alarm bleeped. “It’s time to go but, I’m not done see what is wrong you know that right?” she said.

“Yes, I know but, we need to go.” I said shoving her off playfully.

“I’m going to get you back for that.” she said picking herself off the floor.

“You can try.” I said getting off the couch. We began to head to the top the castle and halfway up we met up with Water and Burntrum. We were all in the stealth armor but, each of us had something different. Burntrum with his Stetson, Water with a Battle rifle the was engraving that said Piss me off and lead will be the last thing you‘ll eat, Velvet with her BAG (Big Ass Gun) and me with stub nose revolver. We all made it to the landing pad just as the chopper touched down. We all climbed in and placed on the headsets. When the chopper lifted off the doors closed on their own.

“Alright, the ride should take about five hours. I would take a nap if I were.” the pilot said as we came over the mountain that held Canterlot. “One more thing just hope none of you are AA magnets. Just barely survived the last the time.” everypony expect Velvet looked at me.

“What?” I just shrugged off the looks and began to fall asleep.

********

My dream was about a couple days before I came to this place. At base camp, everyone was joking around, playing catch with a nerf football, telling stories and cleaning gear. Having a good time. Well, the best good time you can have during a war where one wrong step can land you on a bomb. But, it was a good time.

“So, this is your mind? Nice, so this what human look like.” a voice said.

“Ah, What the hell!” I yelled sending me into a small field under a cloudy sky with a small mountain range in the distance.

“Hey, don’t yell at me.” the voice said to my left. I turned to see Velvet without her kit. “Then, again I did kind of scare you. I told you was going to get back at you.” she said smiling while I just sat on my imagery ass dumbfounded.

“How in the hell are you in my head?” I said pointing at my head.

“Magic, ain’t got to explain shit. But, I want to talk to you on what’s bothering you.”

I sighed. “Alright.”

She smiled. “ Alri-”

“But, one condition.”

“What?” she said with a raised eyebrow.

“Don’t invade my mind unless I say you can.” I said giving her a wink.

“Alright, deal.” She said with a soft smile.

For the next hour I told her everything about me. about my first kill, all of the moves in my childhood, my friends on Earth, the ambush, Hog, Shield and my dad. Most of the time she was silent and observant (Probably that sniper training kicking in.) when I was done she hugged me for a good long time and I could “feel” the tears staining my coat. I just sat there laying in the field staring up at the night sky, petting her mane for a bit with a soft smile. She kept crying until I could see that she was asleep. “Good night. I will see in three hours.”

[Two and half hours later]

“Hey dipshit wake up, we need to talk a bit.” I heard a voice while he was shaking me.

“Uh, five more minutes.” I said placing my arm on my eyes.

“Get the fuck up.” he said almost knocking me off my seat.

“God damn alarm clock!” I said smashing my hoof on a horn which jolted me wake. “OW!”

“Damn it, that hurt you know that!” Water said rubbing his horn.

“What do you want I was having a good dream.” I said rubbing my eyes.

“Yeah must be if your wings are as stiff as steel. But, that is besides the point. We are almost there and we need to do weapons checks.” he said as he woke up Velvet and Water.

“Alright, you want a weapons check I will give you a weapons check.”

“I smell a bet a brewin’.” Burntrum said as he raised his hat.

“Yeah, I love myself a good bet.” Velvet said with a small yawn.

Water and everypony else looked at me. “What’s the wager?”

“Fifty bits for the pony that can take a part their gun and back again. The winner gets a hundred-fifty bits. Deal?”

Everypony looked at each other with a smile. “Deal.”

“Alright, three, two, one.” everypony began taking apart their rifles. But, all I did was take out the cylinder pin and cylinder and back again. I spun the revolver and everypony looked up from their torn apart rifles.

“What the hell just happened?” Water said as he finished putting together his rifle.

“All I said was take apart your gun, I didn’t say your rifle. Now, where is my money you two?” I said handing out my hoof.

Water and Burntrum looked at each other then, at me. “What about her!?” they both pointed at Velvet.

I looked at Velvet then back at the two. “I like her.” she looked at them with a smug face. “Plus she would probably make me spend the money on her anyways.” I said with a smug face of my own. She looked at me and slugged my in the arm/leg what ever the hell it is. I rubbed my leg with my left hoof.

“No, I would not!” she said turning around away from me. I smiled as I poked her in the side and she squeaked. She turned around and slugged me again. “Don’t do that!” she said with a childish whine.

“You know you like it.” I said with another smug face.

“Get a room. Besides we’re here.” Water said charging his rifle. “Lets hit, Fillies.” Water said kicking open the door revealing a skyline and some ropes. I glided down on my wings adding covering fire as the rest repelled down. When they hit the ground the chopper cut the ropes and left. Mission is a go.

[an hour later]

The team was utterly quiet as we stalked the wheat fields, it was unnerving. About a third of mile from the town, Velvet placed a peck on my cheek, sending a small burning sensation threw my face and went to one of the odd hills here and there. As we left, I heard a small crack of a pistol. That’s one for you, lets see how many you get. I smiled as the light of the town got bigger.

We stopped about a hundred yards away from the town. Water looked at me and Burntrum. We all nodded. We all put up the black bandanas over our mouths, and we turned invisible. We split up as we made our way behind a building. Water and Burntrum went west toward the post office and I went to the Sheriff’s office. As I made my I saw a couple of Griffins in a guard tower manning a machinegun, smoking and talking out loud.

I raised my hoof to my com. “Red Pepper are you there? Copy.”

I released the button and got static for a moment. “Yes, I’m here Black Glass. Copy.”

“You see those two griffins manning the machinegun?”

“Yes, take them out?”

“No, but keep an eye out. I need to know if you see any guards coming my way.”

*static*

I took off my bandana revealing me. I looked down at the battery. May need to save the rest for later. I looked up at the corner of the building. “There is small patrol of three coming your way, lightly armored and armed. Watch out for their claws, one swipe can rip off you leg. Just click your radio three times if you need help. Or just blow me a kiss.” she said with a soft chuckle. “You know I can see you blushing from here.”

I face hoofed. “Not now but, thanks” I shouldered my rifle and faced the three griffins. The three griffins all froze as they saw me. I fired three suppressed shots into each of their chests killing them. I dragged the bodies behind the building and collected the brass. “Alright, take out the gunners when they get replaced, Red Pepper.”

“Roger.”

As I moved closer to the Sheriff’s office I could feel the sweat beating off of me. I looked up and down the street. The griffins were moving up and down it. Some of them were drunk and others were patrolling the ground and sky. When I got a chance I used the stealth armor and *puff* I disappeared. I moved to the office. I pushed the door and it opened with a squeak. No one was in the office. Looks like they didn’t expect to be infiltrated tonight. I smiled as I turned on my night vision goggles and began to go through the filing cabinets. One caught my interest. Operation Mouse. I quickly read it. In brief it said that the mission is to take control of border town and to kill or capture as many ponies as possible. It also said that in a time frame of two days a group of Changelings were to come and take any ponies that were taken alive to a unknown location. The Changelings were also going to meet to a spy that has integrated into Special forces unit of the Solar Army. The Spy is also going to have a… team moving in this morning at 0500. The Team consists of the human from the cave named Nightwing, a Sniper named Velvet and a breacher name Burntrum. Tactician named Water. The human is extremely dangerous and skilled in Hoof to hoof combat, large amount of troops is recommended.

“Black Glass, a entire platoon is gathering outside the office and they seem to know that you are in there.”

“Red Pepper, We’re blown. Somepony has set a trap. Get out of here right now! They know where you are. Use your Stealth armor to get out of here and run NOW!”

“No! I will not leave you to die!”

“They won’t kill me. For some reason I don’t know why they want me alive. But, I don’t know you. Please, Run! Run until your legs give out. Then, you start crawling. I just don’t want you to die.”

“No, Parker I will not leave you and if I die I will take as many of those bastards down with me!” I started to hear her shooting and the griffins outside began to fall.

I lowered my head and sighed. Shit. I looked outside the window to see that there were 16 heavily armored and armed griffins. A well decorated officer was standing outside the door.

A knock on the door. “Come out and surrender or we will kill your team.” her voice sounded like a bicker chick.

“Ha and I thought you were room service.” I said checking my magazine.

“Fine then, I will show that I mean business. Bring her out!” I froze when she said that. I looked out the window. Their with a gun to her head was Velvet with blood stains on her green mane. My God. “Come out or I will shoot her and I don’t want to waste such a pretty face.” the griffin got closer as she was about to kiss her.

“Fuck you, bitch.” Velvet said as she spat in her eye.

This only made the officer smile. “I shall and oh, I do like it when my toys fight rough.” She said in a seductive voice while wiping off the spit. This almost want to make me jump out and put a bullet in that bitch’s brain.

She turned. “Come out now and drop your weapons!”

“Then, you need to cut off my fucking hoofs if you want that wish! Also, Fuck you!”

“Fine then, be a smart ass. Now, she will get that sweet sweet taste of lead.” she said cocking a revolver.

“Wait! I’m coming out. But, first you have to promise me something first.” I said through the door.

“What would that be?” she said decocking the revolver.

“I will give myself up if you let go of my team and set them free and unharmed. These are my few and only conditions.”

“Alright, we just need you anyways. Release them but, take their weapons. They can leave on foot from here.” she said as I stepped out kicking my pistol and rifle away from me.

“No, don’t do it, PARKER! Don’t do it.” Velvet screamed as tears streamed down her cheeks like rivers. In between sobs I could barly hear the words “I love you.” as she was being dragged away by Water and Burntrum. It felt like a knife to the chest when I saw her crying trying to get to me but, I had to do. I can’t lose anybody else. I don’t need another slaughter of my friends. I smiled as they placed cuffs on my ankles and took my knife.

I looked at the officer. “So, where are we going Blitz?” I said with the same attitude I always use.

She smiled. “A very special place. One where we hand you off to our friends but, that is after I have fun with you.” she said with one of her against my cheek and she flicked it, drawing a little blood. I mental gulped at the that. Well, I’m fucked. Velvet I’m sorry but, I had to do this. I don‘t want you getting hurt for me but, this will not be the last you see of me. Was the last thing I thought of as a bag got put over my head and I got the familiar feeling of a hard buttstock to the head. Not my day. God, I hate Mondays.

Crazy seems to follow me, EVERYWHERE

Crazy seems to follow me, EVERYWHERE.

After waking up in a wagon with my hoofs tied to one another, I could still feel the bump on my head. I sighed as most of my gear was taken away. Except for my vest which had little armor to it but won’t stop shit. I felt a good weight to it too. I smiled as it is the .44 magnum that my dad gave me when I was 14. Hey, I love hog hunting. About four hours later and me going in and out of sleep we stopped in a windy area probably the fields of the griffin territory. It was night time again so I Must have been out for about thirteen hours. I hope everypony is doing alright. When we stopped, I heard Blitz and about ten other griffins yelling at the driver. But, the driver keeps saying that the road is blocked.

“Fine, Alpha leader go and check on the road. The rest guard the wagon while we are stationary. I’ll stay here and guard the prisoner.”

“Yes, ma’am.” they all said as they exited and closed the enclosed wagon.

I could feel her claw petting my back like a dog and the most embarrassing thing is that she began to pet the bases of my wings then, my leg began to pound. God damn it way is every girl I meet try to make me their dog?

Through the feeling of being somewhat molested I managed to say “You know I really don’t feel like getting molested today. Besides, if Velvet finds out that you were petting my wings she is going to rip yours off.”

“Ha, like she can as long as I have you at gun point she won’t do shit. But, I can do anything to you that I want.”

“Yeah, you’re right but, you haven’t noticed the silence of your platoon, have you?” I said with a raised eyebrow which she can’t see because of a damn bag over my face.

She paused to listen to the silence. I heard her get up but, the door opened before she could get to it.

“Hey, guy guess who we have here?” said another mare I think Well, shit. I do not need to held for ransom, but I could use the Magnum but, on the other hand I don’t want to get shot full of holes. Fuck it. Enie mini miney moe. Before I could finish I felt the bag moving? When they took off the bag, the moon light hurt my eyes but, I managed to see a face. A mare with blue fur and mane with white highlights . She took my dog tags with magic and took a close look at them. “Ah, a soldier boy, looks like this is your lucky day.”

“tell me about it. I was almost raped by that griffin you just knocked out.” I said pointing my wing.

The mare looked at me. She seemed familiar to me. “Long time no see. Nightwing.” She smiled.

I raised an eyebrow. “Don’t tell me you don’t remember me”

“I’m sorry I am bad with names and faces but, Blue coat and blue mane with white highlights and with a cutie mark of an hour glass. Please tell me you are one of Doctor whooves’ companions?”

“Nope. Hog.”

“Colgate, how is going?”

“Nothing, you?”

“Nothing much, I just like being tied up with a bag over my face and molested by a giant griffin so much that I do it everyday.” I said with most sarcasm I have ever used in my life.

“If you like it so much I should just leave you.” she said pretending to walk off.

“Come on, I need a little help.”

She turned around. “Only if you say the magic word.”

My face went flat. “Ok, can you please help me.”

“Alright.” She said as her horn flared and my binds unraveled. “Now, lets get going before your girlfriend wakes up.”

“Ok, lead the way” I paused as I got up and took the bag off my face. “Do you know where they took my weapons?”

“Yeah, but they left them at the armory at Bitter Springs.” I stepped off the wagon and almost immediately got rifle barrels pointed to my face. “Hey, he’s good.”

“What if he is a Changeling?” A yellow stallion with an assault rifle in my face said to Colgate.

“Like I said he’s good. Now, stand down private.”

The stallion lowered the rifle and turned and saluted. “Yes, Ma’am”

“Now, Nightwing we need to discuss things when we get back to the FOB (Forward Operating Base) just southeast of here.” She led me to a small chopper. “Now, lets the fuck out of here. Everypony get your asses of the ground and get on the chopper.” I looked around and only saw the two or three stallions and mares. I looked at her. “This is all we have for a resistance force against the griffins and changelings. But, these young ponies are just the ones that survived and escape the capture of the attack on the town.”

I stepped on the small chopper as well as the others. I looked at the others. All Citizen soldiers, but most of them look did take on ten fully armored griffins with elite training. I smiled but, it quickly vanished like the morning fog with the raising sun. I looked at Colgate. How did she know I was there? How did she and her lightly armed squad with what looks like little experience take on ten fully armored griffins with elite training? Well, I’m fucked. But, as we went into the air. I looked at the fields and then, at my watch. 2316. I hope that everyone made it but, now I have to find out some things. Why in the hell does the Changelings want the Ponies alive? Is my team alright? And why do I have the craving for a Grilled Cheese?

About thirty minutes later we arrived a small little camp made of about three medium tents. One a command center, another a mess hall and the last one is bunks. I went straight for the mess as I am fucking hungry. The moment I went in I saw that their was a small plate of hay and greens. I began to eat not caring really. When I was done I shrugged. “Could use some ketchup.”

I looked around the bunks and saw the their no more room for me. I looked around one more time and saw the Colgate was still up. She saw me and motioned with her hoof to lay next to her. My mind as always got a little perverted. Goddamn it. I blushed a little and laid down. I blinked once and I was out.

********

“MOVE MOVE MOVE!” the soldier said as I ran along an open field with the hot sun beating down on my body. Bullets ripping back and forth along the field cutting down soldiers. I could hear soldiers crying for there mothers. The dead littered the ground staining the once green field red with blood. I moved while firing the gun that was in my…hoofs. I was running for dear life if I stopped I would surly die. Run, Run, Run. I dove behind a tree the bullets of the machinegun turning the giant oak into splinters until all that was left was a stump. I heard a lone shot and the gun silenced for a moment but, the feeder took his place and began to fire again tearing down ponies like a lawn mower to a dandy lion. A second lone shot and the gun was silenced for the moment. As I began to move I felt an uneasiness. I began to feel a small amount of heat around my body and I stopped. I saw a small green flame starting to go up my legs turning my black coat into blacker hard shell of a ……. Changeling. That moment the fighting stopped but, for a brief moment as ponies began to shoot back at the Changelings. I ran to a puddle to quench the flames but, to no avail the flames climbed to my face and I felt nothing as it reached my mane. I slowly reached to my head and felt a horn. No, it can’t be. I looked down at the muddy puddle and saw my reflection. A commander Changeling with lime green eyes with small blueish dots. The fighting stopped I looked around. The entire fight was frozen in time. I could see bullets ripping through the sound barrier. I heard a step and looked straight a head of me. I saw a large changeling, one that is as tall as Celestia, she had what looked like a crown growing out of her head. Her horn jagged and flared Green magic. She looked at me and lowered her head to my eye level.

She smiled as she spoke. “You’re one of us now.”

********

I woke up gasping, sweating and began feeling for the horn and shell. When I found nothing I felt relieved. I looked at my watch 0651. The sun was still down and everypony was asleep except for Colgate. I smelled the air. She was watching as I looked at her. I raised an eyebrow. “Why do you smell like shame?” she said nothing but, got up with a smile and walked to the mess. I smelled my arm pits and recoiled at the smell. I need a shower. I do not want to know what the hell happened last night after I passed out but, I got the strange feeling that I got molested again. I shook my head and got up. I heard a small waterfall about a hundred yards away. I began to walk to it when, I noticed that I had all my gear still on. My stealth armor had a blood stain or two from being kicked while I was out in the griffin wagon. I walked to the waterfall. I looked at it and shrugged. It was about a good ten foot waterfall not big but, good for the job ahead. I took off my gear and felt as light as a feather. I smiled as I entered the ice cold water. I shivered a little. I stuck my head into the waterfall soaking my entire body. I looked around and saw a little mint plant. Perfect. I grabbed and began to use as soap. It won’t clean me that much but, it does get rid of the smell. I was about to get out when I noticed Somepony looking at me. It was a mare with a crimson red coat with a dark green mane with a nice horn sticking out.

“Nightwing!” Velvet said as she jumped on me hugging me while sending us into the ice cold water. I heard rustling behind her and saw Burntrum and Water. “You smell like mint. I like it.” she said as she muzzled my chest. I looked at Burntrum and Water.

“Do you two need some space? We can just go over here for a couple of minutes ” Water said with a stupid grin on his face. I was just laying there confused as hell.

“What you guys doing here?” I said.

“Hey, I thought that you would be happy to see us?” Burntrum said he said reloading his smoking revolver.

“I am but, I’m just wondering how did you guys find me?” the moment I said that Burntrum and Water looked at Velvet.

I raised an eyebrow. “Sorry” She said touching the tips of her front hoofs together like a kid, who just got caught with their hand in the cookie jar. “The moment I went inside your mind I guess I could sense you now.” She looked at me with a soft smile. “But, now I’m glad you are ok.”

“Yeah, I’m glad too but, in order to find you we had to miss the chopper. I checked the network. We are all MIA. But, my question is how in the hell did you escape from the griffins.” Water said sitting on a rock.

I got out of the small stream and began to put on my armor and gear. “I didn’t.” I said putting on one of the last straps. They all gave me a weird look. “I was rescued by a couple of resistance ponies that took down ten heavily armored elite troops in a matter of five minutes while I was getting molested by Blitz.”

The moment I said that everything seemed freeze as Velvet stood still her eyes filled with rage. I felt a leg push me back. Just in time to see a blue beam race pass me and incinerating several trees. Velvet flared her nostrils. “That bitch I will rip her wings off!” called it.

I leaned over to Water. “Hey, when she is on her period can I stay with you?” I whispered into his ear.

“Yeah, no problem.” he whispered back.

“AAAAAAHHHHHH!” a battle cry rang out from Velvet. It was my turn to push back Water just as a giant fucking boulder flew right over our heads. I mean damn the thing must be at least two tons. Reminder: Do not piss her off. After a bit she began to cool down with a little help from a face full of water. It steamed off of her, NO seriously it literally steamed off of her like fog but, it helped. When she was cooled down enough I showed the way to the camp.

When we got to the camp they all had their assault rifles aimed at us but, when they saw me they lowered. Colgate looked confused like she was hoping that my team wouldn’t find me. I don’t like this one bit.

I looked behind her where a huge hole in the side of the small hill. Velvet the mega rage cannon find one at a Wal-Mart near you. I chuckled at that little joke. I looked at Water his face filled with confusion and fear. I went to him before anypony could do anything. “What’s wrong?” I whispered into his ear. He mumbled at first. “What?”

“She… she is supposed… to…” he couldn’t finish as he stumbled on the words. He went silent for a moment but, began to speak some more. “She is supposed to be dead. She was on the list of the dead that were killed in the explosion.”

The moment that he said that I heard the raising of rifles. I looked to see the “resistance” ponies aiming their rifles at us like a firing squad with Colgate holding my revolver with her magic. “What are you doing, Colgate?” I said trying to figure out how she got my pistol.

She laughed her voice was different from before it was more like a snake. “Are you really that stupid or did those kicks to the head knock something loose?” she said but, before I could say anything the entire camp was engulfed in a green flame and it quickly covered their bodies making them like living torches. The green flames subsided revealing a entire squad of commander Changelings. Elites. Damn, I must be fucking stupid if I didn’t see this coming. The leader of the Team turned to a second in command. “Alright, Get Nightwing ready to transport and tell Discord that he can finally calm down.”

“Ma’am what about the others?” the second said.

She looked at Velvet and the others. “Kill them or you can have your fun. I don’t care just get rid of them. All I want is Nightwing.”

Discord? “Who the hell is Discord?” I said not realizing until the Changeling responded.

“Discord is going to be good friend to you. Now if there no more questions, time to meet your old friend.” She held a black bag. Damn bag. I hate that bag. Fuck that bag. Fuck you.

“When I say duck, duck. Got it?” I whispered just loud enough for my team to hear.

“What are you going to do?” Velvet said right next to me.

“Just duck when I say duck. Water when I say flash, you know what to do.”

“Got it” he whispered back.

“You know what, bitch. Fuck. That. Shit.” I said moving close to the leader.

The rest raised their rifles to me. “Don’t shoot. We need him alive and unharmed.” She said scowling at me. “What do you want if you trying anything, we will kill you friends.”

I smiled. “Sorry but, Duck!” I yelled flapped my wings as hard as possible sending the Changelings to the ground, I grabbed my pistol. “Flash!”

Before the Changelings could do anything we were about a mile away according to my tracker that I left with my Solar empire dog tags.

I looked at Water. “Good job but, could you at least have teleported us closer to the Canterlot or at least Ponyville?”

“Sorry but, I could only teleport us about a mile or two and that’s my limit I never had to travel farther then that. Sorry you don’t have to be a tight ass about it.” he said.

I sighed and looked at the team. “Hey, you’ll might want to see this.” I heard Burntrum yelled on top of a hill. We all looked at each other. We all walked up the hill where Burntrum was in the prone with a pair of bios. “You would love to see this.” he said handing me the bios.

I looked through them and was shocked at what I was seeing in detail. An army of Changelings about the size of two battalions, all out fitted with heavy armor, air support, artillery, and support. Shit, this is an invasion force but, too small for Canterlot or any of the big cities like Manehatton, Fillyadelphia or Stalliongrade. I looked at my wrist computer for some reason I want to call a pip-boy. The map says that we are about ten miles away from Ponyville. I froze on that thought. They are going after… Ponyville.

“Water can you teleport us anywhere near Ponyville?” I said whipping my head toward him.

“I think so but, I’m going to need a little help I’m almost in magic burn out.” he said looking a Velvet.

“Ok, I think I know how so lets try it before any of their patrols spot us.” we all nodded as Burntrum kept an eye on the camp with the bios. Water and Velvet took a deep breath as their horns flared mixing into a purplish color. For a moment we were on that hill and the next I was in a tree hanging by the collar of my armor. Really? Just really? Damn, Somepony (GOD DAMN IT!) upstairs must really like making me looking a like a fool. I looked down and saw that everyone was on the ground trying not to laugh when they saw me. I sighed and flew myself off the damn branch and to the ground. I looked around the town and saw no fortifications whatsoever. This is going to be a slaughter. I looked at my team and saw that one pony was missing. Burntrum. That is when the radio kicked on. “Apple Whiskey, where the hell are you?”

“I stayed behind to see what is going on. I also what to see if I can buy any of you guys some time. I still got about fifteen blocks of C4 with me. Those bastards only took my damn rifle.” *Chuckling* “But, I will remain radio silent until I find something or when I destroy their supplies, that will slow them down for a couple of days. Nightwing?”

“Yes, Burntrum?”

“It has been an honor serving with you for this short time and I wish I had more of it. This is Apple whiskey signing off.”

“You get them soldier but, if you are going to go down. Go down fucking swinging. This is Black Glass signing off. Good luck.” I said hearing him click off his radio.

Velvet and water looked at me. “What do we do now, Sir?” Water said with concern from seeing the base.

I thought for a second and turned to him. “Is their any Town militia here?”

“I think so but, just a small one. Only like maybe fifteen ponies out a town of maybe six hundred.”

“Six hundred ponies live in this town then, why do they have such a large force just for this small of a town?”

“I don’t know but, know burntrum he probably is already in the administration part of the base.” Velvet said and just as if one que the radio clicked on.

“This is Apple whiskey and I got some files for why they have taken the ponies from Bitter Springs.”

“Alright, tell us.”

“They were all transformed into Changelings.” We all just stood there shocked at what we all heard. Ponies being turned into Changelings. “They are using a variant of their magic to transform to any living thing. They just inject a vile of the stuff into the victim and in about a day they transform into a Changeling no matter what the gender or race.”

“So, in short we’re fucked.” Water said through his radio.

“Yeah and it looks like they are going to attack Ponyville in a time frame of three days for preparations.”

“Yeah like I said we’re fucked.” Water said.

“One more thing before I can start setting the charges but, this is for Velvet only so plug the radio into her head set. And Velvet you’re not going to like.”

[Ten minutes later]

After Burntrum gave some info to Velvet she has been looking at me with a worried look for ten minutes.

“Guys, I’m ready to get the hell out of here. Just say the word Black Glass and their supplies and transport is going up in flames.”

“Boom bitch.” I said.

“Boom bitch!” I heard him yelled just as I heard a deafening explosion wash through the town. “I will see you guys in the morning. Apple Whi-” then, static. Shit.

Prologue

*Click* *Play*

You are listening to this then I am unavailable at the moment please leave a message at th- *laughing* I can’t do it *soft chuckle* but, here we go. All I wanted was to make sure my team is safe and not to have guns at theirs heads waiting to be slaughtered like everyday cattle. But, I doubt anyone is listening to this so I am going to say it. My name is Sergeant Parker of the United States Army Delta force. I know, I know but, my lieutenant was killed by the IED before all this shit happened but, I cared for everyone like I was in charge. Enough of the formalities if you are listening to this then, either I am dead or you just found this on the ground. This… *Sigh* well shit this has been a fucking ride I will tell you what. From being exploded into a cave to becoming a pony I just can’t tell how that shit adds up I tell you what. *soft chuckle* but, let me start from the beginning where all of this fucking shit started.