Star Wars: Tales of the Hunter

Chapters

Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten
Chapter Eleven
Chapter Twelve
Chapter Thirteen
Chapter Fourteen
Chapter Fifteen
Chapter Sixteen
Chapter Seventeen
Chapter Eighteen
Chapter Nineteen
Super Bowl Teaser
Chapter 20
Chapter 21
Chapter 22
Chapter 23(Rough)
A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away...
Chapter One(Abridged)

Chapter One

In the deep black void of space, a ship appears in the blink of an eye, alone. Inside this ship, are two Clone Troopers, warriors for the Republic. Clones were raised from birth to be soldiers, professional, dedicated, and deadly. Most Clones have a strong sense of brotherhood with one another. These two however-

“When we get back CT-6547, I'm requesting an immediate reassignment.” They couldn't stand one another. CT-6547 was not your average Clone. He responded to orders, did them to the best of his ability, and was a proficient warrior, like every other Clone. But he was very poor at socializing.

“I'll put the request in myself, 'Blazer'.” Blazer was your average Clone, but a bit more of a talker. One might say he was a bit of a loud mouth. CT-6547 would say that he never shuts up. “We just scan this system, and then we're done.”

“See? You follow the orders, but our job is the most boring job in the galaxy: scanning unknown derelict systems for supplies. We don't even land, we just mark it on a map and leave. Clones were made to blow up droids!” Blazer had a romantic view of the war.

“We were made to follow orders, and to die for them if necessary.” What took many Clones to see after years of warfare, took CT-6547 mere months in basic to figure out. Clones were made to fight and be expendable. He blamed it on whoever was watching his pod when he was growing in it. They should have ironed out the deficiencies in his programming. Now he view the war as a terrible thing that was meaningless.

“You're just so damn depressing, CT-6547.” Blazer slumped into his chair. “And when can I give you a nickname?”

“I told you,” CT-6547 said as he put in a few numbers into the flight computer, “I don't want a nickname.” At birth, Clones are given a numbered designation. Numbers to differentiate between the Clones. Many Clones however, decided to use nicknames instead. You might hear names like, “Rex, Bly, Boil, or Cody.” Many nicknames were given in basic training, and if not there, given on the battlefield. But CT-6547 didn't make friends in basic. He was too quiet there. And on the field, well, he was on the field.

His life consisted of flying a small ship with little armaments, into a dead end part of the galaxy to scan for resources. He'd get different co-pilots too. Some were loudmouths, like Blazer. Others were quiet, not wanting to socialize with someone with no name. And for many occasions, CT-6547 was alone. Piloting a small ship, in nowhere space, looking for something that would most likely be found in the known galaxy.

There were parts of CT-6547 that were made as intended however, he was still happy to be serving the Republic. The Republic was the best thing out there for someone like him. So he kept going on, in the hopes that one day, he could leave and go about doing whatever he wanted to do, or at least that’s what the general belief was. But he thought on what he wanted to do. He had time to think about it. He could be a surveyor for the Republic. It was the same thing he was doing now, except he could land on the planets if he so chose. It all depended on what the Republic wanted to do with the Clones. But that would come at the end of the war, which appeared to him to be a ways off.

“Fine.” Blazer put in a few algorithms into the computer to scan the system they were in. “Scan initiated. Anything out of the ordinary should come up immediately. And then we can leave this Force forsaken system.” He looked at a sparse map of the system on his display. “What do they even call this system?”

“UR-783.” CT-6547 said. “This place hasn't been surveyed since the formation of the Republic.” Blazer shook his head in disbelief.

“The Republic was formed thousands of years ago.” Blazer looked at the map again for clues on this little mystery. “No one has been out here since then?”

“The surveyors were Jedi.” 6547 looked out at the abandoned space. “They gave the Republic Military the files only a short time ago.”

“For being Defenders of the Republic, they don't really work with the Republic all that well, do they?” Blazer continued looking at the map.

6547 shook his head and checked the computer for an update. It had picked something up.

“Anomaly?” Blazer asked.

“A Gravitational Anomaly.” 6547 corrected. “And it's a big one.”

“Guess we better investigate it, right?” Blazer asked.

“It's in the job description, I'm setting coordinates.” 6547 typed into the navigation computer.

“I hope it's nothing. The longer we're here, the longer I have to put up with you, 'the Bore'.” Blazer laughed at 6547's nickname.

“The longer we're out here, I become more susceptible to your idiocy.” 6547 activated the hyperdrive and went on their way.

!!!!!

Twilight Sparkle, the Element of Magic, former protege of Princess Celestia, and now: Princess of Equestria. She still had to get used to that. She had just finished, “Court Mannerisms for New Royalty” for the fifth time in a row. The responsibility of it all was overwhelming. She sat at her desk, looking at all the other books she had read. They helped in a way, but there was nothing to help her become the inspiration that ponies expected her to be. She sighed and closed the book, looking out her window at the night sky. Princess Luna, her colleague now, was preparing a festival to honor Twilight. There was a knock at the door.

“Twilight? They're almost ready to start.” It was Spike, her faithful assistant.

“Thanks, Spike. I'll be there in a bit.” Twilight had a sense of sadness in her voice. Not very common for her.

“Twilight, what's wrong?” Spike asked. Twilight shook her head.

“I don't know Spike.” She walked away from her desk and left her room. “I think it's all getting to me. The weight of all this.” She looked around her library, thinking of a simpler life when she wasn't an Alicorn.

“I know you can handle it, Twilight. Besides, I'll be helping you.” Spike said proudly. “Your number one assistant will always be here to help.” Twilight smiled and hugged Spike.

“Thank you, Spike.” The sadness in her voice was gone, but not within herself. She opened the door and looked up at the night sky. The stars were shining quite brightly. On the ground, the festival was about to begin. Ponies from all walks of life were having fun. But at soon as Twilight passed by them, they all bowed in reverence to her. She sighed and continued toward the center of town where the big event Luna planned would take place. The town was filled with decorations of all kind, honoring the night sky. When she reached the center of town, Luna was sitting on a large stage looking at the sky. She looked down at Twilight and smiled.

“Twilight! It's so good to see you again!” She flew down and nuzzled Twilight.

“You too Luna. This all looks so amazing!” Luna looked back at the stage, which was quite bare.

“The stage is a stage Twilight. Hardly an extraordinary thing.” Luna chuckled a bit. Twilight rolled her eyes with a smile. “But the sky had to be perfect for tonight. I know the Summer Sun Celebration is close, so I want you to enjoy yourself a bit.” The two began to walk around the festival. “Tell me, are you having any trouble with the ceremonial movements we have laid out?”

“A little. These wings are tougher to use than I had thought.” While Twilight was quite adept at most things, flying was a little tougher for her to grasp.

“Yes, well you still have time Twilight. I think you'll get it. For now, all you have to do is say, 'Thank you, Everypony. Please have a fun night!'” Luna proclaimed loudly and proudly.

“How long until we begin?” Twilight asked.

“Half an hour. Be up on the stage by then.” Luna turned around back toward the stage while Twilight looked up again at the night sky. I hope I can do this.

!!!!!

The Clone ship dropped out of hyperspace to the gravitational anomaly.

“Beginning scans.” Blazer activated the sensors. 6547 looked out the window, trying to see what was effected. “This is getting weird.”

“What is it?” 6547 asked.

“You know how everything orbits a star?”

“Yeah?”

“Well, the star is the one in orbit of... something.” Blazer showed the results of the scan.

“This has got to be a malfunction. Rescan it.”

“It isn't a malfunction. Something weird is going on in this system.” Blazer said looking around superstitiously.

“What's the star in orbit of? What other planets for that matter?” 6547 asked.

“No signs of other astral bodies, except for… a planet? The star is in orbit of a planet?” Blazer rubbed his helmet in disbelief..

“That's impossible.” 6547 said bluntly.

“I know it is, but that's what it is.” The two looked at each other and then back at the map. “I think I know why the Jedi never got around to scanning this area.”

“Well, we're here now. Setting a course for the planet.” 6547 punched in the coordinates and went off towards the planet.

“Shouldn't we report this?” Blazer asked. He had a point. Why not report in.

“We need visual confirmation. We have to be sure the scans are correct before we go reporting anything. For all we know, this could be a complete sensor failure.” 6547 watched the stars as they drew closer to their location.

“What do you think we'll find?”

“Something at least. This is way beyond us.” I hope it’s nothing.

!!!!!

“Citizens of Ponyville!” Luna loudly proclaimed. “Welcome to the first annual, “Shooting Star Celebration!” The crowd cheered wildly. “As you know, this festival was made in honor of the newest Princess of Equestria. May I present, Princess Twilight Sparkle!” The crowd cheered even more wildly. Twilight got up on the stage and looked at the sea of ponies before her. It was a bit much, until she saw the reassuring smiles of her friends, who were all in the front row. She smiled and gained confidence.

“Thank you, Everypony. Please have a fun night!” Twilight liked sticking to a script. Nothing like being stable. Luna smiled as her horn lit up.

!!!!!

The Clone's ship arrived over the planet. Sitting at a stable orbit.

“Looks like a life giving planet.” Blazer said upon inspection. “Nothing out the ordinary.”

“Except its mass is nowhere near the size even capable of trapping a star. So what's going on?” 6547 laid back into his chair and looked at the planet. “There's civilization down there. Maybe we can get the Jedi and-” Just then, an alarm blared from the computer. “What is it?” 6547 asked. Blazer turned on a monitor and saw a volley of meteors heading towards them.

“Meteors!” Blazer yelled. “Evasive action!” 6547 turned on the engines and tried to move out of the way. But it was too late. The meteors pounded the ship, hitting the engines. 6547 looked at Blazer, who wasn't strapped in.

“Blazer! Get your belt-” A meteor blasted through the ship, venting everything. Blazer screamed as he was pulled out into space. “Computer! Seal the breach!” A forcefield activated, sealing the ship from leaking any more air. “Damn it, Blazer. Why'd you have to go and be stupid.” 6547 grabbed the controls again. He found that the meteors, and the ship were hurtling down towards the planet.

!!!!!

The Ponies looked across the night sky in amazement. A beautiful meteor shower had lit up everything. The Ponies began dancing and partying, while Twilight continued to look up at the sky.

“Do you enjoy my work?” Luna asked.

“Of course. It's so beautiful.” Twilight said as she stared deep into the sky.

“You know, Twilight. If you need to talk about anything, you know I'm here right?” Twilight's smile was replaced with a sad frown.

“I know, Luna. This new level of responsibility is driving me crazy. I don't think- I- That's a big meteor, Luna.” Twilight pointed towards the hot object in the sky. Luna looked at it.

“That isn't a meteor, Twilight.” All the ponies looked up at the hot object coming towards them.

Meanwhile, on the ship, 6547 was pulling hard on the control stick. Can't hit this town. Keep it up, Trooper! The ship flew right over the town and moved towards a clearing in a forest. “Emergency boosters activate!” 6547 cried. The computer complied and activated the rockets under the ship, causing the ship to crash land gracefully.

Smoke arose from the Everfree Forest. The Ponies screamed in panic.

“Remain calm everypony!” Luna yelled. Twilight looked towards the smoke.

“Luna, I've got a bad feeling about this.”

Author's Note

And there you have it! I'll try and update as much as possible.

Chapter Two

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter Three

The four looked up at the intimidating monster before them. Applejack had seen the creature before and described it to her friends. She doubted she’d have the same luck of escaping she had before. 6547 had his blaster trained on the beast. It was almost as big as his ship. Applejack poked at his legs

“Got any more of them, ‘Thermal Detonators’?” 6547 looked down at Applejack for less than a second and shook his head.

“That was my last one. Should have saved it.” The wolf growled at the four, showing his fangs, which were quite sharp. But something caught its eye, a bright light in the distance. Ponyville. It growled and moved past the four, trotting to town.

“It’s heading straight for Ponyville!” Fluttershy cried.

“Come on!” Twilight shouted. “We have to stop it!” The three ponies galloped away to save their town, save Applejack, who turned around and looked back at 6547.

“We could use your help, hunter.” 6547 was still shocked with fear. He had survived a meteor shower, a crash landing, a pack of monsters, and another giant monster. He didn’t want to push his luck.

“How can we take that thing down?!” 6547 asked.

“Don’t know.” Applejack turned back to the town. Everyone she knew and loved was there. “All ah know is, ah gotta try.” Applejack ran off towards the endangered town, leaving the clone alone.

He stumbled a bit and collapsed. This was technically his first combat experience. He had received the training, he had been disciplined, but killing for the first time was something else. He looked down at his blaster. It hadn’t been fired before, but he was happy its first action was in defense of innocent creatures. But he also knew, that its job was still not done. He looked toward the town and swallowed. He didn’t know what to do, but he knew he had to try. He had to do something. He got up on his feet and rushed toward the town, readying himself for the combat to come.

!!!!!!!!!!

There was something in the air. That’s what Dinky Do felt. Dinky was the daughter of the town klutz, Ditsy Do. Dinky was sitting with her mother in the park while they shared meal during the festival. Ditsy, with her cross eyes, looked down at her daughter with concern in her eyes.

“What’s wrong, my little muffin?” Many claimed that Ditsy had an obsession with muffins. They were a little right. Ditsy loved muffins. But this was a nickname she gave her daughter out of love. “Are you sad, Sparkler isn’t here?” Sparkler, Ditsy’s daughter, Dinky’s sister, was out with her friends, enjoying the festival. Dinky, was not quite old enough to join them.

“It’s not that, Mom.” Dinky always felt a little queasy when trouble was around. Like when her Mom would leave something in the oven for far too long. Or when the latest monster attack would happen. “I just, I don’t know. I feel… disturbed.” Ditsy smiled.

“Well when that fireball was over our heads, it’s no wonder you feel disturbed.” Ditsy looked around at the festival. Princess Luna had done a good job of calming the crowd down. Apparently it was just a rock that got away from her. They were never in any REAL danger.

“It’s not that. It’s… well it’s something else.” Dinky looked around Ponyville. Trying to see if anything was off. The feeling was getting stronger.

“Dinky?” Ditsy asked, “Do you want to go home?” She wrapped Dinky into her hooves to calm her down. At that moment, a roar rang through Ponyville. The townsfolk looked where the roar came from and saw a monster. A King Timber Wolf. It gave the town another mighty, terrifying roar. Ponies cried in fear and ran in all different directions.

In the town center, Princess Luna, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie stood their ground. Luna frowned at the creature.

“How dare that creature interrupt the festival!” Luna flew into the air and charged toward the monster, with the three ponies following suit. It is very rare for a monster such as a Timber Wolf to defeat a Princess of Equestria such as Luna. This time, the monster was in the process of destroying a building and debris was flying everywhere. One bit of rock smacked Luna in the head, knocking her out of the sky and into the ground.

“PRINCESS LUNA!” The three cried. They rushed to her aid and pulled her into cover, away from the Wolf, who might try to capitalize on its downed almost opponent. As fortune would have it, the Wolf turned away from the group, and continued its path of destruction in Ponyville. The three hovered over their downed Princess in shock. Rainbow Dash, the first to snap out of it, rose up and turned toward the Timber Wolf in the distance.

“Rainbow Dash!” Pinkie Pie cried out. “What are you going to do?”

“I’m going to kick that wolf’s flank.” As soon as she was about to fly off, she was grabbed by Rarity’s magic.

“Calm down, dear.” Rarity calmly said as calmly would allow. “You can’t face that brute alone.”

“Yes I can!” Rainbow struggled against Rarity’s magic. “That thing is going to hurt more ponies! Somepony has to stop it!”

“I agree.” The three ponies turned their heads to see Twilight Sparkle with Applejack and Fluttershy in tow. “We’ll stop that thing!”

“But how?” Rarity asked. Twilight frowned and tried to think of a plan.

“Well,” Applejack began, “The last time ah saw a wolf that big, me and Spike managed to choke it with a big boulder. We got lucky though.” Twilight looked around and suddenly realized something.

“Where’s Spike?!” Rarity wrapped a hoof around Twilight’s shoulder.

“We sent him to Canterlot to tell Princess Celestia about the meteor. Took the last train out.” Twilight smiled at Rarity and looked towards the wolf.

“But how can we take him down?”

“You hit him in his weak spot.” Everyone turned around. Pinkie Pie, Rarity and Rainbow gasped in surprise. It was 6547, gun drawn and walking towards the group.

“What is that… THING?!” Rarity cried out. Rainbow Dash charged towards 6547.

“Whatever it is, it’s going down!” Twilight popped in front of Rainbow Dash.

“Easy there, Dash!” Twilight calmed her friend down with her magic. She pointed a hoof at 6547. “He’s a friend.”

Pinkie Pie was giddy with excitement. Bouncing everywhere, forgetting the situation she was in.

“An alien! I was right! THIS IS GREAT!” She bounced in front of 6547. “I have so many questions! Why are you here? Where are you from? Is that your skin? Are you friend or foe? How do you prefer your ponies cooked? Are you here to eat us? Are you peaceful? What’s the meaning of life-” Pinkie Pie was interrupted by Applejack, who had stuck a hoof into her friend’s mouth.

“Sorry, sugarcube, but we’ve got bigger problems right now.” She turned to 6547. “You’ve got a plan, hunter?” 6547 shook his head. He hated nicknames. She looked towards the wolf and rubbed his chin.

“Do you have any firearms? Weapons?” The six ponies shook their heads. “Figured.” 6547 looked at his rifle. Regular blaster fire wouldn’t take it down. He then noticed the electro shock attachment on his rifle. He smiled underneath his helmet. “This could work.”

“What could?” Twilight asked. 6547 turned around.

“My rifle has an attachment that produces electricity. It’s mostly used on electronics, but…”

“But we can use it to shock its nervous system!” Fluttershy spoke. Everyone looked at her. “In animal medicine, doctors use electricity to stun the patients.”

“Right.” 6547 said. He turned the attachment to its max setting. “We just have to find the right spot to hit.” Twilight looked closely at the beast. She hummed in thought, until-

“That’s it! It’s neck!” Twilight pointed at the back of her neck. “If you hit that, you’ll take it down instantly.”

“How am I going to get close enough to fire it though?” Applejack pounded her chest.

“Leave that to us, hunter. We’ll distract it long enough for you to take it down.” 6547 rolled his eyes. Again with the stupid nickname. He looked at the beast, which was currently making a hut its dinner.

“How do I get up there?” Twilight smiled.

“I can get you up there with my magic!” 6547 tilted his head.

“Magic?”

“Yeah! Don’t worry, it’s completely safe.” 6547 decided to leave it alone. Job first, questions later.

“Alright. Let’s get the job done.” 6547 tested the electric shock. Working perfectly.

After leaving Princess Luna in a safe area, the five ponies moved towards the wolf. Rainbow ran up next to Applejack, who was leading the group.

“AJ,” Dash whispered, “Are you sure the alien can be trusted?” Applejack turned her head and smiled.

“He saved us twice, Dash. I’m sure he’s not doing anything sinister.”

“But you don’t know for sure.” Rainbow looked over to where Twilight and 6547 were setting up. “I don’t trust him.”

“You don’t trust anyone at first. But trust me on this, the hunter is going to get this job done.” The group stopped just behind the wolf. Applejack picked up a stone and tossed it at the wolf. “HEY, UGLY!” The wolf turned around and growled at the five ponies. “Betcha can’t catch us! MOVE!” The five split off into different directions, confusing the wolf. It growled and chased after Rarity.

“Did we have a plan for after he started chasing us?!” Rarity turned into an alley, far too small for the wolf to follow.The wolf was relentless, and continued snapping at the opening, until Rainbow Dash flew down and smacked the wolf in the head.

“Hey! Follow me!” The wolf snarled and lunged for Dash. She dodged and flew off, just slow enough for the wolf to keep interest.

Meanwhile, 6547 and Twilight waited for the right moment. Twilight tapped 6547’s leg.

“Are you all set?”

“Ready as I’ll ever be.” 6547 checked his rifle’s level. It was fully charged and ready to be let loose. He looked at Twilight’s horn, which was starting to light up. “What did you mean by magic?” Twilight frowned.

“You don’t have magic?”

“We have something called, ‘the Force’.” Twilight saw the wolf coming.

“You’re going to answer every single question I have after this.” 6547 nodded. Her magic wrapped around him.

“Just give me a little warning before you- WHOA!” Twilight sent 6547 flying into the air. He looked down and saw he was falling towards the wolf. “DAMN IT!” 6547 landed on the wolf’s back, who appeared to not notice the Clone on his back. 6547 was not quite where he needed to be to stop it. He grabbed onto its bark and started to pull himself forward. It was difficult though. He was pulled in every single direction by gravity. He looked up at the wolf’s head. “Damn beast.” He finally reached the neck and grabbed his rifle. He pointed the business end at the neck. “You’re done.” He pulled the trigger.

The ponies looked in shock as the wolf lit up with brilliant light. It staggered, and then collapsed with a mighty boom. The wolf then began to disintegrate into wood chips. The ponies rushed over to the pile. Many onlookers gathered there too. The chips rustled, startling some ponies, thinking the beast was alive. What emerged came as an even bigger shock. 6547 rose from the chips, holding his smoking rifle up high. Twilight and her friends cheered and rushed over to their new friend.

“That was awesome!” Rainbow Dash nuggied 6547’s helmet.

“I told you he was a hunter!” Applejack laughed and roughly patted 6547 on the back.

“You deserve a party, Mr. Hunter!” Pinkie Pie poked at 6547’s legs.

“You saved the entire town, thank you.” Fluttershy smiled and tapped 6547’s hand. The congratulations were interrupted however when Princess Luna approached the seven. Luna’s eyes widened in surprise at the sight before her. Luna walked forward and eyed 6547 from head to toe.

“Who are you?” Luna asked. 6547 pushed the ponies away and was about to speak when Pinkie Pie spoke up.

“His name’s Hunter, I think. He saved everypony!” 6547 stepped forward.

“No, no. That’s not-” Luna held a hoof up.

“Nonsense! That credit goes to all of you! Well done, everypony.” Luna looked back at 6547. “And thank you, Hunter.” 6547 sighed.

“That’s not my-” Applejack stepped forward.

“Hey everypony! This guy saved the town! Let’s hear it for, Hunter!” The crowd was slow at first, still taking in the sight before them. But soon an applause of hoofs and cheers rained throughout the town. 6547 looked around at all the ponies cheering. They began to chant, “Hunter”, over and over again. 6547 sighed. Guess the name’s gonna stick. I’m not even programmed to be a hunter. Hunter looked up at the sky. How am I going to explain this to Command?

Author's Note

Gonna be a while to the next chapter. Have some programming to do for work, friends to help, and of course, more planning. I'm gonna address a few things that need to be addressed.

The story takes place before Order 66. Close enough that tensions are pretty high in the Clone Wars.
This is a story for fanfiction. Some liberties are going to be taken with the timeline.
I appreciate comments. But don't just leave a comment saying, "WOW ZOMGGGGG! :D" Those are fine and all, but I'd like this story to improve. If something is wrong or incorrect, call me out on it. Feel free to discuss things from Star Wars and MLP and how'd they crop together. Ultimately, I'm about people having fun here, and nothing's better than talking about the franchises you love.

Chapter Four

Ponyville ponies were no strangers to cleaning up the town after disasters. There was times when Discord would make houses float away, an infestation of parasprites would EAT the town, or just simple storms that they themselves have created would cause havoc. So this mess, created by the Timber Wolf, was an easy fix.

Sweep the wolf away and use it as wood chips for a garden, repair the houses that were destroyed. It’s all very routine to them. What wasn’t routine was what was standing in town square. It was up to five ponies and two princesses to decide what to do next.

“Why have you come to our planet?” Luna was always direct.

“Your planet had strange readings. Me and my partner had to investigate.” Twilight stepped forward when Hunter finished speaking.

“Your partner? Where is he?” Hunter looked down.

“When we were in orbit, a meteor shower came out of nowhere and struck our ship. He was blown out into the void.” Luna’s eyes widened. “After that, the ship was pulled in by the planet’s gravity.”

“I’m afraid that, this was my fault.” Luna looked up at the night sky. “I created that meteor shower to celebrate Twilight’s Ascension.” Luna bowed before Hunter. “Forgive me.” Hunter stepped back.

“You mean- YOU pulled those meteors towards the planet?” Hunter asked.

Luna nodded.

“You must be some kind of Jedi.” The seven ponies looked at each other in confusion.

“What’s a Jedi?” Rainbow asked. Hunter struggled for an answer.

“They’re kind of like… monks. Who can use the Force.” Twilight looked especially interested when he mentioned the Force.

“What’s the Force?”

“It’s like your magic. It’s all around us, or something like that.” Hunter rubbed the back of his head. “Sorry, I don’t know much about it.” Twilight sighed and stepped back.

“Hunter, what brought you near us in the first place? Besides our, ‘strange readings’?”

“We were sent to scout for new resources for the Republic. We need-”

“I’m sorry darling,” Rarity interrupted, “but what’s, ‘the Republic?’” Hunter sighed and pull out of his pocket, a holo-projector. He clicked it to reveal a map of the galaxy.

“Your world is one of several within the galaxy. Many of those stars up there,” Hunter pointed into the sky, “have life giving planets that came together to form a governing body.” The projector then changed to a symbol. The symbol of the Republic. The ponies stared wide eyed at the flag, still processing the information they had just been given. Luna was the first to speak.

“How long has your, ‘Republic’, been around?”

“Over twenty five thousand years ago.” Everyone gasped. The age was almost impossible to think of.

“And you’ve only now begun to run out of resources?” Twilight asked.

“Things have become a bit more complicated recently. We’re at war.”

“A war?” Fluttershy asked in shocked.

“Yes, a war with several systems that have broken from the Republic. They’re called, Separatists. They’re led by an evil man named, ‘Count Dooku’.” Pinkie Pie laughed at the name. “Something funny?”

Pinkie snickered. “Dooku? The evil is named, Dooku?” Pinkie continued laughing.

“You don’t know what he has done.” Hunter said sadly. “That man can be held accountable for so many terrible things.”

“Like what?” Rainbow asked.

“Terrorism for starters. Attacking civilian homes, enslaving neutral worlds, testing weapons of mass destruction on those worlds, and standing in the way of peaceful negotiation.” Hunter then showed a picture of Count Dooku on his projector. “He’s responsible for the war. I’m part of an army that was made to fight this menace.” Twilight cringed a bit. Remembering something from the memory spell transference.

“You’re a clone, aren't you?” Hunter looked at Twilight with a hint of confusion. “I saw it when I was in your head. Your whole army is made up of you. Clones of you!” Hunter shook his head.

“No. I’m one of the clones. The clones were made up of DNA from a powerful warrior.” Hunter pulled his helmet off, revealing a man with brown skin, black hair, and brown eyes. “The species I’m a clone of, is called, ‘human’.” Twilight’s mouth hung open in surprise.

“How many species are in the Republic?” Fluttershy asked. Hunter chuckled a bit.

“Far too many to count.” Hunter put his helmet back on. “Speaking of the Republic, I’ll need to get in touch. Hopefully, I can still contact them.” Hunter looked back at his ship in the forest. “I might be able to get a message out to my leaders.”

“Do you need any help?” Rarity asked.

“Sorry, but I’m afraid I’ll need you all to stay away from the ship. There’s protocol to follow.” Hunter began walking back until a pink blur stopped in front of him.

“Can we PLEASE come with you?” Pinkie gave Hunter an extra wide grin for hope. Hunter would have none of that.

“No.” He walked around Pinkie, but was then stopped by Twilight.

“Please? There’s so much we can learn.” Twilight gave a whimpering smile to coerce Hunter.

“No.”

“Allow me darlings.” Rarity stepped in front of Hunter and gave a seductive look to him. “Surely, you don’t mind letting a few ladies watch a big strong um… human work?” Hunter shook his head. He walked around Rarity and turned back to them

“You don’t get it. I’m the only one allowed on board. You can take it up with command. But for now, none of you are allowed to come.”

“I’m afraid we’re going to have to insist.” Hunter turned around to see a giant white creature stand before him. It was large, commanding, and very powerful. Hunter gulped.

“Twilight!” Everypony turned to see Spike come from behind Celestia and hug Twilight. “Is it really aliens?” Hunter tilted his head and crouched down.

“What’s a baby Trandoshan doing here?” Hunter poked Spike a little who backed away in fear. Hunter pulled his finger back and held his hands up. “Don’t worry little guy, I’m not going to hurt you.”

“I’m glad of that, Hunter.” Celestia looked down at Hunter and smiled. “I am Princess Celestia, leader of this land. Please allow us on board your ship. We need to know if you truly mean what you say.” Hunter stood up and shook his head.

“Look, you can all come and stay outside the ship, but I’m the only one allowed on board.” He looked at everyone for agreement.

“And if we choose to step aboard?” Luna asked.

“Then I have to defend my post.” Hunter pointed at his holstered gun. He pointed at it, not in a threatening way, but rather in a sad way. Everyone cringed, with the exception of Celestia, who just stood there with a frown.

“Very well.” Celestia said calmly. “We’ll respect your rules. So long as you respect ours.”

“I understand. If you would follow me then.” Hunter walked around Celestia and led the ponies away, towards his crashed ship. Behind some debris, however, a pony was listening. A little filly, with gold eyes.

“Space ship…” Dinky looked at the group of ponies with their guest. He was certainly strange, but from what she could tell, not a real threat to anyone. “I wonder what’s on board?” Dinky could only imagine what was on board, but she knew she couldn’t go.

“Dinky?! Dinky?!” Dinky’s mom was calling her. Ditsy looked very scared. An alien visit, right after a Timber Wolf attack did not do well for the nerves.

“I’m right here, Mom!” Dinky called out to her. Ditsy looked over and smiled. She flew over and hugged her daughter.

“Don’t run off on me like that.” She hugged Dinky even tighter. Dinky hugged her Mom back. She loved her with all her heart. But sometimes, Dinky thought her Mom worried too much. “Let’s go home, Dinky.” Ditsy placed her daughter on her back and started fluttering home. Dinky looked towards the forest. She frowned.

Maybe I should make a visit tonight after, Mom goes to sleep. Dinky looked at her Mom and sighed.

!!!!!

Hunter led the ponies through the forest with his gun unholstered. He stayed on guard, knowing that anything could pop out. The others seemed to be pretty calm. He looked behind and asked:

“Aren’t you all scared of another attack?” He had to know.

“Nah.” Applejack replied. “Ah think that was just a freak attack. Most of the animals have left the area.” Hunter shrugged. She wasn’t lying, but he decided to keep his gun out. Just in case.

Finally, they came back to the ship. It wasn’t very damaged, but still damaged enough to not fly again. Hunter patted the ship and walked towards the hatch. He looked back at the ponies who were staring in complete surprise with their jaws open. Hunter decided to break some sort of ice.

“This is a Kappa- class shuttle. Designated: ‘Shuttle 73476’.” This seemed to have calmed them down a bit. Breaking things down for people is the best way to calm anyone down.

“Why is the ship name so boring?” Pinkie asked.

“Excuse me?” Hunter was kind of thrown off.

“Your ship name. It’s just a bunch of numbers. Why?” Hunter looked back at his ship, and then back at Pinkie.

“It’s just a shuttle. Names are for the ships that accomplish something.” Luna looked at Hunter with a rather quizzical look.

“Is that another Republic regulation?” Hunter looked at Luna, and struggled for an answer. Truth is, the Republic would name many things big or small, if they accomplished anything or not. He remembered a tug ship called, ‘Endeavor’, that hadn’t done anything besides hauling ships. But he respected the name. They had earned it. All he had done was look at a few planets and crash on one. He wasn’t worthy of a name.

“It’s what I believe, to be honest.” Hunter got to the watched and started walking up. “It’ll just be a little while. Bear with me, please.” Hunter stepped inside his ship and walked to where the communication grid was located. He walked past the Medical Room and saw the stationed Medical Droid turned off. He looked back at the door and thought about the ponies. They’d be bored out there. He decided to grab a tablet of information about the Republic and activated the Medical Droid. It blinked to life with a few sparks flying here and there.

“Wha wha wha?” The droid spoke. Hunter stepped back. That wasn’t what the droid was supposed to say. “Oh! I’m awake! Excellent!” The droid looked around the Med Bay and laughed. “My office is a little shook up, but it should be okay.” The droid turned to Hunter. “You must be the pilot! I am Bob!” Hunter pulled the manual for the droid of a drawer and looked at its designs. There was nothing about a personality being present within the droid.

“You’re the Medical Droid, MD785 correct?” Hunter asked.

“If we’re being so formal, yes I am!” Bob scanned Hunter. “And you’re CT-6547. No nickname. That’s boring.” Hunter sighed.

“Are you malfunctioning?”

“Yes! But in the best way possible! I can feel!” Bob laughed and walked around the ship. “Crashed the ship right good, didn’t you. Although the log says we’ve been down for quite a bit of time. Why didn’t you check in earlier?”

“It’s a long story.” Hunter tapped Bob on the shoulder. “Can you still perform medical duties?” Bob laughed.

“Does the Chancellor poop in the woods?” Hunter facepalmed. “Yes I can, soldier.”

“Good.” Hunter handed the pad full of Republic information to the droid. “There are some civilians out there that need to be entertained.” Hunter looked back the array. “I need to repair the ship to send out a message. Head out there and do what you can.”

“Are they more fun than you are?” Bob asked. Hunter scoffed.

“Just get out there.” Hunter walked over to the communications array and got to work. Bob shook his head and walked off the ship. He looked outside and saw a bunch of colorful creatures waiting.

“Fascinating! Colorful creatures! This is amazing!” Bob hurried off the ship towards the ponies. “Hey everybody! Bob is here!” The ponies all screamed in fright. “What? It’s not like you haven’t seen a medical droid before, right?” Celestia aimed her horn at the droid. Bob held his hands up. “Maybe you haven’t seen a med droid.” Bob bowed. “My name is Doctor Bob. I’m at your service.” Celestia pulled her head back while the other ponies looked at one another with uncertainty.

“Forgive us, Doctor Bob.” Celestia looked at Bob from head to leg servo. “We haven’t ever seen a person such as you. You startled us.” Bob laughed.

“I suppose even someone like me can be intimidating. The battle droids are the ones you have to fear though.” The ponies looked at one another.

“Battle droids?” Luna asked.

“Basically robot soldiers. But I’m not into that. I am a doctor. I will not harm anyone. That part of me works, anyway.” The ponies smiled and encircled Bob.

“So, what exactly are you?” Twilight asked.

“I’m a Medical Droid, designed with the function of treating patients.” Bob tried to hand the ponies the tablet, but found he couldn’t hand it to any of them. “Maybe I can hold it in front of all of you?” Celestia chuckled.

“That will not be necessary.” Celestia used her magic to take the Tablet from Bob, which startled him.

“Force users eh? NEAT!” Bob began scanning the anatomy of the ponies. First he scanned Rarity, then Rainbow Dash, and then Pinkie Pie. “Fascinating! Three of the same creature, but very different at the same time.” He then scanned Twilight, Luna, and Celestia. The scans showed a combination of the three he scanned earlier. “Now that’s wizard!”

“Pardon me, Doctor Bob.” Bob turned to Twilight, who was poking at him. “What exactly is, ‘a droid’?” Bob tapped his chassis.

“Would you like the official definition?” Twilight nodded. Bob’s voice changed to an unknown voice. "A mechanical and/or electronic construct designed and put into service to assist organic life." Bob’s voice changed back. “Satisfied?” Twilight nodded. “Well then, that’s splendid! In any case, please look at the tablet I gave you if you’d like more info about the Republic. If you have any questions, just ask me and I’ll help you out.”

Bob continued talking, while Hunter continued working. Hunter overheard everything Bob was saying. Hunter couldn’t stand droids with too much personality. He didn’t need another person, he needed a machine that could heal him. He rolled his eyes and got back to work.

!!!!!!

Dinky opened her eyes. It had been an hour since her Mom had said good night. She was probably asleep. To be sure, Dinky tiphoofed to her Mom’s room and looked in. Fast asleep. Dinky pumped her hoof in success. She quietly went to her room, opened her window, and climbed out. She quickly made her way through the town and looked around at the damage the wolf had caused.Though the damage was bad at first, the town was quickly making repairs. Dinky smiled at the town’s success.

Suddenly, she heard two ponies coming towards her. Dinky dived into some shrubs and hoped they didn’t hear her.

“Crazy night, eh Buckle Tight?” The first voice was male.

“You mean a typical night, right?” The second was female.

“No, I mean crazy. We’ve got aliens!” The male cried out.

“It’s probably a species from a different continent. Can’t assume anything different is from outer space.” The two came into Dinky’s view.

“Yeah, but if it is aliens-”

“If it is aliens,” the female interrupted, “then what’s going to change? We have a new princess, and all that has changed is a new celebration. Trust me, like the new Princess, nothing is going to come of it.” The two ponies finally left earshot. Dinky wasn’t sure what to make of everything they said. But Dinky had a sense, and it was telling her something was brewing, about to begin. She couldn’t figure out what laid in store for her, but nothing like this had ever happened before.

Dinky ran through the town and finally made it to the edge of the Everfree forest. “Now, where did they go…” Dinky looked around the edge of the forest to see some type of path, but unfortunately for her, there were many paths to take. There was a great chance that she would get lost. Dinky sat down and tried to think. Think Dinky, where did they go? Dinky looked at the paths before her. The smoke from the thing that fell wasn’t around, so she couldn’t use that as a landmark. She couldn’t get a grown up to help her, they’d send her back home.

Dinky did however have one trump card. It was something that coincided with her senses. Unicorns had a spell that could help them track ponies or things. Dinky didn’t know that spell, but she did have a sense. She reached out with her hoof, and tried to feel where they were. She breathed in, trying to concentrate. She closed her eyes to visualize where they were. Her head was full of images of trees and mud, until she saw a bright white object with nine Equestrians standing beside it. She had found them, and she could see the path. Dinky opened her eyes and let go of her breath. She smiled in excitement and trotted to the proper path.

The forest was dark and quiet. Usually, the forest was bristling with life. Animals of all shapes and sizes made this place their home. But recent events had changed things. Something different has scared the chaotic forest. She followed a path and saw many interesting sights. Paw prints from the wolf, burn marks on the ground that had gone cold, and hoofprints. Dinky followed them until she found what she was looking for. Dinky stayed in the bushes and watched the other ponies talk to some metal statue. She snuck around the tree line and tried to get closer to the white object. She couldn’t risk being seen. She’d be sent back home and grounded. There was a big distance between her and her goal. She moved quietly, hoping the statue would distract the ponies more. Finally, she made it to ramp of the ship and walked up it.

Inside, she found herself surrounded by metal. Metal that had blinking lights of all colors, each giving off sounds more unique than she had ever heard. It all surrounded her and amazed her at the same time.

“SHALL I CONTINUE?” Dinky jumped. She looked around to where the voice came from.

“REPUBLIC DATA DOWNLOADED TO TABLET. SHALL I DOWNLOAD DATA ON JEDI?” Dinky looked towards the front of the ship. There was a screen with a bright green light blaring from it. Dinky walked towards it.

“Hello?” Dinky asked. “Did you say something?”

“GREETINGS, NEW USER. WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE DATA ON JEDI?” Dinky’s face scrunched into a frown.

“What’s a Jedi?” The computer blinked into like.

“JEDI: A MEMBER OF THE MYSTICAL KNIGHTLY, JEDI ORDER… TRAINED TO GUARD PEACE AND JUSTICE IN THE UNIVERSE.” Dinky looked at the images that went with the definition. Creatures adorned in brown robes, holding swords of light, doing heroic acts. It amazed her.

“They guard the universe?” Dinky asked.

“JEDI ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR GUARDING THE GALACTIC REPUBLIC AND KEEPING THE PEACE. THEY ACT AS NEGOTIATORS.” The computer then changed an image to a creature holding out a limb towards a floating rock. “JEDI ARE CAPABLE OF USING THE FORCE TO HELP IN THEIR ENDEAVORS.” Dinky touched the screen with her hoof.

“The Force… can you tell me more?”

“SHALL I DISPERSE IT INTO A TABLET?”

“A what?” Dinky asked.

“A tablet.” A voice from behind Dinky said. Dinky swung around and saw the white alien standing before her. She shrunk down into a ball.

“Please don’t eat me! PLEASE!” Hunter sighed and picked her up. He rocked her into his arms to calm her down.

“Come on, let’s see where you came from.” Hunter was about to walk down the ramp, until the Computer blared a mini alarm. Hunter looked over to see it had made a data tablet. Probably filled with data on the Jedi. He picked it up and brought it with him.

Chapter Five

“And that’s how the war began!” Bob had just finished explaining how the Republic joined the war. Hunter walked down the ramp with a scared Dinky in his arms. The other ponies gasped in surprise.

“Who is that?” Luna asked. Rainbow squinted and flew up to Hunter.

“Looks like Ditsy Do’s kid.” Hunter put Dinky down on the ground carefully. Dinky was still scared for her life. “What are you doing here kid?” Dinky looked up at everyone and swallowed air.

“I- I wanted to see the ship. It looked so cool.” Dinky gave a weak smile, hoping she wouldn’t get into trouble. Hunter looked at her and shook his head.

“Does this mean we’re at war, Hunter?” Celestia asked with a chuckle. Hunter sighed.

“No. It just means I have to set up a warning system.” Hunter kneeled down next to Dinky. “Listen, kid. I don’t want you on that ship anymore. Only me and the droid. Okay?” Dinky looked down and sighed.

“Yes, Mister Alien.” Hunter nodded, stood up, and turned to Celestia.

“I have the communications array back up and running, but it’ll have to charge for a while before the long range communicator works.” Celestia smiled and asked,

“Will any energy do?” Celestia charged up her horn and sent a beam of energy to the ship. Hunter and Bob stepped back in surprise. Hunter looked down at a tablet that had ship info on it. The array was fully charged and ready to talk to anyone.

“Wow.” Was all that Hunter could say.

“Agreed.” Bob said. Hunter shook his head and started typing things into his tablet.

“Sending a transmission to Coruscant now.”

“The Republic Capital?” Rarity asked.

“You’ve all been reading? Good. Don’t need to explain a lot of things then.” Hunter ran aboard the ship and pulled out a “Holopad”. It could show Holographic images of the people the caller calls. “I’m going to try and get in touch with High Command. This first contact would go a lot better if official Republic Representatives did the contacting.” Celestia smiled.

“I don’t know. Besides a few bumps here and there, you’re doing alright.” Hunter chuckled.

“Trust me, ma’am. You’d want a Jedi over me any day of the week.” The communicator started to bleep. “Looks like they’re picking up.” An image flashed on the projector of another Clone Trooper. Twilight tried to close her mouth, but she was still amazed. This transmission was coming from the center of the galaxy. Her world just became that much bigger. The Clone on the other end began to speak.

“CT-6547, we’re receiving you. What happened to you?” Hunter cleared his throat.

“Sir, we were investigating a gravitational anomaly when our ship was struck by rogue meteors.” Luna’s head sunk a bit when she heard that. “I lost my co-pilot when the ship began the descent into the atmosphere.”

“Blazer’s dead? He was a good kid.” The Clone shook his head. Hunter nodded.

“Yes sir. After crash landing the ship, I tried to set up a perimeter, I encountered local wildlife and had to engage. This caused me to accidentally meet the local civilization.” Hunter increased the scope of what the Clone could see. He saw all the ponies there.

“You met . . . cattle?” the Clone asked. All the ponies huffed at the unintended insult.

“They’re quadrupeds sir. And they appear to be force sensitive.” Hunter pointed to Celestia and Luna. “These two, ‘ponies’, with me are the leaders.” The Clone shook his head.

“You’ve appeared to skip a few steps with first contact, 6547.” Celestia stepped forward.

“Please, soldier. I’d like to speak with the leadership as soon as possible.” The Clone shook his head.

“I don’t understand her, 6547. Could you interpret?” Twilight stepped forward toward the terminal.

“I think I can transmit the knowledge of Equis into the machine. Would that make him understand?” Hunter stroked his chin.

“That just might work. Give it a try.” Twilight’s horn shined with a purple light. She blasted the machine.

“Can you understand me now, soldier?” Celestia asked. The Clone nodded.

“Did you fill the translator with your language? That should have taken hours.” Hunter nodded.

“Long story sir. Regardless, you can understand them now, right?”

“Yes.” The Clone pulled a tablet out and typed into it. “We’ll have linguists analyze the language at once.” Celestia cleared her throat.

“Well, now that the language issue has been cleared up, I’d like to speak to someone in the leadership.” The Clone shook his head.

“I can’t get anyone from the Senate immediately.” The Clone stroked the chin of his helmet. “But I might be able to get a Jedi. And one might be readily available!” The Clone typed into the Tablet a bit more. “I’m going to speak with the Jedi. I’ll call back in a moment.” The holopad turned off. Celestia turned to Hunter.

“Do Jedi really have the responsibility to speak to new planets?” Celestia had been a creature of being all knowing. To not know was very exciting for her.

“The Jedi are guardians of the galaxy!” Everyone turned to Dinky. She immediately shrunk down again. “They defend the Republic. That’s what the machine said at least.” Hunter nodded.

“Right. They speak on behalf of the Senate in some cases.” The communicator started to blink. Hunter activated it. The Clone appeared once again.

“Good news, I’ve got a Jedi Master on the line. I’ll patch him through now.” The image started to fizzle. A small creature took the Clone’s place. The ponies looked confused, while Hunter gasped.

“Ma- Master Yoda!” While Hunter had never even seen Master Yoda, he knew OF him. A leading member of the Jedi, Yoda was perhaps one of the greatest Jedi who had ever lived.

“Hmm.” Yoda hummed. “From the Republic, I send greetings.”

“Greetings, Master Yoda.” Celestia spoke regally. One had to in a situation like this. “I am Princess Celestia of Equestria.” Yoda smiled.

“Princess, an honor it is.” While Yoda and Celestia conversed, Rainbow Dash poked Hunter in the side.

“Hey,” she whispered. “Why is he talking so funny?” Hunter shrugged.

“No one knows. It’s just how he talks.”

“Trooper.” Hunter snapped at attention when Yoda called him.

“Yes sir!” Yoda chuckled a little.

“Relax, trooper. A request I have for you.”

“Yes sir!” Hunter replied. Hunter would follow the command of a Jedi to the letter. The only power with more authority was the Chancellor of the Republic.

“Friends with Equestria the Republic would like to be. Up to you to ensure safety of leadership it is.” Hunter nodded and saluted the Jedi Master.

“I understand, Master Yoda, sir!” Hunter turned to Celestia and bowed. “Princess, I am at your command.” Celestia bowed in return.

“I thank you for your services, Hunter.” Celestia turned to Yoda. “But I do not need further protection than I already have.” Yoda closed his eyes and hummed. Dinky stepped forward and looked at Yoda. One would see a green creature small enough to be a young little pony. Dinky saw a wizard that appeared far wiser than even Celestia. Yoda looked at Dinky, who in turn gasped. Yoda nodded and laughed. “However, I’d like to suggest Hunter protects the newest princess of Equestria, Twilight Sparkle.” Twilight looked surprised, but she walked to the hologram.

“I’m Twilight Sparkle, Master Yoda.” Yet another reminder of her position. Twilight sighed inwardly. Yoda smiled.

“A valid suggestion this is.” Yoda looked back over to Celestia. “Protect you,” Yoda looked over to Hunter, “Hunter will, until we arrive.” Celestia bowed her head. “May the Force be with you.” The hologram flicked back to the Clone.

“With the war as it is, we won’t be able to send anyone out there for quite a while.” The Clone tapped on his tablet to transfer information to Hunter. “You’re charged with defending the royalty. Any and all threats must be stopped. Is that understood?” Hunter looked at the tablet. The information stated that Hunter was no longer a part of the Surveillance Corp. Rather, he was a full fledged soldier. CT-6547, nickname: ‘Hunter’, tasked with defending Equestrian Royalty. Hunter’s shoulders slumped. His old life was over. Now, he was a guard. Hunter stood at attention and saluted.

“Yes sir! As ordered sir.”

“At ease, soldier.” Hunter relaxed. “You’re also being advanced to the rank of lieutenant to reflect your new position.” The Clone looked up from his pad. “Congratulations.” He said dismissively. So the rank means nothing out here then. Hunter thought. “If you can, render repairs to your ship.” Hunter looked over at his ship. Without the proper tools, it was going to take quite a while. “I also don’t need to remind you to write field reports. We’ll be there as soon as we can.” The Clone saluted. “Good luck. Command out.” The holocommunicator turned off. Everyone stood there with shock.

“THIS IS SO AWESOME!” Pinkie cried out. “More aliens that are friendly!” Pinkie gasped deeply. “A party must be planned! The First Contact Party will have to be mixed in with it.” Pinkie trotted to Hunter. “Is that okay, Hunter?” Hunter struggled with his words.

“Um. I suppose?” Pinkie laughed and bounced around.

“I can’t wait!” Pinkie rushed towards town. “I have to begin planning right away!” Pinkie then disappeared. Celestia and Luna walked over to Hunter.

“Do you require help with your ship? This is hardly the place to render repairs.” Luna looked around the forest. It wouldn’t be long until the creatures came back. And in greater number. Hunter sighed and looked at his ship.

“You’re right, ma’am. I need to move it to a place with decent cover.” Hunter stroked the chin of his helmet.

“Would a barn do?” Applejack suggested. Hunter turned around.

“How big of a farm do you have?” While the ship wasn’t as big as most other starships, it was still quite large. Applejack gave a long hmm.

“We have an older barn a long ways away from the farm. We were going to tear it down. But it should be in good enough condition to keep your um- ship intact.” Applejack smiled. Hunter nodded.

“Problem is, I don’t know how we’re going to get the ship over-” A loud sound made Hunter turn around. Celestia and Luna had lifted up the ship and flew in the air with it. “Wha?” Hunter asked in disbelief.

“Applejack?” Luna asked. “Where is the barn?” Applejack grinned.

“About five miles south of the southern orchard.” Luna landed.

“Hop on to my back. You’ll need to direct us.” Applejack hopped on while Twilight loaded the holocommunicator and Bob on to the ship. Bob waved.

“Don’t worry, Hunter!” Bob called out. “I’ll set up the security system so no one gets in! See you soon!” Celestia and Luna floated away with the ship. Hunter fell on his butt.

“That’s incredible.” Hunter watched at they flew away in the distance. Twilight laughed.

“They are two of the most powerful ponies in Equestria.” Twilight trotted over to Dinky. “Now I believe it’s time for you to be going home.” Dinky was still stunned at everything that happened. She shook her head to concentrate.

“Do I have to? I want to learn more!” Dinky ran up to Hunter. “You’ve got to tell me more!” Hunter looked down at the small filly. He stood up.

“I’ll tell you what I can. But you have to get home.” Hunter look over to Twilight. Twilight smiled.

“Why don’t you take her home. I still have to get your guest room ready.” She looked over to Spike. “Want to help me get our new roommate’s room ready?” Spike smiled.

“Sure.” Spike looked over to Hunter. “As long as he doesn’t eat me.” Hunter was glad he had a helmet on. Nobody would be able to count how many times he rolled his eyes.

“Ma’am, I’ve been assigned to protect you. I better-” Twilight held up a hoof.

“There’s hardly any danger for me. But for a little filly, the danger is far more real.” Twilight picked Spike up and put him on her back. “We’ll see you back at the Library. You remember right?” Hunter nodded. Spike whispered into Twilight’s ear.

“You’re sending him away so we can get the place clean, right?”

“Oh yeah.” Twilight smiled and disappeared into the woods, followed by the rest of her friends. Hunter looked down at Dinky who had a wide grin on her face.

“Let’s get you home then- um…” Hunter realized he didn’t really know her name.

“Dinky Do!” She laughed. “I’m sorry for being trouble for you, Mr. Hunter.” Hunter smiled. Dinky was just a kid after all.

“No trouble, kid. Lead the way, and I’ll keep you safe.” Dinky smiled and walked down a path that led back to Ponyville. Hunter looked back at the woods. Something was changing. It felt a bit more natural. He was glad he didn’t have to disturb a place like this any longer. They left, and as they did a sense of stillness overtook the area. Though many creatures roamed the area, silence ruled.

Author's Note

And there we go! Another one up before Valentine's Day. Hope you all enjoy it. Be sure to comment below and discuss things.

Chapter Six

The path to Ponyville was not dangerous. It was filled with small town aesthetics that no one would usually care about. For Hunter however, it was a different case. A lot of those things that would make anyone smile went over his head, as he examined the town. That tower right there would give a sniper perfect cover. That building had a poor structure, making it unsuitable as a base of operations. It wasn’t his fault, it was in his programming. In my programming… It was sad for Hunter to think of it like that sometimes.

“So where do Jedi fit in the war?” Hunter looked at the young filly he was escorting. Dinky had questions all night, but decided to pace herself. Hunter looked back at the road.

“In peace time, they serve as mediators and protectors. In the war, they’re generals and commanders.” Hunter looked up at the sky. “All Clones follow the Jedi without question. The only higher authority is the Supreme Chancellor of the Republic.” Dinky nodded.

“So they’re like the guards in town, but also like the mages in Canterlot.” Dinky smiled with satisfaction. “Can you tell me more about the Jedi?”

“Don’t know much, kid.” Hunter reached for his belt and pulled out a tablet. “Here.” Hunter gave the tablet to Dinky, who grabbed it with her magic. “This popped out for you when you were on my ship.” Dinky gasped.

“This has all the information on the Jedi? Can I really have this?” Hunter nodded.

“The information is going to be made public anyway. And there isn’t any information in there that will really affect things.” Hunter smiled beneath his helmet. Dinky was driven, something he admired about her.

“Thank you, Mr. Hunter!” Dinky hugged Hunter’s leg. He shook it a little.

“Listen, it’s just Hunter. I already have one nickname. I don’t need another.” Dinky nodded.

“Okay, Hunter!” She let go of his leg and they continued along their journey. “So why were Clones made?”

“Clones were made to be combatants in the war. It also makes people much more supportive of a war where the young don’t have to go out and fight. All they have to do is pay taxes.” Hunter looked down at his rifle. A weapon made for this war time. He thought about how he was just like it. He sighed. There it was again, the fault in his programming. He saw the pointlessness of it all. Yet he must fight.

“Do you get time off?” Hunter snapped out of his self trance. Dinky was smiling, waiting for an answer.

“No. I’m a full time soldier. I fight.” Dinky tilted her head.

“I read in history class about wars our soldiers fought in, and even they would get-” Dinky tapped her chin. “What did they call it? ‘Shore Leave?’” Hunter nodded, which made Dinky smile. “So why don’t you get leave?”

“I’m a soldier. It’s my life to serve the Republic. That’s who I am.” Hunter looked away. He felt sad saying that. Dinky wouldn’t know.

“Don’t the Jedi have a say in that? They respect all life.”

“They may have a lot of power, but even they can’t outrule what the Republic wants or needs. They need soldiers to fight.” Hunter knew of the opinions of some Jedi. That the Clones are no different than droids. But they were very few. Some Jedi left the order in protest of the Clones. And most Jedi viewed them as brothers and allies. It was a nice thought.

“I guess. Oh!” Dinky exclaimed. “We’re here!” The house was exactly what you’d expect to see in a town like this. Not extravagant or fancy. But not run down and dirty. It was a simple home. Hunter and Dinky walked up the path to the door. Dinky turned around and shushed Hunter. “I don’t want to wake my Mom up. If she did-” The door opened.

“If she did, she’d be very unhappy.” Dinky and Hunter looked at the fluttering grey pony with crossed eyes. She looked angry.

“Uh oh.” Dinky’s head hung low. Ditsy flew down and hugged her daughter.

“Don’t do that again. Okay? I was about to go out with your sister to look for you.” Ditsy looked up at Hunter. She smiled. “Thank you for bringing her back, Mr. Alien.” Hunter smiled. Even for a soldier, it was nice to see a moment like this.

“No problem at all, ma’am. She’s a very good girl.” Hunter turned and walked away from the house.

“Hunter!” Dinky cried out. “Can I see your ship some more?” Hunter turned around.

“You can’t go inside the ship, kid. But you could visit-” Hunter looked at Dinky’s Mom. “With your mother’s permission.” Ditsy nodded.

“We’ll talk about it more in the morning, Dinky. For now, get to bed.” Dinky smiled and yawned.

“Okay, Mom.” Dinky walked inside. Ditsy waved at Hunter.

“I’m Ditsy by the way, Hunter. Ditsy Do!” Hunter chuckled a little and waved back. They were close enough that they didn’t need to wave, but the gesture was nice.

“It was nice to meet you, ma’am. Have a good night.” Ditsy smiled and closed the door. Hunter shook his head, and headed towards the library. Inside the house, Disty was putting Dinky to bed.

“It was so awesome, Mom! There’s so much out there! I can’t wait to find out more!” Ditsy smiled.

“I’m sure you can’t. But even the greatest mysteries were solved with a little sleep.” Ditsy gave Dinky a small kiss on the forehead. “Good night, my little muffin.” Ditsy smiled and left the room, leaving the door a little open to let light pour in. Dinky, making sure her Mom was gone, pulled out the tablet.

“Tablet: Tell me more about, the Force...” The tablet blinked into life once ago.

“WOULD YOU LIKE TO HEAR AN AUDIO PLAYBACK OF A JEDI MASTER’S DEFINITION?” Dinky nodded.

“That’d be even better!”

“AUDIO FILE OF: ‘MASTER PLO KOON.’ PLAYING NOW.”

“The Force is a great mystery,” the voice was deep and muffled, but Dinky could hear a hint of kindness in his voice. “While scientists have been able to find the cell in the body that the Force acts through, we know very little about the phenomena itself.” Dinky laid her head on her pillow, listening to a new teacher. “What we do know, is that all living creatures, big and small, feel the Force in one form or another. A Jedi’s skill and power flows from the Force.”

Dinky frowned. Did the Force control her? Was everything that was ever done through the will of the Force? “The Force may partially control one’s actions, but one could also command it.” Dinky smiled. Many questions that she had in life were being answered. Her destiny was her own, and nothing was set in stone. Everything, even the future, was in flux. She closed eyes, starting to dote off, the words of Master Plo Koon seeing her off.

“With the power of the Force, a Jedi uses it for defense, never for selfish action. A Jedi is a guardian for the Republic, a champion of Justice…”

!!!!!

Dinky found herself aboard a pirate ship. The deck was filled with the worst scum Equestria had ever known. They had encircled her. She looked around rather calmly. She looked up towards the bridge and saw the leader of this band of villains. This pirate captain had a hostage.

“Surrender, Jedi! Or the Princess gets it!” The pirate captain held a cutless to the neck of Celestia.

“Master Dinky!” Celestia cried. “Please save me!” Dinky gave a smirk to the pirate band before her, and winked to Celestia. Words echoed in her ears.

The only physical weapon a Jedi uses, is a lightsaber. A construct made of pure energy, fashioned into a blade… Dinky, wearing the robes of a Jedi, used her magic to unveil her holstered weapon. She smiled and unleashed it. Her lightsaber ignited into a blade of green energy. The pirates jumped back in fear. Celestia also looked frightened. Dinky thought she shouldn’t be. For she, was a Jedi. Dinky jumped into the air and used the Force to push all the enemies around her to the ground. She used her sword to cut through the foes before her. One after the other went down until she came before the pirate captain, who had his hooves in the air.

“No! Please! Don’t!” Dinky was about to strike the final blow.

“STOP!” Dinky held fast and turned toward the new voice. It was the Jedi who she had seen on the holocommunicator. He was quite short.

“Master Yoda!” Dinky exclaimed. “I was just taking care of this pirate! He was going to kill the Princess!” Yoda shook his head.

“Dinky, on the deck of ship you should look.” Dinky looked back at the enemies she had struck down. They were suffering. Limbs were cut off. Ponies were screaming sounds she had never heard, and Celestia was looking at Dinky with pure horror. Dinky shrank down and dropped her saber.

“No! I- I didn’t mean to-”

“Dinky. Felt your curiosity through the Force I did. Also felt your desires.” Dinky looked back at Yoda. “Fully understand being a Jedi, you do not.” Yoda, with cane in hand, hobbled over to Dinky and patted her on the head. “But understand it, you can.” Yoda placed his other hand on his cane. “Communicate with you I can, since you are the creature on your planet, fully ready to believe in the Force.” Dinky blinked.

“But we have a huge population of Force Users, why wouldn’t they be able to see you?” Yoda hummed.

“Many good points have you brought up. Refer to the Force, as Magic, you do not. Interesting fact, is it not?” Dinky thought about what Yoda said. She did refer to her own people as Force Users. Not Unicorns, not Magic Users. She referred to it as an outsider would. Was it to be nice? Pleasantries weren’t on her mind.

“Why would I say that?” Dinky asked.

“More in tune with the Force are you. Have that gift, most do not.” Yoda changed the scenery to the Everfree Forest. “Feel it for what it actually is you do. In tune with other Force Users, you are.”

“Is that why you’re able to contact me in such a way?”

“Yes. With the Princesses, I cannot make contact.” Yoda smiled. “But with you, I can.” He touched a tree and closed his eyes. “The Force flows clearly on this planet. You feel it, do you not?” Yoda looked at the sky. “Arrive when I’m able to, I will. When the time comes, you will be tested.” Dinky shook her head.

“But- but I hurt those ponies. I caused so much pain!” Dinky was on the verge of tears, but she was stopped by Yoda.

“A lesson you learned. A Jedi does not harm unless necessary. More weapons than just a saber, a weapon you are not ready for.” Yoda created a doorway of light. “You will know when to build your weapon. Train in the ways of the Force. Learn the ways of the Jedi.” Yoda hobbled through the door and disappeared, leaving Dinky alone. She sniffled but words from the tablet began to form in her head.

A Jedi can receive clarity of the Force through meditation. Such times can lead to enlightenment. Dinky sat down and began to think. She thought and thought and thought. Images of her doing different things sank into her. Often look at the actions of others to see how the Force flows. Patience in training, is one of the most difficult things to master. Dinky breathed deeply, thinking about everything she’ll need to try- to do from now on. One must always stay vigilant, for the Dark Side is ever present...

Meanwhile, in another part of the galaxy, a Jedi awoke from a deep meditation. He smiled to spoke to himself.

“Begin the path of the Jedi, another has.”

Chapter Seven

Hunter stepped through the town eyeing every sentient he walked past. Everyone was afraid of him. This would normally be fine if this were any other situation. But this isn’t alright. He had to earn their trust. He couldn’t just be the guard and soldier. He had to be a diplomat as well. He stopped and looked at three ponies standing near a fountain. He looked towards them and saw the fear in their eyes. He nervously raised his hand. This worked with that Ditsy Do character, so… Hunter confidently waved his hand toward the three. They in return jumped into the fountain to hide. Hunter sighed and lowered his hand. Nevermind… I’ll work on it. Hunter, despite his failure, finished his march to the library. It was a large tree. A tree is a house. Hunter shrugged. Why not? Hunter stepped inside to find Twilight and Spike waiting.

“Welcome to Ponyville Library!” Twilight exclaimed.

“Also,” Spike added, “Royal House of Princess Twilight Sparkle!” Spike pulled out a party horn and blew it. Hunter simply stood there.

“Terrific.” Hunter walked over to Twilight and stood at attention. “Ma’am. The Republic has given me the honor of protecting you until the Republic arrives. I’ve also been tasked with protecting the Equestrian Civilization as a whole, however I can.” Hunter then kneeled. “CT-6547. Nickname: Hunter. Ready to protect you.” Twilight winced. She hated ceremony. She hated it before she became a Princess. She practiced it for Princess Celestia, but she didn’t want anything to do with it. Her friends at least put in an effort to treat Twilight like an equal. For situations like this take her out of the fantasy of life before. She sighed and pointed a hoof at Hunter.

“You may rise, Hunter.” Hunter got up. “BUT! You don’t need to keep up royal decorum around me? Okay? I’m no different than you.” Hunter stared blankly at her.

“You’re a quadrupedal creature with mystic powers, the ability to fly, and a royal Princess to throne. I am a soldier grown for war and will die because of war. How are we not so different ma’am?” Twilight struggled for an answer. Hunter answering her like this kind of threw her off.

“You both can talk and walk!” Spike suggested. Hunter and Twilight looked at one another and then back at Spike. Hunter shrugged while Twilight smiled at Spike.

“I apologize, Princes-” Hunter was stopped by Twilight who gave a most frustrated groan.

“I apologize, Twilight” he rectified. “I’m new to this. I know the simple version of it. Speak in hollow terms and fill them with proper action.” He kneeled down, but not in the royal sense. He held out his hand. “I’ll protect you and do everything I can to help. I promise.” Twilight smiled and smacked Hunter’s hand. Hunter looked at his hand. “Or, just reject my peace offering. Good start.” Twilight’s eyes widened as she gasped.

“No! That’s how we agree to things!” Hunter shook his head.

“Oh! That’s what that was? I’m used to hand shakes.” Twilight and Hunter looked at their limbs. Completely different.

“We’ll work on it.” Twilight chuckled as Hunter got up. “So how will this work?”

“Tomorrow, I’ll go to my ship and set up a security system for the library. Therefore you won’t need me beside you at all times.” Spike crossed his arms.

“I thought you’d protect her?”

“I will” Hunter replied. “But I can’t invade anyone’s privacy. I’m sure me standing beside Twilight at all times would cause a lot of pressure for her and others.” Twilight nodded in agreement. “For tonight, I’ll stand guard by your door.”

“Don’t you need sleep too?” Twilight asked. Hunter shook his head.

“Only when it’s necessary. I can go for a while without needing sleep.” Hunter tapped his chest. “It’s how I was built.” Spike chuckled a bit.

“It sounds like you’re a toaster or something.” Twilight quickly shushed Spike, Hunter only shrugged.

“I was grown in a lab. I guess I am no different from a kitchen appliance.” Hunter looked around the library. “It’s quite a collection you have around here, Twilight. What information do you have in this library.” Twilight smiled.

“We have non-fiction, fiction, historical text, romance, manuals, and pretty much everything you could ever want or need to know in Equestria.” Hunter nodded. He looked down at Spike who was having trouble keeping his eyes open.

“You may want some sleep, friend.” Spike shook his head to stay awake.

“But I’m not tired! I can stay awake.” Twilight chuckled, lifted Spike up with her magic and yawned.

“Sleep isn’t a bad idea, Hunter. Let’s go Spike.” Twilight made her way up the stairs, followed by Hunter who had pulled his blaster out. Twilight was about to enter her room, when she stopped. “Oh!” She exclaimed. “Let me show you your room.” She used her magic to lay Spike down into his bed and wrapped him in his covers. He yawned and decided to argue later. Sleep was at hand. She made her way down the stairs, followed by Hunter and then down towards the basement.

She opened the door to reveal a room with more books, but also a simple bed with a wooden frame, headboard, a desk, and a nightstand. Hunter looked it over.

“Well?” Twilight asked. “Give it a try.” She smiled. Hunter looked at the bed and sat down at the foot of it. He remained silent for a while. Twilight looked worried. “Is it alright?” Hunter’s head shot up.

“No, no!” He waved his hands back and forth. “It’s just- I’ve never had a bed like this before.” Hunter patted the covers. If he hadn’t had his gloves on, he could feel the softness in his hands. Clones had cots. They were fine for the soldier that was always on duty, but they wouldn’t even hold a candle to a bed like this. He got up and walked over to Twilight. “Thank you, Twilight.” Twilight smiled and led Hunter back up the stairs to her room.

“So, are you going to stay up guarding me the entire night?” Hunter looked back out at the town. It was silent for now, but he didn’t know if another attack would come. Things can change at a moments notice. He looked back at Twilight.

“That’s the idea, Twilight. Don’t worry, you’ll be safe.” Twilight smiled, and went off to sleep. Hunter went down to the first floor of the library and readied his gun. His armor had been chafed, scratched, and scarred from all the action today. He would have to get the armor repaired. Hunter looked around the library at the different books. Different colors, different shapes, and different sizes with different content inside. Nothing like being a Clone. He looked at his gun, and holstered it. If any danger were to come, he’d be ready. He decided to do something productive, and learn.

How am I going to read? This is a whole new language. Hunter then looked at the titles. He understood them. Quite easily actually. That blast from Twilight’s horn! Hunter nodded and went to the historical section of the library. He picked up several books and sat himself down to learn. The first one he picked up was the basic history of Equestria. Three tribes, Unicorns, Pegasi, and Earth Ponies, joined together to form Equestria. They quickly fell under attack from all sorts of menaces, until they were saved by two powerful ponies. Celestia and Luna.

He read about all their exploits, not being sure if any of them were embellished or not. With the recent sights he has seen, it’s a wonder he’s still sane. He then read the legend of the, “Mare in the Moon.” This was after Celestia and Luna took over. Celestia ruled the day, while Luna ruled the night. Luna staged a coup d’etat against Celestia. One thing was striking him as peculiar through all this. The dates suggested this happened a long time ago. It was then, he saw the actual dates. All of this took place well over a thousand years ago. That can’t be right. They look so young. He continued reading. Celestia banished Luna to the planet’s moon. She must have stayed there for a long time. Hunter continued reading on the history of the land and towns, until he felt his eyes go heavy. That’s funny… I don’t usually get this tired…. Before Hunter even realized it, he fell asleep in his chair. Not realizing something mystical was afoot.

!!!!!!

“CT-6547! We need more support fire!” Hunter shook his head. It felt like he just woke up. And yet- “6547! Get your butt moving!” Hunter stared with wide eyes at the sight before him. It was a simulation during his days in basic. He was with his squad, simulating a street battle. There were four other Clones besides him, all of them wearing training armor. One was packing a training mini gun, his name was “Stomper.” Another was packing a sniper rifle and keeping his distance. His name was “Feral.” The one leading the group was wielding a plain old blaster. His name is “Nos.” Short for “Nostromo”, naming himself after a famous ship. The final Clone was using dual pistols, acting like a hotshot. His name was, “Springs.” Hunter was crouching in a makeshift foxhole, with the objective of support. “6547!” Nos screamed. Hunter shook his head.

“YES SIR!” Hunter aimed his gun at his targets. Battle droids. He suppressed his targets, making sure they didn’t make a move on his fellow troopers. Feral then picked off the droids that couldn’t move, while Stomper came around and mopped up the rest. A loud dong rang throughout the course when the last droid was eliminated. The four Clones got together and congratulated one another. Hunter was still making his way over to them, when they decided to leave the course. He remembered this day. It was the final test before he became a full fledged trooper. He raised a hand and was ready to call out to them.

“So.” Hunter stopped and looked behind him. It was Princess Luna. “This is where you grew up?” Hunter looked back towards his comrades. They had left already. He turned around.

“What’s going on here, ma’am? Where are we?” Luna chuckled.

“Besides controlling the moon and other astral bodies, I also go into pony’s dreams to help them.” She looked at the course full of destroyed droids. “I see we are in your past.” Hunter looked around the course, feeling the walls. It was nostalgic. But not in a good way. “Were you always this lonely?” Hunter sighed.

“Ma’am. You’re violating my head and looking into Republic secrets. This could be viewed as aggression.” Luna laughed.

“I know you’re a soldier who trained to be a soldier. This will tip the balance in your conflict, I’m sure.”

“Please, ma’am. If you put me here, let me out. I’m supposed to be guarding, Princess Twilight Sparkle.” Luna placed a hoof on Hunter’s shoulder.

“You will wake up soon. But first I’d like to get to know the one that would be guarding my friend.” She removed her hoof and took Hunter’s helmet off with her magic to inspect it. “So, where you always lonely?” Hunter frowned, knowing she wouldn’t stop until she had an answer.

“I was misplaced.” Hunter sat down on the ground, remembering everything he had went through. “Clones are grown in little tanks until they’re grown up enough to walk. Somewhere along the way, the programming they gave me went wrong. So they had to keep me away from the others.” Luna tilted her head. “They said I would give the others independant thought. So they took away mine. Trained me hard, just to get rid of it. Eventually, it stuck.” Hunter stood up and looked at his hands. “They put me in late. I hardly ever socialized with anyone.” Luna looked sad.

“You had no friends?” Hunter shook his head.

“I didn’t need friends. I had a duty to perform. No time for that.” Luna patted Hunter on the back.

“I’m sorry. That’s terrible.” Hunter sighed. “What, ‘independant thoughts’, did you have?” Hunter stared at the ground.

“The futility of life. I was born to fight in a war and die. That’s all my life is.” Hunter clenched his fists, feeling anger rise up.

“That’s a horrible life to live. No one should go through it.” Hunter shot up.

“And who else will?! Shall they make a child fight in a war? Should they make that, Dinky kid fight?!” Luna stepped forward.

“Calm down, Hunter. I am your friend.” Her words, tied with a mystic element, seemed to calm down Hunter. He held his head with his hands.

“I’m sorry your highness. I- I didn’t mean-” Luna held a hoof up.

“You never had a chance to vent. I get it. I didn’t have that either when-” Luna stopped. She looked away dejectedly. Hunter looked up.

“When you did that coup?” Luna heard Hunter. He knew.

“When did you learn about that?”

“I was reading historical text. You fought against your sister?” Luna nodded. “Why?”

“To put it simply? I was… jealous.” Hunter frowned.

“Jealous?” Luna sighed.

“When you rule over a kingdom that’s fast asleep and they cannot appreciate anything you do, it caused a lot of problems for me. I sank into a bad darkness. I became, ‘Nightmare Moon’.” Hunter nodded.

“She banished you to your planet’s moon. How long were you there?”

“A thousand years. The time passed for me rather slowly.” Luna sat down. “I understand if you have misgivings. I committed treason. How could I ever be trusted again? How-”

“I don’t care.” Luna spun around.

“Pardon?” Hunter stood there, with a slight smile.

“You paid for your crime right? And you have done everything in your power to make your subjects’ lives improve, correct?” Luna nodded.

“I have tried very hard to make up for my crimes. I’ve done everything I could-”

“Then there isn’t a problem. The justice system has done its part.” Hunter held out his hand. “It’s always a gift, to have someone like you who cares, in the Republic.” Luna smiled and held her hoof at. Hoof and hand touched.

“Thank you, Hunter.” Luna brought her hoof back. “I better get you awake. Don’t want to have Twilight see you sleeping on the job.” Hunter chuckled.

“That would do a number on my reputation.” He closed his eyes as the world around him dissolved. He felt much happier. More content. “Thank you, Princess Luna.” Luna laughed.

“Please my friend, it’s just Luna.” The world around him disappeared in a flash of light.

!!!!!!

“Luna…” Hunter opened his eyes slowly. Looking around the library, it was as he left it. He looked out the window, it was just before dawn. He took the books he had read and placed them back in their corresponding sections. He stood at attention, gun unholstered. “6547. Hunter. Ready to begin my duties for the day.”

Chapter Eight

“So what exactly are we allowed to see, Hunter?” Twilight had been curious about Hunter and the Republic since the concept was introduced to her. And now, on the walk to the barn where Hunter’s ship was, it felt like a good time to probe him for more questions. The path was dusty, filled with apple trees, and, before hand, silence.

“Most information from the database is available to the public now. And whatever I bring off the ship will be seen.” Hunter had his gun un-holstered with the safety on. No telling what enemy would attack.

“Right.” Twilight looked back at the path. “Celestia’s going to make an announcement at the Summer Sun Celebration about you and the Republic.”

Hunter nodded and looked at the road. And when that happens, every species on this planet will know about it. It could escalate into conflict if not handled properly.

“Princess Celestia said she was going to invite the leaders from all nations to attend.” Twilight smiled. “This is going to change a lot of things here, that’s for sure.”

“In any case, being prepared couldn’t hurt. And subtlety will be paramount.”

“YOOHOO! HUNTER!” Hunter and Twilight looked further down the road towards the barn. It was Bob. “Been waiting for you all morning! We’ve got a little work to do!” Hunter groaned.

“You don’t like him that much, do you?” Twilight smiled. She knew how Hunter felt.

“I’m not a fan, yes.” Hunter and Twilight completed their walk to the barn, and were greeted by Bob, the Medical Droid.

“Hunter! Time for you to do some inventory!”

“Inventory?” Twilight asked.

“I’m going to unload everything and make sure everything is as it’s supposed to be.” Hunter holstered his weapon and opened up the barn doors. The large red barn had decayed, but still looked strong. It looked as though it had been up for quite a while. Inside, the ship had its landing gear up, with the ramp to the inside. Hunter looked back at Bob and nodded. “Nice work, Bob.” Bob laughed.

“Is that a compliment? And did you call me by my name?” Hunter frowned. He was thankful no one could see his face. Good thing for helmets.

“I’m trying, Bob. Watch Princess Twilight for me. I’ll get the vehicles off first-”

“Hunter! It’s Applejack!” Hunter groaned. He wanted to get to work.

“Hold on!” He called out. He looked back at Bob. “Come on, let’s entertain our guests.” Bob sighed.

“I love entertaining guests. The only problem is I have this sour patch of a soldier that makes entertaining people difficult.” The two walked out and saw Applejack, plus another little girl.

“Hi there!” The young one called out. “Ah’m Applebloom! Applejack’s sister.” Hunter smiled.

“I’m Hunter. It’s nice to meet you.”

“So, Hunter?” Applejack asked. “Is the barn okay for your ship?” Hunter turned back to the barn.

“It’s perfect, Applejack. I can render repairs rather easily.” Hunter kneeled down in front of Applejack and held out his hand. “Is there anyway I can pay you back?” Applejack tapped her chin.

“Nah. But if you’ll be inclined to help with the odd favor, Ah wouldn’t be opposed.” Hunter nodded.

“I’ll help where I can.” Applejack smiled.

“That’s all ah ask.” Hunter turned around and opened the barn doors wide open. “So, you unloadin’ some cargo?” Hunter disappeared inside the ship. Bob tapped Applejack on the shoulder.

“He’s going to take inventory, see what’s supposed to be there. And it’s good because now we have much more space to work with.” Applejack’s eye brow rose as she realized Bob wasn’t doing anything.

“Aren’t you going to help him?” Bob scoffed.

“My body couldn’t handle the strain. Besides, I’m a doctor, not a cargo droid.” Hunter heard the remark and rolled his eyes. The ship was mostly empty, save for a few pieces of tech. There were cases of surveying technology that were all sorted, a case filled with rifles, and two vehicles. Hunter came into the vehicle bay and saw the two. One was a speeder bike, fitted with a cannon and could reach a top speed of 500 kilometers per hour. The other-

“Whoa…” Hunter never realized that it was here. He pressed a few buttons to allow the vehicle to drop off the ship.

Outside, the three ponies and Bob waited to see what Hunter was going to bring out first. Applejack’s ears shot up.

“Did y’all hear that?” The sound was mechanical in nature. The ponies and Bob stared at the door when Hunter came out on a giant bipedal machine. The three jumped pack with a yell. “WHAT IN TARNATION IS THAT?!” Bob remained calm.

“That, is an All Terrain Recon Transport… a walker.” The walker, standing at three meters high, towered over the ponies. Hunter sat on top of it and had the machine lower itself to let him off. “I didn’t realize we were assigned a walker.”

“It’s standard procedure to have one on a mission.” Hunter patted the walker. “Still, I didn’t think I’d ever use my training for it.” Appleboom ran up next to Hunter.

“THAT IS SO COOL!” The little filly ran all around it. “Can ah ride it? Can ah? Huh, huh, huh?” Hunter grabbed her and placed her next to Applejack.

“No.” Hunter looked over to Twilight, who was hovering all around the walker. “The walker has been one of the greatest instruments for victory in galactic history.” Hunter patted it. “This is one of the smaller ones.” Twilight gasped. Applejack stepped forward.

“How much bigger do these things get?” Hunter chuckled.

“The last thing I heard was that they were prototyping a walker that was as big as your mayor’s office in Ponyville.” The pony’s jaws dropped. “But I’ve got more unloading to do.” Hunter walked past the walker to the ship, only to be stopped by Bob.

“Hunter, I was wondering if you could unload the bacta next?” Hunter shrugged and went inside.

“No problem, but why?” Bob laughed.

“I’ve got something to show Applejack.” Applejack walked over to Bob.

“Whatcha wanna show me, Bob?”

“Something interesting. It has to do with your apples.” Bob clapped his hands. “It’s going to be so exciting.” Hunter was already out of the ship carrying the container. He placed it down in front of Bob and Applejack. Twilight came around to see as well. Hunter opened the container to reveal cylinders filled with a blue liquid. Bob reached in and pulled a cylinder out. Applejack looked around and found that Applebloom had disappeared. She was about to say something, but was interrupted by Bob.

“This is bacta.” Twilight wowed in amazement. She then frowned.

“What is, ‘bacta’?” Bob laughed.

“It’s a healing liquid that can cure just about anything. And I discovered something that’s connected to it. Apples.” Applejack shook her head.

“Pardon?” Bob pulled an Apple out of a nearby barrel and held it next to the bacta.

“Many of the healing factors found in bacta are in apples as well.” Hunter grabbed the apple from Bob.

“So these, ‘apples’ are an edible cure?” Applejack smiled.

“It makes sense, most people that eat our apples are extremely healthy.” She stood up straight with a sense of pride.

“It can’t cure anything, but it’ll make you healthy.” Bob grabbed the apple away from Hunter. “However, if you’ll allow me to experiment, I could create an apple that could actually cure a disease. Edible bacta! Isn’t that incredible?” Twilight clapped her hooves together.

“That’s amazing, Bob! Can you tell us more about bacta?” Bob chuckled.

“I’d be happy to. Hunter, I’ll need you for demonstration purposes.” Hunter groaned.

“But I have to finish-” Bob made a clicking noise.

“There’s plenty of time for that. Now stand still while I show the ponies how it works.” Hunter shrugged and stood still. While Bob was explaining how bacta worked, in the distance, three small ponies sat under an apple tree, looking at the scene before them. The Cutie Mark Crusaders.

“See?” Applebloom said. “Alien. AND a weird vehicle with legs!” Scootaloo, a small pegasus filly wowed in agreement.

“That’s awesome, Applebloom! Way more awesome than that dress Sweetie Belle was trying to make.” Sweetie Belle, young sister and friend to Applebloom and Scootaloo, glared at Scoots.

“Hey!” Applebloom and Scootaloo gave her a cynical look. Sweetie lost her nerve and looked away. “Yeah… weird alien is pretty cool.” Scootaloo rolled her eyes and stared at the walker.

“I bet we could drive that thing.” Applebloom and Sweetie looked at Scootaloo. Applebloom shook her head.

“No way, Hunter said that we couldn’t drive it.” Scootaloo groaned.

“C’mon, Applebloom! That thing is awesome! What if it’s what we were meant to do?” Cutie Mark Crusaders had the purpose of finding their destinies. That tied in with their cutie marks that appeared on their body. “We could get our cutie marks driving that… what did you call it?” Applebloom smiled.

“Walker!” Scootaloo nodded.

“Then it’s settled. We’ll be walker drivers!” The three looked at one another and yelled into the air: “Cutie Mark Crusader walker drivers! Yay!” Over by the barn-

“And that’s why bacta has a non addictive element within it.” Bob was still going on about the bacta, much to the chagrin of Applejack and Hunter. Twilight was happily writing notes on the subject. Meanwhile, the Cutie Mark Crusaders silently climbed on top of the walker and sat in the drivers seat, which was just big enough to hold all three of them.

“So, how do we move this thing?” Sweetie Belle asked. Scootaloo tapped her hoof against her chin.

“It’s a machine, so we have to turn it on first.” Scootaloo looked around the cockpit, trying to find a switch, She found a button with the word, “Activation”, over it. She wondered why she could understand it, but shrugged it away. She smiled and pressed it. The lights blinked into life. A deep metallic voice played in the cockpit.

“Thank you for activating the All Terrain Recon Transport. Is this your first time driving?” The three looked at each other and then back at the cockpit.

“Um… yes.” Sweetie Belle replied. The walker chimed.

“Would you like the basic tutorial, or the advanced tutorial?” Scootaloo smiled.

“The advanced tutorial. We aren’t afraid.” Her friends nodded in agreement. The walker chimed again.

“Beginning advanced tutorial. The All Terrain Recon Transport will run at maximum speed. You must make sure you are secured in the All Terrain Recon Transport.” The three cheered in excitement.

“Hey!” The three looked in the direction of the barn. “What do you three think you’re doing?” It was the alien, Hunter, followed by Applejack and Twilight.

“You three get down here this instant!” Applejack leered at the three, not wanting to put up with their antics again. Applebloom shot her head up.

“Sorry, sis. We just wanted to try to-” Hunter held a hand up.

“Save your apologies when you’re off the walker. That things is military equipment and-!” He was interrupted by Twilight.

“And you three could get hurt. It’s not a toy.” They suddenly heard a series of beeping. “What’s that?” Hunter listened to the beeping.

“Oh no.” He ran towards the walker. “Get off there now! Right now!”The beeping increased.

“Beginning run mode.” The walker chimed off. “Sit tight.” The three ponies looked at one another with extreme worry. The walker then stood up and ran off with three little fillies screaming their heads off.

“Applebloom!” Applejack called out. But they were well out of earshot.

“They’re heading straight to Ponyville!” Twilight and Applejack looked extremely worried. And justifiably so. Hunter clenched his fists and ran into the barn. “What are we going to do? It’s way faster than us!” Applejack and Twilight turned to the barn when they heard a strange sound. A brown blur sped out of the barn and stopped in front of the two ponies. It was a brown mechanical device floating off the ground with Hunter riding it. Hunter reached out to Twilight.

“Mount up.”

Author's Note

Gonna be a little bit til the next chapter. Got some real life stuff to work out. Tell your friends about this story. I hope everybody likes it.

Chapter Nine

Scootaloo had lost count of how many bugs she had caught in her mouth. The walker had been going so fast, and she had been screaming so much. The machine chimed in.

“Please calm down.” The machine continued to spout off random statements of encouragement, not meant for fillies. “Continue your progression and there is a 36% chance of progression towards promotion.” Scootaloo shook her head. They were rapidly approaching Ponyville, and they showed no signs of stopping.

“HOW DO WE STOP THIS THING?” Applebloom shouted. The three looked at each other for answers, finding few choices.

“WE COULD JUMP!” Sweetie Belle suggested. The three looked at the fleeting ground. They would surely hurt themselves if they did jump. Scootaloo looked back at the computer.

“STOP THE RIDE! PLEASE?” The computer chimed.

“Unable to comply. Exercise will terminate when pilot takes control of the vehicle properly.” Scootaloo’s eyes widened.

“WE JUST HAVE TO GRAB THE CONTROLS AND MAKE IT STOP!” Scootaloo lunged forward and pulled the controls. But the walker didn’t appear to slow down.

“WHY ISN’T IT SLOWING DOWN?” Applebloom asked. The computer chimed.

“Please grasp the controls with your hands.” The three looked down at their hooves.

They gave a collective, “Uh oh” as they saw Ponyville coming closer and closer.

!!!!!

“What’s that?” Twilight asked. Hunter patted the speeder.

“It’s a speeder. We’ll catch up with them and use your magic to get them off.” Hunter revved the engine. “I need your help, Twilight.” Applejack tapped Twilight.

“Sugarcube, there’s no other way to catch up. Ah have no idea where Rainbow is and you can’t fly good yet.” Twilight stomped her hoof. Applejack was right, she was unprepared. But she didn’t have to criticize herself, she needed to save the fillies. She fluttered on to the speeder and grabbed Hunter’s torso.

“Let’s go.” Twilight solemnly said. Hunter nodded.

“Hang on tight.” Hunter revved the engine and took off, leaving Applejack and Bob staring blankly with wonder at the speeder. Applejack, for never seeing anything like it, and Bob at the wonderment of how worried Hunter was. His sensors saw his heartbeat, and they were high.

“Is there anything we can do to help?” Applejack asked. Bob nodded.

“We can get over there as soon as possible.” Applejack shuddered.

“If they don’t stop that thing-” Bob spoke up.

“We’ll be there to congratulate them for saving them and stopping the walker. They won’t fail.” Bob walked over to this ship and grabbed some medical supplies. “C’mon. Let’s get going.” Applejack smiled and nodded. She looked over towards Ponyville.

“It’s a long way. And you move pretty slow like.” Bob looked at his small legs. He could move around, but not at a great distance. To his surprise, he suddenly found himself on Applejack’s back. “C’mon partner! We’ve got to get going!” With that, they set off on their way. Bob looked towards the town.

This is a pivotal moment Hunter. Don’t mess this up. The gravity of the situation hit Bob. Now that the Republic was officially in support of Equestria, this was a chance for the civilian population to see the Republic defending them. Bob nodded as Applejack trotted towards Ponyville.

!!!!!

The speed they were going at was unmatched by most ponies. Twilight had seen trains go extremely fast, but the speeder did so with ease. She looked at Hunter’s legs. I suppose with those legs, a regular human could never reach the speed of a regular earth pony. Nevermind a pegasus pony. Twilight looked ahead and saw the walker sprinting towards Ponyville. “There it is!” Hunter nodded.

“We need to move fast!” Hunter looked back at Twilight. “Use your power to grab them off the walker when we get close!” Hunter looked forward and sped up to the walker. The three fillies looked down at Hunter and Twilight with relief in their eyes.

“SAVE US TWILIGHT!” The three screamed. Twilight nodded and focused on the three, lifting her up into the air with her magic. The fillies legs wobbled with fear, a moment of concentration loss could be the end of them. But Twilight, being in her element, brought the fillies on to the speeder. The three were still shaking from fear, as the Speeder wobbled a bit from the change in weight distribution. Hunter looked towards the walker, it was speeding all the more towards Ponyville. Hunter moved the speeder closer to the walker. He turned around.

“Twilight! I need you to drive the speeder!” Twilight looked flabbergasted.

“WHAT?!” Twilight, having no experience with vehicles whatsoever, felt the pressure.

“I need to stop the walker before it gets to Ponyville! Can you do it?!” Twilight looked back and forth between Hunter and the speeder. Suddenly, Scootaloo weaseled her way towards Hunter.

“You pull back on those sticks, right?!” Scootaloo asked. Hunter looked down at the hijacking filly. He may not like it, but she was right. He nodded. They found themselves at the edge of town,

“Twilight, just pull back on the sticks! I’m heading over!” Hunter stood up on the speeder. Twilight, seeing him struggle, steadied him as he leaped over to the walker. Twilight took the controls and pulled back on them as hard as she could, making the speeder slow to a complete stop. Hunter landed on the driver seat with no problem and grasped the controls.

“Thank you for grasping the controls with your hands.” The computer chimed. “Now, simply pull back to stop the walker. Hunter looked up and saw he was just heading towards the fountain in town. Ponies were screaming and running out of the way. A purple pony with a flower on her head screamed and went prone, covering her eyes. She was laying on the walker’s path. Hunter gasped and pulled on the controls as hard as he could. The walker slowed and slowed, with the purple pony getting closer and closer. Just before the walker was about to make the purple pony a pancake, the walker stopped.

He pulled on the controls and walked it away from the pony, putting it into a stand by mode, making sure to lock the controls in case any other member of the ponies would try to hijack it again. Hunter sighed and looked towards the town. Thankfully, nobody was hurt, and nothing was damaged. The ponies all looked afraid of him, stepping backwards. He sighed. This is not going to go well for relations. Suddenly, Twilight and the three fillies ran to Hunter.

“Hunter! Are you alright?!” Hunter looked back towards where they ran from and saw the speeder idling. He breathed out in relief.

“I’m fine, how are the four of you doing?” He looked at the three fillies and saw them look at the ground with guilt. They stepped forward. Applebloom looked up and sighed.

“Sorry about driving your walker. We wanted our cutie marks so badly.” The other two nodded to confirm. Hunter stared at them dumbfoundedly.

“What’s a cutie mark?” Hunter looked at Twilight. She pointed at the mark on her body.

“It appear when a pony finds their special talent.” Hunter rubbed the back of his helmet, not really understanding.. “I can explain more later. It’s magic.” Hunter nodded and looked at the three fillies.

“I understand you wanted to find something to be good at, but you put a lot of lives in danger. Plus, you stole a piece of military equipment.” That could be charged with treason against the Republic. They could have been arrested. “From now on, if you want help learning something from me, just ask me, alright?” The three looked down at the ground dejectedly.

“We’re sorry.” They said in unison. Hunter nodded and looked towards the crowd. They had smiles on their faces. The pony the walker was about to step on walked up towards Hunter.

“Thanks for saving me!” She hugged Hunter, leaving him a little confused.

“But- I thought-?” The purple pony looked at the gathering crowd.

“Let’s hear it for the alien who saved the town again!” The crowd erupted into cheers of happiness. Hunter chuckled a bit, though still confused. Well, can’t argue with results. Hunter heard heavy trotting and looked to see Bob and Applejack coming towards them. Applejack stopped and looked extremely angry.

“THAT WAS VERY STUPID OF Y’ALL! Y’all could have been killed!” The three fillies could not shrink anymore even if they tried. Hunter was about to stop Applejack, but Bob stopped him.

“You have to let the elders in a species scold the children. Make the lesson stick.” Bob looked around and saw everyone was okay. “Nice job by the way. That’ll go a long way for us.” Hunter nodded and found the purple pony looking at him with a smile.

“Can I help you, miss?” The pony shook Hunter’s hand. I guess hoofshakes and handshakes are relative to different ponies. Odd.

“It’s Lily.” Lily then pulled out a card and gave it to Hunter. “And that’s my address. Come visit sometime, hero.” She waggled her eyebrows and walked off. Hunter stood there with a blank expression. Twilight stood next to him with the same expression. Twilight chuckled.

“Looks like you have a fan. This planet has many different species, so some ponies are bound to be attracted to um- someone exotic?” Hunter stood there with the address still looking blankly. He shook his head and sighed.

“I’m going to bring the walker back to the barn.” Hunter walked over to the walker and clicked a few characters on his wrist and then on to the walker’s control panel. Both pinged in unison. “Walker: begin follow mode.” The walker pinged into life. As Hunter walked away, the walker followed. Bob laughed.

“That’s how you do it, trooper.” Bob, Twilight and her friends followed along, returning to the barn with Hunter.

!!!!!

Meanwhile, on the other side of the galaxy, an old man was standing in a dark chamber, awaiting for words from his master. This old man, was Count Dooku, a master of the Dark Side. Some knew him as, ‘Darth Tyranus’, a name given to him by the Lord of the Sith, ‘Darth Sidious’. A holocommunicator blinked and pinged, waiting for Dooku to answer it. He clicked it and kneeled in front of the communicator. It was important for an apprentice to show reverence for his master. The communicator revealed a hooded man in the darkness. Said darkness was covering his face.

“What is thy bidding, my master?” Dooku asked.

“There has been a radical change in the flow of the Force.” The image replied.

“I have felt it my master.” Dooku’s voice was deep and calm. He was a master orator.

“The Republic have discovered a planet full of Force Sensitives. They could ruin our plans.” Sidious’s voice was lighter, though far more menacing.

“What would you have me do, my master? Shall I send our forces to the planet to claim it?” The image shook its head.

“No. Go there yourself. Though the planet is strong in the light, darkness exists there that could plummet the planet into our hands.” Sidious hummed. “I sense powerful creatures on that planet. Do not underestimate them, my apprentice.” Dooku nodded.

“I understand, my master. I will leave at once. Though it will take time.” Sidious held a hand up.

“It matters not. Leave instructions with your generals to continue their plans. This one single planet could change the very course of events.” Dooku nodded.

“Will the Republic be an issue?” Dooku asked.

“No. I have made sure the Jedi and Republic forces are far too busy to get to the planet. There is one solitary trooper on the planet. He will not be a problem for you, a Sith Lord.”

“I understand, master. I will leave at once.” Dooku stood up and left the chamber. The communicator blinked off. Dooku smiled and thought about his mission. For his goals to succeed, he could not afford to fail. He made his way toward his ship to depart for the unknown mysterious planet…

Chapter Ten

“And that should do it!” Hunter stood up as he marveled his work at the library. Twilight looked around and found no real difference.

“What did you do?” Twilight asked with curiosity. Hunter motioned around the room.

“I place tiny pins throughout the house. If someone with an unknown vital enters, an alarm will sound.” Hunter programmed Spike’s vitals to be marked as unknown. A blaring alarm blasted throughout the tree. Spike came running out from his bedroom.

“What’s that noise?!” Hunter programmed Spike’s life signs back into the computer.

“Sorry, Spike. I was demonstrating the security system to Twilight. We’ll know if anyone enters without permission.” Hunter turned the security system on stand by. Twilight smiled.

“This is amazing, Hunter. Thank you so much!” Hunter smiled and took his helmet off.

“By the way, Twilight.” Hunter reached into one of his pouches and pulled out what looked like a bracelet. “This is for you.” Hunter kneeled down and fastened it around Twilight’s front hoof. She examined it.

“What is it?” She asked.

“It’s a little computer like the one I’m wearing. It’ll help me keep track of you when you’re in trouble.” He lifted her hoof and touched the communicator. “It’ll keep track of your vitals and if it falls to a certain degree, or if you activate it manually, a tracker will activate which will help me find you.” Hunter pressed a large button on the communicator which made his communicator start to ping and alert him. A mini display showed him where Twilight was in relation to him. Twilight stared at the communicator in amazement.

“What else can it do?” Twilight asked.

“Well, it can hold your schedule, hold files, and communicate with anyone with a similar communication device on the planet.” Hunter stood up, allowing Twilight to play around with it.

“Is it very fragile?”

“No. It can hold up against most things. Although it can’t protect you in a blaster fight so just duck in those scenarios, okay?” Twilight nodded and placed her hoof down. She smiled as she found it to be a good fit.

“How did you know my measurements? Did the device do that?”

Hunter shook his head. “The communicator fits itself based on whoever is wearing it.” Hunter stood up and put his helmet back on. “I think we’re all clear then. All we need now are turrets.” Hunter looked around for a place to put them, if he had any. Twilight laughed a little.

“I don’t think that’s necessary. By the way, are you ready for tonight?” Hunter turned back to Twilight.

“Tonight?” Hunter tilted his head.

“Slumber party!” She cried out. Hunter stepped back.

“Um… what’s a, ‘Slumber Party?’” Twilight refined herself and cleared her throat.

“You don’t know what a slumber party is?” Twilight asked. Hunter shook his head. “A slumber party is a party where your friends stay over to sleep. Although, we won’t be sleeping for all of it. Just a lot of fun activities.” Twilight pointed over to an area that was full of beauty supplies. Hunter nodded.

“So, this is an extracurricular activity for civilians. I get it.” Twilight smiled.

“Ever since I became an Alicorn, I haven’t had a lot of time to spend with my friends. And since the Summer Sun Celebration is almost here, I figured a little fun was in order.” Twilight walked over to her closet and pulled out a few boxes. “You’re free to join us, if you’d like. I’d understand if it’s too, ‘girly’ for you though.” Twilight paused. “You do have females in your species, right?” Hunter laughed and shrugged.

“Thank you, but I’d rather be working if it’s all the same to you.” Hunter grabbed his blaster and walked towards the door. “I’ll be patrolling the area and making a map. Call me the second you need me, okay?” Twilight nodded. Hunter looked at Spike. “Will you be okay here, kid?” Spike smiled.

“It’s okay, I’m going over to the Crusader’s clubhouse. They’re doing their own slumber party.” Hunter nodded.

“If there’s any trouble, you come straight to me, got it?”

“No problem, Hunter! We’ll be on Sweet Apple Acres, so I think we’ll be okay.” Twilight grabbed Spike with her magic.

“You won’t be okay if you’re late. Better get a move on.” Twilight pointed to a clock, showing how late Spike was. He gasped and went up to his room. Twilight laughed while Hunter waved good bye and went on his way.

HUNTER PATROL: One

Ponyville was peaceful at sundown. Ponies were closing up shop, children were returning from school, and most families were in their homes ready to spend the night in. Hunter was glad to have the solitude. It could help him focus on the map of the town he was making. Once he was done with the town, he could map the Everfree Forest and make it easier for the Republic to understand the territory more.

Before he did anything, he needed a birds eye view of it all. Out of his pocket, he pulled a Remote. A Remote was a droid armed with lasers and great sensors. They would usually be used for Jedi training or scouting missions. But here, he could use it to help him map the land. The Remote looked like a tiny orb with a steel covering, adorned with little mirrors. The programming for it was very simple and had no personality like Bob did.

I guess it’s not all bad. Bob is how he is. Hunter clenched the Remote and threw it up into the air. The Remote rotated, scanning the environment. Buildings, hills, trees, it scanned everything. A map appeared on Hunter’s communicator. Now all he had to do was walk around to fill in the details. He took a turn down what he supposed was the main street of Ponyville.

Along the street, he saw a multitude of shops beginning to close. There was a food store, a jewel store, an exotic goods store, and a furniture store-

“Ow…” With an old male pony trying to carry something heavy but failing. Hunter holstered his weapon and rushed over to the old man, who was trying to carry a recliner. Hunter grabbed it, and held it up to give the old man some relief. The old man blew a sigh of relief. “Thank you, whoever you are.” Hunter had approached from the old man’s blind spot. Hunter placed the recliner down.

“Are you okay?” he asked. The old pony smiled and looked at Hunter. He wasn’t at all afraid.

“Why, you’re that alien thing ain’t ya?” Hunter nodded. “Well hot dang, I didn’t think I’d meet an alien today. What’s your name?”

“I’m CT-6547, but you can call me Hunter.” The old pony nodded.

“I’m Goose Stuffing. But you can call me, Goose.” Goose slapped Hunter’s hand and gave a broad smile. Hunter grabbed his hand and massaged it. Hooves hurt. Hunter looked over at the recliner.

“Do you need help getting that inside?” Hunter asked.

“Sure!” Goose opened up the door to his shop. “Bring it on in! I’ll get you something to drink!” Hunter grabbed the recliner and brought it into the store. It was filled with many differents kinds of furniture, as one would expect. But it was very clean, very orderly. Hunter placed the recliner into a free spot. As soon as he placed it, a water bottle came straight at him. He grabbed it and looked in the direction it came from. “Nice reflexes, kid!” Goose walked over and sat on the previously placed recliner. “Nothing like a break, that’s what I think!” Hunter nodded and placed the water bottle into his pack.

“I’m a little surprised, sir. I would have thought more people would be afraid of me.” Hunter found Goose giving a big hearty laugh.

“Ponyville isn’t quick to warm up to strangers. But you saved the town, TWICE. Trust me, you’ll be hardpressed to find someone afraid of you in this town.” Hunter looked out the window and saw all the ponies passing by each other giving warm greetings.

“I suppose you’re right.” Hunter made his way to the door. “Thank you for the water, sir-” Goose was glaring at him. “Um… Goose.” Goose’s warm smile returned.

“Doing some sightseeing today, Hunter?” Hunter opened his communicator to see that most of Ponyville had been mapped.

“In a sense. I better get back to it. Thank you, Goose.” Goose nodded and lifted himself off the recliner.

“Feel free to visit anytime!” Goose called out. Hunter nodded and left down the main road.

Not everyone is afraid of me, eh? Hunter un-holstered his gun and continued his patrol. More and more ponies made their way back into their homes as the night rose into the sky. The serenity felt nice. There was no war, nothing afflicting these ponies. His mood then turned sour. The Republic was coming, yes. But would they also bring the Separatists? Would war come to these ponies? I should have just flew back to Corascant. The thought of these ponies being involved sickened him. They should not have to pay the ultimate price. He looked down at his gun. But it’s my job to protect them. I will.

“Hunter!” Hunter turned his head to whoever called him. It was Dinky. She ran up and hugged his leg. “It’s good to see you!” Hunter smiled and patted Dinky on the head.

“Good to see you too kid.” Hunter looked up and saw Ditsy fluttering up to him.

“Hello, Hunter. What are you doing out so late?” Ditsy asked. Hunter stood up and motioned around the town.

“I’m doing a patrol of the area. What are you two doing out so late?” Ditsy gave a disappointed look toward Dinky.

“Dinky got held after class. Apparently she started a fight.” Dinky frowned at that.

“I didn’t do it for fun! I was trying to stop those bullies from hurting that pony.” Hunter tilted his head. He’s heard of bullies, sure. He’s been the victim of bullying himself. For young clones, if one wasn’t like the rest or able to do something, that one was to be ridiculed. Kids can be the worst.

“Did you actually fight them, kid?” Hunter asked. Dinky looked down at the ground.

“I yelled at them. I wanted them to stop…”

EARLIER THAT DAY…

Dinky sat in class, poking at a pencil on her desk. Class had been losing her interest for quite some time. Her grades did not reflect that of a genius, but she was quite studious. Today, they were covering the history of pony tribes. The nature of the relationship between the three was deplorable. Each fighting for one reason or another. Unicorns believing they were the superior race because of their magic made them snobby. Pegasi, relying on their war like instinct, thought that the strongest should rule. The Earth Ponies kept to themselves and wanted their land for themselves. In a sense, each side was completely selfish and hated each other for their selfish actions. Dinky looked around the classroom and looked at her classmates. Pegasi, Unicorns, and Earth Ponies got along with one another. There wasn’t a real sense of hatred there at all.

Dinky closed her eyes to feel the feelings her classmates had. The tablet suggested feeling around her and letting the Force flow through her. Many of her classmates were bored, others were engaged in the lecture, and some were in worlds of their own. She looked over at her classmate, Scootaloo, who was drawing something on her notebook. From what she saw, it looked like the pony Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo flying next to each other in Wonderbolt’s uniforms. She felt hope radiating from Scootaloo.

Dinky looked over toward another classmate, Pipsqueak. Pipsqueak was a young colt who dreamed of high adventure, and meeting new ponies on that adventure. He had excitement in his aura.

“Okay, kids! Time for recess!” Dinky hardly knew where the time went. I’ll have to try meditating during class more often. Dinky got up from her desk and went into the school yard. Dinky was the type of child that got along well with most ponies, though she didn’t have friends that she herself could hang out with. She’d usually join in with other ponies, playing games and such. But today, she wanted to watch the other ponies. It’s all a part of her exercise after all. Observe the life around her and she’d gain insight.

So there she sat, on a little hill with a tree on it. Some ponies would run, others sat and talked, and others could do anything they wanted. She smiled as she realized the innocence that surrounded her.

“Hey, loser!” Dinky’s smile disappeared. What she heard was a distance away, not directed at her. She looked towards where the insult came from. It was one of the two bullies at her school, Diamond Tiara. Dinky frowned. She had seen Tiara and her minion, Silver Spoon, around the playground a lot. She hadn’t been a victim of their teasing before. They didn’t seem to notice her. But they did tease others they deemed inferior.

“Look at this blank flank!” Tiara called out. She was pointing at an overweight pony, sitting there trying to read. “He’s so fat, he’s going to explode!” The pony was trying to avoid eye contact with Diamond Tiara. Silver Spoon came along and poked the pony’s book.

“Whatcha reading there, blank fat flank? Adventure story?” The Pony further hid himself into his book. “You’ll never do anything like that, loser!” The two gave a mean laugh to the pony, who was starting to cry. Dinky thought back to the Jedi’s words when she meditated.

The need to dominate and destroy leads to the dark side. The Jedi defends those who cannot defend themselves from such creatures. Dinky gritted her teeth. These bullies were doing just that. Hurting the innocent for their own amusement. There was a crowd gathering around the three. Often, the actions of others can make others inactive. Dinky stood up and stomped the ground. She found a few dirt balls and smiled.

“Face it, blank flank. You’ll never be anything!” Tiara and Spoon laughed maniacally over the crying pony. But the laughing stopped as Tiara was clobbed in the head with a dirt ball. The ponies around them gasped. They looked towards the direction it was thrown. Dinky stood there with a determined look on her face. “What the buck, loser!” Tiara stomped towards Dinky, the crowd making way for her. Spoon followed up right behind her.

“Leave that colt alone!” Dinky cried out. Dinky stood firmly as the two ponies approached. Stand firm when a challenge approaches. Jedi must always be ready. Dinky was then socked in the face. She wasn’t ready for that. She was knocked to the ground but quickly got back on her hooves.

“Why stand up for him, loser?” Dinky looked over at the colt who was quickly trying to shuffle away from the scene. Dinky nodded and looked back the bullies.

“Because jerks like you won’t stop hurting ponies. Why do it?” Dinky glared at them, hoping to get an answer. The bullies smiled smugly.

“Because we can. Because we want to!” Dinky shuffled back. She felt very dark feelings radiating from the two. But it wasn’t pure darkness. What is it? It’s like… clouds? The two bullies threw a dirt ball at Dinky, which she dodged. “Lost your nerve, blank flank?” Dinky concentrated on their feelings, she needed a way to stop them so they’d back off from bullying, at least for a while. She focused on Tiara’s feelings, which were feelings of confusion. Tiara was complicated. She had received everything she had ever wanted, but she had feelings of sadness and want of something more. Her dad! Tiara’s dad was always off on business, they never had time all together.

Dinky then looked over towards Silver Spoon, whose feelings radiated with the scent of want and wanting to be accepted.

Both had those parts of themselves covered in a thick fog of darkness. Dinky realized that their weakness could be exploited. I can hit them where it hurts. They won’t bully anyone after that. Dinky was about to speak when a thought occurred to her. Would I be any better than them though? They make fun of pony’s insecurities that are visible. I’d be doing the same thing. But I’m defending the peace, right? Dinky shook her head and decided to walk away. Tiara glared at Dinky.

“Don’t you walk away, loser! You started this!” Tiara ran up to Dinky, who moved out of the way and pushed Tiara away. Always use yourself for defense, never for attack. Dinky continued walking away. Tiara growled with frustration and ran towards Dinky. Dinky tripped Tiara away from her who stumbled around until she fell. Dinky gasped as she realized where Tiara was going to fall. Tiara hit her head on a bench, leaving her shocked at first. Shock quickly turned to tears. Spoon ran towards her friend.

“Tiara!” Spoon glared at Dinky. “I’m telling the teacher!” No- no I- I didn’t mean to- Dinky looked around the playground. Everyone stared at her with mixed emotions. They each blared out at her. She was feeling too much. She couldn’t take it anymore. She ran to the bathroom. Dinky went inside and locked the door. Calm down. Calm down. The feelings that she felt were dying down. She heard a knock at the door.

“Dinky?” It was her teacher, Cheerilee. “Dinky. I just want to talk. Please come out?” Dinky sighed. She figured she’d best face the music. A Jedi is honest.

!!!!!

“Doesn’t sound like you wanted to fight for a fight’s sake.” Hunter said. Dinky kicked the ground a bit. Ditsy looked like she was disappointed in Dinky.

“She shouldn’t have fought in the first place. That’s not how I raised you.” Ditsy exclaimed. Dinky’s face scrunched up in frustration.

“And what was I supposed to do? Let them hurt that colt?” Ditsy was about to give a rebuttal, but was stopped by Hunter.

“Kid, look.” Hunter looked up toward the sky, trying to find something to say that would help matters. He looked back down at Dinky. “You have to choose your methods kid. You should have called them out on their teasing.” Dinky looked away with a frown.

“They would just make fun of me then. And they’d probably get the other ponies to join in.” Hunter shook his head.

“The others would join to help you kid. You just have to set the example and stand tall. Trust me, kids like leaders.” Hunter looked at Ditsy. “Need an escort home?” Ditsy looked generally surprised at Hunter. That wasn’t too bad of a lesson.

“That- that would be nice, Hunter.” Hunter nodded and took out his rifle. He walked with them towards their house, Dinky still looking upset, wrestling with herself in her head. Hunter was worried. No one should have to go through that. He was about to speak up when Ditsy spoke.

“Dinky. I know you’re confused right now. But I’ll tell you what. How about we talk about what happened after a nice dinner? Your favorite?” Dinky’s ear shot up and looked up at her Mom.

“Salad with strawberries?” Dinky asked. Ditsy nodded. Dinky smiled and hugged her Mom. “Thank you!” Ditsy then held a hoof up.

“But. We’re going to talk about what happened, okay?” Dinky’s smiled faded a little and nodded. They found their way home. While Dinky went inside, Ditsy stopped and turned back towards Hunter. “Thank you for walking us home.” Hunter nodded.

“It was no problem, ma’am. Just make sure she stays out of trouble.” Ditsy nodded.

“Will do.” Before Hunter was going to walk away. “Hunter?” Hunter looked back at Ditsy.

“Yes?” He replied.

“Would it be okay, if we came by your ship sometime?” Ditsy asked. Hunter tilted his head.

“No one is allowed on the ship. I’m sorry but-” Ditsy held a hoof up.

“No, I mean, would it be okay if we just came by to say hello? I admit, I was crazy about what Dinky did today. But you seem like you have a good head on your shoulders.” Ditsy pointed towards Dinky’s window. “I’d just like to see what my daughter is so fascinated about.” Hunter scratched the top of his helmet, a little nervous at the prospect of being this chummy with people.

“I’ll be working on my ship most of the time when I’m there. I won’t be able to answer every question you have.” Ditsy smiled.

“That’s okay, Hunter. It’s just something we’d like to do. And it’d give us a chance to-” Before she could finish, a light pink pony came to the door.

“Hey, mom.” This pony seemed to be older than Dinky, but younger than Twilight. Ditsy hugged the pony.

“Hey, Sparkler.” Ditsy released Sparkler from her hug. “How was your day?” Sparkler shrugged.

“It was alright. Teacher was totes lame.” Hunter tilted his head.

“What’s a ‘totes’?” Sparkler looked up at Hunter and stepped back a bit with a surprised expression.

“By Celestia!” Sparkler pointed at Hunter. “You’re that alien!” Hunter nodded.

“Yes. I’m Hunter. It’s nice to meet you.” Sparkler smiled.

“Thanks for protecting my sister. We were so worried.” Sparkler walked to the door. “If you need any help with anything, let us know.” Sparkler yawned and walked inside. Ditsy shrugged her shoulders.

“Teenagers have a strange lingo.” Hunter nodded in agreement. “Can we come by and say hello in a few days?” Ditsy asked. Hunter thought back to the incident involving the Crusaders. They wanted to find their destinies by any means necessary. That almost resulted in a terrible accident. He couldn’t be so lax with anyone else ever again. But then he realized something about Dinky. She had already learned her lesson. And with her mother there constantly supervising her, there most likely wouldn’t be an accident. Hopefully.

“So long as you promise not to touch anything.” Ditsy nodded enthusiastically.

“Of course! We’d never touch your stuff without permission.” Hunter smiled. These ponies really know what’s going on. Hunter turned around and went on his way. “So is that a no?” Ditsy asked. Hunter turned back.

“Visit anytime you feel like. Either me or Bob will be there.” Ditsy smiled. It’d be a good chance to keep her daughter in line while also indulging her new fascination with these strangers.

“See you next time, Hunter!” Ditsy waved and made her way inside. Hunter nodded and looked at the road ahead. He felt as though things weren’t as bad as he thought they were going to be.

FIELD REPORT:

After unloading cargo, three children managed to acquire some pieces and play around with them. With the help of their elders, I taught them not to touch things that didn’t belong to them

Next, I installed a security system in Twilight Sparkle’s house. It will inform me and her of any threats. The next step will be to deploy a shield generator to protect the house in times of crisis.

Finally, I updated a map of town, giving the Republic much better data on the town. Hopefully, I can update the map as I go along.

I have also gained knowledge on how to interact with locals more. Hopefully, this will give me insight on how to deal with future matters in due time.

This is CT-6547, Hunter, signing out.

Author's Note

My longest chapter yet. Enjoy y'all.

Chapter Eleven

As the morning sun rose over Equestria, a sense of peacefulness filled the land. Hunter was in his room, cleaning his blaster. He had found the shower earlier in the morning and cleaned himself. His uniform was able to clean itself, thanks to very great technology. The body still needed to be attended to. It’s the Grand Army of the Republic, not the Putrid Army of the Republic. As he finished cleaning his blaster, he set it down on his already made bed and put on his armor. He was ready for the day.

“Hunter!” Spike burst through the door holding two pieces of paper. “I have a letter from Princess Celestia!” Hunter’s eyes widened as he took the papers. It must be something serious. He read the letter aloud.

Dear Hunter,

After the night we were graced by your landing, me and my sister went through the records of our explorers to see if anything relating to the Republic could be found. As fortune would have it, we did find something of interest.

Included, is a map of a region not too far from Ponyville in the Badlands. Explorers called it, “-a temple of steel.” We’re not sure what it means, but thanks to complications at the time, we were never fully able to investigate it. And explorers were never able to make it inside. We are tasking you with finding more information about this temple while Twilight and her friends join us for the Summer Sun Celebration. You needn’t worry for her safety, as an entire legion of my guards will be here protecting us.

Keep in mind, while we do call it, “Badlands”, the area has been abandoned by civilization and wildlife alike. You only have to fear the terrain, which from what Twilight has told me, you have found a way to circumnavigate with your vehicle.

Hunter nodded. The Speeder could avoid any bad terrain for the most part. Hunter rolled up the letter and walked upstairs with Spike. In the main room, Twilight was reading a book and drinking a cup of coffee. Twilight smiled at Hunter.

“Hunter! All set for the trip to Canterlot?” Twilight set down her cup.

“I just received a letter from Princess Celestia. She has found the location of what sounds like an old base.” Hunter placed the map on the table Twilight was sitting at. She nodded her head.

“Oh, the Badlands. Nopony goes out there. Nothing’s out there.” Twilight used her magic to pull a book from the shelf. It was a book on the Badlands. “Legend says it was a very deadly place for ponies, but in the last thousand years it has been quiet.” Hunter picked up the book and flipped through it. All it had was details on flat land and small canyons with some illustrations. He closed the book and set it back on the shelf it belonged to.

“In any case, I better check it out. I’ll use my speeder. That’ll get me to Canterlot on time.” Hunter knew that Princess Celestia would address the population on the Republic’s arrival, and that someone from the Republic would address them as well. Luckily, it wasn’t him.

“Hunter, who will the Republic use to address everyone?” Twilight asked. Hunter grabbed a backpack and filled it with some provisions that survived from the crash.

“If I were to guess, either Master Yoda, or Chancellor Palpatine.” Hunter put his backpack on and looked at Twilight.

“What’s Chancellor Palpatine like?” Hunter thought how to answer that.

“He’s a kind, elderly man. A really great leader that strives to make the right choices.” Twilight smiled.

“You must really like him.” Hunter nodded.

“He’s a good man. Plus, clones have to be absolutely loyal to the Chancellor. He’s the highest authority.” Hunter made his way out the door, followed by Twilight and Spike.

“How long do you think you’ll be gone? The ceremony isn’t for a few days, but nopony would like to leave anything to chance.” Outside, Hunter had his bike parked near the library. He checked his equipment and found everything was in place and ready in case of any trouble.

“No more than a day and half. If trouble comes to you, I’ll come speeding back.” Hunter said as he mounted his bike.

“And if trouble finds you?” Twilight asked.

“Handling, ‘trouble’, is my specialty.” Hunter said with confidence. Albeit, false confidence. He was worried, not having much practice in combat recently. The Timber Wolf incident was a fluke at best. I hope I can do this.

“Hunter!” Hunter and Twilight looked towards town and saw Dinky galloping towards them, with Ditsy fluttering right behind her. Speaking of trouble. Hunter got up from his speeder to greet his new friends. “It’s the weekend!” Dinky shouted.

“So it is. What brings you two here?”

“I was wondering if we could hang out.” Dinky said with a smile on her face. Ditsy placed a hoof on her shoulder.

“And I wanted to see what all the fuss was about.” Ditsy exclaimed. Hunter shook his head.

“I’m afraid we can’t do anything today. I have a recon mission that I need to get done.” Dinky looked down in disappointment. Ditsy flinched at Dinky’s sad behavior.

“We understand.” Ditsy said with a hint of melancholy. “Where are you performing recon?”

“The Badlands.” Hunter said with cold shudder. Disty smiled right up.

“The Badlands?! I’ve always wanted to see it!” Hunter looked at Twilight. Both were confused. “I heard about the excellent views of the canyons there! It’s on my list!” Hunter tilted his head.

“Your list?”

“Yeah! It’s at home, but my list is all the places I want to visit! The Badlands is tricky because it’s far away enough for me to need to fly, but also too far for me to carry Dinky or Sparkler.” Ditsy slumped. “You’re so lucky.”

Twilight poked Hunter’s legged and motioned her head towards the two and then back to the speeder. Hunter groaned. He kneeled down and whispered to Twilight.“It’s a recon mission, not a tourist ride.”

Twilight frowned. “It’s not dangerous Hunter. You can take them.”

Hunter had to make sure to hide his emotions in his voice, as they can reveal certain things. At that moment, he was annoyed. “I can’t take them.”

“Now you can. I’m ordering you to take them.”

Hunter laughed a little. “You order me?”

Twilight smiled and grabbed a tablet and scrolled through a rule book. “During a mission, Republic Officials or allies of an official government may give orders to military, so long as they don’t conflict with Republic views.” Twilight placed the tablet back and smiled.

Hunter was angry. He was overruled. He got up and looked at Ditsy and Dinky. His bad mood recovered, seeing them. He smiled. “Would you two like to come along?” He asked. The two gave large smiles.

“Would we?!” They trotted over to the speeder, waiting for Hunter. Hunter turned to Twilight.

“You should take Bob with you. He can answer any questions anyone might have. I’ll report back to Canterlot as soon as the mission is finished, your highness.” Twilight scowled at that.

“I told you not to address me as royalty.” Hunter sat on the bike.

“That changed when you pulled the chain of command on me, princess.” Hunter placed Dinky in front of him and motioned for Ditsy to sit behind him. Ditsy fluttered up and grabbed Hunter’s torso. He went into his pack and pulled out two masks. “Put these on. They’ll keep the bugs out of your mouth.” The two cringed and placed their masks on. The masks were stretchable pieces of plastic that could cover any face, given the fact the galaxy was teeming with many different kinds of species. He nodded and waved to Twilight. He revved up the engine and went speeding away to the Badlands, leaving Twilight ticked off.

!!!!!

The land passed by quickly for Dinky. She had never gone this fast before. She’d ride with her mother, who wasn’t the greatest flyer, but they’d never get this fast. Few pegasi could even get to this speed. She was also amazed by the mask she was wearing. Every bug that hit the mask would immediately disappear. She looked up at Hunter. He was very hard to read. It was probably how he was trained. Clones were trained to be cold and direct, not showing any emotion. If any force user were able to feel those emotions, they may use them to their advantage.

The terrain itself was very bare. Save for the random holes in the ground. From what Hunter could tell, the holes ran very deep into the ground. He’d have to set up markers for explorers to see them. There’s probably a cave system that runs deep into the planet. Geologists would probably have a field day. Hunter concentrated on the path before him. From what he could tell from the map Princess Celestia gave him, he wasn’t too far away. Still, he had to stay on guard. Expect the unexpected.

“HEY HUNTER!” Ditsy screamed. Hunter, who had everyone on a communication channel tied to the masks, and Dinky, just got an earful.

“Why are you screaming?” Hunter carefully replied. Ditsy looked surprised.

“How can I hear you so perfectly? It’s pretty loud out there."

“The masks and my helmet are connected with a communication channel. We don’t have to shout.”

Ditsy replied with a: “Oooooooh. Oops.” Ditsy smiled sheepishly. Hunter shook his head and concentrated. “But seriously, what do you think of the Badlands so far?” Hunter looked around at the landscape.

“To be honest, a first look at it would make it seem boring. But there’s more to it.” Hunter thought about how it would be perfect for a battlefield. Lots of cover, good places for ambushes, and flat enough for a base. But that’s not what he appreciated.

He liked the mystery the tunnels presented, the chance sighting of a plant that survived out here, and the general warm feeling in the air. It really is a nice place.

“That’s what I thought! It looks so peaceful.” Ditsy said with excitement. Dinky was excited as well, but not because of the land. She didn’t feel anything out there. Nothing strongly connected with the Force. But she did feel the place they were going to. It was mysterious. Clouded. This got her excited. Hunter looked ahead. They had found it. Out of the flat land, was a metal base that looked as though it was protruding from the land.

“I think we found our, ‘steel temple.’” Dinky smiled. Ditsy looked nervous. Hunter kept his nerve. He slowed down the bike to a stop and lifted Dinky off. Ditsy flew off and landed next to Dinky and Hunter. The ponies removed their masks and breathed in the fresh air. Hunter walked toward the base. Ditsy fluttered next to Hunter.

“What do you think is in there?” Ditsy asked. Hunter shrugged.

“I don’t know. From what I can tell, the base has been here for quite a while.” He looked around the base, which was covered in dirt. He still had to be careful, there may have been traps. “Stay still for a second. I’m going to check for traps.” He clicked at the communicator on his wrist and motioned it around the land in front of him.

The technology he was using was made to detect any kind of trap. From a simple steel trap to a nuclear weapon. From what he could tell, there was no sign of any traps, active or otherwise. He deactivated the tech and stepped forward. The fact that he was still okay was a good sign. He continued forward until he got face to face with the base. Hunter noticed something painted onto the base. He rubbed the dirt away and gasped.

“What’s wrong?” Ditsy asked. Hunter pulled out his gun. Dinky and Ditsy looked at the image before them. A skull with horns that had a menacing vibe was on the base. Hunter gripped his gun tightly. Dinky didn’t usually feel anything from Hunter. But she did feel the anxiety coming from him now.

“This wasn’t any old base,” Hunter calmly said. “This base belonged to the Mandalorians.”

Author's Note

What were Mandalorians doing there?! Stay tuned to find out!

Also, please welcome playnwin! Newest editor!

Chapter Twelve

A droid’s memory were something very precious to them. Often times it can be quite fleeting. The need to erase memory to ensure the droid’s capabilities were up to scratch was important to the creators. For Bob, there was a memory precious to him. Something that was for himself. Something that no one could see. Something no one should ever see.

Bob wasn’t always a droid for the Republic. No. Before, he was a Medical Droid for a criminal cartel known as B-0B. Pirates, thugs, raiders, gangsters, and the like would pass through Bob’s office to receive treatment for their pain. To call it an office would be too generous however. This room had basic medical supplies, minimal lighting, and no sanitation at all. It wasn’t like Bob had to worry about these people however. In fact, he couldn’t care, even if he wanted to.

Back then, Bob was a very basic medical droid. He would cure the patients of their ailment and then turn off. No one would start a conversation with him. No one would even think about it. They’d go in, get patched up, and leave. But Bob didn’t care. He couldn’t care. His directive was to help people no matter what.

That didn't stop people from messing around with him. In the eyes of many in the galaxy, droids were tools, or worse, slaves. And what usually happens with slaves, is the masters try to belittle the slave even more. People would come in and kick the droid around, usually from frustration. Some would come in just to hit a target that couldn’t fight back. And Bob couldn’t fight back.

But despite the cruelness, the hatred, and the terrible aura, he did have at least one friend. A little girl named Rin. Rin was a human, but she was also a slave. Old enough to start working, but not old enough for other duties. Rin would help keep things clean, provide food for the pirates, and work hard. She was well liked by the pirates, but she didn’t want to be around them. She wanted to be around Bob. She would often come to visit him and talk about random things. This usually ranged from what the weather was like on some planet, to how her day was going. Unfortunately, Bob was not a conversationalist. Bedside manner was something a medical droid should be built with, but Bob was about as barebones as one could imagine. But Rin didn’t care. She had someone that could listen. For that, she was grateful.

It would be a few years later that she would be able to pay that friendship back. Working under pirates can lead to various opportunities to wealth. And with that small amount of wealth, she bought Bob a gift. She ran to him screaming, “You will feel!” Bob looked at her curiously. She knew he wouldn’t understand until she had installed the part. It was an emotional core for droids. Usually, they were reserved for protocol droids. But, the part could be fitted in to other droids that needed it. Rin didn’t know if Bob needed it, but she needed it for Bob.

The chip had to be installed in the processor of the droid, the head. Rin, with the help of a manual, installed the chip. He didn’t feel the effect at first, and Rin wondered what his first emotion would be. Unfortunately, they had an unwelcome guest. A pirate captain that had seen Rin gather the money she had wanted. That money didn’t belong to her. He pushed Bob out of the way and slapped Rin. The slap had caused blood to be drawn. Bob looked at the scene before him with no emotion at first. But after seeing the crying girl struck by the pig pirate, Bob began to feel.

His first emotion was rage. Bob picked up a syringe and filled it with the most poisonous liquid he could find. He turned toward the angry pirate and walked forward. Droids would usually go unnoticed, and this time was no different. Bob was the type of droid to be neglected. Bob was a doctor, he helped people. He broke who he was that day. He took the syringe and stuck it into the pirate’s neck.

“Feel that? I hope you do you, slime!” He pressed the button on the syringe and released the toxin. The pirate’s death came within seconds, but they were the most painful seconds of his life. Bob looked down and Rin and gave a happy, “It’s going to be okay now!” But Rin knew all too well what Bob had done, and there was no time to waste, so she switched his emotions off and led him away.

The station they were on was a hub station that went to all different parts of the galaxy. It was the perfect place to find a new place to start. Rin knew she could go anywhere, but Bob had only one choice: The Republic. Rin knew that the war needed people that could help. Bob was a good droid for that. She might have been young, but she had seen enough to know what was going on. Rin and Bob jumped into a Republic supply transport and sat Bob down.

“You’re going to the Republic. You’re going to make some many people happy!” Rin started to cry. Bob, sat there emotionless, wanting to do something. “They’ll probably give you a mind wipe. But I put a backup in your head. You’ll remember me… and then we’ll meet again, okay?” Bob nodded. Rin smiled and shut Bob down.

The next thing he knew, he was in a droid bay with many other droids. Protocol droids, astromech droids, repair droids, and other medical droids surrounded him. In front of him, was a human.

“Can you hear me?” The human asked. “Say something?” Bob felt it. He felt his emotions return. He was also filled with knowledge of the Republic, as well as new information on medicine. He had to move carefully. If the Republic found out about his modifications, they’d try to remove it from him. He scanned his memory banks for his new name. Bob gave an emotionless reply.

“I am the medical droid, MD785.” The human nodded in approval.

“Good. What’s your function?”

“To render medical support to the Republic and its allies.” Bob said flatly.

“Alright.” The human said proudly. “Looks like the mind wipe worked.” He got up and moved to another droid. “Someone stashed you on a supply ship from what I gather. But you can never have too many medical droids.” Bob looked around the bay at all the different droids. Droids seemed to help the Republic out a lot. “Since you’re ‘donated’,” the human continued, “-you’re going to a recon ship. New med droids should go to the soldiers on the field.” Bob nodded. He knew that Rin, his only friend, wanted him to help people. He would do just that. The human stepped behind him. “You’ll be activated when the clones need you. Good luck!” Bob shut off again.

During a shut off time, a droid has no sense of time. He didn’t know how long it was before he was activated by Hunter. But he knew, he’d be the best doctor he could, and the funnest too.

Bob let go of the emotion and sighed contently. He had a history, but that didn’t matter. Now, he was helping people. And he had a good draw of the cards. These ponies would make him happy. These ponies would make Rin happy. He hoped he could find her and bring her here.

“Bob! Bob!” Outside of the ship, Twilight was calling him. Bob walked out of the ship and barn to find Twilight and her friends waiting for him. “We have to get to the train. Are you coming to Canterlot?” Bob nodded.

“I’d be happy to! Let me get a medical kit. Just in case~!” Bob darted back for the ship. How pleasant was the life he had.

Author's Note

Bob chapter! Up next... what lies beneath?

Chapter Thirteen

Hunter stared at the symbol. It was menacing to him. Many of the clones felt the need to emulate the culture they were cloned from. Not him. He had heard the history of the Mandalorians. Killers, mercenaries, and conquerors. This did not hearken to him. He preferred as they were now. They were quiet, and did not stir up any trouble.

“What are Mandalorians?” Ditsy asked.

“A complete nightmare.” Hunter replied. “They’re not to be taken lightly.” Hunter looked at the door of the base. He walked towards it and felt around the edges.

“What are you doing? Dinky asked.

“Doors like these usually need power to get it open. But in case of emergencies, we have something called a, ‘manual override.’” Hunter kept feeling around until he found a panel. “Aha.” Hunter removed the panel and found a lever. He pulled it, creating a large sound that rang through the walls of the base, scaring the three standing outside. Finally, the door opened the tiniest bit, breathing out old air. Looks like it has been sealed for quite a while. Hunter grabbed the door and pulled it open. It required a great amount of strength on his part.

Inside, Hunter found complete darkness. Dinky poked at his legs.

“Can you see in there?” Dinky asked. Hunter shook his head and reached to his belt.

“A little light can help us here.” Hunter attached the light to his helmet and lit it up. The first part of the base held a security console and three doors. The first room was in the shape of a hexagon. Hunter stepped into the base, minding his step. His helmet scanned around for anything resembling a trap. Surprisingly, there wasn’t any. He turned back towards the two ponies outside.

“You two, stay outside until I secure the main room. Then we’ll go in.”

“We’re going inside?” Ditsy asked.

“I’d rather have you in here where I can keep tabs on you two. I’ll make sure you two are safe. I promise.” Ditsy nodded. Hunter turned back towards the base and readied his rifle. One had to be prepared. Especially when it came to Mandalorians.

The base appeared to be relatively intact. No signs of a fight, or at least a bloody fight. But with the fact that no traps were about confused Hunter.

I thought Mandalorians were either supposed to destroy their base when they left or made it impossible for an explorer to live. So what’s going on? Hunter then found a small terminal that appeared to be still working. The characters on the screen were Mando’a, but he understood. Linguistics class helps once again. He tapped a few characters which seemed to turn the lights in the base.

“Now that’s odd.” Hunter said. “How does this base still have power?” He punched a few more characters to confirm that he was the only one alive in the base. Good. Looks like its safe. Though there is some kind of electric activity lower in the base. Probably the generator powering the place. He turned towards the door. “Hey you two!” Hunter shouted. “It’s okay to come in now.” The two slowly made their way inside. He could tell that the way he had spoken of this place had spooked them.

Suddenly, there was a loud, grinding noise, making the ponies and Hunter jump. He pointed his blaster towards the ceiling. A continuous flow of air came from the ceiling. He lowered his weapon. “Don’t worry,” Hunter said as he patted both Ditsy and Dinky on the head. “It’s just the ventilation system.” Hunter holstered his rifle and went back to the terminal.

“How long has this place been here for?” Ditsy asked. Hunter punched in a few characters.

“Over 2,000 years.” Hunter replied. “They set it up to hunt down someone that came here.” He looked around the base. “Looks like they stayed for the long haul.” Ditsy hugged Dinky who was beaming at the excitement of all this.

“Who were they hunting?” Dinky asked.

“Looks like a force user.” Hunter continued typing. “A dark force user.”

“A dark force user?” Dinky asked with a hint of worry in her voice. Hunter nodded.

“Yeah. I think they’re called the Sith.” Hunter stopped typing and looked around the base. “They’re basically the opposite of the Jedi. They don’t believe in being at peace, they let passion control them and give them strength and power.”

“Sounds like they like to indulge a bit.” Ditsy said. Dinky nodded. Hunter continued.

“They’re basically the inverse of the Jedi. They’ve been enemies for a VERY long time.”

“How long?” Ditsy asked.

“Over 10,000 years.” Hunter said flatly.

“10,000 years?!” Dinky and Ditsy yelled in unison. Hunter shushed them and looked around the base.

“And they haven’t made up yet?” Ditsy asked.

“It wasn’t just one event that made them enemies. From what I understand, it’s a battle between light and darkness.” Hunter took out his blaster and looked down one of the hallways. “In any case, one of the Sith came here. And this base was made before you ponies even realized it.” He looked back at Ditsy. “What came before the princesses?” Hunter asked.

“Discord. He ruled the land. Back then, he was a real menace. Although I hear he’s pretty nice now.” Hunter stared blankly at Ditsy.

“Now?”

“Yeah. The princesses encased him in stone and then he came back a thousand years later.” Ditsy said.

“Sounds crazy. But then again, all evidence to the contrary recently.” Hunter walked over the to the terminal and scanned it with his communicator. “It’s old, but it looks like I can get the map of the place.” Hunter looked at his wrist and walked down the hall. “Stay behind me, and try not to make too much noise.”

“Why?” Dinky asked. “There’s no one here.”

“No one alive maybe.” Hunter said solemnly. “It’s the ones that can’t be picked up on sensors that cause trouble.” Hunter held his blaster up and walked down the hall slowly. Dinky gulped, but she was reassured by her mother.

“Don’t worry, muffin. Everything is going to be fine.” Ditsy looked over at Hunter. Though she couldn’t see his face, she knew that he had the best of intentions for everyone he met. He was, afterall, at the service of Equestria. But besides being held by duty and honor to protect them, she thought that Hunter liked them a bit.

The base was made out of cold steel. It looked the same as the day it was established. They passed a door however that was decorated with the Mandalorian sigil. Hunter looked at the door and let out a hum. He looked down at the map and found that it led to the elevator where the generator was placed. The generator was housed in a giant room of sorts from what he could tell. For what the room was for, he could not tell.

“Is this the way?” Dinky asked.

“From what I can tell it is.” Hunter said. He looked at the side and tapped the control panel. With a hiss it opened. The contents of the room made everyone gasp.

“By Celestia!” Ditsy exclaimed.

The room was filled with skeletons of all manner of creatures. Some large, some small, with different weapons on the wall. The three entered, looking at the skeletons. Dinky gasped. There was a section with pony skeletons.

“What is this place?!” Ditsy asked.

“Trophy room.” Hunter said. “A damn trophy room.”

“Why would anyone hunt ponies?” Dinky asked. “We don’t hurt anyone.” Hunter looked around the room until he saw a sword sitting on a podium.

“Mandalorians hunt everyone and everything that’s a challenge to them. The ponies must have presented them a fight.” He read the inscription near the podium. “Slayer of Darth Chaon.” Hunter lifted the sword and pulled it out of its sheath. It was no ordinary sword, it was a vibroblade with a cortosis weave. Theoretically, it could block lightsaber attacks and cut through almost anything.

Hunter turned around and saw Dinky starting to tear up. Ditsy fluttered up and cuddled her.

“Don’t worry, Dinky.” Ditsy said. “There aren’t any Mandalorians here.” Dinky shook her head.

“I’m not afraid.” She said while choking on her tears. “I feel the pain of the ponies that died. They were hurting so bad.” Dinky thought she felt emptiness before she entered the base. A sense of absence, but it turned out to be grief. Terrible grief. Hunter walked over to her and kneeled down, placing a hand on her back.

“It was a long time ago, kid.” Hunter said. “Those Mandalorians hurt everyone. Purposely and inadvertently.”

“Why do they want to do that and cause suffering?” Dinky asked.

“Mandalorians seek a great challenge in everything they do.” Hunter stood up and looked at the skeletons. “Everything they do is for sport or glory. They’re rather simplistic if you ask me.” He looked down at Ditsy. “But that’s why people like me exist. We protect those around us. It’s my job to protect you.” Dinky smiled through the tears. Ditsy smiled as well and hugged Dinky.

Suddenly a sound cracked at the other end of the room. Hunter aimed his rifle there, standing between the sound and the ponies. He glared at where the sound came from. From the darkness, a door opened up. The elevator. Hunter thought. From the elevator, something appeared, rolling out there. Hunter lowered his rifle. Ditsy and Dinky looked at the object.

“What is it?” Ditsy asked.

“It’s an astromech droid.” Hunter leaned forward, looking at the droid. “A really OLD astromech droid.” The droid rolled over to Hunter, who had raised his gun again. He kept it trained on the droid. The droid rolling on two legs and a big wheel in the back. It had a blue chassis with purple outline. The droid stopped short and gave Hunter a few whistles.

“What did you say?” Hunter asked.

“You can understand what it’s saying?” Dinky asked.

“Clones are trained to listen to astromech droids. You can pick up on the more simplistic parts of the speech.” Hunter kneeled down. “What’s your name?”

“Beep boop weeee do.” The droid said.

“Your name is…” Hunter thought back to his linguistic training. “T9-C2?”

“Beep!” The droid said excitedly. It did a complete circle around the three and continued to speak randomly.

“Okay, okay!” Hunter said holding his hands up. “We get it. You’re T9-C2.” T9 wheeled over to Dinky and Ditsy, who both gasped and stepped back. T9 gave a disappointing sound. Hunter could see the disappointment radiating from the machine. It must have been down here a long time. He stepped forward and patted the droid on the head. T9 gave a happy hum. He turned to the two ponies.

“Don’t worry. I don’t think he was designed for combat. Droids like these are made for maintenance.” Hunter felt T9 werve it’s head around in his palm. Dinky stepped forward and touched T9. The droid bounced around excitedly. Dinky smiled and hugged him. Ditsy was a bit more wary.

“Are you sure this thing is safe?” Ditsy asked. Hunter looked down at the droid. No weapons from what I can tell. I wonder why it’s so… excited. Hunter kneeled down next to the droid and tapped it.

“Who’s your master, T9?” T9’s head turned to Hunter. It bounced around and beeped.

“Bweeeo do be do.” Hunter frowned.

“Apparently the Republic. What are you doing in a Mandalorian base?”

“De Do Bwe Boop.” Hunter nodded.

“The ship T9 was on was raided and was forced into labor. Why didn’t they do a memory wipe?”

“Twee Do Ba Wee.” Hunter was glad Dinky and Ditsy couldn’t understand what T9 said. It was an old, but very bad cuss word.

“Incompetent engineer.” Hunter said as he stood up. “Why didn’t you leave the base before?”

“Bwooooo weep dooooo.” T9 looked away as he beeped.

“No way to sustain yourself?” Hunter asked. “I would have thought the base lost its power a while ago. How is it still going?” T9 hummed and activated a hologram. It showed the entirety of the base along with an image of a large wavy line underneath the base.

“Oh!” Ditsy exclaimed. “Is that a river?”

“Bwee doo!” The droid answered affirmatively.

“Hydroelectricity.” Hunter stated.

“This place runs on water?” Dinky asked.

“In a sense.” Hunter said. He pointed to the image. “The Mandalorians harnessed rushing water to get this base powered.”

“Like that dam we visited last month.” Ditsy said. She turned to Dinky. “Remember?” Dinky nodded. Hunter looked back at T9.

“Is that where you just came from?” Hunter asked. T9 moved his head from left to right and highlighted an image of a large room on the map.

“Beedo. Bweep.”

“A hangar?” Hunter asked. Ditsy poked at Hunter.

“What’s a hangar?” Ditsy asked.

“It’s where ships are parked. Kind of like a dock for boats.” Hunter looked at the elevator. “I’ll have to check it out.” He turned back to T9. “Are you the only droid active?”

“Bwooooo…” T9 said sadly. Hunter nodded.

“You’re the only one still functioning.” Dinky and Ditsy looked at the sad droid.

“You mean, you’re all alone?” Dink asked. The droid hummed.

“He’s the last of the droids here.”

“It’s okay.” Ditsy said. “You don’t have to be alone anymore.” She looked at him with a teary smile. The droid’s head spun around with a hint of happiness. Hunter looked in appreciation of the ponies. They’re nice to everyone. Provided they aren’t afraid that is. Hunter looked down at the blade he found. It was forged for war and earned its name for slaying someone. I should just put it back. But it could be helpful. Hunter tied the blade around his belt and looked down at T9.

“T9. I’m a soldier for the Republic. I need your help. Could you show me the hangar?” The droid wobbled excitedly and raced over to the elevator. “Great.” He looked back at the ponies. “Come with me.” The ponies nodded and walked towards the elevator. Hunter noticed something about Dinky. She was shivering. “Are you okay, kid?” Dinky looked up and smiled.

“Yeah,” she replied. “I just still feel them. You know?” Hunter didn’t really understand it, but somehow Dinky could feel the people the Mandalorians hunted down. It’s not logical, but lately, reality seemed to be taking a break for a while for him. He looked around the room at all the different trophies. A Rancor skull, Wampa skeletons, Krayt Dragon skull, a wall of Jedi items, a- Wait. Jedi wall? Hunter inspected the wall of all the Jedi items there. It ranged from trinkets to lightsabers. One thing did catch his eye however. A small Jedi robe.

It was brown, like most Jedi cloaks were. It didn’t look dirty or damaged, it was a small cloak for young Jedi. Those damn Mandalorians. Killing children… Hunter looked back at Dinky and nodded. He walked over to the wall and grabbed the cloak. He kneeled down next to Dinky and put her front hooves through the sleeves of the robe.

“There you go, kid.” Hunter said standing up. “You look like a Jedi now.” Dinky looked at the robe and smiled. She felt the previous owner’s happiness. There wasn’t an ounce of grief on it. Simply, it was taken from the young Jedi. The scent of death was not active. She spun around looking at it.

“Look, mom!” Dinky said, bouncing around. “I’m like a Jedi now!” T9 joined in with some excited beeping. Ditsy laughed and hugged Dinky.

“Of course you are, my little muffin.” Ditsy looked up at Hunter and mouthed a “thank you.” Hunter nodded and looked at T9.

“Lead the way.” T9 answered in the affirmative and led the three to the elevator. Once inside, a servo appeared from T9’s body and plugged itself into a mechanical slot in the elevator. The doors closed, and the elevator went down. The elevator itself was bare, save for a window, looking out towards a black wall. Dinky and Ditsy looked around the elevator as it descended.

“This feels weird.” Ditsy said.

“First time in an elevator?” Hunter asked.

“First time I’ve been in one so fast. I remember being in Manehatten for a delivery and using an elevator. But that went so slowly.” Just as she finished, a view appeared in the window. The view of a hangar bay. Dinky and Ditsy looked out in astonishment. Hunter looked around the hangar for anything of particular interest.

There were no ships, indicating that they had left in a hurry. And there were random droids laying on the hangar floor. They must have ran out of power. But how did T9 stay functional? The elevator finally stopped, allowing the four to exit.

“Wow.” Dinky said, her voice echoing throughout the hangar. Hunter looked up towards the ceiling and saw doors leading out.

“That must be how they got out.” Hunter said. “I’m amazed they put this much work into a base like this.”

“Why so?” Ditsy asked.

“I thought this was a small outpost at first. But these Mandalorians looked like they were ready to be here for a long time.” Hunter looked towards the back out the hangar and saw a door. T9 buzzed in front of him and led him to the door. The droid buzzed and got the door open.

The door led to a cave with a rushing river. Along the river line, were generators that gave power to the base. They certainly can be ingenious when they want to be. Hunter turned to T9. “Is this how you were able to power yourself?”

“Beedoo.” The droid answered. Hunter nodded and went back inside the hangar.

“Why didn’t the other droids also grab power?” Hunter asked.

“Beeboodoobwee.”

“They gave up?” Hunter looked at all the droids. They had given up on functioning when the Mandalorians didn’t return. “But you didn’t? Why?”

“Boobwee do bwee.”

“You didn’t want to. You wanted to live.” Hunter said. The droid gave a little nod, as much as it could, and circled around Hunter. Hunter followed the droid to a part of the hangar that had a bunch of cargo containers. Hunter opened them. “Parts.” He said with a smile. He turned back to T9. “Thanks. We needed these.” T9 gave a happy sounding whee and sped away. Ditsy and Dinky walked over to him.

“You should tell the princess about this. She’ll want to know.” Ditsy said, looking around the hangar.

“You should also tell the Jedi.” Dinky said.

“I’ll be telling the princess, the Jedi, and my superiors about this. It’s very odd.” Hunter said. T9 came back, pulling a hover wagon. Hunter nodded. “Good thinking, T9. We’ll need that to carry the parts back.” The droid circled Hunter once again, giving out happy sounds. He looked at the different parts and fitted on as much as he could.

As the wagon filled up, the less T9 made sounds. Soon, the wagon was filled to capacity.

“Alright. Let’s get to Canterlot.” Hunter said, grabbing a handle on the wagon. He looked down at Ditsy. She sat on her haunches, with crossed arms. “Something wrong?” He asked.

“Aren’t you forgetting someone?” Ditsy asked. She pointed to T9. Not another droid. Ditsy glared at Hunter. Hunter shook his head and looked at T9. On T9’s body, was the symbol of the Republic. We’re on the same side. I can’t abandon an ally. Hunter sighed and pushed a bunch of parts off the wagon.

“Coming?” He asked. The droid sped around and used it roller legs to climb onto the wagon. “At least wait until we’re outside.” He looked down at Ditsy who was giving him a warm smile. She flew up and patted Hunter on the back. Dinky got onto the wagon next to T9.

“Yay!” She said. “A new friend!” Dinky hugged T9, who sounded happy as well. Hunter shook his head and walked over to the elevator.

“Let’s get to the capital.”

Author's Note

Wowzers that was a long one. Going to be busy for the next few weeks so we're going a little slowly here. In any case, we have some mythos now!

Chapter Fourteen

“No, no!” Luna shouted. “You need to center it! Can you even center?” Luna asked. Two guards were carrying the large holocommunicator on the stage where the Summer Sun Celebration was taking place. To commemorate the ceremony, The princesses had asked the Republic to address the citizens of Equestria. They had asked Hunter for permission, and he had agreed. With this spectacle, all of the planet would know of Hunter and the Republic.

“Sister, how goes the planning?” Celestia had just flown in and landed next to Luna.

“Just fine, sister. I just wish these guards,” she pointed to the two guards carrying the holocommunicator, “would center this contraption!” The two guards, who were becoming increasingly strained, looked at one another with great worry. They quickly placed it down and looked at Princess Luna with approval. She nodded. “That’s fine. Thank you for your service. Go and relax!” The guards smiled and ran off. Celestia shook her head.

“I can never understand why ponies still fear you, Luna.”

“Well, the Nightmare Moon incident is still fresh in everypony’s minds.” Luna replied. “I just need to give it more time.” Celestia smiled.

“That’s very wise and patient of you, Luna.” Celestia said as she placed a hoof on her sister’s back. Luna smiled.

“I have paid my debt to society, Celestia. I simply want to be the best I can be for Equestria and for the Republic!” Celestia tilted her head in confusion.

“The Republic, Luna?” She asked. Luna nodded.

“This is a new time, Celly. We have to be the best we can be! We’re about to take a step into a much larger world.” Luna proclaimed proudly. Celestia nodded, albeit with a sense of melancholy. Luna turned to her sister. She could feel the discomfort radiating from her. “What’s wrong, Celly?” Luna asked. Celestia sighed and looked to the sky.

“I don’t know.” She replied. “I honestly have some reservations about the Republic.” Luna tilted her head.

“If Hunter is any indication, they are good people.” Luna said. Celestia smiled.

“But he’s a soldier, Luna. He’s supposed to be the best representation of a force. What I worry about is the one speaking for us tonight.” Celestia pawed at the communicator and suddenly found it beeping. The two sisters looked at one another and pressed the button that was flashing. An image appeared of an elderly man. The two looked at the man, waiting for him to say something.

“Am I speaking to the leaders of Equestria?” The old man asked.

“I am Princess Celestia.” Celestia proclaimed.

“And I am Princess Luna.” Luna said proudly.

“Splendid!” The image replied. He bowed down.

“I am Supreme Chancellor Palpatine of the Republic.” Celestia’s eyes widened. She reclaimed herself and bowed down. Luna did so as well. “Please your majesties.” Palpatine said with a chuckle. “You needn’t bow before me. I am simply an elected official.” Luna stood up.

“True enough, Chancellor. But you lead a galaxy. That is something incredible!” Luna said in astonishment.

“I have a very dedicated staff.” Palpatine replied. In his hand, he held a pad. “I wanted to confirm with you two personally about the time of which I’ll be addressing your people.” Celestia shook her head.

“You didn’t have to do that, Chancellor. Couldn’t an aide do that very task?” Celestia asked. Palpatine shook his head.

“I believe that matters of great importance cannot be handled by anyone else, besides oneself.” Palpatine smiled at Celestia. “Wouldn’t you agree?”

“I agree, Chancellor. But I also believe faith in others is rather important as well.” Celestia looked at the Chancellor, who still wore the smile he gave to her and Luna.

“You are quite right, your highness. Perhaps we may carry on our conversations through our aides?” Palpatine said. Luna chuckled a bit.

“I believe this will do fine, Chancellor.” Luna said. “I believe we have sent the exact time to your administration. Perhaps you’d have time to speak to the other leaderships after your speech?” Luna asked.

“Of course,” Palpatine replied, “It would be an honor.” Palpatine lifted up a pad. “I’d like to ask about one of our soldiers on your planet.” Palpatine read the pad closely. “Unit CT-6547?” Luna and Celestia nodded. “Is he performing adequately?”

“Yes,” Celestia replied. “He has saved one of our fellow Princesses’ and a town already. And he has gone to investigate something that could be related to the Republic.” Palpatine’s eyebrow rose.

“Something related to the Republic?” Palpatine asked.

“Explorers called it a, ‘temple of steel’, in their reports.” Luna looked up at the sky. “I believe Hunter will deliver answers to us.”

“Is that a deity?” Palpatine asked.

“Oh no, that’s the name your soldier received from our citizens.” Celestia said. “He earned it by killing a rather large beast.”

“A large beast you say?” Palpatine asked. “From what I understand, he was more of an explorer than anything else.” Palpatine tapped his chin and then smiled. “But I suppose that goes to show how well a job the cloners did.”

“Indeed.” Celestia said. “He’s quite capable.”

“We better return to our preparations.” Luna said. “We look forward to hearing you speak, Chancellor.” Palpatine bowed his head.

“And I look forward to becoming friends with Equestria.” The Hologram faded away, leaving a please Luna, and a concerned Celestia. Luna looked at Celestia.

“What’s wrong, sister?” Luna asked.

“Did you feel anything while talking with him?” Celestia asked.

“No, I didn’t” Luna replied. “Perhaps you’re just stressed out. Come, let’s prepare for the arrival of the other dignitaries. Twilight will be here soon as well, correct?”

“Yes.” Celestia smiled. “Perhaps all that is bothering me is the weight of all this. Things will be changing quite rapidly.”

“Yes. It’s a new time.” Luna said, looking across Canterlot. And then she looked to the land beyond it. Soon, dignitaries from the other races would come. They would unite. Not to battle a bigger threat, but to see a new way of life far different from their own. The thought excited Luna. For Celestia, it was another matter entirely.

Celestia thought of all the different civilizations that encompassed Equestria. The Griffon Kingdom, the Tribes of Buffalo, the Coalition of Zebrana, Saddle Arabia, and many more. Despite contrary belief, the ponies were not all united. And while there hasn’t been any recent conflict with the other species, tension always existed. If war were to come, she would be ready. Her mother, Faust, always told her to never seek war, but always be ready for it. She looked at the clocktower in Canterlot. Twilight would be arriving soon.

Chapter Fifteen

Twilight looked at the landscape passing before her. The train had been going at a nice steady pace for a while. She and her friends were all chitchatting about the Summer Sun Celebration. She couldn’t pay it any mind. So many things were happening all at once. The discovery of life beyond their own was many things. Terrifying, exciting, beautiful, brutal, and many more emotions. It was so many things. But it all came back to Twilight herself. How am I going to be ready for all that’s coming my way? The eyes of the galaxy would be upon Equestria, if they weren’t already. And the fact that Twilight was a leader worried her. Taking on threats and defending Equestria was one thing, but this is completely different.

Just then, she heard a beeping sound coming from her forearm. Everyone looked over to her. Twilight smiled sheepishly and fumbled with the communicator until she finally activated it.

“Twilight? Come in Twilight. This is Hunter reporting in.” Hunter called from the communicator. Everyone on the train smiled.

“I hear you, Hunter.” Twilight replied. “Everything okay out there?”

“Yes. I found the remnants of an old base used by a warrior race known as the Mandalorians. They’ve been gone for quite some time however.”

Twilight frowned. “How long exactly?”

“About 2,000 years, according the logs. There was no sign of them leaving or anything. It’s like they vanished.” Everyone in the train car looked confused. To think there had been aliens in Equestria was very astounding.

“How come we’ve never heard anything about this before?” Applejack asked.

“There was never a clear record system before the Princesses took over. Discord’s reign made everything uncertain.” Twilight replied. Fluttershy poked at Twilight.

“We might want to ask him. He’ll be at the Summer Sun Celebration.” Fluttershy said.

Twilight nodded and looked back down at her communicator. “Anything else to report, Hunter?”

“Yes.” Hunter said. “I’m bringing parts to help repair my ship. “I’ve also found a droid that originally belonged to the Republic. We’ll all be there in a few hours.” Twilight smiled.

“Alright, we’re looking forward to seeing you there.”

“Roger that, Twilight. Over and out.” The communicator turned off automatically.

“So,” Pinkie said. “Aliens have been around Equestria longer than we thought.”

“And those aliens were soldiers.” Rainbow Dash said. “How do we know this isn’t some trick?”

“I think we’d know, Dash.” Twilight replied, looking out the window of the train. “I did see into Hunter’s mind. There’s nothing in there about betraying us. The Republic doesn’t seem to go on the idea that they need to conquer.”

“And even if he were,” Rarity spoke up, “He’s proven himself to be a good soul. He saved the Crusaders afterall.”

“I don’t know how you all can be calm about this.” Rainbow said, bringing her hoof to her face. “Aliens are coming and have been around for thousands of years, and our newest Princess doesn’t even care.” Twilight spun around with a glare.

“How dare you, Rainbow. I care about everyone here. It’d be over my dead body that I’d allow anything to happen.” Rainbow backed away.

“See, that’s what we need to see more of, Twilight.” Rainbow said. “Despite your egghead nature, you’re a bad flank.”

“Rainbow,” Twilight spoke, “I’m loyal to Equestria. I may not be brash or vocal about it, but I care deeply for everyone.” Twilight looked back out the window. “But Hunter has reminded me of something. I have to accept my role. Live my role.” The ponies all looked at one another and smiled.

“Well don’t you worry, Twilight.” Applejack said. “We’ll be there to help you out!” Twilight smiled.

“Thank you girls.” They felt the train stop, with an intercom blaring.

“This stop: Canterlot. Please disembark.” Just then, Bob appeared from another train car behind them.

“Well that was crazy slow!” Bob proclaimed. “We’ve got to get some hover train technology here!” The ponies all looked at him with confusion. “Well we’re here, so I guess I shouldn’t be complaining.” The ponies shrugged and began disembarking. At the station, they saw Princess Celestia, and another familiar sight.

“Discord?” Fluttershy asked.

“It’s good to see you too, Fluttershy!” Fluttershy flew up and hugged the chaotic spirit. Everyone smiled. Discord then looked to Bob. “And that must be the alien I’ve heard about. You’re a lot smaller than I thought you would be.” Bob crossed his arms.

“I’m not THAT short.” Bob said with some indignation in his voice.

“This is actually one of his companions.” Twilight said. “Bob, this is Discord. Discord, this is Bob.”

“A pleasure Bob.” Discord held out a talon towards Bob who was inspecting Discord’s body.

“Are you a hologram?” Bob asked. Discord tilted his head.

“A hologram?” Discord asked.

“A projection of light? I can’t read any vitals from you.” Bob walked all around Discord. “No. No vitals.” Celestia stepped forward.

“He’s a spirit of chaos. Perhaps his chaos magic makes it hard for you to get that information.” Bob looked at Celestia and stroked his mechanical chin.

“Ah, so it’s a Force thing. I’ll leave it alone.” Discord frowned and stroked his beard.

“Force?” He asked.

“It’s what they call magic where he’s from.” Twilight said.

“And where’s he from?” Discord asked. Everyone turned their heads as they heard the sound of Hunter’s speeder. Twilight smiled.

“Maybe the alien himself can tell you that.” Everyone saw Hunter come around the train car in his speeder and landed a few meters away from the station. He got off and lifted T9 off the trunk. The droid swung his head around in excitement, looking at everything there was to see. When Hunter put him down, he explored in every direction, beeping and bouncing around. Ditsy fluttered off the speeder and landed near everyone.

“Hey everyone!” Ditsy called out.

Hunter followed with T9 and Dinky in tow. Discord glared at the little filly. Feelings of pure, unadulterated anger revved up inside of him. The cloak she wore waved freely.

“That cloak.” Discord said. Everyone looked at him confusingly. Celestia looked especially concerned.

“Discord?” She asked.

“What?” Dinky asked. She twirled around in it. “With this, I look like a-” Discord landed with pure red in his eyes and said,

“JEDI.”

Chapter Sixteen

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter Seventeen

“A Mandalorian base?” Palpatine asked. Hunter stood before the Princesses and the Chancellor on the stage where the Celebration would take place.

“Yes sir, the base definitely had the markings and the living situation of the Mandalorians.” Hunter looked slightly down. “There were no traps however. The base was completely deserted.” Palpatine stroked his chin and let out a hum. Luna looked back between Hunter and the Chancellor.

“Forgive me, but why is that odd?” Luna asked.

“Standard Mandalorian practice is to place traps throughout an old encampment or base before abandoning it.” Hunter said. “It would usually challenge the people trying to enter the base.”

“Perhaps the traps had already been sprung?” Celestia asked.

“I believe we’d be having a very different conversation if the traps were activated.” Palpatine frowned a little. “Mandalorians would typically use very archaic, yet very dangerous weapons to fight with. Such as nuclear weapons.”

“Nuclear?” Twilight asked.

“It’s a type of energy.” Hunter replied. “It produces a lot of power, but if used as a weapon it can cause a lot of destruction.”

“How much destruction?” Luna asked.

“There was once a planet called, “Laylaron.” Palpatine said. “It was the sight of one of the first battles the Republic fought in against the Mandalorians. The army opposing the Republic used nuclear weapons to fight. The force of impact certainly caused a lot of damage, but it was the fallout of the explosion that caused the most damage. The radiation of the explosion left the inhabitants sick and dead.” Palpatine sighed and stroked his brow. “We won the planet in the end. But that’s only after the Mandalorian army destroyed themselves. In the end, it took thousands of years of hard work to clean the planet.” The Princesses jaws collectively dropped.

“Thousands of years?” Twilight asked.

“That’s how bad it is.” Hunter replied. “And that’s why it is very fortunate that there were no nukes there.” Hunter looked down at his pad. “But it’s also unusual as well.” Palpatine cleared his throat and smiled.

“Well, let’s just count our blessings that Equestria did not befall tragedy.” Palpatine clasped his hands. “And I hope you see the dangers in such weapons.” Luna smiled and nodded.

“We do, Chancellor. In fact, I think our scientific community would love to get their hooves on such data.” Hunter shook his head.

“There’s a certain protocol to follow, Princess. I’m afraid-”

“Just a moment, trooper.” Palpatine spoke. “I believe that we could strike a deal. However, this has to be done under Republic supervision.” Celestia frowned inwardly. It was not like her to have these emotions running through her. Annoyance, anger, disgust, fear. These did not rule her. Though it was difficult to maintain.

“I assure you, Chancellor.” Celestia smiled. “Our scientific community is quite capable-”

“Forgive me, I meant no disrespect. Merely that safety implementations have to be in place. It is our standard practice. Isn’t that right, Lieutenant?” Hunter nodded.

“The Republic doesn’t want a repeat of similar incidents if it can be helped.” Twilight stepped forward.

“Well, I certainly can appreciate that.” Twilight bowed her head. “Thank you, Chancellor.” Palpatine smiled.

“You’re Princess Twilight Sparkle, correct?” Palpatine asked.

“Yes sir.” Twilight smiled.

“I’ve heard much of your exploits. I certainly hope we’re not causing too much of a strain on your new position.” Palpatine shook his head. “I know the burden of leadership can be great in one so young.”

“At first, the burden seemed too great, even before Hunter,” Twilight pointed at Hunter, “arrived here. But he has taught me quite a lot in the short time he has been here.” Celestia cocked her head.

“And what has he taught you?” Celestia asked.

“It’s not so much what he taught me, but what he reminded me of. We have to do our jobs, no matter how difficult it gets.” Twilight walked over to Hunter. “He has been put in a position that few have actually been in. He has been thrown to an alien world with what would be considered strange creatures in his eyes. But he persevered, and did his job.” Hunter nodded. “So, I’m going to do my job. And make Equestria worthy to be among the stars.” Celestia and Luna smiled.

“Well spoken, my dear.” Palpatine said. “I’d be happy to see where that takes you. Should you need any help, I’d be more than happy to assist you.”

“We’ll be here as well, Twilight.” Celestia said, nuzzling Twilight. Hunter cleared his throat.

“Getting back to the matter at hand, while the base was abandoned by the Mandalorians, there was one sole inhabitant.” Hunter gestured to the old astromech unit, who had remained silent. “This is T9-C2. He was a Republic astromech droid before he was captured by the Mandalorians and placed into service for them.”

“How did he survive for so long?” Palpatine asked.

“He remained hooked up to a power supply for regular intervals. He also had plenty of spare parts to work with. Give anything new parts and it can work forever.” Hunter patted T9 on the head who spun around happily.

“Could he tell us what happened to the Mandalorians?” Twilight asked. Hunter shook his head.

“I asked earlier, but he said that they had simply disappeared. No sign of them leaving, they were just gone.” Celestia and Luna stared back at one another in worry.

“How could that be?” Palpatine asked.

“I’m not sure, Chancellor.” Hunter replied. “There’s no sign of a fight. Whatever happened there, we missed it a while ago.” Hunter pulled out his pad and tapped at it. “All information has been transmitted should you like to see the smaller details.” Palpatine nodded and looked to the Princesses.

“It appears everything is in order. I will see you in two of your days to address your citizens?”

“Yes, Chancellor.” Celestia replied. “We look forward to it.” Palpatine nodded. With that, the communicator went off. Hunter sighed internally. It had been a stressful affair.

“Now, there is the matter of discussing, Discord.” Luna spoke as she looked towards the palace.

“Yes, he said he had no control over his actions.” Celestia sat down. “And, as strange as it sounds, I believe him.”

“It isn’t so strange,” Twilight replied, “Fluttershy has reformed him. And when he recovered from his episode, I could feel something that he probably hasn’t felt all that often.”

“Honesty?” Luna asked. Twilight shook her head.

“Pain.” Twilight said solemnly.

“Look,” Hunter said, “I’m not going to pretend to know anything about the mystic side of things, but he is unstable. Soldiers that act like that are locked up and given a full check up.”

Celestia chuckled.“And how do you propose we capture a spirit of pure chaos, Hunter?”

Hunter shrugged.“I’d just like to make sure he doesn’t cause any more issues. Spirit or not, he packs a punch.”

“Well, we will keep an eye on him.” Celestia left the stage.

Hunter nodded and looked towards Twilight.“With your permission, I’d like to go check on Dinky Do.”

Twilight smiled.“That’s a good idea. That little filly has been through a lot today.” Twilight pointed to a guard. “A guard can take you to her room. As well as Ditsy’s room if you’d like.” Hunter nodded.

“She’s been through a lot as well. I’m guessing reality changing events can do that.” Hunter pointed to T9. "You’re coming with me, little guy.” T9 bounced around happily and beeped.

“Can you understand it?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah, I’ve been trained to understand what astromech droids say. It’s mostly binary.” Hunter patted T9’s head. Twilight smiled and lit up her horn. Hunter looked at Twilight and stepped back. “What are you doing?”

“The spell I used to understand Basic. I’m gonna use it again to understand your friend.” A beam of light erupted from Twilight’s horn to Hunter’s head. The beam stayed connected to Hunter’s head until, like before, a large purple shockwave blasted from their spot. Hunter felt faint and struggled to stand up straight.

“Remind me the next time you turn my brain into mash, yeah?” Hunter asked. Twilight nodded and focused on T9.

“Could you say something?” Twilight asked. The droid bounced around happily.

“Beep, boop, blerp bop.”

“Yes, I can understand you. And my name is Twilight Sparkle. Not purple cattle.” Twilight said politely.

“Bweeeooop Berr.” T9 wheeled up next to Twilight and spun its head around.

“Apology accepted, T9.” Twilight patted T9 on the head. “Well, that takes care of one problem at least.”

“Hey,” Hunter asked. “How much can you do inside my head?”

“How do you mean?” Twilight asked.

“Well, I’m worried if magic could potentially be used to brainwash people. You got the information from me rather easily.”

“If that’s what you’re worried about,” Twilight said as she stroked her muzzle with her hoof. “I can teach you how to set up blocks in your mind so you won’t be affected by magic to that extent. It takes a lot of practice though.”

Hunter looked away. “I need to be ready for anything Twilight.” Hunter walked off the stage. “If that scuttle with that Discord fellow showed me anything, it showed me that I’m a lousy bodyguard.”

Twilight shook her head.“Discord isn’t someone that can easily be handled. You did the best you could-”

“Then I need to do better.” Hunter interrupted. He approached a guard. Twilight shook her head.

He’s trying hard. That’s what I need to do. That’s what I have to do. Twilight looked down at the communicator. Maybe he could help me.

~~~~~

Dinky looked around the giant bedroom she had been placed in. The walls were pure white and had pillars of what appeared to be gold. She was amazed that she was here. But, more importantly to her, she was amazed of what she had accomplished. She looked down at her hooves. That wasn’t like a telekinesis spell. It felt so… natural. Dinky looked out her giant window to the night sky. The stars were bright and filled the dark sky with light. Dinky thought back to another Jedi’s lecture. “The night sky reflects the Force very well. Darkness is ever present, but a shining example of good can fill it with light to guide you.” Dinky smiled and went to her bed. She heard a knock at the door.

“Who is it?” Dinky asked.

“It’s your, Mom.” Ditsy said. She opened the door. “How are you doing?” Dinky smiled.

“I’m okay, Mom. Don’t worry.” Ditsy chucked.

“Sorry, muffin. It’s in the job description to worry.” Ditsy walked up and nuzzled Dinky. “Are you ready for bed?” Dinky nodded and jumped onto her rather large bed.

“I talked it over with Princess Luna, and she’d like us to stay for the Summer Sun Celebration! Sparkler will be on a train tomorrow.” Ditsy exclaimed. Dinky nodded, but then frowned.

“How did you become friends with Princess Luna?” Dinky asked.

“Well, I meet her occasionally when I’m delivering her mail. She just so happens to order things that need to be hoof delivered.”

“What things, Mom?”

“Well…” Ditsy trailed off.

~~~~~

Elsewhere in the castle, Luna sat in front of a TV and screamed at it.

“Who designed the loot system?!” She cried. “If I get shards one more time, I’m gonna-!”

~~~~~~

“Just things that Luna enjoys. Anyhow, we meet so much that we strike up conversations all the time.” Ditsy smiled. “We became good friends.”

Dinky nodded and brought her blanket up. Just then, there was a knock at the door. “Who is it?” Ditsy asked.

“It’s Hunter.” He entered the room, followed by T9. “I just wanted to check up on you two.” Ditsy smiled.

“That’s nice of you, Hunter. I was just putting Dinky to bed.” Hunter nodded and looked to Dinky.

“I’m glad you’re okay, kid. I hear Twilight will want to talk to you about what you did today.” Hunter pointed to T9. “But for now, I’d like T9 to keep an eye on you.”

Dinky tilted her head.“Why? There’s no danger.”

“Just making sure you’re safe, kid. Doesn’t hurt to take precautions.” Hunter patted T9 who rolled next to Dinky’s bed.

“Beep bwoo beep roooo.”

Dinky gasped.“You think I’m a Jedi? Wait… I can understand you?”

Hunter nodded.“Twilight worked her magic on T9, so everyone can understand him.”

“Can she do that with any language?” Ditsy asked.

Hunter shrugged.“I’m not sure. You’ll need to ask Twilight that.”

Dinky nodded.“I’ll need to learn a lot of languages to become a Jedi!”

Ditsy frowned. “We’ll… need to talk about that.” Ditsy said as she tucked Dinky in. She lightly kissed her on the head. “Good night, my little muffin.”

Dinky nodded and yawned. “Good night, Mom. Good night, Hunter.”

Ditsy and Hunter left the room, leaving Dinky and T9 alone. As Ditsy finished closing the door, she turned to Hunter.

“Hunter, what do the Jedi do?” Ditsy asked.

Hunter was perplexed.“They act as protectors of the Republic. Why do you ask?”

“That sounds dangerous. And what we did today was dangerous enough.” Ditsy looked down at the ground and sighed. “I hate to do this, but it’s far too dangerous for Dinky.” She turned back to Hunter. “I don’t want Dinky to become a Jedi.”

Hunter nodded. “I understand. But you should also know, becoming a Jedi is not an easy process. And even if she did join, chances are they would put her into a peace corp where all she would do is supply food and supplies to damaged worlds.”

Ditsy frowned. “Even if that’s the case, she could become a Jedi and be thrown into harm’s way. I don’t want her to face that danger until she’s older.” Hunter kneeled down next to Ditsy.

“The Jedi recruit at a young age.” He pointed to Dinky’s door. “Dinky’s age. And you saw what she did. The Jedi will be interested.”

“Can’t I just say, no?” Ditsy asked.

“You can. It’s only on Republic worlds where the Jedi can conscript recruits.” He looked back to where Celestia was. “And I doubt the Republic would like to start an interplanetary incident.” He looked back to Dinky. “And I understand where you’re coming from. I’ll try not to fill her head up with ideas about it.”

Ditsy smiled.“Thank you, Hunter.”

“But,” Hunter said. “You need to realize that Dinky is a very perceptive girl. Ultimately, it is her decision to become a Jedi.”

Ditsy frowned at that. “She’s my daughter, and I won’t have her join the Jedi in their war.”

Hunter nodded. “You’ll have to talk to her about it then. I wouldn’t dare convince her to do anything.”

Ditsy tilted her head. “Why?” She asked.

“Dinky is getting a choice I never got. She gets to choose her destiny. I would not rob that of her.” Hunter stood up. “If you need me, I’ll be near the throne room. Good night.” Hunter turned away and walked to the throne room. Ditsy sighed and walked to her room.

Inside Dinky’s room, she was unaware of the conversation that took place between Hunter and her Mom. She could only think of the possibilities of becoming a Jedi. She frowned however and leaned forward in her bed.

“That was a pathetic blast of the Force at the train station, T9.” T9 turned on and let out a series of chirps.

“Bweeo berr booo weeoo.” Dinky frowned.

“How am I supposed to improve when there’s no one to teach me? I mean, I’m already a bit old to join.” Dinky looked toward T9. “Do you know anything about being a Jedi?”

“Bwop bee ree tee roo.”

“Saber training modules? I mean, that’s helpful, but I need to learn about the Force.”

T9 spun its head. “Ree too boo weo vot.”

“Find a teacher? Everyone here knows magic, its different from the Force.”

“Twee Roo?”

“I don’t know. It’s more… specific.” Dinky shuddered. “I’m getting chills. But…” Dinky lingered. “I don’t know… I feel-”

“Feel like what?” Dinky and T9 turned to the window to see Discord standing there.

Dinky frowned. “Like we’re being watched,” Dinky spat. T9 rolled towards Discord, armed with a charge arm, a sort of stun baton.

Discord frowned. “Put that away, I’m not going to harm you at all.” T9 wasn’t convinced and kept it out. Discord smiled and touched the charge arm. It didn’t affect him at all. T9 begrudgingly put the arm away. “But on to more serious business. I was wondering why you wanted to learn to be a Jedi?”

Dinky frowned. “I don’t need to tell you anything.”

“Hmm… I thought a Jedi was trusting.” Discord mused.

“A Jedi knows to exercise caution” Dinky replied.

“Well, that caution may stop you from getting what you want.”

“Whatever it is you want to say, Discord, say it.” Dinky glared at Discord, who smiled.

“You see, that outburst was something very unfamiliar to me.” Discord floated over to Dinky. “And the more I remember, the more I learn certain valuable things.” Discord crossed his arms. “But, to remember I need to do something to unlock more.”

“And that is?” Dinky asked.

“I’m glad you asked.” Discord cleared his throat. “I’d like to teach you, the Force.” Dinky tilted her head.

Dinky tilted her head. “You use magic, what do you know about the Force?” Dinky asked.

“I know plenty already.” Discord stood triumphantly up. “I used to be a master of the Force before I became the fine specimen you see before you.”

Dinky looked up and down Discord and thought it was anything but fine. “Look, I’ll look elsewhere for help. You’ll just waste my time.”

Discord shoulders slumped. He sighed. “I guess I cannot train you anyway, you have no patience.”

“Learn patience, she will.” Dinky and Discord looked up in surprise at the disembodied voice.

“Master Yoda?” Dinky asked.

“Who’s Yoda?” Discord asked to Dinky. A vision then took place around them. In front of them sat Yoda.

“Reaching out to you both, I am.” Yoda stood up and walked over to Discord. “Concerned I am.”

“Concerned about what, Master Yoda?” Dinky asked. “Concerned about Discord?”

Yoda looked up at Discord and shook his head.“A problem, Discord is not. The rising darkness, is.” Yoda walked over to Dinky. “Dinky, allow Discord to train you, you must. If you wish to become Jedi.”

Dinky nodded enthusiastically. “I do, Yoda! I want to-”

“You’re not ready, Dinky. You lack understanding.” Discord interrupted. “The Jedi have a deep commitment to their cause. They must be able to throw away attachments.”

“You were all for teaching me before, why are you against it now?” Dinky asked.

“I told you, you lack patience. You’d get frustrated and give up.” Discord crossed his arms. “I don’t want my time wasted.”

“But I’ve learned so much already.” Dinky said. She turned back to Yoda. “I’m ready to fully commit myself to it.”

Yoda shook his head. “Dinky, in this matter, right, Discord is.” He stepped over to Discord. “But, discover this through training, you must.” Yoda walked back to his original position. “Learn from Discord. And you will learn your decision.” Yoda sighed. “But, on what you choose, much rests.” Yoda looked up into nothingness. “Darkness clouds everything. And fall to you to fight it, it may.” Yoda began to vanish.

“Wait, Yoda!” Dinky cried. “Why do you trust Discord to do this?”

Yoda smiled. “No dark intentions do I sense in him. Trust him, you may.” Yoda full vanished, leaving Dinky, Discord, and T9 in the room.

Dinky looked over to Discord and sighed. “Well, Discord, what’s your first lesson?”

Discord laughed. “I believe you must address me as, ‘Master’, isn’t that right?”

Dinky sighed again. “What’s your first lesson, Master?” Dinky asked sarcastically.

Discord hummed. “Better. But your first lesson is this: meditate on what you’ve seen today.”

“Meditate?” Dinky asked.

“Yes. You need to process a lot of information about what you have seen. You need to figure out its meaning.”

“Why?” Dinky asked.

“You need to figure out the why on your own, Dinky. I’ll teach you more later.”

Dinky tilted her head. “But everyone is mad at you, they wouldn’t want you around me.” Dinky said.

Discord grunted. “So call me when you’re alone.” Discord replied.

“And what about T9?” Dinky turned to T9. “Please, T9. I want to learn about the Force. And Discord is the only way I’ll learn about it.” T9 looked at Dinky, then Discord, and then back to Dinky.

“Booooo.” T9 said sadly.

Dinky smiled. “Thank you.” Dinky said. She looked back at Discord. “I’ll meditate on what I’ve seen today.”

Discord nodded. “And I’ll do the same. Been a while since I’ve done it.” Discord took off, leaving Dinky to ponder her thoughts.

She sat down and closed her eyes. The Mandalorian Base…

Author's Note

Been a while y'all. Enjoy :D

Chapter Eighteen

Author's Note

This is dialogue heavy. Whew. But here it is! In time for Christmas! And soon, we'll have a new cover image!

Chapter Eighteen

Hunter stood at attention in the Throne Room, awaiting word from Twilight or anyone. With all the action recently, Hunter thought, I’m quite on edge. He thought back to his life before, where he simply looked at things. Now, he was involved with interplanetary politics, children problems, Force problems, and trouble with friends. Friends… Hunter sighed and thought of all the people here that thought of him as a friend. It was a far cry from when he was on his ship. There was Blazer, who he wish he could lay to rest. There was his commander, who didn’t care about Hunter in the least. He probably thought I was an inferior product. Hunter stared at the floor, feeling the burden and pressure build up.

“Credit for your thoughts?” A familiar voice asked. Hunter turned to see Bob.

“Just thinking about all that has happened. It hasn’t been long, but we’re very different, aren’t we?” Hunter asked.

Bob laughed. “You’re still a bit of a stick in the mud. But you’re getting better.” Bob patted Hunter on the shoulder. “You should get some rest. Being thrown around by a Force ghost can take it out of you.”

Hunter shook his head. “Sorry, got to be ready for anything. And that means staying on guard.”

“This place is made out of guards, Hunter. You could throw a stone in any direction blindfolded and hit a guard.”

“They have my duty and I have mine.”

“Your duty is to ensure her safety. Having her in the most secure place on the planet does that.”

Hunter sighed and shook his head.

Bob patted him on the back. “Get some rest, trooper. You’re doing a great job.”

Hunter laughed. “Positive reinforcement from a droid. And I’m taking it. What has the galaxy come to?”

Bob scoffed. “I’ll have you know that I’ve been programmed with over 6 million forms of positive reinforcement to give to patients.”

“Really?”

“Nah. But just take the help from a friend.”

Hunter sighed. “Friends…”

Hunter walked out of the throne room. Friends… is that what I have now? What’s changed?

Hunter suddenly found himself in a garden area. He looked up at the night sky. It’s coming back. The questions. Hunter sat down on the grass and looked down at his gloved hands. Do I really care about my duty that much?

He thought back to his time aboard his ship. Doing the same thing over and over again in the same amount of time. He did his work, but it didn’t really matter. He did his duty per instruction.

But here, he threw himself into a fight where, he had little to no concern for himself. He worried about these ponies, these friends of his. Why do I get along with these creatures, but not my brothers? Why do I push them away?

“Why do you push them away, Hunter?” Hunter turned his head to see Princess Luna land gracefully next to him.

Hunter tried to get up, only for a hoof to stop him.

“Please,” Luna said. “Let us talk as friends.”

Hunter shook his head. “I don’t know why I’m having trouble right now.” He brought his knees to his chest. “I have so many conflicting feelings right now. And that hasn’t happened since-”

“Since your creators tried to destroy those feelings.”

Hunter nodded. “And I’m looking like such a pathetic excuse for a soldier right now. Normal clones don’t have this issue. Why do I?”

Luna chuckled. “Perhaps it’s because you’re special?”

Hunter scoffed. “Special huh?”

“Yes,” Luna replied. “Consider this, would you have stood by and watched someone you knew was attacked by Discord?”

Hunter shook his head.

“Would any clone do that?”

Hunter nodded.

“Now, what happened when it was Dinky? Did you let duty control you and protect her?”

Hunter stared at the ground. He remembered all the feelings he felt when Dinky was under attack. Fear, anger, and many other emotions all mixed up that lead to one conclusion. “I did it because I cared about her.”

Luna nodded. “And if it was Twilight Sparkle?”

“I’d have the same reaction. But why didn’t I feel this way when Blazer was sucked out into space?”

Luna tapped her hoof to her chin. “Perhaps you didn’t feel a strong connection with him as you do with everypony here?”

Hunter shook his head. “But my brothers- I should be- I should-”

Luna placed a hoof on Hunter’s back. “Hunter, being friends or family isn’t just about blood. It’s about experience. What did you do with Blazer, or with your other brothers?”

Hunter held a hand to his head. “We performed mundane duties.”

“How much interaction was there?”

“Little to none.”

“Who do you know better? Dinky, or Blazer?”

“Dinky.”

Luna smiled. “These ponies are your friends. And they think you’re their friend as well.” Hunter looked up.

“They do?”

“They do. Do you want to see?” Luna asked.

“How?”

“We’d pop into their dreams. Just as observers.”

Hunter looked up at the sky and then back at Luna. “I don’t want to intrude, I just-”

“You just want to see if you’re their friend.” Luna stood up. “We can’t see all of your friends dreams, as they are not asleep yet. But we can look at some of them.” Luna gave a hoof to Hunter, who cautiously took it. As he was pulled up, the world around him changed into an ethereal plane.

“Is this-?”

“Yes.” Luna said. “This is where dreams are from.” Luna motioned all around her. “Here, you can see whatever you want to see of a creature. Their drive, their fears, their love, their hatred, their happiness, or their sorrow.”

Hunter turned his head, seeing images all around him. “It looks so real.”

“Your mind is finding a way to formulate the images. But for right now, we’re looking at a select few.” Luna swiped her hoof, sending many images away, leaving only a select few. “Let’s go for one of your younger friends, Scootaloo.”

Hunter shook his head. “The only time I’ve met her is when she stole the walker.”

“But you made an influence on her, did you not?” Luna and Hunter became enveloped in life and found themselves in the sky. Hunter stared at the ground.

“How are we not falling?”

Luna chuckled. “It’s a dream, Hunter. Roll with it.”

“Okay… so where’s Scootaloo?” As Hunter asked, a blue and an orange blur sped past them. The blurs stopped, revealing Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo.

Scootaloo looked to be several years older. “THAT WAS AWESOME!” She cried.

Rainbow nodded. “I’m proud of you, kid! You’re awesome!” Scootaloo smiled. Hunter could see pure bliss in her current form. She was accomplished.

Hunter smiled. “She looks happy.”

Luna nodded. “Indeed. But as you know, this is a dream. Reality has a tendency to-” At that moment, the sky turned black. “Shift.”

Hunter looked over at Scootaloo, who wore a face of pure fear.

“SCOOTALOO!” A voice boomed. Everyone turned their heads to a giant pony wearing what appeared to be a lab coat. “YOU KNOW YOU CAN’T FLY.”

Scootaloo shook her head. “No! Please! I just want to fly! I just-”

“Kid.” Rainbow interrupted. “You know you don’t belong up here. Not with those wings.”

Scootaloo turned her head to her back and gasped. Her wings had become nothing but bone.

Hunter looked closely at them. “They look… brittle.”

Luna sighed. “She has a rare condition. Because of how weak her wings are, she’ll never be able to fly. A whole part of who she is will never see its full potential.”

Hunter looked back at Luna. “Aren’t there other ways for her to take to the air?”

“She could learn how to fly a balloon. But I doubt that would satisfy her.”

“Don’t you have anything faster?” Hunter asked.

“We don’t.” Luna then smiled. “But you do.”

Hunter nodded. “My ship.” He looked back over at Scootaloo who was slowly falling into nothingness. But she was stopped. She was suddenly sitting in a chair. More specifically, a pilot seat. She was inside Hunter’s ship. In a chair next to her was Hunter.

“Ready to fly, kid?” Dream-Hunter asked.

Scootaloo looked around the cockpit and smiled. “YEAH!” Scootaloo pressed forward on a pilot stick and made the ship fly.

Hunter shook his head. “The ship doesn’t go that fast.”

Luna smacked him lightly. “Shush. It’s a dream.” She looked back up at the ship. “As soon as Scootaloo saw your ship, she was filled with hope. Hope that can propel her through the stars!”

Hunter nodded. “I suppose a sublight drive could help her too.”

“The question is, ’can you help her?’”

“How could I help her?”

“You could teach her how to fly.”

Hunter shook his head. “I’m not the best one to teach her. But…”

“But?” Luna asked.

“Well, there is a simulator she could use. I think there’s one on board.”

“Why would that be there?”

“The ship can also be used as a troop transport. Should the pilots both be incapacitated but the ship in working order, pilots could brush up their skills in the simulator to be good enough to fly back to a Republic base.”

“So, could Scootaloo learn to fly?”

Hunter looked at Luna. “Why are you so invested with the kid?”

“I look after all my subjects. And I’ve met Scootaloo. She is a good child.” Luna sighed. “Please help her, Hunter.”

Hunter looked back at Scootaloo, who was enraptured with the sights of space. But, he thought back to children’s robbery of the walker. Are they responsible enough? Hunter shook his head back to reality.

“I’d be willing to give her a chance. But, she has to prove that she’s serious.”

“If there’s one thing that filly has, it’s determination.” Luna smiled. “Thank you for at least entertaining the idea.”

Hunter nodded. “Is there anyone else I should see?”

Luna hummed. “Well, Pinkie Pie is having a dream of you and your brothers dancing while cleaning out a chimney. ‘Step in Time’ I believe the song is called.”

Hunter shook his head. “I know that Pinkie likes me enough. I guess, being on better terms with everyone would be better.”

“Then you should take heed of their interests and go about conversing with them. Create a level where bonding can take place.”

“I’d also like to become a better soldier.” Hunter thought back to his training. “My training was very sparse, unfortunately.

Luna smiled. “Perhaps training with our guards could help. I’m sure they’d be more than happy to help.”

Hunter nodded. “That would be nice, but that’s not it. I feel like I could do more.”

“More?” Luna asked.

“I can’t put my finger on it. But the more I perform duties of a soldier, and less that of a map navigator, I feel myself becoming more.”

“You were made to be a soldier. Perhaps that part of you is working now.”

Hunter shrugged. “Must be.” Hunter looked back at the ship Scootaloo was flying in. “I suppose back-up wouldn’t hurt either.”

“Didn’t your Republic say it couldn’t spare anyone?”

“Not a major force. But a few troopers could help. And that might make all the difference.”

Luna smiled and patted Hunter on the back. “Call them tomorrow. I’m sure they’d hear you out.”

Hunter nodded. “I’ll talk to them then. But Luna, I just wanted to thank you.”

Luna smiled and shook her head. “To be honest, when I first started talking to you, I had a few ulterior motives.”

“And what are they?”

“I’ll reveal one. It’s because of your friend. I murdered him.” Luna stared into space. Thinking of that act brought shame to her.

“It’s not your fault.” Hunter patted Luna on the back. “Blazer and I knew the risks going into this job. We could lose our lives at any moment.”

“You shouldn’t think of yourself as something expendable. Soldiers who do that find themselves closer to death.”

Hunter shook his head. “It’s just us accepting inevitability. We die. All of us do at one point or another.”

“Barring immortals like myself?” Luna asked.

“I’ve seen you hurt, Luna. I don’t know if you’re immortal or not, but you can still suffer from injuries.” Hunter cracked his knuckles. “And pain is something we soldiers have to stop.”

“You want to stop people from dying?”

“Dying is natural. What Dooku is doing isn’t a war of independance. It’s murder. Worlds that don’t join his cause suffer his wrath, and those world’s that oppose him suffer worse.” Hunter looked out into the void of dreams. “And this world. It’s peace. It’s something I- the Republic cannot afford to lose.”

Luna listened intently. Hunter had proven time and time again that he cared for people. But here, to have him proclaim what his heart says, proved to Luna that she could trust him. “Hunter, we’ll work with you to stop this man called, ‘From the Rear’!”

Hunter stared at Luna. “What did you call him?”

Luna stared dumbfounded at Hunter. “Forgive me, but I suppose Twilight’s spell might not be working. His name is, ‘“Dooku”’? Correct?”

Hunter nodded.

“Well,” Luna continued, “in Hortughese, ‘Dooku’ roughly translates to, ‘From the Rear’.”

“So basically-”

“Poop, yes.”

Hunter chuckled. “Well, that explains why Pinkie Pie laughed at his name. I doubt the House Dooku considered what their name would be in Equestria.”

“So, House Poop?” Luna laughed.

“Yes.” Hunter laughed a little harder, but quickly regained his composure. “But there’s something you must understand about Dooku. He is not an opponent to take lightly.”

Luna frowned. “What has he done?”

Hunter sighed. “It’s best if I show you. You can project my thoughts, right?”

Luna nodded. “Prepare yourself.”

Hunter shut his eyes and thought back to all the reports he read about Dooku’s actions. All the battles he participated in. All the declared actions he made across the galaxy. His visions became Luna’s vision. Everywhere around her, she could see what Dooku had done. Murdering, maiming, creating a path of destruction and chaos throughout the galaxy.

She saw the construction of a device that destroyed planets. And another that sucked the living magic out of life itself. The weapons he tested on civilian populations. The deception of peace talks. And the betrayal he committed towards the Republic, being a former Jedi.

“Darkness has captured his heart.” Luna looked away in sadness. The visions stopped.

Hunter looked at Luna. “He’s not going to stop until he meets his end goal.”

“And that is?”

“I can’t say. But, I’m sure it’s nothing good.” Hunter looked out into the void. “His Confederacy has to be stopped.”

Luna tapped her hoof against her mouth. “What are they rebelling against in the first place, Hunter?”

“They disagree about the Republic’s policies, the decisions it has made, and corruption within the ranks.”

“It seems to me those are legitimate grievances, Hunter.”

“It’s not a perfect system, but if all the galaxy has to have a say in it, it’s the best chance we have.”

“Democracy. To be honest, Celestia and I have been wondering how to approach the Republic. We have multiple nations and species on this planet. We cannot speak for all of them.” Luna created visions of several creatures in front of Hunter. She pointed first to a creature that looked to be a mix between a bird and a lion. “This is Griffon. Their species is an aggressive one, that has a militaristic culture.”

Hunter grunted. “Will they attack the Republic when they come?”

Luna shook her head. “While they are militaristic, it is just in their culture. Most Griffons take their honor very seriously.” She then pointed to what appeared to be a larger pony. “This is a Horse from Saddle Arabia. Their culture is a progressive one. Based on economy and religion. The core of their religion is the peace achieved through balance of work and fun.”

“Sounds like they would be interested in the business opportunities the Republic could provide.”

Luna then pointed to a grayish animal that was hunched over. “This is a Diamond Dog. Their species mainly stay underground and mine different materials that they sell to different buyers around the world.”

“It sounds like their skills would be valuable to the Republic.” Hunter looked at Luna. “For the right price?”

“For the right price.” Luna pointed to a pony with black and white stripes. “This is a Zebra. They don’t hail from any one place.”

“They’re nomads?”

“Yes, and quite mystical. Dealing in potions and magics that some of our best scholars cannot master. If you come across an ailment that conventional medicine can’t cure, it’s the Zebra you should seek.”

“Interesting. Perhaps the Jedi could speak to them if they aren’t too forward about approaching the Republic.”

Luna smiled. “I wouldn’t worry. If you gave them a new place to go, they would be grateful.” Luna pointed to a creature standing upright with horns.

“What in the Force?”

“That, is a Minotaur. They are a business-centric society. Status is very important to them.”

“So, they would want to represent Equestria when the time came?”

“They would like their presence to be known, yes.”

“Alright then. Any other species I should know about?”

Luna shook her head and showed off many different species in front of Hunter. “A lot of these creatures have very few numbers and like to keep to themselves. They won’t be concerned about representation.” She pointed to a very large lizard. “The Dragons, while numerous, prefer to stay in their mountains, and dislike involving themselves in other’s affairs.” Luna frowned and made all the images disappear. What took their place appeared to be a dark pony with holes in its legs.

“What the hell is that?”

“That, Hunter. Is something everyone in Equestria has come to fear.” Luna sighed. “The Changelings.”

“Wait, you have Changelings here too?”

Luna shook her head in disbelief. “Wait, what?”

“We have a few species of shapeshifters in the galaxy. Although, not much else is known about them.”

“Have they tried to take down your Republic?”

“Shapeshifters who were hired assassins. But there was never an agenda to my knowledge.”

“Your Changelings sound like an absolute dream compared to ours.”

“Believe me, detection is very tricky sometimes. We do have something that can scan for them, but that takes about ten minutes to tell us that a shapeshifter is there a few minutes after that to tell us where one is.”

Luna shook her head. “How do you detect them?”

“Our sensors already detect lifesigns. If one lifesign changes into something else, say like a pony to a griffon, we can detect that.”

“And if it’s a pony to a pony?”

“Same thing. Your vitals are going to be different from Twilight Sparkle’s for example. After that, the trick is tracking them.”

“Is there anyway that you can test for a Changeling?”

“People did use to do blood tests, but a regular scan can find what we’re looking for.”

“I hope we can use those scanners. Our Changelings can cause a large disruption.”

“What do they want?”

Luna sighed. “In short, they want ‘love’. Or whatever biological response is responsible for it. They crave it, Hunter. Enough to overturn a nation. They need it, but they go about getting it in a rather violent way.”

“Oh, is that all?”

Luna looked surprised. “Is that all?”

“Well, the thing is, we have a few species that feed on the emotion of love as well. It sounds like these Changelings are empaths.”

“Empaths?” Luna asked.

“Yes. A basic empath can feel the emotions of another being. Some empath’s feed on the emotions of others. But, scientists actually found a way to grow love.”

“That sounds impossible.”

“When I say it like that, yes. But scientists used rather basic cloning to create beings that our just emotional beacons for empaths.”

Luna looked horrified. “You breed people as food?!”

Hunter shrugged. “Initially, but those clones now have rights now. More than I can say for a majority of my brothers. In any case, the empaths that need emotion get it, those emotion producers lead normal lives, and no one is starving or fighting.”

“That doesn’t sound too bad actually.”

“I’m sure you can put in an order for them.”

“Yes… YES!” Luna cried. “We can create peace with the Changelings! Thank you, Hunter!”

“Well, if I wasn’t going to tell you, someone would. To be honest, I’m surprised.”

“Surprised?” Luna asked.

“Most species would jump to eliminate something like your Changelings.”

“I see.” Luna said sadly. “That is something I fear.”

“Eliminating the Changelings?”

“No. That the people of Equestria would develop that mindset. It frightens me.”

Hunter patted Luna’s back. “I wouldn’t worry. There are very few species that have kept to peace for so long like you.”

Luna smiled. “Alas, the time has come. I shall get you awake.”

Hunter nodded. “Alright. Thank you, Luna.”

“And thank you, Hunter. I look forward to creating a new age with you.”

Hunter laughed. “I’m hardly the guy to do that.”

“You may not have a choice, Hunter. Sometimes greatness is thrusted upon people.”

Hunter looked out towards the void and saw it slowly dissipate. He felt his body go light, as if he were falling in a pool of water. He found himself on the ground where he was, feeling well rested. He stood up and took out his rifle. He marched back towards the throne room, ready for a new assignment.

Chapter Nineteen

Twilight stood over the communicator that sat on the stage where she would perform in front of many ponies and delegates for the Summer Sun Celebration. She pulled in a heavy breath. She knew what this would mean. The ceremony she could do. She had her friends to help her. It’s what would come after that she wondered about.

She knew her friends would always be there to help her. But now things were changing. She thought she could rely on the princesses for help. That didn’t seem possible with what Hunter brought. A whole galaxy was out there ready for them. Equestria currently wasn’t ready for the galaxy. Most of the world didn’t know that Hunter even existed. There was new technology to learn about, new people to meet, and so many other things that Twilight wasn’t nearly ready for. And then there was the Force. She needed to learn about it. But, she knew that for now, it could wait. Unlike magic, the problems she faced currently were physical.

She stared down at the communicator. He did say he could help me. Would it really be okay? She tapped the communicator. The technology came to life and revealed a holographic symbol of the Republic. An image of a strange blue creature with tentacles took shape. It appeared to be a female.

“This is the personal residence of Chancellor Palpatine. May I ask who is calling?”

Twilight gulped. “This is Princess Twilight Sparkle of Equestria. I was given this contact if I needed to speak with the Chancellor.”

The receptionist nodded. “Give me just a moment, your highness. I will see if he’s available.” The hologram was replaced with the Republic symbol again. Twilight sighed and sat down, rubbing her hooves together. I hope I’m not disturbing him. I don’t want-

“Princess?” Twilight broke out of her stupor to see Palpatine before her. Twilight quickly stood up.

“Chancellor! Thank you for accepting my call!”

Palpatine chuckled. “It’s quite alright, Princess. Although I must ask, it is quite late where you are. May I ask what you are doing up?”

Twilight sighed. “It’s… it’s about what’s to come, Chancellor.”

“I believe almost everything is in order. I simply must not forget what to say.” Palpatine chuckled a little. “Do you mean something else?”

“Yes. It’s about what Equestria has to do. There’s technology for us to adapt, there’s a world of different creatures on this planet that need to come together, there’s joining the galactic community, understanding policies, the Force-”

“And the stress of it all-” Palpatine interrupted, “Is very overwhelming, am I right?”

Twilight nodded slowly. “I need your advice, Chancellor. I need to learn how to be a leader and lead in the galaxy.”

Palpatine smiled and nodded. “I’d be happy to teach you, Twilight. May I call you, Twilight?”

Twilight smiled. “Of course, Chancellor!”

“Well, Twilight, let me ask you something. What makes for a good leader?”

Twilight pondered that and spoke. “Intelligence would be a good start.”

“Yes, intelligence is always good for a leader. But a leader can’t just be a thinker, correct? Action needs to be taken.”

“So, I shouldn’t rely purely on my intelligence?”

“You shouldn’t. For example, you may know the skills to drive a starship, but if you haven’t driven it then the skill is useless.”

“So, I require wisdom?”

Palpatine clasped his hands. “Yes, wisdom is something a great leader needs an abundance of. And then, when you have wisdom, the rest of whatever anyone thinks you need to become a leader comes naturally.”

“But, how can I obtain wisdom without making mistakes?”

“Mistakes are bound to happen. Which is why it is wise to rely on someone you can confide in until you have the skills you need to progress on your own.”

“But who can I rely on? There’s no one with the experience to teach me.”

Palpatine laughed a little. “I would hope, my dear, that I would have a little experience. I am quite old, you know.”

Twilight gasped. “Could- could you show me?”

“Twilight, the dance of politics is a long and arduous road. But I have heard of your exploits. Your will and determination to never give up will lead to many great things.”

“I just hope my endless existence can lead to some good.”

Palpatine’s eyebrow rose. “Endless?”

“Alicorn’s have immortality. I can still be killed, but left to my own devices, I’ll live forever… forever with this responsibility.”

“I see… while I don’t have much knowledge in that field, I can help you achieve a good start.” Palpatine made a few hand gestures at what appeared to be a keyboard. With a few clicks, clacks, and beeps the communicator ejected a tablet.

Twilight picked up the tablet. “This looks like the device Hunter gave me when he wanted us to learn about the Republic.”

Palpatine nodded. “While his tablet showed a general overview of things, this tablet is filled with information on leaders that have appeared throughout the galaxy. Both with and against the Republic.”

Twilight smiled and scrolled through the information. There was listings for Chancellors, Senators, Dictators, Enemies, Jedi, and- “Sith?”

“Is there a problem, Twilight?”

Twilight shook her head. “No, not at all. It’s just… what are Sith?”

“The Sith is an ideology that believes in the Dark Side of the Force. The texts I have found were quite… inspiring.”

“What is the premise of the ideology?”

“Passion, if I were to put it simply. There’s a certain fire the Sith have. Perhaps you can deduce a meaning on your own?”

“On my own?”

“Yes. We can discuss it all later. Learn what you can, and do what you can as a leader.” Palpatine smiled. “I’ll follow your exploits with great interest.”

“Thank you, Chancellor.” Twilight bowed. “I won’t let you down!”

The communicator went off, leaving a very pleased Twilight to look through a plethora of information.
~~~

On Coruscant, Palpatine retired to his chair. He reclined and rubbed his chin. “Immortality… hm.”

A door opened, revealing a blue alien adorned in very prestigious clothes. He approached Palpatine and bowed.

“Rise, Mas Amedda.” Palpatine said sternly.

Mas Amedda, the Vice Chancellor rose. “My lord, the preparations you asked for have been made ready.”

“I sense that’s not the only reason you are here.”

Mas grimaced. “Is it wise to give Sith writings to Princess Twilight Sparkle?”

Palpatine smiled. “It’s merely a gamble. All is proceeding as I have foreseen. The introduction of ponies this late in the game, matter not. No, what I see in Twilight is merely… potential.”

Mas, knowing not to question his better, bowed and left the room. Palpatine looked out the window to the cityscape of Coruscant. Yes. Palpatine thought. I feel the force shifting. Good.

Back in Equestria, Discord squirmed. Something felt off to him. He opened his eyes to the starry night sky. Everything looks alright up there. Discord lifted his arm and smelt his armpit. Smells like normal. Why does it feel like life’s wrong? Discord shrugged and returned to his meditation.

Now, as Chaon, I was trying to become a god, I guess. Why’s that? He concentrated. He thought back to the chamber he was in with all those other people. They appeared to be familiar to him. Tirek… Sombra… and the other soldiers. Each was clad in colored armor; a gold, a blue, and a green. The gold one carried the blade that Hunter carried.

He frowned. That blade really hurt. Why did it hurt? He remembered the pain. Pain was something he rarely felt anymore. But it was pain of a different sort. It was regret, betrayal, emotions flared up that hurt him. And darkness. Darkness ruled his heart as Chaon. Dark intentions there too. So, was I so screwed up I became who I am now? What’s the first thing I remember doing being me? Discord thought back. Before he was imprisoned in stone, before he imprisoned in stone… again, before fight the sisters, he remembered his chaos. Things changing. He remembered the suffering of those he caused. The first people he encountered.

He remembered dark corridors. Many signs of life. He remembered making them all disappear. One after the other. But this isn’t me. Making lives random, sure. But this- He remembered one light diminishing after the next- This is systematic. Discord opened his eyes. He found himself sitting on top of the highest tower in Canterlot. He looked down at Dinky’s room. He had expected the little filly to have given up and fallen asleep. However, he found quite the opposite.

Dinky was sitting on her haunches, forehooves up, and concentrating. Discord smiled. That’s a lot of determination for someone so young. He stealthily approached Dinky. She sat in the middle of the room with T9 silently sitting beside her. Discord scratched his head thinking about the droid. Why is he so attached to Dinky? Sure, Hunter ordered it to keep an eye on Dinky. But there was something else there. Discord shrugged. It was another story for another time. For now, there was something more pressing. What are you meditating about, Dinky Do?

Dinky had been meditating since Discord ordered her to do so. She first thought about the Mandalorian Base and what she saw. She saw images of a different lifestyle. Warriors, living for a hunt, for the greatest of glories. But that ended. It ended so horribly for them. They were guilty of many crimes, but for how they perished, for any life to go through what they did when they reached the end, it was simply too much. That got Dinky thinking about life in general.

Is life where all action is done? When a life force becomes one with the Force, is it simply redistributed? Or is it recreated to be something else? Can a force for evil become a force for good and vice versa?

What is it to be one with the light? What is it to be dark? She had to differentiate between the two. On the one side, there was belief in a greater cause that was made with decisions that hurt people. There was the unintended evil created by good decisions. There were many variations that left Dinky in the grey.

But what is the ultimate good? Dinky thought. She thought about Equestria, where the ponies were relatively at peace. But within that, she remembered bullies like Diamond Tiara, who forced her personality and power over others. She thought about Trixie, the one who had enslaved her town because of a dark power she sought. She thought about Nightmare Moon, and her lust for power and revenge. Each example became a worse case for good than the other. But Princess Luna was redeemed, and that Trixie lady isn’t bad anymore. And Diamond Tiara’s true self is clouded. And for each case, there was a case that countered it.

She opened her eyes and saw Discord. “How am I supposed to tell the good side from bad?”

“One thing about being a Force User is feeling what the good and bad are. For example, what do you feel from Hunter?”

Dinky closed her eyes and thought about the trooper from another world. He was a clone. Cloned from another warrior, but he showed no relation to the person he was cloned from. She looked at Hunter’s past. It was one layered with pain and questions. In truth, Hunter never really knew much else from life, but what she did see came from Equestria. He was reacting. He may be a clone, but like his brothers, he was different.

“He’s a good guy at his core, trying to become better.” Dinky smiled.

“And how about me?” Discord asked.

Dinky closed her eyes yet again. She saw images of a broken creature, causing suffering not because he was evil, but ignorant of others.

“You’re selfish, but not really out to cause harm… not now anyway.”

“Not now?”

“I feel that past that made you angry. If I had to put it to words, you were hungry for power and didn’t care about what got in your way.”

Discord nodded. He felt the same thing. His past self was very hungry. He wanted so many things. He wanted the galaxy in his grasp.

“But, that’s not you now.” Dinky said. “That time is over.”

“So, what have you learned from all this?”

“That, there a few truly evil people, and that people can be misunderstood.”

“And that you can feel these things with?”

Dinky sighed and smiled. “Being calm and at peace.”

“Get some sleep, kid. You could use it.” Discord disappeared with a snap of his fingers, leaving Dinky and T9 alone. Dinky patted T9 with sleepy eyes as she went to bed.

“Beep bloop weee?”

“Yes, T9. I do feel good.” Dinky hopped into the bed and cuddled up into her blankets. “You should get some sleep too.”

“Blurr beep wooo.”

“Stand by mode? Alright. Thank you for keeping an eye on me.”

“Twoo wee wer.”

“Stop the dark? I don’t need a nightlight, but thanks!” Dinky drifted off slowly thereafter. T9 shook his head around and looked out the window. He shut himself off.

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Chapter 20

The next morning, Hunter found himself still in the Throne Room, waiting for the Princesses to come down. He looked out the window and saw many ponies clad in armor. They were guards, and they were sparring. Hunter saw a door that led to a balcony overlooking the field. He walked outside and got a good view of the field. There weren’t just ponies there either. Many of the creatures Princess Luna had shown him were there. Griffons, Minotaurs, Arabian ponies, and Zebra. All the soldiers were practicing with one another. Sparring as it were.

“Good way to get aggression out, wouldn’t you agree?” Hunter spun around and saw a Griffon. This Griffon wore shoulder pads that had a special insignia on it. The Griffon’s face was hardend; he had seen battle. He held out a talon.

“Sergeant Hardy.”

Hunter grabbed the talon. “Lieutenant Hunter.” Hardy had quite the grip, Hunter tried to return it.

“Troops on all sides feel nervous and ready to fight when they come to an event like this. But give them a chance to show how they feel with whatever appendage they have, and they become one.” Hardy’s voice was hoarse. It sounded as if he had smoked death sticks for his whole life. Hardy pulled out a brown stick and put it into his mouth. He lit it, and let out a trail of smoke. He held another stick to Hunter. “Cigar?”

Hunter shook his head. “Thanks, no.”

Hardy shrugged and let out some smoke. “So, you infantry or navy?”

“Originally, Navy. Reassigned as a political guard.”

Hardy laughed. “So, they stuck you here because they had no one else to do it?”

Hunter nodded. “That’s the long and short of it.”

“Guess they gave you that promotion too and-” Hardy stopped and looked at a Griffon soldier who had been defeated by a pony.

“Leon! Don’t make me come down there! You going to lose all day, MAGGOT?!”

The soldier shook his head. “NO, SIR!”

“Then get back into the fight and get yourself a win!” Hardly relaxed and turned back to Hunter. “Anyway, you got a promotion that meant nothing, and now, with no real training, are scratching your head wondering what to do.”

Hunter was amazed. Who is this guy?

“But, from what I hear, you’re raised from birth to be a soldier. Meaning you know how to fight more than the average knuckle head.”

Hunter nodded and looked at the field. Some of the soldiers seemed to be veterans. How could he earn their respect?

“If you’re up for it, Lieutenant, the troops would like to see what you’ve got. Word is you beat down a Timber Wolf. Think you can top some real monsters?”

Hunter shook his head. “I would, but I have some duties to perform. Another time, Sergeant?”

Hardy huffed. “Another time, Lieutenant.” Hardy spread his wings and took off toward the training ground. Hunter returned to the throne room and stood in his previous position.

Would I stand a chance against any of those guys? Hunter thought. I haven’t had a skirmish with an actual soldier since I left training. I was good but- Hunter’s thoughts were interrupted by the arrival of a small creme colored pony with black hair and glasses.

“Greetings, I’m Raven, Princess Celestia’s aid.” She motioned towards a tower that appeared out the window. “Her highness wanted you to be informed about a breakfast taking place with multiple delegates from foreign empires. She has invited you to take part in it.”

Hunter shook his head. “I’m quite alright, Miss Raven. She doesn’t need to do that.”

Raven sighed and adjusted her glasses. “Mr. Hunter, I’d advise taking the invitation. Those delegates want SOME face time with a representative of the Republic. And like it or not, you’re the only representative here physically.”

Hunter sighed internally. This was becoming more of a balancing act than he could bare. He remembered Princess Luna’s suggestion of getting reinforcements. It was something that he needed.

He turned to Raven. “Thank you for the suggestion, ma’am. I’ll be there once I get a transmission to the Republic sent away.”

Raven smiled. “Believe me, hun, I know how much pressure you’re under. But, if you stick it through, you’ll come out a lot stronger and wiser.”

“First hand experience, ma’am?” Hunter asked.

“More or less.” Raven coughed and turned around. “In any case, good luck.” Raven trotted off. Hunter left the throne room and made his way to the communicator. He tapped a few buttons on his wrist and a clone appeared.

“Lieutenant Hunter, what can I do for you?” The clone asked.

“I’m making a request for reinforcements… um.”

“Captain Brash and that’s going to be… difficult, Lieutenant.” Brash scratched the back of his head. “All forces are currently engaged at the moment. We won’t be able to get reinforcements to you until the latest campaign ends.”

“Are you sure, sir? I’ll take anything, sir.”

Brash tapped a few characters on a pad. “Ah!” Brash exclaimed. “We have a few troopers available! Although…”

“Although what, sir?”

“These clones are… trouble cases.”

“Trouble cases, sir?”

Brash’s image was replaced with the holographic representation of three different clone troopers. “The three in question have a dodgy service record. One’s a pilot that can get… overexcited. Kaminoan technicians believe he was left in his pod for too long.”

“Why has he been reassigned to trooper duty?” Hunter asked.

“His squadron was wiped out over Dantooine in a skirmish.” Hunter looked down. Losing brothers was never an easy thing. But to lose them all was something else entirely.

“This one,” Brash continued, “is a technician. Record says he’s brilliant with machines, more so than most.”

“Most clones?”

“Most people, Lieutenant. The problem though lies with his personality. He has extreme sudden bursts of anti social behavior. He’d much rather be alone.”

“Will he get violent, sir?”

“No. He’ll accept orders like any other clone, but do not expect much more from him. I tell you this because the people on your planet seem to be social extremists.”

Hunter could agree on that point. But he needed help. “And the last one, sir?”

“Well, he’s one of a kind I’m afraid.”

“In what regard?”

“He’s known to disregard authority, and quote, ‘Do the right thing’.” Hunter could tell Brash did not like this one. “These are the only ones available for you, Lieutenant. Are you sure you want them? Says here they were being reassigned to Umbara for the invasion.” Umbara was a planet filled with darkness. No light, save for some stars. Hunter had heard about the invasion in question. The survival rate was not too high if you weren’t a Jedi.

“Wouldn’t you need them there, sir?”

Brash sighed. “They might cause a problem and damage the operation. We cannot allow behavior like that. Umbara is too critical to the war.” Brash cleared his throat. “But you! All you have to do is keep them out of trouble and have them act nice for the civilians. There, they’ll be out of trouble.”

Out of sight, out of mind eh? Hunter thought. He snapped to attention. “Sir, I’ll gladly take those reinforcements.”

“Very good,” Brash replied. “I’ll send them out as soon as possible. I’ll send them in a C70 Charger, it’s a bigger ship than your shuttle. Bit more guns on it if you encounter trouble.”

“Sir, will there be supplies with that as well?” Hunter asked.

“What do you need specifically?”

Hunter thought of everyone he had met. Twilight and her friends, Dinky, Ditzy, Goose, Discord, T9, Bob, and the list went on. He had to plan something out for every situation. “We’re going to need more comm bracelets for the officials here. I’d like to stay connected.”

“Done.” Brash said.

“I’ll also need a basic set of med tools if you can spare them.”

“The C70 has a whole med lab you can use.”

“Right then, would the Charger also have a flight sim in it?”

Brash tilted his head. “Why would you need a flight sim?”

“It’s for the royalty, sir.” Hunter lied. “She wanted to learn how to fly in space. I’d rather not have her disappointed, sir.”

“Right, right.” Brash tapped a few characters on his pad. “Anything else?”

Hunter thought hard. He had everything he needed, but what would anyone else need? He thought of Dinky and the steps she was taking. He didn’t want to cause trouble, but he wanted Dinky to be happy. A friend helps friends. “Sir, would you be able to spare a crate of Jedi tools?”

This made Brash do a double take. “Jedi tools? What would you want with those?”

“Community outreach, sir. So the people here can learn more about the galaxy. Best to teach them about the Jedi, sir. Just random things you’d find in a Jedi’s junk drawer.”

Brash sighed. “I’ll see if the Jedi could spare anything. But no promises.”

“I understand, sir.” Well, it was worth a shot anyway. “I’ll continue in my duties here, sir.”

“Very well, I’ll get those new guys to you in a week or so. Like I said, things are in flux. I’ve got your coordinates.” Brash saluted. “Good luck, Lieutenant.”

Hunter snapped to attention and returned the salute. “Thank you, sir. To you as well.”

Brash nodded and with that, the communicator went off. Hunter relaxed and looked back at the tower Raven told him to go to. To breakfast then.

~~~~

Back on Coruscant, Captain Brash was standing at a communication terminal, thinking of how he was going to word his message to the Jedi. I suppose I’ll just contact the temple and see who I get. Brash tapped the terminal and waited. An image appeared of Master Yoda. Oh, for the love of the Force, why did it have to be the bloody Grand Master of the Jedi Order.

“Captain Brash.” Yoda said. “Something wrong is there?”

Captain Brash shook his head. “No trouble at all, sir. I was contacting the temple for something else. I won’t waste your time with it, sir.”

Yoda held out his hand. “Wait.” He returned it to his cane. “Time wasted this is not. Please, go ahead.”

Brash scratched his head. “It’s in regard to the clone on that new planet.”

Yoda nodded. “Lieutenant Hunter. Continue.”

Brash was surprised. He honestly did not think Yoda, or any Jedi would remember the names of clones they did not work with on a day to day basis. “He made a request for some Jedi tools for some community outreach, sir. To teach the locals about the Jedi.”

Yoda nodded and smiled. Perhaps time it is to give Dinky the pieces. “Understand, I do. Be sure to have that to you as possible, we will.”

Brash could not really believe it. He shook his head and saluted. “You’re too kind, sir! Thank you!”

Yoda waved his hand. “Calm yourself. Trouble it is not.” Yoda nodded and the communicator turned off.

Brash let out a sigh of relief. “Glad that’s done.” Brash then returned to his duties.

~~~~~

Back on Equestria, Hunter stood outside the door of the dining hall. He remembered his training. He’d stand there stoically and answer any and all questions.

Hunter knocked on the door and entered. The dining hall was decorative and elaborate. Inside, he saw the Princesses, a pink pony with a horn and wings, and many different species. They all looked straight at Hunter.

“Announcing, Lieutenant Hunter of the Galactic Republic!” A guard next to him exclaimed.

Breath and relax, Hunter. Hunter stood at attention and bowed.

Celestia stood up and smiled. “Welcome, Hunter! Please, have a seat.”

Hunter looked up. “Seat, ma’am?”

Celestia chuckled. “Why, yes. How else would you eat breakfast?”

Hunter gulped and looked at the different people at the table. They all just stared at him. Right now, Hunter felt like a Mon Calamari out of the sea. He looked to the vacated seat and proceeded forward. He sat down next to Twilight and a white unicorn with a blue mane. He took off his helmet and sat it beside his chair. Some of the people at the table gasped or laughed.

Hunter cleared his throat. “Thank you for inviting me to breakfast, ma’am.”

Celestia bowed her head. “May I introduce you to everyone else here?” She motioned to a minotaur. “This is Bulk Solid, leader of the Minotaur Union.” The minotaur was quite tall and wore an elaborate jacket.

Said minotaur stood up. “It’s good to meet and see you, Lieutenant. On behalf of my people, we welcome you.” He sat back down.

“Next,” Celestia said, “Is General Gaulle of the Griffon Coalition.” The general in question wore a simple military uniform. His faced showed his experience, more so than Sergeant Hardy did.

The general stood up. “Regrettably, our leader could not attend. He is terribly ill. But, on behalf of my people and from one soldier to another, welcome.”

“The lovely couple next to the good general are the leaders of the Saddle Arabian Royalty. The two horses stood up. One was a light blue horse, the other was light pink. Both wore elaborate garb.

“I am Princess Iris, and this is my husband Prince Al Ashad. On behalf of Saddle Arabia, WELCOME!” Hunter smiled. Quite enthusiastic.

“Next is Fido of the Dog Alliance.” The dog itself smiled and stood up.

He clasped his hands together. “It’ll be good to do business with you, Lieutenant.”

Hunter nodded. Money type of species eh? That’s going to be trouble.

“Allow me to introduce myself, Lieutenant Hunter.” Hunter looked over to see a striped pony. Zebra, right? “I am Zecora, and I am the Zebra Ambassador.”

Was that a rhyme? Hunter thought.

“And finally,” Celestia continued, “This is my niece, Princess Cadence of the Crystal Empire to the north, and her husband Captain Shining Armor.” Cadence stood up and smiled. Shining tapped Hunter and held out his hoof. Hunter took it and shaked it.

Celestia smiled. “Now, let us eat!” Everyone sat down. Servants came in and put dishes with covers in front of the diners. Hunter felt very uncomfortable. He looked around and smiled nervously. Everyone dug into their breakfasts. A servant put a plate in front of him and removed the lid. He had no idea what he was eating.

The servant smiled. “This is meal prepared by the Griffon chef. He understood that your species were omnivores like his species. It’s a plate of fried chicken eggs, bacon from a pig, and hash browns prepared by the princesses very own royal chef!”

Hunter smiled and chuckled. “Um, thank you.” The servant bowed and left. Hunter looked down at his plate and picked up the knife and fork available for him. He looked up and saw everyone looking at him, waiting to see what he ate like. He gulped and cut the egg and put a piece into his mouth. At chewing and swallowing it, he let out a verbal, “WOW.” Everyone chuckled.

“Been a while since you had a good breakfast, Lieutenant?” Shining asked him.

“Um, yes, Captain.” Hunter replied. He then moved to the bacon. He started cutting into it until he heard Gualle.

“Lieutenant, here on Equestria, griffons eat their bacon with their talons. You should use your hands.” The general picked up his own bacon and took a bite out of it to demonstrate.

Hunter nodded and picked up the bacon. He took a bite out of it and smiled.

“We love our bacon, Hunter. It may be the most glorious thing your Republic will find here, no offense to all of you.” Gualle laughed.

Bulk Solid chuckled. “Bacon is an amazing thing. Enjoy it.”

Hunter smiled. “It’s delicious sir, but from what I’ve seen of this planet, the Republic would be very glad to meet everyone.”

“That’s very good!” Princess Iris exclaimed. “I hope you could tell us a little about the Republic.”

“I can answer any and all questions, sirs and ma’ams.” I can do this.

“Well, for starters,” The dog began, “What type of economy does the Republic have?”

“It’s a free market, sir.”

“Ah, so the market is open for us to do business. That’s very good.”

“What is the city of Coruscant like? How big is it? Or, is that the name of the planet?” princess Iris asked.

“Coruscant is both a planet and a city.”

The princess blinked. “I don’t quite follow.”

“The entire planet is a giant city.” Everyone’s jaws collectively dropped.

“How many people live there?” Zecora asked. “I’m sure the planet isn’t bare.”

“There’s approximately-” Hunter looked up and did some calculations. “five trillion permanent residents there.”

No one could speak. The size and scope was so large is boggled everyone’s minds.

“And that’s just one planet?” Cadence asked. Hunter realized what he was doing. He was scaring everyone, and he didn’t want to do that.

“Yes, ma’am. It’s the largest one in the Republic.”

“And your military?” Gualle asked. “How big is that?”

Hunter thought carefully. Should he reveal the full size of the Republic? Would it be smart? He thought about honesty.

“About one billion, sir.”

“One billion clones of you?!” Gualle exclaimed.

“One billion clones of a warrior. I’m a clone of his.”

“Who was he?” Cadence asked.

“A bounty hunter named, Jango Fett.”

“A bounty hunter?” Fido asked. “Not a soldier?”

“Jango Fett was a Mandalorian. He spent his life as a soldier for hire, and then became a bounty hunter. Beyond that, I do not know much.”

“Well, then I must ask, Lieutenant.” Bulk Solid leaned forward. “Is Equestria your Republic’s target for an invasion?” Hunter was on the hot seat.

“I- uh-”

“Oh for feather’s sake, Bulk Solid.” Gualle said. “It’s not like he’s authorized to say one way or another. And I’d doubt they’d tell him.”

“That’s correct, sir. But I can honestly say, the Republic is interesting in becoming friend’s with Equestria. You can ask the Chancellor himself later on today if you wish.”

“Perhaps that’s for the best.” Solid Bulk said. “Forgive me, Lieutenant. I did not mean to put you on the spot.”

Hunter nodded. “I understand your fears, sir. But I can say I’ve been ordered to help facilitate good relations between Equestria and the Republic.”

Fido nodded his head. “I see.” He leaned back into his chair. “I’m looking forward to all the business coming our way. Can you imagine the goods that can be imported?”

Bulk nodded. “And the goods of ours we can export.”

“Exploration is a must.” Zecora added. “Assuming we can create spaceships with thrust.”

“Republic Representatives can go into further detail, but there are programs to help advance your planets technology.”

“Why not just give us the technology?” Princess Iris asked.

“There have been several species that were not as advanced as the Republic was when first contact was made.” Hunter stared down as his breakfast. He had always gotten what a trooper needed, not what was good. He sighed and looked back at his hosts. “In almost every case, the species that take the technology uses it irresponsibly.” Hunter clasped his hands. “It’s simply safer to educate people and move them up from there.”

“Well,” Cadence said standing up. “I’m sure any further questions can be directed from the Chancellor or his office.” Cadence bowed slightly to Hunter. “Thank you very much for answering our questions, and joining us for breakfast, Lieutenant Hunter.”

Hunter stood up and snapped to attention. “Thank YOU, ma’am.” Hunter turned to the rest of the people in the room. “And thank all of you.” The delegates nodded their heads. Hunter stood up and left the room, leaving many questions and possibilities there.

Author's Note

A few things: Been talking it over with the editors and such, and have found some things that need to change. I'll be working up plans, but don't expect another chapter for a while. On top of the plot reworking, I've got to do some school things.

Chapter 21 Author's Note

So in honor of Celebration, I release this chapter. It's really rough, but I think y'all will dig it. There is a dream in there, so for that I'd recommend just having fun with it.

Chapter 21

Dinky found herself in a grassy field. It stretched as far as the eye could see. Above her was a night sky, filled with stars, moons and even planets. It was an unfamiliar place to her. She felt at peace. Serene even.

“Hello?” Dinky called out. Only echos answered her. She had never been so alone. She has felt this alone. As far as Dinky knew, she was the only pony in Equestria that could feel the Force. “Is this what it’s actually like-?”

“From a point of view.”

Dinky turned around and saw a tall cloaked figure behind her. The figure had a female voice.

“Who are you?” Dinky asked.

“A guide.” The figure replied. “It’s not everyday a fellow Force user comes forward.”

Dinky looked around. “Is this place, the Force?”

“A representation of it. The Force covers the universe, and while all life is connected, a true connection is hard to manifest.”

“But then, what about Discord? He knows how to use the Force.”

“Alas, while he claims to know a great deal, his connection has been severed. It will take time to reconnect.” The figure kneeled down to Dinky. “But you are just beginning on your path.”

Dinky nodded. “I want to do more, but I’ve been getting so many warnings about my path.”

“Again, young one, these are points of view. There is no proper path. Just the path that you yourself must create.”

“But, what about the Dark Side?”

The figure chuckled. “The Dark Side is merely an interpretation. There are truly evil people who use the Force, but they are just truly evil. There are many abilities out there than can lead to many different possibilities.”

“I just want to help people though. I know how it feels to be bullied or put down. I want to help people out!”

“A noble goal. And do you believe being a Jedi can help with that?”

“I do. It’s one thing to be a police pony, or a guard, or a princess. But to be a Jedi, it’s your life to help. I want that.”

“Are you sure?” The figure patted Dinky on the head. “In any case, you’ll need to be tested.”

“Tested?”

“Yes. This will truly determine if you can stand with the Force. It’s something every Force user has gone through.”

“Okay… is there a place I have to go to or-?”

“The place will reveal itself in time. For now, just keep an eye out.” The figure walked past Dinky and miraculously took flight.

“Wait!” Dinky cried out. “Who are you?!”

The figure chuckled. “Someone who has been around the block in terms of the Force. I’m someone you can trust.”

“I’m not so sure. I mean, I’ve been taking advice from so many people. Yoda, Discord, Hunter, my mom. Where does it end?”

The figure laughed. “The path to true wisdom lies in experience, Dinky Do. Hearing words, true or false, can lead to your very own enlightenment.”

“Why would lies lead to enlightenment?”

“Because then you know they are lies.”

Dinky groaned. She was not amused.

“Trust me, Dinky. I’ve gone what you’re going through. Keep an open mind.”

“I don’t think I have much of a choice at the moment.”

“Yup.” The figure replied cheerfully. “Go forth, young Dinky.” The figure dissipated, leaving Dinky alone in the field.

~~~~~~~

As Hunter made his way from the dining area, he looked out a window to see Dinky sitting in a courtyard with her eyes closed. I guess she’s taking this seriously. Hunter thought. His thoughts were interrupted by a blaring on his communicator. He pushed a few buttons and saw he had received a text message.

DECODING MESSAGE…

DECODING …

DECODING COMPLETE

FROM THE OFFICE OF REPUBLIC INTELLIGENCE

LIEUTENANT HUNTER OF THE 1ST SENATOR’S GUARD DIVISION TO RECEIVE THREE UNITS.

UNITS:

CT-5674 SERGEANT BURST/ PREVIOUSLY OF RED SQUADRON/ RE-ASSIGNED TO 1ST SENATOR’S GUARD DIVISION

CT-0711 TECHNICIAN CRANK/ PREVIOUSLY OF 501ST DIVISION/ RE-ASSIGNED TO 1ST SENATOR’S GUARD DIVISION

CT-9945 CORPORAL GLASS/ PREVIOUSLY OF 101ST DIVISION/ RE-ASSIGNED TO 1ST SENATOR’S GUARD DIVISION

REPUBLIC FRIGATE SHIP REGAL WITH CARGO/ PREVIOUSLY OF 3RD ARMY/ RE-ASSIGNED TO 1ST SENATOR’S GUARD DIVISION

UNITS WILL ARRIVE IN ONE GALACTIC WEEK

ORDERS: ONCE SIGNAL IS RECEIVED, ACTIVATE BEACON FOR UNITS TO FIND LOCATION

Hunter tapped his communicator. So, Crank, Glass, and Burst. Hunter thought back to Blaser. He was the senior on the ship, but rank hardly mattered there. This was his first command. Something he didn’t want. I wonder what they want me to do with my old ship? Scuttle it? Hunter shook his head. I’ll continue repairs when I’m back in Ponyville. Maybe they can help- Hunters thoughts were interrupted by a tap on his leg. He looked down to see Twilight.

“I thought you handled yourself great in there, Hunter.” Twilight said cheerfully.

“It was no issue. Although I feel like I scared a few of them.”

“In what regard?” Twilight asked.

“Telling them the size of the Grand Army of the Republic and the population of Coruscant. I’m not sure if they’re ready for it all.”

“Well, it’s not like we’re all moving there or anything. We’re just connected now. More knowledge, more experience, a step forward. What’s scary about that?”

Hunter laughed. “More than you think.”

“I was going to practice my flying for the Summer Sun Celebration. Will you join me and the girls?”

Hunter nodded and followed Twilight. Hunter looked at the decorated halls and stained glass windows. It really is a castle. “By the way, Twilight. You might want to have a talk with Dinky Do and her family.”

“I was thinking the same, actually. That magic she performed against Discord was very strange.”

“It looked like what the Jedi do when they use the Force.”

“Ah, the Force. It raises a lot of questions.”

Hunter chuckled. “A little over my head I’m afraid.”

“I wish you knew more about it. I’d talk with the Jedi about it, but I’d like to get it from an unbiased source.”

“Unbiased? They’re the only ones that know how to use the Force.”

“Not the only ones. There’s also the Sith.”

Hunter stopped in his tracks and kneeled down next to Twilight. “You don’t want to get information from them Twilight.”

“Why not?”

“You remember Count Dooku? He’s a Sith Lord.”

“You mean he’s one of the two?”

“One of the two?” Hunter asked.

“In Sith ideology, there can only be two Sith at a time. One to have power, and another to learn from it. This ensures there’s no power struggle in an organization.”

“I don’t know about that, but the Sith are bad people Twilight. They’re not to be trusted.” Hunter stood up. “Where did you hear all that anyway?”

“Chancellor Palpatine gave me the information.”

“When was this?” Hunter asked.

“Last night. I was feeling stressed, so I asked for his advice.”

Hunter facepalmed in disbelief. “‘Asked for his advice? You do know what you did right?”

Twilight tilted her head. “What?”

“You distracted the most powerful man in the galaxy from his very busy duties because you couldn’t sleep well!”

Twilight’s eyes widened. “Oh my gosh… I- I didn’t-”

“It’d be like a pony out there asking for Princess Celestia in the middle of the night.” Hunter sighed. “It’s too late now, but refrain from that in the future.”

“But.... he said he’d like to talk more, Hunter.”

Hunter looked back down to Twilight. “He said that?”

Twilight nodded.

“Well, I guess if he’s okay with it.” Hunter and Twilight walked off towards the field where Twilight’s friends were waiting.

```

Elsewhere, a pony named Lily was enjoying her day off by sleeping rather late. She snuggled next to her pillows and enjoyed the dream that she was having…

Ponyville was under siege! Fires were everywhere, children were running, and at the center of it all, Equestria’s greatest heroes were defeated. The Elements of Harmony were used up, the Princesses’ power all but spent, and even the local guard proved useless under the combined assault of three of Equestria’s greatest villains. Sombra of the North, a dark spirit. Chrysalis, Queen of the Changelings, and one thought to be good, Discord.

Spectating this all, was Lily, who had been captured by the dastardly villains.

“HAHAHA!” Laughed the villains. “We have captured the fairest maiden in the land!”

“Curse you all!” Princess Celestia cried out. “She’s too hot for you three!”

“Yeah!” The other princesses and Elements of Harmony cried.

“Silly ponies,” Chrysalis cackled. “With Lily’s hotness, we will rule the galaxy!”

“You are most unkind!” Luna cried out.

“It matters not,” Sombra said. “You have no way to resist us. All your greatest heroes have failed. Who’s left?!”

“No one! That’s who!” Discord laughed. Beside the villains, the subdued Lily said softly,

“Not everyone…”

In the distance, when all hope had died, and the hour of losing Lily’s hotness seemed nigh, a hero covered in a gold cloak appeared.

“Who’s that?” Chrysalis asked.

“Why’s he up on two legs?” Sombra asked.

“And why is he so muscular?” Discord asked.

The hero moved closer and closer to the three villains. He pulled down his hood to reveal himself.

“You.” Discord said.

“Him?” Sombra asked.

“Me.” The figure said.

“Hunter.” Chrysalis growled.

Hunter, hero of the totally hot and exotic aliens, within his tight suit, revealing every muscle, cracked his knuckles.

“Release the fair Lily, you curs.” Hunter said. “Or else I will have to destroy you.”

“He is so merciful!” Rarity exclaimed.

“His power knows no bounds!” Fluttershy yelled.

“His muscles match Lily’s hotness!” Twilight cried.

“It’s true, your muscles are extremely impressive. However, I will see them destroyed!” Sombra yelled, baring his fangs and shadow claws. He lunged toward the hero, who moved so fast that none could see him. “What? Where did he go?”

“Perhaps if you focused on your skills as much as you stalk fair maidens…” Hunter appeared behind Sombra and held his sword aloft. With a quick swing, Hunter removed Sombra’s head. “You’d be able to see that I only stepped to the right.”

“That fool Sombra couldn’t even see Hunter right in front of him. Nevermind.” Chrysalis stepped behind Hunter. “I’LL BE YOUR EXECUTIONER!”

Chrysalis bared her fangs, ready to bite into Hunter, until she stopped when Hunter turned around to face her. Hunter did not dodge, he did not appear to flinch, and he certainly showed no fear.

“Why don’t you fear me?!” Chrysalis yelled. “FEAR ME!”

Hunter shook his head. “I saw the inner beauty inside of you, Chrysalis.”

Chrysalis gasped. “But I-”

“What made it disappear was your dark heart and ambition. I free you from it now.”

The last thing Chrysalis heard was a whistle. Everyone gasped as the Changeling split into two. Hunter shed small tears that appeared at the lens of his helmet. “A shame…”

Discord laughed. “Excellent. Let me be your opponent. I’m far different than those fools.” Hunter appeared to be not listening. Discord stepped closer and closer to Hunter. “I was taught in the ways of an ancient form of combat you have never even conceived of.”

Hunter still did not turn. Rather, he made his way towards Lily and kneeled down next to her. “Are you alright?” Hunter asked. Lily nodded.

Discord growled and curled his talon and paws into fists. “Why you… YOU DARE IGNORE ME?!” Discord charged forward towards Hunter. But before he could attack, he was stopped by Hunter’s elbow to his face. Discord reeled back in pain. Hunter then picked Lily up and placed her next to the others. Discord, feeling the intense embarrassment and anger within him, charged with everything he had. Hunter stood up and turned around to face Discord.

“What’s wrong?” Hunter asked. “Go ahead and do it.” Discord growled and then smiled. He raised his thumbs and quickly placed them against Hunter’s temples.

“HAHAHAHA!” Discord laughed. “I have landed the ancient head exploding attack… you are already dead.”

“In how many seconds?” Hunter asked in a bored tone.

“I suppose a dead man should know when he’s officially dead.” Discord said. “In ten seconds, I’ll count it down for you.”

“10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1-!” But before Discord could finish he felt his head start expand. Before he could yell anything, his head exploded. Only Hunter was there.

Fool. Hunter thought. The ancient head exploding attack is not easily mastered… especially by one born of chaos. All around him ponies cheered in happiness. The Princesses and the Elements bowed before him .

“We can’t thank you enough, Hunter. You have said the day again.” Princess Celestia stood back up. “I can grant you a boon-”

“What’s a boon?” Luna asked.

“It’s a word for gift except it’s fancy.” Twilight said. “I’m the smart one.”

“Indeed.” Celestia said. “What is it that you want?”

Hunter stood silently until, “I would love to have unending sex with Lily.”

“That request cannot be granted by me, but it can be granted by-”

“YES!” Lily said. She charged forward and lept into Hunter’s arms.

“I guess she really wants to get to the good part.” Pinkie said.

“The good part?” Celestia asked.

“Nothing~!” Pinkie exclaimed.

*Adds to moment*

And so, Hunter walked off with Lily in his arms to a hotel, where he would buy her an expensive dinner, give her a massage, and then-
~~~~

Lily smiled contently in her bed, and let out a simple, “yeh.”

Chapter 22

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter 23(Rough)

Author's Note

Not gonna sugar coat this, it's been too long since the last chapter. But, I made a promise that I'd attempt to finish this thing.

I just got myself a brand new job which demands most of my time. I will try to get more and work on this. Especially since my muse is back for this story.

Chapter 23(Rough)

Dinky was tired. She meditated the night away, had a strange vision, and discovered she would be learning from a spirit who was once connected to the Force. Suffice to say, she had work to do.

“Fifth lap!” Dinky said. She had begun running a circuit around the palace gardens. Dinky had learned a lot in recent days. One of the lessons she had learned was that a she couldn’t rely on her powers alone. Not when she couldn’t use them. So, she had to begin a workout regiment. That meant training her body to be excellent.

“Good!” Dinky heard Discord in her ear. “Your body might be tired, but if you use the Force, you can keep going.”

Dinky frowned. “How do you know that?”

“Like I said, the more time I spend doing Jedi-like things, the more I remember.”

“And how come you’re not here?”

Discord laughed. “So I should be seen with you after being told to stay away from you?” Dinky rolled her eyes. Of course she was going to have trouble with these training sessions.

T9 was idling on the side, watching Dinky. He beeped every time Dinky finished a lap. Dinky came to a stop in front of T9.

“How did I do, T9?” Dinky asked.

T9 shook his head back and forth. “Beep boop werp doweep.”

“A tiny bit better than average is still better, T9.” Dinky patted T9’s head. “We’re going UP!”

T9 shook his head. Dinky had been getting better. However: “Beep boop woo too wee.”

“I don’t need to rest, T9. You heard what Yoda said. I need to train to even KNOW if I’m to become a Jedi.” Dinky sat down and looked at the sky. “I just want to know what I’m doing.”

Discord laughed. “See, that’s something young ponies worry about when they’re in college. Why are you worried about it now?”

Dinky sighed. “You wouldn’t understand.”

“I’m an ex-Force user turned into chaos incarnate. Try me.”

“Dinky!” Hunter was calling out to Dinky.

“It’s Hunter! Discord-”

“He can’t see me. I’m just a voice in your head. You should probably get that checked out.”

Dinky scoffed and looked towards Hunter. “Hey, Hunter! What’s up?”

Hunter pointed at T9. “I was looking for T9 actually.” Hunter walked over to T9. “Rendezvous with Bob. You’re going back to our ship to get some security updates.”

“Boop wee boo doop?” T9 asked.

“There should be some to get you compatible with. We should also get you cleaned up.”

“Woop bee roo too doo?”

“Dinky is going too last I checked.” Hunter looked over at Dinky, who nodded. “You can still monitor her there.”

T9 bounced around with excitement. Hunter never really saw such devotion from a droid. He’d have to check that as well.

“Dinky, you need to get your things together and meet with your mother. She should be waiting for you in the Throne room.” Hunter looked at Dinky’s exhausted form. “What have you been doing?”

Dinky puffed her chest out proudly. “Training! I gotta be in shape.”

Hunter chuckled. “I do appreciate the commitment to keeping in shape, but you’re a youngling. Don’t worry about it.”

Dinky sighed. “But I want to be ready for when Master Yoda gets here.”

“He won’t be coming around any time soon. Last I heard he was involved in an investigation at the Jedi Temple. That’ll take a long time.”

Dinky smiled. “What’s the Jedi Temple like?”

Hunter looked at the castle. “It’s about three times the size of the castle, with a large subsection underneath.”

Dinky looked at the castle, trying to imagine the size. “What’s it like? Is it really fancy?”

Hunter shrugged. “If I had to say, it’s more ancient than anything else. It’s been there for thousands of years. Rebuilt a few times over.” Hunter crossed his arms. “It’s like something out of time, and maintained to be that way, if that makes sense.”

Dinky frowned and stroked her chin. “Like a painting?”

Hunter nodded. “Right. It’s definitely a great place to train if you’re a Jedi.”

Dinky laughed. “Which I’m going to be.”

Hunter shook his head. “You’ve got some time to grow, kid.” Hunter walked over and grabbed Dinky’s cloak. “You gotta really make sure it’s something you really want.”

“But it is what I really want.”

Hunter gave Dinky her cloak and looked up at the sky. “There’s millions of lifeforms on this planet Dinky. And there’s so many different things someone can do.” Hunter patted Dinky on the head. “Keep an open mind. Maybe there’s something else you want to be.”

Dinky looked up at Hunter and frowned. “But this is something else! This is something great!”

Hunter ushered Dinky and T9 to follow him. “Do you want to be a Jedi? Or do you want to do something great? You have to make sure you know the difference there. The Jedi can see that.” Hunter looked down at Dinky. He could see that he had discouraged her a bit. “But… what you’re doing is just that. Learning. Seeing if you can do it.”

Dinky nodded. “That’s why I did the laps this morning. And meditated last night.”

“That Discord character really makes you think, huh.” Hunter pointed to the sky. “You know, there are a lot of worlds out there that think the Jedi don’t exist at all.”

“Really?” Dinky asked.

“They’re far away enough and disconnected enough to think of them as legends. And then when the war comes to a planet, they see the Jedi like heroes out of a story book.” Hunter laughed. “Or, at least, that’s what I’ve read.”

“I’ve heard that there were so many soldiers for the Republic. How many Jedi are there?”

Hunter furrowed his brow. “I’d say about 10,000 give or take.”

“But… that’s not a whole lot, considering they have to protect the galaxy.”

“Right. And because of the war-” Hunter stopped himself. Dinky was mature for her age, but he didn’t want her to know about how much death was happening. Especially with her heroes. “-their numbers are stretched really thin. They certainly have their hands full.”

“Is there more than just the one Jedi Temple?”

“There’s more, but they mostly serve as outposts nowadays, rather than dedicated academies.”

Hunter, Dinky, and T9 entered the castle. The walls rising well above them. Hunter looked back at T9. “You’ve probably seen your fair share of Jedi, T9. Got any stories for Dinky?”

“Beep, roop, doo wee noo weep.”

Dinky shook her head. “Wait, you traveled with a Jedi?”

“Too wee bee woo wo beep.”

Dinky laughed. “I guess that explains how you have those saber training things you have in you.”

“How did you go to traveling with a Jedi to becoming a maintenance droid?”

“Boop root rrrrap.”

“Donated, huh?” Hunter looked forward again. “Well, I guess this is pretty normal for you then.”

T9 gave an affirmative beep. Though deep in his memory banks, he still had fond memories of his old masters.

Hunter looked at the sword attached to his belt. I still have to learn how to use this. “T9?” Hunter asked. “When we have time, I need you to show me those training holos. I need to learn how to use this blade.”

“Beep boop beep beep.”

“That sounds good, T9.”

A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away...

Star Wars:
Tales of the Hunter

It is a time of war in the Galactic Republic. Several star systems have broken from the Union and declared open rebellion. To combat this threat, an Army of Clones was commissioned, led by the guardians of the Republic, the Jedi Knights.

The Separatist forces, led by Count Dooku, a master of the Dark Side, draws the conflict even further, exhausting both the Clones and the Jedi Knights. All for the purpose to serve a far more powerful menace.

With the war dwindling the resources of the Republic, scouts are sent out to find new sources of supplies. A small ship, piloted by two recon troopers have found their way into an unknown system at the edge of the galaxy, in the hopes of keeping the Republic alive...

Chapter One(Abridged)

Author's Note

This is just a fun chapter I needed to indulge in. Enjoy!

Chapter One(Abridged)

Tales Abridged.

Palpatine: We need more things. Go to space!

Troopers: ‘Kay

Hunter: We found space!

Blazer: Will I survive beyond five minutes?

Hunter: Nah bitch.

Luna: I’m going to celebrate your rule with rocks!

Twilight: I’m a little concerned about the responsibilities-

Luna: LOOK AT THE ROCKS!

*Blazer sucked out into space.

Hunter: He was still cooler than Jar-Jar.

*Crashes

Hunter: I’m on a planet now! Look! Cattle!

Twilight,Applejack&Fluttershy: Hey.

Hunter: Oh no! Wolves!

Applejack: They’re harmless.

Rita Repulsa: Oh yeah? Make that dingo GROOOOW!

Applejack: Ah shit.

Hunter: Perhaps I can use electroshock therapy to-

Fluttershy: BURN THE BITCH!

Hunter: I haven’t been here for five minutes and I know that you’re out of character.

Twilight: Wolf is dead. Now you.

Hunter: You might start war.

Celestia: I got here fast. No fighting.

Hunter: ‘Kay

Twilight: Whatevs.

Celestia: Now that that’s settled. Let’s talk with Yoda.

Yoda: Guard them you should. Celestia is hot!

Dinky: And I’m here too! Teach me stuff!

Yoda: Later.

Dinky: Aww. Hunter, teach me stuff!

Hunter: Nah.

Dinky: Aww.

Ditsy: I’m out of character in everything. But I don’t have a set character, so we’re good.

Twilight: Should we do hijinks?

Hunter: Sure.

Bob: Please state the nature of the medical emergency. Did I cut you? I did that once.

Hunter: No one saw 2001 A Space Odyssey, so we’re good.

Crusaders: We’re going to steal this walker!

Walker: Or maybe you learn your lesson after countless episodes!

Crusaders: NEVER!

Celestia: Hunter, there’s a thing out in the sand place. Check it.

Hunter: At the sand place!

Dinky: I’ve learned more about stuff!

Ditsy: Why am I here?

Hunter: Hey look, a droid.

T9: Beep.

Hunter: You run this place?

T9: Beep.

Hunter: You got things for me?

T9: Beep.

Hunter: And you want to come with us?

T9: Beep.

Hunter: I don’t think that anatomically possible.

Discord: And I’m here too. No one has guessed why yet.

Hunter: Is it because you’re ugly?

Dinky: It’s because I know stuff.

Discord: STUFF!

Meanwhile, a reader took one look at this and unfavorited this story.